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Design My Night Manchester Award Winners Announced!

The results are in for the Design My Night Awards here in Manchester. So without delay, lets see who made some good vibrations in the city –

Best Bar 2014 – Kosmonaut, Northern Quarter

Exposed brick, leather seats, banging drinks…dentist chairs; the Northern Quarter’s Kosmonaut has everything a great bar should have, and some. Multi-faceted Kosmonaut serves up food, parties and plenty of good times, helping it to scoop the Best Bar gong in this year’s awards!

Best Club 2014 – Joshua Brooks, Oxford Road

A full blown party palace, the award for Best Club in Manchester this year goes to the one and only, Joshua Brooks! A popular choice with party kids all over the city, this relatively small club packs one helluva punch with banging DJs and acts on show week in, week out. Here’s to you, Mr Brooks!

Best Pub 2014 – The Marble Arch, Ancoats

Traditional, historic, and let’s face it, pretty damned lovable; The Marble Arch was our runaway winner scooping the Best Pub award this year. Featuring local ales, gorgeous food and an old-school friendly ambience, The Marble Arch is a Manchester institution.

Best Pop Up 2014 – Long Bar, Spinningfields

If you thought pop ups were just for the summertime, you sir, are wrong. Long Bar was previously only intended to stick around for the summer months but down to public demand, is with us for the winter too. Spacious and sleek, this Spinningfield nugget wins the Best Pop Up accolade.

Dusk til Pawn

The ‘Hidden Gem’ Award 2014 – Dusk til Pawn, Northern Quarter

Is there a better place to hide a bar, than in a pawn shop? Doubt it. Dusk til Pawn wins this year’s Hidden Gem award for being the most covert operation in Manchester. Once you actually find the place, you’ll be happy to hear the tunes a’playing, the cocktails a’pouring and the good times rolling.

Best Interior Design 2014 – Terrace, Northern Quarter

Vintage school furniture, low hanging lights and an alpine lodge bar? No wonder Terrace NQ was voted the Best Interior Design. Though gorgeous, with live music, tasty drinks and lively DJ nights as part of their offering too, Terrace NQ is more than just a pretty face.

Best Live Music Venue 2014 – Soup Kitchen, Northern Quarter

Soup, sandwiches and awesome live music? Yes please! The Soup Kitchen in the Northern Quarter is a bustling cafe by day, but their weekend live music prowess is nothing short of legendary. From big acts to local talent, The Soup Kitchen is a deserved winner of the Best Live Music Venue Award.

Best Beer Garden 2014 – The Oast House, Spinningfields

Come rain or shine, the Oast House is a popular choice in Manchester for a drink or two. Their beer garden is lit with lanterns and enjoys an authentically cool ambience in the face of some of its more stuffier neighbours. Best Beer Garden 2014 goes to the Oast House.

Best Cocktail Bar 2014 – Elixir Tonic & Treats, Deansgate

Deansgate’s wonderfully quirky Elixir Tonics & Treats has won your hearts and minds to take the Best Cocktail Bar award. Retro-tastic, Elixir is a relative newcomer to the scene but its forward thinking hosting and delectable drinks, have paved the way to victory!

Best Cocktail Menu 2014 – Under New Management, Deansgate

Formerly Corridor, Under New Management is a secretive cocktail haunt in the Salford area with a drinks offering that’s helped it to win the Best Cocktail Menu award. Offering both signature and bespoke beauties, if you can find it, Under New Management is the cocktail connoisseurs’ first choice.

Best Late Night Bar 2014 – The Liars Club, Deansgate

Who would have ever guessed a tiki bar would go down so well in Manchester? The Liars Club is a solid party bar that stays open way past our bed times and if the voting is anything to go by, it’s safe to say we all love its wild ways! Grab a Zombie cocktail and dance the night away; you can worry about the hangover when you’re getting up for work. The Liars Club wins the Best Late Night Bar Award!

Best Fun Time Party Bar 2014 – The Deaf Institute, Oxford Road

Raucous, fun-loving and wild, Deaf Institute takes the Best Fun Time Party Bar award. Drink, laugh and dance at this Manchester favourite, which has not 1, not 2, but 3 different bar areas! PARTY ON.

Best Experience 2014 – The Warehouse Project, Trafford Park

Unless you live under a rock, you might have heard of this small little gathering. Warehouse Project is at the forefront of the UK rave scene, and 2013 was another big year. You spoke, and we listened. The Warehouse Project wins The Best Experience this year.

Best New Bar 2014 – Rosylee Tea Rooms, Northern Quarter

The competition in this category was fierce, but after the votes were counted, Rosylee Tea Rooms scooped the Best New Bar Award. A cutesy tea room with the added arsenal of a fully fledged cocktail bar makes this little urban hub one bar not to mess with. Glam, chic and let’s face it, adorable, The Rosylee Tea Rooms is a deserved winner.

Best All-in-One Venue 2014 – Gorilla, Oxford Road

No monkeying around, Gorilla is a venue on a mission. Boasting club nights, tasty hot dogs and slamming cocktails, there’s not much this wonder-bar can’t do. With that in mind, it’s no wonder Gorilla was voted the best All-In-One Venue this year. Make sure you visit for a dance, bite to eat, drink, gig, the list goes on…

Vogue’s Fashion Night Out at Frog Flowers Review

Susie - Vogue

Fashion and lifestyle magazine Vogue came to Manchester last week with their Fashion Night Out event being held for one night only, collaborating with the likes of Manchester heavyweights Selfridges and Harvey Nichols as well as stores such as DKNY and Top Shop. With various drink brands coming on board to showcase their names with fashion designers, I took notice of something a little more intimate.

Frog Flowers is located in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, away from the usual trendy places like Deansgate and King Street. Offering Manchester a unique experience in the art of flowers, the florist used its innovative and contemporary ideas that utilised a wide range of flowers & foliage. Working alongside them were Jean Jackson Bridal Wear, a South Manchester staple since the 1980’s. In return, a stunning boutique setting over three floors. Its ground floor offered me the most delight though as Manchester bartender and fashion icon in her own right, Susie Wong, offered her services to create for Frog Flowers three Vogue themed cocktails – Penelope Tree, Jean Shrimpton and Twiggy. The 60’s icons were immortalised in Susie’s creations, with each recipe written on a Vogue magazine cover instead of a menu adding the glamour touch.

Susie Wong
Susie with her Penelope Tree creation

Penelope Tree came in the form of a relatively new gin, City of London, built with The Bitter Truth Violette liqueur, tonic bitters and topped with grape soda. A recipe that Susie took with her to London after impressing the judges at the recent Bitter Truth cocktail competition held in Manchester, she took great pride in showering her creation with glitter and flowers to really set the scene for the evening. Another of her creations, Jean Shrimpton, again had a gin base of City of London, but this time shaken with Cointreau, Blossom Syrups Strawberry and cranberry juice. Helped by fellow bartender Edoardo Arcesi of Epernay, the use of strawberries and orange gave a fantastic aromatic floral nose, and came complete with a peacock resting on top. Her last creation was a simple affair, putting together Cointreau and The Bitter Truth orange flower water and topping it with Fentimans Rose Lemonade, complete with a lollipop!

With a display of spirit bottles being utilised to not only show-off Susie’s creations, but also adapted to be a part of the venues display-works (see the photos from the link below), Frog Flowers showcased the very best of the boutique styles that Manchester has to offer and display them in a way that only they seem to create. Having Susie come on board make perfect sense, with myself enjoying many a cocktail from the lady in the past, her style and approach to her creations doesn’t surprise me in her being a part of one of the biggest fashion nights out in the UK.

See, it’s not just the big boys who come out to play on these nights. And I mean that in both ways. Well done to Susie, David of Frog and the team at Jean Jackson.

Check out the rest of my photos via my Facebook page. Also see snaps from the official photographer Danielle Boxall.

© David Marsland and Drinks Enthusiast 2013. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog/sites author and owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to David Marsland and Drinks Enthusiast with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

Appleton Estate

Appleton Joy

Appleton Estate is one of the world’s most well-known rum brands, hailing from Jamaica and offering up expressions used by all, from cocktails to served over ice. I finally get myself out to Jamaica soon to check out their home, but it’s got me taking a sneak peak before i jet over!

The first known documentation of rum production at the Appleton Estate dates back to 1749, however the origins of the Estate date back as far as 1655 when the British captured Jamaica from the Spanish. Frances Dickinson took part in that British conquest and it‘s believed that the Appleton Estate in the Nassau Valley, St. Elizabeth was part of the land grant that Dickinson received as a reward for his services. His grandsons were the earliest known owners of the Appleton Estate. In 1845 the Appleton Estate changed hands from the Dickinson family when it was acquired by William Hill and later changed hands again when it was purchased by one of Jamaica`s most successful merchants, A. McDowell Nathan. He unfortunately died in an earthquake in 1907 and his vast estate, including Appleton, was eventually acquired by J. Wray and Nephew Ltd. who still own it to this day.

