The theme for this season is still unknown, but the new behind the scenes photo posted on Ryan Murphy’s Instagram marks the debut of Party Monster and Home Alone actor Macaulay Culkin. Pictured alongside AHS regular Leslie Grossman.

“Something wicked this way comes”, is the caption for the photo, which shows Culkin and Grossman hanging out on a beach dressed in pretty bad-ass fur coats.

American Horror Story Season 10 is reportedly filming under the title “Pilgrim”, but the beach setting has led many fans to theorize about mermaids, Lovecraftian underwater demons, swamp monsters and everything in between.

Season 10 will also include American Horror Story regulars: Evan Peters, Kathy Bates, Billie Lourd, Finn Wittrock, Lily Rabe, Adina Porter and Angelica Ross.

In Samantha’s TikToks, a couple friends are shocked to see the huge hole behind her apartment with A LOT of space behind it, which makes the discovery much scarier. Not only could Samantha fit her whole body behind it, but could walk around behind her bathroom mirror in essentially another hidden apartment.

There are now 4 parts to these videos, with the latest showing Samantha walking around with a flashlight and hammer in hand while her friends joke that someone could be living behind the walls a la Candyman or Parasite.

@samanthartsoe

seriously never would I have expected to find this… and I documented all of it #mystery #fyp #nyc #secret #foryou #apartment #storytime

♬ Mysterious – Andreas Scherren

@samanthartsoe

HOW IS THIS IN MY BATHROOM WALL #mystery #nyc #apartment #secret #storytime #fyp

♬ Mysterious – Andreas Scherren

@samanthartsoe

TRULY a new meaning to a “hole in the wall” #mystery #nyc #apartment #secret #storytime #fyp #foryou

♬ Oh No – Kreepa

@samanthartsoe

crawled through a wall for this mystery so enjoy the finale #mystery #nyc #apartment #secret #storytime #storytime #fyp #foryou

♬ Mysterious – Andreas Scherren

Before putting the mirror back, she mentions that she and her landlord were going to have a talk, but there’s not yet a part five to conclude this New York mystery.

The now infamous apartment has been dubbed “The Candyman Apartment” due to the similarities behind the urban legend of the villain named The Candyman who murders people after being summoned if someone says his name five times in front of a mirror.

Check out the videos and stay tuned for any updates…hopefully she wasn’t murdered by a bee covered man with a hook for a hand.

Netflix isn’t new to salacious true crime content, and has revealed the new series Crime Scene, which dives into the lore and mythology of contemporary crime scenes. The first season, ‘The Vanishing at the Cecil Hotel’, focuses on the notoriously evil Cecil Hotel in downtown Los Angeles.

The trailer which dropped yesterday, contains footage of “Hotel Death”, explaining the numerous deaths, murders and suicides that have happened within the walls since the 1930s.

Opening in 1927, the Cecil flourished as a fashionable destination, however the location of the Cecil Hotel began to decline quite quickly after the great depression. Now known as Skid row, the surrounding area became increasingly populated with transients, and as many as 10,000 homeless people lived within a four-mile radius.

By the 1960s, the hotel had gained a reputation as a residence for transients and criminals. As such, deaths, suicides and other violent deaths on the premises became more frequent.

Throughout the 40s and 50s, so many suicides occurred at Cecil, longtime residents had begin to call The Cecil Hotel “The Suicide”. In addition to suicides, the Cecil’s history includes many other disturbing happenings and also became a notorious spot for cheating spouses, drugs and sex workers.

In 2007, the hotel was refurbished and new owners took over the property. In 2011, the Cecil Hotel was re-branded as “Stay on Main”, complete with a new website which expired at the end of 2013.

In 2014 New York hotelier Richard Born purchased the hotel for $30 million, after which another New York based firm. Simon Baron Development acquired a 99 year ground lease on the property.

In February 2017, Los Angeles City Council voted to deem the Cecil Hotel a historic cultural monument, because it is representative of an early 20th century American hotel and because of the historic significance of its architect’s body of work.

Even with it’s prestigious landmark status, no one can overlook the hotel’s infamous and very dark history. The first documented suicide at the Cecil was reported in 1931, after guest W.K Norton died in his room after taking poison capsules.

In 1947, Elizabeth Short, dubbed the Black Dahlia, was rumoured to have been spotted drinking at the Cecil’s bar in the days before her notorious, and unsolved murder.

In 1964, retired telephone operator “Pigeon Goldie” Osgood, who was a well-liked and longtime resident of the hotel was found dead in her room. She had been raped, stabbed and beaten and her room ransacked. A man named Jacques B. Ehlinger was charges with Osgood’s murder but later cleared, her death also remains unsolved.

Perhaps the most notorious guest of the hotel was rumoured resident Richard Ramirez, nicknamed the “Night Stalker.

Ramirez had been a regular on the skid row area of Los Angeles, and according to a hotel clerk, who claimed to have spoken to him, Ramirez is rumoured to have stayed at the Cecil Hotel for a few weeks. Ramirez may have engaged in part of his killing spree while staying there.

Another serial killer, Austrian Jack Unterweger, stayed at the Cecil in 1991, possible to copy Ramirez in some way. While there, he strangled and killed at lease three sex workers, for which he was convicted in Austria. He hanged himself shortly after his conviction.

After it’s re brand to “Stay on Main”, the Cecil became the focus of attention again after the surveillance footage of Canadian student Elisa Lam, behaving erratically in the hotel’s elevator went viral.

The video shows Lam repetitively pressing hotel buttons, walking in and out of the elevator and making super creepy hand gestures almost in a trance like state, looking as if she was hiding from someone or something.

Her body was subsequently found in the water supply cistern on the hotel roof, following complaints from the residents of odd-tasting water and low water pressure.

How she got into the water tank remains a mystery.

