Sensi Magazine - Orange County (May 2018)

OR A NGE C OUNT Y

THE NEW NORMAL

5.2018

FINDING YOUR

OASIS

SoCal’s Top Hot Springs

Where IN THE

WORLD

The GRITTIER Side of Cannabis Tourism

Access DENIED

Prop 64’s Prohibitive Provisions

LGBT in the LBC Concert Calendar 2145 Pizza + More!

contents.

ISSUE 5 // VOLUME 1 // 05.2018

FEATURES 14

Where in the World

22

Finding Your Oasis

Exploring the grittier, more rewarding side of cannabis tourism.

Southern California’s stress-melting mineral waters are some of the Golden State’s best self-care destinations—and they’re only a road trip away.

EVERY ISSUE

14 SOAK IT UP! Hot springs day-cations

5 Editor’s Note 6 The Buzz 10 NewsFeed

ACCESS DENIED: PROP 64’S DOWNSIDE

18 TasteBuds 2145 PIZZA

30 The Scene

OC LAUNCH PARTY

32 {SoOC}

CRYSTAL CATHEDRAL

18

PIZZA PIT STOP Costa Mesa’s 2145

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

sensimag.com MAY 2018 3

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5.2018

Bon Voyage

editor’s

NOTE

THIS MONTH, WE CELEBRATE THE “UNOFFICIAL” START OF SUMMER : MEMORIAL DAY. IT ’S A TIME WHEN MOST AMERICANS TRADITIONALLY PUT THEIR THREE-DAY WEEKEND TO GOOD USE BY HIT TING THE ROAD FOR A LIT TLE GETAWAY OF SOME SORT, AND I FERVENTLY ENCOURAGE YOU TO DO THE SAME. TURN OFF YOUR COMPUTER AND GET OUT OF THE HOUSE. GO ON A HIKE, A CAMPOUT, A PICNIC, OR A ROAD TRIP. GET SOME SUN AND SOME EXERCISE — OR, EVEN BET TER, EXERCISE YOUR SENSE OF ADVENT URE. You don’t need to be Indiana Jones — or even Bill

months, five issues, and three killer launch parties later,

and Ted, for that matter— to have a most excellent ad-

I’m proud to say I’ve accomplished that goal. Along the

venture. And you don’t need to do something danger-

way, I’ve learned more about both magazine making

ous or grandiose like climb a mountain, wrestle an alli-

and myself and been warmly welcomed into a family

gator, or jump out of an airplane — all you need to do

of professionals for whom I hold a deep respect. But

is leave your comfort zone and embrace the unfamil-

alas, a new adventure beckons, and I must be moving on.

iar. The excitement of exploration is all about breaking

My sincerest thanks to Sensi for this historic oppor-

out of your routine and rejuvenating your spirit. Expos-

tunity — I’m proud of the work I’ve done and what

ing yourself to new places, cultures, and flavors pro-

we’ve achieved. And thanks to you, the readers, for your

vides valuable perspective, fosters tolerance, and ex-

enthusiastic support and positive feedback. I look for-

pands your horizons … literally.

ward to watching this magazine continue to grow, suc-

Of course, the enlightened are those who learn to approach life itself as an adventure — to derive joy from the journey, bumpy though it may sometimes be. It’s been my experience that if you follow your heart and heed the signs the universe leaves along the road

ceed, and set the standard for the new normal.

Bon voyage, fellow travelers!

for you, then destiny will determine your destination.

As it happens, I’ve recently reached a rather fateful fork in my own path.

Last fall, I joined the Sensi team with the goal of helping to launch their three new SoCal editions and establishing the brand’s presence on the West Coast. Eight

Bobby Black

SoCAL EDITOR @ BOBBYBL ACK

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sensi

THE NE W N O R M A L

the

buzz

concert

CALENDAR

A brief listing of some of the top shows in and around Orange County this month.

LGBTLBC IN THE

This month, the LGBT community will be painting the town red (and every other color of the rainbow) at the 35th Annual Long Beach Pride Festival. According to the organizers, the twoday event is expected to attract around 80,000 people—making it the third-largest pride celebration in the nation. The weekend’s two major highlights, however, both go down on Sunday: first, at 10:30 a.m., the flamboyant Long Beach Pride Parade will make its way down Ocean Boulevard. Then later that night, the crowd will be treated to a performance by the festival’s headliner, superstar percussionist Sheila E. “We are very proud to have Sheila E. and her band gracing our main stage,” beams Long Beach Pride’s VP of Entertainment Rhonda Fuller. “She brings an amazing energy and musical talent that encompasses all ages, races, sexes, and sexual orientations. We are so looking forward to her performance.”

The festival will also feature a number of other musical acts from several different genres (including R&B, rock, and hip-hop), as well as all of the usual attractions, such as a variety of food and drink, vendor booths, games, art, and activities for the kids.

Seniors and teens will have special areas to meet and socialize.

Come out and show your pride and support for the community at this fun and fabulous festival.

—A.J. HERRINGTON 35th Annual Long Beach Pride Festival Where: Marina Green Park // 450 E. Shoreline Dr., Long Beach When: May 19-20 // 11 a.m.–10 p.m.

Tickets: General Admission–$20 in Advance, $25 at the Door LONGBEACHPRIDE.COM

6 Orange County MAY 2018

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DIVE-IN

MOVIES

Grab your blankets and beach chairs and head down to Huntington State Beach for a movie night like no other. Presented by Activated Events, Beachfront Cinema offers screenings of current blockbusters, cult classics, and family favorites, shown on one of the largest blowup movie screens in California with theater-quality sound. This month’s offerings include Despicable Me 3 (May 26) and 500 Days of Summer (May 27), and later this year you can catch Black Panther, Star Wars: The Last Jedi, JAWS, Top Gun, Wonder Woman, and more. (See website for complete schedule.) With food and beverage vendors on hand as well as a beach bar, there’s everything you need to kick back and enjoy a movie under the stars. For the ultimate experience, treat yourself to the VIP option: express entry and reserved prime front seating filled with comfy jumbo beanbags. Even better—go early, catch some waves and some rays, and make a whole day of it.

