This fall Soul of Sonoma (SoS) will kickoff its premium Winemaker of the Month Club We are pleased to feature P. Harrell Wines in the first SoS Winemaker of the Month Club shipment Paula Harrell's award winning wine emerged from a long standing passion and appreciation for wine She credits her parents for instilling the entrepreneurial spirit in her
SoS has the privilege of working with some of the country's top Black wine producers and importers who are committed to sharing their love of wine with customers At day’s end, we are thrilled to have the opportunity to deliver a superior curated experience to our clients' front doors every two months
October 2023
The first stop for VISTAS magazine is appropriately Martha's Vineyard! When I first visited the Vineyard in early 2017, I asked my seasoned host and wine drinker-in-crime where we could go winetasting Excited to try wine from Martha’s Vineyard, I was in for a big surprise once I discovered that the island didn't have a winery or a commercial vineyard When a friend dared me to host an event on Martha’s Vineyard, a wine festival seemed like an ideal opportunity to bring the black vintners Soul of Sonoma had been promoting to such a unique location Five years after holding the first Soul of Sonoma on the Vineyard, we are pleased to bring this format back to a place we love
In addition to a focus on food and wine, VISTAS will highlight artists, literature, and entrepreneurial profiles while providing an immersive journey filled with tips on how to find joy, abundance, and self-actualization The word "vista" has traditionally been used to convey an outlook or a mental scan of the future It is also used to describe a broad sweeping view of the kind you might see from a mountaintop, or even a pleasing view, especially one seen through a long, narrow opening True to the definition we will be bringing our readers compelling photographs, perspectives, and stories about special events, personal journeys, and must-visit destinations.
In this premiere issue we feature our list of summer wine picks that will be served at the 2023 Soul of Sonoma on the Vineyard. We are thrilled to recognize the 25th anniversary of the first Divas Uncorked on the Vineyard wine festival, and read about Christina B Johnson's advocacy work for cannabis inclusion (cover) Future publications will address information and professional gaps in the culinary and wine industries faced by people of color, along with expert advice on living well We can’t wait to share all of this with you in this inaugural edition and in future issues of VISTAS Cheers!
50 50% O F F % O F F
OFFER EXPIRES 9/25/23
Even if you are not a member of the SoS Winemaker of the Month Club, for $69 95 a year you can sign up to receive the printed version of VISTAS magazine every two months! An abridged digital version will be available to mailing list members Sign up using code VISTASMV23 and receive 50% off your first year's print subscription
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EXPLORING NEW VISTAS IS GOOD FOR THE SOUL
WINE FRIENDLY RECIPES MADE WITH GOURMET SPREADS
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Soul of Sonoma has curated a list of must-try wines ideal for enjoyment during thewarmermonths,manyofwhichwillbeservedatSoSMV23
With a wide range of holistic practices under one roof, HealHaus is one-stop shopforthemind,bodyandspirit
Learn how assets in a living trust don't need to go through probate and may be distributedaccordingtothetrust'stermsmoreefficientlythanawill.
Christina B Johnson launched the first cannabis cultivation operation in AmericawithaBlackandLatinamajorityowner (COVER)
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The Supreme Court ruling on Affirmative Action is just the latest version of a questionthatmomChimeneLiburd andthenation grappleswith
SOUL OF SONOMA SALUTES THE 25TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FIRST DIVAS UNCORKED ON THE VINEYARD!
Welcome to the first issue of VISTAS magazine, where we feature stories on food, wine, and living well! Wine enthusiasts will enjoy upcoming "vino-soaked" issues that include culinary, travel, and lifestyle guides VISTAS magazine was launched to cater to the interests of Soul of Sonoma clients and event attendees through our affiliation with thought-leaders, local businesses, exclusive events, and premium service providers. We can't wait to explore these exciting vistas with you!
PUBLISHER
Patrice Davenport
CREATIVE MANAGER
Khayla Biscoe
COPY EDITOR
Michelle Morgan
FEATURE WRITERS
George Hall
Lisa G McCurdy, Esq
SPECIAL ACKNOWLEDGMENT AUGUST 12TH 4:30 PM @ SOUL OF SONOMA ON THE VINEYARD
VIP RECEPTION & INSPIRING CONVERSATION WITH INDUSTRY
VETERAN ALICIA TOWNS FRANKEN!
With over 25 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Alicia Towns Franken is the Executive Director at Wine Unify a non-profit organization whose mission is to welcome, elevate, and amplify the voices of underrepresented minorities in the wine.
Divas Uncorked were gifted a signed copy of, Black Women's Wellness: Your "I've Got This!" Guide to Health, Sex, and Phenomenal Living (2023), courtesy of author, Ob-Gyn Dr Melody T McCloud: DrMcCloud.com
ADVERTISING ACCOUNT MANAGER
Gregory Pugh
VISTAS MAGAZINE
455 MASS AVENUE, NW SUITE 252
WASHINGTON, DC 20001 (877) 550-3003
wwwsoulofsonomacom
Please email advertising inquiries, press releases, and editorial proposals to inquires@soulofsonomacom
The days are still long and, the temperatures are still warm, so let’s get on the grill and enjoy these last few months of summer There’s only one question left what wines pair best with all the foods and gatherings that make up the warmest summer months?
