MAY 2017 / vapemz
/ vapemagazine
/ vapemz
#VAPEMagazine
E S TA B L I S H E D 2 0 1 4 M A D E I N M I C H I GA N
Archangel
Strawberry and Cream
RY2k
RY4 Tobacco, Toasted Almond, Toasted Marshmallow and Caramel
The Goat Va n i l l a C u s t a r d
War Boy
Creamy Hot Chocolate with Marshamllows
Blue Xtacy Creamy Blue Raspberry
Jiffy Creamy Peanut Butter Custard
Eden
Papaya and Mango with undertones of Pineapple and Strawberry
Archangel 2.0 A spin on the original Archangel blend with a twist banana cream
Duke
A flavorful fruit blend of pear, peach, strawberry, nectarine and honey dew.
Ascension
Creamy Pistachio Ice Cream
NEWS, BUSINESS & CULTURE VAPE Magazine is the only international vaping industry focused magazine with more than 35,000 readership in the United States, Europe and Asia, where vaping professionals find the latest news, products and trends. EDITORIAL Publisher Matt Schramel content@vapemz.com 800-958-6427 x2 Editor in Chief Corey Noles Managing Editor Chris Mellides Social Media Manager Eric Vonheim Art Director Van Avanzado Graphic Designers Joe Buehner, Laura Camp, Matt Ritzenthaler, Anil Verma
letter from the editor:
Director of Photography Ezra Zuniga Webmaster Axel Gillespie
Dear readers, It’s been a busy month for our team here at VAPE Magazine! Our crew has spent the last month touching down on three continents in multiple countries as we begin rolling out regionally focused issues around the globe! VAPE Magazine China is now available, fully translated into Mandarin! The crew visited Shenzhen to unveil the new edition at IECIE.
Contributors Norm Bour, John Castle, Nick Green, Allan Kwasnik, Lavender Lee, Chris Mellides, Corey Noles, Susan Oser, Tony Ottomanelli, Todd Richard ADMINISTRATIVE Chief Executive Officer Matt Schramel
We also traveled to London to get things rolling for the new European issue. Moving forward, the issue will be printed in Europe and distributed to thousands of stores across the continent. We’ve also begun working with advocacy groups in each of these new regions, just as we do in the U.S.
Co-Owner/Vice President Jon Laverde
We have more similar news coming over the next month, so make sure to check out the June issue as well!
Jon Laverde, jon@vapemz.com 800-958-6427 x4
For May, we’re focusing on the future of vapor technology. The future takes on many faces. It could come in the use of devices being used for medication or vitamin delivery. We also dive into the world of additives, with a heavy focus on caffeine which is a market that has changed in recent years. Another wave of the future in vaping technology has been the explosion of the CBD market. We’ll dive into the full spectrum vs isolate debate; and tackle a variety of other related topics. When you’re out and about this month, make sure to #VAPEMagazine! Coming soon, there might be a place for those photos in the print edition! Thanks for reading,
Executive Assistant Erin Aly ADVERTISING
Jacob Barger, jacob@vapemz.com 949-910-2138 China-based advertisers contact Wingle Group Electronics LTD +852 51759256 dev@winglegroup.com CONTACT Advertising sales@vapemz.com News news@vapemz.com New Products newproducts@vapemz.com Employment jobs@vapemz.com
Corey Noles
VAPE Magazine is wholly owned by Starpixel Marketing LLC 6209 Mid Rivers Mall Dr, Suite 194 Saint Peters, MO 63304 info@vapemz.com 800-958-6427
12
#VAPEMAGAZINE
SPECIAL
FIRST PURCHASE DEAL! Call Us For Details
WHO LESALE INQUIRIES 8 01-888 -1291
.com e c i u j r e k wholesale@chubbyba
THECHUBBYBAKERJUICE
THECHUBBYBAKER
MAY 2017
Contents
69
columns
24 30
CBD: Through the eyes of a cancer patient Vaping from the outside: What’s tech got to do with It?
FEATURES
36
18 32 40 44 48 50
18
EVENTS
48
74 80
56
Vape Showcase Atlanta: Through the eyes of Pablo & The Rodman Vapers invade Motor City for ECC Detroit
MODS & TECH
61 65 85
74
Bo One: A new contender in the Closed System Space Review of Tresera Box Mod MiPod brings CBD prefilled pods to market
DEPARTMENTS
12 28 36
80 14
56
Leidel & Vapor Shark: Look to the future Federal legislation attacked CBD: What You Need to Know Additives Au Naturale: Are additives the sign of the future Richard Broke: A vision, and one giant heaping cup of sarcasm Full spectrum: CBD industry gains momentum High wattage vaping
#VAPEMAGAZINE
69
Letter from The Editor Let’s ask Grimm Green Why your shop should consider carrying CBD. Or not... Vape Visionary: Pandora Blue
Features
A TECH COMPANY FIRST,
Leidel & VaporShark LOOK TO THE FUTURE By Corey Noles
Always on the cutting edge of the vapor industry, Miami-based Vapor Shark remains at the forefront of technology. From importing EGO pens to the final design of the first VaporShark DNA20, owner Brandon Leidel has unintentionally positioned himself as one of the industry’s top innovators. After a recent visit to the company headquarters, it’s quite clear that Leidel and Co. take that role very serious. VaporShark and Turning Point Brands, Inc. (NYSE: TPB), a leading provider of Other Tobacco Products (OTP), together with recently acquired VaporBeast, recently announced a “strategic partnership and management agreement.” Further details of the agreement are still being worked out.
18
#VAPEMAGAZINE
BRANDON LEIDEL HAS UNINTENTIONALLY POSITIONED HIMSELF AS ONE OF THE
INDUSTRY’S TOP INNOVATORS
We recently chatted with Leidel about VaporShark’s past and, more importantly, the company’s future.
VM:
So Brandon, to get started, tell me your vape story?
BL: I started smoking cigarettes in high school. I had tried to quit many times and of course, failed many
times. My son was born in 2009 and I decided that I wanted to try again. I remembered seeing a Smoke 51 kiosk in a local mall so on my last attempt I went there to check out what appeared to be a new alternative for people like me. The kit, which was a cig-a-like, cost me about $250 and now I know really cost less than $10 to make. The device wasn’t strong enough to be a good substitute for a real smoker, but it definitely lit the fire and got me really interested in this industry. I soon went online and found some much better EGO style devices which were starting to become popular. I had to order everything online because there weren’t any vape shops at this time. I dove in head first, stuck with it, and here I am.
VM:
How did you transform from vaper, into hardware designer?
VAPEMZ.COM
19
BL:
Early generations of devices were not very good, and being a tech and gadget freak my whole life, I could see that there was a lot of room for innovation along with great opportunity to build a business that satisfied my nerd self as well as my entrepreneurial self. Another gaping hole in the industry was that 90% of all available e-liquid was being made in China. For this reason, we have always made our own since day one. We launched with two Flavors and grew from there. On the hardware side, we didn’t carry the cig-a-like devices that were very popular at the time. This made selling our larger devices much more difficult because the general consensus was that most thought an EGO was too big. However, we knew that the EGO was the real solution for a cigarette smoker. If our intent was to help smokers make the switch then we needed to push customers towards the right tools. For this reason, we only sold the bigger devices which back then made a lot of people leave our store without buying anything. This changed over time and more and more people started to accept bigger devices in exchange for better performance. During this time, we were curating parts from different suppliers in China and putting them together in a kit at our office in order to make a unique custom product. We weren’t designing products, but we were curating parts to make the kits that we were proud to sell. We knew that to make this a real business with a competitive advantage we would have to design our own products. In the beginning, we were working with Chinese suppliers to make changes to existing products and sell them to us exclusively.
20
WE KNEW THAT TO MAKE THIS A REAL BUSINESS WITH A COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE WE WOULD HAVE TO DESIGN OUR OWN PRODUCTS. That went very well and paid for the next phase of development which was to put more into our e-liquid lab and start putting our product design team together. I made the first DNA 20 prototype myself and with the help of others was improved and manufactured using the usual software design tools. The success of this single product in combination with very strong retail sales fueled our evolution to a real hardware manufacturer and we’ve designed all of our big products ever since.
VM: In just a few short years, Vapor Shark has grown
into a household name among vapers. Is this what you envisioned when you started?
#VAPEMAGAZINE
OUR GOAL IS TO PROVIDE ALL OF THE SERVICES THAT ANY E-LIQUID MANUFACTURER WOULD NEED UNDER ONE ROOF AND AT A FAIR PRICE. VM:
When I visited your headquarters in Miami, I kept saying to myself, this feels like a tech company as much as a vape company. Is that feel intentional?
BL: Yes, we are a tech company. We work on lots of different things outside of the e-cig industry. Some of the additional areas of interest that we work is Web Development, radio energy vaporization, various energy storage technologies, radio energy harvesting, botanical isolate extraction, FDA compliance software and services. The FDA has made releasing the technology we are working on very difficult now, so we are applying our research to products of the botanical industry where similar hardware is being used. BL:
Vapor Shark was a side project for my Internet Marketing and tech company. We had several side projects at the time including a VOIP phone service (which still provides service for all phones at Vapor Shark) and a regulatory compliance service for doctors prescribing controlled substances. Vapor Shark became the successful one and way more successful than anything I had ever been involved with. For this reason, we shifted all resources to Vapor Shark. We were nervous when we transitioned from online to retail. Vape shops were very rare at this point and was a significant risk, but my brother convinced me to do it as I was the more hesitant one. Needless to say, I’m glad that we did. The first year was pretty rocky, but with the help of advertising and increased vaping popularity, it really took off in a big way and it’s been a wild and amazing ride ever since.
VM: Over the years, Vapor Shark has expanded into a variety of areas aside from stores and manufacturing. Did I see you've added a co-packing operation?
