What is ‘GOOD’ Weed?

Have you ever felt the natural, powerfully uplifting experience brought to you by one of Mother Nature’s greatest plants – Cannabis?  I bet you have!  But I bet you haven’t always had “bomb” weed, which left you crawling back for more and more.  While it is often difficult to determine quality by appearance or smell, you can usually tell after that first inhalation.

“Lighter?  Thanks.”  *inhales*  “Ohh.  Ohhhhh.  *nasal hack*  Wow. *eyes tingly* There it is.*grin development* Oh boy.  *nasal hack*  WOW!  Yeah, thas whaddime talkin’ ’bout!!” *feeling of utter peace & contentment* You know good weed ‘cuz it tends to hit you right away in the right way, light a cerebral smack-down!  Although some strains can take a few minutes to elevate you, there is no doubt you will soon be in complete bliss!  But we have all had CRAPPY weed before, too, right??  I often chuckle when I hear avid tokers put their dealer on a bloody pedestal.  “My guy’s always got bomb shit, yo’.  He’s got the best weed in the WORLD!”  Really?  I wonder how you could prove that.  THC levels?  Strains?  Testimonials?  Although most think highest THC (with some CBD) means the best weed, I have learned that that’s not always the case.  People just like to brag, I think, talking as if their “guy” is the friggin’ Prince of Pot (when we all know who really is!).  In a nutshell, the “best” weed is generally uplifting, smooth, and long-lasting.

There are many factors which contribute to this poor quality, such as Lighting, Nutrients, or Growing Medium.  Or, the grower might just be a freakin’ dummy!  Whatever the cause, any true Pothead can tell the difference between Good and Bad weed.  We can’t be fooled by over-fed plants (ingesting Nitrogen or Phosphorous will affect you!), or “flavours” added to the mediums or buds themselves.  Many growers add excess chemicals and “stimulants” in an attempt to get BIGGER, more dense buds.  Afterall, weight is MONEY!  But like anything, Quality is much more important that Quantity!  Mass-produced ANYTHING will not be the best quality.  Especially with delicate plants – you can’t just push, push, push – harvest, harvest, harvest!  Plants are like babies, requiring delicate nurturing, care, maybe the odd lullaby.

This quality-concern of mine came about after going to Canna Clinics throughout the greater Toronto area (GTA).  I have been a member there for about a year, and have had many concerns about the various strains I have tried.  I have tried contact Canna Clinic to inquire about their strains and production methods.  Having smoked almost daily for 18 years, I have been Federally licensed for about 15.  Having many issues with consistency and management of almost every Licensed Provide out there, I had gone to Cannabis Culture, in Toronto.  That place was like Heaven for potheads.  They always have superb cannabis; I had only had one complain with Cannabis Culture – they CLOSED DOWN (against their will, of course!).  I severed ties with my Lp’s after voicing many complaints.  Shit.  Now what?  That’s when I was referred to Canna, at 44 Kensington Ave.  I had concerns right away with Canna Clinic, but didn’t want to complain as I didn’t have anywhere else to turn!  What is it they say, beggars can’t be choosers?  Exactly.  I was desperate!  Although this place had convenient hours, great staff, and variety of products – the cannabis itself was less than the best.  Not even close, actually.

I have tried getting in touch with Canna Clinic’s, but to no avail.  I really want to know who’s growing their shit, as I want to approach THEM with my concerns.  After hearing about mass-grown weed having toxic chemicals, I definitely want some answers.  Like I said, I’m no newbie to Cannabis.  I’ve had the coughs, the phlegm, and the red eyes for years.  But the harshness in my throat after vaping?  The headaches afterwards?  The really HARD nugs?  I would like to know what Canna Clinics is putting in their weed.  I want to help these people, but they don’t seem too concerned by me messaging them.  I’m just surprised that NONE of their employees have “sampled” a nug on a break, and provided some crucial feedback to their employer?  Feedback is HUGE, people!!  Especially when quality and effectiveness are primarily measured by OPINIONS and EXPERIENCES.  All dispensaries should have feedback outlets – especially in this “new” industry!  I know any true pothead that’s been here, knows what I’m talking about.  Yet, their line-ups at Canna Clinic are always out the door.  I don’t understand.  I guess when you have nothing else to smoke…?  I’m really hoping that the weed that’s gonna’ be grown and sold in stores is much better.  But they better have someone credible test that shit first.    Thanks for reading.

