Sensi Magazine - Los Angeles (May 2018)

LOS ANGELE S

THE NEW NORMAL

5.2018

music to your

MOUTH

Melody is the Bistro with Beaucoup Beats

HALL of JUSTIS

Buds & Roses’ Superman

Lebowski Fest Concert Calendar + MORE!

EPIC DAYS

IN SANTA CRUZ A Monumental MINI - BREAK Travel Guide

contents.

ISSUE 5 // VOLUME 1 // 05.2018

FEATURES

16

Three Perfect Days in Santa Cruz Looking for a great getaway for Memorial

Day weekend that won’t break the bank?

Cruise up the 101 and kick off your summer in the surf town of Santa Cruz.

22

Hall of Justis Buds & Roses is widely regarded as a cannabis

collective in a class of its own, thanks largely to the hard work and leadership of its president, Aaron Justis.

EVERY ISSUE

10

5 Editor’s Note 6 The Buzz 10 TasteBuds

MELODY BISTRO

16 SANTA CRUZ

You can learn a lot from the locals.

30 The Scene

L A L AUNCH PA RT Y

32 {SoLA}

22

L EMMY STAT UE

BUDS & ROSES

One of LA’s most celebrated dispensaries.

Sensi Los Angeles is published monthly by Sensi Media Group LLC. © 2018 SENSI MEDIA GROUP LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

sensimag.com M AY 2018 3

sensi magazine ISSUE 5 VOLUME 1

5.2018

FOLLOW US

EXECUTIVE Ron Kolb

CEO, SENSI MEDIA GROUP

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PRESIDENT, SENSI MEDIA GROUP

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GENERAL MANAGER

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SoCAL EDITOR

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SENIOR EDITOR

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Robyn Griggs Lawrence

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

sensimagazine

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4 Los Angeles M AY 2018

Bon Voyage

editor’s

NOTE

THIS MONTH, WE CELEBRATE THE “UNOFFICIAL” START OF SUMMER : MEMORIAL DAY. IT ’S A TIME WHEN MOST AMERICANS TRADITIONALLY PUT THEIR THREE - DAY WEEKEND TO GOOD USE BY HIT TING THE ROAD FOR A LIT TLE GETAWAY OF SOME SORT, AND I FERVENTLY ENCOURAGE YOU TO DO THE SAME. TURN OFF YOUR COMPUTER AND GET OUT OF THE HOUSE. GO ON A HIKE, A CAMPOUT, A PICNIC, OR A ROAD TRIP. GET SOME SUN AND SOME EXERCISE — OR, EVEN BET TER, EXERCISE YOUR SENSE OF ADVENT URE. You don’t need to be Indiana Jones — or even Bill

months, five issues, and three killer launch parties later,

and Ted, for that matter— to have a most excellent ad-

I’m proud to say I’ve accomplished that goal. Along the

venture. And you don’t need to do something danger-

way, I’ve learned more about both magazine making

ous or grandiose like climb a mountain, wrestle an alli-

and myself and been warmly welcomed into a family

gator, or jump out of an airplane — all you need to do

of professionals for whom I hold a deep respect. But

is leave your comfort zone and embrace the unfamil-

alas, a new adventure beckons, and I must be moving on.

iar. The excitement of exploration is all about breaking

My sincerest thanks to Sensi for this historic oppor-

out of your routine and rejuvenating your spirit. Expos-

tunity — I’m proud of the work I’ve done and what

ing yourself to new places, cultures, and flavors pro-

we’ve achieved. And thanks to you, the readers, for your

vides valuable perspective, fosters tolerance, and ex-

enthusiastic support and positive feedback. I look for-

pands your horizons … literally.

ward to watching this magazine continue to grow, suc-

Of course, the enlightened are those who learn to approach life itself as an adventure — to derive joy from the journey, bumpy though it may sometimes be. It’s been my experience that if you follow your heart and heed the signs the universe leaves along the road

ceed, and set the standard for the new normal.

Bon voyage, fellow travelers!

for you, then destiny will determine your destination.

As it happens, I’ve recently reached a rather fateful fork in my own path.

Last fall, I joined the Sensi team with the goal of helping to launch their three new SoCal editions and establishing the brand’s presence on the West Coast. Eight

Bobby Black

SoCAL EDITOR @ BOBBYBL ACK

M E DIA PA RT N E R S

A D V I S O RY B OA R D

Marijuana Business Daily

Emerald Harvest // NUTRIENTS

Minority Cannabis Business Association

FlowerKist by Steph // TOPICALS

3C Farms // CULTIVATION

Hybrid Payroll (Ms. Mary Staffing) // STAFFING & HR BENEFITS

National Cannabis Industry Association

Inclusion Cannabis // MARKE TING

Students for Sensible Drug Policy

NLVO // L AS VEGAS LUXURY CANNABIS

LINX Card // MERCHANT SERVICES

Success Nutrients // CULTIVATION CONSULTING Treez // SEED-TO-SALE Undoo // OVERCONSUMPTION RELIEF VapeXhale // LUXURY VAPORIZER Venice Relief // CBD FOR PAIN MANAGEMENT Vriptech // GL ASS VAPE WillPower Products // SPORTS NUTRITION

Spiked Soil // SOIL

sensimag.com M AY 2018 5

THE NE W N O R M A L

the

buzz

HeadSPIN A MONTHLY RECOMMENDATION FOR

MUSICAL MEDICATION FROM JON PACE L L A,

SENSI concert calendar A B R I E F L I S T I N G O F S O M E O F T H E TO P S H OW S IN AND AROUND LOS ANGELES THIS MONTH.

