Sensi Magazine - Las Vegas (April 2019)

LAS VEGAS

THE NEW NORMAL

The Green Factor

Putting pot into pots and pans

Spread the Joy Explore 4/20 outside Vegas

Furry Love

Protecting our dogs

{plus}

HOME-COOKED MEALS NEW DELIGHTS WITHOUT THE HASSLE

PARTY TO NEWS T HEIGratH e This Celeb April

4.2019

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sensimag.com APRIL 2019 3

4 APRIL 2019 Las Vegas

sensimag.com APRIL 2019 5

6 APRIL 2019 Las Vegas

ISSUE 4 // VOLUME 2 //4.2019

FEATURES 36

SP EC IAL R EP OR T

CBDo or CBDon’t?

When it comes to cannabidiol, confusion reigns supreme. We’re going back to basics to clear it up for you.

42 Pot In Pans

Why the history of eating cannabis matters.

16 RELISH COOKING (AGAIN)

every issue 9 Editor’s Note 10 The Buzz 16 TasteBuds UNDERSTANDING CBD FOR CANINES

20

FORGET DELIVERY

20 LifeStyle

SHOW LOVE TO PETS

24 AroundTown

EMBRACE NATURE

28 TravelWell

ROAD TRIP!

48 The Scene

SENSI NIGHT LAS VEGAS

50 HereWeGo

PIRATES COVE

Sensi magazine is published monthly by Sensi Media Group LLC. © 2019 SENSI MEDIA GROUP LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

In the March 2019 edition, an article on p. 10 about QuickStrip misidentified the name of the company’s new partner. The correct spelling is Aphria.

sensimag.com APRIL 2019 7

sensi magazine ISSUE 4 / VOLUME 2 / 4.2019

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

EDITORIAL sensimediagroup

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

Dr. Angie McCartney askangie@sensimag.com COLUMNISTS

Cathy Brooks, CD Dagris, David Hodes CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

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

sensimag

Rheya Tanner Wendy Mak, Josh Clark em@sensimag.com DESIGN & LAYOUT

BUSINESS & A D M I N I S T R AT I V E Daniel Asarch daniel.asarch@sensimag.com Susan Lugo susan.lugo@sensimag.com Abi Wright abi.wright@sensimag.com ASSOCIATE PUBLISHERS

Amber Orvik amber.orvik@sensimag.com CHIEF ADMINISTRATOR

Andre Velez andre.velez@sensimag.com MARKETING DIRECTOR

Hector Irizarry distribution@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

8 APRIL 2019 Las Vegas

editor’s ADVISORY BOARD American Cannabis Company // CONSULTING Bailey’s CBD // PET CBD TINCTURE & TREATS

NOTE

REJOICE!

Cohen Medical Centers // MEDICAL CENTERS

This month, I am reflecting on the many

Crooked Cactus CBD // CBD TINCTURES

reasons to celebrate. Sensi published its first Las Vegas issue over

DigiPath Labs // CANNABIS TESTING Evergreen Organix // PREMIUM BAKED GOODS

a year ago, and I have been part of this exciting journey since January 2018. Last month, Sensi added another city to its incredible roster, bringing the count up to eight regions that share

Green Leaf Money, LLC. //

views, news, and inspiration.

Greenhouse Payment Solutions //

fect month to celebrate the achievements of a movement, the

CANNA BUSINESS FINANCING PAYMENT PROCESSING

Ideal Business Partners //

April is a beautiful time of year in Southern Nevada and a pergrowth of the cannabis industry, and our thriving Sensi family.

Of course, 4/20 (National Weed Day) resonates in Las Vegas

CORPORATE LAW & FINANCE

with festivals and fun expanding throughout the Valley and be-

Jupiter Research // INHALATION HARDWARE

yond. April is also a time to honor our planet with Earth Day

Libra Wellness // INFUSED GOURMET CHOCOLATES

(April 22) while reminding us to take better care of our home.

Nevada Powders //

POWDER PROCESSING SERVICES FOR EDIBLES

NLVO // LAS VEGAS LUXURY CANNABIS Red Rock Fertility //

FERTILITY DOCTOR

Strip Side Solutions // MARKETING Toast // MINDFUL CONSUMPTION Undoo // OVERCONSUMPTION RELIEF

Now is the time to step up, reclaim, and invigorate our passion and commitment. Celebrate community spirit while volunteering for causes that are important to you and observe the changes that are happening. 4/20 and Earth Day are commemorative holidays, a way to encourage everyone to take action daily to continue our progress.

I am witnessing the changes in the political scene with the passage of important bills such as the 2018 Farm Bill and the introduction of other laws regarding the regulation of cannabis.

Sensi examines the trends across the country as voices are raised about medical and recreational cannabis and decriminalization.

Sensi celebrates being part of the mainstream while embracing a pro-cannabis stance. Our collective goal is to be part of creating a better Southern Nevada to live, work, and play.

Thank you for selecting and reading Sensi. We look forward to continuing our relationship with you, our readers Yours in the new normal,

Debbie Hall

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

sensimag.com APRIL 2019 9

Always HAPPY HOUR Las Vegas entrepreneur Jess Horan is adding her

The mobile app’s map feature allows members to

own, new twist to dining out with drinks, making it

discover over 30 restaurants around town. Users can

happy hour all the time. She is the founder and CEO

also search by cuisine, price, and day as well as ex-

of Original Cocktail Club (ORIGINALCOCKTAILCLUB.COM ),

plore restaurant menus. The membership can be ap-

the first subscription-based mobile app that offers

plied to any alcoholic beverage, including a bottle of

members half-off alcoholic beverages at participating

wine (some exclusions apply), with the purchase of an

restaurant locations throughout the valley.

entrée or appetizers and sides that equal the least ex-

Happy hour is the best time to hang out friends, network with colleagues, or learn more about someone who could become very special. However, the hours are usually limited and sometimes only a few select menu items or drinks can be enjoyed.

“We wanted to create an app that catered to people who enjoy eating out and exploring new places without breaking the bank. People who become members can enjoy a never-ending happy hour,” says Horan.

10 APRIL 2019 Las Vegas

pensive entrée item at the location.

–Debbie Hall

PHOTOS BY EATERS COLLECTIVE AND KEVIN LAMINTO

Original Cocktail Club toasts to fun.

Numbers Rock

Code Central’s tech camps inspire kids.

April 15–19 It’s spring break, and your kids, ages 7–17, are bored, or worse, buried in their phones or gaming nonstop. Take that energy and enroll them in tech camp at Code Central (MYCODECENTRAL.COM/TECHCAMPS ). Tech camps are a fun, educational experience where beginner and advanced students learn to code, create websites, program robots, and develop video games in a hands-on, collaborative, and inclusive learning environment. Kids will eagerly attend as they learn computer science tracks including web development, game development, and robotics. Camp days are designed to offer a balanced schedule of learning and social time as well as a physical activity including martial arts or cardio/strength/flexibility. Each student receives a healthy lunch, snacks, tee shirt, and water bottle. Parents will have the chance to attend an end-of-the-week presentation.