— KEIKO BEATIE Beachfront Cinema Where: Huntington State Beach // Newland & PCH (Tower 14) When: April through December // Gates Open at 1 p.m.

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© DAVE SMITHSON

THE NE W N O R M A L

the

buzz

STRAWBERRY FIELDSForeveR Around a century ago, during Orange County’s more agricultural days, the delicate fragrance of orange blossoms could be smelled drifting through the spring air—a sensational byproduct of the tens of thousands of Valencia orange trees from which the area took its name. But while the county’s citrusy history is fairly well known, what’s been less publicized is that the region was also known for the cultivation of a different fruit: strawberries.

Strawberry fields were once widespread across the area—so much so, in fact, that many of today’s busiest boulevards were once farmlands filled with the low-lying fruit. But sadly, thanks to progress and population expansion, all that remains of those once vast fields are but a small smattering of strawberry patches. Though they may be gone, however, they are not forgotten, as evidenced by Garden Grove’s annual Strawberry Festival.

Now in its 60th year, the festival celebrates this rich, red fruit with a parade, a talent show, contests, and carnival rides, not to mention a wide array of delicious dishes that feature the fruit, including strawberries with whipped cream, chocolate-dipped strawberries, strawberry shortcake, and many more treats. Throughout its history, the festival has been attended by a number of celebrity guests, including Senator Robert F. Kennedy, astronaut John Glenn, actress Cloris Leachman, Olympic champion Rafer Johnson, and comedian Steve Martin—a former Garden Grove resident who won the talent search competition back in the 1960s.

The event is run by The Garden Grove Strawberry Festival Association—a nonprofit organization that raises money to provide tangible benefits to the community, such as scholarships and donations to homeless and abuse shelters. Past proceeds from the festival have also gone to assist in building the Garden Grove Outdoor Amphitheater, the children’s wing of the city’s Central Library, a police command post, and a building for the Garden Grove Boys and Girls Club. To date, the Association has donated over five million dollars to local projects and charities. And that, dear friends, is the sweetest, most fruitful gift of all.

—KB 60th Annual Garden Grove Strawberry Festival Where: The Village Green // Between Euclid and Main Streets Downtown Garden Grove When: May 25–28 // Admission: Free STRAWBERRYFESTIVAL.ORG

8 Orange County MAY 2018

HeadSPIN ALBUM: Germfree Adolescents, Deluxe Edition (2009) ARTIST: X-Ray Spex

A monthly recommendation for musical medication from JON PACELLA, a sales specialist at the iconic Amoeba Music in Hollywood.

FAVORITE TRACK: “Oh Bondage, Up Yours!”

Consumerism, sexism, conformity, the punk scene itself…all of it was fuel on the fire of a 19-year-old, half-Irish, half-Somali woman from Brixton named Mari Elliott who, back in 1978, reinvented herself as Poly Styrene, the lead singer of X-Ray Spex. With a mouth full of braces and a style all her own, she shunned the increasingly popular leather punk garb in favor of dazzling Day Glo colors. X-Ray Spex made a statement before they’d even played a note. Then, the music starts with Poly’s cry of “ARRR-TI-FICIALLL!!” and the concrete foundation of the album is laid. The lyrics are brash and in your face, and that’s what makes it so beautifully genuine—especially through the lens of today’s image-obsessed culture. Also in your face is Lora Logic’s blaring saxophone, the imperfection of which fits in perfectly with the band’s underground sound and nonconformist ethos. Feeling the intensity of “Let’s Submerge” and the anthem “Oh Bondage, Up Yours!,” it’s instantly apparent how important and special this album and this band still are today.

It’s sad to think that this was their only full-length release (before reuniting in the ‘90s), and that Styrene would later die of breast cancer in 2011. Nevertheless, X-Ray Spex was a star gone supernova, leaving a brief and blazing mark on the timeline of music history.

ARTISLAND on the

Balboa Island’s 24th Annual Artwalk is the kickoff to its summer season. This outdoor extravaganza transforms a mile of the island’s seaside promenade into a huge gallery show featuring paintings, jewelry, glass, photography, and various other works from around 100 local artists. With several stages positioned throughout the event, it’s also a chance to catch some great live music. This season’s performers include Gary Gould, Grant Peacock, The Retros, Jim Roberts, Don Ross & Rose, and the Rick Sherman Duo. It’s also worth noting that, though not part of the Artwalk, many of the gardens of Balboa Island’s residents are a masterpiece all their own. So before (or after) you walk the Walk, do yourself a solid and explore the surrounding neighborhoods of this quaint Southern California treasure.

But be warned: parking on Balboa Island is an exercise in futility, so if you’re planning to go, we recommend taking a Lyft or Uber. If you drive, park at the Balboa Peninsula Parking Lot (beside the Fun Zone) and take the Balboa Island Ferry across the water to the promenade.

—KB 24th Annual Balboa Island Artwalk Where: South Bayfront Promenade, Balboa Island When: Sunday, May 20 // 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

Admission: Free BALBOAISLANDARTWALK.INFO sensimag.com MAY 2018 9

{newsfeed}

by MARY SCHUMACHER

ACCESS DENIED The implementation of Proposition 64 has granted legal access to cannabis for millions of adults in California—for those who can afford it.

