Francine Shaw, CP-FS, FMP

Elevating New York Cannabis: A Clean Start with Gen Zero Tissue Culture Excited to see more microbusinesses taking root in NYS! With indoor flower on the horizon, there's incredible potential to revolutionize cannabis cultivation. Here's why starting with Gen Zero tissue culture clones might be your next big move: 🧬 Why Tissue Culture? Cannabis, as an annual plant, operates with a finite genetic lifespan. Cutting a clone from a mother plant does not reset its genetic clock; the clone carries the exact DNA of its source. Over time, the DNA in mother plants experiences breaks and deterioration, similar to how aging affects humans. This natural aging process, combined with environmental stressors, increases the risk of genetic drift (subtle but impactful changes in genetic expression) and mutations that can compromise the quality and consistency of your harvest. By starting with Gen Zero tissue culture clones, you bypass these risks entirely. Tissue culture provides a fresh start, delivering plants that are: - Pathogen-free: No lingering bacteria, fungi, or viruses. - Genetically true-to-type: Consistent characteristics from one plant to the next. - Vigorous and healthy: Free from the stress and wear accumulated in older plant generations. With tissue culture, you're ensuring that your cannabis plants grow with their genetic integrity intact, producing high-quality flower with every harvest. Don’t let aging genetics limit your operation—start clean and grow strong. 🌱 💰 Save Time, Space, and Money Operating a mother room is costly. Consider this: - Nutrients & Media: $500+/month - Power & Lighting: $1,000+/month - Water Usage: $300+/month - Labor Costs: $2,500+/month With Gen Zero clones, you can eliminate the mother room entirely, saving thousands annually while increasing operational efficiency. No mother plants mean reduced biosecurity risks since the perpetual operation of mother rooms makes them hotspots for pests and pathogens​​. 🌟 Your Path to Premium Flower Start clean and finish strong. Tissue-culture-derived clones from The New York Nursery guarantee uniform growth, consistent yields, and a superior end product. Whether you're growing for flavor, potency, or terpene content, our clones deliver​​. 🛠️ Let’s Grow Together Explore your options with us today and bring the best of science to your craft. We're here to help NY microbusinesses succeed! 📩 Reach out to The New York Nursery now. Start your journey with Gen Zero clones and cultivate with confidence. #NewYorkCannabis #TissueCulture #CannabisInnovation #CleanStart #GenZero #CannabisFarming #SustainableCannabis #CannabisCultivation #Microbusiness #GrowWithConfidence #CannabisScience #Biosecurity #PathogenFree #PremiumFlower #CannabisTech #NYSCannabis #FutureOfFarming #ConsistentQuality #CannabisMicrobusiness #StartCleanGrowStrong

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🚀 Highlights from the August 6, 2024, NYS Cannabis Control Board Meeting Here are the top takeaways from the latest meeting of the NYS Cannabis Control Board: 1. Retail Applicants Approved: -86 New Adult-Use Licenses: Including 22 retail dispensaries, 16 microbusinesses, 19 cultivators, 11 distributors, and 18 processors. -See the attached chart to review progress in the November Queue. 2. Changes to Allowances for Public Convenience: -The Board proposed new regulations for waiving the distance requirements between dispensaries in the name of public convenience. -The following will be considered: 1. The number, classes, and character of other licenses in proximity 2. If all necessary licenses and permits have been obtained  3. Whether there is a demonstrated need for such a license 4. The effect on pedestrian or vehicular traffic and parking 5. Noise levels 6. A history of cannabis violations and reported criminal activity  7. Any other factors specified by law or regulation 3. Clarification on Deficiency Responses: -It was mentioned that deficiencies must be responded to within 30 days, when previously it was emphasized that they needed to be resolved in that time. This distinction gives applicants more peace of mind when dealing with difficulties related to OCM technology. 4. Agenda Adjustments: -Aligned with decisions made in their previous meeting, the Board removed denials from the agenda at the last minute, focusing instead on moving forward with the application process and support for successful candidates. Licensing Update: -The state now boasts 156 licensed dispensaries with June retail sales reaching $71 million. Total sales since the program's launch are approaching half a billion dollars. -Nearly all conditional cultivators and processors have applied for full licenses, and the majority have been approved, with the expectation of closing out these applications in the next 2 meetings to focus on December supply side licenses. As the New York cannabis market continues to grow, these updates reflect our ongoing journey towards a regulated, equitable, and dynamic industry. Stay tuned for more developments! #CannabisIndustry #NYSCCB #CannabisRegulations #SocialEquity #CannabisLicensing #NewYorkCannabis

