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CLIENT FEATURE: Vertical Exploration $VERT.ca: Partners with AREV Brands to Distribute Wollastonite to the Cannabis and Hemp Industries $TORR.ca $FA.ca $WEED.ca $CGC $ACB $APH $CRON.ca $HEXO.ca $TRST.ca $OGI.ca

Posted by AGORACOM at 5:57 PM on Thursday, November 28th, 2019
  • Definitive distribution agreement to partner on the sale of Vertical’s wollastonite from its world-class St-Onge Deposit.
  • Supplying the fast growing cannabis and hemp industries.
  • Vertical’s high quality Wollastonite has been shown to be beneficial to cannabis plants in a variety of ways
  • In every case the most optimal results occurred with an admixture rate of 10% to 15% wollastonite to the growth medium.
  • The high-grade St-Onge Wollastonite deposit has pit-constrained mineral resources of: 7,155,000 tonnes Measured@ 36.20% Wollastonite & 6,926,000 tonnes Indicated@ 37.04%
  • B.C. Buds Testing Confirmed Wollastonite is critical to marijuana growers
  • Engaged AGRINOVA over the past year to conduct research and testing of Vertical’s St-Onge wollastonite on a range of important agricultural end uses.

WOLLASTONITE

  • St-Onge-Wollastonite Deposit located approximately 90 kilometres Northwest of the city of Saguenay, in St-Onge township, in the Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean region of Quebec, Canada.
  • Wollastonite is a calcium inosilicate mineral that may contain small amounts of iron, magnesium, and manganese substituting for calcium
  • Research and testing in the Phase 1 program for use in cannabis growth was managed and monitored by AGRINOVA, a highly-regarded Center for Research and Innovation in Agriculture in Quebec

St-Onge-Wollastonite Deposit:

Hub on Agoracom

FULL DISCLOSURE: Vertical Exploration is an advertising client of AGORA Internet Relations Corp.

NORTHBUD $NBUD.ca – Consumers research #CBD more than many other wellness trends, study finds $CGC $ACB $APH $CRON.ca $HEXO.ca $OGI.ca

Posted by AGORACOM-JC at 10:12 AM on Thursday, November 28th, 2019

SPONSOR: NORTHBUD (NBUD:CSE) Sustainable low cost, high quality cannabinoid production and procurement focusing on both bio-pharmaceutical development and Cannabinoid Infused Products. Learn More.

Consumers research CBD more than many other wellness trends, study finds

  • American consumers are researching CBD more than many other alternative health trends and products, according to a new study looking at Google searches.

Health scientists from the University of California, San Diego, Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore and the University of York in the United Kingdom measured U.S. Google searches that mentioned CBD and cannabidiol from 2004 through April of this year.

The study found that while search volumes were consistent from 2004 to 2014, they began to grow significantly in 2016. Search volumes increased year-over-year by 125.9% in 2017 and 160.4% in 2018, and they are expected to be 117.7% higher in 2019.

In April 2019, there were 6.4 million Google searches for CBD, the researchers wrote in an American Medical Association journal detailing their findings.

The April 2019 searches for CBD were on par with yoga and e-cigarettes but seven times more prevalent than acupuncture, five times higher than apple cider vinegar and three times more than meditation.

CBD searches also outnumbered searches for:

  • Vaccination
  • Exercise
  • Marijuana
  • Veganism

Researchers broke down the results by state. Searches for CBD this year were highest in Vermont, Wisconsin, Tennessee, Colorado, New Hampshire and Oregon.

Source: https://hempindustrydaily.com/consumers-research-cbd-more-than-many-other-wellness-trends-study-finds/

PRIMO Nutraceuticals Inc. $PRMO.ca – #WHO Report Finds No Public Health Risks Or Abuse Potential For #CBD $CROP.ca $VP.ca NF.ca $MCOA

Posted by AGORACOM-JC at 10:38 AM on Wednesday, November 27th, 2019

SPONSOR:  PRIMO NUTRACEUTICALS INC. (CSE: PRMO) (OTC: BUGVF) (FSE: 8BV) (DEU: 8BV) (MUN: 8BV) (STU: 8BV) provides strategic capital to the thriving cannabis cultivation sector through ownership and development of commercial real estate properties. The company also offers fully built out turnkey facilities equipped with state-of-the-art growing infrastructure to cannabis growers and processors. Click here for more info.

WHO Report Finds No Public Health Risks Or Abuse Potential For CBD

  • According to a preliminary WHO report published last month, naturally occurring CBD is safe and well tolerated in humans (and animals), and is not associated with any negative public health effects [PDF].
  • Experts further stated that CBD, a non-psychoactive chemical found in cannabis, does not induce physical dependence and is “not associated with abuse potential.” The WHO also wrote that, unlike THC, people aren’t getting high off of CBD, either.  

By: Janet Burns

A World Health Organization (WHO) report has found no adverse health outcomes but rather several medical applications for cannabidiol, a.k.a. CBD, despite U.S. federal policy on this cannabinoid chemical.

According to a preliminary WHO report published last month, naturally occurring CBD is safe and well tolerated in humans (and animals), and is not associated with any negative public health effects [PDF].

Experts further stated that CBD, a non-psychoactive chemical found in cannabis, does not induce physical dependence and is “not associated with abuse potential.” The WHO also wrote that, unlike THC, people aren’t getting high off of CBD, either.  

“To date, there is no evidence of recreational use of CBD or any public health related problems associated with the use of pure CBD,” they wrote. In fact, evidence suggests that CBD mitigates the effects of THC (whether joyous or panicky), according to this and other reports.  

The authors pointed out that research has officially confirmed some positive effects of the chemical, however.

The WHO team determined that CBD has “been demonstrated as an effective treatment for epilepsy” in adults, children, and even animals, and that there’s “preliminary evidence” that CBD could be useful in treating  Alzheimer’s disease, cancer, psychosis, Parkinson’s disease, and other serious conditions.

The Herbal Chef CEO and Head Chef Chris Sayegh measures the dose of CBD cannabis extract as he… [+]

In acknowledgement of these kinds of discoveries in recent years, the report continued, “Several countries have modified their national controls to accommodate CBD as a medicinal product.” 

But the U.S., the report noted, isn’t one of them. As a cannabis component, CBD remains classified as a Schedule I controlled substance, meaning it has a “high potential for abuse” in the federal government’s view. Nevertheless, the “unsanctioned medical use” of CBD is fairly common, experts found.

For many CBD users in the U.S., the substance’s mostly unsanctioned and illegal state creates problems, especially as a wave of online (mostly hemp) and store-bought CBD oils and extracts have allowed patients to take the treatment process–and the risks involved in buying unregulated medicine–into their own hands and homes.

While CBD itself is safe and found to be helpful for many users, industry experts have warned that not all cannabis extracts are created equally, purely, or with the same methods of extraction.

And while reports of negative reactions to pure CBD are very few and far between, researchers are able to say that the cannabinoid wouldn’t be to blame alone. “Reported adverse effects may be as a result of drug-drug interactions between CBD and patients’ existing medications,” they noted.

As the cannabis reform nonprofit NORML reported, the WHO is currently considering changing CBD’s place in its own drug scheduling code. In September, NORML submitted written testimony to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) opposing the enactment of international restrictions on access to CBD.

The FDA, which has repeatedly declined to update its position on cannabis products despite a large and ever-growing body of evidence on the subject, is one of a number of agencies that will be advising the WHO in its final review of CBD.

Perhaps this time around the FDA will listen, and learn something.

The report was presented by the WHO’s Expert Committee on Drug Dependence, and drafted under the responsibility of the WHO Secretariat, Department of Essential Medicines and Health Products, Teams of Innovation, Access and Use and Policy, Governance and Knowledge.

Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/janetwburns/2018/03/18/who-report-finds-no-public-health-risks-abuse-potential-for-cbd/#7cde45562347

NORTHBUD $NBUD.ca – #Cannabis #edibles preview: What to expect come mid-December $CGC $ACB $APH $CRON.ca $HEXO.ca $OGI.ca

Posted by AGORACOM-JC at 5:04 PM on Tuesday, November 26th, 2019

SPONSOR: NORTHBUD (NBUD:CSE) Sustainable low cost, high quality cannabinoid production and procurement focusing on both bio-pharmaceutical development and Cannabinoid Infused Products. Learn More.

Cannabis edibles preview: What to expect come mid-December

  • June 2019 report by Deloitte titled “Nurturing new growth: Canada gets ready for Cannabis 2.0” estimated the size of the edible and alternative cannabis product market could be “worth more than $2.5 billion a year and generate higher profits for retailers than cannabis products that are already legal.”

Edibles are on the way.

The 60-day Health Canada review period for cannabis edibles, extracts and topical products began counting down after the second wave of cannabis legalization across Canada came into effect Oct. 17.

With that review period set to end in mid-December, it won’t be long now before consumers can purchase and try all the new cannabis products licensed retailers are set to offer.

The Toronto Sun spoke with Sarah Gillin, COO of Etobicoke-based cannabis producer Olli Brands about what they have in store for customers.

“Olli is planning on launching with a strawberry real fruit chew, a butter cookie, a hemp crunch chocolate and five specialty tea blends — melo green, vanilla black, misty mint, sweet chamomile and my personal favourite, the berry bliss,” Gillin said, adding, “They will be offered in a variety of dosing options with CBD being featured prominently in almost all of them.”

This combo photo (top) shows Olli brands Butter Cookie edible and (bottom) their Misty Mint cannabis tea. Supplied

Gillin explained Olli partnered with Adrian Niman, a Michelin trained executive chef from The Food Dudes, to help develop and hand prepare the company’s edible products.