As cannabis legalization spreads like wildfire across

where between $50,000 to $200,000 a year on do-

the United States—and even the world, with Canada

nated products,” says Sheena Shiravi, director of

going full legal in July—what it means to have a truly

consumer communications at Eaze, a technology plat-

regulated industry is being examined. In this great so-

form that helps connect consumers with cannabis

cial and economic experiment, some truths are rising

brands through local dispensaries. “Alongside that,

to the top. The best of these truths is that compassion

they have to work with a permitted, licensed partner to

is still alive and well in the industry.

receive a lot of the product, and there’s the whole

When Prop 64 went into effect on January 1, canna-

seed-to-sale tracking system to contend with.”

bis users around the nation rejoiced, and adults all

California’s seed-to-sale tracking system is the

across California were granted carte-blanche access

same one that’s currently used in Oregon, Colorado,

to legal cannabis. That is, unless they’d already been

Alaska, Michigan, and Maryland and is operated by

receiving it through a “compassionate” source. Thanks

Metrc, a regulation tool that focuses on accuracy and

to the new seed-to-sale tracking system and exorbi-

compliance. It’s a great system, in theory. However,

tant taxes (that also extend to donations), an unin-

because the law requires that taxes be levied on every

tended consequence of the bill has been to leave the

single transaction as it is tracked, tax is now mandato-

low-income patients who suffer from debilitating con-

rily tacked on to donated cannabis at market valuation

ditions like HIV/AIDS, cancer, multiple sclerosis, and

as if it were being sold for profit, and there’s no way

PTSD without a feasible way to obtain their medicine.

around it. The new law also contains a provision that

Before, under the old medical marijuana law Prop

states that the legislature will consider giving cannabis

215, compassionate care was a major priority, and

nonprofits tax-exempt status in 2020. Though it’s a

many brands, growers, and shops would generously

good thing that they plan to reopen the issue, there are

donate product to low-income groups. From veterans

still no guarantees, and tragically by then, it will be too

with PTSD to advanced AIDS patients, California’s can-

late for a great many patients. In the meantime, some

nabis community made sure everyone was covered

compassionate nonprofit collectives across the state

the best it could. But under the new regulations, it now

have already been forced to close down, and the rest

costs suppliers upwards of $500 per pound to donate

are all scrambling for new solutions for how to get

cannabis to a compassion program—and that’s on a

medicine to the very poor and very sick.

product for which they aren’t earning a cent.

One way of keeping the cost of donating medicine

“There’s no way these compassionate care pro-

down is through vertical integration. Since cannabis is

grams can continue to exist if they have to pay any-

basically taxed each time it changes hands, if the

10 Orange County MAY 2018

UNFORTUNATELY, HIGH TAXES AND STRICT REGULATIONS ARE PRICING OUT

LOW-INCOME PATIENTS

WHO NEED THE MEDICINE THE MOST. plants are grown, processed, and sold all by the same

For now, Smith says he’d like to see a program put

organization then it’s less expensive to provide. One

in place that would allow cannabis businesses to write

organization utilizing this strategy is the Santa Cruz

off their donations but hopes that in the future medical

Veterans Alliance—a nonprofit collective that pro-

marijuana patients won’t even need a compassion pro-

vides top quality medical cannabis to veterans every

gram to get the medicine. In the meantime, to address

month free of charge. Seth Smith—a former Navy in-

these injustices, a group of people from across the in-

telligence officer who now serves as the group’s direc-

dustry are coming together and mobilizing to try to make

tor of communications and government affairs—says

things right for the patients who need their medicine the

despite that they’ve always paid taxes on cannabis as

most, and Eaze is a proud part of that mobilization.

a commercial organization, vertical integration has al-

“The industry has come forward very quickly and

lowed them to remain compassionate. Though the Al-

started to work together to address these issues,” says

liance hasn’t yet been directly affected by Prop 64,

Shiravi. “So far there’s already been a couple of hearings.”

Smith can read the writing on the wall.

One of the people spearheading these outreach ef-

“The veteran community has been some of those

forts is Eaze’s director of social impact, Jennifer Lujan.

hardest hit by the new regulations,” he says. “Right now,

“Eaze has always been very focused on the com-

for groups like them and other low-income medical

munity,” says Lujan. “This industry, when it was just

patients who are using cannabis as their main tool for

medicinal at the time, was very focused on patient ac-

whatever problems they face, this is a major problem.”

cess, so we were working not just with organizations, sensimag.com MAY 2018 11

THERE ARE MANY FACETS TO THE MARIJUANA WORLD, AND ALTHOUGH THE COMMERCIAL AND RECREATIONAL ASPECTS HAVE TAKEN CENTER STAGE IN THE PAST FEW YEARS, MEDICAL USE & COMPASSIONATE ACCESS ARE THE FOUNDATIONS OF LEGAL CANNABIS AND WILL ALWAYS BE INGRAINED IN THE COMMUNITY.

but with brand partners. A lot of brands who are on the

“Walking through the hospice floor that day, I encoun-

platform have their own philanthropic programs, and

tered many patients who were not wanting to be on opi-

Eaze has been working with them to help support their

ates—they wanted to try cannabis,” she recalls. “Most

visions, given that they are the backbone of what we

of these patients had never even tried cannabis before—

do. It’s important that we always continue to support

or if they had, they might’ve tried it once, but they’d since

them in the best way in supporting the community.”

read or heard that it could actually make their lives more

Before joining Eaze this February, Lujan was the di-

comfortable as they were transitioning.”

rector of Weed for Good—a “compassionate care

Since many hospitals are often federally funded,

non-profit that provides free medical cannabis and ed-

they stay far away from cannabis issues—never dis-

ucation to low-income patients suffering from chronic

cussing the option with patients. Inspired to help

and terminal illnesses” that she founded in 2016. The

change that, Lujan began working with a group of law-

idea for the program came from a particularly memo-

yers and people in the industry to come up with viable

rable visit she paid to a local hospital.

workarounds to get these patients the help and can-

12 Orange County MAY 2018

nabis they needed—such as helping them video chat

tions with the press and among ourselves in the indus-

with pro-pot doctors outside of the hospital. When

try not only to highlight the issues that we see but also

they learned of Weed for Good, Eaze reached out to

discuss the types of opportunities that we have.”

