Small Business Saturday: Celebrating Local Gems
Small Business Saturday is a day to celebrate the small businesses that provide so much for our communi es and contribute to the economy. As the year comes to a close, we’re taking a moment to reflect on all of the fantas c small businesses who we’ve been fortunate to find and highlight. On this day, we encourage you to shop small and explore your city’s local gems!
KafeLA: This family-owned-and-operated restaurant brings the California sunshine to Cleveland! Offering a cozy atmosphere filled with plants and amazing music, KafeLA gives patrons a reason to come back me and me again. Everyone can find something they love, be it breakfast, lunch or dinner during any me the doors are open.
Twist Cupcakery: At Twist Cupcakery, everyone can find a sweet they love at and ship their favorite flavors naonwide to a friend in a tasty cupcake jar. Located in Downtown Dayton, the cupcakery makes sure to use the best ingredients so that their treats are both amazing to look at and eat. Cupcake flavors rotate each day with other bakery staples such as wedding cakes, brownies, and chocolate pretzels .
The Shack: This convenience store has all you need! Located right in Athens, this one-stop shop offers a wide variety of quick and easy needs, from tasty snacks to flavorful drinks.
Bam & Bros Barbershop: Bam & Bros Barbershop: Bam & Bros Barbershop has a cozy atmosphere and great conversaon! You’ll love the results from the wide range of haircut services this barbershop offers.
Swim Printed: Swimprinted is a garment prinng business that serves its patrons with high-quality, custom prints. Dedicated to helping people of all budgets, Swimprinted’s print-on-demand services are perfect for anyone wanng to develop their brand.
DJ B-Funk: DJ B-Funk has been serving the Athens area for over 15 years with his unique and creave sets and seamless transions. Offering his services at a wide variety of events like weddings, fesvals, celebraons, and more, every party with DJ B Funk is one to remember!
Raw Yoga 614: This Yoga Studio is perfect for those who want to have a fun hobby or even become a cerfied yoga instructor. Classes are offered for all ages and are designed to meet the needs of parcipaters at all levels, creang a sense of community and self-improvement in each person. Private Yoga sessions are available one-to-one, for small groups, and even for corporate acvies.
Healthy Aging Webinar Recap
Stepping into a medical marijuana dispensary for the first time can be daunting, especially for older people. This free webinar “Healthy Aging: Medical Cannabis for Older Adults,” sponsored by The Plain Dealer and cleveland.com, provides expert advice about how to safely and legally use medical marijuana.
Play Video
5 Amazing Ways to Raise Awareness for National Cancer Day
5 Amazing Ways to Raise Awareness for National Cancer Day
1. Showcase the Color
Cancer awareness, like many other qualifying conditions, is represented by various colors. While pink is widely recognized as the color for Breast Cancer, there are also multicolored ribbons that symbolize different types of cancers. For example, Carcinoid Cancer is symbolized by a ribbon with a zebra pattern, and cervical cancer is represented by teal and white.
2. Promote Regular Screenings & Checkups
Early detection is very critical for better cancer outcomes. Screening tests can help detect cancer at an early stage, before symptoms even appear. Encourage your family, friends, and neighbors to make frequent check-ups and screenings a priority. You can even participate in awareness campaigns or utilize social media to spread awareness of the significance of early detection.
3. Participating in Fundraising Events
Get hands-on in raising cancer awareness by participating in fundraising events. Charity races, auctions, and bake sales are not only enjoyable but also effective ways to raise resources and support for cancer research and local services.
4. Support Local Cancer Organizations
Cancer organizations help provide incredibly important resources and help to patients and their families.
Your support allows them to continue and carry out their mission. Volunteering your time or making donations to these organizations are fantastic ways to make sure that they keep moving forward.
5. Advocate for Cancer Research Funding
Cancer research is truly important in developing new treatments and improving what we know of this qualifying condition, Writing letters to your politicians, attending public meetings, and asking for more funding at all levels of government helps these research centers learn more about the disease and its
treatments,
Medical Cannabis Awareness Week: The Journey of Medical Cannabis in Ohio
It's Medical Cannabis Awareness Week! If Ohio passes Issue 2's Marijuana Initiative on November 7th, it will become the 24th state in the United States to legalize recreational marijuana. As we look toward a new chapter, we reflect on the journey of medical cannabis in Ohio and how far we've come in the last decade.
