Sensi Magazine - Las Vegas (October 2018)

LAS VEGAS

THE NEW NORMAL

10.2018

{plus}

Ladies of the leaf Women of cannabis

High entertainment

A grownups guide

Supersized Vegas’ newest attractions

sensimag.com OCTOBER 2018 3

4 OCTOBER 2018 Las Vegas

ISSUE 8 // VOLUME 1 // 10.2018

FEATURES 34 Changing Minds the Hollywood Way

A grown-up’s guide to TV and film shedding light on cannabis culture.

38

S P EC I A L RE P O RT

High On Hops

Once considered a threat to the alcohol industry, cannabis is the new darling of the beer industry.

26 PLAY BALL Sports Uplifting Vegas

every issue 07 Editor’s Note 08 The Buzz 12 CrossRoads

GRASS LANDS

16 TasteBuds

THAT’S AMORE

20 AroundTown

44 Gut Feelings

Cannabis could be one part of a holistic depression treatment that starts with the gastrointestinal tract.

A WHOLE NEW WORLD

23 HomeMade

A BEAUTIFUL CHANGE OF SEASONS

26 LifeStyle

CITY OF CHAMPIONS

30 HighProfile

20

OUT OF THIS WORLD Planet13 is all about the experience.

LADIES OF THE LEAF

49 The Scene

CULINARY FUSION

50 HereWeGo

HELLO, LADIES!

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

HIGH THERE Grown-ups watch guide

CORRECTION: In the August 2018 issue, we inadvertently referred to a product as High Ivory and High Hemp in a Promotional Feature on Hott Mess Kushmetics. The correct name is High Jump.

sensimag.com OCTOBER 2018 5

sensi magazine ISSUE 8 VOLUME 1 10.2018

EXECUTIVE FOLLOW US

Ron Kolb ron@sensimag.com CEO, SENSI MEDIA GROUP

Tae Darnell tae@sensimag.com PRESIDENT, SENSI MEDIA GROUP

Alex Martinez alex@sensimag.com CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER

sensimediagroup

EDITORIAL Stephanie Wilson stephanie@sensimag.com EDITOR IN CHIEF

Debbie Hall debbie.hall@sensimag.com MANAGING EDITOR, SENSI LAS VEGAS

Leland Rucker leland.rucker@sensimag.com SENIOR EDITOR

Robyn Griggs Lawrence CONTRIBUTING EDITOR sensimagazine

Ricardo Baca COLUMNIST Reggie Burton, Chef Tony Esnault, Dawn Garcia CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

A RT & D E S I G N Jamie Ezra Mark jamie@akersmediagroup.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR

sensimag

Rheya Tanner, Wendy Mak, Josh Clark, Deb Matlock akers@sensimag.com DESIGN & LAYOUT

Arthur Yang CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

BUSINESS & A D M I N I S T R AT I V E Susan Lugo susan.lugo@sensimag.com PUBLISHER

Daniel Asarch daniel.asarch@sensimag.com ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Amber Orvik amber.orvik@sensimag.com CHIEF ADMINISTRATOR

Andre Velez andre.velez@sensimag.com MARKETING DIRECTOR

Hector Irizarry hector@sensimag.com DISTRIBUTION

M E D I A PA RT N E R S Marijuana Business Daily Minority Cannabis Business Association National Cannabis Industry Association Students for Sensible Drug Policy 6 OCTOBER 2018 Las Vegas

CREATING ADVISORY BOARD American Cannabis Company // CONSULTING CannaPunch // INFUSED CANDIES AND JUICES Cohen Medical Centers // MEDICAL CENTERS Crooked Cactus CBD // CBD TINCTURES DigiPath Labs // CANNABIS TESTING Emerald Harvest // NUTRIENTS Evergreen Organix // PREMIUM BAKED GOODS

CHANGE

editor’s

NOTE

Reinvention. Transformation. Modification.

Some words for “change” don’t quite have the connotation like the word itself. However, the reality is that for anything to become different, alternate thought, desire, and action have to be implemented.

Benjamin Franklin said as he observed in 1789: “In this world, nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.” Life is fluid, and as new generations come of age, it’s ever apparent.

GreenHouse Payment Solutions //

The US converted from an agriculturally stimulated economy to

PAYMENT PROCESSING

an industrial and technological one over these 242 years. Now,

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change is upon us yet again. I refer to experts cited in Business

Libra Wellness // INFUSED GOURMET CHOCOLATES Nevada Powders //

POWDER PROCESSING SERVICES FOR EDIBLES

Insider or Forbes to help me navigate through shifts in consumer behavior. I know I have changed in many areas of my life and there’s no telling what the future brings.

Change has been instrumental in the growth of Las Vegas. We

NLVO // LAS VEGAS LUXURY CANNABIS

underwent a significant shift with the introduction of NHL’s Ve-

Strip Side Solutions // MARKETING

gas Golden Knights. I was excited to find that even at a gala, the

Toast // MINDFUL CONSUMPTION Undoo // OVERCONSUMPTION RELIEF

entire event paused for the third game. We watched the Knights play during dinner and commenced after the final puck flew across the ice. Throughout the week, I witnessed people streaming the games on their devices, and I can only imagine the heightened interest when the Raiders arrive.

The point is, we are always changing. We’ve begun to embrace every gender and sexual orientation, allowing us to respect, accept, and celebrate. We are no longer boxed in by what is expected or demanded, but instead rise to the occasion when challenged. The same is true with cannabis and, I believe, once the federal government legalizes marijuana for recreational and medicinal adult-use, a more relaxed climate will prevail.

While I admit I am afraid sometimes of what is occurring in the world, I am also grateful as well. I want to thank you, for coming on this journey as the mainstream embraces the new normal with a pro-cannabis voice. It is my honor to be part of Sensi.

Yours in the new normal,

Debbie Hall

M ANAG I NG E D I TO R SENSI LAS VEGAS

sensimag.com OCTOBER 2018 7

THE NEW NORMAL

sensi

buzz

Get Your Blades Ready Throw something at Axe Monkeys.

Picture this: You want to throw something with all your might at the person who dumped you, cut you off, left you dumbfounded while watching them duck. Instead of getting an assault charge, there’s an alternative—Axe Monkeys (AXEMONKEYS.COM) . Axe Monkeys offers the perfect indoor facility to throw an ax, tomahawk, spear, or knife. Sharp objects—even better.

The TV show Gas Monkey Garage inspired the name. But instead of cars, the facility in Vegas offers 23 indoor throwing lanes (much like bowling). The fun begins with a competition among friends to see who can throw the fastest, hardest, and most accurately. Bring your inner Viking out and roar as a blade embeds itself into a wooden target propelled by your strength.

Maybe it has been a horrible day…or month…or year. In the back of the building is a huge rage room where you can destroy a bunch of stuff. Challenge combatants to see who can smash up everything the quickest while releasing some pent-up anger. Hey, it’s a way more fun alternative to therapy.

Even celebs come get their throw-on like Joey Fatone (Backstreet Boys) and Kendra Wilkerson (The Girls Next Door). There’s no shame in a little blade throwing—at least not while you’re here!

–Debbie Hall

Axe Monkeys / 3525 E. Post Road Suite #110 / Las Vegas, NV 89120 / (702) 844-2439

Fear And Loathing

Hunter S. Thompson’s “Red Shark” Returns to Las Vegas Writer Hunter S. Thompson’s personal 1973 Chevrolet Caprice, inspired by his novel Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, arrived at Cannabition (CANNABITION.COM) as one of its Instagrammable exhibits. Las Vegas’ first and only immersive cannabis museum—and the world’s only cannabis-themed experience of its kind—celebrated the car’s arrival outside of Neonopolis. Anita Thompson (Thompson’s widow), Nevada State Senator Tick Segerblom, Cannabition Founder J.J. Walker, and

Neonopolis Owner Rohit Joshi posed for photos in the historic classic car during the public event.

As America left the counterculture of the 1960s for the transformational ‘70s, Hunter wrote the quintessential novel about chasing the American Dream. Published in 1972, Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas explores both the reality and musings of a journalist and activist in a drugfilled trip to Vegas. The Chevy, known as The Red Shark, became the chariot for the two characters, Raoul and Dr. Gonzo (played by Johnny Depp and Benicio del Toro). Friends gave Hunter a duplicate of the Red Shark in 1991 as a gift.

When Cannabition opens later in the year, the Red Shark will be on display along with never-before-seen photos and home videos of Thompson with his car.

–DH Cannabition / 450 Fremont St., #140 / Las Vegas, NV 89101 / (702) 909-0420

8 OCTOBER 2018 Las Vegas

Zombieland October 20

Action Figures Trump Candy

Treat those goblins with Wicked Duals Action Figures.

IN VEGAS

Zombie Run 5K participants encouraged to run in costume.

Halloween and healthy might be a dichotomy more than the norm but the fifth annual Zombie Run 5K/1-Mile Walk (ACTIVE.COM) will combine the two at Cornerstone Park starting

When it comes to kids on Halloween it’s all about the candy! Yes, sugar, empty calories, nutritionally void candy, and even the safety factor can bring trepidation to any parent. Stir the imagination instead with a candy-free alternative—Wicked Duals Action Figures.

These days a lot of video games, movies, or TV shows have a message of good versus evil and you can usually count on a few combat or fight scenes with some fascinating characters like weird creatures, aliens, robots— you name it—all in the name of keeping you entertained, so why not play with those via action figures?

The 52-piece Wicked Duals robot action figure set inspires intense battles between robots for an epic fight!

With different shapes, poses, and sizes, children can create any epic clash without bloodshed or violence. The 90-piece Human vs. Alien action figure set brings out the inner Trekkie or Star Wars in all of us. Another fan favorite are their zombies that also happen to be FDA-approved and make the perfect cake toppers! This is one alternative on the market that can make Halloween a little less sugar-filled and a lot more fun.

