House of Kush, a cannabis genetics brand with a history in sports and science, has announced a partnership with Pleasantrees, a vertically integrated cannabis cultivator based in Michigan. This collaboration aims to introduce House of Kush's genetics to the Michigan market.
House of Kush has established its presence in Missouri, Maryland, and Ohio by focusing on preserving legacy strains and maintaining high standards in cannabis genetics. The brand's connections to the sports world and efforts to change the cannabis narrative have garnered attention among cannabis enthusiasts.
“We are excited to partner with Pleasantrees, a company that shares our commitment to quality,” said Reggie Harris, CEO of House of Kush, in a statement to Benzinga. "Michigan has a growing cannabis community, and we look forward to introducing our genetics and products to this market. Pleasantrees' focus on cultivating premium cannabis aligns with our goals."
Harris pointed to Pleasantrees' involvement with Rick Wershe Jr., known as White Boy Rick, who was released from prison in July 2020 after serving 33 years. This connection underscores Pleasantrees' commitment to social justice, education, and community involvement, aligning with House of Kush's approach to the industry. "We need strong partners and recognition in the industry, and Pleasantrees adds credibility to our efforts," Harris noted.
Harris also highlighted Michigan as a significant cannabis market, emphasizing the importance of competing in such a prominent market.
Bryan Wickersham, President of Pleasantrees, expressed anticipation about the partnership, noting the potential for Michigan consumers to experience the genetics curated by House of Kush. "The product innovation from the HOK team will be noteworthy," Wickersham stated.
Cannabash, a once-promising concert series in Michigan, has recently descended into turmoil, leaving a trail of unpaid debts and disappointed stakeholders in its wake. The event, organized by Grams & Jams and managed by CMS Consulting LLC, has issued over a dozen bad checks, ranging from $500 to $50,000. These checks have resulted in more than $100,000 in unpaid dues to artists, stage crew, and various vendors. The total amount owed, including unpaid staff, security, marketing costs, talent buyers, and sponsorship refunds, continues to grow as more claims are reported.
Former staff members have come forward to share their experiences of financial betrayal. One former employee recounted how Daniel & Connie Sparrow (the organization's leadership) had jokingly mentioned the possibility of going bankrupt after the event as early as April, but assured everyone that the show would go on. Many staff members, some of whom had known the organizers for over two decades, initially saw no reason for concern. However, within a month and a half, paychecks stopped arriving. By the time the event occurred, some staff members found their final paychecks being withheld. One individual disclosed that they were owed just under $5,000, while acknowledging that others were owed even larger amounts.
Attempts to contact Grams & Jams or CMS Consulting LLC for comments have been unsuccessful. In a text message to former employees, the organizer suggested removing negative posts on social media in exchange for payment. An email to talent buyers revealed the organizer's frustration, stating, "I was willing to discuss payouts, but after the abusive, threatening, and traumatic behavior, I'm not vested in ensuring anything." No concrete evidence of the alleged threats or abusive behavior has been presented at this time.
In another email to a vendor, the organizer stated, "After consulting with my corporate counsel, there is nothing more required at this time. I will send you the dissolution certificate when I receive it tomorrow. There is no need to contact my attorney. The company is no longer operational."
While some vendors have received a certificate of dissolution, the only evidence of a formal bankruptcy filing consists of emails and text messages from the owner of CMS Consulting to artists and former staff. One such message read, "I'm filing for bankruptcy and receivership. If you could please back off, I would appreciate it."
Victims are currently reporting their cases to the Muskegon County Sheriff's Department and the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). Additional reports are anticipated as more individuals come forward with their experiences and claims.
The community's reaction to the Cannabash fallout has been one of disappointment, frustration, and anger. One vendor reflected on their financial losses over the years, noting that while the first year was profitable, subsequent years resulted in significant losses due to poor event management and placement. This year, the vendor decided against participating and, upon seeing the current situation, felt validated in their decision.
Another community member highlighted the potential for criminal charges, stating that writing bad checks in Michigan over $500 is a felony. They emphasized that if the allegations prove true, the bankruptcy court may offer little relief for those owed money.
The broader impact on the cannabis event management sector has also been a topic of discussion. Some community members expressed their hesitance to re-enter the formal cannabis industry due to similar negative experiences. There is a call for greater accountability and transparency to prevent such incidents in the future.
The Cannabash incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of financial integrity and ethical management within the cannabis industry. As the community grapples with the fallout, it is clear that there is a need for stricter oversight and better practices to protect all stakeholders involved in cannabis-related events.
The scandal has also prompted a broader conversation about the overall state of the cannabis industry in Michigan. Many believe that the industry is plagued by unscrupulous actors who take advantage of the community's passion and commitment. There is a growing demand for more rigorous vetting processes and legal protections to ensure that such financial disasters do not recur.
Moving forward, the Cannabash fallout highlights the critical need for event organizers to maintain transparent and honest financial practices. It also underscores the necessity for regulatory bodies to enforce stricter compliance measures to protect vendors, artists, and employees from financial harm.
