There are many ways to consume cannabis and enjoy the many benefits it has to offer. Two of the most popular methods are smoking and edibles. While both allow you to ingest cannabis and get the beneficial compounds into your system, they’re incredibly different from one another. Here are some of the differences between smoking grass and eating it. How It’s Processed The body processes grass differently depending upon how you consume it. When you smoke it, the cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds absorb quickly into your bloodstream through your lungs. From there, they travel to your brain and your endocannabinoid system to provide you with a variety of effects. Edibles take a bit longer to process. After you eat it, cannabis needs to travel through your digestive system. Your liver processes it before it finally enters your bloodstream. Then it travels through your body to your brain. When Do You Feel the Effects? The effects of smoking weed take effect much more quickly when you smoke it. It generally takes about 15 to 30 minutes to feel the effects, and they often peak at half an hour. Due to the way edibles get processed by your body, it takes longer for you to feel the effects. In most cases, it takes about 90 minutes to two hours. The effects generally peak at around four hours after ingestion. How Long the Effects Last Inhaled cannabis might produce results more quickly, but those effects also dissipate more quickly, too. They generally last up to about six hours, although you may feel some residual effects for up to 24 hours.  The effects of weed consumed via edibles last much longer in your system. In many cases, they’ll last about 12 hours. Like smoking, some effects may linger for up to 24 hours. Benefits of Smoking Vs. Eating Weed Smoking cannabis and eating edibles both have some unique benefits. Benefits of smoking include: You feel the effects more quickly It’s one of the most affordable options for cannabis consumption It can feel relaxing or ritualistic Benefits of eating cannabis include: It’s much more discreet You don’t have to inhale anything, which protects your lungs There’s a wide array of edibles, allowing you to find something that suits your taste buds What Are the Drawbacks of Smoking Grass? While both smoking and eating cannabis have their benefits, they also have drawbacks. Comparing both the pros and cons will help you to determine which method is right for you. Drawbacks to smoking include: Combustion creates burnt plant matter, carcinogens, and other toxins that can be harmful to your lungs It’s not at all discreet (smoking produces smoke and a strong odor that clings to everything) It may not be the best idea if you have respiratory or lung issues Drawbacks of edibles include: They can upset your stomach if you have digestive issues or difficulty eating You have to wait longer to feel the effects They can be easily mistaken for regular snacks Smoking grass and eating edibles both provide many benefits. Even though they both involve getting cannabis into your system, they get processed differently, take effect differently, and remain in the system for different lengths of time. No matter what method you prefer, check out your local dispensary for these and other options.

Introduction to Terpenes: If you like to occasionally take a hit of the good stuff then terpenes, or terps as some call them, are one of your favorite things that you’re probably totally unaware exist. If you aren’t into cannabis, you’ve still probably experienced them just in your everyday life. Thinking of weed, what is the first thing that comes to mind, it’s the smell. Sour and pungent herbal aromas are all too common when you pop open a jar of your favorite strain. Terpenes are the aromatic compounds which are responsible for the scent of other plants in nature, specifically though they are responsible for the distinctive aromas in your weed. If you love all of the different smells and tastes that come with different strains, then you should be thanking terpenes. Similar to essential oils there are a huge list of different terpenes all with different scents and flavors, while also producing differing effects and physical feelings. Leading to a more or less energetic high for example. Believe it or not the reason that your favorite strain is your favorite strain, is the specific blend of terpenes in it. Most of the time strains have roughly 3 main terps which contribute to the aroma, flavor, and effects. Myrcene This terpene is a real star, it is the most abundant terpene among cannabis strains. It is actually the dominant terpene in over 40% of commercially available strains of weed and is responsible for many of those key characteristics of your high. Myrcene enhances the flow of other cannabinoids to the brain, making it a key player in the entourage effect. Interacting with many others to produce a number of unique and powerful highs.  The Feel: Most known for it’s ability to provide deep relaxation High levels of myrcene enhance the intensity of a high Providing a tranquil and peaceful state of mind The Benefits Found to possibly help fight and kill cancer cells Widely used as an anti inflammatory  Historically used as a natural sedative and muscle relaxant  The Palate Known to have strong earthy and spicy notes Many say they get hints of mango or overripe fruit The Connections Present in both lemongrass and hops  High levels of myrcene are found in mangoes Found in certain herbs like cardamon and thyme The Strains Strawberry Banana Lemon : A smooth and somewhat hazy hybrid which tends to lean a little more towards the sativa side, a demonstration myrcene’s effects in a great daytime use strain. Purple Urkle : This heavy hitting indica definitely will leave you totally at ease after a few hits. Known for it’s strong grape flavor and musky notes as well. Grape Gasoline : This strain definitely has that fruity and earthy scent common with myrcene. Both euphoric and relaxing all at once! Wedding Crasher : This strain is really relaxing but equally social, a great hybrid that showcases that chill vibe myrcene is often known for. Tips & Tricks Myrcene is said to be sedative but this has not actually been proven yet. While it does make you feel very relaxed and at peace this is not the same as sleepy.  This terpene is especially key in the entourage effect so you may find that you get more intense highs from strains high in myrcene.