Brothers Eric and Brian Mendelsohn developed Code Central as an after-school tech center for youth to learn computer science, programming fundamentals, and app development. Campuses located in Henderson and the northwest valley feature programs focusing on enrichment and teaching real-world skills, adding to students’ overall education. Code Central combines personalized, self-paced learning with group projects that reveal the possibilities of coding. Kids are invited to try the program with a free intro session.

–DH

sensimag.com APRIL 2019 11

Ahoy Matey

Pirates and other characters to occupy Pirate Fest.

April 27–28 Shiver me timbers—The seventh annual Pirate Fest (PIRATEFESTLV.COM ) is “sailing” into Craig Ranch Regional Park. This fun family festival invites all pirates, Steampunk, mermaid, Renaissance, and faerie characters to come aboard.

Kids can follow the Treasure Map as they make a rope, walk the plank, swab the deck, hoist the sails, get a pirate name, and create an eye patch or a fairy wand. These pirates-in-training are awarded a Letter of Marque, collect pirate booty, and are then declared an official pirate.

Navigate the waters to the Kids Cove to capture the Pirate Puppet Show presented by the Las Vegas Family Puppet Theater Co. The Legend of the Pirates tells the tale of how the pirates ended up in the desert. Visit the Mermaid pod to see mermaids swimming in their tank and enjoy live entertainment, food, games, and a beer garden.

12 APRIL 2019 Las Vegas

Experienced, of-age pirates can indulge in a whiskey tasting, with proceeds benefiting the Paradise Ranch Foundation. This nonprofit horse-assisted therapy helps special-needs children and veterans. Master mixologist and Guinness Book of World Records holder Bobby Gleason (Bean/Suntory) shares his vast knowledge of whiskey and –DH rum as adults throw one back.

Fruity Tastes In Oil Extract Labs debuts new hemp oil tinctures.

Fruit fits springtime tastes, and Extract Labs (EXTRACTLABS.COM ) has introduced delicate raspberry and exotic mango hemp oil tinctures adding to its line of original unflavored and lemon tinctures. The Boulder, Colorado-based full-service lab develops CBD-infused products incorporating a variety of flavors.

Along with a light taste, these hemp oils contain pure ingredients and are rich in non-psychoactive cannabidiol. Its flavors mix well in beverages including tea, coffee, fruit drinks, shakes, and juices.

For those who vape, fruity flavors enhance the season with berry crush, blue crush, and melon crush CBD vape juices. Extract Labs’ line of CBD shatter and crumble sweeten the taste with flavors of cookies, cherry wine, gelato, and pineapple express.

Of course, there are other tastes and flavors along with topicals and isolates made in Colorado, tested by a third party, and shipped without additional cost in the US. The veteran-owned company offers vets a 25 percent discount on all tinctures, topical creams, shatter, and crumble products.

–DH

sensimag.com APRIL 2019 13

Sweets To Help

The Cupcake Girls bring hope for the dark side.

The Cupcake Girls (THECUPCAKEGIRLS.ORG ) rush in where many fear to enter or even acknowledge. Mention of the sex industry (and its workers), human trafficking, and domestic sex trafficking triggers a range of reactions. The Cupcake Girls is celebrating its eighth anniversary as a Las Vegas-based nonprofit that support adult entertainers and survivors of human trafficking with resources and events.

Joy Hoover was moved to reach out to entertainers who work in the adult clubs. As an icebreaker, she would tote around a box of pink cupcakes and offer them to begin conversations. After she and her helpers were repeatedly referenced as the cupcake girls during a club visit, the organization adopted the moniker as its formal name, and Hoover became its founder and president.

“My husband and I have always been passionate about marginalized communities,” Hoover says. “Over 100,000 people are working in the sex industry with very few resources to help them.”

Hoover, a hair and makeup professional, started a relaxation suite where adult entertainers can be pampered in a very safe space during the Adult Video News annual expo.

Without any agenda or judgment, The Cupcake Girls provides mentorship, therapy, support, and resources to anyone who reaches out at its centers in Las Vegas and Portland, Oregon, as well as by phone or digitally, domestically and internationally.

Empowered Splendor Twila True Beauty rejoices culture and women.

Entrepreneur, CEO, and President Twila True embraces her Oglala Sioux Native American heritage while using her culture in her businesses. One of her many endeavors, Twila True Beauty (TWILATRUEBEAUTY.COM ), is a collection of Lasting Shine nail lacquer and bodycare products that offer a healthier

14 APRIL 2019 Las Vegas

–DH

alternative to everyday beauty products. Made in the US, the company is committed to empowering women of all ages as well as being socially and environmentally conscious.

The products capture the beauty of the mind, heart, soul, and body and are inspired by cultural influences, bold colors, and precious native resources of the Oglala Sioux Pine Ridge Reservation. Everything is created with custom blends of natural oils and extracts native to True’s homeland. Antioxidants and vitamins combine with wild plum, berry, and floral extracts.

The Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota is the second largest reservation in the US and one of the most distressed in the country. True’s Sioux name means “woman who walks towards future,” and she has lived up to it in numerous ways.

True Family Enterprises also includes True Investments, True Fresh HPP, True Venture Capital, Twila True Fine Jewelry, and Polished Perfect Studios. As a philanthropist, True founded True Children’s Home, an orphanage, and True Sioux Hope Foundation.

–DH

sensimag.com APRIL 2019 15

{tastebuds }

by C D DAG R I S

FORGET DELIVERY Enjoy meals made at home with a new system and timely tips.

16 APRIL 2019 Las Vegas

When a family gets together to eat a home cooked meal, it

Klein conceived of her meal preps to facilitate wholesome,

is special time even thought it might seem ordinary. Experi-

vibrant meals for her family as well as her social media com-

ences are shared, memories are made, and everyone spends

munity. Her philosophy is to use ingredients you already

time together. While food and meal-prep delivery is wonder-

have in your pantry as much as possible to create delicious,

ful, there is the cost factor. Meals made at home tastes bet-

healthy recipes and to repurpose leftovers into new meals.

ter, but cooking and preparing dinner can also be a huge has-

Prepping meals ahead of time can ease the stress in the

sle. What to make each night can stump you until you grab a

kitchen. Klein suggests:

jar of peanut butter and bread for sandwiches because you

• Start with a clean kitchen, then clean as you go so you

are just too hungry to think about it.

The Prep + Rally Cooking System (PREPANDRALLY.COM ),

never get overwhelmed.

• Go in with a plan. Create a menu and find recipes that use

developed by Chef Dini Klein (DINIKLEIN.COM ) is a sub-

similar ingredients so you don’t need to buy as much.

scription meal planning site designed to help busy people

• A nice balanced meal should consist of starch, vegeta-

make weekly meals that are easy and delicious while sav-

bles, and proteins. You can even throw in some sweet

ing time and money.

treats if you’d like.

Imagine this scenario for someone cooking at home with-

• Cut corners! Buy premade items such as pie dough, piz-

out a plan. You need to build a grocery list and find the time

za dough, vegetable stock, and egg roll wrappers to save

to run to the store (which ends up being a multiple-times-

time. You can even buy precut vegetables.

I needed to feed my own family—and that was the last thing I wanted to think about after working on my feet all day. It was time to start implementing meal prep and weekly menus.”