The LA County Coroner ruled her death accidental due to drowning, with bipolar disorder being a “significant” factor. Theories have swirled since then about possible paranormal activity as well as this death still remains largely a mystery compounded on top of the infamous site of the hotel.

This mystery and many other deaths will now be featured as part of the Netflix series ‘‘The Vanishing at the Cecil Hotel’‘ coming out February 10th, 2021.

Watch the trailer below

Credit: BlogTO

The cozy and kitschy space that one slung pineapple filled cocktails now is the home of Living Energy Spirits, run by Toronto psychic David John Sinclair.

Credit: livingenergyspirits.com

David’s mother was a clairvoyant and medium in Scotland and part of the St Clair (Sinclair) family tree that were recognized as clairvoyants, and mediums with the Knights Templars / Freemasons.

Over the last 50 years, David has been reading for thousands of individuals and has written many testimonials on his accuracy. He’s an accomplished psychic and ahs appeared on many TV and radio shows and newspapers across the globe.

When he isn’t being interviewed or helping the RCMP solve a 7 year old crime (true story), David can be found doing readings, paintings and making crystal healing jewelry at Living Energy Spirits, on Danforth near Coxwell.

The shop opened at 1775 Danforth Ave, in July selling sage, books, tarot decks and more.

It also offers palm readings, past life analysis and other clairvoyant services which might help us figure out what curses we may have picked up in 2020.

The Shore Leave first closed temporarily in March, and after a landlord dispute permanently shuttered. The punch bowls with dolphin shaped bananas will always be missed and don’t know if I’ll be getting my palms touched by strangers any time soon.

Credit: BlogTO

To date, the owners haven’t hinted at any new location re-opening, and with the pandemic still in full swing as of December 15th, 2020 – who knows when we’ll be able to share gargantuan drinks together. Maybe David’s crystal ball knows.

Sunderland, 25, known for her legendary masturbation video in the Oregon State University library, made two huge no-no’s which quickly caused her verified account with over 2 million followers to be deleted.

Just to be clear – We fully support Kendra Sunderland and all professional sex workers having the ability to promote on social platforms, especially considering racist and much more horrific adult content exists without deletion on every single social platform. (As well, all adult content is readily available without age gating anywhere – Including fully naked yoga on YouTube)

Earlier this month Kendra made jokes about Adam Mosseri, the head of Instagram and how she was “blowing” him to keep her revealing photos on IG without deletion.

“Hey guys! I just wanna let you know I’m not deleted yet…I’m batshit crazy. I might be sucking off the CEO of Instagram. But, whatever it is, I’m here to stay!”

Most followers and fans took this as an innocent joke and brushed it off, others including fellow adult star Alana Evans took offence and went full Karen on twitter, saying:

“I don’t usually call out performers for their behavior on Instagram, but today I am done. This was posted to IG AFTER Kendra sucked off a dildo while TOPLESS LIVE on her IG story! NO MORE NEGOTIATIONS @INSTAGRAM Hey @mosseri wtf is this? Does your wife know”

We suspect Evans went on a reporting spree and encouraged her fans to do the same. Sunderland’s account was gone 12 hours later.

This was strike one for Kendra, and she followed this up with a super raunchy and intoxicated livestream from Kirill’s warehouse.

Known as “The Slut Whisperer”, Kirill is now focused on his merchandising company lindafinegold.com and has recruited Kendra Sunderland and other porn stars to model the apparel. If you are a follower of Kirill, you know his photoshoots can get super raunchy – Just like his now defunct parties which will probably have a huge comeback once covid19 is under control.

Sunderland herself admitted she made a mistake by making jokes and maybe having a few too many White Claws before going live (honestly something we can all relate to)

“I was also going crazy on Live yesterday, doing things I know I shouldn’t have, and was just drunk and didn’t care. I’m guessing that’s why. I would be surprised if the other reason was why, because I said it in such a joking manner. I never even really knew who the CEO of Instagram was, or anything. I’ve never met this person before in my life.”

Check out a clip of the now infamous livestream and give Kendra Sunderland a follow on her new account! We expect the lovable stoner babe to get her old account back or most of her followers back in no time.

The Infamous Kendra Sunderland Clip

Issue 1222 of Production Weekly, showed an untitled David Lynch project titled “Wisteria”, likely a reference to Wisteria Lane (the fictional town in ABCs Desperate Housewives).

Lynch is no stranger to powerful women and melodramatic plot-lines, so it’s not a stretch for him to be referencing the soap opera like hit Desperate Housewives.

Since the initial posting, more information has dropped and we’ve learned that the Untitled David Lynch series is now being called “Unrecorded Night”. Also listen as a DOP, Peter Deming – Known for his work alongside Lynch on Twin Peaks, Mulholland Drive, Lost Highway.

Production is stated to start in May 2021 and it will be filming in The Calvert Studios.

David Lynch has both writer and director credits with Sabrina S. Sutherland is listed as the producer. Sutherland has worked on a number of David Lynch projects, including: Twin Peaks: The Missing Pieces from 2014 and Twin Peaks: The Return.

In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter – when asked about a secret Netflix project, Lynch responded with the following:

“There’s all kinds of rumors. I’ve got a show called What Did Jack Do? on Netflix right now. It’s a great show about a monkey. It’s something you’ve got to see. And it will really help you in quarantine.”

If you haven’t already seen the strange 17 – minute crime mystery starring a monkey – We highly recommend checking it out during your next late night binge. David Lynch also served as executive producer on the documentary, My Beautiful Broken Brain which was picked up as a Netflix Original.

This is all we know for now and none of this has yet to be confirmed by Netflix themselves or David Lynch himself.

