Full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD products are becoming more popular as more people learn about the benefits of cannabinoids. While there are many different ways to consume CBD, full-spectrum and broad-spectrum products provide a superior experience, with a level of potency that’s often unmatched by other forms of CBD.
The term “full spectrum” refers to the presence of most cannabinoids in a product, including some traces of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). In contrast to full spectrum products, broad spectrum CBD products contain most cannabinoids but not THC.
CBD’s potential as an effective treatment for various conditions has been studied extensively over the past few years. (1). Researchers have conducted hundreds of studies on CBD, including case studies and clinical trials, which have shown promising results (2). There is evidence suggesting that CBD may also help treat other medical conditions such as chronic pain (3), anxiety (4), depression (5), sleep disorders (6), epilepsy (7), and autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis (8).
The CBD Extraction process
The extraction process involves chemical means of extracting the oil from the plant. It involves using solvents such as butane, hexane, and ethanol to extract the CBD. When using ethanol, there are chances of having acetone left behind in the end product, which can be toxic if ingested.
NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Columbia Care Inc. (NEO: CCHW) (CSE: CCHW) (OTCQX: CCHWF) (FSE: 3LP) (“Columbia Care” or the “Company”), one of the largest and most experienced cultivators, manufacturers and retailers of cannabis products in the U.S., announced it has opened a new dispensary in Colonial Heights, Virginia, under its gLeaf brand. This is the Company’s eighth dispensary in the state, and 84th active dispensary nationwide. The dispensary is located at 401 Southpark Boulevard. “As Virgin
Five people were arrested Tuesday morning in connection with a burglary at a marijuana dispensary in the Fairfax District, according to the Los Angeles Police Department.
Officers responded to a call at about 12:18 a.m. in the 7500 block of Melrose Avenue, according to an LAPD news release.
When they arrived at the back of the marijuana dispensary, they saw four to five males trying to climb the rear gate. The back door of the dispensary had been pried out. Some of the suspects climbed onto the roof of the building once they saw the police officers while two others ran back inside the building.
Officers called for backup and the LAPD’s air unit contained the area, according to police.
Five males, including a minor, were arrested and will be booked on burglary charges.
At least one suspect fled in a white Dodge Charger and was still at large Tuesday morning.
The Oregon Department of Justice is opening a criminal investigation into allegations that senior officials in the state’s alcohol regulatory agency violated ethics laws by diverting rare, sought-after bourbons for personal use, the state attorney general said Friday.
The officials said they were paying for the whiskey, which can cost thousands of dollars a bottle, but they allegedly used their knowledge and connections at the commission to obtain the products, according to an internal investigation by the Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission.
The practice had purportedly been going on for many years and involved not only state employees but also members of the Oregon Legislature, the OLCC investigator was told.
The practice consequently deprived well-heeled whiskey aficionados among the public of the tiny-batch boutique bourbons.
It also violated several Oregon statutes, including one that prohibits public officials from using confidential information for personal gain, according to the commission’s investigation.
Democratic Gov. Tina Kotek expressed outrage at the findings and on Wednesday asked the OLCC board of commissioners to fire Executive Director Steve Marks and others who have been implicated.
Kotek also asked Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum to conduct an independent civil investigation. Instead, the justice department’s criminal division opened an investigation, Rosenblum announced, adding that a civil probe would come later.
“The Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission will comply fully with the criminal investigation announced today by the Oregon Attorney General,” commission spokesman Mark Pettinger said in an email.
Criminal law involves prosecuting defendants and holding offenders accountable, usually through imprisonment or probationary sentences. Civil law addresses situations in which an economic award or penalty might help remedy a situation.
Chris Mayton, distilled spirits program director, who was one of the people accused of abusing his position, told the OLCC investigator that he had served as a “facilitator” for commission employees and legislators hundreds of times in acquiring the whiskeys as part of his work duties. He did not name any lawmakers.
The officials purportedly had very limited bottles of top-shelf bourbon routed to a liquor store, often in the Portland suburb of Milwaukie where the commission headquarters is located, and would reserve them for pickup later.
The Oregon Government Ethics Commission is in charge of investigating ethics violations by lawmakers. To date, the commission hasn’t received any complaints against legislators about the matter, Executive Director Ronald Bersin said in an email Friday.
Marks has not responded to requests for comment from The Associated Press, but in his responses during the investigation, he denied that he had violated Oregon ethics laws and state policy. However, he acknowledged that he had received preferential treatment “to some extent” in obtaining the whiskey as a commission employee. Marks and the other officials denied they resold the whiskeys they obtained.
The board of commissioners is appointed by the governor and in turn selects the executive director, according to a commission spokesman. The commissioners’ next regular meeting is Wednesday. The agency is the state’s third-largest revenue generator.
Brittney Griner arrived in the U.S. early Friday, landing at Kelly Field in San Antonio, Texas.
The WNBA star, who was held for months in Russian prisons on drug charges, was released Thursday in a one-for-oneprisoner swap for notorious international arms dealer Viktor Bout, bringing an end to an ordeal that sparked intense high-level negotiations between the Washington and the Moscow to secure her freedom.
Roger Carstens, the special presidential envoy for hostage affairs, tweeted, “So happy to have Brittney back on U.S. soil. Welcome home BG!”
Per standard procedure for freed U.S. prisoners, Griner was expected to quickly undergo a medical evaluation.
American basketball star Brittney Griner is seen getting off a plane after landing at the Kelly Field in San Antonio on Dec. 9, 2022, after she was released from a Russian prison in exchange for a notorious arms dealer.
SUZANNE CORDEIRO/AFP via Getty Images
President Biden announced Griner’s impending return Thursday morning at the White House, saying, “She’s safe. She’s on a plane. She’s on her way home.”
“After months of being unjustly detained in Russia, held under intolerable circumstances, Brittney will soon be back in the arms of her loved ones and she should have been there all along,” Mr. Biden said. “This is a day we’ve worked toward for a long time. We never stopped pushing for her release.”
CBS News was first to report the swap, which took place in the United Arab Emirates, citing a U.S. official.Five former U.S. officials told CBS News the agreement was reached last Thursday.