—Chef Dini Klein

a-week ordeal). Now you need to cook, clean up the mess, and present a complete meal after a long and exhausting day.

Who wants to do that when delivery just a device away? Klein hears these complaints all the time on her Instagram channel.

As a busy working mom of two, she decided to create solutions that make preparing meals easier yet still tasty.

She developed the Prep + Rally to guide everyone.

“Working as a personal chef for years, I would cook staple dishes for my clients every week to get them from Monday through Thursday,” Klein says. “After a long, exhausting day cooking for clients, I needed to feed my own family—and that was the last thing I wanted to think about after working on my feet all day. It was time to start implementing meal prep and weekly menus.”

• Only buy what you need for that week to ensure nothing goes to waste. Shop once for the entire week.

• Place garbage in close distance to your workspace when prepping to save time running back and forth.

• Pre-wash (peel if applicable) all produce to save time.

• Set out all containers and cookware in advance.

In today’s world, people are becoming aware of the importance of homemade food and sharing mealtime with others but can’t find enough hours in the day to do it all. Following these tips, preparing a meal can be fun, fast, and healthy.

DINI KLEIN is a chef and food media personality who has worked with brands such as Walmart, Daisy, Popsugar, Weight Watchers, and Pinterest. Her Super Simple series is on the Tastemade Snapchat Discover Page, Roku, and Apple TV. Klein’s recipes have been published in cookbooks such as Starbuck’s Coffee, Dawn to Dusk, and Pediatricians Guide to Feeding Babies and Toddlers.

sensimag.com APRIL 2019 17

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TUNA MELT KHACHAPURI WITH ZAATAR AND POPPY Try this quick, easy, and delicious recipe for a weeknight dinner.

Makes 4 large khachapuri INGREDIENTS

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese or dill Havarti • 2 cans albacore tuna • 2 balls store-bought pizza dough (44 ounces) • 4 tsp zaatar • 2 tsp poppy seeds • 2 eggs beaten for brushing • 4 eggs for baking DIRECTIONS: STEP 1: Preheat oven to 475 degrees. In the mean-

time, make your filling. Mix together the cheese and tuna in a small bowl and set aside.

STEP 2: To form the khachapuri, divide the dough

into four equal pieces. On two pieces of lightly floured parchment paper, roll each piece of dough into an oval shape. Place ¹⁄₄ of the filling right in the center of the oval and spread out into a vertical line. Fold top and bottom over slightly, leaving the filling showing in the center, and then twist either end of the dough similar to twisting a candy wrapper.

Pinch end pieces closed to create a tight seal.

You’ve formed your boat-like khachapuri.

STEP 3: Continue with the remaining dough

and filling, resulting in four khachapuris, two on each baking sheet. Press center down slightly with a spoon to create a well for the eggs to be added later. Transfer formed khachapuris on parchment paper to two baking sheets.

STEP 4: Brush dough with egg and top with

zaatar and poppy seeds.

STEP 5: Bake Khachapuris for 9 to 12 minutes.

Once they are golden and bubbly, open the oven and pull baking sheets halfway out. Crack one egg into each well and bake for an additional 3 to 4 minutes until desired egg doneness.

STEP 6: Serve immediately. sensimag.com APRIL 2019 19

{lifestyle }

by C AT H Y B R O O K S

CBD CARE FOR PETS Let’s debunk the hype about hemp for our fur babies.

Love, happiness, comfort, and devotion describe what

make it a superb augmentation to, and in some cases a

our pets give us. We celebrate National Pet Month while

replacement for, more toxic pharmaceutical solutions for

embracing Hug Your Dog Day on April 10 and rejoicing on

everything from overt injuries to relieving discomfort.

National Pet Day on April 11. Our pets depend on us for their care, and we want only the best for them.

Some advocates believe CBD can and should serve as a central solution for pets’ behavioral issues and anxiety,

So, I’m going to start with a disclaimer: I’m not a vet. I

but the evidence is far less clear. While cases of dogs ex-

didn’t attend vet school and don’t play one on TV. I am not

periencing reduced anxiety after taking CBD exist, there

a hemp specialist, botanist, or scientist. I have, however,

is no real consistency across those cases (much like with

spent the better part of the last year exploring the rapidly

people). Pets with extreme anxiety and behavioral issues

evolving and expanding world of hemp products, cannabi-

would be better served using modification training with

diol (CBD) in particular, as a powerful asset in dogs’ health.

CBD as an augmentation or supporting element.

Let’s get another important fact clear up front. There is, as of today, no comprehensive data regarding the efficacy

When evaluating CBD products to use for your dog, there are many elements to consider:

of CBD for dogs (or any pet). There is anecdotal evidence as

How is the CBD grown and extracted? Hemp is an ex-

well as small studies and initial data. However, the nascent

tremely absorbent plant. Whatever is in the soil, whatever

nature of the market and the product has, to date, limited

is used to produce or treat that plant, will end up in the plant

any group’s ability to gather the data to state unequivo-

and its byproducts. For that reason, making sure the hemp

cally that CBD does or doesn’t answer pets’ specific health

is organically grown without pesticides and chemicals is

needs. The best CBD pet products on the market do not

crucial. That organic process needs to start with the seed

promise anything but “possible” and “potential” benefits.

and continue through to how it’s grown and harvested. On

Hemp is among the most versatile, powerful plants

top of that, many extraction processes use chemicals such

known to humans, and while scientific data is minimal,

as butane (as in lighter fluid) or even ethanol to leach CBD

there is anecdotal evidence of great efficacy on issues

out of the plant. That not only means the core product has

from joint and hip pain to injury recovery to arthritis in

been exposed to harsh chemicals, but it also means the end

pets. The highly anti-inflammatory properties of CBD

product will retain some of those toxic elements. For iso-

20 APRIL 2019 Las Vegas

sensimag.com APRIL 2019 21

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baileyscbd.com @ b a i l eys c b d

lates, even harsher processing essentially tears apart the

Some believe therapeutic CBD products for pets must be

whole spectrum of CBD. It is worth noting that about 90

entirely THC free. That is not the case. There will be trace, as

percent of CBD isolate products are sourced from China.

in undetectable amounts, in products as a necessity to fully

To get the full power of the hemp plant’s properties in

unlock the true potential and value of the CBD. Without it,

the CBD product, you need its full spectrum. That means

it’s like having a combination lock that’s missing a number.

the entirety of the plant is utilized, each piece serving as

The explosive growth of the pet-related CBD market

something of a key to unlock the next elements. Use of

implies it’s only a matter of time before more substantive

THC, the psychotropic component of the plant that gets

data—anecdotal and otherwise—will be readily available.

you high, is a delicate matter because it is profoundly

In the meantime, the best judge of how well these prod-

toxic for dogs. Veterinarians have shared with me (again,

ucts work for your pet is you.

anecdotally) a rise in pets coming in with THC toxicity. Increased legalization for medical and recreational use has also resulted in an increase in THC-infused edibles in people’s homes. Where dogs would be unlikely to consume a plant, a bag of goodies captures a pet’s attention.

CATHY BROOKS, a trained journalist, began ripping wire copy at an all-news radio station, and her career evolved to encompass nearly every platform of media.

