Ford Field, a renowned venue deeply rooted in Michigan's sports culture, recently announced a groundbreaking partnership with Primitiv, a cannabis brand co-founded by former NFL players Rob Sims and Calvin Johnson Jr., a Football Hall of Fame inductee. This partnership marks the introduction of Primitiv Performance, a product line that includes a CBD-infused drink mix enriched with electrolytes and vitamins, alongside a broad spectrum topical cream containing CBD, CBG, CBC, and CBN. This collaboration represents a significant fusion of the sports and wellness industries in Michigan, reflecting a shared commitment to holistic athlete recovery and performance.
Calvin Johnson Jr.'s transition from leveraging nature for recovery during his NFL career to co-founding Primitiv embodies a personal journey to this pioneering partnership. "The collaboration with Ford Field, a place that resonates with countless memories for me, renders this venture exceptionally meaningful," Johnson remarked. The joint vision he shares with Sims has culminated in Primitiv Performance, offering a comprehensive approach to athlete wellness that aligns with their personal experiences and ambitions.
Primitiv Performance is leading the charge in incorporating CBD into high-performance athletics, providing athletes with oral hydration solutions and transdermal creams designed for therapeutic relief. These products prioritize the benefits of minor cannabinoids, offering natural, non-intoxicating options for recovery and performance enhancement.
Reflecting on the initiative, Rob Sims expressed, "Introducing Primitiv Performance to Ford Field represents the fulfillment of a dream, merging my professional legacy with a profound interest in natural health and wellness."
The collaboration, which made its debut at the annual college football bowl game in December 2023, is set to become a staple at the 2024 event and in subsequent years. This partnership is not only a milestone for Primitiv Performance but also a significant development for Michigan's cannabis landscape, illustrating the dynamic interplay between sports, wellness, and CBD.
As the cannabis industry reaches a critical turning point, moving from a focus on high THC content to a sophisticated marketplace that prioritizes specific therapeutic benefits, consumer demand is shifting towards products that capitalize on the unique properties of cannabinoids. This trend is reshaping consumption patterns and opening up novel market segments dedicated to providing targeted effects and premium wellness experiences.
In a decisive 5-2 vote, Royal Oak city commissioners have greenlit the inclusion of a cannabis sales and consumption area at the upcoming Taco Fest in July, marking a significant nod towards the growing acceptance of cannabis in community events. The Taco Fest, which attracted 60,000 attendees in its inaugural year of 2022, will unfold from July 4th through July 7th, echoing the downtown vibrancy of the Winter Blast festival. Jon Witz, the event's organizer and the mind behind the popular Arts, Beats and Eats festival, continues to bring engaging experiences to the city.
This move comes on the heels of last year's successful introduction of a cannabis consumption and sales area at the Arts, Beats and Eats festival, which received favorable feedback from both attendees and city officials, including Mayor Michael Fournier. Despite not personally advocating for cannabis, Mayor Fournier respected the overwhelming voter support for recreational cannabis use, evidenced by the passage of the state referendum in 2019.
Expanding on last year's pilot, the City Commission has once again endorsed the concept for Arts, Beats and Eats, entrusting its execution to House of Dank, and has now extended the same opportunity to Taco Fest, with JARS Cannabis at the helm. JARS Cannabis, boasting about 35 locations across Michigan, Colorado, and Arizona, will manage the designated area in the municipal park lot at Third and Williams streets, ensuring privacy and regulated access.
Royal Oak Police Chief Michael Moore detailed the operational plans, emphasizing a controlled environment with fencing and dedicated entry and exit points. The setup mirrors JARS Cannabis's Mile High 420 Festival in Denver, which showcases the company's capability to host such events without incident, further solidifying the decision for its inclusion in Taco Fest.
Initial concerns regarding the introduction of cannabis consumption at city festivals centered on odor control and preventing minors' exposure. However, these were effectively addressed at last year's Arts, Beats and Eats with stringent security measures and sophisticated air filtration systems. The decision to move forward with a cannabis area for Taco Fest reflects a commitment to hosting inclusive, diverse, and safe events for the Royal Oak community.
The city's proactive approach to managing and integrating cannabis into public events underscores a broader acceptance and normalization of cannabis use in social settings. As Royal Oak continues to explore these new frontiers, the focus remains on ensuring safety, compliance, and community satisfaction.
The Michigan cannabis community mourns the loss of Rhory Gould, a luminary in the state's cannabis culture and a cherished friend to many. Rhory, the esteemed founder and CEO of ArborSide Compassion in Ann Arbor, passed away recently, leaving behind a legacy of activism, innovation, and compassion that has significantly shaped the local cannabis landscape.
Rhory Gould was not just a name in the cannabis industry; he was a visionary who lived his life with a profound sense of purpose and commitment to the community. For over 35 years, Rhory dedicated himself to cannabis activism, tirelessly working to destigmatize its use and advocate for the rights of patients and consumers. In 2011, he founded ArborSide Compassion, a dispensary that quickly rose to prominence as one of Michigan's top provisioning centers.
