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  • The Latest On Medical Marijuana And Migraines

    They can destroy a day in seconds…but can marijuana help with migraines?

    They can upend sometimes day when they arrive and devastate lives over the long term…so what is the latest on medical marijuana and migraines? A wave of fresh research is casting new light on the potential of medical marijuana as a treatment for migraines, the debilitating neurological condition affecting about 15% of people globally, or nearly 1 billion individuals. In the U.S., the lifetime incidence stands at roughly 43% for women and 18% for men.

    RELATED: 5 Ways Medical Marijuana Can Help You Deal With Chronic Pain

    Migraine recognition remains crucial for timely intervention. Classic signs include a pulsating, moderate-to-severe headache, typically unilateral, often accompanied by nausea, and hypersensitivity to light (photophobia) and sound (phonophobia). Attacks may last from 4 to 72 hours, and many sufferers go through prodromal symptoms—mood changes, fatigue, or neck pain—before the headache phase.

    In a landmark placebo-controlled clinical trial presented at the 2025 American Headache Society Annual Meeting, researchers at UC San Diego demonstrated vaporizing a precise mixture of 6% THC and 11% CBD leads to significant migraine relief:

    • 67.2% of participants experienced pain relief within 2 hours, compared to ~46.6% receiving placebo.
    • 34.5% reached complete pain freedom, versus 15.5% with placebo.
    • Benefits were sustained for 24 hours for pain relief, and 48 hours for relief from their most bothersome symptoms, including light or sound sensitivity.

    Investigators highlighted the importance of controlled, infrequent dosing—limiting use to under 10 times per month—to avoid medication overuse headaches (MOH) and reduce risks of psychoactive effects.

    A systematic review covering nearly 2,000 migraine patients revealed medical cannabis reduced monthly headache frequency from 10.4 to 4.6 days—a remarkable ~56% drop. It also alleviated associated nausea and vomiting, with effects comparable to amitriptyline in reducing frequency (~40%).

    RELATED: Immersive Events Redefine Millennial Nights

    Survey-based studies echo these findings:

    • In one registry, patients reported inhaled cannabis halved migraine severity, though effectiveness waned over time.
    • Another review confirmed medical marijuana significantly reduces both the length and frequency of migraines, with no severe adverse events noted (cannabisclinicians.org).

    Despite promising outcomes, more research is needed. A retrospective study found cannabis use increased the prevalence of medication overuse headache (MOH)—patients using cannabis were nearly 6 times more likely to develop MOH compared to non-users. Mild side effects—such as drowsiness, lightheadedness, or cognitive blips—occurred in up to 43.75% of users, particularly with oral forms.

    Amy Hansen

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  • Cannabis vape cartridges recalled for banned chemical were sold in 75 dispensaries in Michigan

    Courtesy of Cannabis Regulatory Agency

    Warren-based House Brands Distro is recalling its Top Smoke Go Kartz Runtz vape cartridges.

    State regulators and a Warren-based company are recalling a batch of vape cartridges that contain a banned chemical and were sold at 75 dispensaries across Michigan, regulators announced Monday.

    The recall applies to Top Smoke Go Kartz Runtz cartridges produced on Feb. 25 by IVP Holding, also known as House Brands Distro.

    The Cannabis Regulatory Agency said the dispensaries that carried the vape have posted recall notices, urging customers to return their product to the location where it was purchased or dispose of it safely.

    Many of the dispensaries are in metro Detroit.

    The CRA did not disclose what chemical was found but indicated it “should not be consumed.” Metro Times could not reach IVP Holding for comment.

    Consumers who experience health problems after using the vape are advised to contact their health care provider and report the reaction to the CRA.

    Licensed cannabis businesses are required to report adverse reactions within one business day.

    The vape cartridge recall is part of the CRA’s ongoing effort to ensure unsafe cannabis products are removed from circulation.

    Last week, the CRA announced a recall of 5,765 vape cartridges sold by Exclusive Brands. Regulators discovered the cartridges contained Medium Chain Triglyceride (MCT) oil, which may cause respiratory problems.

    On Aug. 12, the CRA announced another recall of 26,000 vape cartridges after finding MCT oil. The flavors were from Motor City Cannacarts and RIPZ.

    Detroit-based Better Made Snack Foods Inc. sued IVP Holding in U.S. District Court last year, alleging the cannabis company “knowingly and willfully” put a label on its products that closely resembles the Better Made potato logo, which has been in use for decades.

    Steve Neavling

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  • Detroit artist transforms Noxx Cannabis wall in Pleasant Ridge

    Steve Neavling

    Detroit artist Jonathan Sandberg, also known as Seymor, paints a mural on the side of Noxx Cannabis in Pleasant Ridge.

    Detroit muralist Jonathan Sandberg has transformed a Pleasant Ridge dispensary wall into a vibrant work of art after winning a community art contest.

    The 430-square-foot mural by Sandberg, also known as Seymor, now covers the side of Noxx Cannabis at 23622 Woodward Ave., where thousands of motorists pass daily.

    His design, a teal-accented mural featuring a wispy white tree with mist-like roots and glowing square leaves, was selected in May through a public vote after more than a dozen local artists submitted proposals.

    “I’ve been painting murals seriously for about seven years, but the last couple years have really picked up,” Sandberg, who lives in Detroit’s Bagley neighborhood, tells Metro Times. “I’ve been painting since I was born, but once I started focusing on these trees, it gave me a little niche to keep pushing and defining my work.”

    The piece is part of Sandberg’s signature style of surreal trees with geometric shapes and an ethereal background that blends natural forms with the abstract. Over the past few years, he has refined his theme into what he describes as both a metaphor and meditation – tree leaves that double as neurons and perhaps vessels of a “collective unconscious.”

    “All the trees have their own personality,” Sandberg says. “I haven’t figured out if it’s the collective unconscious or the Earth. It kind of gives me liberty to be a little bit more playful.”

    The Noxx contest, hosted in partnership with the Pleasant Ridge Art Council and partially funded by cannabis tax revenue, required artists to use the company’s teal color, avoid cannabis imagery, and create a piece that spoke to Detroit’s character.