BL: Over the years we’ve built a stellar lab with great scientific leadership and personnel. A couple of years ago we recognized that there would be a big need for co-packing services in the near future and more and more as regulations go into effect. Since we already had a lab capable of much more production we decided to start selling our services so that e-liquid brands could benefit, and at a fair price. We typically work as just a co-packer but we also develop, brand, handle compliance and distribute products from scratch as well. This has been stifled by regulation since new products can’t be released but our co-packing business is growing very fast. No other company that I know of provides product design, manufacturing, branding services, distribution and regulatory compliance assistance along with the ISO quality standard. Our goal is to provide all of the services that any eliquid manufacturer would need under one roof and at a fair price. VM: Vapor Shark was among, if not the, first company
to release diacetyl, diketone content in the e-liquids you carry. Why did you decide that was what Vapor Shark should do? Was there any backlash from manufacturers?
VAPEMZ.COM
21
BL: There was some backlash and especially when we
first did it. Mainly from our suppliers, of which many had to reformulate. However, over time it was recognized as being a good thing for the industry. We never said how much DA or AP was bad, we simply made the raw data available and did so at a great cost to us. We had been displaying results for our liquids for at least six months when we launched all third party product reports. We wrestled with how to be transparent and minimize damage to our partners but change always come with some pain and we did the best we could. We didn’t send out a press release, email or publicize in any way because we weren’t looking for recognition, we just wanted to be transparent on something that at that point should have already been available. Our goal was to, in a small way, help to increase the amount of information available to consumers who are interested in a little more detail as to what they are inhaling. The same way food products contain calories, carbs or “may contain nuts” Showing regulators that we have the ability to self-regulate and prioritize transparency over profits was a good thing for regulators to see during our regulatory process. Not everyone reads ingredients labels, but the information is there if you want it. However, my company still receives e-liquid samples for distribution every day that don’t have lab reports or contain child resistant caps, batch numbers or an ingredients label. That still blows my mind and it’s companies like these which do the most damage to everyone else who is doing their best to put the customer first and make a great product with as little federal oversight as possible.
VM: Decisions like that and being at the cutting edge
of chip technology have been at the forefront of your business. Do you think that transparency has played a role in the company's success?
BL: Yes, transparency and freedom of information is and will always be very important to us. There is so much misinformation and foreign entities who will say
anything to make a sale. This is why I think reasonable regulation is a good thing in order to ensure good product stewardship and responsible advertising. I recently saw an ad for a company who said their e-liquid was made with FDA approved flavors. Yes, they are approved for food, not vaping. No flavor has been approved for use in electronic cigarettes. I hate seeing that type of manipulation. We currently provide DA/ AP lab results for everything we sell and the products are re-tested a few times a year. Can a battery really live up to it’s marketing specs? We do our own in-house testing and reporting on all of the batteries we sell and provide reports to better equip customers with the right information. We are working on providing similar reports like this for all of the hardware products we sell as well. Reports like this won’t be necessary a couple of years down the line as we become regulated, but for now it’s a nice touch.
VM:
I know the company has expanded into numerous new endeavors, but do you still have part of your core team working with you on day-to-day operations?
BL:
Yes, we all work together. All areas of the business operate under the same roof at our corporate office.
VM:
Where do you see Vapor Shark in a year? Five years?
BL: I was hoping that regulations would have an easier path to compliance and I honestly thought this would be the case. Unfortunately, I was wrong about that. With this in mind, I expect our biggest growth area to be co-packing along with the related services of FDA and TPD compliance services, sales and distribution as new product creation will slow to a crawl due to regulation. Regulation, although necessary is already stifling innovation and will continue to do so. Innovation that could make vaping better and safer for everyone is now really in the hands of the least innovative group of companies, Big Tobacco. Innovation in our industry has mainly come from small companies, not the big ones as you would expect. I believe this will change over time but will dramatically reduce the speed of progress. I wish we could continue business as usual but the landscape has changed and we have been regulated into partial paralysis. However, we are going to keep fighting and doing our best. Corey Noles is the Editor in Chief of VAPE Magazine. He is also the owner of Busted Knuckle Vapor Fluids and Inked Up E-Liquid Co. Reach him at corey@vapemz.com.
22
#VAPEMAGAZINE
columns
Through the Eyes of a
Cancer Patient By Lucile Duke
24
#VAPEMAGAZINE
COLUMNS We’ve all seen the documentaries on television about CBD and what it does for people. We’ve all heard the stories of CBD changing and saving the lives of not only adults, but children as well. I’m sure we all have the same question though. Does it really work? I can’t speak for everyone, but I can certainly tell you what it’s done for me. It gave me a second chance to enjoy my life. I want to make something very clear before I get much further, I am an average person dealing with very common health issues just like every other person in America. I chose CBD as part of my treatment because things in my life had built up to a point where I felt helpless and out of control. I felt like my doctor had given up on me and that I had nothing else left to try. I wanted desperately to take back control of my life and my doctor and I couldn’t agree on treatment plans, so I chose my own, as well as finding another doctor. I am not advising anyone else to do what I have done, I am simply telling you what worked for me. With that, I want to share what CBD has done to change my life. My issues started with anxiety and depression when I was a teenager. It’s always been difficult being in public or going to new places, meeting new people scares me to death, and the idea of driving in traffic makes me sick. When I was in high school, I was always the quiet one. I prayed that I wouldn’t be called on in class, and when I did, it felt like I would lose my lunch. I didn’t understand why I had these feelings or why I couldn’t function like other “normal” kids? I didn’t know why it was so easy for everyone else to do simple tasks like reading in front of classmates or driving to meet a friends at the movie theater alone. Why was it so difficult for me to verbalize the way I felt, even to my closest loved ones? The anxiety I felt about being different only fueled my depression, sending me into a cycle of hating myself and isolating myself that I couldn’t break free from. When I turned 18, I discovered drugs and alcohol and for the next 13 years I hid behind some form of intoxication to suppress my anxiety and to block out my depression. In 2015 I cleaned up, left my abusive husband, and moved halfway across the country to live with my parents. I thought being sober would be easy, and it was, until I had to suffer through my anxiety without drinking myself to sleep. All the feelings from my childhood came flooding back, the nausea, the shaking, the paranoia, I couldn’t get myself together and ended up building walls around myself to hide my suffering. I got so good at covering up my anxiety, that I’m pretty sure none of my friends and family know how bad it really was for me. During all of this, other physical health problems came up that added to my stress. Last year an x-ray revealed that
VAPEMZ.COM
25
I have a severely deteriorated disk in my lower back, causing the almost constant pain I have been feeling, and six months ago, a test showed that I have cervical cancer.
lay there and stretch out before I moved. There was no struggle to walk down stairs and make a cup of coffee. For the first time in almost two years, I didn’t wake up because of my back pain!
With these two things, I felt like my life was over. I spent countless nights in a hole of dark emotions that I couldn’t get my heart out of. I tried the depression medication my doctor prescribed, I tried the pain pills she told me to take, I even started meditating and practicing yoga, all in an effort to make some kind of progress towards feeling better emotionally and physically.
With all of this excitement, I decided on the second night, not to take my pain medication before bed. I knew what I would wake up to, excruciating pain and most likely tears. Just as I expected, I woke up at 5 A.M. barely able to move, and crying out every time I did because of the pain. I made it to my couch and vaped the CBD oil for the first time. Again, I was left completely shocked. After about five hits, my pain almost went away completely.
The day that I found out I would need another surgery, was the most emotional day of my life.
Over the next few months, I kept up with my normal routine of medications as well as the CBD oil. I vaped it when I had anxiety attacks or when I knew I would be in a place that would normally trigger an attack and I put the oil under my tongue every night before bed. Overall, I feel that CBD has helped my depression and my anxiety and I know that it has dramatically decreased my daily pain levels.
At first I didn’t feel anything, it wasn’t until about halfway through the day at work until it finally sank in and I couldn’t hold back the tears anymore. I felt like I was literally falling apart, mind and body. I ended up having an exhausting panic attack, having a friend drive me home from work, and sleeping for hours.
I am not saying that it was the CBD oil on its own, I still take my daily medications, that include antidepressants, anti-anxiety, and pain medications. I believe that this addition to my routine has made all the difference in how I feel on a daily basis, though.
A few days later, I ran into a friend that told me about the new studies that were being done for anxiety and depression with CBD oil, it sounded like it was actually helping people. He also gave me a bottle of the oil and asked me to try it. With tears and a hug I drove home with hope in my heart for the first time in weeks.
I want to say once more, I am not advising anyone give up on their doctor’s recommendations for treatments. I am only telling you what worked for me. It was CBD oil that changed my life for the better and nothing will change my mind on that.
I was extremely skeptical at first. I couldn’t quite understand how something so simple could help me when so many doctors had been unable to. I put all my skepticism aside and put some of the CBD oil under my tongue and went to bed, not expecting anything to happen. When I woke up, I couldn’t believe it. I was able to get out of bed with ease, I didn’t have to
26
I truly hope that this will not only open the eyes of nonbelievers, but give someone out there some hope that there is still help for them, even from the most unlikely source.
#VAPEMAGAZINE
THE FIRST CENTRAL AND SOUTH AMERICAN
VAPE EXPO AUGUST 31ST - SEPTEMBER 2ND MEDELLIN, COLOMBIA
Network, Discover, and Promote your products in one of the biggest emerging markets for E-Liquid, Vape Hardware and other vapor products. Learn about the hottest eJuice brands, Mods, Tanks and more from companies across the world.
GET IN TOUCH
+1-631-777-3455 info@vapesouthamerica.com www.vapesouthamerica.com
Silver Sponsors
Of�cial Media Sponsor
DEPARTMENTS
Let’s
Ask By Nick Green Photo by Metal Jeff
Hey Grimm, I keep seeing RDTA’s everywhere and it confuses me a bit. Are these really any different from the RBAs we used years ago? A longtime fan! Jeff Schwartz Queens, NY Hey Jeff! So they both are and aren’t the same as the RBAs we used years ago. Back then they were called “genesis” tanks. Now some “Genesis” tanks still exist, but the modern RDTAs are designed to be built using cotton and the deck is more of an RDA ( Dripper ) style deck. Modern RDTAs are designed to have a dripper-type experience (high wattage, big clouds, good flavor), but without the hassle of actually dripping. Hi Nick, Given how much hardware has changed over the past few years, where do you see hardware in five years? That is, assuming the government doesn’t end it all… Thanks, Braden Miller Salt Lake City, UT Hey Braden! That is a really tough question to answer. While I might not be able to predict how vapor products are going to be in 5 years, I can certainly tell you what I would like to see. I would love to see devices that are easier to use. I want everyone everywhere to be able to use these devices effectively.