ArborSide Compassion, under Rhory's leadership, became a beacon for quality, care, and innovation in the cannabis sector. Servicing over 1,200 patients weekly, the dispensary has garnered widespread acclaim, securing more than 22 HIGH TIMES Cannabis Cup awards. These accolades not only highlight the dispensary's commitment to excellence but also Rhory's inventive spirit, particularly through the creation of original edibles crafted by in-house chefs.
Beyond his entrepreneurial achievements, Rhory was a revered mentor and educator within the cannabis community. He established an annual grow seminar coinciding with Ann Arbor's Hash Bash, attracting industry giants like Kyle Kushman, Ed Rosenthal, and DJ Short, among others. These seminars underscored Rhory's dedication to spreading knowledge and fostering a culture of learning and innovation in cannabis cultivation and use.
Rhory Gould's impact extends far beyond his professional accomplishments. He was a beacon of friendship, warmth, and genuine kindness, touching the lives of everyone he encountered. His departure leaves a void that reverberates through the hearts of those who knew him, a testament to the indelible mark he made on both personal and professional levels.
The community comes together in this time of grief, finding solace in shared memories and the enduring legacy of love and unity Rhory championed. His spirit, laughter, and lessons continue to inspire those he left behind, ensuring that his contributions to the cannabis community and the world at large will not be forgotten.
Rhory Gould's life and legacy are a reminder of the profound impact one individual can have on a community. As we bid farewell to a true pioneer, we are reminded of the importance of compassion, advocacy, and innovation. Rhory's memory will live on in the hearts of those he touched, the community he built, and the industry he helped shape. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and all those mourning this immense loss.
Calvin Johnson, the Detroit Lions' legendary wide receiver and Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee, has recently made headlines for his candid revelations about using cannabis during his NFL career. Known for his remarkable achievements on the field, including holding the record for the most receiving yards in a season and earning six Pro Bowl selections, Johnson's admission sheds light on the physical toll of professional football and the methods players resort to for pain management.
In a revealing interview, Johnson, now 38, disclosed that he turned to cannabis before games in the final stages of his career to cope with the pain. He described moments of doubt about his ability to play due to the physical demands of the sport, stating, "There were some games in my career, man, where I was just like, man, how am I going to make it today. So I just let me get my mind right. It was like in my last year when I was barely hanging on."
Johnson's use of cannabis was confined to his last year before retiring in 2015, a decision that underscores the challenges athletes face in managing pain and maintaining performance levels. Despite the controversy surrounding his method of pain management, Johnson's post-retirement endeavors continue to align with his interest in the therapeutic potential of cannabis.
In 2019, Johnson, along with his wife Brittney, ventured into the cannabis industry by opening a medical cannabis dispensary in Michigan, with additional operations in Boston. This business endeavor is a partnership that includes former NFL first-round pick Godser Cherilus and Rob Sims. Beyond his entrepreneurial activities, Johnson has collaborated with Harvard University to research the effects of cannabis on pain healing, highlighting his commitment to exploring alternative pain management solutions. His work with Harvard was notably mentioned in his Hall of Fame speech, emphasizing the potential benefits of cannabis in treating pain.
Johnson's career achievements extend beyond his groundbreaking receiving yards record. He shares records with Michael Irvin for the most 100-yard games in a season and with Adam Thielen for consecutive 100-yard games. Moreover, Johnson holds the distinction for the most consecutive games with 10 or more receptions.
This revelation from a player of Johnson's stature brings attention to the ongoing debate regarding the use of cannabis in professional sports, particularly concerning pain management and player welfare. As research and societal attitudes towards cannabis continue to evolve, Johnson's experiences and advocacy may play a pivotal role in shaping future policies and perceptions around cannabis use in athletics.
HiBnb, a platform dedicated to cannabis-friendly accommodations, events, and experiences, is making significant strides in Michigan's burgeoning cannabis tourism sector. In a comprehensive discussion, Elizabeth Becker, CEO, and Drew Farwell, CMO, delve into the nuances of what HiBnb offers and its vision for the future.
HiBnb's primary mission is to assure guests of a welcoming space for cannabis consumption, be it inside or outside their rented unit, without the fear of eviction or complaints. Further emphasizing its commitment to a seamless cannabis experience, HiBnb ensures access to legal cannabis sales, either through delivery by partnering dispensaries or by hosts sharing their own cannabis with guests. This dual assurance positions HiBnb as a unique blend between traditional accommodation booking platforms and event organizers, specifically tailored for the cannabis community.
HiBnb extends its reach beyond just lodging, inviting various property types, including rooms, suites, houses, and cabins, to join its community. This inclusivity allows hosts to cater to a wide range of preferences and needs within the cannabis-consuming public, offering them dignity and comfort during their travels.