The community's response suggests a collective desire to rebuild trust and establish a more secure and reliable industry framework. As legal proceedings unfold and more information comes to light, stakeholders hope that this incident will serve as a catalyst for positive change within the cannabis event management sector.
Susan Radway, the ex-wife of Jeff Radway, a prominent figure in Michigan's early legal cannabis industry, has made a significant entry into the state's cannabis market. According to court documents, Susan Radway has acquired cannabis plants and processing equipment from a former Skymint facility located at 1669 E. Jolly Road in Lansing.
This facility, initially established by Jeff Radway in 2018, faced substantial challenges after Skymint entered receivership last year amid accusations of financial mismanagement. Susan Radway's company, Fantasy Farms LLC, purchased the assets from the receivership for $350,000. The North Carolina-based company received prequalification approval from the state to operate the grow operation in January.
Jeff Donahue, Skymint's executive vice president and general counsel, confirmed that Fantasy Farms is now managing the grow operation and has retained approximately 75% of the former Skymint staff.
The acquisition marks a new chapter in the complex saga of Skymint, which led to Jeff Radway's departure and subsequent divorce from Susan Radway. Several attempts to contact Jeff and Susan Radway for comments were unsuccessful.
Jeff Radway was at the center of controversy surrounding Skymint, which was placed into receivership by an Ingham County Circuit Court judge in March of last year due to unpaid debts. Skymint, primarily operating under Green Peak Innovations Inc., owed over $127 million to Canadian investment firm Tropics LP, which alleged the company was losing $3 million monthly while generating only $110 million in revenue in 2022, far below the forecasted $263 million.
Additionally, a lawsuit filed by New York-based cannabis investment firm Merida Capital Holdings accused Skymint and its executives of financial misrepresentation and mismanagement. Merida also alleged that Jeff Radway used Skymint's funds for personal expenses and engaged in inappropriate relationships with employees, which included settlements using company funds to silence allegations.
Although an Oakland County judge dismissed a lawsuit by Merida that sought to prevent the sale of former 3Fifteen properties, Merida has appealed the decision.
Despite the turbulent history, Susan Radway and Fantasy Farms are moving forward with their cannabis operations. Jeff Radway, though not involved with Fantasy Farms, co-owns the building at 1669 E. Jolly Road with Susan. The property, initially acquired for $659,000, was sold to 1669 E. Jolly Road LLC for $100 in March. Both Jeff and Susan are owners of the LLC, according to court records, and Fantasy Farms is leasing the building.
Susan Radway's prior business experience includes running Moxifit Body Fuel LLC, a health supplement company dissolved in December. She had no known involvement in the cannabis industry during her marriage to Jeff Radway. Jeff Donahue of Skymint confirmed her lack of prior engagement with Skymint.
The future for Fantasy Farms could be challenging, given the high production costs at former Skymint facilities, which averaged over $1,000 per pound—significantly higher than the $450 per pound that is considered profitable. This cost issue contributed to Skymint's decision to cease all growing operations this year, including closing its 56,000-square-foot facility in Dimondale in March. The facility has since been leased to Lume Cannabis.
Currently, Skymint focuses solely on retail sales, operating 20 stores across Michigan. Despite the receivership, Skymint remains competitive, according to Donahue, who emphasized the company's stability and ongoing efforts to reduce costs.
Tropics LP, through Skymint Acquisition Co., acquired Green Peak Industries' assets, doing business as Skymint, for $109.4 million in a receivership auction. However, the deal is pending closure due to ongoing lawsuits that must be resolved before Tropics can take control.
The escalating demand for high-THC cannabis products in Michigan is driving significant changes in the market. As consumer preferences shift towards more potent options, manufacturers are phasing out plants with THC levels below 20%, focusing primarily on high-THC strains. This trend is particularly evident in the pre-roll sector, where the competition for potency has led to an increase in the use of cannabis concentrates.
Producers are now infusing pre-rolls with live resin, live rosin, kief, and various other concentrates to boost THC content. Premium products from brands like Element and Ice Kream Hash Co. highlight the potential for high-quality, infused pre-rolls. However, the majority of infused pre-rolls are made using lower-quality flower combined with cheap distillates and non-naturally occurring terpenes and flavorings.
The widespread use of these additives raises several concerns. To counteract the harshness of low-quality flower and concentrates, manufacturers frequently add terpenes, which are compounds responsible for the distinct aroma and flavor of cannabis. Advances in technology have made it possible to isolate these terpenes from cannabis and other plants, but the addition of high concentrations of terpenes and flavorings, especially when combusted, poses potential health risks.
Jason Allen, co-founder of Lapeer-based Old School Organics, underscores the uncertainty surrounding the long-term effects of inhaling combusted terpenes. “No one knows enough about the long-term effects of combusting these types of terpenes and flavorings,” Allen notes. Old School Organics adheres to more traditional practices, offering 100% flower pre-rolls made from strains selected for their natural terpene profiles.
Despite the potential risks, the industry has largely embraced this trend. Infused pre-rolls offer a way for producers to utilize lower-tier buds by enhancing them with distillates and terpenes, thereby producing high-THC pre-rolls at a low cost. This caters to the prevalent consumer demand for affordable products with maximum THC content.
