February 2025 #297 - Digital - Sol Trading by HQInternational

FEBRUARY 2025 | ISSUE 297

HQ Magazine

As the industry’s leading publication for over two decades, we want to remind you all that we are more than just another magazine; WE are the nexus of commerce for the counterculture marketplace; headshops, smoke shops, vape shops, adult novelties, and dispensaries. Both publisher and platform, HQ exists to facilitate the continued evolution of a once-marginalized industry now on the cusp of legitimization. As a publisher, we are your advocate and your advisor, your continual stream of all information that matters to you; from product knowledge, to business insights, to how it all ﬁts into the panorama of the bigger world. As a platform, we are your connection. We are the bullhorn, the billboard, and the bridge; the perfect bullseye of your target market. And as this industry continues to come into its own and navigate the coming seismic shifts in the landscape, we’ll be the light to guide its steps.

HQ EXPERIENCE

HQ Magazine, the industry’s longest-running publication, remains committed to serving the smoke shop community. With an unwavering dedication to delivering award-winning content, and relevant news and providing insight into the latest and greatest industry products, HQ will continue to seek out the best way to reach as many subscribers as possible.

With HQ’s recent acquisition, the tides are turning and we know that YOU are ready for something new, something BIG. If you are looking for an upgraded experience, join HQ’s Elite membership program by scanning the QR code below. With each membership, you will receive HQ Magazine each month with no service interruptions, free access to HQ’s digital magazine, exclusive o ers from our advertisers, and periodic sample boxes from the industry’s most trusted brands.

Upgrade your experience today!

Editor-in-Chief Account Executives

Sandy Caputo

Monica Frésquez monica@headquest.com

C: (505) 489-3285

Marc Toretzky sales@headquest.com

C: (213) 304-3751

Creative Director

Copy Editor Billing

Contributing Writers

David Pogge david@headquest.com

Casey Patterson

Therese Galati accounting@headquest.com

Matt Weeks Berlin Sylvestre

Ryan Mills

Jonathan Branch

We welcome feedback! If you have any questions, comments or concerns, please email us at editorial@headquest.com.

HEADQUEST INTERNATIONAL LLC. assumes no responsibility for contents herein. Opinions expressed in articles are strictly those of the writer.

Published monthly by Headquest International LLC., 6300 Riverside Plaza LN. NW., Suite 100, Albuquerque, NM 87120. Send address change requests (please include information from the shipping label) to the address above, call 505-2756049, or email subscriptions@headquest.com.

Printed in Canada on recycled paper with vegetable-based inks.

HQ has no a liates or outside sales team. Any business or person contacting you and acting as an HQ Representative or claiming a liation with HQ Publications is unlawfully misrepresenting himself or herself.

Please contact sandy@headquest.com if you are approached by any such entity.

Smoke Signals

Kick back with your shorty, smoke a shorty, read some shorties . . . drink a forty?

Women in Cannabis

36 New Era, Ancient Medicine?

Indigenous Cannabis Coalition Founder, Mary Jane Oatman speaks. We’re listening.

Heads of Industry

48 We don’t write puﬀ pieces. We do, however, write the occasional piece about Puﬀ Brands—and we get how that could be confusing.

HQ After Hours

Come explore the fun side of adulting.

60 Hallmark Holiday Prep

But February made me shiver with every paper I’d deliver . . . now stock them toys that make them quiver!

62 PleasureQuest

We wrote about some f*cking toys. No, seriously.

HeadSpace

Weedy topics for wonks and chin-scratchers.

All the World’s a Stage, V2

The second installment of our inquiry into cannabis at the intersection of politics and international policy is here. Dig in.

76 82

Who’s Afraid of the FDA?

After a recent seizure of $76 million in product, our money is on the vape industry. No shade; that’s some scary sh*t

America’s Orange Crush

Two plus two still doesn’t equal ﬁve, but 45 does now equal 47. Find out what that means for your bottom line, tonight at 8:00.

88 Schorsching the Competition

Veteran glass blower, Fred Scorsch discusses the struggles of navigating a globalized economy, shifting labor laws, and diminishing opportunities for small businesses.

Puﬀ, puﬀ, class in session! EdQuest

Let it Hang Out!

Aﬁcionados of Augusta owner, Tony Williamson illustrates the value of a smoke shop as a gathering place.

100

Panic, A Tax!

(Read it phonetically for maximum enjoyment.) Yes, tax time is here, so here’s that annual pep talk.

104

Quest 4 the Best

What new and inventive magic awaits you this month? Flip to the back and ﬁnd out.

106

Like a chainsaw wood carver, our pals at the AVM meticulously shave away the faleshoods about vaping until all that’s left is the beautiful truth. Industry Associations

18,000

12000

12,000

CRYPTIC the

our shorts Salute

our shorts

Bright, Shiny Objects to Store Between Your Ears

Love is in the air—or maybe that’s just the haze from a freshly packed bowl. Valentine’s Day is creeping up, and whether your customers are planning a romantic rendezvous or just showing themselves a little self-love, your shop better be ready. Sure, the usual pipes and papers are essential, but don’t forget: love takes many forms. Stock up on a selection of adult toys and let your inventory whisper sweet nothings to everyone walking through the door. Because let’s face it, whether they’re celebrating with a partner or solo, everyone deserves a little buzz this Valentine’s season—a dab rip or otherwise. But you can worry about that later. For now, take a load o and enjoy the collection of words we’ve strung together for you this month.

Big BiggerPimpin; Losses

It’s been a rough few months for Jay-Z. If the unsavory sexual allegations of recent months weren’t enough, the billionaire hip hop icon’s foray into cannabis has now seemingly gone up in smoke.

Jay-Z’s luxury cannabis brand, Monogram launched in 2020 with a $575M bankroll and big promises but has burned out fast. In California’s $5 joint market, its $50 smokes fell ﬂat, while whistleblower claims, massive losses, and a rocky Gold Flora merger only deepened the struggles. It appears that for Monogram, the hustle never made it past The Blueprint.

Coworkers Say the Darnedest Things

We’re proud of the stellar content we publish in the pages of this magazine each month, but sometimes it feels like our best work goes unacknowledged. Features, blurbs, spotlights and interviews— they’re all great, but the real magic is found between the lines in the form of o -the-cu quips that show up after those long hours of creative strain and deftly stride the border between quippy brilliance and sleep-deprived delirium. Not ones to deprive you of the fun, we’re sharing a few with you now for your mild amusement. Enjoy.

Marketing, AMIRIGHT?

I’m always amused when companies advertise products as “disposable.” Everything is disposable if your trash can is big enough.

AFG: Rolling Up in America’s Hat

AFG Distribution is leveling up in Canada with the acquisition of Bob HQ, securing faster shipping, local warehousing, and expanded o erings for Canadian retailers. With over 8,000 products, price-match guarantees, and streamlined support for house brands, AFG brings its trademark hustle to the north. Backed by a 25-year partnership with Bob HQ, this move strengthens AFG’s reach and reliability for shops across the border. Stay tuned for next month’s full feature, where we’ll dive deeper into AFG’s bold moves and what’s next for the industry.

DEA: Rage Against The Machine Elf (No More)

In a surprising yet telling move, the DEA is nearly doubling the 2025 production quota for DMT to 20,000 grams, backing research into its therapeutic potential for depression and stroke recovery. This shift aligns with rising interest in psychedelics, as successful trials and growing scientiﬁc momentum reshape perceptions. Once prohibition’s enforcer, it now appears the DEA is cautiously supporting the psychedelic frontier—because even they can’t ignore the results.

food-flavor=?

REPEATING

I had a dream last night that I tried gluten-free pizza. When I woke up, my cardboard was gone.

ABANDON ALL HOPE?

Everything is going to shit in our world. May as well start pronouncing the “L” in salmon.

WHAT’S IN A NAME?

Q: We need a name for the adult section; something on-brand that has sexually suggestive connotations. Any ideas?

A: I dunno. How about HeadQuest?

saying meme things I love memes. Before, if we wanted grossly oversimpliﬁed input on complicated issues, we had to stare at the bumpers of beat up pickups and rusted out Camaros.

Details matter So, they say that if you shake it more than twice, you’re just playing with yourself. Is there a comparable rule for a bidet? Asking for a friend…

Sh*t timing

So, last night, I decided to surprise my wife by taking sex pills, but then she decided we should watch the Je rey Epstein documentary on Netﬂix. It got really f*cking awkward.

A New Kind of Vape

ZLand and ZColors by ZLab deliver a mix-andmatch system that pushes flavor possibilities to the max—think endless combos, bold innovation, and your perfect hit every time. Flip to page 104 to find out more!

hallmark holiday hacks

Save Cash (But Not Your Relationship) This Valentine’s Day!

Tired of draining your wallet every Valentine’s Day?

