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Has the Government scrapped plans to use NHS app vaccine passports in the UK?
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The Government is believed to have scrapped plans to rely on vaccine passports in the UK When you subscribe we will use the information you provide to send you these newsletters. Sometimes they'll include recommendations for other related newsletters or services we offer. Our Privacy Notice explains more about how we use your data, and your rights. You can unsubscribe at any time. The UK Government will no longer force people to prove their vaccination status using the NHS app to enter nightclubs, theatres, football stadiums, and other venues, according to The Sunday Telegraph . While so-called "vaccine passports" are already in-use before travelling abroad, UK officials are currently working on a review into their use within the UK. The digital certificate is designed to prove that you've either had both doses of a Covid-19 vaccine, or you've received a negative coronavirus test within the last few days. Concerts, football stadiums, theatres and festivals were all expected to rely on this app-based certificate just like airports to stop those likely to have the disease (or the worst reaction if they picked up a strain of the virus during the event) from attending. However, the UK officials working on the review into the use of Covid-19 status certificates believe the scheme is already dead in the water. That's because officials believe there's no chance UK law will be changed to mandate the use of these passports within the UK, sources sold The Sunday Telegraph. However, when approached by Reuters, a Government spokesperson said that the Covid-19 vaccine certification review is "still in process" and "no decision has yet been made". We'd take that with a pinch of salt, however, as there has been mounting concerns over the prospect of vaccine certificates used across the Uk from within Boris Johnson's own Conservative Party, as well as opposition lawmakers, and civil rights groups. In April, the Prime Minister himself nodded to some of the ethical issues posed by COVID-19 vaccine certification.
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https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/science-technology/1443823/Government-Scrapped-NHS-App-Vaccine-Passports-In-UK
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What could happen if the Wenham Select Board had five members?
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That was up for discussion in a virtual public forum during the Town Government Study Committee meeting Thursday, May 27. Chairman Patrick Waddell described it as part of a data gathering phase that includes discussions with present and former town officials, board and committee members, Town Hall employees, and officials in similar communities, plus an upcoming survey for residents. Were not here to present our thoughts from the research yet, Waddell said. Were here to hear from the public. Questions were composed by the members, which served to inform citizens what issues were being considered. There were also a few from School Committee member Michelle Bailey. Most revolved around whether having more Select Board members would increase its authority and attract more candidates. Bailey said the Study Committee must explore the role of the Select Board. People might think if there are more people theyll be more involved in day-to-day business, she said. Thered be more liaison with town boards and committees. That, she said, will help the Select Board coordinate activities between town boards and committees. Questions read by members Harriet Davis and Diedre Pierotti dealt with candidate issues. Davis mentioned that Dianne Bucco recently ran for Select Board unopposed, but Waddell pointed out there was a three-way race to fill a one-year interim term April 8. Paul Weaver asked what would happen if there were only four candidates for a five-member Select Board. He said that although he thinks theres an untapped set of people who would step up, the question of how a four-member Select Board would act is worth asking. Presumably it could still function as a five-member board reduced to four in the same way it does after the death or resignation of a member, with a quorum of three required for a meeting and a majority vote for action. Waddell said the questions might need a legal opinion, as would Baileys idea of setting a threshold for required votes so a person isnt elected as a write-in candidate with very few votes. In most towns with five-member boards, members are elected to staggered three-year terms, just like the School Committee. Marblehead is an exception with all of its select board members up for election each year. Waddell brought this issue up before the resignations of Select Board members John Clemenzi and Jack Wilhelm in January, which necessitated the special election in April won by Catherine Harrison and opened up a seat for Bucco May 1. The matter was originally slated for the 2020 Annual Town Meeting but was pushed back to a Special Town Meeting to expedite business at the Annual Town Meeting because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Waddell said he asked Clemenzi to resign earlier in 2020 based on allegations of sexual harassment that eventually led to his resignation. This was event driven; It was known what had happened, Waddell said. We had our event. He also said not every member of the Study Committee is in favor of expansion. In other developments the Select Board has offered Boxborough Town Administrator Ryan Ferrara the same position here to succeed Tom Younger, who has been interim town administrator since Anthony Ansaldi left the position late last year. Ferrara was unable to come to terms to extend his tenure in Boxborough. Other finalists for the job were Matthew Coogan, who is the Newburyport mayors chief of staff, and Jackie Bresnahan, Wenhams director of administrative services, permitting coordinator, and special projects assistant. In addition, in a reorganization of the regional Hamilton-Wenham School Committee following the May 1 election, Dana Allara was elected chairman.
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https://www.wickedlocal.com/story/chronicle-transcript/2021/06/01/what-could-happen-if-wenham-select-board-had-five-members/5248281001/
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How Did Californias Most Hyped New Pot Shops Fare in 2019?
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Lead illustration by Brian Blomerth In 2018, California dispensaries were simply looking to get themselves legal and open as quickly as possible. Now, with another year of adult-use sales under the states belt, the focus has somewhat shifted. While the practical challenges of obtaining the permits, regulatory permissions, and capital to get a dispensary up and running remain sizeable, the vision for what a California dispensary can be has unquestionably begun to expand. For Steve DeAngelo of Harborside (who spoke with MERRY JANE for a similar feature last year) that meant making good use of a loophole that allowed his company to open the states second drive-thru cannabis dispensary, Harborside Desert Hot Springs , in December. In the case of famed cannabis breeder Mario Guzman a.k.a. Mr. Sherbinksi, it was the chance to situate his brand with a flagship dispensary, SHERBINSKIS , located on Fairfax Avenue in Los Angeles. Meanwhile, the cannabis brand Caliva opened DELI in Bellflower (just outside of LA) in November. This dispensary is themed to resemble a 1950s New York delicatessen , including vintage caf stools, a window counter, and plenty of quality contemporary cannabis products. Elsewhere, The Farmacy from Glasshouse Farms CEO Graham Farrar, became Santa Barbaras first dispensary to open its doors when it launched in August, while multi-state operator Harvest House of Cannabis did the same in Northern California by opening Napas first dispensary back in January. To get a better picture of the challenges and rewards of launching a hotly anticipated dispensary in 2019, we spoke with the people behind these five hyped new California pot shops about staying relevant, weathering the vaping crisis, and how state taxes have shaped the market. Interviews have been edited for clarity and length. Dennis OMalley, CEO of Caliva / DELI (Los Angeles): As cannabis becomes more widely accepted and readily available, discerning consumers are looking for products, brands, and stores they can trust and depend on. Consumers seek trusted experts to help them navigate the endless choices of cannabis products these days. Designed to cater to cannabis connoisseurs, DELI offers a full-service experience, providing more than just a transaction for each shopper. The store resembles a traditional deli, with a friendly vibe designed to evoke the nostalgia of great customer service in a trusted neighborhood environment. Mario Guzman, Founder of SHERBINSKIS (Los Angeles): For us its about having SHERBINSKISs first flagship on a street as iconic as Fairfax, and having a place to showcase our genetics and new products. Its been a long time coming. Were just happy to have gotten through the regulatory process and to be able to open our first store. Graham Farrar, Owner, The Farmacy (Santa Barbara): One thing that stands out to me is that it took from 2016 to the end of 2019 for a progressive town like Santa Barbara to open a dispensary. Thats kind of a mind-blowing. When we opened the store, I wasn't sure if it was going to be crickets. I thought it might take nine months before we even had a clientele or we might have people lined up out the door. Maybe there would be protesters with picket signs saying we were ruining the neighborhood. We landed right in the middle. On opening day, we had a line around the block. We had a full party and it was the cover story for basically every publication in Santa Barbara. Since then, things have clicked where now we've got regulars who come multiple times a week and we even get a few famous people. I was at a place having lunch and the lady at the counter bought me lunch to thank me for opening The Farmacy. She said she used to have to drive an hour away to get her medicine, but now its just a five-minute drive across town. It just shows how much power there is in this plant and how we're so on the right side of history, I think, in what we're doing. Alex Howe, Head of Corporate Communications for Harvest HOC (Napa): Local markets are very different from one another. State to state and even within larger markets, differences in products, format, and reported use vary widely. Were incredibly focused on improving patient access across the country, profitability, and operational excellence. Opening a dispensary and operating it effectively means ensuring you select a market with demand, has the proper supply and infrastructure to support it, and works best when youre a part of the community in which you operate. Steve DeAngelo, Co-Founder of Harborside (Desert Hot Springs): It's a less complex and complicated undertaking because the retail operations are less complex. In the world before January 1, 2018, we were taking in mostly raw bulk cannabis from small growers and small collectives. We would test that cannabis, and after we got the test results back, then we would package it and put it out for sale. Now the supply chain is a lot easier. You don't need to have a processing room. You don't need to have dozens of employees whose job is to turn bulk packages into retail-ready packages. You also don't, by and large, need to do the testing because the way that you get your supply now is that you get a few deliveries every week from distributors and the products are already ready to go on your shelf. They've already been tested. A lot of what we needed to do before January 1, 2018 has just been moved to other parts of the supply chain now. Dennis OMalley / DELI: We have seen a slight change in basket mix (5-7%) of customers purchasing pre-rolls over vapes, which has led to an increase in our Dogwalker and Toasties product sales. Mario Guzman / SHERBINSKIS: I think that when this happened, it definitely affected the market and we saw a downturn, but as people became more educated on what the problem really was (i.e. the illicit market), were seeing a shift back. People are understanding where the dangers really come from. For example, there have been numerous investigative reports published that isolate the illicit market brands that are most active. With that information coming forward, people are coming back to us to buy vaporizers again. Also, SHERBINSKIS has always been a flower brand at heart, so even though vaporizers are a large part of our business, flower is still our main focus. That will never change. Were happy to be in different categories like vaping and are also in the process of developing a full edibles line with our first product being vegan gummies. Graham Farrar / The Farmacy: It was interesting to watch. I think Santa Barbara tends to be a pretty flower heavy town. I think we over index for flower relative to the rest of the state, so were already skewed in that direction. With vapegate, it was more of a fear than a reality. It was an irrational thing, but I also think it actually highlighted why licensed regulated cannabis is important. To me, that doesnt suggest there's a broad issue with vaping it suggests something happened. We know it's not a broad issue. The CDC identified the problem as Vitamin E acetate and really nailed it down to one product, Honey Cut, which was used as a cutting agent in illicit vapes so they could dilute their product and make more money. The one safe place to buy a vape is at a licensed dispensary. I think when people realized that they had a store with a staff who could speak intelligently to them about this whole thing, a staff that knew every single product in there and how each was tested, it actually made customers happier about the choices that they were making. We had a decent amount of conversations, and, in almost all cases, once people understood the actual details of it, they shopped with confidence. Alex Howe / Harvest HOC: In the states in which we operate, we did not see a statistically significant drop in vape sales. Any slight shift was made up for in other format sales, including flower and edibles. As a responsible operator, we take significant efforts to educate our patients and customers about what is in their products and have simplified our rigorous testing and commitment to high-quality vape pens and cartridges through our CannApprove program. Steve DeAngelo / Harborside: Much ado about nothing from our point of view. We understand, and our clientele understands, that the contaminated vape pens were creatures of the unregulated market, with the exception of one report which is of questionable veracity of a pen supposedly coming from a licensed dispensary in Oregon. Every single other case has been traced back to a purchase from an unlicensed, underground source. We have not seen any significant dropoff in vape pen sales, but we haven't seen any significant increase in vape pen sales, either. Theyre just running steady. It didn't really affect us at all. Dennis OMalley / DELI: From a consumer perspective, taxes are too high and, more importantly, too confusing. Each municipality has different taxes for different parts of the business. If California wants the legal dispensaries to outperform the illegal dispensaries, they should have consistent and clear taxes and use those funds to continue to provide enforcement against illegal dispensaries and help clearly distinguish a legal dispensary from an illegal dispensary think Good Housekeeping seals and public service announcements. Mario Guzman / SHERBINSKIS: Just recently, theyre proposing another tax increase that makes it more difficult to operate, especially since there are still dispensaries operating in the illicit market in California and were competing against them. I'd like to see taxes stay where theyre at and also see our lawmakers continue to take a closer look at any area where they feel it can be adjusted to help the business owners in California. Were up against a large underground market, which means people in our space, like SHERBINSKIS, who are doing it in the right way, need assistance from the state to make sure we continue to operate. Graham Farrar / The Farmacy: From a regulation and taxation point of view, California is sitting in the worst possible scenario. There are two factors: taxation and the enforcement of unlicensed shops. If your goal is to encourage the black market, right now, what California is doing is perfect. I want to write a parody letter thanking the state for all theyve done and for always having our backs and then sign it on behalf of the illicit market. What the state has decided to do is to both tax the guys who follow the rules and to not have any enforcement to stop the guys who dont. That's the scenario that creates this big disparity. If you apply this situation to any other industry, it's obvious how crazy it is. No, because Id get shut down. But if we could get away with it, I guarantee you there would be gas stations that didn't pay taxes. I think the state needs to do one of two things. If they're not ready to actually go and enforce against people not playing by the rules, then they have to give the people who are playing by the rules a fighting chance and bring the taxes down. They can do either one and it would work. Alex Howe / Harvest HOC: Significant taxes are one way to drive consumers to the illicit market, and we fully support a regulated market. States and municipalities should seek to balance their tax requirements with supporting regulated sales and driving consumers away from the illicit market. As 70% of municipalities in CA still ban all commercial cannabis activity, patient access is another key factor in consideration when operating in the state. Steve DeAngelo / Harborside: Keeping any licensed dispensary open is challenging in California today because of the amount of unlicensed competition. The state of California did two incredibly foolish things at the same time. Number one: they allowed a system of taxation to come into place that has increased the retail price of cannabis 40-50% in most parts of the state. At the same time, they put in place a system of requirements for growers that was so expensive and so demanding that of the 10,000 or so growers who were supplying the legal medical cannabis market, only around 2,000 of them have managed to get [recreational] licenses. On the one hand, you have consumers who are going into dispensaries and walking out with sticker shock, and on the other hand, they're just walking into the open arms of growers who are looking for a market. That's what's happening in the state of California. Unbelievably, we just saw the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration raise cannabis taxes. It's difficult to understand this recent tax increase by the CDTFA as anything other than intentional sabotage. If California is serious about legalizing cannabis, I would like to see the state declare a cannabis tax holiday for a minimum of two years. If they really expect legal cannabis operators to convert the traditional unlicensed market into a legal, licensed market, then they're going to have to use market mechanisms to make that happen. Part of that is a tax holiday. The other part of that is a significant relaxation of the regulatory requirements for smaller producers. Dennis OMalley / DELI: We are very partial to our own DELI brand of flower, which has been doing great in our store. Our customers love our holiday picks, which is headlined by our limited-edition Blitzen OG. Mario Guzman / SHERBINSKIS: Our top sellers include 710 Labs Live Resin cartridges, Sherbinskis Live Resin cartridges, and Sherbinskis Mochi Gelato Flower . Graham Farrar / The Farmacy: Flower does really well for us. Glasshouses is our number one selling product at the dispensary. Humble Flowers Muscle Recovery Balm has been a real standout, which is interesting because its an entirely non-psychoactive product. I think it's easy to forget that there's a lot of ways that cannabis is beneficial and interesting to consumers outside of being stoned. The [infused] sodas have also been great. These are microdose beverages that dont have a lot of calories and dont leave you with a hangover. I also think the Field is an example of next-level quality. All the vape pens in the industry are basically distillate-based, but now were seeing consumers education evolve to the point where theyre appreciating the live resin pens that Field makes. I think a lot of consumers have been drinking boxed wine, not realizing that the higher quality stuff is just one aisle over. Its been fun to see that evolution taking place. Jamie Bender / Harvest HOC: In the year that we have been open in Napa, its abundantly clear that we live in a predominantly sativa town. Most of our community members prefer the uplifting attributes of sativa strains, over the calming effects of indicas. Weve also noticed that pre-rolls are always a top seller. We offer everything from little dog walkers to full packs. We also do very well in the topical department. Pain management is always a top concern among our patients, and we offer a variety of topicals for our community to try. And, of course, with our proximity to the Emerald Triangle, we enjoy fresh, top-shelf flower regularly and keep a wide variety of strains and price points on the wall. Steve DeAngelo / Harborside: The $3 joints that we sell, with flower grown on our own farm in the Salinas Valley under the KEY brand, have been super, super popular. In order, the top five are: KEY flowers, Smokiez gummies, Lowell Herb Co. cold pressed vape pens, Alien Labs x Connected flowers, and Care by Designs 1:1 pain cream.
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https://merryjane.com/culture/how-did-californias-most-hyped-new-pot-shops-fare-in-2019
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What Happened To Naomi Osaka? Why Did Naomi Osaka Withdraw From French Open 2021?
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Earlier on Monday, four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka announced that she was withdrawing from the 2021 French Open. The 23-year old secured a rather comfortable 6-4, 7-6 win over Patricia Tig in the first round of the event on Sunday and was due to face Ana Bodgan on Wednesday. Osaka took to social media to confirm her withdrawal from the Grand Slam following the bitter fall-out from her decision to boycott all media activity at the Roland Garros. Naomi Osaka French Open controversy On the eve of the 2021 French Open, Osaka claimed that certain post-match inquests were akin to kicking people when they are down and that they had a detrimental effect on her mental health. The tennis sensation then stated that she would boycott her media duties at Roland Garros. Although the Grand Slam organisers did not pay to the Naomi Osaka mental health confession by stating that she will face 'substantial fines' and even potential future suspensions from major tournaments if she continues not to fulfil her press obligations, Osaka chose not to get affected by it. anger is a lack of understanding. change makes people uncomfortable. NaomiOsaka (@naomiosaka) May 30, 2021 The Japanese-born superstar agreed to do her on-court interview on Saturday after beating Patricia Maria Tig in the first round but then refused to attend her post-match press conference. However, on Sunday, she was then fined $15,000 for skipping the post-match news conference after her first-round victory at the French Open. Just a day later, Osaka announced her decision to take a break from the competition, which answers the 'Why did Naomi Osaka withdraw from French Open 2021?' query. Naomi Osaka mental health issues In a statement on Instagram, Osaka wrote, I never wanted to be a distraction and I accept that my timing was not ideal and my message could have been clearer. More importantly, I would never trivialize mental health or use the term lightly. Osaka went on to reveal that shes suffered from long bouts of depression since the US Open in 2018, in which she beat Serena Williams in the final, and has had a really hard time coping with that. She added, "In Paris, I was already feeling vulnerable and anxious so I thought it was better to exercise self-care and skip the press conferences. I announced it preemptively because I do feel like the rules are quite outdated in parts and I wanted to highlight that. Later on Monday, French tennis federation president Gilles Moretton admitted he was sorry and sad" that Naomi Osaka had decided to withdraw from Roland Garros. On the eve of the tournament, Moretton had claimed that Osakas decision not to attend mandatory press conferences was a phenomenal error". Naomi Osaka record at Grand Slams Osaka has never been past the third round on the French Open's red clay. It takes seven victories to win a Grand Slam title, which she has done four times at hard-court tournaments, the US Open in 2018 and 2020; the Australian Open in 2019 and this February. Image Credits - Naomi Osaka Instagram
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https://www.republicworld.com/sports-news/tennis-news/what-happened-to-naomi-osaka-why-did-naomi-osaka-withdraw-from-french-open-2021.html
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Is Growing Weed in the Desert the Future of Cannabis Cultivation?
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The desert is often perceived as a barren landscape equipped with sand dunes and sunkissed rock formations. Aside from animals, the only life that grows out there is the occasional cacti, shrub-like plants that eventually turn into tumbleweeds, and other resilient species. Logically, the desert doesnt match up with whats typically considered an ideal place to grow weed. But that logic has been turned on its head thanks to a growing sprawl of indoor and greenhouse grow operations in legal states. For instance, take Desert Hot Springs (DHS), an area within the Coachella Valley. It gets up to 120 degrees during the summer and freezes in the winter. Its dry, barren, and stark. But back in 2016, DHS experienced a marijuana boom. A massive influx of cultivators fled to the desert to build indoor mega-grows. Then, Adelanto another lonely (and hot) desert town opened its green borders, too. But cultivating in these areas is conventionally odd. Unlike the lush Emerald Triangle, the extreme dry desert weather isnt an ideal environment for tasty, terpy sungrown bud. That said, theres some remarkable weed coming out of Californias desert regions right now. Canndescent, the popular cannabis company, is one notable example. Though its headquarters are in Santa Barbara, the company also has two highly sustainable, solar-powered indoor grow facilities and a 37,000-square foot hybrid greenhouse in Desert Hot Springs. The company is known for producing cultivars with skyrocketing THC levels well over the 30 percent mark. Growing in the desert isnt just a California thing, either. Its the only way to cultivate weed in Nevada, another region that experienced a green rush when state licensing became an option. Theres also the vast Arizona desert. But that regions cultivation burst has been stymied by the states more restrictive medical market. Nevertheless, its evident that people think the desert is prime real estate for greenhouse grows. In fact, the surge of these large-scale desert cultivation sites infers that a new trend is unfolding before us one that were only able to recognize thanks to legalization. The Advantages of Desert Cultivation When Mike Sassano, the founder of Solaris Farms, decided to root his business in Las Vegas, he did so for a variety of reasons. Initially, he settled on Nevada because the state is a limited license state. In other words, theres less competition in the market. The state is also pro-business and pro-cannabis. There were several other perks that Sassano soon realized came with growing in this barren territory, though. One advantage is that you have almost infinite sun. Were not in a rainy zone, youre not going to get major cloud cover, he explained to MERRY JANE. Its a very dry environment, and that leads to the second benefit: less contaminants and pests. Solaris Farms greenhouse is equipped with five bays, or sectioned off flower beds, that hold up to 1,000 cannabis plants each. According to Sassano, his cultivation team harvests two bays per month, which equates to 400 pounds of product cumulatively. With four tiers of flower ranging between $1,000 to $2,100 per pound (the highest tier featuring weed with 27 percent THC), Solaris recently sold out all of its current stock, showing just how fruitful the market in Nevada is. Its no surprise that cannabis plants flourish when a powerful light source is readily available. But what the humidless environment in Nevada essentially provides is a vacuum where mold and harmful pests are less likely to thrive. This is particularly helpful, considering strict (and expensive) testing regulations hold the final say over whether cannabis can be sold on the legal market. So, the lack of humidity and late season rains can make the desert a safe haven for flowering cannabis plants under the purview of a talented greenthumb. Another advantage of operating a greenhouse in the desert is that it can lower electricity costs. This is particularly helpful when it comes to implementing evaporative cooling systems, like a wet wall environment. This cooling method draws air into a greenhouse through the wet wall, ultimately allowing evaporated water to keep the interior cool. Its efficient and inexpensive to maintain, especially for a desert grow-op. But this cooling method wouldnt make sense in a humid or rainy environment because mold would ravage the plants. Solaris Farms and Canndescent have both integrated evaporative cooling systems into their respective greenhouse grows, which saves them money and keeps their tasty buds hydrated and happy. Not only is evaporative cooling extremely efficient in that space, but its not as costly as HVAC [cooling systems] used in indoor settings, said Tom Williamson, the Operations Manager of Canndescent. The temperatures can reach up to 120 degrees [Farenheit] in that area, but we can combat that and actually lower the temperature to about 90 degrees, which is not only more tolerable for the plants root structure, but its also way more manageable for our cultivation team working in that space. Canndescent also makes use of the deserts relentless sun by integrating solar panels into their two indoor facilities. This source of renewable energy allows the company to reduce its electricity costs, showcasing yet another cost-effective benefit of growing out in the desert. Our large-scale solar project went online late last year, it is offsetting our energy costs up to 20 to 30 percent during peak load times, said Williamson. On average, wed spend around $26,000 to $32,000 on an 11,000 square foot facility, but the solar panels offset those energy costs literally up to 30 percent. While the solar project reduces the electricity costs of Canndescents indoor facilities, the operational costs of its greenhouses are significantly less. According to Williamson, its essentially half the price. In the greenhouse, the cultivation team doesnt need to account for HVAC units, supplemental carbon dioxide, or light ballasts and rigs. The trade-off here, however, is that less environmental control in a greenhouse setting generally leads to less potent flower. Thats why Canndescents greenhouse is primarily used to yield flower for their goodbrands line, a mid-range set of products that has a lower price point than their flagship flower. Inside of this 37,000-square foot operation, where Canndescent is harvesting around 500 pounds per month, there are 12,000 plants in vegetation, around 6,000 flowering plants, 4,000 clones, and 300 mothers. While most cultivators in the region are busy pushing out high quantities of weed in a Big-Ag setting, Canndescent is focused on quality and potency. Believe it or not, the company is running one of the smaller operations in Desert Hot Springs. For perspective, the Canadian cultivation company Sunniva is in the process of constructing a 489,000 square foot indoor grow operation in Cathedral City , a neighboring desert town to DHS. But Canndescents indoor operation is a step ahead of Big-Ag grows. Williamson says its because of something called compartmentalized cultivation efforts, which entails growing in several isolated rooms where they can better control the environment and prevent unwanted outbreaks of microbes or root aphids. Moreover, Canndescent is the only DHS operator with a greenhouse operation or solar project on-site, lending credence to the company's proclaimed sustainability efforts. In general, utilities like electricity are extremely cheap in Desert Hot Springs due to the abundance of solar power and wind turbines sprinkled throughout the region. This doesnt just mean power is more affordable there, it also means that most electricity is sourced from renewable energy projects. Its Not All Sunshine in the Desert One challenge desert cultivation sites have to overcome is harsh winter evenings, which can drop below 30 degrees pretty easily. It never really dawns on you until youre in the desert in the winter when the sun goes down you need a coat, Sassano explained. You get those seasonal fluctuations where it can be as high as 110 degrees [Farhenheit] in California or Nevada deserts, and then you can get down to freezing levels at night. These extreme weather fluctuations are not ideal for cannabis plants. Therefore, desert-based cultivators must put a lot of thought which often translates to money into their setup in order to survive. Compared to the more mild temperatures of the Emerald Triangle, you need extra equipment to deal with the heat and to prevent the frigid nights from impacting your crops. You can be sure that setting up a grow in the desert is going to be more expensive by a fairly large margin, Sassano said. You need a lot more equipment, you need more cooling, you need more heating than you would in a more temperate environment. Your cost to build will probably be 1.5 to 2 times more. While Sassano may be dealing with higher operational costs in Nevada, Canndescent claims that its had the opposite experience when it comes to Desert Hot Springs. The region actually seduces cultivators with its lower taxes and cheaper cost of living even with having to keep plants comfortable on frigid evenings and cool on hot days. In general, mold isnt really an issue when cultivating in the desert because its so dry. But you still need water to grow crops. Theres a lot of access to water in the desert, Sassano said. Ultimately, it depends on the desert youre in and how far you have to drill. But there are water tables, and theyre generally very well filtered because the water filters through the sand and rocks, making it very clean." In Nevada, a state that acquires most of its revenue from the gambling industry, water and electricity are made affordable in order to appeal to residents, according to Sassano. Therefore, in the case of Solaris Farms, sourcing water hasnt been an issue. For grow operations located in California a consistently drought-ridden state you might expect water to be much more expensive and scarce. But the opposite is true for cultivators in Desert Hot Springs. The city sits upon one of the largest aquifers in the continental United States, along with the rest of the Coachella Valley. When the rest of the state of California is going through a drought, the desert is actually fine, Williamson explained. We never experience water shortages out here because we have a huge reservoir sitting underneath us. Despite water availability, many desert grow-ops have integrated systems to limit water usage. Canndescent, for instance, utilizes a drop-down irrigation system that carefully drips water to each individual plant, only providing whats necessary while still allowing the crops to flourish. Were probably more water-efficient on site here than you are in your own home, Williamson said. With how finely tuned-in our water cycles are, we dont water the plants all day everyday, we actually allow the medium substrate to dry out, and the minute we reintroduce water to that root structure again, the plant just soaks it up immediately. By combining the renewable energy of solar panels and water efficiency, Canndescent operates a commercial-sized grow without expending too much energy or water. This is especially important in California, where the cannabis industry has continued to grapple with high costs and limited access to these utilities. Same ol' Strain, New Environment Setting up a functional greenhouse in the desert is one thing, but finding the right cannabis strains that will thrive in a naturally hot, dry environment is an entirely different quandary. If you take a legendary strain from Humboldt County and transport it into the Nevada desert, for example, the final product will be completely different even in a controlled, indoor environment. In fact, even if a cultivator uses the same nutrients, water, and methodology, a strain will still grow differently in the desert because theres a different amount of air pressure and sunlight compared to growing in an elevated forest. When it comes to creating genetics that will thrive in a new region, theres going to be a lot of trial-and-error before finding success. In the case of Solaris Farms, the cultivation team began testing out different indoor-grown-genetics from California, Colorado, and the East Coast before their greenhouse in the desert came into existence. After determining the best desert phenotypes, Solaris attempted to move these newly selected breadwinners from a tiny 1,000-foot indoor pod system which was constructed to preserve their cultivation license into the newly constructed greenhouse. While Sassano didnt disclose the exact strains he selected for production, he did elaborate on the genetic development and pheno-hunting process, which altogether took about two years. Once we got the genetics into the greenhouse, some made it and some didnt, Sassano said. Then we had to pheno-hunt, which took a whole year just to get to the right phenotypes into production. When deciding what phenotypes Solaris Farms wanted to start producing, Sassano explained that he considered a number of factors, including THC percentages, terpene profiles, and highest yielders. The plants that produced the most ultimately served as evidence proving that these phenos must really like Las Vegas. The Pros and Cons While Sassano doesnt necessarily see Northern California losing its cannabis production crown anytime soon, he does believe that procuring land for desert grows will become more competitive in the near future. I think youll continue to see higher yields coming out of the lush California areas, which will be more acclimated for higher volumes, he explained. Desert grows will be more specialized and possibly have better lab tests, because were in a controlled environment with less contamination. Williamson echoed a slightly different sentiment than Sassano, stating that areas like the Emerald Triangle would continue to thrive for more craft-like cannabis grows, but that large-scale operations will continue to populate the desert for the lucrative real estate prices, lower tax rates, and less mold among other benefits. While he does concede that sungrown cannabis from Northern California has superior terpene profiles, the indoor setting at Canndescent allows the grow team to achieve much higher THC levels. In fact, according to Williamson, Canndescent recently tested a cultivar that demonstrated THC levels exceeding 36 percent, which is something that just cant be replicated in an outdoor environment. Thanks to legalization, cannabis cultivators have more options for where and how they can grow than ever before. While the desert may be barren and desolate, it's becoming a fruitful growing region nonetheless. Just try the THC-rich flower from a farm like Solaris or Canndescent it will taste like anything but tumbleweeds. Follow Tyler Koslow on Twitter
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https://merryjane.com/culture/is-growing-weed-in-the-desert-the-future-of-cannabis-cultivation
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Is Weed Really Stronger Now Than It Was Back in the '60s?
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This is not your grandfathers marijuana, said every anti-pot politician and prohibitionist since 2014. Stronger weed is one of the anti-cannabis movements favorite talking points. According to the haters, increased potency also increases the risk for brain damage , psychosis , addiction , and laziness . But is todays marijuana actually stronger, and what, exactly, do we mean by stronger? Pretty much everyone equates weeds strength, or potency, with its tetrahydrocannabinol or THC content. THC is the main part of cannabis that gets people intoxicated, so this parallel makes sense. But, as were starting to discover, THC is just one component of cannabis that gets people lit. Now, its true that THC levels in weed have increased since the 60s. Back then, growing weed wasnt the art, or science, that its become today. The science was once incredibly shoddy, and underground growers during the counterculture movement were more concerned about cranking out dried buds in volume and not in quality. Whats now called schwag , shake, dirt weed, or Mexican brick is rapidly phasing out as legalization claims states one-by-one and consumers demand loud-ass bud over just whatever they can get their hands on. In terms of numbers, schwag or shake typically only contains anywhere from 1 to 5 percent THC. Some of the dingier weed of slightly higher quality, like mids or in-betweenies, usually reach from 5 to 10 percent THC. And the kind of lush, fragrant bud youll find in legal pot shops today ranges from 15 to a whopping 30 percent THC. So, yes, the weed found today, especially in state-legal markets, contains a lot more THC than the wacky tobacky that our parents and grandparents scored back in the day. Theres two parts to that answer. The first part is that cultivators and producers got smarter about preserving THC in the weed. Grow room temperatures, curing processes, and even the types of packaging used to store the weed all contribute to THC levels in the final product. The second part involves breeding and genetics. Breeders discovered decades (if not centuries) ago that if you cross-breed plants that naturally produce a lot of THC, the offspring tends to produce more THC, as well. Thats due to the genes involved in making THC: Cannabis strains that contain more copies of those genes will produce more THC than strains containing fewer copies of those same genes. We have the THC-rich weed that we have today due to years of selective breeding in indoor environments. Most of that breeding took place in secret, but now its being done out in the open with universities and even government agencies helping out in places that legalized herb. But theres more to this story than just THC. In fact, the fixation on THC may have led to cannabis becoming less potent in some ways . Last year, Italian chemists discovered a new cannabinoid, THCP, which could be up to 30 times stronger than THC . Scientists havent tested THCP in humans, so we can only infer this strength based on THCPs ability to bind tighter to the cell receptor responsible for getting us lifted than THC does. So far, we only know of one medical cannabis strain that produces THCP. But its entirely possible that other weed strains across the planet also produce this cannabinoid. However, since THCP isnt widely tested for at labs, we have no idea which plants may be making this novel cannabinoid. Additionally, theres evidence that terpenes , the aromatic compounds that give weed its characteristic scents and flavors, also contribute to cannabiss psychoactive effects. Although some studies suggest terpenes dont activate the weed receptors in our bodies, recent research from places like the University of Arizona claim otherwise. Within the state-legal weed industries, terpenes have become a powerful marketing tool for giving consumers some idea of what kind of heady effect a particular marijuana product may produce. And as scientists have just begun to crack into the secrets of cannabinoids and terpenes, studies on another component of cannabis called flavonoids are starting to raise eyebrows, too. For instance, two flavonoids in weed called cannflavin A and cannflavin B, may be 30 times more potent as painkillers than most over-the-counter drugs like ibuprofen or naproxen. If this is true, then cannflavin B and not THC or CBD may be cannabiss strongest pain-killing component. Yes, this is all semiotics. But words have power, and if were going to say that this is strong weed or that weed is weak, we should also qualify what the word strong even means if these statements and investigations have any lasting meaning. That said, tokers from the 1960s should be proud at how much the cannabis movement and the plant itself has evolved.
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https://merryjane.com/culture/is-weed-really-stronger-now-than-it-was-back-in-the-60s
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What should Arsenal do with Reiss Nelson? Sell or loan?
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The Arsenal youngster Reiss Nelson looked like a hot prospect a couple of years ago and had a very impressive loan spell with Hoffenheim in the Bundesliga, but last season, after a promising start, the 21 year-olds progress was hampered by inopportune injuries. His chances were further reduced by the arrival of Willian last summer and then the likes of Bukayo Saka, Smith-Rowe and Martinelli breaking through also restricted his game time. In the whole of the season, the winger has just two appearances in the league, with a further seven coming in Europa League group stages, EFL, FA Cup and Community Shield, and he must surely now be thinking he has to leave Arsenal if he is ever going to get regular playing time. As Arteta told Football London a few weeks ago when asked about Nelson: I would like to give him more. Hes a boy who tries really hard, he trains every day. Its very difficult at the moment with the players we have to be able to fit in. I feel sorry because he deserves more. It must be making it hard for Arteta to decide what to with Nelson, but for me the obvious thing would be to find him a loan club. But to be honest, we havent even heard many rumours that other clubs have been making enquiries, although Olympiakos has been mentioned a few times as a possible destination.
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https://www.justarsenal.com/what-should-arsenal-do-with-reiss-nelson-sell-or-loan/283811
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Who designed Zozibini Tunzis Miss Universe gown?
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Thami Kwazi Biji Gibbs of Biji speaks about the Xhosa inspired gown she designed for Miss Universe Zozibini Tunzi and why she will never put it up for sale. Who made it? was the burning question on everyones lips when Miss Universe 2019 Zozibini (Zozi) Tunzi walked the runway in her black and white gown as she handed over her crown to Miss Universe 2021 winner Andrea Mez. Her exquisite monochromatic beaded black and white Xhosa-inspired gown is a production of Biji Gibbs of Biji La Maison de Couture, who has designed all of Zozis show-stopping gowns. Designing for Miss Universe was a word-of-mouth process which happened over many years. I made connections and was asked 20 years ago to design a dress for Miss South Africa, she says. Biji also designed for former Miss South Africa Melinda Bam and this saw her continue to make gowns for all of the Miss South Africa winners over the years which included working for the pageant organisers themselves. The Miss SA competitions fashion sense has transformed and this includes localising the dresses more, ensuring they represent South Africa. Im always up for a challenge and constantly receptive to new ideas and I wasnt familiar with ethnic design. I didnt want to insult anyone, so I wanted to get things right. At the same time, she watched Miss South Africa hopeful Zozi Tunzi compete for the title of the most beautiful woman in the country on the pageant stage on August 9, 2019. When I saw Zozi on stage she resonated with me. I love her model looks and her hairstyle and that she embraces her natural hair and dynamic personality. When I was approached to design for her I was so excited. Biji gushes about Zozis magnetic personality that draws people in and says Zozi is always interested in other people. Shes always been happy with her dresses. I admire her so much; shes a real person who cares about people. I think even after shes handed over her title shes definitely going to make a mark in the future. The gown in question that broke the internet, had real significance for Zozi, says Biji: With her latest gown she was specific that she wanted the doek and to honour her Xhosa heritage. I was afraid the design would be polarising but the feedback was positive. Our Instagram grew by 10,000 followers; the response was a revelation that the job was correctly executed. I giggle at people who criticise the gown. Even with 33 years of experience, she confesses there is still a lot of trial and error in the field. Each job I worked for was seven months at a time because I was in a hurry to get started on my own, you realise the industry is very tough. It was humble beginnings. I only studied for a year and that came with a massive price of skipping the basics. The dresses made for Zozi are not available on auction but on display at Diamond Walk in Sandton City, whereafter they will be moved to another area in the mall. The display may be extended for longer to include the hand over gown. Biji is just waiting for it to land in SA to add it to the collection. The dress wont be on sale and the designer would like it to be on a permanent exhibit. It makes my heart happy, it gives me more validity as a designer and no one will change the fact that Zozi wore my designs. Its been favourably received and its a true honour. My job as a designer is to highlight the person youre dressing. The more they look amazing, the more you as a designer have done your job. Since the Covid-19 pandemic began, Biji has adapted to fewer sales; wedding dresses are where people can afford to spend. She believes that as a firm you must adjust your budget to the economic situation. READ NEXT: PICS: Miss SA, Natasha Jouberts best fashion and beauty looks
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https://citizen.co.za/lifestyle/2507968/why-zozibini-tunzis-miss-universe-gown-is-not-for-sale/
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How Much Would it Cost to Purchase Famous Movie/TV Show Houses Today?
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We all recognize our favorite films and TV houses as soon as they appear on the screen. Anyone who has ever been on a set and been lucky enough to walk around a famous TV or film house immediately feels like they are right there in the show. But one thing that is often noticed is how many screen homes seem ridiculously big and expensive for what we know about the characters who live in them. While there are sometimes clues, viewers are often left guessing about how the characters can afford them. To see how much real estate money our favorite characters were sitting on, this is a guide to the market value of some of the most famous TV and movie homes. 1. Monicas Apartment from Friends There has long been an interesting fan debate about how exactly the six friends from the show were able to afford such huge apartments as anyone who has ever lived in New York knows just how expensive rent is. According to New York real estate experts, the monthly rent on an apartment that size in that neighborhood would be somewhere between $7-8,000 a month, while to purchase the home would be in the region of $2,000,000! 2. Kevins House from Home Alone Another screen home that has caused massive speculation on the Internet. The McCallisters house in Home Alone was enormous, and there were other signs of the familys wealth throughout the movies which made fans question what exactly Kevins father did for a living. There is even one theory that claims he was a Chicago mobster, but no mention of his job is ever made in the movies. We actually know exactly what the house is worth because it was sold for $1.585 in 2018. Mobster or not, Kevins father was clearly a very successful man, albeit a rather forgetful parent. 3. The Simpson House Possibly the most famous screen home of them all, the Simpson house, and particularly their living room, is instantly recognizable. Everyone knows that Homer inexplicably had an important (and presumably well paying) job at the nuclear power plant but even so there is no doubt the family had a beautiful home. In one famous episode, one character Frank Grimes is blown away by the Simpson home and even more so by Homer not even noticing how nice it is. Being a purely fictional home, it is difficult to put a realistic value on the Simpson house, but one real estate company said they would expect to fetch around $289,000, based on the four bedrooms, two bathrooms, secret sauna, spacious garage, and generous garden. There are some truly iconic homes both in TV and film which hold a special place in our hearts. While it is impossible to truly know how much they would be worth, it is fun to imagine having the opportunity to buy one. It would be even more fun, of course, if we could share the home with our favorite characters from TV and movies!
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http://www.movieviral.com/2021/05/31/how-much-would-it-cost-to-purchase-famous-movietv-show-houses-today/
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Is green good?
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Jim Abbey The following column was submitted by Jim Abbey, a volunteer business mentor with SCOREs Tip of the Mitt chapter. Abbey, a Charlevoix resident, worked in event management in the automotive industry prior to his retirement. He also has experience teaching college-level business classes. In October of 2019 I wrote for this series a column titled A Vice for Some Can Be a Virtue for Others. What a difference a pandemic, a presidential election and advances in technology can make. In that column I described a Vice Fund as focusing on four key sectors: gambling, military, alcohol, and tobacco. On the other hand, sustainable products, environmental health, and human rights are seeing renewed interest in socially responsible startups and investments. This article will focus on how green has become good. From my previous column: New businesses interested in socially responsible areas tend to give preference to those that promote, for example, sustainable products, personal and environmental health and human rights. "Perhaps in response to this trend, investment manager Dan Ahrens introduced the Vice Fund in mid-2002. The Vice Fund focuses on 4 key sectors: gambling, military, alcohol and tobacco. The performance of the fund to-date suggests that vice can indeed pay and sometimes pay big. Over the years 2003-2007, the Vice Fund returned an average of 27% per year to its investors. During the same period, the Domini Social Equity Fund (which tracked an index of 400 socially responsible companies), returned an average of 11% per year to its investors, trailing 3 percentage points per year behind the S&P 500, which measures overall market performance. Today the Domini Social Equity Fund reports a return of 20.62% in 2020, and 31.66% in 2019 compared to the S&P 500 at 18.40% and 31.49% respectively. A very interesting turn for the better. Arguments for starting and or investing in socially responsible companies: Individual decisions multiplied by thousands of investors can make the world a better place. The Domini Social Investments Website sums up this perspective in their message to prospective investors: We are dedicated to making your investment decisions count for your personal financial benefit, as well as for your broader hopes for a healthier environment and a more just and humane economy. Over the long term, socially responsible investments perform at about the same level as the market in general, and sometimes even outperform the market. While people can always invest in philanthropic programs to resolve global problems, investing in firms that dont cause problems is more efficient and effective. As reported in the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) May 22-23, 2021, Assets in investment funds focused partly on the environment reached almost $2 trillion globally in the first quarter, more than tripling in three years. Investors are putting $3 billion a day into these funds. More than $5 billion worth of bonds and loans designed to fund green initiatives are now issued every day. Much of this investment can and must be directed at small businesses. Sometimes as a subcontractor to a large company, sometimes as grant money for product research that you may have ready, and sometimes as a new technology in renewable power or reforestation or other sustainable farming. From the WSJ article: Tesla, which received a $465 million loan in 2010 was a risky startup. Now, it is the most valuable automaker in the world The company repaid the loan ahead of schedule in 2013. SCORE is a nonprofit association dedicated to helping small businesses get off the ground, grow and achieve their goals through education and mentorship. We have been doing this for more than 50 years. SCORE is associated with the Small Business Administration (SBA) and has 11,000 volunteers nationwide. SCORE.org has some wonderful resources available to everyone. To request SCORE's free and confidential mentoring services for small business, call (231) 347-4150 in the Petoskey area or (989) 731-0287 in the Gaylord area
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https://www.petoskeynews.com/story/opinion/2021/06/01/jim-abbey-green-good/5248050001/
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What's Section 51(b) of DMA and why is it in news?
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The Centre on May 31 sought explanation from former West Bengal chief secretary Alapan Bandyopadhyay for abstaining' from the Cyclone Yaas review meeting held by PM Narendra Modi on May 28. Bandyopadhyay, now advisor to CM Mamata Banerjee, has to explain within three days the reasons for the offence under Section 51 (b) of the Disaster Management Act (DMA), 2005. This is legislation that governs effective management of disasters and sets up National Disaster Management Authority with the PM as its chairperson. According to Section 51 (b), failure of an officer to perform the duty under the Act, without a lawful excuse, on conviction can be punishable with a one-year jail term or fine, or with both.
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https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/mcminis/politics/whats-section-51b-of-dma-and-why-is-it-in-news-6968391.html
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Will Antonio Conte's spending habits price him out of a job this summer?
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There is only one manager who has won league titles with three clubs in Europes top five divisions since 2014 and he is out of work. Antonio Conte is the serial winner who inherited a Chelsea team who had come 10th, 31 points behind first, and made them champions in his debut year, who won Juventus first Scudetto in nine years (officially, anyway) and Inters first in 11, before resigning last week. In a sense, he ought to be the prime candidate for every managerial vacancy. And, in a summer when Real Madrid, Tottenham, Juventus, Roma, Napoli and Lille have had vacancies, when perhaps Paris Saint-Germain might, there have been plenty. The managerial merry-go-round feels busier than normal. Conte has got off, but perhaps he might not get back on again. Because he also feels unemployable. Not on footballing grounds: despite an underwhelming record in Europe, he is clearly one of the worlds elite managers. But he shows a repeated inability to manage upwards and a continued reluctance to grasp footballing economics that jarred in wealthier eras and makes him unsuitable for virtually everyone in straitened times. Contes departure from Inter, fresh from ending Juventus domination of Serie A, which he had also started, is explained by their need to cut costs: that, in turn, reflects their owners links to the Chinese government, which is suddenly less interested in football. It also is a consequence of huge debts, which are in part a consequence of Contes spending. Two years of Conte have brought Inter Romelu Lukaku, Alexis Sanchez, Christian Eriksen, Arturo Vidal, Achraf Hakimi, Aleksandar Kolarov, Ashley Young, Diego Godin, Nicola Barella, Stefano Sensi, Matteo Politano, Valentino Lazaro and many another. The transfer fees and wages amount to a colossal cost: Contes predilection for signing ageing players means many have a minimal resale value. He has discarded some soon after signing and tried to get rid of others. He has won Serie A with his 2015 Premier League all stars but that may not look a formula based on long-term sustainability. And there are recurring themes. Conte is often a fine judge of a player, but he invariably wants to sign everyone. His reign at Chelsea unravelled amid his often public grievances that they did not sign Virgil van Dijk, Leonardo Bonucci, Fernando Llorente, Kyle Walker, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Alex Sandro, Sanchez and Lukaku. Some, undoubtedly, would have been better than some of those Chelsea did bring in Tiemoue Bakayoko, Danny Drinkwater and Davide Zappacosta while the positive legacy of Contes recruitment, in NGolo Kante and Antonio Rudiger, was apparent in Thomas Tuchels Champions League-winning side. And yet the overriding sense is that Conte is a man with no concept of a budget and who seems to think that football clubs have bottomless pits of money. Perhaps that lack of perspective can account for his success; he may think a driven approach works with the board as well as the players. But his peers can demonstrate that diplomacy can bring longevity while their coaching prowess can still provide success. Pep Guardiola wanted Harry Maguire and Jurgen Klopp wanted Timo Werner but neither makes it a continual refrain. Ambition is not just demonstrated by perpetual trading. And consider the current vacancies. There was a time when Conte would have seemed a perfect fit for Real Madrid, a pragmatic short-termist who could win a title or two and then go, much as Fabio Capello did, leaving others to pick up the pieces. But Real spent nothing last summer; like Inter, they will be looking to sell even as they no doubt try to plot a way to fund another Galactico. Their next manager, nevertheless, will have to conjure something from his inheritance. Maybe Conte is a product of his time, of the days when Serie A was the worlds richest leagues and presidents were often tempted to spend more in their footballing arms race. But now he feels a man out of time, one with the tactical knowledge and the coaching skills to excel almost anywhere but whose incessant requests for more spending and more signings suggest a lack of realism and which could be a deterrent to prospective employers. That Conte did a terrific job with one of the least talented Italy teams of the last six decades and when the nature of international football meant he could not buy shows it is possible for him to flourish in a world without transfers. But it would need a different mindset and for Conte to stop being the most unreasonable man in management. Subscribe to FourFourTwo today and get a FREE England Euro 96 shirt! QUIZ!
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https://www.fourfourtwo.com/features/will-antonio-contes-spending-habits-price-him-out-of-a-job-this-summer
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What could the Yankees expect from a Chris Gittens promotion?
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"It has been something that has been a tiny bit nagging him," Yankees manager Aaron Boone stated before Saturday's match against the Tigers at Comerica Park. "I think that it was something which was sort of minor which clearly he managed to sort of effort through and pitch . But I only feel like of course, his time getting started a little bit late with the shoulder difficulty, then addressing just a bit of a crab (issue) after which the hamstring, I presume if we put it all these up contributing elements for him not having this constant life on his fastball."
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https://www.newsbreak.com/news/2264012926289/what-could-the-yankees-expect-from-a-chris-gittens-promotion
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Why is US dollar weakening and what is means for India?