Peace.

Reg Nilsna

What’s Left for Marc???

Well here we are, May 2017, and things haven’t changed much.  Marc Emery, Erin and Chris Goodwin, and many others were screwed-over BIG time this year!  All of their fighting, sacrifices, and jail-time seem to be forgotten by many…and I find that sad.  But soon, most will realize the importance of QUALITY, in the Green rush that’s coming.

Most potheads are glad to hear of legalization talks, though!  “Whoot, WHOOOT!”  Me included…sorta’…not really.  I think we all know what to expect from the legal weed that’s coming to stores near you.  Were it not for Emery (and his dedicated team), we wouldn’t be seeing legalization ’til 20-frickin-30!  I had given up on my LP’s, as the Medicine provided by CANNABIS CULTURE was FAR superior!  Now, I have heard people talking about LP Weed being recalled because it has toxins (coughPOPULATION CONTROLcough).  I had been going to “Canna Clinics” throughout the GTA, and I hate to say it – but the product is garbage.  Many go there as you do not need a Dr.’s referral, it’s convenient, and priced well at $10/gram.  I only went there a few times out of utter desperation.  I can taste ‘something’ in the weed, and I’m not sure what it is.  It’s like something was added to the growing medium, perhaps, and you can taste it and feel it in your head (in a BAD way!).  The headaches I get from Canna Clinic’s weed is very unnatural, as I have been smoking for many, many years and seldom experience this.  I know Canna isn’t government regulated, but the quality is about the same as the LP’s (at best!).

Pothead’s know what good pot is.  I have actually reverted to the black market, as it’s far better quality.  So, once legalized, I’m guessing we’re going to see a shit-load of garbage-weed being controlled and regulated by our government.  I used to wonder, what will the drug Lord’s do if pot is legalized?  The gangs, even?  “Pot”, I’m sure, made up a huge portion of their profits.  But now, I’m thinking they will be ok.  I am considering putting a few plants out this year, in fact.  I never thought I would need to grow weed, with it soon to be LEGALIZED.  There’s something gravely wrong there.  The Government isn’t out-smarting anyone but the greedy investors.

Soon, I hope, Cannabis Culture stores will re-open across the nation.  Let the pot-people distribute the pot, for cryin’ out loud!  The Emery’s paved the road for this, and many take that shit for granted.  It’s like the guy you see stuck by the roadside; you help him get on his way, and he drives off without saying “Thank you!”.  Many have access to SOME sorta’ weed, so they’re content.  It’s green, smells skunky, and makes me feel weird.  Good enough (for some).  Me, on the other hand, I think I can tell good from bad dope.  Most connoisseurs can.

It comes down to MOTIVES.  “What’s in it for THEM!?”  I believe the Emery’s, and Goodwin’s, have reasons for pushing this Marijuana Movement so much.  Their reasons are totally different than the motivations of the big whigs, too.  Although it is a business, I don’t think the Cannabis Culture folks were in it to make a huge profit; they were trying to make a huge POINT (“FREE THE FRIGGIN’ WEED, ALREADY!”), I believe.  Many others, including the government, simply want to make money every way they can with pot.  They KNOW it’s gonna’ be HUGE, so they want their piece of the pie (or in this case, the WHOLE friggin’ PIE!).  Most pot-sellers, “dealers”, whatever –  want their customers to be happy; they want them to come back again and again!  Heck, bring your friends if they coo’!  Basically, if you’re not in acceptance of MARIJUANA (ie. You don’t smoke it often!), you should want NOTHING to do with it!  This is basic ethics, isn’t it?!  If you’re new to Cannabis, or were once against it – PISS OFF!!!  Don’t be a HYPOCRITE!  I keep hearing of Cops and Doctors investing in “Cannabusinesses” and pot-stocks.  Bullshit.  These aforementioned people did JAIL TIME because of people like you.  Now, you’re gonna’ penalize THEM…and become rich as a result of their cause?  I just don’t get it.

So, what’s LEFT for Marc and the gang?  Who knows.  So sad that they can’t communicate with eachother, or TALK about Cannabis Culture.  What good is that gonna’ do, really?  Idiots.  It is my hope that they get the credit, recognition, and praise they deserve.  They are intelligent people, from what I have learned, and their determination is evident.  We have not seen the last of them, Thank God.

