Bookstore Gallery Magazine: Issue No. 1 - Winter 2023/2024

ISSUE NO1 B O O K S T O R E G A L L E R Y

WINTER

MAGAZINE

2023

ITS LOUD IN HERE! Building community around wellness, cannabis & culture at Bookstore Gallery

2024

CULTIVATING CHANGE

MENTAL WELLNESS

A conversation with GA state rep Eric Bell on cannabis reform

Conversation with the founder of Undugu Brotherhood, Jermail Shelton

GALLERY

Cailla “Cai The Deviant” Williams Hey everyone! Nice to meet you all! My name is Cai a.k.a Cai the deviant. So you’re probably wondering why I call myself a “deviant”. Well simple. We’re so used to the negative aspect of the word, that we forget about its positive counterpart.

Well, fear no more! I am going to help bring it to light! That’s what creatives are. Creatives are deviants. We think outside the box to create a different experience for the world to see!

@caithedeviant A little background about myself and my characters. Yes, you will learn about my characters as well!

They’re the whole reason whyI live for being a deviant. I was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia. I am the youngest of a set of triplets. I graduated from Clark Atlanta University in 2020 with a bachelor in General Studio Art and minor in fashion wardrobe styling. During my time there, I was on the softball team with my sister. I’ve been drawing since I was 8 years old trying to mimic my cousin’s art. My art is a fuse between cartoons, graphic design and different cultural themes. Cartoons have been a major part of my life to the point where I created my own characters.

Meet The Deviants.

Cai

Noooo it’s not me....well to y’all knowledge it’s not hehe. Cai is the main character of the trio. She is the level headed and laid back one of the group. She has a big heart and loves to help others. Sometimes it ends her in a lot of situations, but nevertheless she’s never afraid to help. She’s very protective over loved ones, especially when it comes to tobias. She loves anything that has to do with nature, working out and loves sushi.

Tobias

You know how there’s always that one friend that stays getting into situations? Meet Tobias. Tobias is Cai’s best friend and Zeb's favorite toy. A very carefree and vibrant soul, Tobias makes friends wherever he goes. On the gloomiest days, he’s able to make anyone smile. Despite that, he can be very naive at times which lands him into trouble, as well as making him an easy target for Zeb. He loves to eat and play video games BOOKSTORE GALLERY MAGAZINE

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GALLERY

Briana Mari

@theguudpart theguudpart@theguudpart.com

Briana Mari is a graduate from the Art Institute of NYC, in Manhattan, where she studied Fashion Design. She has a vast background of community service endeavors, including presenting her art for the NAACP of Virginia Commonwealth University and the Richmond Pine Camp Spot Light. Mari enjoys juxtaposing both of her passions of expressive fine arts, specifically painting, and giving back to the community in which she serves. She strives to be a guiding light for aspiring creatives through her unique artistic and spiritual touch. Her inspirations are pulled from her culture that builds the blueprint of her view on her own identity as a Black Woman in America, and the beauty found in the stories of those around her. Topics from domestic violence and depression, to hip-hop and hair, Mari uses color and emotion to express a detailed state of being to her audience. She has a vast portfolio of curated shows along the East Coast from The Nation of Creators in New Jersey to Cinco Day in Georgia to name a few. These events may include some of her original pieces to purchase, but also spotlight her delicate live painting talents. In 2017, Mari was chosen as a RAW Artist to participate in their Atlanta showcase. To finish out that same year, Mari debuted her first joint show in Atlanta where she focused on up and comers in the South, entitled ATL ART SOULCIAL. Currently, Briana Mari resides in Castleberry Hill, in the Greater Atlanta area where her son, her dog Pluto, and she practice live painting in local venues.

Mari can be found live painting some nights at BONFIRE ATL and her works can be found at The Bookstore Gallery.