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The US Dollar Currency Index is down 8% in the last one year and 4% from its 2021 peak. The dollar has underperformed against major currencies so far in the last quarter, except against the Japanese Yen. USD movement against major currencies Source: www1.oanda.com The US Dollar Index (DXY) tracks the strength of the dollar against a basket of major currencies. DXY was originally developed by the US Federal Reserve in 1973 to provide an external bilateral trade-weighted average value of the US dollar against global currencies. DXY goes up when the US dollar gains strength (value), compared to other currencies and vice versa. The six currencies that are used to calculate the index are Euro (57.6% weight), Japanese yen (13.6%), Pound Sterling (11.9%), Canadian Dollar (9.1%), Swedish Krona (4.2%) and Swiss Franc (3.6%). US Dollar Currency Index (Source: in.tradingview.com) Meanwhile, the Indian Rupee appreciated about 4% against the Dollar from the peak this year and 5.5% in the last one year. 1) The US Federal Reserve System (the American central bank or, simply, Fed) policy of continuing with its bond purchase programme despite inflationary pressures is damaging the dollar's appeal. With interest rates at near zero and no short to medium term indication of raising rates to tame inflation, the dollar has been facing the heat. When the Fed increases the interest rates, higher yields attract investors from abroad seeking higher returns on bonds. Global investors sell their investments denominated in local currencies in exchange for dollar denominated investments. This results in a stronger dollar. Exact opposite of this is happening currently thus weakening the dollar. The Fed has followed a policy of lower rates to spur the economy devastated by the pandemic and lockdowns. The interest rate cuts in 2020 have brought the US Treasury yields to a lower premium over those of other countries. Story continues 2) The expectations that US growth may peak while the rebound in Europe and other regions is only beginning are also hurting the dollar. The relative growth advantage enjoyed by the U.S. in the near term is likely to fade as COVID-19 vaccinations raise global GDP growth prospects, economists at Citigroup wrote. This is likely togenerate dollar depreciation pressures. 3) A rise in prices on the Consumer Price Index indicates a weakening in the purchasing power of the country's currency. Inflation in the US surged to its highest level in 13 years since 2008, reaching 4.2%. This is impacting the exchange rate of the dollar. 4) Lower than expected recovery in US jobs data in early May also put a damper on hopes that a roaring economic recovery would spur higher rates and light a fire under the greenback. 1) India is a big importer of crude oil which hurts its current account balance as well as impacts the GDP negatively. A cheap dollar means we will need to shell out lesser rupees to buy oil which is good news for us. This will help to check the rise in petrol / diesel prices at the fuel stations. 2) Lower landed cost of commodities would also help reduce the inflationary pressures on the economy. This will help the RBI to maintain its accommodative stance and keep rates low fuelling credit growth. 3) A strengthening of the rupee against the dollar is not great news for exporters, especially the Information Technology sector. A cheap dollar means these companies will realise lesser rupees for their invoices for services provided. This could act as a double whammy at a time when exports have been under pressure for a while. 4) A stronger rupee could be used to improve the external debt situation by paying down debt. Alternatively, the country can examine refinancing costly foreign currency loans at lower rates, or pursue a combination of the two as suggested by V Anantha Nageswaran . 5) A strengthening rupee is good news for the Indian stock markets as the foreign institutional investors (FIIs) and foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) get better returns on their dollar investments. The pressure of flight of money from Indian bourses to the US is reduced. A weaker dollar would make imports attractive and hence run counter to Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan. The government would need to re-look and tweak this strategy as the world prepares for a prolonged period of dollar weakness.
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https://ca.sports.yahoo.com/news/why-is-us-dollar-weakening-what-is-means-for-india-104450448.html?src=rss
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What Is Pink Capitalism Or Rainbow Capitalism?
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The Canadian Press A squad bristling with young and exciting talent. Home advantage through the final. A strong recent tournament record. England has much going in its favor heading into the European Championship, putting one of the worlds underachieving soccer teams among the favorites. England coach Gareth Southgate could hardly have a better chance. YOUNG STARS Phil Foden. Mason Mount. Reece James. Jude Bellingham. Jadon Sancho. Mason Greenwood. The list goes on and on. Southgate already had a solid platform on which to build after leading England to the World Cup semifinals in 2018, but the number of youngsters who have emerged since then, especially in the last 12 months, has been staggering and is the envy of many of England's rivals. Bellingham is an assured, 17-year-old midfielder who has established himself as a regular at Borussia Dortmund, alongside the 21-year-old Sancho. Attacking midfielders Foden (20) and Mount (22) are already stars for the clubs Manchester City and Chelsea, respectively who played in the Champions League final on Saturday. James, a 21-year-old Chelsea right back, was one of the best players in that final and is likely to keep out Trent Alexander-Arnold. They could all be the sparks to drive England to the title. Greenwood, a 19-year-old striker at Manchester United, is out because of an underlying injury but can expect to be involved in many major tournaments in his career. HOME COMFORTS England will play all of its group games at Wembley Stadium, while the team's last-16 match will be staged there if it finishes at the top of its group. With the semifinals and final also being held at Wembley, there's the possibility that England would only have to play one game in the quarterfinals away from home. England has won 18 of its 24 homes games under Southgate since he took charge late in 2016, losing twice. England also won its only major title, the World Cup in 1966, on home soil and reached the England-based European Championship semifinals in 1996, losing on penalties. Southgate has also talked up the benefits of his squad being based at St. George's Park, England's plush national soccer center, around matches. England's major flaw at the last World Cup was the midfield's inability to retain possession and manage games, highlighted in the way Croatia gradually overwhelmed the team in the semifinals. Central midfield has been a work in progress and remains the team's weakest link but there are signs Southgate has found a formula. Declan Rice is now established as the holding midfielder and Mount as the creative force further upfield. They just so happen to be best friends. The other place is likely to go to Jordan Henderson, Liverpool's Premier League and Champions League-winning captain, although he has had fitness issues. That trio has a bit of everything leadership, energy, drive but there is a dip in quality among the backups, headed by Kalvin Phillips of Leeds and James Ward-Prowse of Southampton, which could bite England if injuries strike. TOURNAMENT RECORD England might not have ended its long wait for a title but the team has been going deep in competitions under Southgate, giving players experience in pressure matches. The run to the World Cup semifinals was England's best performance at a major tournament since 1996 and included the team's ending its so-called curse in penalty shootouts, against Colombia in the last 16. England also reached the semifinals of the inaugural Nations League tournament in 2019, losing to the Netherlands in extra time. KANE'S MOMENT England captain Harry Kane was the top scorer at the last World Cup, finished as the top scorer in this season's Premier League, and has added an extra edge to his game by showing off his ability to drop deeper and be the link-up man in attacks for England and Tottenham this season. His goals come from all over close range, outside the area, right foot, left foot and he might be peerless as an all-round striker. With 34 goals since his England debut in 2015, when he scored with his first touch, Kane looks certain to break Wayne Rooney's record national team total of 53 if he stays healthy. ___ More AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports ___ Steve Douglas is at https://twitter.com/sdouglas80 Steve Douglas, The Associated Press
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https://ca.sports.yahoo.com/video/pink-capitalism-rainbow-capitalism-104144840.html?src=rss
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Who are the stars for Dancing with the Pagosa Stars?
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Youve seen them in line at the grocery store or strolling along the Riverwalk, but you have yet to see them dance. This years Dancing with the Pagosa Stars (DWTPS) will see six unassuming locals cast into the spotlight. Whatever happens on that stage will go down in infamy and raise funds for Seeds of Learning. When they asked me to dance, I wasnt sure, Tim Sullivan admitted, but then they told me what it was for. Not many people know that Sullivan has a degree in education and spent time as a substitute teacher in Los Angeles in order to pay the rent between acting gigs. He taught mostly grade school and middle school kids; by then, the stark difference in those with quality preschool education and those without was evident. The thing about education in those early years, Sullivan explained, is that if a kid misses out, you cant make it up. Terri Frahm knows the importance of providing opportunities for kids to succeed. Structured education is enriching, Frahm said, And it builds self-esteem. Frahm is no stranger to the DWTPS family. In past years, she has served on the decorating committee and co-chaired the drinks committee. Its amazing all we had to do, it took six months to get everything ready, Frahm recalled. Two years ago, she went undercover as star Nikki Smiths unofficial campaign manager, which included a martini-infused dance rehearsal at her home. Len Liszewski recalls the day board president Lisa Peters suggested he join DWTPS to support education for kids aged 2 and a half to 5. As Lisa was talking, my mind went back to myself at that age. I remember being in a finger painting class in Chicago and a teacher showing me the best way to get the paint off my hands, Liszewski recalled fondly. I had a great childhood; how can I not be involved to help these kids have the same? Derek Pepin is a recent transplant to Pagosa, yet he immediately jumped on board with DWTPS. Getting involved has made me feel like Im part of the community, Pepin said. So many people here give back, its inspiring. When Peters approached him, Pepin decided to throw caution to the wind. Its definitely out of my wheelhouse, but it sounded like so much fun. Heather Simpsons reasons for joining this years troupe are close to home. Her daughter, now 11 years old, attended an early education center in Denver. I remember her dad balked at the cost, Simpson recalled, but I said Id eat ramen every day for her to go there. By grade school, her daughter was ahead of the game education wise, especially compared to kids whose parents opted not to do early child education. It made her the incredible person she is today, Simpson said. As a mom to seven, Betsy Burnett is no stranger to early child education. I have great admiration for all thats been accomplished through Seeds, Burnett said. Its a prime launching pad for our future leaders. We would love to meet you. Connect with us at: https://growingseeds.org/volunteer/.
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https://pagosasun.com/2021/05/28/who-are-the-stars-for-dancing-with-the-pagosa-stars/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=who-are-the-stars-for-dancing-with-the-pagosa-stars
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What is the cost of having a child in China?
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Married Chinese couples can have up to three children, China announced on Monday, in a major shift from the limit of two after recent data showed a dramatic decline in births in the world's most populous country. The cost of raising a child in urban China has deterred many would-be parents, and China's fertility rate has fallen to just 1.3 children per woman, despite Beijing's scrapping of the one-child policy in 2016. Below are some of the costs of raising a child in China's big cities. MATERNAL COSTS The costs of giving birth in public hospitals in China, including prenatal tests and deliveries, are usually covered by state insurance, but resources are tight at public hospitals and more Chinese women are turning to private clinics, which can charge more than 100,000 yuan ($15,700). Well-off families typically hire an in-house nursemaid, or yuesao, to look after the mother and baby in the first month, at about 15,000 yuan. As incomes rise in China, new mothers are also flocking to expensive postpartum centres that offer professional care and services. One such facility in Beijing's Wangfujing district costs from 150,000 to 350,000 yuan per month. Read: China's new three-child policy draws scepticism, cost questions HOUSING AND EDUCATION After feeding their children milk formula imported from Australia and New Zealand and sending them to early childhood education centres, well-off parents seek apartments in districts with good schools such as Beijing's Haidian, where housing costs an average of over 90,000 yuan per square meter, on par with median prices in Manhattan. Those not eligible for public schools because they lack a hukou, or residency permit, must attend private schools, which cost from 40,000 to 250,000 yuan per year. Anxious parents, most of them investing in their only child, sign kids up for private tutoring and to extracurriculars such as piano, tennis or chess classes. Competition is so fierce that a popular term in parenting circles - jiwa, or "chicken baby" - refers to parents pumping energy boosting "chicken blood" into their kids by loading them up with extracurricular classes. In order to ease pressure on children and boost birth rates by lowering family education costs, China has launched a clampdown on the country's booming private tutoring industry. According to a 2019 Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences report, an average family living in Shanghai's upscale Jingan District spends almost 840,000 yuan per child from birth through junior high school, which typically ends at age 15, including 510,000 on education alone. Low-income families in Shanghai's Jingan and Minhang districts, which have annual incomes under 50,000 yuan, spend over 70% of earnings on the child, the report said. 'LYING DOWN' High costs and the pressures of having grown up as only children, as well as the expectation that they will support their parents, have made many young people reluctant to have kids of their own. New buzzwords capturing young people's outlook often crop up on social media, including the recent "tang ping", or "lying down", which reflects disillusionment with a society beset by "involution", another catchphrase referring to the state of being stuck in meaningless competition. That came after the rise of "sang" culture, which revels in often-ironic defeatism, and "Buddhist youth", which refers to young people's laissez-faire attitude to life. ($1 = 6.3667 yuan)
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https://www.deccanherald.com/international/what-is-the-cost-of-having-a-child-in-china-992472.html
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Will the bullish rally in gold towards all-time-high continue?
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Water is best, but gold shines like fire blazing in the night, supreme of lordly wealth- Line by Pindar, Ancient Greek Philosopher. This line perfectly describes the feature of gold which has recently outperformed over other markets. Gold- as a store of value for over 2,500 years has posted a return of almost 8 percent in May as a result of rising inflationary pressure and declining US real yields. Our report on gold dated 28th April 2021 when the spot was around $1775, has achieved its near-term target of $1830 and $1850. Further, it is currently quoting near the next target of $1920. Lets analyze the crucial factors which will decide the short and medium-term trend. US is outperforming, but inflationary pressure support Gold The US vaccination progress has been remarkable as 57 percent of the population is immunized. Further, strong reopening with putting off masks in public has created an optimistic environment. In recent times, the hottest question is will current inflationary pressures be transitory or persistent? If this question is asked to Fed, definitely they will answer Transitory. But lets check the reality. The current rate of inflation is 4.2 percent, which is well above the feds target of 2 percent. And expected inflation is quoting at the highest level since 2013. Additionally, the higher commitment of fiscal expenditure from Joe Bidens administration and ultra-loose monetary policy from the Fed is expected to keep the inflationary environment intact. So in an environment where the US is outperforming other markets, inflation could remain well above targets, and thus appeal for inflation-hedge investment like gold remain higher. Digital Gold-Bitcoin failed to make presence, real gold in demand When real gold was suffering in the first quarter of the year, Bitcoin being the new era inflation hedge was skyrocketing and also as a result of increased institutional adoption. But nail-biting momentum after Teslas rejection and tighter policy on the crypto market from Chinese authority slashed the Bitcoin market to just half from $64,000 to $30,000 in one month. The happy realization from traders is reviving trust in the real gold again and could spark light on the Gold prices. Rising interest in Gold ETF and favourable CFTC position The biggest gold ETF, the SPDR Gold Trust, showing holdings at 33.568 million ounces as of last Wednesday from the 29th April 2021 figure of 32.669 million. The recently released data suggests that speculative interest in gold has risen for four consecutive weeks as money managers increased their speculative gross long positions in Comex gold futures by 2,086 contracts to 143,862 and decreased their short positions by 13,179 contracts to 36,607. Overall, the market is positioning in favor of higher gold prices. Technical analysis on Gold The weekly chart of international gold suggests that prices have given a breakout from a downward slopping trend channel around $1857. In the near term, the bullish momentum is likely to continue further up to our target of the $1950-1960 zone. And if it crosses those levels then over the medium term with a view up to 3 months, we can expect it to touch $2000 and $2075 levels. On the flip side, the breakout point of $1857 will act as crucial support levels below which the uptrend will turn its bullish trend to sideways or bearish. Outlook: Overall, we expect that as long as US economic data are lagging behind the market expectation and members are refraining to turn hawkish, the real yield is likely to remain on the negative side and hence gold is likely to run the show. The return of demand for gold as an alternative to Crypto attracts trading and investment flows. Hence, the rally in gold prices is likely to continue further upto $1950-60 levels. If that is crossed convincingly then targets of $2000 and $2075 can be easily placed. For this, it should trade well above strong support of $1857. The Mumbai 24 caret gold which is currently quoting at Rs. 47,900/-(10 grm) is expected to test Rs. 49,500/- to Rs. 51,000/- on account of strength in international prices and expected depreciating move in the Rupee against USD. On the lower side, it has key support at Rs. 46,800 levels. -Amit Pabari is managing director of CR Forex Advisors. The views expressed are personal.
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https://www.cnbctv18.com/market/commodities/will-the-bullish-rally-in-gold-towards-all-time-high-continue-9502971.htm
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What Are Cocaines Medicinal Uses and Why Was Coke Made Illegal?
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We all know that cocaine used to be the active ingredient of Coca-Cola. But its history as a medicine, and as a drug, goes back even further. Cocaine is a chemically processed powder extracted from the coca plant. For thousands of years, indigenous American cultures consumed coca, in its natural form, for a variety of medicinal purposes, such as for controlling pain, regulating moods, and facilitating relaxation, as well as use as a mild anesthetic. Theres even some evidence that coca somehow made its way to ancient Egyptian royalty . And one study claimed that The Bard himself, William Shakespeare , consumed cocaine not for medicinal reasons, but to inspire his legendary sonnets. Lets take a look at how cocaine became a fixture of Western drug culture and the roots of its prohibition in the US and eventually the world. A Brief History of Cocaines Introduction to the West Despite scant clues that coca somehow crossed the Atlantic Ocean way back in the day, cocaine definitely started getting Westerners high in the 1800s. Nearly 20 years before Coca-Cola got Americans buzzed AF, a French chemist named Angelo Mariani unveiled a new wine called Vin Mariani . The wine, as you probably guessed, was spiked with copious amounts of cocaine. Intellectuals, writers, artists, and even Catholic clergy including Pope Leo XIII loved Vin Marian. The wines wild popularity in Europe led Dr. John Pemberton in the US to create his own cocaine-laced wine, which he sold as Pembertons French Wine Coca. Pembertons wine was a little different from Marianis because it also contained kola nut extract, which gave it the additional kick from caffeine on top of the cocaine. Starting in the 1880s, Pemberton marketed his coke wine as an aphrodisiac . He also claimed it served as a nerve tonic that could treat all sorts of ailments from anxiety to lethargy. And Pemberton had the medical backing of the worlds most famous psychologist at the time, Dr. Sigmund Freud. Just as Pembertons wine hit the US market, Freud promoted cocaine as a miracle cure for depression (alongside his psychoanalytical talk therapy, of course). Freud recommended cocaine to all of his patients , usually in the form of snuff. Victorian England sold cocaine candies and syrups as childrens cold remedies , for goodness sakes. Doctors even claimed cocaine could break kids addiction to sugar . Eventually, Pembertons home base of Atlanta, Georgia, enacted laws that banned booze, nearly thirty years before the federal government kicked off alcohol prohibition. So, he switched his drinks formula to focus on the kola nut instead of wine, and after adding some caramel syrup, Coca-Cola was born. Coca-Cola was an instant hit with Americas white, affluent elite. As alcohol bars fell out of fashion, soda bars that sold Coca-Cola became the new rage. Marketers lauded the drink as an intellectual beverage . At least, for a little while, anyway. The Racist Roots of Cocaine Prohibition By 1899, Coca-Cola began distributing its cocaine soda in glass bottles. That meant Black Americans, who were banned from soda bars due to segregationist policies, could now purchase and enjoy the drink, too. And thats when the demonization of cocaine started. At the turn of the 20th century, Black America was rapidly on the rise. After the Civil War ended in 1865, Black Americans (the men, in particular) started getting the same liberties that white Americans had. Black men got elected to the US Congress. By 1869, Black men could vote (though not in many Southern states due to the Black Codes). However, thirty years after getting the vote, Plessy v. Ferguson legalized racial segregation in the US, setting Black American progress back by decades. But it wasnt all glum at that time. By 1900 , at least 30,000 Black Americans were working as school teachers across the country. Booker T. Washingtons National Negro Business League began supporting African-American entrepreneurs. George Walker and Bert Williams became the nations first Black recording artists, setting the stage for the soul, jazz, R&B, and rock n roll revolutions in the decades to come. In fact, Black Americans, with their newfound wealth and political power, were buying up land, too. And all that progress, as it tends to go in America, came with some serious backlash. Just as Black America was gaining (relatively) more equal footing, politicians, law enforcement, and the newspapers started demonizing Black American consumption of cocaine as a cultural scourge that threatened the fabric of society. In 1903, the New York Times described Negro Cocaine Fiends as the new Southern Menace, The Nation reported. The myth accused Black men of turning into raving, lunatic rapists when high on coke (does that sound familiar ?). In the same manner that American legislators demonized opium as a tool that Chinese immigrants used to date-rape white women, these same lawmakers twisted Black Americans cocaine consumption as uniquely criminal. By 1914, cocaine was outlawed at the federal level , and Pemberton, once again, had to change his Coca-Cola formula to comply with the moralistic idiocy of the time. Where Cocaine Stands in the US Today Although cocaine remains outlawed for so-called recreational use, the federal government classifies it as a Schedule II drug. Schedule II means its both addictive and potentially deadly, but it has some accepted medical use . On the other hand, marijuana, which is one of the safest drugs on the planet, is classified as Schedule I , meaning its not only dangerous (supposedly), but it also has no accepted medical use, either. But, note that cocaines Schedule II status means it possesses some medical use. Even after cocaine received the ban hammer in 1914, it remained part of most American physicians medical toolkits. Today, hospitals sometimes administer cocaine as a local anesthetic for minor surgeries. Earlier this year, the FDA even approved a nasal spray made with cocaine . In years past, cocaine's most infamous form, crack, was once considered for an FDA-approved medication, too. In the 80s, the late LA-based drug researcher Ronald K. Siegel, Ph.D tested whether sniffing crack could control arthritis pain. The study successfully showed that snorting pharmaceutical crack or cocaine freebase could effectively manage chronic pain without triggering cocaines characteristic, addictive high. (Crack needs to be smoked or vaporized to have any kind of heady effect.) However, most of the study's subjects said they felt uneasy about sniffing any drug for any reason. Some even turned to street-bought cocaine after Siegel revealed the study drugs true identity. Lets be clear here: Medical science clearly shows that cocaine can cause addiction, permanent physical damage with chronic use, and even death. But some countries and, recently, some US states , are no longer considering cocaine abuse as a serious criminal offense worthy of prison time. Hopefully, as American legislators become further enlightened on the drug wars failures, no one will go to jail simply for struggling with cocaine addiction. If youre fully aware of the racist agenda behind cannabis prohibition , please consider why America outlawed cocaine, too.
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https://merryjane.com/culture/what-are-cocaines-medicinal-uses-and-why-was-coke-made-illegal
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What Are "Dankwoods" Blunts and Are They Legit?
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Rolling blunts is a way of life, but it can also be a pain in the butt. First you have to grab your wraps, which usually entails a trip to the gas station or a nearby convenience store. Then, assuming youve already obtained some cannabis, the next step is to grind it all up. From there, its time to toss the tobacco from your Peach Optimo or Strawberry Swisher (unless you live in San Francisco, in which case, the flavor choices are not great) and twist your blunt into shape. Finally, you get to spark it up and enjoy the reward of your labors. The appeal of Dankwoods is a grab-and-go approach, similar to what makes pre-rolled joints such a hot buy at licensed dispensaries. The problem, unfortunately, is that the sale of pre-rolled blunts is currently illegal everywhere in the US. Even in states with legalized adult-use sales like California, the mixing of tobacco and cannabis into a single product is not allowed by law. In the wake of last years widespread panic over tainted vaporizer cartridges cartridges which were ultimately traced back to illicit market manufactures savvy consumers should always be aware that visually impressive knockoff brands are running rampant, thanks in part to high tax rates for legal operators and a lack of resources to crackdown on their illegal counterparts. One such brand is Dankwoods, a popular line of pre-rolled blunts. In order to understand the concept behind Dankwoods, you first must learn a bit about the brand theyve chosen to ripoff. Backwoods Smokes are a popular line of cigars notable for being wrapped in a leaf of Connecticut Broadleaf tobacco. When properly unrolled, this wrapper leaf makes for excellence use as a blunt. The brand is so popular, in fact, that rare or discontinued flavors are considered a hot commodity with their own secondary market online . Beyond its durability and flavor, a Backwoods wrapper is also capable of holding a copious amount of cannabis up to 3.5 grams or one eighth. This bonus aspect has only served to make Backwoods all the more beloved as a source for blunt wraps prepared individually by the consumer. Dankwoods is essentially the commercialization of this process through illegal means. Very little is known about the operation, including any of the people involved, where their cannabis is sourced or grown, or who is ultimately profiting from your purchase. What is known is that Dankwoods are available as individually packaged pre-rolled blunts, sometimes covered in keef, and the purveyors even have a website suggesting that consumers can make online purchases. Brightly colored labels that match the Backwoods aesthetic perfectly only serve to further enhance the appeal of these items, which are allegedly sold for $40 each and contain two grams of cannabis a piece. Strains allegedly featured in Dankwoods include: White Fire Girl Scout Cookies Skywalker OG Lemon Tree Sour Diesel Sunset Sherbert Gorilla Glue SFV OG Wedding Cake Mars OG King Louie According to the website for Dankwoods, each blunt is made from an all natural Meduro backwood leaf wrapped around [two] grams of all organic fire bud with a quarter gram of concentrate made from nugs and rolled in kief with a custom-made reusable quartz filter. Everything was grown in Los Angeles using only the finest materials. You can believe them if you want, but if you do, I have some brake pads to sell you , too. The short answer is no. Despite the legitimate look of the brand's website or the 60,000 followers theyve gained on Instagram , Dankwoods is an entirely illegal operation. You simply cannot sell products that combine tobacco and cannabis in the US (at least for now), so by extension, the products being created by Dankwoods are illicit. That means no mandated testing, no scrutiny from government bodies, media, or industry peers, and no transparency in how theyre produced or distributed. Furthermore, given the potential for said cannabis to be tainted with harmful pesticides and herbicides, choosing a Dankwoods appears to favor risk over reward. This was also the case for Dabwoods, an illicit brand of THC vape cartridges that was implicated in last years spate of vape-related lung illness cases . Even if you live somewhere where legal options are not yet in play, Dankwoods is a poor substitute for rolling your own with flower you can trust. Unless the law changes, the cannabis industry will need to eradicate operations like Dankwoods work you can assist by choosing to spend your money elsewhere, like at a licensed dispensary.
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https://merryjane.com/culture/what-are-dankwoods-blunts-and-are-they-legit
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What Are Full-Spectrum CBD Extracts and Why Are They Important?
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Right now, almost all of the hemp grown in the US goes into CBD , or cannabidiol, extraction. Youve likely heard that CBD products such as oils, infused foods, and topicals can help manage a variety of conditions, including chronic pain, inflammation, migraines, or even recovering from an intense workout . But not all CBD products are created equally. Technically, there are two types of CBD products on the market. One kind, called isolates , include only CBD. The other, known as full-extract or full-spectrum , contains CBD and a host of other chemicals naturally found in cannabis. Before we go any further, know that the US FDA has not approved CBD for treating any medical condition except certain rare forms of epileptic seizures. And even then, only Epidiolex , a pharmaceutical product, has this approval from the feds. If you plan on consuming CBD for medicinal purposes, always consult a (weed-friendly) doctor first. Isolate vs. Full-Spectrum Any isolate product contains only CBD as its cannabis additive. Although studies show that CBD could help with several medical conditions, other studies suggest that CBD works best when combined with other cannabis compounds, namely THC , the part of weed that gets people intoxicated . Scientists are still figuring that out, but the evidence indicates that while CBD may stimulate parts of our cells, THC actually activates them. In other words, THC works in tandem with CBD . However, THC and marijuana products arent legal in every US state, which means if you still live under prohibition, CBD products may be your only legal option for now. Full-spectrum or full-extract CBD products contain CBD and a host of other compounds found in cannabis, such as other cannabinoids (minus THC), terpenes , flavonoids , polyphenols , and other molecular names complicated by Greek prefixes. In other words, full-spectrum means the product contains, at least in theory, all of the other compounds found in cannabis not just CBD. To truly achieve full-spectrum CBD oil, the extraction must include not only buds, but also the plant's leaves, stalks, and stems, too, according to hash-maker and cannabis consultant The Dank Duchess. Researchers are still investigating this, but theres evidence that cannabis works best as a medicinal or health supplement when all of its chemical components are combined , rather than consumed in isolation. This hypothesis, called the entourage effect or ensemble effect , says that weed works wonders on the mind, body, and soul because it contains hundreds, if not thousands, of individual compounds that work together. Isolated compounds possess their own benefits, but for the full-whammy, full-spectrum extracts could be superior to single compounds that are isolated on their own. Before You Buy, Do Your Research If youre interested in purchasing full-spectrum CBD products, do your research beforehand. First, look for the phrases full-spectrum, full-extract, or whole-plant somewhere on the package or label. Second, if youve heard good things about a full-spectrum CBD product, that might be a good one to begin doing your research on. A quick Google search on most CBD companies should give you some idea if theyre conducting responsible, ethical business or if theyre just trying to cash in on the hype .
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https://merryjane.com/culture/what-are-full-spectrum-cbd-extracts-and-why-are-they-important
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What Are Landrace Weed Strains and Why Are They Evolutionary Wonders?
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While most weed smokers describe cannabis strains informally as indicas, sativas, or hybrids, there are two scientific categories that distinguish cannabis in broader terms: landrace and, well, every strain thats not a landrace. Cannabis cultivators who develop new strains are particularly fond of landraces. A Brief History on the Landrace Concept Well need to dip our toes into the biological sciences to better understand what landraces are. The term first appeared in 1908 in a German book by agricultural scientist Kurt Rmker. The original word, landrasse, literally translates to English as country-breed, meaning a plant native to a particular country. Since then, biologists have expanded the term landrace to encompass any plant or animal thats native to a particular region and possesses specific, unique characteristics from the rest of its species. To answer that, well have to review some evolutionary biology . When a species like Cannabis sativa grows in the wild, it can sometimes grow in relative isolation from other Cannabis sativa varieties or strains. For instance, there may be weed growing near the top of a mountain, or weed growing on an island. When these plants grow in isolation, they wont cross-breed with other cannabis strains, so this strains genetics remain intact for hundreds, if not thousands, of generations. Over time (were talking thousands to millions of years), that isolated weed strain will become hyper-adapted to its environment. Genes that promote the strains ability to survive, thrive, and reproduce will often duplicate or evolve other enhancements within its DNA, increasing those genes expressions. These genes may regulate cannabinoid production, terpene production, or other traits such as drought-resistance, pest-resistance, UV protection, or higher flower yields. By definition, landrace plants cannot originate from human gardens, farms, or other breeding programs. They must also produce relatively high yields even under less-than-ideal environmental conditions. And while some cross-breeding in the wild is expected, genetic sequencing must show that the landrace possesses genetic integrity , in other words, it mostly inbred within its own population. (Just FYI, unlike animals, plants dont develop health issues from constant inbreeding.) Why Some Weed Breeders Risk Life and Limb to Preserve Landrace Strains Cannabis cultivators respect the agricultural tradition of naming landraces according to the strains country or region of origin. This is why the Afghani and Thai landrace strains are called Afghani and Thai and not something more colorful like Purple Punch or Alaskan Thunderfuck . However, some landrace names do have a bit of flare to them, such as Acapulco Gold and Panama Red . This naming convention designates landrace weed plants as distinct from the strains youd find in most pot shops, which are almost always non-landrace hybrids. In fact, the terms sativa and indica only accurately describe landrace strains. Since practically every weed strain sold by street dealers or licensed pot shops is the result of crossbreeding, almost all buds you can find these days are technically hybrids, regardless of how theyre marketed. Landraces also possess gene combinations for specific cannabinoids or terpenes that are difficult to duplicate with traditional breeding methods. So, if cannabis cultivators want those gene combos in their proprietary strains, they need to cross their plants with a landrace first. Some cannabis cultivators have gone above and beyond to find landrace weed strains, too. In 2018, VICE News produced a mini-documentary about Franco Loja and Arjan Roskam, two strain hunters who traveled to the war-torn Democratic Republic of Congo in search of a rare Congolese landrace. Loja and Arjan founded the Green House cannabis cafe in Amsterdam, as well as Green House Seeds, which developed the world-famous White Widow strain from Brazilian and South Indian landraces. Theres another reason why cultivators want landraces: Landrace plants can protect monocropped plants from being wiped out by pests or diseases . Monocropping occurs when farmers plant and replant a crop where each plant has identical genetics, such as whats happened in the US with wheat and corn. Although the nascent cannabis industry has not yet entirely monocropped cannabis, monocropping will likely happen if and when weed becomes federally legal (hemp has been federally legal since 2018). Since a monocrop has the same genes among all plants within the crop, theyre especially susceptible to pests and diseases, which can destroy an entire crop. But, if cultivators can introduce a landraces sturdy genes into a monocrop, that monocrop will develop some genetic diversity, increasing its chances of resisting infection or repelling pests. Basically, nature often does it better than humans can. And, no matter how clever our breeding methods get, landrace strains, which are essentially designed by nature, will always guarantee that weve got dank, potent weed.
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https://merryjane.com/culture/what-are-landrace-weed-strains-and-why-are-they-evolutionary-wonders
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What Are "Popcorn Nugs" and Are They Considered High Quality Weed?
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Photo via If youre ever bored, doing a deep dive into the etymology behind many of the words we regularly use today can lead to some truly fascinating discoveries whether in the cannabis canon or otherwise. Its actually a derivation of clew, which is a ball of yarn. According to myth, yarn is what Ariadne gave to Theseus to help him find his way out of the Minotaurs labyrinth, and thus, a new word was born. Even in cannabis, we can see this in action . Today, we commonly refer to glass water pipes used for smoking weed as bongs. Thats thanks to Vietnam War veterans, who returned from service using the Thai term baung , which literally translates to cylindrical wooden tube. The anglicization to bong shortly followed suit. In other cases, the names we ascribe to things are basically just derived from common sense. Such is the case for popcorn nugs, the term used to describe cannabis buds that are roughly the size of a popped kernel of corn. Sure, we could have gone with grape nugs or macadamia nut nugs, but popcorn is where the consensus has landed. Given cannabis nugs come in many shapes and sizes, you may be wondering what distinguishes popcorn buds from their nugget siblings. Read on to find out no butter or salt necessary. From a commercial standpoint, popcorn nugs are considered B-grade buds in comparison to the larger, A-grade buds that serve as the centerpiece for many jars and packages of flower in dispensaries. If A-grade buds are the Brad Pitts and Meryl Streeps of the cannabis nugget world, then B-grade buds might be represented by character actors like Philip Seymour Hoffman and Catherine OHara: The point is, either way, youre probably in for a great movie. Its really just a matter of whether or not you care how famous the cast is. Though popcorn nugs may be slightly less potent due to their reduced mass, the difference is largely negligible. Thus, if you have a grower or farm you prefer, seeking out their B-grade buds is a way to save a few bucks while sacrificing virtually no quality. While other forms of cannabis including shake and reggie are definitely rip-off territory, a jar of popcorn nugs can really only be considered disappointing on an aesthetic level. Basically, you may not want to post your latest stash on Instagram, but its not going to lead to an inferior high. Given popcorn nugs are simply a phrasing to highlight a certain size of cannabis flower, you can do anything with them that you can do with cannabis! That said, the size of popcorn nugs does make them ideally suited for a few specific canna-purposes, as well: Press Rosin If you want to save your prettiest nugs for joints or glassware, we understand. Instead, take your popcorn nugs and press them into rosin for use in a myriad of products Make Edibles Along the same lines, if popcorn nugs offend your eye, use them as the basis for an edibles recipe . Bon appetit! Rolling Blunts The tiniest popcorn nugs are perfect for rolling blunts, with little to no breaking up of the buds necessary. If you really want to impress your friends, twist them up with a Backwoods wrap.
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https://merryjane.com/culture/what-are-popcorn-nugs-and-are-they-considered-high-quality-weed
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What Are Russian Cream Backwoods Blunts and Why Are They So Popular?
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These questions seem to be on the lips of anyone who isnt indulging in these dank delicacies or actively on the hunt to find them. So lets answer these queries on a topic-by-topic (and, later, toke-by-toke) basis. Inspired by the luscious dessert dish with which it shares a name, the Russian Cream flavor is a relatively new and explosively popular development in the world of tinctures, synthetic terpenes, and product varieties when it comes to cannabis. The allure of Russian Cream is in the taste. Russian Cream delivers a lush, velvety mouth-feel and it cascades with rich flavors that include coffee, chocolate, caramel, vanilla-licorice, sweet tobacco, and, in keeping with its spiritual motherland, vodka. To create Russian Cream smoke products , the flavor is saturated into wrappers, which are typically tobacco leaves or tobacco-infused rolling papers. A number of manufacturers are cranking out Russian Cream cigars and cigarillos, but the brand thats most in demand for blunt-rollers , by far, is Backwoods. Backwoods Russian Cream cigarillos make the best blunts. Its (almost) that simple. A blunt, of course, is a cigar thats been unrolled and emptied of its inner tobacco content, then packed with marijuana and rerolled so as to be ready for sparking. Made from additive-free, raw tobacco leaves, Backwoods small cigars debuted in the late 70s. Stoners quickly took to Backwoods, as the thin tobacco wrapping enabled smokers to load a lot more weed into each blunt than was possible with the stiffer, less malleable wrappings of competitors such as Phillies, Swisher Sweets, and White Owl. That stated, creating Backwoods blunts proved more intricate than just using typical, paper-rolled products. The added challenge of that flimsy wrapping and potential for odd shapes, then, added yet another cachet to anyone who could successfully concoct a Backwoods blunt and it still does. Fortunately, MERRY JANE has published an easy guide to rolling Backwoods blunts , all the better now to deliver your Russian Cream cannabis delights. More recently, Backwoods blunts smokers have added another level of elite status, by packing seemingly impossible amounts of pot into each smokable, then puffing away impressively on social media. While Russian Cream Backwoods are presently all the rage and can be easily obtained, six OG Backwoods flavors Banana, Grape, Port, Vanilla, Wild Rum, and Wine are no longer available in the United States and have since become hot-ticket items on the online resale market . As a result, obtaining the discontinued Backwoods flavors from various countries where theyre still available has taken on the air of high-end stoner collectibles such as limited-edition overseas sneakers or Supreme gear. And since both untaxed tobacco products and pre-rolled blunts remain illegal to sell or buy in the US, snagging ready-made Backwoods blunts packs the thrill of obtaining contraband Cuban cigars, only made extra alluring by the power of pot. Dankwoods is an outlaw operation that produces pre-rolled blunts, apparently made using Backwoods wrappers. Other pre-roll brands have used names such Barewoods, Litwoods, and Packwoods to similarly indicate what their blunts supposedly started out as in tobacco form. The mysterious Dankwoods is active online and has tens of thousands of social media followers. The company indicates it manufactures and sells pre-rolled blunts consisting of a Meduro leaf wrapped around two grams of all organic fire bud with a quarter gram of concentrate made from nugs and rolled in kief with a custom-made reusable quartz filter. Strains allegedly up for grabs include Wedding Cake, Thin Mints, Sunset Sherbert, Gorilla Glue, and Girl Scout Cookies. However appetizing those treats might seem, though, please be aware that Dankwoods is a completely illegal endeavor and therefore should in no way be trusted. None of their claims are verifiable, and its unlikely that any of their products have been tested for safety. As such, its probably best to stick with your own hand-rolled, homemade Russian Cream Backwoods blunts and not the unlicensed pre-rolled blunts sold online. As always when it comes to cannabis and everything else, really hip-hop is on the cutting-edge of incorporating and elevating Russian Cream into popular culture for the rest of us. The 2018 anthem Russian Cream by Key Glock powerfully propagated the flavor among the mainstream by way of the lyrics, Stuff them bands in my jeans/Slap them thirties in them things/Pull the trigger, let it sing/Then go smoke a Russian Cream. That same year, Canadian rapper Roy Woods celebrated the tasty blunt sensations with his own song titled Russian Cream, as did bonafide badass, Megan Thee Stallion . Thats entirely up to you. We recommend purchasing some Russian Cream Backwoods, rolling them into blunts, and seeing where the resulting high takes you. You can be happily sure itll be someplace sweet.
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https://merryjane.com/culture/what-are-russian-cream-backwoods-blunts-and-why-are-they-so-popular
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What Are Schedule I Drugs and What Does the Classification Mean?
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If youve followed the conversation around cannabis reform, youve probably heard that the US federal government classifies marijuana as a Schedule I drug. In the eyes of the lunatics running our country, cannabis is somehow considered equivalent in danger to heroin. Equally baffling is the fact that drugs, including meth and cocaine, are listed as Schedule II substances, which is a less restrictive drug class. This confusion stems from a common misconception that the federal drug scheduling system is based on how dangerous a drug is. But, a drugs perceived danger isnt really supposed to be part of the equation. To better understand Schedule I drugs, its helpful to take a look at the Controlled Substances Act, the law that created the federal drug schedule. History of the Controlled Substances Act In 1969, President Richard Nixon announced that his administration was working on comprehensive legislation to address the nations increasing use of recreational drugs. It was a tumultuous time for the nation. Attacks on the civil rights movement had spawned unrest, and the hippies were embracing a culture that openly espoused rejection of the status quo. It was in this climate that the Nixon administration produced the Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act of 1970, also known as the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), which was passed by Congress and signed into law by the president in 1970. The CSA combined several existing federal laws that were passed over the years to limit access to drugs into one piece of federal legislation. The law was also written to implement the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs, a 1961 international treaty designed to prohibit the production of specific drugs and others with similar effects. Under the CSA, the production, sale, possession, use, and importation of certain substances is regulated, with most enforcement authority delegated to the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Food and Drug Administration. Each drug regulated by the CSA was placed in one of five schedules, with different qualifications for each, based on a drugs medical value and potential for abuse. The original schedules were created by Congress with the legislation, and additions and subtractions to the list, as well as the rescheduling of certain drugs, are determined by the DEA and FDA. Schedule I drugs receive the tightest regulatory control and Schedule V substances the lightest. To be put on Schedule I under the CSA, a drug is considered to have no medical value and a high potential for abuse. However, just what constitutes abuse isnt defined, allowing regulators a lot of leeway in the scheduling of drugs. Because the original schedules were drafted by Congress, political motivation likely influenced its creation. Despite the fact marijuana has been used medicinally for decades prior to prohibition, racial and political biases led lawmakers to include cannabis the use of which they associated with minorities and radicals on the most restrictive regulatory schedule. Since Schedule I drugs are purported to have no accepted medical use, they cant be prescribed by a physician. The production and use of Schedule I drugs are tightly controlled by the DEA, with all manufacturing and use limited to approved research. As a result, studies that could prove the medical value of Schedule I substances are severely restrictive and burdensome to carry out. And in the case of government-grown weed, the DEA's one approved cannabis farm produces flower that most researchers consider too inferior to study properly. Of course, cannabis isnt the only substance included on Schedule I of the CSA. The classification also includes heroin, as previously mentioned, and the date rape drug GHB. The sedative-hypnotic drug methaqualone, the popular Quaaludes of the 1960s, '70s, and '80s, are also included in Schedule I. Additionally, Schedule I includes several hallucinogenic drugs, including LSD (acid) and MDMA (also known as molly or ecstasy). Peyote , the psychedelic cactus (and its active ingredient mescaline ), and hallucinogenic fungi such as psilocybin or magic mushrooms are also listed as Schedule I drugs under the CSA. Interestingly, although Schedule I drugs are determined by the DEA to have no accepted medical use, it doesnt mean they lack therapeutic value. Cannabis preparations were manufactured by drug companies, including Eli Lilly, and were widely available until the 1930s. Entheogenic plants such as peyote, ayahuasca, and psilocybin have been used as plant medicines for millennia and are now regaining attention for their potential to treat serious conditions such as clinical depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and substance abuse. Although its possible for a Schedule I drug to have its classification changed under the CSA to a lower schedule, doing so presents a conundrum. Before the DEA will change a Schedule I drug to a lower schedule, the agency requires data from scientific trials proving medical efficacy. However, a drugs status as a Schedule I drug make such studies extremely cumbersome, if even possible, which makes rescheduling a difficult proposition. The severity of this challenge was illustrated clearly in 2016 when the DEA decided that cannabis would remain a Schedule I substance , maintaining its status as one of the federal governments most tightly controlled drugs. But, as the cannabis movement continues to shift state-level laws and spark interest among researchers and scientists, the federal government will eventually run out of excuses as to why cannabis should maintain its Schedule I classification. Hopefully, other plant medicines and fungi will follow. Follow AJ Herrington on Instagram
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https://merryjane.com/culture/what-are-schedule-i-drugs-and-what-does-the-classification-mean
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What Are Some of Weed's Worst Side Effects and Can We Prevent Them?
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Cannabis comes in a wide array of forms today. Weve got edibles, drinkables, skin creams, lotions, salves, tinctures, powders, joints, blunts, bowls, and even suppositories. But lets be honest here: Theres really no distinction between medical cannabis and recreational pot, when it comes to the plant itself. Both categories utilize the sweet leaf we love for smoking, vaping, or infusions. But any medicinal product or party favor that packs as much of a psychoactive wallop as weed is going to come with some side effects. Lets go over some of the most common ones. Cottonmouth aka Dry Mouth Every cannabis consumer, at some point in their lives, will experience cottonmouth . It occurs when the saliva glands stop cranking out as much juice as they usually do, which causes the inside of the mouth to feel sticky. Fortunately, this is one of the easiest of weeds side effects to take care of. Chewing gums can get rid of cottonmouth, since the chewing motion gets the glands to start secreting saliva again. You can also instantly get rid of cottonmouth by simply drinking something, even just plain ol water. And while cross-fading, or combining cannabis with an alcoholic drink, can temporarily relieve dry mouth, booze will dehydrate you, so dont rely on those margaritas too much. The Munchies While were on the topic of foodstuffs, lets discuss the munchies. Now, weeds propensity to trigger your appetite can be a side effect or a desired effect, depending on what youre going for. If you need to eat, getting the munchies can be a lifesaver (and literally so for patients with cancer or AIDS). But if youre trying to watch your waistline , or if you tend to overeat , hitting a bong can work against you. Also, some studies suggest that cannabis consumers will crave fatty or sugary foods when they get the munchies, which can be detrimental to your health if youre constantly gorging on junk food. However, if you know youve got a tendency to munch-out while stoned , you can use the munchies to your advantage, too. The best way to tackle the munchies is to plan ahead . Keep healthy snacks like raw fruits and vegetables on hand if you know the hunger pangs will strike. You can also save the toking for after youve dined on a full meal. If you insist on blazing all day, every day, at all times of the day, then seek out weed strains or products that contain THCV, or tetrahydrocannabivarin . THCV, unlike its cousin THC, will eliminate your appetite, which is why some people refer to it as natures diet pill. (Its not actually a pill, though.) Memory Loss and Decreased Attention or Focus OK, technically these are three separate categories, but since theyre also interconnected, well just tackle them in one section. Now, not everyone experiences significant short-term memory loss or assumes the attention span of a hyperactive goldfish when they get lit. But a lot of people do . Do note that research suggests loss of memory or focus from weed use is always temporary , and if its a problem for you, simply abstaining from weed for a little while should restore your normal brain functioning. If youre prone to forgetting when youre medicated, try setting reminder alarms on your smartphone. Most mobile brands today will let you include a note or descriptor for what the alarm is for, if you need to remember to do something thats important. In addition to alarms, your cell phone likely has a note-taking or voice recorder app included, too. Use those to your advantage if you need to recall critical details from a conversation, presentation, or conference at a later time. Regarding focus, there may not be much you can do. However, consuming some CBD could reduce some of the distracting effects caused by THC. There are other products, such as olivetol pills, that may counteract THCs psychoactive effects, as well. If youre wondering if ADHD medications such as Adderall could help you focus while couch-locked, just know that doctors dont know what the effects of combining weed with amphetamines may do to you . Furthermore, people who dont have genuine ADHD wont benefit from Adderalls ability to enhance focus like it does for people who actually live with the condition. In fact, if you dont have ADHD and youre abusing Adderall, youll likely have a harder time processing and retaining new information, and youll probably have a harder time recalling that information later, too. Lack of Dreaming This fascinating side effect from cannabis was only recently confirmed . Many tokers dont remember their dreams, if theyre even experiencing them at all, until they stop taking cannabis for a prolonged period of time. Scientists still arent sure why weed gets rid of dreaming for some people, just as scientists arent even sure why humans dream in the first place . It may have something to do with altered brainwave patterns while lit, or it could be due to cannabis use disrupting ones natural sleep cycle . Unfortunately, theres not a whole lot you can do about this somnolescent side effect . If you miss dreaming, and youre a regular cannabis consumer, try laying off the pipe for a few days and see what happens. Dizziness or Nausea One of cannabiss most sought-after effects is its ability to curb nausea . However, novices and lightweights can experience dizziness or nausea from consuming too much, but it happens to the hardcore OGs sometimes, too (theyll just never admit it). Anti-dizziness medications may counteract the dizziness caused by getting too lifted, but just be sure youve got a legit prescription if youre not taking over-the-counter pills. As for nausea, there is some evidence that eating something loaded with sugar can fix that. Again, scientists dont know why sugar can counteract dizziness or nausea caused by weed, but it may have to do with cannabiss ability to regulate our insulin , a hormone that breaks down our blood sugar to provide us with energy. Nausea from cannabis may also be due to dehydration (see cottonmouth, above). So, be sure youre drinking plenty of water while youre getting weeded. And keep in mind that alcoholic or sugary drinks will actually dehydrate you further, not rehydrate you. Also, dont confuse nausea caused by smoking or eating too much with cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) . CHS is a rare medical condition that involves uncontrolled bouts of vomiting, and the vomiting from CHS can be triggered by even the tiniest amounts of THC, CBD, or other cannabinoids. Just because your stomach may feel a little jolted from that massive bong rip does not mean you have CHS. Red Eyes or Dry Eyes Some people get bloodshot eyes when they get lit . This is mostly caused by the blood vessels in the white parts of the eyes opening up from THC, though its possible that the tear ducts may dry up a little when blazed, too (just as THC can cause dry mouth). The easiest way to treat red or bloodshot eyes from weed is to keep some soothing eye drops on hand, especially ones designed to treat red or irritated eyes. Jokes aside, many cannabis consumers are sensitive to pot smoke, especially when hitting a joint, blunt, or pipe. Smoke of any form is usually hot, and the particles carried through the smoke can irritate or inflame the throat and lungs. One way around this is to use a water pipe; the water cools the smoke. Other products such as the Freeze Pipe can cool smoke without any of it passing through water (which causes the smoke to lose some THC and terpenes in the process). You can also treat a sore throat from cannabis smoke by spraying a numbing sore-throat spray into your mouth. Or, if youd rather avoid smoke altogether, stick with edibles, tinctures, or drinkables. Or invest in a high-end vaporizer like The Volcano, which produces practically no smoke and only vaporizes cannabiss pure essential oils. Keep in mind, though, that not all vape products are created equally. Preloaded weed vape cartridges or oils may cause irritation , as well.
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https://merryjane.com/culture/what-are-some-of-weeds-worst-side-effects-and-can-we-prevent-them
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Could the pantograph make a return to Londons buses?