Rebelle is Aiming Higher. Through our parent company, Community Growth Partners (CGP), we are launching a new initiative: CGP Cares. We aim to support neighbors and nonprofit organizations which share our mission of making a positive impact in our communities. CGP Cares will support a different organization each month, organizations are nominated by staff. Our founder & CEO, Charlotte Hanna, launched CGP Cares as an extension of work in her early career. In a letter to employees, she says, “The early part of my career was spent working on hunger relief and homelessness – getting people off the street and in shelters, feeding people and launching all kinds of programs to help combat poverty. The way we do business at CGP is just another extension of this work. I want to give all of you the opportunity to give back and support organizations in the community where we operate – helping others just feels good and is needed today more then ever.” From February 1 through March 3, 2022, CGP Cares will be supporting The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS). Customers and employees may donate at checkout; all donations will be matched dollar-for-dollar by Community Growth Partners.  LLS was nominated by James Zafiros, because “everyone wins when cancer loses. Thanks to your support, we will help fund therapies and treatments that are saving lives. Over the years, support from people like you has been responsible for the blood cancer advancements that have doubled, tripled, and in some cases quadrupled the survival rate for some blood cancers. Many LLS-supported therapies not only help blood cancer patients but are also now used to treat patients with rare forms of stomach and skin cancers and are in clinical trials for patients with lung, brain, breast, pancreatic and prostate cancers. And LLS-funded drugs like targeted therapies and immunotherapies are now saving thousands of lives every day. We really are getting close to our goal of a world without blood cancers!” About The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society The LLS Mission is to cure Leukemia, Lymphoma, Hodgkin’s Disease and Myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families. The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) is a global leader in the fight against cancer. LLS funds lifesaving blood cancer research around the world, provides free information and support services, and is the voice for all blood cancer patients seeking access to quality, affordable, coordinated care. About CGP Cares CGP Cares is a community service program that raises funds for non profit organizations. Employees may nominate an organization, with a new non-profit highlighted each month. Donations raised through CGP Cares are matched dollar-for dollar by Community Growth Partners. CGP Cares also provides opportunities for employees of Community Growth Partners to get involved with the local community; employees are paid for up to 20 community service hours a year.

There’s nothing like fall in the Berkshires, and Great Barrington, MA is one of the best places to experience it. With rolling hills bursting with color, crisp air, and plenty of local charm, this town makes the perfect weekend getaway. Whether you’re here for food, farms, or foliage, we’ve put together a weekend itinerary to help you enjoy Great Barrington to the fullest. First Stop: Rebelle Dispensary in Great Barrington Before you dive into your fall adventures, make your first stop at Rebelle Dispensary in Great Barrington. We’re located right in town, and our shop is stocked with premium cannabis products to help you relax and enhance your weekend experience. Whether you’re heading to a cozy cabin, exploring local farms, or just strolling through downtown Great Barrington, a visit to Rebelle sets the tone for a laid-back fall escape. Stroll the Great Barrington Farmers Market Next, spend a Saturday morning at the Great Barrington Farmers Market. It’s one of the most vibrant community spots in the Berkshires and the perfect way to soak up the local flavor. You’ll find fresh produce, homemade baked goods, and artisanal products from local makers. Pick up a warm loaf of bread or some fresh apples to enjoy later. Stopping at the farmers market is one of the most authentic ways to experience Great Barrington in fall. Take in the Season at Windy Hill Farm Fall wouldn’t be complete without a trip to a farm, and Windy Hill Farm on Stockbridge Road in Great Barrington is a must-visit. Their displays of pumpkins, gourds, and seasonal plants are a true autumn wonderland. Grab some cider, browse their farm store, or pick up decorations to bring a little Great Barrington fall magic back home. Paired with a stop at Rebelle Dispensary, it makes for the perfect fall afternoon. Why Great Barrington in the Fall? There’s a reason people travel from all over New England to spend time in Great Barrington during fall. The town has a little bit of everything—scenic drives, hiking trails, incredible