Grimm, Do you still enjoy going to shows? I saw you at Vape Showcase Atlanta and it seemed kind of overwhelming. Do the crowds at those shows take the fun out of it for you? Sincerely, Rod Jackson Athens, GA Hey Rod! I absolutely do love attending shows still. Few things make me happier than getting to meet and shake hands with the vapers that support me in what I do. I dig seeing new mods and tasting new juices as well. As more time goes on, vape meets for me become less about the meet, and more about the people I get to spend time with at that event. I’ve made lifelong friends just through meeting them at an event.
While WE might enjoy building our own coils and determining the TCR value of certain wire combinations, the new vaper should be able to pick up a device, have an amazing device and not have to worry about the custom TCR value of their wires.
28
#VAPEMAGAZINE
E-LIQUID CRAFTED IN TENNESSEE
www.moonshineeliquid.com sales@moonshineeliquid.com
#MOONSHINELIQUID
from the
What’s Tech Got to Do with It? By Susan E. Oser I have never been a techie-type person, nor do I claim to be when it comes to vaping. I kind of leave that to the experts. I’m just your average vaper. I know the safety basics and sometimes when I hear about vape tech (or the details of it), my brain just feels like melting. If I know what to do and what not to, I’m ok. Some people may need to be patient with me as well as with you, the reader, if I get confused or ask a lot of questions. However, at the end of the day, I’m making sure I’m learning from someone who can teach me what I need and should know. My boyfriend is more techie than I am with vaping and likes to tinker a little bit. In fact, I’ve found that people like my boyfriend who do the tinkering also happen to be the big mechanical, techie types. Sometimes I think they are just frustrated engineers who didn’t quite make it into the business and this is their way to compensate. They are very detailed-oriented as well as very methodical. Sometimes I think with vaping you need to be, because as I heard recently from a regular at Vape Escape Westland, vaping is more technical than even computer or cell phone tech. Like any industry though, there are those techies who “think they know better” and “believe they can do no wrong.” These are the same people who not only listen to commonsense, warnings,
30
#VAPEMAGAZINE
COLUMNS and reason, but also are the ones that have their devices blow up in their face or pants pocket. But you can’t really fault them for that. Sometimes, they give the wrong guidance and teaching, missed a step, or just don’t care or don’t know. I often wonder how many of these people do it for fame because they know their videos will go viral and everyone will freak out. Either way, it still makes the people who do it right look bad. Then, you have those people that love the tech so they can blow clouds or use 200-400 watt devices. Isn’t your mouth going to burn off or aren’t you going to get just a bit overwhelmed with that vape if you’re not careful? Don’t get me wrong, I don’t mind showing off a little bit of vape talent. Some people do make some cool clouds with them vapes and cloud comps can be fun because you get to chat with everyone and get to know people while you are judging the competition. And a contest really should be the only place where clouds should be allowed to be blown. Otherwise, you kind of look like a “blow hard.”
on the activist level and support the right to vape our own e-liquids and other materials. There’s already a prohibition on one side (with the MJ). Now, you want to ensure prohibition with the mere e-cigarette? Think of the logic behind that idea. Both industries should come together to fight for one thing only: to keep the alternatives legal and give society a freedom of choice (with some sensible regulation) to do so. So what am I saying with all this fodder? Simply, that tech is about knowing what you are doing right. It’s about knowing what’s out there, knowing your limits, and of course safety first. If you are a vape shop owner, then of course you need to know all about the new toys. If you are sensible enough to teach your customer how to use it properly and give them the Safety 101 review, you’ll be making your money and you will gain a repeat customer. If you don’t do these things, have fun with a lawsuit (or a trip to the ER if you’re the user).
n addition, if you’re serious about vaping, it’s vital to know about some of the basics of technology, electricity and the ever-important Ohm’s law. Otherwise, just don’t risk trying a vaping device you don’t know about or use much at all.
Before the regulations, the “latest and greatest” devices and tanks were released by companies like hotcakes. It was getting so bad that a lot of us just could not keep up. Frankly, I’m glad it’s slowed down a bit. However, at the time, it became “if you don’t have this device, you’re not in it” mentally. This even happened to me at a vape event not once, but twice and it kind of annoyed me. I’m not interested in the “latest and greatest” shiny that just came out. If I want to buy it I will, it’s my decision. IF you’re someone that’s pressuring me to get one like a drug addict pressuring the new person to try cocaine, I want nothing to do to. Just because I’m not like you doesn’t make me anymore or any less. I’m happy with the devices I got and the juices I have. Thus, if something attracts me, I’ll go out and get it on my own terms, not yours. I’m sure you dear reader can agree with that and understand. These days, the one thing I’m hearing in the circles of tech are the melding of the marijuana and vape industries. There are a lot of vapers I know who really do not like this idea and hate it. In fact, there are some of us out there (and probably you too) who think that because of this melding of two industries, it’s giving more fuel to the ant-vapers fire to ban vaping in the first place. If “weed” is illegal and people are finding ways to vape it legally, then of course, the kids will want to (and probably are) vaping it. It’s also a source of regular frustration for the average Joe Vaper being mistaken as a toker and not a former smoker when they are using the e-cigarette. Vaping devices for both are very similar and do look almost alike. It’s just the materials and functionality that’s a little different.
If you are the average vaper, how do you deal with tech? Are you satisfied with your device? Do you have any thoughts or opinions on some of the topics I’ve brought up? Hit me up with an email at angelwritercreations@ gmail.com. I’d love to hear from you.
My thing is this: I always had the notion that the vaping industry and the MJ community would come together. However, not as two industries combining. For me, it would be better if both industries supported each other
If you want to keep up with me, follow me on Twitter: http://twitter.com/angelwriter78 and if you can, come visit my show on VapeTVLive on Friday nights at 10pm EST at http://www.vapetv.com/vapetvlive.
VAPEMZ.COM
31
Features
DEPARTMENTS
n o i t a l s i g e L l a r e d e F
: d e ? k e l c b i s a n t o t p s A is Re
o h W s Gues Words & Photos by Tony Ottomanelli II
H.R.1136 “The FDA Deeming Authority Clarification Act of 2017” is better known to the vape community as the ColeBishop Bill. Beginning on March 7 through March 17, the Cole-Bishop Act, garnered some much-needed political allies by gathering up 22 co-sponsors for the bill. Rep. Tom Cole (R-OK) introduced this as bipartisan legislation with Sanford Bishop (D-GA) now listed as an original co-sponsor. “The FDA Deeming Authority Clarification Act of 2017” has managed to receive sponsorship from primarily the rightleaning end of the political realm. Out of 23 members of Congress, 21 of the co-sponsors are Republicans, including just two Democrats, Rep. Lacy Clay of Missouri and one of the two members who initially sponsored its introduction, Democrat Sanford Bishop.
32
#VAPEMAGAZINE VAPEMZ.COM
1
DEPARTMENTS Features This bill is modest given the big picture and should be given more support. After all, the original bill introduced by Tom Cole and Sanford Bishop in 2015 ended up gathering 77 cosponsors. We must be reminded of the massively powerful opposition looking to rid the world of vaping, and how it influences much of the public and most of the politicians. Regardless, it has been said by many D.C. insiders that the longer a bill stays in Congress, it usually translates into a death sentence for that bill. We must keep Cole-Bishop alive and well by pushing for our state representatives to support it.
A new application launched this month allows Americans to directly contact their member of Congress who represents their district. This app is known as “Stance.� Users follow 3-step instructions to send a voice recorded message to their congressman from an easily accessible app downloadable on iOS or Android smartphones or tablets. I believe that this could be an effective tool for creating more advocacy among the vape community if you are okay with the message you send being published on the Internet. This is clearly a strategy to help avoid any unstable individuals from leaving threatening messages. Either way, once recorded and published, you can share this message on social media.
VAPEMZ.COM VAPEMZ.COM
33 2
DEPARTMENTS
s d i K E E R F o c c a b o T Campaign for s t c A e p a V i t n A e v i t & Other Manipula o p h s B i e l C o t s n a i g A The Cole-Bishop Act, introduced in Congress, would significantly weaken the FDA’s authority over these newly regulated products and make it much more difficult, if not impossible, for the FDA to remove sweet-flavored products from the market. One bill (H.R.1136) would “grandfather” vapor products, cigars and other newly deemed tobacco products already on the market (those introduced between February 15, 2007, and August 8, 2016) and exempt these products from the crucial FDA review needed to determine their impact on public health. Tobacco companies would also be able to introduce similarly flavored products in the future. In short, this bill would allow existing flavored tobacco products to stay on the market and make it easier for tobacco companies to introduce new ones. In addition to being introduced as stand-alone legislation, such measures have also been added in recent years to the U.S. House appropriations bill that funds the FDA. They could be considered again this year as Congress finalizes appropriations for the rest of Fiscal Year 2017 and considers appropriations bills for the 2018 Fiscal Year. A large coalition on public health and medical groups has repeatedly urged Congress to reject these measures. Given the strong evidence summarized in this report that flavored tobacco products such as vapor products and cigars are influencing a new generation of kids, Congress must reject any proposals to weaken FDA oversight of these products. In fact, the FDA should strengthen its new rule by prohibiting all flavored tobacco products, including menthol. As the FDA, itself has demonstrated and as this report documents, there is more than sufficient scientific evidence to support such a prohibition. Eliminating all flavored tobacco products is a critical step in preventing tobacco
34
companies from addicting another generation of kids and reversing our nation’s progress in the fight against tobacco. Most recently, some of the newest sneaky strategies used by the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids has been calling and writing their state’s representatives, urging them not to support the Cole-Bishop Amendment because a defeat of H.R. 1136 would allow them to move forward with their own agenda to create a flavor ban. Clive Bates confirmed this in an article, by stating, “Predictably, depressingly, the US anti-vaping lobby has mobilized against a new Cole-Bishop Bill, HR 1136 that would hold off near complete destruction of the industry by grossly disproportionate FDA deeming regulation and implement the first steps in a sensible reshaping of American tobacco policy.” Asking a few simple questions could help the vapor movement: Are vaping advocates advocating properly?