Olli will also be providing specialty cannabis teas. Gillin says Richard Guzauskas, Olli’s in-house “tea sommelier,” helps to internationally source the ingredients.

The “Sweet Chamomile Herbal Tea” is described on Olli’s website as a “Sweet and relaxing with an apple-honey aroma, this blend will lull you into calm.”

Canopy Growth Edibles and Beverages ‘Sneak Peek’ Tastings and Tours Beverages. Supplied photo jpg

Canopy Growth’s Tweed Inc. unveiled its line of 13 expected cannabis-infused beverages in late October. The low dosage “distilled cannabis” beverages are geared towards being consumed as a social beverage — with 10 designed to provide you with 2.5 mg of THC (Health Canada permits 10 mg per package).

Aurora Cannabis Inc., a Canadian owned licensed producer of medical and consumer cannabis gave eager edible consumers a sneak peek at a line of vapes they are working on last month as well.

They will come in three formats: a disposable vape pen, premium vape pen pods, and a pen with a universal cartridge system equipped with a rechargeable battery. They will be available for purchase on both the medical and consumer cannabis markets.

It’s worth noting, however, the U.S. Center for Disease Control identified vitamin E acetate as a “chemical of concern” among e-cigarette and vape users.

As of Nov. 20, 2019, the CDC stated there have been “2,290 cases of e-cigarette, or vaping product use” associated with lung injuries. The CDC recommends “people should not use THC-containing e-cigarette or vaping products, particularly from informal sources like friends, or family, or in-person or online dealers.”

Meanwhile, a June 2019 report by Deloitte titled “Nurturing new growth: Canada gets ready for Cannabis 2.0” estimated the size of the edible and alternative cannabis product market could be “worth more than $2.5 billion a year and generate higher profits for retailers than cannabis products that are already legal.”

“The edibles market alone is estimated to be worth at least $1.6 billion a year in Canada, with cannabis-infused beverages adding a further $529 million,” said Jennifer Lee, a partner and Deloitte Canada’s Cannabis National Leader.

Given the estimated size of the market, “It was not an easy choice,” Gillin said of choosing which edibles and alternative cannabis products to produce.

The review period has generally been frustrating for consumers.

Gillin said the 60 days has been “inconvenient” but also “necessary” to ensure ” the safety of consumers.”

Cannabis edibles will be available in mid-December. Chocolate Hemp Crunch, left, and Olli brands Strawberry Fruit Chews are two such products you will be able to get your hands on. Supplied

Source: https://torontosun.com/news/provincial/cannabis-edibles-preview-what-to-expect-come-mid-december

Empower Clinics $CBDT.ca – Canadian #Cannabis 2.0 is on its way and the U.S. is set to be the “biggest and the best cannabis market in the world” $WEED.ca $CGC $ACB $APH $CRON.ca $HEXO.ca $OGI.ca

Posted by AGORACOM-JC at 12:43 PM on Tuesday, November 26th, 2019

SPONSOR:

Why Empower Clinics

  • A leading owner/operator of physician staffed health and pain management clinics
  • Patient database of over 165,000 patients 
  • Platform generating $4MM USD in revenue annually (2019)
  • Proprietary technology platforms including Electronic Health Records portal and e-Commerce for CBD product distribution
  • Launching CBD extraction facility
  • First extraction system capacity = 6,000 Kg per year.

Canadian Cannabis 2.0 is on its way and the U.S. is set to be the “biggest and the best cannabis market in the world”

By: Ruth Saldanha

Ruth Saldanha: Cannabis stocks in Canada have been a bit of a roller coaster recently. After a dramatic drop earlier this month, the stocks have somewhat recovered but are still trading below our fair value estimates. Is now a buying opportunity? Morningstar Analyst, Kristoffer Inton covers cannabis and is here today to talk about his views.

Kris, thank you so much for being here today.

Kristoffer Inton: Thank you for having me.

Saldanha: What’s going on with Canadian cannabis? Is the distribution the main culprit here?

Inton: Yeah, I think that’s one of the primary causes of what’s going on in Canadian distribution. I think also a part of it is investor expectations. So, I think people forget, this is a growth industry. These are all very early stage stocks. And when we look at where we are in terms of the growth cycle, we’ve only just past one year of recreational legalization. On top of that when you look at how Canada has been doing in terms of its rollout, you look at its two biggest provinces, Ontario and Quebec. They’ve really underperformed relative to expectations in terms of opening dispensaries. So, to us, it’s a little combination of slower than expected government rollout limiting demand growth and investor expectations for growth and even more so profitability a little too soon.

Saldanha: So, should Canadians consider investing in established U.S. retail players while we still wait for the market here to develop a bit more.

Inton: Yeah, I would definitely say so. I think that in our view, the U.S. is going to be the biggest and the best cannabis market in the world. And they operate in isolation the U.S. and Canada and so while the Canadian market continues to develop, you can also play and get investment exposure into the U.S. story as well. And because the U.S. distribution rollout has been a little bit smoother, it looks like growth and profitability are coming to American companies before it has come to for the Canadian companies.

