By Kevin Dankman
By CHAMPS Show Magazine Staff
CHAMPS Show Magazine Staff
By Lillian Hart
ISSUE 61 | SEPTEMBER
ADVERTISER
ISSUE 61 | SEPTEMBER 2024
Writing
CHAMPS Show Magazine Writers
Kevin Dankman
Lillian Hart
Photography
CHAMPS Show Magazine Staff
Dmill Photography
Design & Layout
CHAMPS Trade Show Summer Vegas Success
By CHAMPS Magazine Staff
The attendance and excitement at the CHAMPS Trade Show in Las Vegas reflected positive economic trends, indicating potential financial relief and increased spending power among customers. The bustling show floor confirmed our optimistic outlook.
In addition, four stores received $5,000 each to spend as they wished.
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Buyers waiting to get
Rick Flair at Tyson 2.0 booth
Cookies booth Kraken Kratom Combat!
CHAMPS Trade Show Summer Vegas Success
We visited several booths, starting with Party Nuts. Drawn by the candy and comfy couch, we found their top-notch products and friendly staff as welcoming as ever.
Next, we were captivated by the impressive Kratom tree display near the glass games, this marked the Zion Herbals' booth. The Zion Herbals team was informative and hospitable, making their booth a must-visit.
If you haven’t visited the New Adult section, you should. The companies there really like to have a good time and show off their exciting products.
Congratulations to the Four Big $5000 Winners:
Day 1:
Smokin' Ray’s Smoke Shop Sparks, NV
Day 2: Red Eye Smoke Shop Rochester, NY
Day 3: One Stop Smoke Shop Glendale, AZ
Day 4: Spark Smoke Shop Arlington, TX
Party Nuts booth
Zion Herbals booth
If you didn’t see or hear about the new Tattoo Section, they gave out free tattoos on the show floor! People seemed to really enjoy this interaction.
One of the most exciting booths on the floor was the Demand Vape Booth, they really had style and smiles for everyone.
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Swag booth Hi On Nature booth
Demand Vape booth
Kream booth Big Chief booth
Nectar Collector booth
Crave pool
Stillzy Lounge
URB booth
Mike Tyson in the Tyson booth
Tyson at the Futurola booth
FUME booth
Then we checked out the Glass Games' annual Summer Games, the competition featured nine events with some of the best glass blowers in the industry.
The games spanned three days, with judging and announce ments on the fourth day at 3pm. Despite the ups and downs, every competitor enjoyed the experience.
The judges were Bill Burroughs from Habitat Glass, Jonathan Casto, and Carsten Carlisle. These guys really went through
Glass Games competitors
Chillum 1st Place: Greg Wilson Sidecar 1st Place: Pedro from Grime Glass
Hammer 1st Place: SLOB Glass
Out of the Hat 1st Place: Pyro Glass
Whatever You Want 1st Place: Hoobs
20 Minute Time 1st Place: Brian Jacobson
Sherlock’s Sherlock 1st Place: JFK Glass
Recycler 1st Place: Guido Glass
Waterpipe 1st Place: NES Glass
CHAMPS Trade Show Summer Vegas Success
Competitions:
Sherlock’s Sherlock: Create a Gourd Calabash fitting for Sherlock Holmes.
Hammer: Design a functional and aesthetically pleasing classic-style hammer.
Sidecar: Craft a sidecar that recalls the original steamroller design.
Chillum: Make a traditional chillum, ensuring a perfect finger seal.
Waterpipe: Construct a waterpipe with any style of water filtration.
Recycler: Showcase your expertise in creating a recycler.
Out of the Hat: Create a piece based on a randomly selected theme.
Whatever You Want: Follow standard prep rules.
In 20 minutes time: This is a fun game which glass blowers compete in heats.