Lujan to find out how they could help support the pro-

There are many facets to the marijuana world, and

gram. Quickly realizing Lujan’s potential, Eaze offered

although the commercial and recreational aspects

her the position of social impact director. She and her

have taken center stage in the past few years, medical

team have banded together to work toward safe, qual-

use and compassionate access are the foundations of

ity, and, most importantly, free access to cannabis for

legal cannabis and will always be ingrained in the com-

low-income patients. In her first month at Eaze, Lujan

munity. This isn’t an us-versus-them battle to be

and team developed the 420 Program, which affords

won—this is an open discussion and a snowball of in-

every employee 4 hours and 20 minutes per quarter to

tention that’s gaining great momentum in this fledg-

volunteer their time. The company is also working with

ling space. Awareness is being raised, and there is hope

the state to find a way to fast-track more medical mar-

that keeping the conversation moving forward will lead

ijuana ID cards as efficiently as possible so that pa-

to action that will bring us full circle back to the roots of

tients don’t have to wait agonizing months to get cer-

compassion upon which this industry was built.

tified, which will also help alleviate some of the taxes.

“The cannabis industry isn’t a brand-new industry,

“[This is] an opportunity for us to lend a hand and

but it is a brand-new legal industry that’s coming to

resources—not just financially but with human capital

fruition, and there’s a huge opportunity to give back and

as well, which has really moved the needle,” says Lujan.

do good,” Sivari says. “We’ll continue to support these

“We like to think about all the kinds of ways we can gal-

compassionate care programs until there’s a resolution.”

vanize these groups. We need to have these conversa-

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{crossroads}

by RICARDO BACA

14 Orange County MAY 2018

WHERE IN THE WORLD Exploring the grittier, more rewarding side of cannabis tourism.

Want to know how spoiled we are in Free America?

as the local handle for hash and nod yeah, and a few

Here’s how spoiled: When we think of cannabis tour-

minutes later you’re passed a hand-rolled cigarette

ism, we think of bud-and-breakfasts in century-old

with the waxy charas spread generously throughout.

Victorian homes, guided garden tours via swank limo

The familiar sting immediately hits the back of your

buses, and Friday nights spent learning the intricacies

throat upon your first inhale, but the aftertaste is as

of rolling both sushi and joints—before consuming

unique as the subcontinent itself. Your new friends tell

said sushi and joints.

you about the Himalayan tradition of charas, and you

Not a bad vacation. But as many of us know, mari-

rub your hands together as they make a similar hand

juana tourism throughout most of the world is less

gesture, mimicking the ancient hash-making technique.

glam and more glum.

The modified cigarette makes one more round before

Sometimes we need to check our state-legal privilege at the door and remind ourselves how lucky we

you and your new friends head back inside for more tea, maybe a few beers and a more elevated conversation.

are to be alive right now in these sky-high times (Ham-

Not a bad vacation, right?

ilton reference intended, weed pun definitely not).

Or maybe you’re reading a book inside a canal-side

Most of the world still lacks access to safe cannabis

coffeeshop in Amsterdam when a young couple asks

products, a regulated retail environment, and sensible

if they can share your table. They’re sharing their stash

drug laws, and so the concept of cannabis tourism takes

from home, a far superior product to the dried-out gar-

on an entirely different meaning in Morocco, India, and

bage you just bought from the counter, and an hour

even the Netherlands—all legitimate cannabis heri-

later you’re following them back to their flat, which is

tage communities.

home to a surprisingly sophisticated 10-plant grow.

Though let me tell you: This grittier, more dangerous

They pour you a glass of wine before the tour, and

side of cannabis tourism is infinitely more rewarding

when they open the door you squint your eyes to let

than its counterparts in Free America, hot-boxed limo

them adjust. When you ask them why their flower is so

bus be damned.

much better than the coffeeshop’s, they tell you that,

Imagine with me: You’re in a trendy Mumbai bar chat-

while the Dutch government tolerates limited retail

ting up some locals over chais when one of them asks,

sales and permitted use, it is still illegal to cultivate

“Would you like some charas?” You recognize the word

cannabis in the Netherlands, a policy regulators are sensimag.com MAY 2018 15

contemplating changing. An intense chicken-and-egg

after a big rush of check-ins and carefully introduced

conversation follows before they bid you a lovely eve-

myself to the clerk:

ning by pointing out the nearest tram line and sending you on your way with a week’s worth of home-grow.

“I’m a journalist. I am not looking to buy drugs. I am looking to see these fields of cannabis and talk to a lo-

Totally not a bad vacation.

cal villager about the hash-making process and the im-

As someone who loves to travel I must add: I am not

portance of the cannabis trade for he and his family.”

recommending you break local laws while traveling.

The desk clerk, who appeared to be no older than

Many of us have seen Brokedown Palace and read Mid-

14, looked at me assuredly and said, “Yes, sir. So you

night Express, and we all know how this scenario some-

want to hike to the waterfall. I would be happy to ar-

times tragically ends.

range a guide for you and your wife, sir.”

But I am telling you to live a little—and if your part-

I was mystified. Did he understand what I said?

ner were to ever forward you an article about hiking

Surely he did. I said the word cannabis like three times,

among massive valleys of cannabis plants in the Rif

and I pointed up the mountainside while making hand

Mountains above Chefchaouen, Morocco, a month be-

motions that somehow were meant to convey entire

fore you’re actually traveling to Chefchaouen, Moroc-

vistas of African-grown cannabis.

co, then you pack your boots and start doing your research, immediately.

And this is where the story gets personal. While friends of mine had these experiences in Mumbai and

“You do understand what I’m hoping to see?” I asked the kind boy.

“I do, sir,” he said sweetly. “And I think you will like this hike to the waterfall very much.”

