Cover Story
By Mila K. Marshall, Ph.D. Cannabis Corner Editor
Green Lights and Mic Checks: GLC’s Journey with Cannabis&Hip Hop
Irecently spoke with Leonard "GLC" (Gangsta Legendary Crisis) Harris, a Chicago native and well-known hip-hop artist who has more layers than a newbie to Chicago winter. Our hour-long interview is filled with trips down memory lane of 1990’s Chicago. He tells me how "dope" it is to be on the cover of Chicago News Weekly and that sure he’s been interviewed before but never had the cover story. You could hear him smiling over the phone. The 1990’s and early 2000’s were a mix of creating and surviving for GLC. He is one of the few who was capable of both.
Today, GLC not only walks among legends, having worked with hundreds of high-profile artists, he’s a legend himself -- in fact, it says so right in his name. His journey through life is filled with moments of deep loss, serendipity, and intuition. He strives to live righteously and authentically, and without regret. His demeanor is gritty but tender. He’s music when he speaks, his words rhythmic and poetic.
From the outside, GLC’s life is charmed but filled with the same challenges of loss and stress of any Black
Chicago child. Maintaining the essence of cool, he shares stories of his success. From writing and performing hot tracks to buying into the bud business, Grammy award-winning GLC talked about all things family, elevation, weed, and the “ism.” Although he started his own motion picture company, he is far from the Hollywood type. He’s still just a kid from Chicago.
Musical Beginnings
Music is in GLC's DNA. His father was a nightclub DJ who passed away when he was just 8 months old. It wasn’t uncommon for his home to be filled with music.
“My family just played music all the time. There were so many records in my house, we had phonographs and record players. I had two older brothers and two older sisters, several cousins, uncles, and aunts were up on the latest greatest music and I just gravitated to it,” he recounted.
Far from shy, he recalls taking every opportunity to perform.
“I started doing talent shows when I was in elementary school, and park district summer camps, and I would win.
GLC’s verse on “Spaceship” is a classic on West’s 2004 album "The College Dropout":
“Waitin' patiently I ask myself Where I want to go, where I want to be Life is much more than runnin' in the streets”…
A year later, he was featured on Ye’s sophomore album, "Late Registration." "Drive Slow" was produced by West and featured Houston rapper Paul Wall and GLC. The album debuted at number one on Billboard. Now, nearly 20 years later, it has a little over 83 million streams on Spotify alone. Two decades ago, he was asking where he wanted to go and where he wanted to be. His debut album, "Love, Life & Loyalty," was a roadmap for his response. The 13-track album featured John Legend, Bun B, Sir Mix-A-Lot, BJ the Chicago Kid, the Legendary Traxster, Bump J, and Twista. He followed up with "The Eternal Sunshine of the Pimpin’ Mind" in 2011 and "The Anti Simp" in 2012. Today, what he knows for sure is he is a vessel for change and is using all of his creativity to remind fans to elevate beyond their circumstances.
The War on Drugs … the War on Us
I'd be winning lunchroom freestyle battles every day at Simeon and my confidence just elevated,” GLC said.
He takes the time to note that it’s his alumni week and runs down the names of other notable Wolverines.
“We’ve got so much talent that came from that school from professional ball players to elected officials, comedians.
To be part of that legacy I’m proud. There are a lot of people that went on to do amazing things,” he shared.
From Grammar School Talent Shows to Grammy Awards and Nominations
His teenage years are when he found himself connected to one of the most brilliant producers of all time -- Kanye West.
“I had a friend from elementary school who was cool with a producer who went to another school. He linked us together, and that producer just happened to be Kanye, we were kids,” he said.
He’s traveled the world as a performer and worked with hundreds of award-winning artists. Most notably his friend and past GOOD Music label mate Ye.
One way GLC elevates himself is with marijuana. He opened up about his own experiences and unsurprisingly connects the dots between health, advocacy, and being part owner of Cronja, a cannabis company. GLC reminisces about when he first smelled it and how he and his friends started experimenting. He vividly describes life as a 6-year-old growing up during the War on Drugs. His voice trails as if he’s still that first grader… the numbness of seeing death from overdosed Black bodies and he is adamant that indeed it was a war… but not on drugs.