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🚨 Insightful DEA Report: Illicit marijuana flowers average a THC potency of 16%. 🌿💨 This statistic underscores a significant advantage of purchasing from licensed dispensaries—quality and safety. Unlike the unregulated market, dispensaries offer products that are tested, compliant, and consistent in their THC content. This not only ensures a safer consumer experience but also supports the legal cannabis industry committed to high standards. Why risk the unknown? Choose quality, safety, and reliability every time with dispensary-bought cannabis. Let's advocate for more informed consumer choices and support regulations that emphasize these benefits. Stay informed and choose wisely. #CannabisIndustry #ConsumerSafety #DispensaryQuality #THCPotency #RegulatedCannabis

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Transparency in Cannabis: The Role of Certificates of Analysis (CoAs) As Massachusetts’ cannabis industry continues to expand, discussions around product transparency and consumer trust are more critical than ever. One key point of conversation? The fact that the Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission (CCC) does not require retail establishments to publicize Certificates of Analysis (CoAs) for products on their shelves. Why does this matter? A CoA provides crucial information on what’s in a cannabis product – from cannabinoid content to potential contaminants. For many consumers, this document is essential for making informed choices, ensuring quality, and building trust in the product's safety and potency. In an industry striving to establish legitimacy and professionalism, accessibility to CoAs can be a powerful step toward consumer empowerment. The current landscape: While some brands voluntarily share their CoAs as a mark of transparency, without a CCC mandate, this is not standard practice across the board. Consumers are often left to request this information or rely on the brand’s goodwill to disclose it. Looking ahead: Should CoA transparency be a mandated practice for Massachusetts retailers? How would a requirement impact consumer confidence and overall industry integrity? As we work toward a more informed and transparent cannabis industry, these are important questions to consider. What are your thoughts on CoA transparency? Let’s discuss how we can collectively push for a more open and consumer-focused cannabis market. 💬 #CannabisTransparency #CannabisRegulations #CannabisControlCommission #MassachusettsCannabis #CoA #ConsumerTrust #CannabisIndustry

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Is your team facing challenges in the Ohio cannabis industry? - Are you struggling to get responses from procurement specialists? - Products not moving due to lack of budtender knowledge? - Scheduling PED days but can't get dispensaries to split discount terms? - Need to secure biomass but don’t have the right contacts? I can help. I have extensive experience and a proven track record in the cannabis sector. I specialize in: - Sales success and business acumen - Optimizing supply chain solutions - Building strong industry connections - Compliance and patient education At Cresco Labs, I excelled in customer relations, product knowledge, dispensary planning, patient education days, relationship building, and upselling. My compliance role at King City Gardens showcased my meticulous attention to regulatory details and ability to work cross-functionally across all departments. At Yatz Solutions, I empowered partners, optimized supply chains, and drove business growth. I have over 15 years of experience in business and culinary arts. It has instilled a strong work ethic, adaptability, and the ability to thrive in fast-paced environments. I am committed to excellence, continuous improvement, high-quality standards, and making a significant impact in the cannabis industry. Let’s connect to discuss how I can contribute to your company’s growth and innovation. #CannabisIndustry #OhioCannabis #SalesSuccess #BusinessDevelopment #Compliance #SupplyChainOptimization #PatientEducation

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As New York’s cannabis market continues to grow, there is a significant opportunity to include Tribal Nations in this emerging industry through Tribal Compacts under the Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act (MRTA). Tribal compacts can provide several key benefits: Economic Empowerment: Tribal communities can generate revenue, create jobs, and reinvest in essential services like healthcare and education. Market Expansion: Tribal cannabis operations can increase access to products, helping to fill gaps in the market and meet consumer demand. Social Equity: Including Tribal Nations in the cannabis market supports equity initiatives and ensures that historically disadvantaged communities have a meaningful stake in this economic opportunity. Stronger Partnerships: Collaborative efforts between the state and Tribal Nations can lead to positive, long-term relationships beyond cannabis, supporting broader economic development and public health goals. New York has the chance to lead by example and create a more inclusive, equitable cannabis industry for all. #CannabisIndustry #TribalNations #SocialEquity #EconomicOpportunity #NewYorkCannabis #CannabisBusiness