From lighter reds, to rich rosés, to white wines nuanced and crisp, even some tasting like fresh-squeezed summer fruit Soul of Sonoma has created your guide to the best summer wines If you’re hungry, we’ve got summer food and wine pairings too. Our goal is to ensure your palate experiences the ultimate summer wine experience
Soul of Sonoma on the Vineyard guests will have the opportunity to sample several 2023 Summer Selections on Martha's Vineyard Attendees will be treated to wine tasting amidst the breathtaking scenery of the Dr Daniel Fisher House and Gardens harmonized with music and art
The idyllic venue will provide the perfect backdrop for wine enjoyment and networking with new and old friends We look forward to welcoming wine lovers in picturesque Edgartown to partake in an exceptional array of curated wine selections
KumushacomesfromfounderTinasheNyamudoka'snativelanguage,Shona,anditmeans"yourroots,yourhome,oryour origin"BornandraisedinZimbabwe,NyamudokamovedtoSouthAfricain2008 HebecameaserveratTheRoundhouse restaurantoutsideCapeTownandhisloveaffairwithwinebegan Followingafewstintsatotherrestaurantshewasappointed asheadsommelieratAfrica’smostfamousrestaurant,TheTestKitchen(whichclosedinlate2021) Hehascreatedeight deliciousSouthAfricanwines,fromSwartland,Slanghoek,SondagskloofandtheWesternCapeatlarge Nyamudokastarted KumushaWinesin2017withtheassistanceofwinemakerfriendAttieLouwofOpstal
Aromasofpear,whitepeachandlimeonthe nose Ajuicypalatewithflavorsof cantaloupe,melonandpapaya,following throughwithacrispdryfinish Greatwith ChickenCaesarSaladorlemon&herb spatchcockchicken
kumushabrands.com
Zippyandfreshwithtropicalfruitaromas jumpingoutoftheglass Notesofmelon, passionfruitandguavamakethiswine absolutelymoreish Complementsseafood, sushi,pasta,chickenandvealdishes
Aromasofbrightredfruitwithcherryand strawberryflavoursshowingoff Notesof subtlefloralanddryspiceaddingcharacter A vibrantandharmoniouswinebestenjoyed withamealtorevealallofitsexpressions
ThisrefreshinglybrilliantdryRoségreetsyouin theglasswithinvitingaromasofbingcherry, freshrosepetals,anddriedappleskins The palateisbrightwithrefreshingacidity The soft,roundbodyisenhancedbynotesofred applesandsubtlecinnamon
Thisexquisite,drywhitewinewarmstheglass withnotesofwhitepeach,lilac,andpeppery, lycheefruit Thepalategreetsyouwithcrisp acidityandflavorsofhoneydewmelon The winefinisheswithasoft,toastycreaminess andlingeringspice
Ashowstopperfromfirstencountertolastsip thisPetiteSirahopenswitharichpotpourri ofdriedrosepetals,blackcherry,sage,and blackpepper Onthepalate,cardamomand cloveenvelopdensefruitandsoftnotesof vanilla Velvetytanninsgivewaytonever endingjuicyfruitonthefinish Thiswinewill continuetoshineforyearstocome
TheodoraLee,aseniorpartnerandtriallawyeratLittler,foundedTheopolisVineyardsin2003 Inthewineworld,Ms Leeis knownasTheo-patra,QueenoftheVineyards HerpassionforwinebeganuponherarrivaltoSanFranciscofromTexasin1987, primarilyduetotheinfluenceofherlawfirmmentors,manyofwhomownedvineyards Shetookseveralviticultureclassesat UCDavis,beforedecidingtodevelopherownvineyard In2001,Ms LeepurchasedsheeplandintheYorkvilleHighlandsof AndersonValley,andbegandevelopinghervineyard In2003,Ms Leeplantedher5acrevineyardandadoptedherGreek namefrompledgingDeltaSigmaThetaSorority,andestablishedTheopolisVineyards theopolisvineyards.com
Foundedin2011byjourneymancellarhandandself-taughtwinemakerChrisChristensen,BodkinWinesdisruptedthesparkling winescenewithAmerica’sFirstSparklingSparklingSauvignonBlancin2012 Withonefootrootedinwinescienceandtheother incraftsmanship,Christensen’sminimalistphilosophyguideshissignaturestyleofhighacid,lowalcoholwines Thesewines havegarneredovertwodozen90+pointscoresincriticalreview AsanAfrican-AmericanwinemakerChristensenworksto promotediversityandinclusioninthewineindustrythroughspeakingengagements,podcastsandmentorshipopportunitiesfor aspiringvintnersandwineryowners
ThisrefreshinglybrilliantdryRoségreetsyouin theglasswithinvitingaromasofbingcherry, freshrosepetals,anddriedappleskins The palateisbrightwithrefreshingacidity The soft,roundbodyisenhancedbynotesofred applesandsubtlecinnamon
bodkinwines.com
Withfloralnotesoforangeblossom,honey, tangerinesandfreshbakedbreadthiswineis theenologicalembodimentofsummertime Whilethiswineisslightlysweetintermsof sugarit’snotcloyingorheavy
Thisblendoftwoco-fermentedfieldblendsis acollaborationbetweenSouthAfricanborn winemakerMichaelRoetsandChris Christensen Theendresultwasablendthat hasboththestructureandmouthfeelofPetite SirahwiththearomaticliftofZinfandel/ Primitivo,thecranberrytonesofCarignan alongwiththemysteriousearthinessof Mourvédre
Drs Bassett and Marcela Brown sold vines to established winemakers until 1996 That’s when their children Deneen, David, and Coral Brown took over the family business and produced the first Brown Estate Napa Valley Zinfandel, becoming a wine industry leader In 1980, their parents acquired 450 acres in the Chiles Valley of Napa after being informed by friends that the property was for sale The Browns helped to forge the long history of Zinfandel in Napa Valley, which is commonly overshadowed by the dominance of Cabernet Sauvignon It remains their flagship varietal today