Saldanha: After the recent drop in prices is now a buying opportunity for Canadian cannabis.

Inton: Definitely, I think that it definitely warrants a long-term view. In the near term, it’s not going to take overnight to open enough stores to get distribution right and to get the products lined up. So, it won’t happen in the next quarter or so. But if an investor is patient and willing to wait, they’ll be able to get exposure to a long runway of growth.

Saldanha: Finally, Kris, which is your top Canadian cannabis pick and why?

Inton: So, we recommend two Canadian picks. We like Aurora Cannabis (ACB) and we like Canopy Growth (WEED), really for two different reasons. Aurora Cannabis has largely been focused on production. And it shows their gross margins are the highest amongst the Canadian cannabis companies we cover. And we like Canopy Growth because we think that with the partnership with Constellation Brands, they’re really focused on developing downstream infused consumer products. With Cannabis 2.0 hitting Canada later this year and into next year, we think that Canopy is well exposed to being able to enjoy growth from that.

Saldanha: Thank you so much for being with us today, Kris.

Inton: Thank you.

Saldanha: For Morningstar, I’m Ruth Saldanha.

Source: https://www.morningstar.ca/ca/news/197539/time-to-buy-the-dip-on-cannabis.aspx

PRIMO Nutraceuticals Inc. $PRMO.ca – What’s the difference between #CBD derived from #hemp and #cannabis? $CROP.ca $VP.ca NF.ca $MCOA

Posted by AGORACOM-JC at 10:45 AM on Monday, November 25th, 2019

SPONSOR:  PRIMO NUTRACEUTICALS INC. (CSE: PRMO) (OTC: BUGVF) (FSE: 8BV) (DEU: 8BV) (MUN: 8BV) (STU: 8BV) provides strategic capital to the thriving cannabis cultivation sector through ownership and development of commercial real estate properties. The company also offers fully built out turnkey facilities equipped with state-of-the-art growing infrastructure to cannabis growers and processors. Click here for more info.

What’s the difference between CBD derived from hemp and cannabis?

By: Emma Ston

  • What’s in a name? When it comes to CBD products derived from hemp, CBD products derived from cannabis, and what’s considered legal, a lot.
  • Understanding cannabis nomenclature and the chemical difference between the two plants is essential to making informed choices about CBD.

Cannabis refers to a genus of plants which has three species: indica, sativa, and ruderalis. Hemp is not a different species of the cannabis plant. The above classifications have been devised to differentiate intoxicating cannabis from non-intoxicating cannabis. Hemp is a sativa species, while cannabis can be sativa, indica, or ruderalis.

Although hemp and cannabis look (sort of) similar, from a functional and chemical perspective, they are distinctive. Here’s how you can distinguish the two.

(Leafly)

Hemp:

  • In order to be federally legal, it must contain 0.3% THC or less. For the uninitiated, THC is the cannabinoid that causes a high. With so little THC, hemp doesn’t have intoxicating effects.
  • Can be used to create products such as textiles, building materials, industrial products, paper, foods, and body care.
  • Is typically grown outdoors to maximize the size and yield of the plant. Hemp doesn’t require the same rigorous attention to lighting, humidity, and temperature that cannabis requires, and it can be grown in a range of different climates.
  • Tends to be tall and skinny with skimpy foliage, having an appearance similar to bamboo.

Cannabis:

  • Can contain 0.3% THC or more. Some high-THC strains can have 30% THC or more.
  • Is used for recreational or medicinal purposes. You won’t find cannabis plants being used to create hempcrete or denim.
  • Is generally grown in carefully managed and controlled conditions. Photoperiodic cannabis requires precise exposure to light in order to flower—its buds contain the valuable, potent compounds cannabis is famed for.
  • Tends to appear bushy, with large, full foliage.

Here’s the tricky thing: Both cannabis and hemp produce CBD. The CBD molecule is identical regardless of its cannabis source. However, from a legal perspective, CBD products derived from hemp and CBD products derived from cannabis are entirely different.

Hemp-derived CBD and cannabis-derived CBD: A legal perspective

According to federal law, cannabis—with 0.3% THC content or higher—is classified by the DEA as a Schedule I drug with no accepted medical use. CBD products sourced from cannabis, even those with 0% THC, are illegal at a federal level by virtue of their plant origin. Here’s the tricky thing: Both cannabis and hemp produce CBD. The CBD molecule is identical regardless of its cannabis source.

However, at a state level, the law changes. There are 33 US states which have medical cannabis programs, and CBD derived from cannabis is available from a licensed dispensary to eligible patients. The recreational use of cannabis is also legal in 11 states. In these states, cannabis-derived CBD products are available to those of age.