Amsterdam, my real-world cannabis tourism experience

I will never forget what happened that next day. Be-

came in Chefchaouen, when I approached the hotel desk

tween the tiresome, 8.5-mile hike and our indefatiga-

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A Product of Nash Solutions, LLC 16 Orange County MAY 2018

BUT I AM TELLING YOU TO LIVE A LITTLE— AND IF YOUR PARTNER WERE TO EVER FORWARD YOU AN ARTICLE ABOUT HIKING AMONG MASSIVE VALLEYS OF CANNABIS PLANTS IN THE RIF MOUNTAINS ABOVE CHEFCHAOUEN, MOROCCO, A MONTH BEFORE YOU’RE ACTUALLY TRAVELING TO CHEFCHAOUEN, MOROCCO, THEN YOU PACK YOUR BOOTS AND START DOING YOUR RESEARCH, IMMEDIATELY.

ble guide, the unsinkable people we met along the

policy. Traveling to foreign lands, and incorporating my

way, and the humble family we drank tea and made

passion for this substance into my trip’s itinerary, cher-

hash with at our destination, the unparalleled views

ishing that off-the-beaten-path experience over the

and the compelling cultural and political discussions,

out-of-the-box commodities of the 420-legal world

that special day lives on in technicolor in my memory.

and recognizing that we still have a long way to go be-

As for the rest of that magical Moroccan day? I’m

fore this plant is fully understood the world over.

saving it for my memoir. Though I will add that that remarkable waterfall-less hike told me I was on the right life path.

This was exactly what I was supposed to be doing with my life. Writing about cannabis, writing about drug

RICARDO BACA is a veteran journalist, thought leader, and founder of The Cannabist. His content agency Grasslands works primarily with businesses and individuals in the cannabis and hemp industries on thought leadership, publicity, and marketing projects via thoughtful, personalized content campaigns.

sensimag.com MAY 2018 17

{tastebuds}

by AMBER MEYER

PIZZA PIT STOP Set inside a former garage, Costa Mesa’s 2145 is a trend-setting pizzeria that combines Italian flair with a Japanese twist.

At the busy intersection just above the hill that sep-

and straight out to the spacious, secluded patio where

arates Huntington Beach from Costa Mesa stands an

I find a seat in dappled shade. As I settle in, my server

unremarkable white rectangular sign displaying the

Jillian brings over the menus. The wine list is some-

four numbers of its street address. Set a few yards

what limited but the beer selection is far more robust,

back on the property is a similarly nondescript white

with ample drafts, bottles, and ciders from which to

boxy building that you may assume is a garage at first

choose. A creature of habit, I opt for a Diet Coke. After

glance. You’d be partly right: it used to be. But now, it’s

perusing both the lunch and dinner menus and getting

so darn clean, it’s immediately clear there’s no way au-

Jillian’s recommendations, I place an order for some of

tomotive repair happens here. The glass-paneled, roll-

the house and customer favorites.

up garage doors allow you a glimpse of the open, invit-

First dish to arrive from the kitchen is a take on an

ing atmosphere inside, where natural light cascades

American classic with an unexpected twist: Wagyu

into a dining area. That’s right, dining area—this for-

corn dogs. The wildly popular dish is an elevated take

mer auto repair shop has transformed into a trendy

on the ballpark favorite. Instead of a typical frankfurt-

eatery that offers tapas-inspired dishes and Neopoli-

er, 2145 uses weiners made of Wagyu, a premium

tan-style pizzas with a Japanese twist. It’s known by

Japanese marbled beef celebrated for its richness and

the address emblazoned on that sign out front: 2145.

flavor. The decadent dogs are coated in a butter-

The underlying culinary theme of 2145 comes from

milk-and-honey cornmeal batter that crisps up nicely

the owners’ fascination with Japanese cuisine. They

and delivers subtle notes of heat from crushed red

wanted their Costa Mesa restaurant to be more than

pepper flakes. With plenty of character on their own,

just a standard pizzeria—a goal they accomplished by

the dogs are even better when paired with the trio of

adding tapas-style small plates to a menu centered on

accompanying sauces: sriracha whole-grain mustard,

gourmet pizzas highlighting seasonal, local ingredients

honey vinegar, and takoyaki, which is a deeply flavored

on handmade Japanese-style dough. The result? Less

teriyaki sauce.

than a year after opening its doors, 2145 has estab-

Still descending from Wagyu corn dog heaven, I’m

lished itself as the new must-try hotspot for locals.

next presented with the butternut squash aranci-

Which naturally is why I’m here.

ni—2145’s rendition of the traditional Italian rice ball.

Following a sign’s instruction to seat myself, I bee-

Made with a panko coating instead of breadcrumbs,

line past the bar and two large communal-style tables

the savory snack delivers a satisfying crunch from the

18 Orange County MAY 2018

W H E R E : 21 45 Placentia Ave., Costa Mesa

HOURS: . a.m.–9 p.m u h rsday 11 T – ay d n . o M 0 p.m 0 a.m.–10:3 Friday 11:3

2145 EAT.C OM Saturday 11 a.m.–10:30 p.m.

Sunday 11 a.m.–9 p.m.

PHO NE: (949) 873-5853

LESS THAN A YEAR AFTER OPENING ITS DOORS, 2145 HAS ESTABLISHED ITSELF AS A F R E S H , M U S T - T R Y

H O T S P O T FOR LOCALS.

sensimag.com MAY 2018 19

THIS FORMER AUTO REPAIR SHOP HAS BEEN TRANSFORMED INTO A

T R E N D Y N E W R E S T A U R A N T THAT OFFERS TAPAS-INSPIRED DISHES AND NEOPOLITAN-STYLE PIZZAS WITH A J A P A N E S E T W I S T . IT’S KNOWN ONLY BY THE ADDRESS EMBLAZONED ON A SMALL SIGN OUT FRONT: 2145.