Appleton Estate also comes with a rather unique approach to their production.

The Estate grow their own sugar cane and ferment using soft water from a spring that originates through the limestone hills within the estate. A natural culture of yeast in the fermenting process is also used that has been handed down through generations. Small batch copper pot distillation is the preferred method, blending the rum between both copper pot and column stills. Maturation takes place within 40-gallon Number One Select American Oak barrels and when selected by the Master Blender, Joy Spence, incidentally the first woman to be appointed Master Blender in the world, they are then blended to create the Appleton Estate range. After blending, the rums are set to rest, which allows the marrying of the various components and brings the blend together.

So how does the range fare? Well below, I give to you my tasting notes –

Appleton Estate V/X – 40%

*NOW DISCONTINUED* A blend of rum of at least 5yrs. Light on the nose with an oak aroma coming through near the end. A slight pepper is also present. Dry spice is immediately apparent on the palate, with a vanilla flavour mixed with the oak creating a long, dry, lingering finish.

Appleton Estate Special Gold – 40%

A blend of rums distilled in pot and column stills. These are matured separately before being hand-blended, then aged in refill Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey barrels.
Plenty of caramel on the nose, although becoming lighter with hints of sweetness following. Very light on the palate, rather thin, with a slight sweetness, blended with butter flavours.

Appleton Estate Reserve Blend – 43%

Launched in 2000 to celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the Appleton Estate and uses minimum 8yr old Appletons. Lots of orange on the nose, with hints of hazelnut and soft fudge. Smooth on the palate, developing warmth. Honey, toasted fudge and hits of citrus on the lingering finish.

Appleton Estate Rare Blend 12yr – 43%

A blend of rums between 12 and 18yrs. High notes of vanilla and banana on the nose, which follows onto the palate with a punch, although it mellows with a creamy texture. Creates a long, rich ending.

Appleton Estate 21yr – 43%

Following maturation, this was blended and married in casks for two years and uses minimum of 21yr aged rums. Bouquet of floral aromas and nuts. Cocoa and vanilla swirling around slowly. Plenty of nuts, thick, stewed fruits and hints of rich molasses. Long, fresh with hints of dryness.

Appleton Estate Joy Anniversary Blend 25yr – 45%

This special blend commemorates Joy Spence’s 20th anniversary as master blender. A combination of rums aged for between 25 and 35 years.
Fresh demerara sugar upon the nose, with hints of fresh ripe banana, clove and oak coming through. Ripe notes of red apple, dried cinnamon sticks and coffee, moving to a bold kick of cocoa and toffee. A long, fresh finish, becoming quite moorish.

A cracking range of rum from Jamaica, with versatility to offer cocktails such as;

Applton - Joys Cocktail

Joy’s Cocktail; crafted by the Master herself.

Glass –

Ingredients –

25 ml Appleton Estate Reserve Blend
75 ml Ginger ale
Slice of orange
5 drops Angostura bitters
Orange peel (garnish)

Method –

Squeeze the orange slice into a rocks glass and then drop it in the glass and muddle it. Add ice and build in remaining ingredients and stir.

Worth seeking out a couple of the Appleton Estate range for your cocktail evenings, and at least one to sip when the occasion calls for! I’ll be sure to update as and when i experience straight from Jamaica itself!

© David Marsland and Drinks Enthusiast 2018. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog/sites author and owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to David Marsland and Drinks Enthusiast with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

Kahlúa Coffee House Tasting

Kahlúa have taken over Manchester. Well, more Market Restaurant on High Street in the Northern Quarter but taken over non the less. Transformed into the Kahlúa colours of red, yellow and black, with bottles lining shelves and menus covering everything from Mexican char grilled chicken to Espresso Martini’s and White Russians, Kahlúa has taken the ever intrigued Manchester scene and created something just that little bit different.

Take for example their free master classes. Ran upstairs in their Salon de Kahlúa, collaborative partners The Liquorists and Coffee Circle explore the heritage of Kahlúa, whilst enjoying a cocktail or two. But to really stand out, you spend some of the session blind-folded. Fantastic idea! After an introductory  drink of replacing rum with Kahlúa in a coffee based Mojito, your host, in our case Jamie Jones, asks you to become departed from your senses and spend the next few minutes in darkness, hands on the table. In the middle is placed a dish containing 4 spoons, one with a rum based sugar cane cube, one with vanilla, one with a jelly coffee cube and the last with vanilla coffee cream. Of course, you have to guess what you have just tried, and many expressing how simple the ingredients are to creating the finished product of Kahlúa.

After a history lesson in coffee by Coffee Circle, you are then treated to a shot glass of probably one of the world’s most famous coffee cocktails – The Espresso Martini. A mix of Kahlúa, vodka and espresso, shaken to create a creamy layer on top and decorated with a couple of coffee beans. Simple, perfect.

The last treat of the evening though highlighted the Salon de Kahlúa cocktail menu created by The Liquorists – an Americano. Not your usual coffee drink, but more a combination of Kahlúa and vermouth spritzed with a coffee infused Pernod absinthe spray. Served in a cup complete with saucer of course. This gave an insight into the drinks list as there are 8 drinks to choose from, ranging from The Flat White (Kahlúa, Chivas Regal and Pedro Ximenez Sherry), The Mocha (Kahlúa, Olmeca Altos Reposado, Cherry Cola and Chocolate Ice Cream) and The Affogato (Absolut Vanilla, Kahlúa and Espresso) which is a de-constructed White Russian that you drink with a spoon.

The session lasts for 45 minutes and as it’s free, spaces are snapped up quickly, especially with what is on offer for you. Masterclasses are held at 6:30pm on Thursdays, and at 6:30pm and 8:30pm every Friday and Saturday. Book yourself on, grab a bite to eat, watch a film in the speakeasy and enjoy many a Kahlúa beverage because April 27th – IT’S GONE.

Check out the rest of the photos via my Facebook page.

© David Marsland and Drinks Enthusiast 2013. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog/sites author and owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to David Marsland and Drinks Enthusiast with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

Tea Rooms of Manchester Part 1

One category that Manchester has a lot of, and indeed excel at, are tea rooms. Most you will find around the Northern Quarter, nestled away down side streets, in converted buildings or built from scratch. Some you will see in more established venues in areas you don’t expect to find a range of herbal teas or home-baked scones, others incorporated into new ventures as a way to capitalize on the ever popular ‘Afternoon Tea’ scenario.

I myself visit a lot of these tea rooms for meetings and catch-ups and after a bit of tweeting between myself and other like-minded drink lovers, it came to my mind that being a ‘Drinks Enthusiast’ doesn’t necessarily have to be towards alcohol. I’ve dabbled previously into mixers which can enhance or create a different tone towards your favourite tipple, but never a venue that prides itself on offering more towards the hot drink sector and home-baked goodies.

With this in mind, I’ve tasked myself into experiencing the tea rooms of Manchester, looking at what makes it stand-out from the rest, the quality of the produce and the overall glamour of this theme.

First to Home Sweet Home – an independent place from the guys who brought you Socio Rehab, Almost Famous and Luck Lust Liquor & Burn. They call themselves a gourmet bakehouse and coffee bar, and specialize in home comfort food i.e. pull up a chair as there’s something for everyone. Located on Edge Street in the Northern Quarter, the long open room as you step in houses simple square tables and chairs on either side of a wooden clad bar upon which cake stands galore adorn. Its simple decor of wallpaper, books and pictures in frames creates the mood of its name-sake.

Burger at Home Sweet Home
Burger at Home Sweet Home

When I went myself I tried something a little different from my usual Americano (£2) and Sausage Roll (£3.50). I opted for the simply named Burger (£7.95). A hand pressed double burger topped with cheese on a soft brioche roll. Lashes of pickle, relish and tomato supplied with a side of fries and coleslaw finished it off with a bottle of Goose Island 312 (£3.50) wheat beer to wash it all down with. Yes perhaps not what you expect to hear from a gourmet bakehouse, but when the sausage rolls are consistently good, and you see mains like Mac and Cheese, Jerked Ham Sarnie and Chilli Dog in a Blanket next to sandwiches of New New Yorker, Southwestern Club and Cajun Chicken and Chorizo, you just have to give in. One ‘traditional’ item of a tea room did catch my eye though – Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares. I had two for the good reason of they were hand baked, drizzled with chocolate, and overall savory goodness.

Next is Annies Restaurant. This is a classic example of a venue that has taken advantage of its surroundings and offers you everything an afternoon tea should be about. Set in an environment that houses comfy high backed chairs, coffee tables, soft music and elegant paintings and mirrors, it’s as if your in your grandmothers living room – and you just can’t bring yourself to leave. Especially when the Afternoon Tea (£14.95) is served on a china stand, complete with matching cups and saucers for your choice of tea (loose leaf, fruit and flavoured all available) or coffee. Delicate finger sandwiches of smoked salmon, cucumber and ham were available below warm, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and a generous helping of strawberry jam. The bottom tier gave way to the pastries and cakes including one of the best flapjacks I’ve ever had the enjoyment of. Ecclairs and fruit tarts rounded off the collection, as did the added extra of a glass of Champagne (£19.95 overall).