–DH

at 6 p.m. on Oct. 20.

Wicked Duals Action Figures can be purchased on AMAZON.COM and specialty retailers.

Cornerstone Park / 1600 Wigwam Parkway / Henderson, NV 89074 / (702) 267-5707

Adults and kids over the age of 5—of all abilities and fitness levels—can become one of the living dead while running or walking.

The course winds around the lake at Cornerstone Park while runners, walkers, and cheering crowds prepare to avoid the hungry zombies along the 3.1-mile route.

The city of Henderson promotes its Healthy Henderson initiative as a playful way to achieve fitness and wellness. Along with the 5K and walks; fitness-related classes, workshops, and events at six city recreation centers bring the community together.

Registration costs $25 through Oct. 19 or $40 the day of (cash only) and the first 300 registered participants will receive a commemorative T-shirt. If you love The Night of the Living Dead and The Walking Dead, this is a chance to reenact it as you run, walk, and scream for fitness.

–DH

sensi

buzz

Ready For A

COLD BREW? Craft beer infused with cannabis hits the spot.

Even in October, the desert temps invite everyone to enjoy a cold beverage. As we delve deep into craft brews, there’s a little something new thanks to Two Roots Brewing Co. (TWOROOTSBREWING.COM) who launched their first line of non-alcoholic cannabinoid-infused craft Cannabier (pronounced CAN-na-beer). The company features its micro-dosed beverages emulating the effects of alcohol but with a rapid dissipation. Selection is vital with choices including Lager, Stout, New West IPA, Blonde Ale, and Wheat. Best of all, the brews are all under 100 calories per serving, so no guilt when downing one. A beer that tastes like cannabis is now in development for double whammy effect when it comes on the market.

Not into beer? Enjoy cannabinoid-infused cold brewed iced teas and coffees by Just Society (JUSTSOCIETY.COM) . Great flavor with subtle effects so you can have fun while being responsible. The genius behind the products is Cannabiniers, a beverage, technology, and brand management company revolutionizing both the beverage and cannabis industries with patented, safe, and natural infused technology.

“We are thrilled to offer Two Roots and Just Society to the residents in Nevada, offering an alternative, healthy, and delicious platform for cannabis consumption,” says Director of Product Development Kevin Love.

–DH Purchase the beer, iced tea, and coffee products at select dispensaries including Las Vegas Releaf (LASVEGASRELEAF.COM) 10 OCTOBER 2018 Las Vegas

sensimag.com OCTOBER 2018 11

by R I C A R D O B A C A

A summertime music festival learns to embrace cannabis.

12 OCTOBER 2018 Las Vegas

(OPPOSITE PAGE) PHOTOS BY VIRGINIA CORTLAND / ANDREW JORGENSEN

{crossroads}

PHOTOS COURTESY OF SFOUTSIDELANDS.COM / (BELOW) PHOTOS BY JACK GORLIN / (OPPOSITE PAGE) RICARDO BACA

As I continue to document the ever-creeping normalization of legal cannabis in this column each month, the world

first-of-its-kind activation will likely be remembered as an important moment on America’s normalization timeline.

around us continues to hit new milestones in the ways in

Festival organizers Another Planet Entertainment called

which we’re accepting and even embracing this once-slan-

the area Grass Lands, unrelated to the public relations agen-

dered psychoactive plant.

cy I run called Grasslands but a nod to the simple-yet-effec-

A few years ago, a Colorado marijuana business made

tive naming convention that years before brought Outside

headlines when it was announced to be one of the largest do-

Lands festival-goers Beer Lands, Wine Lands, Choco Lands,

nors to a new outdoor amphitheater on Denver’s west side. Of

and other substance-specific retail activations.

course marijuana companies should be sponsoring music

Grass Lands included branded activations from some of Cal-

venues and their efforts in the community—that wasn’t the

ifornia marijuana’s most recognizable names, including Kiva,

newsworthy aspect that garnered the many headlines.

Flow Kana, and Jetty Extracts, yet there were no sales or (legal)

Let’s remember that back in 2015–2016, it was still rare

consumption of the plant at the center of this celebration.

for a music venue of any kind to accept donations from weed

As a sign at Grass Lands’ entrance read: “This is a celebra-

businesses. Because of their federal illegality or the lingering

tory area for the cannabis curious and connoisseur alike.

stigma or their untouchable status, whatever—many can-

While we encourage you to explore and discover, please re-

nabis businesses couldn’t even give their money away in

spect our home in Golden Gate Park, and the park-wide no

those early days.

smoking policy.”

Which brings me to this year’s Outside Lands, the annual

While park rules nixed any opportunity for cannabis con-

large-scale music festival that takes over San Francisco’s

sumption, state laws and regulations prevented retail sales

stately Golden Gate Park each summer. As some friends and

from happening at Grass Lands—making for a somewhat

I planned our four-day getaway to the Bay in August, we

precarious activation of mixed messages. A well-known chef

knew the festival was marking its home state’s first year of

and curator of marijuana-infused dinners was selling unin-

legal adult-use cannabis sales in a

fused meals in Grass Lands, while one of the world’s largest

big way, and sure enough their

edibles brands served up uninfused samples of choco

sensimag.com OCTOBER 2018 13

late-covered blueberries and mints that are normally infused with pot.

nicotine while cannabis kills 0 Americans (according to the Center for Disease Control, no less), let’s take a step back and

The Aug. 10 San Francisco Chronicle headline went straight to the core of the perplexing-to-many issue: “Pot at Outside Lands: You can smell, but you can’t buy.”

recognize this for what it is.

Outside Lands draws more than 60,000 people each year, so it’s a massive fest á la Coachella or Jazz Fest. This year’s

And while most people reading this magazine understand

headliners were A-listers Janet Jackson, the Weeknd, and

the ridiculous hypocrisy here, as more than a half a million

Florence + the Machine. And this mainstream event is em-

Americans die each year from alcohol and

bracing marijuana as much as the law will allow them to, less

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14 OCTOBER 2018 Las Vegas

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(OPPOSITE PAGE, FROM LEFT) PHOTOS BY TOM TOMKINSON / RICARDO BACA / JOSH WITHERS

than eight months after recreational cannabis became the

regulate the cannabis space will more accurately reflect the

law of the land in California.

plant itself, which isn’t without its risks—though those risks

By celebrating weed alongside beer and coffee, cheese and wine, the progressive promoters behind Outside Lands

pale in comparison to those belonging to many other recreational substances.

were telling attendees (and those following along at home

Think about how we’ll all laugh at Outside Lands in 2021 as

on Instagram and YouTube) that cannabis deserves a place at

we think back to the 2018 fest that didn’t allow the consump-

the table, that marijuana deserves a sanctioned place at the

tion or sale of cannabis on-site. Surely the state of California

music festival.

will have figured out some way to permit consumption beyond

And that’s meaningful cultural change, friends.

state fairgrounds by then, and it might also figure out a way for

It’s also a situation of baby steps, a.k.a. having to start

retail sales to happen on festival grounds, too.

somewhere. Marijuana is currently one of the most highly

Just imagine having a package of edibles and a vapor pen

regulated industries in the world, but these often-ridiculous

delivered to you in the VIP section of a future festival, a trans-

regs—the result of decades of government-peddled misin-

action managed effortlessly via Apple Pay. Now that’s a fu-

formation and propaganda—are slowly starting to give way

ture I can get behind.

to experience- and reality-based rules that are more befitting of this still-new industry.

It’s going to take some time, but eventually the rules that

RICARDO BACA is a veteran journalist, thought leade,r and founder of The Cannabist.

His content agency Grasslands works primarily with businesses and individuals in the cannabis and hemp industries on thought leadership, publicity, and marketing projects via thoughtful, personalized content campaigns.

sensimag.com OCTOBER 2018 15

by D E B B I E H A L L

Ferraro’s Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar 4480 Paradise Road, Las Vegas 702-364-5300 / FERRAROSLASVEGAS.COM

THAT’S AMORE Contemporary flavors play in the presence of fine wines at Ferraro’s.

In 1985, Las Vegas welcomed a five-star Italian restaurant giving locals and visitors alike a dining experience to remem-

side of savory risotto. As your tastebuds dive in, you will close your eyes and envision Italy.

ber. Ferraro’s Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar first opened on

“Our staples will always be on the menu,” says

Flamingo Road and in 2008, before moving to their new loca-

owner Gino Ferraro. “This includes our sausage,

tion at Harmon Avenue and Paradise Road. The new location

chops, and tripe. Do I give our Executive Chef

was designed with an updated concept appealing to modern

[Francesco Di Caudo] the freedom to introduce

tastes without compromising on the classics.

new dishes? Of course. However, I have to taste it

While the city has always been known for its Italian cuisine—some would even say it is the influence of the mob— the fact is that the food just tastes so damn good.

and, more importantly, I have to like it.”

Another trend incorporated into the culinary experience is small plates created by Chef Di Caudo. The

Back in the day, I remember what a treat it was to dine at

chef offers wine tastings and a regional menu se-

Ferraro’s. As the pianist played in the background on select

ries. He uses ingredients new to the menu with an

nights, we would be seated in the ambiance of an old-world

eye on presentation that includes introducing mi-

eatery with crisp linens, dark wood walls, crystal glasses,

cro-vegetables. As Ferraro says, “I am open to

and exquisite china. Of course, the food was the star, tasting

this. Everyone needs to evolve with the

sublime with its rich sauces and perfectly cooked pastas.

times. I am so okay with this.”