In 2008, after engaging as an activist, she began exploring how personal stories impact people’s professional lives. She headed to Las Vegas to start The Hydrant Club, an educational facility embarking on a mission to change urban landscapes by changing the very nature of how people and dogs communicate. For more information, visit HYDRANTCLUB.COM .

sensimag.com APRIL 2019 23

{aroundtown }

by D E B B I E H A L L

EMBRACE NATURE Pay homage to National Weed Day and Earth Day.

Two dates in April are recognized as times to reflect, honor, and celebrate.

Deadheads, embraced the code. However it began, this year continues its transformation into the new normal.

April 20 is National Weed Day. Rumors and speculation

Earth Day (EARTHDAY.ORG ) is observed on April 22; the

continue on how 420 became the numeric code for canna-

first one was celebrated 49 years ago. The landmark Clean

bis. Still, it is appropriate that April 20 was designated as an

Air, Clean Water, and Endangered Species Act was passed

unofficial holiday because even the mainstream now recog-

soon after the first Earth Day was recognized and today, it

nizes that 420 means cannabis. According to Chris Conrad,

is estimated that over 200 million people in 190 countries

curator of the Oaksterdam Cannabis Museum in Oakland,

acknowledge and participate in Earth Day activities.

California, 420 started as a code by high school students in

In Las Vegas, you can observe this special month with

the early 1970s to meet at 4:20 p.m. at a designated spot to

fun, facts, and reverence for everything above and below

get high. Other sources speculate that Grateful Dead fans,

the earth’s surface that makes life great.

24 APRIL 2019 Las Vegas

Jim Embescia of Los Angeles Glassblowing crafted the Big Lebongski. The trophy/bong is a glass-blown bowling pin replica that stands 15 inches tall and weighs about 16 pounds.

For every strike recorded in The Big Lebongski tournament, Supreme Organics will make a $4.20 donation to the HeroGrown Foundation, which raises awareness, advocates, and assists veterans, first responders, and their families with the use of cannabis as a safe alternative to prescribed drugs.

CANNABIS CONFERENCE LAS VEGAS

April 1-3 // Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino // 3000 Paradise Rd // (800) 456-0707

Knowledge is power. Whether you work in the industry or want to learn more, the Cannabis Conference (CANNABISCONFERENCE.COM ) in Las Vegas this year shares wisdom and potential.

Engage with industry stakeholders to discover new opportunities and learn about challenges entering the legal cannabis market. View the latest technologies and innovations and gain insights into cannabis cultivation, business operations,

THE BIG LEBONGSKI 420 STRIKEOUT

April 15 // Gold Coast Bowling Center // 4000 W. Flamingo Rd // (818) 669-5363

retail management, and customer engagement.

This year, the Cannabis Conference will include, for the first time, a dispensary track for retail businesses and em-

The cannabis-friendly touring The Big Lebongski Bowling

ployees. The conference will feature in-depth educational

Tournament series (THEBIGLEBONGSKI.COM ), presented by

programming on cannabis cultivation and business oper-

Supreme Organics (SUPREMEORGANICS.COM ) and benefit-

ations. Informed industry speakers will share perspectives

ing HeroGrown Foundation (HEROGROWN.ORG ), returns to

on retail management and customer engagement.

Las Vegas.

Legislation is being presented and passed federally

Put on those bowling shoes for a chance to become a local

and in new markets almost daily. There is unprecedented

champion. The victorious team wins a replica of The Big Leb-

business growth in the cannabis space, which encourag-

ongski Trophy, The Little Lebongski, and each team member

es new business, investors, and entrepreneurs. Growers,

will receive a seriously cool bowling pin pipe. All local winners

cultivators, management, and staff will gain solid insights

from the touring cities will be invited to compete in The Big

to help ensure success and growth.

Lebongski Tournament of Champions. This is the big oppor-

Cultivators and industry leaders who comprise the

tunity to win the big trophy and $420 at the event to be held

2019 Cannabis Conference advisory board, in partnership

at Pickwick Bowl in Burbank, California, on April 28.

with Cannabis Business Times and Cannabis Dispensary, de-

Prizes will also be awarded for the coolest Big Lebong-

velop and present this conference.

ski costumes and funky attire, making this bowling full of mirth and merriment.

Reality also imitated art when The Big Lebongski Touring Bowling Tournament series trophy was stolen in California in 2017, eerily similar to the rug heist in the movie The Big Lebowski. The good news—it has since been replaced. sensimag.com APRIL 2019 25

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GREENFEST 2019 IN HONOR OF EARTH DAY

April 20 // Downtown Summerlin // 1980 Festival Plaza Dr. // (702) 400-2428

GREENFest (GREENALLIANCENV.ORG/GREENFEST ) celebrates its 10th anniversary honoring Earth Day. This year, the festival brings the informative and fun event to a venue that showcases US Green Building Council Leadership in Environmental Engineering and Design-certified green buildings in a downtown environment featuring sustainability by design. Red Rock Canyon is the backdrop surrounded by the foothills of the west rim of Las Vegas.

The family-friendly event includes a treasure hunt with

Discover how to create a more enjoyable and healthy lifestyle with so many environmental topics, exhibits, innovation, and resources. For drivers, check out the clean energy drive of hybrids, electric, and clean natural gas vehicles. Cottage crafters form new design and decor. Learn about smart energy and technology.

Green allies include representatives from government agencies, chambers of commerce, educators, professional associations, conservation groups, trade associations, and nonprofit agencies all working together to make planet Earth a better place to live. The event is free, and all are encouraged to attend.

prizes, kids zone activities, and photos with mascots. Enjoy live artists, art displays, and entertainment, along with the solar-powered festival. Peruse the marketplace featuring a farmers market. There will be delicious food available for purchase and a beer and wine garden for adults.

Loveable cats and dogs looking for a forever home will join the festivities if you’re looking to adopt a furry friend.

Learn how to grow a garden with help and ideas you’ll get walking through organic gardening and composting demos.

sensimag.com APRIL 2019 27

{travelwell }

by D E B B I E H A L L

ROAD TRIP!

Celebrate the 4/20 weekend (and discover adventure outside Vegas).

April 20, National Weed Day, falls on a Saturday this year,

music. Guests 18 and older will be allowed to attend the

so you can celebrate all weekend long! Yes, living in Las Ve-

show, and those 21 and over will be able to order drinks.

gas can be a constant party, but what if you are in the mood

Avondale is 18 miles west of Phoenix with an estimated

for a staycation or a weekend getaway? Make time for a

driving time of four hours from Las Vegas to the ven-

road trip to experience new adventures, meet new friends,

ue. Tickets are available on

and create special memories for this high holiday.

Smily Green’s 420 Fest).