A SALES SPECIALIST AT THE ICONIC AMOEBA MUSIC IN HOLLYWOOD. ALBUM : Germfree Adolescents Deluxe Edition (2009) ARTIST : X-Ray Spex FAVORITE TRACK : “Oh Bondage, Up Yours!”

5/1 // The Fratellis // Belasco Theater

Consumerism, sexism, conformity, the punk

5/1 // Lo Moon // Teragram Ballroom

scene itself … all of it was fuel on the fire of a

5/4 -5/5 // LCD Soundsystem, Yeah Yeah Yeahs // Hollywood Bowl

19-year-old, half-Irish, half-Somali woman from

5/4 // Of Montreal // Teragram Ballroom

Brixton named Mari Elliott who, back in 1978,

5/5 // Arctic Monkeys // Hollywood Forever Cemetery

reinvented herself as Poly Styrene, the lead

5/5 // Cinco Cinco Festival w/Caifanes, Suicidal Tendencies & More // StubHub Center

singer of X-Ray Spex. With a mouth full of brac-

5/9 // Khalid // Greek Theater 5/9 // Chris Robinson // Wiltern 5/10 // Afghan Whigs, Built To Spill // Wiltern 5/10 -5/11 // Kendrick Lamar, SZA & Schoolboy Q // Forum 5/10-5/11 // “Weird Al” Yankovic // Theater at Ace Hotel 5/12 // Steven Wilson // Wiltern 5/15-5/16 // U2 // Forum 5/15 // Franz Ferdinand // Wiltern 5/16 // Life of Agony // Whiskey A Go-Go 5/17 // Desert Daze Caravan // Wiltern 5/18 // MGMT // Hollywood Palladium 5/18-5/19 // Taylor Swift, Camila Cabello & Charli XCX // Rose Bowl 5/18-5/19 // Peter Hook and the Light // Wiltern 5/19 // Katy Perry // Santa Barbara Bowl 5/21 // Pond // Teragram Ballroom 5/22-5/23 // Paul Simon // Hollywood Bowl 5/23 // Godspeed You! Black Emperor // Wiltern 5/24 // Tom Jones // The Greek Theater 5/26 // War, George Clinton & Parliament Funkadelic // The Greek Theater 5/29 // Japandroids, L.A. Witch // Hollywood Forever Cemetery 5/29 // Steely Dan, The Doobie Brothers // Forum 5/30 // James Taylor, Bonnie Raitt // Hollywood Bowl 5/30 // King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard // Hollywood Palladium 6 Los Angeles M AY 2018

es and a style all her own, she shunned the increasingly popular leather punk garb in favor of dazzling Day-Glo colors. X-Ray Spex made a statement before they’d even played a note.

Then, the music starts with Poly’s cry of “ARRR-TI-FICIALLL!!” and the concrete foundation of the album is laid. The lyrics are brash and in your face, and that’s what makes it so beautifully genuine — especially through the lens of today’s image-obsessed culture. Also in your face is Lora Logic’s blaring saxophone, whose imperfection fits in perfectly with the band’s underground sound and nonconformist ethos.

Feeling the intensity of “Let’s Submerge” and the anthem “Oh Bondage, Up Yours!,” it’s instantly apparent how important and special this album and this band still are today.

It’s sad to think that this was their only fulllength release (before reuniting in the 90s) and that Styrene would later die of breast cancer in 2011. Nevertheless, X-Ray Spex was a star gone supernova, leaving a brief and blazing mark on the timeline of music history.

sensimag.com M AY 2018 7

THE NE W N O R M A L

the

buzz

LEBOWSKIFEST.COM “Mark it May 25 and 26, Dude.” That’s what Walter Sobchak would say about celebrating this year’s Lebowski Fest in Los Angeles. The annual two-night event attracts hordes of “Achievers,” many of whom dress in costume to pay tribute to the Coen brothers’ movie that’s achieved cult classic status. This year, The Big Lebowski celebrates its 20th anniversar y, and the early 1990s Los Angeles period piece has probably never been more popular. Filmed all around the city— from the Dude’s bachelor pad in Venice to Jackie Treehorn’s stunning house in the Hollywood Hills— the movie is as recognizable to the L A aesthetic as traffic on the 405.

The first night of the event takes place on Saturday at the iconic Wiltern Theatre, and kicks of f with a performance by the Kyle Gass Band (one-half of Tenacious D) followed by appearances by a number of actors who made memorable cameos in the film, including the Dude’s Landlord, Angry Corvette Owner, Eagles Cab Driver, and others. The party concludes with a screening of the film, naturally.

No worries for those who can’t roll on Shabbas, though, because the party continues at Fountain Bowl on Sunday, with a costume contest, film trivia, more special guests from the film, and unlimited bowling.

After all, what’s a Big Lebowski party without bowling, right ? So put on your robe and get your lazy ass over to the 20th-anniversary edition of Lebowski Fest — because missing a party like this is something that even the Dude can’t abide. ­

— STEVE JAVORS

L E B OWSKI F E S T

LOS ANGELES 2018 DAY 1

WHEN : Friday, May 25 // Doors — 7 p.m. // Show — 8 p.m.