Today, Ferraro’s remains one of the best places to dine at in town. The family-owned-and-operated restaurant pours its heart and soul into creating the best possible dining experience. It’s apparent in their attention to detail night after night, with an extensive award-winning wine list, trending dishes hailing from Italy, and superb service. The décor is open and light with elegant touches. Walking through the entrance, you are transported from the desert to the lushness of the Mediterranean, exploring the villages of Italy

The Story This journey started when Ferraro and his wife Rosalba decided to open the original Ferraro’s to showcase their Southern Italian heritage using traditional family recipes with a modern twist. As its popularity grew, they discovered that the majority of the clientele was 90 percent tourists. In the 1980s and ‘90s, it was a 10-min-

through food and wine.

ute cab ride from the Strip to the original location. How-

The Food

expensive cab rides replaced the previous ease of

Discover the regions’ specialty dishes locally—it is much easier to drive to Ferraro’s than to travel to Italy (although

ever, due to the population explosion, busy streets and travel to their former popular location.

Still, it was a leap of faith for the family when the

that is on my bucket list). A dish that will transport you and

current location became available in 2008 during

make your mouth water is the legendary osso buco with a

the downturn of the economy. “It

16 OCTOBER 2018 Las Vegas

PHOTOS COURTESY OF FERRARO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT & WINE BAR

{tastebuds}

“I believe we are unique in the sense that I am here 90 percent of the time. If someone wants to meet the owner—the brand that is on our building—they can meet me.”

was the right time to move even though it was the most

songs playing in the background. It is the perfect atmo-

difficult time in Vegas,” explains Ferraro.

sphere to eat, drink, talk, and enjoy without any distraction.

The bottom line demonstrates his vision and imagination with the restaurant attaining its best year in 2017 and sales in 2018 already surpassing those numbers.

However, Ferraro isn’t resting on his accomplishments.

He recently spent two months traveling around Italy and noticed something new. People are coming to the restaurant to pick up items like fresh vegetables—steamed in the kitchen—to take home. Two other exciting trends are the creation of a healthier alternative to risotto, using orzotto made with pearl barley instead of rice, and the increasing popularity of shared and small plates (tapas).

He understands that there are times when a leisurely dinner is part of the evening, along with the guests who want to enjoy the wine bar with tapas. “We mix it up with happy hour and late night dining along with the full culinary experience.”

The Ambiance

The Wine Wine is an essential element at Ferraro’s. “I know we have one of the best selections of Italian wine in the world. We hold educational wine tastings every month which sell out.”

Its cellar contains around 1,500 varietals from California, Spain, Australia, Italy, and South America. At the bar, there are 16 wines by the ounce and 22 wines by the glass. Sipping and socializing at Ferraro’s is one of my favorite activities, especially since it is so close to several concert venues.

Yes, restaurants open up constantly in Las Vegas but, as Ferraro says, “I believe we are unique in the sense that I am here 90 percent of the time. If someone wants to meet the owner—the brand that is on our building—they can meet me. We recommend wines and make sure all of our guests get personalized service. The chef is also always here to speak with our customers. This is why we are getting better as the years go by.”

One item off the menu is live entertainment. The Rat

Ferraro’s is like dining at home if the kitchen offered a

Pack and Sinatra, reminiscent of the soundtrack of the

full menu, wine list, an elegant dining room, and an inviting

past, is not part of its current dining scene. Today, guests

lounge. Traditions started decades ago continue but in a

enjoy having conversation but music is part of the ambi-

cool, upscale environment that is expressed in its success

ance here with a collection of over 3,000 contemporary

with change and growth.

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sensimag.com OCTOBER 2018 19

{aroundtown}

by D E B B I E H A L L

PLANET 13

2548 W. Desert Inn Road, Las Vegas 702-206-1313 / PLANET13HOLDINGS.COM

Elevating the brick-and-mortar experience.

A Whole New World

20 OCTOBER 2018 Las Vegas

Lights will fill the sky as anyone with an affinity for Ins-

Groesbeck has also witnessed the rise of themed

tagram-worthy spots will leap as the illumination bursts

megaresorts on the Strip offering unique experiences. “We

through the expansive experience of the Planet 13 Super-

decided to integrate this model into the cannabis space. We

store scheduled to open in November.

wanted to create something totally different, not just for

While the future of brick-and-mortar stores are in flux

Nevada but throughout the country.”

(our childhood favorite—Toys ‘R Us—among them), this

When Phase 1 of their vision is unveiled, it will show-

won’t be a typical big box store. The vertically-integrated

case 40,000 square feet featuring interactive attractions

Nevada cannabis company will include a dispensary, but

and over 16,500 square feet of retail cannabis space with

even that aspect is just an integral part of a larger attraction

40 to 50 registers. The plan is to create memories of a fun

destined to be on everyone’s must-do list.

Vegas vacation for visitors.

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT : Entrance of Retail Promenade / Co-CEOs Robert Groesbeck, Clark County Commissioner Steve Sisolak, and Larry Scheffler / Interior of Retail Promenade

PHOTOS OF PLANET 13 PRESS CONFERENCE BY IRA KUZMA/IRA KUZMA PHOTOS

Raised in Vegas, Co-CEO Robert Groesbeck has lived,

Here, it’s all about the experience.

worked, and played in Southern Nevada for over five de-

The unique allure of Planet 13 will combine state-of-

cades, so he comprehends the landscape of the city better

the-art technology and interactive entertainment. Ap-

than most. When he and Co-CEO Larry Scheffler developed

proaching the complex, 13 LED lotus flowers (15 feet tall)

the original Planet 13 in the southwest part of the Valley in

will “grow” and blossom on the roof of the building, drawing

2016, they stepped up the original business model of dis-

people to the beacon of light west of the Strip. However,

pensaries. Now comes their newest vision of dispensaries

this is not just décor but rather interactive pieces of art cre-

with the transformation of gutted buildings and open land

ated with acrylic leaves and metal stems. There is a sus-

one block west of the Strip encompassing 112,000 acres.

tainable outdoor water feature incorporating fog, steam,

It is the culmination of another dream on a property that

and LED lights to replicate flames, and walking on the sen-

once housed an architectural firm, production studio, and

sory-activated LED flooring will guide you into the lobby

theater supply company with the promise in the 2000s of

and fill you with child-like euphoria. Then watch out! Glow-

offering a stage for live performances. Now the artistic ad-

ing aerial orbs dance high above and around you, beckoning

venture will come to life in the form of engagement and

you to follow. You can also use the interactive laser graffiti

experiences that can be preserved in photos.

to leave your mark with drawings and the written word. Of

“Larry [Scheffler] and I are acutely aware of the economy

course, it is encouraged—if not expected—that you stand

based on tourism,” Groesbeck explains. “With our existing

next to your creation (even if it is just your name) for a pho-

store, we realized that it was located too far from the Strip

to op. They even have a 3D Projection Visual Experience

for tourists and it is too small now.”

that will no doubt impress. sensimag.com OCTOBER 2018 21

“We want to develop and present this amazing place that will be on everyone’s list to ‘check off’ when they visit Vegas.”

Touch. Feel. See. Hear. All your senses will be engaged.

The company’s principles anticipate that a significant number of customers are not cannabis users but will visit to engage in the destination. Planet 13, while named after the 13th letter of the alphabet (M), plans to encompass the global effect of tourism in Sin City.

“This fits in with our traditional visitors,” says Groesbeck.

“They love the city and everything it offers, but they are not gamblers. Tourists want to visit the megaresorts, take in a show, and enjoy attractions. We want to develop and present this amazing place that will be on everyone’s list to ‘check off’ when they visit Vegas.”

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT : Exterior of Planet 13 / Sales Floor and Showroom Area

The city is known for its over-the-top grand themes

round for the horror section—children could play with toys

that’s drawn in visitors from all over the world for de-

and games while parents rented kids’ films in the family

cades. Planet 13 encompasses this uniqueness after an

section, and the adult section was behind a green door.

extensive search to bring in artists and contractors making the vision possible.

While dispensaries have grown to include appeal and amenities, the reinvention of Vegas dispensaries demon-

The timeline for interactive dispensaries started when

strates the power of the visionaries (owners) that call Ve-

the Bluebird Coffee Shop first opened in 2010 and billed it-

gas home. Still, Groesbeck and Scheffler—as part of the

self as a compassionate club for medicinal cannabis users

cannabis industry—respect the decision of the resort op-

and caregivers, as well as the information-seeking public.

erators not to allow adult-use recreational cannabis in hotel

Yes, you could get a cup of Joe and pastry, but it was also one

rooms and are working to find solutions.

of the few places anyone could go to for help with medical

However, they have big plans for Planet 13. “We will cre-

marijuana. Housed in a decades-old building one block from

ate some amazing amenities to be incorporated in the next

the Strip, the members-only club survived for a brief time.

phase, but for now, I will just tease everyone until we can

As for interacting with retail, in the 1980s and 90s when video stores proliferated the Valley, Hollywood Video offered its model of engagement. It was Halloween all year 22 OCTOBER 2018 Las Vegas

make a formal announcement.”

The future has arrived for the next chapter of the Strip and there’s a whole new world opening up.

{homemade} recipes by C H E F T O N Y E S N A U LT

A BE AUTIFUL CHANGE OF

SE ASONS

As fall sweeps in to give pause to the sweltering heat of summer, Michelin-starred chef Tony Esnault of Los Angeles’ Church & State Bistro created a dish and cocktail you can prepare at home. With ingredients sourced locally, he takes a fall favorite and creates something buzz-worthy in every way. Infused with CBD elixir and hemp protein powder, these two recipes will have you smiling before you can say yum!

Cali Beach Dream CBD Infused Cocktail // serves 1 INGREDIENTS

• 1/2 oz Aperol • 1/2 oz orange Juice • 1 dropper Super CBD • 1 1/2 oz Johnny Walker Black whisky • 2 oz club soda • Ice cubes • 1 slice of orange garnish DIRECTIONS

PHOTOS BY ART YANG

STEP 1: In a Collin’s glass, combine and mix Aperol, orange

juice, CBD, and whisky.

STEP 2: Add club soda and lightly stir the glass.

