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Tag: Cannabition

  • Which Legal Industry Is Bigger Marijuana Or Sports Betting

    Which Legal Industry Is Bigger Marijuana Or Sports Betting

    They are considered vice industries – but the mainstream public love them. But which is bigger? 

    Vice industries have always made lots of money. Alcohol, porn, gambling, marijuana and tobacco. Alcohol is a fully legal and is an over $300 billion industry in the US and Canada. Pornhub, the top site in the category, always ranks high in search – usually in the top 10.  But two are new to the mainstream market, so which legal industry is better marijuana or sports betting?

    RELATED: The Simpsons Predicted Legal Weed So What’s Next

    Sin City is has a big hand in both industries. Gambling, which is different than sports betting, is the backbone of the Las Vegas….but sports betting and marijuana have made big marks. The Westgate is home of Superbook, the the largest sportsbook in the world. With their famed video wall, you can watch, bet and enjoy a fully stocked bar, cocktail service, and plenty of food options.  It is also home to marijuana Planet 13. It is the world’s largest cannabis dispensary, a 115,000-square-foot entertainment complex with dining, a bar, shops, light-sabre-battling robots and an immersive glass-fronted production facility. Soon Cannabition, an interactive, immersive environment will be open as part of the complex.

    Sports betting emerged after the 2018 U.S. Supreme Court verdict finding the federal government’s Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) to be unconstitutional. Until then, the law mandated states could not “sponsor, operate, advertise, promote, license, or authorize by law or compact” sports betting. Now the market for such activity is starting to open up. 

    When Indiana first opened sports betting, the site saw state saw nearly $440 million in wagers, according to the Indiana Gaming Commission. And all of this cash was generated, too, without making much change to the current infrastructure. The state and business owners are making money.

    In 1996, California became the first state legalize medical marijuana legislation with the Compassionate Use Act. Colorado became the first state to legalize recreational marijuana in 2014. In 2018, Canada went legal. Now over 50% of the US population has access to legal marijuana and states with fully legal weed release more revenue from cannabis than alcohol. It has become so popular, it is cutting into the beer industry.

    RELATED: What Is California Sober

    So who is better in the growing industries?  Marijuana was a $30 billion industry in 2023. While the same year, Americans wagered a record $119.84 billion on sports betting which translated into $10.92 billion in revenue. So the cannabis industry is currently bigger.  Want to bet if it stays the same or changes?

    Anthony Washington

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  • Vegas Cannabis Exhibit Lands Major Music Collaboration

    Vegas Cannabis Exhibit Lands Major Music Collaboration

    Music friendly Vegas just landed another win with a pairing of Music and Cannabis

    Vegas is home to gambling, fine food, singing Elvises (thin and thick) and millions of tourists. It is also home to great music with Celine Dion, Drake, Elton John, Lady Gaga, Frank Sinatra and more have graced the city’s stages. Last year the buzz was about the MSG Sphere, but a Vegas cannabis exhibit lands major music collaboration is the latest news.  CANNABITION: An Elevated Immersive Experience is following the Sin City tradition of taking something fun and making even bigger.

    RELATED: The Most Popular Marijuana Flavors

    CANNABITION is a 12,000 square-foot cannabis immersive experience which has been developed give an incredible experience. In the Planet 13 complex, it is going visitors an incredible change to delve in the marijuana world. And now, they have brought in cannabis’s natural partner – music. The experience announced a collaboration with renowned composer, music producer, record label owner Tom Rothrock. His work with iconic artists such as Beck, Elliott Smith, Moby, the Foo Fighters, James Blunt and more has had an impact on the industry and is now going to make a mark in Las Vegas.

    His work on Beck’s breakthrough hit “Loser” and his contributions to the albums of multiple Grammy Award-winning artists have cemented his status as a visionary in the field. Rothrock has also contributed to film scores of “Good Will Hunting,” “Collateral” and “The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie.”

