Author Archives: Patrick V. (Midwest Dazed)

USDA Rule Blocks Loans for Cannabis-Linked Businesses Despite State Legalization

The USDA has finalized a rule barring businesses connected to cannabis operations from accessing federal OneRD loan guarantees, reinforcing ongoing conflicts between state legalization and federal law.

Brown Rice vs Hemp vs Bamboo Rolling Papers: Which Burns Cleanest?

Explore the differences between brown rice, organic hemp, and bamboo rolling papers using OCB as the example. Learn how each material affects burn rate, flavor, and overall smoking experience, and why bamboo papers stand out for a cleaner, more flavor-forward session.

Cannabis Rescheduling Marks a Turning Point for U.S. Drug Policy

President Donald Trump has signed an executive order initiating the rescheduling of cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III, marking the most significant shift in U.S. drug policy in decades and signaling potential changes for the state regulated cannabis industry.

Redemption Botanicals Brings Home Major Wins at the 2025 Best in Grass Competition

Redemption Botanicals dominated the 2025 Best in Grass competition with multiple first-place wins for their flower, rosin, and vape products, solidifying their place as one of Illinois’ top craft cannabis growers.

Woody Glass Gallery Hosts Free Annual Cup Show at Ignite Glass Studios

Woody Glass Gallery is hosting its free Annual Cup Show at Ignite Glass Studios, bringing together glass artists, collectors, and fans for a community-focused celebration of functional art.

New Study Suggests Cannabis May Offer Quick Relief for Adults on the Autism Spectrum

A new study published in Nature Scientific Reports suggests that inhaled cannabis may offer fast acting relief for adults living with autism spectrum disorder. Participants reported major reductions in anxiety, irritability, repetitive behaviors, difficulty concentrating, and sensory overload shortly after use.

Super Sweet by Nez Review

A full review of Super Sweet by Nez, a craft Illinois cultivar created from Blockberry x BOLO Runtz. We look at aroma, flavor, effects, and overall quality with an honest rating.

Snowberry Runtz Live Sugar Sauce Review from True North Concentrates

A full review of Snowberry Runtz Live Sugar Sauce from True North Concentrates. This Michigan made BHO brings sweet candy berry flavor, clean quality, and a smooth relaxing high that fits perfectly into the True North lineup.

PharmaCann Shuts Down Dwight Cultivation Facility, Cutting 82 Jobs

PharmaCann is shutting down its Dwight cultivation facility and laying off 82 employees, signaling growing financial pressure across the Illinois cannabis market. Falling wholesale prices, heavy taxes and rising costs continue to strain operators as the state faces calls for tax reform to support struggling dispensaries.

Preferred Gardens Launches in Illinois with Znackz

Preferred Gardens has officially arrived in Illinois with its Znackz strain, delivered in collaboration with Redemption Botanicals. This review breaks down the aroma, structure, lineage, effects, and overall experience of one of the most anticipated drops to hit the Illinois market.

Understanding the Differences Between Flower Rosin, Hash Rosin, and Live vs. Cured Rosin

Learn the key differences between flower rosin and hash rosin, and how live rosin compares to cured rosin. This guide breaks down flavor, potency, production, and when each type of rosin shines.

Green Wednesday & Black Friday Sale: Get Your Illinois Medical Card for Only $59

Get your Illinois medical cannabis card for only $59 during Leafwell’s Green Wednesday & Black Friday sale. From November 21st through December 1st, use code CL40 to unlock lower taxes, medical-only discounts, and the legal right to home grow.

The Truth About Terpene Infused Flower in Today’s Cannabis Market: Legalized Spray Packs

As infused flower becomes more common in legal markets, some brands are masking low quality cannabis with added terpenes and distillate. Consumers were promised clean and transparent products, and it is important to call out practices that disguise weak flower as something premium.