Pubdate: Sat, 28 Dec 2013
Source: News Herald (Willoughby, OH)
Copyright: 2013 Associated Press
Contact:  http://www.news-herald.com
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/305

DENVER GIVES OUT POT SALES LICENSES

DENVER (AP) - The first batch of Denver businesses approved to sell 
recreational marijuana got their licenses Friday, the owners mugging 
for pictures and saying they never thought they'd see the day when 
they'd get a permit to sell pot.

Applause broke out and cameras whirred when the first license was 
issued from the city's Department of Excise and Licenses. The city 
awarded 14 licenses for retail shops, 17 licenses for pot growers and 
three licenses for makers of cannabis-infused products such as pot brownies.

One businessman joked about getting arrested for having a joint at a 
1971 Black Sabbath concert. Others shared hugs and stories about 
marijuana's route to legalization.

The licensed sellers went through a state and local licensing process 
that included public hearings to ask neighbors about shop locations. 
Owners also underwent more than a dozen fire and building inspections 
for each shop.

"It's been a grueling process but we're finally here," said Justin 
Jones, owner of Dank Colorado, a retail shop.
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom