Soldiers give their all, but sometimes return home a bit broken….access to cannabis can make a huge difference
The United States and Canada have over 1 million active service personal. They sacrifice so their fellow citizens can enjoy safety, democracy and more. Four years is the usual full time commitment, but sometimes, the time stays with them forever. With mini wars and flare ups around the world, from 20-30% come back with some level of PTSD. It is tough souvenir for trying to help your country. Science shows cannabis can help PTSD and hopefully the US federal government will move quickly to help more.
While the government grinds slowly, over 30,000 active duty personnel and veterans who have served in the military since 9/11 have committed suicide. That is the roughly the same amount of wiping out all of Fairbanks, Alaska. More veterans committed suicide, almost 100,000, after Vietnam, than in the war (roughly 58,000).
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Symptoms are generally grouped into four types including intrusive memories, avoidance, negative changes in thinking and mood, and changes in physical and emotional reactions. Symptoms can vary over time or vary from person to person. These can cause a person to lose any advantage in life and cripple their day to day life.
Over 50% of research done on the medical benefits of marijuana have been focused on dangers and not ways to help. But existing studies indicate medical marijuana, in the right dose, can reduce the symptoms of PTSD and provide relief. More wide spread studies need to be funded and completed to better understand the full benefits and treatment regimes.
One study revealed cannabis users reported a greater decrease in the severity of their PTSD symptoms. They also were more than 2.5 times as likely to no longer meet the diagnostic criteria for PTSD as those who did not use cannabis.
Some good news is veterans participating in a state-sanctioned medical marijuana program will not be denied VA benefits, according to the Department of Veterans Affairs. VA providers are able to discuss cannabis use with veteran patients and adjust care and treatment plans as needed. Veterans are encouraged to discuss medical marijuana use with their VA providers as part of their confidential medical record.
Another step in the mainstreaming of cannabis, the plant has its own set of crossword puzzles!
Looking for a last minute Easter or 420 gift for the marijuana aficanado? You can stop into Barnes and Nobles or another independent bookstore and pick up unique treat. 420 across cannabis comes to crosswords and can be found at mainstream retailers. The world of crossword puzzles is experiencing a fresh and exciting twist with the rise of cannabis-themed crosswords, delighting both word enthusiasts and cannabis aficionados alike. This new wave reflects not only the growing acceptance of cannabis culture but also the enduring popularity and adaptability of the crossword puzzle itself.
Crossword puzzles have a rich and storied history. The earliest forms date back to the 19th century, with simple word squares appearing in children’s books and magazines. The modern crossword, however, was born on December 21, 1913, when Arthur Wynne, a journalist for the New York World, published his “word-cross” puzzle—diamond-shaped and clue-driven, it set the template for the pastime we know today. The name soon flipped to “cross-word,” and by the 1920s, newspapers across America and Britain were featuring crosswords daily, each developing their own distinctive styles and rules. The crossword’s popularity soared, offering comfort and distraction during turbulent times such as World War I and II. Over the decades, the puzzle evolved, spawning cryptic crosswords in Britain and themed puzzles that reflect every imaginable interest.
Enter cannabis crosswords—a playful, educational, and timely evolution. As cannabis has become more mainstream, so too has its presence in popular culture and media. Cannabis-themed crosswords now appear in magazines, online platforms, and even published books, such as “Cannabis CrossWords & More” by Gail Marie Beckman, a seasoned cruciverbalist who crafts custom puzzles for all occasions. These puzzles blend cannabis terminology, history, and science with the classic challenge of wordplay, making them a hit at cannabis events, dispensaries, and among enthusiasts seeking a fun way to test their knowledge.
The appeal is multifaceted: cannabis crosswords offer a lighthearted way to learn about the plant, its uses, and its legal landscape, while also providing the cognitive benefits and relaxation that crosswords are famous for. They foster community, spark conversation, and celebrate the intersection of two vibrant cultures—wordplay and cannabis.
As both crossword puzzles and cannabis culture continue to thrive, their union in cannabis-themed crosswords is a testament to the enduring power of play, curiosity, and connection.Whether you’re a seasoned solver or a curious newcomer, these puzzles invite everyone to “hash out” their knowledge and enjoy the high-minded fun.
After mixed messages, the current administration make a nomination which the cannabis industry sees as positive.
The new government has left the cannabis industry and million of patients worried about the future. Veterans, seniors, Gen Z and more are using medical marijuana for chronic pain, stress, anxiety, and more, especially since it is a better alternative than some traditional medicine. At last, there is a positive move by the administration on medical marijuana. The administration’s nomination of Sara Carter as the first female director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) has been met with widespread optimism, particularly given her nuanced and positive stance on medical marijuana.