Annies is one of the newer establishments in Manchester, located on Old Bank Street just off St. Anne’s Square. I’ve been once before on there preview night and jumped at the chance to come down again. Chris Farr and Jennie McAlpine have helped themselves to rave reviews, and for an afternoon tea that is really good value for money, I can join in the applause.

Another favourite of Manchester is Teacup on Thomas St, located surprisingly enough on Thomas Street in the Northern Quarter. A sizeable venue which stretches back to include a mini mezzanine level which houses the kitchen. As you walk in though is where some would say the magic happens. Greeted and seated by staff and handed a menu of both baked and cooked delights, you’re rather spoilt for choice. I opted for a Pot of Tea (£2.50) and a piece of Flourless Chocolate Cake (£4.00), although I was torn towards the milkshakes and Fentimans despite the bitter coldness outside. Some interesting combinations on the cake menu too including White Chocolate and Poppy Seed, Carrot & Coconut and the locally named Manchester Tart.

Cappuccino at North Tea Power
Cappuccino at North Tea Power

Eating within a decor of metallic coloured walls and striking dark red beams that carry on to the iron cast table legs, it’s more simple than homely. Inviting non-the-less, the wooden tables compliment the colour scheme rather well, and a packed crowd at 4 in the afternoon does this justice too. Teacup is simple, yet daringly extensive with what it offers. The staff I can not fault either. Courteous, friendly and most of all I am yet to wait for that piece of cake or pot of tea as there are plenty of them around to attend to your needs.

A firm Manchester charm is Sugar Junction. Nestled down Tib Street in the Northern Quarter, I opted to try this one out as soon as it opened. For one reason and one reason only, every time I have been past, there’s not a seat in site! As you can imagine, this would intrigue anybody, and I now know why. Fantastic yet simple décor of mismatch wooden tables and chairs, coat stands, miniature tea sets within the exposed brick walls and three stunning chandeliers hanging along the front of the wooden bar. Scanning a sizeable menu, I opted for a pot of loose leaf English Breakfast and a Triple Decker BLT (£5.50) – locally sourced bacon, baby gem lettuce, tomato and lashings of mayonnaise, served on white toasted bread. Fantastic portion, warm and came with home-made coleslaw on the side.

Would be rude not to look at the cake menu when you’re at a tea room, so I decided to go for the first item on the ever-changing board, Chocolate Guinness Cake (£3.50). Wasn’t really a cake, more a slab of rich, incredibly moorish and dare I say, heavenly cake. Perfectly balanced with hint of Guinness coming through on each bite. To wash down, a ‘standard’ size Latte, complete with a China coffee cup. Great to finish off the experience, listening to jazz and 50’s music whilst watching the world go by. You really do get the sense that you’re in a different era, especially with the staff dressed in more vintage clothes than jeans and t-shirt, and politeness that you rarely find.

Triple Decker BLT at Sugar Junction
Triple Decker BLT at Sugar Junction

The latest of my tea room adventure involved a visit to North Tea Power. Situated along the mezzanine level on Tib Street in the Northern Quarter, North Tea Power invite their patrons in via the display of sandwiches and cakes on the counter, located ideally in the window as you pass – simple marketing but affective! I myself got caught in this crafty ploy, and chose myself a Cappuccino and Ham and Cheese French Toast drizzled with maple syrup. Perfection and rather unique too. Nothing too much trouble either as you sit on wooden tables with chairs and stools looking like they’ve come straight from a school library. Nothing wrong with this of course as it balances out the books, art and flowers that adorn each table and wall.

As you can expect from the name, a wall of various teas are located within glass jars, with a collection of strainers and equipment that makes North Tea Power look like it really does care about your experience for something that is rather a simple day-to-day passing. With great background music of Indie and Folk, you get that sense of quietness and charm, whilst sipping on your drink (cappuccino art always looks impressive too) or munching your French toast with glee as it warms you up.

There are other tea rooms in Manchester and I’m sure their will be cries that I’ve missed off names such as Richmond Tea Rooms, 47 King St West and Hey Little Cupcake, but never fear, with so many to choose from, this article would become a little too long to keep you in the tea room loop, so instead I’ve opted to write in stages, so you’ve read Tearooms of Manchester Part 1, and coming very soon will be Part 2!

Check out the rest of the photos via my Facebook page.

© David Marsland and Drinks Enthusiast 2013. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog/sites author and owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to David Marsland and Drinks Enthusiast with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

The Blue Pig Review

One sight that you will never see leaving is the opening of a new venue. It doesn’t matter where you are in the world, something is always popping up, filling gaps you never thought were their or shouting to the masses with outlandish fronts. In Manchester, it can sometimes be hard to keep up with the new offerings, but I did manage to get myself down to a place that has been making a name for itself, despite only being open for around a month now. The first time I ventured into The Blue Pig was as part of The Liquorists rum trail numero 3, and I promised myself that I would return for a few reasons. One – the decor. Two – the food. Three – the drinks, Four – the service and Five – the atmosphere. These sound like pretty bog-standard reasons that should apply to all eateries, but you can sometimes struggle to name a good list that acquire themselves to the basics. I feel however that The Blue Pig can stake its name right up their.

Located on the corner of Back Turner Street and High Street in Manchester’s snazzy Northern Quarter, its distinctive yet subtle blue floor to ceiling frames can entice you well to peer in, with the hanging blue pig as their sign a mere photo taking opportunity in its own right. Outdoor seating a plenty, it looks like a quaint coffee shop setting, until you step inside that is. With an entrance way that is entwined with vines, ivy and plants, you enter a room that could easily have you thinking you stepped back into a different era, with lots of dark colours that become complimented with the huge amounts of light striking through from the large windows. Two items that immediately catch your eye are the deli counter and the bar. Both oozing Parisian styles, stocked to the brim with delights in both food and drink. Specials boards hang from the ceiling, lit up by large hanging lanterns or old-fashioned lamps attached to scissor beams. One special that caught my eye was their 333 offer. ‘The Blue Pig presents our ever so seasonal, weekly changing menu featuring some of the finest produce around today sourced from both local and continental suppliers. Featuring 3 starters, 3 mains and 3 puddings, choose one dish from each for just £20.00 or individually priced dishes to suit.’ What better way to dive into the unknown!

Well to be fair they do have another way, they offer sharing boards – 5 styles including fish, meat, cheese and veg that have a host of delights mixed on them from salmon and monkfish terrine to chicken liver and ale pate. For this visit though I opted for a starter of Potted Duck that came with cumquat butter, toasted beer bread and onion pickle. Created from fresh (instantly recognisable from the first bite), and presented well with the duck housed in a small jar, propped with two warm pieces of toast and pickle with salad to dress. To wash it all down with, I gave the bartender a ‘freedom of choice’ i.e. I’d like a G&T but I want you to choose the gin. And choose well she did, offering me Berkely Square and Fever-Tree tonic. No sooner was I sipping away, the next course was being placed in front of me – Slow Roasted Fillet of Beef. A healthy portion of braised ox tongue, watercress and chervil puree, crushed new potatoes and veal and red wine juc. Heaven! The juices soaked straight into the piping hot ox tongue creating a mouth-watering bite every time. It was rather disappointing to demolish it though as anything that is presented in a layered effect, the ox tongue balanced upon the crushed potatoes, i think is a masterpiece in its own right. Speaking of masterpieces, i had a tipple that oddly complimented the course – a Negroni. Using Beefeater gin, Campari and Sweet Vermouth, it seemed to offer a new take on the flavours that the ox tongue gave, becoming a little softer after the infusion of red wine juice.

The third and final course offered me a Chocolate and Raspberry Terrine with raspberry coulis. Not too rich and perfect for someone who is a chocoholic, but may not like it too bold. Chocolate and raspberry have always complimented each other, and this delivers straight away, with again presentation being spot on too. Now I have to admit, this was my second desert of the day here. When I arrived I ordered myself something unusual, Gin and Tonic Strawberries, gin soaked strawberries set in tonic and cucumber jelly. The power of twitter meant I had seen this posted online before, and despite not being a fan of jelly, my gin demon (or hero) told me to give it a go. Housed in a rocks glass, its freshly cut strawberries look fantastic with a dusting of icing sugar on top and the thin slices of juicy cucumber work well. A theme that has set itself during my visit started with this dish too – presentation. To cap my visit off, I yet again asked for one of the staff to choose any style cocktail for me, and i was presented with one of my personal favourites in an Old Fashioned. Using Woodford Reserve, Angostura Bitters and maple syrup, it was a fantastic way to end an afternoon.