    His vision for CANNABITION is to present a seamless integration of audio and visual elements. The visitor experience will be enhanced through music complementing the interactive, reality-bending exhibits designed by Emmy Award-winning creative director David Korins. The music will range from subtle, film score-like moments to more prominent, rhythmic-driven pieces across an eclectic variety of genres. The audio experience will touch on Latin and American Hip hop paying tribute to cannabis culture. Appealing to a variety of listeners, CANNABITION will also feature everything from ambient to EDM, indie, alternative rock, funk and more.

    Individual exhibits will also feature their own distinct audio identity helping visitors interact with the visual art. As guests enter individual rooms, CANNABITION’s main score will begin to harmonize with new sounds unique to each installation. Moods in each exhibit space will subtly shift as the audio morphs to enhance the visuals.

    RELATED: This Natural Cannabinoid Makes You Feel Happy

    “Tom Rothrock’s involvement elevates CANNABITION to new heights,” said Michael Stratton, general manager, CANNABITION. “His genius in music production will transport our visitors into an otherworldly experience, making this exhibition unlike anything Las Vegas has ever seen, heard or felt.”

    From the early days of Vegas to today, music has played a part in Sin City’s success. Dion 2003-07 Las Vegas residency A New Day, remains the highest-grossing residency in the history of music, according to the Billboard Boxscore.

    Anthony Washington

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  • The Best Tips For Beating The Heat In Las Vegas

    The Best Tips For Beating The Heat In Las Vegas

    It is another record breaking hot summer in Las Vegas – here are some ideas to escape the heat in Sin City

    Las Vegas is a year round circus on fun…but with record breaking temperatures this summer, it is giving people pause. But Vegas can be enjoyable year round, if you know the right things to do to slip into a cool setting. Of course, hydration, being mindful of day drinking, and not over doing it in when the day hits 110+ are all things to watch in Vegas and in other places who are dealing with unusual weather.

    RELATED: The Feds Have Until November To Help Veterans

    Las Vegas offers a myriad of chill and exciting places to beat the heat during the scorching summer months. The casinos on and off the Stip are nice and an eager to help you stay comfortable away from the blazing sun.  And another main attraction the city is the shopping, whether for M&Ms or Hermes, the retail scene can fit any budget…even an unlimited one. Here are the best tips for beating the heat in Las Vegas, from insider Michael Stratton, general manager of CANNABITION, an elevated immersive experience, soon to open inside the Planet 13 Entertainment Complex.

    Vegas is known for their pools and pool parties. Marquee Dayclub at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas offers a perfect blend of relaxation and entertainment. This rooftop pool area features multiple pools, cabanas and daybeds, all set against the backdrop of the stunning Las Vegas skyline. With a lively party scene, top-notch DJs and refreshing cocktails, Marquee Dayclub provides an ideal spot to beat the heat and enjoy the summer vibes.

    If you prefer to cool off with some outdoor beach fun, Mandalay Bay Beach is the place to be. This aquatic playground features a wave pool, lazy river and real sand beaches. Lounge in the shade of a cabana, take a dip in the refreshing pools or ride the waves in the wave pool. With plenty of water activities and relaxation options, Mandalay Bay Beach offers a perfect escape from the heat while enjoying some sun and surf.

    RELATED: Science Says Medical Marijuana Improves Quality Of Life

    Step into a world of Italian elegance at The Venetian’s Grand Canal Shoppes. This indoor shopping and dining destination offers a cool and luxurious escape from the summer sun. Stroll along the cobblestone walkways, enjoy a gondola ride on the indoor canals and explore a variety of high-end boutiques, bars and restaurants. The Venetian’s beautifully designed interiors and soothing ambiance make it an ideal spot to relax and unwind while staying cool.

    For a serene and scenic escape, head to Lake Las Vegas. This picturesque lake, located just a short drive from the Strip, offers a variety of water activities such as paddleboarding and kayaking. The surrounding area features lush green spaces, upscale resorts and waterfront dining options, making it an ideal spot to relax and cool off. Spend the day enjoying the tranquil waters, take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront or dine at one of the lakeside restaurants while taking in the beautiful views. Lake Las Vegas provides a refreshing and peaceful retreat from the summer heat.

    Hopefully. the best tips for beating the heat in Las Vegas will allow you to enjoy your trip to Sin City.

    Anthony Washington

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  • Which Cities Consume The Most Marijuana

    Which Cities Consume The Most Marijuana

    It’s popular – but where is it the most and least consumed – here are the cities and how they rank with marijuana

    Recreational weed is in legal in 24 states, DC and some territories. Over 50% of their country has access to gummies, vapes and special chocolates without breaking the law. Thirty-eight states have medical marijuana, which the American Medical Association, and the federal departments of Health and Human Services and the Food and Drug Administration have stated science is clearl it has medical benefits. So which cities consume the most marijuana, making use of this voter privilege? California remains the Golden State for consumers, with 94 cities scoring in the top half of the ranking, six which finished in the top 10.

    RELATED: The Most Popular Marijuana Flavors

    The company LawnStarter decided to find out which city consumes the most. The study compared nearly 300 of the biggest U.S. cities (where recreational marijuana use is legal) based on 6 categories. They considered legality, access to dispensaries, weed delivery services, and more among 17 total metrics. It is no surprise then the OG of the movment and ranking number one is Los Angeles.  It has a nearly 29-point lead over San Francisco. the creativity community is big on the healthier marijuana over alcohol. It doesn’t even rank in the top 10 drinking metros.

    The original hippie and free love Mecca of San Francisco rates number two. Las Vegas, also known as Sin City for the gambling, drinking, over the top shows and more is number three.  Vegas is home to one of the largest dispensaries in the country and soon will have Cannabition, a major elevated immersive experience. With Colorado being one of the first to go fully legal, it is no surprise its biggest city Denver is next.  While common sense says New York should be number one, the chaos the state’s rollout has cost the state millions in revenue.  Currently legal dispensaries in the state are close to 100 while illicit ones are over 2,000.

    The next 5 are

    • San Diego, CA
    • Portland, OR
    • Sacramento, CA
    • Oakland, CA
    • Santa Ana, CA

    Connecticut, Illinois, and Washington are still playing catch up.  Only Chicago (38) and Seattle (No. 106) can in the top part of the ranking.  Weird laws and high taxes are big blocks.

    At the bottom of the list are cities which, despite it being legal – they just don’t have the infrastructure.  Which is too bad as it means states governments are losing hefty tax income.  Here are bottom 10 cities on the list.

    • Federal Way, WA
    • Trenton, NJ
    • Cicero, IL
    • Kent, WA
    • Elgin, IL
    • Clifton, NJ
    • Bloomington, IL8
    • Elizabeth, NJ
    • Springfield, IL
    • Rockford, IL

    What is interesting, Wisconsin has 7 of the top 10 cities for drinking.

    Anthony Washington

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  • These 5 Woman Are Changing 4/20

    These 5 Woman Are Changing 4/20

    The marijuana industry is still driven by men – but these 5 woman are changing 4/20 and upending the industry by focusing on the future.

    Since it started becoming legal, the marijuana industry has been filled with bros trying to run everything.  Some smart, some shysters – they have had an oversized say in the direction of where legal marijuana is going.  But woman are having a moment, and a huge impact in the millions of newly legal consumers.  Be it in imagine, politics, or products, woman are making game changing changes on how cannabis is mainstreaming.  When 4/20 started in, the landscape was way different, the 5 woman are changing 4/20 today to a bigger, more mainstream celebration.

    RELATED: Can Marijuana Consumers Donate Blood

    Nancy Whitman

    Nancy co-founded Wana Brands in 2010, elevating it from her kitchen to an international cannabis edible powerhouse. With North America’s largest distribution footprint, it is a top international brand available in 17 U.S. states, the U.S. territory of Puerto Rico and nine Canadian provinces and territories, generating close to $300 million in retail sales annually across more than 3,000 dispensaries.

    As a pioneer in the legal cannabis market, she has shown again and again commitment to research and crafting safe, innovative products. She understands the millions of canna-newbies who is looking for something to pair perfectly with the their non-stoner lifestyle.  Under her leadership, Wana was acquired by Canopy Grow, which is owned in part by alcohol behemoth Constellation.

