Thousands of individuals from Ann Arbor and beyond gathered at the University of Michigan Diag on Saturday, participating in the 53rd annual Hash Bash, a festival with a long history of advocating for the federal legalization and decriminalization of cannabis. The event, a staple since 1972, attracted University of Michigan students, local residents, and cannabis enthusiasts from various regions, underscoring its enduring appeal and significance in the cannabis reform movement.
This year's Hash Bash featured an array of booths and tables offering a variety of cannabis products and related paraphernalia on the Diag, complemented by a selection of food trucks along Tappan Street, enriching the festival atmosphere. Prominent among the speakers at the event were State Senator Jeff Irwin of Ann Arbor and Josey Scoggin, director of the Great Lakes Expungement Network, who took to the front steps of the Hatcher Graduate Library to address the crowd.
While the festival's roots are in advocating for cannabis legalization and decriminalization, the focus of this year's gathering shifted towards supporting individuals with cannabis possession-related charges on their records, reflecting the changing landscape of cannabis legislation. Senator Irwin, in an interview, highlighted Ann Arbor's pivotal role in national cannabis reform activism, praising Michigan's approach to developing the cannabis industry.
Becky Walters, a Michigan resident and volunteer for Sons and Daughters United, emphasized the ongoing relevance of the organization's efforts. Despite the progress in decriminalization, the legal status of cannabis remains varied across the country, with many individuals still facing incarceration for cannabis-related offenses. The organization aims to raise funds for the expungement of such charges, particularly focusing on cannabis-related cases.
Ethan Goldiez, a sophomore at the College of Literature, Science, and the Arts and a member of the Student Association for Psychedelic Studies, underscored the importance of continuing the Hash Bash tradition. The association, a sponsor of this year's event, views its involvement as a privilege and recognizes the community's strong support for such gatherings.
The Great Lakes Cannabis Collaboration Conference is gearing up for its anticipated return at Northern Michigan University (NMU), offering students unparalleled opportunities to immerse themselves in the real-world dynamics of business through the engaging Big Pitch competition.
In a segment aired by Upper Michigan Today on Friday, April 5th, the spotlight was not only on the forthcoming conference but also on the victorious students of the Big Pitch competition, showcasing their triumphs and learning experiences.
Before delving into the details of the competition winners, the broadcast was initiated with Tia Trudgeon and Michael Sobeck presenting the day's intriguing stories, setting the stage for an informative session.
The winners of the Big Pitch, Heather Lindstrom of 906 Pet Treats LLC, along with Brecken Mills and Maggie Boburka of Peninsula Pizookies, were joined by Professor Corinne Bodeman to discuss the invaluable insights and lessons gleaned from their participation in the competition. Their experiences underscore the practical benefits and challenges of bringing innovative business ideas to life.
Adding a lighter note to the conversation, the Dean of NMU's College of Technology and Occupational Sciences participated in a playful segment of "Unscramble NMU," further engaging the audience before transitioning to the core subject of the upcoming Great Lakes Cannabis Collaboration Conference.
The conference is scheduled for Tuesday, April 23rd, at NMU's Northern Center and will commence at 8:00 a.m. This event promises to be a significant gathering for cannabis industry enthusiasts, offering a platform for collaboration, education, and networking among professionals, students, and advocates within the field.
Building upon the anticipation for the Great Lakes Cannabis Collaboration Conference at Northern Michigan University (NMU), a closer look at the schedule reveals a comprehensive and diverse lineup of sessions, discussions, and presentations designed to cater to a broad spectrum of interests within the cannabis industry. The conference, taking place on Tuesday, April 23rd, 2024, promises a full day of insightful programming and networking opportunities.
Starting bright and early at 8:00 a.m. with check-in, attendees will be welcomed with coffee and breakfast items, setting the stage for a day of engagement and learning. The welcome address at 8:45 a.m. kicks off the event, quickly followed by a series of keynotes, panel discussions, and presentations.
At 9:00 a.m., Brian Hanna, the Executive Director of the Cannabis Regulatory Agency, will present on the current status and future directions of cannabis regulations in Michigan. This session is pivotal for understanding the regulatory environment within the state.
Following this, a panel discussion titled "Blazing Trails in Michigan and Beyond" at 10:00 a.m. brings together experts from various corners of the cannabis regulatory landscape to share their perspectives. This session is moderated by Andrew LaCombe, News Director at WLUC TV-6, featuring discussions on innovations and regulatory challenges in the industry.
"Wildcats in the Weeds" at 10:45 a.m. shines a spotlight on NMU alumni making waves in the cannabis sector, offering a unique look into the contributions of university graduates to the industry.
At 11:30 a.m., the "Rooted in Justice" panel delves into the crucial topic of cannabis equity, moderated by Dr. Shawnrece Campbell from NMU, focusing on leadership perspectives on equity within the cannabis industry.
