Meet Jeff Reide: The Tri-State's Pioneer in Recreational Marijuana - A Historic First Purchase in Ohio

COLUMBIA TOWNSHIP, Ohio — The early morning air buzzed with excitement as Jeff Reide stood outside Sunnyside Dispensary, the first person in Ohio to legally purchase recreational marijuana. This was no ordinary day for Reide, who had been eagerly anticipating this moment for years. As the clock struck 7 a.m., his dream became reality, marking a historic milestone for the Tri-State area.

Reide, a long-time advocate for marijuana legalization, has been closely following the legislative progress in Ohio. "I've been waiting for this day for a long time," he shared, his voice brimming with excitement. Reide arrived at Sunnyside Dispensary at 6:30 p.m. the night before, determined to be the first in line. "I wanted to feel like a celebrity, to be part of history," he explained.

As the doors opened and Reide stepped inside, the atmosphere was electric. The dispensary employees and fellow customers erupted into cheers as he made his purchase. "Finally," Reide chanted, echoing the sentiment of many Ohioans who have long supported the move towards legalization. His purchase of flower and edibles was met with applause, capturing the collective joy of a community that had long awaited this change.

The process, according to Reide, was "easy" and "simple," a stark contrast to the complicated and often risky experience of purchasing marijuana through illicit means. "It's a relief to be able to buy cannabis legally and safely," he noted. "I feel like we've taken a huge step forward."

Jason Erkes, Chief Communications Officer for Sunnyside and Cresco Labs, described the day as "historic" for Ohio. "It's the 24th state to legalize cannabis in this capacity," he said, emphasizing the growing momentum for legalization across the country. "Cannabis is popular, people want access to it."

Erkes also highlighted the broader benefits of legal marijuana sales, including tax revenue and the regulation of the product. "Getting the product out of the illicit market and into regulated stores is crucial," he explained. "It ensures safety and quality for consumers."

For Reide, the significance of the day extends beyond his personal excitement. "This is about more than just me," he said. "It's about all the people who have been advocating for this for years, and the positive changes it will bring to our community."

As Ohio embarks on this new chapter, Reide's experience serves as a testament to the dedication and passion of those who have championed the cause. His historic first purchase at Sunnyside Dispensary is not just a personal victory, but a shared celebration of progress and hope for the future.

Would you stand in line overnight to be part of a historic event like Jeff Reide did for Ohio's first recreational marijuana sale?