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A trial of a new electric bus in South London could see the pantograph return to Londons buses, some 60 years after the last Trolleybus ran in London. Not the same as the old system though, as these pantographs will be upside down, mounted on fixed locations with the buses driving up to them to recharge their batteries. If youre not familiar with the term, a pantograph is the unit mounted on the roof of an electric vehicle, typically a train or tram to collect electricity through contact with an overhead wire. The latest development is part of TfLs plans to convert its bus fleet to zero-emission at the point of use, by switching them to electric supply. A number of bus garages are already switching to electric buses, and this works well for around three-quarters of Londons buses which have compact routes and can return to the garage for a battery top-up. However, that leaves about a quarter of bus routes unsuitable for that sort of conversion to electric battery operation. A trial of a hydrogen double-decker bus will investigate that alternative, but TfL says that it has high costs and a limited supply chain. So, theyre looking to test an idea for opportunity charged buses, which have their batteries topped up along the route at convenient locations, by overhead power supplies. The trial being proposed is along Route 358, which runs along a long path between Crystal Palace and Orpington. The route is currently served by a fleet of single-deck diesel buses, which will be replaced by the sleek looking ie tram from Spanish bus and coach maker, Irizar. When the new electric buses pull into Crystal Palace or Orpingonton bus stops, a pantograph will drop down from the charging unit to connect with the bus and top up the batteries. The bus can be charged in just a few minutes, making it ideal for use at end-of-route bus stops. The old trolleybuses needed to have power cables along their entire route, which was unsightly, and the last one ran in London in 1962. If the trial works, in 2022 a fleet of pantograph charged buses will return to Londons streets.
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https://www.ianvisits.co.uk/blog/2021/06/01/could-the-pantograph-make-a-return-to-londons-buses/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+cellular-news%2FLmiX+%28ianVisits%29
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What Are THC and CBD Suppositories and Do They Actually Work?
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For most of us, consuming cannabis is a function of the mouth. We smoke it, we vape it, and we eat it. Sometimes, maybe, we drink it. However, as society continues to embrace the leaf of life, the means of ingesting marijuanas inherent magic are expanding in terms of techniques, technology, and, well, points of entry. Cannabis suppositories are a hot topic at the moment . They exist in both rectal and vaginal forms, come in THC and CBD varieties, and, according to experts, they output fast, powerful results with little to no side effects including the feeling of getting high. Pot that that slips up your south side is also, apparently, nothing new . As the rectal health organization Back Door Medicine explains, For over 5,000 years, cannabis has been recorded as a healing medicine. Making THC and CBD suppositories is simple . It involves combining cannabis-infused oil with a base oil such as cacao butter, heating the mix, and pouring it into oval-shaped molds. The molds are then frozen, the oils harden, and workable cannabinoid delivery devices result. Then, you know where they go from there... Upon being inserted into the proper cavity, the body absorbs the cannabis suppositorys active ingredients directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the liver. Thats why THC suppository users dont get stoned. Health experts also say thats what makes THC and CBD suppositories such potent forces in evolving medical treatments. In an interview with MERRY JANE , cannabis suppository advocate Dr. Paula-Nol Macfie broke down the numbers, stating, Cannabis suppositories deliver around 80 percent of the plant medicine, while taking cannabis orally delivers around 35 percent, and smoking around 15 percent The bottom line: Cannabis suppositories allow for larger doses of plant medicine without the head high versus smoking and ingesting orally. For patients who have issues with oral consumption such as lung disease, difficulty swallowing, or extreme nausea, cannabis suppositories are proving revolutionary. Among the conditions reportedly being addressed with CBD and THC rectal suppositories are chronic pain, gastrointestinal disorders, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and hemorrhoids . In 2013, no less a hemp hero than Tommy Chong proclaimed he beat prostate cancer with the use of marijuana suppositories. It makes sense, as cannabinoids have been medically determined to fight prostate cancer by pinpointing and eliminating cancer cells while leaving healthy cells untouched. Exploring the same physical vicinity, a 2019 medical study determined that cannabinoid compounds may inhibit the growth of colon cancer. THC suppositories take that particular battle right to the front line. CBD and THC suppositories also appear to be at the forefront of womens health. Perhaps we should add, again. The study Women and Cannabis: Medicine, Science, and Sociology notes that ancient Egyptian healers used cannabis suppositories as far back as 3,000 BC. Dr. Melanie Bone, a renowned OB/GYN specialist, said she recommends vaginal cannabis suppositories for severe cramps, pelvic pain, PMS, dysmenorrhea, and for certain sexual issues. A lot of people have a lot of pain with intercourse, Dr. Bone said. I will try vaginal suppositories on those people, and some I do have nice success with it. A 2019 study also determined that medical cannabis is the most effective treatment for endometriosis , an extremely painful condition in which a womans uterine lining grows outside her uterus. Endometriosis affects about 10 percent of all women of reproductive age, and, beyond the debilitating pains, it can cause infertility and gastrointestinal issues. Another study , titled Cannabis Use, a Self-Management Strategy Among Australian Women With Endometriosis, stated, Women report good efficacy of cannabis in reducing pain and other symptoms, with few adverse effects reported. The study also concluded that cannabis-using women experienced a decrease in gastrointestinal problems, nausea, anxiety, depression, and insomnia. As evidence of the treatments efficacy, numerous endometriosis patients actively endorse vaginal suppositories infused with CBD and THC as bringing relief to their conditions. In the end, cannabis suppositories are revealing yet again that marijuana is a medical miracle, no matter how it gets up inside you.
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https://merryjane.com/culture/what-are-thc-and-cbd-suppositories-and-do-they-actually-work
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What Are the Benefits (If Any) of Eating Raw Cannabis Flower?
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In case you havent noticed, cannabis edibles have come a long way since the stem -laden brownies of yesteryear. The legal cannabis industry, until recently flush with investment capital, has come up with myriad new ways of eating weed. Gummies, cookies, capsules, mints, chocolates, hard candies, and even beverages all infused with THC can now be found at dispensaries in legal jurisdictions. Cannabis edibles have become so popular that sales of food and drinks containing THC in the United States and Canada could top $4 billion by 2022, according to data from Arcview Research. Unfortunately, the answer is no. The fact is, live cannabis plants and freshly-harvested marijuana flowers have little-to-no THC. Instead, this herb is high in THCA (or tetrahydrocannabinolic acid), an unactivated form of THC that is non-intoxicating. To get you high, the THCA must be converted to THC, which can be accomplished with the addition of heat in a process known as decarboxylation. The THCA is converted naturally when pot is smoked or vaped thanks to heating it upon inhalation. Edibles made with cannabis flowers or concentrates also have to be decarbed in order to get you lit. Even dried and cured buds, which undergo some decarboxylation as they age, still contain mostly THCA. Another reason eating weed wont get you high is because, by itself, THC has little bioavailability. Unless the THC molecules are infused into alcohol or fat (such as butter or oil), or are processed to make them water-soluble, they arent going to be absorbed by the body when eaten. Womp womp... But even though eating weed won't get you conventionally stoned, there are benefits to consuming raw flower. Eating weed is a thing. In fact, consuming fresh and fresh-frozen cannabis is becoming a bit of health craze. Even though THCA isnt psychoactive, it still has beneficial properties for health and wellness. Many medical marijuana patients prefer formulations with THCA for times when getting lit on their medicine isnt appropriate. Research shows that THCA has several benefits that warrant further study. In 2013, researchers determined that cannabinoids including THCA might slow the growth and spread of some cancer cells. Another study in 2012 found that both THC and THCA can act as neuroprotectants that promote brain health. And, research in 2011 found THCA has anti-inflammatory properties. Fresh cannabis is also rich in terpenes, minor cannabinoids, flavonoids, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants including omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Raw cannabis is also high in fiber, protein, and amino acids. Dr. William Courtney is a physician and a member of the International Cannabinoid Research Society, the International Association of Cannabis as Medicine, the Society of Clinical Cannabis, and the American Academy of Cannabinoid Medicine. He views cannabis not as a medicine, but as a necessary component of a healthy diet. You only need it as a medicine when you have forgotten it is food, Courtney told Fox News (an admittedly shady outlet...). Courtney believes that ingesting raw cannabis nourishes the endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate biological processes throughout the body. I believe this plant, having evolved over millions of years, is put together to support that system, he said. Its clear that this plant is incredibly important for cell health, which at its best prevents disease. Courtney suggests that his patients consume cannabis, either fresh or fresh-frozen, as a regular addition to their diets. Fresh cannabis can be ingested by juicing, blending into smoothies, or chopped and added to salads or other recipes. When its consumed as a leafy green vegetable, you get the whole profile of the plant, he said. One of those patients is Katie Marsh of Madawaska, Maine, who uses fresh cannabis to treat rheumatoid arthritis. She was looking for a way to treat her condition without using the powerful pharmaceuticals that are typically recommended, which can come with dangerous side effects. I white-knuckled it through the pain and only took pain killers when I absolutely needed them, Marsh said. Then she went to see Dr. Courtney, who helped her determine which cannabis strains were most likely to help her. After getting a bag of fresh cannabis from a local grower, she started juicing weed daily, mixing it into a fruit smoothly to make the taste more palatable. I saw results very quickly. Within a matter of a couple of days I was able to stop the prednisone and ibuprofen, she said. After 11 months, although she was still experiencing pain in her feet from damage caused by her condition, the disease was in remission. So while its true you cant get high from eating weed, you still might want to give it a try if you use cannabis medicinally. It might be just what your body needs to help it get back on track. Follow AJ Herrington on Instagram
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https://merryjane.com/culture/what-are-the-benefits-if-any-of-eating-raw-cannabis-flower
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What Are the Best Blunt Wraps for Serious Weed Smokers?
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If youve finally mastered the art of twisting joints, youll probably want to move on to more advanced rolling techniques. And nothing demonstrates a tokers devotion to the cause more than a perfectly crafted blunt. (Actually, getting arrested while campaigning for cannabis is probably the best demonstration, but lets assume most of us cant afford to do that.) Blunts are weed cigars made by rolling up cannabis flower with cigar wraps. Theyve been around for a long time, but they became incredibly popular in the 90s after rappers like Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre made them marijuana mainstays in their lyrics. Blunts are usually bigger than joints, which means you can stuff a lot more weed in one than you could a mere marijuana cigarette. And since cigar wraps are made with tobacco, they contain nicotine. Although nicotine can be addictive, it also constricts the blood vessels, which increases blood pressure. And some folks swear that the slight uptick in blood pressure makes the weed hit just a little bit faster and harder than it would otherwise. Gallery Fancy Ass Blunts for When You're Feeling Luxurious: Besides the above mentioned reasons, blunts taste fuckin delicious, too. And they burn slowly, meaning your sesh will last longer than it would with a classic pre-roll. But what truly makes a blunt isnt the weed. Its the wrap. And to ensure you always roll the very best blunts, you need to start with the best wraps, first. Hemp Wraps So, about that nicotine thing. A lot of cannabis smokers are current or former cancer patients, and smoking anything that contains nicotine may not be beneficial to their health. Thankfully, there are non-tobacco blunt wraps available, and some of the coolest brands arent made with just any kind of paper: These are made from cannabis itself. Just ask Lobo Cannagar , which makes weed cigars rolled into cannabis leaves. Yes, that means youre smoking a green stogie. Hemp wraps are still relatively new, but since they dont contain nicotine or THC, you can buy them pretty much anywhere (read: gas stations). And in case youre wondering, yes, they roll into blunts just as easily as tobacco wraps. If you prefer your wraps to come packed with the candied flavors of fruit snacks, try a Juicy Jays Juicy Wrap . These triple-dipped hemp wraps are so, well, juicy, you may not even have to lick the wrap to seal it. Theyre perf for those living in dry, blunt-wrap-killing environments like Colorado, as Juicy Wraps stay moist much longer than most other wraps, too. Gold Wraps Smoking a cigar in public is one of the most baller ways to let everyone know youre a boss. Blunts confer that same smokey authority, but if youre gonna flaunt your badassery, might as well go whole-hog and twist that sucker with a wrap made of 24-karat gold. Shine Gold Blunt Wraps are literally made from real, edible gold, and these things shine so bright, Rihanna just might cash in her diamonds for em. But since theyre made with actual gold and not some sparkling paint, these wraps can put a dent in the bank account at $35 for a pack of two. Swisher Sweets Aint nothin sweet but the Swishers! rapped Lil Wayne over the 2011 track, Im On One. Swisher Sweets are one of the most popular cigars for rolling blunts, but theres a catch: Swisher doesnt make blunt wraps, per se. Instead, tokers must slice open a Swisher Sweet cigar to remove the tobacco inside before stuffing it with weed. Swisher Sweets come in a variety of flavors, but the original vibes best with most strains. It tastes like a normal cigar dipped in sugar, which is especially dope as you approach the end of the sesh and the bitter weed tar starts gunking up the blunt. White Owl Sometimes the standard-sized blunt wrap isnt enough. Sometimes you gotta go big, real big. White Owl Wraps Xtra line are oversized, and you can fit an entire eighth of weed into one of these bad boys if you have nimble fingers. While some folks may consider that wasteful, you can minimize the loss by making sure everyone keeps passing that dutchie to the left. Dutch Master Speaking of dutchies, Dutch Master cigars are how blunts got that nickname. Dutch Master is old school with their cigar wrap production, and they retain that natural, earthy tobacco taste into each one. These wraps, even the flavored varieties, go well with earthy, gas-y weed strains. Backwoods Blunts The ultimate display of ones blunt-rolling prowess is the legendary Backwoods blunt . Like Swisher Sweets and Dutch Masters, Backwoods doesnt supply empty blunt wraps. Youll have to peel the wrap off the cigar, but these papers are much trickier to work with than Swishers. Thats because Backwoods cigars are rolled with actual (and brittle) tobacco leaves, not smooth tobacco paper fashioned from pulp. If youve never tried to make a blunt from a Backwoods cigar, check out our guide on rolling your own like a pro. Now enjoy that blunt! Follow Randy Robinson on Twitter
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What Are the Best Ways to Eat or Take Magic Mushrooms?
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Great. So, you live in Denver or Oakland , the first two US cities to enact significant psilocybin reform in recent months. Or, maybe you live in one of the new states or cities that are considering decriminalizing magic mushrooms. Regardless, if you know anything about these fantastic fungal morsels, you know they taste kinda gross. Gross enough that Carls Jr. will probably never offer a psilocybin burger , even if shrooms get federally legalized. Weve got some ideas to help you gobble down those boomers as smooth as possible. The First Step: Always Clean Your Shrooms The easiest and simplest way to consume shrooms is by eating them straight up. However, theres a huge risk to this method, since shrooms are often collected from cattle shit. Thats not always the case, but unless you know your stash came from a sterilized home grow, err on the side of caution and assume they grew under a cow patty. Cleaning shrooms is pretty straightforward. Run em under cold water, wipe off any dirt or poo, then set them on a paper towel to dry. Potency shouldnt be affected by a water rinse, but keep in mind that shrooms will readily absorb water. If you prefer to clean your shrooms without rinsing or a soak, look into buying a mushroom brush . These culinary tools were specially designed with bristles stiff enough to knock off dirt but still soft enough to preserve the shrooms flesh. Or you can simply wipe your shrooms off with a damp paper towel . Raw Doggin It So, you decided to eat your shrooms raw. Thats hardcore, but also the simplest approach. Keep a rich drink on hand, just in case. Gel Caps After cleaning the shrooms, you can grind them up into powders and place them into gel caps. If you know roughly how much youve placed into each gel cap, you can easily estimate your dose. Gel caps are a great way to store shrooms, or for taking them in a discreet manner. Just be sure theyre clearly separated from any other herbs, vitamins, or nutritional supplements. Gallery Smoke Weed, Eat Shrooms, and Shine: Smoking Shrooms Theres some strong disagreement as to whether anyone can trip from smoking shrooms. There are plenty of anecdotal accounts , but even if it does work, it likely doesnt last nearly as long or as intensely as orally ingesting them. Either way, weve already got weed if we want to smoke something to get high. Mix Your Shrooms with Other Food A step up from eating raw shrooms: Sprinkle them onto or mix them into some other dish. Pizzas and pastas are common methods, but feel free to get creative. For instance, grinding up shrooms and eating them with handfuls of Japanese rice crackers should completely mask the shroom flavor with practically zero prep. As with eating raw shrooms, you should clean the fungi before mixing or sprinkling it onto your food. Even a little heat can make virulent bacteria reproduce at infectious levels. Shroom-Infused Chocolates and Other Sweets Placing bits of shrooms into chocolates , caramels, or other confections is another excellent way to consume them. In the cases of chocolates, caramels, cookies , or any other sweet that requires baking, remember that psilocybin breaks down around 190F, so cooking for extended periods of time (30+ minutes) beyond that temperature could affect potency. You can always try no-bake versions of your favorite snacks to preserve potency, too. Shroom Tea Next to eating them relatively raw, making a shroom tea is the most popular way to consume psilocybin. MERRY JANE has a quick-and-easy shroom tea recipe you can try at home, but again, feel free to get creative. You can add pretty much any kitchen ingredient to your shroom tea without compromising its potency. Well, foody psychonaut, youre in luck. There are tons of fancy recipes out there for higher-end shroom dishes . And for more, check out our interview with @TheMushroomBible folks . Just know that psilocybin is sensitive to heat, and it begins breaking down around 190F. Further, Psilocybe cubensis mushrooms have a tendency to infuse everything with their rank flavors, so anticipate cooking shrooms into foods with rich, heavy flavors to keep the gnarly flavor off your tastebuds. Gallery Check Out These Shroom-Infused Dishes by @TheMushroomBible Folks: A Word of Caution: Cooking with Acidic Ingredients Psilocybin isnt the part of shrooms that makes us trip. The compound that makes us trip is actually psilocin, which our bodies make from psilocybin after it gets metabolized. Studies show that psilocybin can convert to psilocin in an acid. That not only includes the acids naturally produced in our stomach, but the acids in our food, as well. Long-time shroomers will tell you that extracting psilocybin with lemon juice, an acid, will make you trip harder and faster. So, it stands that cooking or preparing your shrooms with lemon juice or tomato sauces, or milk, or coffee , or any other acidic ingredient could affect your dishs potency. Remember that when you prepare yourself or your friends for a psilocybin experience. Basically, start low and go slow, party responsibly, and play safe. And, as always, if psilocybin mushrooms are illegal in your area, pursue these ideas at your own risk. Otherwise, consider this information as something to look forward to once your city, state, or nation finally legalizes or decriminalizes magic mushrooms.
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What Are the Best Weed Strains to Enhance Creativity and Productivity?
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A dozen or so decades back, creative types referred to the psychedelic drink absinthe as the green fairy. That was then, weed is now. So forget the green fairy; to ignite fresh ideas and light a fire under your ass to make them happen, weed is nothing short of the green dragon. Its a friendly dragon, to be sure, but that doesnt diminish pots positively roaring power. Science agrees. Multiple studies have concluded that cannabis enhances the creative mind and boosts the process of being productive . Its true now more than ever, as cannabis cultivators continuously craft hybrid strains and cultivars specifically designed to fuel imagination and ingenuity. Producing such strains is a creative process in itself, made possible by the growers passion for marijuana. While its true that sativa strains are known to spark cerebral effects and a head high, not all sativas are created equal (or yield the same psychoactive experiences). Certain terpenes, as well as THC ratios, may play a factor in a given strains effects, too. The cannabis strains listed here are just a few that have reputations for opening the third eye and inspiring some insight in consumers. Take your pick and puff along to kick-start your creativity something we could all use when stuck in quarantine. AK-47 While the name AK-47 conjures images of rampant destruction rather than steady inspiration, the moniker itself is just a dash of creative flourish. AK-47 contains a 65:35 sativa to indica ratio, and the strain is derived from Afghani, Colombian, Mexican, and Thai varieties. Its known to be strong, sour, and calming. The high is simultaneously regarded as relaxed and cerebral. Use AK-47 to gently blow away your jumpy inner thoughts and clear the deck for bright concepts and sterling strategies. Chem Dog Not for reefer rookies, Chem Dog is the strain of choice for seasoned smokers who swear by its muscular ability to get the mind popping and the spirit enthused to produce. Some cannasseurs believe the mysterious Chem Dog is a blend of Nepalese and Thai sativas, and its also the source of powerhouse strains like Sour Diesel and OG Kush, according to Leafly . The overall consensus, though, is that its killer when it comes to arts, crafts, and getting things done. As one Leafly reviewer raved: I had many thoughts rush through my head, and it was a little overwhelming. But once I settled into the high, it was very creative, imaginative, and invigorating. Durban Poison Durban Poison can taste like licorice and it lights up the inside of your head like few other creativity-inducing cannabis strains. The Durban half of its name is for the South African port city from which this sativa strain originated; Poison may as well be in reference to how it slays racing thoughts, self-doubt, low-energy, and other blockers of inspiration and productivity. Boasting bulky resin glands, Durban Poisons round, thick buds come coated with trichomes. In its review of Durban Poison, Diamond Green Tacoma writes, If youre the type of person that likes to keep a busy brain throughout the day, Durban Poison may offer a great boost to your creativity. This is one type of poison that you actually want to consume! Jack Herer Named after the endlessly inspiring cannabis activist who authored the essential pro-legalization treatise The Emperor Wears No Clothes , the great Jack Herer strain is a combination of a Haze hybrid, Northern Lights #5, and Shiva Skunk that reflects the man itself in its ability to galvanize and motivate. Kali Mist In the Hindu faith, Kali is the four-armed mother of both destruction and creation, which makes her the perfect namesake for this 90:10 sativa-dominant hybrid. Upon impact, Kali Mis t zaps users with vivid focus, rapidly laying to waste any mental clutter in the way of creative thinking. Then the elevating high of Kali Mist, which flirts with being psychedelic, conjures welcomed storms of original thinking, backed by the energy to transform those notions into finished results. Purple Haze By invoking the signature anthem of Jimi Hendrix, Purple Haze is culturally connected to one of historys most superhuman innovators and artistic trailblazers. Of course, Hendrix also happened to make no secret of his passion for puffing as part of his creative process. Fruity and sweet (you may actually taste grape), the 85/15 sativa-dominant strain Purple Haze also emulates the song by hitting hard, fast, and transcendentally and as it keeps going, so do you. On his I Love Growing Marijuana site, reviewer Robert Bergman raved, If you are looking to feel inspired and creative, then this is the right strain for you. Purple Haze is all about cerebral stimulation, and you will see the world in colors that will further fuel you to create. Definitely a good get-up and get-things-done strain. Sour Diesel A big-time go-to strain among stoners who like to get creative and make things happen, the California-born Sour Diesel boasts a 90:10 sativa-indica radio, ideally rendered to crank up alertness while quieting anxiety and enabling creativity to cascade forth into the real world. Be ready, though, Sour Diesel packs a major wallop both in terms of its high and its unmistakably pungent odor. Just light the fuse of Space Queen and youll be rocketing into a visionary mindset and a raging mode of output. The child of Romulan and Cinderella 99, this indica-dominant hybrid dispenses a joyful, cerebral high that makes you feel weightless, and then backs it with an energetic upturn. Once youre in these cosmos, you know you can get anything done and youll actually follow through with it!
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What Are the Differences Among Magic Mushroom Strains and Their Trips?
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Photos courtesy of Jeff Lebowe There are over 200 species of Psilocybe mushrooms , each possessing visually unique characteristics along with varying levels and ratios of three psychotropic compounds psilocybin , psilocin , and baeocystin . A few of the most prevalent species are P. azurescens , P. cyanescens , P. semilanceata , and P. cubensis (which is the most widely known and easily cultivated). There are also hundreds of "strains" or "subspecies" which have been genetically isolated and classified by both professional mycologists and recreational enthusiasts. While taxonomically these strains are all considered members of their respective species (and most are P. cubensis), they too can differ drastically in appearance, conditions required for cultivation, and potency. Common species *Psilocybe cyanescens *Psilocybe cubensis *Psilocybe semilanceata Common Strains *Huaulta cubensis *Penis Envy cubensis *Golden Teacher cubensis This introduction to mushroom strains and species may seem contradictory or confusing. That said, a useful analogy for understanding the differences can be drawn between Cannabis and Psilocybe mushrooms. The separation of cannabis species into indica, sativa, and ruderalis corresponds to the separation of Psilocybe species into azurescens, semilanceata, cubensis, etc. Meanwhile, the separation of cannabis strains like Northern Lights, Purple Kush, and Jack Haze corresponds to mushroom strains like Penis Envy, Golden Teacher, and Huaulta. Unlike cannabis, where the crossing of genetics combines plant traits to create a new weed strain, mushroom strains often start with a desirable mutation, such as being albino or growing especially large mushrooms. These random mutations can be selected and cloned for several generations from the largest, healthiest mushrooms of each life cycle, to create a new strain in a process known as isolation. The effects, duration, and onset of the psychoactive experience provided by different species and strains (along with many other variables) can differ quite drastically among shrooms. However, all members of the genus Psilocybe share a few key identifying factors that can aid in their identification. They all bruise an azure-bluish color when handled or damaged, due to oxidation of the compound psilocin at the site of impact when handled or damaged, due to oxidation of the compound psilocin at the site of impact They all have a thin gelatinous veil, known in mycological terms as a pellicle, that separates the cap (or pileus) from the stem (or stipe). In maturity, this veil often disintegrates, leaving a darkened section (annular zone) on the stem They all have dense gills on the underside of the cap (or pileus) and a shiny or silky film on the outside of the cap They all have a hygrophanous nature (meaning coloration changes with the state of hydration) Psilocybin-Containing Shroom Species The differing Psilocybe species have a much longer and more intensive taxonomical history than the relatively recent distinctions among strains. The first reliable documented case of Psilocybe intoxication occurred in 1799, when a man picked several semilanceata from the shores of the Thames River in London, and cooked a meal for his family with them. This surprise trip spurred the classification of a new species of mushroom, which was placed in the genus Agaricus, then moved to Psilocybe in 1871. For the purpose of remaining succinct, this article focuses on the four species most commonly found in North America. P. semilanceata P. semilanceatas , often referred to as Liberty Caps, are one of the most widespread, potent, and commonly-recognized members of the Psilocybe genus. They are easily distinguishable by their conical-bell-shaped cap which holds its shape throughout the life cycle, dissimilar to most other Psilocybe shrooms whose caps flatten in maturity. They are also, on average, smaller than other species, often with a thin, elongated, somewhat fragile-looking stem, and a spear-shaped cap from which the name semilanceata (meaning spear-shaped in Latin) comes from. Testing done by mycologists Paul Stamets and Jochen Gartz placed Liberty Caps as the third most potent Psilocybe species, with an exceptionally high concentration of psilocybin, low concentration of psilocin, and moderate levels of baeocystin. The high concentration of psilocybin often leads to semilanceata mushrooms eliciting a very visual experience that also lasts longer than those of other species, due to the body having to break down this psilocybin into psilocin before the effects are felt. P. cyanescens P. cyanenscens are another prolific species of mushroom that can be found worldwide, but are thought to have originated in North America. They are distinctly more mycorrhizal than other species, meaning they require decaying wood in order to grow. This makes them more difficult to cultivate indoors, though that has not hindered their spread into every habitable continent. Unlike many other organisms whose habitats have been encroached on by humans, these mushrooms are thought to share a symbiotic relationship with urbanization. They are commonly found on piles of ligneous debris or in mulched garden beds, and sometimes in enormous quantities exceeding 100,000 mushrooms in a single patch . They can be identified by the undulating edges of their caps, and aside from this wavy cap, possess visual characteristics quite similar to P. cubensis thick stems and caps that begin rounded or bell-shaped and flatten (sometimes even becoming convex) in maturity. Despite their visual similarity to P. cubensis, they are significantly more potent than their more common brethren, on average containing 30 to 60 percent more psilocybin, similar concentrations of baeocystin, and slightly less psilocin. The experience occasioned by taking P. cyanescens is mostly analogous to that of P. cubensis, though with notably intensified visuals (a result of higher psilocybin concentration). P. azurescens P. azurescens are the rarest, most potent, and most recently-discovered Psilocybe species. Similar to many other mushrooms, they were discovered by recreational mycology enthusiasts (a group of Boy Scouts, ironically enough). This potential to find an entirely new species is undoubtedly one of the attractive properties of mycology (the study of mushrooms) and exists whenever one embarks on a mushroom-hunting adventure . To date, over 120,000 species of fungi have been discovered , and this number is constantly growing. Unlike other Psilocybe species, P. azurescens are only found in the Pacific Northwest region of North America and carry the highest concentration of psilocybin out of all members of the genus. Due to extremely high psilocybin levels, they produce vivid hallucinations, intense amplification of emotions, and sometimes even temporary paralysis. P. cubensis Generally when someone speaks about magic mushrooms or shrooms, they are referring to P. cubensis . The natural geographic range of this species is limited to tropical and sub-tropical regions, but they can be (relatively) easily cultivated indoors, making them the most popular and most easily accessible magic mushrooms. Many websites even offer mushroom grow kits, which are legal in many countries, as mushroom spores do not contain psilocybin. Other websites go even beyond the law to offer dried mushrooms and microdose capsules. P. cubensis mushrooms often have thick, dense stems and large, broad caps. They also grow larger than most other species, although this is likely due to generations of genetic isolation. This species provides the classic psychoactive mushroom effects of euphoria, feelings of love and unity, introspection, philosophical ideation, synesthesia, visual augmentation, and a less ego-influenced perspective. Results in this graph are taken from testing done by Stamets and Gartz Shroom Strains Due to the comparative ease of cultivation (at least, those not requiring decomposing wood or dung to grow), the vast majority of recognized strains all fall under the umbrella of the P. cubensis species. Although the exact number is difficult to determine, and new strains are consistently being created, mycologists estimate that there are around 150 distinctly identifiable P. cubensis strains. This article cannot possibly cover them all, so we will focus on three of the most prominent strains. If you are interested in delving further into the differences among strains, check out Psilopedia.ca which offers the widest catalog of P. cubensis strains online. Golden Teacher This strain was first classified in the late 80s, and since then, the name Golden Teacher has become almost ubiquitous with psilocybin mushrooms. Golden Teacher mushrooms are medium to large in size and often feature a distinct triangular bump in the center of their golden caramel-colored caps. It is a moderately potent strain ideal for beginning shroom psychonauts, one that offers a subtly more spiritual, introspective undertone to the experience, along with feelings of euphoria and uncontrollable laughter. This makes Great Teacher well suited for both social recreational use and therapeutic or medicinal applications. Penis Envy Penis Envy P. cubensis has an interesting history. It is theorized the strain was isolated from Amazonian P. cubensis (another popular strain) by legendary ethnobotanist and psychonaut Terence McKenna . Since Mckennas original isolation, many variations of Penis Envy have subsequently been created, such as Albino Penis Envy and Uncut Penis Envy. All of these variations have characteristics which are clearly distinct from other P. cubensis strains, consisting of substantially higher potency (30 to 50 percent); extremely thick, dense stems; and pale, underdeveloped caps making them somewhat resemblant of the organ for which they were named. They are known to generate an experience filled with deep philosophical ideations and intense feelings of euphoria. Huautla This strain was one of the first to be classified, and is thought to be the mushroom referred to by R. Gordon Wasson in the famous LIFE Magazine article Seeking the Magic Mushroom which popularized psilocybin mushrooms throughout Western cultures. Its name comes from the village of Huautla De Jimnez in Oaxaca, Mexico where Wassons experience took place. Huautla are typically medium-sized mushrooms of moderate potency that sporate very heavily, often turning the caps purple-black with spores. They are known to reliably elicit spiritually meaningful experiences permeated with intense feelings of love and unity, along with a sense of connection with nature and the universe as a whole. Strain Categorization The niche of strain categorization and review, inspired by sites such as the cannabis strain aggregator Leafly, is being explored by numerous organizations in the psilocybin mushroom space, too. Psilopedia.ca and Psillow.com , in particular, are recognized as two of the most comprehensive and accurate ones. Psilopedia takes a science focused approach to offering in-depth information on many aspects of psilocybin, like its metabolic processes, pharmacodynamics, effects at macro- and microdosages , areas of study, and mushroom identification. They also have aggregated contact information for numerous psychedelic integration practitioners therapists and psychologists who help integrate the insights realized during psychedelic-assisted therapy into one's life. Additionally, the site has classified shrooms with pictures, detailed characteristics, and reviews over 70 P. cubensis strains, with full report-style overviews of the four primary Psilocybe species. Psillow , on the other hand, is markedly more culturally focused, offering a consistently updated blog with informational and entertaining articles. They also have useful resources like a Trip Report template, along with a comprehensive catalog of Psilocybe species (more than Psilopedia), however, it contains less information on P. cubensis strains. Why people have contrasting experiences from different species and strains of mushrooms is multifaceted and hypothesized to be a combined function of two factors. First, varied levels and ratios of the three psychoactive compounds; and second, the set, setting, and intention of the user. Differing levels of active compounds can alter the onset, duration, and intensity of the experience, while also playing a role in whether it is felt more in the mind or body. Conversely, the users set, setting, and intention play a larger role in determining whether the experience generates spiritual connection, philosophical enlightenment, or therapeutic benefit. It is also important to note that across species/strains, the growing conditions, such as the composition of the substrate in which the mushroom mycelium (similar to the roots of a plant) and fruiting bodies are cultivated in, environmental variables, and when in the fruiting period the mushrooms are harvested (either before or after sporation), have significant effects on potency. Generally, the highest potency is achieved with nutrient-rich colonization and fruiting substrates, as well as the ratio of mycelium-to-substrate at the beginning of fruiting, consistent temperature and humidity, and harvesting just before the veil between the stem and cap breaks. If you have any further questions about the differences between species and strains, or questions regarding mushroom cultivation, please do not hesitate to contact me through my website ! And continue reading MERRY JANE for more coverage of psilocybin mushrooms and other entheogens. Mush love! Follow Jeff Lebowe on Instagram and visit his website here
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What Are the Most Colorful Weed Strains and How Do They Get Their Hues?
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For cannabis connoisseurs, the intoxicating effects of THC are only one aspect of the overall marijuana experience. Past the high, theres the scent, the taste, the bud structure, and of course, the colors. From vibrant green buds and strains that are undeniably purp, to flower varietals with bright red and orange hairs, cannabis cultivars can embody a whole medley of hues and pigments. Weve got you covered. Like most plants in nature, cannabis is packed full of chlorophyll , or a chemical compound that uses the sun to generate energy for plants. And so the same thing that makes your grassy lawn sparkle is also what turns your Sour Diesel green. For those, we need to dive even deeper into plant science. The colorful culprits are anthocyanins , a class of water-soluble pigments that provide the range of blues, reds, and purples to fruits and vegetables like berries, cabbage, and eggplants. In cannabis, different strains are more apt to produce anthocyanins than others, but it also depends on the plants environment and nutrients. When cannabis plants reach the latter part of the flowering stage, they need less help from the sun. Subsequently, they slow down on chlorophyll production, and ramp up on anthocyanins as the temperature starts to drop. For cannabis cultivators, this means that typically purple, red, and pink strains will only start to show their true colors during harvest season, and even still might end up as green buds, depending on individual grow temperatures and trim jobs. Take a second to think of your favorite fall foliage. Well in the same way that maple and oak trees transition with the temperature drops of seasonal change, cannabis also produces more anthocyanins in the colder months. For outdoor pot growers, that means that no matter the strain, the final color of your buds will rely at least somewhat on the weather conditions towards the end of growing season. For indoor cannabis cultivators, it could mean lowering temperatures in grow rooms during flowering in hopes of adding an extra spike of bright color . In addition to genetics and temperature, at least some research indicates that cannabis color could also be influenced by the plants acidity levels. In recent studies of non-cannabis plants and vegetables reported by Leafly , scientists found that fauna with higher acidity levels often give off red and pink vibes, neutral plants give off more purples, high pH brings out blues, and alkaline-packed plants tend to turn out yellow. Well, as weve shown, no strain is guaranteed to produce any one color in its buds, but here are a few of our favorite flower varietals with genetic dispositions prone to vibrant hues. Grandaddy Purple Grandaddy Purple or GDP for short has been a staple in Californias indica-heavy diet since the start of the new millenium. A cross between Purple Urkle and Big Bud, GDP is one of the weed worlds most notorious purp strains, with a heavy dose of berry flavor to match its typically dark purple coloring. First introduced by cultivator Ken Estes in the San Francisco Bay Area, Grandaddy Purple has become the poster child for purple strains around the globe, with more name drops in rap songs than we can count. Pink Panties Like most cannabis strains with a pop of color, Pink Panties has its expected hues right there in the name. A cross of multiple OG Kush varieties, and first released by Mr. Sherbinski , dont let the close-to-vulgar name turn you off to this citrusy strain with light purple coloring that often borders on magenta. And while Pink Panties will have a heavy couch-locked indica effect on its own, the strain has also been used to cross some of the most popular pot of the past few years namely Sherbinskis most famous strain, Sunset Sherbet , which gets its colorful name and looks from mixing GSC and Pink Panties. The Black A pure purple strain that can be traced back to both Canada and California in the pre-millenium cannabis era , The Black gets its heavy metal name from its dark coloring, with buds so densely purple that theyre often mistaken for black. Of course, every batch of flower will come with its own unique scents, potency, and color. But if youre looking for a purple strain to impress your smoking buddies nearly every time, pick up an eighth of The Black when you see it at your local dispensary. Orange Crush Outside of colorful dense bud structures, weed also takes on bright appearances and names from its hairs, aka stigmas . For the sativa Orange Crush , vibrant orange hairs cover the bud so thoroughly that it will often block the naked eye from seeing the green beneath. 4G A new strain on the block, 4G is a genetic super-cross among some of the cannabis industrys favorite heavy hitters. A threeway mix of GSC, Gelato, and GG#4 (hence the 4G name), this potent indica hybrid is new, exclusive, and downright gorgeous with a mix of bright green and deep purple coloring to match its fragrant perfume scent. Originally bred by Purple Caper Seeds, 4G is hard to find. But if you can get your hands on it, youll want to consider framing the bud instead of smoking it this flower is pretty much picture perfect. As always, if you cant find these specific strains at your local dispensary, you can always ask your budtender for their favorite purple, pink, or orange strains. After all, like everything in nature, each individual cannabis flower contains its own multitudes of interwoven colors.
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What Do the Blazin' 20s Hold for Cannabis Growers in The Emerald Triangle?
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All copyrights belong to Swami Select Photos by Steve Zmack, courtesy of Swami Select Opioids and cannabis. Vape pen deaths . The reincarnation of hemp and the apotheosis of CBD. Cannabis banking possibilities through Congress. Political candidates espousing weed. The World Health Organization reclassifying cannabis as Traditional and Complementary medicine. The MLB putting pot back in the batters box . Illinois and Michigan opening up adult-use markets. No doubt, you have read about many of these cannabis updates in the mainstream media, but most of it had little or no effect on the small time farmers and entrepreneurs of Northern California and The Emerald Triangle. Some of the bad news was the astounding but not really surprising devaluation of stock in the largest corporate cannabis players from Canada, who lost hundreds of millions in a few short months. It was rather like the Dutch tulip bubble and crash in the 17th century, or the tech crash in the 90s. The growth projections of these cannabis companies were pure fantasy. Again, though, this did not have much effect on the local cannabis community in NorCal. That said, what gradually became very evident to us up in the Triangle was the dire lack of retail outlets to purchase legal and tested cannabis. Many of the largest cannabis companies in California have had to lay off up to 20-25 percent of their workforce, as demand has not met expectations. In Northern California, FlowKana, Box Car, Henrys, and CannaCraft all made layoffs in the past year, as have many smaller companies. Photo by Steve Zmack, courtesy of Swami Select Today, the underground illicit market comprises 80 to 90 percent of the total market, according to some estimates . The cause is the ultra-high taxation and the extreme levels of regulation that require major capital investments for each and every link in the supply chain. As a result, the consumer will naturally choose the unregulated, untaxed, and untested market when a similar product is available nearby for half the cost. With fewer than 600 retail permits and 150 delivery-only permits for 39 million people, there is simply not enough places to sell or buy legal weed in California. Think for a moment about how many places one can buy alcohol and cigarettes, both of which are more lethal to consumers. They are available in not just liquor stores, but nearly every supermarket, drugstore, corner store, and gas station. The lack of licensed cannabis retail outlets means that legal, tested cannabis is not only more expensive, but also more difficult to find for the vast bulk of consumers. Hence, the majority resort to the traditional market (the underground one, that is) at the considerable risk of ingesting cannabis full of pesticides or lethal additives. Meanwhile, cannabis alone has been the cause of zero documented deaths even the vape-related deaths were caused by vitamin E acetate or heavy metal contamination, not the actual plant. But, if the government does restrict vape pen sales in a major way, it will assure that the illegal market will be the only place to get them. And then things will spiral further out of control. What we really dont understand is the rationale of cities, counties, and states that continue to outlaw cannabis. Legal markets protect consumers and protect the environment. Legal markets enable local communities to enforce zoning laws, collect taxes, and incorporate cannabis businesses into how they approach their use of natural resources. But they have to be fair and rational about taxes and regulations for this to all work. More legal cannabis businesses will lower the cost for the consumer and support more small farmers. They would also bring jobs and economic development to rural areas. Clean, new dispensaries can rejuvenate a commercial zoning block in a town or city, bringing customers with disposable income to the area. Photo by Brian P, courtesy of Swami Select Regionally, we have had a few minor victories, as our local politicians have begun to realize that their ill considered ordinances and regulations have caused economic disasters in the once thriving Emerald Triangle. In Mendocino, the Board of Supervisors amended a cannabis ordinance to allow a new owner of a previously permitted farm in the Rangeland Zone to apply for a growing permit. This was previously prohibited unless the new owner was a family member. As a result, the decision instantly raised the value of Rangeland property. Considering that this is where the majority of the growers have been cultivating for years, and that it comprises about 40 percent of all the available land in the county, and the land itself was permitted by several agencies at great expense, it makes a lot of sense. Thats a step in the right direction. In addition, the Board of Supervisors is considering other changes to the county ordinance, such as reducing the setback distance from a neighbors property, from 50 to perhaps 10 feet. For comparison, the setback distance for a pig sty or chicken coop is three feet. And they think cannabis stinks! The Board of Supervisors may also increase the permitted cultivation canopy area up to one acre, though there may still be considerable opposition to this expansion from local environmental groups and small farmers who fear that large corporate interests will move into the county. On the state front, the Appellations Working Group for the CDFA is about to release its regulations for public comment. This is after receiving considerable input from the Origins Council, a grassroots organization pushing for an appellation system for cannabis . This is a key proactive step to help small legacy farmers gain botanical IP over their products, which are a direct expression of the microclimate in which they are grown. As for the harvest this past fall , most growers we have talked to said the long Indian Summer, full of plenty of sun and virtually no rainfall, produced a bumper crop. People are saying it was maybe the best ever. Here at Swami Select, it was a bountiful and beautiful harvest, as well. A few farms suffered from hard frost, but that was primarily in the lower valleys of the region. However, many farmers have learned that having a great harvest is one thing, but selling the fruits of their labor legally is another. Several large distributors have begun to offer slotting fees to retailers . This is a common practice at supermarkets and other stores. Its hard to blame the retailers, considering these payments do not involve them touching the plant, so the money can be deposited into a conventional bank account. For retailers struggling to attract customers, this is welcomed cash flow. For us little guys, we just cant afford it. We have been paying for our slotting fees by doing in-store appearances where we meet and greet the customers and to get to know and train the budtenders. Its also a chance to observe how our products, and other cultivators products, are displayed in the different stores. On the enforcement front, there were a fair number of busts this year , both for illegal growers and illegal retail shops. But, relatively speaking, there werent that many compared to the past. The Sheriff of Mendocino indicated that there were over 2,000 illegal grows in the county, many with environmental issues, but his team raided fewer than 30. Some people say that wasnt nearly enough. Interestingly, the Sheriff recently tendered his resignation and we will have an interim Sheriff until the election in November. Being Sheriff in a county famous for its pot gardens cannot have been an easy job. He always said that enforcement was complaint driven, so if your neighbors did not mind your grow, and you werent damaging the environment, everything was cool. Also in political news for Mendocino, three of the five Board of Supervisor seats are up for election in November 2020. This means that various grass roots cannabis organizations, such as the Mendocino Cannabis Alliance, are preparing to have candidate forums prior to the primary election in March. In other words, we now have a chance to get a few more pro-cannabis Supervisors into office. After all, our first level of political action is always local. In Southern California, enforcement has been somewhat relaxed, compared to the number of unlicensed stores there are. Every few months or so, authorities in LA or another county raid a couple dozen illegal store fronts . Then everything goes back to normal. This may change in 2020. Recently the Bureau of Cannabis Control sent out notices to over 400 landlords informing them of illegal cannabis operations on their premises, for which they may have legal consequences. Well see what effect that may have. By restricting legal cannabis, these stuck-in-the-mud municipalities and jurisdictions are bolstering the illicit market. Go figure. Cannabis, after all, is the People's Medicine be it flower, edibles, tinctures, salves, or concentrates. As long as they are not harming the environment and are providing a pure clean product, they are fulfilling a dire need. Photo by Chris Tucker, courtesy of Swami Select The legalization program California has set up is not working, by whatever measure. Maybe it is time to try a new tactic. Lets totally embrace cannabis and the culture that surrounds it in order to maximize the participation and benefit to those who have pioneered the economic development of this magical plant. Legalize it, advertise it and promote it everywhere, in every village and hamlet, in every neighborhood, in every city. We should aggressively push "canna-tourism" like wine tourism. May 2020 see taxes drop or disappear altogether when it comes to cannabis cultivators. After all, we dont tax the tomato farmer. Test everything. Treat cannabis agriculture the same as all other types of agriculture, and treat manufacturing the same as it's treated in other industries. Allow more time and an amnesty for those still in the traditional market to come into compliance, including the availability of low cost loans. There should be cannabis farmers markets as part of the farm to table movement. Like in the wine world, there should be tasting rooms and direct- to-store sales for those with below a certain maximum annual yield. May the powers that be allow us to create a total free market with stores and delivery services everywhere. May there be more smoking lounges and cannabis events with minimal bureaucratic harassment. Let the market decide who survives and who thrives, but dont skew it so that the big money has an unfair advantage. There should be as many places to purchase and/or consume cannabis as there are places to purchase and consume alcohol and cigarettes. We need to inaugurate cannabis courses in universities, particularly agriculture and medical programs. As our next trip around the sun begins, let us celebrate the spiritual aspects of cannabis, which are the source of its healing and inspirational power, with cannabis-infused rituals, ceremonies, and celebrations. By the time 4/20/20 comes around, it should be a formal national holiday. We have a lot of work to do, but the future is hopeful for our favorite plant. May we embrace the Blazin 20s with open arms and full lungs! For more on Swami Select, visit their website here and follow them on Instagram
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https://merryjane.com/culture/what-do-the-blazin-20s-hold-for-cannabis-growers-in-the-emerald-triangle
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What Does "OG" Mean When Talking About Weed?
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With 5,000 years of history thats spread around the globe, cannabis culture has developed a rich, multilingual lexicon to describe the cannabis plant and the wealth of human experience surrounding it. But with such a varied expanse of lore to draw upon, the origins of many words and expressions in the dank dictionary are matters of contention, subject to ongoing debate. A prime example of this phenomenon can be found with the term OG you know, as in OG Kush. Although the initials OG are commonplace in marijuana subcultures, what they stand for is largely a matter of who you ask. Most often youll hear one of two popular theories, but there are several more. Outside of pot culture, there are even more possible definitions for OG. Well leave that decision to you, curious reader. But heres a breakdown of its different definitions and the lore that fuels its contextual popularity. Ocean Grown Hails From Northern California One theory about the origin of the term OG in weed-lore is that it stands for "Ocean Grown." As the legend goes, a Northern California coastal grower who mastered the art of cultivating Afghani kush (more on this strain later) met a fellow pot smoker one day and the two got to talking. Before long, the growers new friend pulled out a bag of weed and offered to pack a bowl. As soon as the bag was opened and the cultivator who hadnt revealed his occupation smelled the herb and saw the buds, he knew that it was the weed hed just grown. Gallery The World's Shittiest Blunts: Commenting on his stash, the owner of the weed said he could tell from the aroma that the bud was mountain grown. Not ready to accept an uninformed review of his harvest from a stranger, the grower replied, Nah, man, thats that ocean grown weed, or ya know, something to that effect. But the term ocean grown stuck, and its remained a popular descriptor for weed among coastal California growers and tokers. Another popular origin story for the term OG, or Original Gangster (sometimes old-school gangster) in this context, has its roots in the Los Angeles hip-hop scene of the late 80s and early 90s. With a number of MCs (such as Dr. Dre and Ice Cube of NWA) coming from neighborhoods rife with gangs, guns, and drugs, OG implied status and stability in a chaotic world, particularly among the Crips, one of LAs most notorious gangs. After being made popular by Ice-T with his album Original Gangster in 1991, it wasnt long before the expression permeated Southern Californias rap culture and the broader American zeitgeist. The term was then tagged onto the kush being grown to distinction by cultivators in San Fernando Valley, by Cypress Hills crew according to some versions of the story. The assertion is supported by Amsterdam-based cannabis seed bank DNA Genetics, which developed seeds for the strain that had previously only been available as a clone. The OG got tagged onto the LA Kush back in the '90s by the Cypress Hill Crew and it stands for 'original gangsta,' DNA told the San Diego City Beat in a 2011 email. There are also stories of the OG standing for 'Ocean Grown,' but being from LA we believe and feel that the OG comes from the Cypress family. Hope that clears the hazy air. Before long, OG Kush was the preferred bud for any self-respecting West Coast gangstas blunt. Although the Ocean Grown and Original Gangsters explanations of the term OG get the most traction in the cannabis world, theyre not the only theories. Another possible origin for OG holds that the initials refer to OverGrow.com, a website that hosted cultivation advice and a seed-swapping platform while advocating for an overgrow of the government. It was one of the earliest online forums for pot growers, launching in 1999. It was shut down by Canadian police in 2006, however, and they seized the platforms servers and arrested several of its operators. Another theory about the origin of the term OG in reference to pot was recently popularized by the 2018 Netflix documentary series Murder Mountain. In this version of the story, one of the old school Humboldt County growers said the term was coined after an early cultivator in the area flew to Afghanistan to smuggle back seeds with prime kush genetics. The resulting harvests, with terpene-rich buds nourished by the Emerald Triangles unique terroir, were dubbed OG Kush to indicate they had been cultivated by the strains original growers. Cannabis Strains with the OG Moniker Generally, when it comes to cannabis, OG refers to OG Kush. Just like the initials that make up the name of the strain, the lineage of this cultivar is a point of contention between two schools of thought, depending on what part of California you find yourself in. The Northern California contingent supports the theory that OG Kush is descended from Afghani kush seeds smuggled into the US and grown in the Lost Coast. Once in its new environment, the strain expressed distinctly potent and flavorful traits in the Emerald Triangles favorable climate. SoCal boosters favor the idea that OG Kush is a hybrid of Chemdawg, Lemon Thai, and Pakistani kush landrace strains that was developed and popularized by San Fernando Valley indoor growers. But even these two origin stories for OG Kush arent unchallenged. Another version of the lineage holds that the strain was bred in Florida, crossing a Northern California strain with a Dutch Hindu Kush. Whatever the strains family tree may be, after nearly three decades on the market, OG Kush has spawned literally dozens of offspring varieties as breeders blend its superior traits with other genetic lines. Many of these strains with OG Kush parentage carry the OG sobriquet, including Sex OG, Comatose OG, Zombie Killer OG, and more. OG Kush also supplied the genetics for popular strains including Headband and Girl Scout Cookies (oops, I mean GSC!). Other growers have hunted and pulled distinct phenotypes of OG Kush, isolating SFV OG and Tahoe OG, among others. But Thats Not All... There are even more meanings for the initials OG outside the cannabis world, too. Probably one of the most commonly used definitions of OG is simply: original. Similar to that connotation, OG means original gangster, indicating a veteran or the first in ones field someone whos been doing something for a long time. One delightfully British definition for what OG means maintains that the initials stand for old git, meaning an annoying, unpleasant, incompetent, silly, or senile person. An example of this use of the term in a sentence might be: I cant believe what the OG in the White House is up to this time! With such a variety of uses and potential derivations of the term, the initial meaning of OG, in reference to cannabis or otherwise, is difficult to pin down and is still up for debate. Follow AJ on Facebook and Instagram
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https://merryjane.com/culture/what-does-og-mean-when-talking-about-weed
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What Does Sinsemilla Mean and Where Does the Weed Slang Come From?
