Clover Acquisitions partner Juan Finch Jr., a retired U.S. Navy veteran, continues his lawsuit against nuEra Cannabis for breach of contract and fraud. Finch, who was initially approached by Laura Jaramillo Bernal of Mariworks LLC and nuEra Cannabis, alleges that the company engaged in unethical practices to maximize profits. He claims that nuEra Cannabis, led by CEO Bob Fitzsimmons, used him as a tool to challenge the constitutionality of Illinois Governor JB Pritzker’s Social Equity program, causing delays and hindering minorities from obtaining licenses. Finch, a bisexual Black veteran, is committed to promoting inclusivity in the cannabis industry. The lawsuit, filed in Cook County Circuit Court (2023L008973), aims to hold nuEra Cannabis accountable and seek compensation for damages. A class action exploratory group has formed to address allegations of sexism, fraud, and racism within the company, which were discovered on the job posting platform Indeed. Despite limited legal updates from nuEra Cannabis, the plaintiffs recovered evidence from a hacking attempt, prompting further federal legal investigations. More information, including evidence and involved parties, will be posted after the Democratic National Convention.
In addition to the ongoing legal battle, Finch’s business partner Joseph Phelan is excited about the development and acceptance of VIDEAC, an innovative fintech startup, into a startup incubator. Phelan, a seasoned lender, broker, and strategist for cannabis ventures, is set to revolutionize the startup industry with VIDEAC. Despite setbacks caused by nuEra Cannabis’s fraudulent failure to honor a buyout offer, VIDEAC has successfully completed its initial seed round of funding and is poised to debut next year. For updates, follow Joseph Phelan on LinkedIn at [LinkedIn]().
312ALL, a music management agency and soon-to-be marketing powerhouse, is preparing for more music releases, upcoming concerts, music video drops, and a fall music and comedy competition event. Interested participants can submit their entries to @The312ALL on all social media platforms. Cofounders Freddie Wayne, Tink Ali, and James Fontano, recognizing Phelan’s successes and legal struggles with nuEra Cannabis, invited him to join as a cofounder to help launch and grow the company. Together, they continue to make a name for themselves in the music industry.
Despite challenges from the press, politicians, and regulatory committees, Clover Acquisitions and its partners continue to grow and succeed, demonstrating resilience honed by their experiences in the military and the challenges of Taylor Street. Keep a close eye on these teams as they continue to persevere against all odds and foes.