Studenac, the leading proximity retail chain in Croatia, is strengthening its ties with family farmers in the country’s northeastern region of Slavonia, providing them a market for their fruits and vegetables and developing a new, local source of fresh produce while stimulating the local economy.

As part of its One Step Closer to Community program, the nationwide chain of more than 1,200 stores is working with the Jabuka and Osatina associations of small farmers, registering family farms from the region to take part in the program. After producers provide information about their capacity and logistics capabilities, the chain will analyze their offerings and conduct quality checks.

“At Studenac, our purpose is to have stores that are ‘both small and essential’ for their local communities – and we realize that small farmers are an essential part of their communities and of the country’s food supply system,” said Commercial Director Marlen Mešinović. “We’re proud to be able to use our nationwide reach to offer Slavonian farmers access to a greater base of consumers for their world-class products.”

Studenac stores have been present in Slavonia, the agricultural region known as the “Breadbasket of Croatia,” since last year, when it acquired the Lonia Trgovina store chain. Beginning from its 2018 takeover by Enterprise Investors, one of the largest private equity funds in Central and Eastern Europe, Studenac has expanded from its base in the coastal region of Dalmatia, growing both organically and via a series of acquisitions.

Studenac plans to expand its outreach to family farmers throughout the country, developing ties with local communities throughout the nation of 3.9 million people.

Apple picking

In a related initiative, about 40 Studenac employees picked 5 tons of apples at a family-ruin orchard during a one-day outing near the Slavonian town of Valpovo in late September.

“This is a win-win solution for Studenac and for our communities,” Mešinović said. “Our employees get the chance to develop relationships outside the workplace, close to nature, and we also help family farmers who may be having trouble finding seasonal workers.”

Like the purchasing initiative, this program will also be expanded to cover all of Croatia.

The employees were joined in Valpovo by the Ekoznalci, Studenac mascots for environmental education for children. Studenac’s One Step Closer to Community program also includes donations of more than €70,000 to NGOs operating all across Croatia, as well as the donation of an annual supply of hand soap to 63 schools around the country – a total of 60,000 liters.

Now employing more than 6,000 people, Studenac is targeting a market share of 10% and the No. 3 position by sales in 2025. In the past five years, Enterprise Investors has invested more than €260 million in the retailer and its expansion.

Due to its numerous applications and modes of use, cannabis has emerged from the shadows of prohibition and gained attention. Among them, foods containing cannabis, such as cookies and vape pens, have become very popular.

This piece will explore the world of cannabis confections, focusing on cookies and vaping treats that include THC. We will look at what they are, how they function, possible advantages, and some critical factors.

Understanding THC

THC is an essential substance in the cannabis plant and is mainly in charge of the intoxicating effects of marijuana.

Put more simply, THC is responsible for the "high" of marijuana consumption. The endocannabinoid system in your body, which is involved in several physiological processes, is impacted by consuming THC.

Your brain's chemistry is affected by this interaction, resulting in feelings of pleasure and altered awareness.

Here's the twist: Being high isn't the only benefit of THC. Researchers are also interested in it because of its potential to cure various illnesses.

THC has demonstrated potential in offering assistance for those coping with various health conditions, from assisting with chronic pain to reducing the symptoms of anxiety and despair.

It's critical to realize that THC has a complicated role beyond its possible recreational uses to include potential medicinal advantages.

Cannabis-Infused Cookies

What Are THC-Infused Cookies?

Imagine a delicious chocolate chip cookie tantalizing your palate and having a surprising twist—a hint of THC.

Cookies THC vape are just conventional cookies with an additional component. Like the cookies you may get at your neighborhood bakery, they come in various flavors, styles, and sizes.

How Do They Work?

A cookie loaded with THC sets off on a journey through your digestive tract when you eat it. The THC in the cookie gets absorbed into your bloodstream during its breakdown, producing the intended benefits.

It takes longer to complete this process than it does to smoke a joint or use a vape pen. It might take anywhere from half an hour to two hours for the effects to start. Because of this delayed onset, starting slowly and exercising patience is essential.

Exploring the Advantages and Potential Uses

After spending some time exploring the workings of THC-infused cookies, let's take a closer look at some of the possible advantages and real-world uses for these edible cannabis products:

Pain Management

People who suffer from persistent pain syndromes frequently experiment with THC cookies to ease their suffering. Studies on THC, the primary psychoactive ingredient in cannabis, have shown that it has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects.

This makes it a potentially beneficial alternative for those who have fibromyalgia or arthritis, conditions where ongoing pain can have a significant negative influence on quality of life. When THC is added to food, people may get long-lasting relief from their symptoms.

Stress and Anxiety Relief

THC-infused cookies are well known for their ability to reduce tension and anxiety in addition to their ability to ease pain. Some people may experience a feeling of tranquility and relaxation after using THC.

This relaxing effect can be pretty beneficial for people who suffer from severe anxiety problems or excessive stress levels. People who eat THC-infused cookies may feel more at ease and relieved emotionally, making them more capable of handling these emotional difficulties.