WHERE : The Wiltern Theatre // 3790 Wilshire Blvd.

TICKETS : General Admission — $20 // Reserved Seats — $30

DAY 2

WHEN : Saturday, May 26 // 8 p.m. — Midnight WHERE : Fountain Bowl // 17110 Brookhurst St., Fountain Valley TICKETS : Advanced — $25 // Day of Show — $30 8 Los Angeles M AY 2018

LGBT in the LBC

This month, the LGBT community will be painting the town red (and every other color of the rainbow) at the 35TH ANNUAL LONG BEACH PRIDE FESTIVAL. According to the organizers, the two-day event is expected to attract around 80,000 people— making it the third-largest pride celebration in the nation. The weekend’s two major highlights, however, both go down on Sunday: first, at 10 : 30 a.m., the flamboyant Long Beach Pride Parade will make its way down Ocean Boulevard. Then later that night, the crowd will be treated to a performance by the festival’s headliner, superstar percussionist Sheila E. “We are very proud to have Sheila E. and her band gracing our main stage,” beams Long Beach Pride’s VP of Entertainment Rhonda Fuller. “She brings an amazing energy and musical talent that encompasses all ages, races, sexes, and sexual orientations. We are so looking forward to her performance.”

The festival will also feature a number of other musical acts from several different genres (including R&B, rock, and hip-hop), as well as all of the usual attractions, such as a variety of food and drink, vendor booths, games, art, and activities for the kids.

Seniors and teens will have special areas to meet and socialize. Come out and show your pride and support for the community at this fun and fabulous festival.

— A. J. HERRINGTON

35th A nnual Long Beach Pride Festival

WHERE : Marina Green Park // 450 E. Shoreline Dr., Long Beach WHEN : May 19-20 //11 a.m. -10 p.m.

TICKETS : General Admission — $20 in advance // $25 at the door LONGBEACHPRIDE.COM

extra-VEGAN-za!

Looking for a fun food event that doesn’t leave with you heartburn and shame? Look no further than Eat Drink Vegan, a spinoff of the original Vegan Food and Beer Fest that’s been rocking Los Angeles for almost a decade. Created in 2009

by Nic Adler, owner of the Roxy club on Sunset

and longtime vegan, the festival has since joined

Eat Drink Vegan 1001 Rose Bowl Dr. Pasadena Saturday, May 26 2 p.m. – 8 p.m.

FACEBOOK.COM/EATDRINKVEGAN

forces with LA’s SEED Food & Wine Week and exploded into an entire fun-filled day of eating, drinking and shopping for the whole family. This animal-loving event serves as a plant-based exhibition featuring over 100 restaurants and 250 beverages, ranging from kombucha, soda, and tea to frothy beers, ciders, and organic wines. It also features a wide array of crafts, vendors offering all kinds of vegan products, and live music, perfect for a weekend romp in the sun.

Whether you’re a hardcore vegan or just curious about plant-based food and how it can help you lead a healthier lifestyle, come on out to the Rose Bowl on May 26 and enjoy this unique and inspiring event.­ — SARAH A. NEWTON

sensimag.com M AY 2018 9

{tastebuds} story and photos by RY PRICHARD

MUSIC TO YOUR MOUTH Melody is a modern bungalow-style bistro offering its guests top-quality meats and beats.

Sometimes just the way a restaurant feels can greatly enhance the experience. Such is the case with Melody.

mertime LA weather while you eat. (Sadly, I visit on a rainy day when the patio isn’t set up.)

Situated just across from one of LA’s most popular and

For whatever reason, Melody chose to open the week

highly trafficked restaurants (Jessica Koslow’s Sqirl), this

before Thanksgiving—or as Pritchett jokingly puts it, “The

cozy little bistro in Virgil Village is attempting to carve out

absolute worst time to open a restaurant.” Nevertheless,

its own niche by serving simple yet richly flavored New

he says, “Surprisingly, we did pretty well throughout the

French cuisine in a uniquely homey atmosphere. The con-

holidays, and we are definitely excited for summer and the

verted bungalow is described as “a beach house away from

great patio. I think we are gonna get slammed.” A longtime

the beach” by Melody’s co-owner Eric Tucker, who opened

veteran of the restaurant industry and ex-pat kid, Pritch-

it shortly after leaving New York’s Louis & Chan, a DJ-cen-

ett spent most of his childhood in Southeast Asia, but at

tric hot spot on the Lower East Side. This new restaurant

the age of 14 ended up back in the US and started his first

is a partnership between Tucker, his wife Paloma Rabin-

restaurant job at Long John Silvers. Since then, his reputa-

ov, Chef Hunter Pritchett, and entertainment industry

tion has grown considerably, eventually landing him jobs

veteran David Andreone. The influence of Tucker (a pro-

consulting and menus for large-format corporate estab-

fessional photographer and DJ) and Adreone (a former

lishments. One such position was at Mendocino Farms,

record label exec) is clear throughout the space: turnta-

where he gained valuable experience catering to the pal-

bles and a mixer sit prominently in the middle of the

ates of Angelenos and helped elevate the brand to the

restaurant, bathed in light from the nearby windows and

juggernaut it is today. Before that, Pritchett worked at

surrounded by cozy seating comprised of reclaimed fur-

Frank Bonnano’s Luca d’Italia, one of the best restaurants

niture—including Eric and Paloma’s own dinner table.

