The Big Apple Gets a Little Greener: New York’s Marijuana Makeover!

By Michael “PoppaDukes” Serrano

Picture this, a sunny afternoon in the neighborhood park, me with a fine sativa strain and guess who joins me. My neighbor, a jazz maestro from the funky 70s and 80s, trumpet in one hand, bass guitar in the other sat there with me, basking in the new day of legal wake and bakes and chuckling over how times have changed. Back in his day, this musician and his bandmates ducked behind venues, taking paranoid peeks over each other’s shoulders, just to share a secretive puff. Now, it’s all out in the open!

Let’s roll back the tape to the days when legends like Louis Armstrong (yes, Satchmo himself!) were bending the rules for a bit of herbal relief. Back then, Mary Jane was a hush-hush companion for many in the limelight, easing nerves and sparking creativity. Fast forward and everyone from old-school jazz cats to hotshot new artists are lighting up, freely, as they jam.

It’s 2021, and New York has turned over a new leaf, literally. Since marijuana legalization, our city streets hum a different tune. Stroll down any sidewalk and you’re hit with the new, yet familiar, scent of what some call “devil’s lettuce.” It’s a fragrant revolution, masking even the less pleasant smells in subway corners, while weaving its way into the fabric of New York life.

Cultural and economic shifts are sprouting up like weeds! The vibe is positively electrifying. Each puff seems to spark a bit of community with locals and visitors bonding over shared spliffs. And let’s talk about April 20, 2024, when 420 Day turns New York into a veritable pot paradise. Picture Washington Square Park, clouds of camaraderie floating above a sea of happy, coughing New Yorkers. What a scene!

Now, a nod to the trailblazers making it big in the green scene. Coss Marte of CONBUD is a local hero who opened up shop and is setting records with two dispensaries in six months! His success is a beacon for minority entrepreneurs aiming to plant their flags in this budding industry.

It’s not just about lighting up. It’s about lighting the way. Today’s cannabis culture isn’t hiding in the shadows; it’s about health, education, and the best strains your heart could desire. It’s about community. So, here we are, in New York, puffing our way to a brighter, greener future. Every concert, every festival, every little gathering could soon be 420-friendly (if it isn’t already). New York’s not just getting high—it’s riding high.

And, hey, if you’re in the city, remember, you might not even need to light up to join the party. Just take a deep breath. Welcome to the new New York, where the community is just a puff away.

PoppaDukes is an advocate and activist in the New York State cannabis scene. He hosts a bi-monthly podcast The OG Social Network Podcast streaming on YouTube and hosts monthly zoom conferences on various topics. He has been a dedicated pothead since 1978.

PoppaDukes & Swandie Mitchell | theogsocialnetwork@gmail.com | 1-929-687-627

Please Follow Us On Instagram @nyctalentcollective @theogsocialnetwork genres of music, especially Bob Marley’s Exodus, Movement of Jah’s People.

During my visit with my son, Michael, in the Bronx, we drove an hour and half to Milton in upstate New York. This trip was to meet with Gail and Amy Hepworth to discuss the Cannabis Tours my son is hosting. What a delightful way to spend a Sunday afternoon on the Hudson River, far from the sirens of the city. More than that, I was able to purchase some of the products branded by Hepworth Farms to relieve arthritic pain. I got four items that I have been using since our visit and I can testify to the healing properties of CBD and THC. Even more soothing is the scent of lavender that is in complete contrast to other analgesics I have been using to ease my pain. I just rub the THC balm on my knees and legs in the morning, and the CBD balm in the afternoon. If I get any pangs, I rub a little THC oil on the area. Also, I’m taking two capsules of CBD, daily. I have been feeling some relief and will continue this regimen for the next 30 days. Visit www.hepworthfarms.com

With love and music,

Dr. Joan Cartwright, Editor-in-Chief Founder/Executive Director

Women in Jazz South Florida, Inc.

http://wijsf.org

by Shanta Lana Hereford

We are excited to support the Musicwoman Festival and its mission to amplify the voices of female musicians and industry leaders. This event aligns perfectly with our values of diversity and empowerment, and we are honored to be a part of it.”

~ Her Excellency Shanta Lana Hereford, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Maverick Global Distribution

In light of its innovative approach and commitment to artist empowerment, Maverick Global Distribution has formed a strategic partnership with Musicwoman Magazine. As the Official Music Distribution Partner for the upcoming Musicwoman Festival, Maverick Global Distribution will play a pivotal role in supporting female musicians and industry leaders. The partnership underscores both organizations' shared values of diversity, inclusion, and empowerment, as they work together to create opportunities for underrepresented voices and musicians in the music industry.

Moreover, Maverick Global Distribution's sponsorship of the Musicwoman Festival highlights its dedication to supporting emerging talents and fostering creativity and innovation in the music industry. From October 17-19, 2024, the first annual Musicwoman Festival in Atlanta, Georgia, will feature live performances, workshops, and networking events aimed at empowering women in music and celebrating their contributions to the industry. As a festival sponsor, Maverick Global Distribution reaffirms its commitment to championing diversity, creativity, and excellence in music.

In today's digital age, independent musicians face numerous challenges with distributing their music. Traditional distribution models favor established artists and labels, leaving emerging talents struggling to gain visibility and access to global markets. Limited resources, complex contracts, and lack of transparency further exacerbate these issues, hindering the growth and success of independent artists, worldwide.

Amidst these challenges, a new giant in the music industry is emerging on the distribution landscape. Maverick Global Distribution is a trailblazer, redefining the way music is distributed and empowering independent artists to take control of their careers. Unlike traditional distributors, Maverick Global Distribution offers a fresh approach that prioritizes transparency, accessibility, and artist empowerment.

At the core of Maverick Global Distribution's ethos is a commitment to provide artists with tools and resources to succeed. Through its innovative platform, artists can easily distribute their music to major streaming platforms and online stores to reach audiences on a global scale. With user-friendly interfaces and no contracts, Maverick Global Distribution removes the barriers that hinder independent musicians from accessing distribution services.

Furthermore, Maverick Global Distribution's emphasis on education and support sets it apart from other distributors. The company offers comprehensive support and access to performance opportunities, one-on-one consultations, and other support to help artists navigate the intricacies of the music industry and maximize their potential. By empowering artists with knowledge and expertise, Maverick Global Distribution equips them to make informed decisions and chart their own paths to success.

Greetings from our board members!

Benefits of a WIJSF Membership

WIJSF connects musicians. A member and songwriter was seeking a piano player in her area. Through WIJSF she met a piano player and they worked on 3 new songs. Membership provides you with a database of exceptional professional women in jazz. Your $60 annual dues comes with a subscription to Musicwoman Magazine. Go to http://www.wijsf.com/join.htm