Gin and Tonic Strawberries

I’m not one to rave about a venue too much, but the concept that The Blue Pig have come across is spot on, and I couldn’t recommend any higher. The service by all staff was friendly, the atmosphere was relaxed with chilled out music been played at a good level, the food was great and the drinks on par with any high-end bar. The decor has that ‘homely’ feel to it, but also has an up-market look which you can easily spend a good few hours sitting in their window booths or single table seats.

It’s a rarity that I plan on coming back to a restaurant so quickly, but in a few days you’ll see me trying out the rest of their ever-changing menu. Come down and join me!

Check out the rest of the photos via my Facebook page.

© David Marsland and Drinks Enthusiast 2012. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog/sites author and owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to David Marsland and Drinks Enthusiast with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

The Liquorists Rum Trail 3 Review

Last night was the beginning of something which is now familiar within the Manchester bar and restaurant scene, so familiar in fact that it’s now accustomed to hear the words “so how many have you been on?” when meeting like-minded drinks enthusiasts for the first time. I am of course talking about The Liquorists and their spirit trails. I myself have seven trails to my name (six for your viewing pleasure are located under ‘The Liquorists header down the right-hand side), with The Liquorists bringing along their 3rd installment of the world of rum to add to the ever-growing list of categories explored. This time however, they’ve gone one better. Last night was the start of an unprecedated 6 bars compared to their usual gather of 5, with the sixth being described by Tom Sneesby as ‘something a little bit special’.

Tom, one of the founders of The Liquorists, had myself and eleven other food and drink fanatics meet at one of Manchester’s well-known Tiki bars, Hula. Located along Stevenson Square in the Northern Quarter, this basement den of cocktails rum and good cheer, complete with beach huts, sand and a tropical fish tank started our night off with Plantation rum. Part of a collection of unique Caribbean treasures, every barrel is individually sampled and only those that show traditional characteristics of the area of production are selected for bottling. This soft rum is aged in oak barrels for a number of years before being transported to cellars in Cognac, France where they are finished in Cognac casks. This well-balanced result was perfect for our cocktail creation, Atlantic Boat Club Daiquiri, and the fruits of banana and toasted pineapple. Next on the agenda was the short trip to Keko Moku, Manchester’s original Tiki bar. Huddled around wooden barrels with El Dorado 12yr being handed out, fire was being produced for a customers rum fuelled cocktail which does beg the question of ‘how is this place still standing?’. All is soon forgotten though with the Sanguine Swizzle cocktail which involves the Guyana based El Dorado 12yr and Blood Orange housed in a jam jar. Blended from different vintages, the age statement of the El Dorado works the same way as whisky produced in Scotland – it indicates the youngest rum in the blend, even though the oldest may be many years older.

Speaking of age-statements, Odd Bar was our next port of call. Having been in the Manchester scene for seven years now, Odd gave us a surprising insight into how a non-cocktail venue achieves some good times when it comes to enjoying rum. The Dominican Republic based Matusalem was their rum of choice, with a tot of the Clasico 10yr being enjoyed by all as we sat around their corner booth. Mojito marinated chicken skewers were handed out to compliment next which can only be described as ‘Odd’. Having a tot of Matusalem Platino in one glass and Steerage ale by the brewery Titanic in the other, the idea was to take a sip of each one after another. A good idea, but one that seemed to divide the group in half! Going from old to new next with Tusk being our home for a splash of Wrey and Nephew. This relatively new bar is next door to the equally sharp Walrus, and houses comfy leather sofas, fish tanks, and enough over-proof rum to floor a rhino . . . . or walrus. At 63% abv, water was on stand-by to ‘soften the blow’, as were truffles and homemade sticky toffee pudding. To counteract to a sweet-tooths delight, we were created a Hipster Daiquri that came with a lime infused salt rim a’la Margarita style!
With the rum flowing around the room, and with a slight tequila sense mixed in, we crossed the road to one of Northern Quarters newest bar and restaurant, The Blue Pig. This lively venue was enjoying its soft opening (with the launch night happening tonight) but you could easily mistake The Blue Pig for having been open for months. The bustle of the diners mingled with the bar patrons next to the Parisian influenced decor, as we ourselves sipped away at Apple Daiquiri’s using Brugal as its base. Alongside this Dominican Republic rum came a platter of homemade cheese, pickled pear, duck pate and pistachio meat with a jar of juniper and apple chutney on the side. However, no sooner had we enjoyed the flavours of the last sip, we were being whisked away to our last place on the tour – 22 Redbank.

Hipster Daiquiri in Tusk

This is The Liquorists HQ, the ‘something a little bit special’ that Tom had mentioned at the start of the night. To commemorate this, a bottle of the original navy strength Pussers rum was opened and poured for our taste-bud pleasures. At 54.5% abv it was one to make you stand up and listen! Navy style mugs were handed out too with the aptly named Painkiller being served side by side to a cocktail umbrella and Thai curry and satay to finish off. Lounging about in the HQ in comfy chairs and sofas was a fitting end to a night of various styles of both rums, bars and restaurants. I for one have never experienced The Blue Pig or Tusk since they have been open, but will be making my way back their post-haste. As for the rums, personal highlights were the El Dorado 12yr and Plantation, with Brugal closely following. Compared to their last rum trail, it was good to see and experience a new set of rum brands compared to ones that you can easily pick up from any pub or bar. That’s the beauty about The Liquorists and their trails – sauce sessions with a difference.

Check out the rest of last nights photos via my Facebook page.

For more information on The Liquorists and their spirit trails, check out their website and Facebook page.

Check out last nights fellow enthusiasts too – Manchester Bars, North West Nosh, Mancunian Matters, Old Fashioned Susie and Melanie Hughes.

© David Marsland and Drinks Enthusiast 2012. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog/sites author and owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to David Marsland and Drinks Enthusiast with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

The Liquorists – Whiskey Trail Review

Last night was the next installment of The Liquorists much acclaimed spirit trails, with this month incorporating world whiskey. Following the same concept of their rum trail, we were to be enjoying 5 different spirits, 5 different cocktails in 5 different bars accompanied by 5 different light bite appetizers. Sound daunting? Challenge accepted!

Jim Beam Black Mint Julep at Trof

Starting the night in Manchester’s Northern Quarter mecca Socio Rehab, we gathered in the bar’s side room and the 14 strong group were welcomed with drams of Woodford Reserve. Barry, of Epernay fame, would be our host for the evening, and after a brief introduction, explained to us why the night would be starting with a bourbon feel. Whilst guiding us through the history of whiskey, a round of Woodford Reserve Old Fashioned were handed out along with Florentines to contrast with.  No sooner had the rocks glass been emptied, we were making our way across the street to our next venue, Trof.

Jim Beam Black was the choice of spirit as we made our way upstairs to their dedicated whiskey room. To go with the dram of Jim Beam, pieces of Frankfurter with aleoli and pork crackling were going down a storm, whilst 1940’s style tea cups were handed to us containing the classic recipe of a Mint Julep – a simple recipe of bourbon, mint and sugar.

Apotheca was the next port of call, with the popular venue which has graced many previous trails offering us a double helping. Our main offering was the Scotland based Auchentoshan 12yr as a dram, and an Auchentoshan Three Wood Sour to enjoy. After visiting three homes of whiskey, Ireland showcased itself next in the form of Jameson’s at our fourth venue, Noho. Nestled in the corner of the sizeable venue, bowls of cheese and caramel popcorn were being eaten like their was no tomorrow, whilst sipping on drams of Jameson’s and its cocktail equivalent Basil Smash which had a dash of Tabasco to wake the senses.

Auchentoshan Three Wood Whisky Sour at Apotheca

Our last bar for the night was in the ever popular Home Sweet Home where the number 1 came out – Jack Daniel’s. Accompanied with a juicy burger to help soak up the nights tipples, it was a rather fitting end to a great insight into the world of whiskey. The treat of Yamazaki 12yr was a personal highlight, with the need to visit both Trof and Noho again to experience more of their offerings!

The next event in The Liquorists calendar is the return of the Gincident. To put it plainly – lots of gin and cocktails on a barge. BRING IT ON!

Check out The Liquorist’s website and Facebook page for more information and tickets.

Check out the rest of the photos via my Facebook page.

© David Marsland and Drinks Enthusiast 2012. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog/sites author and owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to David Marsland and Drinks Enthusiast with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

Socio Rehab Review

Socio Rehab has been called many things since its time on the streets of Manchester’s Northern Quarter, and since its January refurb, those already positive words on their cocktail making skills can be used while sitting in modern comfort. I swung by a few days back for the first time this year for two reasons – number one was to have some damn good cocktails, and number two was to show the rest of the world what their missing!

Although a flying visit, Max, one of the Socio Rehabs friendly bartenders, created for me a Blantons bourbon heavy Manhattan whilst flicking through what can only be described as a comic book of cocktails. Unique, quirky and it works. Recipes that jumped out at me included Lemon Rusky (vodka and limoncello shaken with fresh lemon juice and sugar, topped with grapefruit juice), Fish House Punch (Remy Martin cognac, Havana Club light rum and peach brandy liqueur shaken with strong cold tea, freshly wrung lemon juice, sugar syrup and soda) and a Orange Blossom Martini (Hangar I Orange Blossom vodka, (Benedictine, limoncello, dry vermouth rinse) stirred with mint leaves and a single smashed berry, finished with a Clementine zest).

With low wooden stools at the bar, there’s leather sofas with faded Union Jacks printed on overlooking the high street and nestled between big indoor potted plants. A simple singular tall table is at the other end of the bar next to the almost floor to ceiling windows, followed by a row of stools at a wall mounted side. Well known lounge music set the mood to chilled setting, with candles flickering against maroon coloured walls. Surprisingly, the colour scheme goes well with the tiled floors and red brick bar, as does the back bar itself.

With a fantastic range of spirits that meanders its way across the whole of the wall, there’s something literally guaranteed for all palates. Noticing brands including Woodford Reserve, Mamont vodka, Belvedere, El Dorado rum, Patron tequila, Bulldog gin, Ron Diplomatico and the Sipsmith range, this bar goes one further with the word variety. Theres even a bottle of Smith and Cross, a traditional blended Jamaican rum aged up to 3 years.

Smith & Cross – 57%

A mixture of tropical fruits and wild spices on the nose, with a slight ‘high alcohol’ aroma following. A kick of banana, vanilla and caramel on the palate, but is rather short on longevity.

Cocktails isn’t all that Socio Rehab serve though, with wines and beers including Heinekan, Moretti and Asahi available amongst an array of soft drinks. Next on the cocktail list for me however was a Culross which involves Bacardi Superior, Lillet, apricot liqueur and lemon juice. Served in a rather stunning gimlet, much to the envy of two fellow patrons, it was a fantastic end to a unfortunant brief visit.

Socio Rehab also host many events including cocktail nights, masterclasses and even the chance to jump behind the bar and have a go yourself! Friendly bartenders who know what they’re talking about – but use simple terms that can mean non-bartender folk can order without feeling out-of-place, an inviting setting, and some great drinks to try, Socio Rehab still hits the nail on the head when it comes to a city centre cocktail bar.

It’s a must try venue.

Check out more photos of Socio Rehab on my Facebook page.

© David Marsland and Drinks Enthusiast 2012. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog/sites author and owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to David Marsland and Drinks Enthusiast with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

Bacardi Oakheart Reviews

Unfortunately due to work commitments, I was unable to participate in the launch of Bacardi’s new spiced rum – Bacardi Oakheart. The event was hosted by the Manchester based ‘The Liquorists’ in the setting of the BlackDog Ballroom in Northern Quarter. My two friends, who I was to be attending with, went along and below are their reviews on how the night went on –

Free Spiced Rum Masterclass and Introduction to all things Rummy!!!

This event was based at the BlackDog Ballroom in the Northern Quarter of Manchester. The Drinks Enthusiast representatives were warmly greeted at the entrance of the bar by a member of The Liquorists who directed us to a private room where the rum tasting was to take place.
First impressions were very impressive as The Liquorists had obviously put a lot of effort into the atmosphere by providing candle-lit lighting, mellow music and lots of Bacardi Oakheart rum advertisements around premises.
Straight away we were greeted by a cheerful bartender who instantly provided us with a Bacardi Oakheart rum, coke and lime which for want of a better word was awesome. The fact it was served in a Bacardi glass was a nice touch as well.
Because we hadn’t attended an event by The Liquorists team before we really didn’t know what to expect and was happy to find out that we would be trying a variety of spiced rums whilst being given a thorough overview of the rum-making process, its origins and how it has developed into the modern world.
The information was very interesting and was well presented by such an enthusiastic host and worked well in tandem with the dispensing of beverages.
After a short break, our host then involved the participants with a fun exercise where we blindly tasted four rums and evaluated their attributes based on distinct categories including: its “woodyness”; “citrisity”, “fruityness”, “spice” and “nuttiness”.
This process was conducted by a group vote on a scale of 1-5 (but in some cases up to eight)8) 1 being low and 5 high. After all votes were in for each category the host was able to complete a radar chart/spider diagram for each individual rum to see how well-balanced the flavours are.
This was an extremely fun exercise and in some cases acted as a deterrent for sub-standard spiced rums and in addition save on unwanted purchases.
It was highly evident that the Bacardi Oakheart rum was the most successful as it had an overall balanced flavour range and was favourable to all participants (which made the night’s objectives successful). Lambs Navy Spiced Rum and Sailor Jerry’s were also appreciated, but Morgan’s Spiced was reviewed very badly with its dominant vanilla flavour, and as our host described it: “like drinking death”.
The session ended after three hours with a final round of Bacardi Oakheart rum, coke and limes which we drank whilst listening to the host promoting the next drinking courses available (
Overall the event was a very exciting and enjoyable experience and has encouraged us to attend scheduled future events, especially with people who appreciate rum to the level that we do!

Review by Gary Clough

Rum Tasting Review

I should probably start by saying I have never been to any kind of alcohol tasting event before and so had no idea what to expect – but I jumped at the chance for the rum tasting session.  I know BlackDog Ballroom quite well as a drinking venue, the bar was made even friendlier by the welcome from Tom and Jody who both work for the company The Liquorists.
 The event kicked off with a bit of a chat and a couple of Bacardi Oakheart Cuba Libres – large shot of rum, topped up with coke and two good twists of lime – the result was refreshing and very tasty, and already knew that the Bacardi was going to live up to expectations. Not too sickly with vanilla like some spiced rums, but carried a lot of flavour.
As the evening went on, Tom explained the history of rum and Bacardi – a very interesting story.  With the explanations of course came the rum tasting – Bacardi Superior White, Bacardi Gold and Bacardi 8 Year Old – each had a story behind it, with the differences between them explained.
After the break, we were given a blind taste test, with flavour wheels to fill in. It was amazing to see the difference between the 4 rums – 2 of which I drink on a regular basis – comparing them made me realise they are not as good as I thought.  The all-round favourite was of course Bacardi – and when compared with Sailor Jerry’s Spiced Rum, Morgan’s Spiced Rum and Lamb’s Spiced Rum, it was easy to see why. The flavour is very rounded, making it an easy sipping rum as well as a good cocktail rum, there isn’t the synthetic sickly taste you get with SJ’s and Morgan’s.
All in all, it was a great night, and something I would definitely try out again.  I would recommend going to one of these evenings, as they are really interesting and is a chance to try a range of different drinks on an evening out.
Lastly – I would say that Bacardi Oakheart will be my spiced rum of choice when on a night out!!
Review by Victoria Armstrong
Click here to check out The Liquorists website –
Check out the venue BlackDog Ballroom –


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Natural Approaches for a Child with a Fever

Natural Approaches for a Child with a Fever

Nothing is more distressing for a parent than a child with a fever. Keep in mind however that a fever is a normal, natural process used to enhance the bodies healing capabilities. While distressing to observe and to experience, fever is actually a sign that the immune system is working at its best. Common triggers of fever in a child include infection (most common), medication reactions, dehydration, and sometimes teething.

So what is going on when your child has a fever? The process of fever begins with stimulation of White Blood Cells (WBCs).These WBCs release a substance called endogenous pyrogen which stimulates the brain’s hypothalamus to raise the body’s thermostat setting. With a new “normal” temperature now set, the body perceives that it is cold and begins to heat up by increasing its metabolic rate, shivering, or seeking warm environments. Blood flow to the skin is constricted to prevent further heat loss and the skin appears pale. Finally, once body temperature rises to the set temperature, the skin flushes and sweats. Other occurrences are a decreased appetite, lethargy, aches, and fatigue.

Fever generates many actions in the body of a child.First is simply the thermal action of raised body temperatures.Elevated body temperatures do not provide a beneficial environment for bacterial growth and survival.A temperature of 103.1° F is bacteriostatic meaning that it prevents bacteria from replicating.When body temperature reaches 104.9° F bacteria are killed (bacteriolysis).Body cells begin to die at 107.6° F.

Other purposes of fever are thyroid stimulation, an increase in blood circulation, an increase in liver activity, and an increase in interferon production.Thyroid stimulation, increased circulation, and enhanced liver activity all promote the metabolism and elimination of toxins produced as the body fights the infection.Increased interferon promotes the anti-viral and anti-bacterial actions of WBCs.

As you can see, the impact of a fever greatly benefits the child by upregulating all healing mechanisms. Failure to mount a fever or blocking a fever prevents beneficial antibiotic effects, prevents toxins from being metabolized efficiently, and decreased the efficacy of WBCs. Obviously a fever that is too high is also harmful, so watch your child carefully and take steps to lower body temperature to a safe level if necessary. In most cases however, fever in a child is a safe bodily function that needs to be watched carefully and supported however possible.

Because fever can be a distressing process to watch a child go through, the following are some ideas to help support the body as it heals.

