Denver gives out recreational pot sales licenses

DENVER (AP) — The first batch of Denver businesses approved to sell recreational marijuana got their licenses today, the owners mugging for pictures and saying they never thought they'd see the day when they'd get a permit to sell pot.

Applause broke out and cameras whirred when the first license was issued from the city's Department of Excise and Licenses. The city awarded eight licenses for retail shops, 30 licenses for pot growers and four licenses for makers of cannabis-infused products such as pot brownies.

One businessman joked about getting arrested for having a joint at a 1971 Black Sabbath concert. Others shared hugs and stories about marijuana's route to legalization.

"I think it's about time that adults can imbibe in marijuana," said Donald Andrews of one of the eight shops, LoDo Wellness Center in downtown Denver.

The licensed sellers went through a state and local licensing process that included public hearings to ask neighbors about shop locations. Owners also underwent more than a dozen fire and building inspections for each shop.

"It's been a grueling process but we're finally here," said Justin Jones, owner of Dank Colorado, a retail shop.