Delicatepalepinkblushincolor Aromasof starjasmine,watermelon,raspberry,wild strawberry,bloodorange,Yuzu,hintsof honeycombandbakingspice Onthepalate lithe,vibrant,anddynamic Lightbodywith silkytextureanddelightfullysubtlefinish
Brillianttranslucentrubythroughandthrough Onthenose,hibiscus,tearose,pomegranate, andMaraschinocherrywithsubtlecinnamon, clove,andEnglishlavender Lightbodyand crispaciditymeetlushfruitandspices Intenseflavorsmakeforasublimelingering finish
Darkgarnetcorewitharubyrimandan intensebouquetofriperedfruits,darkcherry, plum,andlicorice Secondarynotesofleather, toastedmarshmallow,wildherbs,andflorals, followedbyhintsofcaramelapple,Asian spices,heavycream,tobacco,andcocoa nibs Onthepalate,itisripe,savory,and concentratedwithsilkymouthfeel,zesty acidity,andsweettannins
INSTAGRAM @SOCIOLOGIEWINES @SHOPAMYHOLLY @AMYOHAMPTON
The collaboration between AMY HOLLY caftan resort collection and SOCIOLOGIE WINES is a perfect marriage of luxury and celebration Together, they create a narrative that transports wine lovers to a world of sophistication and bliss The AMY HOLLY caftan resort collection beautifully complements the elegant and refined nature of SOCIOLOGIE WINES, creating a seamless fusion of fashion and wine With every sip, wine enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the story told by this collaboration, where each moment becomes a celebrationandsetsthemoodforatrulyremarkableexperience
CHOOSE SOUL OF SONOMA SELECTIONS FOR YOUR SPECIAL DAY
Let our experts help you find the perfect setting for your "I Do's"
We provide tools including pairing menus to host the perfect wine wedding
From the first toast to the last, our experts hand pick delicious finds for your day
From the first toast to th and every pour in betwe Soul of Sonoma is here t it easy to leave a lasting impression on your guests. Speak with us for a consultation where we’ll help you pick wines from black winemakers that pair with your menu, find a signature cocktail that’s love at first sip and choose a special bubbly to truly celebrate the happy couple!
We work with you to curate wine from winemakers of color from around the world. Let Soul of Sonoma be your trusted resource to make culturallyinclusive selections for your perfect day. The best part? We have dozens of wines that we can curate and we will work with your venue and or caterer to create the perfect pairings.
mmunities of color in the nited States experience a sproportionately high burn of health disparities mpared to other populans These disparities are e result of complex eractions between social,
d environmental factors rowing need for wellness n communities of color to its mental and physical and promote holistic health g Darian Hall recognized community and set out on l it. This journey led him to nd opening of HealHaus
BY GEORGE HALLHealHaus is a wellness center located in the heart of Brooklyn, NY founded by Darian Hall and Elisa Shankle The studio is committed to helping people achieve optimal health and well-being, both physically and mentally HealHaus offers a variety of services including yoga, meditation, sound healing, massage therapy, and acupuncture, as well as workshops and events focused on personal growth and development
Darian and Elisa have created a special locale that has diverse healing modalities and practitioners that provide people with an inclusive space focused on holistic health and wellness They are committed to building a community that is dedicated to changing the stigma attached to healing
The commitment to providing holistic healing is an aspect of HealHaus that sets it apart from many other wellness centers The studio recognizes that physical health is connected to mental and emotional health, and therefore offers a range of services that address the whole person HealHaus understands that healing is a process and that it requires an individualized approach Each person who walks through their doors or uses their online services is treated as a unique individual, with their own unique needs and circumstances
HealHaus also places a strong emphasis on education and empowerment. Through workshops and events, they aim to provide the community with the tools and resources they need to take control of their own health and wellness They believe that everyone has the power to heal themselves and that their role is to support that journey
welcomed, a safe haven that could easily become part of a person’s daily journey toward wellness In fact, at HealHaus they believe “healing of the mind, body, and soul is more than just a trend but a lifestyle”
We had the opportunity to visit and speak with Darian Hall and learn more about this wonderful wellness space We hope you enjoy our chat
VISTAS: What was the inspirations behind HealHaus?