“It was an everyday routine my brother would get up to go to school. We’d get to the front door, get downstairs when we opened up the door, somebody was laid out at the bottom of our stairs, and we got down the stairs and someone would be laid out. This was the crack era. I was just a little kid when I saw my first dead body. I was thrown but I just had to go to school. That is what life was sometimes. It was a war on us,” he said. Despite how propaganda attempts to demonize marijuana, GLC, who's also a Type I Diabetic, never experienced the plant as a gateway drug but more as a medicinal intervention and respects the
...This was the crack era. I was just a little kid when I saw my first dead body. I was thrown but I just had to go to school. That is what life was sometimes. It was a war on us...
nature of the plant and its benefits.
“Those infomercials always market asking people, do you or anybody you know suffer from diabetes? But I never looked at myself as suffering, because I'm not,” he said.
Inner peace is where he invests his energy and for him marijuana is a joy enhancer.
His Brother's Keeper
It had to be divine intervention that GLC learned so much about marijuana. As fate would have it, his expertise would elevate him from brother to cannabis caretaker as his older sibling Baba Kwesi Harris was diagnosed with Stage VI cancer with only weeks to live. Known as Mr. Holistic, he found himself helping support the longevity and quality of his brother's life.
“Nobody really knew what was going on. Doctors told my brother he had 30, maybe 90 days to live. He was not big on cannabis at all. He wanted nothing to do with it. He came from the years where messages were being pushed that it was the devil's harvest and it made you do bad things. It’s never made me want to do something negative. But my brother, he let me help him and I convinced him to try hemp seed oil. He was taking maybe three tablespoons per day. He lived for almost four more years past the doctors' expectations. Being holistic, I suggested other natural herbs and supplements besides cannabis oil,” said GLC. He, like others, has personal connections to the plant's healing properties.
“Al Harrington is another great example of a brother that introduced medical marijuana to his grandmother, he even named his company after her -- Viola,” he said.
Becoming an Owner of Cronja
The plant has been part of hip-hop culture in GLC’s opinion. Since he was already a proponent of its medical benefits and enjoyed elevation himself, it was only a matter of time before a brand invited him to co-sign. He emphasized just how important relationships were for moving forward to buying shares of the cannabis brand.
It all began in 2010 in Atlanta when GLC met who would later become co-founder of Cronja, Ryan Cron, who is a Marine Corps combat veteran. He, like GLC, isn't just promoting pot for the sake of financial gain. Indeed, Cronja is clearly anchored in wellness and access. Cron often talks about using medical marijuana for his PTSD and is very vocal about the addictiveness of opioids
in veterans.
“It was really because of a solid relationship. I had met Ryan when I was performing in Atlanta. He was always really supportive of my music and over the years we got a chance to get to know each other. When the opportunity arose it was all in alignment. They had high-quality products, a strong direction and we all came from a bit of a hip-hop background. It was the right time and it just fit,” GLC said.
In fact, that is the very topic he will be discussing at the Black CannaBiz Conference and Expo on his panel titled "The CRONJA Story: The Importance of Partnerships," which will be held on Friday, July 26th at the Swissotel in downtown Chicago.
Imprinting the Illinois Market
Cronja, although Black and veteran-owned, wasn't awarded one of the highly coveted Illinois licenses. But the brand has honed in on creating strong ties with the cannabis community and being present with their swagged out premium rolling trays. As the company finds its way through partnerships and creative marketing, GLC’s celebrity is perfect timing and maybe one of the most boss moves ever. Products can be ordered online or purchased at any of the 10 stores in the Chicagoland area. But the genius is in how GLC is doing what rappers have been doing with their private label brands -- strategic product placement in their music videos.
Three Brands. Two Owners. One Music Video.
GLC’s recent collaboration with Wiz Khalifa on the cannabis-inspired song “Kush & P” was produced by the legendary producer No ID along with Xcelence, Sickone, ZoMixedIt, DJ Pharris, and SkattaMan. Beyond the iconic production team, the visuals were historic.
“When we did that video, what was so dope about it was that here we are with our own brands of cannabis in the video. We weren’t just showcasing; we actually own those companies,” he said proudly.
“People are still in jail for this, and other folks are making all this money. We even had John Monopoly’s brand in it,” he said.
