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Finally, a pot dispensary for working ‘spliffs.’
A new marijuana dispensary in New Jersey, co-owned by Wu-Tang Clan rapper Raekwon, was designed for those who like to toke while they work.
“Think Weedwork, but better funded,” said Josh Sanderlin, a co-owner of Newark’s Hashstoria, referencing the failed shared office space startup WeWork.
The long-in-the-works, oft-delayed pot shop boasts the Tri-State’s first “consumption lounge,” which will permit on-site use, much like the coffeeshops of The Netherlands.
Customers have to be 21 or older, and are able to bring in their own food.
“Our focus is on creating an inclusive environment where adults feel welcome to connect and explore the benefits of cannabis,” added lawyer Sanderlin.
Locals said they’d be happy to toke on the clock.
“I’d rather work from Raekwon’s weed shop than home,” admitted Jonathon Thornton, 25. “I’m kind of a hermit, so it’d get me out of the house more.”
“I support anything that brings people together,” said Tonia Hughes, 22. “I’d absolutely work on my laptop at Raekwon’s.”
Over 100 fans had assembled outside the Broad Street well before the 11 a.m. opening Wednesday.
“Nothing but love, I’m glad you could be here,” said Raekwon, whose real name is Corey Woods, “Newark, I love y’all!”
Also on hand was Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, City Councilman Dupre Kelly, funk legend George Clinton and Bronx rapper Fat Joe.
“Breakfast Club” radio host Charlamagne Tha God, civil rights attorney Bakari Sellers and entrepreneur Jedd Canty have also invested in the store.
The dispensary, which already employs 40 people, will also serve as a performance space and a hub for local artists, who’ll be able to display and even sell their works, said Sanderlin, who didn’t respond about the cost to bring the shop to life.
For now, Hashstoria is part dispensary, part “museum.”
The space showcases items from Raekwon’s three decades as one of hip-hop’s gamechangers, including a plethora of platinum record plaques. There’s also a raised DJ booth at the back of the shop.
English (US)