Darian: HealHaus was created with the intention to make wellness services more accessible for people of color and men
VISTAS: What kind of impact do you feel HealHaus has had on the community?
Darian: HealHaus has had a very significant impact on the community by making therapy and the other services we provide more normalized.
VISTAS: What do you want people to feel or take away after taking a class or using the variety of wellness services offered by HealHaus?
Darian: That they see themselves reflected and they are able to come without judgment
VISTAS: Do men take classes at HealHaus?
When Darian thought of the many people, particularly people of color, who were likely facing mental, emotional and physical challenges, along with the inherent stresses of everyday life, he thought of how amazing it would be to create a wellness space that gave folks that looked like him a place to heal and decompress He and Elisa wanted to create a house where everyone felt xxxxxx
VISTAS: As an African American man, what did it mean for you to go into business with an African American woman?
Darian: Black Women are the leading group when it comes to starting new businesses. Their knowledge, expertise, and insight are invaluable It was a nobrainer to start a business with a Black Woman, who also happened to be my friend
Darian: Yes, we have a lot of men who are part of the HealHaus community and their introduction to wellness was through HealHaus
VISTAS: What are some of your more non-typical classes offered at HealHaus?
Darian: We offer various workshops each week which tackle a range of different topics
“Healthisastate ofbody.Wellness isastateofbeing”
VISTAS: Music seems to be an important element of the atmosphere at HealHaus. Is that so? And if so, why is it?
Darian: Music has healing properties and helps create the welcoming atmosphere we want to foster at HealHaus
VISTAS: What are some examples of music one might hear at HealHaus?
Darian: You’ll hear everything from Afrobeats, Hip Hop, and R&B, to Soul Classics.
VISTAS: Tell us a little about your digital platform and who uses it
Darian: Our digital platform allows our community to access our programming through live and on-demand content We have users all over the world
VISTAS: Is the corporate world ready for a HealHaus?
Darian: Yes Our corporate division of HealHaus has garnered the attention of major companies like Nike, Google, Spotify, and so on
VISTAS: Do you enjoy wine? If so, what do you prefer, red or white?
Darian: Yes, given that we’re approaching summer you can’t go wrong with a nice Rosé
VISTAS: What does the future hold for HealHaus?
Darian: We’ll continue facilitating this important work We are gearing up for the launch of our app later this year and hoping to make some other major announcements
Learn more at www.healhaus.com
There is no better way to express yourself than to just be you!
omatteryourage,settingupaliving ust can be a powerful tool to help uaccomplishawiderangeofgoals ring your lifetime and long after usts can provide greater flexibility d control over how your property dassetsaredistributedandwhen."
-LisaMcCurdy
Probateisamatterofpublicrecord Thatmeansyour willandotherprivatefinancialandbusiness informationbecomepartofthepublicrecordassoon asyourestateispresentedforprobate(though controlsareinplacetoprotectsocialsecurity numbers,andEINandaccountnumbers) Atrust,on theotherhand,maintainsprivacyandconfidentiality Itisonlyfortheeyesofthoseinvolved–trusteesand beneficiaries
Theprobateprocess(whichisrequiredtoadminister yourwill)cantakemonths,andoften,ayearormore tocomplete Itcanbeveryexpensive Insomestates, attorneyandcourtfeescantakeupto5%ofan estate'svalue Atrustisdesignedtosettleyourestate inatimelyandrelativelyinexpensivemannerand,just asimportantly,withprivacy
Atrustcan providebeneficiariesprotectionfrom lawsuits,creditors,financialchallenges,difficulties whilenavigatingamentalillness,ordivorce Further,a trustcanalsoprotecttheinterestsofaminorchildby settingguidelinesforwhendistributionsaremade
Establishinganirrevocabletrustmeansafuture creditororclaimantcannotsatisfyajudgmentagainst theassetsheldinthattrust Awill,ontheotherhand, distributesassetstobeneficiariesregardlessoftheir currentsituations-divorcing,drugaddiction,or mentalhealthchallenges
Theinformationinthisarticleisnotintendedaslegaladvicebuttoprovideageneralunderstandingofthelaw Anyreaderswithalegal problem,includingthosewhosequestionsareaddressedhere,shouldconsultanattorneyforadviceontheirparticularcircumstances
Aspecialneedstrustprovidesforthe healthcareandpersonalneedsofa minorchildoradultwithspecial needs Italsohelpstoensurethat eligibilityforMedicarebenefitsis maintainedbyremovingthe possibilitythatassetswillincreasethe valueofhisorherpropertyabove eligibilitythresholds.