in my home city of Denver, though I only became aware of

Appropriately for its name, which is derived from a

him once he returned to the Mile High with his pop-up

Serge Gainsbourg album, Melody features music sev-

concept Goldenboys Chinese. During that time, he was

eral days a week, particularly during its much-lauded

concurrently working at Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo’s

weekend brunch service. DJs typically spin selections

Son of a Gun but left after a few months to explore the

from the on-site record collection, often playing full-

consulting angle full-time.

length LPs from cover to cover, which only adds to the

“It’s lonely work,” says Pritchett of the corporate

“hanging out at a friend’s house” vibe that saturates

menu consultant life. “But it was an interesting way to

the entire place. There’s a pretty sizable patio connect-

gain experience working within the constraints of some-

ing to the main dining space via a series of slide-away

thing like a quick service concept and looking at food

windows that allow the spaces to flow into one anoth-

costs and the way things are served.” He also formu-

er, making it a great spot to enjoy the spring and sum-

lated special items for Wetzel’s Pretzels, something

10 Los Angeles M AY 2018

RY PRICHARD is co-host of the hit cannabis cuisine show Bong AppĂŠtit on the Viceland network and co-creator of the food/drink/cannabis pairing project TerpQuest.

Melody 751 N. Virgil Ave. Los Angeles MELODYLA.COM

Crispy chicken cordon bleu sandwich with Pommery mustard slaw on a brioche bun.

sensimag.com M AY 2018 11

that fascinates me endlessly. “I developed their pump-

for a half-decent shrimp cocktail before, as compared to

kin spice pretzel,” he says casually, as I think about

this plate with its six massive prawns and delicious ac-

how crazy it is to conceive and execute an item that’s

coutrements for only $14. This type of value seems to be

available in malls across the world. The analytical back-

a theme at Melody—all of the prices feel very fair for LA.

ground that Pritchett brings to his food is evident at

The menu tops out at $29 for an aged hanger steak;

Melody: its smartly constructed menu hits some clas-

most dishes range from $12 to $14. And after my conver-

sic French notes while steering away from soupe à l’oi-

sations with Pritchett, it’s clear that his command over

gnon and the other mainstays (save a croque madame

menu construction and value shine through in the sleek

on the brunch menu, but even that has a kimchi creamed

and affordable selections available.

spinach component). He sources his ingredients from

“You’re gonna love these—they’re addictive as hell and

either local or high-end European producers and tries

probably the stoner-iest thing on the menu,” says Pritch-

to make the dishes flavorful while also keeping them

ett as he slides a plate of unassuming fried items in front

free of the needless flair common to French restau-

of me, each topped with a pickled green tomato cornich-

rants that adds dollars to the cost of the dish without

on and plump mustard seeds. These are Melody’s mala-

delivering more flavor or texture.

koff toasts ($9), a play on the traditional Swiss dish that is

“I try to keep stuff to three or four main elements for

essentially a fried cheese ball. In this preparation, Pritchett

the most part,” he says as he places plump Gulf shrimp

places a mixture of gruyere cheese, egg, and sprinkle of

into a reddish-orange house-made “Clamato” and dress-

flour atop a small crostini, after which the whole thing is

es them with shaven curls of pickled diced vegetables.

deep fried. He’s right—I do love them. The toast some-

“When you do too much, things get lost.” Indeed, as I sit

how stays completely grease-free, and the cheese mix-

down to eat, this beautiful but deceivingly simple three-­

ture on top coalesces into a perfect mound of crispy gold-

element dish is intensely flavorful without overwhelming the palate, making it a great start to the meal. The prawns are obviously fresh, snapping as I bite them, releasing the tomato-forward sauce and playing well with the cold and softly vinegary veggies. What’s more, I’m really impressed with the price of this dish. I’ve paid $20

Poached prawns, as prepared

by Melody’s Chef Pritchett.

12 Los Angeles M AY 2018

sensimag.com M AY 2018 13

en goodness, making these an obvious choice for a complimentary bar snack if I ever found myself drinking wine and eating oysters here.

Speaking of which, Melody boasts an impressive oyster bar situated in a cozy side room just inside the entrance that’s actually made out of a vintage tub. They also have an expertly curated organic wine list packed with natural wines from small-batch producers that will satisfy even the pickiest armchair vintner. The beverage program here was put together by Matt Seigel, formerly of New York’s Eleven Madison Park (voted World’s Best Restaurant in 2017 by a panel of 1,500 food writers, chefs, and other professional foodies). This deep pedigree is obvious in Melody’s “Dranks” menu, Oysters served with negroni mignonette.

which takes every advantage it can of the restaurant’s “beer and wine only” liquor license to offer diners a lot more flavors to choose from than the typical wine or beer—including such gems as The Jane, a smart mix of Cocchi Americano Bianco, dry vermouth, prosecco, and Manzanilla sherry.

The next dish to arrive at the table is the smoked brandade dip ($13).

The appetizer-like plate, meant for sharing, partially deconstructs the classic Provençal dish. It’s served with curls of shaved celery and gorgeous purple radishes, alongside giant well-seasoned potato chip rounds in place of the mashed potato that would traditionally be whipped into the salt cod mixture. Often brandade is a case of “soft on soft,” but the malakoff toasts, along with the perfect textural addition provided by the chips, easily thrusts the dip into Melody’s essential snack zone.

Certainly, though, the coup de grâce of the meal is the crispy chicken cordon bleu sandwich ($16), with Pommery mustard slaw sliding down its towering, Za’atar-rich exterior and onto the colorful salvaged plate upon which it sits. A staple of most L A menus, it looks like any other well-made fried chicken sandwich on the outside. But inside, it holds an expertly hidden roll of ham and cheese, which serves as a creamy balance to the mustard-heavy slaw. The chicken itself is very juicy and flavorful, but the real selling point for me (and a testament to Pritchett’s formulation skills) is that the exterior is super crispy—and stays that way, even nearly an hour later, when I cave and eat the remainng half on my way home.

Fusing the best elements of a homey, friendly atmosphere with simple yet elevated food, Melody will undoubtedly remain a hotspot in the Virgil Village area for years to come.

14 Los Angeles M AY 2018

sensimag.com M AY 2018 15

{travelwell}

by ELISE McDONOUGH

© VSCC + PAUL SCHRAUB

© VSCC + PAUL SCHRAUB

SANTA

CRUZ

CA

A lovely place where the redwoods meet the sea, the area is rich in marine wildlife, dramatic

© GARRICK RAMIREZ

hiking trails, and easily accessible beaches.

© VSCC + MAT THEW PFEIFER

16 Los Angeles M AY 2018

THREE PERFECT DAYS Looking for a great getaway for the extended Memorial Day weekend that won’t break the bank? Take a road trip up the 101 and kick off your summer in the surf town of Santa Cruz.

Perched on the northern edge of Monterey Bay, San-

which packs an intense citrus flavor, or the Kosher Kush

ta Cruz is a laid-back beach town complete with a col-

grown by Santa Cruz Veterans Alliance—perfected with

lege vibe emanating from the nearby UC campus. The

a gassy, savory taste. Boasting many medible makers,

original home to California’s surf culture, Santa Cruz boasts

Santa Cruz is home to Big Pete’s Treats, Hashman In-

one of the nation’s most famous point breaks at Steam-

fused, Lifted, and Utopia Edibles, so sample some of

er’s Lane. A lovely place where the redwoods meet the

the area’s local flavor.

sea, the area is rich in marine wildlife, dramatic hiking trails, and easily accessible beaches.

WHERE TO STAY

The local population voted overwhelmingly for can-

Dream Inn is the most impressive hotel in town,

nabis legalization, so you’ll find yourself part of the

perched on the beach overlooking the Santa Cruz Beach

herb-loving majority here. While public smoking isn’t

Boardwalk and municipal wharf. Babbling Brook Inn is

legal anywhere in California, you’ll find it commonly

a charming hideaway that’s walking distance from

practiced and somewhat tolerated in Santa Cruz—just

downtown. Hotel Paradox is a stylish new addition

pick a spot away from families, be respectful, and make

with a happening scene at its pool bar, located on the

sure to be aware of fire safety.

busy commercial stretch of Ocean Street.

The following travel guide will help you go beyond the usual tourist traps to visit the locals’ favorite spots,

DAY ONE

enjoy regional specialties and cultural institutions, and

MYSTERY AND MEANDERING

spend three perfect days in Santa Cruz.

Search for banana slugs, enjoy some disc golf, take a nice hike and visit an iconic Santa Cruz landmark.

WHERE TO SHOP FOR CANNABIS

Just a 15-minute drive out of town, the Happy Valley

Dispensaries in Santa Cruz are located on the out-

area is home to several unique Santa Cruz attractions

skirts of town, so stock up once you arrive. Check out

including DeLaveaga Park and the world-famous Mys-

local favorites KindPeoples and Canna Cruz in the Harvey

tery Spot. Start by getting sandwiches, coffee, and

West neighborhood, conveniently located on the way

pastries from The Buttery, then grab disc golf supplies

into town at the convergence of Highways 17, 1, and 9.

at DJ’s Market before heading down Branciforte Ave-

Look for local specialty strains including Lemon Tree,

nue to DeLaveaga Park for a picnic and a round of disc sensimag.com M AY 2018 17

golf. Enter at Upper Park Road to enjoy one of the best

wood and demonstrating their skills at the mouth of the

disc golf courses in existence, complete with 27 holes.

San Lorenzo River.

Don’t miss the final one, called “The Top of the World,” which has incredible views of the Pacific.

Continue to stroll down West Cliff, a coast-hugging path favored by joggers and bicyclists. Popular for the

With towering redwoods, DeLaveaga is a great place

beautiful views of crashing surf, colorful blooming ice

to spot a bright yellow banana slug, locally beloved fau-

plants, and rock formations including natural arches, this

na, and mascot of the UCSC sporting teams. A few

is a place to keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, sea li-

minutes down the road, you’ll see a giant yellow sign

ons, and even whales.

for The Mystery Spot, an iconic tourist attraction and

After two miles, turn inland at Swift Street and head

mind-bending home of illusions. We highly recommend

towards the Swift Street Courtyard, a foodie paradise

hiking the trail above the Mystery Spot parking lot and

with multiple wine tasting rooms, along with several

having a quick puff before exploring this crazy place.

well-reviewed restaurants and breweries. Stop at San-

And don’t forget to grab one of the coveted bumper

ta Cruz Mountain Brewing, the first certified all-organ© GARRICK RAMIREZ

stickers, spotted on cars all over the country.