dining, and a warm, welcoming community. You can spend the morning exploring shops downtown, the afternoon hiking nearby Monument Mountain, and the evening relaxing with your finds from Rebelle Great Barrington. It’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down, breathe, and enjoy the season. Plan Your Great Barrington Getaway If you’re dreaming of the perfect fall weekend, Great Barrington, Massachusetts should be at the top of your list. From the Great Barrington Farmers Market to Windy Hill Farm, there’s no shortage of ways to embrace the season. Just don’t forget to start your trip at Rebelle Dispensary in Great Barrington—your go-to stop for curated cannabis products that make any autumn adventure a little brighter. Cover Image: Pinterest https://www.pinterest.com/pin/51439620739714325/

I know this isn’t super shocking, but yes edibles do indeed expire. Food products eventually go bad, and edibles aren’t any more special (Okay they are in a different way). But that container of those “meh” tasting, long forgotten infused gummies… now what? Here are a few things to know and consider when it comes to these elevated tasty treats and their perishability. Let’s start by considering the ingredients. Some foods are more perishable and therefore are going to have a shorter shelf life than others, and that comes down to how it was made and the preservatives that are added to it. Some cookies and brownies were developed and formulated to be packaged and shelf-stable for a long time so of course these will have a longer shelf life than the infused baked goods you might take at home. Yes of course some products may not go bad per se (A gummy or chocolate bar), however they can get stale over time and just might not be as yummy. Of course, all packaged edibles you buy from legal dispensaries come with the best-before or expiration date. With products that contain highly perishable ingredients like dairy, you’ll probably want to stick to dates given by the manufacturer. But what about all those sweet shelf-stable goodies like lollipops, gummies, or chocolate? Sugar acts as a great preservative, however over time color, flavor and texture might be less than appealing. The best-by date doesn’t have to do with the potency of the edible, but the shelf life of the ingredients used. What about cannabinoids and potency? Does THC and CBD go bad? The answer is no, they don’t really go bad, but they can degrade. THC for example degrades into the sleepy cannabinoid you might have heard of: CBN. Over time and/or with excessive heat, oxygen and light, THC will break down into the less intoxicating CBN, meaning the euphoria THC brings may turn to sleepiness if your edible has been chilling out for a while. There hasn’t been a study on how bodily effects change when another cannabinoid like CBD degrades, though it’s a safe bet to assume that those old edibles may slightly decrease in potency.   This is where that common sense, along with our evolutionary wisdom as members of the animal kingdom, comes in handy. If you’re asking the question if this edible has gone bad, use your senses as a guide. If you detect anything funky with the color, texture, smell, or the flavor seems off, toss it. It’s always a good idea to keep your edibles in a cool, dry and dark place. Environmental factors such as sunlight and heat can degrade the edible and the potency pretty quickly. An airtight container in a pantry or cupboard is a great way to store most store-bought and shelf-stable products like chocolate and candy. But of course, always read the labels, if it says this product is perishable enough to need refrigeration, it should say so on the label. Will putting them in the fridge or freezer extend their shelf life? It can, but also be aware that unless they’re in their own airtight containers, they can absorb flavors and moisture from the environment. For anything infused you may make at home you can expect the same shelf-life as their non-infused varieties, just be sure to protect them from light, air and heat as well. But the most important tip for edible storage is safety. With cannabis legalization spreading and becoming more widely available, the number of incidents of kiddos and pets accidentally getting into edibles is also on the rise. Always lock away your goods in a safety box to make for sure it does not get into the wrong hands! #cannabis #edibles #THC