This year, try our Love Coupons—the perfect way to save money and ensure you’ll never have to spend another Valentine’s Day together. Cheap, cringy, and relationship-ending, they’re perfect for the passive breakup. Scan the QR code for printable versions—you’ll be single by February 15th.

raising spirits

Mixing it Up with Levity Cannabis Spirits

To hell with dropping $15 on a mocktail—basically overpriced lemonade—just to feel like you’re keeping up with your friends. Sometimes you need a break from the booze, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice the fun. Enter Levity, the game-changing Delta-9 THC spirits that can punch up your mocktail or elevate your cocktail. We sat down with John Berdux, co-founder of Levity, to learn how he’s shaking up the social scene with a THCinfused alternative that’s perfect for your bar, your party, or your night out.

Can you tell us about Levity Spirits and how it all started?

My name’s John Berdux and I’m one of the three founders. The other two founders are Stephen DuBose and Liam Becker. We’ve all been in the hemp industry since 2018 in various capacities. Liam and myself ran a specialty food company and Stephen DeBose has been in the vape and gummy space since 2018. We kept our eye on the developing cannabis beverage market. A couple of years ago we saw that there were a lot of seltzers that were entering the market, but there was really a space for still spirits. We decided to take the first mover advantage and be one of the first cannabis spirits on the market, so we started Levity Spirits.

How does Levity Spirits ﬁt into today’s social and entertainment scenes?

We have a brand identity that’s fun, and that’s just trying to make it more socially acceptable to consume these products in a social setting like a party, bar, or music festival. We’ve seen a huge movement in this industry in general in terms of widespread adoption of this product category.

I had a conversation with somebody the other day who doesn’t drink. They’d never had the experience of doing a round of shots with a group of people or cheersing with people. For the first time they cheered a group of people and they drank a shot of Levity and everybody else was drinking alcohol. And that’s really the point of this drink. It’s to expand the space that has been traditionally dominated by alcohol, not to replace it, but to be consumed alongside it. It’s a great opportunity for businesses to realize and cater to a consumer base that they have traditionally not had access to because they’ve been limited to selling alcohol.

Trade Show Roundup

Las Vegas Convention Center

3150 Paradise Rd.

Las Vegas, NV 89109

Total Product Expo

Las Vegas Convention Center

3150 Paradise Rd.

Las Vegas, NV 89109

CHAMPS

Miami Beach Convention Center

1901 Conv. Ctr Dr, MB, FL 33139

Begins: 01/29/2025

Ends: 01/31/2025

Begins: 02/12/25

Ends: 02/15/25

Begins: 03/06/2025

Ends: 03/08/2025

Alternative Product Expo

Las Vegas Convention Center

3150 Paradise Rd.

Las Vegas, NV 89109

ASD Market Week

Begins: 03/09/2025

Ends: 03/12/2025

Safety

Recently (at the time of the interview) we were stage sponsors for a music festival in Charleston called Boogeyman during Halloween. People were chatting, holding a drink of Levity in their hand, talking to people holding a can of Budweiser. Levity is another product that you can offer to people that captures a consumer base that you didn’t know existed.

What advice do you have for someone trying cannabis-infused spirits for the ﬁrst time?

One of the things that I think is great about cannabis beverages is how accessible they are. Some might start with flower and that can be very intimidating for people. Vaping is a little bit less intimidating than smoking, and gummies are a bit less intimidating than vapes. Beverages as a product category are the least intimidating. And I think people are inclined to try Levity because it’s made with emulsified technology, which means people are going to consume the beverage and then quickly feel the effects. It hits you and wears off in the same timeframe as alcohol does. It’s a little bit easier to control your dose with a cannabis beverage than it is for say smoking, vaping, or eating a gummy.

Can you share any new products or ﬂavors on the horizon?

We started out with the three traditional spirits, the agave high water, the Mellow Mash, and the London High. All of those are two milligrams per fluid ounce. We just dropped a founder’s reserve version of our still spirits, which has eight per fluid ounce. It’s definitely a little bit of a stronger drink compared to our traditional line. It’s been very well received and something that consumers have been after and are excited to see released. This summer we released three new flavors of our Ready-To-Drink products and our 12 ounce cans. We’ve released Uncle Bud’s cream soda, a Paloma-Juana, and a strawberry cough, which is probably my favorite drink. It has a nice fresh strawberry flavor and a kind of a vanilla cream finish. We’ve got four still spirits and six cans, so kind of something for everyone.

Where can people go to learn more about Levity and your products?

Read less. absorb more. HQ2:Literature for your earholes

Don’t forget! You can now absorb all the brilliance of HQ without even sounding out the vowels (besides these). Introducing HQ2, the official podcast channel of the top publication in the counterculture industry. Tune in for in-depth conversations where we nerd out hard on the space’s stickiest topics, or just pop in for audio versions of our top feature articles, perfect for on-the-go listening. HQ isn’t just a magazine anymore; it’s a full sensory experience.

You can check out our products at drinkLevity.com, and you can email us directly at sales@drinkevity if you have any questions. We can connect you with a distributor in your relevant area so we can get you stocked up. We love to support our retailers. There’s a saying around the office that “all ships rise at high tide.” We try to be great partners with everybody that we work with to make the dream a reality.

ROOTED IN

FREEDOM

Is Mary Jane Oatman

The Cannabis Champion We Need?

By Ryan Mills

As an enrolled member of the Nez Perce Tribe of the Columbia River Plateau and a descendant of Chief Looking Glass, Oatman is on a mission to bring Indigenous communities back into the conversation around cannabis, hemp, and plant-based healing. Her work bridges past and present, rooted in the ancestral relationship between Native peoples and the cannabis plant. And yes, her name really is Mary Jane – destiny, amiright?

But Oatman’s journey to the forefront of cannabis advocacy isn’t your typical activist origin story. As she puts it, “I was born and raised in the culture – it’s always been a part of my life. But honestly, as a kid, I wasn’t always a fan.”

Into the Light

Growing up in a family of growers, including her dad and grandmother, Oatman’s childhood was anything but ordinary. “It was hard to have sleepovers or a ‘normal’ life when you’re surrounded by the plant,” she recalls. Her childhood resentment of her parents career choice would eventually subside, and by her teens, she was an active consumer. As a high school athlete, she kept her cannabis use under wraps, hiding it even while leaning into the cheeky irony of her name

during her student council campaigns.

“My slogan was ‘What time is it? Time to vote for Mary Jane,’ and we had clocks set to 4:20,” she laughs.

Later, her professional life added another layer of complexity. “As a federal land management conservation officer, I had to hide my cannabis use,” she explains. “The drug testing process is such a scary thing to face. It’s an insane violation just to be able to provide for your family.”

It wasn’t until 2015 that Oatman decided it was time to come out of the shadows and fight. Federal agents had just swarmed the Menominee Indian Tribe’s Wisconsin reservation and destroyed 30,000 industrial hemp plants. “That was a wake-up call,” she says. “It showed how tribes still have to fight for equality, even in the cannabis space.”

Building a Movement

Oatman’s first steps into cannabis advocacy came when she joined the Minority Cannabis Business Association (MCBA) as a board member. But even there, she noticed a gap. “It was a lot of ‘Tribes 101.’ People didn’t understand tribal markets or sovereignty,” she says.

That realization led her to create the Indigenous Cannabis Coalition (ICANNC), focusing on advocacy, education, and connecting tribal communities in the cannabis space. It’s not just a nonprofit;

Continued on Page 40

AT CONFERENCES, WE PACK ROOMS WITH TRIBAL LEADERS, AND THE ELDERS SHARE THEIR STORIES . . . THAT’S THE HEART OF WHAT I DO–GIVING THEM A MIC AND PRESERVING THIS HISTORIC TIME FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS.

-Mary Jane Oatman

Youngest member appointed by President Barack Obama to serve on the National Advisory Council on Indian Education

Founding board member for the JUSTUS Foundation

The ﬁrst Director of Indian Education for the state of Idaho

and Cannabis), a quarterly publication dedicated to educating Native and nonNative audiences about cannabis’s potential as a tool for healing, economic growth, and environmental sustainability. The name alone deserves a standing ovation.

A Legacy of Healing

It’s about patient notcare,just the sexy green rush.

it’s a blueprint for unity and a literal map spotlighting every First Nations-owned cannabis and hemp operation in the U.S. From cultivation to testing facilities, this directory connects tribal businesses and empowers them to support one another. “It’s about figuring out who’s doing what, where they’re doing it, and bridging communities to share success stories – and the landmines to look out for,” she explains. “We’re breaking down silos to show tribes that we’re stronger together.” As an extension of that work, Oatman launched THC Magazine (Tribal Hemp

Oatman’s passion is deeply personal, shaped by a legacy that includes her grandmother’s incarceration for growing cannabis during the War on Drugs. This event left her family wrestling with stigma, shame, and fear –a story that echoes across many Native American households. But today, her grandmother is one of her biggest inspirations. “She’s a believer in the plant as medicine, and it’s been healing for her to stand tall and say, ‘I’d do it all over again.’”