DAY TWO WEST SIDE WALKING TOUR This dog-friendly route through the West Side showcases the best of Santa Cruz lifestyle, complete with beaches, artisanal dining and quirky neighborhoods to explore. A 4.4-mile loop, this urban hike will show you the authentic spirit of the Cruz.

Start your dog-friendly walking tour of West Cliff at Steamer’s Lane Supply, a small outpost with parking, coffee, fresh baked muffins, and egg dishes. You can

ic, female-owned brewery, and take a seat in the out© VSCC + PAUL SCHRAUB

door beer garden where you can order lunch from the neighboring Kelly’s French Bakery. Browse locally made crafts and apparel at Sawyer Land + Sea Supply, pick A mural honors Santa Cruz surfing legend Jack O’Neill, who’s credited with inventing the wetsuit.

even score Fido a cute “doggie frittata” for just a buck.

up artisanal charcuterie from El Salchichero, and either grab a Lyft or prepare to walk back through the intriguing Bethany Curve neighborhood, intriguingly designed as a series of concentric circles.

Freshly fueled, meander a little further down to Its Beach, a local favorite for off-leash dog parties, over-

DAY T HREE

looked by a small patch of green meadow, home to the

BEACH BOARDWALK AND DOWNTOWN

SANTA CRUZ SURFING MUSEUM and the famous Steam-

After hiking all day or soaking up the sun

er’s Lane surf break. Check out the plaque out front

at an area beach, you can enjoy nightlife

commemorating the Hawaiian princes who introduced

and fine dining in downtown Santa Cruz.

surfing to the locals in 1885, carving boards from red18 Los Angeles M AY 2018

The nerve center of Santa Cruz, the Pacific Garden

sensimag.com M AY 2018 19

Mall was almost destroyed in the Loma Prieta quake of 1989, whose history can be explored at the SANTA CRUZ MUSEUM OF ART AND HISTORY (known locally

as the MAH). The main drag of downtown has been restored since the quake and is now home to boutiques, bars, bookstores, vintage clothing, galleries, © GARRICK RAMIREZ

movie theaters, and restaurants.

Reenvisioned by executive director and museum activist Nina Simon, the MAH boasts world-class exhibitions, events, and interactive opportunities galore. With the newly installed marketplace at ABBOTT SQUARE, the

screening family-friendly films on a giant inflatable

museum complex is home to excellent eateries, free con-

screen. After the movie, stop in at the bar at Boardwalk

certs, and a bustling “First Friday” scene, when museum

Bowl to knock down a few pins, or join in the karaoke

admission is free.

scene unfolding almost every weeknight.

Get caffeinated at Verve Coffeeshop, then check out

Back downtown, you’ll find the best late night eats

Bookshop Santa Cruz, one of the area’s best remaining

at 515 Kitchen and Cocktails, as well as the vegetarian

independent bookstores, and the landmark Del Mar

Saturn Cafe, which is open 24 hours. Look for dancing

Theater, known for midnight showings of cult-classic

and DJ sets at Motiv nightclub and Blue Lagoon along

films. Don’t miss the Santa Cruz Farmer’s Market, held

with concerts at the Catalyst.

Wednesdays in the lot at Lincoln and Cedar Streets.

Santa Cruz has it all—a small-town feel with a coun-

Downtown is just a 20-minute walk down Front Street

terculture atmosphere, eco-friendly values, and mellow

to the SANTA CRUZ BEACH BOARDWALK, an amusement

citizens. There’s so much to explore in this laid-back city

park that’s provided over 100 years of memories to locals

and the surrounding areas of Aptos, Felton, Boulder

and visitors alike. During the summer months, the board-

Creek, and Davenport: whale watching, horseback rid-

walk hosts Wednesday movie nights on the beach,

ing, vineyards, camping, and hiking, all of which rank among the best experiences on the Central Coast. So whether you’re just passing through or staying for a while, stay kind, drive safely, and respect the locals.

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sensimag.com M AY 2018 21

{highprofile}

by TIAN SCHERER

HALL OF JUSTIS Buds & Roses is widely regarded as a cannabis collective in a class of its own, thanks largely to the hard work and leadership of its president, Aaron Justis.

Just over the hills from Hollywood on a particularly

only plant-based nutrients to produce clean-burning,

hip stretch of Ventura Boulevard in Studio City lies one

potent, and flavorful buds. Flowers that are not grown

of LA’s most celebrated dispensaries—one that fits in

Vegan in-house have been sourced from cultivators that

so seamlessly with the neighboring boutiques, restau-

are consistently able to provide their quality product. In

rants, Pilates studios, and juice bars that were it not for

addition to flower, Buds & Roses carries vape cartridges

the small green crosses on the sign, you’d never guess

free of chemical additives; sweet, savory, or healthy edi-

it was a pot shop. Yet once you pass through the unas-

bles; full-spectrum high terpene sauces for the dabbing

suming red brick exterior, it becomes immediately ap-

connoisseur; Frenchy Cannoli hashish, considered the

parent that Buds & Roses is a cannabis collective in a

créme de la créme; pain-busting topicals; and a range of

class of its own.

different cannabinoid tinctures to alleviate almost any

The elegant lobby showcases the impressive collec-

ailment. The process for curating the products that make

tion of trophies that the shop has racked up over the

it onto the shelves takes into account quality, aesthetics,

years, as well as framed clippings of the many promi-

reliability, and popularity.

nent publications in which the collective has been fea-

This is the vision that Aaron Justis has put into frui-

tured. After being welcomed and checked in by the af-

tion since becoming Buds & Roses’ president in 2010.

fable security guard, you’re led into the showroom,

Of creating a clean, safe, and professional space to ob-

where rigorously trained budtenders provide one-on-

tain cannabis, he says, “It’s the best thing because we

one time to evaluate each customer’s individual needs

normalize cannabis, so when people are having brunch

and educate them about each product and how it may

next door then stopping by Buds & Roses, it’s a very

affect them. Due to its location and reputation, Buds &

natural experience.”