#VAPEMAGAZINE VAPEMZ.COM
3
DEPARTMENTS Are we all contacting our state’s legislators, urging them to support the small businesses within the vapor industry, or co-sponsor the Cole-Bishop Amendment? And are we fulfilling the advocacy duty of contacting our state’s legislators to assist the cause? Many have been quoted as saying that calling and writing your state legislators is nothing but a waste of time. I must admit, I certainly agreed with that notion since I had given up all faith in political figures and all they seem to do is simply tell any group exactly what they want to hear. However, it does matter if we communicate with our local politicians because the opposition is doing it on a day-to-day basis, with a relentless army of holy crusaders who feel their views are what’s best for our country. To be anti-vapor is essentially an equivalent to being pro-smoking. Basically, any “anti” group that preaches similar claims is against American freedom. Some could even say they can be defined as anti-harm reduction, anti-civil liberties, anti-education, anti-constitutional rights, anti-innovation, anti-social progress, anti-capitalism, anti-small business, anti-entrepreneur, anti-freedom, anti-consumer rights, anti-public health and so on.
Most importantly, they don’t even realize just how anti-American they truly are. Creating policies based on these hate group agendas essentially prevents an industry from operating, eliminates jobs, businesses, and rights. Why would you want to be a part of something that literally defines the opposite of being American? These harbingers of falsehoods must be defeated at their own game of forcing their views upon the entire nation. If they really cared about America’s children, they’d pick another area to focus on, perhaps poverty or more significantly, teaching their own children the difference between fact and fiction. If antivape groups want to spread lies about vapers, perhaps vapers should focus on relentlessly sharing the truth about them. As a former smoker myself, I never thought I would be urging people to do such things, but that’s how much vapor products have impacted my life in a positive way. I have been smoke free for over three years; and have become more familiar with how local politics work. Vaping may not be 110% risk-free, but why not speak more candidly, because in all honestly, nothing in this world is risk-free when we are surrounded by ubiquitous uncertainty.
VAPEMZ.COM VAPEMZ.COM
35 4
DEPARTMENTS
Why Your Vape Shop Should Consider Carrying CBD.
Or Not…
C B D 36
By Norm Bour
Just the initials CBD elicits confusion or fear in the minds of many vape shop owners. “That’s illegal; a ‘schedule one’ drug,” some recite, which would put CBD in the same Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) category as marijuana, heroin, and morphine.
#VAPEMAGAZINE
DEPARTMENTS No wonder they quake in fear, but there is a problem here. It’s not true. In December, 2016, the DEA recommended that CBD, an acronym for Cannabidiol, be reclassified as a schedule one drug. The truth is, the DEA does not have that power, but mainstream media licked up the comment like an overflowing beer keg.
The battle between states’ will and Federal law is a touchy one. An amendment called Rohrabacher-Farr prohibits the Fed from interfering with state medical marijuana policy and so far CBD was protected under that same umbrella. Since 2001 the DEA has been prohibited from making any regulatory changes without Congressional approval.
Speakeasy carries CBD in liquid and pill form and recommend their customers take it orally rather than vaporizing. CBD is not a big percentage of sales, but is an adjunct and designed to fill in the gap in unpredictable vaping sales.
Sean Reynosa, manager at Speakeasy Vaporium in Amelia Island, Florida, has been carrying CBD since they opened in 2015. They also just finished their best two months in a row in February and March.
Terrence Pounds owns two retail vape shops, one in Toledo, Ohio and one in Michigan. Last year he formed a CBD company to supply his own shop as well as other vape retailers. When asked his motivation he candidly replied, “The deeming regulations scared the crap out of me! I knew I had to diversify and since I offered CBD products already I decided to develop my own line and save money. I flew to Colorado and found a great supplier and even though our CBD volume is small I know it will be bigger in the future.”
“We’ve been carrying CBD since the earliest days,” says Reynosa. “Some people come in specifically looking for CBD products and some are current vape users that have heard good things about the product.”
“I have a team of telemarketers and their job is to help other shops diversity as well.”
But paranoia is contagious and no one wants to wear a bull’s eye on their back. In past articles, I have spoken about the Collision of Worlds, which references the new deeming laws and how tobacco and vape are now categorized as the same. Whether we get along and wish to do business in each other’s camps is a personal choice, but circling around the outside orbit of these colliding worlds, is CBD. It’s not pot, it’s not tobacco or vape, but has commonalities to both, since it is derived from hemp and many similar vaporizer devices are used.
What the Shops Say…
“Customers have been using it for anxiety, for headaches and even for their pets,” he said. For older pets in pain or nearing death it has been very popular.”
I asked if those shops were open to carrying the products and Pounds shared that there was still confusion and fear
VAPEMZ.COM
37
It’s called PK>FWD and per their press release, “focuses on curating and distributing top-selling alternative smoking accessories for the forward-thinking retailer.”
out there. “Many still believe it to be illegal so are shying away. And others are so stubborn about selling just vaping products that their minds are closed.” Joe Bradley owns “The Bradley Brand” in Arizona and has been an early manufacturer of CBD products and sells about 15 privately labeled products to wholesalers who in turn distribute to retailers.
Among their product mix, they carry Formula420, PAX, Greenhouse, Chong’s Choice, Raw, Prima, Cornerstone Class, GRAV Labs, and White Rhino, plus the more mundane rolling papers, grinders and storage products. They also created and branded their own glassware line, one of the most profitable products to carry.
“Most of our end users are smoke shops and I think vape shops are missing out if they don’t offer CBD products,” Bradley said. “The writing on the wall cries ‘sustainability’ and right now the stigma of nicotine is worse than that of cannabis.” “It has been scientifically and clearly proven that CBD is a beneficial product,” he concluded. “You can’t say that about nicotine…” “Most get into this business to help people stop smoking, but if they aren’t profitable they won’t help anyone, including themselves. New alternative products are the future in my opinion.
And I think he’s right. Even the “big boys” are looking into the “alternative” products. Phillips & King, one of the largest wholesalers of vaping and tobacco products in the country, recently launched a new division to supply that market.
38
This division serves headshops and smoke shops that also carry glassware and similar products. But they also want to be a catalyst towards getting shops into these product lines. Is it self-serving? Of course, but everyone wins and profits.
The Conclusions? If you are a retailer and concerned about putting all your eggs into one basket, then it’s smart to diversify. If you think the marijuana train will be bigger and pick up steam, then it makes sense to carry alternative products. And if you believe you can continue doing things the same way as you have the past few years, then you are in a mess of trouble.
#VAPEMAGAZINE
WARNING: This product contains nicotine. Nicotine is an addictive chemical.
SUse code Spring20 for 20% off your entire purchase. EXP 7/01/2017.
$19.99 100mls + Free Shipping USA (Available in select countries Worldwide) whitelabeljuiceco
whitelabeljuiceco
whitelabeljuice
whitelabeljuiceco.com
Wholesale info: Sales@whitelabeljuiceco.com (760-842-5747)
Features
By Todd Richard
40
#VAPEMAGAZINE
Features The Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) has continued to tighten their grip on popular substances. Cannabidiol (CBD) has been brought back to the forefront of popular culture due to a recent re-classification of all “marijuana extracts” by the DEA as a Schedule 1 Drug. Public knowledge on the subject of CBD has ran through the table of conjecture and hearsay, leading to misinformation and confusion. Since VAPE Magazine has yet to cover CBD and all of its controversy, let’s cover our bases before we move forward. Though CBD is mostly derived from hemp, a type of cannabis specifically bred to minimize the amounts of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the DEA has yet to recognize a difference between the two strain, which are both considered to be marijuana. THC is the part of the plant that has “psychoactive” or mind altering effects, CBD on the other hand does not have any of these effects and can counterbalance the psychoactive effects of THC. So, if you swap dried hemp with “Granny's Tea” she will notice! Why should the DEA regulate CBD, and why consider it a drug if it has no mind altering effects? We've all heard of medical marijuana use, but not all of us have heard or read about the specifics. Typically, when talking about the benefits of medical marijuana, we're talking about CBD rather than THC. THC has a few medicinal benefits, but nothing compared to CBD. CBD has been extensively studied in all parts of the world for a wide application of medical uses. Scientifically supported uses of CBD for health benefits consist of, but are not limited to ailments, which include: Some types of cancer, bone density, seizures, epilepsy, anxiety, depression, nausea, appetite, sleep, addiction, multiple sclerosis, and so on. There are varying effectiveness levels to the application of CBD relative to the disease/disorder, however CBD does aid in some fashion or another. Overall, even if CBD were only minutely effective in treating any of these disorders, something that is proven to help is always better than nothing. Regulating such a substance, as it isn't harmful seems peculiar, but it does make sense. People attempting to transport THC based narcotics into the country could certainly pass it off as CBD since they usually smell the same. The plant itself is regulated, even if we'd like to point out differences it still comes from the same plant species. Of course, every conspiracy theorist wants to shout Big Pharma! But this isn't that type of article. The possibilities of CBD are looking bright, and though we might not completely understand the “why” of what makes it work, we do understand the “how.” To simplify, the body already has a natural way to re-
ceive and utilize the substance, it's built into our neurological system, our cellular structures, and even our central nervous system. This isn't a new or estranged substance to the body, like the old milk ads, “It does the body good.” According to ProjectCBD.org the “how” it benefits may be relative to a particular set of receptors in our brain (5-HTA1 for example) that affects our serotonin and melatonin production. More direct information may be found at projectCBD.org/ how-cbd-works. The benefits to the body are profound, and are ingested naturally. It may be that this is the superfood we've been looking for, and if so I'll be happy to throw out all the tasteless health foods I've grown to hate over the years. CBD could be something our bodies were accustomed to ingesting that we don't have available anymore, that special something missing from your paleo-diet. Whatever it is, it's working, and it's helping people today with serious issues. I think we can blame reclassification of CBD on misconceptions and biases that have existed since the 1940's. This is something that has been proven to aid others with none of the additional mind-numbing effects we've come to expect from traditional pharmacy medications. Luckily, for us, the DEA still is required to operate under the Justice Department and as such can't interfere with any state laws.