    Sandberg embraced the restrictions, using black, teal, and grayscale tones to create a layered design centered on a sprawling tree trunk, fog-like textures at its base, and shimmering, square leaves along its branches.

    Sandberg worked on the mural over the past three weekends and recently finished it.

    The result is a vibrant, whimsical and head-turning mural that brightens up Woodward Avenue.

    Sandberg says he was inspired by Detroit street artist Jordan “Tead” Vaughn,” who died in 2017 after falling through a roof while painting a mural. Vaughn was known for his unique, dreamlike bursts of color and hallucinatory landscapes.

    “He did these really trippy industrial landscapes,” Sandberg says. “I remember seeing those for the first time, and I always loved graffiti, but it wasn’t necessarily how my brain worked. But seeing how he used spray paint, like my brain works, I decided I’m going to learn this, and I started figuring it out.”

    For the first six months or so, Sandberg began experimenting with graffiti, and the results, he says, were some “bad paintings.” But Sandberg persisted and found his style. He’s been painting beautiful murals since.

    Tead’s mother Jenny Vaughn encouraged Sandberg to enter the Noxx mural contest. He also served in the Tead One Memorial Artist in Residence Program, a residency program set up in Tead’s honor.

    “It really came back full circle,” Sandberg says.

    Steve Neavling

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  • A Little Cannabis Can Help You Dance

    Need a little help and courage to break out on the dance floor – what about your friend marijuana

    Sometimes the only thing standing between you and the dance floor is a little self-consciousness. For generations, people have turned to music, movement, and a splash of liquid courage to losen up. But today, Gen Z and millennials are discovering a little cannabis can help you dance. In small doses, it’s helping people find their groove without a messy hangover the next day.

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    Think of it as the modern update to the classic dance montage. Remember Kevin Bacon in Footloose (1984) kicking off his shoes and defying a no-dancing town ordinance? His rebel energy was all about freedom, joy, and shaking loose the rules. The same spirit is alive today, only now it often comes with a puff instead of a punch.

    t’s not just a Gen Z trend either. Millennials who grew up watching Saturday-night dance shows like Solid Gold or tuning into the funky moves of Soul Train know dancing isn’t about perfection—it’s about expression. Cannabis can help tap into the flow, making your body follow the beat instead of overthinking the steps.

    Researchers are starting to explore the connection between cannabis and movement. While too much can make you sluggish, consumers report small amounts heighten sensory awareness and make music feel deeper, almost physical. It’s why some DJs and party planners are experimenting with cannabis-friendly dance events, where wellness and rhythm replace the chaos of all-night clubbing.

    For many, the benefits go beyond just having fun. Dancing with the help of cannabis can ease social anxiety, provide a sense of belonging, and even offer a workout that feels less like exercise and more like celebration. After all, who needs a treadmill when you can laugh with friends while dancing for an hour straight?

    RELATED: Immersive Events Redefine Millennial Nights

    The cannabis-and-dancing trend isn’t about getting high and wild—it’s about reclaiming joy in movement. It’s about taking inspiration from Footloose, throwing on your sneakers, maybe queuing up an old Soul Train line, and realizing dance is medicine for the spirit.

    So next time you’re invited to a wedding reception, a house party, or just tempted to crank up Spotify in your living room, consider a little cannabis might be the secret to feeling free on the dance floor. Like Kevin Bacon proved, sometimes you just have to let the music lead the way.

    Sarah Johns

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  • Lawsuit Continues New York’s Chaotic Cannabis Rollout

    NYC cannabis dispensaries, exposing New York’s troubled two-year rollout and threatening businesses.

    The state and city just seems to struggle in rolling out marijuana, now a lawsuit continues New York’s chaotic cannabis rollout. A dozen high-profile cannabis dispensaries in NYC have taken the state to court after regulators admitted they botched a key zoning rule—one which could shutter or displace over 150 legal shops, many backed by social-equity entrepreneurs.  Already the state has struggle with over 1,700 unlicensed dispensaries.

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    Since New York launched its adult-use cannabis program roughly three years ago, licensed dispensaries were told to stay 500 feet away from schools, as measured from their entrances. But in July, the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) quietly switched to the legally mandated method—measuring from the school property line. The reinterpretation retroactively rendered around 60 open shops, an additional 40 ready-to-open stores, and nearly 50 applicants out of compliance overnight.

    Enter the lawsuit. Filed on August 15 in Albany’s Supreme Court, the coalition—including Housing Works Cannabis Co., The Cannabis Place, and others—demands the state halt enforcement, deem their locations legal under the original standard, and stop threatening license renewals and leased spaces.

    For many plaintiffs, this isn’t just legalese—it’s existential. The majority are BIPOC, women, veterans, and equity program beneficiaries who invested six or seven-figure sums expecting stability. Osbert Orduna of Queens’ The Cannabis Place noted many of them built out stores, hired staff, signed long-term leases, and only now face ruin through no fault of their own.

    OCM’s acting director, Felicia Reid, has apologized, labeling the error and its impacts serious, and pointed regulators toward lawmakers for a fix. Governor Kathy Hochul has also vowed not to penalize licensees for the agency’s goof and encourages legislators to “grandfather in” existing stores once Albany reconvenes in January.

    RELATED: Immersive Events Redefine Millennial Nights

    Supporters warn of broader fallout: small-business collapse, loss of trust, and a slide back to illicit markets. One industry critic blasted the mismanagement as the latest episode in a dimly lit rollout—marked by stalled licensing, uneven oversight, and surging unlicensed dispensaries.

    As New York’s legal cannabis industry stumbles again, the lawsuit lays bare the frail infrastructure behind legalization. For millennial consumers and budding entrepreneurs alike, the saga spells caution: if you’re banking your future on bureaucratic stability, you might want to double-check the fine print—especially when it comes to how you measure school safety.

    Terry Hacienda

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  • A Doctor’s Take On Cannabis And PTSD

    Millions suffer from PTSD, but the a solution still has been developed, but doctors feel medical marijuana could help

    It is estimated 3.6% of the world’s population suffers from it, so here is a doctor’s take on cannabis and PTSD. Thomas Green, MD is a retired urologists who has spent his life helping those suffering from difficult diagnosis. PTSD Isn’t just about bad memories, it can mean sleepless nights, sudden anxiety, and feeling like danger is always just around the corner. Veterans, accident survivors, first responders, anyone who’s been through trauma can live with it.