Therefore,atrustcanprovide supplementalsupportwhichis providedbygovernmentalprograms, forinstance,tofundadditionalcare, participationinfamilyeventsand vacations,andindependenceskills training Awillcanleaveassets vulnerabletolossand,worseyet, makebeneficiarieswithspecialneeds ineligibleforneededprogramsthat cannotbebought
Youdictatethetermsofthetrust,and thereforeyoucanplacerestrictions onhowtrustassetsaremanaged If you’reconcernedthatabeneficiary maynotmanageassetswisely,you canappointanindependenttrustee tohelpmakesmartdecisionsonhis orherbehalf
Youcanalsorestricthowassetsmay beused Forexample,thetrustcould stipulatethatassetsmayonlybe usedtosupportabeneficiary’s lifestyle needs,suchasthepurchase
ofahomeorcar,orthepaymentof medicalbills,butmaynotbe distributeddirectlytothebeneficiary Further,thetrustcanoutline contingenciesthatmustbemetbya beneficiaryinorderforhimorherto beeligibleforaparticulardistribution.
Awilldistributesassetstoa beneficiaryregardlessoftheirability (exceptthatassetsareheldforminor childrenuntiltheyare18yearsoldhardlyamilestoneofmaturityand financialknowledge)
Inmanycases,divorceand remarriagecanresultinassetsthat wereintendedtoremaininthefamily leavingthefamily Atrustcanensure yourestateispreservedfor grandchildren,evengreat grandchildren,and,frankly,for generationstocome Thereisno mechanismwithinawillthatextends beyondtheinitialdistributiontoa beneficiarytopreserveandprotect assetsalongbloodlines
Awillcanrequiredistributiontoa charityonbehalfofthedeceasedbut cannotrequirebeneficiariestouse theassetstheyreceiveinaparticular manner Atrustcanbeapowerful toolforpassingdownfamilyvalues relativetoeducation,home ownership,landconservation, communityservice,religiousbeliefs, andmore Forexample,ifcharitable givingisanimportantfamilyvalue, thetrustcouldstipulatethatheirs mustdonateafixedpercentageof assetseachyeartoacharitable organizationoftheirchoosing.
Unlikeawill,challengingatrust isdifficultandcostly.Havinga trustinplacethatclearly articulatesyourwishesforyour beneficiariesandheirsreduces thepotentialformisunderstanding,makingitmorelikely thatallpartieswillembraceand respectyourwishes Further,the levelofdetailandformalitythat trustsaffordbuildsconfidencein thelegal,medical,andfinancial communitiessuchthevalidityis rarelychallenged
Probateisapubliccourtcase thatprovidestheperfect platformforfamilydramato playout,rivalingsomeofthe mostpopularrealityshows
Theestatetaxexemption--the amountyoumayleavetoheirs freeoffederaltax--hasbeenset high,exemptingmany;butwhat aboutstateestatetaxexemption amount?Thefederalestatetax exemptionisnow"permanently" over$5million,andtemporarily over$12million However,some localities,suchasMarylandand theDistrictofColumbia,areless predictable,havingimposed estatetaxforestatevalues muchlowerthanthefederal,and theycontinuetothreatentodo sointhefuture.
TheuseofanIrrevocableTrustto removeassetsfromyourestate bygiftingthemtoyour beneficiariesintrust,reducesthe estatetaxcalculationand providestheperfectbalance amongcontrol,protection,and preservation Awilldoesnot allowforstrategictaxplanning suchasthis.
LisaG McCurdy,Esq isManagingPartnerof TheWealthCounselor,LLC--apremiere, boutiqueestateandassetprotectionlaw firmthathelpshighnetworthindividuals andfamiliesestablishgenerationalwealth transferstrategiesandphilanthropic impactintheircommunities
www.thewealthcounselor.com
In a remarkable moment for the cannabis industry, a Maryland woman has made history by becoming the first Black Latina in the country to receive a cannabis license and to operate a cannabis cultivation business She says she feels an “extraordinary amount of responsibility" Not only does this represent a groundbreaking milestone for the cannabis trade, but it also showcases the importance of diverse representation in the rapidly growing yet nascent "legal" cannabis industry
BY GEORGE HALL
Meet Christina Betancourt Johnson, the founder and CEO of Rooted Therapeutics and Standard Wellness
Maryland, cannabis operating facilities in Maryland Ms Johnson was born and raised in Washington DC to a xxxxx
Cuban immigrant mother who held an executive position at the World Bank and a father who ran his own law practice Ms Johnson displays many of the traits of a child raised by two determined, hardworking parents The pride she has for her Cuban heritage is apparent throughout her home, which is proudly decorated with Cuban art and mementos hung in clear view for visitors to admire Upon spending a short amount of time with her for this interview, the extent of her knowledge and passion for the cannabis industry is also evident
Ms Johnson's achievements in winning a cannabis license are not only a testament to her entrepreneurial spirit but also to her perseverance and toughness In the white male-dominated cannabis industry, acquiring a license in Maryland or any other state is an arduous task, especially for a female Black Latina. According to MJBizDaily (a news outlet for professionals in the recreational and medical cannabis industry in the United States), only 15.4 percent of cannabis businesses are minority-owned
Ms Johnson’s goal is to help increase the number of people of color that own cannabis businesses She shares, “I want to give voice to my experience,” believing the way to achieve this is through education She is cultivating a pathways to educate organizations with large numbers of minority members, similar to those of the Divine 9, the Links, and the Masons, about the facts and benefits of the cannabis industry She does this while acknowledging the negative stigma associated with cannabis, much of which has come from the criminalization of cannabis, and the negative impact drugs have had in communities of color
N E W T R A I L S I N T H E C A N N A B I S I N D U S T R Y
The criminalization of cannabis has had a profound impact on the minority community, as well as the cannabis business itself. Ms. Johnson does not shy away from addressing how the criminalization of marijuana disproportionately affected minority communities and has thwarted legitimate opportunities to enter and prosper in the legalized cannabis industry. Studies have consistently shown that communities of color are disproportionately targeted for marijuana-related offenses, leading to higher arrest and incarceration rates compared to their white counterparts This has resulted in a significant imbalance within the criminal justice system, in which individuals from minority communities face the brunt of harsh punishment for cannabisrelated offenses