UPDATE via Welcome to Twin Peaks: As first reported by @fatecolossal on Twitter, Production Weekly lists two production companies for UNRECORDED NIGHT: the recently incorporated A2K PRODUCTIONS, INC. and TWIN PEAKS PRODUCTIONS, INC. which previously produced Twin Peaks, Twin Peaks: Fire Walk with Me, Twin Peaks: The Return, and On The Air, and has all C-level positions turned over to David Lynch since February 23, 2020. Is Unrecorded Night a Twin Peaks spin-off?

The holidays will look different this year. NYE Netflix binge parties, your mom still not realizing she’s on mute during a Zoom seder, and so on.

One universal holiday tradition however can’t be curtailed by a global health crisis, and that is drinking alcohol. Whether you’re shopping for your in-laws or for yourself, these small-batch (mostly) boozy gifts can also be delivered right to your door or ordered for curbside pickup.

Please note these are products found in Canada, so expect a follow up list for our readers across other borders!

Left Field Brewery’s Beer For a Cause

For the sixth year running, the always amazing brewery Left Field is partnering with Red Door Family Shelter for all of December for Draughts And Crafts Virtual Gift Guide 2020.

Every gift guide vendor is donating a portion of the proceeds from their featured item, including this bad-ass Warm Up Pack that includes a trio of Blackburne Imperial Stout, including the extra-warming 2020 flavour: Mexican Chocolate, two Brewmaster glasses and a Warm Up Long Sleeve – excellent for layering, and perfect on it’s own for those who run a little warmer for only $48.

Another boozy gift option from Left Field is the Give Back Pack which includes: 1x Koozie Brand Cooler Bag, 1x Red Door 6 Pack: Prospect Sabro: Single Hop IPA, 10𝇍 Beer Night, Greenwood IPA, Eephus Oatmeal Brown Ale, Squints Seed Gose, Go Ahead Raspberry Hibiscus Gose and 1x Beer For Everybody Tee!

These gifts make an incredible, direct impact to people in need. Peruse the full guide to find the perfect gift. Draughts And Crafts lasts until December 24th!

FOUNTAIN Fermented Cider

This earthy fermented cider from Revel uses blueberries and organic lemon basil. 250g/L of fresh blueberries from Norfolk County just east of Hamilton, Ontario. The lemon basil was grown from a friend of Revel in Acton, Ontario.

Herbal tones of the basil are more pronounced and the aroma is mainly green fennel, with hints of freshly turned soil.

Fountain is overall quite earthy and is said to remind the creators of beets. Basil is the star of this cider in both aroma and flavour.

Blueberries lend their colour, but are a lighter overall note. Lingering notes of green herbs give Fountain a tonic-like quality. 6.5% ABV | 750mL

$500 from this release was donated to the Canadian Civil Liberties Association. They work on equality rights in relation to mental health, disability, gender, youth, immigration, refugees, race, poverty, LGBTQ2S+ rights and more. Learn more here

Natty Wine & Kimchi from Paradise Grapevine!

Paradise Grapevine specializes in natural wine, craft beer & cider and also carries some absolutely delectable snacks. Pivoting from selling wine to making it themselves while running an independent liquor store of sorts during COVID19 has filled a gap for harder to find labels that you’d never find at the LCBO or Wine Rack (for people outside Canada, all our liquor is sold through one government store essentially).

Now offering free delivery, curbside pick-up and takeout, Paradise Grapevine has something for everyone and natural wine fans can’t miss this gem. Don’t forget to use their gorgeous and unique wine bottle gift wrapping to add extra class to your boozy gifts!

Malty & Hoppy’s Edible Beer

Toronto based company Malt & Hoppy uses beer from the best local breweries in Ontario to make delicious beer jellies with a French twist!

Françoise Briet was inspired by her French background and love of beer. Using quality ingredients rich in flavours, these jellies are delicious and environmentally sustainable.

Jellies now available include: an imperial IPA from Black Oak Brewery, a pale ale from GLB and an oatmeal brown ale from our personal favourites Left Field Brewery.

These boozy gifts all make incredible additions to a charcuterie board or even on a hunk of fresh baked bread. Check out the full online shop here 

Scandinavian Candy, Organic Wine and Bouquets from Miss Pippa’s

Photographer and drag artist from Toronto Adam Moco and partner Anton Levin, a Swedish florist, met while both living in Portugal. After moving to Toronto in 2018, they got married and jumped on the opportunity to open a new space in Brockton Village.

With Anton’s experience running a flower shop, they decided to add other items they loved which resulted in a shop-slash-bar. This type of shop is more common in Europe and has been a hit since opening it’s doors in Toronto.

Named after their dog Pippa, this local haunt is also an ode to drag queens: Adam’s drag name is Miss Moço – thus creating Miss Pippa’s, a truly unique Toronto gem.

Although the stylish and eclectic space is closed for dine-in, they have pivoted to feature all their amazing offerings and boozy gifts online. If you happen to live in Toronto, they are also open for pick up Tuesday-Sunday 8AM-10PM. FREE Delivery orders over $150 are also available here.

Cocktail Kits from a Local Mixology Legend! 

Kelsey Ramage is no stranger to innovation, the anti-waste bartender behind The Trash Collective Inc. is now serving up DIY cocktail kits, classes and group cocktail delivery perfect for boozy gifts!

Dolly Trolley Drinks offers an amazing variety of cocktail types including cold-weather cocktails like a gin gimlet with a Ontario evergreen pine twist, or a Mai-tai made with Canadian grown walnuts!

Kits come with or without alcohol and make for the perfect excuse to use your kitschy mismatched vintage glassware. Store and delivery details available here!

HP Lovecraft Tiki Bar Accessories & Magical Zoom Cocktails

As you all probably know, we are horror nerds – So when we saw the legendary nerd bar Storm Crow Manor were offering Cthulhu Tiki mugs and other related accessories we had to share with you all! Aside from the gorgeous Tiki mug and “Great Old One” Flask, Storm Crow also is selling a wide variety of nerdy gear like masks, shot glasses and apparel.