The president said he spoke to Griner by phone from the Oval Office, where he was joined by Griner’s wife Cherelle, Vice President Kamala Harris and Secretary of State Antony Blinken.
In this image made from video provided by Russian Federal Security Service, WNBA star Brittney Griner sits in a plane as she flies to Abu Dhabi to be exchanged for Russian citizen Viktor Bout, on Dec. 9, 2022.
/ AP
Mr. Biden said he was “glad to be able to say Brittney is in good spirits.” He dismissed the “show trial in Russia” that landed her in prison and said “she didn’t ask for special treatment.”
To secure Griner’s release, the president ordered that Bout be freed and returned to Russia. Mr. Biden signed the commutation order cutting short Bout’s 25-year federal prison sentence.
Notably, the Griner-for-Bout exchange left retired U.S. Marine Paul Whelan imprisoned in Russia. Whelan has been in Russian custody for nearly four years. He was convicted on espionage charges that the U.S. has called false.
“We’ve not forgotten about Paul Whelan,” Mr. Biden said Thursday, adding “we will never give up” on securing his release.
U.S. officials told reporters it became clear in talks with the Russians that the prospect of securing the release of both Griner and Whelan in exchange for Bout was a nonstarter, with one official saying the U.S. had “a choice between bringing home one particular American — Brittney Griner — or bringing home none.”
Whelan told CNN in a phone call Thursday he was happy Griner was free but he was “greatly disappointed that more has not been done to secure my release, especially as the four-year anniversary of my arrest is coming up.” This month marks the fourth anniversary of Whelan’s time in Russian custody.
Griner, a 32-year-old star center for the WNBA’s Phoenix Mercury, was detained at a Russian airport in February and later pleaded guilty to charges stemming from the discovery of cannabis-derived oil cartridges in her luggage. Griner said she didn’t mean to bring the cartridges with her when she traveled to the country to play in a Russian basketball league during the WNBA offseason.
After five months of stalled diplomacy and various permutations of potential swap arrangements — including a previously unreported offer by the U.S. this past summer to send two prisoners back to Russia for the two Americans — sources say the one-for-one exchange came together over the last two weeks.
Whelan, who once worked as a corporate security contractor, was in Moscow for a friend’s wedding when he was detained at a hotel in December 2018. Russian authorities later sentenced him to 16 years in prison for espionage — a charge the U.S. and Whelan denied.
Bout, who was most recently held at a federal prison in Marion, Illinois, was arrested by the Drug Enforcement Agency in Thailand following a sting operation in 2008. He was convicted of conspiring to kill Americans and began his 25-year sentence a decade ago.
Griner’s arrest coincided with the February start of Russia’s unprovoked invasion of Ukraine, and all U.S. dealings with the Kremlin have been complicated by that conflict. The U.S. has said both Griner and Whelan were “wrongfully detained,” and officials have suspected that Russia has been using the American prisoners as leverage.
Griner’s return for Bout marks the Biden administration’s second prisoner swap with Russia. In April, the U.S. traded Konstantin Yaroshenko, a Russian smuggler convicted of conspiring to import cocaine, for Trevor Reed, a former U.S. Marine who had been imprisoned in Russia for nearly three years.
CBS News learned last Thursday that the Griner-for-Bout swap was in the offing but agreed to a White House request to hold the reporting because officials expressed grave concern about the fragility of the then-emerging deal.
The Biden administration officials warned that making details of the swap public beforehand would almost certainly lead Russia to pull out of the agreement and potentially endanger Griner’s well-being.
Nancy Cordes, Ed O’Keefe, Sara Cook, Camilla Schick, Tucker Reals, Haley Ott, Melissa Quinn and Caitlin Yilek contributed reporting.
Washington — Brittney Griner, the WNBA star who was held for months in Russian prisons on drug charges, was released Thursday in a one-for-oneprisoner swap for international arms dealer Viktor Bout, bringing an end to an ordeal that sparked intensive high-level negotiations between the U.S. and the Kremlin to secure her freedom.
“She’s safe. She’s on a plane,” President Biden said at the White House, announcing the exchange.”She’s on her way home, after months of being unjustly detained in Russia, held under intolerable circumstances. Brittney will soon be back in the arms of her loved ones and she should have been there all along. This is a day we’ve worked toward for a long time. We never stopped pushing for her release.”
CBS News was first to report the swap, which took place in the United Arab Emirates, after it was confirmed by a U.S. official. The exchange agreement negotiated with Moscow in recent weeks was given final approval byMr. Biden within justthe last week, according to sources familiar with the deal.
Five former U.S. officials told CBS News the agreementhad been reached as oflast Thursday.
The president said he spoke to Griner by phone from the Oval Office, where he was joined by Griner’s wife Cherelle, Vice President Kamala Harris and Secretary of State Antony Blinken. Per standard procedure for freed U.S. prisoners, Griner was expected to quickly undergo a medical evaluation.
Mr. Biden said that he was “glad to be able to say Brittney is in good spirits,” and that she was looking forward to getting home. The president dismissed the “show trial in Russia” that landed her in prison and said “she didn’t ask for special treatment.”
To secure Griner’s release, the president ordered Bout to be freed and returned to Russia. Mr. Biden signed the commutation order cutting short Bout’s 25-year federal prison sentence.
Notably, the Griner-for-Bout exchange leaves retired U.S. Marine Paul Whelan imprisoned in Russia. Whelan has been in Russian custody for nearly four years. He was convicted on espionage charges that the U.S. has called false.
“We’ve not forgotten about Paul Whelan,” Mr. Biden said Thursday, adding “we will never give up” on securing his release. U.S. officials told reporters that it became clear in talks with the Russians that the prospect of exchanging both Griner and Whelan for Bout was a nonstarter, with one saying the U.S. had was “a choice between bringing home one particular American — Brittney Griner — or bringing home none.”
Griner, a 32-year-old star center for the WNBA’s Phoenix Mercury, was detained at a Russian airport in February and later pleaded guilty to charges stemming from the discovery of cannabis-derived oil cartridges in her luggage. Griner said she didn’t mean to bring the cartridges with her when she traveled to the country to play in a Russian basketball league during the WNBA offseason.
