K MEDULLA
Meet K Medulla an Atlien and multidisciplinary visual artist. From an early age, she expressed herself creatively with arts and crafts kits. This led her to receive an Associates Degree in Art from Gordon State College. The artist furthered her education at The University of West Georgia with a Bachelor’s in Fine Art with a concentration in Graphic Design. K Medulla's art serves as a powerful conduit for dialogue and reflection; transcending boundaries of language and culture.
er se mp, and music. “I started curating in 2016, in Castleberry with my 1st group exhibition called “Sine Qua Non.” This passion is what led me to be a part of the creative team in 2017,TheSaucethatcuratedCincoDaywith PabloTheSauceTacoasourmascot."Cinco Day was THE creative holiday every fifth of themonththatbroughttogetherlikeminded individuals with artists, poets, dancers, musicians, artisans. "It's an honor to come back to the community of Castleberry with someheat!”
Sadeja Imani, Pasheena Eaton, Erna B
Eanaj, Reniilda Blair, K Medulla, Tree
EDITOR’S FORWARD
Cannabis has long been misunderstood, burdened with a negative stigma that traces back to the 1930s. Harry Anslinger, the first commissioner of the Federal Bureau of Narcotics, spearheaded a campaign against marijuana, fueled by personal biases, including his disdain for jazz culture. His efforts led to the passing of the Marijuana Tax Act in 1937, casting a shadow over the plant’s rich history.
Yet, prior to prohibition, cannabis particularly hemp—had been embraced for centuries, serving as a valuable resource in medicine, industry, and spiritual practices across the globe. At Bookstore Gallery, we are committed to reclaiming cannabis’s true purpose: fostering education, healing, and community. Through our work, we aim to shift the narrative and bring people together by celebrating the plant's many benefits.
In this issue, Bookstore Gallery Worldwide, we explore how cannabis serves as a universal connector, transcending borders and cultures.
We are proud to introduce 3 amazing women who are shifting the paradigm of cannabis in Atlanta.
We will also dive into our Endocannabinoid system and how CBD and THC can help us heal naturally.
Lastly we will talk with leaders in cannabis in Las Vegas as well as Barcelona, to discuss their perspective of the climate of Cannabis.
Tokyo Trendz, Auntea, Thunder Walker, Kyle Brown, Malcolm Farrar
9
Hot N Fun
Intro to the new Hot N Fun DJ School.
11
Cannabis News
Auntea sits down with three women who are leading Cannabiz in ATL
17
Taste and Sound - Chef Sosa x Tokyo Trendz
21
Medical effects of Cannabis with Dr. Shoshanna Robinson
23
Cover -Cannabis A Global Conversation.
Interview with Brittney Agnocillo, Director of Operations at Jardin Las Vegas, and Kay who is the owner of Kush House in Barcelona Spain.
HOT N FUN UPDATES
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WOMEN CANNABIZ* +ATL
DSTORY BY AUNTEA
id you know that the female, not male, marijuana plants produce the consumable buds? Female cannabis plants are higher in THC than their male counterparts. Come thru girls! The Ebers Papyrus, an ancient Egyptian collection of medical texts from 1550 B.C.E., mentions the use of cannabis for vaginal inflammation. Cannabis has been here for centuries and is here to stay, Physical evidence from the 4th century also points to the use of cannabis for easing childbirth. Many of us are now discovering the many benefits of this early plant. This is exciting news for Bookstore Gallery since 65% of our community customers identify as female. When we talk about cannabis it’s reasonable to include its divine feminine aspects for a more complete buzz. Keep reading to meet several women who are activating and elevating the cannabis space in Atlanta and nationally.
Bookstore Gallery (BG) opened in 2022 in Castleberry Hill (a legacy neighborhood in Atlanta, GA) offering a niche vibe for Hemp and CBD experiences. BG’s black and teal building (on its own little island) began to attract a circle of cannabis enthusiasts leading the fight for decriminalization, pro-cannabis legalization, innovation, and access to medicine. At the core of this movement I found women who are fired up and standing up for the superpower of the plant. So, let’s give our ATL sistahs their flower(s) now for their blazing foray into cannabiz.
First let’s venture into the weed(s) a little bit more. In this burgeoning cannabis industry women account for 39% of the C-suite according to the 2023 Diversity, Inclusion and Equity Report released by MJBiz. Thirty-seven percent of women aged 21 and over consume cannabis according to a poll in 2023. Women often have different preferences in consumption methods and even physiological responses to cannabis compared to men.
The number one reason that women are cozying up to cannabis is to relieve anxiety; the 2nd reason is for sleep assistance What’s the 3 rd most common reason? Yep, it’s pain relief I conducted my own poll (non-scientific) and concluded that the number 4 reason for cannabis consumption by women is elevation! Ladies let’s puff, puff and pass the baton.
WHAT IS CANNABIS?
Cannabissativaistheofficialnameoftheplant.There are two cannabis plants 1) marijuana (the plant with the predominate psychoactive compound THC), and 2) hemp (which is where most CBD is derived). Fore most consumersCBDisnon-psychoactive.
*Cannabiz is a space where cannabis entrepreneurs and activists bring their ideas, services, and products tothecommunitymarketplace.