Though mostly
CBD is
derived
from hemp, a type of
cannabis
specifically bred to minimize the
tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), amounts of
the DEA has yet to recognize a dif-
between the two strain,
ference
which are both
considered to be marijuana.
VAPEMZ.COM
41
Having brought to light the benefits to CBD, and that we won’t get arrested for having it, let’s avoid getting blindsided to what it does and doesn't do. The way science tends to express itself has led people to be confused as to what it actually does. It is NOT a cure for everything. Scientifically speaking, it does not permanently fix any one disease in a direct way.
https://cannabisnow.com/hemp-cbd-unaffecteddea-rescheduling-panic/
I'm not putting it down, it's very effective when you're looking to assist with certain ailments and improve overall body function. However, the sooner we get away from looking at CBD as a cure and seeing it as a health supporting product the better.
University of St George's London. "Cannabis extract can have dramatic effect on brain cancer, says new research." ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 14 November 2014. <www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/11/141114085629.htm>
The common consensus on CBD is that it will get you high, cure cancer, and fix all that ails you. The guy at your local herb shop that told you that was either looking to make a quick buck or isn't mentally inhabiting this planet. Yes, there are huge benefits to CBD, but don't look at it like it’s a cure-all, look at it like you would be eating better or being more active.
American Friends of Tel Aviv University. "No bones about it: Cannabis may be used to treat fractures: Tel Aviv University researcher finds non-psychotropic compound in marijuana can help heal bone fissures." ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 16 July 2015. <www. sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/07/150716124359. htm>
You know it's good for you, and you should probably do it. It might not cure everything, but it helps the body in a million little ways that adds up to a better whole. If you're health conscious and want a little extra something for your body and mind, CBD might just be the way to go.
Stony Brook University. "How CBD, a component in marijuana, works within cells." ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 11 February 2015. <www.sciencedaily. com/releases/2015/02/150211140914.htm>
American Epilepsy Society (AES). "Patient use of cannabis in epilepsy." ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 8 December 2014. <www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/12/141208144146.htm>.
Stony Brook University. "How CBD, a component in marijuana, works within cells." ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 11 February 2015. <www.sciencedaily. com/releases/2015/02/150211140914.htm> https://www.projectcbd.org/about-project-cbd https://www.projectcbd.org/how-cbd-works http://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/mary-biles1/cbdthe-myths-and-facts_b_14103666.html
42
#VAPEMAGAZINE
Features
Additives By Lavender Lee
Going natural is everywhere: from gardening, to food, to makeup, to hair care and it is clearly here to stay. There are natural additives in vape products to choose from, too. Additives allow the benefits needed without the unwanted side effects from things like nicotine, caffeine, sleep aides, vitamins, and energy drinks. 44
#VAPEMAGAZINE
Features
Are additives a sign of the future for vaping? Billy Vernetti, co-founder and COO of Elixir Distribution Company LLC says, “We don’t use caffeine or melatonin specifically, but we use several other herbs and vitamins. Alterna is our botanical nicotine alternative. Alterna is 100% certified organic, non GMO, vegan, gluten free, and non-toxic.” “Nicotine will spell the death of our industry. Not many companies are going to survive the process. Big Tobacco needs vaping in order to survive. There are two kinds of customers: ones who quit and ones who die,” Vernetti says. Vernetti believes that once the regulations take effect, “the survivors will be easy pickings for the Big Tobacco companies.” “That’s their evil plan,” continues Vernetti. “Then once they effectively dominate vaping, the chemicals will surely return—unless we as an industry, find something better to use.” “The entire scope of the FDA deeming regs is nicotine.” adds Vernetti. Alterna is a botanical nicotine alternative with a proprietary blend of botanical extracts, which include green tea, yerba mate, St. John’s Wort, passion flower, burdock root, vegetable glycerin and deionized water. Combined, these alternatives deliver a full spectrum of support for moving away from nicotine while continuing to enjoy vaping. Vernetti lays claim that Alterna can be used as means of fighting anxiety, curbing appetite and helping with the detoxification process. The cofounder also states that “Alterna will help companies avoid the PMTA, TPE, BOE, FDA, state and federal taxes, pretty much everything associated with tobacco.” “It will...save the vape industry. We are asking juice companies to at least give us a try. It would mean they could continue manufacturing e-liquid unimpeded by the FDA tobacco regs,“ Vernetti says. “The well-studied effects delivered by the herbal extracts we choose are documented in the pharmacopeia of Botanical ingredients and have been studied for thousands of years in both ancient and modern medical practices.” VAPEMZ.COM
45
“We are completely different than tobacco free nicotine (TFN) in every way.” cautions Billy Vernetti.“We use valerian instead of melatonin and yerba mate instead of caffeine. We have an MD and a licensed herbalist on our staff.” Brad Ridenour, CEO of High Voltage Vapor says, “Not many people are doing this and we’ve been going strong for four years. Some of our e-juice blends contain caffeine and B12. Our line really kills two birds with one stone by getting your energy and vape all in one source. Ridenour says that his client demographic falls between the ages of 18 to 30 years of age, and that most shops that wholesale High Voltage are near military bases, colleges and truck stops. “Our customers are looking for more than just nicotine, because they’ve been down to 3mg of nicotine and are left with just flavor,” Ridenour said. “For them, it isn’t enough. They need energy in this fast-paced society we live in. “ Adding, “As far as caffeine goes, customers who’ve never tried the caffeinated High Voltage flavors always ask about the effects.”
46
#VAPEMAGAZINE
Those effects Ridenour says “will not make them too wired, but will give them the little boost they need.” High Voltage also has melatonin infused e-liquids – Unplugged and Lights Out. Melatonin is a natural sleep aide that is found in our brains and the same chemical is what causes babies to sleep a lot. Brad adds, “Melatonin doesn’t knock you out, per say, but it does help bring on sleep. Unplugged and Lights Out are most effective at 0mg or 3mg nicotine strengths.” Tom Kiklas, Founder of Pure Energy LLC adds, “We have spent years in development of this patented, nicotine-free, caffeinated e-liquid that will effectively deliver the same energy boost, as say, a Red Bull or Monster energy drink in e-liquid form. We have successfully done this and are in our soft launch now.” Maybe additives are not just the future of vaping, but could possibly change other industries, as well? Time will tell, but it sure sounds promising.
VAPEMZ.COM
47
Features
Richard Broke A vision, and one giant heaping cup of sarcasm In a world that we are more disconnected than ever before, Richard Broke, founder of Broke Dick E-Liquids, was sick of paying too much for e-liquid. Who do you really think pays for those Lamborghinis and beach houses? YOU. Broke just felt like the hard working blue collar guy had been left behind. As tanks improved and began using more juice, the price stayed the same. “I just thought we could do it better,” Broke said. The plan was to use today’s social media technology — Facebook, Twitter, Instagram — to connect bearded, tattooed, working class vapors together. As vapers, Dick knew he couldn’t cut corners on quality, but he could limit the number of flavors to keep production costs down. Then with some creative thinking, he made a deal with a top manufacturer to rent their facility and some of their top guys (tattooed working class vapors) a handful of Saturdays per
48
year when they were idle to trim costs. He knew he had to stay laser focused on his targeted market. If you try to make everyone happy, you end up making noone happy. He wanted to be edgy, bold and just a straight up smart ass. This strategy, he believed, would give like minded, hard working guys like himself a place to connect. He wanted guys who understand juice names like: The 1st, The 15th, Cash Advance, Prepaid, Payday and WaterCup. He wanted guys that get a Broke Dick joke of the day and then tell one of their own. In another cost saving measure, Dick decided not to include screw caps. But for us working class vapors using unicorn bottles or already have a screw cap, it just made sense to save the money. Love it or hate it, they tell more people and we just keep growing our story. So if not including a screw cap, not being politically correct, or keeping score in a little league game offends some of you snow flakes, then Broke Dick is definitely not the company for you.
#VAPEMAGAZINE
VAPEMZ.COM
49
Features
Full Spectrum:
CBD Industry Gains Momentum
50
#VAPEMAGAZINE
By Tony Ottomanelli II
Though widely unknown, a specialized group of individuals, many of whom have ties to manufacturing e-liquids still hold aspirations of reaching greater business expansion. Others have ties to the success of the marijuana movement revealing the potential medical treatments and approving certain state voting ballots to allow the citizens to vote on whether they would legalize cannabis, either recreationally or strictly for medical access.
Features These two industries are now expanding the benefits of CBD to the point of launching some of the most effective products on the market, becoming recognizable on an international level for some of the smaller businesses who made the transition. As a result, the question then becomes: Does the quality of the product largely depend on whether the retailer is from a state where marijuana is legalized? Many will say it does not matter. Many will admit that there is a vast distinction, due to the undeniable effects of a highly-concentrated THC derived from the cannabis plant and the synergistic effects between cannabinoids. What does that mean? Well, read along, get your vape on and learn from some new ideas that will change the future as we essentially know nothing of what is to come down the road.