As part of Ms. Johnson’s push to educate the public about the cannabis industry and help remove the stigma and traditional stereotypes of cannabis, she frequently welcomes opportunities to give interviews and talks. She embraces the importance of getting the word out about the business opportunities and health benefits of cannabis
Her knowledge and awareness of cannabinoids, compounds present in the cannabis plant, makes her a very effective messenger for the cannabis industry, as a whole, and a compelling
advocate for the medicinal benefits of cannabis. Ms. Johnson has been vigilant in taking steps to ensure she is at the table with those creating the narrative, public policy, and legislation around cannabis Her goal is that all sectors of the population, especially minority communities, are future benefactors of the legalization trends in the industry and aren't left behind
Ms Johnson serves on numerous boards including a role as Vice-Chair for The Maryland Wholesale Medical Cannabis Association (CANMD) board member of the US Cannabis Council She often finds herself dashing off to these and other meetings during all times of day Her commitment to success in the fledgling industry is evident in all the many important and strategic moves she’s making
Acquiring a license to own and operate a cannabis business is very difficult. However, operating the actual business comes with as many if not more challenges She shared that “it takes a lot of vision, fortitude, and resilience” to successfully operate a business that has just recently become legal Recreational cannabis officially became legal in Maryland on July 1, 2023 She acknowledges that the adult recreation market is entirely different from the medical use market And, xxx
that in the interest of the public, strong regulatory and legislative actions are necessary She is “extraordinarily proud of what’s happening and that in Maryland we rolled out medical use to adult use at a good time”
As an industry CEO, Ms. Johnson believes it is important, “to be proficient in a number of skills," a valuable lesson she says she learned from her father This work ethic has helped her navigate the entrepreneurial gauntlet of running a cannabis business Coupled with her vast experience gained in helping operate various nonprofits and for-profit organizations, she has leveraged her values of embracing diverse and varied stakeholders She has worked to understand and identify the needs and goals of the myriad of industry stakeholders including those of the consumer, legislators, ancillary business partners, and even the general public.
Her advice to those considering taking the plunge into the cannabis industry is that it can be a very lucrative and rewarding business Her mission is to help others like herself enter the space, however she adds, “it is a challenging investment for people who do not have significant generational wealth or savings” Along with the three xxxx
hundred and thirty thousand dollars she raised from friends and family for pre-operational costs, she eventually raised additional funds to help cover other costs such as licensing and fees. Ms. Johnson’s hope is that people of color who enter the cannabis space, consider providing some of the many ancillary services that are unavoidable and necessary in the cannabis business Services such as bookkeeping, legal counsel, funding, marketing, packaging, energy, and technology to name a few This is where folks “will not need to be cannabis subject matter experts to capitalize in the cannabis space,” she says
When asked about the interplay between the cannabis industry and the alcoholic beverage industry, Ms Johnson sees "there being a great deal of opportunity for the sectors to serve consumers jointly." With recreational cannabis being legalized for recreational use, many alcoholic beverage players have started to invest in specialty cannabis-infused drinks such as fruit cocktails and seltzers which achieve a mellow and more relaxed buzz
Product makers will be obligated to communicate an entirely new set of public education standards given the lack of consumer knowledge around cannabis consumption and how bodies metabolize the cannabinoids in drinks Ms Johnson adds, “there will need to be a broader message about mixing the two substances, also referred to as cross-fading in cannabis circles"
Ms Johnson clearly has a commitment to social justice and equal opportunity for all The years she spent helping lead organizations like Conscious Capitalism and the Warrenton Group, helped her strengthen her belief that businesses can and should be a force for good It is comforting knowing that there are those like Christina Betancourt Johnson blazing new trails in the cannabis space who are socially conscious and are willing to give voice to new opportunities for collective advocacy and business expansion into uncharted places
PREVIOUS PAGE: Co-hosting black women in cannabis events; Christina and and Maryland Governor Wes Moore
ABOVE: With sorority sisters at Hampton University; Christina at Ohio cultivation facility with team BELOW: Christina and daughter Vivian on Martha's Vineyard
Dr Liburd MD, MBA, FACP, CPE, CPC is a physician executive with multifaceted expertise in healthcare management, inpatient and outpatient primary care, chronic condition management, healthcare improvement initiatives, and patient health and wellness She works with Avestria a VC firm which invests in women’s health and female-led life science ventures
BY CHIMENE LIBURD, MD, MBA, FACPWe are in strange times It feels like I am traveling back to the past with no hope of returning to any semblance of “normalcy”
I am a fifty-two, almost fifty-three-year-old black woman, and a child of the’70s. I come from a family that had to struggle to survive in these United States Like many of my peers, classmates, friends, and family, I question the recent Supreme Court affirmative action ruling What impact will it have on my children or their children? Is it not evident that affirmative action directly impacts all Americans, not just African Americans? How do we not repeat our past if we don’t understand and study our history?