MEET BARBARA SHARPE
CO-FOUNDER
AND CEO OF REBEL GARDENS
“While the cannabis industry has historically been male-dominated, I’m encouraged to see a growing number of women entrepreneurs entering the space, ” Barbara says Rebel-Gardens is a family-owned and operated farm in Southwest, Georgia. Fact: The hemp I use in some of my herbal teas is sourced from Rebel Gardens. (Their hemp flower is 3rd party tested). Intrigued by the name I asked Barbara what’s in the name? “Rebel Gardens, says Barbara, is rooted in Romans 12:2 The name Rebel calls us to reject conformity and embrace transformative change; Gardens, signifies our belief in natural remedies, offering an alternative to pharmaceutical norms ”
This origin story clarifies Barbara’s first cannabis experience with hemp gummies She explains,“Like many Americans, I sometimes have trouble getting to sleep and staying asleep Since it was my first interaction, I chose to start slow with the CBD+ 25mg gummy A night of uninterrupted sleep (without experiencing grogginess the next day) and I was sold Now they’re my go to for sleep and improving my well-being ” Respect - The rebel in Barbara dismissed conventional pharmaceuticals preferring the power compound in the hemp plant! Barbara, deeply ensconced in cannabis activism, says that “activism is a position I hadn’t initially envisioned for myself I understand the importance of advocating for cannabis due to its numerous benefits The backbone of cannabis advocacy lies in the ability of individuals to engage with their communities, provide education, and mobilize the necessary support for reform ” Being female, Black, and a hemp farmer in Georgia is probably the definition of activist in my book Folks in the community have witnessed this warrior partaking in all the above and more Always on the edge of innovation, Rebel Gardens’ newest product is called Hemp+ “Our water-soluble hemp packs can be added to virtually anything It comes in a single-serve package, with each stick containing 2kg/ 416mg of hemp It is tasteless and completely dissolves in any beverage and can be sprinkled or mixed with your food as well,” Barbara describes
I asked this boss what she would like to say concerning Kamala Harris “One of the many challenges for women in cannabis is raising capital Traditional funding methods may not always be available due to federal restrictions. Which is why her co-sponsorship of the SAFE Banking Act, aimed at providing financial services to cannabis businesses is so important.” Hmm, I didn’t know this about Harris She has my vote In closing Barbara offers the following advice, “Understand the Regulations The cannabis industry is highly regulated, and staying informed about the legal landscape is crucial ”
Bookstore Gallery Magazine
MEET JASMIN MIZE, ESQ
CIVIL RIGHTS ATTORNEY
Jasmin (a Washington, D C native) is a civil rights attorney, author, and professor of law with over 15 years of litigation, management, policy, and teaching experience An avid cyclist, Jasmin expertly traverses the streets of metro Atlanta similarly to how she navigates through the intricacies of cannabis law She is frequently retained by entrepreneurs for guidance on establishing a cannabis business including regulatory compliance, guidance on federal and state product packaging, manufacturing practices, advertising and marketing of cannabis, hemp & CBD products, and protecting intellectual property Her clients also include artists, lobbyists, attorneys, and technology professionals
The intersection of her legal work (like the intersecting streets of Auburn and Piedmont) includes the cannabis industry, the classroom, the courtroom, the community, and the boardroom Bookstore Gallery is pleased to host Jasmin when she offers education sessions and updates on the legalities of cannabis Be sure to check our calendar for her next scintillating session What was Jasmin’s gateway to this work? Jasmin remembers the “pivotal professional moment for me came in 2014, when I was invited to work at an event with the NORML (norml org) legal community I learned of the legacy of John Flowers Mark who was an AIDS/ HIV advocate and cannabis lawyer, who authored some of the most creative and enduring legal arguments against prohibition in the 70s and 80s I got inspired to think of ways to stand tall on criminal justice reform and destroying the war on drugs, which had such a negative impact on young people in Washington DC in the 90s and early 2000s
By the time I became Public Defender in 2008 the court system was so heavily infected with unnecessary prosecutions for drug offenses I bore witness to judges, prosecutors, and even other defense attorneys so ignorant to the cultural, spiritual, and medical worlds of cannabis Jasmin expounds, “ as legalization has become more a reality in our communities, there have still been so many instances of ignorance and bigotry that I always knew that these many worlds would intersect, and I would become a civil rights attorney working in the cannabis space!”
Another pivotal moment in Jasmin’s hemp dreams was her first encounter with the plant “I first smoked weed with my older brother; we came up smoking some of the ‘old school’ strains like og kush and granddaddy purp We are from DC so we rolled our weed in backwoods cigar leaves It was not acceptable in our household at that time Kind of funny how both parents are now medical cannabis patients and are totally comfortable with cannabis consumption in their home ” A Gallup poll in 2023 recorded a significant increase in support of cannabis legalization from 12% in 1969 to 70% in 2023
Forward to 2024 to hear what this civil rights attorney has to say about Georgia and new cannabis legislation “Overall industry buzz is that the new regulations are a mess and won’t last long, i e there will be a lawsuit or injunction filed as soon as they try to over-enforce But also, the GA Dept of Agriculture has yet to really finalize their implementing regulations so there is a gap between the laws that were passed over the summer to amend the GA Hemp Act (the language of SB 494) ”
THE GOOD STUFF
“I Know a lot of amazing women in cannabisandIhavealwaysfeltakinshipto the community that we share; I look forward to growing and learning with all thebossladiesintheindustry!”
We can plan for the development of a safe consumer-driven, and peaceful industry that isn’t just a way for state cofferstogetawindfalloftaxincome.
JasminMize
Fast forward to 2025 What does Jasmin have to say about a Kamala Harris presidency? “I hope that Kamala Harris will come through on her promise to decriminalize cannabis on the federal level and to deputize some powerful female voices to help lead the legislative process so that the future industry is properly designed for diversity, equity, and inclusion ” Jasmin believes that “Women are powerful consumers, caretakers, and educators so they are naturally suited to succeed in the space ”
Our community activist/advocate/attorney has the following advice for women in the cannabis space “Do not shrink or edit yourself in an effort to cede to some of the paternalistic attitudes here in cannabis Also, protect your Intellectual Property (IP) and get any applicable federal trademarks, copyrights, trade secrets, or patents locked in for your business to protect your creative work!”