- In 2015, Ohio voters rejected the Marijuana Legalization Initiative, with a little more than half voting “no”. This initiative was not popular among Ohio voters, and was highly criticized for attempting to create a monopoly on marijuana, and lacked backing from pro-legalization groups.
- In 2016, we saw the legalization of medical marijuana, when House Bill 523 was passed in the House of Representatives 71-25.
- In 2018, The Board of Pharmacy announced the activation of the Patient and Caregiver Registry
- In 2019, the first medical marijuana dispensary opened its doors
- In 2021, the Coalition to Regulate Marijuana Like Alcohol (CRMLA) began its efforts to get the initiative on the ballot. The group spent four months gathering signatures to submit to the secretary of state.
- In 2022, several new states, like Maryland and Missouri, approved recreational marijuana through legislation like Issue 2.
- In 2023, The Coalition to Regulate Marijuana Like Alcohol was given a 10-day cure period to get the 679 signatures they were short on. During this time, they received more than ten times that, raising the total of valid signatures to 127,772 and ensuring the initiative for the ballot.
As the general election approaches on November 7th, we encourage each person to exercise your right to vote. Your vote is your voice!
Make it Rec! Don’t Wreck it? – Get out the vote
This November, you will have the power to effectively change the course of the medical marijuana industry forever. Issue 2 will officially make cannabis legal for recreational use, giving all Ohio citizens the opportunity to enter the marijuana industry equitably.
Issue 2 aims to create an equitable framework that allows all Ohio citizens to participate in the versioning marijuana industry. Unlike previous initiatives that were criticized for attempting to create a monopoly, Issue 2 seeks to level the playing field. This could mean more opportunities for small businesses and individual entrepreneurs, not just large corporations with significant capital.
What is Issue 2?
● The “Regulate Marijuana Like Alcohol Initiative”, also known as Issue 2, is the commercialization, regulation, and legalization of recreational marijuana for adults ages 21 and above in Ohio.
● The initiative proposes a comprehensive regulatory structure overseen by the Division of Cannabis Control. This body will be responsible for licensing operators and ensuring compliance with state laws. This centralized approach aims to streamline the process and maintain high standards across the industry.
The Journey of Recreational Marijuana in Ohio
● So far, 23 states have legalized recreational marijuana, making Ohio the 24th state if the initiative passes in November.
● In 2015, Ohio voters rejected the Marijuana Legalization Initiative, with a little more than half voting “no”. This initiative was not popular among Ohio voters, and was highly criticized for attempting to create a monopoly on marijuana, and lacked backing from pro-legalization groups.
● In 2016, we saw the legalization of medical marijuana when House Bill 523 was passed in the House of Representatives 71-25.
● In 2021, the Coalition to Regulate Marijuana Like Alcohol (CRMLA) began its efforts to get the initiative on the ballot. The group spent four months gathering signatures to submit to the secretary of state.
● In 2022, several new states, like Maryland and Missouri, approved recreational marijuana through legislation like Issue 2.
● In 2023, The Coalition to Regulate Marijuana Like Alcohol was given a 10-day cure period to get the 679 signatures they were short on. During this time, they received more than ten times that, raising the total of valid signatures to 127,772 and ensuring the initiative for the ballot.
What Does a Recreational Ohio Look Like for Consumers?
● The Division of Cannabis Control will be responsible for licensing marijuana operators and facilities and will oversee the compliance and standardization of marijuana businesses and production in Ohio. This ensures a standardized approach to compliance and quality across all marijuana businesses in Ohio.
● Allows the legal cultivation, processing, sale, purchase, possession, and home growth of marijuana.
● Adults 21 & older to possess up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana and up to 15 grams of marijuana concentrate. Additionally, adults will be permitted to cultivate up to six marijuana plants at home, with collective households being able to cultivate up to 12 plants. The cultivation must take place within a secured area that is not visible from public spaces and prevents access by individuals under 21. If two or more adults reside in a single residence, up to twelve cannabis plants can be cultivated.
● The creation of additional protection for those who partake in permitted adult use of cannabis by establishing the cannabis social equity and jobs program. Additionally, shielding confidential information that will identify any adult cannabis users and their application information from being disclosed as public record.