    Nancy’s inclusive vision led to an executive team that is 70% female, a rarity in the industry and reflective of her dedication to diversity. Her unique insights have given Wana an advantage as she understand the average consumer, which makes up the bulk of the market.

    Senator Patty Murray

    Sen. Patty Murray
    Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images

    In the old boys club of Congress, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) has risen in the ranks thanks to a willingness to focus on a solving problems, thinking of the average citizen and wielding her knowledge and strength.  As the third most powerful person in the Senate, she is working with Senate Leader Schumer (D-NY) and a bipartisian group to make significant inroads into federal marijuana policy. Long a champion of veterans, this will benefits those who have served who suffer from PSTD.

    Shawna Seldon McGregor

    Shawna

    In a sometimes rough and tumble industry with some wacky players, it is good to have a public relations firm you can trust. Mirroring the mainstream industry, Maverick PR, has helped the industry move past the old stoner, bro imagine and move into today. Founded by Shawna Seldon McGregor, she has become the consul to industry executives and a media whisper to keep the good players growing. Shawna’s ability to make marijuana messaging mainstream has been a hallmark of her career. Since the inception of adult use in Colorado, she has led effective publicity campaigns for top brands including Wana, Native Roots, Deep Roots Harvest and Botani.  Trusted by leaders, she has been able to understand and guide companies into changes like California sober.  Her understand of consumers and media has been invaluable to leaders.

    Debra Borchardt

    Debra Borchardt

    Debra Brochardt was a respected media voice on Wall Street when she jumped in the marijuana world founding Green Market Report. Premiering at time when the industry was still shady and, as one executive said, people would come to meetings and put a gun down, she brought reason and truth to the table. Known for her straight reporting, she has taken on corruption, crazy leaders, and complicated financial deals. Venerable media company, Crains, recognizing the growth of market, acquired the asset and has only helped Brochardt reach her vision. Highlighting legit good companies, Green Market Report has become a must read for investors, politicians, and executives.

    RELATED: California or New York, Which Has The Biggest Marijuana Mess

    Pamela Hart

    Pamela Hart

    With a talent for organization and building infrastructures, Hart jumped into the industry in 2015. Seeing an opportunity to be build infrastructures and platforms she brought her management skills to a variety of companies. As COO of Keneh Ventures She has helped review, fund and partial advisement for some of the investments including GoFire and AI startup WeDream World. Understanding the mainstream appeal, she has been a champion of Cannabition, a state of the art cannabis immersive experience opening next to Planet 13 in Las Vegas. She now has added Managing partner and operations manager of the exhibition alongside her other duties. She shared over the last 8 years the priorities of entrepreneurs and investors have matured as the market for cannabis has grown and become accepted by the general population. 

    Amy Hansen

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  • 5 Off-Strip Vegas Places To Feast When You Have The Munchies

    5 Off-Strip Vegas Places To Feast When You Have The Munchies

    Vegas is a place to have fun and indulge!  But what way to enjoy an evening is to take a break and have a feast!

    Vegas is the city of excess, a place for satiating your desires and indulging your whims. Long known as a city of drinking, gambling and showgirls – it is involving into even more. The culinary scene has exploded.  Gone are the mid level buffets and now there is global food scene to rival some of the top cities in the world. And if you head off-Strip, you can get a bigger and tastier experience.

    And Sin City has added yet another major semi-vice. While it has proven is has medical benefits, marijuana can also be used for fun and Vegas is becoming a green destination.  Planet 13, most likely the biggest dispensary in the country, just opened their new consumption lounge Dazed!.  Also, coming soon adjacent to the retail experience is CANNABITION, a state-of-the-art cannabis immersive experience.  And while it may not be the same without Elvis in a chapel, there is now a company specializing in cannabis weddings.

    RELATED: 5 Morning Activities To Help You Feel Happier

    During a night (or maybe day) of indulging – you might be hit with the munchies or the drunkies, so slip off the Strip and embrace some amazing food.  Here are 5 off-Strip places to feast recommended by a true insider. Michael Stratton’s latest project is General Manager of CANNABITION,  adding another layer to his seasoned career in entertainment and hospitality. He was a general manager at Bong Load Records, overseeing releases from The Killers, Beck, Elliott Smith, James Blunt and more. He also spearheaded the development and operation of the acclaimed music venue The Bunkhouse Saloon in Las Vegas.

