New Owner Revamps CNY Cannabis Business with State License

The cannabis business landscape in Central New York has undergone significant changes as the former *Herbal Center* has been rebranded to *The Dispensary by the BuddBoyz*. Under new ownership, the establishment has received its first state license, marking a new chapter for the Syracuse location. The transition comes after a series of legal challenges faced by the previous owner, John Vanfossen, who operated the business without the necessary state approvals.

Rodney Haymes, the new owner, acquired the business from his cousin, Vanfossen, and opened The Dispensary at 918 N. Salina St. in Syracuse this week. The establishment previously faced accusations from state and local authorities regarding illegal marijuana sales, culminating in court rulings that prohibited cannabis sales at the Syracuse location.

As a licensed retailer, The Dispensary will focus on selling *cannabinoid hemp* products that are lower in THC, the psychoactive compound found in marijuana. Specifically, Haymes plans to offer variations such as *THCA* and *THCP*, which can replicate some effects of traditional THC when burned. He stated, “Our goal is to have something different to offer.”

Challenges and Changes in Operations

The former Herbal Center had expanded to three locations in Syracuse, Liverpool, and Central Square, but all were cited for selling marijuana without proper licensing. The Liverpool and Central Square locations were ordered to close by the *New York State Office of Cannabis Management* after investigations revealed violations. The Syracuse location, which faced multiple citations from the city codes office, was also involved in a court ruling that halted its cannabis sales.

Despite these challenges, Haymes is optimistic about the future. The Dispensary operates from Monday to Saturday, 10:00 to 21:00, and Sunday from 11:00 to 19:00. Plans are underway for a second location in Liverpool, moving from the former Herbal Center site at 612 Oswego St. to a new space at 642 Old Liverpool Road, expected to open in about a month. The Central Square location remains closed and is currently sealed by the state.

Haymes is also working on opening a licensed recreational marijuana dispensary named *The Dank Bank by the BuddBoyz* in DeWitt, located in a former bank branch at 6004 Court Street Road. This new venture will preserve the property’s original vault, teller windows, and drive-thru lanes. Haymes anticipates opening this location by January 1, 2024.

Personal Journey and Industry Vision

Haymes’ journey into the cannabis business is deeply personal. He was once a dealer on the streets of Syracuse and faced legal repercussions for his actions. Following the legalization of recreational marijuana in New York in 2021, Haymes sought to make a fresh start. He was among the first entrepreneurs to receive preliminary license approval through the *Conditional Adult Use Retail Dispensary (CAURD)* program, designed to support individuals with past marijuana convictions or close relatives with such histories.

He candidly shared how his experiences shaped his perspective on cannabis, especially after being diagnosed with *Chronic Lyme Disease*. Haymes found that cannabis alleviates his pain and anxiety, leading him to advocate for legal, responsible cannabis sales. “So now we’re here, doing things the right way, and selling a good product,” he remarked. “That’s what this is all about.”

The Dispensary by the BuddBoyz is now positioned to contribute to the evolving cannabis market in New York, emphasizing the sale of legal, hemp-derived products that cater to consumer needs while adhering to state regulations.