Reg Nilsna

Reg Nilsna

One Confused POThead…

So here we are, April 2017.   Now there’s talk about #LEGALIZATION OF #MARIJUANA by next month.  It seems to hard to believe, considering all of the raids, incarcerations and negativity towards pot in the media.  But there is, in fact, talk going on.  I believe this is a good-bad thing.

The government, not surprisingly, will want complete control over this now-emerging industry…         …that has been known of for dozens of dozens of centuries.  I think it’s probably best that the “powers” take control of this, too (Ooohh – there go my followers!).  I know everyone wants to open up their own pot-shops, and have their own twist on their OWN business.  But the biggies are havin’ NUNNA’ that shit!

I agree that pot IS a substance that CAN harm you; it could potentially KILL (ie. allergies/anaphylaxis, choking, falling/clumsy, over-using/driving)!!  Cannabis is a medicine.  “Noo, I just wan’ get HIIIGH and feel GOOOOOOD!”  If this is WHY you use cannabis, you’re still using it to feel better, right?  “Recreational” or “Medical” – you’re likely using pot to IMPROVE your life, right?  The only difference between the two, really, is that with the latter – a PROFESSIONAL is in agreement with you.

Unlike alcohol, marijuana is not addictive and doesn’t diminish your sense of awareness or spatial perceptions the same.  But it does affect most of your body’s physiology.  It does speed up – or slow down – one’s heartbeat!  That’s scary, man!  I don’t want customers calling me, freaking on me saying that they’re losin’ their shit and I’m responsible!  They think they’re having a heart attack or seizure; they’re experiencing paranoia, and they’re billing me for the Ambulance!  Oh, and they’re contemplating suicide – just great!  I really don’t want the stress or liability in selling plant matter (albeit, a potentially life-altering substance) that really hasn’t been studied as much as it could/should have been.

It’s not a lemonade stand here, folks.  Pot can drastically change your day (hopefully for the better!).  Pot can change your effin REALITY if you’re not prepared!  For most, this is kinda’ the goal, I realize.  We want to relax; worry less and feel GOOD all over!  That’s why we puff, isn’t it!?  I know every pothead’s favourite line:  “But noone’s EVER died from smokin’ weed, yo’!”  While this seems true from a toxicological point of view, I see it as an age-old, hippie-belief that has comforted and reassured us for years.  Potheads will say, “Tell me one case – just ONE –  where someone died from smokin’ weed – TELL ME!”  Well, I can’t.  I can’t tell you one single case where someone has died by stickin’ a knife in a toaster either, but I guarantee it’s happening right now.  Cannabis is simply a plant, but it contains many unknowns.  It’s risks remain hidden for the most part (again, we’ve never really STUDIED IT!), but I think it can have adverse, varying effects on short and long-term health.  While I think it would help with Depression and Anxiety, I can also see it worsening those symptoms for some.

While I appreciate the efforts of #budtenders across the country, a barely-legal clerk isn’t equipped to deal with the HEALTH of cannabis users – medicinal or recreational.  Our world is full of mind-altering substances:  meds, plants, caffeine, sugar, alcohol, etc.  I know it seems contradictory, in a world where a CHILD can order a coffee without a note from a parent or doctor; it’s just ASSumed that the coffee is not for that child, right?  I don’t think we should be giving coffee – let alone CANNABIS – to just anyone who asks for it.  Again, sellin’ pot ain’t like sellin’ LEMONADE.  Pot will affect you much differently than lemonade (and it damn well SHOULD!), and accordingly, MUST come with some statutes/regulations/guidelines.

Thank you for reading.  Would love to hear your opinion on this!

Reg Nilsna

I Preefer MADNESS, actually…

March 17,2017

While many, today, will enjoy their green pints of beer in commemoration of St. Patrick’s Day, many will not.  I am not a drinker, nor am I Irish, but I do like green things.  I love frogs; I love 4-leaf clovers; I love limes; and I love beautiful pastures.  Oh, and I effin’ LOVE cannabis!