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To hear some speak of sinsemilla, youd think they were discussing the lost city of gold. Though people have searched high and low for sweet sinsemilla flowers for decades, many remain confused about what, precisely, the term describes. Unlike El Dorado, however, sinsemilla is no myth. In order to understand how this term which, in its most general usage describes high-quality, seedless cannabis has been used since it came into vogue in the '70s, we must first engage in a brief etymology lesson. In Spanish, sinsemilla literally combines the words for without (sin) and seed (semilla) to describe cannabis flowers that, you guessed it, have no seeds. Nowadays, we may scoff at the idea that cannabis was anointed with such high praise simply for being seed-free, but the legal climate 50 years ago meant that plenty of people were taking home baggies rife with seeds, sticks, and stems. Beyond the quality measure cannabis sans-seeds provided, there is also a scientific aspect to this specific bit of ganja grammar. Given that seeds indicate fertilization, sinsemilla cannabis comes from female cannabis plants that were not fertilized. Thats important because female cannabis plants that are not given a chance to fertilize often repurpose the energy theyd normally be using to produce seeds. Without fertilization, they instead redirect that precious energy into producing higher quantities of resin that's rich in the compounds weve come to love most (THC, CBD, terpenes, etc.). Thus, sinsemilla is not a specific strain, but instead a characteristic of how cannabis is grown. For weed to be sinsemilla, it must be seedless. In addition, the term usually describes flower that is sufficiently dried, trimmed, and cured. Again, these are basic expectations for any cannabis that one is likely to find on the shelves of a licensed dispensary, but in bygone eras, sinsemilla was as much a shorthand for high-quality pot as it was a specific descriptor for any one thing. Furthermore, there is also some debate about if sinsemilla actually constitutes a "rare" THC treat. Again, the logistics of the day and age when the term first gained widespread popularity offer us our most telling clues. To ensure female plants dont interact with male plants (and remain unfertilized), advances like controlled greenhouses and female clones (or feminized seeds) make it far easier today to ensure an all-female crop than those that grew in the 70s. To that end, it makes sense that sinesemilla came to be considered rare, given growing conditions in the US were far less ideal prior to the advent of medical marijuana and adult-use sales. Now that sinsemilla is no longer difficult to come by, the term can genuinely be applied to any seedless, visually impressive cannabis with decent potency and, ideally, a sweet taste. So, really, throughout its history, the concept of sinsemilla has never really changed: It simply means youre about to smoke some truly great weed. Follow Zack Ruskin on Twitter
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https://merryjane.com/culture/what-does-sinsemilla-mean-and-where-does-the-weed-slang-come-from
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What Does the American Hemp Explosion Mean for Craft Cannabis Farmers?
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All copyrights belong to Swami Select The recent legalization of hemp in the USA is a total game changer. Hemp has virtually unlimited uses , from making food, fiber, and paper, to ethanol, ointments, lotions, clothing, bioplastics, and building material. Considering the rise of CBDs popularity thats sweeping the nation, the demand for hemp seems limitless. When one takes into account the tons of biomass that hundreds of thousands of acres of hemp will produce, the extraction of THC, CBD, and all other cannabinoids from hemp will become big business. For all those who think they can jump into the new green rush and make millions, here is a recommendation: Perform proper due diligence before investing in either an indoor growing facility or land to grow hemp, especially if you live in California. Mind you, I am not suggesting California or Mendocino County prohibit hemp cultivation, since we all know that prohibition doesnt work. What I am saying to all those little guys who think they can switch from growing cannabis to growing hemp in order to save their farm: Please, think again. As hemp and even full-strength cannabis become legal throughout the world, economic and climate considerations will determine where these plants will be grown. The greatest volume of hemp production will probably be for fiber, ethanol, paper, and plastic. With cheap interstate transport of tons of raw material, crop production will move to the regions that have the fewest legal and environmental restrictions, where labor is cheap, and where the climate is most conducive to lower production costs. The most logical place within the US to grow hemp is, unsurprisingly, Kentucky and the Ohio River Valley. For decades, prior to the prohibition of cannabis in the late 30s, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, and Tennessee were the main hemp producers for the United States. Now, two of the main promoters of hemp are two of the most powerful politicians in America: Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell from Kentucky, and former Speaker of the House John Boehner from Ohio. McConnell has promised that he will give all the help needed to anyone who wants to grow hemp in Kentucky, and the State Agricultural Commissioner is totally in support. Boehner, on the other hand, is already getting paid to be on the board of a cannabis company. And now formerly industrial states, like Ohio and Indiana, have lost much of their manufacturing capacity and are eager to replace it with hemp. It has to do with the economics of hemp cultivation, the cost per acre of land, and the cost per gallon of water. Number one, it rains all summer in the Ohio River Valley because the area is located in the humid portion of the US, so the crops dont need to be irrigated. Most agricultural land west of the 100th parallel (which cuts the Dakotas, Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas in half from north to south) has fewer than 20 inches of rain a year, so irrigation is necessary. Especially in California, irrigation is needed because from June to October there is generally no rain at all. Even if there were a drought in the East Coast, the bountiful Ohio River is right there. Number two, compared to California, agricultural land is much cheaper in the Midwest and the South. In California, agricultural land averages between $5,000 and $12,000 per acre . Meanwhile, in Kentucky, prime crop land sells from $3,200 to $5,000 an acre. In the Emerald Triangle Mendocino, Humboldt, and Trinity counties most of the land is classified as forest land, timber production zone, or rangeland (or the equivalent with a different name). The majority of the agricultural land is pasture and rangeland. None of this land in the mountains is conducive to thousands of acres of hemp cultivation, which is already happening in other states. Number three, there are fewer environmental laws in the Midwestern states. In California, one would assume, that since hemp cultivation is a new program, it will be subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). As a result, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and the California State Water Resource Control Board will eventually impose their extreme environmental restrictions on hemp production, just as they have on cannabis cultivation. Number four, as a result of the 2018 Farm Bill (pushed through by Mitch McConnell), hemp can be shipped anywhere in the US. Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky serve as national hubs to interstate highways, major railroads, as well as Ohio and Mississippi River traffic. Further, labor costs, the cost of living, and the cost of housing are considerably cheaper in the Ohio River Valley, where three-bedroom houses sell for less than $200,000. Number five, Europe and China already have well developed hemp businesses, so when international trade is fully legal, huge shiploads will be criss-crossing the seven seas. Every state in the nation and every country in the world is contemplating hemp cultivation. Further, in March 2020, there may quite possibly be a vote by the UN to recognize cannabis as a both a Traditional Medicine and a Complementary Medicine. As a result, worldwide cannabis cultivation and whole-plant medical production will most certainly increase by several orders of magnitude. In point of fact, I have recently had two inquiries from serious entrepreneurs in India and Germany, wanting to know about growing hemp and also about high-THC cultivars for full-plant medicine. Spanish seed companies come to Mendocino for consultation about our unique cultivars. Many of these countries have considerably lower labor and land costs than the United States, and few environmental restraints. While there will always be a market for high potency whole plant medicinals and full spectrum extracts, more than likely in the near future, products ranging from edibles to salves, tinctures, oils and vape pens will be sourced from super-cheap hemp biomass especially because high quality cannabis flower is not needed to make these products. Through complex processes, the cannabinoids and terpenes can be extracted and then recombined in various proportions and combinations, to better feed the mass market. And if you think Big Pharma, Big Tobacco, Big Alcohol, Big Cosmetics, and other corporate players are uninterested in hemp, think again. Planning for the long haul, giant companies have been buying up agricultural land for years. Now that hemp is federally legal, there are no banking restrictions, an issue that currently plagues cannabis entrepreneurs. And unlike cannabis, when it comes to hemp, you get all the extra tax deductions favoring agricultural businesses. Not only that, there are currently no federal environmental regulations governing hemp other than those for all other agriculture. Worse, there are no required testing protocols for pesticides or pathogens imposed on hemp to be used medicinally. Its a free-for-all out there. Due to decreased sales of tobacco in the US, there is even a market opening up for hemp pre-rolls, which are high in CBD with only a small fraction of THC. These are being touted as an alternative to cigarette smoking for those who want to quit tobacco. As a result, farmers in the South are beginning to plant hemp instead of tobacco. Likewise, farmers in Iowa, who cant sell their soybeans because of Trumps tariffs against China, are starting to grow hemp. As of June 2019, licensed hemp acreage in the US saw a growth of 544 percent in just one year, up from 78,000 acres in 2018 to 511,000 acres in 2019. By the end of next year, that figure is again expected to quadruple. Canada, Europe, China, and the rest of the world will surely increase their acreage, as well. Today, much of the raw material for manufactured cannabis products is grown indoors in warehouse factories, especially in Canada and in the Western states, including California, Oregon, and Washington. These installations are costly to construct, rent, or buy, as well as to outfit for cultivation with expensive electric lights, air filters, air conditioners, water filters, soil, and even the shelving for the plant beds. Worst of all, they have a very high and expensive carbon footprint. In addition, the factories are less-than-friendly environments for workers, with their regular spraying of carbon dioxide and sulfur. These operations will soon become economically unviable, as hemp biomass supplies everything for the manufactured products except the THC. Investors and business people itching to make the transition into the lucrative hemp market owe it to themselves to look at recent market changes stressing large investors in the cannabis sector. There are reports of Canadian companies that invested hundreds of million dollars into indoor facilities, and now face serious losses and are firing their CEOs. One company paid an estimated $47,000 per square foot for a 9,000-square-foot facility ($423 million total) that could only produce a crop worth $9 million per year. Similarly, many large indoor grow facilities in Coachella and Desert Hot Springs are for sale at reduced prices. No one is buying these dinosaurs. Compared to hundreds of acres and thousands of tons of hemp that will soon be grown in Kentucky and other states (in the full sun, without irrigation, on reasonably priced rural land, with cheap labor), the cost per square foot or cost per gallon of water for indoor cultivation will soon make the old methods of growing unprofitable. Even outdoor hemp production in California will be economically unsustainable because of the need for irrigation and high labor costs, not to mention strict and costly permit regulations. A recent query to New Frontier Analytics found that with 15,000 hemp licenses and over 250,000 acres of cultivation, there may be over-production this year. And next year, its expected that hemp cultivators will produce even more tons of biomass. Martin Lee, from Project CBD, estimates that there will be a huge surplus of CBD from hemp after the next harvest up to a trillion grams of CBD which will make the price drop out and put most of the little guys out of business. The problem for the new hemp cultivator aiming for the medicinal market is having enough space to properly dry the whole crop during the harvest in autumn. It takes almost as much square footage to dry hemp as it does to grow it. At the opposite end of the spectrum, for the small but demanding connoisseur market, only the finest cannabis flowers will do, which can only be produced organically in small batches in the legacy growing regions in the mountains of Northern California. These artisanal craft cultivators are the heart and soul of the Emerald Triangle. It is precisely these heritage growers who are most likely to suffer with the introduction of hemp biomass into the Emerald Triangle, because it will dilute the brand and tarnish their reputation of producing the worlds finest cannabis flowers. There are some farmers in the Emerald Triangle who disagree, and suggest that some craft farmers who are unable to get permits to enter the legal THC market can instead grow hemp for biomass. Probably not. The price of hemp as an agricultural commodity will follow the economic laws of agriculture, just like soybeans and wheat. Legacy farmers in the forested mountains of the Emerald Triangle do not have the vast acreage that is available in the Eastern third of the country. Remember, when the price of premium cannabis flower dropped to $500 a pound two years ago, many heritage growers in the traditional market were forced out of business. If they cant make it on $500 pounds, theres no way that $30 a pound will make hemp production profitable in the Emerald Triangle, not least because of the limited acreage of agricultural land available. As more and more large farms in the Midwest cultivate hemp, the huge surplus of raw material, measured in tons (not ounces or grams), will push the price down to $30 a pound or even lower. There is another barrier in California working against small-time growers who are thinking of switching to hemp: Products or components derived from hemp cannot be mixed with compounds derived from high-THC cannabis. As such, hemp cultivators will not be able to supply local manufacturers who make products that contain THC. This might not seem problematic until one understands that CBD and THC work best when administered together, and in many cases CBD doesnt really work medicinally very well unless there is a portion of THC in the flower or the product. Most people I talk to who use cannabis for pain relief state unequivocally that it is the THC which gives the relief; the CBD helps by reducing the inflammation. In order to protect the legacy cannabis cultivators of the Emerald Triangle, it has been proposed that hemp farmers be required to use feminized seeds, certified to be 0.3 percent THC. This is because in Oregon, blowover of male pollen from hemp farms has seeded high-THC cannabis crops, reducing their market value. If farmers in California, or Mendocino County, are required to use feminized seeds with certified less than 0.3% THC, the vaunted genetics created in the Emerald Triangle evolved over 60 years of clandestine breeding and used for decades in salves, edibles, and so on will not be available for the local manufactures to use as hemp seeds or to be the source of their products. In the right wings never-ending campaign to demonize cannabis, their latest ploy is to paint THC as the bad guy and CBD as the good guy. They are even reviving the Reefer Madness trope that THC causes psychosis and works as a gateway drug claims that have been repeatedly discredited by unbiased research. Dont be fooled. Cannabis works its wonders precisely because of the interactions among the hundreds of cannabinoids found in the plant, which is why I like to call it the Symphonic Effect of whole-plant medicine, not just the entourage or even the ensemble effect. It is precisely this interaction between THC and everything else that makes cannabis the magic therapeutic wonder that it is. Legalizing hemp could also revive the traditional market, aka the black market. Visually speaking, when hemp is planted at the same density as high-THC cannabis, the two are very difficult to distinguish. The only way to really know if a plant has more than 0.3 percent THC is to test every plant before harvest. No! The only logical strategy for Mendocino County and the other legacy growing regions of California is to focus on what we have always done best: small, organic, high-potency crops, with full cannabinoid and terpene content the heritage of over 60 years of cultivation in the worlds most pristine environment to grow cannabis. People will want the finest and purest cannabis available, and that will continue to come from the mountains of California. For more on Swami Select, visit their website here
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https://merryjane.com/culture/what-does-the-american-hemp-explosion-mean-for-craft-cannabis-farmers
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What Goes Into Making a Quality Pre-Rolled Joint?
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When it comes to getting high with your friends, the simple pleasure of a finely rolled joint is hard to beat. Easy to light, hit, and pass along, it only takes a few puffs at a party to draw in a circle of fam eager for their turn to burn. And with its self-contained convenience and portability, the humble doobie is among the most popular methods of consumption for smokers. But rolling a good joint is a skill that not everyone has perfected, prompting many consumers to turn to pre-rolls. Pre-rolled joints were the third most popular cannabis product category in 2018, with a sales growth of 79 percent over the previous year, according to data from cannabis analytics firm Headset . That popularity hasnt been lost on cannabis companies, either many of whom are upping their game and offering ready-to-smoke joints fit for connoisseurs. To find out, MERRY JANE checked in with some industry experts for their input. The Power of Flower For starters, top-of-the-line pre-rolls are made with 100 percent cannabis flowers. So, gone are the days of shake-filled joints twisted by bored budtenders. David Elias, the co-founder and CEO of Lowell Farms , said that when his company launched Lowell Smokes in 2017, using trim or cannabis crumbs culled from the bottom of bags for pre-rolls was standard practice in the industry. At Lowell, however, only top-quality flower from some of Californias finest growers go into their joints. These are cultivators that have been doing this for decades, using organic fertilizers and natural methods and never using pesticides, Elias said. And I think that there is a really big difference. In 2017, there was no regulation requiring that we test for pesticides, but we've been testing for pesticides since our first pack. Lowell Smokes are made from 100 percent cannabis flower, but instead of strain-specific joints, the company has opted to create blends with names the likes of The Happy Hybrid and The Party Sativa. Blending the pre-roll for flavor and effect was something that we started with early on, and it's been one of the things people love about a pack of Lowell pre-rolls, said Elias. Lowell Smokes are available individually in tubes or in 3.5-gram and 7-gram packs that feature sustainable packaging. We made a decision to use natural materials, he said. Everything's one hundred percent recyclable packaging in our packs of smokes. One of the most important aspects of providing the best pre-rolls to consumers, Elias added, is standing behind your product. Right from the beginning, we've included a sticker and a note to our costumers that for any reason they have a less than perfect experience, they can contact us and then we'll replace the box... We strive for excellence and we strive to meet every single pack perfect for our customers. And in the event that that does not happen, we want to know about it and we want to make it right. Gallery The Art of Joint Rolling: Elizabeth Hogan is the Vice President of brands at GCH, Inc. , a company founded by Willie Nelson, and is also the owner of Willies Reserve. She said the companys pre-rolls, which we call a Ready Roll Joint because that's what Willie Nelson called it, are one of the original products offered by its partners in states with legal cannabis. She said that one of the most important aspects of creating a quality joint is properly preparing the 100-percent cannabis flower. For super-dense cannabis flowers, the folks assembling the joints have to take a slightly different approach to grinding that material than they would for flower that has a more open structure, said Hogan. And that's just one of the most wonderful and beautiful things about cannabis varieties: That they really do ask to be treated individually to be understood for their own unique expression and then to be processed and assembled based on that. Ready Roll Joints are packed in tubes for protection and are available as one 1-gram joints or two half-gram joints. The advantage there, of course, is if you have a smaller circle or fewer people to share it with, two half-gram joints can deliver an excellent experience two times, instead of the excellent experience one time... and then a pretty good experience when you relight it, explained Hogan. Quality Pre-Roll Checklist Victor Berrio, the president of pre-roll manufacturer Pineworx , told MERRY JANE that his company, which uses proprietary production equipment, recently pivoted from traditional marijuana pre-rolls to serve the exploding market for hemp joints. Made popular particularly in states without legal pot, hemp pre-rolls could reach a much larger market with far less regulation. But the production challenges associated with creating good joints from hemp flower which include grinding the material to a consistent particle size and packing the pre-roll to the optimum density are the same for cannabis, giving Pineworxs experience an edge on the competition just entering the new market. Before lighting up, Berrio said that there are four factors that are indicative of top-quality pre-roll be it hemp or marijuana. The first thing to check is the packaging, which should keep the joint fresh and protected from breakage. Pineworx packages are sealed tight to not only preserve terpenes and freshness but also to make them odor-free. Not everybody wants to walk into 7-11 and smell cannabis, Berrio explained. After opening, the next thing to check is the appearance of the joint. Take a good look at the joint to make sure it isnt creased or lumpy. And check that there are no holes that would cause uneven burning. Then, Berrio suggests holding the pre-roll up to the light. And if any light shines through, there's usually a gap in the cannabis because it hasn't been packed to the right density, which means it's not going to smoke correctly. Third, note how the pre-roll feels to the touch. When grasped between two fingers and subjected to slight pressure, the joint should feel solid, but not so solid it feels rock-hard, Berrio said. Lastly, check the aroma of the pre-roll. The joint should have a clean aroma rich in cannabis terpenes without any odor of grass or hay. Of course, lighting up and experiencing a pre-rolls flavor and effect is the final test of quality. But now that you know what to look for, see how the next joint you buy stacks up against some of the industrys best. Follow AJ Herrington on Instagram
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https://merryjane.com/culture/what-goes-into-making-a-quality-pre-rolled-joint
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Can Blockchain Solve the Social Media Privacy Puzzle?
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Over the years, many different social media trends have come and go. Most social media trends tend to target teens and children because they are more likely to try these trends. After all in this day and age if you do what the cool kids do then that makes you a cool kid but in reality, it doesnt. Some trends have been known for the awareness and cause, for instance, the Ice Bucket Challenge. This challenge was raising awareness for the disease amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) or known as motor neuron disease. The hope was that people would donate money to help those who suffer this disease.
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https://www.newsbreak.com/news/2264073468472/can-blockchain-solve-the-social-media-privacy-puzzle
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What Is AK-47 Weed and What Makes the Legendary Strain Absolute Fire?
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If youve been to a pot shop that carries classic cannabis strains, youve likely seen a jar labeled AK-47 sitting alongside the likes of other legendary buds such as Blueberry , Bubba Kush , White Widow , Chem Dog , and Northern Lights . A Brief History of AK-47, the Gun The original AK-47 as in the gun, not the ganja is a rifle designed by Russian engineers back when the US was helping the world recover from WWII and ramping up nuclear tensions with the USSR. As one of the most steadfast products of the Cold Wars arms race, the AK-47 became popular with communist armies and militias from Asia all the way to Latin America. Its initials stand for Avtomat Kalashnikova, with avtomat meaning automatic and Kalashnikova referring to the (in)famous Russian Lieutenant-General who invented the gun, Mikhail Kalashnikov. The 47 refers to the year the guns design was completed, in 1947. US troops who fought in Vietnam, Iraq, and Afghanistan faced off against combatants who were armed with AK-47s. Ironically, AK-47 weed is helping some American veterans deal with the PTSD brought on by combat. Today, the AK-47 is still in worldwide production. American, European, Asian, and Russian arms manufacturers all produce and distribute some variant of the AK-47 rifle model. According to the reputable weed breeder known as Simon at Serious Seeds, he originally developed AK-47 in the 90s by crossing four iconic landrace strains: Afghani, Thai, Mexican, and Colombian. Although Simon has never explicitly stated why he named this landrace mega-hybrid AK-47, its possible the name came from the guns popularity in countries of the strains genetic origins. The Afghani and Thai militaries regularly assign their troops AK-47 rifles. Additionally, Mexican drug cartels favor the AK-47 rifle for its simplicity and reliability, whereas the Colombian terrorist group FARC got its AK-47 carbines direct from the USSR. But AK-47 the weed strain, despite its namesakes deadly legacy, is anything but dangerous, lethal, or menacing. Genuine AK-47 bud is known for offering a deeply chillaxed, couch-locking high. Many user self-reports claim that although the strain is definitely a knock-out, it can also stimulate creativity or whuppin ass on video games . In terms of THC content, AK-47 regularly tests around 16 percent THC, which actually places it slightly below-average in terms of THC levels. The answer may lay in the strains terpene profile. Terpenes are aromatic compounds that give weed its characteristic smells and flavors. A growing body of evidence suggests that terpenes may also affect the kind of high someone experiences. In AK-47s case, the strains three most prominent terpenes are myrcene, caryophyllene, and pinene, according to the lab data at Leafly. Myrcene is known for contributing to some strains couch-lock effect. Caryophyllene reduces anxiety and potentially takes the edge off of THC, while pinene is known for heightening alertness and mental focus. These three terpenes combined, along with the strains cannabinoids, could explain why AK-47 can glue a toker to their chair while keeping their mind active. Basically, if you see some AK-47 at your local dispensary, do yourself a favor and load up on some of that flower. Its tried-and-true genetics, consistency of effect, and decades worth of acclaim make it a surefire winner when it comes to getting lit AF on the dankiest of dank.
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https://merryjane.com/culture/what-is-ak-47-weed-and-why-is-this-legendary-strain-considered-absolute-fire
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What Is "Black Mamba" Weed and Is the Strain Really as Potent as a Snake Bite?
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Image via Context clues in the names of strains can tell us a lot. While hardly a science, words like dream in the name of a strain suggest sleep, whereas alternatives named for automatic assault weapons are in fact connoting a link to the potency of a given variety of cannabis, as opposed to something more nefarious. When we look through the shelves at a dispensary or scroll through the endless menus offered by delivery services, sometimes the name of a strain is the first thing to catch ones eye. Though its always wise to proceed with caution when relying on the concept of strains and their associated terminology, there is also a reason these different varieties of cannabis are labeled as they are. Sometimes the name of a strain appears to go hand-in-hand with the type of consumer who favors it. Seriously, those who prefer Zkittlez equate the consumption experience to tasting the rainbow when they get lit. In the case of Black Mamba, the reference point in question is not the late NBA superstar who brought the nickname into the mainstream, nor the character played by Uma Thurman in 2003s Kill Bill . While both can now be retconned into fitting with the strains vibes, they are not, as it turns out, the inspiration for this moniker. The strain is, in fact, almost certainly named after the deadly African snake that also has a penchant for striking with great force. (By the way, theres a term for a snake biting something and injecting it with venom: envenomation the more you know !) Though the true genetics of Black Mamba are unknown, it is believed to have descended from the Granddaddy Purple line , though others speculate that it derived from crossing Blue Bubblejuice and Domina . Black Mamba produces extremely dark, green leaves (sometimes bordering on purple or even black), but it is perhaps best known for its incredibly dense, aromatic nugs. The scent semi-sweet notes of grape is another hallmark of this relatively rare, indica-dominant strain. The high associated with Black Mamba is one that comes on hard and fast. In this sense, perhaps Kobe Bryant does have more in common with this strain than just a nickname. However, while Bryant was maybe a fan of cannabis in his own right , those firing up some Black Mamba should not be expecting to start cashing jumpers and signing sneaker deals. Instead, this strain will send most consumers into a period of blissful inertia. Yes, in a true antithesis to Bryants infamously rigid dedication to staying active, this strain has a reputed penchant for putting butts firmly on couches. From a medicinal standpoint, Black Mamba has potential benefits for those suffering from depression, stress, disorders that affect ones ability to focus, as well as some pressures related to glaucoma. Conversely, given the high potency of this strain, individuals prone to THC-induced panic are advised to steer clear, or, at the very least, start low and go slow. While there may not be basketball to watch at the moment, taking a hit of Black Mamba may make whatever is airing on television feel like an NBA Finals-caliber moment. Just pace yourself and perhaps keep a Gatorade nearby.
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https://merryjane.com/culture/what-is-black-mamba-weed-and-is-the-strain-really-as-potent-as-a-snake-bite
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What is CBDA and How Does It Differ from CBD?
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Image via By now, we know youve probably been hammered with CBD-this and CBD-that. CBD recently became more popular than Beyonce , Kim Kardashian, and kale on Google, and its now in everything from sex lube to bras and pillows . CBDA is the acid form of CBD. In much the same way that THCA is the acidic version of THC , so it goes with CBDA. Lets explain CBDA within the context of THCA . THCA is the form of THC naturally found in cannabis. When you heat THCA either by cooking it or putting it to a flame, the THCA molecule releases one molecule of CO, or carbon dioxide, which is the acid portion of THCA. When THCA is decarboxylated, or de-acidified , it becomes THC, the molecule that gets us lifted . Now, CBD doesnt get anyone lit ( as far as we know ), so dont expect any quick thrills from CBDA, either. However, just as CBD confers a ton of potential health benefits, so too does CBDA. If you want to learn more about CBDs medicinal applications, read about them here . To better understand CBDA, it may help to understand what it possibly does better than CBD. Lets go over that. But, before we dive into CBDAs benefits, you should know that most of this research is in its infancy stages. The US FDA has not yet confirmed that CBDA can treat any maladies, though the agency is working with a pharmaceutical company to study CBDA as an anti-nausea drug . So, as it always goes, none of this information should trump your doctors advice. Almost all of the research youll find linked below was performed on lab animals. Whether this research translates to humans remains unconfirmed. So, if youre considering CBDA as a wellness supplement, consult with your doctor first. CBDA May Be Better at Treating Anxiety and Depression Research suggests that CBDA could help treat clinical anxiety and depression, two conditions that can be difficult to control with conventional drugs. The body metabolizes CBDA quicker and more efficiently than CBD. Additionally, CBDA has a greater affinity than CBD for our serotonin receptors , the parts of our brains (and guts) that make us feel content, comfortable, and emotionally stable. CBDA Could Be More Effective for Controlling Chronic Pain The research is rapidly piling in favor of CBDs ability to control inflammation and chronic pain. However, according to a 2018 study , CBDA may work better for reducing certain types of pain, specifically a type of pain perception called hyperalgesia. CBDA can also reduce inflammation , which not only reduces pain, but can prevent damage to nerves and tissue, as well. CBDA May Be a More Powerful Anti-Nausea, Anti-Seizure, or Anti-Cancer Treatment As noted above, GW Pharmaceuticals is currently investigating CBDA as an anti-nausea treatment . The company is even looking at CBDA as an anti-seizure drug . In addition, a research group in Japan discovered some evidence that CBDA may prevent or even destroy certain kinds of aggressive breast cancer cells . Unfortunately, you wont find many name brand CBDA products. It doesnt yet have the research or hype as CBD does, but that may change soon. If youre looking to supplement your wellness regimen with CBDA, you can find it naturally in any cannabis flower thats considered high-CBD or CBD-rich (think Charlottes Web, Harlequin, or Treasure Island). Although we tend to think of these plants as containing lots of CBD, they actually contain lots of CBDA. So long as you dont decarb the plants CBDA with heat or chemicals, it will remain CBDA when you consume it raw.
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https://merryjane.com/culture/what-is-cbda-and-how-does-it-differ-from-cbd
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What Is DMT and What Does the Psychedelic Drug Do to Us Exactly?
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DMT, a psychedelic derived from certain plants native to Central and South America, has gotten the attention of North Americas cool kids in recent years. Its not a new drug, but since DMT is currently making its way into vape pens and vacation brochures, its probably a good idea to get caught up on what this compound is, what it does, and how it could change modern medicine in the coming years. DMT, or N-dimethyltryptamine, is also known as the spirit molecule or God molecule, due to its profound and deeply touching psychoactive effects. DMT is one of a few famous psychedelic compounds that chemically resembles a natural neurotransmitter found in our brains called serotonin. (The other psychedelics that are chemically similar to serotonin are LSD , psilocybin and psilocin , and, to a lesser extent, MDMA .) DMT can be found in the entheogenic plant ayahuasca, but its also produced by jurema, the chaliponga vine, the chacrona shrub, virola bark, and the yopo and vilca trees. Most of these plants are found in South or Central America. Local indigenous cultures, through religious or spiritual rites, have consumed DMT or DMT-containing plants for thousands of years . Only in the 60s, after American suburbanites started regularly tripping on psychedelics, did some boomers start referring to the DMT experience colloquially as a businessmans trip or business trip, due to its incredibly short duration. In other words, some corporate type could trip out on DMT during her lunch break, then go right back to work immediately after soaring through the cosmos or so the joke goes Scientists have also discovered DMT naturally occurring in some animal brains , and there's good reason to suspect that the human brain naturally produces it in small amounts, too. (This is different from the contested theory that the human body makes DMT in the pineal gland, which gets released upon death.) Why the mammalian brain makes some DMT remains a mystery, but it seems ridiculous that a chemical made in our own bodies can be classified a Schedule I drug in the US. However, note that DMT isnt typically consumed directly from these plants. Although ayahuasca preparations involve drinking a liquid prepared from the plant, they can contain several other psychoactive compounds besides DMT. Rather, DMT is chemically extracted from its plant sources, and those extracts are usually either smoked or vaporized through pipes or vape pens. Its possible to trip on DMT by swallowing it , but that requires combining it with a type of antidepressant medication called an MAOI . This is because the digestive system will shred DMT as soon as it hits the stomach, but mixing it with an MAOI kicks up its potency before the body metabolizes it into oblivion. But, since MAOIs can be dangerous to use without strict, proper doctor supervision, you should probably avoid the oral route. You can also inject DMT to get high from it but come on. If you gotta shoot up a drug to get jacked on it, its probably not worth doing. Period. You already got other natural, god-given holes in your body for intaking psychedelics; no need to forcibly create new holes and risk infection, injury or worse . Speaking of other inborn holes, DMT can also be mixed with powdered tobacco and snorted as snuff. This route remains fairly uncommon, though. From what weve read (*cough cough*) DMT can, at high enough doses, cause intense, brilliant, intricately geometric and, at times overwhelming visuals. Hallucinations on DMT can be so vivid that some users report feeling as if theyve been transported to another planet, universe, or dimension. And although the DMT trip usually only lasts about 15 to 30 minutes, psychonauts often say that the otherworldly journey can feel like it took hours or days. One interesting phenomenon pops up across self-reports of DMT experiences. Many users claim they see light beings or creatures that defy typical physical descriptions, almost like living, breathing abstractions. These light beings usually impart some wisdom to the DMT user, though that wisdom may vary depending on the experience, if the psychonaut can even remember what they were told after returning to reality. Many DMT users also report arriving at a physical singularity during the experience, basically a place where the universe meets at a single point, or a point that resides at the Center of All Things. For example, one internet-famous DMT report included a user writing that they found themselves inside of the control panel for the entire universe (which, of course, was being manipulated by the beings of light). In religion and folklore, this sacred location could have been described as the Arab worlds Mount Qaf, or ancient Greeces sanctuary at Delphi. But hey! People also report seeing all kinds of crazy shit while tripping on drugs, such as watching their faces melt while looking in the mirror , or witnessing the walls (and their food) pulsate like tell-tale heartbeats. Like any drug, DMT comes with side effects. The most common are nausea and vomiting, particularly when consuming it from an ayahuasca drink. Other adverse effects include increased heart rate , dizziness, audio and visual distortions, and freaking-the-fuck-out when taking too much. (Good thing it doesn't last long, eh?) There is no known lethal dose for DMT in humans, but don't take that as an invitation to megadose it. Scientists don't have a lethal DMT dose calculated because the compound hasn't really been studied much, and there aren't a lot of case studies regarding DMT use in the medical literature. However, there is an LD50 dose calculated for mice. LD50 denotes how much of a drug will kill roughly 50 percent of mice when administered to a group of them. In DMTs case, that dose is anywhere between 32mg/kg to 47mg/kg , but these values only apply to DMT injections (and what did I just say about shooting up drugs for non-medical purposes?). As for the potential health benefits from DMT use, again, researchers are still working out this info. However, the few studies we do have suggest DMT, like other plant- and fungus-derived psychedelics, could treat several mental conditions such as anxiety , depression , PTSD , drug or alcohol addictions, or fearing death among terminally ill patients.
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https://merryjane.com/culture/what-is-dmt-and-what-does-the-psychedelic-drug-do-to-us-exactly
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What Is Gelato Weed and Why Do Rappers Love the Strain So Much?
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Lead photo via Dedicated weed smokers and cannasseurs alike have puffed on Gelato at least once. And if they havent, some variety of the world-famous Gelato strain is likely on their bucket list. Gelato got its start in the Bay Area, bred and popularized by Mario Guzman, otherwise known as the mastermind marijuana geneticist Mr. Sherbinski . Sherbinski belonged to a crew of San Francisco-based breeders such as Jigga , Berner , and others who all once criss-crossed the genetics of the famed Cookies strains together. Theyve since gone on to form their own companies and propriety plants. Photo via Sherbinskis The original Gelato is the cheeba child of two legendary dank dynamos: Cookie Fams Thin Mint Girl Scout Cookies (aka GSC) and Sherbinskis Sunset Sherbert. Sherbinskis has since developed a variety of Gelato phenotypes, some that simply have numbers designating their distinction from the OG . Other Gelato phenos simply bear delectable monikers like Acai Berry Gelato and Mochi Gelato. Not all of these variants on Gelato descended directly from the first mother: Some are crosses of other Gelato varieties, others back-crossed with entirely different strains. Regardless, the Gelato name is now synonymous with delightfully saccharine flower that produces creamy smoke. Yum. But, back to Gelato proper. When grown under optimal conditions, Gelato produces fat buds bearing purple and violet hues, glistening with such dense coverings of terpene-packed trichomes they look like they were rolled around in pure sugar. Its visual appeal explains why certain, unusually colorful strains claim Gelato in their lineage. Taste the rainbow. Any weed strains effects will vary depending on how it was grown, how it was packaged and stored, and whos smoking it . But self-reports online usually state the same thing: Gelato is strong shit, but tokers can still think clearly while lit on it. For many cannabis consumers, Gelato strikes the perfect balance between being hazy-headed and focused. According to compiled lab reports at Leafly, Gelato isnt a strain that consistently pumps out massive amounts of THC. On average, the strain comes in around 17 percent THC , which is decent, but not on the level of some strains that can reach as high as 30 percent . Of course, THC isnt the be-all end-all of cannabis potency . Gelato likely gets folks lifted sky-high due to its rich terpene profile , which is only possible with genetics that produce moderate THC levels. And in case youre wondering, the three most prominent terpenes found in Gelato are caryophyllene , limonene , and humulene , in descending order. Sherbinskis strains have received over 200 shout-outs from hip-hop artists and other musicians over the years. But of all of them, Gelato probably takes the cake when it comes to name-drops. Young Dolph (on a track aptly titled Gelato), Peewee Longway (with Young Dolph on yet another track titled Gelato), Future (more than once, too), Hoodrich Pablo Juan , Lil Yachty , Lil Uzi Vert , Lil Pump , Offset of Migos, and Berner (of course) , are a few rappers that felt so inspired by Gelato they immortalized the strain in their verses. And its not just the rappers either. Pop-rock guitar maestro John Mayer said he puffed on the sticky-sweet Gelato for inspiration while writing music, too. Even the illustrious New York Times devoted an entire feature to Mr. Sherbinski and his beloved strain. Sherbinskis produces and markets luxury cannabis, so theres certainly a draw there. Though, really, artists of all stripes cant afford to be bombed-out on couch-lock weed all day. These are creators were talking about. They need to be stoned enough to jolt their minds out of the humdrum patterns of everyday thinking. But they also need energy to translate their insights into something tangible, like musical notes, a clever verse, or a killer riff. Gelato does both. So, if you happen to come across some genuine Gelato, get it, roll that shit up in the special papers you saved for special occasions, and join a legion of MCs whove all gotten elevated on this dank delicacy.
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https://merryjane.com/culture/what-is-gelato-weed-and-why-do-rappers-love-the-strain-so-much
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What Is Hemp and How Is It Different From Marijuana?
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Late last year, the US government officially legalized hemp nationwide. The move led to an explosion of hemp farms popping up across the country, making hemp the fastest growing cash crop in America. Most hemp grown in the US today is cultivated for CBD extraction, though its also excellent for making rope, sails, textiles, fabrics, and food. Hemp and Marijuana Are Essentially the Same Plant Hemp and marijuana are, to some extent, merely legal definitions. Both plants are Cannabis sativa, though there are some physical differences between them. Hemp is cannabis with insignificant amounts of THC, the compound in weed that gets people intoxicated. What qualifies as insignificant, though, depends on the local laws and definitions. The US governments definition for hemp is cannabis containing less than 0.3 percent THC by dry weight. Other places, such as the EU, define hemp as cannabis with less than 0.2 percent THC. Still others argue that hemp should be defined by a THC limit at a whole 1 percent by dry weight. So, that means marijuana is cannabis with more than 0.2 to 0.3 percent THC by weight, depending on the countrys laws. Humans have been cultivating hemp for as long as weve been cultivating marijuana. Scientists believe that ancient people originally farmed cannabis in the areas now known as Afghanistan and Pakistan, though theres new evidence that the plant itself first evolved in Tibet . Later, the plants genetics diverged as traders and nomads took weed seeds to far off lands. When cannabis went to China, the Chinese grew it primarily for fibers and food , selecting low-THC plants over the stickier high-THC varieties. But when cannabis went to India, the Middle East, and North Africa, farmers there chose to breed the high-THC strains, leading to the bomb-ass weed we have today . Heres the thing with THC: Its awesome for medicinal applications and having a good time, but its a pain to work with when youre processing cannabis to make rope, clothes, or sails. Thats because THC is what makes weed so sticky-icky-icky, and all that stickiness gunks up the fiber-making process. Legal Issues Between Marijuana and Hemp Since THC is the part of cannabis that gets people high, the US government has fought tooth-and-nail to keep it illegal. But since hemp cant get anyone high, the feds consider it relatively harmless now. Back in the 1930s, at the height of Reefer Madness , prohibitionists led by US Narcotics Bureau Chief Harry Anslinger propagandized marijuana as a dangerous drug that warped black and brown men into axe-murdering rapists. Hemp, on casual inspection, is indistinguishable from marijuana remember, theyre essentially the same plant and Anslinger convinced the US Congress that since marijuana growers could simply conceal illegal drug operations under the cover of growing harmless hemp, that hemp should be illegal, too. Unfortunately, Anslinger won on that front. When the Marihuana Tax Act was passed in 1937, hemp was effectively banned, too. Only a handful of farms in Kentucky continued to grow hemp in the US until the 50s, when hemp completely fell out of fashion in favor of synthetic fibers like nylon. Hemp was officially outlawed in 1970 with the passage of the Controlled Substances Act, which placed hemp in the same ultra-restrictive Schedule I category as marijuana, even though hemp is not addictive , not even in the slightest. Since then, American companies could sell hemp products, but only if the hemp was imported from another country such as China or Spain. Today, we can finally grow our own damn hemp right here on US soil. Genetic Differences Between Hemp and Marijuana While the primary difference distinguishing hemp from marijuana falls on legal definitions, there are some genetic and biochemical differences between the two types of cannabis, too. The biggest difference involves the enzymes that make THC and CBD in cannabis, called THC synthase and CBD synthase, respectively. The plant doesnt just crank out cannabinoids willy nilly. Rather, the plants genes make proteins (the synthases) which produce THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids from CBG, or cannabigerol. Most high-THC marijuana strains contain inactive, mutant forms of the CBD synthase gene , which explains why most of the weed found in dispensaries doesnt contain much, if any, CBD. Meanwhile, hemp strains contain fewer genes for THC synthase than marijuana strains do, hence negligible amounts of THC in hemp plants. There are some other biochemical differences between hemp and marijuana, too. For instance, CBN, a cannabinoid with potential medical uses for fighting pain and repairing bones , isnt found in most hemp. Thats because CBN comes from THC that breaks down under sunlight or heat, and since hemp doesnt contain much THC, it doesnt produce much CBN, either. There you have it in a nutshell. Hemp doesnt have much THC, but it can produce large quantities of CBD if properly bred and cultivated. Meanwhile, marijuana usually contains plenty of THC, but the more THC it has, the less CBD youll find in that same weed.
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https://merryjane.com/culture/what-is-hemp-and-how-is-it-different-from-marijuana
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What Is Ibogaine and Can the Psychedelic Plant Help Break Drug Addictions?
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Of all the worlds prehistoric cultures, the Babongo tribe of Central Africa may have contributed to the worlds use of psychedelics more than anyone else. The Babongo peoples were some of the first to cultivate weed farms purely for recreational or intentional use. They likely tripped on shrooms ages before the old Nordic or Germanic tribes or even the Ancient Greeks embraced psychedelic fungus. They were also the first known culture to use iboga, a mystical root bark and shrub loaded with a powerful alkaloid known as ibogaine for spiritual and medicinal reasons. The Wests introduction to ibogaine came from the Bwiti peoples of Gabon via French missionaries who brought the dreamy drug back to France around 1900. Ibogaine is a psychedelic alkaloid compound naturally produced by plants such as Tabernaemontana undulata, Voacanga africana, and Tabernanthe iboga, all of which are native to Africa. Chemists classify ibogaine as a tryptamine the same class that claims other powerful medicinal psychedelics such as DMT , LSD , and psilocybin . Tryptamines mimic serotonin, the so-called happy chemical in our brains that regulates mood, sleep, and hunger. When isolated, ibogaine is usually mixed with an acid to form ibogaine hydrochloride. Ibogaine hydrochloride, the most common form used in clinical or therapeutic settings, looks like a yellowish crystal, similar to table salt. Psychopharmacologists divide the ibogaine experience into two stages: the visionary phase and the introspective phase. The visionary phrase is oneirogenic (Greek oneiros-, to dream, and genic, to create), meaning it instills a dreamlike state in the ibogaine consumer. Ibogaine users describe the visionary state much like being awake while dreaming, simultaneously submerged in the surreal realities of the mind while also remaining conscious of the immediate, real surroundings. The visionary state lasts 4 to 6 hours. The second, or introspective, phase is when the emotional and psychological labor really begins. After undertaking a figurative walkabout through ones inner Dreamtime, the mind can begin reflecting on what it experienced and what it learned during the journey. Ibogaine clinics or retreats offer this drug as a treatment for drug addictions that have resisted traditional treatments. Ibogaine is most popularly used to treat opioid addiction , though it can work on curbing other drugs of abuse such as cocaine, crack, and meth. Typically, modern medicine combines pharmaceutical drugs with talk therapy and counseling support for those struggling with addiction. Often, it can take years for those with addictions to find something resembling success via conventional medicine. Ibogaine clinics and retreats, on the other hand, offer programs that effectively accelerate the process established in conventional medicine. The ibogaine experience may hasten recovery by manipulating the brain in a way that the patient confronts their deepest concerns, fears, anxieties, and traumas all at once in a safe, somnolent space where the mind has more control over its reactions. By facing these fears head-on, but doing so through novel neural pathways, the patient can dig to the root of the traumas that led to drug addiction in the first place then overcome them. Keep in mind that ibogaine is not a one-and-done deal. Several treatment sessions are usually required for most patients, and even after those initial sessions with the psychedelic, they must still participate in regular follow-ups with their counselors or therapists. There are dozens of ibogaine clinics around the world. However, ibogaine is categorized as a Schedule I drug in the US, meaning its both illegal and considered devoid of medical value. So, while there are no legally-operating ibogaine clinics in the United States, Americans often travel to other countries like nearby Mexico or the Netherlands to receive ibogaine treatments. In the US, the biggest risk associated with ibogaine is getting arrested for possessing it. However, there are some health risks to consider, too. Ibogaine can cause temporary loss of muscle and movement coordination. This is one of the reasons why ibogaine clinics exist: So those undergoing ibogaine treatment can get assistance just moving around while theyre dosed. Ibogaine can also trigger heart complications in certain people, especially if they have pre-existing conditions. Thereve been a few deaths recorded from ibogaine overdose that triggered cardiac arrest, another reason why clinics and retreats oversee the ibogaine experience. To date, there have been no clinical trials for ibogaine in the US. But the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS) completed two observational studies in 2017 showing that ibogaine could help break even the most powerful drug addictions. America is still struggling to overcome its own opioid crisis, well over a decade since it first flared up. Often, the drugs used to treat opioid addiction can be just as addictive as the opioids themselves. Given the grim situation, the US should consider alternative forms of treatments such as ibogaine. Not all treatments will work for all patients, so its critical that American medical institutions offer a variety of effective treatment options to save as many lives as possible.
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https://merryjane.com/culture/what-is-ibogaine-and-can-the-psychedelic-plant-help-break-drug-addictions
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What Is Kosher Kush and What Makes It a Weed Strain of Biblical Proportions?
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Photo via With a name steeped in biblical history and ancient Jewish dietary laws, Kosher Kush may seem like specialty cannabis just for devotees of Kabbalah and the Talmud. Dont worry, though, the Kosher Kush faith is open to all who seek or, in this case, smoke it. Like kosher food favorites such as bagels, brisket, and pickles plucked from big barrels of brine, Kosher Kush is a treat available to everyone. Also, like matza, the strain is highly likely to make you a convert to its divine sensations. Kosher Kush has won multiple Cannabis Cup trophies and continues to convert tokers into true believers all over Gods green earth. So here are some Kosher Kush questions to which the rabbinical reefer team at MERRY JANE is blessed to be able to provide with answers. On the one hand, we could say Kosher Kush came by its moniker by being the first commercial cannabis strain on record to actually be blessed by a rabbi . However, before any clergy member officially anointed the present incarnation of Kosher Kush, the indica-dominant strain of unknown lineage originally developed a following in the Los Angeles area under the moniker Jew Gold. Given the inherent harshness of such a nickname, lets thank the Green Goddess that the cultivators at Reserva Privada (itself a sub-division of DNA Genetics ) subsequently rebranded it as Kosher Kush. The rabbis blessing adds a bit of dope divinity to Kosher Kush, but that alone does not make the weed properly kosher. As a religious term, kosher refers to foods prepared using explicit biblical guidelines. In casual conversation, though, kosher has come to mean anything good, pure, righteous. So in the latter sense, Kosher Kush more than ably earns its moniker. That stated, Judaisms ritual connections to marijuana date back thousands of years. According to biblical scholars , the Hebrew word kaneh bosm considered to mean cannabisappears five times in the original text of the Old Testament. Check out these two potent examples of pots presence in the Good Book : Exodus 30: 23-15 contains a cannabis oil recipe used by Moses and, in Isaiah 43:24, God himself rages, You have not bought any fragrant calamus [cannabis] for me, or lavished on me the fat of your sacrifices! In the context of physical history, Israeli archaeologists recently unearthed evidence of burnt ritual cannabis in the ruins of a 2,700-year-old Jewish temple . Their report concluded, It seems feasible to suggest that the use of cannabis on the Arad altar had a deliberate psychoactive role. Another tie to kosher foods is that Kosher Kush is revered for its taste an earthy, lip-smacking combination of pine, citrus, and spices. Oy, thats delicious! While no one can specify who (or what) you might encounter after firing up a bowl of Kosher Kush, we can proclaim forthrightly that this hugely indica-heavy strain packs a godly wallop. On the low end, its known to clock in at 20 percent THC, with some tests and reviewers placing the THC content at even higher levels (and the key word there is higher). Kosher Kush hits hard with a potentially overwhelming impact of total mind and body relaxation . As such, its recommended to be used at night, or at least at a proper time and in a mellow setting where couch-lock is a definite and desirable possible outcome. Miracles are not ours to call. Medical marijuana resources, however, report that Kosher Kush has proven remarkably effective in addressing issues of anxiety, stress, strain, and, perhaps above all, insomnia. Numerous users also report that Kosher Kush resulted in them enjoying a great stretch of peaceful sleep after imbibing. Indeed, Kosher Kush has adhered to the biblical direction to be fruitful and multiply. Kosher Kush has gone on to generate hybrids that include Family Jewels , Miss USA , and Nicole Kush . Now do yourself a marijuana mitzvah and get your hands on this holy herb the next time you visit a dispensary.