● The taxation of all recreational marijuana products at 10%, with all tax revenue going to the adult use tax fund and quarterly distributed into four other funds:
○ 36% to the cannabis social equity and jobs fund
○ 36% to the host community cannabis facilities fund
○ 25% to the substance abuse and addiction fund
○ 3% to the division of cannabis control and tax commission fund
● Passing Issue 2 could generate over $400 million in new tax revenue for the state of Ohio
● Employers are not required to accommodate an employee's use, possession, or distribution of adult-use cannabis. They can also establish drug-free workplace policies, which could affect consumers who are also employees.
● Adult-use cannabis cannot be used in certain public spaces like churches, public libraries, public playgrounds, public parks, or schools.
● The sum of Delta-9 THC and 87.7% of Delta-9 THCA present in the product or plant material will be considered as THC, which could have implications for the potency of products available to consumers.
● The controlled and regulated sales and use of adult-use cannabis aim to reduce illegal marijuana sales and provide a safer, regulated product. It also aims to limit the transportation of out-of-state cannabis into Ohio.
What Does Recreational Ohio Look Like for Licensed Marijuana Operators?
● The Division of Cannabis Control (The Division) operating within the Department of Commerce.
● The Division will regulate, investigate and penalize adult use cannabis operators, adult use testing operators, and individuals required to carry a license.
● Limit Criminal liability for certain financial institutions that provide financial services to adult use cannabis operators or testing laboratory licensed. Financial institutions can request detailed operator information, potentially easing the process for operators to secure loans or other financial services.
● If passed, all operations will switch to The Division over a 30 day period, but the industry as a whole may take longer.
What are the arguments?
● Supporting
○ U.S. Rep. Dave Joyce (R): "Modeled after the alcohol industry, which accounts for the unique needs, rights, and laws of each state, this proposal establishes a regulatory regime based on the specific desires of individual communities. The measure lets communities determine for themselves the best approach to cannabis within their own borders by keeping it out of communities that do not want it. It also allows employers to maintain policies prohibiting employee drug use and keeps cannabis out of the hands of anyone under the age of 21 without the consent of a medical professional."
○ Tom Haren, spokesperson for the Coalition to Regulate Marijuana Like Alcohol: "We are proposing to regulate marijuana for adult use, just like we do for alcohol. Our proposal fixes a broken system while ensuring local control, keeping marijuana out of the hands of children, and benefiting everyone."
○ Tax Revenue: Supporters argue that legalizing marijuana for recreational use will generate substantial tax revenue for the state.
○ Law Enforcement: The legalization would reduce the burden on law enforcement agencies.
○ Social Equity: The initiative aims to address social equity concerns, providing opportunities for marginalized communities.
○ Consumer Choice: Some believe adults should have the right to make their own decisions about marijuana use, especially since it is considered less dangerous than cigarettes and alcohol.
● Opposing
○ Protect Ohio Workers and Families: "We know that recreational marijuana legalization is meant to make a few investors rich, not to make Ohio better. Legalizing recreational marijuana is today’s version of Big Tobacco - big corporations getting rich at the expense of our kids and society. That’s why people from all walks of life are coming together to vote 'NO' this November."
○ Ohio Governor Mike DeWine (R): "I do not, however, support legalizing marijuana for recreational use. I have seen the negative effects it has had in states that have legalized it and fear that it would also lead to increased use by underage kids and that small children could consume marijuana-laced foods that look like candy."
○ Public Health: Opponents are concerned about potential adverse effects on public health, including increased rates of addiction and impaired driving incidents.
○ Impact on Youth: There is concern about the impact of legalization on young people and the potential for marijuana to serve as a gateway drug to more dangerous substances. Even though the age to obtain marijuana is 21 and older.
○ Economic Concerns: Critics argue that the initiative is designed to make a few investors rich at the expense of society.
Conclusion:
In summary, if Ohio's proposed adult-use cannabis regulations are enacted, they will establish a comprehensive legal framework for the industry. The initiative, if passed, will go into effect 30 days after approval, allowing adults aged 21 and up to cultivate cannabis at home starting December 7th.
Businesses with existing medical cannabis licenses will have a competitive advantage, as they will be eligible for preferential adult-use licenses. However, the full transition to this new regulatory landscape may take up to a year, as the state will need time to hire staff and develop specific regulations. This phased approach is similar to what was observed in Arizona, where recreational cannabis became legal in November 2020, but the first state-licensed sales didn't occur until January 2021. Importantly, there will be no cap on the number of licenses that may be awarded, potentially increasing competition within the industry.