After five months of stalled diplomacy and various permutations of potential swap arrangements — including a previously unreported offer by the U.S. this past summer to send two prisoners back to Russia for the two Americans — sources say the one-for-one exchange came together over the last two weeks.
Whelan, who once worked as a corporate security contractor, was in Moscow for a friend’s wedding when he was detained at a hotel in December 2018. Russian authorities later sentenced him to 16 years in prison for espionage — a charge the U.S. and Whelan denied. This month marks the fourth anniversary of Whelan’s time in Russian custody.
Bout, who was most recently held at a federal prison in Marion, Illinois, was arrested by the Drug Enforcement Agency in Thailand following a sting operation in 2008. He was convicted of conspiring to kill Americans and began his 25-year sentence a decade ago.
Griner’s arrest coincided with the February start to Russia’s unprovoked invasion of Ukraine, and all U.S. dealings with the Kremlin have been complicated by that conflict. The U.S. has said both Griner and Whelan were “wrongfully detained,” and officials have suspected that Russia has been using the American prisoners as leverage.
Griner’s return for Bout marks the Biden administration’s second prisoner swap with Russia. In April, the U.S. traded Konstantin Yaroshenko, a Russian smuggler convicted of conspiring to import cocaine, for Trevor Reed, a former U.S. Marine who had been imprisoned in Russia for nearly three years.
CBS News learned last Thursday that the Griner-for-Bout swap was in the offing but agreed to a White House request to hold the reporting because officials expressed grave concern about the fragility of the then-emerging deal.
The Biden administration officials warned that making details of the swap public beforehand would almost certainly lead Russia to pull out of the agreement and potentially endanger Griner’s well-being.
Nancy Cordes, Ed O’Keefe, Sara Cook, Camilla Schick, Tucker Reals, Haley Ott and Melissa Quinn contributed reporting.
These are the stories making headlines in fashion on Wednesday.
Business of Fashion and McKinsey Release State of Fashion 2023 report Business of Fashion and McKinsey & Co. released their annual report, “The State of Fashion 2023,” containing insights for the upcoming year and 10 key trends that are set to shape the industry. Business of Fashion CEO Imran Amed cautions of an upcoming global “polycrisis” between the economy and fallout from Russia’s war in Ukraine. Major findings include that a whopping 56% of fashion executives are bracing for an industry slowdown through 2023 amid various pressures. However, luxury sales are likely to carry the industry, expected to grow 10% over the year. The industry remains cautious on the dangers of greenwashing. {Business of Fashion}
Taylor Russell covers Dazed for Winter 2022 “Bones And All” star Taylor Russell covers Dazed in Loewe, telling Connor Garrel about her love of nature and Patti Smith in the cover story. Though portraying “a loping, heartbroken flesheater” in the film, Russell revealed her childhood dreams to leave Canada, which led her to trying ballet before acting. Dazed wrote Russell “has the warm, inviting disposition of an old friend.” {Dazed}
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Gucci opens applications for next Changemakers initiative Gucci announced applications are open for its fourth class of the North America Changemakers initiative on Giving Tuesday. These funds are intended, according to the press release, to “support talented students and non-profit organizations that amplify stories and opportunities within diverse communities inspiring solutions for a better future.” Gucci claims to have invested nearly $4.7 million in its scholarship programs to date. Applications are due on Feb. 3 and you can find more info here for scholarships and here for the impact fund. {Fashionista inbox}
Edie Parker is reaching younger shoppers with ‘Weedie Parker’ line Where the brand may be known for pricy evening clutches, there are now handbag options under the Weedie Parker line, like the $150 customizable Bodega Bag, that help expose the brand to younger consumers, founder Brett Heyman tells Glossy’s Sara Spruch-Feiner. As cannabis is increasingly decriminalized, so is fashion increasingly taking inspiration from the magical plant. {Glossy}
Homepage photo: Carlijn Jacobs/Courtesy of Dazed
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German lawmakers on Wednesday approved plans to decriminalize the purchase and ownership of recreational cannabis, according to multiplenewsoutlets, a significant step on the road to legalization and an opportunity for the North American industry to gain a foothold in Europe’s richest and most populous country.
German lawmakers approved a plan to legalize cannabis.
Getty Images
Key Facts
Germany’s federal cabinet reportedlyapproved a proposal from the health ministry to legalize the purchase and possession of small amounts of cannabis for recreational use as well as its sale and production.
The plan, presented by health minister Karl Lauterbach, would allow adults to purchase and possess up to 30 grams of cannabis for their own recreational consumption.
The government would regulate cannabis production, sale and distribution as part of legalization efforts, Lauterbach said at a press conference, according to Deutsche Welle.
Cultivation would be limited to two or three plants per person and sales will be limited to specialist stores.
Advertising and marketing cannabis products will also be banned, according to the plans.
Key Background
Lauterbach said the proposal makes for “the most liberal legalization of cannabis in Europe,” according to Deutsche Welle, as well as its “most regulated market.” The health minister has touted the legalization drive as part of a “safety first” approach to the drug that acknowledges the drug’s continued use and health risks alongside the black market currently fueling it. He said the approach could serve as a model for the whole of Europe, where only a handful of countries have decriminalized recreational cannabis and only one, Malta, has legalized it. The framework marks a potential boon for Germany’s young cannabis industry, as well as the North American firms already profiting from legalization and are keen to expand.
What We Don’t Know
The cabinet’s approval kicks off a potentially lengthy process to legalize cannabis. As a member of the EU, German laws must also comply with European legislation and lawmakers fear a poorly crafted framework could be torn down by the European Court of Justice. The court has previously said member states should prevent the sale of cannabis, a possible issue for Germany’s proposal of government regulation.
What To Watch For
According to Bloomberg, the German government plans to explore limiting the amount of THC in products for adults aged 21 and under. THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is a key psychoactive component in cannabis and is responsible for the drug’s high. Potent weed with higher amounts of THC can have a greater impact and is associated with more health risks than milder forms of the drug.
