In the ever-evolving landscape of Michigan's marijuana industry, Niles is taking significant strides forward. At Monday's Niles City Council meeting held at the City of Niles Fire Department, two businesses, BS Ironwood, LLC and Native Michigan Remedies (NMR), secured approvals for Microbusiness Class A Licenses.
Class A microbusinesses, distinct from standard licenses, permit the cultivation of up to 300 in-house plants. They can buy and sell mature plants, edibles, and other products from licensed dealers. However, they cannot process plants into oils, extracts, or infused cannabis products.
BS Ironwood has its sights set on a facility at 1641 E. Main St., formerly an automotive business. The firm is set to inject almost $1 million for the acquisition and revamp of this property. This initiative is backed by the company's robust capital reserves, ensuring a seamless transition.
Though Niles hasn't collaborated with BS Ironwood previously, the company has reassured the city of its adherence to all marijuana-related regulations. This expansion also brings with it the promise of roughly 20 new jobs for the locals. Amar Warraich, the sole member-manager of BS Ironwood, is no novice in this sector, having displayed significant expertise across nine Michigan municipalities.
Located at 2112 Industrial Dr., NMR is no stranger to Niles, already holding grower and processor licenses. The company has a flawless track record, having cleared all inspections and settled all associated fees. With an existing investment of $3 million, owners Bill Haas and Brian Crespo are pledging an additional $100,000 for facility enhancements. They believe the Microbusiness Class A license will further solidify their presence in Niles.
Beyond business, Crespo and Haas are also making community inroads. Crespo founded Niles Neighbors, an initiative aimed at aiding the elderly and disabled in home beautification. Their community involvement extends to collaborations like a turkey and toy giveaway during the festive season with Primitiv, as well as active participation in City Council discussions.
For many in Michigan and across the U.S., the challenges faced by the cannabis industry are well-known. Despite being an emerging market, the industry confronts numerous federal hurdles including stringent tax rules, limited banking options, challenges accessing capital markets, varied intellectual property rights, and restrictions on interstate trade. Michiganders closely following the industry are well-versed with these hurdles that hinder the growth of our state's promising cannabis sector.
Recently, a new obstacle has emerged in mature cannabis markets, including Michigan: the lack of federal bankruptcy protections for cannabis ventures. This poses significant challenges for these businesses and their stakeholders, particularly during economic downturns.
Yet, it's not a completely bleak scenario. Although federal bankruptcy protections might not be accessible, Michigan's cannabis businesses have alternative contractual and state law mechanisms to counteract insolvency and financial distress. It's vital for Michiganders to stay informed and back our local businesses as they navigate this intricate path, ensuring the sustained growth of our state's cannabis industry.
Michigan, a state that has recognized the potential benefits of marijuana, is yet again leading the way with a series of expungement fairs across the region. These events are invaluable opportunities for individuals with marijuana-related convictions to wipe their records clean and start afresh.
Expungement is a legal process through which an individual's criminal record is "sealed" or erased in the eyes of the law. Once a conviction is expunged, it's as though the conviction never occurred. The individual no longer needs to disclose the conviction, for example, on job applications. It's important to note, however, that expunged records aren't entirely destroyed. They're inaccessible to the general public, but certain governmental agencies can still access them under specific conditions.
Several notable organizations have partnered up to ensure the success of these expungement fairs. Chief among them are cannabis-related groups like "The Black & Brown Cannabis Guild" and "Stash Ventures". Their involvement underscores the broader push within the cannabis industry to rectify the harms caused by marijuana prohibition, especially in communities of color disproportionately affected by drug-related convictions.
However, it's not just the cannabis industry stepping up. The Michigan Department of Attorney General has been a significant partner, showcasing the state's commitment to supporting its citizens. Various other organizations, both public and private, are lending their weight to these initiatives, marking a collective effort to bring about change.
September 20th: Detroit Hispanic Development Corporation Expungement Fair
September 23rd: Michigan Expungement Week 2023 - Grand Rapids Expungement Fair
September 23rd: Stash Ventures Muskegon Expungement Fair
September 26th: Michigan Expungement Week 2023 - Muskegon Expungement Fair
September 27th: Michigan Expungement Week 2023 - Benton Harbor Expungement Fair
September 30th: Michigan Expungement Week 2023 - Detroit Expungement Fair
October 27th: Cooley Law School Expungement Fair
For those seeking a second chance, attending one of these fairs can be the first step towards a brighter future. The collaboration between cannabis organizations and the state showcases the potential for positive change when different sectors come together for the common good.
From over 15,000 entrants, Waterford, Michigan's own Danielle Geralds and Nile Hunt are the lucky winners of the inaugural Cannabis Wedding Giveaway, generously presented by Greenhouse of Walled Lake. Their romantic journey began while Hunt served valiantly in the U.S. Navy. Tragically, an IED incident in Afghanistan left him with a severe lifelong injury. However, cannabis has been instrumental in alleviating his pain.
The duo is set to exchange their vows at the picturesque Greenhouse of Walled Lake on Thursday, October 5th at 4 pm. With more than 50 loved ones expected to attend, this intimate ceremony will unfold just outside the renowned Greenhouse.