STEP 3: Fill with ice until beverage reaches the brim.

STEP 4: Garnish with orange slice.

STEP 5: Enjoy immediately.

sensimag.com OCTOBER 2018 23

Butternut Squash Salad with Quinoa, Mixed Greens and CBD Elixir // serves 4 INGREDIENTS

For the Roasted Butternut Squash • 1 Butternut squash, around 2 1/2 lbs.

• 2 sprigs Thyme • 1 sprig Sage • 4 cloves Garlic • 2 tbsp Extra virgin olive oil • Salt and pepper 24 OCTOBER 2018 Las Vegas

For the Organic Quinoa Salad: • 1 cup Organic Quinoa Medley • 2 cups Water or Vegetable Broth • 3 tbsp Sunflower Seeds • Small bunch of Chives (Sliced) • 1 Granny Smith Apple (Small Dice) • 1 stalk of Celery (Small Dice) • Lemon juice, E.V.O, and salt to taste

For the Mixed Greens • 2 tbsp Hemp Oil • 1 tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice • 5 oz Organic Mixed Greens • Salt and pepper to taste Other Ingredients: • 4 tsp CBD Hemp Protein Powder

“Herb is a plant.

Herbs are good for everything.”

– Bob Marley

Part II: The Quinoa Salad STEP 1: Put quinoa in a pot with cold water. Bring to a boil.

STEP 2: Decrease heat to medium and let cook for 15 min-

utes. Cooking is complete when quinoa is open with a ring.

STEP 3: As quinoa is cooking, place sunflower seeds onto a

baking tray and toast in your 450º F oven for around 2 minutes until slightly brown. Season with salt and set aside.

STEP 4: Once quinoa is cooked, remove from heat, strain,

rinse, and cool in the refrigerator.

STEP 5: In a mixing bowl, mix all ingredients and season

with lemon juice, E.V.O., and salt to desired taste.

Part III: The Mixed Greens STEP 1: Whisk together lemon juice and hemp oil to form a

simple vinaigrette. Season to taste and set aside.

STEP 2: In a mixing bowl, lightly season mixed greens with

salt and black pepper. Gently toss with vinaigrette.

DIRECTIONS

Part I: The Squash STEP 1: Preheat oven to 450º F and line a baking sheet with

parchment paper.

STEP 2: With a long, sharp knife, half the butternut squash.

With a spoon, remove seeds and fibers.

STEP 3: Generously rub the interior and exterior with olive oil.

Season liberally with salt and pepper.

STEP 4: Place the squash flesh-side down with herbs and garlic onto baking sheet. Let roast in oven, uncovered, for 1 hour. When fully cooked, the flesh should be tender with no give when poked with a fork.

STEP 5: Once removed from oven, remove and discard aromatics. Let squash cool to room temperature and refrigerate until it is ready to be eaten.

Part IV: The Finishing Touches STEP 1: Cut both butternut squash pieces in half and serve

quarters onto 4 serving plates. Divide quinoa salad and serve on top of each piece of squash. Add mixed greens on the side. Serve with a generous sprinkle of hemp protein powder and enjoy.

CHEF TONY ESNAULT grew up in the south of France and has worked with the best chefs in the world including Alain Ducasse, where he garnered a total of three Michelin stars, and then went on to earn another two stars (a total of five in the span of his career so far). He continues to create cuisine that exceeds culinary expectation alongside his partner and wife, Yassmin Sarmadi at Church and State Bistro.

CHURCHANDSTATEBISTRO.COM

sensimag.com OCTOBER 2018 25

{lifestyle}

by R E G G I E B U R T O N

Bringing the game to everyone

CIT Y OF CHAMPIONS

26 OCTOBER 2018 Las Vegas

Beyond the glitz and glamour of the Las Vegas Strip, a bour-

now is different. We are witnessing the evolution of a city

geoning professional sports scene has quietly emerged in Sin

located within Clark County, an area of more than 2 million

City. In its 2018 inaugural season, the Vegas Golden Knights

people, planting its own flag as a major league profession-

and T-Mobile Arena put Las Vegas on the global sports map.

al sports town.

This year they set a National Hockey League (NHL) record for most wins by an expansion franchise, winning the Western Conference championship and charging all the way to the Stanley Cup Finals before losing to the Washington Capitals.

Vegas Raiders Located on Russell Road just on the west side of the Strip, the new $1.8 billion home of the Las Vegas Raiders is

A native of Los Angeles, I’m an LA Kings fan who grew

currently under construction and will be ready to host the

up in Inglewood and old enough to remember watching a

Raiders in 2020. In addition to professional and college

few games at the Great Western Forum on Manchester

football games, the stadium will bid to host a Super Bowl

and Prairie. Admittedly, I’m a bit of a sports snob, having

and the World Cup, among other events in the future.

grown up in a city where I could walk to Los Angeles Lak-

In 1994, I was in San Diego working as a PR Specialist

ers championship parades from my house on 83rd Street

for the Chargers. We made the Super Bowl that year, and I

and Seventh Avenue.

remember riding in a car with Junior Seau from the airport

However, even I have to admit getting caught up in VGK

to Jack Murphy Stadium after the AFC Championship game

fever, proudly wearing my black polo shirt with gold logo

in Pittsburgh. I will never forget the look on Junior’s face

at a recent business luncheon meeting, soaking up each

when I told him 60,000 fans were waiting inside the stadi-

“Go Knights Go” chant and strolling into the Verandah at

um. His speech was electric—he could have run for Mayor.

the Four Seasons as if I were the backup goalie to Marc

As we found out with VGK, nothing boosts the pride of a

Andre Fleury.

city more than being home to a championship team.

To be clear, Las Vegas has always been a destination for sports fans, a home away from home to watch and bet

NBA Summer League

(legally, more on that later) on professional sports and

The 2018 National Basketball Association (NBA) Sum-

major events like the Super Bowl. But what’s happening

mer League, sponsored by MGM Resorts, expanded by adding more teams and set attendance records in Las Vegas for the second year in a row. The increased popularity of the summer league is fueling the prospect of landing an NBA team in the near future. Add a successful first year by

PHOTO OF THE VEGAS GOLDEN KNIGHTS BY MICHAEL MILLER

the Las Vegas Aces of the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA.COM) , and you can bet Vegas is on the NBA radar for landing a team at T-Mobile Arena.

Sports Betting Expansion In May, the world of legal sports betting made headlines when the Supreme Court issued a ruling saying that the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) is unconstitutional, leaving individual states to decide if they want to allow gambling. The NBA likes to stay ahead of other professional sports leagues, so it was no surprise when the league announced it had reached a three-year cross-marketing deal with MGM Resorts worth $25 million. sensimag.com OCTOBER 2018 27

What’s next?

In October, the American Gaming Association (AGA) will host a Sports Betting Symposium during its annual Global Gaming Expo in Las Vegas.

The “Business of Sports Betting” panel discussion, moderated by ESPN’s Scott Van Pelt should be one of the highlights of this year’s show. The symposium and focus on sports highlight a more significant trend within the gaming and tourism industry.

When I first moved to Las Vegas in 2000, gaming revenue was about 70 percent, compared to roughly 30 percent for non-gaming. It was around this time the industry started to see a shift towards non-gaming spending across the city—restaurants, entertainment shows, and shopping began to draw more interest from customers. At Circus Circus, we were ahead of this trend and held a strong position marketing family-friendly attractions at The Midway and The Adventuredome Indoor Theme Park. As a result of shifting consumer trends and demographics, more recent studies show that revenue splits for gaming and non-gaming are about 50-50.

Vegas is known as a destination that continually looks for ways to reinvent itself and stay on top of the tourism world. Professional sports leagues are helping lead the latest wave of changes to the landscape of Sin City. From the NHL to the NFL, tourism leaders have taken a leading role in working with the resort community to leverage these changes.

The Las Vegas 51s, a minor league baseball team, will play in a new $150 million stadium in the northwest valley in 2019. There is already talk of Major League Baseball looking to the desert if the league should expand. In the meantime, locals and tourists alike will have plenty of options to support their favorite professional sports teams for years to come.

Of course, the addition of E-sports venues at MGM Grand, the Luxor, and Downtown should keep the Millennials entertained. It will be interesting to see how it all plays out.

REGGIE BURTON is principal of RB Group–a Vegas-based, minority-owned public relations and social media marketing firm specializing in corporate responsibility and crisis communications. Burton is an officer with The Economic Club of Las Vegas, a nonprofit, non-partisan organization bringing nationally prominent speakers to Las Vegas to discuss topics in the areas of national monetary policy. He’s a former journalist and PR Specialist with San Diego Chargers.

28 OCTOBER 2018 Las Vegas

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OCTOBER 2018 29

{highprofile}

by D AW N G A R C I A

L ADIES OF THE LE AF Women in Cannabis are taking charge in the new normal.

30 OCTOBER 2018 Las Vegas

It’s high time we see positive changes in all facets of business, in particular the conversation in cannabis. As women find their voices in the modern business climate, they’re also finding their footing.

2010, Edwards has made leaps and bounds regarding community outreach and market penetration.