Roses sees its fair share of famous musicians and

Justis is a well-regarded figure in the cannabis industry.

actors, who appreciate the shop’s selection and dis-

For his activist efforts, as well as his entrepreneurial

cretion. The majority of customers, however, are local

acumen, Justis was awarded the High Times Trailblaz-

professionals looking for some relief from the stress of

er honor in 2015, and in February of this year, the mag-

their high-pressure jobs. Others come in from as far

azine named him one of its 100 Most Influential Peo-

away as Santa Barbara and Ventura County to stock

ple in Cannabis. Originally from Rockford, Illinois, Justis

up on their favorite products.

began his cannabis career back in his early 20s, when

Fans of flower typically come in for Buds & Roses’

he was inspired to create an organic hemp clothing line

award-winning “Vegan” method of cultivation that uses

after reading Jack Herer’s The Emperor Wears No Clothes.

22 Los Angeles M AY 2018

sensimag.com M AY 2018 23

After a decade of being involved in the cannabis move-

while being a positive influence on the community. Now,

ment, he realized there were legitimate cannabis busi-

it’s more strictly business, and it’s a regulated market,

ness opportunities arising in California, and his entre-

which allows me to apply the skills I’ve developed over

preneurial spirit kicked in. He moved his family out to

the years into running this company and seeing a lot

Los Angeles in 2009 and immediately did his research

more organic growth.” Over the next few years, he as-

to find one of the best California activist lawyers, Rob-

pires to expand the brand throughout Los Angeles and

ert Raich. Raich had served as the attorney in the only

the rest of Southern California, and perhaps one day be-

two medical cannabis cases to reach the Supreme Court.

come a global brand.

When Justis reached out to him and expressed his de-

With Buds & Roses’ prominence as one of LA’s pre-

sire to operate a legal cannabis business in Los Angeles,

mier pot shops, Justis has been actively making connections with the media industry for which Los Angeles is so famous. The shop has been featured on Viceland’s Bong Appétit, CNBC’s The Profit, and was even shouted out once on Ellen. They’ve also partnered with A-list celebrities on some high-profile promotional collaborations: Snoop Dogg’s crew can be seen wearing Buds &

The lobby walls showcase framed clippings of Buds & Roses media coverage.

Raich mentioned that he had a client in LA, Buds & Roses, that had all the legal paperwork in order and was already registered by the city but could use a boost of business savvy.

Buds & Roses was originally established in 2007 as one of the first pre-ICO collectives, registered with the

Roses t-shirts in the recent stoner comedy Grow House;

city before the Interim Control Ordinance (ICO) morato-

and director Kevin Smith (of Jay and Silent Bob fame)

rium went into effect that temporarily banned any new

held a meet-and-greet at the shop after they grew two

shops while new zoning and tax laws were decided.

strains for his horror film Tusk.

Before Justis arrived on the scene, it was a very small

But Buds & Roses isn’t just about profit and promo-

operation that was open for limited hours and had hired

tion—the company is also heavily committed to its

no employees. He joined the board of trustees in 2009

community and active in local politics. Justis sits on the

and a year later was elected its president. Under his

boards of a number of organizations, including the

leadership, the company’s reputation and revenues have

Greater Los Angeles Collective Alliance and the Cal-

soared, with their gross income last year exceeding four

ifornia and national cannabis industry associations,

million dollars.

and he’s a founding member of the National Associa-

“It’s taken all these years to really build up running a

tion of Cannabis Businesses. Through the affiliations,

legitimate business in an ever-changing landscape,”

Buds & Roses has invested tens of thousands of dollars

says Justis. “A lot of it back then was more Wild West:

into the cause.

taking risks in a legally grey area and working with any

“While the passing of Proposition 64 was a major

new rules that cropped up to prevent being raided, all

milestone, there are still other political hurdles to over-

24 Los Angeles M AY 2018

sensimag.com M AY 2018 25

come,” Justis says. “Cannabis businesses have been sty-

cal news stations showed lines wrapping around the

mied by the local licensing laws. It requires involvement

block outside pot shops in West Hollywood. To avoid sit-

at a political level to push the government to give Cali-

uations like that, which might disturb its neighbors and

fornians easier accessibility to the regulated cannabis

other local residents, Buds & Roses has employed new

for which they voted. Beyond that, it’s 100 percent to help end the War on Drugs and enact reform. The laws are much more harmful than the substances that they’re trying to protect people from.”

Justis made great strides to ensure that Buds & Roses’ transition from medicinal to adult use went smoothly.