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B O O K S T O R E

G A L L E R Y

MALAWI SOLD HERE

AVAILABLE www.Malawiplantoil.com

In store

Online

Delivery

DRINK AUNTEA Happiness & Wellness

IN EVERY SIP

Discover the refreshing world of Teas and Coolers at The Bookstore Gallery. Our collection boasts a diverse selection of herbal teas, each with its unique character, and an array of invigorating Coolers - perfect for those warmer days or when you crave a chilled beverage.

From the robust and fruity notes in 'B Fruitful' to the classic Southern sweetness of 'The New South,' our teas are a celebration of flavors. And when it's time to cool down, our Coolers offer a twist on traditional iced teas, blending herbal infusions with refreshing, crisp tastes.

Each sip of our teas and Coolers promises a delightful escape, blending the best of herbal richness with the cooling pleasure of an iced refreshment.

Whether hot or cold, our brews are sure to enchant and refresh.Whether you're seeking a hot brew or a cold sip, our teas and coolers promise an unmatched experience in every cup. Come, let Auntea at The Bookstore Gallery guide you to your next favorite tea or cooler, and elevate your day with a touch of herbal bliss.

EDITOR’S FORWARD

A MESSAGE FROM THE TEAM At Bookstore Gallery, we are more than just a legal cannabis destination we're a community hub that brings together wellness, education, business, and culture. Our mission is to provide a unique space where individuals can explore the benefits of botanicals, engage in thoughtful conversations, and celebrate the intersection of wellness, business, and creativity.

Here is what to expect: Wellness: Stay tuned for insights into the world of holistic wellness, from the latest trends to expert advice on incorporating cannabis into your self-care routine.

Cannabis Education: Knowledge is power! Expect informative content on the science behind cannabis, its therapeutic benefits, and how to make informed choices as a consumer.

Arts and Culture: Immerse yourself in the vibrant intersection of cannabis and culture. Explore art exhibits, cultural events, and the creative expressions inspired by the cannabis lifestyle.

Get ready to explore, learn, and elevate your experience at Bookstore Gallery. Together, let's redefine the conversation around cannabis.

Cannabis Industry: Dive into the exciting realm of the cannabis industry with updates on market trends, innovations, and the movers and shakers shaping the future.

Cannabis Business: Whether you're an entrepreneur or simply curious, we'll be sharing valuable insights into the business side of cannabis, from startups to established brands.

BOOKSTORE GALLERY |06 MAGAZINE 06

IN THIS ISSUE

CONTENTS 2 Gallery - Artist Highlight 6 Editor's Forward 8 Hot N Fun The Hottest Party In The World 10 Cannabis News GA State Rep Eric Bell II Is Blazing a Trail for Cannabis Reform 14 Highlight: Taste and Sound 16 Undugu Chop It Up Conversation with Founder Jermail Shelton 22 Cover - It’s Loud at Bookstore Gallery The Bookstore Gallery team has been building a community and making noise in the legal Cannabis Game

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EVENT 2024

@HNFWORLDWIDE BOOKSTORE GALLERY MAGAZINE

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WHAT IS HOT N FUN ?

A MONTHLY UNIQUE DANCE PARTY FOR MUSIC LOVERS ACROSS MULTIPLE GENRES CREATED BY TOKYO TRENDZ & WAVY LACHII. TOKYO TRENDZ & WAVY LACHII CONTROL THE VIBE AT TRAP SUSHI NOW THEY DECIDED TO START THEIR OWN PARTY IN ATLANTA OUR DANCE PARTY IS A SANCTUARY FOR MUSIC ENTHUSIASTS, A PLACE WHERE DIVERSE TASTES ARE CELEBRATED AND BOUNDARIES ARE SHATTERED. AT OUR DANCE PARTY, MUSIC IS NOT JUST A BACKGROUND ELEMENT: IT IS THE PULSATING FORCE THAT DRIVES EVERY MOVE YOU MAKE. PREPARE TO SURRENDER TO THE IRRESISTIBLE GROOVE AS THE DJ WEAVES A MESMERIZING TAPESTRY OF SOUNDS, SEAMLESSLY BLENDING GENRES AND ERAS TO CREATE AN UNFORGETTABLE SONIC JOURNEY.