This one-of-a-kind wedding, financed and curated by Greenhouse of Walled Lake, Choice Labs of Jackson, and Treehouse CBD, will showcase an elegant cannabis-inspired theme. A seasoned local wedding planner has crafted the entire affair. Highlights include gourmet THC-infused cuisine, mocktails, and exclusive Bud and Dab bars. The festivities also feature a rehearsal dinner on October 4th, comprehensive photography and videography, lavish bridal attire, and a post-wedding stay at the Westin Airport Hotel. Guests can look forward to captivating performances by a violinist, DJ, and the inclusion of the local high school marching band playing the classic "Here Comes the Bride." The esteemed hospice Minister, Steve Woodcock, has the honor of officiating the ceremony.
Jerry Millen, the proud owner of Greenhouse of Walled Lake, remarked, "No dispensary in the United States has ever curated a completely cannabis-centric wedding. We're delighted to pioneer this experience. Moreover, we warmly invite the community to witness this unprecedented event, which boasts a budget exceeding $40,000."
Post-nuptials, attendees can continue the celebration at the Green Oak Food Studios in South Lyon, starting with a cocktail hour at 6:30 pm and leading into the grand reception.
Related Article: Dive deeper into Greenhouse of Walled Lake's recent challenges with our article, "Greenhouse of Walled Lake's Battle Against Rising Counterfeit Currencies." This Michigan dispensary's rising troubles with counterfeit cash underscore the urgency of federal cannabis legalization to ensure safer and more transparent transactions.
The bustling city of Detroit recently became a hub for cannabis enthusiasts and industry experts as Green Market Report embarked on a road trip to host its inaugural Michigan Cannabis Summit. Held on September 6th at the esteemed One Campus Martius, the event garnered significant attention and anticipation.
The highlight for many attendees was undoubtedly the opportunity to interact with Rob Sims, a dynamic co-founder of Primitiv. As the buzz around the venue grew, attendees also had the unique privilege to hear from Brian Hanna, the Michigan Cannabis Regulatory Agency Executive Director. The insight provided by these prominent figures underscored the significance of the event.
A crucial topic that dominated discussions was the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services' recent recommendation. In a segment titled "A Closer Look at Schedule 3", experts shed light on the proposed shift of cannabis from Schedule 1 to Schedule 3 on the controlled substances list. They delved into the potential ramifications and opportunities this change could present for existing cannabis operators.
"Finding Your Lane" was another riveting panel discussion. Comprising seasoned professionals who've mastered the art of identifying opportunities, the panelists shared their experiences and strategies in navigating the competitive landscape of the Michigan cannabis market. Their tales of determination and insight proved invaluable for attendees seeking to carve a niche in this thriving sector.
For newcomers to the industry, the "Entering the Michigan Market" panel was an eye-opener. The experts explored the intricate nuances of establishing a foothold in Michigan's cannabis domain. With some regions being cannabis hotspots and others resembling deserts, the discussion was a guide to navigating this diverse terrain.
Investors had their plates full with the "Investing in Michigan Cannabis" session. The panel highlighted that some of the cannabis industry's top performers hail from Michigan. Investment aficionados deep-dived into the vibrant market, dissecting the intricacies of stocks rooted in the Wolverine State.
To conclude, the "We Want What We Want" segment was a revelation. Backed by robust data, it unveiled the products that have been reigning champions in the Michigan market, shedding light on consumer preferences and market trends.
In addition to these enlightening sessions, the day witnessed a fascinating data presentation by Hoodie Analytics and Surfside. A significant takeaway was the intriguing revelation that affluent regions don't necessarily equate to premium cannabis sales, a fact that left many pondering.
In essence, the Michigan Cannabis Summit was more than just an event – it was a vibrant tapestry of knowledge, networking, and insights into the future of cannabis in Michigan. As the state's cannabis industry continues to evolve, such summits will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping its trajectory.
Detroit, often celebrated for its influential music and automobile industries, is about to add another feather to its cap: hosting the acclaimed MJ Unpacked. This B2B cannabis conference, having previously illuminated the scenes of New York and Las Vegas, now brings its legacy to Michigan from October 10th to 12th at the Motorcity Casino Hotel.
Michigan's reputation in the cannabis landscape is nothing short of impressive. Rich in authentic cannabis culture, the state offers a unique blend of craft cannabis quality, thanks to its pioneering medical caregiver program, and a competitive recreational market that benefits consumers with high-quality product offerings.
Those familiar with the national cannabis conference landscape will find a familiar setup at MJ Unpacked. The event is expected to house a dynamic brand exhibition hall, complete with booths, brand activations, and distinct displays. Yet, what sets this event apart is its exclusive audience, with a spotlight on licensed operators, especially those occupying C-suite positions, and accredited investors.
No premier event is complete without an evening to remember. MJ Unpacked, in collaboration with Farechild Events and Sensi Media Group, is hosting a grand afterparty on October 10th at 7pm. Attendees can anticipate an assortment of drinks, engaging brand activations, and a serene outdoor space, all complemented with a hassle-free shuttle service from the hotel.
For a comprehensive look at what's in store, view the full event agenda by clicking here. Don't miss out on any details!
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