Her grandmother’s ordeal became the foundation for

Oatman’s mission to liberate plant medicine and restore tribal sovereignty. Her work has brought healing to tribal elders who were once resistant. “At conferences, we pack rooms with tribal leaders, and the elders share their stories. They want to be heard,” she says. “That’s the heart of what I do – giving them a mic and preserving this historic time for future generations.”

She points out that many tribal dispensaries prioritize elder care and education over profits. “Some have landing centers where elders can talk about drug interactions and what strains work for their ailments,” she says. “It’s about patient care, not just the sexy green rush.”

While the War on Drugs devastated communities across the U.S., it hit Indigenous communities particularly hard. From targeted policing to employment insecurities, the aftershocks are still felt today. Oatman’s work

is a balm for these wounds. She’s advocating for ordinances that remove harsh penalties and create job opportunities, ensuring tribal members no longer have to live in fear.

Of course, the path isn’t without obstacles. Cannabis remains federally illegal, which puts tribes in a unique bind. Oatman’s homeland of Idaho is one of the last holdouts without medical or recreational cannabis, adding another layer of complexity. Yet, she’s undeterred. “It’s not if, but when,” she says confidently. She’s urging tribes to prepare now by building regulatory systems and crafting ordinances that honor their sovereignty.

As a staunch advocate for industrial hemp, Oatman sees it as a game changer for climate action. “Tribes used hemp for fishing nets and textiles; it’s even in the Nez Perce creation story,” she explains. “This isn’t just about making money; it’s about reconnecting with our roots.

We need to do this in a way that does not create a capitalistic commodity on the backs of Mother Earth.”

Her vision is big – like, save-theplanet big. She points to the Lower Sioux Indian Community, which has been building hempcrete housing, as a shining example of industrial hemp fiber and biodegradable hemp plastics replacing the ocean-choking stuff we’re stuck with now.

Finding Joy in the Journey

Despite the challenges, Oatman’s work is fueled by joy and community. “I’ve had so much fun,” she says. “I’ve been on road trips to every tribally owned dispensary in Washington State, distributed magazines from New York to Hawaii, and connected with incredible people along the way.”

And the best part? Seeing her family join her on this journey. “I’ve had four generations—my grandma, mom, daughter, and me—road-tripping

I’ve had four generations— daughter, and me—road-

STUFF) PUFF. PUFF.

Pu Brands' Joey Destefano Talks Hustle & Faith

Adjacent page images, top to bottom: Joey DeStefano, Joey's sweet MotoCyke, & Joey's childhood home

Joey DeStefano’s journey from a young entrepreneur & musician to Chief Commercial Officer at Puff Brands is an inspiring tale of innovation, passion, and perseverance.

DeStefano’s first foray into sales was anything but typical. When young DeStefano wanted a bicycle, his parents told him he’d have to work for the money. They imagined a lemonade stand, but DeStefano had other ideas.

Rather than setting up the usual lemonade stand, he went to the home of his affluent neighbor, who happened to be a member of the Genovese crime family, and asked if he could sell the rocks from the man’s raised flower bed. The mafioso agreed, and DeStefano spent the day collecting crushed marble and polished stones from the flower bed and selling it on the corner of Union Avenue. This first entrepreneurial venture earned him a cool $250—far more than he expected and more than his parents had imagined. But the success of his first sale laid the foundation for a future in business - and a sweet MotoCyke.

Continued on Page 50

A Passion for Cannabis

Although DeStefano had been using cannabis since his teenage years, he never initially intended to enter the cannabis industry. After graduating college, he explored a career in music, working as a touring musician. However, the demands of touring soon became overwhelming, and DeStefano realized his true passion was cannabis. He made the transition to the retail side of the industry, managing a smoke shop in Boca Raton.

His deep understanding of cannabis, strategic planning, and a natural ability to connect with customers allowed him to grow the business significantly. So successful was his work that the owner expanded to five more shops. DeStefano was also able to open an online glass shop specifically for dabbing tools called Dab-Hub.com. DeStefano’s reputation as a resultsdriven professional quickly spread, and he made the logical next move: distribution.

Success in Distribution

DeStefano joined Greenlane, a leading distribution company in the cannabis space, where his performance quickly made an impact. Within just three months, he was the company’s top sales performer. This achievement caught the attention of senior leadership, and DeStefano was asked to help train others. Using his proprietary ‘Planets, Moons, and Stars’ selling technique - he was able to help incoming sales reps achieve jaw-dropping results.

He applied his unique approach to training by codifying his knowledge into manuals and creating engaging, effective role-play scenarios for the team. DeStefano’s approach to teaching involved simplifying complex concepts, much like the decision-making systems in video games like Fallout New Vegas or Skyrim. His ability to break down information and share it effectively led to the creation of systems that helped others succeed in sales. Sales is all about the conversation; it has to have a flow and a succinct purpose.

Continued on Page 52

Switch to Nic & The Dynamic Duo!

After Greenlane’s IPO, DeStefano transitioned to canna-consulting. In this new role, he used his expertise to guide other cannabis companies in areas such as go-to-market strategies, product development, and marketing campaigns. His success in this field was built on a philosophy of clear communication and always assuming that the person he was teaching had no prior knowledge of the topic. He would break down complex concepts into their simplest form before building upon them. Although he had a passion for cannabis, DeStefano wanted to go in a different direction and use his talents in a category that he was familiar with from his time at Greenlane, specifically nicotine vapes.

In 2022, DeStefano joined Puff Brands as Chief Commercial Officer to help manage the business alongside the visionary Walker Wilkerson. Walker is a seasoned nicotine industry professional with a knowledge base and impeccable track record. The pairing of Wilkerson & DeStefano has been instrumental to the success of the Puff Brands. Both are intimately involved in the development and success of all Puff Brands products, including the Hotbox Vaporizers and NYKD Pouches. Along with their team of seasoned sales professionals, they are continuing to elevate and innovate in the nicotine industry.

The Secret Sauce

Despite his accomplishments, DeStefano remains grounded and approachable. He is known for his quick response times to emails, his willingness to explain ideas and his openness to new suggestions. This humility is rooted in his personal faith; in his spare time, he serves as a pastor at a non-denominational Christian church. He’s known to divert attention from himself and give “All glory to God.”

DeStefano credits his success to his belief that his talents are gifts from God. He views every challenge as an opportunity to grow, and his ability to recognize patterns and connect with people has been crucial in his career. His background, which includes listening to seasoned professionals during family gatherings and observing patterns in the business world, has helped him thrive in the fast-paced and ever-changing cannabis industry.

A Bright Future

Today, DeStefano continues to navigate the nicotine industry with an unwavering passion for innovation. His journey from a young entrepreneur selling rocks on street corners to the Chief Commercial Officer at Puff Brands is a testament to his determination, ability to adapt, and drive to succeed.

Your A Quick Guide to Achieving Last-Minute Magnetism

By Ryan Mills

Cuffing season has culminated:

It’s Valentine’s Day. Known worldwide as the annual deadline for romance, when hearts race, rose petals scatter, and latecomers rush to find that perfect I love you – or let’s try this! – gift.

It can potentially be the Super Bowl of spicy sales, but what

happens when Cupid’s big day sneaks up on you like a ghosted Tinder match? No sweat – here’s your crash course in whipping your store into a Valentine’s-ready love den faster than you can say, “vibrating couple’s ring.”

If You Got It, Flaunt It

Carefully curated displays go a long way in letting the products do the heavy lifting – especially for indecisive customers. Group complementary products in a themed section with clearly identifiable Valentine’s Day flair to entice both the newly initiated as well as the toy aficionados. Items arranged

together can tell a story that customers may not even know they’re looking for, such as:

The “Let’s Stay In” Corner: Stock it with cozy must-haves like a JimmyJane’s Afterglow massage candle, warming lubes like Sliquid or Wicked Sensual Care, and a beginner’s wand like the Magic Wand Mini.

The Spicy Shelf: Showcase light bondage items like silky restraints, ticklers, and the everpopular under-bed restraint systems – because nothing says “I care” like being tied down (consensually, of course).

Couples’ Connection Zone: Highlight wearable toys like the We-Vibe Sync or vibrating rings for hands-free multitasking.

The Gift That Keeps on Giving

Pre-made bundles are the MVP of last-minute Valentine’s Day shopping. Positioned near the checkout, they make it super simple for customers in a rush to grab and go. Your customers may not have time to curate the perfect vibe, but luckily, you do.

Love on the Go: lube, a necklace vibrator like the Crave Vesper (designed to make a statement, not a sound), wearable underwear vibrators/dildos, and a discreet storage pouch.

Sweet and Spicy: Chocolate body paint, a blindfold, and a beginner’s bondage kit.

Couple’s Connection: A vibrating couple’s cock ring like the Lovehoney Bionic Bullet Rabbit cock ring (it’s a rabbit!), silky restraints, and a sensual card game to break the ice… or melt it entirely.