CBD Defined “What is CBD?” This short worded question could essentially become a very detailed and lengthy explanation. However the short answer is that CBD is one of the top two compounds found in cannabis. While THC is the dominant compound, CBD is perhaps the “Responsible Older Sibling” due to its non-psychoactive effects that can also be derived from industrial hemp in states as well as marijuana plants CBD-usage is rising as a therapeutic treatment for a wide range of diagnosed conditions, such as: PTSD, Multiple Sclerosis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Epilepsy, Chronic Pain, Diabetes Cancer, Schizophrenia, Crohn’s Disease, Anxiety, Cardiovascular Disease, Antibiotic-Resistant Infections and more. However, there are two sides to every coin. There’s CBD that comes from industrial hemp if the seller is in a state where there is no legalized medical or recreational marijuana, yet
in the states where marijuana is legal for medical and/or recreational consumption the CBD is typically derived from the cannabis plant. When you learn that something is non psychoactive, it means that it will not get you “high” or “stoned”, it is not intoxicating to the user-especially among all of the cannabinoid compounds currently found in scientific biomedical research of medical marijuana and now the billion dollar industry’s most coveted sector of legalization over the past few years throughout the United Statesthe recreational sector, which is entirely operational in Colorado, Washington, Oregon, and soon-to-be fully operational in Alaska, California, Massachusetts, Maine and even Washington D.C.
Gene Shaffran from 4 Cogs CBD based in Alabama tells me, “We make a CBD vape/tincture and a CBD balm. Our products are made from imported industrial hemp. We do not do retail sales we do wholesale only at the moment.” Gene also tells me how and why they got started in the industry that I’ve heard from a number of other CBD business professionals, which could be referred to as, a closely-connected emotional experience. “We started making the CBD for my dad, he took a lot of pain meds and meds for stress and anxiety,” Shaffran said. In Missouri, Kevin Lacey from Pinnacle CBD also shared a compelling testimonial about how he became involved with the CBD Industry. Also, currently running his e-liquid brand through Pinnacle Distributions, began researching a
VAPEMZ.COM
51
Perhaps many simply assume whether “nicotine or marijuana - is all the same” - I’ve certainly heard such arguments actually used by people on a regular basis. Of course, one might initially assume that nicotine and THC consumers who vaporize THC Concentrate or dry herb shared common ground already with actual vaping devices. Very different circumstances yet also there is some truth. Vaporizing is, after all, a method used to avoid the harmful procedure of combustion. CBD is a very unique compound. Many people doubt claims that its healing properties are so miraculous, but CBD is the number one studied and most researched cannabinoid out of 85 different cannabinoids found in the plant itself. One after the other, research study or scientific experiment in biomedical research all play a role in determining the effects from CBD,but the point is, studies have been proven scientifically to show clear evidence that there are indeed therapeutic properties capable of any number of health benefits.
lot about it after jumping into the industry as soon as Kevin realized it was a possibility for treating his young daughter who has epilepsy. From my research and interviews with industry professionals who manufacture or sell CBD products, it was obvious that anyone who gives or benefits from a deeply emotional connection, such as caring for loved ones, as a primary motivator to establish a business, ultimately applying their passion to their careers will always develop quality products.
That may seem like a given certainty, but it also helps reveal certain honest qualities in the business owners. Their ambitious disposition says much about their character. They’re passionate, caring, detailed, patient, loving, helpful, effective, compassionate and productive people. Aren’t those good qualities for companies to have and are they not representations of ourselves? Is CBD the common ground or the midpoint where the vape community meets the marijuana community? Or is it a barrier between the nicotine vapers and marijuana vapers? Well, first, to suggest a parallel barrier creating divisiveness is unrealistic, primarily because many people belong to both communities. There is no line drawn in the sand. Or is there?
52
Since CBD is the most studied of all the cannabinoid compounds in cannabis that is studied the most and the results prove its efficiency, as most studies reveal that CBD works best when it is working alongside other cannabinoids and it doesn’t necessarily have to be THC. Regardless, CBD also affects the way you may feel from the THC compound, which primarily attaches itself to the brain receptors and CBD finds receptors in your body, thus categorizing it as a non-psychoactive compound.
Types of CBD: Full Spectrum vs. Isolate This brings us to taking a closer look at the two most available, popular and easily distinguishable CBD products, which are either CBD in the “Full Spectrum” or CBD as an “Isolate.” First, for the most simplistic explanation, CBD isolate is solely CBD aka Cannabidiol purely on its own and derived from industrial hemp, while “Full Spectrum” CBD is when the compound works with a number of other different cannabinoid components included in the product, such as natural Terpenes, CBC and CBN. Extensive preclinical research and some clinical studies have shown that CBD has strong anti-oxidant, antiinflammatory, anti-convulsant, anti-depressant, antipsychotic, anti-tumoral, and neuroprotective qualities. Cannabidiol can change gene expression and remove beta amyloid plaque, the hallmark of Alzheimer’s, from brain cells. Which is better? Seems to be much more difficult question then most probably anticipated because everyone’s body is different so perhaps one person’s body reacts much better to just pure CBD while another person may have a better
#VAPEMAGAZINE
reaction to the full spectrum of cannabinoids working together. It seems almost as if the majority believe “full spectrum” is the way to go and they give very logical explanations as to why, but there are also some industry professionals and experts who prefer CBD isolate.
to the world as it grows more and more popular each day. Therefore, it has attracted many skeptics, doubters and deniers. However, once more, similar to the vapor industry, CBD is helping millions of people benefit from the medical properties.
So, perhaps the answer is not as difficult as we thought. Which is better? Perhaps, It all depends on you. I’m going to say that it most definitely depends on you, as it all depends on how your physiology responds to particular cannabinoids. “I personally don’t like isolates, I do not get the same benefits from them as I do full spectrum,” says Shaffran.
CBD will eventually become more universally known, the similarities to conventional vaping will be revealed. Right now, investors in cannabis have their eye on vaping and CBD, which can certainly be consumed as a vaporized substance - using tinctures and applying it as a topical ointment are the other more popular ways to use CBD.
From research extending all the way to Jerusalem, a study concluded that Full Spectrum CBD is by far more effective for alleviating inflammation and pain sensation than its isolate CBD counterpart, but that is merely one study on how health benefits could be provided by CBD as a therapeutic relief. There are hundreds more. For the most part, all the studies make similar conclusions about full spectrum being far more effective. Kevin from Pinnacle CBD agrees 100% with the study from Jerusalem. Ryan Hindes from CBDfx, states, “We definitely encourage all of our customers to do their research before buying any CBD from one of the many brands available on the market.” He continues, “A lot of companies are using isolate because it is cheap and easy to work with. Research suggests that isolate is not nearly as effective as full spectrum oil, so even though it costs less per milligram of CBD, isolate may end up being more expensive in the long run because of the limited efficacy.” Much like how the vapor industry started out, the CBD market also is currently unregulated during it’s introduction
Full Spectrum vs. Isolate: Industry Professional Insight The 4 Cog CBD business owner, confirms, “Isolate CBD is just CBD where most of the other compounds have been removed. Full spectrum CBD contains more of the other organic compounds found in the plant.” Kevin Lacey from Pinnacle CBD, explains, “The vaping community, needs to realize that if you have a great tasting e-liquid and merely sprinkle some isolate CBD crystals into it, then you don’t necessarily have a quality or effective CBD product.” Mr. Lacey proceeds to explain, “With Full Spectrum versus Isolate, I don’t see it as a debate, but more of a lack of consumer knowledge. People do not understand that combining more of the components together, this provides a much better likelihood to feel the therapeutic relief. Adding, “CBD works well for relieving pain, but also
VAPEMZ.COM
53
the cannabinoid CBC works well for pain so when all these cannabinoids are engaged in an entourage effect synergizing together to cause more effective results. When you isolate a compound you are depriving the therapeutic capabilities. When you try to combat something with one component, it’s not going to be nearly as effective as a combination of five or six cannabinoid compounds.” Ryan Hindes, mentions, “We started out in the e-liquid industry and saw CBD as a great add on to our line of e-liquids. Today, CBDfx is still a DBA of anywhere, but it has grown a lot since the launch in 2014. We sell our products wholesale, to retail stores and online at cbdfx. com. Initially, we were only manufacturing vape additives but today, CBDfx offers a wide range of vape products, edibles, drinks, capsules and tinctures. We are located in
California, but we sell our products to all 50 states and export to at least 25 countries internationally.” Mr. Hindes from CBDfx proceeds by explaining, “Therefore, we only use the hemp oil extracted from the stems and stalks of mature industrial hemp grown organically in the EU. Industrial hemp is definitely less potent than marijuana and as a result, we need a significant amount of plant material to extract our CBD oil. Some companies are using CBD oil derived from the flowers and leaves of the marijuana plant, which is a less costly process but on the flip side, they end up with a product that is less compliant.” Hindes says that. “The quality of CBD oil is determined by the amount of cannabinoids and terpenes, the purity and the extraction method. And that his company’s CBD oil, “is rich with cannabinoids and terpenes, free of solvents and heavy metals. Hindes only uses CO2 extracted oil for his products, and says with confidence that, “We are offering the purest and best full spectrum CBD oil available on the market.” Seeing the vaping industry’s juice makers transferring over their skills to a new established industry on the horizon, with entrepreneurship and innovation guiding its growth. It’s not like CBD just came onto the scene in the past few months, it’s been around for years - though now we’re witnessing CBD gain more users due to it’s variable health benefits.
54
New Industries & Communities Synergize Together In reality, those who have made a switch in business models from first manufacturing nicotine-based e-liquids to also include exclusivity in representing “vape-ready” CBD based liquids have provided another fresh perspective to contribute to the ever-increasing CBD community. Along with a highly-skilled portion of the legalized marijuana industry, these specialized e-liquid manufacturers are now involved with contributing in another billion dollar industry. It may be a much more profitable business model since CBD can also be consumed or applied other ways, whether crystal isolate, lozenges, patches or topical ointments. After all, it appears CBD has become quite the compliment to both the vaping industry as well as the ever-expanding marijuana industry-many might agree the CBD industry has become the best of both worlds. CBD is not some simplistic therapeutic remedy or whacky vitamin combination. There is very real evidence pointing out how much CBD could become a milestone for medical research discovering revolutionary cures for some of the worst ailments and diseases and taking all aspects of the industry into consideration. Things become very complicated, especially when discussing anything related to the origin of its chemistry, the specifics of it’s legality, and even biological genetics.
