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Former New York Knick Iman Shumpert debuts ‘TSA Approved’ legal cannabis brand

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Former NBA guard Iman Shumpert is releasing his own cannabis brand. Shumpert is partnering with Glenmere Farms cultivation company for the drop. Glenmere is run by Dr. Sha-Ron Pierre-Kovler, New York’s first Black woman with a cannabis cultivation license.

Dr. Sha-Ron Pierre-Kovler is New York's first Black woman with a cultivation license. Her Glenmere Farms brand is debuting with former New York Knick Iman Shumpert's TSA APPROVED line in April at TORCHES.
Dr. Pierre-Kovler is a South Jamaica, Queens native who saw the harm caused by the failed War on Drugs up close. Through her nonprofit, The Virtuous Women Organization Inc (501c3), Dr. Sha-Ron supports formerly incarcerated individuals and communities with historically high rates of cannabis arrests. In 2023, Dr. Pierre-Kovler told One37pm.com that she approaches research, “just like a trained sniper.” She added, “We go through years and decades of training to develop a sixth sense, and to think about things in a unique way. So I think outside the traditional methods of cultivating.” (courtesy of TSA APPROVED)

Dr. Pierre-Kovler teamed up with NBA Champion Shumpert to launch TSA APPROVED, a premium cannabis brand, with an in-store takeover at TORCHES by Polanco Brothers Dispensary on Friday, April 11th, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM.

Located at 42nd Street and 5th Avenue in Manhattan, this marks the first stop on TSA APPROVED’s New York dispensary tour. The event will feature the debut of two premium strains: “Jet Lag” (Indica-dominant hybrid) and “Frequent Flyer” (Sativa), both priced at an accessible $50 per eighth to ensure premium cannabis is available to all consumers.

“TSA APPROVED is about providing premium quality cannabis at an accessible price point. We’re focused on patient access and creating products that deliver a consistent, premium experience without the premium markup.”

Iman Shumpert

For Shumpert, the legal brand also represents growth from one of the most challenging moment of his NBA career. In 2022, Shumpert was arrested after TSA reportedly found six ounces of cannabis in his luggage. The name TSA APPROVED flips the unfortunate incident into an inspiring one for legacy cannabis users like Shumpert, who have had their freedom and employment challenged simply for using the plant.


12 E 42nd St, New York, NY — recreational

TSA APPROVED launch activation details:

• Date: April 11th, 2025
• Time: 3:00 PM – 10:00 PM (Press preview at 3:30-4:30 PM)
• Location: TORCHES Dispensary, 42nd Street and 5th Avenue, Manhattan; 12 E 42nd Street, New York, NY, 10017. T: 646-477-4110.
• Special Moment: First TSA APPROVED sale by Iman Shumpert at 4:20 PM
• Activities: Product showcase, meet-and-greet opportunities, raffle for autographed Knicks memorabilia,
• Products: “Jet Lag” (Indica-dominant hybrid) and “Frequent Flyer” (Sativa) strains at $50 per eighth

Join TORCHES and Leafly for the TSA APPROVED debut April 11

For Shumpert, Dr. Pierre-Kovler, and the TORCHES team, this launch is important for lighting the way for others like us to partake in this growing industry,” said Dr. Pierre-Kovler. The April 11 dispensary takeover at TORCHES will include TSA APPROVED branded merchandise, exclusive meet-and-greet opportunities with Shumpert, and a special raffle where customers who purchase TSA APPROVED products can win autographed Knicks memorabilia.

The Knicks Film School podcast will also be on-site for a special segment with Shumpert, connecting with New York basketball fans while introducing them to his cannabis venture. TSA APPROVED products feature indoor-grown premium cannabis with complete testing certification. Each unit includes an accessible Certificate of Analysis that confirms the product’s quality and safety standards on the label.

Following the TORCHES launch, TSA APPROVED plans to expand to additional dispensaries throughout New York State, creating a series of branded takeover experiences that bring premium cannabis to communities across the region and provide a safe landing for cannabis consumers.



