Well, the times they are a-changing. Just a quick note here about the news out of Chicago this week that the United Center, home of the Chicago Bulls (NBA) and Chicago Blackhawks (NHL), is going to start selling beverages with THC. Apparently, they won’t be sold at the those games, though. Hearing this, I’m not sure what I think. Is it better than alcohol? Yes, probably; though I’ve never had a THC beverage so I have no idea how drinking it plays out in someone’s head. I assume they’d be a bit buzzed heading to the parking lot, especially if they have more than one. I saw that one of the arguments in favor of the move is that Americans are much more likely to properly dose themselves with a beverage, than say with a gummy. That makes sense to me. Americans have been self dosing alcohol by imbibing for our entire history. We’re used medicating ourselves that way. What I wonder is how long it takes for the beverage to have an effect. The longer it takes, the more likely for mayhem on the roads. Then again, concerts take place every night all over America with stoned drivers heading home and that doesn’t seem to be much of an issue. Indeed, since they aren’t selling the beverages at the games (yet), I imagine concert will be the type of event that they will be available at.

Another thought I have about this is that it is a positive step away from alcohol and towards a more benign, though still powerful drug. Combine this with the related fact that Americans are consuming less and less alcohol and I can see why the United Center is making the decision (they are capitalists reacting to what the market wants) and why consumers might be looking for an alternative to $14 Bud Lights (ugh).

I am also curious to see if this catches on in freedom loving blue states where cannabis is legal (as it should be) and where grown ups get to decide for themselves how to relax at a sporting event or concert. Also, how long before they are available at the Bulls and Blackhawks games? Will those leauges, who are so averse to ticking off a part of their fan base, eventually come around. My guess is they big sports leagues will continue to resist, while the idea catches at arenas elsewhere.