By Kevin Dankman
By CHAMPS Magazine Staff
By Bernie Boulders
CHAMPS Trade Show Unveils CuRB
By Amear Moretall CHAMPS
ISSUE 68 | APRIL 2025
ISSUE 68 | APRIL 2025
Writing
Amear Moretall
Bernie Boulders
CHAMPS Show Magazine Staff
Kevin Dankman
Photography
CHAMPS Show Magazine Staff
Dabsel Adams
Corey Bueno Photography
Design & Layout
Sixxx
Publisher
CHAMPS Trade Shows
Editorial Director
Kevin Dankman
Kevin Dankman
By Kevin Dankman
Get ready to spring into Atlantic City for CHAMPS Trade Show, May 6-8th, 2025! And here's a reason to register early: all preregistered buyers are automatically entered to win a $5,000 CASH at the show! Imagine what you could do with that kind of buying power.
Atlantic City in the spring is a hidden gem. Sunshine, ocean breezes, and a unique energy that's both refreshing and exciting. CHAMPS A.C. is like the city itself –full of unexpected treasures waiting to be discovered.
Fuel Up Like a Local:
Before you hit the show floor, let me share a must-try culinary secret: Esquire's 2. Located at the end of the Atlantic City Train Line, this unassuming family-owned deli counter serves up food that would make a Michelin-starred chef jealous. I'm talking fresh-roasted prime rib sandwiches (last year's special!), incredible breakfasts, and lunches that will blow your mind. Trust me – this is the place to fuel up for a day of deal-making. Dominic and his crew are sure to have something amazing.
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Photo by Shane on Unsplash
Photo by Trip Advisor
And speaking of amazing food, for a dinner experience, you have to check out Angeloni's Club Madrid. Authentic Italian, incredible sauce, fantastic bread, and top-notch service. It's an authentic taste of A.C.
The Main Event: CHAMPS and the Glass Games
The CHAMPS Glass Games are back, kicking off their season.
Don’t miss “Flower Power” in Atlantic City May 6th to 8th!
Demoing Artists: Kurt B, Rocko, Rose Art Glass, Steven Baker Art, Casta & Amorphous Symphony.
CHAMPS Glass Games will be awarding 6 qualified buyers with a piece from one of the Demoing Artists at the end of the show. All you have to do is vote for your favorite piece and your store could WIN a piece with a 500$ retail value!
But that's not all! We're bringing back a fan favorite: Collaboration Stations! These dedicated spaces allow artists to connect, collaborate, and push the boundaries of glass art.
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Photo by Angeloni’s Club Madrid
It's all about fostering creativity, networking, and learning within the glassblowing community. Glassblowers, consider this your official invitation to collaborate and innovate at CHAMPS A.C.!
Where to Stay:
We've got two great hotel options, depending on your style:
The Work Hard Special (Sheraton):
Within walking distance of the Convention Center, this is the perfect choice for those who want a relaxing, casino-free environment after a long day. Rooms start at just $109 per night.
The Nightlife Option (Tropicana):
For those who want to combine business with pleasure, the Tropicana offers $99 rooms, a vibrant casino floor, and excellent dining options, including the first-ever Carmine's location outside of New York City!
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Photo by Sheraton Hotels
Photo by Sheraton Hotels
Photo by The Tropicana
Atlantic City is Calling: CHAMPS, Glass, Grub, and Good Times!
Beyond the Show:
Don't forget to explore the iconic Atlantic City Boardwalk. This historic wooden structure is a must-see, offering a glimpse into A.C.'s rich past and vibrant present.
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Burtoni Competition Piece
Atlantic City’s Boardwalk
CHAMPS Atlantic City is more than just a trade show; it's an experience. It's a chance to discover new products, connect with industry leaders, immerse yourself in the art of glassblowing, and enjoy the unique charm of Atlantic City.
See you there, May 6-8th, 2025, at the Atlantic City Convention Center.
Photo by Antonin FELS on Unsplash
The Atlantic City Show
By CHAMPS Magazine Staff
Forget the stuffy suits and boardroom meetings, 4/20 in a smoke shop is a full-blown carnival of cannabis culture! Imagine a place where the air smells like a pine forest after a rainstorm, where laughter echoes through clouds of sweet smoke, and where the only "serious" business is deciding which strain to try next.
