In a corruption scandal that has sent ripples through Michigan's political and marijuana industry circles, Brian Pierce, a once-prominent lobbyist, has been sentenced to two years in federal prison for his role in bribing Rick Johnson, the head of the Michigan marijuana licensing board.
Brian Pierce was found to have facilitated a sum of $42,000 to Rick Johnson. Johnson, who had earlier gained prominence as a powerful Republican lawmaker, led the marijuana board between 2017 to 2019. During his tenure, the board was responsible for reviewing and granting approvals for applications to cultivate and distribute marijuana for medicinal purposes.
Yet, the shadow of corruption was not limited to the exchange between Pierce and Johnson. The latter had also received a total of $110,000 in bribes, leading to his recent sentencing to over four years in incarceration.
Pierce's involvement in the scandal was further highlighted by allegations, later confirmed, of him spending $2,000 on a Detroit stripper as a means to bribe Johnson. This act, alongside other documented cases of corruption, portrays a dark image of the marijuana industry's inception phases in the state.
Furthermore, Vincent Brown, an associate of Pierce, is also set for sentencing, while Oakland County businessman John Dalaly received 28 months in prison for his part in this intricate bribery web.
The Assistant U.S. Attorney, Christopher O'Connor, underscored the gravity of Pierce's actions, stating that such bribes "corrupted the process for the state's issuance of licenses for businesses to operate in a new and lucrative industry." The corruption allegations and subsequent trials have tainted the reputation of an industry that was only recently legalized.
Michigan had approved marijuana for medicinal use back in 2008. A decade later, in 2018, voters gave a nod to the recreational use of the herb. However, in a move that many believe was a response to the emerging scandal, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer dissolved the medical marijuana board in 2019, placing the industry's oversight under a state agency's jurisdiction.
In a recent hearing at Grand Rapids, presided over by U.S. District Judge Jane Beckering, Pierce was highlighted as a symbol of the potential dangers of public corruption. Beckering, addressing Pierce, remarked, "You are a poster child of all the harm that can come from public corruption."
In a somber moment during his allocution, Pierce admitted to his wrongdoings, stating, "I traded in my moral compass for financial gain... Choices were made, and each time, they were the wrong ones."
Pierce's defense attorney, Ben Gonek, had earlier requested a sentence of just over a year, emphasizing his client's cooperation with the law and guilty plea. While Pierce's collaboration was indeed recognized by prosecutors, his actions' severity warranted a sterner penalty.
Rick Johnson's controversial history dates back to his time as the House speaker from 2001-04. Scrutiny intensified when he was appointed to chair the Medical Marihuana Licensing Board in 2017 by former Gov. Rick Snyder, especially given Johnson's stint as a registered lobbyist between 2005 and 2016.
With the chapter on this corruption scandal slowly closing, Michigan's residents and political circles await further reforms and more stringent oversight, ensuring that such malpractices don't repeat in the future.
The dynamic relationship between cannabis and culture has never been more evident than in Detroit's budding marijuana scene. Enter the Apotheculture Club, Detroit's avant-garde gathering that combines the pleasures of a weed-infused culinary experience with the timeless charm of opera and theater.
For many, the marriage of a sumptuous dinner and a sublime opera performance encapsulates the epitome of indulgence. But, add a hint of cannabis to the mix, and the evening transforms into something truly extraordinary. Detroit's Apotheculture Club has carefully curated just such an experience: a four-course cannabis-infused dinner coupled with a journey to either the Detroit Opera House or the Detroit Public Theatre (DPT).
James Blaszko, one of the masterminds behind this unique Detroit cannabis initiative, shared his perspective. "Classical music and cannabis form an unparalleled alliance," he remarked. "Operatic arias, with their lingering cadences, combined with the temporal distortion effect of cannabis, allow patrons to savor each moment in an unhurried, immersive fashion. It's a refreshing break from the fast-paced, ephemeral nature of today's digital age."
Joining Blaszko in this creative endeavor are distinguished personalities from Detroit's cannabis and arts scene: Enid Parham (also known as luckypistil), Jacob Lewkow, and Ben Holbrook.