Body Temperature:

Normal temperature: 98.6°F. This can vary based on many things such as recent exercise, consumption of hot foods, hot weather, overbundling, stage of menstrual cycle, or room temperature. Children tend to run slightly higher than adults.

Fever: 99.5-104.5°F. A fever in this range is a normal bodily response. Watch child carefully, keep well hydrated, and do not give food.

Fever of concern: 104.6°F+. Please call your doctor when body temperature goes this high. Hospitalization may need to be considered.

Support during fever:

Crucial to managing fever in children is proper hydration. Water is preferred, although herbal tea may also be used, especially during chill phase. If vomiting or diarrhea also occurs, hydration with rice water is recommended. Rice water can be made by adding 2 cups of water to ¼ cup of brown rice and cooking until rice is fairly soft. Pour off excess water and drink. This is a great source of electrolytes.

No food should be taken during fever.Typically appetite is very low and this should be respected.The body needs to rest from digestion and dealing with foods.

If your child’s fever rises to a level that you are not comfortable with, a tepid bath can be used to bring it down.A tepid bath is a warm bath, not cold and not hot.A cool cloth can be placed on the forehead as needed.

If fever fails to go down or continues to rise despite measures taken to lower it, or if seizures occur, Call 911 and have your child hospitalized.

There are numerous homeopathic medications that can be very helpful. Please pay attention all symptoms your child experiences as these will be needed to prescribe the best remedy. Examples of common symptoms include dilated eyes, one cheek flushed with one cheek pale, sudden onset, a clingy child, a very irritable child, etc. The more specific and complete the easier a remedy may be found.

Finally, take a deep breath and allow the body to go through its process of healing. A child with a fever, though uncomfortable and distressing, is very common but they will be back to normal before you know it.

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Dr Trust USA Professional Series Finger Tip Pulse Oximeter (Red)

Save 66%
Original price 4,750.00
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In The Box: Pulse Oximeter + Batteries + Lanyard

Warranty: Warranty upto 6 Months from date of invoice for free by registering on manufacturer website within 15 days. Warranty program is conditional subject to terms and conditions of the manufacturer.

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  • COMPACT AND INCLUDES LANYARD FREE : Light and compact, accommodates wide range of finger sizes, long battery life,
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DR TRUST USA PROFESSIONAL SERIES PULSE RATE AND ALARM FUNCTION US FDA AND CE APPROVED - The newly upgraded Dr Trust Finger Pulse Oximeter is an affordable and accurate way to check pulse rates and blood oxygen saturation levels. Simple one-button design allows for easy operation. Small portable size makes it easy to handle and carry. Helpful for athletes and pilots to obtain quick and accurate oxygen saturation readings. This is the best pulse oximeter available for medical professionals. The product is water resistant and contains audio visual alarm. US FDA and CE approved. Dr Trust is a registered trademark of Nureca Inc. We will actively and aggressively pursue any parties who infringe on our intellectual property rights to the maximum extent allowed by the law. All product designs, packaging designs, product images and text on this page are protected by various Indian and international patents and copyrights. Breakage of pulse oximeter, drops to the floor, water damage, wear and tear, batteries excluded from warranty. Warranty covers manufacturing defect inside pulse oximeter sensor only. Customer to send pulse oximeter to our service centre for repair. Please do not attempt to repair pulse oximeter yourself /unauthorized repair as this may cause electric shock and will also void warranty.

Text - Dr Trust USA Professional Series Finger Tip Pulse Oximeter (Red)


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Medical marijuana cards: Top 10 medical conditions people can fake

Even medical marijuana advocates agree that many people are not using pot for pain related to medical conditions, but to get high. So how are people getting doctor notes for medical marijuana cards? We list the 10 most likely medical conditions that people can fake in order to obtain a prescription for medical marijuana here.

minute read

How medical marijuana distribution works

Most states that have legalized medical marijuana require that patients register, apply or otherwise obtain permission to receive marijuana as treatment or alternative therapy for certain medical conditions.  The extent to which states define medical conditions varies.  However, all states require a doctor’s diagnosis authorizing the treatment.  These doctor notes should be procured with a doctor’s office visit and after a full medical history, including medical records.  However, some people bypass this requirement as doctors can use medical discretion (and authority) to decide to prescribe marijuana without reviewing previous medical history.  As a side note, the FDA, DEA and the Office of National Drug Control Policy do not support the use of smoked marijuana for medical purposes.

How people abuse the medical marijuana system

Logically, medical conditions must be sufficiently debilitating before a doctor will sign off permission for someone to receive (or grow) marijuana to treat illness.  But some conditions are subject to interpretation or can even be faked.  Although medical conditions must be of a certain degree of seriousness and/or limit the ability of a patient to perform daily activities, doctors CAN make a subjective decision that favors the patient.  But which medical conditions may be subject to interpretation?

Medical conditions that people may claim to get medical marijuana

1. Hair loss
2. Dry skin
3. Ligament or tendon pain
4. Anxiety
5. Muscle spasms
6. Loss of appetite
7. Severe pain
8. Severe nausea
9. Arthritis
10. Migraine headache

Top 10 legitimate reasons doctors prescribe medical marijuana

Medical marijuana debate

Should marijuana remain highly regulated and only be distributed to the seriously ill?  Or should marijuana be available to anyone in pain (including mental and/or emotional pain)?  Should we endorse marijuana for any illness for which it provides relief? Your opinions, comments and feedback are welcomed here.

Ready for help?
Call us today. You don’t need to face addiction on your own.
Reference sources: NIDA report: Medical marijuana as medicine
CBS report on California pot shops
About the author
Lee Weber is a published author, medical writer, and woman in long-term recovery from addiction. Her latest book, The Definitive Guide to Addiction Interventions is set to reach university bookstores in early 2019.

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  1. I have congenital hip dysplasia and my hips have a tendency to pull farther our of socket than they are supposed to.
    Recently, they got hit very hard playing a sport and the only thing that would calm the pain in my hip that I had immediate access to was weed.

    I felt relieved, and was able to walk with only minor discomfort. My use of this was for pain relief and I believe that others should be allowed to use this for the same reasons

  2. I had polio when I was born my left leg is deformed I am in pain all the time. I am trying to get a cannabis club card for this and my sleep apnea can this help me sleep and the pain from deformed left leg and polio.

  3. Marijuana helps in a lot of ways, from pain to mental or physical state. I’m not prescribed it but I do my job ten times bet than when I’m sober. For some people it’s not the same. If you prescribed and managed who makes better progress and who just uses it to use it for fun.. You could begin limiting what goes on out there.. Whether you give it or not they are going to find it. Like I’ve said it helps when you have a migraine, when you have no appetite, when your going thru menstral cramps, when you really need to focus on a task, or when you just need a moment to sit back and think about your life in a deep way. It can help a person go from mad to happy in 2 seconds. I say stop judging and really fun a test on the affect of a constant smokers life while smoking then to them sober.. You’ll be surprised what you find out

  4. So I’m just wondering … Should I go to my doctor and ask for prescribed ? Because I have extremely bad anxiety and chest pains due to stress and when I smoke it all that goes away and I can’t eat or drink anything without it… My body is not used to it and I will get the shakes feeling cold and sweaty and I will keep throwing up this foamy stuff or yellow bile stuff if I don’t smoke it…. My body physically can’t function without it now… So since I do it a lot to get rid of these problems I have … Why wouldn’t they just prescribe me for it so I don’t have to get looked at as smoking an illegal substance that helps me cope with my anxiety and gets my body to work properly by eating and drinking liquids… Rather than having an empty stomach all the time. Without it I have no appetite what so ever . so I was just wondering …. Also it helps me be more alert than lazy… I get things done around the house that needs to be done and when I was in college I smoked it all the way through and ended up getting all 90’s for my marks…. What do you guys think?

  5. I belive faking an illness is bad but i belive there arepeole who do need this treatment so itswhat is so stupid is making weed illegal when basicaly the whole planet smokes it so weed should just be made legal

  6. Hi Jamie. Getting a medical marijuana ID card is quite the process. First you need to check if you qualify by finding your state’s list of conditions that medical marijuana treatment is approved for. You will need your ID or other government-issued piece of identification, a proof of your country residency, a written documentation from your doctor to back up your condition, and an application form. Then you will have to pay some fees to the state and country AND finally, submit it all. When your card arrives, be well informed about the registry system and the specifications about “caregivers”, how much marijuana you will be allowed to grow and possess.

  7. i was wondering i have lupus, fibro, neuropathy, ttp, chronic fatigue,diabetes, hair loss due to my illnesses….how/who would i talk to to try and get an medical marijuana card…im in constant pain i also have ra…if someone can give me and answer i would greatly appriciate it…thanks

  8. Yes it should be available to anyone who needs it. It is a plant that was put on the earth for a reason, and not be controlled. That’s all I’m sure millions of people have made my statement. We should all be for drug reform.