For patients currently enrolled in the medical marijuana program, the proposed regulations do not specifically address how medical and recreational programs will operate in parallel. However, it is worth noting that in states like Michigan, the number of medical marijuana cards decreased after the legalization of adult-use cannabis. In Ohio, if the initiative passes, all recreational cannabis purchases would be subject to a 10% tax, in addition to existing state and local sales taxes. This may incentivize medical cardholders to retain their cards, as they would be exempt from the adult-use tax.
The proposed regulations are comprehensive, covering everything from specific definitions to advertising guidelines and THC content limits. Financial institutions will have limited criminal liability when providing services to cannabis operators, which could facilitate business loans and other financial services for dispensaries.
While there is some opposition to the initiative, most are against repealing it if passed. Any amendments would likely focus on additional protections for businesses and possible caps on THC content.
FAQ’s
● Household Growing: How does this work with roommates, multiple family homes, and properties with multiple structures? Adult use consumers can cultivate, grow, and possess not more than six cannabis plants at their primary residence. If two or more individuals who are at least 21 years old reside at a single residence, not more than twelve cannabis plants can be cultivated or grown. The cultivation must take place within a secured closet, room, greenhouse, or other enclosed area on the grounds of the residence that prevents access by individuals less than 21 years of age and is not visible from a public space.
● What is the process for home growers to become licensed? The document does not provide details on a separate licensing process for individuals who wish to grow cannabis at home for personal use.
● Adults 21+ being able to sell: What does this mean for non-operators? Adults are allowed to transfer up to six cannabis plants to another adult use consumer as long as the transfer is without remuneration (they can’t receive funds) and not advertised or promoted to the public.
● Will licensed brands (like Harvest) be allowed full advertisement and marketing freedom? This is still the regulation Division of Cannabis Control may adopt rules regulating advertisements of license holders to prevent advertisements that are false, misleading, targeted to minors, promote excessive use, or that promote illegal activity. However, these rules shall not overly burden the legitimate commercial speech of adult use cannabis operators in communicating with adult use consumers. The Division may also adopt time and place restrictions to prevent advertising targeted to minors. The Division can conduct audits of a license holder's published advertisements to ensure compliance and may require a license holder to stop using an advertisement if it violates the rules.
Spotlight – Kris
Every day, we strive to keep our company on a successful path, with our strengths and opportunities only rising to meet a bright future. Meet our Chief Financial Officer, Kris, who works tirelessly to support Harvest of OH and all of its activities.
Q: What do you believe Harvest of OH’s biggest strengths are?
I think our biggest strength is that we see each other as family. We are always willing to help out and support our team in any way that we can whether it’s business or personal.
Q: What have you discovered about the industry since taking over as CFO at Harvest of OH?
The industry is very volatile, especially in Ohio. There are great months where patients visit our shops multiple times a month and there are slower months where we may see a regular patient once a month.
Q:How do you identify the determinants of growth in a medicinal marijuana company?
I make sure to look at revenue and patient count to see growth.
Q: Where do you anticipate the medical marijuana market going in the future?
I anticipate that we will see the marijuana market remain stagnant in the US for some time. Big change in an industry like this usually come in small, incremental wins. Unfortunately, I still think we have a while to go before the entire country treats marijuana the way states like California or Colorado do.
Q: Are there any professional experiences that have helped you prepare for the role of CFO?
My college experience at Howard University in Washington DC and positions at JP Morgan Chase in New York really set a great foundation for me in terms of my finance knowledge and leadership skills. In college, I was able to meet with many executives of Fortune 100 companies, present case studies in different countries, and was able to intern at three different companies. That led to a career on Wall Street where everything is faced-paced and volatile, just like the marijuana industry in Ohio is.
Q: What advice would you give to other financial professionals working in the marijuana industry?
Pay great attention to your margins!
Q: Who was a huge positive influence in your childhood?
My mom was a huge positive influence in my childhood. Seeing her take on industries that you typically don’t see a lot of Black women in, such as construction or cannabis, and succeed has been inspirational to so many people–me included. It drives me to be motivated to succeed.
Q: October is National Wellness Month. Are there any wellness habits you want to incorporate into your life?