Industrial hemp, on the other hand, is no longer considered a Schedule I controlled drug. Following the 2018 farm bill, hemp was reclassified as an agricultural commodity. Since then, there has been an explosion of CBD products onto the market, prompting the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to issue a statement that a regulatory framework for CBD products is still in the pipeline, and foods containing CBD, dietary supplements, and products making health claims are considered illegal.

CBD products sourced from hemp, such as oils and tinctures, are legal at a federal level, so long as they conform with other applicable laws. That said, certain states have their own legislation and regulations regarding CBD oil.

If you want to purchase CBD and err on the right side of the law, verify the legal status of hemp-derived CBD and cannabis-derived CBD in your state, so you know what you can or can’t purchase. Generally, hemp-derived CBD represents the more legal option.

Other differences between hemp-derived CBD and cannabis-derived CBD

CBD concentration

Cannabis represents a richer source of cannabinoids and terpenes than industrial hemp because it contains significantly more resin. Resin is the sticky, gooey substance found on female cannabis flowers, and to a lesser extent, on its leaves. Hemp contains resin on the flowers and leaves too, but much less. Most industrial hemp cultivators need to grow large quantities of hemp to produce CBD oil, although there are now more CBD-rich hemp strains being cultivated.

Safety

Hemp is a bioaccumulator, so it can absorb toxins such as residual pesticides and heavy metals from soil. When CBD is extracted from large quantities of industrial hemp cultivated in non-organic conditions, there is a possibility that contaminant residue will be passed into the final product. CBD products sourced from tainted hemp can compromise safety and efficacy.

Regulation

The hemp-derived CBD market is not yet subject to a widely enforced regulatory framework. For this reason, it’s essential to do your homework when buying hemp-derived CBD.

Look out for hemp-derived CBD that has been third-party tested. Products that have undergone this have been checked by an independent group outside of the producer using industry-approved techniques. The tester verifies the cannabinoid content of the product, along with heavy metals, pesticides, or microbes. Related

How to read a CBD label

A hemp-derived CBD product that has been third-party tested also guarantees you are getting what you paid for. Leafly’s investigation on CBD tested 47 products and found that almost half of them didn’t come within 20% of the labeled dosage. Third party testing confirms that the promised CBD content is present.

You can also look for hemp-derived CBD products with a USDA organic certification. This affirms that the growing conditions meet official USDA organic standards, and also provides assurance that the hemp extraction process was free of synthetic chemical additives.

In states where cannabis-derived CBD products are available from licensed dispensaries, there is greater regulation of these products. All are subjected to stringent testing from licensed facilities.

Effectiveness

Cannabis tends to have a wider terpene and cannabinoid profile than hemp. Cannabis-derived CBD from whole plant extract contains a range of beneficial terpenes and cannabinoids, including THC. These compounds work in concert with each other to provide additional benefits. This phenomenon is known as the entourage effect, and many cannabis experts assert that whole plant extracts offer greater therapeutic potential.

Hemp also contains some cannabinoids and terpenes, but not the range nor concentration of compounds present in cannabis. Hemp-derived CBD can be made into an full-spectrum extract that offers natural terpenes alongside minor cannabinoids. Broad-spectrum CBD is also available and contains minor cannabinoids and terpenes, but without the THC content.

However, full-spectrum and broad-spectrum hemp-derived CBD products may not have the potency of CBD derived from cannabis because trace amounts of THC appear to be less effective in treating certain symptoms.

CBD isolate

CBD can also be extracted from both hemp and cannabis to become an isolate. Isolates are identical whether derived from hemp or cannabis because they only contain CBD molecules. As there is more CBD in cannabis than hemp, it requires more hemp by dry weight to produce the same amount of CBD isolate.

CBD isolate is most commonly used in clinical trials to prove that results are linked to CBD rather than other compounds from either plant that may be present. Isolates may also be favored by those who wish to avoid THC entirely.

Source: https://www.leafly.com/news/cbd/hemp-vs-cannabis-derived-cbd-whats-the-difference

NORTHBUD $NBUD.ca – #Cannabis sector mounts furious lobbying drive in Ontario; Hillier seeks clarity $CGC $ACB $APH $CRON.ca $HEXO.ca $TRST.ca $OGI.ca

Posted by AGORACOM-JC at 4:50 PM on Friday, November 22nd, 2019

SPONSOR: NORTHBUD (NBUD:CSE) Sustainable low cost, high quality cannabinoid production and procurement focusing on both bio-pharmaceutical development and Cannabinoid Infused Products. Learn More.

Cannabis sector mounts furious lobbying drive in Ontario; Hillier seeks clarity

  • Over the past month, lobbyists have beat a path to Ontario’s legislature to discuss – among other things related to cannabis – taxation, labor policies, law enforcement and how adult-use marijuana is sold in the province

By Matt Lamers

Punished by disappointing sales due to a lack of retail stores, the cannabis industry has been mounting a fierce lobbying drive in Ontario to reach the decisionmakers driving the province’s marijuana policies, according to records from the Office of the Integrity Commissioner.