Marketing and advertising are tricky with the mix of government regulations. GLC, as an artist, has a platform that a company like Cronja needs to navigate the complex regulatory landscape. It is a clever move in the fickle industry. But GLC had to give a nod to one other Chicago-based brand and rapper.
“Gotta show love to Vic Mensa with 93 Boyz. He’s another one here at the crib doing good things with his brand and social equity,” he said.
Balance is His Brand
Just a few weeks ago, GLC released a new single with J. Ivy titled “Who am I?” It seems as though GLC is not done asking himself some of the best questions many others probably should. A standout lyric from the track, “the downfall of a hustler is when he gets greedy,” couldn’t be more relevant to where he is in his life to date.
A stunning AI short film that accompanies the track showcases that the rapper’s continues to push creative boundaries. He doesn’t hoard his talent. He is far
from selfish with his time and resources but recognizes burnout and is cautious to ensure he’s always in the best position to help others. I asked him how he balances it all.
“You know, I’m a person that wants to help and see change. But you know how when you’re on a plane, they say put your mask on first before helping others ... I have to always keep that in mind. I’m of no help if I have nothing,” he said. Later this holiday season, GLC will also be balancing the return of his vegan dessert brand, Ism Cakes, to store shelves. As the interview came to an end, GLC invites readers to enjoy whatever gets them elevated and listen to a specially curated playlist titled “Smoke & Ism.” I encourage you to press play.
CHICAGO’S CANNABIZ SPEAKERS
L-R page 4
Dr. Angelyn Anderson
Dominique White
Fred Spencer
Arianne Richards
Peter Contos
Donna Bracy
Ahmad Islam
Felicia Santiago
Edie Moore
Mila Marshall Ph.D
Leonard ‘GLC’ Harris
Shawnee Williams
around town CannabiZ
THuRSdAy SCHEduLE
7:00 AM - 9:00 AM BreakfaST
9:00 aM - 5:00 PM Black CannaBiz Expo Open
9:00 AM - 9:15 AM Opening address: Precious Osagie-Erese, Michael Malcolm
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM
The Current State of Illinois Cannabis:** Shawnee Williams, Eddie Moore, Neffer Kerr, Peter Contos, Reese Xavier
9:50 AM - 10:20 AM Resiliency: The R3 Grant Program’s Other “R” Sen. Kimberly Lightford, Ambrose Jackson, Kristi Price
10:25 AM - 10:55 AM
11:00 aM - 11:30 aM
11:35 aM - 12:00 PM
The Next frontier: How Tapping into other cannabinoids of the plant is shifting the industry politically and economically:** Fredricka Easley, Christine DeLaRosa, Steven Philpott
Cultivating Clean Cannabis: Guy Rocourt
The Journey to C Suite: Gibran Washington, Fred Spencer, Khari Edwards, Menelik Washington
12:00 PM - 2:00 PM LuNCH
1:00 PM - 1:45 PM
2:00 PM - 2:45 PM
3:00 PM - 3:45 PM
The realities of raising Capital: Whitney Beatty
• The Columbusing of Cannabis: A Call to Action for increased Inclusivity and Cultural Awareness in the Industry: Tai Duncan, Jai Kensey, Dr. Angelyn M. Anderson, Asya Hill
• Cannabis Tourism: The $17B Industry that Few People Know About: Norman Lawrence
• Brand Integration in Store Design:** Aiden Sims, Dario Boyce
• Legislative Affairs Panel: Michigan/Chris Jackson
Tracking Your Marketing rOI: Blandine Jean-Paul
• Why Market Structure Matters in the Creation of an Equitable Market: Rodney Holcomb
• The Big 5: Medical Conditions that Disproportionately Affect Black People and Where Cannabis Can Help: Dr. Bridget Williams MD
• Spotlight on Cannabis Pharmacists:** Cassandra Gosa
Cannabis Accounting Tips: Naomi Granger
• Managing Risk in Cannabis: Cameron Ward
• Choosing Your Team: Internal and External: Donna Bracey, Chris Atkinson
• Perfecting Your Pitch: Presented by S.E.E.N.