Aside from accessories, buckets of fried chicken, Star Wars themed burgers, boozy bread puddings and cocktail kits are also available for pickup and delivery.

Cocktail kits include:

• A Very Krampus Cocktail Kit (7 servings of Mulled wine)
• Magic Zoom Meeting Cocktail Kit (9 servings of dangerously delicious boozy punch)
• Release The Kraken Kit (6 servings of a Rum soaked take on the Moscow Mule)
• Butterbeer Kit (6 servings of creamy boozy deliciousness)

Don’t miss other exclusive deals as part of Storm Crows 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS SPECIALS! Delivery and pickup is available here.

Celebrating love, sexuality and diversity in the adult industry this year’s awards feature an evening of surprises and guests that will shine a spotlight on the most desired and creative humans on earth.

Image (c) Pornhub Awards

13.5M videos, 140M+ daily visitors and over 55 billion searches will determine who walks away with a trophy at the end of the night. Unlike most award shows, Pornhub uses data driven results with big wins going to the most searched, viewed and lusted after this past year on the site.

In addition to celebrating the industries best porn stars from around the world, the pornhub awards also will feature best selling Latin musician Ozuna, Miami based hip hop duo City Girls, Film icon John Waters, Drag legend Violet Chachki, Patia of the incredible meme account @PATIASFANTASYWORLD, Leimoy Maldonado an iconic ballroom dancer and MANY MORE who will present awards or participate in skits.

Our interest piqued mainly for John Waters as a presenter who was drawn to the awards out of concert for the health of others, saying “Good filth-on-demand is what we all need to stay home and be sexually safe and socially distanced in this obscene pandemic,” in a statement issued by Pornhub. “Giving a Pornhub Award seems like a civic duty to me.”

Tune into the Pornhub awards December 15th starting at 7PM EST.

A Selection of Fan Voting categories (with our picks in bold) are below:

NICEST PUSSY
Emma Hix
Mini_Diva
Alix Lynx
Sarah Banks
Jane Wilde
Leo From LeoLuLu
Emily Willis
Luxurygirl
Ana Foxxx
Riley Reid
Tinna Angel
Luna Okko
Janice Griffith
Kira Noir
Morgpie
Madison Ivy
Elsa Jean
Lexi Lore
Miss_Impulse

FAVORITE MILF
Cory Chase
Julia Ann
Jodi West
Lady Fyre
Alexis Fawx
Cherie Deville
Diamond Jackson
Lisa Ann
Veronica Avluv
Ava Addams
Nina Hartley
Kendra Lust
Mandy FLores
Sara Jay
Brandi Love
Osa Lovely
Asa Akira
Eva Lovia
Esperanza Gomez
Jessa Rhodes

NICEST TITS
Angela White 
Kendra Sunderland
Gabbie Carter
Hitomi Tanaka
Sophie Dee
Ava Addams
Violet Myers
Dillion Harper
Diamond Jackson
Korina Kova
Paige Owens
Crystal Lust
Mini_Diva
Autumn Falls
Chessierae
Brittney White
Larkin Love
Bridgette B
Lena Paul
Valentina Nappi

FAVORITE INKED MODEL
Liya Silver
The Red Fox
Canela Skin
TheHotChocolate
Kali Roses
Littlebuffbabe
Honey Gold
Anna Bell Peaks
Joanna Angel
MrsFeedMe
Karmen Karma
Leah Meow
Bonnie Rotten
Alissa Noir
Bella Bellz
Anuskatzz
Karma Rx
Reislin
Owen Gray
Kleio Valentien

FAVORITE FETISH MODEL
Charlotte Sartre
Natalie Mars
Spiel_Maschinerie
Astrodomina
Lianagood
Larkin Love
Lance Hart
Adriana Maya
Ezada Sinn
LadyUltraviolet
Amber Chase
Rae Lil Black
Kinky Babies
Bianca Stone
VelvetVeronica
Melody Cheeks
Mandy Flores
AutumnxxJordan
Lady Fyre
BDSM Elves

HOTTEST ASS
Lana Rhoades
Nicolette Shea
Crystal Lust
Lele Star
Emily Lynne
NoFaceGirl
Molly Pills
Teanna Trump
Moriah Mills
Canela Skin
BehindTheMaskk
Kenzie Madison
Rachel Starr
Misty Stone
Alexis Texas
LeoLuLu
Jade Jordan
Mia Malkova
Mia Queen
Abella Danger

FAVORITE TRANS MODEL
Erica Cherry
Mandy Mitchell
Chanel Santini
Bailey Jay
Domino Presley
Aubrey Kate
Jessica Fox
Natalie Mars
Jessy Dubai
Natassia Dreams
TripleXTransManXXX
Mia Isabella
Sarina Valentina
Ella Hollywood
Venus Lux
TS Foxxy
Viktor Belmont
Casey Kisses

FAVORITE GAY MODEL
Zilv Gudel
Colby Keller
JoshMooreXXX
Diego Sans
Deangelo Jackson
Colby Jansen
Joey Mills
Austin Wilde
Austin Wolf
Matthew Camp
William Seed
Rocco Steele
Trenton Ducati
Max Konnor
Armand Rizzo
Johnny Rapid
Beaux Banks
Cutler X
Boomer Banks
Paul Canon

FAVORITE COSPLAYER
OppaIbby
MyKinkyDope
Korina Kova
Veronica Chaos
Hidori Rose
AliceBong
Little Puck
Felicia Vox
Purple Bitch
SiaSiaBeria
Indigo White
Chibella Chan
KassMonday
Elisabeth Weir
Arwen Datnoid
MollyRedWolf
Arwen Datnoid
Emanuelly Raquel
Mia Bandini
Ellie Idol
CatJira

FAVORITE CHANNEL
JAYSPOV
Bratty Sis
VIXEN
CUM4K
Fake Hostel
Brazzers
Mom Teach Sex
LetsDoEit
BangBros
Fake Taxi
Property Sex
JulesJordan
BLACKED
Family Strokes
MOFOS
Hot Guys Fuck
Public Agent
Sis Loves Me
SPANKMONSTER
Reality Kings 

Full category list and fan voting for the Pornhub Awards is still open until December 10th! Be sure to VOTE for your favorites.