MUSIC AS A DRIVING FORCE: AT HOT N FUN MUSIC IS NOT JUST A BACKGROUND ELEMENT BUT THE DRIVING FORCE BEHIND EVERY MOVE. THIS EMPHASIZES THE TRANSFORMATIVE POWER OF MUSIC, WHICH HAS LONG BEEN A SOURCE OF JOY, CELEBRATION, AND SELF-EXPRESSION IN BLACK COMMUNITIES.

SONIC JOURNEY: HOT N FUN IS NOT JUST ABOUT DANCING BUT ABOUT BEING TRANSPORTED THROUGH A MUSICAL EXPERIENCE. SUCH IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCES CAN BE INCREDIBLY JOYFUL, AS THEY ALLOW ATTENDEES TO LOSE THEMSELVES IN THE MUSIC AND THE MOMENT.

@HNFWORLDWIDE

CANNABIS NEWS

GA STATE REP ERIC BELL IS CULTIVATING CHANGE G

eorgia's cannabis revolution is in full swing, with community activists and state representatives championing a reformation of existing policies that promise to reshape the state's approach to legal Cannabis. At the epicenter of this movement is Bookstore Gallery, a modern day apothecary and wellness lounge located in the historic Castleberry Hill Art's District in Atlanta Ga.

GA Representative Eric Bell II, MS, a staunch supporter of the initiative, emphasized the importance of preventing marijuana charges from derailing students' college aspirations, introduced his "Higher Hope Act" which would amend the Hope Scholarship so that a substance conviction would not affect a student's eligibility for the Hope Scholarship.

The "Higher Hope Act" will be formally introduced during the 2024 legislative session.

The key objectives of this movement are clear: expand access to medical marijuana, decriminalize recreational use, and protect students by ensuring that marijuana charges don't stand in the way of their pursuit of the HOPE scholarship. Scotty Smart, representing the New Georgia Project Action Fund, is a vocal advocate for these changes. His organization is on a mission to provide safer access to medical marijuana, create job opportunities in the medical sector, and eradicate the societal stigma surrounding marijuana possession.

While Georgia has taken a step forward by allowing independent pharmacies to sell medical cannabis oil, the movement's proponents see this as merely the beginning.

They argue that Georgia, as a leader in the South, must take the lead in transforming its cannabis policies. Achieving bipartisan support from both Democrats and Republicans is the linchpin of this groundbreaking reform's success. As the cannabis revolution unfolds, Georgia is poised to make history and set an example for the rest of the nation.

ISSUE 1

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CANNABIS NEWS

Bookstore Conversations

ISSUE #1

A CONVERSATION WITH GA STATE REP ERIC BELL II

Navigating Political Differences for Bipartisan Support

Introducing Eric Bell II

Malcolm Farrar: First and foremost, tell me about yourself. Could you introduce yourself to the people?

Eric Bell: My name is Eric Bell, I'm an activist and recently elected to the Georgia State House. I'm a military veteran, a graduate of Morehouse College, and I recently obtained a Master's in international business from Georgia State.

Background and Legacy Malcolm Farrar: I know you have a historic background, the Bell name carries weight. Could you talk about that?

Eric Bell: My grandfather, Dr. Roy Charles Bell Sr., was a dentist involved in desegregating the hospital system in America. He founded a lawsuit against Grady Hospital in 1962, leading to the desegregation of the hospital system.

Higher Hope Act and Cannabis Reform.

Malcolm Farrar: I know you recently had a Town Hall meeting at the bookstore gallery. Could you talk about the Higher Hope Act and what you aim to do with cannabis reform?

Eric Bell: The Higher Hope Act focuses on repealing the Drug Secondary Act of 1990, allowing students with drug convictions access to state support for education. We're also working on legalizing and regulating cannabis in Georgia.

Malcolm Farrar: Bipartisan support is crucial for the success of this new policy. How do you plan on navigating political differences and building bridges between the Democratic and Republican Party?

