Alcohol’s Cost to Society: The Tax Scam

In partnership with

High Friends,

In the middle of a world filled with disaster and sadness, we had something truly refreshing here in South Louisiana—a once-in-a-lifetime snowstorm. The community came together in ways that renewed my optimism for the world.

Nearly a foot of snow fell, and while this might have looked wild to some, for us, it was a reminder of how we thrive when we come together.

From meeting neighbors outside for espresso martinis (or infused coffee for me) to helping each other shovel driveways, making Mardi Gras snowmen, and local bars throwing open their doors for everyone—kids included—this rare event was filled with love and joy.

It's moments like these that remind me: the power of community is unstoppable.

Alcohol’s Cost to Society: The Tax Scam and Hemp’s Risk of Following

Alcohol causes more deaths than all drugs combined, with 178,000 alcohol-related deaths in 2022 alone. The revenue from alcohol taxes falls far short of covering the damage, which costs society over $250 billion annually through healthcare, law enforcement, and lost productivity. Yet, despite this, alcohol continues to be sold cheaply, and its real societal cost is ignored.

Why is the alcohol industry not held accountable for this financial burden?

Despite the overwhelming evidence of alcohol’s destructive impact on health—ranging from cancer to violent behavior—lobbyists continue to prevent alcohol taxes from rising. The alcohol industry rakes in billions in profit, yet taxpayers shoulder the true cost.

Why are we allowing such influence to keep taxes low, even as alcohol continues to cause massive harm?

The most frustrating part? Hemp beverages, which are a a potentially healthier alternative, are now at risk of being regulated like alcohol. Alcohol, however, remains one of the leading causes of preventable deaths, with lobbyists working to suppress safer options.

Why are hemp beverage companies hitching their wagons to the same industry that causes so much harm instead of advocating for a healthier, more transparent future?

While the snowstorm filled my optimism cup, balancing the challenges of opening a physical space with a week-long school closure and a city shutdown has certainly been... interesting.

The delays are piling up—painting has been put on hold, and some retail pieces in Mississippi are delayed—but we're still pushing forward with excitement!

I plan to visit the space today, and we’re aiming for a super "limited" but official launch on February 1st.

Make sure to sign up for email updates on the website if you'd like to stay up to date on our progress. I appreciate you all being part of this journey!

Get Dryer and Stay Higher My Friends ✌️

-Monica

This Week’s Sponsor:

Create a story you love in 2025, with BetterHelp.

The new year doesn’t have to be about overwhelming resolutions or unrealistic goals. Instead, it’s an opportunity to create a chapter you love—on your own terms. BetterHelp makes therapy convenient, accessible, and personalized to help you focus on what truly matters. BetterHelp connects you with one of 30,000+ licensed therapists from a diverse network, and you can switch anytime at no extra cost if it’s not the right fit. Whether it’s tackling anxiety, navigating relationships, or finding balance, you’ll get 30% off your first three months of therapy and can even use your FSA funds to invest in yourself. Start writing the life story you deserve—BetterHelp is just a click away.

Write A Story You Love

This cannabis startup pioneered “rapid onset” gummies

Most people prefer to smoke cannabis but that isn’t an option if you’re at work or in public.

That’s why we were so excited when we found out about Mood’s new Rapid Onset THC Gummies. They can take effect in as little as 5 minutes without the need for a lighter, lingering smells or any coughing.

Nobody will ever know you’re enjoying some THC.

We recommend you try them out because they offer a 100% money-back guarantee. And for a limited time, you can receive 20% off with code FIRST20.

Shop Now