Smoke Signals

Though arguably a world away, New York City is a mere 2,789 miles from Bend. Its population of 8.8 million is mind-numbing when you consider its small geographic size, and no doubt accounts as a primary reason so many New Yorkers use cannabis.  After decades of draconian, racist policies in arresting and prosecuting cannabis producers, […]

On Oct. 6, President Joe Biden struck a blow against marijuana prohibition by announcing sweeping pardons for convicted marijuana users, and a new policy direction for cannabis. Not since Richard Nixon’s “War on Drugs” speech in 1971 has a single presidential edict impacted federal drug prohibition in such a way. Biden promised to pardon all […]

The expansion of Medical and Adult Use cannabis programs across the U.S. has led to—brace yourself—more cannabis use. It’s also led to more studies about cannabis use, including how it impacts the users, and what effects the growing use is having on other commodities. Here’s an overview of some recent research findings. Cannabis isn’t making […]

Recently, while running a backstage budtending cold brew coffee and iced tea bar at a concert, one of the artists playing asked if I could infuse the cold brew coffee with some CBD-only tincture. I was happy to oblige, even more so when she explained she had recently completed a stint in rehab, and this […]

Summer is here! The great outdoors, longer days, vacations and engaging in social situations with others, which for many will result in frequent cannabis consumption sessions.  In other words, y’all are gonna get hiiiiiighh with your friends every damn where, all the damn time, for the whole damn “Hot Stoned Summer.” Smoking circles are back […]

In a move that is the first of its kind in the nation, the Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission is restricting the sale of some artificially derived synthetic cannabinoids in the state beginning July 1. The restricted compounds – namely artificially-derived CBN – will only be sold in OLCC dispensaries, and will be required to […]

Dutchie, a Bend, Ore.-based software startup that serves cannabis retailers, has laid off 8% of its workforce. GeekWire confirmed the cuts with a Dutchie spokesperson. The company employs more than 700 people. The cuts affected roles across product and recruiting teams, according to LinkedIn posts written by laid off employees. “I am saddened, frustrated, and genuinely […]