    “Some people with PTSD aren’t chasing a high,  they’re chasing a good night’s sleep.” share’s Dr. Green.

    RELATED: Female, Veggie, And What? Some Unknown Marijuana Facts

    While I was still in practice, I treated a Vietnam vet for a urologic condition. That part was easy to fix. What wasn’t easy was his disabling PTSD. Back then, cannabis wasn’t as widely discussed in medicine as it is today, but I encouraged him to talk with his doctor or check out a local dispensary to learn more. I knew it might be one more tool to help him find some peace.

    Photo by CapturedNuance/Getty Images

    Some people with PTSD say cannabis helps them fall asleep, quiets racing thoughts, and takes the edge off flashbacks. The science is still catching up, but here’s the idea: cannabis works with the body’s endocannabinoid system, the network that helps regulate mood, stress, and sleep.

    “Cannabis works with the body’s own stress-regulating system, that’s why it may help.”

    THC, the compound that can get you high, may help dull the emotional punch of painful memories. CBD, the non-intoxicating sidekick, may help with anxiety and calmness. Some people find relief with one or the other. Others use a blend.

    Is it a magic fix? No. Cannabis isn’t for everyone. High-THC products can make some people feel more anxious. The key is starting low, going slow, and, if possible, working with a healthcare provider who knows cannabis.

    RELATED: Feds More Open To Medical Marijuiana For Veterans

    Research is growing, but early signs are promising. For now, many people combine cannabis with therapy, exercise, and other healthy habits.

    “It’s not a magic fix, but for some, it’s one more tool for calmer days and better nights.”

    Bottom line: If you’re dealing with PTSD and thinking about cannabis, get advice tailored to you. For some, it’s one more tool for better sleep, calmer days, and a little peace of mind.

    Thomas Green, MD

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  • TikTok Is Changing the Cannabis Industry

    It has effected music, politics and shopping – now TikTok is upending cannabis

    It may be best known for dance challenges, skincare hacks, and viral recipes — but it’s also reshaping how millions of millennials and Gen Z discover cannabis. Now TikTok is changing the cannabis industry. While the platform doesn’t allow direct advertising for marijuana products, clever creators and influencers are finding ways to showcase strains, lifestyle trends, and cannabis culture in ways influencing consumer behavior far beyond dispensary walls.

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    Scroll through TikTok and you’ll find everything from “strain reviews in 30 seconds” to cooking tutorials featuring CBD, to clips explaining the difference between indica and sativa. Many of these videos rack up millions of views in just days, creating overnight hype for products once limited to small local markets. A catchy song paired with a visually appealing cannabis product can quickly become a trend, and suddenly dispensaries across the country are fielding calls from customers asking for an exact strain.

    Industry experts say TikTok is doing for cannabis what Instagram once did for craft cocktails and boutique fitness. It’s creating a new kind of digital word-of-mouth. In some cases, certain strains — like “Zaza” or “Blue Zushi” — went from relative obscurity to must-try sensations after trending on the app. Dispensary owners report customers walking in with their phones open, asking for products they’ve just seen in a TikTok video.

    For millennials, TikTok serves as both entertainment and education. Instead of reading lengthy articles or browsing product menus, they can absorb bite-sized cannabis tips while scrolling during a coffee break. Videos breaking down THC percentages, terpene profiles, or microdosing strategies are making cannabis more accessible to curious users who may have been intimidated by dispensary jargon in the past.

    The ripple effect is also being felt in branding. Cannabis companies are now thinking about how their packaging, visuals, and even product names might look on a phone screen. Bright colors, playful fonts, and shareable unboxing moments are becoming as important as potency. For an industry still facing advertising restrictions on traditional platforms, TikTok has become an indirect but powerful marketing tool.

    RELATED: Immersive Events Redefine Millennial Nights

    Of course, this influence doesn’t come without controversy. Since cannabis remains federally illegal in the U.S., TikTok technically restricts content promoting its use. That hasn’t stopped creators from getting creative, using slang, emojis, or indirect language to skirt moderation. The result is a thriving subculture operating just under the radar — but is reaching millions of potential customers.

    For millennials balancing busy lives, TikTok offers a quick, relatable, and often entertaining gateway into cannabis culture. And whether you’re a casual consumer, a wellness-focused CBD fan, or a curious newcomer, one thing is clear: TikTok is no longer just about viral dances — it’s helping decide what cannabis ends up in shopping carts.

    Anthony Washington

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  • Ex-cops banned from Michigan cannabis industry for inflating THC, downplaying hazards, regulators announce

    Courtesy photos

    Former cops Todd Welch, left, and Dr. Michele Glinn have been banned from Michigan’s cannabis industry for numerous alleged violations.

    Three former Michigan State Police cops who founded one of the most controversial marijuana testing labs in the state have been permanently banned from participating in the cannabis industry.

    The Cannabis Regulatory Agency (CRA) announced Wednesday that Viridis Laboratories and its sister facility, Viridis North, will shut down, ending years of legal battles and disciplinary actions over allegations that the company used unapproved methods, produced unreliable test results, inflated THC levels, and downplayed hazards in cannabis.

    As part of the agreement, the lab’s majority owners — former state police forensic director Greg Michaud, forensic scientist Todd Welch, and former toxicologist Dr. Michele Glinn — are barred for life from holding any role in the state’s cannabis market. Viridis must close its Lansing lab immediately and shutter its Bay City location by Sept. 28.

    “This is justice, plain and simple,” Brian Hanna, the executive director of the CRA, said. “Viridis failed to uphold the standards required of marijuana safety compliance facilities in Michigan. Viridis circumvented the rules. Their majority owners will never operate in this space again, and the Michigan cannabis industry will be stronger for it.”

    The settlement ends a years-long clash between regulators and Viridis, which was one of the most dominant cannabis testing labs in Michigan. Founded in 2018, the company’s owners claimed their former law enforcement credential gave them unrivaled credibility. But it quickly drew scrutiny from regulators and competitors for allegedly inflating THC levels and disregarding scientific standards.

