Vlasic Classic Returns to Missouri to Support The Forgotten Prisoner

*CAMDENTON, Mo.* — Vlasic Labs will host the fourth annual Missouri Vlasic
Classic at Old Kinderhook Resort May 1–3, bringing together leaders from
across the cannabis industry for a weekend of golf, advocacy, and direct
impact. This year’s tournament will raise funds for The Forgotten Prisoner,
a justice reform initiative dedicated to bringing awareness to excessive
sentencing and supporting impacted families. Proceeds will directly support
former professional basketball player Jarred Shaw and his family as he
serves a 26-month prison sentence in Indonesia related to cannabis gummies
he purchased to manage his Crohn’s disease.

Shaw, a former NCAA standout and international basketball player, was
diagnosed with Crohn’s disease in 2010 and relied on cannabis to manage the
chronic condition. Unaware of the country’s severe drug laws, he ordered a
small amount of cannabis gummies while playing for the Indonesia Basketball
League. He initially faced the death penalty but ultimately was sentenced
to 26 months in prison.

While incarcerated, Shaw’s health has deteriorated, as prison conditions
and limited access to proper nutrition and his doctors have worsened his
Crohn’s symptoms, contributing to a weight loss of more than 30 pounds.

In addition to raising funds for Shaw’s family, Vlasic encourages Americans
to contact U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and U.S. Ambassador to
Indonesia Peter Haymond to urge diplomatic engagement and humanitarian
consideration to get Shaw back to the United States as soon as possible.

The 2025 Missouri tournament raised $20,000, including $13,700 for Freedom
Grow, $5,000 for the Last Prisoner Project, and $1,300 in direct
educational support for Deshaun Durham following his release. Across
Missouri, Michigan, and Las Vegas events, the Vlasic Classic series has
raised more than $140,000 for second-chance initiatives nationwide.

The Missouri event will feature a welcome mixer on Friday, a Saturday
shotgun-start tournament, and an awards gala. Proceeds from player
registration, sponsorships, raffles, and on-course competitions will
support The Forgotten Prisoner and Jarred Shaw’s family.