Over the past month, lobbyists have beat a path to Ontario’s legislature to discuss – among other things related to cannabis – taxation, labor policies, law enforcement and how adult-use marijuana is sold in the province.

The records show that efforts have been made to reach Ontario’s power brokers by:

  • Aurora Cannabis
  • Aphria
  • Convenience Industry Council of Canada
  • Cronos Group
  • The Green Organic Dutchman
  • Insurance Bureau of Canada
  • LeafLink
  • Loblaw
  • Supreme Cannabis Co.
  • Truss

Meanwhile, a former member of the ruling Progressive Conservative caucus is urging the party to adopt a clearer timeline for the planned pivot to an open allocation of adult-use retail stores.

Independent MPP Randy Hillier said Ontario’s bungled cannabis policies are costing the province, and its businesses, millions in lost economic opportunities.

“Here we have a government that promotes itself as ‘open for business,’ and what is the biggest impediment in the cannabis trade right now? Government’s lack of action and preventing people (from) opening retail establishments,” the independent MPP said in an interview.

He called Ontario’s cannabis lottery a “cluster you-know-what.”

The fledgling industry has already lost out on hundreds of millions of dollars of revenue, according to Craig Wiggins, managing director of market researcher TheCannalysts.

That has caused some producers to scale back production.

Hillier called on the government to empower the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario to license cannabis stores.

“We have 24 stores in operation a year out from legalization to serve 14 million people,” he said. “Newfoundland, with a population of 500,000 people, has as many stores as Ontario. Saskatchewan has twice as many with a population of a million people.

“We’re not achieving what we set out to with the legalization of cannabis, which is to get it out of the criminal marketplace. We’re allowing the criminal marketplace to continue to thrive.”

Ontario’s recent Economic Outlook restated the commitment to “an open allocation of cannabis retail store licenses where the number of stores is limited only by market demand,” however no timeline was offered.

Hillier’s advice to legal cannabis businesses is to speak up.

“If government policies are creating barriers for your businesses, then speak out.

“Bark as loud as possible, and possibly bite. That’s what often motivates government, is fear of embarrassment and fear of having to justify their actions.”

Matt Lamers is Marijuana Business Daily’s international editor, based near Toronto, Ontario. He can be reached at [email protected].

Source: https://mjbizdaily.com/cannabis-sector-mounts-furious-lobbying-drive-in-ontario-hillier-demands-clarity/

North Bud Farms $NBUD.ca Expands U.S. Presence with Acquisition of a Fully Licensed and Operational #Cannabis Farm in Salinas, California $CGC $ACB $APH $CRON.ca $HEXO.ca $TRST.ca $OGI.ca

Posted by AGORACOM-JC at 8:47 AM on Friday, November 22nd, 2019
  • Bonfire Brands USA, a wholly owned subsidiary of NORTHBUD, has signed multiple definitive agreements related to its previously announced letters of intent with the Qlora Group and Monterey Holdings
  • Finalized the acquisition of an 11-acre property located at 20180 Spence Road Salinas, California
  • Property currently consists of 300,000 sq. ft. of licensable greenhouse space with 60,000 sq. ft. actively cultivating cannabis and a 2,000 sq. ft. building licensed for distribution

TORONTO, Nov. 22, 2019 — North Bud Farms Inc. (CSE: NBUD) (OTCQB: NOBDF) (“NORTHBUD” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce that Bonfire Brands USA (“Bonfire”), a wholly owned subsidiary of NORTHBUD, has signed multiple definitive agreements related to its previously announced letters of intent with the Qlora Group and Monterey Holdings (see September 12, 2019 press release).

Transaction Terms:

  1. Bonfire Brands USA has finalized the acquisition of an 11-acre property located at 20180 Spence Road Salinas, California from Monterey Holdings Inc. The property currently consists of 300,000 sq. ft. of licensable greenhouse space with 60,000 sq. ft. actively cultivating cannabis and a 2,000 sq. ft. building licensed for distribution. The purchase price of the property is USD$8,000,000 which represents the fair market value of the real estate. The buyer and seller have entered into a seller carry back financing for the full purchase price.

  2. Bonfire Brands USA has signed a definitive agreement with the Qlora Group for the acquisition of cultivation, processing and distribution licenses associated to the Spence Road property. As part of this acquisition Bonfire Brands USA also acquires all the Intellectual Property (IP) and assets related to the brands California Bud Co and Live For The Day (LFTD). The two brands combined for approximately USD$6,500,000 in unaudited sales over the past 18 months. In consideration for this acquisition Bonfire has assumed a USD$2,500,000 debt note from the Qlora Group. The debt will be settled over a 24-month period through a combination of cash and stock at the discretion of the note holder.  Immediately upon signing of the definitive agreement Bonfire will have acquired 80% ownership of the licenses with the remaining 20% to be transferred after approval from the California Cannabis Control and Licensing Bureau.