A Virginia woman this week was indicted by a grand jury on murder and felony child neglect charges after her four-year-old son died earlier this year from eating a large amount of THC gummies, authorities said. Dorothy Annette Clements, 30, was taken into custody Thursday, the Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office reported in a news release.
Clements’ young son, Tanner, died on May 8, two days after he had been found unresponsive at his home, the sheriff’s office reports. Doctors informed detectives that his toxicity level showed a high amount of THC, which led investigators to determine that the boy had “ingested a large amount of THC gummies,” the sheriff’s office said in its release.
Detectives also learned from doctors that the boy could have been saved had his mother acted sooner, the sheriff’s office said.
“The attending doctor told detectives that if medical intervention occurred shortly after ingestion, it could have prevented death,” the release read.
Before being indicted, Clements told CBS News affiliate WUSA9 that she had no idea the gummies she bought actually contained THC. She eventually realized her son had eaten one gummy, but did not believe it would harm him. She also claimed she called the Poison Control Center.
However, the sheriff’s office said her statements were not consistent with the evidence authorities found at the home.
Clements is being held without bail in the Rappahannock Regional Jail.
The accidental consumption of cannabis edibles by children is on the rise in the U.S., according to the National Capital Poison Center.
The number of children under 12 who have ingested edibles at home jumped from 132 in 2016, to almost 2,500 last year, according to numbers from the American Association of Poison Control Centers.
Children are often more susceptible to unintentional cannabis exposure because edibles are presented in colorful, attractive packaging that resembles candy or other snack foods.
“Cannabis edibles may be in packaging that is remarkably similar to snack foods that are popular among children and adolescents, including Doritos, Nerds, and Cheetos,” the National Capital Poison Center writes on its website. “While the packaging does state that the product inside contains cannabis or THC, this information is often in small print and cannot be easily read or understood by young children.”
Republican Texas Gov. Greg Abbott said he won’t consider pardons for low-level marijuana offenders after President Joe Biden called on governors across the country to consider pardons.
“Texas is not in the habit of taking criminal justice advice from the leader of the defund police party and someone who has overseen a criminal justice system run amuck with cashless bail and a revolving door for violent criminals,” Abbott spokesperson Renae Eze said in a statement Thursday.
“Just as no one should be in a federal prison solely for possessing marijuana, no one should be in a local jail or state prison for that reason, either,” Biden tweeted.
Abbott spokesperson Eze explained the process of issuing pardons in Texas in her statement, saying Abbot would not consider pardons.
“The governor of Texas can only pardon individuals who have been through the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles system with a recommendation for pardon,” she said.
Meanwhile, Democratic candidate for Texas governor Beto O’ Rourke has promised to legalize weed in the state should he be elected.
“When I’m governor, we will legalize marijuana and expunge the records of those arrested for marijuana possession — and we’ll use the nearly $1 billion in new state revenue and reduced criminal justice costs to invest in public schools and reduce property taxes,” O’Rourke’s campaign website says.
The Long Island Association hosted a panel of cannabis and banking experts Thursday to discuss the industry’s financing challenges and support federal legislative solutions.
Organized by the LIA’s Financial Services and Tax Policy Committee, the panel focused on the obstacles presented by the illegal status of cannabis on the federal level, mainly that entrepreneurs operating in the Long Island market will not be able to bank or obtain financing from a federally insured institution.
“This dialogue is timely and important to have especially with New York set to open stores before the end of this year,” said Matt Cohen, LIA president and CEO. “We want to make sure companies interested in this emerging market have all of the information they need, and businesses leaders involved in this industry understand the obstacles current federal regulations pose to entrepreneurs.”
The banking situation creates other challenges for businesses beyond financial impracticality, including public safety and concerns that come with operating a cash-only business. There are proposals in Washington to address the issue, and until it is resolved cannabis companies will have to find alternatives to banking with federally insured institutions and will struggle with this issue.
The panel included Chef Ali of HiFive Edible Wonders Inc., a co-founder of The Cannabis Accountability Group; Linda Armyn, chief strategy and marketing officer for Bethpage Federal Credit Union; Brian Patrick Herrington, vice president of external affairs for Scotts Miracle-Gro; and Peter Su, senior vice president of Green Check Verified. The discussion was moderated by Maureen Evers-Willox, managing partner at KPMG LLP, and a co-vice chair of the LIA’s Financial Services and Tax Policy Committee.
“Because cannabis is still considered illegal at the federal level, there is a disconnect between federal and state law,” said Su, whose firm is a provider of cannabis banking solutions and advisory services for financial institutions. “This has a serious impact on business owners and workers who find themselves barred from capital and other banking services–they cannot operate safely, efficiently, nor successfully without any form of access to financial institutions.”
Proposed federal legislation called the SAFE Banking Act seeks to harmonize federal and state law by prohibiting federal regulators from taking punitive measures against depository institutions that provide banking services to legitimate cannabis-related businesses and ancillary businesses.
Small business caterer Chef Ali, who supports the proposed legislation, said it’s vital for any emerging industry to have a safe and sound foundation for success.
“Without laws in place like SAFE Banking, cannabis workers and entrepreneurs will continue to be limited economically, and safety-wise,” she said. “It shouldn’t be a privilege to be safe from violence and crime in your place of work, but should rather be the norm, no matter the industry you are employed in.”
Herrington agreed and urged action by the federal government.
“Congress is at a critical juncture and must act now on the SAFE Banking Act to positively affect the financial and physical safety of New York’s businesses, consumers, and workers,” he said.
President Joe Biden took steps to overhaul US policy on marijuana on Thursday by pardoning thousands of people with federal offenses for simple marijuana possession and initiating a review of how the drug is classified.
Biden said thousands of people with prior federal convictions could be denied employment, housing or educational opportunities and his executive action would relieve such “collateral” consequences.
Nearly 40 US states have legalized marijuana use in some form, but it remains completely illegal in some states and at the federal level. Reclassification would be a first step toward wider legalization, a move backed by a majority of Americans, and usher in sweeping changes for companies and law enforcement and impact millions.
The president’s decision fulfills a campaign promise and is likely to please members in his left-leaning political base ahead of the November midterm elections in which the president’s fellow Democrats are defending control of the House of Representatives and Senate.