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Delivered Inc.

Delivered Inc.: A dispensary at your doorstep

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In a cannabis market only beginning to recognize the potential of home delivery, Delivered Inc. is already setting the standard. Founded by Ruben Seyde, Eddy Twal, and Tut Liu, Delivered Inc.—based in Worcester, Massachusetts—launched in July 2023, becoming the fifth licensed home delivery operator in the state.

With backgrounds in both the legacy market and regulated industries, the Delivered Inc. leadership trio brings a passion for the plant that provides street-level cred along with business acumen.

The idea was born out of a pivot. Ruben originally planned to launch a 55-acre outdoor grow, but when COVID derailed funding, he shifted focus to the state’s new delivery license—a more accessible entry point into the legal market. Investor connections and shared values brought Eddy and Tut into the fold.

With backgrounds in both the legacy market and regulated industries, the trio brings a passion for the plant that provides street-level cred along with business acumen. That lived experience drives their mission: to fix what’s broken about cannabis delivery—whether it’s unreliable ETAs, poor communication, or bottom-shelf flower. 

Their solution: fast, reliable logistics and a thoughtfully curated menu, with service in English, Spanish, and Portuguese. Customers get real-time tracking, prompt drop-offs, and a streamlined experience that feels as convenient as Uber Eats. There’s no reason it should feel sketchy, inconsistent, or late, according to Eddy. “It’s our responsibility to make our customers feel safe and give them an easy and seamless transaction.”

The nose knows

On the menu: pre-rolls, edibles, vapes, tinctures, rolling papers, and lighters. “We carry just about everything a typical stoner would want,” says Eddy. “But we put a lot of thought into how we build our inventory.”

That thoughtfulness starts with choosing the right partners. “We love working with small, social equity, and minority-owned businesses,” says Ruben. “Our goal is to offer value beyond just the product—supporting local entrepreneurs who care about the plant and the people consuming it.” He points to brands like Bailey’s Buds, Haven, U-4-EA, and even local competitors—like local producer (and fellow home delivery trailblazer) Major Bloom. “They paved the way. We credit them with helping to build this market.”

“I go by the nose—the smell tells you everything. If it’s got those terpene-rich aromas, it’s going to hit well for the consumer.”

While Delivered Inc. aims to serve a wide range of consumers, the realities of running a delivery service introduce some limits. “We have a delivery minimum of $75, which unfortunately prices some folks out,” Ruben acknowledges. “But we work hard to offer real value at that price point—like full ounces for $75, including tax. That way, people on a budget still get quality and convenience.”

At the same time, the team’s craft-first philosophy appeals to cannasseurs. Touring every grow facility themselves, Ruben and Eddy prioritize cultivators who put care into their practices. “I don’t really look at strain names or test results,” Ruben says. “I go by the nose—the smell tells you everything. If it’s got those terpene-rich aromas, it’s going to hit well for the consumer.”

Education also plays a role. “A lot of people still shop by THC percentage, but that’s not the whole story,” Eddy explains. “We try to help them understand the entourage effect, the role of terpenes, and that lower-THC flower can still deliver an incredible high.”

Tech-driven, human-led

With a menu populated by highly curated picks, Delivered Inc. sets itself apart further with a blend of cutting-edge tech. “We offer something unique—an AI budtender that gives personalized recommendations based on your tastes and mood,” explains Eddy. Powered by cannabis platform Jointly, the feature bridges the gap between digital ordering and a real dispensary consultation.

“We’re connecting with communities that previously only had access through the illicit market.”

“And every page on our menu includes AI suggestions based on your shopping history,” adds Ruben. “We want to make shopping as intuitive and frictionless as possible.”

But the tech doesn’t come at the cost of connection. With founders fluent in Spanish and Portuguese, Delivered Inc. is reaching customers who’ve historically been underserved by the legal market. “We’re connecting with communities that previously only had access through the illicit market,” Eddy says.