“In 2010, I opened a medical dispensary called Treecity Health Collective

(ANNARBORPROVISIONINGCENTER.COM)

According to the Harvard Business Review, women con-

named after our city of trees, and I became known as Gan-

trol about $20 trillion in annual consumer spending, and

jamama because at that time I was the only woman in the

that number could reach $28 trillion within the next five

industry who owned a cannabis shop surrounded by a sea of

years. We have an insatiable appetite to live better, lon-

men. I was coined as having ‘big balls,' but I’d like to say I had

ger, healthier lives. We’re willing to try new brands, prod-

ambitious goals. I wanted to redefine the stigmatization

ucts, including alternatives to traditional medicine and

that marijuana was making people dumb and lazy and caus-

health care. That means more and more women are turn-

ing them to wear tie-dyed shirts. I wanted to lift the industry

ing to cannabis instead of harmful alternatives, and be-

into a first-class space, so I created a shop where profes-

cause we make a significant contribution to the economy,

sionals felt very comfortable walking in my doors and leav-

women are now taking that contribution into the world of

ing them armed with one more bit of information they could

cannabis. Men have predominantly run the industry, but

use to defend their choice to use cannabis for their families

that is changing, according to the Denver Post and, be-

in an educated way.”

cause women are green consumers, it is befitting they’re

Educating the public about cannabis is the plight of ev-

instrumental in how business is done. In honor of rewrit-

eryone who supports its use and integration into our ev-

ing the rules of the cannabis playground, I interviewed a

eryday lives. Cannabis has had to climb out from under the

group of women who are not merely making a mark but

rock that labeled it a less-than-acceptable form of relax-

are an active part of the industry’s growth and innovation.

ation and face of health and prove skeptics wrong, one

Each woman represents a different region, and what they

study and “normal” person at a time. Ann Arbor, however,

do varies but one thing is for sure: there is a dialogue hap-

can boast that it decriminalized cannabis-related crimes

pening that is reinvigorating the ideology of the new nor-

back in 1972. Forward thinking and progressive, this small

mal—for everyone.

town in Michigan paved the way for other states to follow.

Now Edwards takes that mindset one step further.

“I educated people on the idea that cannabis was a wellness tool that needed to be coupled with a holistic lifestyle and wasn’t a cure-all. And I was the only shop in an unregulated market that required mandatory lab testing when that was basically unheard of,” Edwards says. “In 2012 I opened my EDUCATE

EMPOWER

EVOLVE

Dori Edwards

CITY: Ann Arbor, Michigan OCCUPATION: Business Owner, Cannabis Activist PREFERRED STRAIN: Blue Dream

second store in the town of Ypsilanti and then transferred the boards of both companies on July 4, 2013, walking away from the industry altogether—or so I thought. I was a single mom, and this was pre-Cole Memo. The stress of enduring obsta-

With a population of 350,000, including the neighboring

cles was getting the best of me, and I was tired of being treat-

regions of Washtenaw County, Ann Arbor is a community

ed like a second-class citizen. In late 2014, I jumped back in as

driven by innovation, adaptation, openness, and reinvigora-

a caregiver and grew organic plants from high-quality strains.

tion. While it is part of the Detroit-Ann Arbor-Flint populace

In 2015 I founded a company named Ayurvanna Inc., a whole-

of 5.8 million, Ann Arbor is a rural area outside of Michigan’s

plant, full-spectrum edible and topical company with a holistic

hustle and bustle. It’s also where Dori Edwards, the Women

approach because I could never understand why people

Grow (WOMENGROW.COM) chapter rep for Ann Arbor, is cul-

would want to eat sugar when they were ill. Under Ayurvan-

tivating cannabis. Known as the woman who has “big balls”

na, some of my favorite products are a life-changing sex lube

for having the courage to open a medical dispensary in

we call Sundara, a menstrual cramp-relieving oil to put on sensimag.com OCTOBER 2018 31

tampons called Cramp-Ease, and my most favorite, an anal-

qualifying conditions for our medical program. Our laws, when

gesic, heal-all topical called Dori Balm that works on a multi-

it comes to caregivers, are not patient-friendly, and I don't feel

tude of skin issues, muscle, and nerve pains. In 2015, I found-

a vertical platform is conducive to entrepreneurship. As a New

ed Bloom City Club (BLOOMCITYCLUB.COM) in Ann Arbor—my

Yorker, I have seen a few changes here, especially around the

third and best dispensary that imbibes my entire life’s philos-

policing of cannabis-related offenses. Our medical program

ophy and brand.”

leaves much to be desired, and our criminal justice system is

In addition to being instrumental in the progression of the

still, in my opinion, stuck in stigma. The cannabis advocates in

industry and providing optimum patient care, Edwards also

New York are working hard, and I'm keeping my fingers crossed

created Blue Sage. “This organization was formed to bridge

that we will champion for patients and people before profits.”

the gap between doctors who are willing to take the risk by

When asked if she would change anything about the in-

recommending cannabis to patients, but don’t have much

dustry, Osbourne had one suggestion. “It would be creating a

information beyond that, and budtenders. Patients weren’t

licensing process that included small businesses. I think this

really getting the kind of care they needed when first choos-

should be a fair and equal opportunity economy. Michigan

ing to use cannabis. They didn’t know how cannabis would

already has cottage laws, and I would like to see those ex-

interact with the pharmaceuticals they were taking. Blue

tended to cannabis. I am not of a competitive mindset, and I

Sage employs nurses and therapists to help them with dos-

want everyone to experience the gifts this plant has to offer.

ing, administration options, terpene awareness, and basi-

“That's our focus at Women Grow. In addition to provid-

cally just holds their hand through the entire process.”

ing information, resources, and quality events, we are creating a community of women who support one another. I feel my duty as a part of this cannabis community, and as a woman of color, is to fight for a seat at the table—and make sure I keep seats open for others.”

Like those trying to change the stigma associated with can-

Tanya Osbourne

CITY: The Bronx, New York OCCUPATION: Business Owner, Cannabis Activist PREFERRED STRAIN: 1:1

nabis as a bunch of juvenile delinquents incapable of functioning in the real world, the cannabis community, including Osborne, is strong and woven together with those who are highly intelligent, passionate about what they do, and professional.

On the East Coast in the heart of New York is Tanya Osborne, who handles Women Grow in the Bronx. New York is home to 8.5 million people, but it’s behind in its cannabis legislation, and that’s frustrating for a growing number of adult users, cultivators, and educators, including Osborne.

Falling in love after becoming a volunteer for the organization, Women Grow, she did a tremendous amount of re-

Elyse M. Phoenix

search and experimenting. That led her to create CannaDiva (FACEBOOK.COM @CANNADIVABOX),

CITY: Las Vegas OCCUPATION: Producer, Director PREFERRED STRAIN: No-sugar, low-carb edibles

a subscription box that

includes hand-picked, lifestyle items and cannabis accessories delivering a unique, enlightened experience for women.

In Las Vegas, where life moves at a flashy marquee pace

As a result of having her own company and being active in

full of fascinating contradictions, is Elyse M. Phoenix, Founder

Women Grow, Osbourne knows that every day new regula-

of WIN Media (Women Into Normality), and the producer be-

tions and bill amendments are created to help—and some-

hind the documentary Women of Cannabis (@WOMENOFCAN-

times hinder—cannabis evolution.

NABIS) .

Phoenix films and shares the stories of women in

“New York is a hard nut to crack regarding cannabis. Most of

the industry, Elyse has a unique voice and story of her own.

the legislation in New York surprises me. We have only 12

As an avid user of cannabis to manage pain rather than sub-

32 OCTOBER 2018 Las Vegas

scribing to opiates or alcohol, Phoenix and her husband were

turned into so much more. We’ve created a platform for

preparing to adopt children children but were having a diffi-

women’s voices, and a movement from within. We want

cult time adopting because she and her husband were med-

those who are uneducated, afraid, or are in the ‘cannabis

ical marijuana patients. Phoenix, heartbroken, asked why

closet’ to see how ladies just like them have had their lives

alcohol and painkillers would have been more acceptable.

changed forever. We aim to normalize.” says Phoenix.

That’s been a difficult obstacle to overcome, but it inspired a

While we talked about legislation, sexism, and shifts in the

career advocating for women in cannabis to be heard, em-

industry, I was struck by Phoenix’s patience and grace, but it

powered, and armed with as much knowledge as possible.

was one statement from Phoenix that spoke volumes. She

“My Clark Kent job has been in promotional products. I

stated, “I want to show no matter who you are, where you’re

have had the opportunity to help several local nonprofits

from, what you look like, how old you are, or what you do for a

and cannabis companies acquire branded merchandise or

living, it doesn’t matter. We are all ladies of the leaf.”

‘swag.’ My Superman job is with WIN Media and producing Women of Cannabis. I have partnered with Morning Coffee

When it’s all said and done and the worries of the day

Productions to produce a feature documentary showcasing

rest on our shoulders, I’d be remiss to mention we don’t all

the benefits of cannabis from a woman’s point of view. We

turn to something. It may be meditation, coffee, wine, a

have filmed 40 amazing, diverse stories since January of

cocktail, a bag of salty chips, cookies, sleep aids, or canna-

this year. Our goal is to raise the funds necessary to finish

bis, but regardless of what it is, women are mothers, run-

the production of the film. We are also about to start our

ning businesses, educating, nurturing, and coming out of

crowdfunding campaign. We believe this is a story worth

the shadows. These women have created a new dialogue

telling and we hope your readers will agree. What started

in the hopes that cannabis really does become more than

with an idea to tell the stories of a few inspiring women

a campaign slogan for the new normal.

BEHIND THE SCENES: Interviews and photo shoots with more than 40 unique women for Women of Cannabis.

“No matter who you are, where you’re from, what you look like, how old you are, or what you do for a living, we are all ladies of the leaf.”

—Elyse M. Phoenix

sensimag.com OCTOBER 2018 33

CHANGING MINDS the HOLLYWOOD Way

A grown-up’s guide to cannabis entertainment.

by DAW N G A R CI A

OK, so now that cannabis is legal, Hollywood is stepping up its game. Now there are movies, documentaries, TV series, and an open platform to stop seeing pot as a gateway drug to vegging out on the

The entertainment industry has come a long way since

sofa while eating insane amounts of Cheetos and

movies like Friday or Cheech & Chong’s Up In Smoke re-

brownies. Now, thanks to the sprawling number of re-

garding how it confronts the world of weed. Shows like

sources out there, we know cannabis has some seri-

WEEDS by Jenji Kohan and Deadbeat became a new voice

ous clout. Even amidst the ever-brow-furrowing debu-

in a fully open-minded marketplace with one caveat: pot

tantes and socialites, it seems sensimilla isn’t so

was still illegal when they were released. Those of you

taboo. Mary Jane has found a place to be seen, smoked,

who haven’t lit up and watched these fine series, get on it.

eaten, inhaled, and accepted. Thanks, Hollywood

They are the ideal accompaniment to a good strain.

