Recreational marijuana has arrived in Northeast Michigan.

Meds Cafe in Rogers Township, the region’s first and only medical marijuana shop, this month became the region’s first and only seller of recreational marijuana.

But that does not mean it’s time for unfettered partying.

The drug remains illegal for those younger than 21, and it can be dangerous if children get their hands on it.

Private sales are still illegal, too.

Driving under the drug’s influence can net you a DUI charge at the least and the possibility of hurting yourself and/or someone else at the worst.

And the drug remains illegal under federal law, meaning that, however unlikely, prosecution is still possible for those who decide to partake.

Michiganders gave themselves a major new right when they voted to legalize marijuana for recreational use in November 2018.

But with every right comes the responsibility to exercise that right safely, within the confines of the law, and in a manner that does not infringe upon the rights of others.

Let’s stay safe out there, Northeast Michigan.

(THE ALPENA NEWS)