    The buyer will be taking possession of all biological assets including:
  •    6000 plants currently in the fifth week of flowering;
  • ~ 5000 plants in various stages of vegetative growth;
  • ~ 350 Lbs. of dried and harvested flower and trim; and 
  •    3000 filled vape cartridges of various strains.                                                  

“On the heels  of the historic adoption of the MORE Act, the NORTHBUD and Bonfire team is extremely proud to have finalized this agreement and how the structure allows for the acquisition to be financed from ongoing cash flow from the acquired business with minimal dilution while allowing the company to acquire what we believe to be exceptionally positioned infrastructure located in the heart of California’s Sun Belt and home to the largest cannabis cultivators in the state,” said Ryan Brown, CEO of NORTHBUD.

This infrastructure will serve as the primary operation for Bonfire Brands USA within the state of California, which is considered to be the largest cannabis market in North America valued at USD$3 billion dollars per year according to Arcview Market Research and BDS Analytics (August 2019).

“We are very pleased with the successful acquisition of the Salinas facility,” said Justin Braune, President of Bonfire Brands USA. “We have been working closely with the cultivation team at Qlora over the past two months and will immediately take over operations to begin driving revenue growth. We anticipate our first harvest within 45 days and have been actively negotiating agreements with distribution and cultivation partners whom wish to leverage our strategic infrastructure through joint venture and subletting agreements. We anticipate closing these transactions in the near future with the goal of having the California operation generating positive cash flow in the near term.”

The Transaction is a significant acquisition but will not result in a “Fundamental Change” pursuant to the policies of the CSE. NORTHBUD will be preparing the necessary corporate and securities filings in order to secure the required approvals for the Transaction.

NORTHBUD has agreed to pay up to 3% in finder fees to arm’s length parties in connection with the closing of the Transaction. The fee is payable in common shares of NORTHBUD.

The closing of the Transaction is conditional on the receipt by the parties of applicable corporate and regulatory approvals including that of the CSE.

About North Bud Farms Inc.
North Bud Farms Inc., through its wholly owned subsidiary GrowPros MMP Inc., is pursuing a license under The Cannabis Act. The Company has built a state-of-the-art purpose-built cannabis production facility located on 135 acres of Agricultural Land in Low, Quebec, Canada. NORTHBUD through its wholly owned U.S. subsidiary, Bonfire Brands USA has acquired cannabis production facilities in California and Nevada. The Salinas, California property is located on 11 acres which currently consists of a 300,000 sq. ft. of licensable greenhouse space with 60,000 sq. ft. actively cultivating cannabis and a 2,000 sq. ft. building licensed for distribution. The Reno, Nevada property is located on 3.2 acres of land which was acquired through the acquisition of Nevada Botanical Science, Inc. a world class cannabis production, research and development facility with 5,000 sq. ft. of indoor cultivation which holds medical and adult use licenses for cultivation, extraction and distribution.

For more information visit: www.northbud.com

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange (the “CSE”) nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward-looking statements
Certain statements and information included in this press release that, to the extent they are not historical fact, constitute forward-looking information or statements (collectively, “forward-looking statements”) within the meaning of applicable securities legislation.  Forward-looking statements, including those identified by the expressions “anticipate”, “believe”, “plan”, “estimate”, “expect”, “intend”, “may”, “should” and similar expressions to the extent they relate to the Company or its management. This press release contains forward- looking statements including those relating to projected revenue for 2020 from the Qlora cannabis farm being acquired by Bonfire, the timing of the Company’s first harvest from the farm, and the negotiation of cultivation and distribution agreements. Forward-looking statements are based on the reasonable assumptions, estimates, analysis and opinions of management made in light of its experience and its perception of trends, current conditions and expected developments, as well as other factors that management believes to be relevant and reasonable in the circumstances at the date that such statements are made, but which may prove to be incorrect.

Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements.  Such risks and uncertainties include, among others, the risk factors included in the Company’s final long form prospectus dated August 21, 2018, which is available under the Company’s SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements. Further, any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which such statement is made. New factors emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for the Company’s management to predict all of such factors and to assess in advance the impact of each such factor on the Company’s business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. The Company does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect information, events, results, circumstances or otherwise after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, except as required by law including securities laws. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of any offer to buy any securities of the Company.

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
North Bud Farms Inc.
Edward Miller
VP, IR & Communications
Office: (855) 628-3420 ext. 3
[email protected]

NORTHBUD $NBUD.ca – Cannabis Canada: Ontario sets plans to let private sector handle cannabis distribution $CGC $ACB $APH $CRON.ca $HEXO.ca $TRST.ca $OGI.ca

Posted by AGORACOM-JC at 5:20 PM on Thursday, November 21st, 2019

SPONSOR: NORTHBUD (NBUD:CSE) Sustainable low cost, high quality cannabinoid production and procurement focusing on both bio-pharmaceutical development and Cannabinoid Infused Products. Learn More.