(snarky voiceover here).

34 OCTOBER 2018 Las Vegas

This year has been pivotal. We’ve had #MeToo, #March-

save their children from childhood cancers. Weed the Peo-

ForOurLives, #WomensMarch, and #FamiliesBelongTo-

ple follows these families through uncharted waters as they

gether, a continuous bizarre political climate, and now,

take their children’s survival into their own hands. Some of

thanks to the good folks in government—and the as-

their miraculous outcomes beget the unsettling question at

tounding amount of citizens who fought for it—we have

the heart of the film: If weed is truly saving lives, why doesn’t

legal weed to soften the blow. I set out to discover how the

the government want people to access it?”

entertainment industry made light of the shift from a

This film is not only crucial to educating the public

war on drugs to, “Wait, just kidding. Pot isn’t actually

and opening minds; it is a call-to-action to our govern-

bad.” I found everything ranging from comedy series to

ment to recognize the importance of investing in more

hardcore documentaries; we have a diverse array of ways

research, treatments, and health and wellness alterna-

to learn and consume all things related to cannabis.

tives that derive directly from utilizing cannabis and

HOLLYWEED

all of its healing properties.

RIVIT T V.COM

Anyone who has ever watched Clerks or Jay and Silent

Bob has observed Kevin Smith catapult to one of Hollywood’s most clever writers and directors. He’s also very outspoken about smoking weed. After the Hollywood sign was replaced for a brief while with a new sign reading Hollyweed last year, Smith took that one step further by creating a show named precisely that: HOLLYWEED. The series stars Smith and a diverse cast including Hina Abdullah, Adam Brody, Donnell Rawlings, and Chloe Dworkin. It may take a while to warm up to the episodes, and the series may have mixed reviews, but if you’ve been on the Smith fan train for a while, this show is all him. After he announced being hospitalized for a heart attack, he’s taken significant measures to stay healthy, and for him, that includes marijuana and continuing to make a TV show all about it.

WEED THE PEOPLE WEEDTHEPEOPLEMOVIE.COM

As we all navigate our way through the differentiation between medicinal and adult-use cannabis, it’s staggering how many hurdles parents are going through to be able to help their children with a variety of illnesses, from pediatric cancers to anxiety. Weed the People is a beautiful film exploring children diagnosed with cancer whose parents have become fed up with their children being prescribed opiates, going through painful chemo treatments, and not having other alternatives.

Thankfully, their doctors and diligent research led them to explore cannabis as treatment, and what they found was miraculous.

According to a press release: “Cannabis has been off-limits to doctors and researchers in the US for the past 80 years, but recently scientists have discovered its anti-cancer properties. Armed with only these laboratory studies, desperate parents obtain cannabis oil from underground sources to

Weed the People Screenings Mill Valley Film Festival San Rafael, California

Saturday, Oct. 13: 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.

MVFF.COM

Ahrya Fine Arts Movie Theater, Beverly Hills

Tuesday, Oct. 30: 5 and 7 p.m.

L AEMMLE.COM/THEATERS/25

Laemmle NoHo North Hollywood

Friday, Nov. 2: 11 a.m.

Thursday, Nov. 8: Noon L AEMMLE.COM/THEATERS/23

may sound like the perfect film—and oh, how I wanted it to be—this was entertaining but not as exciting as it could have been. Still, it’s funny, clever, and worth a watch.

Cooking on High, Netflix

Hosted by Josh Leyva, Cooking on High is the first ever

competitive cannabis cooking show. The premise is guest chefs have 30 minutes to make one dish with one secret ingredient: weed. In the pilot episode, chefs Luke Reyes and Andrea Drummer create a menu based on a theme, which in this case is “Afternoon Delight,” using the Girl Scout Cookies strain delivered on a platter by writer, publisher, and educator Ngaio Bealum. Comedian Ramon Rivas II and rapper Mod Sun are the test tasters and judges, and they keep the conversation flowing as the chefs prep their dishes. Once the chefs are ready, they present each dish to the judges, who eat during the “grub and judge” segment. Then, they take a THC timeout to let the properties of the cannabis kick in. In the final segment of the show, the judges reveal their scores, displayed on the back of a metal spatula engraved with a cannabis leaf. The winning chef receives the coveted golden pot.

While it’s not as catchy or energetic as Top Chef or

Hell’s Kitchen, a few adjustments and adaptations could bring in more energy. A highlight of the 15-minute show is the “Weed 101” segment, which shares insightful, engaging, and practical text-based tips with the audience such as: “If feeling too high, eat some lemon. The terpene limonene found in citrus fruit can modulate THC effects.”

While more and more documentaries, docuseries, films, and TV shows about cannabis emerge, the industry realizes that high-minded con-

GRINGO, Amazon Prime

This film, starring Charlize Theron, Joel Edgerton, Da-

vid Oyelowo, Anthony Tambakis, Melonie Diaz, and Amanda Seyfried is a dramedy that begins with the shady sale of a pharmaceutical company run by Richard and Elaine (Edgerton and Theron) who are getting in bed with Cannabiz, a medical cannabis-driven company. And, yes, the cartel is involved. In a struggle to sell the idea to the executives and investors, while the sale is going on, somewhere in Mexico is Harold Soyinka, played by Oyelowo, blurring the lines between law-abiding citizen and wanted criminal. While in Mexico, there are a series of kidnappings, storylines that intersect and introduce you to an array of characters you want to care about (including Sunny, played by Seyfried), sprinkled with some violence and betrayal. While this 36 OCTOBER 2018 Las Vegas

tent no longer has to hide in the shadows but instead deserves a seat at the table to be celebrated and shared with the masses. Audiences are hopeful something as good as WEEDS or Dead-

beat is released soon. Those shows had it all and managed to be smartly written, well-acted, and highly entertaining.

sensimag.com OCTOBER 2018 37

SP ECIAL R EP OR T

Once considered a threat to the alcohol industry, cannabis is the new darling of the beer industry.

Keith Villa is no stranger to beer. THE CREATOR AND FORMER HEAD

BREWMASTER OF THE BLUE MOON CRAFT BEER LABEL TURNED A TINY COMPANY INTO A MULTIMILLION-DOLLAR BRAND THAT HE SOLD TO MOLSON COORS BREWING CO. FOR A BOATLOAD OF BUCKS BEFORE RETIRING FROM THE LABEL IN JANUARY 2018, AFTER 32 YEARS. Now he’s creating a line of beer-ish products under

the CERIA label that will be on shelves in the coming

adult sales this month and which has far fewer regulatory hurdles than states in the US where cannabis is legal.

months. Instead of alcohol, these beers will contain

“This is an enormous opportunity to create a full indus-

THC, the psychoactive chemical in cannabis. The goal

try comparable to the beer industry,” says attorney Steve

is to offer a THC high with the predictability of beer, and

Lenn, a partner at the Greenspoon Marder business law

he hopes to have it on the market by fall. “You know

firm, which works largely with mergers and Fortune 500

what happens when you drink one or two or three

companies. He says an investment this large helps legiti-

beers,” he says. “We want you to get that same experi-

mize the industry. “Think of what that means in the ramp

ence every time.”

of opportunity,” he says. “This kind of money is going to

It’s a tall order, but Villa is just one of many entrepreneurs loitering at the growing juncture between craft

draw investment bankers like honey to bees. In terms of the world market, I don’t know how big it could become.”

beer and pot. People love beer, and they love cannabis,

In the States, hemp/hop beers are popping up around the

and who can blame people for trying to find some syner-

country. Colorado beer maker New Belgium sells Hemperor

gy between the two? You can get cannabis in tinctures

HPA—a new style of IPA made from hemp and hops—and

and salves and consume cannabis oil via vaporizers and

Lagunitas Brewing Company, a California brand owned by

dab rigs. Why not inside a carefully crafted beer?

Heineken, last year released a limited run of SuperCritical

The market possibilities are mind-boggling. Legal

Ale, a THC-free brew made with hops and infused with can-

cannabis is now about a $15 billion business, but the il-

nabis terpenes. This spring, the company introduced Hi-Fi

legal market is at least three to four times larger than

Hops, an IPA-inspired sparkling water infused with THC, to

that, making it appetizing for investors. American con-

dispensary shelves in California. As legalization spreads, it

glomerate Constellation Brands, the corporate overlord

seems, the sky’s the limit for beer and pot.

of Corona and Modelo Especial beers, now owns a $3.9 billion stake in Canopy Growth Corporation, the largest

CBD in Hops Plants

Canadian cannabis grower, and there’s speculation that

Family bonds are another reason for the symbiotic

the move might be the beginning of a bid for complete

relationship between the cannabis and the hops plants.

ownership. At the least, it confirms a commitment to

Dr. Bomi Joseph was the first to identify the cannabi-

become seriously involved with Canopy.

noids THC and CBD in a plant that isn’t cannabis when

Molson Coors, Blue Moon’s parent company, is also looking into the Canadian market, which is set to open for legal

he found them in Humulus, or hops, which give beers their distinctive flavors. sensimag.com OCTOBER 2018 39

Cannabis and hops both belong to Cannabaceae, a small family of flowering plants that also includes

“And I wanted to get my hands on cannabidiol and couldn’t find it.”

hackberries. Joseph was seeking substances that might

He had to look elsewhere for a CBD source and found

have a positive effect on liver cancer cells when he ran

several strains in Humulus plants. Because all hops

across cannabidiol (CBD), and soon found out that it is

plants in the United States are controlled by beer com-

federally illegal because it comes from the cannabis

panies who find the right combinations of flavors and

plant. “I was restricted from using cannabis,” he says.

compounds, patent them, and reproduce them endlessly, Joseph roamed the Silk Road regions of India and Mongolia to find wild varieties. “We started looking for nothing more than wild hops,” he says. “If you want the wild stuff, you have to go into the wild.”