Just when you seem to think things are beginning to improve, the whole shit-show comes collapsing down upon us.  I feel as if we’re living in the 20’s and 30’s again, with Cannabis at the centre of debate.  But we’ve already proven that Cannabis, or “Marijuana”, is NOT a substance that makes you crazy…haven’t we!?  We now know that it doesn’t make you rape women, rob people, or significantly decrease one’s motivation in life.  So then why all of these BUSTS??  Mr. and Mrs. Emery, and the Goodwin’s  (among many others!) are proof that Prohibition is alive and well.  I really don’t know how this is all going to end up, to be honest.

Once I seen the myriad Cannabis Culture shops opening up across our beautiful country, I thought:  Wow, we’re actually getting somewhere…thanks to some truly AMAZING people.  Then we find out the police in Toronto have been long-planning this huge take-down.  The government wants complete control over Cannabis (‘cuz they know there’s HUGE profits to be made!), and will go to any measures to ensure they’re the sole providers.  Anyone else who’s selling (better quality) cannabis will be arrested, and not allowed to leave the province.  My God, are we really HERE???  I feel like we’re moving backwards, folks, and eventually people are going to be put to DEATH in Canada for having pot on you (unless you have a medicinal license).  I feel like Anslinger’s spirit is alive and well still, and that’s disgusting.  As stated, we know marijuana’s safer than most substances (even Candy!) on our planet.  So the only issues now is who can or cannot sell it, right?  So – it comes down to MONEY.  Not health, protection, security, or social welfare.  It’s frankly a money matter.

Noone should be able to put a monopoly on a plant you can grow in your backyard.  Hypothetically, you could grow 10 plants, and it would last you the whole year.  You’d go to the Dr.’s less, be much happier, have extra cash in your wallet, and you’d be learning a new hobby!  We shouldn’t need “LP’s” or doctors to tell us what we already know about this plant.  Sure, I’m not an expert Cannabis – but I know it works better than any of the medications I was on.  Doctors hate hearing that, man.  I don’t have a green thumb, but I can grow decent pot.  But again, that’d be thousands of dollars each year not in someone else’s pocket, if I grew my own medicine.  That being said, I’m still hopeful.  Marc Emery is an amazing man.  I have followed him for over 15 years, and applaud his efforts.  Hoping things will turn around quickly, as I don’t want to hit the streets looking for my medicine.  Best wishes, to all!

Reg Nilsna

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pot RAIDS in Toronto…

This post is regarding the recent raids, closures, and arrests against pot-providers in Toronto.  Just when you think you’re starting to see some progress, the whole thing gets swept up and burned to the ground.  For what?  For WHO?  Who is this benefiting?  One quote that always pops into my head is from the lovely Ms. #jodie Jodie Emery.  She said it best when she proclaimed:  “How can you have a VICTIM-LESS crime!?”  These raids – how is this making anything better???  Who the hek is arranging all of these raids??  Is there a concerned parents who’s child walks by one of these pot centres?  Is there a baby boomer disgusted by the constant, lingering smell of sweet grass?  Is it….TRUDEAU???  I’m quite confused.

I have been federally licensed for over 15 years, and have experienced many flaws with the Licensed Providers’ (LP’s) product, service, and distribution methods.  The cannabis was often very dry, and the product wasn’t as good as they were claiming.  I was with over 15 LP’s, before doing something my dr. (through Canadian Cannabis Clinics on Danforth) urged me NOT to do:  Go to a recreational pot shop.  When I asked questions about these other places selling cannabis, he told me to stay away from them or my license could be suspended indefinitely.  Yikes!  Nonetheless, I had no choice!  I get headaches daily, and have had three brain surgeries ‘cuz of this damn blockage (LONG story!).  I felt a bit guilty going against my doctors orders, and entering the #CannabisCulture location on church street.  My first time there was last November.