By now we all know that the weed we once knew has come to take some pretty interesting forms apart from just buds. But now with the world of cannabis opening up more and more a robust market of topically applied cannabis products has come to life. While you might be thinking, “Wait, you want me to rub my marijuana on my skin?”. Well not exactly but at the same time, uhm yeah pretty much.  Topicals are refined cannabis extracts that have been blended with some form of oil, balm, cream or similar medium to make them absorbable through your skin. While you might be thinking wow, this is the most discreet way to get high I’ve ever heard of! You should know that topicals aren’t meant to provide the euphoric high or really much of any noticeable psychoactive effect. What they are built for is to harness the therapeutic effects of cannabis and its active compounds in particular. Uses and applications span your daily aches and pains to sexual wellness. Topicals may not end up being the most exciting or exhilarating products in your lineup, but for users who aren’t particularly looking for that high or who just want to isolate a specific end use they are a must! Topicals for Aches & Pains Even as a recreational dispensary we have seen countless customers come back time and time again. Telling us how much topicals have helped them overcome chronic aches and pains that once ruled their day to day. Most topicals only take 10-20 minutes to get the desired effect, making them a quick fix.  Common complaints we’ve seen topicals be a great solution for include carpal tunnel, headaches, cramping, or general soreness from being on your feet or working manual labor. Many even report that some of the personal lubricants are a solution for cramps. Rebelle’s Pick:  Slate Topicals has an amazing Wonder Balm which combines a cooling sensation and peppermint scent with a 1:1 THC to CBD ratio to combat sore or aching muscles. Topicals for the Bedroom Yes you heard us right, topicals for the bedroom are one of our favorites. While you may not get high, the tingling and physical sensations that some of these elicit can be incredible. Most of these are lubricants in one form or another.  Rebelle’s Pick: Pleasure Oil by Her Highness, not just adds some THC into the mix, but its unique recipe is built to really enhance the tingling and euphoric physical effects.  Topicals for Skincare As you may have heard before, THC has been known to have positive benefits beyond the high. Which according to many extend to your skin as well. Nothing is quite as nice as finally getting some relief from chronic dry or cracking skin. Which is why many have turned to the reported regenerative properties of cannabis as their fix. Believe it or not there are even many psoriasis patients who seek out topicals for some relief.  Rebelle’s Pick:  The Body Balm by Nordic Goddess is perfect for some well deserved rejuvenation. This combo even works well at reducing inflammation too with a 1:1 THC to CBD ratio.

Cannabis has been regarded for it’s wellness benefits for centuries, and recently, its use has expanded to include weight control for many users. Although not all strains are created equal in this regard, some consumers have found certain cannabis strains which help them with weight management and regulation. There are two main types of cannabis, sativa and indica. Sativa strains are most often known for their energetic, uplifting effects, while indica strains are better known for their relaxing and sedative properties. Both types have been reported to help with weight control, but in slightly different ways. Sativa strains like Sour Diesel and Super Silver Haze are known to provide energy and improve focus, which can help users stay motivated and active. They can also suppress appetite in some people. These strains are ideal for those who want to stay active while managing their weight. Indica strains like Granddaddy Purple and Purple Kush have a more relaxing effect, which can be helpful for people who struggle with stress eating or sleep disturbances. These strains can also increase appetite, which can be helpful for those who have difficulty gaining weight. CBD and THC are two of the most well-known cannabinoids found in cannabis. THC is psychoactive and produces the high associated with cannabis, while CBD is not psychoactive and has a variety of therapeutic benefits. Strains high in CBD, like Girl Scout Cookies and AC/DC, have been found to reduce appetite and help with weight loss. THC dominant strains, like OG Kush and Silver Haze, have been found to increase appetite and promote weight gain. Cannabis strains with high levels of the terpene limonene, which is found in strains like Lemon Haze and Super Lemon Haze, have been found to improve metabolism and promote weight loss. Strains high in the terpene humulene, like Skywalker OG and Gorilla Glue, have been found to suppress appetite. When seeking strains for weight control, it’s important to consider the genetics of the strain and the grower as well. The potency and yield of a strain can vary depending on the growers cultivation techniques. It’s also important to choose strains from reputable breeders to ensure high-quality genetics. While these strains can be helpful for weight control, it’s important to remember that cannabis should not be relied upon as the sole method for weight management. A balanced diet and regular exercise are essential for maintaining a healthy weight. Always consult a healthcare provider before using cannabis for weight control or any other medically related purpose.

