Quality Roots, a Metro Detroit Cannabis Dispensary and recipient of Metro Times Best Of 2023, is once again demonstrating its commitment to community enrichment with the launch of this year's "Spark Joy, Share Toys" drive. This initiative follows the remarkable success of last year's Winter Donation Drive and aims to make an even greater impact in 2023. Teaming up with Toyology and Share Detroit, Quality Roots is focused on brightening the holiday season for children facing difficult circumstances.
The "Spark Joy, Share Toys" campaign is more than just a toy collection; it's about creating unforgettable moments and ensuring that every child experiences the joy of receiving a special gift. This year, the drive supports two notable organizations: A Girl Like Me, which empowers young girls by providing resources and support to build confidence and resilience, and The Blood Cancer Foundation of Michigan, dedicated to improving the lives of those affected by blood cancers through assistance, research, and hope.
Participation in the Giving Tuesday event is straightforward. Community members are invited to drop off new, unwrapped toys at any Quality Roots location. Every type of toy, from board games and stuffed animals to action figures, is welcomed, with each donation contributing to the holiday spirit. Moreover, for each toy donated, Toyology will match with another, doubling the impact.
The campaign, aligned with the global Giving Tuesday movement, will run until November 28th. In an exciting twist, Quality Roots is offering an additional incentive: each toy donated is an entry to win a free Quality Roots ounce, adding a fun element for participants while fostering a spirit of generosity.
This initiative is open to everyone, not just cannabis consumers. Donations can be made at the following Quality Roots locations:
Quality Roots invites the community to join in this heartwarming effort, making a significant difference in the lives of children and adding a touch of magic to their holiday season.
In Mount Pleasant, Michigan, indigenous businesses are making a significant impact, managed by the Migizi Economic Development Center (Migizi EDC), a subsidiary of the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe. These businesses, deeply rooted in cultural heritage, are now looking towards future growth, particularly in the marijuana industry.
During the recent "Soup and Substance" event, sponsored by Central Michigan University's Office of Indigenous Affairs and Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Migizi EDC representatives discussed their ventures and future plans. Panelists included Bonnie Sprague, General Manager of Soaring Eagle Waterpark and Hotel, and Brian Smith, Director of Economic Development at Migizi EDC, among others.
Migizi EDC's portfolio, featuring businesses such as the Soaring Eagle Waterpark and Hotel, is characterized by a strong emphasis on cultural identity. For instance, the Waterpark incorporates the Anishnabemowin language and shares Native American stories and principles, including the revered grandfather teachings. These cultural integrations are part of a broader strategy to embed indigenous heritage into business operations.
A significant revelation at the event was Migizi EDC's interest in expanding into the marijuana sector. Brian Smith elaborated on the challenges faced in this endeavor, stemming from complex interactions between state laws, federal regulations, and tribal sovereignty. Unlike other indigenous businesses, the marijuana industry poses unique regulatory challenges, particularly concerning licensing and banking restrictions.
Smith highlighted the necessity of negotiating with the cannabis regulation industry and the Michigan treasury to align with state requirements while maintaining tribal sovereignty. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to diversify the economic activities of the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe while preserving its cultural integrity and reputation.
This move into the marijuana industry marks a significant step for Migizi EDC, as it navigates the intricate balance between cultural heritage, tribal sovereignty, and regulatory compliance. The potential expansion into this sector demonstrates the evolving landscape of indigenous business enterprises in Michigan and their adaptive strategies in a rapidly changing economic environment.
Michigan's cannabis market is witnessing an exciting new chapter as EVOL by Future, the cannabis brand developed by two-time GRAMMY winner Future, makes its debut in the state. This launch, in collaboration with Michigan's renowned cannabis company House of Dank, marks a significant step in expanding the cannabis product range available to consumers in the region.
EVOL by Future, established earlier this year under Carma HoldCo, a branding and licensing firm known for its work with top celebrity and cannabis brands, is set to offer Michigan cannabis enthusiasts a range of high-quality products. These products include elite flower offerings, live rosin vapes, and strain-specific infused pre-rolls, all of which will be available at any House of Dank location starting on November 22nd.
Adam Wilks, Co-founder and CEO of Carma HoldCo, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, noting that the combination of House of Dank's expertise and Future's global appeal is expected to significantly enhance the cannabis experience in Michigan. Prince Yousif, the owner of House of Dank, also shared his excitement, highlighting Future's substantial impact on modern music and culture. He anticipates that EVOL by Future will resonate with cannabis users in Michigan, much like Future's music has.
With this strategic collaboration, both Carma HoldCo and House of Dank aim to enrich the cannabis culture in Michigan, introducing a line of products that embody quality and innovation, in line with Future's influential brand.
Nevis Brands Inc., a leader in the cannabis beverage sector, has announced a significant expansion into the Michigan market, which represents its entry into the eighth state in the cannabis industry. This development is made possible through an exclusive agreement with Emerald Canning Partners, a Michigan-based production facility, to manufacture and distribute Nevis Brands' Major products in the state. This collaboration is currently pending approval from the Michigan Cannabis Regulatory Agency.
Michigan is a critical market for Nevis Brands, having recorded cannabis sales of $2.3 billion in 2022, with projections indicating this figure could surpass $3 billion in 2023. The state's robust market makes it an ideal second Eastern United States territory for Nevis Brands to establish a licensee presence.