    In 2021, state regulators ordered the largest recall in Michigan history after questioning Viridis results, forcing hundreds of dispensaries to pull an estimated $229 million worth of products from shelves.

    “Several competitors alleged they were pushed to the brink — some even out of business — as a result of Viridis’ disregard for the rules,” the CRA said in a news release.

    An administrative law judge in March found that Viridis repeatedly violated state rules by failing to follow its own testing protocols, misidentifying mold, and keeping inadequate records.

    Despite those findings, Viridis stayed in business while fighting regulators in court. The company argued the CRA was targeting it unfairly, but its lawsuits were repeatedly dismissed.

    Stories of inflated THC levels have become so widespread that some consumers boycott cannabis products tested by Viridis, which critics say is often reporting suspiciously high potency.

    By admitting to all violations in six formal complaints and agreeing to drop its legal challenges, Viridis has now brought an end to one of the industry’s most contentious regulatory battles.

    “This wasn’t just a single misstep,” Hanna said. “It was a sustained, deliberate pattern of noncompliance that shook confidence in the entire regulated cannabis system.”

    At its peak, Viridis tested an estimated quarter-million pounds of cannabis flower each year, giving the company enormous influence of the state’s $3 billion marijuana market.

    “We are at a pivotal moment, where scientific progress in cannabis is unfolding under our watch,” Claire Patterson, director of the CRA’s reference laboratory, said. “Here, we had a responsibility to get this right and set a critical precedent. Scientific integrity isn’t a formality — it’s the foundation of the cannabis industry. The future of this industry depends on ethics, transparency, and science we can all trust.”

    Steve Neavling

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  • Michigan regulators fine 29 cannabis businesses for numerous violations in July

    Shutterstock

    Michigan regulators cited 29 cannabis businesses for violations in July.

    State regulators fined 29 cannabis businesses in July for violations ranging from selling excessive amounts of weed to failing to tag products with compliance stickers.

    Eleven of those businesses operate in metro Detroit and were smacked with $169,100 in fines.

    The Cannabis Regulatory Agency took action against these local businesses:

    In each of these cases, the businesses admitted fault and pledged to make corrections.

    Other cannabis businesses that were fined outside of the area are Amber Waves Cannabis Co. in Morenci, Berry Green Management in Lapeer, Blue Fox Brands in Lansing, Holy Smokes Farms in Lansing, Exclusive in Coldwater, Birch Solventless in Rogers City, Cherry Brands in Jackson, Flos in Kalkaska, Infinity Artisan Cannabis in Kalkaska, Levels in Grand Rapids, Gramz Cannabis in Mt. Morris, Uniq Pressure in Monroe, Backpack Boyz in Monroe, Native Leaf in Reading, Nirvana Center in Menominee, One Love Labs in Chesaning, and Wanda Products in Luzerne.

    Steve Neavling

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  • How AI Is Changing The Cannabis Industry

    AI is bringing changes and advancements to most industries – including cannabis

    Whether you are a doctor in Nebraska, a restauranteur in Baltimore or senior engineer in Bellevue, Washington, it is upending how you do your job – both good and bad.  Most areas of life are being touched and here is how AI is changing the cannabis industry. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is quietly reshaping nearly every corner of modern life, and the cannabis industry is no exception. From cultivation and retail to consumer transparency, AI is bringing new efficiency, accuracy, and trust to a market long been clouded by misinformation and stigma.

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    One of the most visible changes is how AI helps consumers track cannabis products. In an industry where strain names and effects can vary widely, AI-driven platforms are stepping in to provide clarity. Apps now use AI to analyze lab results, customer reviews, and even chemical profiles to match consumers with products best suited to their needs—whether it is better sleep, anxiety relief, or a more social buzz. Instead of relying on word-of-mouth or vague descriptions, consumers can access personalized recommendations grounded in hard data.

    AI is also helping consumers find accurate, verifiable information in a marketplace which has sometimes struggled with exaggerated claims. Machine learning models can scan thousands of lab tests, regulatory filings, and scientific studies to identify trustworthy patterns. This gives guidance so customers are less likely to fall for marketing hype and more likely to discover which products are safe, effective, and compliant with state rules. For a generation used to researching everything from skincare ingredients to fitness supplements online, AI-driven cannabis insights are a welcome tool.

    On the cultivation side, AI is revolutionizing how cannabis is grown. Smart sensors, combined with predictive algorithms, can monitor temperature, humidity, and light in real time. Farmers use these insights to maximize yield while minimizing water and energy use—an especially important consideration in an era of climate concerns and sustainability demands. By predicting plant health before problems arise, AI also reduces the need for pesticides and allows for more consistent harvests.

    Retailers are benefiting as well. AI-powered inventory systems can predict which products will sell fastest, helping dispensaries avoid shortages or waste. Chatbots and virtual budtenders are guiding customers through product choices, mimicking the experience of a knowledgeable staff member but available 24/7 online. These digital assistants are especially appealing to Millennial and Gen Z consumers who prefer research-based shopping and minimal in-store pressure.

    RELATED: Science Says Medical Marijuana Improves Quality Of Life

    Looking ahead, AI could play a role in shaping cannabis policy and public health, too. By analyzing patterns in consumption data, researchers and regulators can better understand how cannabis affects communities, potentially leading to smarter regulations and safer use guidelines. In medical marijuana research, AI is proving especially powerful. Machine learning tools can process vast sets of patient data, clinical trial results, and genetic information to identify which cannabinoids or terpenes may be most effective for specific conditions such as chronic pain, epilepsy, or anxiety. This not only speeds up research but also helps doctors personalize treatment options for patients in ways not possible even a decade ago.

    AI is doing more than making cannabis more high-tech—it’s making it more transparent, sustainable, and consumer-friendly. For an industry still overcoming decades of misinformation, which is a game-changing development.

    Anthony Washington

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  • Can Cannabis Help Make The Brain Younger

    The age old search for youth may have a new direction – marijuana

    The fight to stay young and healthy has been going on for hundreds if not thousands of years. Billions have been spent, but now there is a new twist – can cannabis help make the brain younger. In the age of biohacking and wellness trends, millennials juggling Zoom fatigue and daily stress are asking: can cannabis do more than chill us out—might it actually make our brains feel younger?