The Apotheculture Club's forthcoming event, set for Saturday, October 21st, promises another mesmerizing night. For an investment of $200, attendees will be treated to a delectable dinner at an exclusive venue, followed by an exhilarating Dance Theatre of Harlem show at the Detroit Opera House.
Blaszko, recognized for producing notable events such as Liza Jessie Peterson's one-woman show "The Peculiar Patriot" and the presentation of "Xerxes" at the Detroit Opera, also expressed his passion for integrating individuals previously incarcerated for cannabis-related offenses. "My primary objective as a cultural architect is to create a space where they can appreciate the live arts, perhaps for the first time," he articulated.
The city witnessed the inauguration of its recreational cannabis market earlier this year. House of Dank earned the distinction of being the inaugural medical marijuana establishment to introduce adult-use cannabis products in Detroit, with DaCut joining the league shortly after.
This thriving market, combined with innovative ventures like the Apotheculture Club, underscores Detroit's commitment to creating a holistic, integrated cannabis experience for its residents and visitors alike.
To secure your spot for Apotheculture Club's Dance Theatre of Harlem event, reach out directly via Instagram message at @apothecultureclub. Alternatively, you can drop them an email at [email protected].
The cannabis landscape in Michigan is rapidly transforming, and the legal community is among the many beneficiaries of this burgeoning sector.
At the tender age of 31, Myles Baker, an associate attorney at the Detroit-based Dickinson Wright PLLC, stands on the cusp of making partner. This significant milestone usually eludes lawyers until they've had about eight to ten years of experience. However, the legal cannabis boom in Michigan is fast-tracking the careers of many like Baker.
For Baker, the emerging marijuana sector has provided an accelerated route to expertise. He notes, "The rapid evolution of the marijuana industry has allowed me to carve out a niche for myself, keeping pace with attorneys who've been practicing for decades longer." Unlike other areas of law steeped in a century of case law, the cannabis space is still in its infancy, making it a lucrative domain for those willing to navigate its uncharted waters.
Since Michigan ushered in legal marijuana sales in 2018, lawyers have played an indispensable role in shaping the industry. They have assisted operators in understanding and adapting to frequently evolving regulations, interpreting the intricate interplay between state and federal laws, and ensuring compliance with local municipality guidelines.
Lance Boldrey, a partner at Detroit's Dykema Gossett LLP, highlights the importance of the cannabis sector to the legal profession. "The cannabis industry has significantly contributed to our revenue, making it our fastest-growing practice area. Every domain of our firm has, in some way, represented cannabis."
With sales reaching a staggering $2.3 billion in 2023 alone, Michigan has cemented its position as a dominant player in the marijuana industry. However, it hasn't been smooth sailing for all. While the state witnessed a slump in marijuana prices in recent years, it has rebounded to a healthier figure this September.
The fluctuating market dynamics offer lawyers unique challenges, from securing licenses to assisting businesses in streamlining operations and navigating the intricacies of tax law.
For firms like Detroit-based Honigman LLP and The Dragich Law Firm PLLC, the financial struggles of cannabis businesses, such as Skymint's debt issues, present opportunities. Meanwhile, Marshall-based Common Citizen, a significant player in the state, has incurred substantial legal costs since its inception.
But as Boldrey candidly admits, the law industry is not immune to the economic challenges faced by the cannabis sector. He likens the situation to the Dot Com era, where only a handful of startups truly thrived.
Dykema exercises discernment when selecting its cannabis clients. Boldrey emphasizes the importance of thorough due diligence, looking for reputable clients with a solid business background.
Yet, the cannabis sector isn't just about corporate law. Matthew Abel, founder of Cannabis Counsel Law Firm, transitioned from defending marijuana-related misdemeanors and felonies to aiding clients in establishing compliant business models.
Abel recalls the initial skepticism he faced, "Many contemporaries thought I was making a risky move. Today, every major law firm boasts a cannabis practice group."
With the legal framework around cannabis in a constant state of evolution, lawyers, especially the younger ones, find themselves in a unique position. For instance, John Abbo leveraged his expertise in cannabis law to secure a prominent role at Lume Cannabis Co.