Cannabis Canada: Ontario sets plans to let private sector handle cannabis distribution

Ontario sets plans to let private sector handle cannabis distribution  

Ontario is gradually reducing its exposure to the legal pot industry. An email obtained by BNN Bloomberg shows the province plans to allow the private sector to handle distributing cannabis from producers to retailers. The email, which was sent to Canadian licensed producers late Tuesday, shows that Ontario plans to soon adopt a new measure to allow for a “third-party centralized distribution” system. The changes follow feedback the Ontario Cannabis Store solicited from the industry last month to determine whether it should get out of its wholesale cannabis business. The email also stated that the OCS is seeking further consultation with industry participants interested in services where cannabis can be shipped directly from a cannabis producer to a retailer, sidestepping a wholesale operator entirely.

Source: https://www.bnnbloomberg.ca/cannabis-canada-1.1351119

Vertical Exploration $VERT.ca – Signs Distribution Agreement with AREV Brands International to Supply St-Onge Wollastonite to the Cannabis and Hemp Industry $TORR.ca $FA.ca $WEED.ca $CGC $ACB $APH $CRON.ca $HEXO.ca $TRST.ca $OGI.ca

Posted by AGORACOM at 9:29 AM on Thursday, November 21st, 2019
  • A definitive distribution agreement to partner on the sale of Vertical’s wollastonite from its world-class St-Onge Deposit
  • Vertical will supply wollastonite to AREV Brands for distribution and/or resale
  • Vertical’s high quality wollastonite has been shown to be beneficial to cannabis plants – significant improvements in root mass, powdery mildew control and pest elimination.
  • At a microscopic level, wollastonite’s needle-like structure penetrates soft-bodied insect larvae and pupae, interrupting the life cycle without the use of pesticides

VERTICAL EXPLORATION INC. (TSXV:VERT) and AREV BRANDS INTERNATIONAL LTD. (CSE:AREV) are pleased to announce that, further to the press release of September 12th, 2019, the two companies have entered into a definitive distribution agreement to partner on the sale of Vertical’s wollastonite from its world-class St-Onge Deposit in order to supply the fast growing cannabis and hemp industries.

Vertical and AREV Brands have agreed to enter into this distribution agreement, whereby Vertical will supply wollastonite materials produced from its St-Onge mineral property located in Quebec to AREV Brands for distribution and/or resale to both small scale “craft” cannabis or hemp growing operations and large scale cannabis or hemp growing operations licensed by Health Canada.

Vertical’s high quality wollastonite has been shown to be beneficial to cannabis plants in a variety of ways. In February 2019, Vertical announced the successful completion of Phase Three trials involving cannabis grown with wollastonite (CaSiO3) as a soil additive at BC Bud Depot’s (BCBD) ACMPR-licenced Research and Development facilities in Vancouver, BC. In the Phase Three trials BCBD measured and recorded significant improvements in root mass, powdery mildew control and pest elimination. At a microscopic level, wollastonite’s needle-like structure penetrates soft-bodied insect larvae and pupae, interrupting the life cycle without the use of pesticides. Wollastonite’s unique properties also allow it to break down into calcium, magnesium and silicon in a highly bio-available form that balances soil PH throughout the growth cycle – this allows the cannabis plants to uptake silicic acid and promotes strong cell walls that better resist insect feeding and spore penetration, supporting increased growth and elevated product yields. (see February 5th, 2019 news release)

Peter P. Swistak, President/CEO of Vertical Exploration Inc., commented: “We are very pleased to have signed our first distribution and sales agreement with AREV Brands, as we believe there is a large and growing cannabis and hemp market opportunity for Vertical’s world-class St-Onge wollastonite. I firmly believe that this distribution partnership will be highly beneficial to both companies.”

This transaction is subject to the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange.

ABOUT AREV BRANDS INTERNATIONAL LTD.

AREV Brands International Ltd. (“AREV”) produces and delivers functional compounds and ingredients from its world-class extraction systems. AREV is revolutionizing the current delivery method of terpenes, cannabinoids and flavonoids. These premium ingredients and formulations are used in products targeted for sale in the natural health, medical, functional food, nutraceutical, sport nutrition and bioceutical markets. AREV innovates through extraction to produce extracts from specific selected plant and exude from trees that address 5 areas of health including Anxiety, Pain Management, Insomnia, Central Nervous System Disorders & Libido.

ABOUT VERTICAL EXPLORATION

Vertical Exploration’s mission is to identify, acquire, and advance high potential mining prospects located in North America for the benefit of its stakeholders. The Company’s flagship St-Onge Wollastonite property is located in the Lac-Saint-Jean area in the Province of Quebec.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

Peter P. Swistak, President/CEO

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:

Telephone: 1-604-683-3995
Toll Free: 1-888-945-4770
www.vertxinc.com