“Too many lives have been upended because of our failed approach to marijuana. It’s time that we right these wrongs,” Biden said.
He urged state governors to follow suit.
“Just as no one should be in a federal prison solely due to the possession of marijuana, no one should be in a local jail or state prison for that reason, either,” Biden said.
A senior administration official said more than 6500 people with prior federal convictions could be affected by the pardons.
Shares of cannabis growers and sellers surged following Biden’s comments, with Tilray Brands and Canopy Growth both jumping more than 20%.
Supporters welcomed the move and its impact on racial imbalances in the US justice system.
“The United States will never justly legalize marijuana until it reckons with the outdated policies that equated thousands of young Black men with hardened drug pushers,” said Al Sharpton, president of the National Action Network civil rights group.
“They were thrown behind bars for years on end for simple possession, a non-violent offense, for a substance that red states and blue states are now legalizing at a furious clip.”
Some Republicans, who US voters prefer over Democrats for addressing crime-related policies, criticized it.
“In the midst of a crime wave and on the brink of a recession, Joe Biden is giving blanket pardons to drug offenders— many of whom pled down from more serious charges,” Republican Senator Tom Cotton said on Twitter. “This is a desperate attempt to distract from failed leadership.”
BIG CHANGES AHEAD
The results of a classification review could have wide ramifications. At present, the drug falls under the same classification as heroin and LSD and is in a higher classification than fentanyl and methamphetamine, the president said.
If marijuana classification were to ease at the federal level, that could allow major stock exchanges to list businesses that are in the cannabis trade, and potentially allow foreign companies to begin selling their products in the United States.
While many states have legalized the medical or recreational use of cannabis, its illegal status under US federal law has forced most major banks to deny their services to cannabis-related businesses.
The issue has forced US marijuana companies to trade their shares over the counter or by listing in Canada, with the Nasdaq and New York Stock Exchange prohibited from listing them.
The president’s action drew praise from some members of Congress and from the industry.
“The Progressive Caucus applauds this action by President Biden today to advance criminal and racial justice,” said Representative Pramila Jayapal, who chairs a group of left-leaning lawmakers, in a statement.
“This represents a major step in righting the wrongs of the past and amending policies that have negatively impacted so many,” said Khari Edwards, head of corporate social responsibility at Ayr Wellness Inc, one of the top US cannabis retailers.
Biden said he had directed Attorney General Merrick Garland to develop an “administrative process” to issue certificates of pardon to those who are eligible.
“The Justice Department will expeditiously administer the President’s proclamation, which pardons individuals who engaged in simple possession of marijuana, restoring political, civil, and other rights to those convicted of that offense,” the department said in a statement.
Biden said certain rules needed to stay in place even as regulations around the country loosened.
“Finally, even as federal and state regulation of marijuana changes, important limitations on trafficking, marketing, and under-age sales should stay in place,” Biden said.
The global cannabis industry is forecast to hit $55 billion in sales by 2026, with the US market growing to $40 billion by then, up from $25 billion last year, according to cannabis focused research firm BDSA’s September projections.
Industry experts believe US federal reforms could push those figures much higher.
Employees of Massachusetts-Based Cannabis Operator Create Road Race Team to Raise Funds and Awareness to Support Dana-Farber’s Mission to Defy Cancer
Press Release –
Aug 18, 2022
SOMERSET, Mass., August 18, 2022 (Newswire.com)
– Today, Solar Cannabis Co. (Solar) announced its “Team Green” runners participating in the 50th Falmouth Road Race raised a $13,500 donation to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (Dana-Farber), a world leader in adult and pediatric cancer treatment and research.
In support of the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, employees of Solar created “Team Green,” who will be participating in the 50th running of the historical Falmouth Road Race on Aug. 21, 2022. Team Green, which comprises 11 runners, banded together to create a first-of-its-kind, cannabis-industry race team and successfully helped raise a $13,500 donation to aid in Dana-Farber’s mission to defy cancer. Dana-Farber is renowned as one of the leading cancer treatment and research institutions in the Northeast and provides adults and children battling cancer the very best treatment available today while developing tomorrow’s cures through cutting-edge research.
“We are so humbled and couldn’t be more grateful for the funds raised by Team Green runners and the donations we received from a mix of amazing friends, family, and partners,” said Derek Gould, Director of Marketing and Communications at Solar Cannabis Co.
Solar’s employees conceptualized Team Green to not only generate funds and awareness for Dana-Farber’s mission, but also raise awareness of cannabis’ positive role in mitigating – or even removing – cancerous symptoms and side effects of various cancer treatments. All of Team Green’s fundraising will be donated to Dana-Farber’s “Unrestricted Funds” program for their patients. These funds cover any procedures or treatments or treatment aids that are not covered by traditional insurance and make a daily difference in the care, comfort, and life of each and every patient.
“There are so many people that have been directly impacted by cancer in one way or another,” said Gould. “To be able to deliver this donation to Dana-Farber and support their mission to defy cancer is truly a remarkable feat that we couldn’t have done alone.”
In addition to the funds raised by Team Green runners, other support and donations included Solar Cannabis Co., Hub International, BayCoast Bank, Advance Manufacturing Co., Corporate Image Apparel, The American Legion, Last Prisoner Project, MassEON, and The South Coast LGBTQ+ Network. Following the 50th running of the Falmouth Road Race, Solar will be hosting a finish line after-party at the Falmouth Raw Bar, which will feature food, beverages, and more.
About Solar Cannabis Co. Based in Somerset, MA., Solar Cannabis Co. (Solar) is a 67,000-sq-ft. vertically-integrated cannabis operator that cultivates and produces recreational marijuana/marijuana-infused products. To date, Solar is unlike any indoor cannabis manufacturing facility in America. With a commitment to sustainable and innovative practices, Solar’s flagship facility was designed to reshape the way cannabis is cultivated. Through the implementation of microgrid assets (solar arrays and high-efficiency, combined heat & power units), LED lighting and 90% water reclamation, Solar is able to produce premium cannabis while lowering its overall energy profile as well as generating over five megawatts (MW) of clean power on-site. Learn more at www.solarcannabis.co.
