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ISSUE 54 - FEBRUARY 2024
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Maximizing your trip to CHAMPS pg. 18
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CONTENT 18 33 81 ISSUE 54 | FEBRUARY 2024
Maximizing Your Trip to CHAMPS By CHAMPS Show Mag Writers
Old Art Made New... By Amear Moretal
Vegas Valentine’s By CHAMPS Show Mag Writers
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CHAMPS SHOW MAGAZINE
ADVERTISER
ISSUE 54 | FEBRUARY 2024
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1836 KRATOM 31 ABR 90 ADYAH 42-43 AFG 16-17 AK WHOLESALE 21 BDD WHOLESALE 73 BENTFISH TRADING 29 BLUSH 94 CALI KULTURE 10-11 CHAMPS 13, 19, 78, 80, IBC CHOICE BOTANICALS INSIDE FRONT COVER SPREAD CODE RED EYE DROPS 92 CODE RED THC 108-109 DIGIWEIGH 110 EARTH KRATOM 22-23 EAST WEST TRADING 27 ELF THC 98 EMPIRE GLASSWORKS 90 FREEZE DRIED SWEETS 79 FORMULA 420 68-69 FUME 12 GOO’D EXTRACTS 99 GS NUTRA 32 HEMP LIVING 76 HIGHLY CONCENTR8TED 87 HIXOTIC 88 HUSH KRATOM 41, 104 JELLY EDIBLES / NOT YOUR BAKERY 86 KASHMIR 67 KONO LABS 62-63 KRAKEN KRATOM 55 KRATOMADE 8-9 LOOPER 56-57 M DISTRIBUTION 77 NASTY 93 OCB 40 OMNI DISTRIBUTION 60-61 PAYLESS DIST 72, 105 PHRESH PICKS 65, 107 SBK 14-15 SMOKE BUDDY 82-83 SMOKE HOUSE 2-3, 38-39 SMOKE ODOR 30 SMOKE TECH ONE 36-37, 95 SOL TRADING 85 SOS 102-103 STACHE 96 STR8 BRAND 5 STRIO 74-75 TRIANGLE WHOLESALE 84 TURNING POINT 100-101 ULTIMATE PRODUCT DISTRIBUTORS 34-35 VAPE GUYS INC (VGI) 89 VAPORESSO 91 VAPOR TECH 26 VIVAZEN 66 VPR 25 WCG INC 58-59 WHAT’S UP WHOLESALE 108-109 WILLIAM R SEIDE LLC (INSURANCE) 71 WORLD OF LOTUS 24 ZION HERBAL BACK COVER
CHAMPS SHOW MAGAZINE
ISSUE 54 | FEBRUARY 2024
Writing CHAMPS Show Mag Writers Amear Moretal
Photography CHAMPS Show Mag Staff
Design & Layout Sixxx
Publisher CHAMPS Trade Shows
Editorial Director Kevin Dankman
Ad Sales Kevin Dankman Office 818-616-7424 CHAMPS SHOW MAGAZINE
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maximizing YOUR your
TRIP trip TO to CHAMPS champs By CHAMPS Show Mag Writers The anticipation in the air is palpable as thousands of industry professionals are ready to converge on the bustling city of Las Vegas Right After the Superbowl. The Superbowl of the counterculture will kick in. It is that time of year again when the CHAMPS Trade Show, the largest and most comprehensive trade event in the world of counterculture and smoking accessories, takes center stage. Attendees Will Flock to the sprawling convention center. They know they are in for an unforgettable experience. Chapter 1: Preparing for Success Before embarking on your journey to CHAMPS, it's crucial to prepare meticulously. Here are some tips to ensure a successful visit:
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Set Clear Goals: Determine your objectives for the event. Are you looking for new products, networking opportunities, or industry knowledge? Knowing your goals helps you stay focused.
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Research Exhibitors: CHAMPS typically hosts Thousands of exhibitors. Browse the exhibitor list online before the event and prioritize the ones you want to visit.
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Plan Your Schedule: Create a daily itinerary, including seminars, product launches, and meet-ups. Allocate enough time to explore the show floors thoroughly. Continues On Page 20 CHAMPS SHOW MAGAZINE
maximizing YOUR your
trip TO TRIP to CHAMPS champs Chapter 2: Conquering the Trade Show Floor Once you arrive at CHAMPS, it's easy to be overwhelmed by the sheer size of the event. Here's how to make the most of your time on the show floor:
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Comfortable Footwear: Wear very comfortable shoes because you'll be doing a lot of walking. The convention center can be vast, and you don't want tired feet holding you back. If you do choose poor footwear, remember it was your choice don't complain to any prospective customers, as an upbeat interaction makes a better memory!
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Map It Out: Look at the show floor map online at www.CHAMPSmap.com. This will be your lifeline, helping you navigate through the labyrinth of booths and exhibits.
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Take Notes: Use a notebook or your phones note-taking app to jot down essential information about products, exhibitors, and contacts. Trust us; your memory won't suffice after a CHAMPS Trade Show. Continues On Page 28
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maximizing YOUR your
TRIP trip TO to CHAMPS champs 1
Chapter 3: Networking Nirvana CHAMPS is not only about products; it's also a haven for networking. Here's how to make meaningful connections:
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Elevator Pitch: Craft a concise and engaging elevator pitch about your business or objectives. You never know when you'll meet a potential collaborator.
Business Cards: Ensure you have plenty of business cards on hand. This old-school method remains an effective way to exchange contact information.
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Attend After-Hours Events: CHAMPS often hosts evening events. Don't skip them! These gatherings provide a relaxed atmosphere for networking.
Chapter 4: Post-Show Action The show might be over, but your journey is not. After CHAMPS, it's time to process and follow up:
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Review Your Notes: Take time to go through your notes and organize the information you've gathered.