    The Golden Steer

    Located at the corner of Las Vegas Blvd and Sahara Avenue and made famous by the Rat Pack. This old school Vegas steakhouse opened in 1958, and its rich history including Sammy Davis, Jr. performing and having his friends there to eat in the main dining room. Their beef and lobster is Insta famous and mouthwatering.

    RELATED: The Most Popular Marijuana Flavors

    Tacotarian

    This place is an authentic vegan experience in the Arts District. The casual environment with cool modern décor serves creative plant-based Mexican dishes like vegan al pastor and carne asada tacos. “Our concept is really good Mexican food which just happens to be vegan,” said Kristen Corral, cofounder of Tacotarian. “When you think of a Mexican-American restaurant, you think of yellow and orange colors, and that’s not something you always see inMexico. We’re doing Mexican in a very modern way — we brought in bright teal, black and white, and natural woods. Plus, we serve alcohol, which is not typical of vegan brands.”  While there, have a walk around while in the area and grab some drinks at a nearby bar or visit some vintage shops.

    Fukuburger

    Eat like a local on Jones in the Asian District. Many people don’t realize the massive Asian and Pacific Islander populations calling the Las Vegas valley home. If you’re looking for something different, Fukuburger is a casual burger restaurant with Japanese flair. Relish in burgers with Japanese-inspired toppings like teriyaki, furikake seasoning, and Spam. What started out as a food truck has turned into a cult.

    Esther’s Kitchen

    Italians have a long association with Vegas. Nestled in the Arts District, this is not your ordinary pasta place. Consistently noted as one of the highest-rated restaurants in the area, it is a thoughtful, chef-driven concept led by chef and owner James Trees. The rigatoni carbonara is perfect when you have been imbibing a little too much with the green or cocktails.

    Lotus of Siam

    On Flamingo Road close to the Strip this place is an easy trip for top-rated Northern Thai food. It is  has received numerous accolades, including being named one of the “best Thai restaurants in the country” by major publications. Chef Saipin Chutima is a pro at creating delicious delights.  No wonder they have a local and tourist following for dishes like their Sai Oua.

    Hope you might enjoy these 5 off-strip Vegas places to feast when you have the munchies or drunkies.

    Anthony Washington

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  • Vegas To Ring In New Year With Weddings, Weed, and WOW

    Vegas To Ring In New Year With Weddings, Weed, and WOW

    Vegas is always involving and always finding a way to entertain and engage visitors – Is this year going to be bigger & better?

    Las Vegas’s old theme was “what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas”, but when was the city every discreet? Sin City seems to be always going for bigger, better, and flashier.  Gone are the days of the $9.99 buffets and hello to the world of excess and excitement.  Home to three Tiffany & Cos, 4 Guccis, 8 Louis Vuittons, and 3 Hermes shops in less than 2 square miles – Vegas knows money. Now this year looks like Vegas to win in the New Year with weddings, weed and WOW.

    RELATED: TSA And Cannabis: What You Need To Know

    This year on December 31, 2023, the date’s repeating 1-2-3 pattern has made it a popular choice for couples looking to make their nuptials extra memorable. This year’s specialty date just happens to fall on a holiday famous for its celebrations, making it even more appealing. And couples are responding.

    Photo by lindsayascott via Pixabay

    Melody Willis-Williams, the president of Vegas Weddings, which operates multiple wedding venues shared “Anytime you get these specialty dates, they’re always hugely popular. But tie that in with New Year’s Eve and it’s a showstopper.”  The record of  4,492 for marriages in Las Vegas set on 7. July 2007. The day of the “lucky sevens.”