Marijuana supporters gathered at the Colorado State Capitol in Denver to honor the date, April 20th, a day celebrated annually by pot enthusiasts and informally known as the unofficial holiday, “420.”
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Massachusetts-based Cannabis Manufacturer Partners with New England Veterans Advocacy Organization to Help Raise Awareness and Support
Press Release –
updated: Nov 10, 2020
SOMERSET, Mass., November 10, 2020 (Newswire.com)
– Solar Therapeutics (Solar) – America’s only energy-independent cannabis company – today announced its partnership with Clear Path for Veterans New England (CP4VNE) in efforts to help raise visibility and deliver support for its wellness-based Veterans’ Community Center located in Devens, MA.
“Solar and CP4VNE share a common belief about how we need to aid and assist our Veterans throughout all stages of their reintegration into civilian life,” said Ed Dow, CEO of Solar. “We’re beyond excited to partner with Clear Path for Veterans New England. We will do everything in our power to inspire our network and community to support Clear Path’s amazing mission and programs.”
CP4VNE mission is built on providing a safe and supportive community for Veterans to access the assistance they need to successfully reintegrate into civilian life. Rather than disjointing these resources into different locations, CP4VNE consolidates its services onto its campus, which is spread throughout Fort Devens. Their newly renovated headquarters is an epicenter comprising programs that enable Veterans the opportunity to interact with their fellow servicemen and women. While on the campus, service members have access to programs including, service dog training and pairing, peer-to-peer mentoring, workforce redevelopment, yoga, meditation and fitness classes, family aid and support networks, as well as other various social activities and events.
“This is an exciting time for us,” said Donna Bulger, Executive Director & Vice President at Clear Path for Veterans New England. “It takes a united effort to offer the proper care for our servicemen and women and we’re proud to support all of those who have proudly served our country. Partnering with an organization such as Solar allows us to continue connecting our Veterans with the resources they need to thrive in civilian life.”
To kick off the partnership, Solar will be retailing custom-branded CP4VNE camouflage apparel at its Somerset dispensary and online store. All proceeds from sales will go directly to Clear Path to help support its wellness center, as well as other initiatives planned for 2020 and beyond.
About Solar Therapeutics
Based in Somerset, MA, Solar Therapeutics, Inc. (Solar) is a 67,000 square foot, triple-tier marijuana cultivation facility coupled with on-site and off-site dispensary storefronts that supply both medical and recreational cannabis products. Solar is organized as a MA. domestic for-profit corporation and has secured a Certificate of Registration from the MA. Cannabis Control Commission to operate in the Commonwealth. Developed behind the mantra Elevated. By Design™, Solar is unlike any cannabis manufacturing facility in America. Its key differentiators are its production architecture, which is centered around the facility’s innovative design that utilizes green infrastructure and microgrid assets comprising a combination of solar arrays and high-efficiency combined heat and power generation units. These green concepts enable Solar to produce sustainable cannabis both by lowering its overall energy profile as well as by generating all of its own clean power. While initial facility design lowered Solar’s energy profile by over 40%, the microgrid assets help to further reduce the remaining emissions by at least 60%, with a goal to offset completely. Learn more at www.solarthera.com
About Clear Path For Veterans New England
Based in Devens, MA, and founded in 2017 by a team of dedicated volunteers, Clear Path for Veterans New England (CP4VNE) is a 501(c)3 with one mission — to build a safe, supportive and respectful establishment for Veterans to seek the help and resources they need to successfully reintegrate into their communities. What makes CP4VNE unique is the consolidation of its services and programs into one campus, which is located on Fort Devens. CP4VNE is modeled after the successful programs of Clear Path for Veterans New York and its decade-long success, where the emphasis of “family” is the integral part and the first line of defense in upholding wellness. Clear Path NY continues to provide assistance, training and mentoring to support CP4VNE to provide programs and services that work. Learn more at www.clearpathne.org
DENVER, October 17, 2018 (Newswire.com)
– Advanced Bio-Oil Technologies Limited (ABOT) is providing the various industries a platform to produce bio-oil at-will using any supply of biodegradable carbon molecule. Whether it would be for the biodiesel industry, the cosmetic or pharmaceutical, this process is producing more and better bio-oils. ABOT is pleased to announce, on this day when Canada has legalized cannabis, that its platform for producing high-grade Medical Bio-Oil will range from skincare products formulated to help improve the appearance of scars, stretch marks and uneven skin tone to numerous medical uses of CBD (cannabidiol) bio-oils. Our products that will contain CBD bio-oils will not be marketed in the United States for the present time until the laws change at a federal level but ABOT will be seeking licenses in Canada and abroad.
ABOT continues to navigate the new Regulation A+ IPO path to market. This new type of initial public offering is an alternative to a traditional IPO, which makes it easier for smaller, early-stage companies like ABOT to raise up to $25 million in investment capital from the public, not just accredited investors. It’s a crowdfunding alternative where early investors become actual shareholders.
Regulation A+ paves the way for new companies to go to market, with fewer requirements and regulations than a traditional IPO process. This is of concern to some regulators who worry that inexperienced investors may not fully understand what they are getting into. Transparency helps address this. ABOT urges potential investors to review our filings with the SEC (linked below) to see our solid business proposal and to follow the progress of the company as we navigate to our IPO.
ABOT as a company has certainly matured during this journey. In the following months, ABOT will be issuing more press releases of significant milestones which have shaped our vision.
We are a Wyoming start-up alternative Bio-Oil business corporation with an office, initially, in Denver, Colorado. Our product is known as “Bio-Oil.” The trade name of our bio-oil product is “ABOT-inside.” We have a License Agreement in place with a Canadian company, Lux Biologics Limited (“Lux Bio”).
Regulation A+ has provided a fantastic opportunity to drive growth for small businesses. At Advanced Bio-Oil Technologies Limited, our priority is to ensure that we partner with the SEC as well as our agents, attorneys and other professionals to responsibly complete this process as intended. Compliance is key to ensuring the door of opportunity remains open for others to follow.