Speed bumps and roadblocks

For Delivered Inc., the road hasn’t just been uphill—it’s been underfunded and full of systemic barriers.  They weren’t selected as a recipient for Massachusetts’ Cannabis Social Equity Trust Fund, and the “lack of access to capital is the biggest challenge. It really hinders our ability to grow, ” says Ruben.

Marketing is also an uphill battle. As an online-only brand with no storefront, Delivered Inc. remains largely invisible to consumers unless they already know where to look. “We want to reach people compliantly,” says Eddy. “But building a social presence is hard.” From restrictive ad rules to being excluded from the state’s “Find a Retailer” locator, digital cannabis companies are often cut off from basic tools of modern marketing.

But limitations have also sparked creativity. One upside of not having capital, Ruben reflects, “is that we’ve developed a very personal approach with our customers.” With founders handling daily operations, “it really allows us to build strong relationships with our customers.” That kind of connection becomes a referral engine: “People love us, and they tell their friends.”

Looking ahead: Cannabis goes mainstream

When asked what’s next for Delivered Inc., Ruben doesn’t hesitate. “We’re going to be the best delivery operator in Massachusetts.”

After that? New England. Then the nation. “That’s our goal,” says Eddy. “We want to deliver an experience that’s easy, safe, and convenient for folks everywhere.”




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Boston

Green Flash: Delivering Boston’s cannabis future

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Challenging the way Boston’s cannabis consumers think about their old plug, Green Flash Delivery is redefining convenience, quality, and community in the local weed scene. Operating out of a 2,000-square-foot warehouse in Roxbury, this fast-growing service offers a curated selection of products from over 30 top-tier brands and suppliers. 

At its core, Green Flash is the vision of Mario Signore and Duane Edward Osborn—a dynamic duo blending expertise in cultivation with a sharp eye for streamlined delivery. Together, they’re not just running a business; they’re building a brand rooted in authenticity, accessibility, and the culture of Boston cannabis.

Born in Roxbury, built for change

By launching a cannabis business in his own backyard, Osborn is not only taking advantage of Massachusetts’ social equity programs but also creating opportunities for those who have long been shut out of the legal economy.

For Mario and Duane, the opportunity for a weed delivery business in a city like Boston was a no-brainer. With a dense population, a thriving university scene, and limited retail storefronts, the demand for convenient cannabis access was clear.

The choice to establish Green Flash in Roxbury was more than a business decision—it was a commitment to the community. For Duane, Roxbury isn’t just where he grew up; it’s a historically Black neighborhood deeply affected by the war on drugs.

Generations of men in the area have faced incarceration, leaving them with criminal records that make finding employment nearly impossible. By launching a cannabis business in his own backyard, Osborn is not only taking advantage of Massachusetts’ social equity programs but also creating opportunities for those who have long been shut out of the legal economy.

Beyond job creation, Green Flash is invested in supporting Roxbury’s broader social and economic well-being. The company prioritizes hiring locally, working with community organizations, and addressing issues like the opioid crisis, which has hit the neighborhood hard. While state regulations prevent hiring people in recovery to handle cannabis directly, Green Flash finds other ways to provide employment, from building renovations to neighborhood cleanups.

Osborn’s nonprofit, the Black Net Worth Development Association, works to close Boston’s staggering racial wealth gap by promoting Black homeownership. For Green Flash, success isn’t just about selling cannabis—it’s about creating lasting change in Roxbury.

The evolution of cannabis delivery in Boston

The Green Flash team also recognized a gap in the market: while dispensaries catered to walk-in customers, many consumers preferred the privacy and convenience of home delivery.

For Green Flash, success isn’t just about selling cannabis—it’s about creating lasting change in Roxbury.

For decades, the cannabis market in neighborhoods like Roxbury, Dorchester, and Southie operated in familiar, underground ways—buyers relied on personal connections, transactions happened behind closed doors, and paranoia was part of the process. But as legal cannabis delivery services take hold, the landscape is shifting.