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https://merryjane.com/culture/what-is-kosher-kush-and-what-makes-it-a-weed-strain-of-biblical-proportions
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What Is Macrodosing and What Are Its Benefits?
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Unless youve been living under a rock, youve probably heard of microdosing, or taking very small amounts of weed or a hallucinogen. Proponents of microdosing believe that taking a sub-perceptual dose (or, a small amount you can barely feel) offers the medicinal or therapeutic benefits of a psychoactive drug without tripping-your-face-off or being blitzed as fuck. Microdosing is often suggested as a way to ease into a new to a drug. But lately, another term is also circulating through our happy family: macrodosing. As you might suspect, this is the exact opposite of microdosing. Instead of taking minuscule amounts of pot, acid, mushrooms, or another psychedelic substance, large or even heroic doses are taken. Of course, macrodosing is nothing novel. Its just the word thats relatively new. People have been consuming massive amounts of marijuana and other drugs (including the old standby, alcohol) since people first started getting lit. And theres nothing wrong with that. Its all good, in our book. But, when most people talk about macrodosing, theres generally more thought put into the act and intention that focuses on something other than maximizing the psychoactive effects of the drug. Macrodosing weed entails taking more, often much more, than a typical serving of THC, which is generally said to be about 10mgs. Doses from as much as 100mgs of THC up to several hundred or even 1,000mgs are not unheard of, particularly by medical marijuana patients who have developed a tolerance to the drug, but still find it effective to treat conditions including chronic pain. Ingesting that much THC at once isnt a terribly easy thing to do. With a typical dispensary 1-gram pre-roll coming in at about 100mgs, youd have to smoke one to your head all by yourself to get to what most experienced stoners would consider macrodosing. This is where concentrates come in handy. One dab of a quality wax or shatter can easily deliver 25mgs or more of THC. At that potency, a few quick dabs in succession will get you into macrodosing territory in no time. Concentrates are easily incorporated into edibles, too, making large doses of THC easily ingestible. Brownies containing up to 1,000mgs have been made, but it is usually suggested to ingest in several servings. (But of course, a suggestion is just that a suggestion.) Taking one or more doses at the same time will quickly get you into the realm of macrodosing. Often, theres more to macrodosing THC than getting really stoned. In addition to pain relief, macrodosing is recommended by some alternative therapy advocates for cancer patients in the form of Rick Simpson Oil or RSO . Under a suggested regimen for the treatment, small doses of a highly potent (up to 90 percent THC) concentrated cannabis oil are steadily increased to up to a gram or more per day. But, products that make macrodosing THC practical are under fire. As anti-cannabis forces struggle to maintain vestiges of prohibition, caps on THC content have been proposed in several jurisdictions. To protect macrodosing as an option for medical marijuana patients, be sure to speak up against them if these types of regulations are being pushed in your community. With the resurgence of interest in hallucinogenic drugs and their potential therapeutic effects, macrodosing psychedelics is a thing again. Even the semi-straight-laced-yet-always-interesting author Michael Pollan delved into the world of macrodosing for his book How to Change Your Mind. For Pollan, macrodosing means taking doses of LSD, psilocybin mushrooms, or other psychedelic drugs that are large enough to induce intense, synesthetic hallucinations such as seeing sounds or feeling colors. Because an intense trip from large doses of hallucinogens can have a lasting effect on the psyche (one of the keys to the therapeutic potential of the drugs) Pollan urges those considering macrodosing do so in a clinical setting with an experienced guide to lead the way. Often, those who macrodose on psychedelics have profoundly meaningful experiences that change their lives forever. But, thats not always the case, as expressed by Pollan. He reports that some of his experiences were awful, while others didnt change everything he knew about the world. But he did learn something from every experience. The same goes for Albert Hoffman, inventor of LSD, who macrodosed himself during one of the first documented acid trips in history. But, the potential impact macrodosing can have on mental health issues could change the landscape of therapy as we know it. Researchers see potential in using psychedelic experiences therapeutically to treat conditions including clinical depression and addiction. While macrodosing pot or hallucinogens has therapeutic and recreational value, it shouldnt be taken lightly and isnt for the uninitiated. Getting way too baked or tripping too hard can be terribly uncomfortable, so be sure you have some experience with the drug before macrodosing. But, if youre hellbent on consuming five grams of shrooms or ten tabs of acid or even high doses of THC, it might be wise to have a sober friend with you, or a trip sitter, as they call em. Its nice to have someone around whos tethered to Earth, especially when you feel like youre on Mars. That said, when done carefully and in the proper setting, macrodosing can be fun and profoundly therapeutic. Explore mindfully, psychonauts! Follow AJ Herrington on Instagram
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https://merryjane.com/culture/what-is-macrodosing-and-what-are-its-benefits
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What Is Pineapple Express Weed and Did It Exist Before the Iconic Movie?
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Ah, Pineapple Express, arguably one of the last great weed films of the prohibition era. Branded a stoner buddy action-comedy by its creators Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg, the film follows two underachieving potheads (played by Rogen and James Franco) who witness a murder by a dirty cop and a gangster. Unfortunately for the two unlikely heroes, the weed they left at the crime scene a strain called Pineapple Express was just so damn delicious that the gangster could identify it by scent alone, which leads the bad guys on a hunt to track down the good guys. Hijinks, hilarity, and explosions ensue. The Movie Came First Lets clear the air here: If anyone tells you that they sampled Pineapple Express flower before the film debuted on August 6, 2008, theyre probably blowing smoke up your keister. In a 2014 interview with Denvers Everyday Show host Chris Parente, Rogen said that he and co-writer Evan Goldberg invented the weed strain just for the film. Theres Pineapple Express weed thats named after our movie, he told Parente. We created it. Theyve never said, but before the film dropped, Pineapple Express referred to a weather phenomenon known as an atmospheric river, where winds carry moisture from the Hawaiian Islands and dump precipitation all over the American West Coast. When El Nio events occur, those are basically extreme versions of the meteorological Pineapple Express. Were taking Rogen on his word (which is probably pretty legit). Lets take a look at some hard, historical data on Google Trends. You can check this out for yourself : There were practically zero searches on Google for the term pineapple express until the end of 2007 and the beginning of 2008. In the summer of 2007, the first test screens for the movie premiered, and the Hollywood hype machine was in full swing by that Christmas. If you look at the Google Trends search graph, youll see its a flatline for pineapple express before 2007 with a teeny tiny bump of activity around January 2005. Thats because from January 7 to January 15 , 2005, a Pineapple Express weather event hit Southern California with one of the regions biggest storms of the decade. If Pineapple Express the weed strain existed before the film, youd expect more search activity for the term prior to 2007. And if we narrow the search to "pineapple express weed," we see a complete flatline in Google activity until November 2007. That largely depends on which Pineapple Express someone is referring to. According to Leaflys strain database, Pineapple Express is a cross of the Hawaiian landrace and Trainwreck strains. It purportedly has a strong fruity, citrusy smell, and its heady effects hit harder than a locomotive, though many self-reports claim that the intense high doesnt last terribly long. That could be due to its high average THC content, which usually hovers around the 20-to-25 percent range. (Higher THC percentages usually mean lower terpene contents, and terpenes likely contribute to longer-lasting highs , as well as delicious flavors.) However, some cannabis seed companies offer their own Pineapple Express genetics, which dont come from Hawaiian or Trainwreck. For instance, G13 Labs sells a strain of Pineapple Express that its breeders made from various Skunk parents and Big Bud . Meanwhile, Barneys Farm in the Netherlands offers an autoflowering plant called Pineapple Express, crossed from the companys proprietary Pineapple Chunk strain and a ruderalis form of cannabis. But Rogen himself a self-taught marijuana maestro who now owns and runs his own weed company in Canada hinted that none of these genetics may truly define Pineapple Express. There was a Pineapple weed, Rogen said in 2014, and people crossed it with another thing and made Pineapple Express. So, here we have the creator of the strains name suggesting that one of its parents was actually the Pineapple strain, though that may have just been something he heard through the grapevine and simply mentioned off-the-cuff. Its likely that youre seeing multiple varieties of weed branded as Pineapple Express. Whether the genetics are truly Hawaiian and Trainwreck or Skunk and Big Bud or what have you isnt what necessarily characterizes the plant. Some Folks Just Really Love Sweet, Powerful Weed, Regardless of Name Most people seek out Pineapple Express for its potency and fruity bouquet and besides, it probably feels badass to blaze a joint of it while watching the eponymous movie. In other words, different cannabis cultivators most likely breed their Pineapple Express for its scents, flavors, and quick-hitting highs, then label it as Pineapple Express so customers have some idea of what theyre getting in to. Or, it's a way to capitalize off the brand-awareness and popularity of the movie, as well as Seth Rogen's aspirational stonerdom. Probably none of these claimed lineages for Pineapple Express really matter to Rogen or Goldberg. Despite running their own weed company in the Great White North, they have no plans to ever sell anything dubbed Pineapple Express in Canada. Thats because Canadian law bans celebrity endorsements for licensed weed, and Rogen and Goldberg are cannabis business owners, not cannabis brand representatives. As we were writing [Pineapple Express], Rogen said during the Everyday Show interview, we were like, If one day we were at a weed store... and someone offers us Pineapple Express, then we made it as filmmakers. Sounds like yall made it, in both senses of the phrase.
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https://merryjane.com/culture/what-is-pineapple-express-weed-and-did-it-exist-before-the-iconic-movie
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What Is Psilocybin and What Does It Do to Our Brains?
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Psilocybin, the active component of magic or psychedelic Psilocybe cubensis mushrooms, may soon become an FDA-approved medication . Its already been decriminalized in Denver, Colorado and effectively decriminalized in Oakland and Santa Cruz , California. Chemists categorize psilocybin as a tryptamine compound (hence the experience from it is called a trip), though anthropologists classify it as an entheogen . Entheogens are a group of substances that facilitate mystical or spiritual experiences. Although scientists are currently studying psilocybin as a psychiatric medication, it boasts a centuries- if not millennia-long tradition of use in spiritual rites and religious rituals. According to the Global Drug Survey and the latest research from Kings College London , psilocybin is one of the safest if not the safest psychedelic drug known to humanity. Psilocybin is actually a prodrug, meaning its not the compound that makes us trip. Rather, when someone consumes psilocybin, the acids in our stomachs convert psilocybin into another chemical called psilocin. Psilocin not psilocybin alters signaling in our nerve and brain cells, triggering shrooms psychedelic experience. A psilocybin (or, technically, psilocin) trip can last anywhere from four to 12 hours, depending on an individual's tolerance and the dose. (And if youre wondering why scientists and shroomers alike are always talking about psilocybin and not psilocin, thats because psilocin is incredibly unstable . If someone gave you a pill or vial of pure psilocin, light, water, oxygen, and ambient heat would degrade it in a matter of days, if not hours.) The molecular structures of psilocybin and psilocin. The only difference between them is psilocin lacks a phosphate group. How (We Think) Psilocybin and Psilocin Work OK, so this is where shit gets technical. Since the US government considers psilocybin a Schedule I drug, research on it has been extremely limited over the past few decades. Schedule I is the most restrictive drug category in America, reserved only for dangerous and addictive drugs that supposedly lack any accepted medical use, like heroin and marijuana. *Eye roll* Over the years, however, scientists have gotten some clues as to how psilocybin causes hallucinations, sudden insights, and profound leaps of logic. As described above, when someone eats some shrooms, psilocybin converts to psilocin in the stomach. Psilocin then enters the bloodstream where it binds to serotonin receptors, which are primarily located in the digestive system (though some are in the spinal cord and brain, too). The molecular structure of serotonin, a major neurotransmitter. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter, meaning it transmits signals through our nervous system. Its another tryptamine, so it shares a similar chemical structure with psilocybin (and psilocin... and LSD, and DMT, too). Serotonin is responsible for regulating our hunger, sleep cycles, feelings of happiness and well-being, reward reinforcement, memory, body temperature, sexual desire, and apparently our visual perceptions. Psilocin binds and partially activates the same receptors that serotonin does, which causes dopamine to flood our system, as well. And thats about the gist of what science understands about psilocins psychoactivity. How all these neurotransmitters contribute to and influence our mental states is still being worked out, as psychopharmacology is one of the youngest sciences in existence. Although the psilocin trip only lasts a few hours, research suggests the compounds physical effects on our brain may last much longer, up to five years from just a single dose. This research lends some credibility to the Stoned Ape Theory developed by late philosopher and psychonaut Terrence McKenna, who believed that humans evolved from simple cave dwellers to a thinking species that produced complex art, music, tools, and culture after imbibing in psychedelics like psilocybin. However, most anthropologists dont agree with McKennas theory and consider it pseudoscience at the moment. Now, how psilocin physically changes our brains remains a mystery. But brain scan studies from Yale University and the University of Zurich suggest that the psilocin trip creates new neural connections in the brain. Basically, parts of the brain that dont normally communicate with one another start chatting it up non-stop, like co-workers who work in different departments and are meeting each other for the first time at a company party. After the trip subsides, these new connections mostly go away, but some of those connections remain in place, possibly forever. If people suffering from mental disorders such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, or anorexia are suffering because of miscommunication in the brain, then psychedelics such as psilocybin or psilocin could restore or enhance brain function in ways that current medications and surgeries cannot. This is why psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy , which includes other outlawed drugs like MDMA (ecstasy or molly) , LSD (acid) , DMT , ayahuasca , and toad could revolutionize modern medicine, as well as end the stigma against these powerful, potentially life-saving, and relatively non-toxic substances.
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https://merryjane.com/culture/what-is-psilocybin-and-what-does-it-do-to-our-brains
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What Is Scooby Snacks Weed and Why Does the Strains Name Come From a Cartoon?
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If youre American, then you know about Scooby-Doo. Even if youve never seen an episode, the animated Hanna-Barbera franchise forever changed pop culture. The franchise got its start in 1969 first with Saturday morning cartoons and later expanding into feature films, comic books, and board and video games and its been referenced in everything from blockbuster Hollywood films, music, and even other cartoons. But Scooby-Doo left its mark on cannabis culture, too. And that mark comes entirely from a product created just for the show: Dog treats called Scooby Snacks. Scooby Snacks as Actual Weed Today Scooby Snacks started as a fictional product for the cartoon, but over the years, an official vanilla wafer cookie line and later actual dog treats were sold as Scooby Snacks. But in the gray areas of the weed scene, Scooby Snacks can refer to an in-demand marijuana strain. The Scooby Snacks strain is yet another plant descended from GSC or Girl Scout Cookies , which would usually indicate that youve got some primo bud on your hands. In this case, Scooby Snacks do, indeed, live up to the Cookies legacy, which well go over below. Its other parent is reportedly Face Off OG. User reports online usually describe the heady effect from Scooby Snacks as both heavy-hitting and cerebral. In other words, smoking this weed can couch-lock most folks, but theyll be in good spirits while glued to the cushions. Compiled lab data at Leafly suggests the THC levels measured in Scooby Snack samples range from 18-24 percent, placing this strain in the average to above-average THC potency categories. But THC isnt what really characterizes Scooby Snacks. Terpenes , the compounds that give weed its scents and flavors, get most of that credit. Leaflys data indicates that the three most common terpenes produced by Scooby Snacks are caryophyllene , limonene , and linalool . Linalools vanilla hints, combined with caryophyllenes spice and limonenes citrus qualities, likely give this strains smoke its cake- or cookie-like aftertaste. A Brief History of the Urban Legend Behind Scooby Snacks and Weed In the Hanna-Barbera series, the titular Great Dane Scooby-Doo and his human best-friend Shaggy practically survive on a diet of Scooby Snacks. The snacks are brown dog-treat biscuits that come in a box, and both Scoob and Shaggy can be persuaded to do just about anything if theyre offered a few snacks. And yes, if youve never seen the show or the movies, Shaggy eats just as much dog food as Scooby does. Now, in the weed scene, scooby snacks is common US slang for the charred leftovers in a bowl that shoot into an unfortunate tokers mouth if their pipe lacks a screen or filter. But theres more to Scooby Snacks and the herb. According to one fan theory , Scooby Snacks in Scooby-Doo are actually weed edibles. The theory has probably existed since the show started, but it gained widespread popularity in the 90s with the rise of the internet. The primary evidence for the theory: Scooby and Shaggy are perpetually paranoid, and they're always hungry, even after devouring an entire box of Scooby Snacks. I mean, Scooby isnt exactly a Rin Tin-Tin, Benji, or Balto. Hes the first to run off and hide at the sight of a fake ghost that looks like dollar-store Klan reject. It makes more sense that the Scooby Gang's trademark treats are actually homemade pot edibles (best made with a tasty strain like, well, Scooby Snacks weed). On top of all that, the show launched at the tail-end of the 60s, just as the Counterculture Movement (and all of its weed) began barreling through America. Consider, too, that Hanna-Barbera only created Scooby-Doo after parents groups got several of the networks incredibly successful cartoons canceled for being too violent. Instead of focusing on content where heroes saved the day by blowing shit up, Scooby-Doo was mainly a comedy where the heroes solved mysteries through their ingenuity and luck. Its possible that the shows producers or writers were secretly disgruntled at their crusading critics, so they may have included a subversive element into their kids programming in a similar vein as Disney artists slipping subliminal images of dicks into animation. Just kidding. That Disney genital-art stuff is an urban legend , too.
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https://merryjane.com/culture/what-is-scooby-snacks-weed-and-why-does-the-strains-name-come-from-a-cartoon
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What Is Strawberry Cough Weed and Does the Strain Actually Taste Like Fruit?
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Plenty of marijuana strains have names that indicate what a smoker is committing to once they take a puff. Amnesia Haze often induces a fugue that results in some trivial short-term memory loss. The strain formerly known as Gorilla Glue is stickier than bubblegum in the middle of the summer. And Wedding Cake kind of tastes like, well, a vanilla wedding cake. But one of the first strains famous for matching its namesake with its nature is Strawberry Cough . And, as the name suggests, the real deal smells and tastes like wild strawberries. Normally, this is the part where we briefly cover the strains known history. The problem with Strawberry Cough is that no one knows where it actually comes from. Its original breeder, place of origin, and even its genetics are mysteries. According to stoner lore, legendary breeder Kyle Kushmann created it. But, he squashed that theory in a recent article. So, since theres no way to track this strains chain of custody from the original mother to current-day sales, its possible that many of the buds being sold as Strawberry Cough arent actually what they claim to be. Regardless, if its labeled Strawberry Cough, it better remind you of that juicy, red eaterio fruit. Strawberry Coughs similarities to real strawberries cemented its place in stoner history with the sci-fi action-apocalypse film Children of Men. In the video clip above, Michael Caines character introduces the movies hero to his weed garden, extolling the delightful experience of coughing after taking a hit of Strawberry Cough. Strawberries, he exclaims with a chuckle. This is Strawberry Cough! Nike also planned to incorporate Strawberry Cough into its line of Nike SB weed-themed sneakers . But the Strawberry Cough shoes got cashed faster than a one-hitter, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, since coughing now conjures images of people dying instead of them blowing out a sweet cloud of berrified weed smoke. Smoker reports online confirm that Strawberry Cough both smells and tastes like strawberries. According to compiled lab data at Leafly, its THC levels typically hover around 17 percent, a modest amount that places this strain in the average potency category. Reports, generally, describe its buzz as mellow and uplifting, providing enough chill to unwind from a hectic day and enough energy to keep one from crashing out on the couch. But what makes Strawberry Cough isnt the THC, its the terpenes . Terpenes are molecules naturally produced by cannabis that give the plant its characteristic aromas and flavors. Terpenes may also affect the kinds of heady effects that consumers experience after getting lit. In Strawberry Coughs case, its three most prominent terpenes are myrcene, pinene, and caryophyllene. Myrcene , found in mangoes, lemon grass, and hops, contributes to weeds earthy, fruity, and musky qualities, similar to cloves. Pinene , found in pine needles and some lime peels, smells of basil, rosemary, and, not surprisingly, pine. And caryophyllene brings the spicy scents found in black peppers.
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https://merryjane.com/culture/what-is-strawberry-cough-weed-and-does-the-strain-actually-taste-like-fruit
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What Is Sueo Weed and Is It Really the Strain That Dreams Are Made Of?
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In Spanish, the word sueo usually translates to dream. But sueo can also refer to the act of sleep itself or to the state of sleepiness, and all three interpretations apply equally to the marijuana strain Sueo and its effects. Sueo, the weed variety, is a relatively recent arrival within the cannabis scene. Most reviews for it dont appear until 2019, and Google Trends doesnt display any search term data for various terms related to Sueo as a pot plant. Nonetheless, Sueo has been on smokers minds and imaginations for well over a year, like Queen Mab riding a weed-powered fairy chariot across Dream Land. According to the legend , Sueo is a cross between Blue Dream and Sour Diesel , two iconic strains in their own right. Sour Diesel is known for its ability to get the eyes heavy-lidded but the mind and spirit racing, and Blue Dream gained its fame from its heady effects that bring deep brain chills while still keeping consumers thoughts active and creative. If Sueo truly is a hybrid of these other two hybrids , then its breeder developed Sueo into a strain that incorporates some of the best parts of its famous parents: Instant relaxation from head to toe coupled with smooth waves of insightful introspection. However, no one really knows who originally bred Sueo, meaning the truth behind the strains purported genetics reside largely in the realms of speculation. Strain review websites claim that Sueo consistently cranks out around 27 percent THC. THC levels that high sit comfortably in the above-average range , though potency can always vary based on how the bud is grown, cured, packaged, and stored . Regardless, that value is nothing to sniff at (but certainly something worth catching a whiff of ). Most weed only produces about 15 to 20 percent THC. Since Sueo is so new, there isnt a lot of lab data available for it. However, based on tokers self-reports , we know that Sueo smells of berries , fruit, with undertones of spice and, of course, that heavy, dank scent of gas or diesel that characterizes weed known for getting folks stoned AF (just like Sueos parent, Sour Diesel). Image via Based on the scent alone, we can make an educated guess on the prominent terpenes found in Sueo: Likely, its a combination of caryophyllene with myrcene and limonene or pinene . Dont be surprised if theres some humulene or linalool in there, too.
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https://merryjane.com/culture/what-is-sueno-weed-and-is-it-really-the-strain-that-dreams-are-made-of
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What Is Sunset Sherbert Weed and Does It Taste as Creamy as It Sounds?
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What happens when Girl Scout Cookies gets crossed with Pink Panties ? No, you dont get a punchline to a dirty joke. You get Sunset Sherbert, a craft weed strain thats always in high demand due to its frostiness and its peppery, berryish bouquet. Sunset Sherbert is yet another rock star strain bred by Californias famed Sherbinskis . Sherberts Pink Panties genetics contributes to its buds citrusy tang, whereas the GSC genetics give it its creamy, minty, and earthy qualities. Pretty much every cannabis strain gets its aromas and flavors from terpenes , or naturally produced molecules that evaporate from the flower at room temperature. Reviews online describe Sunset Sherberts smoke as tasting like anything from spiced honey to berry-filled yogurt. This unique flavor profile is likely due to the terpenes caryophyllene, limonene, and humulene, the strains three most prominent terpenes, according to Leafly's lab data . Caryophyllene , which is found in black peppers and carrots, has spicy qualities. Limonene , found in citrus fruits like lemons, limes, and oranges, provides the sweetness and floral fragrances. And humulene , also found in hops, hits the senses like walking into dense woodland right after a warm rain. Of course, everyone responds to cannabis differently, but weve got some common experiences to work with here. Most self-reports online for Sunset Sherbert describe its heady effects as a chill balance between body relaxation and mental alertness. Its typical THC levels hover around 18 percent , which puts it in the average category when it comes to potency. However, THC levels can be influenced by how the bud was grown, how it was packaged and stored, and what part of the plant the buds were pulled from. Plus, a strain with 18 percent THC will still get you ripped. Since Sunset Sherbert is best known for how it smells and tastes, wed recommend smoking or vaping this strain out of clean glassware. Rolling papers, blunt wraps, and resin-caked smoking accoutrements will detract from the tasting-room experience. Matches, butane lighters, and even hemp wicks may also alter Sunset Sherberts flavor. To guarantee youre tasting only Sunset Sherbert, consider solar puffing a bowl with a magnifying glass or Fresnel lens. Were living in the age of luxury weed! Treat yourself, and the herb will treat you nicely in return as truly great flower should. Now, go embrace this very particular type of Sunset!
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https://merryjane.com/culture/what-is-sunset-sherbert-weed-and-does-it-taste-as-creamy-as-it-sounds
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What Is Synthetic CBD and THC and Are They Different From Natural Cannabinoids?
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Trying to understand the rationale behind some of the US governments decisions in relation to cannabis can be devilishly frustrating. Of the wrong turns the decades-long series of misguided efforts to eradicate cannabis has taken, the development of synthetic forms of the plant is not necessarily the victory one might assume. Instead, there are several valid reasons to question the effectiveness of drugs like Marinol, which relies on a synthetic form of THC. This is especially true when compared to the more favorable results that come from using the real cannabis plant. Regardless of this disparity, the federal prohibition of cannabis has forced many doctors to instead rely on prescribing synthetic, legal (and less effective) alternatives. To understand why synthetic cannabis is inferior to its natural counterpart, lets start by looking at the drug at the center of the dispute: Marinol. This pharmaceutical was first approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1985. At that time, its only approved use was to treat nausea and vomiting related to chemotherapy from cancer. Over the years, its gone on to gain approval as a treatment for individuals suffering from weight loss as a result of anorexia or advanced HIV. Marinols active ingredient is dronabinol , a synthetic form of THC. That means the plant is not involved in the manufacturing of this drug whatsoever, which is why pharmaceutical companies can, for the most part, freely manufacture, distribute, or sell it. Whereas the THC found in cannabis is a Schedule I substance considered as dangerous as heroin by the feds, dronabinol is only Schedule III. Other Schedule III drugs include codeine and ketamine. As opposed to extracting cannabinoids from the plant, chemists are instead creating THC from scratch, which they argue is more stable than natural cannabinoids. Synthetic cannabinoid production shows no signs of slowing down, either. As MERRY JANE has previously noted, the downsides associated with Marinol essentially boil down to two factors. The first has to do with price. While medical marijuana patients are currently unable to utilize insurance to pay for cannabis, they arent saving much by using the stuff thats coming from the pharmacy. Without insurance , a months worth of Marinol can cost over $600. Compare that to the cost of flower (Oaklands Harborside dispensary currently sells half-ounces for $99) and it becomes increasingly difficult to understand the appeal behind this more expensive, less effective alternative to cannabis. The other important factor is what consumers lose in terms of complementary cannabinoids. In a Frontiers of Neurology study published in 2018 , researchers gave epilepsy patients either whole-plant cannabis CBD extracts or purified (or, isolated) CBD extracts. Though two-thirds of the patients studied reported an overall reduction in seizures, 71 percent of patients taking whole-plant extracts reported improvements. When compared to the 36 percent using isolated CBD extracts, researchers concluded that CBD-rich extracts seem to present a better therapeutic profile than purified CBD. (THC) Its now believed that the medicinal properties of cannabis are most effective when cannabinoids are consumed collectively. This is referred to as the entourage effect or ensemble effect . Essentially, the thousands of compounds (including cannabinoids, terpenoids , flavonoids, and more) in cannabis work better together than when consumed in isolation. Given the fact Marinol relies on a synthetic form of THC, this means the drug contains no other cannabinoids. We thus call the form of THC that appears in Marinol an isolated cannabinoid because it doesnt exist in concert with the other compounds it would naturally have around it. As we continue to learn more about the validity of the entourage effect, it's likely Marinol will become obsolete. In 2014, the FDA approved the drug Epidiolex , which became the first cannabinoid drug to receive a fast-tracking designation from the agency. Doctors are currently allowed to prescribe the medication to patients over the age of two as a treatment for seizures related to two rare forms of epilepsy: Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome. Epidiolex, however, is not a synthetic product. Instead, it is derived from actual cannabis plants. On the other hand, an announcement in 2018 from Zynerba Pharmaceuticals officially put synthetic CBD on the radar. The star of the show is Zygel , a drug that relies on a chemically identical CBD substitute called H2CBD (or 8,9-dihydrocannabidiol). Following this announcement, Zygel was also fast-tracked by the FDA. It is currently expected to be available by the end of 2020. That depends on who you ask. If you're a member of the government, have a prohibitionist mindset, or are in the pharmaceutical industry, you might think so. But, if you've ever witnessed the miraculous benefits of natural, Earth-grown cannabis, you know that nothing compares to the healing power of the plant in its natural state. Follow Zack Ruskin on Twitter
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https://merryjane.com/culture/what-is-synthetic-cbd-and-thc-and-are-they-different-from-natural-cannabinoids
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What Is THC Terp Sauce and What Do I Need to Know Before Smoking It?
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Image via As the 21st century reefer revolution continues to transform the planet, weed wizards around the world keep coming up with new, innovative ways to get high. What a time to be alive and smoking! Terp sauce is trending pretty damn hard these days and for a good reason. Its a sticky, texturized cannabis concentrate that not only catapults you into space, but it also offers a spectrum of taste on par with the complexity of wine. This goopy concentrate looks like crystalized honey to the eye. Its composition is similar to a blend of brown sugar and warm butter. Except, this THC concentrate is translucent and generally boasts hues of amber. It also doesnt taste like brown-sugar butter, either. Rather, its loaded with terpenes , so it packs a saucy punch that often leaves stoners drooling and wanting more. But, before you smoke down a whole jar of terp sauce, understand its strong stuff! Its best to know what youre getting into. So, read on before buckling-in for blast off. Terp sauce is a high-impact, delectably aromatic cannabis concentrate thats also known as a high terpene full-spectrum extract (HTFSE). The key component of sauce is its abundance in terpenes, or essential oils that give the plant its distinct pungent aromas ranging from gasoline to lavender to cheese to lemon zest . But more on that later. Often, when cannabis is converted into a concentrate, varying levels of terpenes are diminished even eliminated in the process. The purpose of making terp sauce, then, is to isolate terpenes for inclusion and to amplify their presence in the final mix. The result is a full-spectrum concentrate without fats, lipids, waxes, and other possible determinants to your intoxication experience. Ultimately, the goal of smoking terp sauce is to give your taste buds a clean, sensuous experience rich with flavor. Obviously, yes we smoke concentrates to get high, too. Duh! But, theres so much more to terp sauce and all concentrates, for that matter than getting blitzed out the skull. As you can probably tell from the previous sections, it's hard to talk about sauce without acknowledging the powerful presence of terpenes. Terps are the essence, or soul, of cannabis. They are organic plant compounds that give cannabis its flavors and scents. But theyre not only found in cannabis. In fact, theyre found in every single plant, fruit, and vegetable on the planet. Lemons and pine trees, for instance, are two other species that have high-terpene content. Interestingly, these two terpene profiles are also present in the cannabis plant. Additionally, the terpenes in cannabis are believed to interact with THC to define the type of high youll experience. This general phenomenon is known as the entourage effect theory. It plays a part in determining if a strain is going to make you feel buzzed and alert or chilled out and relaxed. But, more importantly, the entourage effect is crucial in understanding why pot is medicinal. In short, when cannabis is consumed the cannabinoids, flavinoids, and terpenes in the plant act in symphony, ultimately allowing the plant to have greater therapeutic value. This theory, then, suggests that consuming isolated cannabinoids does not have the same medicinal effects as when all the compounds of the plants are ingested. Concentrates have always been one of the best medical cannabis products on the market. Terpenes are a big reason why sauce and other extracts are an excellent product for relief from pain, anxiety, stress, and more. The term sauce arises from the extracts texturized consistency. The sauce can vary in thickness from loose and syrupy to as dense as honey and molasses. Most commonly, terp sauce resembles delicious fruit jam laden with grains of sugar.
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https://merryjane.com/culture/what-is-thc-terp-sauce-and-what-do-i-need-to-know-before-smoking-it
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What Is the Whizzinator and Can It Actually Beat Drug Tests?
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As a cannabis smoker with a job or pending legal situation that subjects you to random drug screenings, urine tests can be a serious drag. The steep repercussions that can follow a failed urinalysis drug screening can be monumental and cause serious disruptions in one's life. Nobody should lose their job or go to jail just for enjoying some herb but here we are. To avoid this injustice without giving up their weed, many people over the years have attempted to come up with clever ways to fool drug screens. One method relies on substituting a clean (or even synthetic) urine sample for an actual one. But this option can have some logistical issues, particularly if youre forced to provide the sample while youre being observed. Enter the Whizzinator. The Whizzinator Touch! Simply put, the Whizzinator is a fake penis made from a rubbery plastic that comes with an attached reservoir for holding a clean or synthetic urine sample. Both the prosthetic appendage and urine reservoir are attached to an elastic belt worn under the clothing. While providing the sample, the wearer pulls the Whizzinator out of their underwear, and then they activate a valve (silently and with one hand using the improved Whizzinator Touch!) to release the urine, which flows out of the fake penis and into the sample cup. To ensure that the sample stays at the proper temperature, the Whizzinator comes with heating packs that warm the urine while it sits in the reservoir bag. ), "Brown, and Black. A packet of freeze-dried synthetic urine powder comes packed with each Whizzinator to complete the kit. To determine whether or not the Whizzinator works, youll have to decide what you want it to do. To avoid legal troubles (see below), the device is not sold as a way to pass a drug test. Instead, the Whizzinator is sold as a fetish item. Even the label for the Whizzinators synthetic urine package calls it Golden Shower. However, generally speaking, marketing for the device remains noticeably vague. The Whizzinator Touch is a discreet synthetic urine kit that is safe for all types of scenarios. It has the most life-like realistic fake penis on the market! The medical grade synthetic urine kit features an ultra-quiet flow system that is very easy to use and operates with ONE hand, the website copy exclaims. It has been extensively tested and proven to work in real life situations. If the intended real life situation is indeed rooted in kink, the Whizzinator probably works just fine. But if youre actually going to use it to try to fake a drug test, there are some considerations to think about. The first is that youre going to have to be able to pull off the scam without being caught. Its probably a good idea to get some practice on whipping out the Whizzinator and casually slipping it back into the pants before you actually show up for a drug screening. The other issue to keep in mind is the characteristics of the sample you provide. To pass a screening, the urine sample must be at the correct body temperature and of the correct chemical composition. The synthetic urine packet that comes with the Whizzinator is guaranteed to pass muster chemically, or some people opt for the real thing from a friend who doesnt smoke weed (ewww!). Those are probably your best choices. Purported methods to clean up a dirty sample are unlikely to work. The bottom line is this: If you can use the Whizzinator without being detected and provide a sample of synthetic or clean urine of the correct temperature, youll probably pass the drug screening. But slip-ups can be costly. Attempting to pass a drug test through fraudulent means can get you in trouble if youre caught, particularly if the test was ordered by law enforcement, a court, or a governmental agency. Just ask Jonathan Jackson of Tennessee, who went to jail in 2014 for falsification of a drug test after being caught using the Whizzinator at a parole and probation office. Selling the Whizzinator can also be illegal, depending on how it is marketed. In 2010, the owners of the e-commerce company that sold the device were convicted of conspiracy to defraud the United States government for its role in the use of the Whizzinator by people trying to fake federally-mandated drug screenings. The Whizzinator trademark was then taken over by California-based Alternate Lifestyles Systems, which began marketing the device as a fetish item with a legal disclaimer. This product is not intended for any illegal purpose, the website now warns. Nor is it to be used to defeat lawfully administered drug tests. So, no, its not legal to use the Whizzinator to pass a drug test. But some folks might consider it a risk worth taking to still be able to smoke weed if they can get away with it. Follow AJ Herrington on Instagram
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https://merryjane.com/culture/what-is-the-whizzinator-and-can-it-actually-beat-drug-tests
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What Is White Widow Weed and Why Is the Strain So Popular in Amsterdam?
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Image via The black widow spider strikes fear in humans by broadcasting its deadliness with a vibrant red hourglass shape across its abdomen. White Widow weed, however, promises just the opposite: Tokers can expect a grand ol time after burning down this strains milky trichomes into salubrious soot. In the 90s, White Widow got its world-famous start in Amsterdam, the first market to legally sell weed (well, mostly legal, anyway). Today, this cannabis variety remains a mainstay at Amsterdams most popular weed cafes , also known as coffee shops. According to the pot-pricing website Marijuana Rates, White Widow appears on the menus of at least 40 coffee shops in the Netherlands. On average, smokers can expect to pay $5.29 to $13.75 USD per gram, making it one of the most affordable strains available in Europes most famed pot spot. Above, a photo of White Widow via iStock Some Background on the White Widow Weed Strain White Widow is the brainchild of the Green House Seeds, one of Amsterdams most famous cannabis companies. The company claims the strain is a cross of a Brazilian landrace strain and a South Indian landrace , both of which were sativas. (And yes, sativa and indica accurately describe landraces, and pretty much only landraces, these days .) In 1995 , Green House Seeds White Widow won the High Times Cannabis Cup. It received the award for its high THC potency at a reported 20-25 percent which was a rarity in those days as well as its abundance of trichomes that gave its flower a whitish tint. That single accolade catapulted White Widow into global recognition, and the rest is history. Green House Seeds doesnt just breed weed and provide White Widow seeds for a nascent, though limited, legal cannabis market. The company also runs its own coffee shop in Amsterdam, considered one of the most popular weed cafes in the Netherlands. And yes, White Widow is on the menu. Even Snoop Dogg once dropped by Green House to sample some of its world-renowned wares! White Widows Legacy Can Be Found in Newer Strain Names Like the iconic Blueberry and Chem Dog weed strains, White Widows legacy has thoroughly suffused todays legal cannabis landscape. Strains with the word White or Widow in their names like White Kush, White Russian, White Berry, White Rhino, or Blue Widow are overwhelmingly descended from White Widow, a testament to the mother plants genetic stability and long-time market demand. However, some White strains, such as The White , reportedly werent bred from White Widow, at all.
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https://merryjane.com/culture/what-is-white-widow-weed-and-why-is-the-strain-so-popular-in-amsterdam
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What Is "Zkittlez" Weed and Does the Strain Taste Like a Rainbow?
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If youre going to get zonked out on some primo weed, the plumes of bong smoke you exhale might as well smell absolutely delicious, too. Zkittlez is a marijuana strain bred and sold by Dying Breed Seeds, a part of the 3rd Generation Family collective of weed breeders (who once fawned over some of their Holy Grail strains in an article for MERRY JANE). Its reportedly a cross between Grapefruit and Grape Ape two strains known for their sweet, citrusy qualities though Leafly suggests that a third, unidentified strain was introduced into its genetics at some point. Tokers can usually identify Zkittlez by a couple of tell-tale signs. The first sign is its bud colors, which range from rich purples to lighter hues of lime green. A similar color pattern can be found on one of Zkittlezs offspring, the rare and dank Runtz strain . The second sign youve got Zkittlez comes off of its bouquet. This strain smells of tropical fruits with hints of lemon or orange peel. Pinching the nug or grinding it should fully unlock the citrus aspect, making this weeds scent resemble a sweet-n-sour gummy. Compiled lab data indicates this strain typically produces the terpenes caryophyllene, humulene , and linalool . As for the strains heady effects, most user reports describe the Zkittlez high as chill yet uplifting. Though even as it induces relaxation, smokers say they can remain focused and alert while under its spell, which is perfect for tokers looking to unwind but not pass the fuck out. Of course, any given strains effects depend on how it was cultivated and stored , as well as the consumers set, setting , and individual biochemistry. Zkittlez originated in Northern California, so bud buyers will have the easiest time finding it at dispensaries in the Golden State. However, the strain database at All Bud reported that Zkittlez has been sold as far east as Colorado, so its possible that this dank delicacy has made into legal (and underground) markets further out from the Centennial State. As for what makes this strain particularly special, well hand the mic to the cultivators themselves. According to Brandon Scott Parker of 3rd Gen / Dying Breed Seeds : When I say things like "Holy Grails," and stuff like that, it's kind of not to be taken lightly. By Holy Grail, I mean strains that are undeniably and unexplainably different than the rest. When you talk about a Holy Grail of a variety, you're talking about Sour Diesel, OG Kush, Grand Daddy Purple, you're talking about Girl Scout Cookies varieties that are so different from one another that they're very, very special. They just are stand-alone. You can put them in a field of all kinds of stuff, and if you're an educated person on ganja then you're going to be able to spot them and point them out. Zkittlez is going to be amongst the Holy Grail. Zkittlez is undeniably and unexplainably different than anything else out there. The palate when you smoke it, everything. The same could be said for Ros. Ultimately, it doesn't matter so much as what you think or I think it's what the world thinks. So the real proof in the pudding is what the reaction is when you present it to the people.
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https://merryjane.com/culture/what-is-zkittlez-weed-and-does-the-strain-taste-like-a-rainbow
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Does Paying Kids To Do Well In School Actually Work?
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For many students, getting an education is in itself a goal that motivates them to work hard, pass exams and move on to higher levels. But that does not seem to be enough to motivate all students to learn. So, as Faiza Elmasry reports, a number of U.S. school districts are experimenting with pilot programs that offer students cash awards in exchange for improved attendance and academic performance. Earn and Learn is the name of the program in Atlanta, Georgia, and thats what students at two schools there are doing. Susan Hale, of the Fulton County School System, says 20 students at each school were chosen to participate in the 15-week-long program. These students were chosen because they either were failing or about to fail their classes in math and science, she says. Each group of 10 students meets twice a week for an after-school tutoring class. Not only are the sessions free, but students who attend them are also paid $8 an hour. Follow NewsGram on Twitter to stay updated about the World news. Hale says students get additional monetary incentives for improved grades. Middle school students who raise their grades to a B or better get a $75 bonus. High school students can get a $125 bonus. We hope that the students will become more motivated, feel more energized about school in general, which we hope will translate into better attendance, better grades, and better performance, Hale says. In Baltimore, Maryland, 33 high school students are participating in a similar incentive program that runs through June of next year. These students are paid for their growth in performance, not for their grades, according to Tisha Edwards of the Baltimore City Public School system. They get assessed when they enter the program, she says. Students are given an incentive-based on meeting certain benchmarks. So, if they demonstrate five percent growth, they receive $25. If they achieve 15 percent growth, they receive $35. If they experience 20 percent growth, they receive $50. So, a student can receive a total of $110. Students also receive money to be peer tutors, Edwards says. So the children who have been successful can tutor children who have not been successful, Edwards says cash incentives are an innovative way to not only motivate students to work harder in school, but also to focus on long-term goals in life. Baltimore City has a really high concentration of poverty, she says. A lot of our children are having to choose between working and going to school. She hopes the program will help them make the right choice, which is to get an education. Edwards says the program has gotten mixed reviews so far. There are some people who understand that as a community we cant afford to have 5000 children without high school diplomas, she says. So anything we do can do to help them be successful, they support that. But others have said they dont think cash incentives are the appropriate way to motivate students. Robert Schaeffer, spokesman for the National Center for Fair and Open testing is among them. Bribing kids to boost their test scores doesnt work in the long run, he says. Its like a steroid that might enhance performance over the short term, but in the long term, the performance gains are minimal and sometimes negative. Scheaffer explains, Paying kids for performance creates a belief that they should always be paid. They are not prepared for that. But sometimes, those immediate financial rewards are necessary, says Josh Angrist, an economics professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. ALSO READ: Stories Of Foreign Students Being Target Of Hate Speech In US There is a sense in which educators would like to believe that school is its own reward, he says. And for some people school is its own reward, but clearly for many people school is not enough of a reward because they are not doing well, or they are dropping out, or they are not applying themselves to their studies in a way which generates any real learning. So, we could make it more attractive. Over the last 7 years, Angrist participated in two studies on the effects of cash incentive programs in Israel and Canada. The results, he says indicate that it is possible to motivate students to study more and to do better in school by offering them some kind of monetary incentive. Unfortunately, Angrist says, only girls were motivated. The boys essentially remained unmoved by the opportunity to make some money by getting their grades up. Angrist says it is still too early to support or condemn the cash incentives for the academic achievement approach. As a researcher, he adds, he would like to see the results of the current experimental programs before passing judgment on the whole idea. (VOA/JC) ( monetary incentives in schools, Paying kids for performance, monetary incentives for grades, students cash rewards)
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https://www.newsgram.com/does-paying-kids-to-do-well-in-school-actually-work/
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Whats the Deal with Runtz and Why Is the Weed Strain So Popular?
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Theres weed out in California that smells and looks so good you could eat it right off the stem. But you should probably save it for smoking . Runtz, a cannabis strain bred, born, and likely blooming only in Los Angeles, can be difficult to find outside of Tinseltowns city limits. Reportedly a cross of Zkittlez and Gelato #33 , that would make Runtz yet another acclaimed strain that draws its vibrant genetics from Berner and the legendary Cookies brand. In fact, Runtzs visual and aromatic appeals can be traced directly back to its two parent strains. Runtz buds can display an array of colors from deep purples to verdant emeralds to lime greens that are common on cannabis, but unusual when appearing side-by-side on the same flower. Both Gelato and Zkittlez produce the violet end of Runtzs cooler hues, which results from the anthocyanin terpene content found in Runtzs parents. But were guessing that Runtz only partially gets its name from its colors. Apparently, weed breeders love munching out on sweets as much as the average toker does, too. This strain has a distinctly tropical, sugary scent that makes it smell more like candy than weed. Those smells that resemble a freshly chopped fruit salad come from the buds terpenes , the compounds that also contribute to the strains flavor and potentially its seriously heavy heady effect. Unlike most popular weed strains, Leafly doesnt have lab data for Runtz, so we can only assume it contains ample amounts of terpenes like limonene, caryophyllene, linalool, and possibly some pinene. Yes, Runtz is that rare or at least new to the flower scene. However, self-reports from reviewers online all agree on one thing: This weed will get even the most seasoned weed veteran lit AF on moderate amounts. Search volume for the phrase runtz weed on Google. The Runtz strain likely hit the cannabis scene sometime after January 2018, as significant numbers of searches for runtz weed (as well as runtz strain and runtz marijuana) only occur starting in March 2018. That this herb is incredibly potent and also smells unrealistically-amazing suggests that it probably doesnt produce ungodly amounts of THC, and makes up for the lack of cannabinoid psychoactivity with terpenes instead . But thats also a big maybe, since scientists still dont exactly understand how cannabis gets smokers lifted.
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https://merryjane.com/culture/whats-the-deal-with-runtz-and-why-is-the-weed-strain-so-popular
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What's the Difference Between Full-Spectrum CBD and Broad-Spectrum CBD?
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Lead image via Shopping for CBD products, you may have noticed, can be overwhelming. A quick Google search for CBD oil yields about 108 million results, and perusing the pages of products offered by popular online retailers can feel nearly as daunting. There is such a seemingly endless number of choices among potency, carrier oils, added ingredients, and other variables that choosing the best CBD oil can be a difficult decision. For example, youll find that many CBD products are labeled as either full-spectrum or broad-spectrum CBD. Its All About the THC The difference between full-spectrum CBD and broad-spectrum CBD comes down to the presence (or lack) of THC , the chemical largely responsible for marijuanas intoxicating effects. Due to THCs psychoactive properties and status as a Schedule I drug, many people who want the benefits of CBD try to avoid THC. Therein lies the difference between full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD products: One has THC, even if trace amounts, and the other has no presence of THC. Full-Spectrum CBD Full-spectrum CBD is a cannabis extract that contains the full range of botanical compounds usually found in the plants flowers, branches, stems, leaves, and sometimes roots, too. In addition to CBD and THC, full-spectrum oil and the products made from it also contain terpenes , essential oils, flavonoids , and other beneficial compounds. Full-spectrum CBD should also contain the other cannabinoids found in the plant. So far, more than 100 cannabinoids have been identified in cannabis. While CBD and THC have been studied the most, minor cannabinoids including CBG (cannabigerol), CBN (cannabinol), and CBDV (cannabidivarin) may also have therapeutic benefits. Research has shown that when taken together, the different cannabinoids and other cannabis compounds work in tandem. This is known as the entourage effect or ensemble effect . The cannabinoids modulate one another in ways that could enhance cannabiss therapeutic effects while mitigating unwanted side effects. For example, both CBD and THC are effective pain relievers when taken alone. When taken together, however, the two compounds pain-relieving qualities can work together while CBD can reduce the intoxicating or anxious effects of THC. Most full-spectrum CBD oil is produced from hemp, which was legalized nationwide with the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill. To be legal, hemp and products made from it, including CBD formulations, must have less than 0.3 percent THC. While this amount of THC isnt enough to get anyone high, even a small amount can still work synergistically with the plants other beneficial phytonutrients. In states with legal marijuana, full-spectrum CBD products containing more than 0.3 percent THC are also available. Broad-Spectrum CBD Even though CBD products that are made from hemp contain only a negligible amount of THC and are unlikely to get you high, many people would rather avoid the psychoactive cannabinoid altogether. For those consumers, many companies offer broad-spectrum CBD products. To make broad-spectrum CBD oil, manufacturers start with a full-spectrum extraction, which is then further processed to remove the THC. Since broad-spectrum CBD products still contain the minor cannabinoids and other botanicals that make whole-plant medicines superior, the user will still get the benefits of the entourage effect, albeit minus the many benefits of THC. For most people who wish to enjoy the benefits of CBD, the tiny amount of THC found in full-spectrum products will offer the complete entourage effect without enough psychoactivity to produce a buzz . Full-spectrum CBD products are now legal and available in all 50 states (so long as they contain less than 0.3 percent THC; states with medical or recreational marijuana can contain higher THC content), making them a convenient and potentially superior option to broad-spectrum CBD products. However, since full-spectrum CBD does contain some THC, it is possible for consumers who use them to drug-test positive for marijuana use. For this reason, broad-spectrum CBD may be a better option for those who are subject to drug screenings. Since all of the THC has been removed, using broad-spectrum CBD should not produce false positives for THC use on a drug test (though some research suggests even pure CBD products should be avoided if you're screened for drug use). Also, some people are hypersensitive to the effects of THC, which may make broad-spectrum CBD products a better solution for them. Price-conscious consumers may prefer broad-spectrum CBD products over full-spectrum since the former are usually more affordable, as well. The high cost of precisely monitoring THC levels to ensure that they do not exceed 0.3 percent and the greater demand for full-spectrum products can make them more expensive. Whichever you choose, both full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD products are preferable to ones made with only CBD isolate . This highly refined form of CBD has a purity of 99 percent or higher, which means it offers little to no entourage effect benefits. Now happy shopping! Follow AJ Herrington on Instagram
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https://merryjane.com/culture/whats-the-difference-between-full-spectrum-cbd-and-broad-spectrum-cbd
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Whats the Difference Between Sativa and Indica Weed? And Does It Even Matter?