When the new rules first took effect in January 2018, lo-

With Buds & Roses’ prominence as one of LA’s premier pot shops, Justis has been actively making connections with the media industry for which Los Angeles is so famous. The shop has been featured on Viceland’s Bong Appétit, CNBC’s The Profit, and was even shouted out once on Ellen. strategies to accommodate the increased flow of customers. The shop offers complimentary valet service to help decrease traffic and has implemented an express online ordering system (complete with promotional codes

26 Los Angeles M AY 2018

sensimag.com M AY 2018 27

and loyalty rewards), allowing customers to pay in ad-

tender who has worked at the shop for seven years

vance and have their orders waiting in the lobby when

(and uses cannabis himself for the relief of his degen-

they arrive. Buds & Roses even plans to roll out a deliv-

erative bone disease) tells a story about an elderly

ery service as soon as it becomes legal in LA County.

couple from Japan who once came in to seek treatment

The greatest adaptation has been shifting the cus-

for the wife’s breast cancer.

tomer experience to include anyone off the street who

“The husband spoke little English, and the wife was

might be inquisitive about trying cannabis, in addition to

frail and had never taken cannabis before. The proper

maintaining its reputation as a destination for patients

protocol was high doses of whole plant extract in ratios

with medicinal needs. “It all starts in budtender training,”

of both CBD and THC, but we didn’t want to overwhelm

Justis explains. “We came from a world of medicinal use,

her. So every week for four months, we’d keep track of

where budtenders are prepared to guide the patient

her dosing, and we incrementally adjusted it to her com­

through a certain ailment. But now we’re in this new

fort level while maximizing her intake. By the end, her

world where somebody can be visiting from another

CT scans had shown significant improvement, and they

city, another state, another country, and just be curious

returned home.” That kind of knowledgeable advice

about cannabis. It’s a different type of conversation that

and individual attention is applied as much to recre-

budtenders will have with that kind of consumer, and it

ational customers as it is to patients.

will be more of an introductory experience with lighter doses and smaller amounts.”

With its award-winning formula of high caliber merchandise, positive media exposure, business acumen,

The collective offers senior and veteran discounts,

employee education, and consumer care, the healthy

as well as a compassion discount for those who qual-

roots Buds & Roses have laid down are sure to bear

ify as low income or who are on disability. Sami, a bud-

both flowers and fruit far into the future.

ISO standard adapters compatible with virtually all waterpipes and bubblers

No metal mesh herb "disks" "cartridges" or "bowls".

Neutral polarity all-glass heating, extraction, and delivery surfaces for full spectrum vapor.

Water and/or ice conditioned vapor.

Only melt glands with a solvent free extraction.

Variable to full spectrum vapor or hybrid vapor/smoke.

www.vriptech.com | 650.206.2301 AUTHORIZED DISTRIBUTORS

28 Los Angeles M AY 2018

sensimag.com M AY 2018 29

SoCAL L AUNCH TOUR

the

SCENE

This March, Sensi embarked on a three-day, three-city tour to celebrate the launch of three new SoCal editions with epic events featuring entertainment by DJ Lord of Prophets of Rage. The tour kicked off in LA on Wednesday at State Social House on the famed Sunset Strip, where a collection of about 50 top cannabis brands showed off their products and services to nearly 1,200 partiers who came out to toast Sensi ’s arrival on the West Coast and to celebrate the spread of legalization across the nation. The evening featured live painting by Linzy Miggantz of Linzy’s HeART-Work, free hair styling by DOPE Hair Studio, and even a special surprise visit by Prophets of Rage guitarist Tom Morello. For more photos and a video recap, visit FACEBOOK.COM/SENSIMEDIAGROUP.

What: Sensi LA Launch Party Where: State Social House When: March 14, 2018

Vapexhale offers guests samples

DJ Lord of Prophets of Rage and Public Enemy on the turntables State Social House

30 Los Angeles M AY 2018

LOS ANGELES SENSI Prism Farms

Free styling offered

by DOPE Hair Studio

ReGen Supplements

Emerald Harvest

sensimag.com M AY 2018 31

{soLA }

by BOBBY BL ACK

rainbow REMEMBRANCE

© JERRY KRECICKI PHOTOGRAPHY

Situated at the heart of Hollywood’s Sunset Strip, the notorious Rainbow Bar and Grill has been the preferred hangout for rock stars, rebels and rejects since it’s opening in 1972. A rundown of the club’s regulars reads like a who’s who of celebrity cool: John Lennon and Ringo Starr, Keith Moon, Elton John, Cheech and Chong, John Belushi, Led Zeppelin, Kiss, Alice Cooper, Guns N’ Roses, Mötley Crüe … the list goes on. But undoubtedly, the most frequent and fervent of the bar’s famous patrons was Motorhead frontman LEMMY KILMISTER .

With his muttonchops, gravelly voice, distinctive moles and thunderous bass playing, Lemmy was one of heavy metal’s most influential icons. An unapologetic drunkard, speed freak, and all-around badass, Lemmy lived just two blocks from the Rainbow, which at least partly explains why he could be found there on an almost daily basis—chain-smoking Marlboros, downing Jack and Cokes and playing video poker on the patio. That is, until Monday, December 28, 2015, when he bit the proverbial bullet just four days after his 70th birthday.

Of the many tributes paid to the rock god after his passing, none are quite as endearing or enduring as the bronze statue erected in his honor that now stands at the end of the bar he once called home. For Lemmy’s fans, who funded the project through online donations, this metallic monument to the man and his music is the perfect place to pay their respects—with a whiskey and a smoke, just like the big man would’ve wanted.

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