LGBT History Month

Celebrate the rich spectrum of human experience with LGBT History Month! We honor the courageous individuals, pivotal events, and vibrant cultures that have shaped the journey towards equality and understanding for queer communities. From trailblazing activists who stood up against adversity to groundbreaking moments that propelled societal change, this month serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for acceptance and the power of love in all its forms. Join us in recognizing the past, celebrating the present, and paving the way for a more inclusive and compassionate future.

Happy LGBT History Month!

Dennis Peron (he/him). Dennis Peron is seen as the leader responsible for medical cannabis legislation passing in California. As an AIDS activist, Dennis understood the importance of gaining awareness and public knowledge and partnered with several others to gain signatures and change the stigma around medical marijuana. Throughout his life, Dennis believed that medical marijuana had a real place in the lives of those affected by various conditions and that it could truly help them. Near the end of this life, Peron opposed California Propositions 19 and 64 in 2010, which would have legalized recreational cannabis, because he did not believe that recreational use exists, as all people who use marijuana are using it medicinally.

Wendy Chapkis (she/they). Dr. Wendy Chapkis is an author and Professor of Sociology and Women & Gender Studies at the University of Southern Maine. Her book Dying to Get High: Marijuana as Medicine dives into qualifying conditions such as AIDS and cancer and how they were utilized to bring about the medical use of marijuana in the United States.

Richard Eastman (he/him). Richard Eastman has been dedicated to advocating for medical cannabis and changing the stigma around it for over 25 years. In 1999, he was the only AIDS patient invited to California Attorney General Lockyear’s task force meetings to advocate for medical marijuana and has helped organize various efforts to protect its use.

Paul Scott (he/him). Paul Scott is the Founder and Director of the Los Angeles Black LGBTQ Pride Movement. His empathy, activism, and determination led him to create the first medical cannabis facility in Inglewood, CA, where patients could find a safe space and have legal access to medical marijuana.

Isamarie Pérez (she/her). Isamarie (Isa) Perez works in the tech space as a cannabis advocate and has worked with over 200 companies to start careers and streamline business processes in the industry. Isa advocates for the abundant potential people of color and those in the LGBTQ+ Community have in the medical cannabis industry and encourages everyone to learn more about what it has to offer.

Amber Senter (she/her). Amber Senter has used her experience of over 20 years in project management and marketing to co-found Supernova Women, an organization dedicated to empowering people of color to become self-sufficient cannabis industry shareholders. Supernova Women worked with the City of Oakland to establish the first social equity program in the nation. Amber works to lower barriers of entry for Black and Brown people, and for communities most impacted by the failed War on Drugs.

Spotlight – Jenasis

Leading a team while coordinating interactions with patients is difficult work, but our Shift Supervisor, Jenasis, surpasses expectations brilliantly! From providing support to acting as an example for everyone in the Columbus dispensary, Jenasis’ work is incredibly important to all of us.

Q: What is one aspect of your work that you would like to improve?

One aspect of my work I would like to improve is becoming more knowledgeable about products to be able to inform patients! This is my first industry job, and although I was a patient before and have used products, there is still so much to learn!

Q: How do you envision Harvest of OH evolving in the future?

I think of flourishing success! I see so much happening for this company, especially in the near future with Ohio potentially becoming recreational. I am honestly beyond blessed to be a part of this journey with HOC, and to really see it evolve is amazing. I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else!

Q:What actions do you take to assist your team in your role?

I first identify any problems when assisting my team. Then, I ponder the best resolution for the issue based on Harvest rules and regulations that I’ve learned from my superiors. Lastly, I always stay transparent with my coworkers and patients, and I have patience for the patients. Knowledge is power!

Q: What influence has working in the medicinal cannabis industry had on you?

The influence that working in the cannabis industry has had on me has already been so impactful on my life. I have nothing but passion for cannabis and the supportive things it can do. Knowledge is power, so having the power to educate the uneducated on the benefits of medical marijuana genuinely brings me joy! I feel like a doctor and a teacher all in one! Not only that, there are so many opportunities for growth, and the fact that I am able to contribute to such a new and evolving industry is a great feeling!

Q: What steps do you take to establish good leadership skills? Please tell us about it.

The steps I take to establish good leadership skills are to stay transparent when it comes to communication, no matter what! Other steps I take are encouraging personal and professional growth, always asking for and giving direct feedback, and keeping a positive attitude goes a long way. Connecting with my team as well!

Q: What is your reaction to pressure and stress? What do you do when things don't go as planned?

My reaction to pressure and stress is to simply remain positive! Being positive in stressful situations can boost problem solving and help you see the options for a better solution, while thinking negatively will narrow your view! Also, taking a deep breath and always keeping yourself grounded will go a long way in stressful times!