I have had such pleasant experiences while there.  I have read some forums where people bash the staff and service, which I think is BOLOGNA!  Although it gets busy in there at times, everyone (staff, customers, even SECURITY!) is as cool as shit!!  Very polite, laid-back, respectful, and knowledgeable, the staff makes you feel like your needs (and everyone’s NEEDS for weed vary!) are important.  I only saw Mr. Emery in there once, and I regret not going and shaking the hand of this great Canadian icon (he was really busy at the time!).  I remember seeing him there my first time, talking to customers in the huge, yet calm line up near the counter.  Some chicky was like, “Excuse me, are you in line!?”  I just shook my head.  I guess I was just surprised at how any true pothead would not recognize Marc Emery!  It’s like going to church and being like, “Who’s that man up there on that cross!?”  How do you NOT know who Marc Emery is??  Originally from London, Ontario, I have known about Marc for many years and grew my first green babies with his help.  Still, how can you not recognize him??  For many, I think they just want their pot.  They don’t care how they get it, what strain it is, where is originates, or WHO’s making the sacrifices in keeping those candy-type jars stocked full.  Just gimme’ my weed and lemme’ go do my thing (and there’s nothing wrong with that!).  They just don’t seem to honour the efforts of these people – Marc, Jodie, Chris, Erin (to name a few!) – but instead, just wanna’ get their sh’moke on (definitely nothin’ wrong with THAT!).  I really doubt this bothers these managers, as they’re all potheads too, and can surely relate.  I just think you have to appreciate all that these people are doing.  Personally, I can’t imagine being ARRESTED for helping others.  Sure, some may say, “Well it’s a BUSINESS – they’re just in it for the money.”  I truly believe it’s not a matter of capital with Mr. Emery and his team, but an important, fundamental principle.

Unlike my doctors office, I do not need to fill out any forms, or go over side effects at Church Street, and I don’t feel pressured to take anyone’s recommendations but my own.  At the Danforth clinic, I had been through three different doctors (not sure why the high turnover rate).  One female doctor even suggested trying BOTOX for my pain, and putting blobs of CBD oils under my tongue, morning, noon, and before bed.  I just want to keep doing what I’VE been doing all of these years, as it’s been very effective.  After years of being treated like a lab rat, I wish not to ever go on medications (pills!) again.  I know my body better than anyone, and I don’t wanna’ simply change my entire routine because of a doctors whim.  I like having the freedom to go to Cannabis Culture and see the varieties, and to talk to staff and clients about products.  At my doctors, they always request a URINE sample, and will adjust your prescription according to the results.  One time my prescription was reduced from 3g./day to 1g., because they found “Opiates” in my piss.  I told them I occasionally take Acetaminophen with Codeine for pain (over-the-counter!).  But without consulting me at all, they cut me down big time.  I just felt degraded and kinda’ sketchy, like I’d done something wrong.

So I am now a regular customer at Church St. in Toronto.  Correction:  I WAS a customer until this past week.  These dispensaries generate so much revenue for the city, and give people a safe outlet to purchase a safe product.  Like THOUSANDS of Torontonians, I now have to figure out another way to get my medicine.  My doctor won’t return my calls (I think they’re clued in to why I no longer get my medicine from LP’s!) and I really don’t wanna’ go lookin’ for a street dealer.  I have been robbed before, and have had physical alterations from deals-gone-bad.  I know there are many in this predicament now, too, as there’s nowhere (safe) to get your weed from!  Theoretically, crime, depression, PAIN, discomfort, suicide and just plain boredom will be on the rise this weekend thanks to these raids.  Hooray!!!  Cannabis Culture is doing nobody any harm, and is doing much good for this vast city!  From going to the Church Street location, my own eyes have been opened to the great diversity of people that use this truly magical herb.  I’ve seen old people in there; young; white to black (and everything in between!); tradesman on their lunch breaks, and even a paramedic!  I’ve seen people drop money, and complete strangers inform them of this!  Everyone there is so kind, and it’s just a great place to be…it WAS a great place to be.

I’m not sure what tomorrow will bring, but I have faith that something good will come from all of this.  As much as I love the police, I have to say shame on them.  I know orders are orders, but still.  I could never become a cop because I couldn’t bind people up by their hands, stripping them of their freedoms, LOCKING them up in a giant doggy-type cage…because of friggin’ plant matter.  “Oh well the Law is pretty clear on…”  Bullshit!  You’re job is to Serve & Protect, and you’re wasting tax dollars on arresting non-criminals??  I just don’t get it!  Smokin’ weed used to be such a taboo (thankfully, more are admitting to having used it).  It’s what I’ve personally called my “dirty little secret,” and it shouldn’t be seen as such.  Why do I have to HIDE my responsible choices?  Even THIS blog that you’re reading RIGHT NOW – I can’t use my ‘real’ name (which you’d never guess in a MILLION years!) for fear of it affecting access to my kids (my ex hates weed!).