Mize’s shoutouts: “I follow a lot of female cannabis entrepreneurs, including a lot of great ATL-based women in the space: Kristina Flores (420 Doulas) and Professor Cannabish I also follow Dr Chanda Macias and Hope Wiseman (dispensary owners in the DMV), Jay Mills (cultivator in the DMV), Sheena Roberson (Cannabis Noire) and Mona Zhang (Politico), Amanda Chicago Lewis (Economist), Jeannette Ward (NuLeaf Project) We can all agree that no one does this work alone and we are stronger when we work together Let’s take a brief look at how the medical field is being challenged when it comes to females and cannabis
Bookstore Gallery Magazine
MEET DR. FELECIA DAWSON
CONSULTANT HOLISTIC GYNECOLOGY
When we opened Bookstore Gallery in 2022, one of the first people I contacted for support was a friend, Felecia Dawson Felecia is one of the first cannabis advocates I met in ATL Dr Dawson agreed to present a session (our very first) on Women and Cannabis Almost a dozen women came through and bombarded her with questions Not surprisingly she addressed each query with knowledge and aplomb
In my experience it’s been difficult to get physicians to speak openly about the medicinal properties of cannabis Not true for Felecia Dawson! Dr Dawson is a very vocal advocate for this ancient medicinal and offers online consultations regarding holistic gynecology, medical cannabis, and CBD She is exceedingly intentional about creating “ more cannabis-in-pregnancy research and decreasing maternal mortality I educate and advocate for cannabis as medicine to my healthcare colleagues, legislators and the general public ”
Dawson was a medical correspondent (2021-2023) on the State of Cannabis on a segment called High At 9 News based in California She focused on breaking medical and scientific research on cannabis She stepped away from High At 9 News to focus on P L A N T S for Lyfe, an educational platform which she cofounded with registered nurse, Marilyn Pierce, and Jamaican herbalist, Oskii Chevanier The three co-authored a book on evidenced-based holistic modalities, including botanicals and cannabis I look forward to reading the book the good doctor is currently penning on cannabis and women’s health
It's possible that Felecia’s research on woman and cannabis started when she was a “highschooler!” In her words, “I cut class for the first time with the ‘smart’ kids as a senior in high school I was offered what looked like a weird cigarette I asked what it was, and was informed it was a joint The person offering it said, ‘We assumed you smoked ’ I took a few puffs I felt a little different ” Clearly, she’s one of the smart kids now Like most of us she had guidance along her path
“Nooneshouldbeinprisonandhavetheirchildren taken from them merely because they’re using cannabisasmedicine”-Dr.FeleciaDawson
Dr Dawson met her main mentors Michael “Coach” Harris and Sharon Ravert at a cannabis event in approximately 2018 “Coach knows all the movers and shakers in the hemp space and is the new President of Minorities for Medical Marijuana’s (M4MM) Georgia chapter Sharon is the founder of Peachtree NORML They both introduced me to others in this space and encouraged my advocacy Sharon always said, ‘If we’re talking, we’re winning ’ Roz McCarthy, CEO and founder of M4MM and that entire family are also my mentors and inspiration My virtual mentors are leaders in the medical cannabis space, Drs Ethan Russo, Dustin Sulak, Patricia Frye and Bonni Goldstein
Still there is so much to be understood regarding the science behind cannabis and women Dawson adamantly supports pushing “for more research involving female animals and women because cannabis has displayed some sex differences in its effects ” In general science and the field of medicine has conducted limited research on the female body We are often at the mercy of studies that are focused on male bodies and expected to extrapolate those findings to female bodies
Dr Felecia Dawson offers the following for everyone “Stay safe, use third-party tested products, avoid synthetically derived cannabinoids, and consider an electronic vaporizer made for dry flower if you must consume your medicine daily ” For those of us in the cannabis space she offers this cautionary note to pipe dreamers, “Every industry has liars and thieves They are particularly prevalent in this space I recommend getting it in writing, as in a contract Wanda James is the first African American in America to be awarded a cannabis license and is the founder and CEO of Simply Pure Dispensary She states that you should hire the best attorney you can afford because one day you may find yourself in a legal battle with your own team members ”
The warrior-doctor/activist also advises us to “vote in every election down the ballot for people who share your values in general and regarding cannabis, specifically The enemies of plant medicine are looking to drop you from the voting registration rolls and suppress your vote in November ” Bookstore Gallery is right in step with Dr Dawson as the shop participated in voter registration efforts this summer
All of the women above continue to make major contributions to the cannabis space in ATL It’s high time that we acknowledge their work and the shoulders upon which they stand These women are fierce enough to operate freely and courageously in the cannabiz space I remain forever grateful for their labors of love and activism In fact I’m fired up and committed to identifying more cannabis products that celebrate the divine feminine
TASTE
SOUND AND CHEF SOSA DJ TOKYO TRENDZ
WATCH A SPECIAL ONE PIECE
EDITION OF TASTE AND SOUND
FEATURING CHEF SOSA AND DJ TOKYO TRENDZ ONE HALF OF THE RESIDENT DJ TEAM HOT N FUN AT TRAP SUSHI!