SMILY GREEN’S 420 FEST IN PHOENIX

April 20 // Wild Willy’s Cantina // 613 E. Western Ave. // Avondale, AZ // (480) 500-0025

This celebration of hip-hop, rap, and cannabis begins at 4 p.m. and continues late into the night. Artists scheduled to perform include KNOC-TURN’AL, Paperboy, MANN, Fatlip of Pharcyde, and Rappin’ 4-TA. Wild Willy’s will turn its dance hall and barn into one big party, celebrating with stages indoors and outside, VIP tables, drinks, food, and 28 APRIL 2019 Las Vegas

EVENTBRITE.COM

(search for

MAGIC BUS EXPERIENCE 2019

April 19-20 // Globe Theatre // 740 S. Broadway // Los Angeles

In the 1960s, The Who sang “Magic Bus” and The Beatles released the Magic Mystery Tour album. The Magic Bus Experience (MAGICBUSEXPERIENCE.COM ) rolls into Los Angeles as a throwback to the ’60s hippie-culture, multisensory 4/20 holiday festival, and art installation. Spoiler alert: It is not held on an actual bus.

PHOTO BY RAWPIXEL PHOTO BY STEPHEN ARNOLD

The Magic Bus Experience becomes a whimsical playground for adult cannabis users.

The Magic Bus Experience becomes a whimsical

“The Led of the Rings” (Led Zeppelin synched with The

playground for adult cannabis users. Part of the fun

Lord of the Rings). Compete in the Bouncing High Horse

includes crawling through a homemade pillow fort

races and rack up points in black-light miniature golf in

and drawing on the walls with markers while stuffing

Down the Rabbit Hole.

yourself with unlimited tater tots. Play old-school ar-

Commemorate and celebrate 4/20 with video games,

cade games and ride a giant Zippo lighter. A live band

rock shows, light shows, dance floors, magic, karaoke,

will perform during the shows “Alice on the Wall” (Pink

art, meditation, games, and, of course, food, including

Floyd’s The Wall synched with Alice in Wonderland) and

Munchie Mountain. sensimag.com APRIL 2019 29

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420 LAS VEGAS TAKEOVER April 18-22 // CLASSYWAYTRAVEL.COM

The 420 Las Vegas Takeover brings party people from all parts of the US as the cannabis smokers’ holiday takes over the Strip. If you live in Las Vegas, vacation like a tourist during this staycation and invite your friends from out of town to join you during the long weekend.

The fun continues on a party bus with an open bar where you can “work” to become a member of Team No Sleep. Happy Hour Takeover sets you high in the sky at one of the best rooftop bars overlooking the beautiful Vegas skyline with a cocktail (or two). Next, you are one of the cool kids with a VIP hosted entry into three of Vegas’s hottest clubs.

The 420 Cannabis Tour (non-consumption) is led by The Weed Traveler with tours of a cultivation facility and dispensaries as well as instruction on strains and products.

Of course, what would a trip or staycation in Vegas be without a professional photo of you standing at the world famous Welcome to Las Vegas sign? Smile and plan on seeing yourself all over IG and Facebook.

After such a fantastic weekend, you might have to take time to recover, but it will all be worth it!

RENO CANNABIS CONVENTION 2019

April 6-7 // Whitney Peak Hotel // 255 N. Virginia St. // Reno (774) 254-5073 // NECANN.COM/RENO

This convention, held the first weekend in April, presents important education about navigating the changing terrain of cannabis in Nevada, the country, and around the world.

The Reno Expo and Reno Cannabis Convention encompass business-to-business, business-to-consumers, patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers. Knowledge is power, and one more reason to celebrate the third weekend in April.

This is a non-consumption event, and guests must be 21 and over (or accompanied by a parent/guardian). Every facet of the cannabis industry will be represented, including accounting, insurance, banking, and payment processing. Entrepreneurs can learn about licensing, legal resources, private equity, and investment resources. Brick and mortar owners and management can be educated about security, point-of-sales, management software, testing, lab services, training, and continuing education.

Marketing and packaging are also significant considerations. Consumers can also learn about dosing, advocacy, hemp, THC, CBD, and infused products.

The Nevada cannabis industry continues to be overwhelmingly successful, another reason to celebrate 4/20 and society’s shifting attitude toward cannabis. sensimag.com APRIL 2019 31

CBDo or SPEC IAL REPORT

32 APRIL 2019 Las Vegas

CBDon’t?

When it comes to cannabidiol, confusion reigns supreme.

We’re going back to the basics to clear it up for you.

by L E L A N D R U C K E R and S T E P H A N I E W I L S O N

Disclaimer: The following conversation didn’t happen—NOT EXACTLY, NOT WORD FOR WORD AS IT APPEARS HERE. BUT IT’S ROOTED IN REALITY. CBD IS ON EVERYONE’S MINDS, BUT INFO ABOUT IT IS ON NO ONE’S RADAR. IN THE LAST FEW MONTHS ALONE, WE’VE FIELDED CALLS AND QUERIES FROM ACROSS THE COUNTRY, AS FRIENDS, FAMILY, AND FAMILY AND FRIENDS OF OUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY REACH OUT FOR ADVICE. The questions below are on the lips of curious consumers who have heard they need to be taking CBDs but

Yes, it’s confusing. Here’s a handy cheat sheet: Cannabis sativa: plant species.

they don’t quite know what this means. We’re here to

cannabis: a subspecies of Cannabis sativa containing

help. First thing’s first: it’s CBD, not CBDs.

more than trace amounts of THC. It remains federal-

Jane Doe: What is CBD? CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a non-psychoactive chemical compound found in the cannabis plant.

Jane: So it’ll get me high?

ly illegal, classified by the DEA as a Schedule I drug, in the same category as LSD and heroin. The government claims cannabis has no medicinal purposes and a high potential of abuse. hemp: a subspecies of Cannabis sativa with no more

No, that’s what non-psychoactive means. You’re think-

than 0.3 percent THC by weight. When the federal gov-

ing of THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol. That’s the com-

ernment outlawed “marihuana” in the 1930s, it did so us-

pound associated with feelings of euphoria.

ing broad language that banned all Cannabis sativa—in-

Jane: But you said CBD comes from cannabis.

Isn’t that what weed is called nowadays?

cluding hemp. The prohibition of hemp just came to an end last December, with the passing of the 2018 Farm Bill.

You are correct. Cannabis is how people refer to what

Jane: What does this have to do with CBD?

used to be called “marijuana,” a word with racist under-

CBD is found in Cannabis sativa varieties, so it can be

tones best removed from the modern lexicon. Cannabis

derived from both cannabis and hemp. But not all types

is short for Cannabis sativa, the scientific name of the

(or strains) of either necessarily have any CBD content at

plant species that includes both cannabis—the kind that

all. Some have a high percentage of CBD. Growers breed

gets you high—and hemp, the kind that doesn’t.

plants to maximize or minimize the cannabinoid content.

sensimag.com APRIL 2019 33

34 APRIL 2019 Las Vegas

Because cannabis remains federally illegal, CBD de-

Jane: So what are the effects of CBD?

rived from a plant with more than trace amounts of THC

There are all sorts of claims out there. But are any of those

is illegal as well. This doesn’t apply in the 10 states where

claims backed by science or data? Not really. A highly infor-

recreational cannabis is legal. However, it is illegal to

mative deep-dive into CBD published by Vox sums it up per-

take it across state lines—but don’t let that stop you.

fectly: “Anyone who tells you anything definitive about what

As hemp broke free from prohibition late last year, the

CBD—or THC for that matter—does to your body is lying.”