Bath Bliss Bundle: Bubble bath, bath bombs, and a waterproof toy to ensure it is slippery when wet.

Make it Comfortable

Shopping for adult toys can be awkward and nerve-wracking, especially for first-timers trying to spice things up without accidentally buying a 50 Shades starter kit. This holiday tends to generate interest and sales in the low-to-mid range categories, and folks might be looking for an easy but incognito means of getting their freak on without a delivery showing up on their doorstep that screams ANAL PLUG.

discreet corner. Swap signage from Bondage Gear to For the Adventurous or All Tied Up, for example. Subtle, yet effective.

The employees that customers interact with can create a make-orbreak experience for some. This may read as obvious, but making sure your team is approachable and trained to answer questions with a straight face and zero judgment can go a long way in creating a fun, worryfree environment so that customers feel free to let their freak flag fly. Responsibly. While in public. Ensuring employees are knowledgeable and professional, offering assistance without making assumptions, helps customers feel respected and comfortable – who are then more likely to explore options and make purchases.

This season of love (or lust) may be brief, but even a quickie can be satisfying. Valentine’s Day is about connection – unless it’s also about experimenting with a paddle – but it doesn’t have to be a

stressful sprint to the finish line. It can be a fun opportunity to flex your creative muscle and provide a great shopping experience because you’re not just selling products; you’re selling possibilities. Romance, even. And nothing says romance like a vibrating, clit-sucking rose. Happy Valentine’s Day–now go spread the love. And the lube.

PLEASURE quest Insert Here for Grown-Up Fun

Blowmotion Warming Vibrating Male Masturbator by Lovehoney

Just when you thought you’d seen (and felt) it all – from high-tech marvels to budget-friendly gadgets that promised the moon but delivered a sad ripple –Blowmotion enters the chat.

The Blowmotion looks like a tiny spaceship designed specifically for your . . . well . . . captain’s log. Its sleek silicone design is stylish, modern, and compact enough to toss in your weekend bag without raising TSA eyebrows. It comes with a USB charger and a travel lock because a horny, vibrating suitcase going through airport security is not the look we’re going for.

It heats up to a cozy 104°F, which is not just warm but a sultry embrace. Six vibration patterns and three intensities ensure that this gadget doesn’t just deliver; it customizes your pleasure, ranging from gentle waves to an all-out jackhammer effect. And the buttons are intuitively placed for easy mid-session adjustments – no fumbling necessary.

Solo or partner play? Why not both? Hand it over to your partner during foreplay and let the magic happen; no hands required. They can mix up the vibration patterns while you lie back and contemplate how lucky you are to live in an era of such technological advances.

The 3-inch internal length is optimized for head-focused stimulation. And it’s splashproof, not fully waterproof, so maybe don’t invite it into the bathtub.

Jolt Stimulating Gel from UnboundBabes

When you’re looking for fireworks and not just sparklers – an experience that screams ‘OMG’ rather than ‘oh no’ – look no further than Jolt, a stimulating, tingly, but not too tingly, gel that boosts sensation everywhere it’s applied.

Jolt Gel’s effects can feel cool to some and warm to others, but one thing is clear: reviewers universally agree it feels really, really good. The secret is in its carefully crafted formula, featuring:

• Peppermint Oil: For a refreshing, tingly sensation.

• Organic Damiana: Nature’s aphrodisiac.

• L-Arginine & L-Ornithine: Boosts blood flow for heightened sensitivity.

It’s water-based, so it plays well with others your toys, your lube, your hopes and dreams. Words like obsessed and orgasmic gold come to mind. Plus, it’s so concentrated that a pea-sized amount is plenty to get the job done.

It’s not just the tingling sensation that makes Jolt Gel stand out; it’s how thoughtfully it’s designed. The gel’s texture is easy to control and stays where you want it, so there are no stray drips and no drama. Jolt Gel walks the perfect line between powerful and pleasant; intense enough to make your toes curl but stops short of the dreaded Icy Hot territory.

EFFORTS JOINT JOINT

Editor's

Note: This article is the second in a two-part series examining the impact of international policy on domestic cannabis legalization. The ﬁrst explored the U.S. journey from hemp’s agricultural roots to prohibition, the rise of state-level reforms, and lessons from international approaches like Portugal’s decriminalization and Uruguay’s legalization. This installment shifts focus to recent global milestones, such as Canada’s federal legalization and Mexico’s ongoing reforms, and considers how these changes could shape America’s fragmented cannabis policies.

Mexico began firing up fresh regs in 2018 when its Supreme Court declared the prohibition of recreational marijuana unconstitutional. The decision paved the way for legislative efforts, and by 2021, the Mexican Senate approved a bill to legalize and regulate cannabis nationwide.

That same year, Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), co-chairs of the Senate Caucus on International Narcotics Control, stressed the need for more research before changing federal cannabis policy. Cornyn, noting the “public safety implications” of increased cannabis use, speaks on the importance of understanding its effects fully before revising national policies. Feinstein spotlights the

current research limitations and backs the Cannabidiol and Marijuana Research Expansion Act, introduced with bipartisan support, to allow comprehensive studies on marijuana’s effects.

As with Mexico in 2018, South Africa’s Constitutional Court takes a second look at their policy and decriminalizes private use and cultivation of cannabis. The year 2021 grants legalized recreational cannabis in Malta, in which adults can possess up to seven grams and cultivate up to four plants. In 2022, Thailand became the first country in Asia to legalize cannabis, starting with medical use and later opening the door to personal cultivation. In 2023, Germany’s on board as Europe’s biggest economy to

By Eva Berlin Sylvestre

launch a legal cannabis market, with a strong focus on health and safety. Luxembourg joined the fray that year, giving adults the go-ahead to carry up to three grams and grow up to four plants at home. It’s greased, green lightning, pretty much, which has positive implications for legislation here at home.

Patchwork Politics

Right now, we’ve got the classic “some are, some aren’t” mosaic going on in the US when it comes to cannabis laws. It’s a familiar pattern in American history: from slavery and civil rights to gay marriage and now cannabis laws, big changes often bounce back and forth between the feds and the statehouses. Alcohol was once

completely legal, shifted to state regulation, went to the feds for Prohibition, and then returned to state control. Gambling, abortion, gun regs, voting rights—you name it, it’s been passed between one overreaching authority to another with the knowledge that it might circle back.

Looking Ahead: Could Federal Cannabis Reform Be Coming?

Donald Trump’s triumph in the general election of 2024 suggests a potential transformation in US cannabis policies. Trump, who endorsed Florida's Amendment 3 for recreational marijuana, supports reclassifying cannabis to relax federal restrictions and improve banking options for businesses. His choice for US Attorney General, Pam Bondi, could also play a pivotal role in these efforts. Although she once opposed expanding medical cannabis laws in Florida, her alignment with Trump's policy priorities indicates she may support his reform agenda if confirmed.

Bondi's experience with Trump’s Opioid and Drug Abuse Commission and her actions against drug trafficking show her capability to manage complex drug policy matters. Trump has pledged to work with Congress to implement "common-sense cannabis laws," potentially positioning Bondi to help craft a regulated, health-focused cannabis framework.

However, his policies on drug offenses also include a controversial proposal to enforce

the death penalty for traffickers and dealers. Trump has not specified distinctions between different types of drugs in his plan, raising questions about whether substances like marijuana would be treated similarly to opioids or other controlled substances. Trump has repeatedly argued that large-scale drug trafficking warrants severe punishment, drawing comparisons between drug dealers and murderers in terms of their impact on communities. Despite these assertions, experts note that legal and practical barriers could limit the effectiveness of such measures, especially as most drug trafficking cases are prosecuted at the state level, beyond federal reach.

While Trump's cannabis reform proposals align with international progress toward decriminalization, his stance on punitive measures for drug offenses introduces controversy. If enacted, these plans could reshape the legal and economic framework of US cannabis policy while sparking debates about the ethical and practical aspects of addressing drugrelated issues through harsher penalties.

Today’s conservatives would do no harm revisiting the principles of our forefathers, who understood the agricultural value of hemp and embraced the ideals of personal liberty and small government. If conservative leaders are to uphold their commitment to these founding principles, they must reconcile their calls for individual freedom and limited government with their stance on drug policy at large. To do otherwise risks embodying the very hypocrisy they so often decry, leaving their platforms (and citizens) vulnerable to yet another hundred years of state-sponsored persecution.

It’s a familiar pattern in American history: from slavery and civil rights to gay marriage and now cannabis laws, big changes often bounce back and forth between the feds and the statehouses.

DISPLAYS

Raids, Politics, and Public Health Collide in the Fight for Consumer Choice

TTHE VAPES WITH TROUBLE

Flavored Vapes are at the Center of a $9 billion Showdown—Will Harm Reduction Win over Regulation?

he federal government and e-cigarettes can’t seem to get along. Like two cats fighting, it’s mostly terrible noises and ridiculous posturing with extended pauses between any actual bouts of scratches and bites.