COOKING WITH CHEF SOSA
CHEF SOSA’S RAMEN RECIPE
INGREDIENTS
-4CUPSCHICKENORVEGETABLEBROTH
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-1-INCHPIECEGINGER,MINCED -2TBSPSOYSAUCE
-1TBSPMISOPASTE(OPTIONAL)
-1TBSPSESAMEOIL
-1CUPMUSHROOMS,SLICED -2EGGS
⁃YOURFAVORITEPROTIEN -GREENONIONS,SLICED -NORI(SEAWEED),CUTINTOSTRIPS
INSTRUCTIONS
1.PREPARETHEBROTH:INALARGEPOT,HEATSESAMEOILOVERMEDIUMHEAT. ADDMINCEDGARLICANDGINGER,SAUTÉFOR2MINUTESUNTILFRAGRANT.
2.ADDLIQUIDS:POURINCHICKENORVEGETABLEBROTH,SOYSAUCE,AND MISOPASTE BRINGTOASIMMER
3.COOKMUSHROOMS:ADDMUSHROOMSANDCOOKFORABOUT5MINUTES.
4.BOILEGGS:INASEPARATEPOT,BOILEGGSFOR6-7MINUTESFORSOFTBOILED REMOVEANDPLACEINICEWATER,THENPEEL
5.COOKNOODLES:ADDRAMENNOODLESTOTHEBROTHANDCOOK ACCORDINGTOPACKAGEINSTRUCTIONS,USUALLY2-3MINUTES.
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ENJOYYOURHOMEMADERAMEN!
THE UNIVERSAL HEALER
Bookstore Gallery Magazine
[1] CBD:
ANTICONVULSANT ANTICANCER
ANTI-INFLAMMATORY NEUROPROTECTANT PROMOTES BONE GROWTH REDUCES ANXIETY RELIEVES CHRONIC PAIN ANTIBACTERIAL ANTIOXIDANT REDUCE SPASMS
[2] THC:
ANTI-INFLAMMATORY ANTIOXIDANT ANTICANCER IMPROVED SLEEP NEUROPROTECTANT REDUCES NAUSEA/VOMITING REDUCES SPASTICITY & MUSCLE SPASMS REDUCES SYMPTOMS OF DEPRESSION RELIEVES CHRONIC PAIN STIMULATES APPETITE REDUCES INTRAOCULAR PRESSURE
REFERENCE: GOLDSTEIN, B. (2020). CANNABIS IS MEDICINE. PAGE 60-69. HACHETTE BOOK CLUB.
MalcolmFarrar
Whatfirstdrewyoutoexplorethehealingpropertiesofcannabis, particularlyCBDandTHC,andhowhasyourunderstandingoftheir medicinalbenefitsevolved?
Dr. Shoshanna Robinson
I was initially drawn to explore the medicinal properties of cannabis due to my work as a clinical pharmacist with oncology patients in pain who did not find complete relief from opioids and often experienced intolerable side effects from traditional pharmaceuticals Many of these patients inquired about cannabis, but this wasn’t covered in pharmacy school This gap motivated me to research cannabis on my own, where I discovered its remarkable benefits To deepen my understanding, I pursued a two-year master’s degree in Medical Cannabis Science and Therapeutics at the University of Maryland This program, along with my personal studies, greatly expanded my knowledge of cannabis’ medicinal benefits, revealing its complexities in treating various diseases and conditions across diverse patient populations
MalcolmFarrar
HowdoCBDandTHCanti-inflammatoryandpain-relievingeffects comparetotraditionalmedications,andwhyaretheyconsideredpromising alternatives
Dr Shoshanna Robinson
CBD and THC: Cannabis has strong anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties; there are over 500 chemicals identified in cannabis including various cannabinoids (ie, THC, CBD), and terpenoids that work synergistically to help with these medicinal effects These cannabinoids interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) , a predominant system that maintains homeostasis in our bodies involved in our daily functioning
The ECS is critical for almost every aspect of our functioning, from inflammation and pain control, to gastrointestinal activity, and emotional processing Studies suggest that both CBD and THC can effectively reduce chronic pain associated with conditions like arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and neuropathy In some cases, they may provide relief where traditional medications fall short, which many patients express to me
Cannabis is considered a promising alternative because of various medicinal properties/effects, reduced side effects, variability, and multimodal approach (can be used in conjunction with traditional treatments) While cannabis can also have side effects (eg, sedation, euphoria with THC, increased appetite), it tends to have a more favorable side effect profile than traditional pharmaceuticals for long-term use, which is often well-tolerated
Traditional Medications: While traditional medications like opioids can provide pain relief for moderate - severe pain, many prescription and over the counter pain relievers (like NSAIDs and opioids) come with side effects and risks, such as gastrointestinal issues or addiction (opioids) Furthermore, patients can get tolerant to pain relievers like opioids, requiring higher doses of opioids, which increases the risk of dangerous side effects In fact, many studies demonstrate that the use of medical cannabis reduces opioid doses for patients
MalcolmFarrar
CanyouexplainhowbothCBDandTHCmightaidincancertreatmentor prevention,andwhatcurrentresearchindicatesabouttheirpotential?
Dr Shoshanna Robinson
There are preclinical research studies reporting that cannabis has many cancer killing properties In regard to prevention, there is data suggesting a potentially protective role of cannabis against the development of prostate cancer (Mohammed T, et al Biomedicines 2024 May 3;12(5):1008)
While preliminary evidence supports the potential benefits of CBD and THC in cancer treatment and possibly prevention, more robust clinical studies are needed to fully understand their efficacy and safety Currently, my staple for using cannabis when it comes to cancer patients is to try to improve their quality of life by pain management, mitigating the side effects of chemotherapy (ie nausea, vomiting, anorexia), insomnia, and improving mood in anxiety & depression Patients should consult with their physician prior to starting cannabinoid therapy within their medication regimens
CANNABIS
DR. SHOSHANNA ROBINSON PHARMD, MS, CLINICAL DIRECTOR
MalcolmFarrar
HowdoyouseetherolesofCBDandTHCinsupportingmentalclarityand emotionalbalancecomparedtotraditionaltreatmentsforanxiety?