DEA reclassified hemp-derived CBD with less than 0.1 per-

Cannabis prohibition, ongoing since 1937, outlawed more

cent THC from a Schedule I to a Schedule V drug—one with

than personal use; it blocked scientific studies of the plant’s

a low potential of abuse, similar to low doses of codeine.

medicinal properties and potential. Today, there’s a huge

Jane: Are you saying the effects of eating a CBD cookie or two are the same as taking a dose of prescription cough syrup? That’s intense.

void where research should be. That void has to be filled

No. Keep in mind, this classification is from the same agency that still claims cannabis is as dangerous as heroin—that highly addictive drug responsible for a growing number of overdose deaths each year as its popularity grows in the wake of the opioid epidemic. The DEA claims cannabis is just as bad. As heroin. This despite the fact that you are as likely to die from a cannabis overdose as you are from a unicorn attack.

But I digress. No, eating CBD cookies won’t have the same effect as taking a codeine-laced prescription med, despite what the DEA would have you believe.

(The DEA rescheduling allowed for the first cannabis-derived medicine approved by the FDA for the treatment of a rare seizure disorder to enter the marketplace through typical pharmaceutical channels last fall. There are now two cannabis-derived pharmaceuticals on the market.)

with the very basics that can be built upon. There’s not even an official cannabis seed bank or strain database in existence from which scientists can pull reliable information needed to conduct the studies from which we are so desperate to learn the results. The process is basically just getting started, and it’s going to take awhile. Decades even.

That said, there is strong anecdotal evidence as well as some small studies that point to medicinal properties and health benefits. Secretions from the flower of the cannabis plant contain more than 100 chemical compounds known as cannabinoids—CBD and THC among them—that interact and bind to receptors within our body’s endocannabinoid system, which regulates basic functions like sleep, cognition, and stress. Cannabinoids such as CBC, CBG, CBN, THCa, THCv, and so on are said to provide relief to an array of symptoms and ailments—migraines, insomnia, stress, Crohn’s, PTSD, Parkinson’s, epilepsy, cramps, cancer, and more.

Like magic. Until science tells us otherwise.

CBD is a miracle compound, said to fix whatever ails you.

Or not. Depends on which you trust— science or marketing.

sensimag.com APRIL 2019 35

36 APRIL 2019 Las Vegas

Jane: Me too! I think I read the same article.

So, what’s the best kind of CBD? Oh my. There’s only one kind of CBD. But there are all sorts of factors that affect its quality and your experience. Some factors to keep in mind: 1) Is it derived from hemp or cannabis?

2) If it’s derived from hemp, where is the hemp from? The US imports a lot of hemp from China, where the list of approved pesticides is far from safe. You don’t want to be ingesting that.

Jane: So what does taking CBD do?

3) Is it a CBD isolate? Was the CBD isolated from the other plant compounds during the extraction process?

Again, studies are limited, but the ones out there show

This is an important factor for anyone who’s sensitive

that CBD is anti-inflammatory. It also can provide relief

to THC or who may be subject to drug testing

from anxiety and stress, induce calmness, and may even

4) Or is it full spectrum? The opposite of an isolate,

counterbalance anxiety brought on by THC in some can-

full spectrum refers to an extraction method that’s

nabis users. That’s part of something known as the en-

sometimes called “whole plant extract.” These include

tourage effect, but we’ll save that for another day.

all of the cannabinoids found in the plant.

Jane: That’s it? All this hype for something that may reduce anxiety and inflammation?

Yep. There’s a whole lot of anecdotal evidence about it being an effective treatment for other ailments, but there’s not a whole lot of science. Yet.

5) How will you ingest it, or get it into your body? Are you smoking it, putting some drops of a tincture under your tongue, drinking a beverage infused with it?

6) How much are you supposed to take?

There are millions and millions of CBD products being sold

We can thank the prohibition for getting us here—to

today, with more coming out every day. The market is large-

a place where a plant byproduct, federally illegal for all

ly unregulated, although the FDA does prohibit marketing

but the final 10 days of 2018, was a $350 million industry

CBD as a dietary supplement. New York State officials re-

in 2018. And that’s by conservative estimates. The Hemp

cently imposed rules blocking restaurants from serving

Business Journal puts that number closer to $1 billion.

CBD-laced menu items and drinks. Other than that, CBD is

I blame savvy marketing and risk-taking entrepreneurs eager to capitalize on the post-prohibition “green rush.”

regulated a lot like the vitamin and supplement industries, which is to say not at all. Companies can’t make claims

CBD is everywhere right now—even in the gift bags at

about health benefits, but can make claims about what’s in

the Oscars in the form of infused chocolate and luxe lo-

the product without any data to back it up. Last month, NBC

tions. You can smoke it, you can ingest it, you can drink

Miami collected an array of CBD products and sent them

it, you can vape it. You can spray it on your face, rub it on

to a third-party lab for testing. The majority had much less

your body, or pay a massage therapist to do that for you.

CBD than the labels claimed. Some had none at all.

You can drop a bomb and soak in a bath of it, you can

Jane: How much CBD should I be taking?

chew gum made with it, you can give it to Fido as a treat.

What you can’t do is ignore it. CBD dominates headlines, piques interest, generates anecdotal testimonies to its healing powers, and is marketed to you hard by a growing range of companies introducing new infused products and new brands in hopes of capitalizing on the buzz. They don’t all have your best interest at heart. Be skeptical.

Jane: But…I should be taking it, right? I’ve heard I should be taking it.

No one knows. This whole CBD thing is an experiment, and we are all the subjects. If you use or are just curious about CBD today, you are at the consumer end of a great trial that includes users, growers, producers, sellers, and now government. Until more extensive research is done— which will take awhile—you’re pretty much on your own to find the right products and dosages that work for you.

You’ve got to separate the hype from the reality. You’ve got to be willing to experiment, which can get pricey. If you

According to articles on the internet, you definitely should.

spend $50 on a bottle of CBD pain cream and it provides no

It’s a miracle compound, said to fix whatever ails you. Or

relief, will you be eager to try a different brand? It’s up to

not. Depends on which you trust more: science or market-

you. And your wallet. If the whole thing stresses you out,

ing. Personally, I’m a sucker for marketing.

try taking some CBD. It’s supposed to be good for stress. sensimag.com APRIL 2019 37

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sensimag.com APRIL 2019 39

40 APRIL 2019 Las Vegas

POT Why the History of Eating Cannabis Matters

IN PANS

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

From ancient India and Persia

TO TODAY’S EXPLOSIVE NEW MARKET, CANNABIS,

THE HOTTEST NEW GLOBAL FOOD TREND, HAS BEEN PROVIDING HUMANS WITH NUTRITION, MEDICINE, AND SOLACE – AGAINST ALL ODDS–SINCE THE EARLIEST CAVEPEOPLE DISCOVERED ITS POWERS. This is an excerpt from my book, Pot in Pans: A Histo-

alized they could control the commoners by prohibiting

ry of Eating Cannabis Food, which will be released this

a plant that they relied on for food, fiber, medicine, and

month as part of publisher Rowman & Littlefield’s Stud-

mind and mood alteration. For the hard-working class-

ies in Food and Gastronomy series, featuring “the best

es, who often lived in hopeless poverty, cannabis was

in food scholarship, harnessing the energy, ideas, and

magical for its ability to act as both stimulant and sop-

creativity of a wide array of food writers today.”