Global Hotboxes & Hilarious Happenings: Some real, Some fiction. Can you tell them apart?
Amsterdam's Coffeeshop Chaos: Picture this: a tiny coffeeshop overflowing with tourists and locals, all sharing stories and strains. The air is thick with the scent of "space cakes," and a reggae band is jamming in the corner. You might even spot a "budtender" dressed as a giant cannabis leaf!
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4/20: Global Giggles & Green Goodies Smoke Shops Unleash the High Times!
Denver's Dab-a-Thon: In the Mile High City, smoke shops turn into mini-festivals! Live music, food trucks, and "dab bars" where seasoned enthusiasts show off their skills. Think of it as a cannabis Olympics, with clouds of vapor instead of medals.
Ohio Hippies 4/20 Spectacular was the 2024 unexpected hit, so expect another great event there.
Denver DAB-a-THON
Barcelona's Social Club Shenanigans: Imagine a hidden courtyard, filled with the sounds of Spanish guitar and the aroma of homegrown goodness. Cannabis social clubs throw secret parties, with workshops on growing, cooking, and even cannabis-infused yoga!
Toronto's Toker Talent Show: Smoke shops in Toronto host open mic nights, where customers can showcase their cannabis-inspired poetry, songs, and stand-up comedy. Expect plenty of puns, giggles, and maybe even a few "high" notes!
California's Coastal Cannabis Cruise: Some California shops partner with local tour companies to offer "cannabis cruises." Imagine chilling on a boat, enjoying the ocean breeze, and sampling the finest strains while watching the sunset. It's like a floating 4/20 party!
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Ohio Hippies
Weird & Wonderful 4/20 Specials:
"Mystery Munchie Boxes": Smoke shops create surprise boxes filled with a random assortment of edibles, snacks, and smoking accessories. It's like a cannabis-themed lottery!
"Roll Your Own" Competitions: Customers compete to roll the most creative and impressive joints, with prizes for the winners. Expect some seriously artistic creations!
"Budtender Costume Contests": Budtenders dress up in wild and wacky costumes. From giant buds to famous cannabis icons, the creativity is off the charts.
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1. Why did the stoner bring a ladder to the dispensary? He heard the prices were high.
2. What do you call a group of musical stoners? A high-fidelity band.
3. How does a stoner make coffee? He brews a pot.
4. Why did the pot leaf go to school? To get higher education!
5. What's a stoner's favorite kind of tea? Reali-tea.
6. What's a stoner's favorite kind of math? High-potenuse.
7. Why did the police officer pull over the cloud? It was suspected of high-jinx.
8. What did the stoner say to the comedian? You're hitting some high notes!
9. Why did the cookie crumble? Because it was feeling the pressure...and was baked.
10. What's a stoner's favorite game? High-and-seek.
4/20: Global Giggles & Green Goodies Smoke Shops Unleash the High Times!
"420 Karaoke": Sing your favorite songs while partaking in the festivities. Bonus points for songs that are cannabis themed.
"Cannabis infused cooking classes": Learn to make your own edibles, and treats, with a professional.
The Spirit of 4/20: More Than Just a Sale:
Beyond the crazy costumes and special deals, 4/20 is about celebrating the community. Smoke shops become hubs of connection, where people from all walks of life come together to share their love of cannabis. It's a day of laughter, friendship, and a whole lot of green!
CHAMPS Chicago: Igniting the Counter-Culture Commerce in Rosemont
By Bernie Boulders
Rosemont, Illinois, is set to become the epicenter of the smoke shop, glass art, and alternative products industry from June 10-12, 2025, when the CHAMPS Trade Show returns to the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center. This highly anticipated businessto-business event brings together retailers, wholesalers, distributors, and manufacturers from across the globe, showcasing the latest innovations and trends shaping this dynamic market.
CHAMPS Trade Shows have become a cornerstone of the counter-culture industry. These events provide a crucial platform for businesses to connect, discover new products, forge partnerships, and stay ahead of the curve in a rapidly evolving landscape. The Chicago show, strategi cally located near O'Hare International Airport, is particularly significant for its accessibility and draw for both national and international attendees.