Drawn in by competitive prices, reliability, and a level of professionalism the legacy market never offered, Green Flash is attracting new and longtime consumers alike. “People like buying from us because we’re dependable. We don’t make people wait for hours,” Mario explains. “No awkward exchanges, no pressure to smoke just to prove yourself. Just good service.”

Curating the perfect cannabis experience

The selection from your old plug probably pales in comparison to what’s on offer from Green Flash, where every strain, edible, and vape in their lineup is chosen with intention. They prioritize craft growers and independent brands, selecting products from those who have deep roots in the traditional market and a genuine respect for cannabis culture. 

They prioritize craft growers and independent brands, selecting products from those who have deep roots in the traditional market and a genuine respect for cannabis culture.

Customer favorites include wood-tip pre-rolled blunts from Blossom, premium flower from Trade Routes, and top-tier vapes from trusted cultivators. By curating a selection that balances quality, authenticity, and customer demand, Green Flash ensures that every product they offer meets the highest standards.

A key part of their approach is listening. “We talk to almost every customer,” says Mario. “A lot of them are first-timers or curious about THC. We take the time to explain things like the entourage effect and different cannabinoids like CBG, CBN, or CBD.” 

Whether it’s introducing a new customer to the right strain or helping a seasoned consumer explore the benefits of minor cannabinoids, their commitment to thoughtful curation is helping reshape Boston’s cannabis culture, one conversation at a time.

Looking forward: The future of Green Flash

Since opening for business on Super Bowl Sunday 2024, Green Flash Delivery has quickly built a loyal customer base. Now they’re ready to take the next big step. So far, they’ve grown the company with minimal resources, and now they’re finally securing a marketing budget—an investment that will help them transition from walking to running.

As the industry continues to evolve, Green Flash is committed to preserving the culture that Boston’s cannabis scene has worked hard to cultivate.

Their goal is clear: to become a household name for cannabis delivery in Boston while staying true to their roots. Unlike many other cannabis businesses, Green Flash is determined to remain locally owned, hiring from within the community and reinvesting revenue back into the neighborhoods they serve.

As the industry continues to evolve, Green Flash is committed to preserving the culture that Boston’s cannabis scene has worked hard to cultivate.

More than just a delivery service, they see themselves as an independent voice for local consumers, free from outside influence or agendas. Their independence means they can curate products based on what their customers love—not just what the industry pushes.

“When you want your green in a flash,” they say, “you call Green Flash.” And as they continue to grow, one thing is certain: they’ll do it on their own terms, as a true Boston brand.


Ready to have your green delivered in a flash? Shop the Green Flash menu on Leafly for delivery, find daily deals, and stock up on all your favorites today.




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Celebrate 420 weekend with cannabis, community, and creativity at MARY FEST NYC

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420 is right around the corner! If you’re in New York or New Jersey, you won’t want to miss MARY FEST: Where art, culture, and NY’s top brands come together for a community event like no other.

“Created by the team that brought you MARY Magazine comes a desired event encompassing elements of lifestyle that speak to the modern day community from fashion, music, cannabis, health & wellness, design, tech and more!” -MARY FEST

With MARY FEST taking place the day before Easter, the event will feature a lineup of Easter-themed activities with a 420-friendly twist.

GRÖN will host an infused Easter Chocolate Candy Station, offering a decadent selection of infused treats.

Grassroots, MARY FEST’s Official Flower Partner, will present an Easter Egg Hunt, where attendees can discover exclusive prizes, product giveaways, and surprise goodies.

OCB Rolling Papers and Cones will be hosting a lounge on our 6th floor courtyard, where guests can relax and enjoy their top-tier rolling essentials.

ILGM is taking its ‘Home of the Growers’ mission nationwide with the U.S. Home Grow Tour, culminating at MARY FEST, where ILGM will shine a spotlight on New York’s rapidly expanding home grow movement.

Get 50% off tickets just for being a Leafly subscriber. Use code LEAFLY.




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