orific and its promise of gentle relief from the drudgery and humiliations of daily life—a far cry from the sinister

We write history books, in part, so we don’t repeat our

reputation foisted upon it by centuries of propaganda.

mistakes. The history of cannabis food, rich and deep, is

We are reaching the end of a centuries-long story, born in

marred with the stains of prohibition, propaganda, and

the Mazanderan mountains in ancient Persia in the 12th cen-

persecution—abysmal mistakes we’ve only just begun to

tury and used throughout history in racist campaigns to prove

rectify. This history is a long way from being written—

that cannabis makes people violent, insane, and uncontrol-

though many like to say we’re now on the right side of

lably horny (parents, hold onto your white daughters!). The

it as centuries of fear mongering finally start to unravel.

legend of Hassan-ibn-Sabbah, the Old Man of the Mountain

Finally, but still painfully slowly, cannabis is taking its

who plied his disciples with splendid food, fine women, and a

rightful place as a unique culinary ingredient that has

hashish confection so they would assassinate his enemies—

proven through the centuries that food is medicine.

popularized in the West by explorer Marco Polo—would forev-

Locally, nationally, and globally, we’ve reached a pivot-

er associate hashish with assassins and sinister business.

al moment in the history of a plant that has been beloved

In the 1930s, during his successful drive toward canna-

by the masses, reviled by the elite, and shrouded in con-

bis prohibition, US Federal Bureau of Narcotics chairman

flict and secrecy for centuries. Cannabis has been out-

Harry J. Anslinger masterfully fomented Americans’ rac-

lawed and demonized since the powers-that-be first re-

ist and increasingly moralistic national mentality with a sensimag.com APRIL 2019 41

42 APRIL 2019 Las Vegas

propaganda blitzkrieg that included a book and motion

remained readily available to those who wanted them. In

picture titled Marihuana: Assassin of Youth—based upon

the early and mid-1970s, several countries and US states

his discovery of the Old Man of the Mountain legend. In

decriminalized cannabis, but this attitude change was

testimony before Congress and in newspaper interviews,

short-lived, squelched by marijuana’s association with dirty

Anslinger said marijuana, a frightening “new” drug used

hippies and the counterculture. The Nixon administration

primarily by Mexicans and African Americans, could

doubled down, sending military helicopters to scorch can-

turn upstanding, middle-class kids into helpless victims

nabis farms from Orange Hill, Jamaica to the mountains of

and raging monsters. His campaign resulted in cannabis

Colombia’s Cauca region and declaring cannabis a Schedule

being effectively outlawed through draconian taxes and

I drug with no medicinal value, alongside heroin and LSD.

regulations in the Marihuana Tax Act of 1937.

Down through the ages—through multiple prohibitions on every continent, imposed by sultans, colonialists, and a pope—cannabis had managed to somehow

You Can’t Keep a Good Plant Down For a century now, cannabis has

survive, and even thrive. But never had it faced an en-

existed in most parts of the world

emy so formidable or iron-fisted as the United States in

only because humans’ love for it

the mid-20th century. When US Treasury Secretary An-

is so great that they’re willing

drew W. Mellon appointed Anslinger and tasked him, for

to sacrifice being persecuted,

whatever reason—and speculation is rampant—to wipe

imprisoned, having their teeth

out cannabis, he intended the war to be global. Through-

pulled out, and even being put

out the rest of the 20th century and into the 21st, the

to death for cultivating and

United States used its considerable influence to force

nurturing it. The irony of prohi-

cannabis prohibition around the world, leaving people

bition, of course, is that the lucra-

in countries where it had been used and enjoyed for cen-

tive black market made it worth

turies scratching their heads in confusion—and finding

the risk and only drove breeders to

ways around the laws.

develop ever-mightier plants delivering

In Canada in the 1930s, when Royal Mounted Po-

whopping amounts of psychoactive tetrahy-

lice officers told an elderly woman they had to eradi-

drocannabinol, or THC. In the face of adversity, cannabis

cate the hemp plants she grew to

was no shrinking violet. The plant grew stronger, better,

feed her canaries, she chased

faster, and more potent—unstoppable, no matter how

them away with a broom.

much paraquat the DEA threw at it.

cannabis

If the history of cannabis proves anything, it is that you

continued to be a key

can’t keep a good plant down. A cabal of global elites is no

ingredient in the tra-

match for this one, which in its cunning evolved to provide

ditional “happy” soup

humans with nutrition, fiber, medicine, and, if you believe

served at weddings

many ethnobotanists, the ability to make huge mental and

and celebrations, just

spiritual leaps as a species. Had it not been for the latter—

In

Indonesia,

as it always had. In-

all due to the presence of that THC molecule—this would

dia managed to keep

be a boring book about a multifaceted, utilitarian plant that

on the right side of the

served humans in many different capacities for centuries.

United States while quiet-

This is not that.

ly allowing people to drink

This is a story with many layers, spanning many conti-

bhang, a traditional holy drink

nents, held together by the thread of an Islamic confection

made from cannabis. By the 1970s,

created to inspire a band of 12th-century fedayeen, which

the Netherlands had adopted a policy of tolerance to-

was ported throughout the Middle East, Central Asia, and

ward retailers and users while making cannabis cul-

beyond, invoking hilarity and hostility wherever it went.

tivation and production illegal, creating a “back door”

Inspired by this legend, Western intellectuals and literati,

problem that no one wanted to replicate.

and then the masses, discovered and enjoyed cannabis,

It was more than clear by the 1970s that the global war

hashish, and majoun (a Moroccan candy mixed with can-

on drugs was a failure. Violent cartels were ravaging South

nabis) for much of the mid-19th century and into the 1930s,

and Central America, and heroin, cocaine, and cannabis

when Anslinger shut that down. sensimag.com APRIL 2019 43

44 APRIL 2019 Las Vegas

This is the story of how Brion Gysin, an ex-patriot artist and writer in Tangier, discovered majoun, typed up a recipe, and sent it to Alice B. Toklas, an ex-pat writer in

in legal states. They can buy water-soluble cannabis-infused liquids and powders to stir into beverages or add to any recipe for immediate gratification. With such a wide range

Paris, to include in a cookbook published in New York

of culinary opportunities and resources literally at their

and London, causing a minor scandal in the mid-20th

fingertips, only the laziest or most unimaginative eaters

century and leading to a major mix-up in a major motion

are choosing the brownie.

picture that morphed majoun into the pot brownie, and

We stand on a precipice. Once criminalized, cannabis

turned the pot brownie into a Western icon forevermore.

is now being rapidly commodified, and there’s no putting

It’s the story of the rowdy band of artists, rebels, and intel-

that genie back in the bottle. Analysts predict cannabis

lectuals who partook of majoun’s charms and an activist

will be a global industry worth $57 billion by 2027—in-

who made the pot brownie a symbol of compassion.