CHAMPS Chicago:
Igniting the Counter-Culture Commerce in Rosemont
This year's CHAMPS Chicago promises a vibrant and diverse exhibitor floor. Attendees can expect to see leading brands in vaping technology, handcrafted glass art, smoking accessories, CBD products, alternative lifestyle goods, and much more. Expect to see industry giants alongside innovative startups, all vying to capture the attention of discerning buyers.
Beyond the product displays, CHAMPS Chicago offers a wealth of opportunities for attendees. Networking events provide a chance to connect with industry peers and potential business partners. The show will also feature live glassblowing demonstrations, showcasing the incredible artistry behind functional glass art.
B2B Booth
1836 Kratom
Crunklestien
Phil Seigel
“Dichro Dynasty” will be happening June 10th to 12th at CHAMPS Trade Shows Chicago Show with CBS Dichro demos by Niko Cray, Phil Siegel, Crunklestien, Terry Sharp, and Guido Glass!
CHAMPS Glass Games will be awarding 5 qualified buyers with a piece from one of the Demoing Artists at the end of the show. All you have to do is vote for your favorite piece and your store could WIN a piece with a 500$ retail value!
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Terry Sharp
Guido Glass
Rose Glass Art
CHAMPS Chicago:
Igniting the Counter-Culture Commerce in Rosemont
Importantly, CHAMPS
Trade Shows are strictly trade-only events. This ensures a focused environment where serious business can be conducted. Attendees must be verified members of the industry to register and gain access.
The benefits of attending CHAMPS Chicago are numerous. For retailers, it's an unparalleled opportunity to source new inventory, discover emerging trends, and negotiate directly with suppliers. For manufacturers and distributors, it's a chance to reach a highly targeted audience of qualified buyers and expand their market reach.
The Donald E. Stephens Convention Center offers convenient access, with ample parking and proximity to major highways. Its location near O'Hare International Airport makes it ideal for out-of-town visitors, and numerous hotels are located within walking distance or a short shuttle ride. CHAMPS has secured exclusive hotel deals for attendees:
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Durity Booth
Casta Glass
Partynuts Booth
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Chicago
O'Hare Airport - Rosemont: Rooms for only $195 per night plus tax! Available from June 9th to June 12th, 2025. Book by May 12th, 2025.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Chicago
O'Hare Rosemont: Rooms for only $205 per night plus tax! Available from June 9th to June 12th, 2025. Book by May 12th, 2025.
Registration for CHAMPS Chicago is now open. Interested industry professionals can find all the necessary information and register online at www.CHAMPSTradeShows.com. Don't miss this opportunity to be part of the premier event for the smoke shop and counter-culture industry. CHAMPS Chicago is the place to be to see what's next, network with the best, and ignite your business for the year ahead.
Doubletree Room
Embassy King Suite
Doubletree Airport
Embassy Suites
CHAMPS Trade Show Unveils CuRB:
By Amear Moretall
The rumble of wheels on concrete, the clash of independent brands, and the energy of authentic street culture – along with the latest in technology and fashion – are finding a new home at the heart of the action sports industry. CHAMPS Trade Show, a long-standing fixture for retailers, is launching CuRB Show, a dedicated platform and experience designed to elevate the boardsports segment and its related lifestyle to new heights.
Mark your calendars: CuRB Show makes its debut July 23-26th!
Born from the success of CHAMPS' Street Style Section, CuRB Show isn't just a rebranding – it's a full-fledged evolution. While still physically located within the larger CHAMPS event, CuRB will boast its own distinct brand identity, a dedicated entrance, and a vibe that's undeniably core to the skateboarding and action sports world, while also embracing the innovative spirit of related tech and
A New Hub for Boardsports, Street Culture, Tech, and Fashion
The Vert Ramp and sponsors
@pironchetti
@pironchetti (indy air)
Paul-Luc Ronchetti
Miles - Cannajello
fashion. This move, according to organizers, directly addresses feedback from the industry, creating a space where brands and retailers can connect on a more focused and authentic level.