  9. Yes my name is Bonnie and since the year 2000 I have been on the 150mg of transdermal patch and 4-6 percocets daily. Was in bad motor vehicle accident and have had 4 back surgerys and have osteoporosis and have pain in lower back with pain and numbness down left leg. I use to live in Miami but now in Georgia. Georgia has not yet passed the medicinal medical marijuana. I know people who have received a medical marijuana card even if did not live in a state that legalizes it
    can I apply for a card even though It’s not legal in Georgia?

  10. Some critically ill patients like Cancer, terminally ill, Aids, etc. should be able to use marijuana if this is the only way they can obtain an appetite. But the rest of the people who get medical marijuana cards just to be drug addicts are sickening. It defeats the purpose for the Medical cards in the first place. If you want to be a drug addict for life, do it on your own DIME. Leave the State & other resources meant for the real people that need it alone. GO seek drugs on your own time!

  11. i just want to say that marijuana is not addictive… its just pleasurable. people can quit it easily. it just depends on whether they want to or not there are many benefits of marijuana such as treatment for any disease, both physical and psychological

  12. I belief there are many people who can benefit from medical marijuana. Chronic sufferers of pain and chronic muscle fatigue as well as those who suffer from anxiety. The calming effect relaxes the body and muscles and helps the mind relax.

  13. in my opinion, the usage of medicinal marijuana may be allowed to other patients, and not for those who seriously experience pain, it is as long as it is indeed intend to serve as plain medicine and purpose is to treat the pain.marijuana would be categorized as herbal medicine, isnt it?

  14. Fantastic points, everyone. It’s baffling to think how much money is spent trying to stop the spread of a harmless “drug” like marijuana. From a legal standpoint, Police officers that I have spoken to have always said to me that they have never arrested a “violent” person under the influence of marijuana. Alcohol, on the other hand, brings the worst out in people yet is perfectly legal and in many cases abused by underage users. Furthermore, the effects alcohol has on the body are obvious stemming from thousands of lives being lost as a result of overconsumption of alcohol. From a physical standpoint, there has never been a death as a result of using too much Marijuana. From a financial standpoint, naturally what the government should care most about, it makes sense to give our farmers the ability to grow a crop that is incredibly valuable in small quantities (e.g. an acre of marijuana could give a farmer enough money to retire; whereas, an acre of corn won’t even pay for one month of the mortgage); also, taxing the sale and purchase of this crop can also be incredibly beneficial for the government. This country is shipping out the farming jobs that can be lucrative for honest hardworking farmers. Clearly, there is a large demand out there for the marijuana crop yet all we do is import it from Mexico and Central America mostly, and waste countless tax dollars to combat the entry of these “drugs” yet they always manage to get across our borders. On top of that, the violence proliferated by the cartels that handle the distribution of the crop are catastrophic for the growth of our neighboring countries. In the end, this country needs to get past the stigma that exists regarding this crop. Marijuana is an all natural plant, it is not produced using poisonous chemicals like cocaine, heroin, Meth and other harmful drugs that clearly have a negative effect on the human body. I truly hope this country gets its act together. If our farmers have the ability to grow this crop for recreational purposes and for countless other uses of the hemp plant (i.e. industrial hemp) this “drug” can easily help our economy drastically. When will our government leaders, and our fellow citizens, realize just how futile we are being making this plant illegal and imprisoning people for using and distributing it?

  15. If it’s alright for medical conditions then it doesn’t make sense that it is illegal otherwise.What’s the difference,other than an ailment.Many abused pharmacuticals are very dangerous.This is a harmless panacea that should have a warning label equivalent to aspirin,to accomadate the one in a million who may have an “adverse” or unexpected reaction.It’s not killing people like alcohol.My gosh why is THAT legal!Alcohol=drunk driving,madness liver damage,violence…ultimately death.I believe a hundred years from now pot will replace alcohol as the norm

  16. People are going to find out a way to do what it is they wish to do. It is time we stop trying to judge othes based on what they do or how they wish spend their spare time because NO one is perfect by ANY stretch of the imagination. Freedom is just another word that people will interpret how they wish to. In other words you cant stop it from happening. How you feel about pot medically one way or the other or its affects does not matter. From a purely financial stand point it does not make sense to have laws that turns people into criminals for posessing/smoking it. I do not wish to see my tax dollars go to break down little timmys parents door by an army of 20 or more because he was smoking a join watching robot chicken. Give me a break. We are choking financialy but the madness continues. We are scared to death to actually think people can do things responsibly without some sort of government oversight. Make it legal people and stop judging each other people my god are we not all Americans?

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2006 R 2h 1m Blu-ray / DVD

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2006 R 2h 1m Blu-ray / DVD
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In acclaimed filmmaker Pedro Almodóvar's engaging fantasy, a woman revisits her hometown in the La Mancha region of Spain -- in spectral form -- to resolve problems that she couldn't settle during her lifetime.
Blu-ray DVD
Widescreen Anamorphic 2.35:1
Spanish (Neutral): Dolby Digital 5.1
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R - Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian. Contains some adult material. Parents are urged to learn more about the film before taking their young children with them.
age 17+
Common Sense rating Not for kids
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Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that this mature, subtitled Spanish film -- which deals with heavy topics like funerals, incest, and murder -- isn't likely to appeal to most kids. Though these issues are framed by wry comedy, they remain complex. There are repeated references to men's abusiveness, and one lascivious father figure's drunken advances lead a teenage girl to stab him to death (this all happens off screen, but she's plainly traumatized as she tearfully describes it). The result is a very bloody kitchen, which is shown from many camera angles. Efforts to hide the body are comedic but also underline the physical and emotional difficulty of the task. A mother returns as a "ghost," leading to discussions of past acts of violence (including a house being burned down). Language includes one "f--k."

Sexual Content

Frequent shots of voluptuous women (especially Cruz) in tight skirts, showing cleavage; a neighbor is a prostitute; Paco looks at his daughter's crotch when she sits in a chair in their living room; several references to incest; shot of daughter from Pedro's peeping point of view shows the side of her bare breast; girl hears a man moaning as he masturbates (one arm movement visible, but mostly off screen).

Violent death is a recurrent theme: At the film's start, widows tend their husbands' gravestones and discuss one man's death by burning in a fire; a girl murders the man she thinks is her father (off screen, but bloody body and floor are explicit); Raimunda spends the rest of the film trying to dispose of the body; her mother appears as a ghost; a friend dies of cancer; repeated discussions of incest/rape.

One use of "f--k," plus some other language ("s--t," "ass," "hall," "p--sy"), all in subtitles.

Social Behavior

The story concerns the murders of unfaithful or otherwise wayward men; the female characters support one another.

Not applicable.

Drugs / Tobacco / Alcohol

Agustina grows and smokes marijuana (it alleviates her pain from cancer); she rolls a joint on screen and offers pot to her guests); various characters drink beer, wine, and other drinks in social settings; a couple of background characters smoke cigarettes.

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Saturday, February 05, 2011

Those reasonable anarchists

It's no secret that I find much value in anarchist writings; particularly in anarchist criticisms of statist ideology and institutions. When I see the clear thinking of such essays, I sometimes wonder how anarchists got the reputation for being unreasonable. Of course, there are less "rational" or "realistic" aspects of anarchism. For instance, anarchists put a lot of effort into dreaming up institutions that will replace the state, and the problems of establishing these institutions may seem insurmountable, making the anarchists into a bunch of dreamers. At the extreme, there are frequent calls of alarm and the repetition of conspiracy theories (aside from those "conspiracies" that have been well documented, even if ignored by most people).

Anyway, even the most extreme and alarmist anarchists are no more wild-eyed than plenty of "respectable" voices in mainstream political debate. Over the past few days, I checked in on the local talk-radio station, and got an earful of conspiracy theory and alarmism from nationally syndicated conservative stars -- Glenn Beck and Michael Savage.

If this type of stuff is respectable these days, then there is no good reason that anarchism shouldn't be mainstream.

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Sunday, August 14, 2011

The Mass Transit Police State

Normally, I'd think that this is just pathetic partisan fearmongering without any basis in reality:
the real reason for progressives’ passion for trains is their goal of diminishing Americans’ individualism in order to make them more amenable to collectivism.
However, when a heavily subsidized commuter train system (BART) attacks the First Amendment...

Anonymous said...

The George Will peice definitely is pathetic partisan fearmongering, spiked with the obligatory red-baiting that is so fashionable with libertarians and other conservatives. The communications blackout is an indictment of BART, not of mass transit per se. EFF asks whether carriers are in the loop. If so, it's also an indictment of capitalism. For decades the courts have held that the Fourth Amendment ceases to apply when you are in your car...everything from photo radar to sobriety check lanes. There's nothing individualistic about the automobile, and if you're one of those people who have a knee-jerk opposition to subsidy (your inclusion of professional-right sites like Hit & Run and Marginal "Revolution" in your blogroll suggests you are), well, mass transit subsidy is a drop in the bucket compared to the massive subsidies behind sprawl and highways. Not just the auto industry, but the automotive lifestyle, is one massive wallow in the feed trough.

