Just 10 years ago, I struggled to believe cannabis could become a thriving industry across the state, with dispensaries visible everywhere I go.

Now, it’s a simple fact of life. West Michigan is flush with the stuff, and you can get it in all forms—flower, vapes, edibles, drinks, even topical balms. While it hasn’t resulted in the major spikes of crime or slothfulness that critics worried about, it’s certainly had an impact on how we live. 

Cannabis has helped ease the transition away from alcohol for many, both in terms of consumers but also employees. It’s used not just recreationally but for physical ailments and mental health issues as well. 

We discuss this in our annual Cannabis Issue, taking a look at the pros and cons of alcohol vs. cannabis, and talking to those in the industry about how cannabis has changed their lives. However you choose to have fun, chances are you’re going to be experiencing some late-night hunger, so this issue also has a look at dining options open after midnight.

This month, we also take a look at another industry on the rise locally: Books. I talked to a couple indie bookstores about why reading is having a moment, and all the fantastic things local shops have to offer that Amazon does not. Then, check out our Bookstore Guide to find one near you!

As always, you’ll find interviews with touring and local bands like Marc Scibilia and Ten Peso Version, alongside a spotlight on the local arts season, talking to St. Cecilia Music Center about their stacked March lineup and to the relatively young Ghosthouse Fine Art Studio about their unique approach to education. 

If you’re still hesitantly canna-curious, there’s never been a better time to try it out, now that the industry’s settled down and planted roots (and prices are hella cheap). But if you’re not interested at all, no pressure—you can always get high on life, as the poster in my 9th grade science class used to say. We just suggest you do it locally.

'Til next time,

Josh Veal, Managing Editor