"We listened to the community," explains Kevin Dankman. "There was a clear desire for a dedicated space that truly represented the energy and innovation of the boardsports market, and that includes the cutting-edge technology and fashion that are integral to the scene. CuRB Show is our answer to that call."
We wanted to up the ante and show what a tradeshow event really can be. So we added one of the most significant paying events of the year to the Show!
Get ready for Stomp the CuRB Show! This isn't just any contest; it's a high-stakes battleground curated by legends. Street skating icon Stevie Williams will host the groundbreaking Streetstyle Course, featuring the challenging Love Gap, while the Vert Competition, held on a massive 50-foot X-Games Vert ramp.
With $80,000 in prize money up for grabs for Pro athletes and Amateurs as well, Stomp The CuRB Show is set to be a defining moment in skateboarding competition. With live announcing by pro skateboarder and the Voice of Skateboarding Dave Duncan!
What can attendees expect? Beyond a curated selection of leading and emerging brands in skateboarding, surf, and street-inspired apparel, CuRB.Show offers a fully immersive experience, showcasing the intersection of boardsports, technology, and fashion. The energy of Stomp the CuRB Show with its legendary hosts and challenging courses, will be a major draw, but the event is also meticulously designed to connect brands with retailers across all these dynamic categories.
Exclusive buyer incentives will be on offer, and the entire environment is geared towards facilitating collaboration and driving industry growth. The attendance guidelines reinforce this focus, prioritizing:
Pro Skaters: (Registered on Boardr, with limited support staff)
Skate Shop Owners & Staff: (Ensuring core retail representation)
CHAMPS Trade Show Unveils CuRB:
Relevant Charities & Event Organizers: (Supporting the wider community)
Select Culture Retail Boutiques & Surf Shops: (Ex panding reach while main taining authenticity)
Approved Media: With a cultural website.
Who Can Exhibit?
Skate and Boardsport Brands: (Ensuring core representation)
Street Fashion and Cul ture Brands: (Supporting the wider community)
A New Hub for Boardsports, Street Culture, Tech, and Fashion
This carefully curated approach ensures that CuRB Show remains a true hub for the boardsports industry and its evolving landscape, preventing dilution and maximizing the value for all participants.
BMX and Action Sport brands and aligned products.
Shoe Companies, accessory companies, ancillary items to Action Sports
Sports Tech Companies selling cameras, tech-enabled Clothing, and Skate or BMX accessories.
Crossover Brands hoping to break into this market
Dave Duncan and Stevie Williams
Collin Graham (kick ip indy)
High Flying BMX Action Ethik Rider
Adaptive ProSkater Edward Je ries
The message is clear: CuRB Show is more than just a section within a trade show. It's a dedicated platform, a community hub, and a powerful statement about the future of boardsports retail, embracing the influence of technology and fashion. It's a place where the raw energy of the streets meets the business of action sports, and it's poised to become the must-attend event for anyone serious about this dynamic and ever-evolving market. Get ready to experience Stomp the CuRB Show this July 23-26th – this is one show you won't want to miss. Visit CuRB.Show for more information.
Love Gap Concept
2025
Bula Blueberry Lemon Kava
Bula Blueberry Lemon Kava
Tart-Sweet Revelation
Tart-Sweet Revelation
AKava is having a moment. From kava bars popping up nationwide to the Kava Shack in Key West, this ancient, non-alcoholic beverage is experiencing a well-deserved renaissance. And I'm here for it – literally. I'm enjoying a Bula Blueberry Lemon Kava Cocktail right now, amidst the roar of Bikeweek motorcycles, and feeling fantastic. Forget the shots and sugary cocktails; this is my new happy place.
If you're a fan of seltzers, hard or otherwise, you'll likely find a lot to love in Bula's offering. This isn't your average kava drink. The blueberry flavor is present throughout, providing a subtle sweetness, and the finish is lovely. While the lemon hits you first, a vibrant burst of "tart-sweetness" that awakens the taste buds. There's also a subtle, intriguing earthy undertone that adds depth without being overpowering. I wasn't able to identify it, but liked it.
