Cannabis in Malta Part I: Market & History
Written By Nigel Despinasse
While governments worldwide are engaging in debates and decisions regarding their stance on cannabis, the future of cannabis innovation looks bright in Malta.
Malta is a pioneering country that legalized medical cannabis in 2018 and became the first in the EU to legalize recreational cannabis in 2021.
With strategic geographical positioning in the Mediterranean and the potential for growth in the European market, Malta's cannabis industry presents numerous investment opportunities and prospects for economic growth.
Read on for an enticing overview of Malta's cannabis industry, including its historical background, legal framework, and the landscape of medical cannabis.
NYC: A Stoner’s Paradise
Written By Hannah Gershowitz
New York City has the tendency to heighten the grandiosity of really anything— from as minuscule as the curves of the buildings to as regal as a brand-new market opening.
Thus, when recreational cannabis was legalized in March 2021, it was so monumental that the whole climate and landscape of the city changed along with it.
Cannabis smoke has taken over the once-familiar aromas of nearby restaurants and bakeries, illicit dispensaries line every block, seemingly endless elevated experiences and spaces have popped up… and that all happened before the first recreational dispensary even opened.
Now, the market is fully open, and it’s louder than the chatter of the city— louder than the mix of sirens and subways and people. The city’s cannabis scene is making noise, and New York City will never be the same because of it.
And as a weed enthusiast, I love it. New York City is a stoner’s paradise.
Homegrown Reviews: Dave’s White Widow
Written By Daniel Crawford
When I told my friend Dave about a new project I was starting, he didn’t hesitate to hand over a fat sack full of his newest hobby: home growing cannabis. The White Widow nugs were supplied from Dave’s first harvest since beginning his hobby.
I hadn’t consumed White Widow since my college days with summers filled with trips to music festivals around the country. Most who know me, understand I have been involved with cultivating cannabis for nearly two decades.
Having an official record of his first ever harvest will allow Dave to dial in and keep track of his entire genetic portfolio in the years to come. This goes to show you, a grower doesn’t have to grow cultivars with THC percentages +25% to produce effective medicine.
Why the Midwest is the Perfect Destination for Your Next Cannabis-infused Adventure
Written By Bri Smith
Pack your bags and bug spray; Minnesota’s 10,000 lakes (and nearly as many opportunities to try cannabinoid-infused beverages) are calling! This year, instead of planning the typical coastal vacation, might I suggest visiting the Twin Cities in the heart of the Midwest?
With a diverse and progressive population, a lively art and music scene, and hundreds of breweries dabbling in THC-infusion, the Twin Cities has become the poster child for successfully integrating edibles and drinkables into mainstream retail stores.
Now, you can buy (and, in many cases, enjoy on-site) canna beverages in restaurants, bars, hotels, grocery co-ops, theaters, art festivals, concert venues, and more.
You might be thinking, “There’s no way you can get a THC-bev or edible in all of those places… right?” But I’m here to confirm the rumors are true. I’ve visited these spots and can confirm the experience is euphoric, exciting, and incredibly… normal.
Read on for 10 locations where you can (and should) experience cannabinoid-infused beverages in the Minnesota Wild.
Transitioning From Non-Cannabis to Cannabis: What You Need to Know
Written By Christy Essex
So, you want to work in cannabis? There is a lot of “buzz” going on, especially when it comes to people looking into transitioning to cannabis from non-cannabis fields.
Cannabis companies have needs, just like any other company in any other legal industry. In the fastest growing industry in the nation, opportunities are popping up everywhere.
The process of transitioning from traditional non-cannabis careers into the cannabis industry may seem daunting, however there are more connections between the job you have now and your future career in cannabis than meets the eye.
One of my favorite quotes by Henry Ford is “Whether you think you can-or think you can’t-you’re right!” I kept this quote by my desk as I set up to pivot into the cannabis space, myself. Now, here I am ten years later loving my decision to transition into the cannabis workforce.
So, if you are still wondering where to start, here are some recommendations;
UNBLURRING THE HAZE: CANNABIS & ADHD
Written By Deborah Agboola
The potential of cannabis for managing ADHD symptoms is certainly a “budding” topic.
We’ve heard and seen cases of people using cannabis to manage conditions such as pain, anxiety, depression, etc. But there are only a few instances of people reporting cannabis use for ADHD management.
A research survey to examine the effects of cannabis on ADHD was conducted in 2022. Many of the participants with ADHD who noted they had used cannabis reported seeing acute benefits for their symptoms, and even improvements with many of their medication side effects, like irritability and anxiety.
Cannabis offers ADHD-relevant benefits by stimulating cannabinoid receptors on specific brain cells. From the research into CBD and THC for ADHD symptoms, we’ve noted encouraging outcomes, and are now wondering, 'What other phytocannabinoids, major or minor, might be suitable for ADHD?'
ETHEREAL ADVENTURES OF DR. MERL THE ASTONISHING METAPHYSICIAN: Map Points
Written By Grant Mitchell
After traveling down a kaleidoscopic wormhole, for what seemed like an eternity, Dr. Merl wakes up on the beach of what he can only guess is a distant alien planet. Merl notices a small tower in the cove across the coastline.
Merl meets a wizard who calls himself Citizen Patient. Discussions about isolation, what planet they are on, and the year transpires briefly.
Dr. Merl explained his home is called “Planet Earth.”
“Never heard of it.” C.P. replies.
It’s so dark in the dank smelling castle that Dr. Merl can’t see, and so asks C.P. if he can open a shade to let in some light. Just as he is about to ask him what type of cannabis strain he favors…
“Sure.” says C.P. as he floats, not even walking, towards the window. Mysteriously, C.P. then vanishes into the curtain and the map spontaneously combusts again like the first piece of parchment from Dr. Merl’s laboratory.
Dr. Merl jumps back in order to save his nose and eyebrows from getting seared off. Another practical joke or a tricky magical prankster, eh?
‘Cross-pollination’ Leads to Good Ideas
Written By Mark G.
Priuses. Labradoodles. OG Kush. Although these random items appear to have little in common, they do share one thing: cross-pollination.
You might be asking yourself, what is cross-pollination? To put that in the context of cannabis culture, cross-pollination could best be exemplified by one of the most popular hybrid-strains ever, OG Kush.
OG Kush is technically a three-way hybrid (tri-brid?) of Chemdawg x Hindu Kush Indica x Lemon Thai Sativa. Three separate strains that are amazing by themselves are combined, or cross pollinated – to create a new, arguably better solution – a true cross-pollination.
This process of mixing disparate components to create a total that is better than the sum is akin to problem solving. The mixing of problems and ideas to create solutions is one of the oldest and arguably the most important processes we as humans NATURALLY utilize.
I argue that the existential reason for humanity is to problem-solve with the goal of advancing our lives. How do we do that? You guessed it–cross pollination– mixing scenarios with our experiences to ultimately create ideas.
Herbie My (New) Love
Product Review By Casey Renteria
I like to think I’m an active person, at least four days out of the week. After working out, my back becomes so uncomfortably tight that it causes headaches, neck pain, and cramps. I take my self-care seriously, and one constant ordeal is tight muscles.
I love topicals for muscle recovery post-workout for this reason. I have found that it is a critical key in my recovery. Although I have so many lotions, potions, rubs, and balms I am still kind of picky about my topicals, since I use them multiple times a week.
One day, while doom scrolling on LinkedIn, I came across a post featuring Herbie Pain Balm. I knew right then and there, there wasn't a doubt in my mind, I wanted to get my hands on it. Or more like 'get it on me!
Everywhere I’ve Smoked Part I: WEST vs EAST
Written By Emily Harris
It’s safe to say that many of us have grown up alongside weed’s legitimization, and I’m here to take a deeper look into how we all fit in where the West meets the East, and all the cultures in between.
Throughout my lengthy and wavering relationship with weed I’ve had the opportunity to smoke in a total of eleven states. It’s been a long, wild ride as I’ve taken weed across the country, border to border, and coast to coast, all the while wondering how the hell I got to where I am today, and everywhere I’ve been along the way.
Through the ebbs and flows of cannabis’ presence in my personal life, I’m at a point of reflection on its role in America’s history, the influence it’s had on me coming into my personhood, and the current cultural implications based on its legislation from the West to the East.
KEEPING YOUR CANNABIS CONSUMPTION A PLEASANT EXPERIENCE
Written By Deborah Agboola
When it comes to cannabis consumption, it's easy to go with the fad, but it's better to go with your limits.
What is an “ideal dosage”? At this point in time, state regulators have failed to address dosages, so it is up to relevant cannabis organizations to set dosage standards for the cannabis consumer. Yet, a meshwork of suggested THC thresholds exist; we’ve heard that THC limits for newbies should stay under 2.5 mg, while others suggest 5 to 10mg. Do any of these recommendations actually stick?
Help I’m Gay (Maybe) and High
Written By Brian Cruz
When Lindsey first brought this topic to my virtual desk, she didn’t phrase it with any negative connotation.
As a gay, I think gay things when I’m high frequently, but I felt like Lindsey was probably looking for someone who identified as heterosexual and thinks gay thoughts, only or mostly when they are high. ‘
Tis not the case for me, but based on my experience of repressing my sexuality for most of my life coupled with the occasional hook up with a closeted friend, I can imagine what a candidate she is looking for might be like.
I wouldn’t say my high thoughts differ in extreme to my sober thoughts. Aside from that, sober I am less creative, more irritable, and more self-conscious. When high, I take my thoughts and reflect on their nature. I don’t hold myself to a puritan standard of what is normal. Just look outside, “normal” in the U.S.A. is very weird.
I, at the risk of labeling myself some pervert, think thoughts that interpret as heterosexual, even to me, my own critic.
Casey’s Fat Nugs Field Trips: Black Ridge Cannabis
Dispensary Review Written By Casey Renteria
Black Ridge Cannabis is a veteran-owned and operated dispensary in Calera, Oklahoma.
When I found out the dispensary opened in March of 2023, this of course sparked a Fat Nugs field trip! I wanted to meet the owners Harvey Thompson, Edward Gann, & Kody Edwards to see what they were really all about.