The afternoon sessions kick off at 1:15 p.m. with Hilary Bricken, discussing the federal policy landscape, followed by a deep dive into cannabis cultivation techniques, featuring talks on the effective use of LED light in cannabis cultivation by experts from Signify.
At 2:30 p.m., a panel titled "A Growing Business" explores various facets of cannabis cultivation, featuring discussions with Martin Boerema, Daniel McMahon, and Sarah Lee from NMU, moderated by Kari Farkas-Lasich.
The conference concludes with student research presentations and an announcement wrap-up at 4:45 p.m., offering attendees a glimpse into the innovative research and projects undertaken by NMU students.
In tandem with the conference, NMU's pioneering academic programs in cannabis, including the Medicinal Plant Chemistry, Controlled Environment Agriculture, Indoor Agriculture, Cannabis and Plant-Based Wellness Operations degrees, and Cannabis Operations Certificate, highlight the university's commitment to leading in cannabis education. These programs are designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed for successful careers in the fast-evolving cannabis industry.
The Great Lakes Cannabis Collaboration Conference not only serves as a platform for learning and professional growth but also underscores NMU's role in fostering progress through education, dialogue, and collaboration in the cannabis industry. This event is set to be a cornerstone for those looking to explore current trends, regulatory insights, and academic achievements in cannabis.
By bringing together students, faculty, industry professionals, and community members in the scenic locale of Marquette, Michigan, the conference aims to inspire innovation, share cutting-edge research and best practices, and foster a community dedicated to advancing the cannabis industry responsibly and ethically.
Through this detailed schedule and the associated academic programs, NMU demonstrates its leadership and commitment to shaping the future of cannabis education, research, and industry collaboration, making the Great Lakes Cannabis Collaboration Conference a must-attend event for anyone involved or interested in the cannabis sector.
In a recent development within Michigan's evolving cannabis landscape, a legal push is underway to challenge Howell Township's current stance against marijuana-related facilities. A prominent attorney from Ypsilanti, Anderson Grandstaff, representing an unnamed organization, has initiated a campaign aimed at overturning the township's prohibition. This move could potentially culminate in a ballot question during the November 2024 election, leaving the decision in the hands of the voters.
Michigan set a precedent in 2018 by becoming the first Midwestern state to legalize both medical and adult-use cannabis. Despite this, numerous local jurisdictions, including Howell Township, have opted out of hosting such establishments, often implementing moratoriums to halt their operation.
The organization behind this campaign, though not disclosed, has reportedly garnered substantial local support for a proposed ballot initiative that seeks to end the township's ban on recreational cannabis retail outlets. This initiative not only aims to lift the existing prohibition but also proposes a comprehensive regulatory framework for the licensing of cannabis retail businesses. The outlined ordinance includes detailed procedures and criteria for reviewing, scoring, and ranking license applications.
The matter came to the forefront during the Township Board's March meeting, where Supervisor Mark Coddington revealed the board's deliberations on the attorney's correspondence. A proposal to bypass the petition process and directly submit the initiative to the Planning Commission was ultimately rejected in a 2-4 vote, with Trustees Harold Melton and Bob Wilson advocating for the change. Wilson, in particular, has expressed strong support for establishing a dispensary within the township. Citing the overwhelming approval of cannabis legalization by 73% of voters in 2018 and personal online polling, Wilson argues that there is significant demand among constituents for local access to cannabis, especially for those seeking it for medicinal purposes who currently face long travel distances.
As the dialogue continues, with Wilson requesting further discussion in the next meeting, the township finds itself at a crossroads, weighing the community's desires against longstanding regulatory stances. The outcome of this debate could mark a significant shift in Howell Township's approach to cannabis facilities, aligning more closely with the state's broader acceptance of the industry.
In a candid discussion reflecting on his illustrious career and current endeavors, Ric Flair, the legendary Hall of Fame wrestler known as "Nature Boy," shared insights into his life, his brief foray into the cannabis industry, and professional wrestling's tightly guarded secrets concerning cannabis use. Despite Michigan's evolving cannabis landscape, with over 700 dispensaries, Flair remained discreet, focusing more on his journey and current projects than on revealing the hidden tales of wrestling's past.
At 75, Ric Flair has transitioned from the high-energy performances in the wrestling ring to a more subdued presence in the cannabis industry, following the footsteps of other celebrities like Mike Tyson. In March, he promoted his cannabis line, Ric Flair Drip—encompassing pre-rolls, flower, and edibles—across five Detroit-area dispensaries. This venture was named after a popular rap song that featured Flair showcasing his flamboyant lifestyle.
Initially sought for his wrestling insights and the intertwining of his sport with cannabis, Flair navigated the conversation away from the controversial and unknown to focus on his personal narrative and business endeavors. While wrestling fans might have anticipated revelations about the sport's secretive marijuana use or stories of wrestlers circumventing drug policies, Flair maintained a tight-lip, emphasizing his privacy and respect for others' personal lives.