Dr. Shoshanna Robinson
Common medications for emotional balance and anxiety include antidepressants and benzodiazepines Antidepressants like fluoxetine (Prozac) or sertraline (Zoloft) are effective but can take weeks to show results and may have side effects like nausea, vomiting, insomnia, and sexual dysfunction Benzodiazepines like alprazolam (Xanax) are effective for acute anxiety but can lead to dependence and cognitive impairment over time Furthermore, side effects also include drowsiness, dizziness, changes in appetite, and poor muscle control, which is not ideal for our senior population (adults ages 65 and up) due to fall risks or worsening cognitive functioning in conditions like dementia On the other hand, the senior population is the fastest growing demographic using cannabis for medical purposes Patients reported being able to reduce traditional pharmaceuticals with the incorporation of medical cannabis in their regimens, this can help reduce morbidity and mortality from polypharmacy (the concurrent use of multiple medications by a patient) This is important because polypharmacy is common among older adults who have multiple chronic conditions While some pharmaceuticals are necessary for managing complex health issues, polypharmacy can lead to risks such as drug interactions, increased side effects, and medication non-adherence For this reason, medical cannabis is a promising alternative for people of various demographics
In regard to cannabis supporting mental clarity, individual responses to THC can vary widely Some people may find that it enhances their emotional balance, creativity, energy, motivation, and productivity, while others may experience heightened anxiety or confusion at higher doses For this reason, it is important to start doses low and increase slowly until patients reach their sweet spot Cannabis having a variety of strains helps with personalized medication regimens and what best suits each individual Some people may require more CBD and less THC or visa-versa However, side effects of THC are dose dependent and transient, which allows individuals to find a dose and strain that works for them
Bookstore Gallery Magazine
GLOBAL CANNABIS: BRIDGING CULTURES, BREAKING STIGMAS
BY MALCOLM FARRAR - CO- FOUNDER, CANNABIS MEDIA & CULTURE JOURNALIST
FOR BOOKSTORE GALLERY
Cannabisisrapidlybecomingaglobalconnector,bridgingculturesandcommunitiesthroughitsability to heal, foster wellness, and break down stigmas From the thriving dispensaries in Las Vegas to the vibrantcannabisclubsinBarcelona,theplantisunitingpeoplefromdiversebackgrounds.AtBookstore GalleryinAtlanta,weareproudtobepartofthismovement,usingcannabistoconnectandeducate ourlocalcommunity.
In Las Vegas, Brittney Agoncillo of Jardin highlights how cannabis has evolved from skepticism to acceptance, becoming a tool for wellness and connection Through education, Jardin empowers its customerstoseecannabisnotjustasarecreationalproductbutasasourceofhealing.Thismirrors our mission at Bookstore Gallery, where we aim to shift perceptions and build a more informed cannabiscommunity.
AcrosstheAtlantic,KayofKushHouseinBarcelonaemphasizesqualityandauthenticity Hisclubisa hub where people gather not just for cannabis, but for community At events like Spanabis, tens of thousands come together, showing how cannabis serves as a global unifier. Similarly, at Bookstore Gallery, we prioritize offering a quality, curated experience while fostering connections among our members.
As cannabis culture grows worldwide, Bookstore Gallery is committed to building a space where the plant’struepotentialiscelebrated Througheducation,community,andadedicationtowellness,we aimtoconnectpeople bothlocallyandglobally throughthepowerofcannabis.
GLOBAL CONVERSATION
A CONVERSATION WITH BRITTNEY AGONCILLO, DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS AT JARDIN
From Las Vegas to Atlanta: Cannabis as a Universal Language
By Malcolm Farrar, Co-founder/Cannabis Media & Culture Journalist for Bookstore Gallery
In Las Vegas, cannabis has become a tool for breaking down barriers and connecting people from different backgrounds Brittney Agnocillo, Director of Operations at Jardin, describes how cannabis creates a universal language, allowing people from various cultures to connect. “Cannabis has this unique way of breaking down barriers,” she says. “You could find yourself in a conversation with someone from a completely different culture, and suddenly, cannabis becomes the common language.”
Las Vegas, once filled with cannabis skepticism, has evolved into a hub of education and community engagement, largely due to its booming tourism industry. Jardin plays a vital role in educating visitors and turning curiosity into understanding. Brittney emphasizes that their mission isn’t just to sell cannabis but to foster connections and break down stigmas.
While Las Vegas thrives, Atlanta is still in the early stages of embracing cannabis. Brittney sees this as a major opportunity for places like Bookstore Gallery to lead the way through education and advocacy. As cannabis culture develops in Atlanta, the potential for shifting public perception is huge, mirroring the transformation seen in Nevada.
At its core, cannabis is more than just a product it's a global connector that transcends borders. Whether in Las Vegas, Atlanta, or cities like Barcelona, the plant is uniting people through shared experiences, education, and wellness. For Brittney and Jardin, this global movement is about building a future rooted in empathy, empowerment, and the healing power of cannabis.
Bookstore Conversations
A CONVERSATION WITH BRITTNEY AGONCILLO, DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS AT JARDIN
Malcolm Farrar
In Las Vegas, what are the common stigmas or misconceptions around cannabis?