20 Orange County MAY 2018

first bite. But then the crispy crust is eclipsed by the gooey goodness inside: a creamy mélange of arborio rice, butternut squash, pancetta, and cheese. The plate is accented with a brown butter ricotta purée and paired with an arugula side salad topped with candied pecans, pickled shallots, and chilis—a spicy complement that helps balance the other savory flavors.

Next up: the specialty pizzas. I ordered not just one but two, and they arrive simultaneously. First, I dive into the prosciutto and burrata pie: Japanese pizza dough layered with mini heirloom tomatoes, fresh arugula, and thin slices of prosciutto, then finished with dollops of creamy burrata cheese and wood fired. Though it’s technically sauceless, the combo of the ridiculously fresh tomatoes, the salty prosciutto, and the buttery burrata acts a bit like a deconstructed base. What stands out most, however, is the light and chewy crust, charred to perfection in the authentic Marra Forni brick oven. It’s so good it’s ridiculous. Which it should be: it took over a decade to perfect.

Executive chef Eduardo Salcedo takes some time away from the kitchen to drop some culinary knowledge on me. “Did you know that Japan makes one of the best Neapolitan pizzas in the world?” he asks. I admit I did not know that. He fills me in: Japanese Neapolitan pizza is an international phenomenon, and he learned about its intricacies while working at one of Japan’s top pizzerias. Then he spent 10 years developing his own recipe for dough through trial and error. You can taste the mouthwatering effort in every bite of 2145’s crust today.

“For the pizza dough we make in-house, it’s a three-day process,” he explains. “It starts with a sourdough base using an all-natural yeast to give it a more fluffy sort of airy texture. I then add a mix of Japanese wheat flour, not rice flour, and Italian stone-ground flour. This blend and process are what differentiates this from classic Neapolitan-style pizza, and why we lovingly refer to our dough as Japanese.”

Which brings me to the last item on my edible agenda that day: a blue cheese and honey-drizzled pizza. Truth be told, I don’t typically find allwhite pies appealing but this isn’t your typical pizza blanca. With just one bite, I understand why this selection is such an insanely popular house favorite. The slightly singed crust is to die for, and the sweet notes of honey atop the gorgonzola are beyond decadent.

As I finish the final bites of my lunch, I’m already dreaming of coming back. I’ve got brunch on the brain after checking out the menu, which boasts weekday staples alongside specialty dishes like fried chicken Japanese toast. Whether it’s for lunch, brunch, or dinner, it’s well worth making a pit stop at this garage to enjoy the casual, creative eatery that is 2145.

sensimag.com MAY 2018 21

{travelwell}

by MARY CARREON

22 Orange County MAY 2018

FINDING YOUR OASIS Southern California’s stress-melting mineral waters are some of the Golden State’s best self-care destinations—and they’re only a road trip away.

Imagine floating in a pool and staring up at a cerulean sky dotted with lush cotton ball clouds. A warm breeze

healing, purification ceremonies, sacred gatherings, and tribal meetings.

dances across your skin. In any other climate, you’d be

Interestingly, most of the minerals found in hot spring

cold. But in a landscape where cacti and reptiles thrive,

water are also found in the body, which is likely why it’s

the light springtime gust wraps you in its warmth. You

proven to be a receptive form of therapy. BANA ex-

submerge yourself in the water, nourishing your body

plains that natural mineral waters work with our sys-

with natural earth minerals as air bubbles glide along

tems to regulate hormones, oxygenate the blood, boost

your skin and rise to the surface. Your mind is at rest.

the immune system, revitalize skin, and calm nerves.

Your soul is at peace.

According to BANA’s research, the body only absorbs

Experiencing the dreamy yet rejuvenating effects of natural mineral waters is an ideal way to decompress

the amount of minerals needed from the water. In other words, there’s no way to overdo it.

the mind, body, and spirit. In fact, when it comes to self-

Most people are mineral deficient, however. But nu-

care, few activities top marinating in hot springs. The

trient-rich mud and hot spring waters physically con-

Journal of Korean Society of Physical Therapy conducted

nect us with a plethora of minerals we’re often lacking,

a study in 2000 looking at the therapeutic benefits of

such as calcium, one of the most abundant minerals

hot spring water in Korea. Researchers found that miner-

found in mineral H2O. An adequate intake of calcium

als such as natural sulfur and magnesium break

builds and maintains proper bone mass and helps pre-

through the epidermis (or top layer of skin) and enter

vent osteoporosis—a disease women are at higher

the body. The study also produced evidence showing

risk of than men.

that the effects of “hot spring water helps facilitate the

Natural lithium, sulfur, and magnesium are also found

function of the human body by supporting the fluid move-

in mineral waters. Lithium helps protect your brain

ment of muscles and joints; increases circulation and

from exposure to toxins produced by the body, BANA

metabolism, thus removing toxins—and also aids in

reports. By safeguarding our brains and supporting the

maintaining homeostasis within the body.”

nervous system, lithium helps balance our moods and

But soaking in mineral water has a profound and

regulate sleep cycles. Sulfur is known as “nature’s beau-

far-reaching tradition in North America, too. According

ty mineral.” It’s found in keratin, the fibrous protein re-

to the Balneology Association of North America (BANA)—

sponsible for healthy hair and nails and youthful skin.

a group that supports the research, information, and

Magnesium, on the other hand, helps with energy pro-

education of bathing in natural mineral waters for health

duction and to maintain healthy blood sugar levels.

and wellness—indigenous North American tribes be-

The benefits of soaking are undeniable. And living in

lieved hot springs were “power spots” in nature. Na-

a time where self-care is sometimes absent from

tive cultures universally utilized the natural pools for

mainstream culture, we’re lucky to be located in Southsensimag.com MAY 2018 23

ern California because we’re only a short car ride away

al saunas, and lounge in relaxation zones. The spa sep-

from some of the best hot springs on the West Coast.

arates men and women, making the environment fully

From Apple Valley to the hills of San Louis Obispo to

about easing into your most relaxed state. It’s also re-

Desert Hot Springs, this region is ideal for the ultimate

portedly the go-to spa spot for celebrities like Liv Tyler,

mineral decompression getaway. Here are some of the

Carolina Herrera, and Sharon Stone. If renowned

area’s hottest locations to spend your next soak-ation.

celebs tout it for it’s relaxing glory, you know Beverly Hot Springs must be a stellar spot.

