Michigan Cannabis Store’s Bigfoot Statue Sparks Debate Over Appeal to Children

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In an unusual turn of events, Michigan is seeing its second Bigfoot-related marijuana story within a month. A 14-foot Sasquatch statue outside a cannabis retailer in Menominee has ignited controversy, with critics arguing it could send inappropriate messages to kids.

Last month, an alleged Bigfoot sighting in Monroe County inspired Uniq Cannabis to launch a promotion offering a free pre-roll to anyone providing photographic evidence of the legendary creature. Now, a separate retailer, Higher Love in Menominee, is drawing attention with its towering Sasquatch statue, which became a focal point at this month’s city planning commission meeting. Some residents expressed concerns that the figure might appeal to children, with one urging the commission to “think about what mascots they see in our community and how they are impacting children.”

Karianne Lesperance, executive director of the Healthy Youth Coalition, echoed these sentiments in a letter to the commission, noting that some students have “expressed concern about how these efforts may be normalizing use or influencing young people.”

Joni Moore, president of Higher Love, offered a contrasting view. “I would be in opposition to that,” she told The Eagle Herald. “This is not a cartoon character. Our Sasquatch that’s in front of the store is a little bit scary, so I don’t see how that’s targeting children at all.”

“Everybody loves Sasquatch,” Moore continued. “And people in especially forested areas seem to identify with Sasquatch. He is an adventurous character and it’s really just Higher Love trying to have some fun.”

She also addressed broader criticism: “Every time I go to a public meeting, there’s always a hater in the audience who just doesn’t like cannabis. That’s fine. People are entitled to their opinions. It just brings a little whimsy to a community and I think it’s all positive. I don’t see any problems at all.”

Michael Scholle, Menominee’s code and zoning officer, confirmed he consulted City Attorney Michael Celello, who determined the Bigfoot statue complies with local signage regulations.

Beyond erecting Sasquatch statues or offering promotions tied to mythical creatures, cannabis businesses continue to explore creative marketing strategies to capture public attention.

By Jason Beck