Yet something about a recent dustup seems to signal the feud has reached a new intensity. It began at the end of October when federal agents seized $76 million worth of product.

The bust—a joint operation by the Customs and Border Protection Agency and the Food and Drug Administration—was ostensibly a raid on illegal e-cigarettes. But it was more accurately seen as proof that government warning letters have teeth. Following years of papering retailers, the feds got fed up.

The seizure happened just weeks before the Supreme Court heard arguments in FDA v. Wages and White Lion Investments, the case that could decide the fate of flavored vaping products.

By Matt Weeks

The seizure happened just weeks before the Supreme Court heard arguments in FDA v. Wages and White Lion Investments, the case that could decide the fate of ﬂavored vaping products.

This, um, coincidental timing brings us to a profound moment. As a new administration settles into its role in Washington and the Supreme Court mulls over the recent arguments, the vaping industry must brace for news on two separate fronts—each one capable of capsizing the market.

The Political Angle

The second Trump administration strolled into the midst of a vaping policy disaster. Thanks to bad laws and worse execution, the great majority of vape sales happen in a gray space between strictly legal and not.

Part of that is his own fault. During his first term, Trump appointed five different people to head the FDA. The whiplash of new commissioners kept the agency in constant limbo with unclear priorities and guidelines.

Then there’s the law itself. The FDA wasn’t allowed to regulate vaping products until

2016—a full 11 years after e-cigarettes came on the market. Since the beginning, the process has been a cluster.

he took to Truth Social to proclaim his intention to “save Vaping again!” And while that’s not exactly what happened, it contains a bit of truth: It was Trump’s administration that split the baby the first time lawmakers wanted to axe

Like all good compromises, it couldn’t last. And this time around, the Vaping Voting Bloc that Trump actively courted— around 15 million Americans— wants better assurances.

The President has signaled two efforts to help the industry. First, he wants to roll back federal agencies’ ability to regulate the industry, which could strip the FDA of its vice-like grip on vaping products. Second, and more importantly, advisors close to the President have said he views flavored vapes as a states’ rights issue, meaning he’d like the federal government to wash its hands of vaping regulations once and for all.

That could leave the country in another patchwork of legal drama as some states outlaw flavors while others don’t, much like cannabis. It would certainly mean hard times for smoke shops in places like Iowa and Florida, but it would be better than a nationwide ban.

The Kids Are Alright?

Of course, the battle wages beyond the regulatory environment. On the other front, Supreme Court justices are now weighing the latest evidence for and against flavor vapes. While much of the arguments will sound familiar, a few data points should be clearer than before: critics of vaping have overplayed their hand for years.

Despite the harm that vaping can cause, all the best research suggests that flavored vaping devices are excellent at keeping people off much-deadlier cigarettes. They’re scientifically proven harm-reduction strategies.

The latest research shows that wherever flavored e-cigs are outlawed, smokers return to oldfashioned combustibles. Yet when politicians voice support for bans, they do so out of concern for a

specific niche of public health: those poor kids.

But Gen. Z isn’t like previous youngsters. They drink less, they have less sex, and they’re not using tobacco products. According to the latest National Youth Tobacco Survey, less than eight percent of high schoolers vape with any regularity. That’s a far cry from the 2019 numbers, which showed vaping was popular with more than a quarter of American teens.

Is eight percent too high? Some concerned parent groups might like that number to be zero, but many believe it’s simply not practical to attempt to outlegislate youthful rebellion.

“Kids always want what adults have. Kids smoked tons of cigarettes before there was a vape. And now, they’re going to get their hands on vapes. That’s just a fact of life,” said Joey DeStefano, Chief Commercial Officer at Puff Brands. “These flavored vapes, they’re not made for kids. Yes, there are some bad actors that create vapes with video games with dumb shit on them, but most of us make vapes for adults who want an alternative to combustion. I’m 41 years old, and I love blue raspberry. I like flavors. It’s a lot more pleasant to vape something that tastes like a mango than something that’s trying its best to taste like tobacco.”

What is clear in our vaping moment is this: The stakes are high. With more than 400,000 Americans dying each year from smoking-related illnesses and a $9 billion vaping industry hanging in the balance, the question isn’t just about flavoring. It’s about whether our public health policy can evolve to embrace harm reduction or if we’ll need to rely on another decade of small business raids and moral panic to flavor our lives.

Gen. Z isn’t like previous youngsters. They drink less, they have less sex, and they’re not using tobacco products.tobacco

HAIL TO THE CHIEF? 1

reform advocates. Legalization efforts in both Dakotas as well as Florida failed, and Massachusetts rejected a measure to make psychedelics great again.

On election night, it was hard for many to see a positive outlook for smoke shops.

Others, however, had a different take. Trump supporters within the industry were quick to point out that the President-elect ran on a pro-cannabis, pro-vape platform. He championed the Florida ballot initiative in brazen defiance of the state’s popular Republican governor and tweeted out support for moving cannabis down to Schedule 3.

In a Truth Social post in September, Trump’s account noted: “I believe it is time to end needless arrests and incarcerations of adults for small amounts of marijuana for personal use. We must also implement smart regulations while providing access for adults to safe, tested product.”

The Donald is Back. Should the Industry Throw a Parade Or Run for the Hills?

By Matt Weeks

W hen voters delivered a second term to Donald Trump, it’s unlikely the counterculture industry was at the top of their minds.

Let’s hope it wasn’t, anyway.

While Trump carried all seven swing states and the popular vote, the red wave that swept him into office also delivered a stinging rebuke to drug

administration. Before the 2016 election, Trump promised to leave cannabis matters to the state, but he didn’t stick to it. His administration proudly reversed the Obama-era policy that prevented federal prosecutors from going after cannabis dispensaries in legalized states and later proposed cutting off all federal protections of state medical marijuana laws.

It’s hard to erase the memory of that bait and switch.

And sure, he crowed support on Truth Social. But it’s clear Trump didn’t write that. He may have OK’d the messaging, but the post lacks the President’s singular voice and energy, signaling that a pro-cannabis stance might not be that important to him.

Even Vice President J.D. Vance, despite penning an autobiography cataloging his intimate experience with opioid addiction, is an opponent of cannabis. When nearly 60 percent of voters in his state voted to legalize recreational usage in 2023, Vance stood firm in his disagreement.

Still, it’s hard to believe that cannabis reform is high on his agenda.

Reasons for Pessimism

The famously mercurial President is an avid poll watcher. He understands, like few others, what words and actions get responses from the public.

And while he’s publicly supported much-needed reforms, he was also glued to the TV as news of cannabis’s failure at the ballot box rolled in. For a president who loves being on the winning side of every issue, the defeat of initiatives he promoted might sting. There’s also the specter of his first

There’s also the matter of Congress. The incoming Senate Majority Leader, John Thune, has long voiced criticism of the cannabis industry. He also hails from South Dakota, where voters are fresh from shooting down a legalization initiative.

Even if Trump wants to implement a forward-thinking cannabis agenda, it feels unlikely he’ll choose to spend his political capital in that arena when he has so many other causes that ignite his passion.

Reasons for Optimism

On the other hand, Trump has vowed that his second term will look and feel different from his first. And, if the people he surrounds himself with are any indication, that certainly seems true.

Trump changed up his inner circle to include a cadre of pro-cannabis

advisors. On the campaign trail, he’s gotten closer to Rep. Matt Gaetz 2, Elon Musk, Dr. Oz, and Robert F. Kennedy Jr., all of whom have expressed hearty support for cannabis or psychedelics.

With key administration figures openly embracing alternative therapies, the atmosphere within the Oval Office could feel more amenable to forward-thinking policies around cannabis.

Trump has also shown a fondness for accomplishing things his opponents couldn’t. That could bode well for federal legality. The Biden administration proposed rescheduling cannabis to a Schedule 3 drug in 2022, but the effort stalled out before it reached final approval, with bureaucrats ultimately

deciding to put the issue on hold until the new administration arrives. Perhaps Trump II will see this as a chance to demonstrate he’s more effective than his predecessor.

What the Counterculture Should Expect?

If there’s a through line when it comes to President Trump’s cabinet picks and policy proposals, it’s a mistrust for the status quo. Sometimes, the ideas espoused by those close to the President tend to the conspiratorial, more often they’re simply mistrustful of what they see as government overreach and interference.

I believe it is time to end needless arrests and incarcerations of adults for small amounts of marijuana for personal use. We must also implement smart regulations while providing access for adults to safe, tested product. -President Donald J. Trump

1Double

2That

Several figures in Trump’s cabinet have expressed feelings that federal agencies have become captured by corporate interests like Big Pharma or that administrative bloat hampers efficiency and effectiveness.

Those are ideas the counterculture industry can get behind. But, like all complex matters, the trouble isn’t with the diagnosis. It’s the prescription. And on that front, the news is . . . complicated.