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“Prescription Cannabis - Smoking vs Vaping” • The landscape of prescription cannabis consumption has evolved, offering users diverse methods to embrace the plant’s benefits based on individual preference and desired effects • Two prevalent methods today are vaping and smoking • Smoking- Cannabis smoking, a traditional consumption method, involves inhaling the smoke from combusting dried cannabis flower • Vaping - Cannabis vaping has become a modern, popular method, offering a controlled and nuanced experience. Unlike smoking, vaping doesn’t involve combustion; specialized devices heat cannabis concentrates or flower to release cannabinoids and terpenes as vapor • Safety- Regardless of smoking or vaping, understanding health impacts is crucial • As cannabis ages, its chemical composition changes. Improper storage conditions can degrade cannabinoids and terpenes, impacting efficacy. Mold or mildew growth becomes a concern, posing health risks. Store cannabis in a cool, dark, airtight environment, regularly checking for signs of aging or contamination https://lnkd.in/ePdwVrGZ

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Learn about the dangers posed by unregulated Delta-8 and other intoxicating, hemp-derived, synthetic cannabinoid products which are widely available throughout our our communities. Please watch this short video to better understand the risks these products pose to our children's health and the public's well-being, then contact your Ohio State Representative and State Senator and let them know that we want regulation of these products in Ohio. https://lnkd.in/eZYFJQxn https://lnkd.in/gEs3Gx7i

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Cannabis industry is heading in the right direction, business operators say https://lnkd.in/eex-hS6u

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For those tracking the evolving cannabis regulations in NY, a quick reminder: Public comment for Part 128 & 129 (Packaging, Labeling, Marketing, and Advertising) closes on October 28, 2024. Public comment for Part 133 (Violations, Hearings & Enforcement) closes on November 11, 2024. If you’ve been considering submitting input, now’s the time. No need for formalities—just ensure your comments are specific and relevant to the sections you're addressing. Comments can be emailed to: [email protected] Or mailed to: New York State Office of Cannabis Management P.O. Box 2071, Albany, NY 12220 A strong, clear voice in this process helps shape the final outcomes. #CannabisRegulations #OCM #Compliance

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C’mon, Florida! 😳 Republican lawmakers, including Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, argue that the public consumption of marijuana is a nuisance and a quality-of-life issue, citing complaints about the smell and exposure to children. Advocates of marijuana legalization argue that these concerns are overstated and serve as a smokescreen for opposition to cannabis legalization. In New York, where adult use of cannabis was legalized in 2021, public smoking has become common. Critics like state assemblyman Michael Novakhov suggest establishing cannabis lounges to control public use, similar to alcohol consumption in bars. However, New York has yet to issue on-site consumption licenses. Advocates argue that legalization hasn’t significantly increased public consumption issues, pointing to states with existing medical marijuana laws like Florida. The debate continues as both sides weigh the implications of public cannabis use on community well-being and regulatory approaches. What’re your thoughts?

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7) Dirty Byproducts or Clean Noids. He danced around the Frankenoid issue like Fred Astaire, which is the main problem most of us have with it, the products of the dirty process like cannabinol-O-acetate, cyclohexyl-cannabidiol, d7-tetrahydrocannabinol, d8-iso-tetrahydrocannabinol, d10-tetrahydrocannabinol, d11-tetrahydrocannabinol, d3-tetrahydrocannabinol, d4(8)-iso-tetrahydrocannabinol, d6a10a-tetrahydrocannabinol, exohydrocannabinol, hexahydrocannabinol acetate, hexahydrocannabinol, hexahydrocannabiphorol, hydrated cannabidiol, pentahydrocannabinol, tetrahydrocannabidiol, tetrahydrocannabiphorol, tetrahydrocannabinol-O-acetate, and/or trans-d8-iso-tetrahydrocannabinol. And with acres down 95% since 2019 and most using foreign CBD, how is it that U.S. farmers benefit? While “hemp” delta-x vape pens sold in gas stations might just be the thing that gets marijuana legal, it is creating an existential crisis for the real hemp (grain/fiber) side. Not even in our darkest, most prohibitionistic paraquat years like the Reagan ‘80s did people want isomerized (synthesized) THC. We knew it could be done, but why? Weed is grown in almost every county in the nation, just find a better plug. It's as much hemp as a synthetic digoxin pill is a foxglove plant, but "it is difficult to get a man to understand something when his salary depends upon his not understanding it." Read more: https://lnkd.in/g5ZuCrkV #hemp

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https://lnkd.in/eMBPBmBn I am really happy with the way these taste. Good creamy to crunchy ratio.