Sleep Aid

Many individuals worry about sleep difficulties, and cookies containing THC have come to light as a potential remedy to enhance sleep quality. THC can induce sleepiness and relaxation, which benefits those who have trouble falling asleep or waking up at night.

People with sleep disorders may have more peaceful and unbroken sleep by ingesting THC in an edible form, which might eventually enhance their general well-being.

THC-infused cookies provide many possible advantages, including pain treatment, anxiety and stress reduction, and help with sleep-related problems.

Various edible preparations are becoming increasingly well-liked as a covert and practical approach to investigating the medicinal potential of THC, providing people with a viable substitute for conventional pharmaceutical therapies for various ailments.

Cautions and Considerations

Although cookies containing THC may have advantages, there are important warnings to remember:

Dosing

Dosing is one of the most important factors to consider. Starting with a modest amount of THC is essential, particularly if you're new to it.

Overindulgence may result in uncomfortable side effects, including elevated heart rate, vertigo, or psychosis. Recall that although you may always eat more, the food you've previously consumed cannot be removed.

Legality

Depending on your location, THC-infused cookies may or may not be legal. Ensure you're always abiding by the rules and laws in your community. What is permissible in one location may be considered a crime in another.

Safe Storage

Finally, it's critical to keep THC-infused cookies in a safe, childproof container. This safety measure aids in preventing unintentional consumption by curious kids or animals.

Conclusion

A new method to benefit from cannabis, whether for medical or recreational uses, is with THC-infused cookies and other vape treats.

Although there are many possible advantages, you should proceed cautiously, particularly if you're new to cannabis.

To guarantee a risk-free and pleasurable experience, always be informed of local laws and regulations, start with a modest dose, and select items from trustworthy suppliers.

The company Bugatti Rimac, a manufacturer of supercars, is expanding its operations in Europe by opening a new research, development, and innovation center in Italy.

Nearly a year after opening a design and engineering center in Berlin, the company will expand to another center of automotive expertise and technical excellence by establishing a new Bugatti Rimac research and development office in Bologna.

The new center will bring Bugatti Rimac closer to its prominent partners and suppliers, enabling it to provide rapid and responsive support where needed. It will also support the company's headquarters in Zagreb, and up to 50 future employees will work there in tandem with the Croatian team.

Since its inception in 2021, Bugatti Rimac has been clear about its intention to introduce innovative solutions to the market that will elevate automotive performance and innovation to new levels. The Italian team will be responsible for the development of new technologies and cutting-edge engineering to fulfill this mission.

As part of the new facility, a Heritage center will be opened to showcase some of the brand's most renowned models from the past. Additionally, the facility will host reverse engineering of automotive components as part of Bugatti's La Maison Pur Sang program, which offers restoration and reconfiguration services for historical Bugatti car models in the Atelier factory in Molsheim, France.

The Italian branch of Bugatti Rimac is located at Via Del Monte 1 in Bologna. "Since our founding in November 2021, Bugatti Rimac has sought to create a new definition of hypercars through the fusion of design, performance, and technical craftsmanship, as evident from our ongoing development. After the successful launch of our office in Berlin last year, I am extremely proud to announce our presence in yet another area that has made a significant contribution to the automotive world: Northern Italy, where there is an abundance of engineering expertise and talent," said Emilio Scervo, Chief Technology Officer of Bugatti Rimac.

Turkey deservedly won 1-0 at the Opus Arena in the EURO 2024 qualification last night and after the shocking defeat, the captain of the Croatian team, Luka Modrić, had his say.

“We didn't expect this defeat; it definitely shook us, but they deserved to win, they played much better. We were pretty bad; we haven't played a worse game in a long time, especially in the first half. But we have everything in our hands; we need to step up for the next game and play much better,' said the Croatian captain after the match.

'They didn't surprise us; we knew they were a quality team; they showed that in Turkey. But we weren't at our best; that's the main reason, especially in the first half. In the second half, we improved and had some chances, but it was all quite disorganized. But there's no need to panic; we lost, sometimes that happens; we need to acknowledge that the opponent was better. We need to play much better in Wales and aim for victory there,” concluded Luka Modrić.

According to data from the eVisitor tourist registration and departure system, there are currently around 11,000 tourists in Dubrovnik, which is six percent more than this time last year.

The most numerous guests come from the United Kingdom, the United States, Germany, France, Croatia, Canada, Ireland, Finland, Norway, and Australia.

Since the beginning of the year, there have been nearly 1,115,000 arrivals and three million, 568,500 overnight stays, which is nine percent more than in the same period last year.

We asked, You Answered 

“Lovely pizza place in the little lanes. Reading lots of reviews I chose this restaurant and was so pleased I did! Amazing pizzas and lasagnes. Attentive staff and perfect evening in a gorgeous setting! Would definitely recommend a visit here!,” is just one of the comments from guests at the always popular Mea Culpa Pizzeria & Trattoria in the heart of the Old City of Dubrovnik.

Dubrovnik's IN eatery

Dubrovnik is renowned for its picturesque beauty, rich history, and delicious cuisine. Among the myriad dining options in this enchanting city, Mea Culpa Pizzeria & Trattoria stands out as a true culinary gem. With its delectable dishes, charming atmosphere, and a touch of Italian influence, Mea Culpa Pizzeria & Trattoria has become a must-visit for locals and tourists alike.