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Or maybe you like to stroll along the middle path by sticking to hybrids? Well, I got some bad news for you: Youre using these terms all wrong . The history behind how we got to this trio of indica, sativa, and hybrid is long and complicated. So, here are the Cliff Notes. A Crash Course in Cannabis Classification History Way back in the 1700s, a French biologist named Jean-Bapiste Lamarck created a way to categorize every living thing on Earth. Of all the organisms on our planet, Lamarck was the most fascinated by plants. At one point, he traveled the world and collected thousands of plants to study and add to his massive, personal collection back in France. And yes, Lamarck studied cannabis during one of those trips. Are ya with me here?) Lamarck believed that weed originated in India (which may be incorrect; but more on that later), and the cultivars that spread through Southeast Asia, China, and the Middle East are descendants of the original Indian plant. Hence why he called the weed that got people intoxicated Cannabis indica indica referring to India. Gallery This Is What Reefer Madness Propaganda Looked Like He also identified a second type of cannabis, which he called Cannabis sativa. Sativa generally refers to any plant species that was cultivated and bred by humans for agricultural or industrial purposes. Cannabis sativa, Lamarck argued, was bred to produce textiles, ropes, and provide fibers for other uses. But it didnt get anyone high. In other words, what he called Cannabis sativa we know by a more common name today: Hemp. Cannabis indica and sativa, Lamarck showed, could be distinguished by their outward physical traits. Sativas grew long and thin stalks with long, thin leaves. They also didnt produce as many flowers as the shorter, bushier indica. To Lamarck, the difference in sativas height and stature was evidence that Cannabis sativa was carefully bred over generations to optimize fiber production. Somewhere between the 1800s and the 1900s, other biologists (and later, underground weed growers) started using sativa to refer to long, spindly cannabis with incredibly high THC content. Indica became the common term for the easier-to-grow, higher-yielding weed plants. And at some point, if the two types of weed crossbred, their offspring were dubbed hybrids. Our understanding of the cannabis plant proves this isn't accurate anymore Why These Distinctions Dont Apply Today Lamarcks classification system set the world standard for nearly two centuries. His system was eventually overturned near the end of the 20th century, when scientists could delve deeper into an organisms origins by studying its genes. Neither Lamarcks classifications which were based on his incomplete understanding of cannabiss evolutionary origins nor the everyday tokers vernacular accurately describe todays weed. For starters, a research team led by Dr. John McPartland at the University of Vermont announced this May that cannabis likely originated in Tibet , not India. (To be fair, more studies would be needed to confirm McPartlands findings.) Furthermore, Dr. McPartland has since the early 2000s proposed entirely new ways to classify cannabis based on the newest and most accurate science. Under his latest system (which was developed with the help of other weed taxonomists), what laypersons call sativa is actually Cannabis indica, as these strains can be traced back to India. And what folks call indica is actually Cannabis afghanica, referring to strains traced back to Central Asia. Cannabis sativa, on the other hand, refers to crossbred strains with European or East Asian origins, since these regions imported their weed from India or Central Asia. If that sounds confusing AF, thats because it is if youre accustomed to the current sativa/indica/hybrid nomenclature. That confusion probably explains why, despite McPartlands research, his system hasnt caught on in popular culture or in the weed industry. Second, although there are some genetic differences between the bushier plants and the taller, thinner ones, these differences are largely morphological. In other words, the differences lie in how we describe these plants structures rather than what kinds of psychoactive effects they can produce. Dr. Ethan Russo , a renowned cannabis doctor and an associate of McPartlands , described it to Leafly this way: The way that the sativa and indica labels are utilized in commerce is nonsense. The clinical effects of the cannabis chemovar have nothing to do with whether the plant is tall and sparse versus short and bushy, or whether the leaflets are narrow or broad. The chemovar that Russo referred to is a portmanteau of chemical and cultivar, meaning a plant cultivar identified by its chemical components rather than how it appears to the naked eye or where it originated. In fact, this new way of looking at weed basing a strains identity solely on its cannabinoid and terpene contents may soon become the new way of classifying cannabis. Earlier this month, Leafly unveiled a color-coded version of this chemovar classification system using years of lab data on various strains collected in legal states. The days of cheeky strain names like Alaskan Thunderfuck and Charlie Sheen would give way to uh actually, no ones really figured out how to rename weed strains/chemovars. Yet. Thats the thing: It is broken and its been broken. There are people who get couch-locked from so-called sativas, and others who get wired when they smoke indicas. There are also consumers who become energetic or sleepy from the same strain of weed, depending on when or where they smoke it. Some folks always feel sedated no matter the product, while others always experience anxiety regardless if they puffed an indica or sativa. Basically, weed can and will affect everyone differently. Rather than classify weed products based on subjective effects, individuals should determine what works best for them with a combination of strain identity, cultivator source, and cannabinoid and terpene contents for that particular product batch. (Chemical contents will always vary among batches.) Gallery The Magic of the Cannabis Plant Additionally, due to the intense widespread crossbreeding of weed since the 60s counterculture revolution, pretty much all of todays commercial weed are hybrids. And if theyre almost all hybrids, the sativa/indica designations are meaningless. For many of us, sativa and indica have become mainstays in the cannabis community. But the terms dont make sense, and theyre not helpful, either. Many cannabis consumers incorrectly assume that a strains identity alone determines what kind of high it provides. In reality, a strains cultivation conditions (e.g. nutrient feeds, watering strategies, when and how its harvested) are just as important if not more important than its genetics.
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https://merryjane.com/culture/whats-the-difference-between-sativa-and-indica-weed-and-does-it-even-matter
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What's the Difference Between Wax and Oil Vaporizers?
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If youve popped into a pot shop, youve likely seen them stocked with vape pens and handheld oil vaporizers . These two types of products look nearly identical, and they sport similar functions, but there are differences between them. Most vaporizer pens work the same way: A rechargeable battery in the handheld unit drives energy into a heatable element usually a metallic coil or a plate which vaporizes the pens contents so it can be inhaled. Where they mainly differ is how theyre used. Wax Pens: For the DIY On-the-Go Toker Wax pens are filled with marijuana waxes, shatters, crumbles , or other concentrates that usually come in relatively solid form. Most wax pens rely on a metallic coil to heat the wax enough to vaporize it. These products are designed so you can load them with whatever you want, often with a built-in scooper. Word of wisdom: The coils on wax pens often burn out after about six weeks of use. Youll need to replace them regularly. Oil Vaporizer Pens: For the Minimalist Toker Oil pens vaporize cannabis-infused oils rather than waxes or shatters. Some oil vape pens come equipped with empty tanks that the consumer can load themselves. However, most are designed to handle preloaded cartridges (called carts), which can contain pure oils derived solely from cannabis , or mixtures containing both weed oil and some filler like vegetable glycerin . Check with the manufacturer to see if your brand fills their cartridges with only pure cannabis oils. If you go with preloaded cartridges, you wont need to worry about replacing your pens coils. Pre-loaded cartridges come with their own built-in heating elements, so when the cartridge is empty, simply screw on a new cartridge and voila, youre ready to start hitting that pen again. Also, avoid off-market or unlicensed vape cartridges. Although some fake carts may be fine for human consumption, they arent lab tested or regulated, and theyve been linked to a dangerous lung illness that has likely killed at least one person to date. Gallery Here's What Fake Vapes Actually Look Like: Two-in-One Hybrid Pens Some vape pens work as both wax pens and oil vaporizers. Usually, these pens come with kits that include tanks devoted to loading oils, with separate add-ons for screwing on pre-loaded cartridges and/or loading waxes and shatters. While hybrid pens are ideal for vapers who like to dabble in a little bit of everything, like most jack-of-all-trades, theyre decent at vaporizing everything, but they arent specialized for vaporizing a specific kind of extract (oil vs. wax). Other Differences Although most vape pens can be distinguished by a single major factor what theyre loaded with there are other differences among individual models, too. Some vape pens have specific temperature controls, so you can dial in the exact heat for the ultimate customized high. Others have additional features, like the ability to vaporize dry herb, on top of wax and oil. Either way, vaporizer pens offer one of the most discreet and portable ways to get lit, so choose your own adventure and have a safe, responsible journey.
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https://merryjane.com/culture/whats-the-difference-between-wax-and-oil-vaporizers
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When is the Best Time to Harvest Cannabis?
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For many novice growers, determining when to harvest cannabis plants can be a perplexing proposition. At their peak of ripeness, cannabis flowers will be rich in cannabinoids and have a scent that is bristling with aromatic terpenes. When harvested too early, buds will not fully develop their potency and aroma. And if you wait too long, the flowers will be past their prime. Seed houses and clone nurseries usually include flowering times in the descriptions of their products, but these should be treated as averages instead of the exact timing for optimal harvest. You should use these estimates to help you plan your garden calendar. But for the best buds, youll have to monitor your plants and check the flowers for ripeness to help you decide when to harvest your cannabis. Not ready Check the Stigmas One popular method for ascertaining when to harvest cannabis is based on observing the flowers fine, hairlike projections known as stigmas. When they first emerge from the flowers, stigmas are usually white or cream-colored, although some strains will exhibit other hues including pink. As the buds mature, the oldest stigmas begin to wither and darken, generally to an orange or reddish color. Ready! Many growers use this trait to help them determine when to harvest their cannabis plants. When more than 50 percent of the stigmas on the flowers have shriveled and changed color, the plant is close to ripeness. Once about 60 to 70 percent of the stigmas have changed, the plant is ready for harvest. While many growers rely exclusively on monitoring the stigmas to determine when to harvest cannabis, closer inspection of the flowers is likely to help you more accurately determine the peak of ripeness, potency, and bouquet. Get a Closer Look To better judge when to harvest cannabis plants, youll want to get a good look at the tiny, glistening glands called trichomes that cover the surface of cannabis flowers. To do this properly, youll need a magnifier such as a jewelers loupe or hand-held digital microscope with a magnification power of at least 30x. Using the magnifier, focus on the tiny, mushroom-shaped trichomes on the calyxes of a flower and take notice of their color. When all or most of the trichomes are clear, they have not yet reached their full potential in regards to THC potency and terpene profile. As they mature, the trichomes will begin to display a more opaque or milky appearance. At this point, the trichomes have reached their optimum THC potency and aroma. If the flowers are allowed to ripen even further, the trichomes will begin to turn amber, indicating that the THC is beginning to degrade into CBN. As the THC is lost to CBN, the flower will have a more sedating or couch-lock effect. As you observe the buds when the plants are approaching harvest time, youll probably notice that the trichomes arent changing in color uniformly. Often, the flowers at the top of the plant and ends of branches which receive more sunlight than those shaded below will ripen first. Even on the same bud, some trichomes will appear opaque while others are still clear. Because of this, many growers will decide its time to harvest the cannabis plants when most of the trichomes have turned opaque and a few begin to take on an amber hue. If the garden is outdoors or you dont have to get the next generation of plants in the grow room, you can harvest in stages. Harvest each branch as the flowers on it mature, leaving the rest of the plant to ripen further and harvest them another day. Gallery Growing Weed in Stages Other Factors Once youve decided when to harvest your cannabis plants, youll also want to consider the time of day that you cut down the plant or remove branches. At dawn in the outdoor garden or at the end of the dark cycle indoors, terpene levels in the flowers will be highest. Once the sun is up or the lights come on, the volatile terpenes will begin to dissipate, so harvest early in the photoperiod, if possible. Other factors including weather and the presence or likelihood of disease will also influence the decision on when to harvest cannabis plants, particularly in outdoor gardens. For example, an early Colorado frost in October 2019 cost the states largest cannabis cultivator half its crop just as it was approaching maturity. Similarly, almost-ripe buds that are drenched in an autumn rainstorm can quickly harbor mold, which is more likely in damp conditions. Because of this, it might behoove the gardener to decide to harvest a few days early if weather forecasts show that a storm or cold snap are approaching. Determining the best time to harvest cannabis plants may seem mysterious at first, but with a little experience and careful observation of the garden, youll soon be choosing the optimal time for your plants. Of course, thats only the beginning of harvest season. Next up is trimming, curing, drying, and aging the buds. Follow AJ Herrington on Instagram and Facebook
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https://merryjane.com/culture/when-is-the-best-time-to-harvest-cannabis
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Why Do We Refer to Weed as "Mary Jane" and Where Did the Nickname Come From?
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Here at MERRY JANE, one of our favorite terms for cannabis is, well, Mary Jane. While MERRY JANE, spelled with an E and two Rs, comes from the 2007 feel-good weed anthem by Snoop Dogg, Redman, and the late, great Nate Dogg, the moniker that the rap track plays off of is much older. However, the history behind the Mary Jane name has maintained an air of mystery around it over the past century. How weed got nicknamed Mary Jane isnt just a question stoners ask among themselves while passing around a doob, either. Prestigious, prize-winning publications such as NPR , TIME Magazine , the New York Times , and the UKs Independent have all pondered the murky origins of one of marijuanas most elegant, feminine labels. Lets dive in below. Marijuana possesses a controversial and sordid history in American culture. Prior to the early 1900s, Americans knew the intoxicating form of weed as cannabis, and the industrial form as hemp. Marijuana doesnt really appear in the US lexicon until after 1910. Marijuana likely existed as harmless slang among Mexican immigrants who came to the US while escaping the economic devastation of the Mexican Revolution, a civil war that raged from around 1910 to 1920. (Ironically, the US economy would tank in 1929.) During the racist, anti-immigrant movements at the turn of the 20th century (as if those ever went away), anti-pot crusaders latched onto the word marijuana to divorce the cannabis that white Americans knew from the demon weed that supposedly turned Mexicans and black Americans into raving, violent lunatics (spoiler alert: Weed doesnt actually do that to people , but racist ideologies can ). Weed historians have drawn linguistic links between Mary Jane and marijuana, though were not really sure which one came first. Heck, were not even sure where marijuana comes from. In Spanish, mari and juana translate to Mary Jane, which some historians claim refers to the Virgin Mary, but it could also just be a random, generic name assigned to weed, like a low-key code word. Yknow, kind of like how John Hancock refers to a written signature in the US, or how Mary Sue or Gary Sue refers to a wack, poorly developed character in some fictional work. Either way, Mary Jane meaning marijuana or vice versa makes sense coming from Mexico, a predominantly Catholic nation that primarily speaks Spanish. But, we do know that weed isnt native to the so-called New World, so its unlikely that marijuana came from the Americas indigenous cultures. Cannabis may have been introduced to the Americas by Spanish merchants or conquistadores, hence the prevailing theory that the word is Spanish in origin. While the Spanish-Mexican origin for marijuana remains the common narrative, theres some evidence that the word could have actually come from the other side of the planet: China. In China, hemp is called ma ren hua, which means hemp seed flower, NPRs CodeSwitch reported . The Chinese-origin theory posits that when Chinese traders brought hemp to the Americas, ma ren hua became marijuana in Latin America, and the rest is history. Supposedly. A Name Known Around the World So, whether Mary Jane or marijuana came first is basically the cannabis communitys chicken and egg argument. Regardless of where either word came from, marijuana is a universal term for weed in most countries. And Mary Jane is, too. For instance, some Spanish smokers refer to the herb simply as Maria, while the French sometimes call it Marie Jeanne . While etymology nerds may obsess over this puzzle until their final breaths, the rest of us are content just knowing this: We love you, Mary Jane .
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https://merryjane.com/culture/why-do-we-refer-to-weed-as-mary-jane-and-where-did-the-nickname-come-from
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Why Do We Weigh Cannabis in Grams?
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Image via Whether its weed purchased on the street or cannabis bought at a licensed dispensary, we generally weigh small amounts of cannabis in grams , especially when it comes to amounts less than an ounce . To understand this, we first need to distinguish two common systems of measurement: the SI, or international system of measurements, and the English or imperial system. ), historically, this wasnt always the case. The British or imperial system traces its roots back to ancient Rome, with measurements based on commonly traded goods. For instance, in the 1300s, an inch was defined as the length of three average or ideal barleycorns set side-by-side . Of course, no such ideal seed exists. Over the centuries, various imperialist measurements for volume, weight, and distance changed as new kings assumed control of their kingdoms. This led to a lot of headache. For example, if imperial distances were redefined, farmers had to change the boundaries of their lands by literally moving all of their fence posts. (To be fair, SI unit definitions have also changed over the centuries, but these changes are relatively tiny and largely insignificant for most practical, everyday cases.) By the 1960s, both SI and imperial units became completely standardized (so, no more shifting fences with each new king), though most developed nations adopted the SI system. Today, even Britain relies on the SI system. The US remains one of the only developed nations that relies on imperial units. SI measurements hinge on factors of 10 for determining how units are categorized, which the French dubbed a decimal system. For instance, a kilogram is 1,000 grams or, three factors of 10 greater than 1 gram. In the imperial system, however, there are few neat conversions as you see in the SI system. For instance, an imperial ounce equals 437.5 imperial grains not exactly the neatest conversion. On the other hand, to convert kilograms to grams, a person simply divides kilograms by 1,000. Or, for the less mathematically inclined, one simply moves the decimal three places to the right no calculators necessary. Coincidentally, grams convert to ounces or pounds relatively easily, though these conversions arent exact . Youre probably familiar with an eighth-ounce of weed coming out to about 3.5 grams. A quarter-ounce of weed is about 7 grams. Again, these arent exact conversions, but theyre close enough for the average toker. For the record, US educators and institutions have tried, for decades, to convert the Land of the Free to the SI system. Each time, these attempts at national conversion have failed . Americans just cant let go of the kings feet or the kings weights, which is why we still weigh weed in pounds and ounces even though we also weigh it in grams, too. Our Hot Take: Imperial Systems Small Measurements Are Inconvenient for Cannabis Now, when we get to smaller amounts, like the amount of cannabis that fits into a joint, imperial measurements just dont cut it. For instance, the average joint holds about 1 gram (SI) of ground-up flower. But if we tried this with a common imperial unit for small amounts, such as grains, this gets complicated: 1 gram equals about 15.43 grains. An eighth-ounce of weed, or 3.5 grams, becomes roughly 54 grains in imperial units. Another imperial unit for small weights is the dram, or, more precisely, the avoirdupois dram. No! And heres why: 1 gram is about 0.564 dram. And 1 dram is about 27.34 grains. If were trying to convert between drams and grains, the calculations become a bit of a nightmare. You can already see why most cannabis sellers prefer to stick with grams when weighing smaller amounts of cannabis: The math is much easier to calculate in grams than it is in grains or drams, as most smaller weed weights will fall somewhere between 0.5 gram to 7 grams. At greater than 7 grams, we can start referring to weights in terms of ounces (or fractions of ounces, rather, such as a quarter-ounce). Furthermore, calibrating a scale that measures in grams is both convenient and efficient. The US nickel weighs almost exactly 5 grams. And most folks have a nickel laying around their home, if not residing comfortably within their own pockets. If you want to ensure your sellers scale is accurate, simply drop a nickel on it. If its not reading 5 grams, something is off (and youre likely getting ripped off , too). In that case, 1 gram equals 0.035274 ounces. If someone only wanted to buy 2 grams of weed for the weekend (we envy such lightweights ), the seller would need to weigh out 0.07 ounces, which will be both tricky and inaccurate with most commercially available scales. There is one neat imperial conversion for small weights to larger ones. One pound equals exactly 7,000 grains. However, 1 grain equals about 0.065 grams. So, good luck trying to divvy up that pound in equal portions of grains with your standard pocket scale. Or, you could just do it in grams and save yourself a lot of unnecessary arithmetic.
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https://merryjane.com/culture/why-do-we-weigh-cannabis-in-grams
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Why Dont We Talk About Set and Setting When It Comes to Cannabis?
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I spark up a joint after dinner. Im sprawled out on the couch in my pajamas, cuddled up with my dogs and partner, and I exhale relief. Winding down, Im absorbed by the TV. My high kicks in, and its impossible not to doze off. So, I go upstairs to bed. The next day, I smoke the rest of that joint before walking into town to run errands. But this time, Im on edge. I feel way higher and more vulnerable than I did the night before. I stumble over my words as I speak Spanish my second language to others in town. Im frustrated. Tons of cannabis brands today claim their products will make you happy, horny, relaxed, creative, sleepy, or some other type of mood. In reality, however, these products yield a different high almost every time I use them. I dont necessarily become more creative, euphoric, or calm. I actually believe these feelings come from your set and setting not different cannabis strains. Set and Setting Is Everything Set and setting is a concept in the psychedelic community that refers to a persons mindset (the set) and environment (the setting) heading into a trans-dimensional journey. Responsible tripping, then, is making sure your mind is in the right place and your environment is safe and comfortable. Taking magic mushrooms in a busy, public place, for instance, will likely lead to a chaotic possibly even paranoid trip. Taking them at home after meditating while vibing with chill music and glistening fairy lights will likely lead to a much calmer, more introspective perhaps even blissful or transformational experience. Forget indica, sativa, and hybrid. My theory is that our environment, who were with, and how were feeling are all going to determine the way our cannabis highs feel every time. I took this idea to the cannabis community, and my fellow pot-lovers had a lot to say, both for and against my hypothesis. For one, most agreed that setting can definitely impact a cannabis experience. Im overly sensitive to the environment after using cannabis, said one anonymous consumer. This can be enjoyable or not, depending on where I am. People also expressed that getting high with strangers or blazing in big groups made for negative settings. I always find Im more relaxed around a small number of fellow partakers, said Devin OConnor, a regular cannabis consumer and pharmaceutical marketer. Mingling with people who are not high or in large groups of people is unsettling and can sometimes drive small little paranoia circles in my brain. I really identified with this because its a mistake Ive made a ton of times in my weed-consuming career. I think getting high will relax me at a party or in another event setting, but it ends up making me anxious and socially awkward, especially if Im around a group of people Ive never met. I live abroad, so I often smoke weed in groups of people who dont speak English. I find that Spanish is harder to speak when Im stoned. I sometimes get into a zone where I just sit there, quitely, wishing I was home. I become afraid of screwing up the language, and often dont follow the conversation as well as I did before getting stoned. Add strangers into the mix, and my anxiety is sure to flare up. But getting high with my close friends is completely different, even though I also speak Spanish with them. I naturally feel more relaxed, so if I mess up the pronunciation of a word, we can just laugh about it and move on. The Right Dosing for Coasting Dosage is also just as important as set and setting. For many, a low dose of cannabis can enhance social experiences even stressful ones. A 2017 study found that edibles with 7.5mg of THC actually lowered participants stress levels, while 12.5mg of THC increased them. If a person is feeling stressed and is already prone to anxiety [and] panic attacks, a dose of 10mg [or more] of THC will make these effects much worse, said Dr. Nikola Djordjevic, MD, a Medical Advisor to Loud Cloud Health . At lower doses, under 7.5mg, it can help someone relax and take the edge off, allowing them to function in social situations where they would normally feel lots of anxiety. This makes sense, but the problem is that less than 7.5mg of THC is basically a dose thats below the threshold of feeling anything for many regular cannabis consumers including me. Tolerance then also plays a critical role in how one experiences weed. Even as a daily consumer, the first joint of the day gets me way higher than my third and thats way more than a new cannabis user would ever consume. The first joint of the day is the peak of how high you can get for that day, said Djordjevic. The effect, he explains, is both physiological and psychological. Its physiological because my body is getting its first THC dose of the day, so its going to be the longest and strongest high of the day. But its also a psychological phenomena known as the law of diminishing returns, which basically says that the first of anything craved will give people the most psychological satisfaction whether thats a joint, cigarette, or hamburger. And if you keep consuming, it just wont be as fulfilling as that initial toke, drag, or bite. Even with a high tolerance, however, my set or mood pre-sesh plays a key role in what kind of high Ill have even if Im in an ideal tranquil environment. It doesnt matter if Im smoking weed to relax. If Ive had a really busy, social day (which is stressful for me), I can get stuck anxiously ruminating on conversations or email exchanges to the point of not being able to fall asleep. Cannabis is a magnifier for me, said Kate, a regular cannabis consumer who requested anonymity, to MERRY JANE. It can make me feel more down if I'm already depressed. It can exacerbate my anxiety and fears. It can make me more hyper if I'm already excited. Heightened Perspectives Similar to the way entheogenic substances, like psilocybin-containing mushrooms, make folks extremely sensitive and amplifies their moods, cannabis can also trigger heightened states of feeling. It can also cause emotions to bubble up that we push down to avoid. Even though cannabis doesnt have the same intensity as entheogens, it can still cause you to see things from a new perspective, which can be extremely difficult to stomach if youve been lying to yourself in some capacity. But there are also people who say cannabis changes their set by helping them reflect on and resolve negative feelings. If I was anxious or angry, worried or bothered, cannabis helps me reflect in a constructive manner in order to gain clarity on the reasons why I was feeling that way, said Jamie Snow, a cannabis cultivator and consumer. Toker and artist Maura McNamara agrees and takes it a step further: If Im in a challenging headspace, I actually often go to cannabis seeking relief, or with a willingness to experience temporary discomfort because I know cannabis will actually help me confront, understand, and release whatever is going on. I know this shift in perspective well. Its probably why I continue to consume cannabis even when Im not in the best headspace. But its impossible to know whether getting high will help me step back from my worries or increase them. Its often a coin toss. But if I dont have time to sit with my feelings and process them, I can just end up feeling anxious. Set and Setting Versus Terpenes A lot of veteran cannabis users probably want to shout at me and say that the difference in my experience comes down to strain and type of weed. Even practitioners of psychedelic cannabis ceremonies believe eliciting an inner-cannabis journey depends on both the set and setting, and the blend of cannabis strains. Daniel McQueen, Founder of Medicinal Mindfulness and author of Psychedelic Cannabis: Breaking the Gate, told MERRY JANE that set and setting, along with strains of cannabis, are equal factors when it comes to predicting how a high will feel, along with skill sets associated with mindfulness such as breathing practices and focused intent. But hes not ready to overlook cannabis strains as willingly as I am. The terpenes in strains have different physiological effects that do affect mind states, said McQueen. A strong sativa is a very different experience than a strong indica, regardless of setting. But setting can also amplify or balance out strains. For example, a sativa in an anxiety provoking environment is not a fun experience, and can cause panic attacks and extreme paranoia. Whereas a CBD strain or some indicas can calm a person down in a high-anxiety environment. But after more than ten years of consuming cannabis, different strains dont consistently give me distinct experiences, like the classic upper sativa and downer indica tropes. I still buy different strains, but not for these feelings necessarily. Its more to try different flavors rather than experiences. Its like buying new beers or wines: You do it to experiment with new flavor sensations and pairings not because they yield different buzzes. Thats why the marketing around weed has to change. Buds shouldnt be sold on the feelings theyll produce, nor should we compare weed to alcohol as a social lubricant. Because cannabis parallels psychedelics much more in terms of how our environments and attitudes impact the way we feel after puffing weed. Imagine a world in which set and setting tips were provided on the backs of cannabis labels instead of phony advertising. Maybe our friends and family who dont like weed would have a better time if they knew their mindset and environment determined how they experienced their highs.
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https://merryjane.com/culture/why-dont-we-talk-about-set-and-setting-when-it-comes-to-cannabis
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Why Is Weed Called the Devil's Lettuce?
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The lexicon of cannabis slang is as rich as the history of the plant itself. Back in the 1800s, cannabis was still commonly included in tinctures, tonics, and more, sold as miracle cures by aggressive salesmen in the US. If the product in their possession actually did contain any cannabinoids like THC or CBD, it made their concoction the rare exception to other, entirely worthless snake oils being hawked at town squares across the country. In the late 19th century, no one in America really had an opinion on cannabis though that would soon change. (Outside the West, however, cannabis consumption was common and traditional .) As this pivot was underway, those with influence realized that one of the most effective ways to convince people something is bad is to simply change its name. There is no definitive source to cite when it comes to the origins of this term, though there are clues. What we can look at is the culture at the time that the phrase came into vogue: the 1930s, when Reefer Madness first began. There are also references to devils lettuce and other unholy labels for cannabis on anti-weed film posters from the 30s and 1940s. False claims and smear campaigns against cannabis, often instigated by government institutions as an indirect means of enacting racist policy, are the real reason terms like devils lettuce and marijuana became such commonplace synonyms for cannabis. An off-shoot of devils lettuce, jazz cabbage , more clearly highlights the nefarious, prejudiced intentions of the phrases popularized to describe cannabis as prohibition was burgeoning. Connecting pot which, as a sidebar, is arguably the most neutral slang term for cannabis to jazz not only insiuated that the plant was popular among the black musicians in which the genre was centered, but also that the music might be the result of sinful drug indulgences. As history tells us, iconic trumpet player Louis Armstrong was one of the biggest stoners to walk the planet. He's regarded as a legend one of the most brilliant musical artists to ever live. If anything, he's proof that cannabis doesn't derail promising careers. There's also no evidence that it turns a sane mind violently psychotic. Yet, the lexicon to describe the plant continues to waver between progress and ignorance. A survey of several of the most popular slang terms for cannabis reveals that racism and prohibition were at the heart of the plants early lexicon. (Bogarting, however, is directly tied to the actor Humphrey Bogart. ) For instance, the term marijuana was popularized domestically in hopes of giving cannabis an exotic name (read: a Spanish term) to ultimately inspire collective xenophobia and push citizens to view the plant as dangerous. According to the New York Times , marijuana was introduced to the English language as recently as 1874 roughly thirty years after the conclusion of the Mexican-American War . Thats either a wild coincidence, or an obvious precursor to a decision to link cannabis to Americas most recent enemy of the time. The answer was made abundantly apparent when the US passed the Marihuana Tax Act of 1937 (spelled with an H), and effectively instigating the first step towards full prohibition. To quote Whitney Mallets 2017 article for MERRY JANE, titled Pothead Paranoia: Will Anti-Government Drug Conspiracies Survive Legalization? : Harry Anslinger, commissioner of the Federal Bureau of Narcotics, authored the 1937 Marihuana Tax Act, which imposed a tax on the sale of hemp and marijuana, and propelled a racist campaign against the drug, linking it to homicidal mania, suggesting its principal users were black people and Latino immigrants, and insinuating its effects included minorities forgetting their place in American society. Anslinger warned of what happens when black male college students share joints with white female students. After smoking and getting their sympathy with stories of racial persecution, he concluded the result would be pregnancy. William Randolph Hearst helped subsequently spread fear-mongering anti-marijuana propaganda in his newspapers. Racist fear-mongering possibly tied to a government conspiracy led to certain cannabis rhetoric entering the American zeitgeist. Yes! Even weed has an arguably negative connotation, as it implies that cannabis is an invasive species stealing space and resources from other, more worthy plants. Conversely, some now see weed as an almost ironic way to describe a plant that's clearly the antithesis of an unwanted crop. In a sense, taking back a term and defining new ownership of it is a pivotal facet of the cannabis industrys assimilation to the mainstream. That said, the use of the term stoner is still a hot-button topic. Its arguably best to leave terms like marijuana and devils lettuce to the dust of history, given they were popularized as a form of malice and oppression. However, another term that was meant to suggest evil has been reclaimed, as well. We will likely always think of the PSA series known as Reefer Madness when we hear the term reefer." But some companies have decided to have a bit of fun with the phrase, given that its so directly tied to one of the governments most ridiculous, inefficient efforts to defame cannabis (and thats saying something).
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https://merryjane.com/culture/why-is-weed-called-the-devils-lettuce
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Will California's New Cannabis Regulations Actually Make Legalization Worse?
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All copyrights belong to Swami Select California Governor Gavin Newsom is proposing a Big Change for cannabis regulation and taxation. He wants to combine the state agencies which have had separate jurisdiction over cannabis into one super agency. However, this consolidation only applies to CalCannabis in the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA), the Bureau of Cannabis Control (BCC) at the California Department of Consumer Affairs (CDCA), and the Manufactured Cannabis Safety Branch at the California Department of Public Health (CDPH). The state will reveal more details on February 1. As far as we know, the plan does not include the cannabis divisions of the Department of Fish and Wildlife, nor the State Water Resource Control Board, or the State Water Quality Control Board at California's Environmental Protection Agency, nor the Cannabis Pesticide Division. So, how mashing together the first three units will speed up and streamline the process for cultivators is open to question, since much of the holdup for farmers has been over water and environmental issues. This seems like a cosmetic change to save the unmitigated disaster that the legalization of cannabis has experienced in California. Above all, the governors proposed changes will have no effect on the 38 counties and 400 cities and towns which currently prohibit any cannabis activity within their jurisdictions. Nevertheless, there is some support for these changes from some quarters. But our response is a painful scream: Oh no! Not another Big Change in cannabis law and regulations! There is a bill going through the legislature now to lower the taxes, but similar measures have previously been defeated twice over the past two years. Even if the bill passed, it wouldnt take effect until signed by the governor. Then, it would start in 2021, so no relief will be in sight this year. That is, unless the governor addresses the excessive tax issue in the proposed changes under his budget trailer bill, which is a special legislative maneuver that doesnt go through the normal committee process. The budget bill can be voted on immediately upon introduction, and it goes into effect as soon as the governor signs it. A Brief History of California's Previous "Big Changes" Every change, so far, has hit all of us in the cannabis world hard. In 2015, the Medical Cannabis Regulation and Safety Act (MCRSA) was approved by the California legislature and signed by Governor Brown. Then, in 2016, Proposition 64 the Adult Use Marijuana Act (AUMA) was approved by the voters of California. In 2017, the two laws were combined and streamlined into Senate Bill 94 (SB94). Every one of these Big Changes brought the extinction of tens, if not thousands, of small cannabis entrepreneurs, and along with that, the loss of tens of thousands of jobs. After January 2018, when recreational cannabis became legal in California, disruption continued with the step-by-step implementation of new laws and regulations. Basically, every six months, tighter and more onerous restrictions have been imposed. More businesses have gone under, and more jobs with them. Many previously semi-legal businesses and co-ops have folded, because they couldnt complete the application in time. Seemingly simple changes, such as larger print on warning labels, child-proof containers, or additional lab tests incurred even more costs, putting more out of business. Most insulting of all, in July 2018, cannabis products were pulled from shelves and destroyed, without reimbursement, because of non-compliance with new rules rules which had changed at least four times since 2015. As a result, patients were denied their medicine, and compliant businesses lost a lot of money. This was in violation of Prop. 215 which authorized medical use of cannabis in 1996 for those who had a doctors written recommendation. It also meant that either the retailer or the cultivator had to eat the loss. So, more companies went out of business, and more people were laid off. But many more stayed underground, as the old-timers began to see what was happening to those who tried to be legally compliant. The largest stakeholders in a heavily regulated, heavily taxed cannabis industry have piles of money to pay lobbyists and to contribute to political campaigns: Big Pharma, Big Tobacco, Big Alcohol, Big Cosmetics, labor unions, cities and counties, and police chiefs. All have a greedy interest in the cannabis business. The legacy of craft, heritage, small-scale entrepreneurs hardly stands a chance. But Prop. 64 was a ballot initiative that specifically promised to protect small cannabis businesses. To quote from Prop. 64: Section 2. Findings and Declarations J. The Adult Use of Marijuana Act ensures the non-medical marijuana industry in California will be built around small and medium sized businesses by prohibiting large-scale cultivation licenses for the first five years. The Adult Use of Marijuana Act also protects consumers and small businesses by imposing strict anti-monopoly restrictions for businesses that participate in the non-medical marijuana industry. [Emphasis ours...] Well, so far, the implementation of the program certainly has not done that. The intent to protect small- and medium-sized businesses was already violated when SB 94, the bill that consolidated MCRSA with Prop. 64, allowed vertical integration with no limit on the number or type of permits allowed to any single person or entity. Vertically integrated entities could own and control the entire process from breeding and sprouting the seed, to processing the harvest, to manufacturing, packaging, delivery, and then making the final retail sale. Any individual (provided they werent a felon) or any company could effectively cultivate on as many acres as they could buy, or own as many dispensaries as they could afford. This was the Big Change that allowed the big corporations to steamroll its way into an industry originally founded by small farmers and cooperatives. And here's the kicker: The governors new proposal would not change this unlimited licenses rule. Consider that, prior to 2016, there were 50,000 to 60,000 pot farmers, and at least 20,000 cannabis dispensaries, clubs, and co-ops all operating in a paranoid grey area right before the Attorney General of California issued by then Governor Jerry Brown's new rules in 2008. At the moment, there are only about 3,000 licensed cultivators in California, a mere 5 percent of the presumed number of growers in 2015. But big money has already come in, with some newly created business entities possessing 20 to 30 cultivation licenses, from the smallest to the largest allowed canopy tiers. Similarly, there has been a drastic reduction in the number of retailers, currently around 800, of which 150 or so are delivery-only in other words, non-storefront operators. There are only permits, fees, taxes, and the high costs of state compliance to enter a legal marketplace that barely exists. Now, lets take a look at what else Prop. 64 promised and see what the state actually delivered. Section 2. Findings and Declarations The Adult Use of Marijuana Act creates a comprehensive regulatory structure in which every marijuana business is overseen by a specialized agency with relevant expertise. The Bureau of Marijuana Control, housed in the Department of Consumer Affairs, will oversee the whole system and ensure a smooth transition to the legal market, with licenses issued beginning in 2018. The Department of Consumer Affairs will also license and oversee marijuana retailers, distributors, and microbusinesses. The Department of Food and Agriculture will license and oversee marijuana cultivation, ensuring it is environmentally safe. The State Department of Public Health will license and oversee manufacturing and testing, ensuring consumers receive a safe product. The State Board of Equalization will collect the special marijuana taxes, and the Controller will allocate the revenue to administer the new law and provide the funds to critical investments. [Emphasis ours...] Obviously, adult-use legalization has been anything but a smooth transition. It's more like a series of extinction events for the legacy farmers, retailers, and the back-hills medicinal manufacturers. The governor is now proposing to take oversight away from those specialized agencies with relevant expertise the CDFA, the CDCA, and the CDPH and transfer the authority into a new agency that will control everything having to do with cannabis. Image via Navigating a Labyrinth of Never-Ending Regulations Maybe its not the state's licensing agencies that are really the problem, though. Maybe it's the 58 different sets of ordinances, regulations, permit fees, and tax systems that California's 58 counties have enacted independently of one another. To make matters worse, individual cities within those counties also have additional rules, fees, and taxes on top of the county's and the state's. Or, maybe its the super-stringent rules that the California Department of Fish and Wildlife applies only to cannabis, but not for all other agricultural crops. Or, maybe its the State Water Resource Control Board's strict water-use restrictions that, again, only apply to cannabis and not for all other crops. Perhaps the problem is that the regulations change every six months. Or it could be that so many new people were hired to staff the new sub-groups within each agency that no one really knows what they are doing. Maybe they did not actually have the relevant expertise, after all. And at the county level, at least, there have been so many turnovers and replacement hires among regulatory staff that one new worker in the Building Department opined that I probably knew the county codes better than he did, since I had been involved in the cannabis markets for so much longer than he had. In addition, Prop. 64 imposed unrealistic deadlines for each new phase of the program, making it difficult for the government agencies to create new rules and even more difficult for the cannabis businesses to meet the new requirements. Further, every department also had to create totally new computer programs so that applicants could upload their materials directly to the state. Of course, this new IT had bugs. And many of the legacy cultivators are off-the-grid and not quite computer-friendly. Legal Definitions Have Real-World Consequences, Too Nevertheless, the consequences of this new Big Change are potentially very harmful to the cause of the small organic cultivators, manufacturers, distributors, and retailers. The problem for the farmers is that if the Department of Food and Agriculture loses oversight of cannabis cultivation, the chances of cannabis being declared an agricultural crop or agricultural commodity will be even more remote. This is not an insignificant distinction. Currently, California defines cannabis as an agricultural product, not a crop. In contrast, in California, hemp is defined as a non-edible agricultural commodity. Yet cannabis is the same plant as hemp! The only difference between hemp and cannabis is that hemp cultivars have less than 0.3 percent THC. Otherwise, until you test it or smoke it, no one can tell the difference. One solution for fix part of California's regulatory mess, then, is crop designation for cannabis. The farmer takes a seed or clone, puts it in the ground, fertilizes it, waters it, harvests it, dries it, and then consumes it or sells it for consumption by others. For all other crops (except tobacco), there are already established pesticide regulations, organic standards, and numerous other environmental regulations we dont have to reinvent the wheel. As mandated by Prop. 64, which was approved by California's voters, cannabis should be regulated by the Department of Food and Agriculture. Further, it should be defined as an agricultural crop. The University of California's agricultural extensions, crop insurance, crop loans, banking privileges, agricultural discounts, and protection under the Right to Farm laws all depend on cannabis being designated an agricultural commodity or crop. At the moment, cannabis farm workers are not classified as farm labor. If cannabis were deemed a crop, it would have wide-reaching effects on taxes and overtime pay for agricultural workers in cannabis, potentially reducing labor costs. Cannabis testing labs, distributors, retailers, and product manufacturers should be monitored by the same agencies that already regulate similar industries, like other agricultural testing labs, supermarkets, commercial kitchens, or dry cleaners. If Anything, California Needs More Cannabis Stores Than Anything Else But the governors proposal wont do anything to solve the real problem in California, which is simply that the cannabis market has only about 800 licensed retail stores available to sell the product. Just 800 cannabis shops for a population of 38 million people! That's only one store for every 47,500 residents, and we're not even counting tourists here. Think, for a second, about how many places in Cali you can buy booze or cigarettes it must be in the hundreds of thousands. Oregon has more cannabis retail outlets than California, but only one-tenth of the population. As a result, in California, we have very few places for the farmer to sell or for the consumer to buy. Prop. 64 gave counties and cities the right to opt-in or opt-out of retail cannabis sales, in whole or in part. Of the 58 counties in the state, only 20 have authorized any cannabis business within their borders, which means the other 38 said no and opted out! Just as Gov. Newsom's upcoming Big Change does not address the underlying problems in the regulated cannabis industry, his proposal will not take this opt-out provision away from local jurisdictions, either. Opt-out provisions are the key impediment to bringing more retailers into the legal market. Cities and counties that have chosen to keep cannabis out of their jurisdictions have, in effect, prohibited legal cannabis. In doing this, they negated the Purpose and Intent of Prop. 64: Section 3. Purpose and Intent. Take non-medical marijuana production and sales out of the hands of the illegal market and bring them under a regulatory structure that prevents access by minors and protects public safety, public health, and the environment. [Emphasis ours...] Ironically, by prohibiting legal cannabis and contravening the will of the local electorate, these provincial small-minded powers-that-be have effectively facilitated the continuance indeed, the flourishing of the illicit market. In addition, if most, if not all, cities and counties would allow regulated cannabis sales, they could enforce zoning codes, spur economic development, collect reasonable taxes, and make safe medicine available to their citizens. The ongoing vaping crisis shows that the public health is not being protected, because virtually all of the poisonous vape pens responsible for vaping-associated lung injuries were purchased illegally. Ironically, Legalization Has Emboldened the Illicit Markets Another aspect of Prop. 64 had to do with taxes: Section 3. Purpose and Intent. (s) Tax the growth and sale of marijuana in a way that drives out the illicit market for marijuana and discourages use by minors, and abuse by adults. [Emphasis ours...] The imposed taxes on adult-use cannabis have done the exact opposite of Prop. 64's Purpose and Intent. They are unfair and extremely high, making legal cannabis twice as expensive as pot sold through the underground market. Excessive taxes are one of the principal reasons that the illicit market is back and stronger than ever. Sky-high taxes cause undue hardship on those intrepid few who have entered into the process of becoming compliant. It is often the case that when a new industry wishes to enter a community, they are offered tax incentives and other considerations such as zoning variances to attract businesses, which subsequently promise to create jobs for the community. When Twitter or Amazon want to open offices or fulfillment centers, local governments fall all over themselves offering incentives to move these businesses to their cities. Not the case when the business is cannabis. Here, we have just the opposite. Cannabis was once a thriving industry throughout the state, and now the unsuccessful attempt at legalization is killing an entire industry that generates billions of dollars annually and employs untold hundreds of thousands of workers. Further, the money grown out of the soil was, traditionally, spent by resident farmers and their employees within their own communities. Now, big corporations will extract this money from local communities. There's more, still. Section 3. Purpose and Intent. (x) Reduce barriers to entry into the legal, regulated market. Sec. 14. 26014. (a) while ensuring a regulated environment for commercial cannabis activity that does not impose such barriers so as to perpetuate, rather than reduce and eliminate, the illicit market for cannabis. [Emphasis ours...] Despite Prop. 64's Purpose and Intent, barriers to entry have not been reduced. On the contrary, barriers for cannabis entrepreneurs are higher than any other industry and are preventing small cultivators and businesses from coming into the legal market. The joke is that there are even more hoops to cannabis compliance now than there are in the March Madness Basketball Tournament. There are no details on this, as of yet. There is another stipulation in Prop. 64 that has been disregarded, not to say egregiously violated: Section 12 and 26013 of the Business and Professional Code (c) ...nor shall such regulations make compliance so onerous that the operation under a cannabis license is not worthy of being carried out in practice by a reasonably prudent businessperson. [Emphasis ours...] In the final analysis, four years later, it is now clear that the rollout of Californias cannabis regulations have not come close to fulfilling the Purpose and Intent declared in Prop. 64, a Purpose and Intent that was voted on by the public. The cumulative effect of the punitive taxes and the singularly extreme regulations has made compliance so onerous that the operation under a cannabis license is not worthy of being carried out in practice by a reasonably prudent business person. It appears that, for the moment, the smart businesspeople are the ones who stayed in the illicit market. Think about it: Underground marketeers have no taxes, no permits, no consultants, no upgrades, and no inspections to pay for, and they're selling to three-quarters of California's market at prices far lower than compliant businesses offer. I want to see the details before I can support the proposal. The whole thing looks more like a reshuffle rather than making any meaningful changes in a failed program. The entire cannabis community would do well to unite to protest the governments failure to fulfill the Purpose and Intent and Findings and Declarations of Prop 64. Specifically the state has: failed to remove barriers to entry, failed to reduce the illicit market, failed to protect the public health, failed to make cannabis medicine more easily available to patients in need of medicine by imposing punitive taxes, failed to protect small- and medium-sized businesses or to prevent monopolization, failed to ensure a smooth transition. The language from Prop 64 cited above is what the people of California voted for in 2016, but the state has not fulfilled this mandate. The cumulative effect of all these failures is a thriving illicit market, the one thing this entire legalization exercise was meant to stop. For more on Swami Select, visit their website here
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https://merryjane.com/culture/will-californias-new-cannabis-regulations-actually-make-legalization-worse
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Will Snoop Stay King of Madden for Round Six of the Gangsta Gaming League?
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Snoop Dogg and the GGL crew are back for round six of MERRY JANEs esports competition, the Gangsta Gaming League! However, this time a first for GGL players will be teamed up in pairs for 2 vs. 2 face-offs on the newest version of the classic football title Madden 20. The event is sponsored by Steve's Goods, and the players include the usual suspects alongside some special guests: Dan Rue, Young Sagg, Red Grant, Red Woods, Tripp Locc, Waniac, Lala, JC, Shelton, Ethan, Shon, and TDapp. Plus, well have Loody and Hittaman of Taylor Gang joining in. And, of course, the Doggfather himself will be holding court at the GGL studio. So far, Snoop has claimed the crowning title for four out of the five GGL tournaments held to date, and all of those wins were for Madden games. Whichever duo wins will nab a $10,000 cash prize, mad bragging rights, and a bunch of free weed, too. The games start at 4PM PST on Friday, September 20th. Stay tuned for more, right here on MERRY JANE. You can catch the livestreams of GGL VI at Snoops Twitch , YouTube , and Mixer channels. And for more on GGL, revisit our recap of round five below:
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https://merryjane.com/culture/will-snoop-stay-king-of-madden-for-round-six-of-the-gangsta-gaming-league
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What Can CBD Do For The Seniors?
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By Adiba Tahir Cannabidiol (CBD) has swept across the nation with great zeal in recent years, and it has a lot of people wondering how it can benefit them or someone they love. Theres been a surge of celebrities and professional athletes singing the praises of the natural substance, and its popularity is picking up steam. Household pets have even gotten in on the action as many dog owners have made it a regular part of their pets diet. With so many people being affected by ailments that CBD can treat, its no wonder many are asking if CBD is safe and effective for senior citizens. Good news so far, the answer appears to be yes. CBD, or Cannabidiol, is a natural substance that is found in the cannabis plant. Its known for having numerous health benefits, and its considered safe for human consumption. CBD is one of the many compounds found in the cannabis plant, and its the second most abundant behind THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). While THC is the psychoactive ingredient in cannabis that produces the high feeling, CBD has no psychoactive parts and does not cause impairment in any way. Follow NewsGram on Facebook to stay updated. CBD can be taken in a variety of ways, including smoking/inhaling, ingesting (edibles), topicals (creams), pure CBD tincture, and oils. As we age, our bodies, unfortunately, dont work quite as well as they used to. Our joints stiffen up, we have more aches and pains, and we need a little bit of a helping hand when it comes to soothing our weaknesses. There have always been pharmacies dedicated to providing relief for our needs, but a more natural approach could be to try incorporating CBD into your vitamin box. Here are some of the conditions that research is starting to show that CBD can be effective in helping. Arthritis Arthritis is one of the most common ailments that plague senior citizens. CBD has shown to be effective in helping to reduce the inflammation that causes pain and discomfort in arthritis sufferers. Not only that, but it can help to reduce the stiffness experienced daily. Anxiety disorders Anxiety disorders are not rare in senior citizens, and CBD might have the ability to mitigate the effects of this unpleasant experience. CBD helps to balance out the function of neurotransmitters, which are chemical messengers in the brain that help to keep the body in balance. Chronic pain CBD can be effective in helping to reduce chronic pain in senior citizens. It doesnt cure chronic pain, but it does help to lessen the amount of pain you feel, and it helps to improve your quality of life. It works well by targeting and reducing pain caused by inflammation, body aches, and other pains such as migraines. Cancer treatment side effects Cancer treatment is incredibly difficult on the body, and it often comes with many different side effects. CBD has shown to be effective in helping to reduce nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea caused by cancer treatment. Many patients have said that it also helps to soothe the pain and discomfort felt throughout their bodies after treatment. Heart health CBD has shown to be effective in helping to lower blood pressure. Some people have reported it to be as effective in reducing blood pressure as much as some blood pressure medications. Lowering your blood pressure can help to reduce the risk of heart disease or other cardiovascular conditions. Sleep disorders CBD helps to improve the quality of sleep you get, which can help you to feel more rested and less tired during the day. It has also been shown to be effective in helping to reduce the number of times you wake up during the night. With the help of CBD, you can stop counting sheep and fall asleep quicker and stay asleep longer. Dementia Some research suggests that CBD could be effective in helping to reduce the symptoms of dementia. Dementia is a condition that affects the brain and can cause some serious mental decline. CBD helps to improve the quality of life for dementia sufferers by helping to reduce some of the symptoms associated with it. ALSO READ: How CBD Oil Brands Can Advertise On Social Media Dosage Theres no one-size-fits-all dosage that will work for everyone. CBD is a natural substance, and it can affect each person differently. The recommended dosage is about 15mg of CBD per day, but it can be as little as 5mg or as much as 25mg. Its all about finding the right dosage that works for you. Conclusion CBD has become exceedingly popular in recent years, and its easy to see why. Its a natural substance with numerous health benefits, and there are few to no side effects. CBD is effective in helping to reduce unpleasant symptoms in a variety of ways, and it can be used to help improve the quality of life for senior citizens. If youre looking for a natural way to improve your overall health, then CBD may be the answer youve been looking for. (Disclaimer: The article is sponsored and hence promotes some commercial links.)