Myles Baker eloquently encapsulates the potential of this sector for the legal community, "Cannabis law isn't just about marijuana. It covers every facet of legal practice. We're not just practicing law; we're shaping it for future generations."
In the interplay between marijuana and law, Michigan's legal eagles see not just challenges, but a world of opportunity.
As the cannabis market in Michigan continues to blossom, Kalamazoo County encounters a notable shift in its fiscal landscape, propelled significantly by the tax revenues generated from the sales of cannabis and its related products. A deep dive into the 2024 county budget reveals an anticipated $1.75 million in cannabis tax revenue, marking it as potentially the highest amount the county has ever amassed since it commenced tax collections in 2021.
Highlighting Historical Revenue Trajectories:
A historical glance at the Kalamazoo County's cannabis tax proceeds portrays a trajectory that has been largely on the ascent:
Within the fiscal year 2024, which spans from October 1, 2023, to September 30, 2024, this surge in cannabis tax revenue underscores the maturation of Michigan's cannabis market, demonstrating not only its viability but also its substantial contribution to local governance.
In adherence to Michigan law, the 10% excise tax derived from the sales of cannabis and its products is meticulously allocated with a structured distribution system. The excise tax delineation comprises 30% being shared amongst local municipalities and the residing counties, while 35% is apportioned to the School Aid Fund dedicated to K-12 education, and another 35% is channelled to the Michigan Transportation Fund.
The methodology of disbursing payments to various governments is partially contingent upon the count of marijuana business licenses situated within their jurisdictions. Kalamazoo Township, for instance, having approved rules for cannabis businesses in January 2020, witnessed the opening of the county's inaugural recreational dispensary in the same year.
In an intricate financial strategy, Kalamazoo County has not pigeonholed the revenue generated from marijuana taxes for any specific department or project. As Taylor Koopman, Public Information Officer, articulated, the incorporation of marijuana tax revenue into the general fund creates a "collective financial resource" which is judiciously deployed across several spheres.
The areas benefitting from these funds span public safety, capital projects, public health, administrative services, and judicial and legal services. The overarching strategy ensures that the marijuana tax revenue is not merely significant but also constitutes a fragment of a larger financial reservoir in the general fund. Consequently, this sustains a wide array of services and operations imperative for effective governance and enhancing the quality of life in Kalamazoo County.
"It ensures a balanced and equitably distributed financial approach, guaranteeing that no single department or project is disproportionately prioritized over another," Koopman elucidated, "and remains in harmony with our dedication to catering to the multifaceted needs of our community."
Looking ahead, the Kalamazoo County commissioners have earmarked Tuesday, October 17, as the date to formally adopt the budget. The proposed 2024 budget forecasts a total of $352 million in revenues and an equivalent amount in expenditures. A detailed insight reveals that taxes constitute the predominant category of revenue, encapsulating approximately 27%.
Contrasting the 2023 budget, which demanded $393 million in revenues and expenditures, the 2024 proposed budget appears to be a decrease. However, expenditures in the county's primary funds are projected to be $131.4 million, signifying a 9.25% augmentation in appropriations from the previous year's $120.3 million.
These primary funds envelope several crucial entities including the general fund, law enforcement fund, parks fund, friend of the court fund, health fund, and child care fund. Additionally, the draft budget has allocated $466,000 to eradicate an estimated $89 million in medical debt shouldered by residents.
As Kalamazoo County navigates through this burgeoning cannabis market, the future indeed beckons with promise, bringing forth unparalleled opportunities and challenges in shaping a financially robust and community-centered governance model. Thus, positioning the county as a notable case study in harnessing the economic potentials of a maturing cannabis market within Michigan, and potentially setting a precedent for other counties and states to observe and learn from.
Note: Be sure to read the 2024 proposed budget for a comprehensive understanding of Kalamazoo County's financial planning amidst the burgeoning cannabis industry.
In light of a recent harrowing incident, Otsego County Animal Control is emphasizing the importance of securing hazardous substances to ensure pet safety. Last week, a family dog unexpectedly attacked its owner following the ingestion of a THC-infused edible. This incident has sparked a dialogue concerning the potential dangers posed by THC to household pets.