Beverly Hot Springs Beverly Hot Springs is a place of refuge in a chaotic

Address: 308 N. Oxford Ave., Los Angeles Phone: (323) 734-7000

city. A waterfall glides off of stone into the main min-

Cost: Varies, starting at $100+

eral pool, while Asian flower arrangements accent the

Distance: 10 minutes from Downtown LA, 45 minutes

facility, giving the space an overwhelmingly peaceful

from Orange County, 2 hours from San Diego

aura. The Korean spa is fed by a steady flow of 96- to

BEVERLYHOTSPRINGS.COM

105-degree water from an artesian well that Richard S. Grant discovered when he bought the land (then a

Glen Ivy Hot Springs

wheat field) to subdivide for a housing development in

The healing grounds of Glen Ivy Hot Springs have

1910. Dug near the turn of the century by drillers look-

been in existence for nearly 160 years. Before settlers

ing for oil, the 2,200-foot-deep well supplied water to

arrived in the area, three groups of indigenous people

early residents of the area near Western Avenue and

roamed the lands: the Luiseño, Gabrieleño, and Cahuilla. Like most native tribes, they saw the Earth as their church; through this sacred lens, the springs were a place to celebrate rites of passage and renewal, and give thanks to the Great Spirit. They built sweat lodges called hashlach, which the Spaniards later referred to as temescal (the Aztec word for sweat lodge). Hence, up until the late 1800s, the area was known as Temescal Sulfur Springs, which is also how Temescal Valley got its name.

Beverly Hot Springs

But the coming of the 20th century saw the creation of Glen Ivy Hot Springs, a high-class resort with the

Beverly Boulevard. Later, the water was sold under the

hot springs you could swim in as the main attraction

brand name Wonder Water with the slogan “Nature’s

for a mere 25 cents. Fast forward a century, and Glen

Own Formula.”

Ivy has become one of the best hot spring day-cations

Chemical analysis shows the alkaline water to contain

in California. The retreat does not offer overnight stays,

silica, iron and aluminum oxides, magnesium carbonate,

but there are a number of hotels nearby if you want to

sodium bicarbonate, sodium carbonate, sodium sulfate and sodium chloride, and a huge amount of sodium bicarbonate. These specific mineral salts are beneficial to people with high acidity levels in the stomach, a major factor in developing rheumatism and similar ailments.

Along with the warm bubbling water, there’s also a cold plunge pool for guests to experience the yin and yang energies of hot and cold therapy. But there’s a lot more to do than just soak. Guests have the option to get full body scrubs, facials, massages, meditate in herb24 Orange County MAY 2018

Glen Ivy Hot Springs

sensimag.com MAY 2018 25

stay the night. What Glen Ivy does offer, however, is a

that generates the hotel’s electricity, and a restaurant

10 percent discount for veterans, active military, nurs-

serving dishes made with produce grown in the area,

es, teachers, and first responders, as well as monthly

there’s no question about the retreat’s holistic au-

deals and birthday discounts.

thenticity.

With 19 different pools, mud baths, locally sourced

The lithium-rich mineral water at Two Bunch Palms

food available in the dining areas, 17 acres of gardens,

is world-renowned for its therapeutic and mood-en-

and fully sustainable products and practices, Glen Ivy

hancing properties. With pools located around the prem-

Hot Springs promotes and celebrates the power of

ises and yoga classes held throughout the day, the ho-

wellness in a glorious fashion.

tel offers a serene experience focused on health and

Address: 25000 Glen Ivy Rd., Corona

wellness. Although accommodations aren’t cheap,

Phone: (888) Glen-Ivy

your well-being is a solid investment. With just a few

Cost: Varies, starting at $50+

days in the desert where you’re untethered from the

Distance: 1 hour 10 minutes east of Los Angeles; 50

world, you can digitally detox your mind while physi-

minutes east of Orange County; 1 hour 30 minutes

cally detoxing your body— a worthwhile use of your

northeast of San Diego

discretionary income.

GLENIVY.COM

Address: 67425 Two Bunch Palms Trail, Desert Hot Springs

Two Bunch Palms Spa Resort The amusing irony of Desert Hot Springs—one of

Phone: (800) 472-4334 Cost: $250–$600 per night

the cultivation capitals of California—is the fact you

Distance: 2 hours east of Los Angeles and Orange

won’t find natural hot springs there. But the rich min-

County; 2 hours 30 minutes northeast of San Diego

eral waters that fill local hotel pools are sourced from

TWOBUNCHPALMS.COM

the grounds—or the underground, rather.

According to lore, Desert Hot Springs earned its

Hacienda Hot Springs Inn

name when adventurer Cabot Yerxa discovered a site

Although this sweet little inn is equally as sustain-

called “Miracle Hill.” Just after the turn of the 20th cen-

able as Two Bunch Palms, it’s quite the opposite re-

tury, Yerxa—one of the first people to attempt living in

garding size and price. With only seven rooms, this quaint

the area—was building his home on a 160-acre plot of

spot is the perfect place if you’re road-tripping on a budget. The boutiquey, old world-style inn offers an on-

Two Bunch Palms Spa Resort,

site aromatic garden flanked by mineral pools and a lagoon. The San Jacinto and San Gorgonio mountains offer breathtaking views that can be seen from all seven of the vintage desert-décor rooms. Each accomodation has a kitchenette and a set of French doors that open to a small balcony.