Joseph spent nearly three quarters of a year collecting the plants he needed. “It took eight months of mucking around to get samples. I was possessed,” he says. “When I think about it now, today I wouldn’t have done it. My friends said, ‘What are you thinking?’”

He came back with plenty of specimens and hired botanists and experts to crossbreed the strains, and they came up with an oil containing 18 percent CBD. He has applied for a patent for Real Scientific Humulus Oil (RHSO-K), the first non-cannabis CBD oil on the market, for sale at the

DEADLY COMBO?

If you’re silly enough to drive…

company’s website, REALSCIENTIFICHEMPOIL.COM. Joseph admits the hops/cannabis connection is more marketing tool than reality. “Everybody uses the word hops for our stuff,” he says. “But if you’re a botanist, you say, ‘What the heck’s going on?’ It is a Humulus, the same species, but not the plant that gives you beer flavor.”

Buds and brew go together, brah, and sometimes they don’t. Mixing beer and pot isn’t generally a good idea, and it’s especially bad if you’re getting on the road. A 2017 Colorado Department of Transportation study found more alcohol-related deaths than any other, but it also found that the number of drivers with cannabis and some other substance in their systems rose dramatically–and that’s scary.

There isn’t a lot of solid science on how cannabis and alcohol interact in the body. I know from personal experience that the effects of both become more profound and dramatic and I should stay the hell away from driving my car.

Big Science Blue Moon’s Villa explains that CERIA Beverages is vying to introduce a line of cannabis-infused nonalcoholic craft beverages containing THC. Basically, he says, they will brew beer, then extract all the alcohol and infuse it instead with special concoctions of cannabinoids and terpenes to produce the desired effect.

His goal is for all consumers to have quantifiable, comparable experiences every time. There’s a lot of science involved, and CERIA partnered with Colorado-based cannabis research company Ebbu to create the infusions for the new brews. Ebbu has been researching terpenes and cannabinoids since 2013 and sells a line of exclusive oil products.

Ebbu president Jon Cooper says the company is working with others beyond CERIA that are interested in cannabis and beer collaborations. There’s a growing market for cannabis-curious people who don’t want to smoke cannabis, he says. “We know how to drink.

Our piece of the technology is to figure out how to control the experience like with a beer in a product that tastes the same and smells the same.”

Cannabis plants are notably dissimilar and contain

Staying Nimble

dozens of compounds that vary even from plant to plant.

After Lagunitas Brewing Company released Super-

“It’s like chemical chaos,” Cooper says. “How can we

Critical beer made with hops and hemp, the state shut it

create a consistent experience from the chaos of the

down. “We were told we couldn’t do that,” says Laguni-

plant? We tear it down to individual ingredients, so you

tas’ marketing rep Karen Hamilton. “No CBD or THC. It

have what you need to make a consistent product. To

was unexpected. We didn’t realize that.”

deliver that awesome experience, we have to get super geeky. It’s the same way we do in medicine.”

While waiting for things to change, the company did its research and came up with a fun idea in Hi-Fi Hops, which are 12-ounce cans of sparkling water in-

HI-FI HOPS

12 OZ CANS OF SPARKLING WATER INFUSED WITH CBD AND THC

fused with cannabis. There are two varieties or doses: one with 5 milligrams of CBD and THC, and the other with 10 milligrams of THC. Both varieties are now on sale in California.

The company is marketing Hi-Fi with some clever hints that it contains cannabis—“this drink will get you high, just don’t call it beer”—and Hamilton says that sales have been going strong in dispensaries. “It’s sell-

Ebbu scientists separate specific sets of cannabi-

ing like crazy, so we had to limit how much per person

noids to deliver certain experiences and eliminate any

each consumer could buy,” she says. “That’s a good

chemicals in THC that might make people anxious or

problem to have.”

paranoid. “I don’t believe in full spectrum,” Cooper says.

New Belgium Brewing in Ft. Collins, CO is celebrating

“Besides being inconsistent, you have some compounds

the passage of the 2014 Farm bill, which changed the

doing what you want and some doing what you don’t.

way the federal government regulates industrial hemp

This way you’re not limited by what the plant does.”

and could loosen restrictions, with its Hemperor hemp-

sensimag.com OCTOBER 2018 41

and-hops HPA, which public relations coordinator Jesse Claeys says “showcases the game-changing union of hop and hemp.”

At first, Hi-Fi was made from hemp flowers. When this ran afoul of the federal ban on hemp, so New Belgium started using de-shelled hemp seeds instead.

New Belgium has partnered with Willie Nelson’s Willie’s Reserve cannabis company for an education campaign about bringing hemp back into the mainstream.

“Right now all efforts are about using beer to have a conversation,” Claeys says. “We really think we have a good shot on the Farm Bill this year. Let’s get the laws changed and updated, and then let’s brew the beer we want to make.”

P: 262-893-2175 E: uneedarchangelstudios@gmail.com

F : @facbook/archangelstudio I : @instagram/archangelphoto T : @twitter/archangelphoto

42 OCTOBER 2018 Las Vegas

PHOTOGRAPHY VIDEOGRAPHY PRODUC TS AERIAL WEDDINGS EVENTS COMMERCIAL FASHION

"WE KNOW HOW TO DRINK .

OUR PIECE OF THE TECHNOLOGY IS TO FIGURE OUT HOW TO CONTROL THE EXPERIENCE ."

—Jon Cooper, Ebbu

sensimag.com OCTOBER 2018 43

Cannabis could be one part of a holistic depression treatment that starts with the gastrointestinal tract instead of the brain.

by R O BY N G R I G G S L AW R E N CE

44 OCTOBER 2018 Las Vegas

depressed, OR MAYBE WE’VE BEEN THERE OURSELVES. IT’S A SAD COMMENTARY ON THE WORLD THAT SOME 150 million people

WE ALL KNOW SOMEONE WHO HAS BEEN

SUFFER FROM DEPRESSION, EXPECTED TO BE THE SECOND CAUSE OF MORBIDITY BY 2020. ONE OUT OF EVERY SEVEN OF US WILL HAVE A DEPRESSIVE EPISODE AT SOME POINT IN OUR LIVES. If you’ve been there, you know what a debilitating black

definitively, that “dysregulation to the gut microbiota is ca-

hole life becomes. Maybe you join the more than 30 mil-

pable of facilitating the behavioral and physiological symp-

lion Americans (one in seven women) who use antide-

toms of depression and anxiety.”

pressants, which are among the most prescribed, bestsell-

How can this be? Well, it turns out that some 90 to 95 per-

ing drugs in our pharma-soaked country. Maybe the

cent of our serotonin is produced not in the brain but in the

doctor promises, as she scribbles out the script, that

gastrointestinal tract, and production is highly influenced

Prozac will deal with the chemical imbalance in your

by the bacteria that make up our intestinal microbiome.

brain, and you take that and run with it, because who can’t

This, in turn, influences brain functioning and behavior.

see that something’s really, really wrong with your brain?

When we eat bad food that’s high in refined carbohydrates

You take the Prozac (or the Celexa, the Lexapro, the

and sugars and take other toxins such as alcohol into our

Paxil, the Zoloft, the Cymbalta, the Effexor, the Abilify… ),

digestive system, our guts respond with inflammation,

and serotonin—the neurotransmitter that regulates mood,

which eventually spreads to cause havoc in our brains.

appetite, and sleep—starts pumping in your brain. Despite

“Some 40 trillion cells, almost three pounds of your

the bloating, cramping, and gastritis you were told to ex-

body mass, is bacteria,” Dr. Jack Gilbert, a microbial ecol-

pect as side effects, you feel a bit better. Those thoughts of

ogist who directs the Microbiome Center at the Universi-

suicide? An unfortunate side effect. Those brain zaps

ty of Chicago, explained to the Chicago Tribune. “They

when you try to go off the drug? Totally normal.

live mostly in the intestine. It’s like an ecosystem, like a

Or maybe you’re among the 40 percent of people whom the National Institutes of Health (NIH) reports

rainforest that lives inside of you—a living, breathing environment—which we can affect by the things we eat.”

can’t find any relief using antidepressants. That’s a lot of people, and that statistic (which many believe is lower than reality) has sent even mainstream medical institutions like the NIH scrambling to seek alternative therapies. They’re finding solutions, but not in the brain. The key to depression, it appears, actually lies in the gut.

Our Mood is What We Eat “Prozac was supposed to be a massive cure for depression that would reduce institutionalization. Instead, we’ve seen an increase in institutionalization,” says Dr. Mary Van, clinical director at ThriveX medical spa in Fort Lauderdale, who specializes in both pharmacy and nutrition. “It becomes readily apparent that mainstream medicine missed part of the puzzle.”

In recent years, the microbiome (all the bacteria, fungi and viruses in your body)-gut-brain axis has emerged as a significant player in the development of depression, and medical researchers believe gut microbiota (colonies of organisms) may play a causal role. Regulating microbiota with diet, probiotics, and a new treatment called fecal microbiota transplantation may have important benefits for preventing and treating depression, according to an NIH report. The New York Academy of Sciences reports, more

Eat to Beat the Blues A plant-based, fiber-rich diet devoid of processed foods, sugar, and high fructose corn syrup has been proven to keep depression at bay. Include lots of the following: • Fermented foods such as kimchi, sauerkraut, kefir, kombucha, and miso are rich in probiotics.