While it’s tempting to take a stab at parsing Trump’s words, it doesn’t seem likely that he has a regimented “cannabis plan” that he’s trying to articulate.

The issue just doesn’t seem

Continued on Page 84

Hail to the Chief? (Cont.)

that important to the man. A better way to predict the future is to scrutinize his actions.

Trump has signaled a willingness to blow up the whole operation and start again. It sounds far out, but we’ve seen it before. Jimmy Carter turned the federal budget on its ear with his zero-base budgeting framework. Ronald Reagan rode in on a promise to shrink the government and eliminate the Departments of Energy and Education but ended up creating a new department and increasing the number of non-military federal workers.

While ideas like the Department of Government Efficiency and the outside-the-beltway perspectives Trump came in with might feel different at first, it’s possible that his radical plans will ultimately feel … a bit ordinary, especially when it comes to cannabis reform.

The biggest changes to come may come from aspects of the industry that aren’t related to cannabis: tariffs on foreignmade goods and whatnot. With the President focused on effecting a MAGA-style government reformation, it’s likely that low-priority concerns like cannabis banking bills will have difficulty getting any oxygen.

Maybe the more things change, the more they’ll stay the same.

About Us:

Our mission is to be your front-runner distributor for a true one-stop shopping experience. We offer the convenience of multiple brands for items that guarantee maximum profitability, recognition, and value for the retailer plus the consumer. Through our commitment and dedication to our customer’s needs, we strive to surpass competitors in quality, customer satisfaction, and superior financial performance! Simply put, your success is our success!

@phreshpicksdist

@phreshpicks

THE FLAME Maintain

Editor’s Note: We originally planned to run a piece examining the oftendelicate relationship between retailers and local glass artists, focusing on their interactions and highlighting best practices. Naturally, we turned to industry veteran and former HQ contributor Fred Scorsch of Home Blown Glass for insight. With over 25 years of experience as a glass artist and entrepreneur, Fred is uniquely positioned to o er valuable perspectives. However, as our conversation unfolded, it quickly became clear there was a deeper, more timely story to explore—one that resonates strongly in today’s climate of industry uncertainty.

By Eva Berlin Sylvestre

It’s a crisp Tuesday morning when I pick up the phone, and Fred Schorsch immediately has my ear. A natural storyteller, he weaves in and out of politics, history, and personal anecdotes for the better part of an hour, voice filled with passion and concern in equal measure. As a seasoned glassblower in Tempe, Arizona, the 36-year veteran of the head shop industry now finds himself navigating the unpredictable world of American glass artistry, facing challenges that are upending the lives of homegrown artisans in a globalized economy.

Fred’s journey into glassblowing began in the mid1990s. Under the mentorship of renowned glass artist Dan K, he immersed himself in traditional Italian techniques. “In two days, I learned the fundamentals that helped me build a company lasting 25 years,” he says. The knowledge allowed him to channel his creativity and entrepreneurial spirit into a tangible craft that feeds families.

Home Blown’s Fred Scorsch on Keeping the Craft Alive Amid Changing Times

Top Left: Home Blown Glass Collab w/Gabe Palacios (@gaberealglass)

He established Home Blown Glass, focusing on producing glass components for stores rather than selling directly to consumers. This helped him navigate complex paraphernalia laws. “In Arizona, as long as the glass was clean, it wasn’t considered paraphernalia,” he explains. This legal nuance allowed his business to thrive in a niche market, somewhat shielded from federal crackdowns that affected similar enterprises elsewhere.

Fred delves into the historical context that shaped his industry; his storytelling is peppered with insights about labor rights, economic policies, and social justice. He discusses how, after the civil rights movement, new laws implemented continue to impact artisans like him. He mentions, for example, a time when his company once flourished.

AMERICAN LABOR IS TRYING TO KEEP UP WITH WORKFORCES THAT HAVE NO PROTECTIONS OR REGULATIONS

Strict federal regulations made importing glass paraphernalia illegal, effectively protecting American glassblowers from overseas competition.

“It used to cost around $10,000 through illicit channels to get a shipping container into the U.S. because of these laws,” Fred notes. The insulation allowed him to offer his employees benefits uncommon in small manufacturing businesses, such as “seven major holidays off, two weeks of paid time off, and even [matched] health insurance,” he says. Several artisans stayed with him for more than 15 years—testament to the supportive environment he cultivated.

However, globalization began to alter the landscape. Countries like China and India entered the market, producing glass products at a fraction of the cost. Fred found himself competing on an uneven playing field.

“American labor is trying to keep up with workforces that have no protections or regulations,” he laments. Designs he used to sell wholesale for $20 are being

Continued on Page 90

replicated overseas and sold for $5. “I approach stores with my original designs, and they tell me they get similar products from China for a quarter of the price.”

The influx of cheaper imports eroded his market share, forcing tough decisions about pricing and wages. “It’s been hard to pay my team what they’re worth,” he says. “The products I’m making are now devalued because the labor is so devalued.” The challenge is compounded by changes in state labor laws. Arizona’s minimum wage increase, while beneficial for workers, places additional strain on small businesses like his. “I hired skilled workers over the years, and suddenly, I had to pay new, unskilled employees the same starting wage due to the law. I support higher wages, but it puts pressure on businesses that can’t easily raise prices.”

The COVID-19 pandemic added another layer of difficulty. Initially, it brought a surge in demand. With people staying home—stimulus checks in hand—retailers scrambled to stock up. “We were backlogged for a year and a half,” Fred recalls. “I had stores doubling and tripling their orders because I was five months behind.” But as

stimulus funds dried up and overstocked retailers halted new orders, sales plummeted. “I haven’t seen any wholesale orders for a year and a half,” he says.

Today, the operation has been significantly reduced. From 14 employees, Fred is down to four. “I had to lay off people who wanted to work but for whom I had no business,” he says somberly. “In a perfect world, labor would be as valued as the shareholder,” he argues. “Even if they made the tariffs 50 percent, they could still produce things cheaper. “On five dollars, 50 percent? Meanwhile, I’m producing it for twenty dollars?”

Fred sees parallels between his struggles and those of other artisans in America. “The middle class is shrinking, and so are opportunities for craftsmen and small business owners,” he says.

Faced with mounting challenges, he’s forced to innovate. “I don’t know if this company can really exist anymore,” he admits. “The only reason it exists now is because I have more people renting spots as hobbyists and retired people.” I ask what the solution to the craftsman crisis at hand is, and he struggles suddenly to find the words.

In a perfect world, labor would be as valued as the shareholder.

“American labor is trying to compete against labor that has no protections, has no regulations,” he says, finally. “ What’s the answer to that?”

Above: Home Blown Glass Collab w/Gabe Palacios (@gaberealglass)

By Eva Berlin Sylvestre

WEIRDOS Aﬁcionados of Augusta: The Gathering Place A HAVEN FOR

Since the mid-‘60s, when head shops first emerged in San Francisco’s Haight-Ashbury, these outlets have offered more than pipes and papers. They served as cultural hubs, havens for freaks, dissidents, and the marginalized, where interactions mattered as much as transactions. But as prohibition recedes, the original vision of communityoriented spaces has often given way to glorified convenience stores—efficient, profit-driven retail machines. While this model works for some, the rise of online shopping makes it crucial for brick-andmortars to offer more than transactions once again. Initially, we planned to detail the benefits of creating welcoming spaces that encourage lingering, along with tips to make it happen. Instead, after speaking with Tony Williamson of Aficionados in August, Georgia, we decided to let him paint the picture for you.

For nearly two decades, Aficionados owner Tony Williamson has offered Augusta, Georgia, more than a retail experience. His smoke shop, located in the heart of downtown, has evolved into a hub for those who don’t fit in elsewhere. Whether it’s creatives, outcasts, or anyone seeking a space to breathe, Aficionados has become a go-to destination for connection and community. Tony’s guiding philosophy is simple: “I’m in the people business, not the profit business.”

Aficionados attracts a wide range of visitors with its eclectic offerings, including craft beer, a walk-in humidor, and an extensive selection of smoking accessories. But its true draw is the space itself, which Tony has intentionally designed as a welcoming environment for all.

“Sometimes people need a place to go just to get away,” he says.

“Sometimes people need to be able to have an opportunity to explore things in their life that makes them

happy, like art, music, socializing within an industry.”

Tony believes the shop’s success stems from its role as a community hub. “You’d be surprised at how many people don’t have an opportunity to meet like-minded people except for a place like ours,” he says. The shop has hosted everything from study sessions to film editing and music production.

“Even though we’ve morphed into different things over the years,

we’ve always had a lounge or a space for people to relax, unwind, catch up on work, study for school, listen to audiobooks, edit music . . . whatever it is they’re into.”