I am a product of affirmative action. I acknowledge that I was given opportunities because of my race and gender However, it was up to me to excel and succeed once those opportunities were presented Interestingly, in high school, a guidance counselor told me I wouldn’t get into the schools I applied to and to apply to “safer” schools in Queens I never fully understood her comments 35 years ago, but it makes perfect sense today because those sentiments still exist in 2023
I was afforded the opportunity to get an education at an Ivy League institution My experience at Cornell University shaped who I am, from the pre-freshman summer program, to being a life member of the Cornell Black Alumni Association (CBAA), and a sustaining member of the President's Council of Cornell Women (PCCW) In spite of the sentiments of my guidance counselor and countless others like her, many individuals and organizations throughout history have worked tirelessly to challenge systemic barriers and fight for social justice and equality
The exposure to Africana Studies courses with Professors like James Turner and Anne Adams opened my eyes to the struggles of black people in the United States and throughout the diaspora I was in awe of the rich literature that we created to document our lived experiences, or to simply entertain and enlighten ourselves But it wasn’t until I became an adult with children that I could
reflect on my ancestors' impact on my success and all I had achieved They opened doors so I could graduate from Cornell and study medicine
While the current Supreme Court ruling strikes down affirmative action in higher education, we must also be vigilant and vocal about its impact in the workplace We as a collective should understand that diversity of experience, thought, education, age, gender, and race all positively impact our society America needs to strive toward more inclusivity and less exclusivity, as studies show how companies with diverse leadership and board directors financially outperform less diverse companies
Affirmative action is a policy that seeks to address historical and ongoing discrimination by providing opportunities to historically marginalized groups, including Black people who have the necessary qualifications for a job or a university class. African American students will need to be deliberate in their choice of an institution in the coming years The selection of a college should be a place where you can access a broad curriculum to experience different fields of study However, students should evaluate a school's diversity and the support system at the university for black and brown students Students should also look at the 107 HBCUs across the country, as they are a great choice with a diverse student body and a broad curriculum where many students flourish and grow
This year has demonstrated the need for Black alumni of predominantly white institutions to be engaged and vocal at their alma maters Parents of collegebound black students must help their children navigate the challenges of a complicated admissions process Leaders at universities should foster a more inclusive and diverse campus through an intentional and thoughtful admissions process Opening doors and creating opportunities for black students must be deliberate, as they have far more obstacles placed in front of them Remove those systemic obstacles, and when the playing field is level, and everyone wins
MUSHROOM MADEIRA GARLIC MOUSSE
Our braised Mushroom Madeira garlic mousse pairs well with silky rich, full-bodied, barrel-fermented California Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. Other varietals—like Californian Viognier, Marsanne and Roussanne—can also work well. For red wine, a pinot noir or a light merlot are both good choices.
TOMATO TEMPRANILLO GARLIC MOUSSE
Our roasted Tomato Tempranillo garlic mousse features sweet, caramelized garlic ideal for a fruity, medium-bodied wine with earthy tones and no to little new oak, such as Beaujolais Cru from South Burgundy, Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir and Nerello Mascalese from Sicily. Other ideal red pairing selections include cabernet sauvignon or Zinfandel.
PESTO PROSECCO GARLIC MOUSSE
Our fresh Pesto Prosecco garlic mousse pairs with white wines that aren’t overly ripe and have a green quality to match the bright flavors of basil, garlic and olive oil such as Sauvignon Blanc, Chablis, Albariño, Grüner Veltliner, and Pinot Gris. Red wine with herbal notes like Cabernet Franc complement the sauce’s herbaceous flavors.