• Cruciferous vegetables (sulfur-smelling ones like kale, cauliflower, and broccoli) provide roughage that feeds prebiotics in the gut, says Dr. Mary Van. • Legumes, seeds, and nuts are high in zinc and amino acids, which feed serotonin transmitters.

• Black chia seeds are full of omega-3 fatty acids, which are being proven effective against major depression.

(Herbalist Brigitte Mars soaks them in water, then adds other super-nutrient foods like blueberries, goji berries, bee pollen, and maca for depression prevention.)

• Leafy green vegetables and lemon water help cleanse the liver, says Mars.

• Organic extra-virgin olive oil should be your staple fat; avoid butter, canola oil, and palm oil. sensimag.com OCTOBER 2018 45

These discoveries have led to an emerging health care practice aimed at preventing and treating depression known as nutritional psychiatry. At its most basic, this “new” field recognizes that what we eat directly affects our brains’ structure and function and, ultimately, our moods, according to a Harvard Medical School report. Diets high in refined sugars promote inflammation and oxidative stress, which impairs brain function and worsens depressive symptoms. Studies have found that Mediterranean and traditional Japanese diets high in vegeta-

Cannabis and Depression: Still an Unknown

bles, fruits, unprocessed grains, and seafood and void of

Depressed people have been self-medicating with

processed and refined foods—those staples of the Amer-

cannabis for as long as cannabis has been available, and

ican diet—lower the risk of depression by 25 to 35 percent.

the modern medical community has been condemning

“We dig our graves with our forks,” says herbalist, author,

them for just as long. Traditional doctors argue that can-

and natural food chef Brigitte Mars. “We really need to stop

nabis use can trigger depressive episodes and make de-

thinking the body is not affecting the brain or that our

pressive symptoms worse over time. But if gut and brain

moods are not affected by our physiology. When treating de-

inflammation truly are major factors in depression, as

pression, a good holistic practitioner will ask if you’re eating

research is showing, it only makes sense that canna-

enough leafy green vegetables to nourish the liver and help

bis—renowned for its anti-inflammatory properties—

the body better utilize oxygen, and will make the diet more

could be good therapy.

rainbow-like with fresh, local fruits and vegetables. The

THC and CBD have been proven beneficial for depres-

American diet has gotten very beige, and that is depressing.”

sion in animal models, and states with robust medical

According to the “evolutionary mismatch” or “paleo-defi-

cannabis programs have seen a 5 percent decrease in to-

cit disorder” theory of depression, the poisons of modern

tal suicide rates and an even greater decrease in suicides

living—processed food, environmental toxins, isolation,

among men in their 20s and 30s, according to Project

constant stress—are pushing people into depression, which

CBD. But as is so often and sadly the case with cannabis,

according to holistic women’s health psychiatrist Dr. Kelly

clinical research is lacking.

Brogan “is simply a message from our bodies trying to protect us from the madness of the modern world.”

Toxic Gut, Toxic Brain

In one of the very few studies that has been done on cannabis and depression, researchers analyzed data from Strainprint, an app used by medical cannabis users to track changes in symptoms as they experiment with different

Van says most of the patients she treats for depres-

doses and strains, and found that 50 percent perceived a

sion also have digestive disorders such as diarrhea or

reduction in depression after two puffs. However, cannabis

constipation. “It’s all intertwined, and it’s all due to tox-

use appears to have exacerbated baseline symptoms of

icity,” she says. “Our bodies work in a biofeedback loop.

depression over time.

You cannot touch one part and not affect another part.

At Washington State University, researchers found

First and foremost, you have to understand that if you’re

that adults reported that their depressive systems were

depressed, it’s not just your brain. It’s every part of you.”

reduced after just one puff of medical cannabis high in

One of the first things Van must determine when

CBD and low in THC. Just like the Strainprint study,

treating a severely depressed patient is whether they’re

however, the researchers found that long-term use of

in crisis, or suicidal. If so, bringing down their anxiety

medical cannabis could aggravate depression.

level and getting them out of physical danger is crucial.

Cannabis is an unpredictable herb, says herbalist

She could prescribe medications like Xanax or Valium,

Brigitte Mars, who sometimes recommends it along

but she finds them too harsh. Instead, Van often recom-

with other herbs such as lemon balm, lavender, and St.

mends a high dose of one-to-one ratio of THC and CBD

John’s wort to patients as part of a holistic approach to

“just to get the edge off so the patient can think clearly.”

treating depression that includes dietary changes, light

“We have to get patients out of the red zone, where they’re freaked out and can’t think, they’re catastrophically indecisive, or maybe they’re shut down emotionally,” Van says. “Cannabis therapy with a high dose of THC 46 OCTOBER 2018 Las Vegas

therapy, aromatherapy, and even feng shui.

“I’m totally a fan of cannabis and every herb,” says Mars. “But don’t just take an herb.”

gives them a calming sensation, helps regulate their

mordial, but often that is the cause,” she says. “They’re not

sleep and helps them deal with anger issues and feelings

sleeping and not utilizing the bathroom properly.”

of not knowing what to do next. CBD also helps with anxiety and sleep, but THC evokes a more rapid response.”

Science Says

While the patient is getting cooled down, Van checks

The link between microbiota and depression is not a

out the inflammation in their brain and digestive tract.

new discovery. German physician Hermann Senator sug-

If it’s bad, and usually it is, she often continues cannabis

gested in the 1860s that mental health disorders could be

therapy with high doses (25 to 50 milligrams) of oral CBD

rooted in intestinal “self-infective” processes, and a new

to control anxiety and bring the immunological and in-

frontier of autointoxication research began exploring the

flammatory response down. She’ll also suggest the pa-

role of harmful intestinal bacteria in mental diseases.

tient change their diet to include more cruciferous vege-

“Oral bacteriotherapy” was a health trend in the 1920s, led

tables and probiotics, live bacteria and yeasts found in

by producers of probiotic-rich acidophilus milk and char-

yogurt and fermented food. She asks about their poop.

acterized by ads like this one for Walker-Gordon: “It’s a

Most patients—particularly older women who were

fact—and your doctor will agree—that your attitude…is

taught not to talk about such things—don’t want to dis-

largely influenced by the condition of your intestinal tract.”

cuss their chronic constipation or diarrhea, Van says,

Drinking acidophilus milk to build good bacteria, another

even though most of them have one or the other. She

ad promised, would bring results “nothing short of amaz-

jokes with them that they need 12 inches in their lives

ing. Not only a banishing of…depression but a flooding of

every day and recommends they add more fiber to their

new vitality throughout the system.”

diets to regulate their bowel movements. Having seen the

Today, we have science to back up these claims—and ev-

exorbitant amount of antidepressants elderly patients

idence is mounting. Earlier this year, Canadian researchers

take when she worked in nursing homes, Van is well

found in a clinical trial that 32 percent of people who

aware of how rampant depression is among that popula-

changed their diets went into remission from depression,

tion. “Sometimes we have to get very primitive, very pri-

while only 8 percent in a control group did. Australian re-

sensimag.com OCTOBER 2018 47

“You cannot touch one part and not affect another part… If you’re depressed, it’s not just your brain. It’s every part of you.”

—Mary Van, ThriveX Medical Spa

searchers found that one-third of study participants report-

consumed in Western diets, where we have substituted

ed significant improvement in symptoms of major depres-

certain types of beneficial fats—polyunsaturated and

sion after 12 weeks of eating a plant-based, fiber-rich diet.

monounsaturated in nuts, vegetable oils, and fish—for the

In perhaps the largest study to date, European researchers analyzed the diet and lifestyle of more than 12,000 peo-

saturated and trans fats found in meats, butter, and other products such as mass-produced pastries and fast food.”

ple over six years and found that polyunsaturated fats

More human studies and clinical trials are needed,

(fish and vegetable oils) and olive oil were associated with

everyone agrees. Gilbert, for his part, is pushing hard for

a lower risk of depression. The study’s authors wrote that

that to happen sooner than later. He’s driven, he told

they believe the global rise in major depressive disorder

The Scientist, because “there needs to be a revolution in

could be because of “radical changes in the sources of fats

how we deal with mental illness in our society.”

48 OCTOBER 2018 Las Vegas

the

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSE LAMBERT/ARCH ANGELS STUDIO

SCENE

CULINARY F U S I O N

What: Culinary Fusion Where: Turmeric Flavors of India When: August 22, 2018

It was a perfect night to celebrate friendship and summer under the stars with delicious food from two celebrated Las Vegas chefs. Chef Mayra and Chef Ritesh created a delightful 5-course Indian- and Caribbean-style fusion menu. A portion of the proceeds benefited several organizations working to stop human trafficking.

sensimag.com OCTOBER 2018 49

{HereWeGo}

by D E B B I E H A L L

Hello, Ladies!

Dazzling showgirls welcome visitors to downtown.

Who doesn’t love a 26-foot tall showgirl? As downtown

In 2002, the original “Welcome to Fabulous Downtown

transforms into a destination with an urban community,

Las Vegas” sign was installed in the same location.

that’s precisely what you’ll see. Two new brightly lit,

Resembling the “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign

Instagrammable showgirls are welcoming visitors at Main

on the south end of the Strip, it remained standing until

Street and Las Vegas Boulevard South. The statuesque

a truck hit and demolished the sign.

and bold showgirls flank the colorful “City of Las Vegas” lettering along with casino chips and a roulette wheel.

The iconic Strip sign, erected in 1959 with renovations in recent years, includes a standalone

The opening of The Main Street One-Way project cele-

parking lot with turnoffs making it safer for everyone

brated the reinvention of the gateway to the Fremont Street

to admire. In a press release, the city of Las Vegas

Experience as new developments arise in the area. Former

stated that they are working on establishing parking

Las Vegas Mayor Oscar Goodman, usually accompanied by

around the new landmarks in an effort to encourage

two showgirls himself, inspired the new landmark.

more photo ops.

50 OCTOBER 2018 Las Vegas

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