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When it comes to hiring hire a cannabis processing consultants, here are 5 big ways I can help: 1. Compliance with Regulations Think about it: The cannabis industry is highly regulated, with laws varying significantly by location. Staying compliant is critical to avoid fines or shutdowns. Your Benefit: A consultant ensures your processing operation meets all legal requirements, including safety, testing, packaging, and labeling standards. 2. Process Optimization Think about it: Efficient production processes can reduce costs, improve yield, and enhance product quality. Your Benefit: Consultants bring expertise in refining workflows, selecting the best equipment, and implementing scalable systems for long-term growth. 3. Cost Savings Think about it: Mistakes in equipment purchasing, facility design, or workflow can be costly. Your Benefit: A consultant can guide you in making informed decisions, avoiding unnecessary expenses, and identifying cost-saving opportunities. 4. Product Development Expertise Think about it: Creating unique, high-quality cannabis products can set your brand apart in a competitive market. Your Benefit: Consultants can help with formulating new products, improving existing ones, and ensuring they align with market demands. 5. Industry Connections and Insights Think about it: The cannabis market is dynamic, with constant changes in consumer preferences, technologies, and regulations. Your Benefit: A consultant provides access to valuable industry networks, market trends, and the latest innovations, giving you a competitive edge. By discussing projects and leveraging consulting when appropriate, businesses can avoid pitfalls, enhance operational efficiency, and achieve faster, more sustainable growth. At least thats my .02, what do you think? Are there benefits to consultants or are most of them just blowing smoke?

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The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has made an extraordinary decision, aligning with the top federal health agency to shift marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). This momentous step comes after more than fifty years since cannabis was initially listed as a strictly prohibited substance, equated with heroin, devoid of any recognized medical benefits, and carrying a significant potential for abuse. The reclassification of marijuana to Schedule III, as advised by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), carries immense implications for state-legal cannabis businesses. Upon implementation, this move will enable cannabis companies access to federal tax deductions that were previously off-limits to them under the IRS code, section 280E. #reschedule #cannabisindustry #280e #bloommedicinals #wondergrovecannabis #msos #medicalcannabis

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A new set of criteria for qualifying for a public convenience and advantage waiver was proposed at today’s Cannabis Control Board meeting. The criteria include the following: 1. Distance from Other Retail Dispensaries: The proposed location must be at least: - 1,000 feet from any existing retail dispensary in jurisdictions with a 1,000-foot minimum distance requirement. - 2,000 feet from any existing retail dispensary in jurisdictions with a 2,000-foot minimum distance requirement. 2. Geographic, Structural, or Topographic Barriers: The existence of barriers (such as waterways, major roadways, highways, or significant travel distances) that separate the proposed location from existing dispensaries. 3. Travel Distance: The actual distance between the proposed location and existing dispensaries, as measured by pedestrian or vehicle routes. 4. Unique Factors of the Proposed Location: Factors that may justify the location, such as: - High consumer demand for additional retail dispensaries or microbusinesses. - The presence of illicit or former illicit cannabis dispensaries near both the proposed and existing locations. - Other relevant factors that may support the need for greater access to adult-use cannabis in the area. 5. Notification to Local Authorities: The licensee must send a notification to the local municipality or community board, informing them of their intention to request a waiver from the Board for not meeting the 1,000-foot or 2,000-foot minimum distance requirement. The municipality or community board will have 45 days to respond before the Board considers the application. Mr. Kagia mentioned that the Board would consider more than this information alone when deciding to grant a waiver and that it would be up to their discretion. Chairman Wright raised concerns about the 45-day period, and the Board voted to approve the criteria with an amendment for licensees who have already received municipal support.

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