The discussion also touched upon Flair's background, including his adoption and his deep connections to Michigan. Despite his association with the state and fondness for the University of Michigan, Flair chose to center the conversation around his professional journey and recent engagements. He briefly recounted his venture into wrestling after a stint with the University of Minnesota's football team, setting the stage for a legendary career.
While the conversation ventured into his wrestling days and the dynamics of marijuana use within the industry, Flair steered clear of specifics, highlighting his disinterest in discussing others' personal matters. His responses underscored a desire to keep the focus on his current work and away from the potentially sensational aspects of wrestling history.
Did wrestlers use marijuana to treat injuries, rather than turning to pain pills?
"I don't know," Flair said. "I don't ask people about their personal lives."
It wasn't the response I was hoping for, but I pushed forward, asking about how professional wrestling dealt with high-profile marijuana arrests involving specific wrestlers and whether tales of personalities hiring members of their entourage to conceal and transport marijuana were true.
Flair didn't like that.
"I don't like the way this interview is going," Flair said, clearly become irritated. "Why would you ask me to comment about other people?"
I explained I wasn't trying to get him to dish dirt on specific people. "You've been in wrestling and you're known for that, and now you're coming into marijuana ... "
He cut me off.
"I'm more than known for that," Flair said. "I'm the greatest wrestler that's ever lived."
I continued: "I guess I was interested in your connections with ... "
"None of your goddamn business," he said, cutting me off again.
Before the interview dumped like wheelbarrow full of wet concrete, I tried to switch the topic back to his Michigan connections. He said it's a "wonderful" state, he's had "great times" in Detroit, but then he returned to the issue that set him off seconds earlier.
"I don't want to be part of that conversation," Flair said. "Just promote my line. It's the best sh** going ... What's that got to do with my line dropping?"
The interview encapsulated Flair's multifaceted life—from his wrestling accolades and personal stories to his latest business venture. Although the wrestling icon shied away from delving into the industry's clandestine relationship with cannabis, his demeanor and responses painted a picture of a man who values privacy, respects his and others' personal lives, and is focused on his current path in the cannabis industry.
The commemoration of John Sinclair, a pioneering figure in the cannabis activism movement, remains vibrant within the collective memory of the Hash Bash community in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Sinclair's significant contributions were meticulously documented in an interview by Jamie Lowell, a Hash Bash organizer, ensuring that the foundational story and Sinclair's personal reflections on the event's origins are preserved for posterity. This interview, captured ahead of Sinclair's final appearance at Hash Bash in 2023, is now accessible in a video titled "The Legendary John Sinclair Discusses The Origin Of Hash Bash," serving as a lasting tribute to his impact.
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This June, the heart of Detroit will be alight with the vibrant energy of the Michigan Glass Project, a unique three-day festival that combines the talents of glass and visual artists with the rhythms of music to create an immersive experience for all ages. Scheduled from June 21st to June 23rd, 2024, at the iconic Russell Industrial Center, this event not only showcases the creative prowess of artists from across the country but also supports a heartfelt cause: the enrichment of art education for Detroit's youth.
At the Michigan Glass Project festival, attendees will have the rare opportunity to witness art being made live. Artists will be working on their pieces throughout the event, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process that often remains hidden within studio walls. From the intricate work of glassblowing to the broad strokes of painters, the festival promises a kaleidoscope of artistic endeavors.
The culmination of this creative showcase is the auction on Sunday, where the pieces crafted during the festival are sold. The proceeds from these sales are dedicated to Art Road Nonprofit, a charity with the noble mission of bringing art classes back to schools in Detroit. Through this effort, the Michigan Glass Project not only celebrates art but also ensures its legacy by nurturing future generations of artists.
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The Michigan Glass Project festival is more than just an event; it's a movement. By participating, attendees not only get to enjoy and possibly take home unique pieces of art but also contribute to a cause that impacts the community directly. The festival is a testament to the power of collective effort and the belief that art can and should be accessible to everyone, especially the younger members of our community who stand to benefit the most from exposure to the arts.
In addition to supporting a good cause, the festival offers a rich experience of culture and connection. It's a place where art lovers can meet the artists, learn about their processes, and witness the creation of beautiful works of art. With music filling the air and the shared excitement for creativity, the festival fosters a sense of community and belonging among all who attend.
As the festival prepares to open its doors to the public this June, it continues a tradition of giving back that has defined the Michigan Glass Project for over a decade. Through the festival and its proceeds, the organizers aim to continue supporting Art Road Nonprofit and ensuring that art remains a vital part of education in Detroit.
Mark your calendars for June 21-23, 2024, and be part of an unforgettable event that celebrates the transformative power of art. Whether you're an art aficionado, a lover of music, or simply someone who believes in the cause of education, the Michigan Glass Project festival promises an enriching experience for all.
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