    Of course, Vegas has always had iconic locations – from the Golden Steer Las Vegas – home to massive steaks and lobsters to the kitschy Vegas sign and Bellagio fountain shows…Vegas gives you are reason to return again and again. The Spheres are the current showstopper.  Social media as blown as at the $2 billion globe like arena the outside has transformed from the Rocketttes to a Christmas Ornament mesmerizing locals and online community. And this is the first full year to make a splash and fill it with action, music and wonder. Look for Phish, U-2, and, rumor has it, Harry Styles to be part of their lineup.

    RELATED: Easy Holiday Whiskey Cocktails

    One of the nations most popular dispensaries, Planet 13, off the Las Vegas Strip, will get a bump when Cannabition opens in an adjacent space.  The immersive, “Instagrammable” experience designed for entertainment and enlightenment has the cannabis community excited.

    And, coming off their inaugural race, the Las Vegas Grand Prix will return in 2024!  After the 2023, Vegas business are eager to the return and yet another unique attraction in Sin City.

    So whether a ring, race, ribs or weed….Vegas has a promising 2024.

    Sarah Johns

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  • Las Vegas’s Sphere Gets A Weed Themed Competitor

    Las Vegas’s Sphere Gets A Weed Themed Competitor

    Vegas has a history of over the top attractions delighting and engaging the millions of tourists. From stars like Elvis and Celine to the Chihuly ceiling to the the highest roller coaster in the world, the city constantly thinks of ways of engaging the daily throng of visitors. The latest, The Sphere, is the VERY expensive world’s largest spherical structure and concert venue. The $2 billion globe is kicking it off with U2 in residence. Every night is an incredible visual as the sphere is also a giant screen with a variety of innovative imagines.

    But hot on the heels on the Sphere is Cannabition, a state of the art cannabis immersive experience opening next to Planet 13.  With 90% of the country open to some form of legal cannabis, this should turn out to be a key attraction – like Kentucky and their bourbon! The 12,000 square-foot cannabis immersive experience has engaged creators to make the experience incredible with or without a little extra (wink wink).

    But the founders aren’t stopping there.

    The immersive experience just made a significant partnership announcement. Cannabition is welcoming legendary founding figure of outlaw country, Mr. Willie Nelson and his celebrated brand, Willie’s Reserve. The teams are putting their heads together to assure guests a “stoned-cold good time!”

    Nelson, an icon of music and marijuana, has spent 7 decades changing the way people look at cannabis and has been a champion of legalization.

    His team shared, “with our new partnership in Cannabition, Willie’s Reserve is looking ahead with anticipation for a chance to bring Willie Nelson’s dream for legal weed to a new immersive experience in legendary Las Vegas. Now that’s entertainment!”

    RELATED: People Who Use Weed Also Do More Of Another Fun Thing

    Vegas in 2022, had 38.8 million visitors. Sin City ranks fifth worldwide in terms of worldwide tourism-related, and first in the US. In 2015, 84% of visitors to came from within the US.

    Managing Partner Pamela Hart, states “From inception to buildout our partners, sponsors, and creative teams are launching an over the top Vegas immersive experience and a must add to everyone’s visit”.

    Also joining the Cannabition team is LP Exotics. Founded by Marianna Arakelyan, who comes from the healthcare industry, Marianna has been at the forefront of pioneering life-enhancing programs across the Western United States.

    Managing Parnter Andrew Laub shares,  “Marianna Arakelyan has taken her expertise and passion to create opulent, tailor-made products to delight consumers.  The company and Arakelyan’s innovative and meticulous approach will be another asset to delight for the visitors.”

    RELATED: TSA And Cannabis: What You Need To Know

    Michael Stratton, the general manager, brings a wealth of entertainment and hospitality knowledge. Most recently, Michael was the General Manager and Director of A&R for the iconic indie record label Bong Load Records, where he managed specialty releases by artists like The Killers, Beck, Elliott Smith and James Blunt, among others. He is also major label recording artist himself, a 35-year Las Vegas resident and has lifetime of music industry and operations experience.

    Board Member Alex Brough believes Vegas will be home to the premier cannabis attraction and will add to the list of unique opportunities for tourists like Meow Wolf, the Mob Museum, and the extraordinary culinary scene.

    Anthony Washington

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