CannabiZ
FRIdAy SCHEduLE
7:00 AM - 9:00 AM BreakfaST
9:00 aM - 5:00 PM Black CannaBiz Expo Open
9:00 AM - 9:30 AM
9:35 AM - 10:10 AM
9:50 AM - 10:20 AM
10:25 aM - 10:55 aM
Lessons Learned from California: Becoming Legends of the Craft: Chris Ball, Charles Ball, Whitney Beatty, Ebony Anderson, Cristalle Bowen
Cannabis advocacy in the Black Community: Challenges and Opportunities: Arianne Richards, Doug Kelly, Felicia Santiago, Elaina Green, Al Kamara
The Cronja Story: The Importance of Partnerships: Michael Malcolm, Leonard “GLC” Harris, Precious Osagie-Erese
Scaling Successful Brands through Multi-State Opportunities: Jesse Horton, Derek Levy, Menelik Washington
11:00 AM - 11:30 AM rooted in Good Pitch Competition
11:35 aM - 12:00 PM
12:00 PM - 12:30 PM
The Business of Technology: Ryan D’Wolff Munro, Sean Ilenrey
The New frontier of Success exploring Supplier Diversity in Cannabis:Roz McCarthy
12:35 PM - 12:50 PM Pitch finale
1:00 PM - 1:45 PM
2:00 PM - 2:45 PM
3:00 PM - 3:45 PM
embracing Wellness: Redefining the Perception of the Devil’s Lettuce: Toni
• How New York State government is finally doing it right: Tabitha Robinson
• Beyond the Transaction: Crafting Sensory Dispensaries that Create Human-Centered Retail Experiences: Dominique White
• Awarded in Alabama: The Journey of Native Black Cultivation: Antoine Modrican
empowering Cannabis retail: Kurt Kauffman
• Fostering Equity and Inclusion in Maryland’s Cannabis Industry: Insights and Actions from the Office of Social Equity: Audrey Johnson, Erin Johnson
• Deal Making In Cannabis: Robert Johnson, Willie Jr Flemming
• A Crash Course in Climate Change and Cannabis: Mila Marshall PhD
SeeN Presents Collective efforts: Exploring Opportunities Beyond Dispensaries and Producers: Steven Conville
Legal Leaders in Chicago: INCBA’s 7th Annual Cannabis Law Institute
The International Cannabis Bar Association (INCBA) hosts the premier conference, the Cannabis Law Institute (CLI), that is dedicated solely to advancing legal excellence in the fast-paced cannabis industry, allowing legal professionals, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and industry influencers to connect and collaborate.
Established in 2015 in San Francisco, California, INCBA was created by innovative attorneys recognizing the need for a specialized association focused on cannabis law. Over the years, INCBA has evolved into a leading source for cannabis law education and networking on a global scale. Uniting and educating legal professionals in the cannabis industry is paramount to a healthy and equitable industry.
The 7th annual conference will take place at the Northwestern Pritzker School of Law in Chicago, IL, on July 25th and 26th, 2024. CLI 2024 will bring together a diverse group of legal experts, policymakers, and industry leaders from around the globe. As the cannabis industry continues to evolve, the conference offers attendees invaluable insights and practical knowledge to navigate the complex legal landscape surrounding cannabis.
"We are thrilled to host the CLI 2024 and provide a platform for legal professionals and industry leaders to collaborate, learn, and share innovative legal strategies," Jason Horst, president of the INCBA, said. "This conference plays a crucial role in shaping the future of the cannabis industry, promoting innovation, and ensuring compliance with changing legal standards."
Over two days, the conference will feature a comprehensive program, including a keynote speech from Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, panel discussions, and breakout sessions on a variety of important topics. At-
love & Relationships
tendees will have the chance to interact with esteemed experts and gain deep insights into emerging legal trends, regulatory challenges, business opportunities, and social equity issues in the cannabis sector. Panel conversations will include topics on international transactions, cannabis labor issues, employment non-discrimination, commerce clauses, cannabis press, and more.
Laura Miller Managing Editor
Love, the Heart, and the Mind: Finding Balance
It's often said that the heart and the mind take turns guiding our personal decisions. They can't both be in control simultaneously, and I imagine there's a celestial lottery determining which will rule at any given moment. The danger lies in those moments when the heart wins and we forget to engage our brain.