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https://www.newsgram.com/what-can-cbd-do-for-the-seniors/
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Why has Manchester Airport stopped live Arrivals and Departure information online?
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Don't miss a thing by getting the day's biggest stories sent direct to your inbox Invalid Email Something went wrong, please try again later. Click here Thank you for subscribing We have more newsletters Show me See our privacy notice Manchester Airport has stopped publishing live Arrival and Departure information on its website and app. The online resource had for years been a helpful guide to passengers to check if scheduled flights were due on time. However, Manchester Airport bosses say they have removed the tool to 'avoid potentially having misleading information out there' during the pandemic. As background guidance, they said flight schedules are 'changing all the time' during the pandemic which, combined with volumes of traffic, means it's the 'best course of action' to remove the live flight overview function from the website. They advised that passengers can still get live and accurate flight information directly from their airline. They said that the function would be back on the website 'as soon as operations ramp back up, airlines' schedules stabilise and 'circumstances allow' and said that they would keep customers updated on this. One passenger from Wythenshawe told the Manchester Evening News: "If you look at other online flight information you can still see all the flights arriving and taking off so I don't know why they have done that at Manchester Airport. "Lots of people depend on this information." Last month Charlie Cornish, Manchester Airpot boss, slammed ministers for 'discouraging international travel' with its new traffic light system. The protocol came into force on May 17 and has allowed overseas holidays to resume to countries placed on a green list which includes the likes of Portugal, Iceland and Israel.
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https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/greater-manchester-news/manchester-airport-live-flight-information-20716401
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How to trade trend reversals?
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Getting to know trend reversals and trading them Among market players, there is a saying: "Trend is your friend". However, it is no secret that Forex in particular demonstrates a bullish/bearish trend for a third of all trading time only. In these or many other cases, the skill of trading trend reversals might be of much help. However, to catch reversals with positive mathematical expectations, you need to work out clear criteria for identifying them. Fortunately, the strategy of trading reversals provides such criteria. It is applicable to timeframes from M1 to MN, on Forex, stock, and futures markets. A signal to buy by the strategy of anticipated reversals A signal to buy just a sequence of the following events to happen on the chart: a clearly detectable bottom must form; the price chart must confidently break through the trendline from below; from below; the price chart must drop to the tip of the existing bottom, bouncing off the level where the first bottom ended. When the reversal bounce is over, you can detect by the formed local low whether you should trade long, if the price is still above the bearish trendline and the tip of the first bottom. An example of a signal to buy: As you see, under the bearish trendline, there formed a whole support/resistance area based on three bottoms, the middle one of which is breaking through the level of the other two ones, resembling a Head and Shoulders pattern. However, this scheme being reversal, the price pattern formed under the descending trendline, and we needed to wait for the other two conditions to be met before we started buying. And when the price broke through the trendline, bouncing off the set area, this could be interpreted as a full-scale reversal signal, authorizing bearish trade. By the way, please pay special attention to the signal bounce happening simultaneously off the previously broken trendline as off a support level. To make your trading especially efficient, you should be looking for such double bounces. A signal to sell in Forex, futures, and stock markets For a signal to sell in the form of a bearish reversal to appear, you need to look for a precise sequence of the following events - then your trading will most likely be profitable: a clearly visible top must appear, after which a quite deep correction is inevitably to follow; without both, other events are unlikely to happen; after the top forms, the price chart must step over the ascending trendline from above rather confidently; after the breakaway of the trendline, the price must rise to the top of the first top and bounce off the level lying there. An example of a signal to sell: In this example, the price again bounced off the set area and the ascending trendline, which also acts as a resistance level, and this reverses the trend, as reflected in picture two. Note that when the second reversing top was forming, a bounce off the level of the first peak lasted longer than off the trendline because a small consolidation formed right at the level of the first top. Also note that if such a thing happens to you, do not rush at playing short until the price gets to the tip of the first top and the trendline, if it is broken from below. Stop Loss and Take Profit in trading reversals Sure, Stop Losses are placed above the bounce-off top when selling and below the bounce-off bottom when buying. However, if the tip of the reversal bottom (as in the example of a signal to buy) is above the tip of the first bottom, you must insure your capital by placing an SL under the lowest of the bottoms. In the example of a bearish reversal, the situation did not repeat, but if your bounce-off top turns out to be lower than the first one, do place a Stop Loss above the highest of all tops. Personally, I recommend placing a Take Profit when trading by this strategy. You never know how far the price will go even if you catch a reversal very luckily. Of course, you should trail the position by transferring the Stop Loss after newly emerging extremes. However, I do not think that this alone is enough because quite often, the price might go in the required direction after the reversal and then get stuck in a wide flat or reverse again - against you this time. Where to place a TP is up to you; practice shows that trading reversals can easily give a profit-to-risk ratio of 3-5 to 1. Of course, you can get into such a lengthy and calm trend that after trading a reversal with a fixed TP you will be lamenting your missed profit. Anyway, this is up to you: you either take your large profit more often or make small profits but be able to catch large trends. Money management when trading reversals in Forex, futures, and stock markets To those who prefer trading a fixed lot I say that this is a good method for this strategy because it means rather low tick risks. However, do not forger changing the lot siz3 depending on the size of your deposit, thus decreasing risks proportionally after losses and increasing them after profits. But personally, I recommend risking a fixed percentage of the deposit, revised after each trade. I suppose that for trading reversals, this is more logical because such trade is risky as it is which means you have little chance to know in advance which entry will work and which one will not. Moreover, tick risks are not so small for trading a fixed lot to be more attractive than risking a share of the deposit. Note that in trading reversals you should not risk more than 2% of the deposit regardless of the money management method you choose. To sum up, I want to add that when you scan the horizon for reversals, there happen plenty of hybrid situations when the price breaks through the trendline - and bounces off it and off some other level, even a support/resistance one, simultaneously bouncing off the trendline on the other side. Such cases can also be used for trading reversals but no more than once in one trading situation. If it does not work once, this means you can get mistaken many more times until a real reversal happens. Hence, try to use classical situation of this strategy as they give more chances for success. RoboForex
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https://www.forexlive.com/Education/!/how-to-trade-trend-reversals-20210601
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How to trade trendlines?
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Understanding trendlines This strategy was invented by a market trader who aimed at maximum simplicity and equally high efficacy. The author trades trendlines on all Forex instruments and currency futures. As for timeframes, suitable ones are H4, D1, and W1. A signal to buy by an ascending trendline This original system stands on two whales: trendlines and the Engulfing candlestick pattern (in bas, this pattern is called Rails). For a signal to buy to emerge, the following circumstances are required: 1. there is a directed upwards movement; to prove it, you need to draw a trendline through two or more local extremes; 2. the price must bounce off the trendline of the Engulfing pattern; 3. if the Engulfing pattern, bouncing off the ascending trendline, has formed on H4, on D1 and W1 the current candlestick and two preceding ones must not be included in an opposite Engulfing pattern, otherwise the trendline might fall prey to the countering signal of a larger timeframe. On your working TF, the current candlestick and two preceding ones must neither be parts of an opposite engulfing pattern. If there was an Engulfing three or more candlesticks ago, the signal is considered valid. An example of a signal to buy by an ascending trendline Though the Engulfing pierced the trendline, the last one of the two candlesticks forming the price pattern closed one tick above the trendline. This means the signal can be used for entering a long position. By the way, in the example above you can see that you may cut off some shadows when drawing the trendline for the final line to have more touches, which means more significance. A signal to sell by a descending trendline For such a signal to form, we need the following conditions to be met: 1. there must be a pronounced bearish trend with at least two local highs through which you will draw a trendline; 2. the Engulfing candlestick pattern must bounce off the bearish trendline; 3. the current candlestick and the preceding two ones on the working TF must not be a part of a bullish Engulfing pattern; same on larger TFs of the chart. An example of a signal to sell by a descending trendline This example boasts two subsequent signals to sell. When such a thing happens, a signal to enter the market is enforced. Stop Loss and Take Profit when trading trendlines Place an Stop Loss behind the bouncing Engulfing pattern. However, if you have doubts about what is going on, you may place an SL behind the farthest local extreme or a round pattern, if there is such one nearby. Follow the position by transferring your SL to newly emerging local extremes while the price is approaching the profit. Place a Take Profit before the nearest important support/resistance level. Round patterns in this strategy also count as strong support/resistance levels. Hence, if a round pattern is even closer to your position than a graphic support/resistance level, place your TP before the former. Moreover, in this strategy, apart from traditional support/resistance levels, the deepest bottom of the current downtrend is considered a support level, while the highest top of the current uptrend is said to be a resistance level. Money management in trading by trendline Money management: risk a fixed percentage of your deposit in each position, something between 1-2%. If you are already in the market by one order, and there is a signal to open one more, use it only if your current order has already been transferred to the breakeven. An example of trading by trendlines As long as the strategy is used on H4 minimum, it suits even those who are busy during workdays. And if you opt for D1, such trading will suit you in any case. However, on D1, there much fewer signals than on H4, especially with the currency market featuring a limited number of instruments. As for me, classical tech analysis works much better with futures and, of course, stocks. Anyway, I do not have any statistics of the efficacy of this strategy for futures and stocks. RoboForex
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https://www.forexlive.com/Education/!/how-to-trade-trendlines-20210601
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What's next for gold prices?
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A closer look at gold Gold prices have been on the watchlist of almost all investors during the past couple of weeks due to their tremendous rally. The bullion started the year with a sharp spike higher reaching a high of almost $1959 on the 6th of January. However, the precious metal failed to secure gains, and faltered to $1677, weighed down by a series of economic developments, which urged investors to abandon the safe haven. After falling more than 11% in the red territory, since the beginning of April, the price of a gold ounce has rallied by more than 13% to reach the green territory again for the year, trading around $1900 at the moment of writing the report. After covid19 disrupted the economic activity and knocked stock markets in the first quarter of 2020, investors sought gold's safety as a store of value. Central banks and governments jumped in with all their weaponry to support their failing economies, pumping a humongous amount of money into the markets. We learned in economics 101, that as the supply of an item increases with demand being constant, its price will go down. Thus, holding cash could be among the worst investment to do. To secure their purchasing power, investors favored gold, which is usually a good hub in times of high market risks and uncertainty. Due to the massive stimulus plans whether fiscal or monetary, equity markets had an impressive rally, where most of the world's top economies stock indices recovered all losses, and continued moving north to record high. This improvement in risk sentiment drove funds out of safety investments, and one of those safe havens was gold. As Pfizer, Moderna, and the likes introduced their vaccines, investors started focusing on the light at the end of the tunnel. Therefore, central banks and governments which were aggressive with their economic aids will have to start thinking of unwinding these measures and get closer to normalization to avoid overheating. When we are talking about the Federal Reserve unwinding its stimulus measures, we expect the Fed to start tapering its asset purchases program of $120 billion a month, and in the future, return the Fed Funds Rate to higher levels. Therefore, the bond market started pricing this action, and US Treasury yields moved higher as investors dumped bonds. A bond price and its yield move in the opposite direction. So as the price of a bond goes higher, the yield goes lower and vice-versa. Inflation The covid19 pandemic disrupted supply chains, leading to less supply mainly for commodities. Meanwhile, the excess amounts of money that were pumped into the economy especially in the United States, and the high saving rate of families, triggered strong demand for goods and services. If you were stuck at home for a long period, you are getting your financial aid, and you are not spending much, but you are saving a decent amount of money. When the conditions start to go back to normal, you will spend most if not all of the saved money. Thus, creating demand pressure with tight supply due to disrupted supply chains, prices went higher. The CRB Commodity Index gained more than 58% in the past 52 weeks to top 221, the highest since July 2015. In the chart below, you can see how Inflation expectations and the Commodity index are approximately similar in their movements. Higher prices of commodities push inflation expectations higher, and fears of higher inflation would force investors to hedge with commodities. Because they are the hottest topic at the moment, and if you are an investor, you would be looking for the real interest rates or real yields when assessing your returns from a particular investment. So basically, the equation of real yield is as follow: Real Interest Rate = Nominal Interest Rate - Inflation Rate So, if inflation moves higher with nominal interest rates remaining steady, the real interest rate will decrease furthermore. Therefore, investors would go after investments where their returns minus inflation would be positive. At the moment, the Federal Reserve is not willing to taper asset purchases, which if happened would drive the US Yields higher, leading to higher real interest rates. Fed officials are assuming that the current rise in inflation is transitory, because of numerous factors that erupted from the stimulus used to recover from Covid19. The board believes as fiscal stimulus impact fades away, and supply chains go back to somehow normal activity, the current price pressures will ease significantly, with the help of technology and other demographic factors that are deflationary in the long run. However, as we see significant improvement in the Labor market (similar to the March report), better growth figures, the Federal Open Market Committee could start discussing normalization plans. But, with the labor market still far away from pre-pandemic levels, the Fed will not risk damaging the economic recovery, to tackle inflation, unless inflation materializes. The chart below shows how gold prices (Green) move higher as the 10-year TIPS yields (Blue) move further into the negative territory. (When the blue curve rises, yields are going further into the negative territory) Therefore, the equation is very simple, as the Federal Reserve raises its beliefs in tightening the monetary policy by cutting asset purchases and later on raising interest rates, gold prices will fall under pressure, and vice-versa. A quick look at how Central Banks and Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) are positioning During the first quarter, the purchases of Central banks rose above 100 tons, as they looked into diversifying their reserves and favoring holding gold to fiat currencies. Hungary was among the top buyer, adding 63 tons to its official reserves, while the Philippines dumped around 24.8 tons. The chart below shows the central bank's net cumulative purchases since 2018. It is clear how purchases picked up to March as prices were going down from their tops. Another look at how the Exchange-traded funds are behaving. The chart shows that during this rally the total ETFs lagged the rally, unlike what happened in 2020 when prices rallied to their all-time high of $2072. Also, the largest trust, the SPDR Gold trust is lagging the likes. Yesterday, the SPDR Gold Trust dumped around 131000 ounces to a total holding of 33,568,314, while the Chinese YiFangDa Gold ETF physical holding grew by 1,374,434 million ounces to 4,508,119 the highest since late March. The total ETF physical gold holding is currently residing at 75,294,035 ounces. With gold prices currently trading around $1900, they are well above the estimates of big banks. The median of those forecasts is between $1743 and $1784 till the end of 2022. Technical Analysis The Bullish Scenario Gold prices had a significant rally since early April, rising by more than 13% to their highest levels since January. A positive scenario would support a slight correction towards the 21-day Exponential moving average which is currently sitting at $1851, to prepare for an impulsive move towards this year's high of $1960, and an extended target of the all-time high of $2072. The Bearish Scenario A clear rejection took place earlier this week from the $1912 area, a total failure, and possible change in trend would take place by violating the uptrend line and the 21-day exponential moving average near $1845, and a bigger drop towards the 200-day exponential moving average which is currently at $1802.
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https://www.forexlive.com/Education/!/whats-next-for-gold-prices-00-20210601
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What Is CBN Oil and What Are Its Benefits?
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As medical cannabis revolutionizes modern medicine, THC and CBD may have to share the spotlight with a host of other cannabinoids. In California, for example, every year $2 million in cannabis tax revenue is dedicated to the California Center for Medicinal Cannabis Research for study on the efficacy and safety of medical marijuana, despite weeds continued status as a Schedule 1 controlled substance under federal law. While much of this research focuses on THC and CBD, the minor cannabinoids, including cannabinol, or CBN, are also beginning to receive attention. CBN oil is a cannabinoid oil rich in CBN. To make this, CBN must be extracted from the cannabis plant and then dissolved into a carrier, such as coconut oil. While not intoxicating, CBN is mildly psychoactive and has several potential health benefits that warrant further study. Most of the CBN found in weed comes from the natural breakdown of THC caused by air and light exposure. As a result, live or freshly harvested cannabis and industrial hemp will contain little or no CBN. But as the harvested flowers rich in THC age, especially if theyre left out in the open, the THC begins to degrade into CBN. So, as pot gets older, CBN levels increase. Effects of CBN Like many other cannabinoids, CBN shows potential as a neuroprotectant, meaning it could protect brain and nerve cells from damage. Researchers in one 2005 study found that CBN delayed the onset of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS, in mice. ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a neurodegenerative disease where the nerve cells that control voluntary muscle movement die off, eventually causing complete paralysis. Although much more research including human studies needs to be done, CBN could one day serve as a treatment for ALS or other neurodegenerative diseases. CBN may also relieve inflammation and pain. A small 2012 study of human volunteers found that CBN reduced collagen-induced arthritis. Other research on rats in 2002 determined that CBN can provide pain relief by altering the pain signals sent to the brain. Patients with glaucoma may find that CBN helps treat their condition, too. Research published in 2007 by then-doctorate student Natalya M. Kogan and Raphael Mechoulam, PhD. at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem determined that CBN given with THC reduced interocular pressure in rabbits. Gallery Here's How to Spot If Your Weed Is Moldy CBN could also have anticonvulsant properties, which could possibly lead to new seizure disorder treatments. Early research in the 70s found that THC, CBD, and CBN all showed anticonvulsant effects in rats. In addition, CBN can fight off germs. A 2008 Italian study of antibiotic-resistant MRSA strains determined that CBN and four other cannabinoids all showed potent activity against a variety of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) strains of current clinical relevance and called for further research. A study for five cannabinoids on the appetites of rats found that CBN increased food intake, while CBD seemed to reduce appetite. Researchers in this study, as well as several of the others mentioned, noted that CBN and THC shared many of the same therapeutic effects, adding that the minimal psychoactive properties of CBN might make it a more viable treatment for many patients and conditions. What CBN Doesnt Do CBN is generally considered non-intoxicating, so its not likely to get you high, although it is mildly psychoactive. Research has shown that CBN is more psychoactive than CBD, but CBN has only one-tenth the potency of THC on the CB1 receptor (the part of our cells that cannabinoids activate). CBN also appears to enhance the euphoric effects of THC. Interestingly, one of CBNs purported effects that it makes people sleepy isnt supported by research. However, the idea is popular in cannabis lore and marketing. In fact, CBNs supposed sedative properties carries into grow practices, too. Home cultivators are commonly instructed to harvest their cannabis plants when the flowers trichomes are just beginning to turn amber. If allowed to go longer, the theory holds, more of the buds THC will convert to CBN, imparting a couch-lock effect to the high. But as early as 1975, researchers determined that while CBN seemed to increase the drowsiness caused by THC, it alone did not make the human participants drowsy. Noted neurologist and psychopharmacology researcher Dr. Ethan Russo believes that the sedative effects in old weed may be caused by changes in the buds terpene profile over time. Pure CBN is not particularly sedating, Russo told Leafly in 2015. But it is typically found in aged cannabis in which the monoterpenoids have evaporated leaving the more sedating oxygenated sesquiterpenoids. This accounts for the discrepancy. While researchers continue to study the effects of CBN, anecdotal evidence of its sedative properties and other potentially beneficial effects has fueled consumer interest in the cannabinoid. In states with legal cannabis, many dispensaries have begun to carry CBN oil tinctures and other products.
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https://merryjane.com/health/what-is-cbn-oil-and-what-are-its-benefits
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Is Latin a dead language?
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The Latin language used to be spoken all over the Roman Empire. But no country officially speaks it now, at least not in its classic form. Rome used to be one of the largest empires in the world , but gradually Rome's sway over its colonies dwindled until it completely lost control. Despite this, Latin continued to be the lingua franca throughout much of Europe hundreds of years after that happened. The answer to the question of when Latin, ancient Rome's language, died is a complicated one. There's no date in the annals of history to mark the end of Latin as a spoken language, and some would argue that's because it never really died. The Vatican may still deliver some masses in Latin, but virtually no one in Italy is using Latin on a day-to-day basis. Nevertheless, this doesn't equate to the death of Latin, said Tim Pulju, a senior lecturer in linguistics and classics at Dartmouth College in New Hampshire. "Latin didn't really stop being spoken," Pulju told Live Science. "It continued to be spoken natively by people in Italy, Gaul, Spain and elsewhere, but like all living languages, it changed over time." Crucially, the alterations to Latin were particular to the many different regions of the old Roman Empire, and over time these differences grew to create entirely new but closely related languages. "They gradually added up over the centuries, so that eventually Latin developed into a variety of languages distinct from one another, and also distinct from classical Latin," Pulju said. Those new languages are what we now refer to as the Romance languages, which include French , Italian , Portuguese, Romanian and Spanish. Such linguistic evolutions happen with every language. Take English, for example. "English has been spoken in England for over a millennium, but it has changed over time, as is obvious if you compare present-day English to Elizabethan English, as seen in Shakespeare," Pulju said. "Elizabethan English, from about four centuries ago, is still mostly comprehensible to us, but Chaucer's English, dating from the 14th century, is much less so. And the English of 'Beowulf,' from about the year 1000, is so different from modern English [it's] not comprehensible to us today." But no one would say English is a dead language it simply changed very gradually over a long period of time. The only difference between English and Latin is that old English developed into modern English and modern English alone, whereas classical Latin diversified and gave rise to a number of different languages. That's why people tend to think, perhaps erroneously, of Latin as an extinct language. Languages can go extinct, though; sometimes native speakers of a language all die, or over time their first language switches until eventually there are no fluent speakers left. This happened with the Etruscan language, originally spoken in what is modern day Tuscany in Italy. "After the Romans conquered Etruria, succeeding generations of Etruscans continued to speak Etruscan for hundreds of years, but some Etruscans, naturally, learned Latin as a second language; moreover, many children grew up bilingual in Etruscan and Latin," Pulju said. "Eventually, the social advantages of speaking Latin and having an identity as a Roman outweighed those of speaking and being Etruscan, so that over the generations, fewer and fewer children learned Etruscan." The end result is that the Etruscan language simply died. Dying languages aren't just an ancient phenomenon, either. "It's also happening to Indigenous languages in numerous places around the world today," Pulju said. The Middle East is something of a hotspot for dying languages , which can happen when there is societal stigma attached to speaking a non-mainstream language, the language not being taught in schools and more brutal measures are taken, such as ethnic cleansing and violence perpetrated against minorities. UNESCO estimates that at least half of the world's 7,000 languages spoken today will be extinct before the end of this century. It didn't, it simply evolved. Originally published on Live Science.
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https://www.livescience.com/did-latin-die.html
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How do COVID-19 variants get their names?
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Open this photo in gallery A public health digital board warns the public of a Covid-19 variant of concern affecting the community in Bolton, northwest England on May 14, 2021. OLI SCARFF/AFP/Getty Images As mutations of the virus that causes COVID-19 emerge around the world, variant names such as B.1.1.7, B.1.617.2 and P.1 have become almost household terms. SARS-CoV-2 has been fraught with naming controversies ever since the virus first took hold in China in late 2019. Terms including Wuhan virus and China virus became loaded descriptions, and even now health experts avoid using names such as Vietnamese variant, Indian variant or British variant for fear of stigmatizing countries and curbing scientific co-operation. We dont want anything that might dissuade people from sharing data with the global community, said Oliver Pybus, a professor of evolution and infectious disease at the University of Oxford. If there is any barrier to people sharing that data immediately and openly, thats a threat to all of us. Story continues below advertisement Dr. Pybus was part of a group of 10 scientists in Britain who took a novel approach to the naming challenge. They recognized early in the pandemic that researchers would need a simple and adaptable way of identifying mutations as the virus evolved. That was not only critical for scientists; it would also be key in helping drug makers develop vaccines against variants. The group came up with a system called the Pango nomenclature. Its based on the way biologists categorize organisms by using a tree-like structure where each branch represents the ancestors of a particular life form, such as all descendants of primates. Since the origins of SARS-CoV-2 are still unclear, the group began with two main versions of the virus that emerged in Wuhan in late 2019 and early 2020. They named them A and B. Each significant mutation of those strands such as the appearance of the virus in a new location, a rapid increase in cases, or the evolution of new genetic traits creates a new lineage or branch on the tree. New lineages are designated A.1, A.2 or B.1, B.2 and so on. The virus has evolved so rapidly that most lineages have developed their own mutations, or branches. To accommodate these changes, Pango designates sub-lineages with dots and numbers, such as B.1.1, which is a subset of the B.1 lineage. The name B.1.1.7, which describes the variant first detected in Britain, is the seventh descendant of the sub-lineage B.1.1, which in turn is the first descendent of the lineage B.1. In order to prevent the names from becoming too long, Pango incorporates a series of substitutions. For example, a sub-lineage in South Africa called C.1 is derived from B.1.1.1.1, with C being a substitute for B.1.1.1. So C.1 is the first sub-lineage of B.1.1.1. The name P.1, associated with a variant first detected in Brazil, is an alias generated from a sub-lineage of B.1.1.28. Pango is pretty much infinitely extendable, Dr. Pybus told a recent media briefing. We can handle millions of lineage names without any problem at all. The team developed Pango in April, 2020. Since then the two root strands have evolved into an evolutionary tree with 1,260 lineages encompassing 1.7 million genome sequences of the virus, and the total keeps rising. B.1.1.7 is one of the largest lineages with more 600,000 genetic sequences. The vast majority of mutations, and Pango names, go unnoticed by the public. Its only when some are designated as variants of concern by health agencies that the Pango term becomes topical. Story continues below advertisement Pango has proven so successful among researchers that it has become the global standard for tracking COVID-19 and many of its names are widely used by health officials, journalists and world leaders. Last week Pangos founders announced a formal structure for the system to handle the growing number of mutations, with committees to verify new lineages and assign names. Much of the work to develop the system and update the data has been done on a volunteer basis by a group of PhD students at Oxford and the University of Edinburgh, Dr. Pybus said. I think when people step back and they look at whats been done over the pandemic, the achievements of [the students] has been astonishing. The technology the students created, which involved machine learning, is handling orders of magnitude more data than we have ever had to process before. Aine OToole, a PhD student at Edinburgh, is among those who have been involved in the project from the start. Before the pandemic, Ms. OToole had been developing software tools for polio surveillance in hospitals. She switched to COVID-19 early in 2020 and joined Dr. Pybuss team. It has been a very busy year but really quite rewarding from an academic point of view, she told the briefing. Ive been able to actually contribute quite a lot, which has been actually really nice. Dr. Pybus said Pango was developed for scientists and he never imagined the terms would be used in common parlance. While hes happy to see the names popularized, he becomes mildly irritated when commentators get them wrong. For example, he pointed out that B.117, is not the same as B.1.1.7 or B.1.17. And the variant first detected in India actually has three subsets B.1.617.1, B.1.617.2, B.1.617.3 not all of which originated in India. The origins of some variants have also been misconstrued, he said. South Africa has been a leader in genome sequencing but when the country notified the world about B.1.351 last year it was quickly tagged the South African variant even though the mutation could have been imported from somewhere else by travellers. We dont know if it originated in South Africa and the stigma associated with a variant originating in a place is a tricky thing to work with, he added. The World Health Organization has wrestled with the challenge of avoiding geographic descriptions for variants of concern, and on Monday it announced a naming scheme involving letters of the Greek alphabet. For example, the WHO has labelled B.1.1.7 as Alpha, B.1.351 as Beta and P.1 as Gamma. Story continues below advertisement The system wont replace Pango, but the WHO said the scientific names can be difficult to say and recall, and are prone to misreporting. As a result, people often resort to calling variants by the places where they are detected, which is stigmatizing and discriminatory. It has urged national authorities and media outlets to use the new labels. Dr. Pybus said the announcement may be too late because the Pango names have become so familiar. Are names like B.1.1.7 already just sticking?, he said. Its very difficult to change that once everyone starts to use a name. Our Morning Update and Evening Update newsletters are written by Globe editors, giving you a concise summary of the days most important headlines. Sign up today.
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https://www.theglobeandmail.com/world/article-how-do-covid-19-variants-get-their-names/
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How much is Blackpools promotion to the Championship worth to the Seasiders?
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Neil Critchleys men sealed their return to the second tier of English football on Sunday with a 2-1 win over Lincoln City in the League One play-off final. Kenny Dougall was Pool's unlikely hero with both goals, helping the Seasiders recover from a horror start where they conceded after just 48 seconds courtesy of a freak Ollie Turton own goal. Sign up to our daily newsletter The i newsletter cut through the noise Sign up Thanks for signing up! Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... It was Blackpools sixth victory in a play-off final in the clubs history, confirming their status as the countrys play-off kings. Rising up to the Championship means Blackpools guaranteed income will now increase - and by some margin, too. Reaching the second tier will see the club's Premiership Solidarity payments, which are distributed to all EFL clubs from the top flight, rise from 675,000 per year to 4.5m. The split between EFL teams is 80 per cent to clubs in the Championship, 12 per cent to clubs in League One and eight per cent to clubs in League Two. The Seasiders will line up in the Championship next season This figure will also be boosted by a rise in the broadcast and commercial contracts, with an uplift of 891,000 for a League One club to 2.99m for a Championship club. That means that Blackpool will pocket around 7.5m for plying their trade in the Championship, as opposed to 1.5m in League One. The Seasiders will also benefit from the larger away followings as well as the commercial and sponsorship opportunities that will arise from playing in the Championship. It must be noted, however, that the overall guaranteed income figure could be slightly lower this coming year due to the rebate agreed by Premier League clubs, which came as a result of the crippling financial impact of the pandemic. Wages also sky-rocket in the second tier, with clubs splashing the cash in a bid to reach the glory land of the Premier League.
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https://www.blackpoolgazette.co.uk/sport/football/blackpool-fc/how-much-is-blackpools-promotion-to-the-championship-worth-to-the-seasiders-3256799
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What would a victory over Tyron Woodley mean for Jake Paul's career?
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MMA fans asked for it and Jake Paul obliged. The YouTube star-turned-professional boxer is fighting former UFC champion Tyron Woodley next, according to multiple reports from combat sports insiders. Despite his perfect record of 3-0 with three knockouts, Jake Paul has remained a largely divisive figure among the combat sports community. The largest criticism of his burgeoning boxing career is that he hasn't faced anyone with a legitimate striking pedigree. In his debut fight, Paul made quick work of his fellow YouTuber AnEsonGib (Ali Loui Al-Fakhri). At that point, 'The Problem Child' was flying under the radar as everyone's attention was fixed on his brother Logan Paul's rematch with KSI. Ten months later, Jake Paul returned to the ring against retired NBA guard Nate Robinson as part of the Mike Tyson vs. Roy Jones Jr. event. Nobody believed he would stand a chance against a former professional athlete. Paul silenced his doubters when he flatlined Robinson in round two. Since then, a huge segment of the MMA community, fans and fighters alike, has been dying to see Jake Paul against an experienced pro fighter. Former Bellator and ONE Championship welterweight champion Ben Askren. But we all know how that story ended. Jake Paul embarrassed Askren along with hundreds of thousands of MMA die-hards and analysts. (Including yours truly). Wrong. Askren wasn't the ideal fighter to gauge how good of a boxer Jake Paul really is. Throughout his ten-year cagefighting career, 'Funky' relied mostly on his wrestling-heavy offense to win his fights. Against Paul, Askren's best weapons were practically useless to him. Enjoy saying you are a fighter for another day. Try that shit against me i'm catching a body @jakepaul And you mob with hoes. I wouldn't walk into a pillow fight with them. https://t.co/CKVwEH5Yj2 Tyron T-Wood Woodley (@TWooodley) April 18, 2021 Tyron Woodley, much like Askren, comes from a wrestling background. But unlike his former teammate, the 39-year-old has ended fights in the octagon with his standup game. 'The Chosen One' captured the UFC welterweight title by putting Robbie Lawler away with a massive right hook in round one. Overall, Woodley has earned 7 wins by TKO in the UFC. We, as a community, have to admit that we might have underestimated the YouTube star. No. Not yet. Jake Paul celebrates his win over Ben Askren There are a few reasons why MMA fans should be a little concerned for T-Wood. Since 2019, all Tyron Woodley has done is lose, lose, lose. That's the main reason he's no longer with the UFC, otherwise, he wouldn't be fighting Jake Paul in the first place. There's also Tyron Woodley's size disadvantage. The Missouri native is four inches shorter and 30 pounds lighter than Paul. Not to mention that he's 15 years older than his opponent as well. A victory over Tyron Woodley wouldn't completely erase the doubts surrounding Jake Paul. For that to happen, the internet celebrity has to defeat a formidable fighter around his age and size, Tommy Fury for example. But let's not get ahead of ourselves. Nonetheless, Jake Paul deserves credit for taking on a more talented opponent every time he returns to the boxing ring. Also Read: 3 reasons why Jake Paul has made a big mistake agreeing to fight Tyron Woodley Please take 30 seconds to answer this survey so that we can better understand how to serve your MMA needs.
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https://www.sportskeeda.com/mma/news-what-victory-tyron-woodley-mean-jake-paul-s-career
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Who's to blame for Pakistan's 1971 Debacle?
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There are too many skeletons in the 1971 wardrobe. Only by making Hamood Ur Rehman Commission report public most of the demons of 1971 can be put to rest. Country like ours where there are too many culprits and not enough judges or at times judiciary itself is a problem getting to the truth is near to impossible. One can see brazen lies of our politicians in the current scenario and they are still giving speeches and people are still following them to the PDM gatherings. There are allegations of corruption, and proof of corruption so why the judiciary is taking so long to dish out justice or this nation of ours is destined to be no hopers. We don't have got system of accountability and the half baked system we do have is run by corrupt officials hence no wonder we are not getting any where to improve our situation. This nation could have set free when the commission report came out but how can Bhutto release the report when he was in the power and guilty as hell to loose his own power. While on the other hand military establishment looks like it did have the chequered part and guilty of grave mistakes. Mistakes can be forgiven and course can be corrected but establishment refuses to accept their part and hence the course correction stays in limbo. Its catch 22 situation both politicians and establishment needs to work in their frame work but do they. Establishment must get out of politics and while civil society needs to bring forward people who can take country of ours onto the right path so we can claim back our space on the international arena. We desperately need electronic electoral voting system so no more alleged or real voting fraud can take place and same applies for the senate voting system so every one can see which senator voted for what and who. After loosing half the country still no one have shown any interest in electronic electoral voting system because it doesn't suits politicians corruption and establishment wants to keep fingers in their share of the pie while every one starts a speech in Pakistan with Bismillah, ar-Rahman, ar-Rahim while our people keep on voting for the politicians who have got no interest in our country and their loyalties lies elsewhere. That's my two cents.
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https://defence.pk/pdf/threads/whos-to-blame-for-pakistans-1971-debacle.694868/
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What Inheritance Tax exemptions are available?
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Promotion Published: 10:56 AM June 1, 2021 My husband and I each have a child from previous relationships but no children of our own. We are concerned about the level of Inheritance Tax that might be payable on our combined estate: our house is worth about 900,000 and we have a number of other investments and pensions. The plan is to leave everything to each other, then split the estate between our children. Weve been reading up about the various Inheritance Tax exemptions but are a little concerned how that works in our situation. Douglas Bridges is an Independent Financial Adviser Picture: Smith & Pinching - Credit: Archant Douglas Bridges of Smith & Pinching responds: There are three Inheritance Tax (IHT) exemptions that come into play in this instance the exemption for spouses/civil partners, the standard Nil Rate Band and the Residence Nil Rate Band. The spousal exemption means that anything you leave to a spouse or civil partner (but not to a co-habiting partner) is free of Inheritance Tax. In your situation, where you plan to leave your estates to each other when the first partner dies, no IHT would be payable on the first death and any potential IHT would become payable when the surviving partner dies. You each have an IHT exemption, known as the Nil Rate Band (NRB), of 325,000. On top of that, you each have a potential further IHT exemption, known as the Residence Nil Rate Band (RNRB), of up to 175,000, depending on the value of the home if you leave the value of your home to your direct descendants. The good news for you is that this includes not only your own children and grandchildren but also stepchildren. Adopted and fostered children are also counted as direct descendants. Both the NRB and the RNRB, if unused, can be passed to a surviving spouse or civil partner. This means that as a couple you have a potential combined NRB of up to 1 million when the second of you dies. However, its important to note that the RNRB element reduces on a tapered basis for estates that are worth over 2 million. The exemption levels are as in the 2021/22 tax year and have been frozen at this level until April 5, 2026. I strongly recommend that you get independent advice now about your potential future IHT liabilities. Planning now can help you manage what your heirs will be paying later. There are a number of different measures, including lifetime giving and trusts, that can be used to mitigate what may be due. References to taxation are based on our understanding of current legislation and HMRC practice, both of which may change. Tax treatment depends on individual circumstances and may change if circumstances change. Any opinions expressed do not constitute advice. For more information, please visit www.smith-pinching.co.uk
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https://www.wymondhamandattleboroughmercury.co.uk/lifestyle/ask-the-expert-about-inheritance-tax-exemptions-8017678
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Who are Mayim Bialiks kids?
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FANS of The Big Bang Theory spent hours watching Mayim Bialik play Amy in the hit US comedy and its prequel - Young Sheldon. Mayim, 45, has two sons: Miles and Frederick. Both kids were born before she began playing Amy in The Big Bang Theory. Mayim had her two sons with ex-husband Michael Stone, who she was married to between 2003 and 2012. Around the time of her divorce, the actress released a book on parenting called Beyond the Sling. Speaking to the Moms Like Us podcast in September 2020, Mayim revealed her kids havent seen her on The Big Bang Theory. Mayim said: "They know about [my career] in bits and pieces. "My kids didnt watch television. Theyve never seen Big Bang Theory. "Theyve visited me at work a couple of times, but they're not sitcom watchers. "I go to the supermarket, but then I get recognised and they remember that Im not normal at all." Mayim also revealed how Michael and she have looked after the kids during the Covid-19 pandemic. She said: "I'm so incredibly grateful, not only for my ex-husband, but for all of the work that we've put in to be able to have the kind of conversations we have to have. "We're essentially quarantining together in two houses, meaning we're the only people that we see and our kids go between two houses." 2 Mayim's 2012 book on parenting Credit: World of books Miles Miles, 16, was born in 2005. The youngster was born while Mayim was balancing her acting career with getting a PhD in neuroscience. It is believed she was actually on a break from her studies around the time of his birth to focus on acting, starring in popular sitcom Curb Your Enthusiasm. Frederick Frederick, 13, was born in 2008 - two years before Mayim joined the cast of The Big Bang Theory. The academic had received her PhD by that point and was focusing more on neuroscience rather than acting. Mayim soon returned to the screen, though, as she wanted to spend more time with her family. Explaining her decision to Yahoo in 2012, she said: "I figured actors never work, so it's the perfect job to have." Most read in Celebrity THAT'S MY BOY What you need to know about Clint Eastwood's son Scott Eastwood RISKY REBEL Rebel Wilson nearly slips out of plunging swimsuit after losing 60 pounds WET & WILD Kylie and Travis Scott get in a water balloon fight with daughter Stormi Exclusive FIGHTING BACK Teen Mom Jenelle Evans sues blogger for claims she was 'fired' from podcast BACH IN LOVE Matt James & Rachael huddle together on rainy Hamptons trip after rekindling LOADED GONE Lil Loaded indicted on manslaughter charge following arrest for friend's death
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https://www.the-sun.com/entertainment/2993038/who-are-mayim-bialik-kids-children/
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Who was Romy Walthall and how did she die?
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HOLLYWOOD actress Romy Walthall died last month at the age of 57. Walthall starred in several movies, including Nicolas Cage & John Travolta's action thriller Face/Off. Romy Walthall was born on September 16, 1963 in Pasadena, Texas. She got her start in the industry as a beauty queen, entering and winning several contests, including the Mother/Daughter USA pageant in 1980. When the star turned 17, Walthall was offered a modelling deal with Ford Models, which took her around Europe for several years until she eventually moved back to Los Angeles. Walthall then decided to try acting, going by the stage name, Romy Windsor. Romy landed her first big screen role in Thief of Hearts a 1984 thriller movie directed by Jerry Bruckheimer. 3 Walthall starred in Hotel Malibu alongside Jennifer Garner Credit: Getty This role was followed by her appearance in 1985's A Bunny's Tale, and several cult horror films including Howling IV: The Original Nightmare and 1989's The House Of Usher, earning her name as a Scream Queen. Her most famous cinema appearance was in 1997's Face/Off, starring as Kimberly, the neurotic secretary of John Travolta's Sean Archer. The star then had several television appearances alongside big names, with the likes of James Garner and Jennifer Lopez starring alongside her. Her TV credits include: Hotel Malibu, The X Files, Quantum Leap and Love Boat, with a guest appearance as a guest on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson in 1991. After retiring, Walthall became an acting teacher in the San Fernando Valley. Walthall died on May 19 at Los Angeles' Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center. The star passed away after suffering from sudden cardiac arrest. Walthall was unmarried, survived by her mother, sister and three children: Morgan Krantz, Isabella Israel and Theodore Dudley. Krantz, who is an established actor and director, broke the news by sharing photos of his mother on Instagram, with the caption: 'Rip Mom. I love you.' Khloe's DM confronting Tristan Thompson's 'baby mama' exposed as 'fake' THAT'S MY BOY What you need to know about Clint Eastwood's son Scott Eastwood 'MY BEST FRIEND' Romy Walthall, star of The House of Usher and Face/Off, dies aged 57 RISKY REBEL Rebel Wilson nearly slips out of plunging swimsuit after losing 60 pounds WET & WILD Kylie and Travis Scott get in a water balloon fight with daughter Stormi Exclusive FIGHTING BACK Teen Mom Jenelle Evans sues blogger for claims she was 'fired' from podcast Walthall's final credit was in the 2011 film 0s & 1s, in which she appeared alongside her son. Her daughter Isabella Israel said: "Ive resigned myself to the fact that there will never be any appropriate combination of earthly words to accurately describe my mother." "You just had to be there to get it. She was everything at once. She was my first love. My best friend at times and my sworn adversary at others,' she began." A memorial was held in her honour in Malibu last week.
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https://www.the-sun.com/entertainment/celebrity/2992746/who-was-romy-walthall-and-how-did-she-die/
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What is ambergris and whats its value?
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AMBERGRIS is a natural substance that has become lucrative in the world of perfumery. Ambergris is a valuable and rare substance used in the perfume industry. Ambrein, an odourless alcohol, is extracted from ambergris and used to make a perfume's scent last longer. It is produced by sperm whales when their bile ducts in the gastrointestinal tract make secretions to ease the passage of sharp objects. Sperm whales eat large quantities of cuttlefish and squid which forces them to vomit out the indigestible parts of their prey including beaks and hard shells. It is the secretions surrounding the indigestible parts that gets vomited out, solidifies and floats on the surface of the ocean. Ambergris has been used by humans for centuries. Fossilised evidence of the substance dates back 1.75 million years, and it is likely that humans have been using it for more than 1,000 years. However, it was not until large-scale whaling began in the 1800s that the identity of its sole producer, the sperm whale, was uncovered. Depending on the quality and the colour of the substance, the price of ambergris varies. In February 2021, a group of Yemeni fishermen found 127kg worth of ambergris which they sold for over 1million. A month later, in March 2021, a woman found a lump of the precious whale vomit, worth 185,000, while walking on a Thai beach. In November 2020, a penniless fisherman in Thailand stumbled on a large blob of ambergris that was worth an astonishing 2.4million. Naris Suwannasang, 60, said the blobs weighed 220lb - or 100kg - potentially making it one of the biggest-ever finds of whale vomit. Thailand appears to be good place to spot the valuable produce with a beachcomber finding a piece thought to be worth 500,000 in December 2019, and a fisherman hauling in 250,000 worth in October the same year. According to the Irish Times, in Ireland, a rare 25g piece of Irish ambergris commands the high price of 539 on the global marketplace Etsy. The answer is both yes and no. All whale and dolphin species are protected in the UK under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. International trading of whale products is banned in the UK and the EU. Most read in News RAPPER DEATH Rapper Lil Loaded dead at 20 after arrest for 18-year-old friends shooting Live Blog 'RECOVERY MISSION' Christian diet guru, husband & 6 others presumed dead after plane crash 'LOVE YOU BRUDDA' Rapper Lil Loaded took his own life 'after problems with girlfriend' Warning BRUTAL SLUG Man smacks Asian woman, 55, in NYC's Chinatown amid hate crime epidemic JUST IN TIME Cop saved by bystanders after anti-Asian homeless man puts her in 'death grip' LAST WORDS Rapper Lil Loaded said he's 'ready to join God' in tragic final Instagram post However, it is legal to salvage a lump of ambergris from a beach and sell it as it is regarded as excretion like urine or faeces. The situation is different in Australia and the United States where the products from endangered animals are prohibited. According to whales.org, ambergris is considered a bit of a "grey area" in the US and thus it is legal to salvage the product if it does not harm the animal.
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https://www.the-sun.com/news/2993198/what-ambergris-whats-its-value/
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Why have RBI & Indian govt creates such chaos around cryptocurrencies?