Melissa FitzGerald, the Director of Otsego County Animal Control, recounted the distressing episode where a woman was severely attacked by her family dog after it consumed a THC gummy. The dog, which had been a non-aggressive family member for four years, exhibited uncharacteristic aggressive behavior following the ingestion of THC.
The incident underscores a critical yet often overlooked aspect of pet care—protecting pets from harmful substances. While it's common knowledge among pet owners that certain foods like chocolate can be harmful to dogs, the dangers of THC, a compound found in marijuana and cannabis products, remain relatively unknown to many.
Michigan State University's College of Veterinary Medicine elucidates that THC, the psychoactive compound responsible for the "high" in humans, is actually toxic to animals including dogs, cats, and horses. Unlike CBD, which is deemed safe for dogs, THC can trigger a spectrum of adverse reactions ranging from lethargy and incoordination to restlessness and, as witnessed in Otsego County, aggression.
The incident in Otsego County serves as a stark reminder for pet owners to keep their cannabis products well out of reach from their furry companions. FitzGerald stressed the importance of awareness among pet owners regarding the potential impact of THC on pets, indicating that the effects can vary significantly depending on the individual animal.
"It's crucial to understand the possible reactions and to know what signs to look for," FitzGerald explained. She emphasized the responsibility of pet owners to ensure that harmful substances, especially marijuana and THC products, are securely stored away from pets.
In a proactive measure to prevent similar incidents, FitzGerald revealed that she's collaborating with the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) and the state veterinarian to advocate for warning labels on THC products, highlighting the risks they pose to pets.
For pet owners who suspect their animal might have ingested THC, immediate contact with a veterinarian is strongly advised. This incident serves as an impetus for both pet owners and the cannabis industry to work together in ensuring the safety of our beloved animals while enjoying the benefits of cannabis responsibly.
Big Rapids, a city with a growing interest in the cannabis sector, has recently seen the establishment of BE Provisioning, a new dispensary located at 520 S. Third Ave. This female-led marijuana cultivation business is focused on the variety and quality of its products, making it a notable addition to the city's roster of dispensaries.
The arrival of BE Provisioning in Big Rapids is part of the company's broader strategy to expand its footprint across Michigan. Rooted deeply in the state, the company has expressed its intent to have a positive impact on local communities. Fundamental to BE's operations is the objective of facilitating a well-informed cannabis experience. This is pursued through a blend of educational initiatives and an emphasis on sustainable and positive practices for the environment.
An intriguing facet of the company is its leadership. Dreka Gates, a partner in the venture, has successfully established herself in what many perceive to be a predominantly male industry. Her approach, which integrates inclusivity and innovation, has garnered attention and commendation.
Tyler Weedon, responsible for the brand's marketing and product development, has voiced his enthusiasm regarding the Big Rapids establishment. His connection to the city is personal, having pursued his undergraduate studies at Ferris State University and having represented the institution in athletics. Weedon's remarks highlight a blend of personal and professional interests, reflecting the company's broader commitment to the communities it serves.
BE Provisioning offers a variety of strains, many of which have received accolades. The company's team, trained and dedicated, aims to ensure that customers receive consistent quality, service, and value. Their efforts have been recognized, with the company securing awards such as the 2022 Cultivation of the Year from MI Green State. Additionally, Dreka Gates' contributions were acknowledged when she was named the 2022 Cannabis Women of the Year, and the company itself was highlighted as a 2022 Finalist for Industry Best Staff.
Dreka Gates shared her perspective on the industry, emphasizing the challenges and learnings inherent in cultivating marijuana. Her insights underscore the iterative nature of the business, where continuous learning and adaptation are crucial.
The company has announced a soft opening scheduled for October 14th, running from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. This event will provide customers with an opportunity to familiarize themselves with BE Provisioning's product range, which includes flowers, pre-rolls, vaporizers, edibles, and concentrates.
Tyler Pritt, representing BE Provisions, reiterated the company's commitment to its staff, recognizing their pivotal role in its operations.
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