Legalization and Drug Reform measures were on the ballot in a number of US states this year. Five states voted to legalize recreational and or medicinal cannabis, while even more controversial issues surrounding hard drugs and psychedelics made huge strides.

Here’s a round-up of all the Drug Reform related results from the 2020 election.

Oregon

Oregon passed the sweeping Measure 110, which decriminalized small amounts of all street drugs. Oregon is the first state to pass anything like this. This measure reduces misdemeanour drug possession violations to the equivalent of traffic tickets.

Measure 110 also reduces legal penalties for what are currently felony possession cases, all while funnelling cannabis tax revenue into addiction recovery centres, treating drugs as a public health problem rather a criminal offence.

“This is the most significant reform in our nation’s failed drug policies in a generation,” Kassandra Frederique, the executive director of Drug Policy Alliance, which spent more than $4 million backing the measure, said. “It’s particularly significant because most people don’t realize that drug possession is the number one arrest in the US.”

Washington D.C.

Washington D.C. passed a Drug Reform ballot measure to decriminalize the use of psilocybin mushrooms and other psychedelics. While the initiative disappointingly doesn’t legalize the drugs, it makes stopping the cultivation, distribution, possession and use of certain plant-based psychedelics one of the police department’s lowest enforcement priorities.

The initiative, formerly known as the Entheogenic Plant and Fungus Policy Act of 2020, will now go to the D.C Council for review, before eventually being reviewed by Congress to officially make it the law of the land.

New Jersey, Arizona & Montana

Cannabis, already legal for medical use in 33 US states and recreational use in 11, was also legalized for recreational purposes in New Jersey, Arizona and Montana.

New Jersey estimates approx $126 million a year for the states economy through cannabis alone. Arizona has passed Prop 207 to become the lucky 13th state to legalize cannabis, allowing adults 21 and older to buy and possess up to 1 ounce with no more than 5 grams being concentrates, and also grants people to cultivate up to 6 cannabis plants per primary residence.

The Arizona Department of Health Services will issue licences following the application period from Jan 19 – Mar 9,2021. Many medical cannabis dispensaries will get a recreational licence which will allow them to sell medical and recreational cannabis from their dispensary locations. The measure also allows people with cannabis related charges to petition for expungement.

Montana has passed a pair of complimentary Drug Reform ballot initiatives which together legalize recreational cannabis use in Montana for adults. I-190 creates rules for cannabis use, including a 20% tax and the option for individual counties to prohibit dispensaries.

CI-118 amended the Montana Constitution to allow the state to set the minimum buying age to 21. Both measures were needed to pass for recreational use to become legal.

South Dakota & Mississippi 

Voters in Mississippi voted for legal medical cannabis, while South Dakota voters approved Drug Reform for both medical and recreational cannabis.

Mississippi voters passed an activist- led initiative allowing for a broad medical cannabis program that includes 22 conditions such as PTSD & chronic pain and allows patients to obtain up to 2.5 ounces of weed per 14-day period.

South Dakota became the first state in the country to legalize both rec and medical cannabis on the same ballot. The medical program would allow patients with a ‘debilitating condition’ whereas the recreational program would allow adults 21 or older to possess up to an ounce of cannabis in public, and grow up to 3 plants at home if they live in a place with no weed store nearby.

Conclusion

Over the past 10+ years, criminal penalties for drug offences have been reduced in many US states. Democratic policy makers have been increasingly outspoken in favour of ending the failed war on drugs, particularly given its disproportionate effect on non white communities. More aggressive Drug Reform initiatives to end the war like cannabis legalization and broader drug decriminalization, are still controversial among politicians and policymakers and most have voted on the more cautious side.

Polls show a majority of Americans (⅔) and especially high numbers of Democrats (¾) back cannabis legalization. Yet, the President elect Joe Biden, is still opposed to full legalization, arguing for a milder measure at the federal level to remove prison time but not allow sales.

Thanks to Drug Reform efforts from activists in more conservative states, like Montana and South Dakota politicians are starting to push forward for cannabis and drug reform which is historic especially in predominantly red jurisdictions. These 2020 election results show that voters and even some politicians are eager to pull back on America’s failed war on drugs and create a promising financial future for a majority of states now entering what is known as the cannabis “green rush”.

Adaptogens & Nootropics are all the rage. Read on to learn the benefits, differences and ways to try these brain building alternative medicines. 

The world of Adaptogens & Nootropics

Biohacking and wellness continue to become more prominent industries as humans learn more about our neurological and biological systems and how they interact with natural alternative medicines and ingredients.

We all know the importance of mindfulness and “brain training” – but did you know that nutrition can have just as impactful an effect on your brain function?

That’s where Adaptogens and Nootropics come in.

Whether you’re a skeptic or believer, there’s no denying the rise in popularity for adaptogens, and wellness drinks. From Kombucha to Ashwagandha to weirder things like “magical moon” and “golden dandelion” lattes and teas, it can be a bit daunting and confusing to know where to start.

We’ve done a deeper dive into WTF adaptogens and nootropics are – and which are some of the best adaptogenic and nootropic drinks to experiment with.

Are they worth the hype?

100%.

Here’s why:

What are Adaptogens?

Adaptogens are ancient plants, herbs and or roots that support brain function and help the body’s ability to handle mental and physical stress.

These are different from Nootropics in the sense that Adaptogens benefits are widespread throughout the body, instead of focusing on a particular area or concern.