Brittney Agoncillo
Well, that's such a great question And, you know, in Nevada, the perception of cannabis has evolved dramatically What was once met with skepticism has now turned into a vibrant market showcasing the plant's actual potential, and it's pretty incredible Like in many other regions right? So whether, like we said earlier, whether it's potentially improving sleep, managing pain or alleviating anxiety, cannabis is a tool for better living And in places like Atlanta, the cannabis market is still developing, stigmas can be even stronger, right? But that to me is where the real opportunity lies See, we're on the cusp of an industry shift that could redefine public perception worldwide And every day is a chance to educate, inspire, and show people that cannabis isn't something to fear It's actually something to embrace Right? So what I like to tell my team is the future belongs to those who believe in the power of the plant
Malcolm Farrar
Malcolm Farrar
How do you see cannabis serving as a global connector, and could you share any experiences in where the plant has bridged gaps for people from different backgrounds? I know you talked about tourism So you could talk about that
Brittney Agoncillo
Well, I'm smiling right now You can't see that But to me, and this is what I've learned, but cannabis has a remarkable ability to bring people together It transcends backgrounds and cultures, and I've literally seen this firsthand in Las Vegas, a city where people from all over the world converge And cannabis has this unique way of breaking down barriers So you could find yourself in a conversation with someone from a completely different culture or country, and then suddenly cannabis becomes the common language It's beautiful, It's a universal connector
Malcolm Farrar
How do you see cannabis serving as a global connector, and could you share any experiences in where the plant has bridged gaps for people from different backgrounds? I know you talked about tourism So you could talk about that
Were there any challenges that you guys face, um, as the Nevada market was developing?
Brittney Agoncillo
Oh yeah Absolutely Uh, you know what, here's the thing I just want to give you a backstory But, you know, Nevada started just like any other state But what we found out is due to tourism, we actually have 90 % more cannabis users than any other state, right? And through that, our local government has seen the potential of this plant And, you know, and that's what's allowed us to grow and evolve But when you really think about it, every stigma we encounter in Nevada opens a door for education and deeper community engagement So some of the most rewarding moments come from those who initially approached cannabis with hesitation and then through education they often leave feeling empowered by the knowledge they've just gained turning that initial hesitation into curiosity and eventually it turns into action and that's been one of our biggest challenges but it's also been one of our greatest rewards In places like the ATL where cannabis is still in its early stages these challenges are likely even more pronounced But to me, I see this as an exciting opportunity for you and ATL bookstore and what you guys have going on
Brittney Agoncillo
Well, myself and Jardin, our mission is simple, because I feel like simplicity is genius And that's to elevate the human experience through the responsible and informed use of cannabis My core values and our core values come down to education, empathy, empowerment, and caring These are the driving forces behind everything that we do See we deeply care about the plant, the people we serve, and the community we belong to, and we care about our employees ensuring they're educated, supported, and empowered to provide the best service possible We care about our customers creating an environment where they feel understood and valued, and we care about the plant itself recognizing its incredible potential to heal, connect, and transform lives See these these values, they're woven into every part of our business, from our budttenders who undergo extensive training to become knowledgeable consultants, to our focus on education and community engagement Everything we do is about fostering a space where people can make informed and empowered decisions So out here and at our dispensary, we don't just sell cannabis, we build relationships, we break down stigmas, and we create meaningful connections In other words, like I said, we simply care
Malcolm Farrar
That's awesome So I really appreciate you taking the time to talk with us, talk to me And we're looking forward to sharing, you know, the work that you do to our people here in Atlanta
A CONVERSA GLOBAL CONVERSATION
Kush House Barcelona: Connecting Through Cannabis
By Malcolm Farrar, Co-founder/Cannabis Media & Culture Journalist for Bookstore Gallery
Barcelona’s Kush House isn’t just another cannabis club; it’s a hub where the plant becomes a global connector. Co-founder Kay has been part of Europe’s cannabis scene since 2012, pioneering the extract movement with brands like Connector Spain and Honeycomb Extracts. For Kay, cannabis transcends cultural boundaries, serving as both a wellness tool and a bridge that brings people together.
Spain, often referred to as the "California of Europe" for its ideal growing climate and deeprooted cannabis culture, remains in a legal gray area. While cannabis use is decriminalized, restrictions still exist on its public consumption. However, in places like Kush House, cannabis thrives as a source of community and personal connection. Located near the beach, the club emphasizes quality over hype, offering an experience that focuses on authentic, high-grade products.
At Kush House, members are encouraged to explore cannabis with their senses, fostering a deeper appreciation and understanding of the plant. This hands-on approach creates a relaxed, inclusive environment where people from all walks of life can connect. “We let the quality speak for itself,” says Kay, whose personal experience with Crohn’s disease solidified his belief in the medicinal power of cannabis.
For Kay, cannabis is more than just business it’s a personal mission. As the global cannabis industry grows, Kush House and Bookstore Gallery are leading a movement that values wellness, community, and authenticity over commercialization.
Malcolm
Bookstore Conversations
A CONVERSATION WITH KAY, OWNER AT KUSH HOUSE
In Las Vegas, what are the common stigmas or misconceptions around cannabis?
Kay
Yeah, so my name's Kay, I'm the owner here at Kush House, which I operate a couple of other brands out here in Europe, Connector Spain and Honeycomb Extracts We've been basically some of the originators when it comes to the extract scene here in Europe since like 2012
Malcolm
So I know Spain has an interesting way of getting cannabis to the people Could you talk about that? What are the common stigmas or stigmas or misconceptions surrounding cannabis?