Eric Bell: By focusing on commonalities rather than differences. I believe there's enough discussion on our differences; we need to emphasize what brings us together.

Next Steps for the Higher Hope Act

Public Perception of Cannabis Malcolm Farrar: With medicinal cannabis becoming legal, what impact do you think it will have on public perception, and will it help destigmatize cannabis in Georgia?

Eric Bell: Legalizing medicinal cannabis will provide opportunities for education and safe spaces, helping destigmatize the plant and expose people to its healing properties.

How To Destigmatize Cannabis

Malcolm Farrar: You recently put the Higher Hope Act on the floor. What are the next steps?

Eric Bell: It's in prefile, where bills are introduced ahead of the regular session. Prefiling brings attention to the issue, and I'm positive it will spark conversations and lead to more reforms.

Closing Remarks and Future Plans

Malcolm Farrar: What is your plan to address the stigma around marijuana and cannabis, and how do you plan to help destigmatize it?

Eric Bell: Open discussions, events, and inviting people to talk about the medicinal properties of the plant, focusing on common ground and shared experiences.

WWW.BELLFORUS.COM | IG- @BELLFORUS

Malcolm Farrar: Any closing remarks or future plans that you have? What do you want people to take away from this conversation?

Eric Bell: Politics is about casual conversations and bringing people together.

Anyone can be part of the process—no fancy degrees or suits required. Get involved, reach out to your representatives, and make your voice heard. Also, check out the bookstore gallery.

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T A S T ER EACNI D P ESSO U N D TASTEANDSOUND.COM

Roots & Culture Craft Kitchen

recipe provided by CHEF MICHELE K. TOMPKINS

GARDEN ROOTS: Signature stuffed baked sweet potato BAKED SWEET POTATO 6 medium to large warm baked sweet potatoes SWEET POTATO TOPPING MIX 1 1⁄2 cups tri color cooked quinoa 1 small thinly sliced red pepper 1 small thinly sliced poblano pepper 1 1⁄2 cup cooked black eyed peas 1 cup cooked diced roasted red beets 1 cup fresh fire roasted corn cut off the cob 1⁄2 cup thinly sliced red onions 1⁄2 cup thinly sliced fresh yellow squash 1⁄2 cup thinly sliced fresh zucchini 4 1⁄2 cups fresh chopped curly kale 1⁄2 cup golden raisins 1⁄2 cup toasted pepitas CHAMPAGNE VINAIGRETTE 3-4 garlic cloves chopped 4 Tablespoons Dijon mustard 1⁄2 cup champagne vinegar 4 TBL. Fresh lemon juice 2 TBL. Agave or honey 1 TSP kosher salt 1 TSP fresh cracked pepper 1 Cup extra virgin olive oil

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In a small bowl whisk everything together except the extra virgin olive oil. In a slow steady stream whisk in the EVOO until dressing becomes emulsified. Adjust salt & pepper as needed to taste.

The build- in a medium mixing bowl combine all the ingredients toss until well mixed. Toss with champagne vinaigrette until lightly coated with dressing.

Cut a small insert vertically along the baked sweet potato then push towards the center from the four corners of the potato. Season with a pinch of kosher salt & freshly cracked pepper, drizzle 1⁄2 tablespoon of the champagne vinaigrette onto the potato.

Using a set of tongs evenly portion the blackeyed pea – vegetable mixture into the sweet potatoes.

Enjoy!

TASTE AND SOUND TASTEANDSOUND.COM

ERIC GILES Eric Giles is an international musician specializing in the saxophone. He’s performed in venues across the USA and Asia, such as the Hard Rock Café in Seoul, South Korea, and has lent his musical talents to commercials for major brands such as Samsung.

Additionally, he has been a music teacher and 1:1 instructor for 10 years, teaching students as young as kindergarten to late beginners in their golden years.

He obtained his degree in Music Performance from North Carolina A&T State University and his Masters in Jazz Studies from North Carolina Central University. His favorite style to play is Jazz, which he studied extensively for his Masters program, but he also performs pop, R&B, soul, hip hop, AfroJazz, Latin Jazz, gospel, house, and various other genres.