Examples:

Lion’s Mane Mushroom – An edible and medicinal mushroom known for its ability to boost mood, energy levels and reduce anxiety. Found in capsule or sometimes liquid extract form.

Check out Rainbo Mushroom 11:11 and add this multi-vitamin complex to pretty much any drink you’d normally drink. We personally love adding it to our morning smoothie or latte.

Maca – A root vegetable, related to the criminally underrated radish. Boosts mood and regulares stress hormones. Normally found in powder format making it easy to add to any drink you’d like.

Goji – Also known as the wolf-berry, native to China, the Goji berry is packed full of nutrients and has been used in herbal teas, juices, wines and medicines. Early studies found they promote better sleep, weight loss, immunity boost and a feeling of well-being and calmness.

What are Nootropics?

Nootropics or “brain boosters”, are substances that improve cognitive function, in particular relating to creativity, memory, focus and reduce inflammation in the brain.

Examples:

L-Theanine – A naturally occurring amino acid found in tea, but can also be taken as a supplement. Several studies show that taking 200mg of L-Theanine has a calming effect, without causing drowsiness. Taking even 50mg – the amount found in roughly two cups of brewed tea – has been found to increase alpha-waves in the brain, which are linked the creativity.

Ginkgo Biloba – Ginkgo biloba, or maidenhair, is a tree native to China that has been grown for thousands of years for a variety of uses.

Because it’s the only surviving member of an ancient order of plants, it’s sometimes referred to as a living fossil.

While its leaves and seeds are often used in traditional Chinese medicine, modern research primarily focuses on ginkgo extract, which is made from the leaves.

Ginkgo supplements are associated with several health claims and uses, most of which focus on brain function and blood circulation.

Creatine – Produced naturally and found in amino acids – Creatine is the number one supplement used for improving performance in gym. Studies show it increases muscle mass, strength and exercise performance. Additionally it protects against neurological disease.

5 Adaptogenic / Nootropic Drinks To Try

1. Blue Medicinal Mushroom Latte

One of our favourite brands Rainbo shared this beautiful immunity boosting adaptogenic latte recipe packed full of 11 powerful and potent medicinal mushrooms.

Ingredients

1 tbsp butterfly pea flower tea
2 slices of fresh ginger
½ cup of boiling water
¾ cup milk of your choice, I prefer oat or hemp for the best foam
1 dropper of Rainbo 11:11 tincutre
Rainbo Forest Juice, to taste

Directions

Steep butterfly pea tea with ginger and boiling water for 1-2 minutes until dark indigo.

Strain the tea and add to your favourite mug.

Top the tea with foamed milk, Rainbo tincture and Forest Juice to taste. Combine all ingredients together, gently and enjoy

Source: https://rainbo.com/blogs/recipes/blue-mushroom-latte

2. Magic Moon Latte

Food stylist and writer Sophia Macken shared this adaptogenic herbal latte to help ease PMS symptoms. Full of hormone balancing ingredients anyone can benefit from, and can just be consumed as a healthy alternative to overly sweet and expensive flavoured lattes. Here’s the recipe from her website Wholehearted Eats:

MOON-TIME LATTE

Influenced by this recipe from the Great Kosmic Kitchen.
Serves 1.

1 Mug Almond Milk (about 12 oz)
1 Rounded tsp. Dandy Blend (or favourite instant dandelion or chicory coffee substitute)***
1/2 tsp. Ashwagandha Powder
1/2 tsp. Tahini
1/2 tsp. Maca
1/8 tsp. Cinnamon
1/2 tsp. Cocoa Powder
1/2 tsp. Coconut Oil
1/2 tsp. Coconut Sugar (optional)

Begin by measuring the amount of milk you need by pouring the milk into your intended drinking cup.

I used a standard mug, which was about 12 oz. In a small pot heat up the milk and other ingredients until nice and warm.

You’ll probably want to give it a bit of a stir to make sure the ingredients don’t stick to the bottom.

Once it gets all nice and warm, pop it in a mixture in a high speed blender and whip on high for a minute or until frothy.

Serve and enjoy!

*** If you don’t have access to herbal coffee, a strong decaffeinated coffee will also work.

3. The Ultimate Tonic

The Ultimate Tonic is an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory packed tincture containing mushrooms, turmeric, cinnamon, and sweet dates with cashew milk.

Medicinal mushrooms are packed with antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds and active constituents that have been shown to have immune boosting properties among other health benefits.

This tincture uses the power of adaptogens found specifically in medicinal mushrooms. Here’s the recipe from Nutrition Stripped:

THE ULTIMATE TONIC RECIPE

SERVES 1
Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups homemade nut milk
1 tablespoon chia seed
1 tablespoon ground flax seed
1 tablespoon melted coconut oil
1 tablespoon local honey
1-2 medjool dates, pitted
2 tablespoons raw cacao powder
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
1/2 teaspoon of each organic powdered cordyceps, reishi, shiitake, chaga, maitake, and king oyster OR use 1 tablespoon of a mushroom mix
Pinch of sea salt

Directions:
Simply combine all ingredients into a high speed blender and blend until smooth. Adjust sweetness by adding additional dates
Serve chilled over ice or serve warm by pouring into a small saucepan and gently heating until warm to touch.

4. Daydream Sparkling Water

This sparkling water contains no sugar, no caffeine, and a mix of powerful adaptogens and hemp extracts that work with the body’s immune system. Making it a go-to for anyone looking to increase focus, reduce stress & fatigue. Some adaptogens found in Daydream include:

Hemp Extracts (Balance & Clarity)
Schisandra (Stress Reduction)
Moringa (Anti-inflammatory & Anti-oxidation)
Ginseng (Focus & Energy)

Canada’s first sparkling water infused with hemp extracts and adaptogens come in a variety of delicious flavours, like: Blackberry Chai, Cucumber Lime and Peach Ginger. This water is a hot item so order yours online before they sell out (again) or check your local stockists to grab a can or sample pack!

