The Green Cross

A memory I’ll carry for the rest of my life.

In July 2016, I had the honor of welcoming Dennis Peron and several close friends to The Green Cross.

Dennis and I had known one another for many years, and that day we spent real time together—touring our facility, sharing great cannabis, and talking openly about the industry, its roots, and where the future might lead. It was thoughtful, genuine, and unforgettable.

What I didn’t know then was that this would be the last time I would ever see him in person.

Before we parted, Dennis sent me words I have carried with me ever since:

“Thank you so much for the hospitality—you were great. The future is yours. Treat it kindly. Live your dreams.”

I’ve never forgotten that.

For those lucky enough to know him, Dennis Peron was more than a pioneer—he was a force of compassion, courage, and conviction. He helped change California forever, and in doing so, changed countless lives.

I will always be grateful for our friendship, for that day, and for the wisdom he left me with.

The future is ours to treat kindly—and to live boldly.
In honor of Dennis, we keep moving forward. 💚

— Kevin Reed

Funny how the “J” in ma*****na is silent… but the one I’m holding is loud as f*ck!!!

A Historic Step Forward for Medical Cannabis

The federal government has taken a major step by moving state-authorized medical cannabis products from Schedule I to Schedule III under federal law.

That matters because, for decades, cannabis was treated federally as having “no accepted medical use.” This shift finally recognizes what patients, doctors, and medical cannabis programs have known for years: cannabis has real medical value.

That said, this is not full legalization. Adult-use cannabis is not directly covered by this order, and broader federal rescheduling hearings are expected to begin June 29, 2026.

For licensed medical cannabis businesses, this could be a major tax breakthrough because Schedule III treatment may remove the harsh impact of IRS 280E, allowing normal business deductions.

This is progress. It is historic. But the work is not finished.

Cannabis still needs to be removed from the Controlled Substances Act entirely so states like California can regulate it clearly, fairly, and without outdated federal conflict.

Leadership isn’t about titles. It’s about who shows up—and who stands with you when it matters.

I’ve had the opportunity to know Xavier Becerra not just as a public figure, but as someone who took the time to understand our industry up close—walking through The Green Cross, asking real questions, and listening to the challenges we face on the ground.

That matters.

Because California’s cannabis industry isn’t theoretical. It’s thousands of small businesses, tens of thousands of jobs, and a system that—if we’re being honest—is under real pressure right now.

Javier has spent decades in public service—from the U.S. House of Representatives to serving as California’s Attorney General, and later leading at the highest levels as U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services. Across every role, he’s built a reputation for stepping into complex systems and working to make them fairer and more functional for the people inside them.

And I’ve seen firsthand—he doesn’t ignore cannabis. He engages with it.

At a time when our industry is fighting to survive in an oversaturated market, facing inconsistent regulation, and being asked to carry a disproportionate burden, we don’t need someone learning on the job. We need someone who already understands the landscape—and is willing to act on it.

That’s why I’m supporting Javier Becerra for Governor of California.

Not because it’s easy.
Not because it’s expected.
But because I believe California needs leadership that listens, understands complexity, and isn’t afraid to stand with industries that others overlook.

If you care about small businesses, fair regulation, and the future of cannabis in California, I encourage you to take a closer look.

We don’t need more noise.

We need steady, informed leadership.

Romeo on security detail. 🐾🌿

Legacy on the floor. Loyalty in the building. Still setting the standard in SF — one paw at a time. 💚

Pass it to Grandma. She might thank you later…