Sara Carter is an award-winning investigative journalist renowned for her frontline reporting on national security, border issues, and the fight against drug cartels. Her extensive experience covering the opioid and fentanyl crises, as well as her commitment to exposing criminal networks, positions her as a formidable leader in the battle against America’s drug epidemic. As a mother of six, Carter brings a personal understanding of the impact of drug abuse on families and communities, further fueling her dedication to public health and safety.
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What truly sets Carter apart from previous ONDCP directors is her open and positive perspective on medical marijuana. Unlike many of her predecessors, Carter has publicly described medical cannabis as a “fantastic” treatment option for people suffering from serious illnesses such as cancer. On her podcast, The Sara Carter Show, she stated:
“I don’t have any problem if it’s legalized and it’s monitored… I do believe that cannabis for medicinal purposes and medical reasons is a fantastic way of handling—especially for people with cancer and other illnesses—the illness and the side effects of the medication and those illnesses. So I’m not saying we’ve gotta make it illegal.”
Carter’s willingness to distinguish between illicit, unregulated drug markets and legally regulated medical cannabis demonstrates her pragmatic approach. She has emphasized that her main concerns are with illegal trafficking and cartel activity, not with regulated medical use. This distinction is critical, as it aligns with growing public consensus—nearly 90% of Americans support access to medical marijuana.
Carter’s nomination signals a potential shift toward a more balanced and evidence-based drug policy at the federal level. Her recognition of the benefits of medical marijuana, coupled with her focus on harm reduction and public safety, offers hope for:
Increased support for medical cannabis research and access for patients in need.
Enhanced efforts to combat illicit drug trafficking and organized crime, while respecting state-level decisions on cannabis regulation.
A more compassionate and health-focused national drug strategy, prioritizing prevention, treatment, and recovery over punitive measures.
Her media expertise and public profile are expected to help her effectively communicate these priorities, uniting stakeholders from law enforcement, healthcare, and advocacy communities.
Sara Carter’s nomination as ONDCP director is a forward-thinking move that acknowledges regarding the legitimate medical value of cannabis. Her positive, pragmatic stance on medical marijuana, combined with her commitment to public health and safety, positions her to make a lasting, positive impact on America’s drug policy landscape.
Looking for a weekend getaway where you can get a little extra elevated? Here are three suggestions.
Spring is in the air and the travel itch is strong, looking for something different? Something elevated, fun, and a bit chill? While 24 states have fully recreational marijuana, some places are better than others. Yes, New York City and Los Angeles have weed, but there are some places just better for a weekend getaway. Here are the 3 best cities for a marijuana weekend. We considered the cost of travel, hotels, making sure there is good food and enough activities to have you engaged even after a vape and then looked the best green options.
Denver remains the undisputed leader for cannabis tourism in the U.S. The city boasts an impressive 48 dispensaries per 100,000 residents—nearly 140% above the national average—ensuring easy access to a wide variety of products. Cannabis-friendly accommodations have surged by 32% since 2022, making it easier than ever to find a welcoming place to stay. Denver also offers more guided cannabis tours than any other city, giving visitors the chance to explore grow operations, sample edibles, and learn about the city’s pioneering cannabis scene. With competitive prices and the stunning backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, Denver seamlessly blends cannabis culture with outdoor adventure, making it a must-visit for enthusiasts.
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Las Vegas, Nevada
Sin City has fully embraced cannabis culture, offering a unique blend of entertainment, luxury, and high-quality cannabis experiences. Las Vegas features 24-hour dispensaries, cannabis-friendly hotels, and lounges where visitors can relax and socialize. The city’s famous nightlife is now complemented by cannabis-infused events, guided dispensary tours, and even weed cuisine.
Iconic venues like Planet 13, the largest dispensary in the world, provide immersive experiences that go far beyond a standard dispensary visit. The DAZED! Consumption Lounge in Planet 13 is planning special 4/20 celebration have different promotions throughout the year. 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.
Whether you’re pairing cannabis with world-class shows or exploring the Strip’s dazzling lights, Las Vegas delivers a one-of-a-kind cannabis vacation that’s both indulgent and unforgettable.
Portland is a haven for cannabis travelers seeking affordability and variety. Not only are they home to Powell Books, the city boasts 55 dispensaries per 100,000 residents. This is a 20% increase since 2022—and some of the lowest cannabis prices in the country. Weed-friendly accommodations are plentiful and budget-friendly, averaging just $161 per night. Locals and visitors like relish the culinary scene and pioneering food trucks,. Portland’s progressive vibe is reflected in its eco-conscious cannabis industry and its thriving arts makes it easy to pair your cannabis experience with live music. The city’s laid-back atmosphere and welcoming community make it an ideal destination for a relaxed, memorable cannabis vacation.
These cities each offer a distinct flavor of cannabis culture, combining legal access, innovative experiences, and plenty of local charm. Whether you’re after outdoor adventures, luxury entertainment, or creative urban exploration, Denver, Las Vegas, and Portland are the top picks for a cannabis vacation in 2025.