The restaurant's name, "Mea Culpa," is a Latin phrase meaning "my fault" or "my mistake," often used to express remorse. However, diners at Mea Culpa find themselves happily confessing their love for the food, service, and atmosphere. The ambiance is intimate and cosy, with exposed stone walls and flickering candlelight, creating an atmosphere that's both nostalgic and romantic.

Service is a key ingredient

But don’t take our word for it! We asked and you answered. By combing the online reviews as well as actually asking guests at the restaurant we got some valuable feedback from the people who really matter – you!

“We had a very delicious meal & great local wine and our waiter gave us excellent service. I would recommend this restaurant if you are staying in Dubrovnik,” commented a couple from the UK.

What truly sets Mea Culpa Pizzeria & Trattoria apart is the attention to detail in each dish. The use of locally-sourced ingredients, combined with Italian culinary techniques, results in a unique fusion of flavours that pleases the palate. Each plate is a masterpiece, and the chef's commitment to perfection is evident in every bite.

And then it is important to mention that out of the nearly 300 restaurants in Dubrovnik Mea Culpa Pizzeria & Trattoria is rated in the top 50 according to TripAdvisor. And here is one comment from that platform “Excellent friendly attentive service and food advice, great wine recommendation. Great pizza and enormous (waiter recommended we had one as they are 35cm’s in diameter!) lovely atmosphere and good price would definitely recommend. And the level of service (along with the great food) is a common thread in the comments.

“Very friendly restaurant staff. Delicious food & wine. Excellent service especially from our charming & funny waiter Hasan, he's so lovely. His recommendations were perfect. We had a thoroughly enjoyable time!” said a couple from the US.

Great food served with pride!

And finally one of our favourite comments “We ate here after a very warm trip along the walls of the old town and it was the perfect place to unwind and relax after the scorching heat. The service was quick and the staff were helpful, the food was excellent. We got 3 pizzas and one salad and all of the food was delicious. Would highly recommend.” A huge slice of positivity from a satisfied guest.

Whether you're celebrating a special occasion, sharing a romantic dinner, or simply looking for a memorable culinary experience, Mea Culpa Pizzeria & Trattoria is the ideal destination. In Dubrovnik, where history and cuisine come together, Mea Culpa Pizzeria & Trattoria shines as a beacon of culinary excellence.

Contact Info

Address – Za Rokom 3 - Old Town - Dubrovnik
Telephone - +385 0/20 323 430
Email : This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

Croatia Airlines, in partnership with Portuguese tour operator Lusanova Tours, is set to offer a special charter flight connecting Dubrovnik and Lisbon at the end of December.

This unique flight is tailored to accommodate Portuguese travellers looking to ring in the New Year along the stunning Adriatic coast, reports EX-YU Aviation.

The flight is scheduled for December 29, 2023, and the return journey is planned for January 2, 2024. This collaboration between Croatia Airlines and Lusanova Tours aims to provide Portuguese tourists with a convenient and memorable way to celebrate the holiday season in Dubrovnik.

Croatia will provide an additional five million euros for demining in Ukraine, announced Prime Minister Andrej Plenković during the opening of the International Donors' Conference on demining the war-affected country, for which Ukraine's Prime Minister Denis Šmihal said that potentially 30 percent of the land is mined.

"The government will make a decision to provide an additional five million euros, which is Croatia's contribution as the host of the International Conference on Ukraine's demining," said Plenković.

The Prime Minister noted that Croatia has experience in demining because, like Ukraine, it was a victim of aggression. The demining process in Croatia has been ongoing for decades, so Ukraine should prepare for the long duration of this process.

"Croatia will finally complete the demining process in the spring of 2026, 31 years later," he emphasized.

In addition to financial support, Croatia will assist Ukraine with its experience in demining and the prosecution of war crimes, the Prime Minister added.

On Tuesday, the Croatian Minister of Internal Affairs, Davor Božinović, and the Ukrainian Minister of Economy, Julija Sviridenko, signed an Agreement on Cooperation in the Field of Mine Action to alleviate the socioeconomic, security, environmental, and other consequences resulting from the danger of explosive remnants of war.

Ukrainian Prime Minister Denis Šmihal began his address via video link by saying that Croatia, as a country that has recovered from war, is an inspiration for Ukraine, giving it "strength and confidence for the future."

The Ukrainian Prime Minister stated that potentially 30 percent of Ukrainian territory, or 174,000 square metres, is mined, which is three times more than the Croatian territory. Six million people are at risk of mines, with 250 already killed and 500 injured, Šmihal said.

He warned that experts predict that up to 10,000 people could be killed, and the World Bank estimates that demining will cost more than 37 billion dollars.

Currently, Ukraine has about three thousand pyro technicians and 29 demining vehicles, he emphasized.

"It is clear that this is not enough. If it remains as it is, it will take us decades to demine the country," Šmihal said, adding that states and international organizations have donated around 300 million dollars.