While I’ve never really understood the politics behind all of this, I do know in my heart that it just feels very wrong.  My intuition tells me that this has little to do with Cannabis itself, as many doctors now are accepting its benefits as truth (even though it’s been known for THOUSANDS of years!).

My thoughts are prayers go out to the C.C. staff that have been affected by these raids, or arrested.  One day I will be out of this “closet”, and hope to be even half as brave an activist as Marc, Jody, Chris, Erin and the entire C.C. gang.  Keep up the good fight, my friends!

Sincerely,

Reg Nilsna

closettoker@outlook.com

WHY is Marijuana ILLEGAL???

I have come to realize that Marijuana is against the law for stupid reasons.  There is no valid purpose in banning this God-given plant.  When I began to open my eyes surrounding this plant, I was a bit appalled.  When I learned that NOBODY has ever died as a result of this plants toxicity (some have died from allergic reactions, seizures, etc.), I began to speculate, and do research.  It didn’t take long to see why it was illegal.  It has nothing to do with it’s harm; it will not make you crazy, or rape people, or begin breaking the law.  Marijuana is not a gateway to other, harder drugs.  Marijuana CAN make you lazy, and CAN make you lose your job, family, etc.  But we, as adults, know when any medicine is working or not.  If it’s making you sit on the couch and laugh uncontrollably, causing you to not go to work, or forgetting to turn the stove off – then it’s probably not good for you.  Many can use cannabis responsibly (not a foot-long joint!) and function in all aspects of their lives just fine.  Many cannot.  I think there are so many people on welfare, disability, unemployment, etc. that probably shouldn’t use marijuana.  Sure, it’s not causing any harm to them, per se.  But Employment is such a huge part of LIVING, and if you can’t hold a job ‘cuz of your pot use, you should probably renegotiate your priorities.  Sure, everybody loves to smoke weed – but let’s try and remove many of the pothead stereotypes.  I don’t like being called “lazy” or “unmotivated”, because I know I am not either of those.  I am all for responsible use by adults, however.

So Why is Pot illegal?  Here’s what I think:  How many medications out there would/could/should be replaced by one, single plant?  Further, how much money do you think pharmaceutical companies would lose?  Trillions!!!  What about the gasoline industry, or plastics, or clothing/textiles?  If Marijuana became legal, it would be a HUGE threat to many businesses, and rich bastards.  Marijuana is literally a MIRACULOUS plant – I really believe that!  Anyone who wants to profit from a society knows you can’t have a magical plant like this, making everyone happy, aware, and compassionate.  In a society, the capitalists know that you need to keep people struggling; scared; living day-to-day.  The world leaders know we can’t be high all the time, having a care-free, worry-free attitude.  Fear puts people into action and makes them spend money!  Also, many many doctors, police officers, judges, and other health practitioners would lose business if people just stayed home, smokin’ weed all day.

Hopefully one day we will see some justice; for all of those treated as criminals for using pot, and for all those riduculed for using this plant as medicine.  There are so many worse things in this crumby world which we could put our energy towards.  “The only reason marijuana is against the law if for economic reasons.”  Joe Rogan

“Barred Chong”

This is a painting I did a few years ago of the one and only, Tommy Chong.  One of the true leaders in the Marijuana movement of my generation.  Would love to meet you one day, Tommy!!

Not any real “secrets,” but interesting nonetheless. :)

When I was Young…

When I was young, I believed Pot to be one of the worst things to have happened to human beings.  I was taught in school that it was bad, and it will fry your little brain.  As kids, we tend to believe our parents, teachers, and police.  We are so open to information, yet vulnerable.  I wish one day they would at least separate Cannabis from the hard drugs it’s often associated with.  I have never tried harder drugs, or felt like pot has lost its effects.  Like the “gateway” theory, there are a lot of false presumptions about this plant, it’s effects, and it’s potential.

Er’ebody smokes weed, right?

There are so many people that use cannabis; many do it publicly, while others may use it in a much more private setting.  An self-proclaimed expert in the pot field, I am dedicated to educating, enlightening, and entertaining on all topics pot-related.  I think one of the main reasons many keep their little toky habit secret is the way they’ll be perceived by their peers, family, and the Law.  I hope one day we will truly see the benefit of this truly, heaven-sent herb.