Kay
So yeah, so I'd say that as far as a stigma goes, there's not really like a bad stigma here because it's so openly used The main thing here, it's been decriminalized. So it's not fully legal, but it's not, it's not, you know, it's not fully illegal, but it's not legal So the, the kind of in betweens with that is here in Spain is, is that they're, they, they compensated and they've, you know, they've kind of met us halfway that you can consume the medicine But traveling with your product in between those places, that's the black eye That's the area where you're going to face all the problems So basically they allow you to, you know, you consume it, but they want you to consume it either at home or at the club Don't bring it into the streets We don't want to see it
Malcolm
So how do you see cannabis serving as a global connector and uniting different cultures and communities?
Kay
Yeah, well, the global sector is a huge thing here because They kind of look at Spain as the California of Europe So as far as like the growth, the growing climates the the knowledge behind it It's it's kind of embedded in the culture from the hashish. You know the old hashish days of it all coming from Morocco and things Now from the global side You have the events like SPANNABIS once a year where you have, you know, 70 to 100,000 international people flock to the city for a week, basically on just an expo on cannabis
Malcolm
So what would be your cannabis mission statement, like what is your core value in Cannabis?
Kay
Me personally, it goes super deep with me because I suffer from a disease called Crohn's disease and it got to the point that no pharmaceutical treatment that they were given me could actually help me so I that's how I ended up getting into the industry so I just went down the rabbit hole and ended up kind of not curing myself but basically treating myself to the point it was in remission and the doctors started wanting to pick my brain as the guinea pig for them to have their paperwork to figure out if this stuff actually works So from a core value you know just that being able to give people an aspect of life that they you know that they didn't have before through a plant
Malcolm
Any Closing remarks? You can give a shout out to Kush House, tell people about the Beach, I know I would like to visit
Kay
Yeah so like with the Kush house it's probably one of three clubs that's located we're probably out of the three clubs the closest to the beach so that's kind of like a prime you know prime part of the club and then secondly the approach of how we've got the club at the Kush house we provide work you know we're striving for going with and four, going with quality, versus the hype Everyone wants the Mylar bags and the branded stuff, but don't realize most of it's Bootlegging and people are just kind of faking the funk So from our point of view, and people are just kind of faking the funk So from our point of view, yeah, we try to stand with the quality We'll let the quality speak for itself
I help individuals, families, and business owners create a sound financial plan for the future. I focus on debt elimination, emergency fund saving, and protecting what’s most important as well as helping entrepreneurs reach their dreams. I have twenty-plus years of financial planning and investment advisory experience. I am currently an insurance-licensed financial professional. I previously held the Series 7, 66, and 79 licenses. I am a 1991 MBA graduate of UNC-Chapel Hill’s Kenan Flagler Business School. I have served on the boards of The Atlanta Business League, 1st Choice Credit Union, and the Vestry board of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church. I am married to Dr. Vanna M. Jackson, a partner at Sandy Springs Pediatrics. Our daughter Sophia, graduated from Auburn University in 2022. We are 20-plus-year members of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Atlanta, GA. My MISSION STATEMENT IS: To Educate families on three primary concepts: life insurance: retirement planning, and college funding. My PLANNING PROCESS: Sound financial planning begins with a comprehensive financial plan that addresses client-specific goals. My process starts with a complimentary Financial Needs Analysis which involves goal setting, identifying funding gaps and the reallocation of resources to help improve long-term results.
Bookstore Conversations
CASTLEBERRY HILL BUSINESS
A CONVERSATION WITH BUSINESS OWNERS IN CASTLEBERRY HILL
Building Business and Community in Castleberry Hill
By Kyle Brown, Co-Founder/Owner of Bookstore Gallery
Castleberry Hill, a historic neighborhood in Atlanta, is quickly becoming a hub for Black-owned businesses, driven by a sense of community and collaboration. Entrepreneurs like Kenneth Thompson of Kenny T’s and Jon Aba of Comedy Hype are leading the way, contributing to the neighborhood's growth while benefiting from its unique blend of art, culture, and commerce. Kenneth, who launched Kenny T’s in 2012, specializes in printing everything from t-shirts to banners. His business, built on a foundation of innovation and experience, has thrived in Castleberry Hill. With plans to expand into content creation, Kenneth emphasizes the importance of collaboration, urging local businesses to connect and support each other.
Jon Aba, founder of Comedy Hype, has a similar vision. With nearly one million YouTube subscribers, Comedy Hype has grown into a media powerhouse. Jon sees Castleberry’s potential, especially given its concentration of Black-owned businesses. His mantra, “Keep Going,” has driven him to create spaces like Hypers Club, where community and business can thrive together. "Community is the new currency," Jon explains, focusing on building a collaborative environment.
For both Kenneth and Jon, the future of Castleberry Hill lies in its collective strength. By fostering connections between businesses, they aim to create a supportive ecosystem that amplifies success and drives the neighborhood forward.
Bookstore Conversations
Kyle Brown
A CONVERSATION WITH KENNETH THOMPSON, OWNER KENNEY T’S
Kenneth Thompson
All right, welcome Kenny, thank you for coming to Bookstore Gallery, if you don't mind, please introduce yourself and your business
Kenneth Thompson
How you doing, my name is Kenneth Thompson and my business is Kenny T's We specialize in anything tangible that you need your graphic on, and I say tangible because a lot of people think we do digital marketing We do everything that accompanies digital marketing, so t -shirts, bags, banners, posters, stickers, decals, anything that you can put your hands on that you need a logo or an image on, Kennedy's can service you
Kyle Brown
Okay So what has been your experience in starting your business in Castleberry?