Beyond the initial flavor burst, there's a pleasant "afterfeel" (and yes, I think that should be a word!). A cool, refreshing sensation lingers, along with a gentle echo
of blueberry, making each sip as enjoyable as the first.
The overall experience is wonderfully balanced. I feel relaxed, clear-headed, and genuinely happy – none of the fogginess or regret that often accompanies alcohol. This is a far cry from my "old wise ass, fouled mouth, drunken mess" days after a few too many drinks. This is uplifting and refreshing, without the downside.
Frankly, this is the best kava drink I've encountered. Bula Blueberry Lemon has earned a permanent spot in my cooler, and I suspect it will be a summer staple.
For Businesses: Bula Kava requires no alcohol license, making it a hassle-free addition to any establishment. If you're looking to expand your beverage offerings with something unique, delicious, and on-trend, this is a must-try. Join the Kava wave!
Smoke Odor
Who has two thumbs and two giant half gallon mason jars full of freeze dried skittles? Me. I am that guy!
So what a delight to be sent Zkittles Scented Candles from Smoke Odor.
The spring is time to put away the Sean Dietrich scents and flood the house with Zkittles.
We are candle people. We get so many that we have to use them on the regular or we never run out. Well we still haven’t run out… They do make great gifts as well.
Let's get to the facts. How long do they last? The label says 70 hours. We put it to the test. 3:17 pm Sunday, February 26th, we started the wick.
Monday flame and scent all day…
Tuesday morning, the flame was low and it looked nearly empty so I knew the time was near.
We waited patiently for it to self-extinguish. Unlike the SpaceX rocket, it made it all the way past the 70-hour mark and flickered out around 3-3:15, with almost an entire 3 days of scented warmth flickering in the background. It did not spontaneously disassemble!
The house is so fresh with spring candy that you would almost think you were in Wreck-it Ralph!
Honestly these are the best in the business. Great Scents and fantastic quality. I will always advise shops to carry them.
1836 Kratom 1836 Kratom
My excitement was sky-high when I got my hands on 1836 Kratom's new drink line! Knowing how much dedication Jeremy and his team poured into these formulations, I couldn't wait to dive in. With the booming drink market and the advancements in bioavailable extracts, I knew I was in for a treat. They sent me three intriguing options: Lizzy's Lazy Lemonade (Kava, Kratom, Ashwagandha), Green Means Go Cherry Lime Ade (Kratom), and SuperFit Energy (Kratom, Caffeine, Electrolytes).
Let's talk visuals! 1836's graphics team absolutely nailed it. The vibrant colors and sleek designs make these drinks pop, both in the store cooler and my own fridge.
First up, Lizzy's Lazy Lemonade. That lemon base is a game-changer! It delivers a refreshing, crisp taste, reminiscent of a sweeter, more beneficial Fresca. The Kava, Kratom, and Ashwagandha blend created a wonderfully calming experience.
Next, Green Means Go Cherry Lime Ade. A classic flavor combo, executed flawlessly. This one packed a noticeable, effective punch.
And then, the SuperFit Energy Drink. Wow! This one truly delivered. I felt a surge of focused energy that powered me through hours of gardening.
"I'll admit I've always been a bit skeptical of supplement drinks. But 1836 Kratom has consistently proven me wrong. Their commitment to thorough research and meticulous formulation is evident in every sip. This isn't just a haphazard mix; it's a carefully crafted experience.
Each Flavor also came in an easy-to-mix pouch. You can save on shipping and get a very similar flavor by mixing it at home!
If you're looking to elevate your exotic non-alcoholic drink selection, these are a must-have. Your customers will thank you.
RYOT Snapper vs.
The Ghost of Krypto-Kit Past: A Showdown in Sin City
Mark, the mad genius behind RYOT, slipped me this little gem – the Snapper – way back when it was just a twinkle in his engineer's eye. He had this glint, see? Said it would conjure memories of his legendary creation, the Krypto-Kit. For those not in the know, the Krypto-Kit is basically the holy grail of portable smoking systems. A legend. So, yeah, big shoes to fill. I took the souped-up Snapper to the ultimate testing ground: Las Vegas, baby!