Book Eric now to take your event to the next level!

www.salvationsax.com

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Bookstore Conversations

BLACK MEN’S

UNDUGU BROTHERHOOD

A CONVERSATION WITH THE FOUNDER OF UNDUGU JERMAIL SHELTON

The Red Cross for men of color empowering brothers to share openly and honestly without being judged.

Be a part of the conversation

@UNDUGUBROTHERHOOD

Mental health service BOOKSTORE GALLERY MAGAZINE

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MXF: Please introduce yourself JS: My name is Jermail Shelton. I am the founder of Undugu, a men's safe space operating out of the Bookstore Gallery at 461 Nelson Street. It's a space where men of color can be as vulnerable, honest, and authentic as they want, breaking myths about conversations and showing strength in men.

MXF: Could you describe the significance of the Name Undugu?

JS: So the name is, um, again, it comes from, um, Swahili for brotherhood. So rooted in the name and Undugu is brotherhood and, that's really what we stand on. We stand on a space where, we don't operate with inside of ego. We don't operate with side of judgment. We speak from an I point of view, so we don't generalize, and we speak with no labels. So what you do for a living or what you have, what you've accumulated material-wise wise really is not important. We're, we're more into, um, who you really are. Um, right? Not these, uh, these social facades that oftentimes we lead conversations with. Right? So we operate with no labels.

MXF: What makes, Undugu unique in terms of fostering open communication and brotherhood?

JS: Yeah, it's the, um, we call it removing armor, right? So, so often, you may have a group of men that's inside of a space. Everyone's going through the same exact thing internally, but because nobody wants to be the first person to talk about those things, the conversation is never had. I kind of believe in removing armor, right, which is kind of taking off that armor, this imaginary armor that most men I know wear. And it's something to kind of protect us from our feelings, try to, you know, keep it all holed up. When we remove that armor and have a very authentic conversation. It's almost magical what happens where you're essentially given permission for the men around you to share the same vulnerability or being as authentic as you are. But oftentimes it just takes one person and you, what I love about the meeting is, especially with a lot of first-timers, you can kind of tell, like, I, I kind of, I have a bird's eye view, right? So I understand like the feeling. So you might have a brother in there and they kind of start off like this, right? And as the conversation is going, you see him loosen up a little bit, they're moving like that. And then for some men who, you know, end up talking, it might go, they start like tapping their leg, right? They might start sitting up and then before you know it, it's like pass me the cane. Like I got, I got something to say.

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MXF: Could you describe a specific instance where a member’s life was changed and positively impacted? You can talk about yourself as well.

JS: I mean, there's just so many names, man.

It's like so many, so many brothers. I seen one brother that was kind of in a shell inside of his own shell, like internally. Right. Didn't really speak at all. Very cool. Like it's not mean, but just kind of very to himself. Very laid back, cool guy. And we've recently started doing this thing called undo speaks, which is. A speaking platform or speaking curriculum that we're starting to assist men who are looking to become better professional speakers, as well as men who are looking to be just more confident in general with being inside of a room and being able to hold conversation.

Right. So kind of covering that full spectrum of men. And with inside of this, the brother literally just spoke on Tuesday. He gave a speech this past Tuesday. And for a brother that I've never really heard really speak inside of, you know, the room with the men to hear him on stage on Tuesday and like speak was amazing to me, man. Like there's so many dope brothers in our space, man.

JS: Can I, can I, can I talk about the benefits of community really fast? Yeah, so like I, I want to say like specifically with you all, the bookstore gallery, you all don't realize how, how important this space has been for us, like centrally located, the hours, and that's just like the surface things, right? Let alone like the energy in here. In order for certain conversations to kind of like breathe and kind of the fire be lit, like surroundings are important, right? You can't do that in bad, bad vibe locations.

DT: You said something about the fire being lit, right? What does that look like? How, how can you describe that?