Kenneth Thompson
Well my experience has been great I started my business here in 2012, and unbeknownst to me Castleberry Hill was the art district, and its close proximity to several businesses that I service was actually a blessing in disguise, because I didn't even know that it was an art district It was nothing specific about being in Castleberry Hill other than it was a loft and I could open up my business downstairs So to find out that I'm 15 minutes from the airport, to find out I'm right next to the Georgia Dome, to find out that this is considered the artist's district and the biggest wealth building for black land ownership was just all extra on top So my business been received well due to that and I didn't even know it They didn't even get to see my services yet
Kyle Brown
So how are you looking to expand or evolve your business?
Okay, so currently we do, like I said earlier, tangible marketing I'm definitely trying to keep up with the wave and add content to what we provide You can't have a product without content these days and a lot of people just have content and no product So I'm definitely trying to merge the two as we enter into this new digital age of products content so that that is the next step of where Kenny T's is going
Kyle Brown
Any closing remarks that you want to promote?
Kenneth Thompson
I started the brand, Kenny Tees, like I said, it's www KTATL com And I just want to promote business synergy, like we have going on in Castleberry Hill It goes a long way and it just starts with an open conversation So don't hesitate to ask your business neighbor, a potential business neighbor, or colleague, or Instagram, we're all accessible So it all starts with a question Kenny Tees is located in a historic Castleberry Hill we could be reached at wwwKTATLcom and please please please come to us with any of your branding needs We do Homecoming shirts we do family units There's nothing too small or too big on the bigger side or Fortune 500 companies
Bookstore Conversations
Kyle Brown
A CONVERSATION WITH JON ABA, OWNER COMEDY HYPE/HYPERS CLUB
We would love for you to introduce yourself in your business
Jon Aba
Cool, man Couple of businesses, but I'll kinda land it on like maybe three, John Aba, CEO, founder of Comedy Hype That is our flagship company, where we produce online content, mainly on YouTube We're just approaching under one million subscribers and growing Then you also have Hypers Club, which is the company that I'm wearing Hypers Club is our membership house, as well as a physical and a digital membership that we offer to some of our favorite viewers that watch our content as well as our event goers that come and then also one half of HA HA Hemp which is a hemp infused tea that we've partnered up with the people behind the Bookstore Gallery
Kyle Brown
Okay So what has been your experience in starting your business in Castleberry?
Jon Aba
To be honest, it's not hitting the amount of potential that I think it could hit My experience has been solid, but the overall location of Castleberry, I don't think I've quite yet experienced the full fruit of that The potential of what it can be being that this is the location according to reports of the most black owned businesses in the country That's the United States of America for my international folks that don't know where we're at And that to me means everything So my experience has been like solid, but I think that we can get a lot more out of the location of Castleberry
Kyle Brown
Is there a business mantra or something that you can share?
Jon Aba
It's easy “Keep Going” has been the mantra of our company It plays at the end of every video that you watch on Comedy Hype on our YouTube channel That is something that's in our bios if you go to our Instagram pages It's in our bios Keep going has been the thing to get me through the darkness when there was no light Ideally being an entrepreneur as you can relate Sometimes you gotta make pivots so you don't know what's coming in front of you You just have to have a whole lot of faith to be able to make it through those storms and those unforeseen times And that's been the thing that got me here, you know, to start off as someone that was running around with a laptop and a camera to now say that, you know, we have this major YouTube channel and now I'm doing a membership house that hopefully, Soho House, If I get the right budget, you know, you don't ever know how you'll get there, but you if you keep going you will get there So that's kind of the mantra why I believe in that
Kyle Brown
How are you looking to expand or continue to involve your business? What do you look for?
Jon Aba
Well, Yeah, I had thought about that question and it kind of kind of came quickly I think community is Is the currency that I'm now looking to tap into Making people feel that our space is Mi Casa su Casa is their home Making sure that our business partners feel like, you know, we are gonna be supportive of what they're doing But also seeing that curated in a way that it's also reciprocal, you know? It's like, we're kind of flowing on each other So that's a huge part of what we're after right now
YOU NEVER KNOW WHO YOU MAY MEET AT BOOKSTORE GALLERY
Orlando Jones | Thunder Walker | RAHBI | Mia Gladstone
Bellis | PBE Grey | Maleigh Zan | Dontaye Carter, Ryan Willson, Albert “Shivy” Brooks, Jermaine Dupri, Isaac Hayes III
Noland B. Dickey
NolandDickeyisaCommercialandResidential RealtorandStrategicConsultantforBuyers,Sellers, Investors,andCorporationsinthestateofGeorgia andNationally.AsamemberofoneofAtlanta’s marketmostactiveandtrustedbrokerageteams,I representclientsacrossvariousindustriestoplan andexecuterealestatestrategies.Mydeepmarket knowledgecombinedwiththebroadrangeof resourcesatmydisposalwithColdwellBanker Commercial®(CBC)allowsforauniqueandcreative approachtoidentifyingresults-drivenoccupancy solutions,expansions,dispositions,consolidations, andoccupancycostreductions.Ilookforwardto workingwitheachofyouonyourRealEstateneeds
ColdwellBankerCommercial®(CBC)isaworldwide leaderinthecommercialrealestateindustry,andis partoftheoldestandmostrespectednationalreal estatebrandinthecountry,ColdwellBankerReal Estate.ColdwellBankerCommercialisasubsidiary ofRealogyHoldingsCorp.(NYSE:RLGY),aglobal leaderinrealestatefranchisingandproviderofreal estatebrokerage,relocationandsettlementservices.
Specialties:Multifamily,Industrial,Land,Retail, Luxury Real Estate, Commercial Leasing, Negotiations,andNetworking.