Conclusion CBD is one of the primary forces behind the medical marijuana movement, eventually overcoming the lack of access to treating patients, which was initially denied. Regardless, the community essentially grew to be a large group of advocating industry professionals with influential lobbyists, started out as a rejected subculture desperately seeking approval from America’s social system and regulatory agencies...sound familiar? Perhaps living in Denver has my vision more cloudy and essentially faded. Then again, I am still an American living within the United States America and so my surroundings are cloudy and my view is most likely faded. Oh, wait a second. That’s from all this constant steady flow of inconvenient vapor literally fading the room’s visibility, hiding which does not need to be seen, surely this merely a side effect of being American.
Thank you to Gene Shaffran from 4 Cogs CBD & Kevin Lacey from Pinnacle CBD
#VAPEMAGAZINE
Features
Too Much Of A Good Thing?
High Wattage Vaping By John Castle
Since the introduction of variable wattage mods in early 2014, manufacturers have made the most of technological innovation, and the perfect example for its time was the Vamo V5. The envelope has been pushed relentlessly ever since.
Only three short years later, the Vamoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 15 watt maximum power output seems positively paltry. As I write this, I pause every few moments to take a hit from the AL85, a 56
device 70 watts more powerful and half the size, it packs an 18650 battery that the old Vamo boasted while allowing for only an 18350 battery in its most compact configuration. Where is this trend going, and is it anywhere vapers want to follow? I reached out to the broader vaping community, including consumers and retailers, to find out.
#VAPEMAGAZINE
Features
State Of The Marketplace Right now, the mod with one of the highest power output levels, if not the highest, is the Snow Wolf 365. But itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s got several competitors hot on its heels, with output levels ranging from 250 to 320 watts.
The increasing power output of these mods, of course, has seen a matching dive in resistance within
atomizers. People build and buy, lower and lower sub-ohm atomizer coils and heads to take greater advantage of every 20, 50, and 100 watt increase in power available in their mods. What are the positive and negative effects of this race for higher and higher output VAPEMZ.COM
57
levels, and what might this race bode for the future of vaping?
Harm Reduction, Affordability, And The Point Of Diminishing Returns As mods become more powerful and atomizers dive deeper and deeper down in resistance, it’s not unreasonable to wonder at which point the tobacco harm reduction goal of vaping should come into question, even for dedicated vapers like myself.
For those who vape as a means to curtail or avoid smoking, and subsequently to consume nicotine in a 95% less hazardous way, vaping at high wattages of between 200 and 365 watts and seriously sub-ohm resistances— which likewise requires a very low nicotine strength in e-liquids to compensate—seems impractical at best.
200 watts just to see that side of the equation, but from my observations, the folks chasing the mega watt cloud busting gear are new to the industry and, in my honest opinion, the last ones that should be using gear like that.”
Other subohm vapers including myself have noted that subohm tanks seem to simply drink e-liquid. Candi Emmons, former regional manager of Vapor World NWA, said, “E-liquid is going to get even more expensive with all the taxes that are being proposed. Most people can’t afford to increase their liquid consumption, so it doesn’t make sense to keep making more powerful devices.” Finally, speaking of the possible negation or even reversal of vaping’s harm reduction effect, Joe Barnett of Vape Expo said, “The question… in the ever increasing wattage game is when are we gonna take a hard look at the temperatures that are being created.
James Barron of San Diego, CA relates, “What has kept me off the analogs is a stable, reliable and repeatable experience. Sure I’ve had subohm rips at
58
#VAPEMAGAZINE
buy a giant mod just to run it at 60 watts, for the sole purpose of longer battery life.” Scott Thomas of Ellijay, GA agreed saying, “I have them for battery life, not the power. Lately, I purchase no mod under 200 watts so I don’t have to carry around several sets of batteries.
He added, “There is a point where the molecular stability of the chemicals we do use becomes something else. What that something else is and if it presents a risk is something that we need time to assess.”
“I wish that more time and emphasis were being put towards longer battery life through the chipset and cells. I do not believe that 300+ watt mods will be the wave of the future for any other reason than cell life; I don’t believe they have the staying power to become the “go-to” all day vape setup,” Thomas says. Might this become the way of the future? Multi-cell mods focused on time between recharges rather than, or at least alongside mods focused on cloud chasing? If the industry so far has shown us one thing very, very clearly, it’s that where there is demand, sooner or later, there will be supply.
Conclusion
A Counterpoint
If the march from 2014 to 2017 should tell us one thing, it’s that the hardware side of the vaping industry will continue to innovate, to push forward and, in the case of regulatory reach (and, some might say, overreach) to push back.
It should be noted, however, that there is an intuitive if unexpected alternate reason why some vapers choose these increasingly high-powered mods:
Bob Piesz, Co-Owner of Independent Vapor Company in Brighton, MI told me, “I honestly wish the marketing was geared towards longer battery life, instead of 300+ watts. I have a lot of customers that will
Taking that as a given, the question which remains is this: can we, as consumers, continue to ensure that the demand we create steers the supply we receive? Looking to the state of the marketplace and the potential drawbacks it presents, and then to the counterpoint presented by just how we vapers choose to use these devices, the answer seems clear: The future is in our own hands, as it has been since the beginning.
VAPEMZ.COM
59
For Whosale & Retail Inquiries go to: Curavape.com https://www.facebook.com/curavape/
@curavapevapors
MOD TECH
DEPARTMENTS
Bo One
A New Contender In The Closed System Space
What we have in our hands is another closed system vaporizer (CSV) from US Vaping, and stateside distributor, Black Mvrket. As the CSV market continues to see an increasing number of competing devices, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re bound to see an increasing level of homogeneity among these devices. There are, after all, only so many ways a closed system vaporizer can appear. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going to be small, somewhat cigarette-sized; have an LED battery charge indicator and a mouthpiece. The Bo One follows in the same vein.
61
#VAPEMAGAZINE VAPEMZ.COM
1
DEPARTMENTS While the device itself is perfectly satisfying and aesthetically beautiful, it is at the same time so similar to other devices in this size class that what I find myself faced with is a device that does not particularly stand apart from its competitors in any meaningful way, and presents me with one nitpicky con that drags it down quite significantly.
Specs and Features The Bo One pairs a 380mAh battery with a 1.5ml “Bo Cap”, which is essentially a pre-filled, ultra-compact clearomizer. User-facing features are minimal, as is the usual for any CSV. Just simply charge the battery with the included USB-powered magnetic charger, then inhale through the Bo Cap to activate the battery. Similar to the JUUL I reviewed several months ago, the Bo One employs a proprietary USB-powered magnetic charger. The magnetic USB charger for the Bo One has a USB adapter that makes the device sit horizontally. If you’re plugging the charger into a laptop computer, it offers no obstruction. However, desktop computers are a different story as their USB ports are usually arranged vertically, which makes plugging in the Bo with the included adapter problematic. This charger does not have a vice-tight magnetic pull. Even when sitting on a flat, level surface—thanks to a USB “extension” cable (which is an accessory we can’t just assume that most people have), the battery wibbles and wobbles while seated in the magnetic charger. It is far from stable in this charger, even in the best possible conditions.
Ergonomics and Build Quality In short, the build quality and ergonomics of both is top notch. The battery charge indicator is bright and flush mounted in the body of the battery. The battery’s charge is indicated by a blue light for 100% down to approximately 75%, a white light shines to indicate a 74% to 25% battery charge, and finally you get a red light for 24% and under. The size, shape, and light matte finish on the battery make it very pleasing in the fingers, while proving to be highly fingerprint-resistant. The same finish is found on the Bo Cap, so that it is more comfortable. Additionally, there’s no rattle whatsoever between the battery and the cap. All-in-all, the fit and finish, and ergonomics of the battery and the cap are just flawless. If only it weren’t for that charger…
VAPEMZ.COM
62 2
DEPARTMENTS
Real World Performance The Bo One is right up there amongst the very best of CSVs—compact, with excellent battery life and performance in its size class. I received a solid six hours of moderate-toheavy vaping on the Bo One battery. From the 1.5ml Bo Cap, I received nearly three-and-a-half battery cycles before it required replacement; even when it appeared to be running on empty, it continued to deliver a solid performance. That performance, specifically, worked out this way: Flavor strength and fidelity was extremely high for a device in this class. The flavor I received for review was “Kiwiberry Ice”, and both the berry and menthol flavors were wellblended, but well represented. Throat hit, was likewise good and strong, due in large part to the nicotine level being 35mg strength. That’s nothing new to me in devices of this size class, approximately striking the “golden mean” for these devices, which typically range from 24mg to the 48mg range. Vapor production should be mentioned, but only in the sense that there’s nothing really spectacular; even in comparison to other devices in this class, it’s not going to blow you away—at the same time, though, it’s not in the least bit disappointing either.
Price and Availability The Bo One kit is currently available for $39.95 plus shipping online only from http://blackmvrket.la
Pros and Cons Pros: • Solid performance • Pleasing aesthetics • Excellent battery life and e-liquid efficiency Cons: • E-liquid “window” is a shade too minimal to reliably monitor remaining e-liquid without removing the “Cap” • Proprietary magnetic USB charger is awkward to deploy and use • Current (and upcoming) flavor selection is extremely limited compared to competitors
Summary The Bo One is an almost compelling Closed System Vaporizer where solid performance and a friendly price point are marred only by a thin selection of flavors and an unfortunate proprietary charging system.