JS: It, it's more, I won't even say it, is what it looks like. It's what it feels like. Okay. It feels, um, it feels like alignment. It feels, um, it feels light. Right? You know, we go through life and like things weigh us down, right? Like that feels like light. It feels comfortable. One of the testimonies that, um, the brothers left, he was like, man, it feels comfortable. And I never even thought of using that word right to describe the space. And I know he’s talking about, the spaces. He’s talking about Bookstore gallery.

DT: So, my question for you is, what about the men who feel like comfort is an opposition to their goal? Like, you know, we know we have to get uncomfortable to get to where we want to go. So why would I want to sit and feel comfortable, you know, what do you say to them?

JS: I would say if you're not feeling comfortable, then most likely you're not really aligned with, um, what you should be doing or who you should be with, or I don't know. You know. If you're not comfortable, you know, sometimes people, it almost sounds like basically what you're saying is if you're comfortable, you're lazy, right? And very, that was a very good question you just asked, right? I'm very big on asking a proper question. So like, thank you for asking that question.

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DT: What more do you look to do? What is the next phase? What's next?

JS: I've kind of coined this, um, this phrase, but the more I say it, the more it feels comfortable, is, the We want to be the Red Cross for black men in terms of resources and opportunities.

Um, we're looking to do programming now. So if you look at undo who chop it up, chop it up is almost like the lightning rod, you know, from a business point of view perspective. It's, um, it's the top of our funnel, right? So we're getting men coming in through undo who chop it up.

Now we're starting to have conversations.

We're building relationships. What are you into, what are you struggling with? What are you good at? Right? What are your, what are your gifts? And based off, based off the response, based off the, now it's like, oh, maybe you need to talk to this person. And so these are like the different kinds of pools. I give you the, like, the prime, the, the, the, the best example I can give is what we're doing right now with Undugu Speaks. Um, it's a speaking curriculum designed to. Create better communicators and communicators for men who are looking to take their speaking talents to the market and make money off of that.

Closing Remarks JS: You can meet us at the bookstore gallery located at 461 Nelson Street, Atlanta, Georgia, every first and third Tuesday from 6 p. m. to 9 p. m.

Also every Second and fourth Tuesday, you can meet us at the Auburn Research Library located at 101 Auburn Avenue.

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When you buy a package of Haha Hemp Infused Tea at Bookstore Gallery we will give you a free ticket to the funniest open mic in the city at Comedy Hype!

BOOKSTORE GALLERY

Photo Artwork by Alex Decker

If you know you know about Bookstore Gallery...

Nestled at the intersection of Nelson Street and Northside Drive, Bookstore Gallery stands as a beacon in the heart of Atlanta's Castleberry Hill Arts District. Beyond the unassuming exterior lies more than just a venue—it's a legal cannabis lounge, a creative work and event space, and a sanctuary for all seeking a haven of inclusivity and relaxation.

Bookstore Gallery is more than a physical space; it's a community center where individuals from all walks of life converge to unwind, learn, engage in meaningful discussions, connect, and unleash their creativity. In an era where acceptance of cannabis and alternative plant medicine is steadily growing, the Bookstore Gallery team fosters an environment where both seasoned cannabis enthusiasts and the curious alike can gather, connect, and deepen their understanding of the potential benefits of alternative plant therapies.

The driving force behind Bookstore Gallery's mission is to reshape the narrative around cannabis. As societal acceptance evolves, the team is dedicated to cultivating a space where individuals can comfortably explore and engage with cannabis, challenging the long-standing stigma that has surrounded the plant for decades. The goal is clear—to create an atmosphere where people feel safe and actively encouraged to participate in open dialogues, learn from one another, and, most importantly, be themselves.

Bookstore Gallery is more than just a venue; it's a catalyst for change in perceptions, fostering an environment where the cannabis curious can become the cannabis informed. It's a haven where the old narratives are replaced with a new story —one of education, acceptance, and community. As the cultural landscape shifts, Bookstore Gallery remains at the forefront, weaving a tapestry of understanding and camaraderie in the heart of Atlanta.