The focus on THC potency and low cost reflects a broader issue within the cannabis industry. Many consumers equate high THC levels with quality, often overlooking other important factors such as the overall quality of the flower and the presence of potentially harmful additives. Consumer education and awareness are crucial in addressing these issues. Knowing the composition of cannabis products and consulting knowledgeable budtenders can help consumers make safer choices.
In summary, while the trend of infused pre-rolls meets current market demands, it is essential for consumers to remain informed and cautious. Cannabis, while generally safe, should be consumed responsibly. Awareness and accountability from both producers and consumers are key to ensuring the safe and enjoyable use of cannabis products.
Six years after Michigan legalized recreational cannabis, the state's dispensary landscape is undergoing significant changes, with numerous stores closing due to market adjustments. Experts attribute this to the natural evolution and maturation of the industry.
In Lowell, one of the pioneering cities for cannabis dispensaries in Michigan, the initial boom is now witnessing a contraction. City Manager Mike Burns noted that Lowell once boasted nine recreational cannabis dispensaries and three cultivation centers at its peak in 2022. However, the city currently has only five operational dispensaries.
"We anticipated a market correction," Burns said. "We never expected all nine facilities to remain open indefinitely."
Josh Covert, CEO of Meds Cafe—the first cannabis shop in Lowell—highlighted several factors contributing to the city's initial high number of dispensaries. "When Lowell allowed dispensary licenses, there weren't many other cities doing the same. This scarcity drove interest from investors nationwide," Covert explained.
Covert, who also founded Michigan Cannabis Lawyers and served on the board of MI Legalize, emphasized Lowell's early recognition of dispensaries' economic benefits. "Dispensaries created jobs and generated significant tax revenue for the city, varying from $50,000 to $60,000 per establishment annually," he said.
Lowell benefits from a 10% excise tax on cannabis sales, plus an additional 6% adult use sales tax. This revenue has been instrumental in funding infrastructure projects. "We've paved numerous streets in the past four years thanks to cannabis tax revenue," Burns noted.
The decline in dispensaries is partly due to nearby towns adopting cannabis licensing, which reduces Lowell's customer base. Despite this, Burns remains optimistic. "Statewide cannabis sales continue to rise, so our revenue should remain stable even with fewer dispensaries," he said.
Covert pointed out the complexities of operating in the cannabis industry, which include stringent state regulations, unique IRS taxation, and the inherent unpredictability of agricultural production. "A bad harvest can disrupt the supply chain significantly," he said.
Despite these challenges, Covert believes the market will eventually stabilize, with experienced operators prevailing. "The industry is still volatile, but we'll see a balance as more municipalities opt in and less sustainable businesses close," he predicted.
Looking ahead, Covert sees continued growth potential in Michigan's cannabis sector. "We haven't reached peak cannabis sales yet, mainly because large parts of the state still lack access to cannabis products," he stated. "As access expands, we expect the market to plateau at a sustainable level over the next few years."
Michigan has emerged as a formidable player in the U.S. cannabis market, securing the second spot in state-by-state cannabis sales for the first half of 2024. The state reported a staggering $1.6 billion in sales, trailing only behind California, which amassed over $2 billion despite facing significant challenges.
California, with its well-established cannabis market, continues to lead the nation in total sales. However, the state is grappling with declining legal market sales attributed to stiff competition from the illicit market and high taxes. Despite these issues, California still averages around $347 million in monthly sales.
Michigan's rapid ascent in the cannabis industry is noteworthy, especially considering that it only began legal adult-use cannabis sales in 2019. The state's average monthly sales reached $270 million in the first half of 2024, reflecting robust consumer demand and effective market growth strategies.
While California leads in total sales, Michigan outshines the Golden State in per capita sales. For the first half of 2024, California's per capita sales for its 21+ population stood at $74.90. In contrast, Michigan reported an impressive $233.97 per capita for the same demographic. This substantial difference underscores Michigan's efficient market penetration and strong consumer base.
Both states witnessed their highest sales months in March, April, and May, contributing significantly to their half-year totals. The thriving market activity during these months played a crucial role in solidifying their positions as the top two cannabis markets in the U.S. California and Michigan are the only states to surpass the $1 billion mark in legal cannabis sales so far this year.
Several factors contribute to Michigan's impressive performance in the cannabis industry. The state's relatively recent entry into the legal market allowed it to adopt best practices from other states, enhancing regulatory frameworks and business operations. Additionally, Michigan's competitive pricing and diverse product offerings have attracted a wide range of consumers.
Michigan's regulatory environment has also been conducive to market growth. State officials have implemented policies that support both businesses and consumers, fostering a stable and flourishing market. This approach has enabled Michigan to swiftly climb the ranks and compete with long-established markets like California.
As the cannabis industry continues to evolve, Michigan's strong performance sets a precedent for emerging markets. The state's ability to generate high sales figures and maintain a strong per capita sales rate demonstrates its potential for sustained growth. Observers will be keenly watching Michigan's market strategies and regulatory developments as they unfold in the latter half of 2024 and beyond.
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