On the Ground at NCF 2023 with Caroline Phillips
Written By LaWann Stribling
It’s now close to 2pm, and I am making my way to the VIP area, finally. After getting my food, I came closer to Caroline, thinking this would be a great time to approach her for a face-to-face interview.
I then noticed the look of concern on her face and overheard that we have to evacuate. I confronted her face-to-face, and asked her for clarification; “Did you say we have to evacuate the park?” She responded with a yes, explaining that a temporary shutdown is in place due to incoming storms.
With food still in hand, I briskly walked back to the other side of the park to our booth. Before I could even reach our tent, the rain drops began!
Keeping in mind the magnitude of this amazing annual festival, I am happy to report that I was able to interview Caroline Phillips, Founder of National Cannabis Festival after all - to finally speak about this year’s NCF.
Editor’s Sample Hot Box: 420 Edition
Written By Melanie Rizzo & Lindsey Gunter
One of the many perks of being editors here at FNM is that we regularly receive samples. Samples, you say? Yes, LOTS of them. From candles, to prerolls, edibles, and flower, these samples provide us with first-hand knowledge of the latest products on the market, and by staying on top of the trends, we can share the scoop with our readers.
By receiving samples in a myriad of ways, we possess a lens into the product landscape, and as a publication, we are the voices here to spread the word!
But as you know, we at FNM are pretty discerning when it comes to what we smoke and what we support. So, for this 420 guide, we welcome you to the first of our Editor’s Sample Hotbox. An on-going series where we’ll gush about our favorite inhalable, edible and accessory products!
Hash Helped Me Heal
Written By Shelley Peebles
I remember the day I was sitting in my therapist’s office when I said, “I feel like he’s emotionally abusive. I don’t know if that’s a thing, but that’s what it feels like.” My therapist stopped and looked at me, eyes wide open. The next words out of her mouth hit me in the gut. “That’s because he is. And he will never change.”
I was diagnosed with PTSD as a result of a domestic violence incident. I knew I had to make a decision. Something needed to change. I needed my children to know that this was not a normal or healthy relationship, and I also needed to be in a better place. Mentally, I was not prepared for what unfolded.
Hasta Luego: From Barcelona With Love -Snowbirdstoner in España for Spannabis 2023
Written By Grant Mitchell
Barcelona as a city, functions as Europe’s beacon for trade shows. Despite weed being completely illegal in Spain, Spannabis shines as the largest European cannabis fair - now running 20 years strong.
Conglomerating 4 events, The International Cannabis Business Conference (ICBC), Spannabis Fair, a symposium titled The World Cannabis Conference: International Cannabis Forum, and The Professional Growers Cup aka “Spannabis Champions Cup” all make up the juggernaut known collectively as SPANNABIS. Events are held in Fira de Cornellà from March 9-12th, with a plethora of afterparties, mixers, and networking gatherings usually in El Centro.
If you are thinking of visiting next year, it is definitely worth the trip. An article such as this, can never fully capture the magnitude of the breadth of the experience. Still, Spain should be on everyone's bucket list! Beyond just the convention, the culture in this part of the old world is magnificent.
What Can Cannabis Do For Your Dog?
Written by Andrea Harris
"You're gonna put cannabis in dog treats? How on earth is that going to work?" Dr. Rodgers asked me.
"Yeah, I mean obviously it won't be high in THC, but I know there has to be medicinal properties for dogs as well." I retorted as I pulled back on the plunger and the 3ml syringe began to fill with blood.
I never thought that I would go from those conversations to stopping by clinics that carry my full-spectrum hemp dog treats. I can't help but think back as I hear story after story about cannabis helping canines.
Much like our own system, your dog's endocannabinoid system produces its own endocannabinoids. In fact, it's more than just dogs. We all have a system that interacts with the compounds found in cannabis, now it's all about narrowing down what cannabinoids are beneficial to which ailments so we can tailor-make cannabis profiles for our furry, and not-so-furry friends.
NECANN Boston: The Best of Cannabis in the Northeast
Written By Jessica Reilly-Chevalier
For years, the west coast has been the domestic mecca of cannabis, a shining paradise of legalization in a sea of prohibition. But it’s not 2012 anymore – over half of Americans now live where cannabis is legal, and the biggest wave of legalization reform has been on the East coast in recent years.
So, when NECANN descended on Boston for 3 days, it was the kind of good time you can only expect in the cannabis industry. This was the first time in 9 years that a majority of states in the NE were legal, and people were ready to celebrate.
I spent two days on the show floor, attending sessions, and afterparties, and talking to people. You don’t need to have visited the city to get the highlights - here’s the best of the best.
To Be A Woman In Cannabis Is To Be A Chemchix
Interview By The “Naive Newb” Blue Amnesia
To be a woman in cannabis is to be a “Chemchix'' and the CEO of Chemchix is leaning into that pleasure; the pleasure that is acknowledging all the incredible women making the culture what it is, the pleasure of finding and stepping into our power.
Her experience in the industry on the marketing side of things is where she began to feel the call to uplift the voices of women in the space. As she shared her experiences of repetitive stolen credit and misplaced honor with me, I understood completely how she got inspired to be the change.