7 ounce jar of Soul of Sonoma Gourmet
Pesto Prosecco Garlic Mousse
12 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined
8 oz angel hair pasta
2 Tbsp olive oil, divided
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 pint grape tomatoes
1 Tbsp grated Parmesan
If using frozen shrimp, place them in a colander and run cool water over top to thaw (this should only take a few minutes)
Peel the shrimp and remove the tails
Bring a large pot of water to a boil for the pasta. Add the pasta and continue to boil until the pasta is tender (about seven minutes) Reserve about ½ cup of the starchy pasta water before draining While the pasta is cooking, prepare the rest of the dish Heat 1 Tbsp olive oil in a large skillet Add the shrimp and sauté just until the shrimp turns pink and opaque (2-3 minutes) Remove the cooked shrimp
Add another tablespoon olive oil to the skillet and add the grape tomatoes and minced garlic Continue to sauté over medium until the tomatoes begin to burst and release their juices
Once the tomatoes have broken down in the skillet, add the cooked and drained pasta, jar of Soul of Sonoma Gourmet Pesto Prosecco Garlic Mousse, and about half of the reserved pasta water. Stir to coat everything, adding more of the pasta water or dry white wine if needed to loosen the pasta and spread the sauce over everything Finally, return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and stir to combine with the pasta
Top with grated Parmesan, then serve!
2 servings
20 minutes
This Pesto Shrimp Pasta is an incredibly easy and delicious (and quick) recipe that will make you feel like you ’ re eating a restaurant quality meal at home. You can purchase your shrimp with or without the shell and tail, but you’ll want to remove the shell and tail before cooking. If you ’ re not into shrimp, this recipe is also great using diced chicken, sea scallops, or even chopped artichoke hearts!
4 servings 15 minutes
For a delicious French-style brunch, give these savory crepes with sautéed mushrooms and spinach a try! It’s a gourmet meal that’s easy to prepare!
The umami-packed fungi boost the flavor of the filling, along with fragrant chopped aromatics. A little bit of cream and Soul of Sonoma Gourmet Mushroom Madeira Garlic Mousse creates a lightly thickened sauce to pour into each foldable pancake.
Earthy, hearty mushrooms like shiitake, portabella, porcini and morel pair well with fuller bodied wines, like a barrel-aged chardonnay, pinot noir, nebbiolo, syrah, cabernet sauvignon or zinfandel
7 ounce jar of Soul of Sonoma Gourmet
Mushroom Madeira Mousse
12 (6 inch) crepes (store bought or homemade)
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 lbs mushrooms, rinsed, trimmed and thinly sliced (about 8 cups of any combination of white button, shiitake, oyster, or Portobello)
⁄ cup fresh flat-leaf chopped parsley
1 garlic clove, finely chopped salt & pepper, to taste
1 (10 ounce) package fresh spinach, washed, stemmed & coarsely chopped
5 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
Make crepes if not using store bought & set aside
Preheat oven to 350°F
Heat the oil in a large skillet until hot enough to sizzle sliced mushroom Add the mushrooms all at once and cook, stirring, over medium-high heat until they begin to brown. About 10 minutes.
Stir in the parsley, garlic, salt & pepper
Cook for 1 minute
Reduce heat to medium and stir in the spinach Cover & cook until just wilted, about 2 minutes
Stir in jar of Soul of Sonoma Gourmet Mushroom Madeira Garlic Mousse
Uncover & add the goat cheese, stirring until melted.
Spoon mixture down the center of each crepe Roll up crepes and arrange side by side in a 13x9 baking dish Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese
Cover pan with foil and heat until cheese melts, about 15 minutes
Serve warm
2 servings 20 minutes
While pizza is in regular rotation in the cooler months, in the Summer, we tend to eat it less, choosing to go the flatbread route more often instead As for the toppings, Roma tomatoes roast up beautifully and have less moisture. Fresh basil is a must and you can add a balsamic glaze at the end Enjoy these with a salad for dinner, as a snack or appetizer. Lovely with a glass of chilled Chenin Blanc or Sancerre
Preheat oven to 400°F
Place flatbread on large sheet pan Brush flatbread with Soul of Sonoma Gourmet Tomato Tempranillo Garlic Mousse, leaving 1/2-inch border around flatbread uncovered Top with sliced mozzarella and parmesan Sprinkle with salt and pepper
Bake on center rack of oven for 10 – 12 minutes until cheese is melted Place basil leaves on top, cut and serve
Soul of Sonoma Gourmet Tomato
Tempranillo Garlic Mousse
2 large naan flatbreads
2 pints cherry tomatoes halved or Roma
tomatoes
5 garlic cloves minced
2 cups spinach
Fresh basil for garnish
2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoon olive oil
4 Flatbreads
3-4 cups mozzarella cheese shredded
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Soul of Sonoma Gourmet's new artisanal spreads and sauces are ideal for pairing with wine, enjoying over a favorite pasta, or hosting with ease Our products combine rich cultural heritage with the beauty and freshness of clean California cooking Soul of Sonoma Gourmet's signature sauces, Mushroom Madeira Garlic Mousse, Tomato Tempranillo Garlic Mousse, and Pesto Prosecco Garlic Mousse, are the first of many delicious restaurant-quality flavors we are thrilled to bring to your table
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