Freshness Face-Off: Forget dusty, dried-out disappointment. I loaded this bad boy with some premium, perfectly humidified (62%, because we're professionals here) buds – small enough to show off, of course. Two days. Vegas heat. Pocket lint. Casual rips. And guess what? That last bowl was as smooth as a Sinatra serenade. The Snapper held its own against the best, the KryptoKeepers, that I've ever had. Freshness Test: Dominated.
Kraken Kratom Zenith Nano Kratom Extract (250mg) -
Success
Let's be honest, trying a new Kratom concentrate can be a bit like stepping into the unknown. You read the instructions, see phrases like "for experienced users," and a healthy dose of skepticism kicks in. That's precisely where I was with Kraken Kratom's Zenith Nano Kratom 250. My usual approach? Start low and go slow. The website recommended 1/3 of the bottle per dose, but I opted for a cautious 1/6 – call it a skeptic's insurance policy.
Why the hesitation? Well, nano-particle technology is the star of this show. The claim is that these incredibly small particles are absorbed by the body much faster and more efficiently than traditional kratom extracts. This means a higher percentage of the active alkaloids are metabolized, potentially leading to a more potent experience.
And you know what? They weren't kidding. Seriously. In the mere minutes it took me to jot down my initial thoughts, that tiny 1/6 dose was already working its magic. I felt a wave of pleasant relief wash over me – a genuine sense of upliftment and well-being. It was surprisingly clean and smooth, without any jitters or unwanted side effects. That's the nano-technology at work, delivering a rapid and effective experience.
Let's talk about the taste. Kratom extracts aren't exactly known for being delicious, but the Zenith Nano was surprisingly palatable. It reminded me of a slightly bitter, earthy version of those Monster Coffee Energy Drinks – definitely more tolerable than many other extracts I've tried.
Now, here's where the value proposition really shines. If a 1/6 dose provided that level of effect for me, then a single bottle effectively contains six servings. That's incredible bang for your buck, especially considering the potency and rapid onset. For retailers, this translates to a fantastic point-of-purchase product: high margins, a compelling story (nano-technology!), and, most importantly, demonstrable results.
In Summary:
Fast-Acting: The nano-particle formulation delivers effects incredibly quickly.
Potent: Even a small dose provided significant relief and mood elevation.
Pleasant (Relatively!): The taste is better than many other kratom extracts.
Excellent Value: One bottle provides multiple doses, making it very cost-effective.
Great for Retailers:
Skeptic's
Skeptic's Surprisingly Swift
OCB Bamboo Papers
Alright, let's crank up the fun factor! Here's a revised review with a more playful and engaging tone:
Fun and Playful Review:
"Okay, folks, let's talk rolling papers! For the past two months, I've been on a wild ride, switching between OCB's Bamboo and Rice 1 1/4 inch papers like a kid with a new toy. You know how we used to test papers back in the day? Burn a leaf, see what's left. Except, well, wind happens. Physics, man! (Seriously, though, those thermodynamics lessons finally came in handy.)
Now, let's be real, we're not exactly lightweights here. We're talking 6-10 joints a day, depending on how much the universe is testing us. That's a lot of time to ponder the finer points of paper combustion!
And you know what? We're not about to waste top-shelf herbs like Purple Urkle on some flavor-mangling paper. We want to taste the good stuff, not cardboard! That's where OCB Bamboo rolls in like a superhero. They also include tips in some packages to make for the best joints.
Yeah, yeah, I'm sure you could roll with a raw banana peel if you're feeling adventurous. But let's keep it classy, shall we?
These Bamboo papers? They burn like a dream. Even, consistent, no weird side effects. And the glue? Sticks like a champ! No more mid-roll disasters, thank goodness.
OCB's been in the game since 1918, which is basically ancient in rolling paper years. But they're not some dusty old relic. They've been crushing it lately, totally owning the skate and street scene. Their packaging? Seriously cool. Their social media? On point. They're basically the rockstars of the rolling paper world.
So, if you're a smoke shop owner looking to keep your customers happy, OCB Bamboo is a no-brainer. They're fun, they're reliable, and they'll keep those good vibes rolling!"