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    Preclinical research has shown striking results: in older mice, low-dose THC boosted synaptic connectivity and improved memory, seemingly reversing age-linked cognitive decline.

    On the human front, a controlled trial at Johns Hopkins and Tufts used dronabinol—a synthetic THC—in 75 Alzheimer’s patients experiencing agitation. Over three weeks, a twice-daily 5 mg dose reduced agitation by about 30% and was better tolerated than traditional antipsychotics.

    However, when it comes to cognitive effects in healthy or aging adults, the data is more mixed. A JAMA Network Open study tracked 57 new medical cannabis users for a year using fMRI scans. The result? No meaningful changes in working memory, reward processing, or inhibitory control—good news for safety-minded users.

    But another large-scale imaging study found among young adults (ages 22–36), heavy cannabis users showed reduced brain activation during working memory tasks—63% in lifetime users and 68% in recent users.

    Long-term studies add nuance: a Danish cohort study followed over 5,000 men from young adulthood to their 60s and found no greater cognitive decline among cannabis users—in fact, users showed slightly less IQ decline than non-users

    RELATED: Science Says Medical Marijuana Improves Quality Of Life

    What Does It All Mean for the average person?

    • Dronabinol may soothe brain agitation in Alzheimer’s patients—a meaningful bump in quality of life for patients and caregivers Johns Hopkins Medicine.

    • Medical cannabis over a year doesn’t appear to disrupt key cognitive functions in healthy adults, based on fMRI measures.

    • Heavy recreational use, especially among the younger crowd, may impair working memory and brain activity in imaging studies

    • Long-term cognitive aging trends may not suffer—and could potentially fare better—in users, according to a large Danish study.

    While animal studies highlight a fascinating possibility—THC under tightly controlled, low doses might rewind aspects of brain aging— human trials are still in early stages. For Alzheimer’s-related agitation, synthetic THC shows real promise. For healthy adults, cannabis appears neurologically safe over a year. Yet, heavy habitual use—particularly among younger individuals—may carry cognitive costs. Conversely, long-term cognitive aging does not seem accelerated among users—and might even be subtly mitigated.

    Amy Hansen

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  • Is Cannabis Behind The Big Drop In Drinking

    Big liquor companies are worried – but is marijuana the cause?

    From the James Bond martini to the And Just Like That cosmopolitan drinking has been part of our culture, but is it about to change? Alcohol consumption in the United States has hit its lowest level in nearly a century, with just 54% of adults saying they drink compared to 62% in 2023. This dramatic shift is raising a big question: Is cannabis behind the big drop in drinking?

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    According to new Gallup polling, the decline is most pronounced among Gen Z and younger millennials, who are drinking far less than previous generations at their age. For many, the choice is deliberate—rooted in health consciousness, cost, and evolving cultural values.

    Generation Z is rewriting the rules of socializing. Surveys show they are less likely to drink regularly than Gen X or Baby Boomers were at the same stage in life. The “sober curious” and “mindful drinking” movements are thriving on social media, where hashtags like #sobercurious and #hangoverfree highlight a lifestyle which prioritizes wellness, mental health, and productivity.

    Photo by Cavan Images/Getty Images

    For many young adults, alcohol’s image has shifted—from a symbol of fun to a potential risk factor for anxiety, cancer, and poor sleep. A record 53% of Americans now believe moderate drinking is harmful, a massive leap from just a quarter of the population a few decades ago.

    While some speculate legal marijuana is driving alcohol’s decline, experts say cannabis is only a small part of the story. Gallup’s data shows no strong evidence legalization alone caused the drop in drinking.

    Research does point to a substitution effect for certain individuals. In Colorado, heavy drinkers consumed 28% fewer alcoholic drinks on days they used cannabis. Nationwide, some cannabis users report drinking less because they prefer the “cleaner high” and reduced risk of hangovers.

    Yet cannabis hasn’t replaced alcohol wholesale. In fact, some studies suggest legalization has slightly increased casual drinking among certain demographics, especially young men. The relationship between the two substances is complex—not a simple one-for-one swap.

    RELATED: Mixed Messages From The Feds About Cannabis

    The other drivers behind the historic decline in drinking appear to be:

    • Health awareness: Growing public knowledge about alcohol’s link to cancer, mental health issues, and sleep disruption
    • Cultural change: Gen Z’s preference for control, wellness, and authenticity over intoxication
    • Economic realities: Rising costs make alcohol a less frequent indulgence
    • Alternative choices: From cannabis to non-alcoholic craft beverages, young adults have more options than ever

    Cannabis may influence drinking habits for some, but the nationwide decline is far bigger than any single factor. Gen Z and millennials are reshaping nightlife, prioritizing health, and proving you don’t need a drink in hand to have a good time. If this trend continues, the 2020s might be remembered as the decade America’s love affair with alcohol began to cool—by choice.

    Anthony Washington

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  • Gloria Gaynor And Marijuana

    She made a song an anthem – but what about Gloria and cannabis?

    She is timeless disco icon best known for the anthem “I Will Survive,” has openly revealed she needed help in managing the relentless pressure of touring—not as a dependency, but as a tool for stress relief. Gloria Gaynor and marijuana is an example of how the green plant can help those in need. Gaynor described using “marijuana to offset the stress of a hard-hustling touring schedule,” noting it was her go-to choice during moments of overwhelm—“Champagne was my drink. My drug of choice at the time was marijuana”

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    Importantly, Gloria insists she never battled a drug addiction. Her usage appears controlled and contextual—something to help her stay grounded amid touring rather than fueling any substance dependency narrative.

    Cannabis is increasingly recognized—especially in journalistic and wellness circles—for its potential to ease anxiety. Many experience benefits such as lowered stress, improved mood, and enhanced relaxation. These anecdotal and studied outcomes align with what Gaynor experienced: a way to soothe nerves and maintain mental equilibrium during grueling work periods.

    He most well know hit “I Will Survive” was released in late 1978, it was quietly placed on the B-side of the single “Substitute.” But the song had a backstory making it anything but ordinary. Gaynor had recently undergone spinal surgery, a moment leaving her uncertain about her career. The lyrics, written by Freddie Perren and Dino Fekaris, resonated deeply with her own journey of recovery and resilience.

    “It spoke to everything I was going through — physically, emotionally, spiritually,” Gaynor recalled. “I knew this song could give people hope.”

    Rather than letting it languish in obscurity, she personally handed the track to DJs at New York’s Studio 54. The club’s pulsating lights and late-night crowd became the launchpad for its success. Within months, the single shot to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, eventually winning the only Grammy ever awarded for Best Disco Recording.

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    With its driving beat and defiant lyrics, “I Will Survive” became more than just a dance floor hit — it was a lifeline for listeners facing breakups, illness, discrimination, or personal loss. Rolling Stone would later rank it among the greatest songs of all time.

    Beyond “I Will Survive,” Gaynor’s catalog includes the exuberant “I Am What I Am” (1983), which found special resonance in the gay community, and disco hits like “How High the Moon” and “Casanova Brown.” Each reflects her unmistakable voice and her ability to connect with listeners through themes of authenticity and self-belief.

    Today, Gaynor’s story is one of longevity, not cringe. She continues to perform, inspire, and advocate for resilience in all forms — whether through music, faith, or a little help from a plant which, for her, was simply another way to survive.

    Sarah Johns

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  • End-of-Summer Digital Detox Is 2025’s Coolest Trend

    A digital life can be overwhelming – to relax your body and mind – this trend has taken off.

    As summer winds down, a growing number of Gen Z and Millennials are swapping screen time for “offline time”—a lifestyle choice of equal parts nostalgic throwback and mental health boost. Dubbed the End-of-Summer Digital Detox, this trend encourages people to disconnect from constant notifications, algorithm-curated feeds, and endless scrolling, and instead embrace IRL (in real life) experiences before autumn responsibilities set in.

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    The appeal is obvious: summer is the perfect time to recharge away from devices, but August’s last stretch offers the ideal moment to make it memorable. Digital burnout is real—according to the American Psychological Association, more than 50% of young adults report screen time contributes to stress and anxiety. By intentionally unplugging, you create space for deeper connections, better sleep, and a clearer mind heading into fall.

    The magic of a digital detox isn’t about doing less—it’s about doing more offline. Here are some of the most talked-about and surprisingly stylish activities making waves among detox devotees:

    • Read a Book or Print Magazine
      Nothing says “slowing down” like flipping real pages. Whether it’s a glossy fashion magazine from your local bookstore or a classic paperback, the tactile experience beats blue light any day.

    • Host a Backyard Picnic with Analog Vibes
      Bring friends together for an outdoor spread—but make it device-free. Think disposable film cameras for photos, vinyl records for music, and handwritten recipe cards.

    • Night Hikes and Stargazing
      Late summer skies are perfect for spotting constellations. Without a phone in hand, the stars are brighter, conversations deeper, and the memories more vivid.

    • Farmer’s Market Day
      Stroll through a local market, taste fresh seasonal produce, and chat with vendors. It’s a slow-paced reminder of how good face-to-face interactions feel.

    • Crafting or DIY Projects
      From candle-making to building your own terrarium, hands-on activities scratch the creative itch without the distraction of incoming messages.

    • Board Game Marathon
      Skip the gaming console for an old-school board game night—Monopoly, Scrabble, or a stack of thrift-store finds.

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    While the aesthetic of “offline chic” is filling Instagram feeds (ironically), the movement is rooted in something more lasting: the realization of constant connection isn’t the same as meaningful connection. By stepping back from the digital world, even for a weekend, people are rediscovering joy in the tangible, the imperfect, and the unfiltered.

    The End-of-Summer Digital Detox isn’t just a passing hashtag—it’s a mindset. And as we move into the busy fall season, the people who unplug now may just find themselves better equipped to stay balanced, focused, and creative all year long.

    Sarah Johns

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  • Latest Data Reveals Youth Marijuana Use

    The government has released  data on youth cannabis use – and the numbers are not surprising

    One of the concerns over legalizing marijuana is use among the under 21, now the latest data reveals youth marijuana use. Despite expanding access, use among young people is not surging. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), past-year marijuana use among individuals aged 12 to 20 declined to 16.7 percent in 2024, the lowest level seen in four years—even as more states legalize cannabis for adults.

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    This finding runs counter to fears legalization would automatically spark a spike in adolescent use. In fact, the report reveals a drop from 17.9 percent in 2021 and 19.2 percent in 2022, signaling a downward trend in youth consumption despite broader adult access.  It has long been a talking point of those opposing legalization it will cause youth use to soar, but the federal government consistentl shows a decline in use.

    Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reinforce this trend. Their Youth Risk Behavior Survey shows past-month marijuana use among high school students fell from 23 percent in 2013 to 17 percent in 2023, as alcohol use also declined. Another CDC report focusing on early legalizing states—Colorado, Oregon, and Washington—found no uptick in adolescent usage following legalization.

    These government sources highlight legalization, when paired with education and regulation, does not necessarily translate to increased youth consumption. For further reference, SAMHSA’s National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH)—which provided these results—is available at SAMHSA.gov. Additionally, youth data from the CDC’s YRBSS (Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System) offers more granular insights.

    • Fully legalized (recreational + medical): 24 states and the District of Columbia have legalized both medical and recreational marijuana.

    • Medical-only legalization: 40 states permit medical cannabis use, while medical-only laws remain in effect where recreational laws have not been adopted.

    RELATED: Mixed Messages From The Feds About Cannabis

    At the federal level, marijuana remains a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act, alongside substances like heroin and LSD. But change may be on the horizon. President Trump has confirmed his administration is “looking at” rescheduling marijuana—from Schedule I to Schedule III—and expects to make a determination in the coming weeks.

    This review follows a prior process initiated belatedly under the Biden administration: in August 2023, the Department of Health and Human Services recommended rescheduling, and the DEA began rulemaking including hearings—though the process is now paused pending appeals.

    A successful reclassification could pave the way for more medical research, easier banking access for cannabis businesses, and tax benefits for the industry—without fully legalizing marijuana at the federal level.