The Heart vs. The Mind
When this happens, our decisions become purely passion-driven, steered by desire, and influenced by a part of us that shouldn't always take the lead. We may fall in love with someone who is entirely wrong for us. They don't nourish us spiritually or mentally, and perhaps they don't even respect us. Yet, they possess one or two qualities on our checklist, so we keep them around. Gradually, the red flags we noticed at the start become less apparent, and we convince ourselves that we love this person.
The Danger of Heart-Driven Decisions
With the heart in control and the brain taking a backseat, our insecurities and neediness emerge, driven by emotion rather than rational thought. The brain, in its wisdom, stores our insecurities away, using them as motivation for self-improvement when needed. However, when the heart is in charge, these insecurities evolve into crutches, blocking access to the healthy parts of ourselves and clouding our judgment with rose-colored lenses that align us with foolishness. This often causes more harm than good, leading to decisions with long-lasting consequences. Falling for the wrong person can derail our life's purpose and amplify our issues with selflove.
Recognizing True Love
Love, in its purest form, is one of the most powerful experiences we can have. It awakens parts of us that remain dormant without it, feeding us in ways nothing else can. Naturally, we should continue to seek it. True love propels
us toward happiness, fulfilling a deep need. But this is love in the right hands, serving its intended purpose. The kind of love I've described here is so far from true love that it deserves its category: love adjacent.
As Maya Angelou beautifully said, "Love recognizes no barriers. It jumps hurdles, leaps fences, penetrates walls to arrive at its destination full of hope."
Challenges and Reflections
If you're searching for love, remember that love is not a tool to lose yourself in; it's a tool to engage and enhance you, making you better and stronger than before. Too often, we choose a partner in a fog of loneliness, trying to keep up appearances. I challenge you, in this new year, to thrive in your alone time. Remove the constraints of trying to keep up with everyone else and love yourself first. You have always been enough. Let go of those who left you, of past heartbreaks, and live in the promise of what's best for you. Thank those who exited your life, for they served their purpose.
Rumi's wisdom resonates here: "Your
task is not to seek for love, but merely to seek and find all the barriers within yourself that you have built against it."Choose to find real love, one that doesn't start like the climax of a teen drama. Seek a love that flows like a river's current. You want true love, not something that merely resembles it. Don't settle for being love-adjacent. When you find it, you'll know the difference. You won't feel lonely when you're in it. Love is a powerful force that can either uplift or derail us, depending on how we navigate it. By balancing the heart and the mind, we can make decisions that lead to true, fulfilling love rather than settling for something less. Remember, you are always enough, and the right love will enhance, not diminish, your sense of self. Seek the kind of love that lifts you up, aligns with your values, and nourishes your soul. In this way, you will create a beautiful, lasting connection that truly reflects the best version of yourself.
Image By Piro at Pixaby
By Mila K. Marshall, Ph.D. Staff Writer
Living Chicago
Powering Pot Per Illinois’ Climate Goals
Social equity undergirds the Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act (CRTA). One undervalued element of the legislation is its direct contribution to protecting the environment. Illinois environmentalists made the state law the “greenest” in the nation. Considering the shifts in climate that Illinois is experiencing, the law essentially gives a roadmap for indoor growers. Indoor operations are also under constant surveillance with cameras and 24-hour security systems. It is unlawful for medical or adult-use marijuana to be grown outdoors. Illinois' strict regulations for growing come with an inconvenient cost. Temperature and humidity must be optimal at all times, requiring energy for the lighting system. Grows are energy-intensive and require heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems around the clock. Energy use leads to greenhouse gas emissions, making cannabis one of the most energy-intensive industries in the United States.
How much energy are we talking about?
The annual energy cost of American marijuana is $6 billion per year. Grow-
ing facilities in Denver have been blamed for half of the electricity use, increasing state consumption by 1% in a year. Twenty years ago, a study on the electric load impacts of indoor cannabis production found that growing four potted plants indoors required the same amount of energy as 29 refrigerators, and four pounds of marijuana can use as much energy as an average U.S. household. Growers' energy bills can be 20% to 50% of the operating budget, and lights can be up to 90% of the total energy budget of a grow. As more states legalize growing cannabis, energy use will go up as well.
What does electricity have to do with climate change?