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BOOKSTORE GALLERY

MEET THE TEAM

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KYLE BROWN

Kyle Brown stands as the visionary Founder and CEO at the helm of Bookstore Gallery. Originally from Long Island, NY, Kyle found his second home in Atlanta, GA, after graduating from Morehouse College.

With a corporate background spanning over a decade, Kyle has honed his expertise in finance, pricing strategy, and supply chain management, supplemented by an MBA from Emory University's Goizueta Business School with a focus on Entrepreneurship and Operations Management.

The genesis of Bookstore Gallery can be traced back to Kyle's transformative experiences in Amsterdam. Motivated by a desire to unite with close friends and family, Kyle envisioned and brought to life an elevated community center. At its core, Bookstore Gallery serves as a sanctuary, offering a safe space for the convergence of creative culture, the exploration of quality botanicals, and the therapeutic embrace of communal artistic talents.

Kyle's journey, marked by a commitment to entrepreneurship and community enrichment, continues to shape the unique essence and cultural impact of Bookstore Gallery.

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BOOKSTORE GALLERY MAGAZINE

AUNTEA Annette Chi Hughes, also known as Auntea, is a co-owner of Bookstore Gallery, a modern-day apothecary located in Atlanta, GA. She embarked on this entrepreneurial journey alongside her nephew, Kyle Brown. Bookstore Gallery stands as a champion for the utilization of botanicals in the pursuit of health and wellness, offering a diverse range of hempbased products. Within this unique establishment, Auntea passionately crafts hemp-infused teas and concoctions incorporating an array of flowers, roots, leaves, berries, and seeds. Her herbal creations are meticulously designed to showcase the medicinal properties found abundantly in plant life.

Auntea’s fascination with the healing potential of herbs was kindled during her high school years through the guidance of her grandfather. This early mentorship placed her on a lifelong path of exploring holistic well-being, encompassing mental health, physical vitality.

Her commitment extended to fostering healthy safe and inclusive spaces for communities to come together, leading her to co-found various organizations supporting women and LGBTQ communities.

One notable achievement was Lambda Student Alliance, the pioneering LGBTQ organization at an HBCU. Throughout her career, Chi has played pivotal roles in designing and directing health programs for women, with international replication. Her innovative initiatives include using gardening as a holistic intervention for women recovering from substance misuse.

She also co created a gardening program for developmentally delayed adults and adolescents in the metro Atlanta area. Auntea’s contributions to the nonprofit sector span program management and design for older adults, philanthropic initiatives in California, financial management consulting, and youth mentoring.

A true lifelong learner, Hughes has invested time in expanding her knowledge of botanicals and their myriad benefits, recently achieving her Master Gardener Certification from the University of Georgia. Her academic background includes a BA in Journalism from Howard University and an MSW in Health and Aging from the University of California. In her own words, “I transformed my passion for nurturing healthy communities into a profession, which later became a cherished hobby.” My involvement with Bookstore Gallery marks the beautiful culmination of things that bring me joy. The journey continues.

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MALCOLM FARRAR Malcolm Farrar, a visionary leader, and Co-founder of Bookstore Gallery, brings his extensive expertise and passion for the arts to the heart of the creative community.

A proud graduate of Morehouse College with a concentration in Business Marketing, Malcolm has over 10 years of experience in film, television, and live event production.

In his role as Co-founder and General Manager of Bookstore Gallery, Malcolm has taken the helm in creating a vibrant cultural hub. Leveraging his understanding of business marketing, he has played a pivotal role in shaping Bookstore Gallery’s brand identity, mission, and overall vision. Under his guidance, Bookstore Gallery has become a dynamic space that not only showcases art but also fosters a sense of community through carefully curated events and collaborations.

Malcolm's impact extends beyond Bookstore Gallery, as he has contributed to the production of major global events, including the Super Bowl Half Time Show in Atlanta, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame at the Barclays Center, and The Kennedy Center Honors. Notably, he has been involved in the production of a Broadway show for the Obama administration at the White House, showcasing his dedication to projects of cultural and historical significance.