    Terry Hacienda

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  • Watching a Meteor Shower With An Edible Is Next-Level Awesome

    Summer always has a galactic treat – but seeing it with a little something extra makes a meteor shower mind-blowing.

    Every summer, nature puts on a show which rivals any fireworks display — the meteor shower. Whether it’s the Perseids in August, the Geminids in December, or a random burst of cosmic magic, shooting stars can make anyone feel small in the best possible way. But for many in the cannabis-friendly crowd, there’s a growing trend – watching a meteor shower with an edible is next-level awesome!.

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    First, let’s get the obvious out of the way: edibles hit differently than other forms of cannabis. Instead of a quick rise and fall, they tend to produce a slow-build, full-body high which can last hours. This makes it perfect for meteor watching, which is all about patience and presence. The best shows can run all night, and an edible’s effects let you truly settle in under the sky without constantly checking the time.

    Edibles also heighten sensory perception — making the contrast of dark night skies and sudden streaks of light even more vivid. The faint twinkle of distant stars? Mesmerizing. The unexpected flash of a meteor breaking apart in the atmosphere? Absolutely thrilling. Many users say cannabis enhances their sense of wonder, making them feel more connected to the universe and less distracted by everyday worries. In other words, it’s not just a high — it’s a cosmic mood boost.

    There’s also the bonus of meteor showers are best experienced away from city lights, often in quiet, remote areas. An edible pairs perfectly with this kind of setting. You’re not juggling rolling papers or worrying about wind like you might with smoking, and there’s no telltale cloud or smell. Just you, a blanket, maybe some snacks, and the night sky stretching endlessly above.

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    For Gen Z and Millennials — generations often valuieng experiences over possessions — this combo fits right in. It’s low-cost, low-impact, and ridiculously memorable. A single evening can become the kind of story you tell for years: “Remember the night we drove out to the middle of nowhere, ate those gummies, and saw like ten shooting stars in a row?” It’s a little bit of science, a little bit of magic, and a whole lot of good vibes.

    Of course, as with all cannabis use, the key is moderation. Start small, especially if you’re new to edibles, and make sure you’re in a safe, legal environment. Bring friends, a comfortable setup, and maybe a thermos of hot chocolate — because yes, the stars look even better when you’re cozy.

    A meteor shower is already a rare and beautiful gift from the universe. Add the right edible, and it can feel like the cosmos is putting on a show just for you.

    Anthony Washington

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  • Industry Eyes White House Around Cannabis Rescheduling

    Industry eyes White House as cannabis rescheduling with a mixture of hope and wariness

    The marijuana industry eyes White House around cannabis rescheduling as it continues in a years long holding pattern, Wall Street analysts are weighing in on whether the White House will finally make a decisive move. According to investment bank TD Cowan, there’s now a 60% probability the President will issue an order requiring the DEA to reschedule cannabis, likely moving it from Schedule I to Schedule III under the Controlled Substances Act.

    That shift could have major implications—opening the door for reduced tax burdens on cannabis companies and signaling a broader federal softening on marijuana policy. But while the outlook is optimistic, analysts caution that history suggests a degree of skepticism is still warranted.

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    TD Cowan notes  while the President has recently expressed support for rescheduling or even legalizing cannabis, his track record tells another story. During his first term, he made similar statements but took no substantive action. In fact, many of his nominees to key federal positions were openly opposed to cannabis reform or leaned toward skepticism.

    Photo by Cavan Images/Getty Images

    The cautionary tone comes from a “long history of false optimism” around the President and cannabis policy. Industry veterans recall several moments when business leaders left White House meetings confident reform was coming—only for nothing to materialize. “This is not unique to the President,” TD Cowan adds, drawing parallels to Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer’s stalled 2022 effort to secure cannabis banking reforms, which many believed was within reach but ultimately fizzled.

    Even so, the political calculus could favor action. Rescheduling cannabis could give the President a quick, headline-grabbing win that resonates across party lines. It might also shift media coverage away from less favorable topics, including ongoing trade disputes, tariff policies, and the revived scrutiny over the Epstein controversy.

    RELATED: Mixed Messages From The Feds About Cannabis

    From a market perspective, moving cannabis to Schedule III would be more than symbolic. It would end the IRS’s application of 280E tax rules to cannabis businesses, potentially freeing up millions in annual cash flow for operators. For investors, that kind of regulatory shift could spark renewed interest in a sector battered by oversupply, limited access to banking, and patchwork state-level rules.

    Still, as TD Cowan warns, “optimism must be tempered.” With campaign season heating up, policy promises can be as much about political theater as legislative reality. The cannabis industry, long accustomed to slow federal movement, will be watching closely—hoping that this time, talk turns into action.

    Terry Hacienda

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  • Marijuana Might Be A Better Hurricane Party Guest

    All over the coast they seem to pop up with a storm arrives, but instead of booze, marijuana might be better.

    The season is in full swing and the first big storm has formed. But when a hurricane barrels toward the coast, many communities turn to a surprisingly time-honored ritual — the hurricane party. Neighbors gather, share food, and ride out the storm together. While alcohol has long been a staple at such gatherings, more people are discovering cannabis can be a calmer, safer, and even more practical choice during the long hours of waiting.

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    Alcohol can quickly dull reaction time, cloud judgment, and lead to risky decisions. During a hurricane, when conditions can change in an instant, maintaining some clarity is crucial. Cannabis, depending on dosage and strain, generally produces less severe physical impairment, allowing partygoers to stay more aware of weather updates and ready to act if the situation changes. This can make it easier to pivot if evacuation or immediate action becomes necessary.

    Photo by Cavan Images/Getty Images

    Hurricanes are stressful — the combination of howling winds, pounding rain, and uncertainty about damage can fray nerves. Cannabis is known for its ability to ease anxiety for many users, helping replace tension with a sense of calm. relaxation can make a big difference in the group atmosphere, fostering connection and keeping panic at bay while the storm rages outside.