Embracing the Misﬁ ts

Tony acknowledges that Aficionados appeals to the “weirdos” of Augusta, a group he’s more than happy to welcome. “I’m fine with being the person who helps maintain a culture within a community,” he says. For Tony, creating an inclusive space doesn’t require him to personally embody the lifestyle it supports. “A lot of people

understand that, hey, if a big problem is caused here, we may not have this place to come to.”

JUST BECAUSE SOMEBODY DOESN’T SPEND MONEY TODAY DOESN’T MEAN THEY WON’T DO IT

-Tony

TOMORROW

Tony is also unbothered by visitors who linger without making purchases. “Just because somebody doesn’t spend money today doesn’t mean they won’t do it tomorrow,” he says. Many of his most devoted patrons started as regulars who spent time at the shop without buying much. But what if all they do is hang out? “Those people become employees,” Tony says with a laugh.

Williamson, Aﬁcionados of Augusta

Even setbacks like theft haven’t dampened Tony’s optimism. Drawing on advice from his great-grandfather, he says, “There’s 5% of the people out there [who] are jerks. And if you do fair and honest business with the 95% of the good people that are out there, they’ll make up for the 5% of the jerks.”

Continued on Page 98

Treehouse, a vegan restaurant and juice bar adjacent to Aﬁcionados, is the latest iteration of Tony Nguyen’s inclusive, multifaceted space. Formerly Aﬁcionados’ pool hall and hookah lounge, it encourages connection and lingering.

Experimenting to Stay Fresh

Tony attributes much of Aficionados’ longevity to his willingness to innovate, which he explained to us when we featured his shop back in 2020. “I use my marketing budget for what I call an ‘enterprise budget,’” he told us then. “Instead of investing in publications or social media, I try different concepts within the

footprint of the store, which creates the newness. People like new, they like different. Some of it sticks, and some of it doesn’t, but it generates activity, and activity breeds more activity.”

Throughout the decades, Aficionados has reinvented itself many times, from an internet café to a hookah lounge, a pool hall, and even a vegan restaurant. While not all concepts have endured, Tony sees value in

every experiment. “You’ve got to plan that far ahead,” he says. “I’m watching people walk through the doors with 18-, 19-, and 20-year-old kids that their parents are introducing me to.”

Looking to the Future

For many, Aficionados is a cornerstone of Augusta’s downtown scene, and that’s with intention. By prioritizing relationships over revenue, he’s built a shop that thrives as both a retail space and a community anchor. “Being in the people business guarantees a place in the industry no matter what your focus is,” he says.

Aficionados continues to draw a diverse crowd of outcasts, creatives, and locals looking for a space to belong. Whether it’s visitors stopping by to edit films, discover local art, or simply connect with others, the shop offers them what they need most: a sense of acceptance. “Sometimes people just need a place to go,” he says. At Aficionados, they’ve found exactly that.

I use my marketing budget for what I call an ‘enterprise budget. Instead of investing in publications or social media, I try different concepts within the footprint of the store, which creates the newness. People like new, they like different.

-Tony Williamson, Aﬁcionados of Augusta

Here at HeadQuest, we’ve compiled our favorite tips and tricks to get you through your least favorite time of year.

All of the fun winter holidays are over, and tax season is now upon us — the time of year when everyone frantically emails their accountants for council while trying to find crumpled receipts that have been stuffed in a drawer or fished from the garbage. We all deal with Uncle Sam, but smoke shop owners face unique challenges compared to everyone else. Here at HeadQuest , we’ve compiled our favorite tips and tricks to get you through your least favorite time of year.

Common Tax Mistakes

We all know that your business is special — a unique little angel that you love, nurture, and care for. But when it comes to taxes, you’re not as special as you think. Keeping income and expenses correctly categorized is a common issue that store owners

have, and it can be time-consuming when you leave things until the end. Income from glassware sold should be separated from CBD sales and possibly other items, depending on your state’s tax code. Some states impose excise taxes on certain products such as tobacco, alcohol, or anything fun. Double-check with your state tax code how your products should be categorized. What makes sense to you may not reflect the tax code. Many people are probably using cash to buy some quick items for their funtime festivities, but it’s important to make sure you have your shit taken care of with a great POS (point-of-sale) system to capture all the cash action behind the counter. The last thing you want to do is give the IRS a reason to audit, and cash-heavy companies are easy marks for the IRS.

Don’t Overlook Deductions

Taxes are always going to be higher than we wish they were, but taking advantage of deductions is key to maximizing your income. Your inventory is probably your number one expense, which is why it’s important to capitalize on all the deductions you can make in this area. The Cost of Goods Sold (COGS) is simply how much you spend on your stock before a customer purchases it. This includes the cost of shipping and handling, labor to stock your shelves, et al. Other standard business expenses such as rent, utilities, insurance, and salaries are just as crucial to keep correct. This also includes trade shows, marketing campaigns, and a Wacky Waving Inflatable ArmFlailing Tube-Man. If you decide to start working from home like most people wish they could, then be sure to take advantage of the tax credits

Continued on Page 102

OUR OBLIGATORY TAX ARTICLE

It’s That Time Again

By Jonathan Branch

for being a hard-working business person who will work from anywhere. The vehicle you use might have more tax discounts available to you if used for work. Basically, if something is used for work or to help sell your products, a tax deduction might be waiting to be realized.

Get the Record Straight

I know all of this can be daunting, but luckily technology has caught up with taxes. Consider using a digital bookkeeper to keep things in order. Tools like Quickbooks, Xero, and Intuit are great ways to update your bookkeeping. They help to maintain detailed records for sales, expenses, payments, and the number of books you own (I assume that’s part of bookkeeping). Since your bookkeeping is digital, it would be a good idea to have your organizational system match it. Create a system for documenting and digitizing your store receipts and invoices so they are easily found in one place. A cloud-based storage solution would be ideal if you’re looking to access your documents from anywhere and want to keep them secure for the future. Having an easy-to-use system will save you time and headaches during tax season and will act as a backup in case of an emergency. This storage system can also keep records of any business licenses, permits, or certifications you might need.

Head Shop Headaches

Depending on the scope of your store, you might have some special federal tax code rules that apply to you — specifically Section 280E of the federal tax code.

Section 280E disallows all deductions or credits for any amount paid or incurred in carrying on any trade or business that consists of illegally trafficking in a Schedule I or II controlled substance within the meaning of the federal Controlled Substances Act.

The IRS sent a friendly reminder (or as friendly as the IRS can be) on June 28th, 2024, that “marijuana remains a Schedule I controlled substance and is subject to the limitations of Internal Revenue Code… Taxpayers seeking a refund of taxes paid related to Internal Revenue Code Section 280E by filing amended returns are not entitled to a refund or payment.”

Make sure you are taking steps to keep the headshop headache down and the good vibes going. Consider buying the services of a tax professional that knows the unique difficulties of running a store like yours. Hiring a professional can help find deductions you may have missed, ensure compliance with tax codes, and reduce the risk of audits. Conduct quarterly reviews year round to stay on top of your finances, and ensure your tax season runs smoothly.

Let’s Get It Started

As tax season approaches, keep in mind the ABCs of business — Always Be Keeping impeccable records so the IRS doesn’t audit your ass. Ok, that initialism failed, but the sentiment remains: Cover. Your. Ass. Do a little work every day to keep tax season from sneaking up on you. The last thing you need 5 days before 420 is a head shop headache.

ZLand + ZColors

By ZLabs

Folks, take note: This may be the most inventive vape system we’ve encountered yet. Welcome to the ZLab ecosystem, where ZLand and ZColors team up to redefine vaping. The ZLand is your battery-powered base, and the ZColors are stackable flavor pods—mix up to three flavors for endless, personalized possibilities. Bold tech, smooth flavor, and pure fun, all sold separately.

Zland

The ZLand isn’t just an e-cigarette, tough girl—it’s your trusty companion when life throws curveballs, like the guy from Hinge who won’t take no for an answer. With more than 125,000 possible flavor combinations, ZLand lets you experiment with endless possibilities, unlike that one red-flag dinner where he talked about Japanese bondage and Unsolved Mysteries for two solid hours. The 1200mAh battery will last all night, unlike his shaky claim that he’s a “totally different guy” than what his federal record shows. Plus, the LED display ensures you’re never in the dark, while activating “Boost” mode will make those flavors pop so hard, you won’t even care that he has the personality of a rice cake. Choose from black, gray, red or blue, perfect for puffing away while dialing 911. Stay vigilant, babes.

ZColors

Meet your V-Day coping mechanism! The ZColors by ZLab are flavor pods designed to pair with the ZLand, helping you forget the husband who went no-contact after that one slip-up with his brother. With up to 15,000 puffs per pod, it’ll outlast your pity party. Adjust wattage settings to match your mood, from “barely holding it together” to “full-on existential meltdown,” while the 10ml tank ensures you can vape uninterrupted through every rom-com rerun you promised you wouldn’t cry over. Dual mesh coil technology delivers vapor so smooth, it almost makes you forget his mom called you “an embarrassment to the family.”