The inn uses nontoxic, plant-based, formaldehyde-and-petrochemical-free cleaning supplies and

land. With hardly any water, he hand-dug two wells with

bathroom products. The mineral water in the pool is also

a pick and shovel, and found that one produced crisp,

sourced from a private natural hot spring well, and un-

cold water while the other yielded hot mineral water.

like Two Bunch Palms’ lithium water, Hacienda’s pools

Dating back to the 1940s, the Two Bunch Palms Spa

are saturated with calcium, magnesium, silica, and trace

Resort has cultivated a unique legacy that’s not just

amounts of barium. The spa offers a range of treat-

historical, it’s also completely sustainable. With mineral

ments, including deep tissue and couples’ massages.

water sourced locally from Miracle Hill, a solar-field 26 Orange County MAY 2018

And best of all, a quarter of the net profits go to the

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Nature Conservancy or Sierra Club. The only thing more satisfying than soaking your stress away is knowing that your money is supporting a good cause while you’re doing it.

Address: 12285 Eliseo Rd., Desert Hot Springs Phone: (760) 251-2885 Cost: Nov.–May: $195–$350 per night; June–Oct.: $170–$330 per night (2 nights minimum) Distance: 2 hours east of Los Angeles and Orange County; 2 hours 30 minutes northeast of San Diego HACIENDAHOTSPRINGS.COM

Deep Creek Hot Springs On its face, San Bernardino doesn’t seem like it has much in the way of beauty to offer. But looks, as we all know, can be deceiving. Buried back in the hills of the Mojave Desert is Deep Creek Hot Springs, a naturally occurring array of mineral pools. The pools are located on different levels: Two small, hot pools—one nicknamed the Crab Cooker—are positioned near the lower rocks. Then there’s a big pool located just above the small springs known as the Womb, which is deep and naturally heated to about 78 degrees. Above the Womb, the Anniversary Pool has a picturesque waterfall that alone is reason enough to check out Deep Creek.

There are several ways to get to Deep Creek, but the most popular and

Deep Creek Hot Springs

recommended route is via Bowen Ranch, where you can park your car for the day or pitch a tent and camp for the night. From there, it’s a 2.5-mile hike to the pools. It can be strenuous due to the incline, but the destination is worth it. However, be prepared: the road getting to the ranch is rough, especially if you don’t have an off-roading vehicle.

There’s no hotel or spa out here but that’s the glory of this low-cost getaway. There’s also no where to buy provisions, so be sure to pack enough food, water, trash bags, toilet paper, and any other essentials you’ll need for the duration of your stay. Also bring a sense of adventure, but feel free to leave your bathing suit at home. Naked and free: that’s the Deep Creek way.

Address: 6100 Bowen Ranch Rd., Apple Valley Phone: (909) 382-2790 Cost: $5 per day parking fee; $10 per day camping fee Distance: 2 hours east of Los Angeles and Orange County; 3 hours northeast of San Diego CALIHOTSPRINGS.COM/DEEP-CREEK-HOT-SPRINGS

28 Orange County MAY 2018

sensimag.com MAY 2018 29

SoCAL LAUNCH TOUR

the

SCENE

This March, Sensi embarked on a three-day, three-city tour to celebrate the launch of three new SoCal editions with epic events featuring entertainment by DJ Lord of Prophets of Rage. The tour hit Orange County on Thursday at eSports Arena in Santa Ana, where about 45 top cannabis brands showed off their products and services to hundreds of partiers who came out to toast Sensi ’s arrival on the West Coast and to celebrate the spread of legalization across the nation. The evening featured live painting by Linzy Miggantz of Linzy’s HeART-Work, free hair styling by DOPE Hair Studio, and other fun surprises. For more photos and a video recap of the event, head to FACEBOOK.COM/SENSIMEDIAGROUP.

What: Sensi OC Launch Party Where: eSports Arena When: March 15, 2018

SoCal Editor Bobby Black with DJ Lord

© PHOTOGRAPHY BY THCFOTO (HUGO CHINCHAY JR.

The Farmacy

Speakeasy 710’s Stacie Delanie 30 Orange County MAY 2018

Artist Linzy Miggantz of Linzy’s HeART-Work

The Soko Cannabis Creations team

DJ Lord of Prophets of Rage at the turntables

Sensi contributor Keiko Beatie with friend sensimag.com MAY 2018 31

{soOC}

by AMBER MEYER

CRYSTA T L TA C AT H E D R A L

32 Orange County MAY 2018

If you’ve ever been driving on the freeway near Garden Grove and wondered what those towering glass spires were, then wonder no longer—this magnificent monument to post-modernism is called, quite appropriately, the Crystal Cathedral.

This incredible edifice was designed by one of the 20th century’s most influential architects, Philip Johnson, whose other achievements include New York City’s AT&T Building (which later became the Sony Building, and is now called simply 550 Madison Ave.), Pittsburgh’s castle-esque PP&G Place, and the Glass House (or Johnson House) in Connecticut. The architect’s former personal residence was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1997. The Cathedral, constructed of over 12,000 reflective glass panels, held the honor of being the largest glass building in the world at the time of its completion in 1980.

A precursor to the mega-churches of today, the Cathedral was commissioned in 1977 by televangelist Robert Schuller to house his ministry and broadcast his Christian show, The Hour of Power. It sits on a sprawling 34-acre campus of lush green lawns, has a seating capacity of over 2,000, and houses one of the largest pipe organs in the world.

After Crystal Cathedral Ministries filed for bankruptcy in 2010, the property was purchased by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Orange County and is currently undergoing a nearly 100-million-dollar renovation. It will be renamed as the Christ Cathedral when it’s completed next year. Regardless of your religious leanings, it’s no sin to appreciate the awe-inspiring architecture of the structure.