Although there were rumors that relief would come this December for those awaiting their legal medical marijuana in Ohio, Santa will not be depositing any cannabis beneath the tree this year.

Mary Jane Borden, Free Press’ cannabis reporter, tells us that “Even if cut today, the plants would still have to dry for a time. Testing laboratories aren't scheduled for final inspection until mid-December, according to the Department of Commerce. Also, there is not yet a patient registry. I suppose that dispensaries could open without product and sell ‘accessories’ as provided in HB 523, but I don't see anything that tells me Ohio will have functional dispensaries with cannabis for sale this year.”

The September 2018 date initially predicted for the opening of the medical marijuana market in our state has long passed. It looks like it will be January before the first crop is ready. Cultivators at Buckeye Relief in Eastlake, Ohio claims to have buds that will be harvested soon. Cresco Labs in Yellow Springs announced a few weeks ago their plants were almost full grown.

In order to appease your needy cannabis friend or family member this holiday season, you may want to look to CBD oils and products. Some of the courageous and loyal Free Press advertisers can help you out. You can find CBD at Momentum 98, Columbus Botanical Depot, and the Bexley Natural Market. Patients in need of medical prescriptions can contact the Ohio Herbal Clinic.

See the entire list below of Free Press advertisers this month. Thank them for supporting us by supporting them!

Please patronize our advertisers

Affordable Insurance
Owner Mitch Safrin is an old hippie radical who now provides inexpensive car and home insurance.                                                                 

House of Cigar
The largest cigar shop in the city with the finest and most diversified selection.                                                         

Momentum 98
The place for personal wellness products including professional massage tools, homeopathic remedies, yoga and fitness equipment, and the Relax Far Infrared Ray Portable Sauna.                                                                  

Ohio Hebal Clinic
Dr. Joel Simmons, oncologist, not only support the Free Press, but can officially prescribe medical marijuana.                                              

DoTerra
Essential oils gently and carefully distilled from plants that have been patiently harvested at the perfect moment by experienced growers from around the world.                                                       

Yellow Brick Pizza
One of the Free Press’ longest running ad supporter, with healthy choices, a fun atmosphere and locations in Victorian Village and Olde Towne.                                                                                                                                     

Press Grill 
Iconic neighborhood hangout in the Short North, perfect for Free “Press Grill” readers.                                                                           

Keen’s Body Shop
These honest and trustworthy folks will fix your car, truck, semi, boat or RV. Scratched bumpers welcome too.                                

Ace of Cups
There’s never a dull moment at the Ace of Cups nightclub. Something for everyone from karaoke, burlesque, concerts, comedy and charity events.                                                        

Bexley Natural Market
The area’s most successful cooperative independent community market stocked with produce, healthy foods, supplements, gifts, beer and wine, and friendly faces.                                   

Columbus Botanical Depot
Columbus Ohio's first CBD store! Stop in today for all things CBD: oils, tinctures, capsules, edibles, vapors, body care and topicals. Products are THC-free.                           

Lost Weekend Records
Stacked from floor to ceiling with vinyl of all genres, CDs, DVDs, books, and other music collectibles.                                    

Sanfilippo Produce      
Family run businessproviding highest quality vegetables and fresh fruits, superior customer service, and competitive pricing to our local community.                       

Stained Skin Tatoo & Art Gallery
A relaxed atmosphere, exceptional customer service, and incredible tattoo artists, all within a rotating art gallery.                                                

Clean Eatz 
Affordable healthy meals delivered to your door.