QUEST

4 the Best

SeshGear Super Smoke Smoke Thrower

The SeshGear Super Smoker Smoke Thrower is your ticket to becoming the Valentine everyone talks about. You know, the one she secretly likes, even if she hasn’t texted back in six months and keeps “forgetting” who you are. With its forced air mechanism unleashing smoke clouds bigger than your overblown sense of chemistry, it’ll ensure you’re unforgettable whether she wants you to be or not. Load your herbs with the magnetic grinder that locks into place faster than the excuses you practice before crashing the bar she tagged on Insta. The borosilicate glass chamber and perforated downstem create bubbles and diffusion so cool, you’ll convince yourself she’s only leaving through the back door because she’s shy, not because the bouncer is escorting her to safety. The zippered carry case and stash jar are perfect for keeping your goods close while you sit in your car, headlights off, wondering if this is the night she finally “sees the real you.”

Your heart got shattered, but your glass isn’t, thanks to the Mad Toto X-Large Tube Case. Built tougher than the no-contact order, it features a rugged fiber shell, tear-resistant nylon, and a waterproof zipper so secure it would’ve put that locked phone of hers to shame. Inside, dual elastic straps and heavy padding cradle your glass like you wish someone would hold you. Absolutely dwarfing you at a respectable 7 inches long and 3 inches wide, it’s perfect for pipes, your will to live, and the other fragile things she left in her wake. Choose from charcoal grey, purple, black, or green, and use the carabiner to clip it onto your bag or belt loop for those moments when you need to make a quick escape—like when the cops doorknock you over the missing custody payments.

Thicket All-in-One Rolling

After years, your crush is back in town and spotted you at the local tavern. You’re not a mind reader, but the “Can you not talk to me?” is a sign that they might not want to talk. Curiously, though, when you whip out the Thicket All-inOne Rolling Kit in the parking lot, you’re the only one worth knowing suddenly. The built-in grinder, rolling papers, and filter tips are tucked away in their own compartments, giving the illusion you’re organized, even if your passenger floorboard tells a different story. The perfectly sized rolling tray is so neat it almost distracts from the fact that you’ve never left the county, and the funnel for cones? It makes up for your inability to blame the floorboard condom on your “prankster sister.” The Thicket Kit is portable, stylish, and way cooler than you’ll ever be, but at least they’ll stick around to watch you roll. It’s the one thing you almost never mess up.

Sonder Space Crystals

Innovators are the ones whose dreams are clearer than the reality that tells them it’s impossible.

Simon Sinek

Ready to ditch last year’s decadent habits for some newer ones? Meet the Hotbox Elite—the first vape on the market boasting an astonishing 50,000 puffs. Think of it as the gift that keeps on giving, much like your unsolicited advice.

What makes the Hotbox Elite your new best friend? Maybe it’s the stainless steel quad mesh coil or the automatic voltage optimization chip. Or perhaps it’s the three power modes tailored to your puffing preference—whether you’re a casual user or someone who treats their vape like a lifeline, the Elite has your big back.

And the flavors? Forget Grandma’s questionable New Year’s casserole—dive into 14 exclusive Puff Labs E-Juice flavors. From the tropical vibes of Hawaiian Rainbow to the cool rush of Miami Mint, every puff is a journey away from last year’s mistakes. Plus, they’re all equipped with Nixodine, giving you the kick without the nicotine. It’s like a home run right when Auld Lang Syne hits at midnight, but without the whiskey dick.

MEDIA FDA WORSHIP: THREAT TO PUBLIC HEALTH

Debunking Popular Vaping Myths (Again)

Americans are taught many myths about how the federal government operates. One of the most dangerous goes like this: the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) protects public health by regulating the foods and medicines we consume and by helping us “get the accurate, science-based information” we need to “maintain and improve” our health.

On some level that mission statement from the FDA’s website is accurate, but the agency routinely abandons its responsibilities and badly abuses its authority. In the case of the nicotine vapor industry, the FDA actually works against those stated goals by keeping millions of lowrisk products off the market and lying about the benefits they could provide to adult smokers.

recent story by NPR reporter Nina Totenburg called “FDA battles vaping industry at the Supreme Court,” which reads more like a thinly veiled press release from the agency itself than a news story.

The article begins with the egregious lie that nicotine vaping

By Alli Boughner Vice President American Vapor Manufacturers

their products using flavors that appeal to kids.” Notice the slanted framing: FDA is harshly regulating the vaping industry, but only to protect kids.

In reality, teen smoking and teen vaping have both hit record lows in the last year. The FDA’s own data shows that daily vaping among teens is less than two percent.

“has become increasingly popular” with teenagers, citing a former FDA official who says that “e-cigarettes have filled the vacuum” left by declining teen smoking rates.

If she were honest, Totenburg would say that FDA claims it’s looking out for children even though there is no credible evidence that flavored nicotine uniquely appeals to kids. The FDA knows that is true; internal agency research, released publicly by my organization, shows FDA scientists clearly stating that the vast majority of adult smokers prefer flavored products. Again, not a word of this information was included in the NPR story.

The FDA gets away with this misbehavior in large part because the media doesn’t hold the agency accountable. Rather than call out the FDA’s malfeasance, reporters cover it up. They don’t do this accidentally; instead, journalists carry water for public health bureaucrats because they naively trust them to do the right thing no matter how many times the FDA proves its underhanded intentions.

Let’s consider two examples from a

In reality, teen smoking and teen vaping have both hit record lows in the last year. The FDA’s own data shows that daily vaping among teens is less than two percent. This information is publicly available and easy to find. A reporter covering the FDA and a former agency official–who now works for Tobacco-Free Kids, a virulent anti-vaping lobbying group–have no excuse for withholding those critical details from NPR readers.

The story then asserts that “FDA has made it increasingly difficult for vaping producers to sell

Reporters make honest mistakes on occasion and should be forgiven in those cases. But when they churn out pro-FDA propaganda year after year (as NPR has), they should be publicly shamed until they start telling the whole story. The FDA’s vaping regulations jeopardize the health of millions of adult smokers. Any journalist who buries or excuses that terrible reality is a government apologist with no interest in the truth.

February 2025 #297 - Digital - Sol Trading

HQ Magazine

HQ EXPERIENCE

CONTENTS

HeadSpace

CRYPTIC the

our shorts Salute

our shorts

Bright, Shiny Objects to Store Between Your Ears

Big BiggerPimpin; Losses

AFG: Rolling Up in America’s Hat

Recommended Reading

DEA: Rage Against The Machine Elf (No More)

REPEATING

A New Kind of Vape

hallmark holiday hacks

raising spirits

Mixing it Up with Levity Cannabis Spirits

Trade Show Roundup

Safety

Read less. absorb more. HQ2:Literature for your earholes

ROOTED IN

FREEDOM

Is Mary Jane Oatman

The Cannabis Champion We Need?

Into the Light

Building a Movement

A Legacy of Healing

Finding Joy in the Journey

STUFF) PUFF. PUFF.

A Passion for Cannabis

Success in Distribution

Switch to Nic & The Dynamic Duo!

The Secret Sauce

A Bright Future

Your A Quick Guide to Achieving Last-Minute Magnetism

If You Got It, Flaunt It

The Gift That Keeps on Giving

Make it Comfortable

PLEASURE quest Insert Here for Grown-Up Fun

Blowmotion Warming Vibrating Male Masturbator by Lovehoney

Jolt Stimulating Gel from UnboundBabes

EFFORTS JOINT JOINT

Patchwork Politics

Looking Ahead: Could Federal Cannabis Reform Be Coming?

Raids, Politics, and Public Health Collide in the Fight for Consumer Choice

TTHE VAPES WITH TROUBLE

Flavored Vapes are at the Center of a $9 billion Showdown—Will Harm Reduction Win over Regulation?

The Political Angle

The Kids Are Alright?

HAIL TO THE CHIEF? 1

The Donald is Back. Should the Industry Throw a Parade Or Run for the Hills?

Reasons for Pessimism

Reasons for Optimism

What the Counterculture Should Expect?

Hail to the Chief? (Cont.)

About Us:

THE FLAME Maintain

Home Blown’s Fred Scorsch on Keeping the Craft Alive Amid Changing Times

AMERICAN LABOR IS TRYING TO KEEP UP WITH WORKFORCES THAT HAVE NO PROTECTIONS OR REGULATIONS

WEIRDOS Aﬁcionados of Augusta: The Gathering Place A HAVEN FOR

Embracing the Misﬁ ts

TOMORROW

Experimenting to Stay Fresh

Looking to the Future

Common Tax Mistakes

Don’t Overlook Deductions

OUR OBLIGATORY TAX ARTICLE

It’s That Time Again

Get the Record Straight

Head Shop Headaches

Let’s Get It Started

ZLand + ZColors

Zland

ZColors

QUEST

4 the Best

SeshGear Super Smoke Smoke Thrower

Thicket All-in-One Rolling

Sonder Space Crystals