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JFK
Guido Glass
Glass Games Arena
The Winners:
Sherlock’s Sherlock: 3rd - Shayla, Windstar Glass, 2nd - Slob Glass, 1st - JFK Glass
Hammer: 3rd - Nekro, 2nd - JFK, 1st - Slob Glass
Sidecar: 3rd - JFK, 2nd - SlobGlass, 1st - Grime
Chillum: 3rd - JFK, 2nd - Slob Glass, 1st - Greg Wilson
Waterpipe: 3rd - Smitty Glass, 2nd - Josh, Four Winds Glass, 1st - NES Glass
Recycler: 3rd Della Luna Glass, 2nd - Noah, Eternal Glassworks, 1st - Guido Glass
Out of the Hat: 3rd - Noah, Eternal Glassworks, 2nd - Josh, Four Winds Glass, 1st - PYRO
Whatever You Want: 3rd - Smitty Glass, 2nd - Noah, Eternal Glassworks, 1st Hoobs Glass
In 20 minutes time: 3rd - Greg Wilson, 2nd - Shuhbuh, 1st - Brian Jacobson
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Sherlock’s Sherlock 1st Place: JFK Glass
Chillum 1st Place: Wilson Glass
Hammer 1st Place: SLOB Glass
Waterpipe 1st place: NES Glass
Sidecar 1st Place: Pedro - Grime Glass
Recycler 1st Place: Guido Glass
Out of the Hat 1st Place: Pyro Glass
Whatever You Want 1st Place: Hoobs Glass
All the first-place winners move on to the Masters at the Next Las Vegas Winter Show!
We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended the CHAMPS Trade Show. Las Vegas hosted an incredible summer show, and we look forward to seeing you at the CHAMPS Colorado Show in Denver on September 24th-25th or at CHAMPS Florida in Fort Lauderdale from October 15th -17th, 2024. These are perfect opportunities to complete your holiday shopping in time for the 2024 season.
Dome Wrecker booth
AFG booth Grateful Spread
Memory Lane booth
Durity booth
Blazer Torch booth
Steding & Sons booth
Sean Dietrich booth
ADYAH booth
Colorado Show Details
By CHAMPS Show Magazine Staff
One Lucky buyer will win
$1000 each day
The first 420 pre-registered Shops that show up get a limited edition CHAMPS Trade Show hat and pin.
Check out the show floor plan at www.CHAMPSmap.com
Here are some more important details about our upcoming show in Denver.
CHAMPS Trade Show Official Hotel:
Hilton Garden Inn Denver Downtown 1400 Welton St, Denver, CO 80202
Show Location: Hall C, Colorado Convention Center
Registration: C Lobby, 1st Floor
Exhibitor
Schedule:
Monday: Set-up from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
Tuesday: Exhibitor access begins at 8:00 AM; the show floor opens at 11:00 AM and closes at 6:00 PM.
Wednesday: Exhibitor access begins at 10:00 AM; the show floor opens at 11:00 AM and closes at 6:00 PM.
Buyer Schedule:
Monday: On-site registration and early badge pickup from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Tuesday: Registration opens at 9:00 AM; the show floor opens at 11:00 and closes at 6:00 PM.
Wednesday: Registration opens at 10:00 AM; the show floor opens at 11:00 AM and closes at 6:00 PM. Glass Games Awards and Goblet Grab at 4:20 PM.
Sponsors:
Platinum Sponsors:
Demand Vape
Kratomade
Gold Sponsors:
B2B Magazine
Cannabiz Magazine
Coastal Clouds
Crave
KOI
Mit Wellness
Party Nuts
Sams International
Zion Herbals
Sean Dietrich
GLASS GAMES:
Goblet Grab
Get ready for one of the most thrilling events of the year, Goblet Grab. This is your chance to win a unique, handmade goblet crafted by some of the most talented artists. Raffle tickets are $200, paid directly to the artist upon submission. When the winners are announced, each number will be drawn from a hat, and the lucky person has 30 seconds to choose their desired goblet. But hurry, they won't last long!
Ménage à Trois, Three-Person Collab
All three go to masters! The collab must be well-documented and created specifically for the show. They do say that three is the magic number!
Make It a Set
The set must consist of two or more functional items made of borosilicate glass, such as pipe sets, sushi sets, salt and pepper sets, or coffee sets. What do you make that comes as a set?