Illinois produces the fifth-largest amount of electricity in the nation and is also the fifth most power-hungry state. Natural gas and coal are sources of energy to make electricity. All sources generate some amount of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming. In 2022, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency reported that direct natural gas consumption contributed to 78% of the carbon dioxide produced from residential and commercial sectors. Illinois is on track to be
powered by 100% renewable energy by 2050. Already, the state leads the nation in nuclear energy production. Overall, Illinois is climate-progressive. However well-meaning and holistic the approach to reducing state carbon emissions, social equity growers are still left with few funds to invest in going green while growing it.
Is Illinois’ law also an environmental justice bill?
While the CRTA isn’t a direct environmental justice bill, it is at least a reflection of the types of statewide policies that protect against continued greenhouse gas emissions that disproportionately impact Blacks. Applicants for craft grower permits must include environmental plans for recycling, use of energy efficiency technology, water conservation, and waste management. Once an applicant submits their plans and they are accepted by the Illinois Department of Agriculture, the lead regulator for growers, it becomes a binding requirement. Growers and cultivators must also share their energy use to track consumption.
Federally funded state energy efficiency programs could leave cannabis growers in the dark Mixed regulations wreak havoc on every
aspect of the supply chain, especially for growers. Illinois’ recent Cannabis Diversity Report indicated that craft grow licenses went to social equity applicants. Yet capital is next to impossible to access as long as it is a Schedule I narcotic and federally illegal. To date, few growers have been able to become operational because of challenges accessing capital. Minority growers who are ideal candidates for relief may find it even more difficult to access state funds from federal sources. The U.S. Department of Energy’s Energy Efficiency Revolving Loan Fund, for example, awarded the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency $14,963,220. Beneficiaries are small businesses, and projects in federally designated disadvantaged communities are the target recipients to help Illinois reach environmental and climate goals. But when federal dollars are subsidizing sustainability, any federally illegal industry is sure not to get a helping hand.
Cannabis Corner
By Mila K. Marshall, PhD CNW Cannabis Corner Editor
Illinois Equity Staffing is helping cannabis companies hire right the first time
Reducing staff turnover saves companies time and money, but finding the right hire can be challenging. For cannabis companies, this is especially true. With so many different job boards and mixed experiences, hiring managers and human resource professionals are key in creating dynamic and diverse teams.
Cannabisdidates on-site as possible during the two-day expo. The organization provides expertise in recruiting, staffing, onboarding and benefits administration, as well as training, payroll, compliance, and social equity and diversity auditing.
As the Black CannaBiz Conference and Expo fast approaches -- it will be held at the Swissotel Chicago from July 24 to 26 -- Illinois Equity Staffing (IES) is doing something novel for employer partners who are looking for strong candidates to fill positions in their businesses. Black CannaBiz is an annual industry conference and expo highlighting the work, successes, and insights of Black voices. IES was at the inaugural conference in New Orleans, and the Chicago-based non-profit is offering business owners both a way into the conference and a chance to meet as many eligible can-
Chicago News Weekly spoke with Shawnee Williams, executive director and founder of IES, to learn more about what the organization can offer cannabis entrepreneurs.
CNW: What does IES do and for whom?
Williams: IES is your WBE/MBE onestop shop for all things human resources, from consulting, talent acquisition, and training to workforce development and advocacy in the cannabis space. Our mission is to promote social equity and diversity in the cannabis industry through creative strategies and partnerships with like-minded organizations and companies within the ecosystem.
CNW: How many people has IES helped find employment in the industry?
Shift Happens
Williams: Since its infancy, IES has placed over 100 people in various roles within compliance, retail, manufacturing, accounting, marketing, and hemp.
CNW: You are conducting interviews at Black CannaBiz Conference and Expo. Will there be job offers on the spot?
Williams: The Illinois Equity Staffing booth activation is about professional development and employment in the cannabis space. We'll have time slots on Thursday, July 25th for attendees who'd like to improve their interview skills, resumes, and LinkedIn profiles. Our employer partners -- Sway Dispensary, Market 96 Neighborhood Dispensary, and the 1937 Group -- will all have hiring managers conducting screening interviews for the various opportunities they have on both days of the conference.
CNW: This will be held at the actual expo, so how can people have access to be interviewed?
