Ever wondered what gives your favorite cannabis strain its unique scent, flavor, and effects? The answer lies in a fascinating world beyond just THC and CBD. Welcome to the intricate symphony of compounds that work together to create the magic in your bud: terpenes and a whole family of cannabinoids. At Couch Lock’d, we’re allContinue reading “Unlocking the Full Potential of Your High: A Deep Dive into Terpenes and Cannabinoids”
Author Archives: Patrick V. (Midwest Dazed)
D33 Andersonville Budtenders Seek a Voice, Unionize with Teamsters for Better Workplace Conditions
CHICAGO, IL – Budtenders at Dispensary 33 (D33) in Chicago’s Andersonville neighborhood are making a significant move towards improving their working lives, initiating efforts to unionize their location with the International Brotherhood of Teamsters. This organizing drive highlights a growing trend within the rapidly expanding cannabis industry, where workers are increasingly seeking fair treatment, improved benefits,Continue reading “D33 Andersonville Budtenders Seek a Voice, Unionize with Teamsters for Better Workplace Conditions”
Illinois Cannabis Market: A Decade of Growth, A Future of Challenges
It’s been over a decade since medical cannabis became legal in Illinois, and nearly five years since recreational cannabis followed suit. While overall sales figures boast significant growth, a closer look reveals a struggling landscape for new shops and brands, while multi-state operators (MSOs) continue to dominate. The state’s recent pause on the next roundContinue reading “Illinois Cannabis Market: A Decade of Growth, A Future of Challenges”
Gen Z’s Cannabis Wishlist: What They’re Really Asking For
Having spent five years navigating the cannabis retail landscape and crafting content for various brands, certain consumer patterns have become undeniably clear. It’s evident that Gen Z is rapidly shaping the future of cannabis consumption, and their preferences are a strong indicator of where the market is headed. Here’s a look at the products they consistentlyContinue reading “Gen Z’s Cannabis Wishlist: What They’re Really Asking For”
Chicago Police to Refine Cannabis Search Policy Amidst Shifting Legal Landscape
Chicago, IL – In a significant move signaling a more nuanced approach to cannabis enforcement, Chicago Police Department (CPD) officials are set to revise their guidance, discouraging officers from conducting vehicle searches based solely on the scent of raw, unburnt cannabis. This forthcoming policy update comes in direct response to evolving interpretations of Illinois law byContinue reading “Chicago Police to Refine Cannabis Search Policy Amidst Shifting Legal Landscape”
Sky Labs License Grounded: Michigan CRA Sends Clear Message to Industry
In a decisive move that underscores the Michigan Cannabis Regulatory Agency’s (CRA) intensified efforts to uphold industry standards, Sky Labs LLC, a cannabis processor based in Mount Morris, has officially lost its license to operate. This permanent revocation comes after a prolonged history of serious regulatory violations, signaling a new era of strict enforcement inContinue reading “Sky Labs License Grounded: Michigan CRA Sends Clear Message to Industry”
TerrAscend Pulls Out of Michigan: A Symptom of a Struggling Market
On Monday, June 30th, the Michigan cannabis landscape received a seismic shock as TerrAscend, a prominent North American cannabis company, announced its strategic exit from the state. This move will see the closure of all 20 of their dispensaries, including well-known names like Gage, Pinnacle Emporium, and Cookies, along with their four cultivation and processing facilities.Continue reading “TerrAscend Pulls Out of Michigan: A Symptom of a Struggling Market”
Don’t Pause Progress, Fix Illinois Cannabis Taxes!
Illinois’ cannabis market is a powerhouse, boasting over $2 billion in sales and nearly half a billion in tax revenue in 2024. Yet, recent moves to pause new social equity dispensary licenses, intended to help these businesses get on their feet, might be missing the real issue. Instead of holding back progress, Illinois lawmakers shouldContinue reading “Don’t Pause Progress, Fix Illinois Cannabis Taxes!”
Tidewater Live Resin by IC Collective: A Winning Dab Experience
Today, I’m diving into a jar of Tidewater Live Resin by IC Collective. I snagged this on sale for a fantastic 40% off at a new dispensary I visited recently. Honestly, I couldn’t pass up such a great deal on a consistently high-quality brand like IC Collective, especially since I was in the area and definitelyContinue reading “Tidewater Live Resin by IC Collective: A Winning Dab Experience”
Violet Sky by Khalifa Kush x Flora Arbor
Today, we’re diving into another exceptional offering from Khalifa Kush, cultivated in Illinois through their partnership with Flora Arbor. Our focus today is on Violet Sky, a potent indica-dominant hybrid that promises a profound sense of relaxation. Violet Sky is the result of a masterful cross between Khalifa Mints and GastroPop. This strain was first introduced inContinue reading “Violet Sky by Khalifa Kush x Flora Arbor”
Unlocking Bliss with Redemption Botanicals’ Pablo’s Revenge
Today, I’m here to share my experience with Redemption Botanicals’ Cold Cured Live Rosin Badder, a true standout from a craft grower that consistently delivers exceptional quality, from their stunning flower to their potent concentrates. I snagged this exquisite jar of Pablo’s Revenge at Stash Dispensary in Orland Hills, a reliable spot for the latest and greatest fromContinue reading “Unlocking Bliss with Redemption Botanicals’ Pablo’s Revenge”
Exclusive Review: Baby Turtle by Khalifa Kush
The day is finally here: Khalifa Kush has officially hit the Illinois market in partnership with one of Illinois’ best craft growers, Flora Arbor. Previously, Wiz Khalifa’s brand was only available in California, Arizona, Michigan, Nevada, Oregon, and Utah, with MSOs as their grow partners. However, in Illinois, they chose a new cultivator that provedContinue reading “Exclusive Review: Baby Turtle by Khalifa Kush”
Illinois Cannabis Industry Transitions to Metrc Seed-to-Sale Tracking System This Month
The Illinois cannabis industry is undergoing a significant operational shift this June as it fully transitions to Metrc, the state’s new official seed-to-sale tracking system. This move aims to enhance transparency, efficiency, and compliance throughout the cannabis supply chain, from cultivation to consumer purchase. What is Metrc? Metrc, short for Marijuana Enforcement Tracking Reporting Compliance,Continue reading “Illinois Cannabis Industry Transitions to Metrc Seed-to-Sale Tracking System This Month”
Review: Double Dose by Ravioli
We’re back in the lab, or rather, out of the kitchen, with some more fresh Raviolis! This time, we’re diving deep into their Double Dose, a strain that’s quickly becoming a standout. For those just tuning in, Raviolis is a new and exciting brand making waves in the Illinois cannabis market, brought to you by the collaborativeContinue reading “Review: Double Dose by Ravioli”
Review: Peel-A-Parts Gummies by Realeaf Botanicals
Back with another craft product review here in Illinois, this time featuring one of the newer craft infusers on the scene: Realeaf Botanicals. This brand offers a wide range of products, from vapes and infused pre-rolls to gummies and lotions, with even more coming soon. Today, I’m diving into their new Peel-a-Part Gummies, which areContinue reading “Review: Peel-A-Parts Gummies by Realeaf Botanicals”
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