I really want to get into meditation, but I’m never able to just sit in complete silence and turn my thoughts off. I hear it’s really beneficial, even if only doing it for a minute or two a day.
Q:What is something that will never go out of style?
Jordans!
Q: What is something that will never go out of style?
Hmm, I’m not sure.
Q:11) If you could speak another language fluently, which one would you choose?
Japanese. I went to Japan earlier this year and really loved the vibe of Tokyo and Osaka. I was about the same height as everyone there too, so that was a plus. I also respect that they don’t really speak English over there.
Q: What movie or tv show always makes you laugh, no matter how many times you watch it?
Wolf of Wall Street. 10/10 movie. Leo was robbed for that Oscar!
Healthy Aging Webinar
November 14, 2023 | 5:00 - 6:30 p.m. | FREE Virtual Event | on Zoom
Have you often wondered about the health benefits of medical cannabis? Do you have questions you want to know the answer to but have been afraid to ask?
Look forward to expert conversations on:
- Compliance & safety regulations
- Health conditions and benefits
- Obtaining a medical card
- How to approach the topic with your doctor
- What to expect when going to a dispensary
- Detailed product overview
Event Moderator
Julie Washington, Healthcare Reporter, cleveland.com
Expert Sessions
Amonica Davis, COO, Harvest of Ohio
Sean Lamb, Compliance Officer, Harvest of Ohio
Medical Cannabis for Older Adults
This segment will cover medical conditions that can be treated or managed with medical cannabis, how to bring the topic up with your healthcare provider, and cover what to expect when you go into a dispensary for the first time.
Keya Kellum, Director of Marketing and Procurement, Harvest of Ohio
Amonica Davis, COO, Harvest of Ohio
Product Overview Brought to You by Amplify
AJ Caraballo, Amplify, Retail Director and Pharmacist
Virtual Exhibitor Booths
Spotlight – Maurice
Our Brand Ambassadors work to create an amazing patient experience filled with knowledge and a friendly atmosphere in our dispensaries, as well as getting the best content to you on our social media channels and blog. Maurice's amazing work at Beavercreek to keep patients informed about great, high-quality items truly contributes to the success of Harvest of OH.
Q: What makes you proud to work for Harvest of OH?
Working at a family-operated, female minority-run medical dispensary allows me to take pride in promoting diversity and inclusivity while providing essential healthcare services to the community I serve. Also, I’m proud to help patients receive personalized care that caters to their unique needs on a day-to-day basis.
Q: What does being a Brand Ambassador mean to you?
Being a Brand Ambassador to me means representing our business values, which are building connections in our community and sharing my knowledge to educate patients and creating a positive and welcoming atmosphere for them.
Q:Which personality traits do you possess that help you as a Brand Ambassador?
Excellent communication skills, approachability, enthusiasm, empathy, and a genuine passion for helping others.
Q: You’ve worked on various projects as a Brand Ambassador. Which was your favorite?
My favorite project has been the Harvest Week Influencer Box Giveaway!
Q: What is the best part about working in medical marijuana?
One unique aspect of working with medical marijuana is navigating the complex and evolving legal and regulatory framework surrounding its use, distribution, and research.
Q: Can you name something (projects, events) that you would like to experience here at Harvest of OH? If so, what?
I’d like to experience educational workshops on medical marijuana, patient support groups, and a giveaway to loyal patients.
Q: What’s the first thing you would do if you won a million dollars?
I would spend my perfect free day starting off with taking my dog Blu on a walk! That’s always first, lol! Then I would make a big breakfast. Medicate and go explore either a new park or one of my favorites with some friends! Some days I don’t like to do too much; just being in nature would suffice!
Q: Which book, TV show, or movie had the most influence on you growing up?
Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill
Q:If you could only eat one thing for a week, what would it be? Why?
It would be fruit. I love fruit!
Q: If life were a video game, what cheat code would you want to use most?
A cheat code called Art Universe. When used, you could transform everything, including yourself, into different art styles like impressionism, surrealism, and abstraction. It’s like living in a world where reality is a canvas and you’re the artist, constantly painting new scenes. This cheat would let you turn life into a moving work of art, blurring the boundary between what’s real and what’s creatively imagined.
Q:What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
Embrace uncertainty and change. Get comfortable with being uncomfortable.
Q: Can you describe your perfect day?
Enjoying a relaxing day with family and friends—listening to music, creating art, and being medicated.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