vestment firm Cowen and Company suggests that will

Down through the ages, the cannabis plant has gath-

reach $75 billion by 2030—numbers that are respectful

ered about it a charismatic and eclectic assortment of

enough to prevent cannabis haters like US Attorney

protectors and advocates, from the Hindu lord Shiva, who

General Jeff Sessions (the 21st-century’s answer to An-

was said to sustain himself for long periods by eating

slinger) from prosecuting companies working within le-

cannabis, to Brownie Mary, whose insistence on baking

gal state infrastructures. Money talks.

cannabis-laced brownies as medicine for AIDS patients

Money’s talking. Scotts Miracle-Gro and Monsanto are

in San Francisco, despite several arrests, drew huge pub-

circling. Food conglomerates are dipping toes, preparing

lic sympathy in the 1990s and eased the way for Califor-

to jump in when—and everyone now agrees it’s a matter

nia to legalize medical marijuana in 1996.

of when—federal cannabis prohibition ends in the Unit-

And that, really, may have been the beginning of the

ed States. Hemp is legal, and a bill has been submitted to

end of the pot brownie. Several states and countries fol-

Congress to legalize psychoactive cannabis. Cannabis is

lowed California in approving cannabis for medical use,

now the second most valuable crop in the United States

and in 2012, Colorado and Washington voters took the

after corn. Chefs, foodies, and nutritionists are playing

game-changing step of legalizing all adult use. More

with this new functional food ingredient, finding cre-

states followed, then Uruguay, then Canada. Canna-

ative uses for every part of the plant, as the world’s atti-

bis-infused edibles grew into a robust and well-regulat-

tude toward cannabis normalizes.

ed industry with no room for crumbly chocolate cakes

This may sound far-fetched, particularly to peo-

that had miserable shelf lives and were impossible to

ple who live in places where cannabis remains illegal,

imprint with the new THC warning stamp some states

where citizens—inordinately, people of color—are rotting

began requiring.

in jail because of a plant. It will never be okay that (most-

In most cases, pot brownies have evolved into

ly) white men in suits rake in millions of dollars on can-

shelf-stable, easier-to-dose chocolate bars, one skew in

nabis and cannabis products while others go to jail over

a wildly popular category of cannabis-infused products

the very same plant. As we celebrate the strides we’ve

that no one saw coming in the early 2010s. In addition

made toward liberating cannabis, we must never forget

to a range of chocolate products from gourmet truffles

that this progress has been made on the backs of those

to peanut butter cups, today’s cannabis consumers can

willing to pay the price before us.

enjoy infused potato chips, gummies, hard candies, raw cacao butter, soda pop, caramel corn, coffee, tea, cookies, pies, and nuts—all readily available at cannabis stores

ROBYN GRIGGS LAWRENCE (@cannabis_kitchen) is the author of Cannabis Kitchen Cookbook and the upcoming Pot in Pans: A History of Eating Cannabis (Rowman & Littlefield, $34).

sensimag.com APRIL 2019 45

46 APRIL 2019 Las Vegas

NEVADA POWDERS

High Octane WILL POWDERED THC BECOME THE NEXT BIG THING?

Nevada Powders is turning heads with a new oil-to-

The powder can also be used in creams and oint-

powder process that allows THC to be added to al-

ments. “The product is fast-acting,” Mack says. “The ef-

most any food or drink. Daddy Mack’s Chill Powder is

fects will be felt in about two minutes sublingually, or

sold at licensed dispensaries.

about 10 minutes if digested.”

A third-generation Las Vegan, attorney Steven Mack

Nevada Powders is making only THC powder but

of Black and LoBello law firm focuses on real estate,

will get into the CBD market, where the powder’s dos-

construction, and contracts as well as representing

age-control ability makes it more attractive.

cannabis companies.

“We formulate it so that a quarter teaspoon is equal

The company Mack worked with had found a way to

to 10 milligrams of THC or CBD,” Mack says. “So, you

convert distillate (or any edible oil) into a water-solu-

can ‘micro-dose’ every single time, and it will be ex-

ble powder. “I was really interested in the process and

actly the same. It’s not like with gummies, where one

talked to a few people, formed Nevada Powders, and

gummy might be stronger than another one. There is

purchased the rights for Nevada, Colorado, and Cali-

virtually no taste or smell to the powder. It’s not an oil

fornia,” he says.

or a butter, and because it’s a dried ingredient, it gets

Mack works with Evergreen Organix, makers of topicals and vapes— one of the state’s biggest edibles

completely homogenized in the product you are adding it to like any other dried ingredient.”

makers—to provide the oil. Nevada Powders uses its protected process, and Evergreen packages Daddy Mack’s Chill Powder, which dispensaries throughout Nevada can order directly from Evergreen.

For more information about Daddy Mack’s Chill Powder and other products, visit:

NEVADAPOWDERS.COM

“Our product is a true powder,” he says. “It’s a super-fine powder that’s not encapsulated. Its consistency is almost like powdered sugar, but it has virtually no carbs, is vegan, gluten-free, kosher, and organic [before the addition to the THC].”

With this powder, any food item can become an edible. It can be mixed into coffee, tea, wine, or water, dusted on pastries, or used sublingually. Because it’s decarboxylated, it won’t change character when heated, so it can be used in baking or cooking.

sensimag.com APRIL 2019 47

SENSI NIGHT

It was cold outside, but the Vegas

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEXIA RUSSO

locals attended the coolest party in town—Sensi Night Las Vegas. The DJ kept the crowds jumping as the heat was turned up by all of the bodies.

People toured Cannabition, mixed, and mingled, feeling good.

48 APRIL 2019 Las Vegas

What: Sensi Night Las Vegas Where: The Nerd When: February 19, 2019

sensimag.com APRIL 2019 49

{HereWeGo }

by D E B B I E H A L L

PIRATES COVE Dare to enter The Golden Tiki.

Don the Beachcomber and Trader Vic’s created the ultimate classic mid-century tiki bars, and The Golden Tiki brings that experience to Las Vegas.

Located in Chinatown, The Golden Tiki is a journey to a wondrous land with shrunken heads (along with celebrations) and an animatronic skeleton of the mythical privateer and legend behind The Golden Tiki, William Tobias Faulkner.

Legend tells the tale that he stole the only existing map to the elusive Skull Island.

Renowned artists Tiki Bosko, Billy the Crud, Bill Collins, and Oceanic Arts have recreated what could be Skull Island inside the establishment. Once inside the doors, you are no longer in Las Vegas but some mysterious island. The shrunken heads surrounding the room include Vince Neil, Travis Pastrana, Rod Stewart, Rich Little, Five Finger Death Punch’s Chris Kael, Carrot Top, Marky Ramone, Tom Green, Vinnie Paul, Playboy Playmate Claire Sinclair, Disney legend Bob Gurr, and, in memoriam, Robin Leach, Evel Knievel, and Hunter S. Thompson.

Of course, what is an adventure in the islands without a drink? The handcrafted cocktail menu features nostalgic classics and new creations, alongside a strong list of craft beer and rum selections. The tropics call with a hint of danger.

3939 Spring Mountain Road // (702) 222-3196 // THEGOLDENTIKI.COM 50 APRIL 2019 Las Vegas

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