Q:How would you spend your perfect free day?

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:What would you invent if you could create one new object to make your life easier?

I would invent a teleportation machine! The amount of gas I would save would be amazing!! LOL, and not only that, but I would never be late again! A win win!

Q:In your life, who do you seek guidance from?

In my life, I seek the most guidance from my momma. Throughout all the things she has gone through, she still remains resilient and optimistic, and that is something I will forever be grateful for! I also really do appreciate my friends who are there for me and give me great guidance; that’s what friendship is for, after all!

Q: Text messages or phone calls? Why?

Text messages! I love to always have what was said because you can’t keep a phone call, unless it’s a voicemail! But with messages, they’re always there!

Q:What do you like to spend your money on?

What I like to spend money on first would be my bills! But other than that, food, new dog toys for my dog, and, of course, Harvest Flower!

Q: What is your least favorite housekeeping task? Why?

My least favorite housekeeping task would be dishes! It can get a bit icky lol but thankfully we have dishwashers now!

Black Business Month – Athens Black Business

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.

● Address: 20 S Court St, Athens, OH 45701

● Website: https://www.facebook.com/mikesdogshack/

Swim Printed: Swimprinted is a garment printing 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 wanting to develop their brand.

● Website: https://swimprinted.com/

DJ B-Funk: DJ B-Funk has been serving the Athens area for over 15 years with his unique and creative sets and seamless transitions. Offering his services at a wide variety of events like weddings, festivals, celebrations, and more, every party with DJ B Funk is one to remember!

● Website: http://djb-funk.weebly.com/contact.html

Bam & Bros Barbershop: Bam & Bros Barbershop has a cozy atmosphere and great conversation! You’ll love the results from the wide range of haircut services this barbershop offers.

● Address: 20 South Court Street, Athens, OH 45701

● Website: https://www.facebook.com/mikesdogshack/

Black Business Month – KafeLA

Kafela (pronounced Café-El-A) is a family-owned-and-operated business that brings the California sunshine to Cleveland. Owner Kayla Dial opened the restaurant in 2020 during the pandemic and has since grown the business and its audience exponentially.

Located on St. Clair Avenue, the restaurant's cozy atmosphere is filled with plants, hand painted decor, and amazing music, which gives patrons a reason to return time and time again. Kafela’s staff is incredibly friendly and makes sure that your experience is fantastic and unlike any other. Everyone will find something they love here, whether it's breakfast, lunch, or dinner, all of which are available all day, 7 days a week!

Kafela’s menu is extensive, featuring many of your favorite pleasures such as coffee, smoothies, ice cream, and delectable savory dishes. It is also a must-try for anyone looking for healthy options, as many menu items can be switched out for vegan and vegetarian substitutes.

We had a fantastic time during our visit. Of Kafela's several beverage options, we tried the amazing L.A. Island and Sunday Morning smoothies, which were filled with fresh fruit including pineapples, strawberries, mangos, and more. The L.A. Island smoothie paired perfectly with the Boulevard Buffalo Wrap, a particular favorite that was finished in a few bites. Each menu item was bursting with yummy, fresh flavor that kept you coming back for more.

You won't regret stopping into Kafela. When you go, tell their wonderful staff how you liked your visit, and don't forget to tell them Harvest sent you!

Location: 6710 St Clair Ave., Cleveland, OH 44103

Black Business Month – Raw Yoga 614

Raw Yoga 614 is a black-owned and operated yoga studio in Columbus that’s perfect for those who want to have a fun hobby or even become certified yoga instructors. Co-Owned by husband and wife, Derrick and Yaizmen, the studio offers classes for all ages that are designed to meet the needs of participants at all levels. These classes are broken down into three session types: Power Yoga, Slow Yoga, and Restoring Flow Yoga. Private Yoga sessions are available one-on-one, for small groups, and even for corporate activities.

Our Brand Ambassadors met with co-owner Yaizmen for a tour and an outstanding yoga session. When they arrived in Suite 157, they were greeted with great music, gorgeous decor, and a warm atmosphere. It effortlessly shows how the studio fosters a sense of community and self-improvement in each individual.

When you visit Raw Yoga 614, be sure to tell them Harvest sent you!

Location: 25 S St Clair St, Dayton, OH 45402

Summer of Wellness

August is National Wellness Month. Celebrate your mental and physical health with us by taking the Harvest: Summer of Wellness Challenge. This month is all about prioritizing self care, managing stress, and promoting healthy routines. Making a lifestyle change by creating healthy habits can promote your overall happiness and health. At the end of our challenge, you’ll be able to look back on your progress and determine which aspects of self-care you truly enjoy!

