High times an The High Country dispensary in Derby

DERBY — The High Country Cannabis dispensary hosted an open house yesterday outside their location near Walmart in Derby.

Vermont’s Cannabis Control Board has started issuing retail licenses across the state, and the first shops are expected to open on Saturday, October 1.

After more than a year of working with state and local officials to make sure they are following all regulations, owners Michael Hatin and Brian Fisher are expecting to open their doors on October 15.

Fisher and Hatin organized the meet and greet event yesterday at The High County to allow visitors the chance to stop by and talk with future vendors.

Attendees were even able to get free samples from local vendors like Holland Cannabis Company of Vermont.

The event was also promoted as a chance for locals to come out and about marijuana and the industry in general.

Hatin and Fisher both believe the shop will benefit the local economy, noting that they have six employees and are looking to hire even more.