5. Anti-Stress Ashwagandha Shot

If you find yourself constantly reaching for that second or third caffeine dose half way through the day, we highly recommend this quick and easy shot as an alternative to a quick pick-me-up.

It’s a powerful adaptogenic drink that uses the all-natural superpowers of: honey, apple cider vinegar, and Ashwagandha.

This shot is a fantastic source of antioxidants and helps your immune system less susceptible to harmful effects of stress.

Ingredients:
2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tsp honey
1/2 tsp ashwagandha powder
1/4 cup water (optional)

Instructions:

Heat all the ingredients in a small saucepan then pour in a shot glass.
You can drink the mixture as it is or dilute it in 1/4 cup of water.
If you are a bit weirded out by things like “moon lattes” we also included more digestible and accessible ways to experiment with this new growing trend of nootropic and adaptogenic drinks, elixirs and tonics.

Interested in adaptogens, nootropics, plant medicine and alternative ways to bio-hack? Stay tuned to Strange Comforts for new content every Monday.

Featured image credit: Photo by Lisa Hobbs on Unsplash

Within a very short time we were able to cover incredible festivals, exhibits and events almost full time and were really starting to get momentum with reviews, interviews, features and deep dive lists. We saw this project as a way to editorialize and archive the things we loved so much about the darker side of cinema and art.

With our small but dedicated audience we were able to generate attention around films and happenings that mainstream publications usually ignored and we were humbled by the articles and creators we were able to meet and speak with.

Horror has one of the more dedicated fan bases I’ve been a part of, but also more recently mostly in part to social media obsession – it’s become quite a toxic space. What once was an eager community with a DIY show and tell attitude has become (for some not all) a very depressing space full of gatekeeping and hate for insignificant or avoidable issues like who said what first or “this person on x social media platform hurt my feelings”. This sensibility makes it hard for creators to feel comfortable or inspired to continue to create within the community.

Before Covid-19 became a global issue, we began planning trips to other cities and festivals all over North America to start covering broader topics that still fall under the umbrella of horror and the bizarre – However the universe had other plans for everyone and everything, including Screamish.

Although Screamish will never “die”, for now it cannot exist the way it’s supposed to. And to be completely honest we feel like it’s run its course as our main interest right now.

Luckily, we are based out of Toronto, Canada.

One of the most incredible cities in terms of its biodiversity, communities, hidden gems and downright bizarre but intriguing stories and personalities at every turn. To those asking will horror coverage still happen yes of course. But it is with heavy yet excited hearts we are announcing a pause on screamish.net as we migrate over to strangecomforts.com

Screamish will still live on the new site but as one of many pillars that will form our new platform for modern storytelling.

Stay tuned for tons of strange updates shortly.

Psychedelics can be challenging even to the most experienced users. A so-called ‘bad trip’ can take many forms, the most well-known being frightening hallucinations.

Others may experience more physical challenges like feeling a lack of self control over themselves and their bodies.

With the simple tips below, we hope to help guide new users and veterans of plant medicine through these sometimes difficult encounters.

Please note these tips apply to the use of psychedelics and plant medicine, we do not recommend experimenting with chemical drugs such as MDMA, Ketamine, DXM and others unless you have the ability to properly source, test and or use these substances in a medical environment and or through medical professionals.

Survival Guide

Tip 1 – Breathe

This may sound obvious, however always remembering to breathe – and doing so mindfully – is the best defence against a bad trip.

If things get dark or challenging, focus on your breath and exhale longer than you inhale, noticing the tension in your body release with every exhale.

Studies have found that deep breathing is one of the best ways to lower stress in the body. This is due to your brain getting signals to relax when inhaling deeply.

Activities that increase heart-rate like: fast breathing, high blood pressure all decrease when you practice breathing techniques or as some call it breathwork. This is why you see professional athletes like Boxers moving around the ring and exhaling between rounds.

Belly breathing is probably the easiest technique and can be done anywhere, even in a crowded festival (post covid19 of course). Just follow these easy steps:

1. Sit or lie flat in a comfy position
2. Put one hand on your belly just below your ribs and the other on your chest
3. Take a deep inhale through your nose, and let your belly push your hand out.
4. Exhale through pursed lips as if you were whistling. Feel the hand on your belly go in, and use it to push all the air out.
5. Do this between 5 to 10 times. Take your time!
6. Take note of how you feel in the moment when you finish

Tip 2 – Acceptance

Now that more psychedelic clinical trials are underway, medical professionals have also become aware of the potentials of bad trips with some of their patients using Psilocybin, LSD or other psychedelic substances.

Guides for these trials will now often advise participants to surrender to the experience, especially if it’s a challenging one.

Showing compassion and curiosity to negative thoughts, feelings, or experiences is often a guide into your deep consciousness, and these dark journeys inwards are often just as important as the positive ones.

If certain aspects of what you are seeing or experiencing are bothering you always try and remove them. This could be something as simple as putting your phone in airplane mode, or turning on a different visual on TV.

“If you feel like you’re dying, melting, dissolving, exploding, or going crazy, go ahead and embrace it” said Dr. Bill Richards, a pioneer in the psychedelic research world.

Trying to combat these organic feelings during a bad trip will do much more harm than good and through sheer willpower and some of these other suggestions, you can safely navigate through the bumpiest of trips.

Tip 3 – Change of Scenery

The best thing about tripping is that there really are no rules or perfect formulas to perfect your experience.

Sitting in one place physically for the entire trip may make certain folks feel a bit trapped, closed in or anxious and this is totally normal.

One of the best ways to change the mood before a bad trip takes hold is to switch things up, either physically or by going from indoors to outdoors.