    One of the most common consequences of a hurricane isn’t direct destruction, but power outages. Without air conditioning, refrigeration, or even a fan, sleeping can be miserable. Cannabis can help induce restful sleep despite heat, humidity, and noise, which is a welcome relief when you’re trying to rest in the middle of an extended blackout. Unlike alcohol — which often disrupts deep sleep — cannabis can help users get the restorative rest they need to stay alert and resilient.

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    In many major storms, the majority of residents in affected zones lose electricity for hours or even days. After Hurricane Irma in 2017, millions in Florida endured days without power in sweltering late-summer heat. In one infamous incident, a large apartment building’s backup generator failed, leaving dozens of residents trapped in elevators and hallways with no light, AC, or communication — a sobering reminder hurricanes often test endurance more than anything else.

    In that environment, staying relatively clear-headed, managing anxiety, and getting some rest can be more valuable than chasing the buzz of strong drinks. While every hurricane party is unique, those choosing cannabis over alcohol often find they’re better able to ride out the storm calmly — and remember it clearly when the skies finally clear.

    Anthony Washington

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  • The Odds of Cannabis Rescheduling

    The Administration is hinting about being open to rescheduling – the betting markets aren’t

    Despite campaign promises, the current administration has made zero movement on cannabis rescheduling or any relief.  Leaders have even been known to say progress needs to be repealed, so they industry crossed their fingers and are holding their breath. But what are the odds of cannabis rescheduling?

    As Washington plays its long game on cannabis policy, anyone trying to place a bet — literal or figurative — needs to understand the levers which move markets. Rescheduling marijuana from Schedule I to III (or descheduling it altogether) is no single act of presidential will: it’s a legal, scientific and political sieve. Here are the key factors driving the “odds” markets and pundits watch.

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    First, the administrative roadmap matters. The Biden administration asked HHS and the Attorney General to review marijuana’s classification; HHS recommended moving cannabis to Schedule III and the DOJ/DEA issued a formal notice of proposed rulemaking — steps which create a legal timetable and public record investors and bettors can price in.

    Photo by 2H Media via Unsplash

    Second, scientific and regulatory endorsements carry weight. HHS and FDA evaluations find “accepted medical use” or manageable public health risks make it easier legally to reclassify a drug — and they reduce political risk for a President who wants to claim an evidence-based approach. Administrative backing is why many analysts view rescheduling as procedurally plausible even if politically fraught.

    Third, the politics — both partisan and populist — shape the tail risk. Congressional pushback, pro- and anti-legalization lobbying, and changing agency leadership can slow or stall rescheduling even after agencies finish technical work. Recent reporting shows a robust anti-legalization counter-movement and procedural hurdles in agency hearings could delay outcomes. Those dynamics widen the odds range and lengthen timelines.

    Fourth, the legal process itself is a drag on quick outcomes. Rule-making, notice-and-comment periods, administrative hearings and possible judicial review create long windows where new information — court decisions, staffing changes, election results — can swing markets. Prediction markets typically discount long, legally complex outcomes because the information flow is slow and lumpy.

    Polymarket, one of the fastest-growing decentralized prediction markets, thrives on politically charged, binary-outcome questions — from election results to Supreme Court decisions. Cannabis rescheduling fits the bill: a concrete policy decision with a clear yes/no resolution and a definable deadline. Once the DEA sets a final action date, expect a market to open where traders can wager on whether rescheduling happens before the deadline. The volatility of political and legal developments would make it one of the more active contracts, with odds shifting on every new filing, leak, or press statement.

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    Finally, public opinion and electoral calculation matter. Broad public support for legalization gives political cover, especially when the change can be framed as criminal-justice reform or pro-small-business tax relief. But close or contentious state votes, and targeted anti-reform campaigns, can make lawmakers and presidents more cautious — and that caution is reflected in slimmer betting odds.

    What this means for would-be bettors: look for administrative milestones (HHS/FDA reports, Federal Register notices, DEA hearings) as the most reliable catalysts shifting probabilities. Prediction markets and bookies will move when those documents or hearing outcomes arrive — until then, odds will reflect process risk as much as policy intent.

    Anthony Washington

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  • Macomb County gets new cannabis dispensary and consumption lounge

    Courtesy of Burn1

    Burn1 is a new cannabis consumption lounge in Utica. It opens alongside Bowdega, a new dispensary.

    A new cannabis dispensary and neighboring consumption lounge are opening this weekend in Utica, offering customers a place to buy weed and legally smoke it next door.

    Bowdega, a “culturally inspired” dispensary, and Burn1, the adjacent consumption lounge, are celebrating with a grand opening Friday that will include food trucks, DJs, exclusive giveaways, and more.

    Burn1 will be the first consumption lounge in Macomb County.

    The idea is to create a full-service cannabis destination that offers a wide range of marijuana products and a licensed, indoor space to enjoy the weed.

    The complex is located at 4511 Park Ave.

    Kiezi Company founder Marvin Kiezi said the concept is designed to feel welcoming and community-driven.

    “Bowdega is more than a dispensary. It’s a reflection of the block,” Kiezi said. “We’ve built a space that feels like your favorite corner store: familiar, fast, flavorful, and community-driven. From the product curation to the vibe, everything is designed to serve the people and support the culture.”

    The 5,500-square-foot dispensary will offer products from a wide range of brands, including Peninsula Gardens, Local Grove, Fear of Boof, Platinum Vape, Jeeter, Mitten Extracts, Hytek, Hyman, Fresh Canna, Flower Power, and Stiiizy.

    “Our goal is to be a trusted retailer with quality products,” Kiezi said.

    The 3,000-foot consumption lounge is fully licensed to allow customers to “enjoy what they purchase in a safe, welcoming setting,” according to a news release.

    “Every detail, from curated music, cozy seating and an open-air patio to live art and community events, is crafted to bring people together and celebrate Utica’s unique vibe,” the news release states. “At Burn1, it’s not just about smoking–it’s about creating moments, sharing stories, and feeling right at home.”

    Only six consumption lounges have a license to operate in the state. At least two of them have not opened yet. The state’s first consumption lounge, Hot Box Social in Hazel Park, opened in March 2022 but has since closed.

    Another consumption lounge, the Joint Cannabis Lounge, is expected to open this year in Mount Clemens.

    Steve Neavling

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