By Lillian Hart
The Sapphire's The Enchanted September of Secret
In the year 2352, nestled deep in the heart of rural Illinois, stood a charming smoke shop known as "The Sapphire's Secret." This unique establishment effortlessly combined old-world allure with futuristic sophistication. Built from salvaged wood and materials from the great war of 2420. Thats when the big cities and air travel stopped. Wooden shelves held jars of rare and exotic herbs, while advanced glimmering holographic displays showcased the latest in smoking technology. Yet, the true heart of The Sapphire's Secret was its legendary sapphire, an ancient gem said to possess mystical powers, proudly displayed in a glass case at the shop's center.
September was a magical time for The Sapphire's Secret, and this year was no exception. The villagers eagerly awaited the shop’s annual celebrations, each event steeped in tradition and enchantment. The festivities began on the 21st, marking the International Day of Peace. The shop’s enigmatic owner, Elysia, would delicately drape the sapphire in a golden cloth, symbolizing unity and harmony. Villagers from all walks of life gathered at the shop, sharing stories and laughter, while the air filled with the soothing scent of peace-blend incense, a mix of rare herbs known for calming even the most restless of spirits.
The interior of The Sapphire’s Secret. A smoke shop that blends old-world charm with advanced technology.
Following this was the Harvest Festival, a grand celebration of the year’s bounty. The fields surrounding the village were laden with golden corn, plump pumpkins, and a vibrant array of fruits and vegetables. Elysia, with her flowing silver hair and kind eyes, invited everyone to partake in a feast. The shop was transformed into a wonderland of autumnal colors, with every corner adorned with cornucopias and garlands of dried flowers. Villagers brought their finest produce, while Elysia brewed special herbal concoctions thatenhanced the flavors of the feast, making it a night of unparalleled delight.
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The farm and gardens behind The Sapphire’s Secret smoke shop are bustling with activity.
Elysia placed the sapphire outside under the open sky during the Equinox Festival.
As September drew to a close, the smoke shop remained a beacon of serenity and tradition. The sapphire, the birthstone for the month, continued to shine brightly, its blue depths holding the secrets of the ages. Elysia, with her timeless wisdom and gentle presence, ensured that The Sapphire's Secret was not just a place to purchase fine smoking blends, but a sanctuary where the spirit of the village thrived.
The Sapphire's The Enchanted September of Secret
In this distant future, amid the rolling fields of rural Illinois, The Sapphire's Secret stood as a testament to the enduring power of community, tradition, and the mystical allure of a sapphire that brought magic to the lives of all who encountered it.
The farm and gardens behind The Sapphire’s Secret smoke shop bustling with activity.
The interior of the smoke shop now lled with people.
CHAMPS Trade Show will be moving the Florida Show to beautiful Fort Lauderdale, Florida
By Kevin Dankman
Join us at the Broward County Convention Center for the South’s most exciting B2B Counter Culture show! As the governor of Florida says… “Welcome to the Free State of Florida.”
Register now for a chance to win $1000 just for coming to the show. Each Day, CHAMPS will give out $1000 to one lucky store owner—real cash money for you to spend however you want.
Fort. Lauderdale is often lovingly referred to as Fort. Liquordale, due to its famous history of flaunting prohibition. During prohibition, the locals made drinking fashionable, with speakeasies hidden in some of the most established legal restaurants and hotels.
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Broward County Convention Center
Inside Vinos on Las Olas
CHAMPS Trade Show will be moving the Florida Show to beautiful Fort Lauderdale, Florida
In honor of this nickname, GlassGames will have the first Liquordale Shotglass Grab Competition. Artists can bring in their best, 2 glass shot glass set and get cash for it on the spot. Like the Goblet Grab, this is your chance to win a unique, handmade shot-glass set crafted by some of the most talented artists. Raffle tickets are $100, paid directly to the artist upon submission. When the winners are announced, each number will be drawn from a hat, and the lucky person has 30 seconds to choose their desired shot glass. But hurry, they won't last long!
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They’re not ornamental they’re Flordamentals! The new Ornament competition. Just in time for the holiday season, this is the last show of the year, the last chance for holiday orders. From sun catchers to tree hangers, make an ornament of your choice in your style for any occasion. If big box stores can advertise Christmas before Halloween, then we can make ornaments and take orders!