With a keen eye for creativity, strategic thinking, and a commitment to community building, Malcolm Farrar continues to shape the narrative of Bookstore Gallery, making it a beacon for artists and art enthusiasts alike.

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DJ TOKYO TRENDZ Tyrell Dixon, widely recognized as Tokyo, serves as a Cofounder and pivotal dot connector at Bookstore Gallery, hailing from the vibrant cultural landscape of Virginia Beach/Hampton, Va. With an illustrious decade-long journey in the music industry, Tokyo has fostered partnerships with esteemed brands such as United Talent Agency, Netflix, Afrotech, Red Bull, Trap Sushi, and Belaire, showcasing his adeptness in navigating diverse industry landscapes.

Within the realm of Bookstore Gallery, Tokyo seamlessly integrates his multifaceted skill set. From talent booking and event curation to music selection and strategic collaborations, Tokyo plays a crucial role in shaping the brand's identity and cultural impact. Additionally, his proficiency in graphic design and social media management contributes to the brand's visual storytelling and digital presence.

Tokyo's passion for creating unique and immersive experiences aligns with Bookstore Gallery's commitment to fostering a dynamic and inclusive cultural space.

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BOOKSTORE GALLERY

FLOWERS, CONCENTRATES, AND OTHER BOTANICALS The holistic benefits of our hemp flower and hemp-infused tea extend far beyond their captivating flavors. Hemp is renowned for its potential therapeutic properties, including promoting relaxation, reducing stress, and supporting a sense of calm. As you sip our hemp-infused tea or indulge in the aromatic charm of our hemp flower, you're not just experiencing a beverage; you're embracing a holistic approach to well-being.

At Bookstore Gallery, we believe in the natural synergy between hemp and holistic wellness.

Our premium hemp flower and hemp-infused teas invite you to partake in a mindful journey, where each moment becomes an opportunity for self-care. Whether you're unwinding after a busy day or simply seeking a pause in the midst of life's hustle, our hemp offerings are crafted to be your companions on the path to balance and serenity

Join us at Bookstore Gallery and elevate your experience.

ALL WE NEED IS WE !

AVAILABLE AT

WWW.BLENCOLLECTIVE.COM

In store

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Bookstore Gallery's intentional collaboration and curated events play a pivotal role in creating a warm and inviting community. By offering spaces for shared experiences, we've cultivated an environment where individuals can unwind, connect, and find therapeutic joy in each other's company.

Our commitment to providing a safe and inclusive space seamlessly aligns with the therapeutic nature of our events, establishing Bookstore Gallery as a sanctuary where education, inclusivity, and a sense of community converge to redefine conversations around cannabis.

More than just a venue, Bookstore Gallery becomes a haven where intentional curation and shared moments contribute to the overall wellness of our patrons, fostering a sense of belonging and enriching lives.

COMMUNITY AND CULTURE

THANK YOU TO ALL OF OUR EVENT PARTNERS

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YOU NEVER KNOW WHO YOU MAY MEET AT BOOKSTORE GALLERY

BOOKSTORE GALLERY STORY

Lisa Raye | Manny Fresh | Eric Bellinger | Nafessa Williams | Duke Deuce 4Fargo | Terilisha | Gail Bean BOOKSTORE GALLERY MAGAZINE

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How to make a glass of refreshing Auntea New South Sweet Tea spiked with Greenwood Whiskey Ingredients * 1 ½ shots of Greenwood Whiskey * 1 shot of peach schnapps * 4 oz of Auntea’s New South Sweet Tea * splash of fresh lemon juice plus a little wedge for garnish Instructions 1. In your cocktail glass, stir together your Greenwood Whiskey, peach schnapps, and Auntea New South sweet tea.

2. Stir in a splash of fresh lemon juice and pour over ice.

3. Add a lemon wedge for garnish

BOOKSTORE GALLERY MAGAZINE

32

BOOKSTORE GALLERY MAGAZINE

33

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