Moreover, the platform's collaboration with Michigan-based cannabis provisioning centers and brands fosters a symbiotic relationship. Property hosts act as brand ambassadors, recommending products and facilitating sales through HiBnb's dispensary partnerships. This not only enhances the guest experience but also provides a valuable promotional avenue for local cannabis businesses constrained by advertising restrictions in traditional media.
Drew Farwell, HiBnb's CMO, highlights the unique marketing opportunities available through the platform. With the cannabis industry's advertising limitations, HiBnb offers a direct channel to a targeted, cannabis-interested audience. Brands and dispensaries can create immersive experiences, including branded properties, to engage with consumers in a way that's not possible through conventional advertising platforms.
Michigan's position as a legal cannabis state, surrounded by areas with stricter regulations, presents a unique opportunity for cannabis tourism growth. HiBnb's efforts to simplify access to cannabis-friendly lodging and experiences cater to this emerging market, attracting visitors from neighboring states and beyond. The platform's focus on Michigan, with properties and experiences throughout the state, from urban centers like Detroit and Ann Arbor to rural retreats, underscores the diverse appeal of Michigan's cannabis culture.
As HiBnb continues to expand its offerings and partnerships in Michigan, its role in shaping the cannabis tourism industry is unmistakable. By providing a platform that bridges the gap between cannabis consumers and businesses, HiBnb is not just facilitating enjoyable and hassle-free travel experiences but is also contributing to the growth and visibility of the local cannabis market.
With initiatives like HiBnb, Michigan is poised to become a leading destination for cannabis tourism, offering a rich tapestry of experiences that celebrate the state's vibrant cannabis culture. As the industry evolves, platforms like HiBnb will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in its development, driving innovation and inclusivity in cannabis-friendly travel.
In a unique show of support for the Detroit Lions during their playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Michigan's own Pleasantrees cannabis company has launched a series of eye-catching billboards. These billboards, placed strategically along Interstate 75, are not only rallying the local community but also subtly highlighting Michigan's progressive stance on marijuana usage compared to Florida's more restricted approach.
The billboards feature bold statements like "Tampa Bay Smokes Hemp. Let's Go Detroit," drawing attention to the fact that Florida permits only medical marijuana use, whereas Michigan allows recreational use for those over 21. This initiative by Pleasantrees, headquartered in Mount Clemens, is a clever blend of sports enthusiasm and cannabis culture.
Bryan Wickersham, President of Pleasantrees, explains that the billboards aim to unite the Michigan cannabis industry and its community in a light-hearted manner, leveraging common industry terms. "With the Lions fever gripping everyone, it seemed a natural fit to find a way to support our team," Wickersham commented.
The idea for these billboards was conceived ahead of the Lions' playoff game against the Los Angeles Rams on January 14th. The messages have been crafted to be cheeky yet respectful, avoiding legal complications and specific names. For instance, an earlier billboard targeting the Los Angeles game read, "Los Angeles Smokes Mids. Let's Go Detroit," a playful jab at California's mid-grade cannabis.
Wickersham notes that while not everyone may grasp the humor (he mentions even his mother queried about the meaning of 'mids'), these billboards spark conversations around cannabis, helping to destigmatize and normalize it. The choice of hemp in the Tampa Bay billboards is a nod to the legal definition of hemp products, which contain 0.3% or less THC, commonly used in states without recreational marijuana legalization.
In Michigan's burgeoning $3 billion cannabis industry, differentiating oneself through advertising is a significant challenge. Traditional advertising avenues like TV and radio are largely inaccessible to cannabis companies due to federal regulations, as marijuana remains illegal at the federal level.
Billboards have emerged as a viable alternative. They offer a legal loophole, arguing that drivers are predominantly over 16, with a significant proportion being over 21. Pleasantrees was among the first to successfully employ this strategy, inspiring other companies to follow suit.
Nationally, out-of-home advertising, which includes billboards and posters, is a growing sector. According to the Out of Home Advertising Association of America, the revenue in this sector reached $6.5 billion in the first three quarters of 2023. While cannabis companies contribute only about 1% to this national revenue, in Michigan, they account for roughly 7% of the estimated $154 million spent on such advertisements in 2023.
Wickersham emphasizes their approach to billboard advertising as distinct, aiming not for direct promotion but rather to create emotional connections and community engagement.
Pleasantrees has been innovative in its market presence beyond billboards. The company, established in 2018, has repurposed the famous Gibraltar Trade Center, a recognizable landmark in Macomb County, into a processing facility and dispensary. They also operate cultivation facilities and dispensaries in various Michigan locations.
As for the future, Ryan Wood, the creative director of Pleasantrees, hints that this won't be their last venture into event-driven advertising. Although cautious not to jinx the outcome of the upcoming game, plans for post-victory billboards are already on the drawing board, with ideas like "Green Bay smokes cheese," a playful reference to subpar marijuana, being considered.
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