Community Growth Partners’ (CGP) core mission is to use the legal cannabis market as a vehicle for social change, and we are actively following through on our social impact pledge and community empowerment efforts. Community Growth Partners is pleased to announce that we have partnered with Volunteers in Medicine America (VIM), an organization that provides access to free, comprehensive health care for those in the Berkshires region who are income-qualified and uninsured or under-insured. VIM envisions a society in which everyone has an equal opportunity to achieve good health, and CGP is aligned with and fully supports this mission. Now through Labor Day at our Rebelle store in Great Barrington, CGP is matching customer donations up to $10,000. CGP’s founder and CEO, Charlotte Hanna, stated, “VIM clinics are the result of community-directed initiatives, and it is our hope that this donation, coupled with the match from our belief-driven customers, will help ensure that VIM Berkshires can sustain its mission of helping those in need. I am deeply proud of our company’s commitment to community empowerment, and I’m thrilled to align ourselves with an organization that shares in our core values of equality and inclusion.” Please help us double our gift to VIM by donating today!

This women’s history month, we are excited to launch our first playlist from Clairemarie Rutledge: Women in Music . In Claire’s words: This playlist is an homage to us, to the most inspiring female artists that have influenced my (yours as well I hope!) life, to freedom, and woman’s history. The three tracks that introduce the selection open in a groovy and elegant vibe to get in the mood; a mood that will bring smiles and happiness. Another chapter opens by the French artist Corine, with the track Cocktail, you will discover different genres with strong bass to add a lot of character and sexiness. The warmer voices you will find in this playlist will be reflected through legends as Nina Simone, Grace Jones, Amy Winehouse, Sade and more. Speaking of warm voices, I also added a track called Wildfires by SAULT that brought me goosebumps over a thousand times; listen to the lyrics carefully and you will quickly understand the message of the protests Black Lives Matter we stood up for during the Summer of 2020 and continue to today. When I think about REBELLE, working around the idea of a powerful group of women building their reputation in the cannabis industry, I naturally thought about Change your style by Renee. It’s so strong, so sexy, so inspiring that you want to grab your girlfriend’s hand to dance, celebrating life! The last chapter of the playlist is introduced by Invitation by Saâda Bonaire. It’s the “night mode on” of the selection, meaning turn the volume up, add a touch of REBELLE and get in the mood to make your body move. The last three tracks are a special note because I used to play them when Djing at parties, when that was a part of my life. Cannot wait to see you all dancing to these throughout Summer 2021!

Cannabis has been a symbol of resistance for so long. Generation after generation the government has criminalized and radicalized this plant, and the substance’s conscious use in many political upheavals, such as counterculture, is not a coincidence. Even as total legalization seems so close to sweeping the country in the next few years, the subject of weed is inseparable from socio economic justice issues. Bearing this in mind, it isn’t shocking that the cannabis movement and the gay rights movement were and are closely intertwined. The most immediate link is cannabis’ use as treatment for AIDS, which disproportionately impacted the LGBTQ+ community. Given federal and local governments’ reluctance to acknowledge the virus’ existence and impact on a group of people it deemed expendable, those with AIDS turned to weed to ease the symptoms from the disease itself as well as from the drugs they were prescribed, which were often just as harmful. Aside from this connection, the two movements both gained ground around the same time and advocated for disenfranchised, outcast populations, working to completely alter what society perceived as deviant and criminal. Without the rigorous, dangerous work of queer activists, cannabis would certainly not be as (relatively) accessible as it is today. One such activist who emerged during this time was Dennis Peron, a man who is now considered to be the father of the medical marijuana movement. Peron’s fight for cannabis legalization began in the Castro District of San Francisco during the 1970s, where he coordinated smoke-ins to protest the ban of cannabis. However, soon Dennis’ passion for activism greatly intensified when his partner Jonathan West tragically died from AIDS in 1990. For years Peron watched cannabis help alleviate the horrendous symptoms the virus produced in his loved one, and in 1991, one year after West’s death, Peron founded what was effectively the first dispensary—the San Francisco Cannabis Buyers Club. In 1996 he co-authored the infamous Compassionate Use Act, also known as Proposition 215 which allowed for the use of medical marijuana. Proposition 215 passed with 55% of the vote, making it the first medical marijuana program to be passed at the state level. The success of the Compassionate Use Act in the face of federal prohibition set off a chain reaction that took place across North America and laid the foundation for the legalization efforts we now benefit from in the US and Canada.  