Ricketson said...

Thanks for the comment anagory. My suggestion that Will might be on to something was largely sarcastic; there is a clear "progressive" solution to this -- which is to treat BART as a government agency and to treat state-funded (or monopolistic) mass transit similarly to a public right-of-way.

As you point out, Will's assertion that the automobile = independence is blatantly absurd to anyone who has considered alternative modes of transportation (such as bicycles). Not only are cars heavily subsidized, but they are also heavily regulated and trivial to track... not no mention unaffordable to many Americans.

FWIW, I think that Marginal Revolution gave substantial coverage to "the high cost of free parking". I think that libertarians are generally aware of the problems with automobiles... as opposed to people like Will who are either apologists for industry or culture-warriors, and just use libertarian rhetoric in support of economic and cultural conservatism.

Ricketson said...

"your inclusion of professional-right sites like Hit & Run and Marginal "Revolution" in your blogroll..."

I want to point out that I do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the blogs in my blogroll. For instance, I pretty much always disagree with the writings at Public Discourse and Front Porch Republic.

However, I do generally agree with MR and H&R, so you were not far off in using those as a guide for my opinion.

Still, I do object to their characterization as "right" wing. Leaving aside the generic libertarian argument for being neither "right" nor "left", I just want to focus on one issue -- nationalism.

I believe that nationalism is one of the the most regressive and destructive ideologies around, and it is clearly in the pantheon of the "right". The writings at H&R and MR are typically "post-nationalist" (my term), and may occasionally even present anti-nationalist statements. In contrast, most mainstream "left" sites, such as Daily Kos, are saturated with nationalism.

Anonymous said...

MR and Reason, to their credit, have been hard on free parking. Of course, they're against it because it's free, not because it's parking.

Nationalism, like libertarianism, is not inherently a leftist or rightist concept. I think of Marginal Revolution as part of the professional right because of the amount of snark they aim at egalitarian ideals. Reason, of course, is basically a corporate-funded think tank.

Ricketson said...

"Of course, they're against it because it's free, not because it's parking."

Well I'd hope so. I'd hope that their opinions are based upon some general principle (such as utilitarianism and egalitarianism -- which are the main arguments against subsidies) rather than just being an obsession with a particular activity. I don't see any reason to be categorically "against cars".

To the extent that terms like right and left have any meaning (in a modern American/Western context), I don't see how nationalism could be anything but "right". If your criterion for right/left is egalitarianism, then I don't see any way that nationalism is compatible with egalitarianism.

There may be some superficial idealized nationalism that is egalitarian, but the necessary dynamics of nationalism will quickly create dominant and subordinate groups. The most obvious is in the treatment of foreigners, who are at best treated as being less deserving than co-nationals, and at worst are a threat to national identity/strength.

Likewise, any nationalist system will quickly marginalize anyone who deviates too far from the national norm in terms of their values and lifestyle. It creates a conservative ruling class (majority) than suppresses cultural alternatives.

...and this is all assuming some sort of idealized direct democracy; the inequality arising from nationalism gets much worse if there is any sort of institutionalized ruling class.

Ricketson said...

Just to clarify, by "nationalism" I mean treating national action as an ideal and support for co-nationals as a moral imperative, as opposed to the pragmatic acceptance of existing national institutions...which leads to post-nationalism, as we recognize and accept the social dynamics that are undermining the national character of those institutions.

Anonymous said...

From anagory's blog "About" page:

"Anagorism is the notion that the exchange paradigm can be overcome; that cooperation can supplant competition. I’ve been accused of being a utopian, but I’d settle for a world in which nice guys and gals finish second last."

1) So, Anagorism=Cooperative Equilibrium without exchange or competition.

I wouldn't accuse that of being Uptopian, more like dystopian.

2) And Nationalism isn't inherently right-wing or left-wing, but it is inherently totalitarian.

3) Any claim that a social order must rest on a (correct) moral foundation is an inherently totalitarian claim. Read my "Libertarianism and Moral Foundations" post for more detail.

The gist is that social constructs, whether property, cooperation, markets, etc are not moral theorems.

4) Critiques of the Political Economy of mass transportation is not an endorsement of whatever political economy of automobile transportation. Identifying such a critique with "right wing" is lousy analysis. The critique of mass transportation, particularly with respect to it's increasing trend of being an instrument of surveillance and control, is correct.


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Protector, monitor or gauge – selecting the correct battery electronics for your Li-ion-powered system

Lithium-ion batteries have high energy density and a long cycle life; they also lack the memory effect of other technologies. Such characteristics make them attractive for portable electronic systems. But lithium-ion batteries also need to operate within specified limits to be used safely, so batteries require electronics designed to respond or provide a signal to the system if the limits are exceeded.

Battery electronics monitor multiple conditions such as voltage, current and temperature and how they change over time. They need to sense the required combination of these parameters in order to respond, whether that’s sending a signal to the system, activating a switch to prevent charge or discharge, or opening a fuse. Figure 1 below shows an example of how the battery electronics might be configured in a typical battery pack.

Figure 1: Battery electronics within a battery pack

The type of battery electronics varies depending on the type of battery pack. Simple packs may need only a simple protector, ranging from a basic overvoltage protector to a more advanced protector that responds to under-voltage, temperature faults or current faults. Protectors can also operate as a secondary device along with a monitor or battery gauge.

Many advanced battery packs used in higher-cell-count batteries require a battery monitor. A battery monitor measures individual cell voltages, battery current and temperature, and reports these values to a gauge or microcontroller. The system uses this information to adjust performance accordingly; for example, by reducing the operating current if the temperature is too high. Battery monitors may provide a cell-balancing feature to extend battery run times as well as battery lifetimes. Monitors can also include protections available in integrated circuits (ICs), but with much higher configurability.

A gauge IC integrates the features of a battery monitor with a controller to provide advanced gauging algorithms. Gauge ICs report the remaining battery capacity, run time and state of charge. Software-based algorithms can enhance protections even further. Gauges often include other useful features such as a black-box function that helps diagnose battery packs that failed in the field, lifetime data logging of minimum and maximum parameter conditions, dynamic charger control, or authentication for secure batteries.

Figure 2 below outlines some of the key feature differences between the different types of battery electronics.

Figure 2: Feature differences between protectors, monitors and gauges

What features are most critical in choosing the optimal battery electronics for your system?

When evaluating the pros and cons of each battery electronics option, it’s important to consider the following characteristics of each:

  • Protectors offer the lowest complexity for simple pack designs.
  • Monitors offer the highest flexibility. You can write code specific to your system needs, which is often important when those needs are unique.
  • Gauge ICs offer the highest level of integration. They offer high-accuracy state-of-charge information and faster development time – since firmware is included – but might limit flexibility.

Figure 3 shows an example solution using the BQ769x0 battery monitor. The family includes devices for five- (BQ76920), 10- (BQ76930) and 15-cell (BQ76940) batteries. You can use the same controller software for any of the devices in the family, enabling flexibility for systems to go from three to 15 cells in series. The monitor continuously measures cell voltages, temperature and current through the sense resistor and reports this information to the microcontroller. It provides multiple configurable hardware protections and will open charge and discharge field-effect transistors (FETs) as needed to respond to fault conditions. The microcontroller can make decisions based on the information provided by the monitor – it can also enable/disable the FETs; control the cell-balancing feature; and even perform some basic gas gauging based on voltage, current and temperature information.

Figure 3: Example battery monitor solution featuring the BQ769x0 with a microcontroller

Figure 4 is an example of a slightly more advanced battery pack. Here, you see the same monitor family working with the BQ78350-R1 companion controller. The BQ78350-R1 comes equipped with firmware designed to work directly with the BQ7620, the BQ76930 or the BQ76940 digital monitor, helping accelerate product development. The BQ78350-R1 also performs fuel gauging and state-of-health reporting and includes many other features commonly included in TI fuel gauges, such as lifetime data logging and black-box recording.

Figure 4: Advanced battery pack featuring the BQ769x0, BQ78350-R1 controller with fuel gauge, BQ76200 high-side FET driver and BQ7718 secondary protector

Many systems require the redundancy of a secondary protector for overvoltage. This example features the BQ7718 stackable overvoltage protector, which can directly open a fuse if the primary protector fails.

Some systems may require the use of high-side FETs. High-side FETs enable continuous communication to the pack regardless of whether they are on or off. This means that the system can read critical pack parameters despite safety faults, and access pack conditions before allowing operations to resume. The BQ76200 high-side N-channel FET driver works well with the BQ76920, BQ76930 and BQ76940 monitors in systems needing high-side FETs.

There are many things to consider when designing systems with Lithium Ion batteries for safety and battery performance. Depending on the system needs, the appropriate protector, battery monitor or gauge can be selected.

Additional resources