Only-Florida - The Florida-themed “Make something you find in Florida” Game. Artists will be asked to make a piece that invokes feelings of Florida and or Florida life. Got that sunshine state of mind? Show us that OnlyFlorida content you care to share.
You must make these at your home studio and bring them in. There will be no Live Glass Blowing this year.
For a smoother and more convenient experience, we recommend accessing the venue via the 17th Street entrance. This route provides direct access and avoids the potential delays and congestion often associated with the Port Everglades entrance. Arriving via 17th Street ensures you get to the event quickly and stress-free, allowing you to fully enjoy all the amazing exhibits and activities they have planned.
CHAMPS Trade Show is proud to bring all the best brands to help fill buyers' shop shelves.
Three days of shopping to fill your stores for the holiday season. Hundreds of booths with Hemp Products, CBD, Vapes, Pipes, Glass, Mycology, Adult, and more.
Who wants to come to the beach just for work, right?
CHAMPS Trade Show
As the sun sets over the beautiful city of Fort Lauderdale, the vibrant nightlife begins to come alive. So be sure to investigate some of these great things to do while in town.
The city offers an array of evening attractions that cater to all interests, ensuring your trip is both productive and enjoyable. Here are some must-visit spots and activities to consider:
1. Las Olas Boulevard
Known as the heart of Fort Lauderdale, Las Olas Boulevard is a bustling hub of dining, shopping, and entertainment. Stroll down the boulevard to explore unique boutiques, art galleries, and an eclectic mix of restaurants. For dinner, consider dining at Louie Bossi’s Ristorante, which offers authentic Italian cuisine, or YOLO, a popular spot for contemporary American dishes.
2. Riverwalk Arts & Entertainment District
The Riverwalk Arts & Entertainment District is perfect for an evening filled with culture and creativity. Start with a visit to the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, where you can catch a Broadway show, concert, or ballet. Afterwards, take a leisurely walk along the New River and enjoy the scenic views.
3. Fort Lauderdale Beach Park
For those who love the ocean, Fort Lauderdale Beach Park is a great place to unwind. The beach area comes alive in the evening with live music, food trucks, and beachside bars. Grab a drink at The Elbo Room, a legendary beachfront bar, and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere while listening to live music.
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Fort Lauderdale, FLORIDA
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CHAMPS Trade Show
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
4. Jungle Queen Riverboat Cruise
Experience Fort Lauderdale from a different perspective by taking an evening cruise on the Jungle Queen Riverboat. The dinner cruise includes a sightseeing tour of the city’s historic waterways, followed by an all-you-can-eat BBQ dinner and a variety show. It’s a perfect way to relax after a day at the trade show.
5. FATVillage Arts District
For those interested in the local art scene, a visit to the FATVillage Arts District is a must. This trendy area is home to a variety of galleries, studios, and creative spaces. On the last Saturday of every month, FATVillage hosts an art walk featuring open studios, gallery exhibits, and food trucks.
6. Craft Beer and Cocktails
Fort Lauderdale boasts a burgeoning craft beer scene. Visit Funky Buddha Brewery or Tarpon River Brewing for a taste of local brews. If cocktails are more your style, Rhythm & Vine offers a great selection in a stylish, garden-like setting.
7. Fine Dining and Nightlife
For a luxurious dining experience, book a table at Steak 954, a modern steakhouse with ocean views, or Casa D’Angelo, known for its exquisite Italian dishes. After dinner, head to Sway Nightclub or The Wharf Fort Lauderdale to dance the night away.
8. Cinema Paradiso
If you’re a film enthusiast, spend an evening at Cinema Paradiso. This historic theater offers a selection of independent and foreign films in a cozy setting. It’s a great way to enjoy a relaxing evening theater.
Fort Lauderdale's diverse array of evening activities ensures that your visit during the CHAMPS Trade Show will be filled with excitement and relaxation. Whether you prefer cultural outings, beachfront fun, or culinary delights, this vibrant city has something to offer every visitor.