Week One: Clean Eating

  • Balanced diet
  • Leafy greens
  • Healthy fats
  • Fiber

Week Two: Care for your Physical Health

  • Yoga
  • Walking
  • Swimming
  • Dancing

Week Three: Care for your Mental health

  • Checking in with yourself
  • Checking in with others
  • Meditating
  • Self-Affirmations

Week Four: Get out and boost your endorphins!

  • Trying a new hobby
  • Enjoying nature
  • Speak to two new people
  • Learn a new fun fact

Black Business Month – Twist Cupcakery

At Twist Cupcakery, everyone can find a sweet they love and ship their favorite flavors nationwide 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 .

Location: 25 S St Clair St, Dayton, OH 45402

Spotlight – Donte T.

With the arrival of summer, our Dispensary Associates are dedicated to bringing the sunshine to all of our locations. Meet Donte, who ensures that our wonderful Athens patients feel welcomed and well-informed!

Q: What is the most interesting aspect of working in the cannabis industry?

The most interesting aspect is, by far, seeing how far cannabis has come as an industry and all of the different ways there are to medicate properly.

Q: If you could give one piece of advice to a new Dispensary Associate, what would it be?

My advice I would give to a new associate is to just do your thing and have fun with the job!

Q:Which of the three Harvest of OH summer strains is your favorite (Apple Banana Sundae, Orangu Tang, or Phunyunz)? Why?

Easily Phunyunz; I love the effects it gives as well as its great taste.

Q: How do you believe you influence your Athens team on a daily basis?

I believe that the influence I bring is very positive. I come in every day trying to make sure that the team and patients have great days. 

Q: What is a skill you learned while working at Harvest of OH that you did not expect to have?

Patience is the key skill I learned while working in the dispensary.

Q: How do you engage patients throughout their visits?

I make them feel like we are family, and I just make sure they have had a good day. If it is an online order, I make sure they do not want to add anything to their order.

Q:What is your current obsession?

My current obsession would have to be finding new ways to make money.

Q:What ice-cream topping is your favorite?

I’m just a simple man. Throw some sprinkles on it and call it a day.

Q:Where would you travel if you were offered an all-expenses-paid trip? Why?

If I could travel anywhere, it would be to The Bahamas. It’s just a place I have always wanted to go.

Q: Are you an early bird or a night owl?

Early bird

Q:What is the first thing you do when you wake up?

Taking the dog out. 

 

Q: What would you be famous for if you could only be known for one thing?

I want to be famous for helping others around me succeed.

Hire a Veteran Day Danny C.

Veterans are always honored at Harvest of OH, and they experience our gratitude through fantastic, daily discounts! Although Hire A Veteran Day occurs only once a year, we encourage veterans to be hired on a daily basis. Danny Couch, our Dispensary Evaluator, works hard to improve all aspects of the dispensary experience at each of our locations and ensure that efficiency is a top priority at Harvest of OH.

Q: What do you like most about working at Harvest of OH?

I really appreciate the family atmosphere and the personal care shown in service by every employee, from the budtenders to the cultivators to the leadership and everyone in between.

Q: What advice do you have for other veterans in the workplace?

My advice would be to use your resources to your advantage when coming out of the military—check with your local government offices to see if there is an opening. You have an edge if you’re a veteran, which led to me getting a position at the post office when they discovered I was a veteran.for our patients.

Q:As a veteran, what does working in medical marijuana mean to you?

It allows me to help other people the same way I was helped by the goodness of cannabis. Working in cannabis gave me the ability to spread the word about how it can help by telling other people my own story.

Q: In what ways do you feel medical marijuana can help other veterans?

I swear by the use of cannabis for pain; it really helped with my back pain, and I would recommend it to all veterans and anyone else for pain management.

Q: How long were you in the military?

I was enlisted for 4 years before I was discharged in June 1980 as an E-4 Senior Airman.

Q: What branch of the military did you serve in?

I served in the Air Force.

Q:How has your time in the military prepared you for the workforce?

My job in the Air Force was in supply, and I was trained to be an inventory management specialist. I worked in the computer room distributing computer reports, key-punching, and changing and maintaining reports for different documents. At my later jobs, it really helped me out with inventory and stocking shelves.

Q:What was your first job coming out of the military?

My first job after discharge was in auto parts sales, and I took computer programming classes in the evening.

Q:What did you learn about yourself during your time in the military?

I joined at 17, so I learned to grow up. Being in the Air Force taught me about life and how to work. I was a shy kid—not that talkative—so I had to work on my communication skills. I also learned more about my strengths. I could do a lot more than I thought, and I was stronger than I thought. During my time at the post office, I didn’t think I would make 2 weeks, but I ended up working for 35 years. After a few months, I got used to it. It gave me an inner toughness I didn’t know I had.

Q: What are some fun things you and your friends did together while in service?

For fun, we had a recreation center where I loved playing pool and ping-pong. We also played football and basketball.