Williams: The tickets are being given away to any potential employer partners
who would like to attend the conference and interview for opportunities they have open, not the interviewees.
CNW: What are three things people should do to prepare for their interview with employer partners?
Williams: We will have interview guides and on-site mock interviews on Thursday, July 25th for folks who'd like to learn more about interviewing techniques.
CNW: What days and times will interviews take place?
Williams: Mock interviews are on July 25th (Thursday) only, and on-site interviews will be both days for various opportunities by minority-owned cannabis companies.
IES has been an integral part of workforce development in Illinois. Williams will be speaking on “The Current State of Illinois Cannabis” panel along with other local advocates on Thursday, July 25th from 9:15 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. in the Vevey Ballroom.
Rescheduling Cannabis Could Have Major Implications
By Mila K. Marshall, Ph.D. Cannabis Corner Editor
The rescheduling of cannabis is a controversial topic, and the window of time for voices to be heard by the federal government is quickly closing. Years of lobbying on Capitol Hill seem to be paying off. Thousands of entries, some anonymous, have been submitted to date, and advocates on both sides are encouraging their supporters to speak up. Currently, marijuana is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance. Advocates and industry professionals believe this classification is outdated and wish for the industry to be regulated fairly. Under the current classification, marijuana is considered to have a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use. Many states already have medical marijuana programs that provide safe alternatives to other medical interventions, positively impacting patients' lives.
Rescheduling cannabis to a lower classification could open up new avenues for medical research and potentially lead to the development of new treatments for various conditions. Some studies have shown that cannabis may be effective in treating chronic pain, epilepsy, and certain mental health disorders. However, the current Schedule I classification makes it difficult for researchers to access funding and necessary approvals to conduct clinical trials. Rescheduling cannabis could remove some of these barriers and allow for more rigorous scientific studies to determine its safety and efficacy.
Chicago News Weekly captured the thoughts of three professionals, each offering their unique insights on the changing landscape and the potential historic shift if rescheduling occurs.
Eddie Moore, co-owner of Sway, the first queer and BIPOC-owned dispensary brand in Illinois : “I’m hopeful but concerned about the banking part. The legislation could essentially help the larger companies.
The real benefits to the business community will be 280E, and those owners and operators will feel relief. My partners and I are focused intentionally on small businesses, and these policy solutions in theory trickle down, but not always. Those lobbying tend to be the ones with money, not the average entrepreneur. Coalitions of independent owners recognize the value of coming together to advocate for ourselves, and that needs to keep happening across the country no matter what type of rescheduling happens. It has to be all of us working together.”
Dr. Tiffany Brown, Pharm.D., pharmacist:
“The government schedules drugs or substances depending on their acceptable medical use and the drug’s abuse or dependence potential. My peers and I are all trained clinical drug information experts. We evaluate the appropriateness of therapies, act as empathetic motivational counselors, and are quite often known as trusted medication ‘gatekeepers.’ A change in a schedule class will most likely be included in pharmacy continuing education in the future, especially if it concerns specific daily practice settings. Rescheduling could possibly even affect courses
required in pharmacy school. Clinical toxicology elective courses might be offered to have a deeper dive into the medicinal application of marijuana. Lastly, we have access to see patients' medical records. Some may not be aware, but every IL pharmacist can make arrangements to see if their patient has a certified medicinal marijuana card if required for patient care. No matter what, people should always consult their doctor on conditions and symptoms to determine if medical marijuana is appropriate.”
Ernest Toney, executive director, CEO & founder of BIPOCANN, a Denver-based consulting firm that helps social equity and minority entrepreneurs in the cannabis industry:
“One of the biggest benefits of rescheduling marijuana to a Schedule III substance is the end of Internal Revenue Service Code section 280(e), which prohibits certain cannabis businesses from taking business deductions when calculating tax liabilities. 280(e) only applies to Schedule I and II substances, so a move to Schedule III will immediately allow state-licensed cannabis businesses to deduct ordinary expenses that they cannot take advantage of at present. That benefit will improve the financial positions of many social equity and minority-owned licensed cannabis businesses, who are currently struggling to stay afloat due to burdensome tax regulations.”
The final day to file comments was Monday, July 22, after a 60-day public comment period.