Lighting, music and visuals can always be a huge help too. Making you feel like you’ve transported yourself to a completely different space, without needing to necessarily leave your home. If you are too deep into a trip to even consider travelling too much, try changing your clothes, touching your hands, feet, and body.

Walk around your personal space and try and find any part or place that feels like home. You can shift negative thoughts and energies simply by moving and experimenting with where you feel best while tripping.

For me personally I always feel best tripping 50% in the comfort of my own home and 50% out in nature around as many of the elements as possible.

For you though – could be totally different.

Tip 4- Distract Yourself

Negative thoughts are always a possibility while tripping, and we’ve already covered why it’s important to accept though feelings.

However, another smart approach to avoiding or controlling those feelings is to simply distract yourself. Thought loops and reminiscing on traumatic events is never fun, but sometimes it will come up.

To prepare for this inevitability a lot of people who trip prepare activities ahead of time. This can be anything from painting to making a beat, simply writing in a journal, playing a video game, watching your favourite movies or having a luxurious bath or shower.

Just always make sure to prepare for any more complicated activities before tripping to avoid….problems.

Tip 5 – Talk About it!

If you were with a group of friends and someone said something super offensive or troubling, you or someone in the group would probably speak up.

The same theory should apply to tripping on psychedelics. If you are having a bad time, tell someone you are with and or whom you trust!

If they are also tripping, you don’t even need to go into details, but should still let them know if you are struggling through your experience.

Human connections or even a gentle physical touch like someone lightly holding your hand or rubbing their hand over your back softly can help lift you out of a devastating feeling or negative place.

If you are scared your trip might get overthrown by negativity or you’d like to work through a hyper specific and complex problem, you should look for a trip sitter, experienced guide or possibly a full fledged psychedelic retreat centre or treatment facility.

Sources:
Doubleblind: https://www.instagram.com/p/CEaMF_tBj9B

MAPS: https://maps.org/articles/5953-refinery29-7-ways-to-help-someone-who-s-having-a-bad-trip

Photo by Christopher Ott on Unsplash

We’re used to seeing unspeakable things in horror and sci-fi films. Whether it’s unstoppable and reincarnated serial killers, otherworldly entities or extraterrestrial and or Lovecraftian terrors, genre and exploitation cinema has no shortage of dread and terror.

Running from a known predator or having to break a ghostly curse is one thing, but what about having to fight against an unknown and unexplained enemy?

Psychedelic tinged genre films are rooted more in the abstract, which help distort the viewers perception of reality. This usually results in a mind-bending and sometimes transcendental cinematic experience.

Stacked full of warped realities, neon-drenched color palettes and synth heavy scores, psychedelic films are just as weird as you’d expect. Which may be why although this subgenre is quite small due to many constraints in modern filmmaking the ones that do make it past the cutting room floor are super effective and find a special place in the hearts of many cult film fans.

Our list might not be for everyone, these mind melting delights are perfect for cinephiles looking for something truly different and bizarre.

House (Hausu)

Director: Nobuhiko Obayashi

Whenever most people think of J-horror, they usually think of Ringu, Ju-On and Dark Water. Dead girls with long hair have essentially become a mascot for the genre. One Japanese Horror film that hopefully hasn’t gone under your radar is House (Hausu).

This absolutely surreal film follows a high school student visiting her aunt’s house with a group of friends. Unfortunately, for the group of gorgeous school girls there’s an evil presence in the house that eats them one by one in increasingly strange ways that range from death by piano to being entombed by a grandfather clock.

House was originally designed to be Obayashi’s answer to Jaws, and was given the chance to develop the script. Basing it on the childhood fears of his young daughter. It would take two years before Obayashi was allowed to direct, creating an under-seen cult masterpiece.

Color out of Space

Director: Richard Stanley 

Richard Stanley’s directorial comeback brings this strange tale from H.P Lovecraft to life. Centring around the Gardner family who move to a farmhouse outside of the fictional town of Arkham. After a meteor crashes on their farm the families lives are thrown into a cosmic nightmare, bringing with it an otherworldly color.

Full of stunning hoes of pink and purple, there’s no denying how gorgeous this movie is to look at. Alongside the stunning cinematography and VFX, this cosmic color comes with some truly grotesque body horror moments as well, as it amalgamates with all biological material it touches.

Richard Stanley’s adaptation is one of the strongest Lovecraftian visions yet: Deranged, tantalizing and just bat-shit spooky. Although not for everyone, this is a modern take on a classic short cosmic horror story guaranteed to trip you the fuck out. (Read our full review!)

MANDY

Director: Panos Cosmatos

Red and Mandy lead a peaceful existence in ‘The Shadow Mountains’ of the Pacific Northwest in 1983.

That is until a cosmic cult catapults them into a phantasmagoric journey filled with vengeance, LSD laboratories and otherworldly visuals and music that will make you bored of pretty much any movie you watch after you finish this new cult classic.

The experience of seeing this film is more important than the movie itself, and for that reason I consider MANDY one of my favorite films of all time. If you aren’t into ultra-violence, 80’s revenge or Nic Cage, then I’m confused as to why you are reading this list in the first place.

Don’t miss out on this future classic

A Field in England

Director: Ben Wheatley 

Set during the Civil War in 17th-Century England, a small group of deserters flee from a battle through an overgrown field.

After being captured by an alchemist a shroom fueled search for treasure begins. The group quickly descends into arguments, fighting and paranoia, and it becomes clear that the original search might have been a trap…or something even worse.

A Field in England is Wheatley’s most experimental film yet, which makes it unique in the sense that it doesn’t make things easy for the audience. This is true art house in every sense of the word – Full of intense, surreal visuals and metaphysical twists and turns throughout.

Don’t let us spoil too much, and I’d probably advise to not eat psilocybin along with this bad trip. 

Altered States

Director: Ken Russel 

What could possibly go wrong when experimenting with Indigenous hallucinogens and sensory deprivation in a research lab?