The agreement grants Emerald Canning Partners the exclusive rights to produce and distribute all five flavors of Major, a renowned dosable 100mg THC beverage. This beverage line, known for its rapid onset of effects within 10-20 minutes, includes flavors such as Sunset Pink Lemonade, Pacific Blue Raspberry, Sacred Grape, Volcanic Orange Mango, and Passionfruit. Since its initial launch in Washington State in 2019, over 5 million bottles of Major have been sold.
John Kueber, CEO of Nevis Brands, expressed enthusiasm about the expansion and the partnership with Emerald Canning Partners, highlighting their track record in producing high-quality products and delivering a respected customer experience through their retail network. He anticipates that Major will be available to Michigan consumers in early 2024.
Emerald Canning Partners, a joint venture between Pleasantrees and Andrew Blake of Blake's Hard Cider, is recognized for its role in advancing Michigan's cannabis landscape. The partnership with Nevis Brands will add Major to its growing list of house brands and licensing partners, thus expanding the category's presence in the state. Bryan Wickersham, President of Pleasantrees, remarked on the growing consumer interest in cannabis beverages and praised Emerald Canning Partners for its role in introducing innovative products through strategic partnerships.
Nevis Brands continues to innovate and develop cannabis products that have reached millions of consumers across multiple states including Washington, Oregon, Colorado, Arizona, Nevada, Ohio, and is set to enter California next year. The company's flagship brand, Major, has been instrumental in its growth and market presence.
Nevis Brands Inc. is publicly traded on various stock exchanges, including the CSE under the symbol "NEVI," the OTC under PSCBF, and the Frankfurt Stock Exchange under the symbol "8DZ". Emerald Canning Partners, located in the historic Gibraltar Trade Center in Mt. Clemens, Michigan, combines expertise in premium beverage crafting with high-quality cannabis to make a significant impact in the cannabis-infused beverage market.
The City of Detroit is poised to welcome individuals to the Homegrown Detroit Cannabis Career Fair, a prominent event scheduled for December 6th, 2023. This career fair, held at 1010 Antietam Avenue from 3-7 pm, is designed to serve as a bridge between the community and the rapidly growing cannabis industry.
The career fair is an excellent venue for professionals at any stage of their career, whether they are seasoned experts or newcomers to the field. Attendees will have the chance to meet with industry leaders, gain valuable insights, and learn about a range of career opportunities within the cannabis sector, including cultivation, distribution, marketing, and research.
This event is not only an opportunity for job seekers but also a platform for current professionals in the industry to explore new opportunities, sharpen their skills, and elevate their career trajectories. Educational sessions will be a highlight, offering deep dives into the latest trends, regulatory landscapes, and innovations shaping the cannabis industry.
In addition to networking and learning opportunities, the fair will feature interactive exhibits. These exhibits aim to showcase the latest in cannabis technologies, products, and services, providing a hands-on experience for attendees.
In line with the spirit of community involvement, the Homegrown Detroit Cannabis Career Fair is dedicating efforts to support the Pope Francis Center this year. Attendees are encouraged to participate in a donation drive to assist Detroit's underserved and vulnerable populations. Contributions to the Pope Francis Center can be made directly through their Amazon Wishlist, which includes essential items needed to support health, hygiene, warmth, and dignity for those living on the streets of Detroit.
Contribution Link: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/34HE6WWZDXK1W/
The Homegrown Detroit Cannabis Career Fair is more than just a career event; it's an opportunity to contribute positively to the community while exploring the vast possibilities within the cannabis industry. Mark your calendars for December 6th and be part of an event that offers both career advancement and the chance to make a meaningful impact in the Detroit community.
Light'N Up Cannabis Company, a veteran-owned business in Flint, Michigan, recently marked the success of its third annual Thanksgiving turkey giveaway. Demonstrating its commitment to the community, the company distributed over 1,200 turkeys to mid-Michiganders, a significant increase from the previous year.
This year's event saw an impressive turnout, with the company recalling that last year, 400 people were waiting outside the door before the opening. "Since we are able to do what we love, why don't we give back to our community?" remarked Kyle Cohee, one of the owners of Light'N Up Cannabis Co. "This thing gained wheels, and it's been crazy."
The giveaway took place at the store's location at 4184 Pier North Boulevard in Flint, on Saturday, November 18th, from 10 a.m. until 8 p.m. — or until all the turkeys were claimed. The company highlighted its effort to extend the reach of their generosity beyond individuals, with 100 of the turkeys given directly to Vet Life, a local nonprofit organization, and 20 turkeys donated to North End Soup Kitchen and several other Flint area churches and organizations.
Reflecting on the importance of the event in the community, Cohee said, "We've been through some tough times here in Flint, and people deserve every single break we can provide. Giving them the central part of a Thanksgiving meal is our honor and our way of thanking the people of Flint for supporting our store."
The event was graced by the presence of Stephen Cochran, a country music artist and veteran advocate, along with Flint native and retired NFL wide receiver Andre Rison and retired Detroit Lions guard Rob Sims.
Light'N Up Cannabis Co. maintained a policy requiring each turkey recipient to be at least 21 years old, sign a liability waiver, and provide an email or texting address. Cohee's optimism about the event's future was evident as he confirmed, "Oh, yeah- we're going to do this every year. We're committed."
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