A note on compliance – Mireille Samson, CEO, Advanced Bio-Oil Technologies Limited:
“Compliance is key for going public. The process of companies going public under Regulation A+ is very new, which is why people are just starting to hear about it now. Not only do we have to run and promote our company, but we need to work very closely with the SEC to ensure we abide by all regulations that are covered by compliance rules. There are no shortcuts to going public – we have to work through the process to qualify. We are committed to deliver for them, and I know they are just as excited as we are to hit the markets and see a great return for their investment as we grow our business and make this IPO a reality.”
Certain statements in this press release including, but not limited to, statements related to anticipate commencement of commercial production, targeted pricing and performance goals, and statements that otherwise relate to future periods are forward-looking statements. These statements involve risks and uncertainties, which are described in more details in the Company’s periodic reports filed with the SEC, specifically the most recent reports which identify important risk factors that could cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are made and based on information available to the Company on the date of this press release. Advanced Bio-Oil Technologies Limited Inc. assumes no obligation to update the information in this press release.
Mireille Samson CEO Advanced Bio-Oil Technologies Limited contact@ab-ot.com 999 18th Street, Suite 3000, Denver, CO 80202. Tel: (720) 262-5245
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, October 16, 2018 (Newswire.com)
– RAD Laboratories Inc. of Vancouver, Canada, and its wholly owned subsidiary RAD Laboratories Colombia SAS, announced today that it’s concluding its relationship with NewCanna SAS and NewCanna Hub of Colombia.
Since January 2016, RAD Laboratories has worked closely with NewCanna and the indigenous peoples of Colombia developing the core of its cultivation and extraction business.
Although the concept of the NewCanna Hub is appealing, it does not allow RAD to realize the value of its core competencies in the extraction and formulations of plant-based medicine through its indigenous relations.
Richard Stieler, Founder, RAD Laboratories
Richard Stieler, founder of RAD Laboratories, states that “Although the concept of the NewCanna Hub is appealing, it does not allow RAD to realize the value of its core competencies in the extraction and formulations of plant-based medicine through its indigenous relations.”
RAD entered into a business relationship with NewCanna because of RAD’s humanitarian focus and high expectations of strengthening indigenous relations and to help them better their position in Colombia’s emerging legal cannabis industry.
Richard Stieler has stepped down as the chief operations officer of NewCanna SAS and NewCanna Hub to devote his time and energy to helping the indigenous facilitate the management of foreign trade and other international opportunities within the cannabis industry.
The above departures are not related to any disagreement with NewCanna regarding financial disclosures, accounting or business matters.
Contact:
Richard Stieler Richard@RADLaboratories.com
Certain statements contained in this press release constitute forward-looking information. These statements relate to future events or future performance. The use of any of the words “could,” “intend,” “expect,” “believe,” “will,” “projected,” “estimated” and similar expressions and statements relating to matters that are not historical facts are intended to identify forward-looking information and are based on the Company’s current belief or assumptions as to the outcome and timing of such future events. Actual future results may differ materially. The forward-looking information contained in this press release is made as of the date hereof, and the Company is not obligated to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. Because of the risks, uncertainties and assumptions contained herein, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The foregoing statements expressly qualify any forward-looking information contained herein.
Patient support group takes matters into their own hands, and seeks out help to conduct a Migraine Cannabis Study
Press Release –
updated: Nov 10, 2017
TORONTO, November 10, 2017 (Newswire.com)
– MigraineBudsis an organization started by a patient advocate Jodie Epstein who suffers from chronic migraines. This online support group has information on cannabis specific to migraines and headaches. The MigraineBuds community is 1750 patients strong and growing, which provides a forum for discussing everything cannabis- and migraine-related. Jodie was eager to create a safe, non-judgmental space to have these conversations.
Migraine affects approximately 10 percent of people worldwide, with many patients unable to find adequate pain management. Many migraineurs also suffer from Medication Overuse Headache (MOH). MOH occurs when pain relief medications are taken too frequently. This can occur when a patient has taken too much caffeine, ergots, or pharmaceutical medications such as opioids, triptans or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
“The social reform of chronic pain medicine includes medical cannabis as a viable and first choice option for migraine sufferers. Review of medical history indicates that the Cannabis sativa plant was frequently used by physicians to treat acute and chronic migraine headaches in North America and was discontinued when drug prohibition removed the plant from the pharmacopeia. I have been treating chronic migraine sufferers with medical cannabis with great results and look forward to the research benefits for all of society.”
The MigraineBuds community is interested and keen to participate in clinical research that will help to demonstrate the efficacy of cannabis in the treatment of migraine.The proposed study will also examine the effect cannabis may have on MOH.
The Canadian Institute for Medical Advancement, a research organization, has agreed to help conduct the study. Accordingly, Dr. Sana-Ara Ahmed, a clinical Anesthesiologist & Chronic Pain Specialist, has agreed to participate in the research study. Dr. Ahmed is an advocate for chronic migraine pain patients and treats numerous patients at her clinic The Health Boutique™. Dr. Ahmed is a specialist and educator in the use of medical cannabis for chronic pain, including migraines, and advocates the use of cannabis as an effective method of treatment.
“There is a shift in research looking at a patient-centric approach and one in which patients are partners and collaborators in research whose participation is core to the success of any research study. It’s a privilege to be asked to help Jodie and her group with this study,” says Sabrina Ramkellawan, Founder of the Canadian Institute for Medical Advancement.
To increase the chances of success with this study, a call for Sponsors, Licensed Producers, and Physicians who understand how life-changing this evidence could be for migraine sufferers is being sent out. Study launch is planned for early 2018, and the hope is to have a number of collaborators in this important study.
Additionally, the organization is also looking for interested potential participants. If you suffer from migraines with MOH, and would like to be a part of migraine history, please connect with Jodie Epstein! jodie@migrainebuds.com https://www.facebook.com/groups/migrainebuds
For media inquiries and/or research partnerships contact Sabrina Ramkellawan at 416-543-5041 or sabrina@cifma.ca. Website: www.cifma.ca
Source: Canadian Institute for Medical Advancement
LAS VEGAS, NV, July 25, 2017 (Newswire.com)
– Grow For Vets USA,™ a national tax-exempt organization that has given away more than $1.4 million of free medical cannabis products to Veterans of the United States Armed Forces, today announced plans to host one of their signatures free medical cannabis giveaway events for Veterans, in Las Vegas, Nevada.