63
#VAPEMAGAZINE VAPEMZ.COM
3
MOD TECH
Third Vape Concept
Tresera Box Mod By Chris Mellides Photos by Allan Kwasnik The Tresera from Third Vape Concept, which is based in the Philippines, is a hefty and doubly sturdy copper box mod. Wired in parallel, the device pumps out 4.2 volts of power at double the battery life and drains like any mechanical mod should. Copper pins and a solid silver connection ensures that the Tresera hits like a prizefighter during a title fight, with each and every pull guaranteed to make your head spin--of course, this is dependent on how low, or high you build your coils.
A delrin insulator in the switch (which is accessible for disassembly by accessing a set of four screws) protects against overheating and lends some piece of mind to users concerned about it failing. An adjustable copper 510 pin with a Phillips groove will accommodate a wide range of atomizers and can be adjusted up and down with very little effort. On the underside of the mod, a plate with two magnets snaps into place.
Since parallel boxes typically run on a dual battery setup, you have a little extra leeway to build a bit lower than you would on a single battery mech mod.
VAPEMZ.COM
65
Adjustable copper pins that can be accessed from the outer section of the plate eliminate battery rattle and make for a strong and secure connection. 66
Something that was a little disheartening was that upon first use of the device, the firing button had been giving me trouble and would stickâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;the mod needed to be fully disassembled and polished before continuing its use. Additionally, one of the magnets securing the battery door decided to fall out of its placement during normal use of the mod. This was a bit of a drag, but even though thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one magnet missing, the lid sits on the grooves at the
#VAPEMAGAZINE
bottom of the mod and the solo magnet does its job and keeps things secure, which was good to see.
However, it cannot be stated enougH tHat proper and regular maintenance of all mecHanical mods and tHe bits and bobs tHat comprise tHem is required
and sHould not be ignored. Taking the time to do routine polishing and thread cleaning will ensure that the Tresera and any other device in its class will perform at its optimum and will look good doing so. Overall, my experience with this mod has been positive. It has a unique design with wider ends and a contoured midsection that allows for a solid grip of the device will very little fear of dropping it—very tactile feel indeed. The all copper construction of the body makes the device feel incredibly sturdy and solid in your hand, and vaping it has been a real treat as well. This thing really chucks, and hits hard as hell until the batteries run down and need to be swapped out for a fresh pair. It’s a bit of a weighty and odd-looking piece, but one that performs incredibly well, and I’d say is worth the dosh if you’re looking for a good parallel box mod. The Tresera box mod will run you $165.00 and can be purchased from vapwrx.com
VAPEMZ.COM
67
PREMIUM E-LIQUID AVAILABLE AT
mojovapor.com brett@mojovapor.com (760) 436-8273
opmhproject.com eddy@opmhproject.com (502) 592-9992
giantvapes.com wholesale@giantvapes.com (855) 482-7375
apothecaredistribution.com apothecare@icloud.com (949) 202-8515
sicboy.net • sicboy@sicboy.net • (907) 217-0035
DEPARTMENTS
VA P E V I S I O N A RY
Pandora Blue VA P E R , P R O M O T E R & S O C I A L M E D I A S E N S AT I O N By Chris Mellides If you’ve attended some of the more popular conventions held throughout the country, you’ve probably seen Pandora Blue.
With blue streaks dancing throughout her hair and tattoos adorning every inch of her body it’s hard not to be colored impressed.
The 29-year-old Orlando, Florida native admits to having smoked on occasion, but has been a vaper for three years. And though 0mg strength e-juice is her preferred strength, that doesn’t stop her from enjoying the scene and embracing the lifestyle.
Aside from attending conventions with her fiancé, Turbo, Pandora loves working with e-liquid brands and particularly digs photo shoots. “I love shooting every day. I like when I get to do my own
VAPEMZ.COM
69
We don’t give up no matter what stands in our way. Communication is key.
One of the complaints she has during vape shoots is having the vapor blot out her face when setting the automatic timer and nailing the exposure. Working conventions is an activity that Pandora says keeps her occupied, but she sees them as an opportunity to work with new companies and has a lot of fun mingling with other vapers.
twist on pictures. I like to incorporate my ink and make them really colorful,” she says. While she admits to having had help from Turbo on shoots, photographing herself for social media exposure was something she wanted to do for herself. “My fiancé Turbo at first helped me capture some shots, but I wanted to take it on as my own,” Pandora said. “I have my own lighting equipment and a camera stand. I line up my shot and use a timer to take my pictures.”
70
#VAPEMAGAZINE
“It’s a lot of fun. You get to try e-juice you typically wouldn’t,” she says. “You meet everyone in the industry and learn about what vaping is all about. I like when we get to do giveaways and contests.”
“Yes, it’s one of the best jobs we both have worked,” she says. “We love doing what we do and we get to do it together as a team. We own our business together and strive for success every day.
Adding, “Giving back to the community is the best part.”
“We don’t give up no matter what stands in our way. Communication is key,” she added.
Pandora’s biggest supporter is her fiancé. She says that their relationship and ability to work together has benefitted what they do in the vape scene and allowed them to support one another.
Pandora currently works with 25 companies and promotes their products on Instagram to an audience that has grown to the tune of 276,000 and loves the relationships she’s built, her adoration of the vape lifestyle and the growing interest of her clients. “The amount that I have worked with is uncountable,” Pandora says. “I can say I have probably collaborated with some of the top e-juice manufacturers though, and that feels good.” She says that she’s been posting for “about five years” on her social media and started with professional modeling for two years before getting her first vape mail package to shoot with.” She’s been vaping ever since. In her free time, the foxy Floridian admits that she and Turbo like to “hang out and watch movies” together. “We are homebodys believe it or not. When we travel to vape conventions that’s the only time we go anywhere,” she says. “I typically stay so focused with my modeling it’s hard to plan anything else.” Throughout her involvement in the vape community and bringing attention to the long list of brands she’s worked with, she’s stayed humble throughout her journey. “This isn't just my job it’s my life and a lifestyle. You can do anything you put your mind to.”
VAPEMZ.COM
71
C
ne sp abo all w ec ut us cu ial our st f om or er s
Event Coverage
Vape Showcase
Atlanta Through the eyes of
74
#VAPEMAGAZINE
Event Coverage By Corey Noles
Over the past year, no show has packed the hype of Vape Showcase Atlanta but this show delivered. With well in excess of 100 booths, Atlanta had the best energy we’ve seen in quite some time. Given the excitement surrounding the show, we decided what better way to document than to send vapes two wild men ‘Pablo and the Rodman of Cyclops Unchained’ to take some photos and let our readers tour the show.
VAPEMZ.COM
75
ase
a t n a l t A owc pe S h
Va
e eyes
gh th T hrou
76
of
#VAPEMAGAZINE
VAPEMZ.COM
77
se
wca o h S e ap
a t n a l t A V
gh the
T hrou
78
f
eyes o
#VAPEMAGAZINE
Limmless MOD COMPANY
SUB OHM TANK
- 25mm Diameter - 2ml Capacity - .5 Ω coil - 1 Extra Coil - Extra Glass - Adjustable Airflow - Top Fill BIG PERFORMANCE - SMALL FOOTPRINT
For Wholesale Inquiries: Email: info@limitlessmodco.com Tel. 805-309-0530 Web: LimitlessModCo.com
Event Coverage
V A P E R S
INVADE M O T O R
C I T Y
F O R
ECC DETROIT By Corey Noles
80
#VAPEMAGAZINE
Event Coverage
The famed Cobo Center of Detroit, a stone’s throw away from Canada, is home to the world’s largest auto shows. In March, the vapers took over.
ECC Detroit, held March 3-5, 2017, was the namesake’s best performing road show in 2016. It followed up with a steady show and a slammed consumer day in 2017. While slightly smaller in size than 2016, the show touted many of the industry’s big names despite a flurry of shows scheduled throughout the month.
The walkways were packed most of Saturday as vapers turned out in droves for what is the only show in the region. Following are a few pages of fun scenes from ECC Detroit 2017! VAPEMZ.COM
81
82
#VAPEMAGAZINE
V A P E R S
INVADE M O T O R
C I T Y
F O R
ECC DETROIT
VAPEMZ.COM
83
MiPod brings CBD
MOD TECH
prefilled pods
to market By Corey Noles
Over the past year, the pod/closed system market has grown exponentially. Now with literally dozens of pods on the market, MiPod Tech LLC has taken a new direction - packaging their device with prefilled CBD pods. The device, which on the surface looks similar to many others, comes pre-loaded with Pinnacle Botanicals full spectrum CBD.
VAPEMZ.COM
85
What surprised me was how long
the pods seem to last. As it is, I’ve vaped the same pod for more than a week at a slow to moderate pace, and it
still contains roughly twothirds of its original fill.
With 250mg or 500mg available in the 1ml pod, the device compensates nicely for the reduced amount of product vaporized in such systems - which was an initial concern of mine. What surprised me was how long the pods seem to last. As it is, I’ve vaped the same pod for more than a week at a slow to moderate pace, and it still contains roughly two-thirds of its original fill. The device also ships with an additional empty pod that can be used for e-liquid or CBD as you choose. The bottom of the pod simply spins and unveils two small holes - one for liquid and one to vent while you fill. I tried the additional pod with my everyday e-liquid and was pleasantly surprised. Because the exposed cotton is extremely small, I filled the tank and then let it sit for the afternoon in an effort to be certain it wicked sufficiently. When I picked it up later, it vaped a 70/30 blend with no issues. Just remember to increase your nicotine level substantially because of how much less nicotine is vaporized in this type of system. The MiPod packs a 500mAh internal battery, which lasted me about two days. In fact, that was on its factory charge - so I can’t say for certain it was a full charge. The sleek device costs $39-85, depending on whether you want only empty pods, or this prefilled with CBD. Replacement pods range from $30-56. It can be purchased online from mipodvape.com.
PREFILLED DELUXE KIT 86
#VAPEMAGAZINE
LIFE IS ALL ABOUT MAKING CHOICES
FOR WHOLESALE INQUIRIES, PLEASE VISIT WWW.NICOPURE.COM, EMAIL SALES@NICOPURE.COM, OR CALL 888-270-2449