Although the most prominent, Peron, who died in 2018, was not the only HIV/AIDS activist who helped pave the way for medical marijuana. Another notable figure was Kiyoshi Kuromiya—who was born in an internment camp where Japanese-Americans were held during World War II—served as a personal assistant to Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in the ’60s, and helped lead the Gay Liberation Front. Kuromiya was an openly gay delegate to the Black Panther Convention and one of the founders of the AIDS activist group Act Up. Following his own diagnosis, Kuromiya explored marijuana as a treatment for the illness. Further, like Peron did in San Francisco, Kuromiya ran an underground cannabis buyers’ club in Philadelphia to help treat AIDS patients. And before his passing in 2000, Kuromiya acted as the lead plaintiff in a Supreme Court case calling for the legalization of medical marijuana. These two viewed the HIV/AIDS epidemic for what it really was: a public health crisis. While national leadership actively ignored the virus, these incredible activists persevered in serving a community that was in desperate need of compassion and relief. Facing personal risk to make cannabis available as a way to manage HIV/AIDS symptoms—together with concurrent issues like anxiety and depression—these two early activists helped, and continue posthumously to help, countless people living with the virus. And they helped set in motion an effort to legalize cannabis that continues today. The work of Peron, Kuromiya, among so many others, made it possible for California to become the first US jurisdiction to legalize medical cannabis—paving the way for the many marijuana policy wins we have seen around the country in more recent years. Today, cannabis use among queer folks is considerably higher than it is for straight folks — not because of HIV, but because of the myriad mental and physical illnesses LGBTQ+ people experience at a higher rate. According to the 2015 data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health , sexual minority adults are more than twice as likely to use marijuana when compared to heterosexual adults. Almost a third of sexual minority adults (30.7%) reported using marijuana in the past year, compared to 12.9 percent of heterosexual adults. These higher rates of marijuana use coexists with the higher rates of depression, anxiety, PTSD, eating disorders, suicidal thoughts, homelessness, and physical pain that LGBTQ+ people experience due to marginalization and oppression. We’ve come a long way in regard to both the gay rights and cannabis legalization movements, but now is not the time to rest. We still have a long road ahead of us. Cannabis continues to be federally listed as a Schedule I drug, and more than seventy countries still criminalize homosexuality. In the spirit of Pride month, we at Rebelle have elected Berkshire Stonewall Community Coalition as the recipient of our CGP Cares charity drive. BSCC supports the well-being of LGBTQ+ people of the Berkshires through outreach, community positive events, as well as opportunities for political and educational activities. Now through June 30th, Rebelle will match every dollar donated to Berkshire Stonewall Community Coalition. #cannabis #lgbtq #pride

[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.22″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.25″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” custom_margin=”-74px|auto||auto||”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.6.6″ quote_font=”|700|||||||” quote_text_align=”center” background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”] We’re working together to create new cannabis jobs and disrupt cycles of poverty in black and Latino communities. Before Rebelle ever sold an ounce of cannabis, Charlotte Hanna knew she needed ROCA. The Rebelle CEO was deeply aware of the hypocrisies facing her nascent cannabis industry in Massachusetts. After all, she was a female entrepreneur in an industry where 87 percent of the pending cannabis applications were owned by white men . But more pressing was the state’s cannabis criminalization rates. In Boston, from 2000 to 2018, black people made up 66 percent of marijuana possession charges — despite only accounting for 22 percent of Boston’s population. If Charlotte was going to open a legal cannabis business in Massachusetts, she knew it had to help the very communities that illegal cannabis had hurt. That’s why Charlotte turned to ROCA , Inc. The Boston-based non profit had seen first hand how employment opportunities could disrupt cycles of poverty and incarceration among young adults. Since its founding in 1988, ROCA has dedicated itself to lifting black and brown men and women out of poverty and away from prison through outreach, tailored programming, and job training with community partners like Rebelle.    “I’m a big believer in partnering with like-minded people. I couldn’t have found better partners than Chris and the team at ROCA.” —Charlotte Hanna, CEO of Rebelle BREAKING THE CYCLE Marcus Williams, Rebelle’s Vice President, remembers how poverty impacted young black lives like his own while growing up in the Boston suburb of Dorchester. “Everyone [was] trying to make the most of what they have,” he says. He recalls a student from his high school, “a star kid,” who couldn’t afford tuition and was forced to drop out. The friend ended up dealing drugs and was eventually robbed at gunpoint. “Sometimes, if you don’t have a lot, you gotta work with what you know.” And what poor black communities know, he says, is cannabis. “All of these communities that the state has identified as disproportionately impacted by marijuana criminalization are also the same community where industries left,” Charlotte says. If Marcus and Charlotte could combine ROCA’s mentorship with Rebelle’s new business needs, they knew they could bring jobs back to poor neighborhoods and use cannabis to empower communities. CREATING A JOB PIPELINE After a chance encounter in Holyoke, where Charlotte literally ran into a ROCA employee on the street (“They welcomed me with open arms.”), Rebelle and ROCA hit the ground running. “Charlotte has never wavered from the idea of working with our young people and that is the type of person I want to entrust my young people to,” says Christine Judd, Director of ROCA Springfield and Holyoke. “We are a family at ROCA and I really got the sense that Rebelle has a similar philosophy and they believe in second chances. Rebelle hired ROCA to work construction on their dispensary in Great Barrington. Rebelle partnered with local community leaders and led a career panel to help educate ROCA members about the fast growing cannabis industry in Massachusetts. “I think this is the first time our young people didn’t feel judged for smoking pot,” Judd adds. “To see their eyes light up when they realized they could work for Rebelle is why I will continue to work to make our partnership a lasting one.” Now, months later, Rebelle is launching a one-of-a-kind mentorship program, where ROCA members have the chance to shadow all parts of Rebelle’s cannabis business. Marcus and Charlotte’s goal is to create a talent pipeline that will allow them to hire up to 75% of Rebelle’s workforce from disproportionately impacted communities in Western Massachusetts. “We want to be a permanent fixture, to provide opportunities to organizations like ROCA and mutually build together,” says Marcus. BUILDING FUTURES WITH CANNABIS But Rebelle wants to do more than create jobs. In addition to ambitions for becoming a certified B Corporation — putting them alongside community-minded businesses like Ben & Jerry’s, Allbirds, and New Belgium Brewing — Rebelle is also setting aside a portion of net proceeds to reward employees. “If we could positively impact one family by giving them the ability to save some money, buy a house, then that’s success for me,” says Charlotte, who first learned the importance of generation wealth while helping families escape homelessness at the Washington, DC non-profit House of Ruth. “Because it’s one thing to make money. It’s another thing to build wealth. And I want to teach people about that. Because when you have capital you start building for your future.” Everytime you purchase cannabis products from us — either in our Great Barrington shop or on our website — you help Rebelle further its work with ROCA, setting an example for the industry on how cannabis can empower communities and break cycles of poverty for good. 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This holiday season, we’re all about the infused mocktails! Start with a bottle of Select Squeeze , or tincture of your choice, and add only the freshest ingredients. Tried and tested by the Rebelle crew! The Wonderful Life A zesty blood orange and ginger mocktail. Instructions: Fill a shaker with ice Fill 2/3 of the way with organic ginger beer Add a quick pour of spiced grenadine Add the juice of a lime And dose with Select Squeeze . Each squeeze is 5mg Add to a glass with salted rim, we used fresh thyme leaves with rock salt and chili flakes and serve. Rudolph’s Sip A fresh beet and grapefruit mocktail. Instructions: Add equal parts beet juice and grapefruit juice to a shaker with ice Add the juice of a fresh lime Combine 1/2 oz agave syrup with 1/2 oz water, and add And dose with Select Squeeze . Each squeeze is 5mg. Add to a glass with salted rim, we used  @mezsal_salts Fennel Tang salt on the rim. Serve! Cranberry Haze A fresh cranberry and ginger mocktail. Instructions: Fill shaker with ice, fill 2/3 of the way with ginger beer Top with fresh cranberry juice On the side: add a tablespoon of honey to tablespoon warm water, stir. Add to shaker And dose with Select Squeeze . Each squeeze is 5mg. Add to a glass with sprig of rosemary and serve! Snow Daze A twist on the espresso martini. Instructions: Fill shaker with ice Add two shots of espresso, shake Top with unsweetened vanilla oat milk to taste Add 1 teaspoon brown sugar and pinch of ground cinnamon And dose with Select Squeeze . Each squeeze is 5mg. Top with 1-2 scoops of praline and cream ice cream and serve! OG Pear A pear and apple mocktail. Instructions: Fill shaker with ice Add equal parts of pear and apple juice (sparkling, if you’re fancy) Add pinch of ground cinnamon And dose with Select Squeeze . Each squeeze is 5mg. Pour and serve! Images and inspiration: Wonderbar Beacon ,   @theresidentmixologist , @halfbakedharvest , monsieurdrink ,  thecocktail.blog