According to Grow for Vets USA™ founder and U.S. Army Veteran, Roger Martin, Veterans attending this event will receive a free cannabis ‘Go Bag’ containing a variety of donated cannabis and hemp oil-based products.
More than one million Veterans are presently at risk of dying from opiate overdose.
Roger B. Martin, Founder
All cannabis products originating from private donors have been tested and certified safe by DB Labs of Las Vegas. Martin noted that “DB Labs is our Official Nevada Testing Lab. They are Nevada’s best testing lab and they ensure that the cannabis products we give Veterans are safe. Other sponsors playing a key role in this event include Las Vegas’ own dr.dabber and Elevate Nevada. National brands including O.penVAPE, Urban Ag, Boveda, Incredibles, Bee-Nails,along with Official Media Partner mg Magazine, have been instrumental in putting on this event.”
When asked why to Grow for Vets provides Veterans with free medical cannabis, Martin said, “More than one million Veterans are presently at risk of dying from an opiate overdose.”
Martin further noted that in 2016, “More American heroes died from prescription drug overdose and suicide than all military personnel killed in combat in every year combined, since the end of the Vietnam War more than 40 years ago.”
EVENT DETAILS
Event Date and Time: July 29, 2017 • 11 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Event Location: The Fortune Hotel & Suites • 325 East Flamingo Road, Las Vegas
RSVP Deadline: Thursday, July 27, 2017, at 5:00 p.m. PDT
Cost: FREE to all Veterans and up to 2 guests
Please note that this event is open to Grow for Vets members only. Veterans wishing to join Grow for Vets can do so online at www.GrowForVets.org. Membership is free.
About Grow for Vets USA Grow for Vets USA has given away more than $1.4 million dollars in medical cannabis products to American heroes. The mission of Grow for Vets USA is to help save the staggering number of Veterans who die each day from suicide and prescription drug overdose. We provide Veterans with the knowledge and resources necessary to obtain and/or grow their own cannabis medicine. We are working to raise awareness by enlisting the public’s aid and support in ensuring that all wounded, injured, and ill Veterans receive the respect and dignity of life that they deserve. Our purpose is to provide Veterans with unique products, programs, and services designed to assist them in living with injuries sustained while protecting our freedom. Grow for Vets USA is a national, nonpartisan, tax-exempt organization headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. To get involved or to learn more, please visit www.GrowForVets.org.
Grow for Vets USA’s medical cannabis related activities are conducted only within jurisdictions allowing such activities. All cannabis and cannabis related products distributed by Grow for Vets USA are grown and manufactured within the state in which they are distributed. Grow for Vets USA is a 501(c)(19) tax-exempt, nonprofit organization.
Cannabis industry leaders gathered in Washington consider a novel tactic to legalize adult-use marijuana in NY.
Press Release –
updated: May 15, 2017
Washington, DC, May 15, 2017 (Newswire.com)
– As cannabis industry leaders gather in Washington, DC, to lobby the nation’s congressmen to relax federal laws prohibiting the sale and use of cannabis, medical marijuana and hemp, one group proposes a novel tactic to bypass the NY State legislature and legalize adult-use marijuana by a direct vote of the people in New York. Restrict & Regulate in NY State 2019 (RRNY) is holding a private briefing to explain the periodic mandatory vote in NY State on whether to hold a constitutional convention, or “ConCon.”
Not to be confused with a federal constitutional convention, New York is one of 15 states whose state constitutions require a periodic popular vote on holding a state constitutional convention. Thus on November 7, 2017, a sleepy off-year election, New Yorkers will go to the polls to find, buried at the bottom of the ballot, the question “Shall there be a convention to revise the constitution and amend the same?” If they say “no,” the process will end. If they say “yes,” a two-year process will be triggered, culminating in a popular vote on changes to the NY state constitution proposed by a convention to be held in April 2019.
“Our government, both in Washington and in Albany, is dysfunctional and unpopular, and in NY it is corrupt as well. The electoral college elected Trump but the people elected Clinton, and many inside and outside of our movement believe that establishment insiders rigged the primary system to deny Bernie Sanders an opportunity to run for President. The level of anger is palpable. The vote this November 7 in New York will be an early bellwether of what will come in 2018.”
Josh Alper, Events and Communications Committee Chairman
The last time NY voted yes on this question was 1967. Voters rejected this call in 1977 and 1997, but RRNY believes 2017 will be different. “The political and technological landscape is completely different today than it was 20 years ago,” said Josh Alper, one of the organizers of the briefing. “We live in an age of cellphones and social media, live-streaming and fake news. In 1997, the internet was only just taking off. In 1967, cellphones were barely imaginable.
“Our government, both in Washington and in Albany, is dysfunctional and unpopular, and in NY it is corrupt as well. The electoral college elected Trump but the people elected Clinton, and many inside and outside of our movement believe that establishment insiders rigged the primary system to deny Bernie Sanders an opportunity to run for President. The level of anger is palpable. The vote this November 7 in New York will be an early bellwether of what will come in 2018.”
“At the same time, use of cannabis has become mainstream. 56% of Americans say the use of marijuana is socially acceptable. Support for medical marijuana and hemp is through the roof. Our industry ran ballot initiatives in 9 states in 2016 and won 89% of them, and we bring millennials out to vote, largely because they find it shameful to keep people locked up and destroy their lives for doing something or possessing something that they see as harmless and commonplace. RRNY believes it is crystal clear that New Yorkers will turn out in much higher numbers than usual and they will vote to override the NY legislature on a number of issues, including cannabis, marijuana and hemp, by voting to have a state constitutional convention on November 7.”
The briefing will be led by Dr. Peter Galie, renowned scholar and author on the NY constitution, and followed by Ben Tulchin, pollster for Bernie Sanders in 2016. Dr. Galie will speak on the NYS Constitution, its history, the history of this mandatory ballot question in NY State and the results of previous NYS ConCons, while Tulchin will talk about how to shape campaign strategy using data-driven polling and social media.
