August 27, 2020 In 2008, medical marijuana was legalized in Michigan. For the next decade, the medical use of cannabis within the state changed perceptions, helping lead to the legalization of recreational marijuana in 2018. Now it appears as if the pioneering medicinal market for marijuana in Michigan will be less prominent in the future. There are fewer and fewer medical customers within the state, though the state agency that regulates marijuana is still working to make sure patients have access to cannabis. Recreational sales in July surpassed medical marijuana sales for the first time since recreational sales began Dec. 1. Industry projections that forecast recreational marijuana becoming a $1 billion-plus industry by 2021 indicate there’s no looking back. MORE If you live in Michigan, you will soon be seeing advertisements featuring 'Rona,' a red, tentacled character who dons sunglasses and was created to curb the spread of COVID-19. Over the next six months, the 'Rona' ad campaign will appear across social media, streaming services, television, 75 radio stations and nearly 200 billboards statewide. Yes, with a $5M price tag, it is a big media push. The campaign was funded through donations from various Michigan businesses. It is meant to target younger Michiganders, the age group with the largest number of confirmed coronavirus cases. MORE ►Conservative groups sue Whitmer, Benson over gathering limits, absentee ballots Yes, Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson does have the power to mail 7.7 million registered voters absentee ballot applications. That's according to the Michigan Court of Claims in a ruling announced Wednesday. Judge Cynthia Diane Stephen dismissed three consolidated lawsuits against Benson, claiming she acted outside the power given to her by Michigan law when mailing absentee ballot requests ahead of the August and November elections. By sending out the absentee ballot requests, Stephen stated all Benson did was make it easier for people to exercise their constitutional rights. MORE ►Sen. Gary Peters and John James commit to separate debates, so will they actually debate each other? With the normal high school football season pushed back to spring, some are craving a chance to get back on the football field this fall. One organization is trying to form 7-on-7 teams, made up of high school players, as well as athletes who play in youth leagues. The Legacy Center Sports Complex in Brighton is able to host a league with 48 teams. They would all play at the complex's fields. The big question is, will the state allow it? There is no current outright ban on 7-on-7 football, though rumors are floating around that an executive order is on the way. MORE Have you dreamt of living on the water's edge and leaving behind all yard work? We might have the solution for you. Our House of the Week this week isn't a "house" at all. It's a riverfront condo in Bay City. Condo living does provide that escape from mowing, shoveling and all that other pesky work that comes with owning a traditional home. Plus, this building, called the Boathouse, looks out at the water. This unit, on the market for $449,900, provides you with great views of the Saginaw River and a covered balcony to soak in the sights. VIDEO Get your local news 24/7 Connect with MLive To ensure receipt of our emails, please add newsletters@update.mlive to your address book or safe sender list. |