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On Monday, the Reserve Bank of India issued a notification on virtual currencies or crypto-currencies and reiterated what it has been saying for over 8 years. It instructed banks to adhere to existing rules on money laundering, terrorism finance, foreign exchange management and Know-Your-Customer norms, when dealing with crypto firms. This was triggered by emails sent last week by Indias leading banks to their customers, warning about the risks of investing in cryptos. While HDFC Bank asked customers to provide information as to the nature of certain transactions, SBI Cards and Payments warned its users against buying crypto-currencies on their credit card. Both banks said that if customers do not comply, they would take action. At the outset it is clearly not legally tenable to cite a circular, which was struck down by the Supreme Court last year on the grounds of proportionality. The RBI said as much in its statement on Monday. It said: the circular is no longer valid from the date of the Supreme Court judgement, and therefore cannot be cited or quoted from. But over the last three months, some of the lead banks have shut access to deposit and payments channels to crypto-exchanges. No one knows for sure what was said, or what was communicated to the banks by the regulator. But sources at banks and across crypto-exchanges have told MediaNama that it all started with the IPL the Indian Premier League, the Cricket tournament. A complete low-down on crypto-currency regulation in India. The Burden Of Euphoria Last year, the average daily trading volumes across the top Indian crypto-exchanges hovered between $250,000-$6 million or Rs 18 lakh-Rs 43 crore. From January this year, the average daily trading volumes shot up to $1 million to $400 million or Rs 7 crore-Rs 3,000 crore on some days. Advertisement. Scroll to continue reading. With immense wealth generation in a short-time span, mania over Bitcoin prices and higher trading volumes meaning more exchange fees, ads began to appear during the IPL earlier this year, particularly with a clear message to Buy Bitcoin. Sources said this clearly triggered the RBI, which communicated through informal means that it was uncomfortable with the level of banking activity taking place in the crypto-verse. Bankers also said that with higher trading volumes, came questions from the RBI. Ever since the Supreme Court struck down the RBIs April 2018 circular, which barred banks from dealing with crypto-firms and individuals, the banks opened their channels to these businesses. This included current account services and tie-ups with payment companies. It became relatively easy to buy cryptos, for as little as Rs 10 to Rs 500 a month, through UPI and cards, e-wallets and other digital payment modes. Some of the major payment firms kept out, but the leading banks saw this as a massive opportunity perhaps to earn fees, perhaps to support the future of currency, assets and finance. In fact, last year the apex court told the RBI to work on new regulations. But the RBI did not issue any new guidelines to banks and payment companies since the verdict. What Banks Dont Know When money goes from person X to Crypto-Exchange ABC, the banks know this information because ABC is on their network and is using its software for accepting deposits from investors. The exchanges themselves have adopted a code of conduct and standard operating procedures to ensure they comply with the RBIs existing rules on money laundering, KYC and other aspects. If X takes Rs 50,000 dumps them in cryptos and earns Rs 100,000 a few months later, and then decides to withdraw Rs 50,000; the bank knows again that ABC gave the Rupee currency to X. But the bank and crypto-exchange may never find out what X really did with the cryptos. Since Bitcoin functions on the principle of barter, it can act as a currency.That is as a means of exchange, which is also a tradable asset and commodity in the case of Ethereum for instance. If X bought Rs 20,000 in Bitcoin to finance illicit activities, the banks need to know. If X earned Rs 10,000 on his initial Rs 20,000 nefarious investment, and then withdrew this illicit money from the exchange back into the formal banking system, the banks need to know. Advertisement. Scroll to continue reading. In 2020, there were $42 million worth of trades taking place on the dark web using crypto-currencies across Indian blockchain accounts. And ponzi schemes continue to run amok. When it comes to illegal crypto-activity and trace-ability, it depends on which crypto-enthusiast you talk to. The crypto-industry folk would say there are tools and software available, technology experts say anonymity is fundamental to the technology, while bankers would tell you if X is smart enough, they can get away with it. Imagine even if 1% of the average trading volume is withdrawn everyday from the crypto-exchanges, that is around Rs 7 lakh on some days and Rs 30 crore on others. This is an immense amount of money flowing through the banks, at random order, which naturally means the banks legal and compliance departments are burdened with questions and filings. Understandably, the RBI thinks this is all just too risky. Especially without a law giving it the requisite legal authority to intervene and set the regulations. The Regulatory State The RBI in its statement said that banks, co-operative banks, payments banks, small finance banks, non-banking financial firms and payment system providers, may, however, continue to carry out customer due diligence processes and follow existing regulations. Presumably, the banks were following these standards as far as ABC was concerned as businesses and X as individual customers. In the last few years, the RBI has stepped up its enforcement action against banks, financial entities and payment companies. The quantum of fines are rising and last year, for the first time it used business sanctions as another regulatory instrument. It is not like the banks would not have been following the existing KYC, money laundering and foreign exchange guidelines. Advertisement. Scroll to continue reading. The problem is that there is no definition of crypto-currencies in law. And neither has the government given regulatory powers to the RBI or any other financial regulator to look after the space. Banks and payment firms cannot track and monitor complex transactions across the crypto-verse through their existing technology and compliance software. While banks can monitor what comes in and out of X and ABCs account, if X is on Bank A and ABCs account is on Bank Bs network, that adds more complexity into the mix. This needs industry wide coordination and regulations. Tax authorities would need to peep at this data as well. Perhaps some of the larger and wealthier banks, and payment companies, have purchased expensive software to track blockchain transactions. But most would not have the ability to do this. Initially, the government said that it would ban crypto-currency activity in India and then it clarified that it would adopt acalibrated approach. Thereafter, the government amended the regulations on company financial disclosures recognising virtual currencies as a digital asset. Through this amendment it also indirectly recognised the role of crypto-exchanges, as businesses that perform a fiduciary role. The government also told Parliament that crypto-exchange transactions and investments are taxable. Now, it is reportedly forming a new committee to examine the prospect of regulating the crypto-verse. According to sources, this committee will be composed of Parliamentarians and Cabinet Ministers as opposed to the previous committee of government officials which recommended a complete ban and criminal provisions to be enacted against crypto firms, investors, traders and miners. In the last few months, influential stakeholders like Infosys non-executive chairman Nandan Nilekani, Former Finance Secretary Subash Chandra Garg who headed the previous crypto committee, to Shashi Tharoor have said that regulating crypto-currencies is the way forward. A month after its launch, the India Covid-Crypto Relief Fund has raised nearly $1.6 billion dollars, which will be distributed to NGOs and other organisations working to fight the virus. Advertisement. Scroll to continue reading. The government and RBI should take comfort in the fact that global consensus has built up in the last 8 years, that crypto-currencies are not a threat and in order to safeguard against risks: you need regulations. From market regulators, global card networks, banks, hedge funds, monetary authorities, corporate treasuries, stock exchanges and municipal authorities opening their arms to crypto-currencies and blockchain, but with regulations. Politics and Chaos Unfortunately, policy making is not just a relationship between government, regulators, businesses and citizens/consumers. It is also a political act, and cryptos can certainly be used as a political instrument. The adoption of cryptos was an inevitability, ever since their creation a decade ago in the wake of financial disaster. This follows the same historicity, when metal was made into coins or when the first parchment or paper currency note was created to replace an older mode of payment and exchange. Given the political nature of crypto-currencies and new technology, the government is adopting a centralise-first approach across the board; whether it is artificial intelligence, blockchain, digital currencies/assets and even vaccine deployment. If a CBDC is in the works because the government feels the underlying technology of blockchain is inevitable, it cannot divorce crypto-graphy from the equation. This is similar to the argument made by WhatsApp in its suit against the governments new rules. If the state accepts the right to privacy, it must accept ones right to encrypted messaging. Similarly, if CBDC or a Digital Rupee can be purchased and used by citizens, banks and businesses, the government cannot divorce ones choice to buy, sell, trade, mine and earn exorbitant returns on crypto-currencies. Just last week, HDFC Banks Treasury department published a note that looked at the returns of leading crypto-currencies and compared them with returns on investments in the S&P and NASDAQ index, and Gold since January. While the returns in Bitcoin stood at 36%, returns on the S&P index stood at 17%, for instance. Young people and everyday investors are willing to put some funds into the crypto-currency world because of these high returns, and are willing to accept the risk. The banks note ended by saying: with CBDCs in the offing it is just a matter of time before Indian investors have legal access to Crypto plays. Due to unnecessary uncertainty, some of the top banks lost out on a decent amount of business with large volumes of deposit and withdrawal flows. The crypto exchange founders and their teams had to respond to these changes working overnight, making calls, coding away. Some of them have turned to new payment partners and new banks, while others lost out. Meanwhile, Indian crypto-activity remains resilient and most investors are unwavering in their commitment. Advertisement. Scroll to continue reading.
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https://www.medianama.com/2021/06/223-crypto-currencies-chaos-rbi-ipl-exchange-india/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+medianama+%28Medianama%3A+Digital+Media+In+India%29
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Whats in a Bottle?
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A look at e-liquid bottling and packaging regulations By Marissa Dean Like anything in the nicotine industry, bottling and packaging are changing as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration introduces more regulationsPMTAs, testing requirements, labeling restrictions, etc. Being curious what regulations are in place for bottling and e-liquid packaging specifically, I turned to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) website and found this: The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is the independent federal agency responsible for enforcing a key provision of the Child Nicotine Poisoning Prevention Act of 2015 (CNPPA). That law requires any nicotine provided in a liquid nicotine container sold, offered for sale, manufactured for sale, distributed in commerce or imported into the United States to be in special packaging as defined by the Poison Prevention Packaging Act (PPPA). This packaging, in laymans terms, must be designed to prevent children from accidentally accessing and ingesting liquid nicotine and must restrict the flow of liquid nicotine under specific conditions. Child-proofing e-liquid bottles makes sense. I hit a wall in my research here. I went down the rabbit hole of bottling websites, anything from manufacturers to wholesalers. The most common theme between them was the conversation of glass bottles versus plastic bottles. Glass is the obvious environmentally friendly option, but it has more potential for breakage and injury due to breakage. Plus theres the added question of how to make them flow-restrictive to meet CPSC regulations. Plastic bottles are made out of different polyethylenespolyethylene terephthalate, low-density polyethylene and high-density polyethylene. Plastic is not friendly to the environment, taking decades to break down, and even then, only breaking down into microplastics. Recycling helps curb the problem, but many vapor companies lack fruitful recycling programs, if they have them at all. Bidi Vapor offers one for its Bidi Sticks, called Bidi Cares, but as far as bottles are concerned, it doesnt seem like there are any specific programs outside of traditional city/county recycling programs. Going further down the rabbit hole of packaging regulations, I found myself jumping from source to source throughout the vapor community, getting similar responses: Im not the right person to answer your questions, but try this person. Eventually, I reached Azim Chowdhury of Keller and Heckman.
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https://tobaccoreporter.com/2021/06/01/whats-in-a-bottle/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=whats-in-a-bottle
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Whats next for hanbok?
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Korean traditional attire, hanbok, does not have to be limited to young people and travelers wearing them around royal palaces. Hanbok-inspired clothing can be worn at work as well. That is the premise of a long-term project by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Hanbok Advancement Center launched earlier this year which aims to promote hanbok as everyday wear and books the demand for hanbok. At an exhibition showcasing business casual attire at Culture Station Seoul 284 in Jung-gu, Seoul, Georgi Ni, a Russian photographer and website developer, carefully moved his camera from one side to the other. I came across this event by chance, and thought it would be nice to shoot with my 360-degree camera, Ni told The Korea Herald at the event, which runs through to June 11. The outfits looked soothing with a somewhat foresty tone, he noted, but the sleeves and collars have a reverent touch to their finish. Modernized hanbok, also referred to as gaeryang hanbok in Korean, was often associated with progressive activists and politicians in South Korea in the early 2000s.By removing or modifying some of the traditional features of hanbok that restricted movement, it was possible to wear modernized hanbok to attend a National Assembly session, participate in rallies and go to school. The wearers made a statement with their attire -- they were known to stand for maintaining traditions and resisting consumption of foreign goods and culture.Meanwhile, fusion hanbok, otherwise known as fashion hanbok, is a relatively new term that came into use following the success of K-dramas. Directors and writers involved made major changes to the traditional hanbok, to make characters more eye-catching and stylish in a way that would appeal to a wider audience. Most of the hanbok found at hanbok rental shops for tourists are likely to be this kind.However, a deeply rooted preconception still exists among young South Koreans that hanbok is worn only on special occasions, such as family gatherings, weddings, or traditional ceremonies.As an effort to shed such image, some middle and high schools have adopted hanbok-inspired school uniforms in a joint project with the Culture Ministry. In the public sector, the last Wednesday of each month was designated A good day to wear hanbok, encouraging employees at the Culture Ministry to wear hanbok of ones preference.While opinions are still split on whether designating a special day to encourage wearing hanbok was a good approach, a collection of business casual hanbok developed last year was received favorably and dispelled concerns that they are impractical and uncomfortable as office wear. A total of 64 looks were introduced, varying in shape, size, fabric and form depending on the season.The Culture Ministry hopes to encourage more business sectors to take up hanbok as office attire, especially organizations that can promote Koreas image, such as those in the tourism and hospitality industries.This year, two of the Korean Culture Centers outside Korea, the UK and Vietnam, have decided to order business casual hanbok. Employees at the National Hangeul Museum will be newly trying out hanbok in the upcoming months, Park Ju-young, a project manager at the Hanbok Advancement Centers business team, told The Korea Herald. Park hopes that the underlying prejudices about hanbok, such as the perceptions of its heavy and impractical material, can be changed through showcases that present hanbok as daily wear.Designers of the hanbok business casual attire on show will speak about their work at 2 p.m. on Friday at Culture Station Seoul 284. Individual consultation is available by contacting Hanbok Advancement Center at [email protected], or calling (070)-4007-5010.By Kim Hae-yeon ( [email protected]
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http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20210601000840
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Who Will Win Euro 2020?
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Euro 2020 will begin in June 2021, which sounds absurd. Even though the prestigious football tournament was postponed last year because of the global pandemic, UEFA decided to keep the tournaments name. Presumably, theyd ordered and paid for too much merchandise to justify scrapping and replacing it with something that bears the correct date. We know that Ireland wont be there after missing out on a place through the agony of a penalty shoot-out, and Northern Ireland wont be there either. England, Scotland, and Wales have all made the cut, though. With most players suffering the after-effects of effectively playing two domestic seasons back-to-back because of pandemic restrictions, and those same restrictions still playing havoc with the preparations of many countries, this looks like being the hardest Euros to predict in history. Wed probably feel safer betting our money on the Football Star Deluxe casino game than we would on betting on any of the entrants, such is the unpredictable nature of this years tournament. At least you know youre putting your chances into the hands of fate when you are playing at popular online casinos. The problem with betting on football matches is that you can kid yourself that your knowledge might prove useful. Lets give it a try, you can find some of the best UK betting sites reviewed at sistersite.co.uk England Well start with England just because theyre a home nation and their fans always like to believe they have a chance. With this squad, they genuinely might. Englands forward line ought to scare any defence in the world. Nobody in their right mind would relish the prospect of Harry Kane, Jadon Sancho, Raheem Sterling, Mason Greenwood, and Phil Foden lining up against them. Foden, in particular, might be the best young player in the world right now. The question is whether manager Gareth Southgate will play to the teams strengths. Southgate is a defensively-minded coach, and Englands defence is their weakness. The team doesnt have a settled goalkeeper, and an injury to Harry Maguire has made a shaky backline even shakier. If England pushes forward, they could beat just about anybody if luck is on their side. If they hang back which history tells us is what Southgate will want them to do theyre unlikely to fulfil their potential. France The French team that won the 2018 World Cup only appears to have got better since then. Kylian Mbappe, who was one of the stars of that tournament, has another three years of experience and looks deadly. Karim Benzema has finally returned to the fold and offers even more of a threat upfront. Paul Pogba always seems to turn up for France in a way that he struggles to emulate in England with Manchester United. Theres a question mark about Hugo Lloris in goal after a bad season with Spurs, but hes got Raphael Varane in front of them. It will take a very, very good team to stop France winning the tournament. Perhaps nobody can. Portugal The last time the Euros were held which was five years ago now Portugal finished as winners. The general perception of Portugal is that the team isnt as strong as it was then. Thats not the same as saying theyre no longer a threat, though. They still have Cristiano Ronaldo, and even at 36, hes still one of the best players on the planet. They also have Bruno Fernandes, who almost single-handedly dragged Manchester United into a Europa League Final and Champions League qualification this season. Although nobody really values the Nations League as a competition, Portugal has also won that trophy since its Euros triumph. Theyre probably dark horses this time around, but dark horses sometimes win. Belgium We all know how good Belgium are. They were semi-finalists at the 2018 World Cup and were probably unlucky not to make the final. This is a team that contains both Kevin de Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku. You cant fail to score goals with de Bruyne putting the ball at Lukakus feet or on his head. Lets not forget that they also have Eden Hazard, although both his form and his fitness appear to have deserted him since he left Chelsea for Real Madrid. Courtois is a reliable goalkeeper, too. Belgium has an astonishing amount of strength in depth for such a small country and is overdue to win major international honours. This could be the tournament in which their time finally comes. Italy Never, ever, write off the Italians. They might have dropped off a little perhaps more than a little in the past decade, but this squad still contains Ciro Immobile, Lorenzo Insigne, and Marco Verratti. They still have Bonucci and Chiellini at the back. Gianluigi Donnarumma is unlikely to give much away between the posts. Italian teams have a long history of winning when it matters most, and theres only one tournament in the world thats bigger than the Euros. More importantly, theyre coming into the tournament on the back of an unbeaten run that stretches back 25 games. They might not be as exciting to watch as the great Italian teams of the past, but they still pose a threat, and its one that ought to be taken seriously. Surprises are always possible at this tournament. We learned that when Greece famously went all the way in 2004. That being said, wed be surprised if anyone other than one of the five teams weve named ends up victorious. Youll notice that weve left Spain and Germany out, and with good reason. The Spanish team that won the World Cup in 2010 has gone backwards at speed since then, with no real goal threat and a squad that doesnt contain a single Real Madrid player. Germany recently lost to Macedonia and appear to be out of both time and ideas under departing boss Joachim Low. If either of them wins it, well look like fools, but stranger things have happened. Soon, though, the talking will be over. The tournament is upon us, and we cant wait to get started! LiveScores Now Available at IrishScores.com
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https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/soccer/who-will-win-euro-2020/
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Could Ohio States Braxton Miller have made it as an NFL quarterback if he hadnt injured his shoulder?
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COLUMBUS, Ohio -- If Ohio State quarterback Braxton Miller hadnt injured his shoulder in the Orange Bowl to end the 2013 college football season, he would have been no worse than the sixth quarterback taken in the 2014 NFL Draft. The first-rounders that year were Blake Bortles, Johnny Manziel and Teddy Bridgewater, with Derek Carr and Jimmy Garoppolo in the second round. Virginia Techs Logan Thomas was the sixth QB off the board, taken in Round 4, and nobody was taking Thomas ahead of a healthy Miller back then. As the NFL was starting to change how it viewed and valued quarterbacks who could run, a healthy Miller could have entered the league during the transition. He probably would have been even better off a few years later, after Lamar Jackson really showed the league how a quarterback with great wheels could tear defenses apart. And he definitely would have been better off in the NFL as a quarterback as opposed to a receiver, the position he was drafted at in the third round in 2016. Miller as a third-round NFL quarterback would have been rare and surprising. At receiver, he was another guy with speed, but without the hands, experience or technique of life-long receivers. Whenever talk turns to the changing world of name, image and likeness in college sports, my mind often turns to Miller and the kind of money he could have made in college as an endorser while operating as virtually a one-man offense for the Buckeyes in 2012 and 2013. But thinking of Miller as a brand undersells him as an athlete. Thinking of him as a speedster undersells him as a football player. And thinking of him as a receiver undersells him as a quarterback. This idea has been something Ive wanted to talk out for a long time, and I found the perfect partner to join the discussion in Beau Bishop, who talks college football on the radio while co-hosting Bishop & Laurinaitis at 97.1 The Fan in Columbus and NFL football while co-hosting Cleveland Browns Daily at 850 ESPN in Cleveland. So we discussed it on this Tuesday Buckeye Talk. And we both think Miller as an NFL quarterback had a chance to work. A healthy Miller would have likely entered the NFL in 2014. Instead, his arrival was delayed two years until 2016 by his injury, two shoulder surgeries and the position switch. In a world without suffering that torn labrum at the hands of Clemson, some NFL team would have taken the chance to find ways for him to succeed, the way the Ravens did it ideally with Jackson in Baltimore. Were not saying Miller would have been as effective as Jackson. Were saying if Jackson could be the league MVP, Miller could have made it as a starter. Look at the way the league changed, and how the changes fit Millers skills as an exceptional runner and good-enough passer. Here are the number of 100-yard rushing games by quarterbacks in the seven seasons from 2014 to 2020, which could have been Millers first seven NFL seasons, compared to the seven previous seasons, according to research made possible by pro-football-reference.com. 2014-2020: 22 100-yard rushing games by QBs. 2007-2013: 9 100-yard rushing games by QBs. Now here are the same numbers with 75-yard rushing games for quarterbacks. 2014-2020: 66 games of 75 yards rushing by QBs. 2007-2013: 34 games of 75 yards rushing by QBs. Eighteen of those 66 games are by Jackson, but Russell Wilson (10 games since 2014), Cam Newton (nine games), Kyler Murray (five games) and Josh Allen (four games) also brought quarterback running, planned or unplanned, into a typical quarterbacks day. Miller was often a run-first quarterback in Urban Meyers offense, especially in 2012, so the stats are a bit skewed. But in basically 23 full games as Ohio States quarterback in 2012 and 2013, Miller ran for at least 75 yards 14 times. And 11 of those 14 were over 100 yards. But he could also drop a deep ball right in the bucket. The arm strength got it done, and an NFL offense would have found ways to make him effective as a passer -- so he could be explosive as a runner. I think hes the next coming of Michael Vick, an OSU source told me in January 2014 after Miller announced he was staying at Ohio State. But maybe more dynamic as a runner. That was going too far. Vick threw ropes in a way that Miller never did. But back then, the Buckeyes believed a healthy Miller at quarterback in 2014 had a chance to be a first-round pick if he improved as much from his junior year to his senior year as he did from his sophomore year to his junior year. We never got to see it. But Ill always think about, especially while watching this generation of NFL quarterbacks. Miller, maybe, could have been one of them. If youve never listened to Buckeye Talk, try it now. And subscribe to Buckeye Talk on any of these podcast platforms or wherever you listen to podcasts. Buckeye Talk on iTunes Buckeye Talk on Spotify Buckeye Talk on Google Play More Buckeyes coverage Christian Davis, 2023 Miamisburg 3-star RB prospect, ready to impress his dream school during Ohio State camp What a return to No. 1 in the Associated Press poll will eventually mean for Ohio State football Were Justin Fields Ohio State receivers better than his No. Hey, Stephen What J.T. - Fields Bears jersey: Ohio State football fans can purchase Justin Fields new Chicago Bears jersey here. Its available in white, blue and orange and in mens, womens and youth sizes. Theres also a cheaper T-shirt option.
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https://www.cleveland.com/osu/2021/06/could-ohio-states-braxton-miller-have-made-it-as-an-nfl-quarterback-if-he-hadnt-injured-his-shoulder.html
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What is a heat index and how does it work?
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The thermometer doesnt always reflect what it really may feel like outside. LITTLE ROCK, Ark. You hear meteorologists mention heat index or feels-like temperatures all the time whenever we see the return of hot and humid weather. The thermometer doesnt always reflect what it really may feel like outside. The heat index is known as apparent temperature. Its measured by combining both the temperature and the humidity and how it feels like to the human body. High humidity means the air is statured with moisture. When the atmosphere becomes too saturated, itll stop absorbing the water vapor. When you sweat during high humidity conditions, it becomes more difficult for the sweat to evaporate. Itll be harder for the body to also regulate its temperature, which is why itll feel hotter. A little bit of wind can help with the evaporation process to make you feel cooler, which is why a fan really helps. The heat index is measured under shady conditions and light winds, so heat index values could be up to 15 degrees higher when exposed to the sun directly. Its different with wind chill, which is based on how quickly exposed skin loses heat in the wind under clear, dry, and cold conditions. The National Weather Service heat index chart has different colors that correspond to the caution level one should take based off exposure or strenuous activity. Lets compare a city with temperatures in the 90s that has humidity levels above 50% versus a city in the desert with triple digit heat and humidity below 15%. Itll feel hotter in the city with the temperatures in the 90s vs. the one in the 100s because of the humidity. If the humidity is low enough, the heat index could be lower than the actual temperature. Well begin to see these 80 to 90 degree days more often, with July and August being our hottest months here in the mid-South.
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https://www.localmemphis.com/article/weather/heat-index-and-how-does-it-work/91-f8019204-ce19-4b71-b995-81b57962fd45
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Was bedeutet eigentlich Achtsamkeit?
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Osnabrck. Fr die einen ist Achtsamkeit eine glckbringende Lebensphilosophie, die anderen sehen darin kaschierten Egoismus. Unstrittig ist die Popularitt der Achtsamkeit, trotz oder gerade wegen Corona. Antworten von Achtsamkeitsforscherin Christiane Leiste. Ja, ich sorge mich jeden Tag um den Zustand der Welt. Aber ich verzweifle nicht, weil das nichts bringt. Wenn ich keine Hoffnung htte, wrde ich aufgeben und das kommt fr mich nicht in Frage. Ich bin der festen berzeugung, dass ich der Welt am besten helfe, indem ich eine positive Einstellung habe und diese auch vermittle. Das finde ich gerade als Mitarbeiterin einer Hochschule wichtig, denn leider verzweifeln immer wieder die Studierenden. Sie lehren Achtsamkeit an der Hochschule Osnabrck. Auf das Thema bin ich schon als 19-Jhrige gestoen, nur gab es damals den Begriff Achtsamkeit noch nicht, man sprach von Meditation oder kontemplativen Methoden. Wenn ich Achtsamkeit definieren sollte, wrde ich auf die Definition des Achtsamkeitsforschers Jon Kabat-Zinn zurckgreifen: Achtsamkeit ist Gewahrsein, das kultiviert wird, indem wir in andauernder und bestimmter Weise aufmerksam sind: mit Absicht, im gegenwrtigen Moment und ohne Beurteilung. Damit gepaart gehen sieben Grundhaltungen: Nicht-Urteilen, Geduld, Anfngergeist, Vertrauen, Nicht-Erzwingen, Akzeptanz und Loslassen. Frher dachte man, es gibt einen Stimmungssollwert, der einem in die Wiege gelegt wird. Nach dem Motto: Ein Griesgram ist vielleicht ein halbes Jahr happy, wenn er im Lotto gewonnen hat, aber danach ist er eh wieder griesgrmig. Umgekehrt wrde dasselbe gelten: Frohnaturen trotzen jedem Schicksalsschlag, als gbe es am Stimmungssollwert nichts zu diskutieren. Mittlerweile wissen wir aber, dass es doch nicht so einfach ist, vor allem aus der Forschung des Psychologen Richard Davidson. Aber: Ja, man kann Glck lernen, zum Beispiel durch Meditation oder Mitgefhlspraktiken. Das sind sogenannte Happiness Skills, zu denen Achtsamkeit, aber auch tiefes Zuhren, Konfliktmanagement, Mitgefhl und auch Selbstmitgefhl zhlen. Die erste Grundlage der Achtsamkeit richtet sich auf Atem und Krper. Wir fangen mit Atembungen an, bei denen sich die Studierenden auf nichts anderes als ihren Atem fokussieren sollen. Viele merken dann schnell: Das ist schwieriger, als es sich anhrt. Die zweite Grundlage ist die Achtsamkeit auf die Gefhle. Wir schauen also, welche Gefhle in einem herrschen, und lernen, sie zu akzeptieren. Die Studierenden erfahren, dass sie nicht ihre Gefhle sind, sondern sie wahrnehmen. Das schafft eine gewisse Distanz zu den unangenehmen Gefhlen, denn viel zu oft sind wir auf das Negative fokussiert. In der Wissenschaft spricht man deshalb vom negativity bias. Wir wollen aber den Blick fr die positiven Emotionen strken, deshalb fhren die Studierenden ein Dankbarkeitstagebuch, in dem sie jeden Tag alles aufschreiben, wofr sie heute dankbar sind. Die dritte Grundlage besteht aus der Achtsamkeit auf die Gedanken. Unser Gehirn sondert Gedanken ab wie die Speicheldrse Speichel. Wenn man sich dessen bewusst ist, kann man wahrnehmen, was eigentlich im Geist vor sich geht. Wir ben, die Gedanken und das Denken selbst zu beobachten. Im besten Fall lernen die Studierenden, wie sie mit ihrer Gefhlswelt umgehen, zum Beispiel durch Gleichmut oder Gelassenheit, also Gedanken und Gefhle akzeptieren, ohne von ihnen beherrscht zu werden. Alle. Man muss nicht in einem bestimmten Fach eingeschrieben sein. Nur ist die Nachfrage sehr gro. Ich gebe pro Semester drei Kurse fr je 25 Studierende. Zum Teil erreichen mich aber 70 bis 80 Anmeldungen fr einige der Kurse. Dann muss leider das Los entscheiden. Soweit ich wei, ist das nur eine Zusatzleistung Zum einen gibt es einen Hype in der Gesellschaft. Gehen Sie nur mal in den nchstbesten Bahnhofskiosk. Dort werden Sie erschlagen von der Masse an Hochglanzheften zum Thema Achtsamkeit. Viele denken sich dann: Wenn ich demnchst in den Beruf wechsle und ein solches Zertifikat vorweisen kann, kann das nicht schaden. Zum anderen: Es kommen viele Studierende, die leiden, denen es psychisch nicht gut geht. Gerade sie hoffen, etwas in den Kursen fr sich zu finden. Viele interessieren sich einfach fr das Thema oder haben auch schon Vorerfahrungen und Vorkenntnisse. Sie wollen das dann vertiefen, ihre Praxis auffrischen und neue Anregungen erhalten. Bislang sind die Achtsamkeitskurse tatschlich eine freiwillige Zusatzleistung. Allerdings knnen ab dem kommenden Semester alle Studierenden das Modul Mindful Leadership als Wahlpflichtfach belegen und mit 5 ECTS-Punkten abrechnen. Sie sprechen einen Kritikpunkt an, denn hufig wird Achtsamkeit als Lifestyle-Lehre belchelt: ein bisschen Yoga und Meditation, schon bin ich fit fr die berstunden. An den eigentlichen Problemen rttelt die Achtsamkeit nicht. Diese Tendenz zur Selbstoptimierung durch Achtsamkeit gibt es auf jeden Fall. Mich persnlich trifft diese Kritik aber nicht. Ich setze sehr stark auf die achtsamen Haltungen wie Mitgefhl und Selbstmitgefhl, die den Menschen nahe gehen. Erst krzlich habe ich das Learning Journal von einem Studenten gelesen, der in der Einleitung schrieb: Ich habe den Kurs nur belegt, weil ich dachte, das kommt spter als Qualifikation gut, wenn ich mich bewerbe. Schon in der zweiten Sitzung hat sich das Blatt gewendet. Pltzlich schrieb er davon, dass er tiefe Erfahrungen macht und den Kurs nun aus anderen Motiven belegt. Da erbrigt sich meiner Meinung nach jede Kritik. Trotzdem wird der Achtsamkeit vorgehalten sie gbe einzig individuelle Antworten auf gesellschaftliche Fragen. Achtsamkeit ist kein Wellness-Programm, das ich nur mache, um es mir gut gehen zu lassen. Durch das Praktizieren von Achtsamkeit und Mitgefhl ndert sich die Einstellung zu mir selbst, zu anderen, zu Natur und Welt. Tanja Singer hat mit ihrem Forschungsteam am Leipziger Max-Planck-Institut darber das bisher weltweit grte Forschungsprojekt durchgefhrt: das ReSource Projekt. Sie konnten nachweisen, dass sich die Hirnstrukturen durch bestimmte Arten der Mitgefhlsmeditationen ndern, dass Menschen mehr Mitgefhl fr andere und fr die Welt entwickeln, gepaart mit dem Impuls zu helfen. Das prosoziale Verhalten verndert sich zum Positiven und die Menschen werden glcklicher. Das bedeutet ja nicht, dass wir nicht mehr aktiv sind, in NGOs, Initiativen und der Politik. Im Gegenteil, wir wollen erst recht helfen und wirksam werden. Ja, ich habe die Hoffnung, dass Corona auch eine gute Seite hat. Ich hoffe, dass die Menschen ihre Gewohnheiten berdenken und sich die Entschleunigung fortsetzt. Ich will nicht, dass die neue Normalitt so aussieht, dass wir uns nur noch ber Videocalls sehen, sondern dass wir mehr auf Umwelt und Klima achten, besser mit uns selbst und einander umgehen. Eine der Grundhaltungen der Achtsamkeit ist das Nicht-Streben. Ich beobachte, dass meine Studierende oft das Gegenteil leben ich will, ich muss immer mehr, mehr, mehr. Nicht-Streben heit aber, zufrieden zu sein mit dem, was ist, Akzeptanz und Mitgefhl ben. Raus aus dem Wettkampf und hinein ins Miteinander. Das wre mein Wunsch fr die Studierenden. Lesen Sie mehr zum Thema Achtsamkeit und Rituale fr die Seele.
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https://www.noz.de/anzeigen/ratgeber/artikel/2325085/was-bedeutet-eigentlich-achtsamkeit
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Whats the best food to eat in an airport?
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Gordon Ramsays restaurant in Hong Kong International Airport in 2019 Photo : Budrul Chukrut/SOPA Images/LightRocket ( Getty Images ) Weve been cooped up for 15 months and now that weve got those COVID antibodies shot into our arms, we are ready to move. The best way to get really far away really quickly is by flying. Which means a trip to the airport. Advertisement We know our memories have edited out some of the worst aspects of travel, like the middle seat, the screaming child, the long security lines, the ceremonial removal of the shoes, the overpriced snacks, etc., etc., etc. Instead, were imagining the airport world of our dreams, where everything runs smoothly, where planes are never late, where the smell of Auntie Annes is the sweetest perfume, where we go to the airport to... eat! Fine dining in an airport corridor Arrival at the airport is, to me, a sign that vacation is starting, and that means the purse strings loosen and it no longer seems ludicrous to pay $10 for a hot dog. If I have the time, Ill get the best meal I can find. Last time I flew out of OHare, I happened to be in Terminal 3, home of Publican Tavern, an offshoot of the Chicago restaurant The Publican. I was on my way to a weeklong dog sledding and winter camping trip in northern Minnesota at the time, so I decided I would give myself some fuel to burn and treat myself to a nice, greasy, meaty breakfast. The part I remember most vividly now is the coffee, served in a nice china cup. I knew it would be my last real, brewed coffee for a while. There was something beautiful about savoring it in an airport corridor as people rushed by. Farewell, civilization. (And, it turned out, farewell airport dining.) Aimee Levitt Keep it (very, very) simple While I absolutely agree with Aimee on her above recommendation of Publican Taverns greasy, meaty breakfast platter, I like to keep things a little simpler before I fly, just in case its a bumpy ride and motion sickness starts feeding on whatever I last ate. A plain hot dog is the perfect airport food before any domestic flight, no matter what time takeoff is. For one thing, an undressed hot dogwere talking wiener in bun, nothing moreis less likely to break the bank than other airport foods sold at a steep markup. Furthermore, its portion size hits the spot without leaving you too full or too bloated before your body experiences unwelcome changes in altitude. Its an order that can be fulfilled quicker than lots of other counter service options. And if youre late to your gate, it can be easily snarfed before your boarding group is called. For more on why the plain hot dog is the perfect food (there are reasons aplenty), head here. Marnie Shure Cuisine for when Everything Is Fine Im a very, very nervous flyer, largely because of my loosely Pentecostal grandmother who taught me that Satan can read your thoughts and will use your weaknesses to tempt you out of the light. Im pretty sure she was referring to, like, cussing and R-rated movies, but I took it to mean that if I ever allow myself to acknowledge my fear of flyingeven internallymy plane will instantly drop out of the sky. For this reason, I still take the everything is fine approach when gearing up for air travel, and that approach calls for Panda Express orange chicken. Located in most major airport food courts, Panda Express offers deep-fried imitation Chinese food that leaves me feeling so sick, I dont have the energy to acknowledge my terror upon takeoff. And if I cant think about my plane crashing, Ol Scratch will probably move on to feast on someone elses fears. Youre welcome, fellow passengers. Lillian Stone
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https://thetakeout.com/best-food-to-eat-at-the-airport-1846977101
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Did 50 Cent Just Challenge Snoop Dogg to a Rap Battle?
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Image via Many men may have wished death upon 50 Cent, but he says hes only willing to battle just two hip-hop heavyweights: Ludacris, and the Boss Dogg himself, Snoop. 50 Cent, whose legal name is Curtis Jackson, was asked who he would like to face in a rap battle during a live interview with La La Anthony on Instagram last week. Without hesitation, he dropped Snoops name. "Snoop's catalog would probably do it," 50 Cent told La La Anthony, referring to the Doggfathers long, extensive career in the rap game. "Outside of that, wait maybe, um who else, who else?" he asked as he considered another opponent, Hot New Hip Hop reported. "It would be fun to do Ludacris." A rap battle between Snoop and 50 would be interesting, though cordial. The two rap icons collaborated in the past, notably when Snoop flowed over a remix of 50 Cents hit 2003 PIMP. The Snoop version, retitled CRIP, dropped the same year as PIMP and featured 50 Cents G-Unit homies, Young Buck and Lloyd Banks. Later in the Instagram interview, La La Anthony wondered what other rap-battle matchups 50 Cent would like to see. 50 replied hes been patiently waiting to see Fabolous go at Mase. Mase has been on hiatus from rap since 2017, after quitting rap for the first time in 1999, becoming a minister, then making two comebacks years later. Both men share many victories and milestones, so itd be tough for either to jab at the others lack of success. For instance, both Snoop and 50 transitioned from the rap game to television production and Hollywood films. Both rappers sold albums that reached platinum status. Both have Grammys. Both rappers have bars for days. However, Snoop does have something 50 does not: A Guinness World Record for mixing the worlds largest glass gin and juice , ever. But we may be biased when it comes to favoring the Doggfather.
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https://merryjane.com/news/did-50-cent-just-challenge-snoop-dogg-to-a-rap-battle
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Is the new Garda GACU Ireland's version of AC-12 in The Line of Duty?
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The Garda have launched a set of new policies to guide the work of its recently formed Garda Anti-Corruption Unit (GACU). The unit, which could be seen as the garda's version of AC-12 in the hit show Line of Duty, was established in November 2020 under the Governments A Policing Service For Our Future plan. It has developed several policies to support a safe and ethical workplace. The Garda say these include the overarching Anti-Corruption Policy, the Professional Boundaries and Abuse of Power for Sexual Gain Policy, as well as the Substance Misuse (Controlled Drugs) Policy, which are all being published internally and externally today. Drug testing of Garda personnel will start no sooner than six months time. The force says the new anti-corruption policies will help promote the highest levels of honesty, integrity and professionalism within the organisation, while enhancing public confidence in the policing service. GACU is headed by a Chief Superintendent and two Detective Superintendents supported by 23 Garda across remaining ranks. Pat Clavin said is the Garda Assistant Commissioner, Governance and Accountability. "Maintaining full public confidence in the work of An Garda Sochna depends on all Garda personnel demonstrating the highest levels of personal and professional standards of behaviour. Each and every person working in An Garda Sochna is rightfully expected to treat the public they serve with dignity and respect. "An Garda Sochna has an obligation to protect people from the risks and effects of corrupt behaviour, and to prevent and prosecute any form of corruption that impacts upon the delivery of a quality policing service to the community served. "There is no tolerance whatsoever for those within our organisation that may choose to abuse their position of trust for their own personal gain or those whose behaviour falls below our standards. "The vast majority of Garda personnel conduct themselves honestly and professionally, and the work of the Anti-Corruption Unit will help support and protect them. "These policies will allow us to continue preventing and minimising the risk of corruption, safeguard the integrity of our organisation, as well as fully support our own personnel to carry out their duties safely and effectively. The three Garda policies are available on Garda.ie.
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https://www.leinsterexpress.ie/news/crime-and-courts/637788/is-the-new-garda-gacu-ireland-s-version-of-ac12-in-the-line-of-duty.html
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Did Ashton Kutcher Get George W. Bushs Daughters High with a Bong?
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Ashton Kutcher, the star of the hit series That 70s Show, hosted a party where the the Bush twins got high on weed. Or so says his ex-wife, Demi Moore, in her new autobiography, Inside Out. According to Moore, back in 2001, Kutchers pad was essentially a straight-up LA party house, she wrote. From there, she recounted a story about Kutcher, the former First Daughters, and a bong. One night, Kutcher had some unusually high-profile guests at his home: the Bush twins, Jenna and Barbara. At the time, George W. Bush had just begun his first term as President of the United States, and Kutcher was transitioning from TV star to one of Hollywoods elites. Moore wrote that, during the party, the Bush twins got lit AF on weed. Although Moore was neither living at the house nor dating Kutcher at the time, she wrote that the twins ended up doing bong hits at that house at one of Ashton's parties. In 2003, Kutcher relayed the same story to Rolling Stone , though some of the details slightly differed from Moores account. He said that he met the Bush twins at a Nike party after his friend, Matt, pointed them out. They all went back to Kutchers crib, where Kutcher claimed that Matt got the twins high behind the closed doors of one of his bedrooms. And furthermore, Kutcher says Matt and the twins were hitting weed out of a hookah, not a bong. According to Kutcher, the Bush-twins incident took place sometime around 2001, so the former presidents daughters wouldve been about 20-years-old at that time. Kutcher confirmed this in the 2003 interview, when he said, The Bushes were underage-drinking at my house. Gallery The Famous & 420-Friendly: Jenna and Barbara Bush were known for being extremely hard partiers back then. One memoir written by a Secret Service agent claimed that they would often run red lights or sneak off on late-night rides in order to ditch their 24/7 security detail. The memoir also claimed that they used fake IDs to buy booze and would regularly go on substance-fueled benders just like their dad used to . Today, Jenna and Barbara live the kinds of lives that would make any strait-laced Republican proud. Jenna is now Jenna Bush Hager, and she hosts a morning talk show on NBC, Today with Hoda & Jenna. Barbara Bush co-founded and currently runs Global Health Corps, a non-profit thats bringing modern healthcare solutions to Africa. As for Moore and Kutcher, they got married in 2005 but divorced in 2013. Inside Out has made waves due to Moores criticisms of Kutchers behavior during their relationship, which alleges Kutchers gross insensitivity toward Moores struggles with alcoholism. She claimed Kutcher pushed her into breaking her sobriety, while simultaneously shaming her alcohol abuse by posting photos of her drunk on social media. Kutcher denies that he was shaming her, and said he only posted the photos in good humor.
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https://merryjane.com/news/did-ashton-kutcher-get-george-w-bushs-daughters-high-with-a-bong
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Did the UNs Anti-Narcotics Board Just Recommend Decriminalizing Drugs Globally?
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A new report from the United Nations International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) concluded with two recommendations regarding the worldwide cannabis legalization movement. First, governments need to stop punishing their people so harshly just for getting lit. And two, states should hit pause on legalizing recreational pot until new international drug treaties can be negotiated among nations. The two recommendations came at the end of the INCBs latest annual report . The INCB is an independent organization that interprets drug laws and policies on behalf of the United Nations. However, the INCB does not have any legal authority, nor can it enforce any of the UNs drug control policies. In other words, like many UN agencies, it can tell countries what to do, but it cant actually make those countries do anything. Regarding weed legalization, the INCB wrote : The Board notes with concern the legalization of cannabis for non-medical and non-scientific purposes in several jurisdictions and that other jurisdictions are considering taking similar action. The Board reiterates that the 1961 Convention as amended, the 1971 Convention and the 1988 Convention limit the use of all controlled substances to medical and scientific purposes. The three conventions mentioned above are international treaties that basically made the War on Drugs a global phenomenon. All UN member states signed the treaties, though some, like Nepal, did not agree to every clause laid out in the conventions. Under the treaties, all member states agreed to treat marijuana as a dangerous, addictive drug, though they could craft policies to permit limited medical use of cannabis and cannabis-derived products. Nepal, to date, is the only nation that demanded it be allowed to license recreational pot for an indeterminate period of time. That portion of Nepals agreement with the UN is still in effect . The INCB went on to declare all recreational weed legalization, regardless of voter referendums or the collective will of the local people, in violation of the UNs treaties. But the board did note that it had spoken with individual weed-legal jurisdictions to better understand why those places decided to defy the international conventions and, most importantly, that the INCB took those reasons into serious consideration. So, to be fair, the INCB suggested a quick fix for these treaty conflicts, at least until theres a new convention treaty signed by all nation states. In the section immediately following the part that cries about legalizing weed, the INCB wrote : The fundamental goal of the international drug control conventions, to safeguard the health and welfare of humanity, includes the full enjoyment of human rights. State actions that violate human rights in the name of drug control policy are inconsistent with the international drug control conventions. Basically, the INCB is saying that drug control policies are supposed to protect people. Instead, over the past half century that the UN has maintained these treaties, cops in the US have used civil asset forfeiture to rob Americans of billions of dollars worth of property, even when those Americans arent convicted of any crimes. And while there are too many stories of unarmed Americans getting shot and killed by overworked and under-trained cops over a suspected bag of weed or cocaine, low-level drug dealers in the Philippines are literally being executed in the streets , without trial, by vigilantes under President Dutertes atrocious counterdrug program. The UN itself has been loosening up toward its own place in the global drug war, too. Recently, the World Health Organization (WHO), the UNs public health agency, has been considering reclassifying marijuana to a less restrictive scheduling , or even removing the plant from scheduling altogether. Anyway, heres the INCBs easy fix for the tragic War on Drugs and its devastating consequences, according to its own report : States are not legally required by the international drug control conventions to impose criminal sanctions, including imprisonment, but may provide for treatment and rehabilitation measures as an alternative to conviction or punishment. [emphasis ours] So, were not saying that the UNs anti-drug policy board is telling countries that they can win the War on Drugs by simply decriminalizing drug use, possession, and possibly even sales but it sure as fuck looks that way .
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https://merryjane.com/news/did-the-uns-anti-narcotics-board-just-recommend-decriminalizing-drugs-globally
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Why was the mob in L.A. so much quieter than Chicago or New York?
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Chicago, probably. New York, maybe. Detroit, possibly. But surely not Los Angeles. Pull up a chair, kids. Advertisement L.A.s mobsters were few in number, and maybe they were wearing board shorts under those topcoats yes, I joke but organized crime rackets and L.A. go way back together, and also way up, from City Hall and the LAPD, and down to speakeasys, vice dens, gambling joints and brothels. Our sunshine racketeers werent Capone-grade, but Al Capone did come to town a couple of times. The first time, in December 1927, he was a guest at the Biltmore Hotel for a day or two before his incognito was blown and the cops hustled him back on a train to Chicago. I thought you liked tourists! he complained to The Times then. Who ever heard of anybody being run out of Los Angeles that had money? The second time, in 1939, he stayed for about 10 months as a guest of the federal prison hospital on Terminal Island. Al Capones arrival at the Terminal Island jail was front-page news in January 1939. (Los Angeles Times archive) From the years before Prohibition until well after the Second World War and even into the Disco Decade when gangs had come to mean drug and street gangs organized crime ran a full-service range of criminality: kickbacks, loan sharking, extortion, payoffs, shakedowns. As if. In the 1920s and beyond, L.A. mobsters found themselves in vigorous criminal competition with the graft operations being run boldly out of the mayors office and parts of the LAPD. There were times when Angelenos must have wondered whether the police vice squad was for vice or against it. Explaining L.A. With Patt Morrison Los Angeles is a complex place. In this weekly feature, Patt Morrison is explaining how it works, its history and its culture. Read more from Patt Morrison L.A.s criminal backstory gets mugshot-detailed scrutiny in a new book, Los Angeles Underworld, a kind of illustrated scrapbook of organized crime and its civic cousin. Its central figure is Jack Dragna, a man The Times once said was perhaps the only classic godfather that the city has ever known. Its written by Avi Bash and J. Michael Niotta Dragnas great-grandson. Advertisement L.A. had far fewer Italians than did New York, but Sicilians like Dragna came out West because either they were on the lam, or because they were ranchers or farmers as they had been back in Sicily, Niotta told me. The climate in Southern California was very similar to Sicily. And before Prohibition, I wouldnt say it was an organization so much as maybe local criminals and loose confederations. Prohibition is what gave them a reason to organize and come together. If they were going to keep the money coming in, they had to come together to deal with another mob called the Combination, the Spring Street clique officials who used the authority of City Hall to profit from the same criminal delights that enriched the mob, sometimes working in competition, sometimes hand in glove. Joe Domanick, an authority on the LAPDs history, described it in The Times: The LAPDs central vice squad was on the take; and a loose, organized-crime syndicate was protected by the top aide of Mayor George Cryer. It wasnt violent, big-time, high-profile, Chicago-style organized crime. But its corrupting influence was just as real. In the next decade, Mayor Frank Shaw ratcheted up the racket. He scammed city projects and contracts, and his brother sold the answers to LAPD hiring exams to candidates he favored. The long-gone magazine Liberty wrote in 1940 that in the 20 years before Shaw was recalled, in 1938, the city of Los Angeles had been, almost uninterruptedly, run by an underworld government invisible to the average citizen. Advertisement When the mob wasnt competing with City Hall profiteers, it was paying them off. A 1937 grand jury minority report by some city reformers made it plain: [A] portion of the underworld profits have been used in financing campaigns [of] . . . city and county officials in vital positions . . . [While] the district attorneys office, sheriffs office, and Los Angeles Police Department work in complete harmony and never interfere with . . . important figures in the underworld. Like a dissatisfied customer posting a Yelp rating, mobster Tony Cornero, whose happenin offshore gambling ships were the recent subject of a Times article, was said to have complained that he wasnt getting the police protection he had paid for. Prohibition in California had leveraged small-time operators into the big leagues. Because the Volstead Act the operating manual for Prohibition arguably loopholed 200 gallons of non-intoxicating ciders and fruit juices for an individuals personal use, wink-wink, men like Dragna earned the gratitude of Inland Empire wine-grape growers by buying up and brokering grapes for the newly furtive wine trade. The mob added hard liquor to its menu, which amped up the hardcore crime and intra-gang battles it took to protect the bootleg racket, into the mix with prostitution, gambling and the like. If things didnt get too bloody too publicly, the city and the mob could keep a lid on things. As long as it was quiet, no bloodshed in the streets, Niotta figures, then it was fine, because [L.A.] wanted to have this image of a family-friendly, fun, touristy place. But they also wanted these vices discreetly. Advertisement But if crime got overloud, and moral crusaders demanded a banners-flying campaign against vice, the blue uniforms in the white spot city obligingly went in for crime theater and made enough penny-ante busts couples drinking hooch in parked cars, random hapless hookers, sidewalk craps players, Italian families pouring Chianti at Sunday suppers to quiet the indignant. The big fish kept getting bigger. After World War II especially, racketeers moved in on the popularity of restaurants and nightclubs. They leaned on the owners, or owned clubs themselves. Dragnas Club Alabam, says his great-grandson, earned him a snazzy reputation as a cafe man. Advertisement Nightclubs attracted movie stars, and the movies attracted the mob the way they attracted everyone else. Even in his abbreviated stay here, Capone managed to take a tour of stars homes. A good-looking fellow named Johnny Rosselli was organized crimes point man for its studio shakedowns. (One of Rossellis criminal stage names was Jimmy Hendricks.) He pulled the strings of some studio unions to extort moguls with the threat of strikes eventually he was convicted of extortion but he was enough of a creature of Hollywood himself that he married an actress and produced a couple of crime films. He never got closer than his shoe-leather to a Hollywood Walk of Fame star, but you have to hand it to the man: He does have an IMDb listing. Niotta thinks that it was L.A.s almost idiotically complex civic sprawl so many cities, so many city council members, so many cops and sheriffs that paradoxically helped to keep organized crime from getting any more organized. It was just too expensive to recruit and pay off enough people in every city and police enforcement agency, so if you were paying off the cops in [one] area, theres always another pair of hands. Courageous clean-government crusaders began to sanitize L.A. city government, but organized crime didnt flag. A new generation of Italian and Jewish mobsters found L.A. to be fun and profitable. This was the legendary age of the West Coast mob: Dragna and the glamorous Bugsy Siegel elbowing into the racing news wire racket before Siegel was rubbed out perhaps for not delivering on his big Las Vegas plans; Dragna trying to rub out Mickey Cohen for defying him. Advertisement The killing of Bugsy Siegel in his Beverly Hills home in June 1947 made the front page of the L.A. Times. (Los Angeles Times archive) And all the while, legalized vices in Nevada were beginning to leach the dirty lucre out of L.A. After Siegels murder, The Times editorialized sternly that Los Angeles was No Winter Resort for Racketeers. Dragna was more than 25 years in his grave when Daryl F. Gates, the chief of the LAPD, summoned a news conference in the fall of 1984 and triumphantly announced a score of bookmaking conspiracy arrests, including the local mob capo, in Operation Lightweight. We feel the name is appropriate because organized crime is such a lightweight in Southern California, said the chief, with the note of acid mockery that reporters knew well. As for mob families, he taunted them as the Mickey Mouse Mafia. Advertisement By 1996, the California attorney generals report on Organized Crime in California dwelled on the dangers of Russian mobsters and Asian street gangs, and was practically dismissive of traditional organized crime as ineffective for many years because it has not been able to enforce its territorial control here. And its true, too, that, as Domanick pointed out, the corrupt decades of civic and mob crime in L.A. did ultimately beget the citys clean-government protections like the civil service, and the weak-mayor and commission systems it has today. Through all of his rummaging into his familys history, Niotta found some personal solace in an FBI file he came across quoting an informant who said, in Niottas words, that Dragna had been disgusted by the fact that the Mexican border was being used by the syndicate for narcotics. And he went back to New York and spoke to the [mafia families] commission about it. It took him a moment. Ive got about a million questions. If I could only ask one, I would ask one word: Why?
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https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2021-06-01/why-was-the-mob-in-l-a-so-much-quieter-than-chicago-or-new-york
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