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Follow-up: Reach out to the contacts you made promptly. Send thank-you emails, connect on LinkedIn, and nurture those relationships.
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Implement What You Learned: Apply the insights and knowledge gained from CHAMPS to improve your business. As the sun sets on your visit to CHAMPS Trade Show, you'll leave with a treasure trove of knowledge, valuable contacts, and a renewed sense of inspiration. With the right preparation and a strategic approach, this sprawling event can be the catalyst for your success in the counter-culture and smoking accessories industry. Remember, it's not just about attending; it's about conquering CHAMPS.
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By Amear Moretal
2 results from two different art-generating algorithms.
Unlocking the future of art is akin to delving into the realm of mathematical equations—a fascinating journey where creativity converges with computational precision. Imagine the vast landscape of AI interpretation, a mesmerizing tapestry woven with myriad possibilities. My recent foray has led me into the enchanting world of a technological marvel that blurs the line between mathematics and artistic expression. Picture the allure of fractals, those vibrant, kaleidoscopic patterns that have captivated artists like the visionary Alex Gray and extend their roots deep into the annals of history. Even in the natural world, sea life and plants have effortlessly harnessed the mathematical elegance of fractals to create breathtaking beauty. In our contemporary, algorithm-driven age, we stand at the precipice of an exhilarating transformation. Mathematics, traditionally relegated to the realm of cold logic, has now become the muse for artistry. Through the alchemy of equations in the realm of generative art, we unearth the power to conjure images so astonishingly unique that their outcomes defy prediction. So, let's embark on this journey, starting with the fundamental building blocks:
cg.12 x = <3x7x8> va CHAMPS SHOW MAGAZINE
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Now for something based on Pythagorean theory
a2 = (b2 + c2) cos 69
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Mandlebrat Zn+1 = Zn2 + C
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One small change in the math:
Zn+2 = Zn4 + C
Here are some amazing ones generated from random different equations.
We hope you have enjoyed the visual stimulation of these otherworldly places as much as we enjoyed creating them. The world of art and AI is just being explored with many potential things to discover both by the human and the AI. 70
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vegas valentine’s
By CHAMPS Show Mag Writers
Photo by Leo on Unsplash
How often does one have the incredible opportunity to whisk their beloved away to the dazzling city of Las Vegas for an unforgettable Valentine's Day celebration, all while enjoying the unique perk of writing it off as a business expense? Believe it or not, you might just be one of the fortunate few who can!
If your plans include attending the Winter CHAMPS event in Las Vegas and you're contemplating bringing your spouse along, there's a chance that your company can foot the bill and even claim it as a tax deduction. You could be the envy of your colleagues as you embark on this romantic escapade. In the spirit of love and passion that Valentine's Day embodies, we're thrilled to provide you with a curated list of romantic activities to indulge in while you're in the entertainment capital of the world. Continues On Page 97 CHAMPS SHOW MAGAZINE
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vegas valentine’s Are you an adventurous spirit who thrives on adrenaline rushes? Do you relish the thrill of conquering new challenges together? Consider starting your romantic adventure with an enchanting evening hike at Red Rock Canyon, a mere 25-minute drive from the luxurious Tuscany Hotel and Casino. This natural wonderland boasts breathtaking vistas and offers serene spots where you and your partner can bask in the glory of a radiant sunset. Alternatively, if you prefer to stay within the vibrant confines of the Las Vegas Strip and immerse yourselves in its extravagant charm, a leisurely stroll through the Bellagio Garden is a must. This world-renowned attraction is perpetually adorned with awe-inspiring holiday-themed displays that are sure to ignite your senses. As an added bonus, the Bellagio is also home to the mesmerizing glass art of Dale Chihuly, whose work has been an inspiration to glass artisans worldwide for decades. Continues On Page 106 Photo by Ian Mackey on Unsplash
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vegas valentine’s
For a taste of authentic romance and exquisite cuisine, transport yourselves to the heart of Paris by dining at the Eiffel Tower Restaurant. With its impeccable cuisine and an atmosphere that will deceive your senses, this dining experience is bound to leave an indelible mark on your hearts and palates alike.
But if you and your partner are true daredevils who revel in seeking new heights, Las Vegas has an array of thrilling activities for adventurous couples. Consider taking a helicopter ride for a bird's-eye view of the city's dazzling lights, or ascend into the sky in a hot air balloon for a truly breathtaking experience. The Linq Ferris wheel also offers a romantic, elevated perspective of the Strip. Continues On Page 111
Photo by Nick Fewings on Unsplash
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vegas valentine’s
For those with nerves of steel, there are even more exhilarating options. You can double the adventure by leaping from the STRAT tower or embark on a tandem skydiving excursion, where you'll plummet from the heavens and share an adrenaline rush like no other. For a more grounded yet equally thrilling experience, visit the Indoor Skydiving Center, where you can feel the exhilaration of freefall with the added comfort of solid ground beneath you.
If live music is your shared passion, you're in for a treat during your CHAMPS visit. The legendary rock band U2 is set to perform not one but two unforgettable shows at the spectacular SPHERE. Furthermore, Las Vegas will be buzzing with musical talent during your stay, with performances ranging from the soulful sounds of Buckwheat Zydeco to the melodic tunes of Amy Grant and the energetic beats of Playboi Carti gracing various venues around town throughout the week. CHAMPS SHOW MAGAZINE
The Winter CHAMPS event offers an unparalleled opportunity for a Valentine's Day celebration that combines business with pleasure. With a plethora of romantic and adventurous experiences awaiting you, this Las Vegas getaway is poised to be a truly unforgettable chapter in your love story. So, seize the chance to create cherished memories with your partner and make this Valentine's Day one for the books! 111