Change in attitude for one, dream career for another
Sgt. Marshall Widney said he’s made his share of cannabis-related busts in an eight-year career.
So it was a novel sensation to stand by as hundreds of pot users filed through a storefront to legally purchase a drug that was prohibited a mere 10 hours earlier.
“It’s a giant mind shift,” said Widney, as he watched throngs of buyers line up outside Four20 Premium Market at Southland Crossing in a circus-like atmosphere.
But on the other hand, it’s merely an evolution in the use of a substance that’s been widely consumed for decades, he said.
“It’s slightly strange but today is just another day,” said Widney.
“I don’t think it’ll be a drastic change. People who use will continue to use and the biggest part is people getting educated about it.”
Alcohol and its contribution to aggressive behaviour, he said, has always posed more of a challenge for police.
“Alcohol causes more issues, in my work experience, than cannabis,” said Widney.
A few metres away, Four20 assistant manager Grant Dyment was soaking in a watershed moment, one he was convinced would someday come.
“I’m ecstatic, but I don’t think there’s an adjective to describe it,” said Dyment, 35.
“I’ve been studying the history of cannabis since my teen years, I didn’t think this would happen this quickly.”
The sight of hundreds queuing up to buy weed or its derivatives “really does touch your heart,” he said.
His deceased father, he said, would be highly amused by his new job.
“My mom is coming around, she’ll have no choice,” said Dyment.
While calling his job “amazing,” he said it doesn’t come with an employee discount.
“The AGLC (Alberta Liquor, Gaming and Cannabis) has stated there can’t be one,” said Dyment.
I’ve been studying the history of cannabis since my teen years, I didn’t think this would happen this quickly.