Sensi Magazine - Las Vegas (July 2018)

L LAAS S VVEG E G AASS

NEIGHBORS TO THE

NORTH

Canada Sets the Bar in Cannabis

glassy

ART

the CRAFT of

glass

BLOWING

Lighten UP

Toke Worthy Flicks

Digital Speak: Tech Talk Innovates Instagrammable Cannabition + MORE

W NNOORRMMAALL TTHHEE NNEEW

7.2018 7.2018

4 JULY 2018 Las Vegas

sensimag.com JULY 2018 5

6 JULY 2018 Las Vegas

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ISSUE 5 // VOLUME 1 // 7.2018

SAVOR JAMAICA at Jammy Land

FEATURES 34

S P E C I A L R E P O RT

Oh, Canna(da)

How Trudeau put Canada’s cannabis laws at the forefront, making them a leader in the industry.

40 Go Ask Alice

A Super Troopers hater’s guide to the stoner movie.

24

EXPERIENCE INSTAGRAM in Cannabition

every issue 9 Editor’s Note 10 SensiBuzz 14 CrossRoads

14 GET HYPE for the future of cannabis reform

THE FUTURE IS NOW

20 TasteBuds

FLAVOR FROM THE ISLANDS

24 AroundTown

MUSEUM TRANSFORMATION

30 LifeStyle

DIGITAL CONTROL

48 TheScene

MAD HATTER’S TEA TIME

50 Here We Go

A BYGONE ERA

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

sensimag.com JULY 2018 7

sensi magazine ISSUE 5 VOLUME 1 7.2018

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EXECUTIVE Ron Kolb CEO, SENSI MEDIA GROUP ron@sensimag.com

Tae Darnell PRESIDENT, SENSI MEDIA GROUP tae@sensimag.com

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EDITORIAL Stephanie Wilson EDITOR IN CHIEF sensimediagroup

stephanie@sensimag.com

Debbie Hall MANAGING EDITOR, SENSI LAS VEGAS debbie.hall@sensimag.com

Leland Rucker SENIOR EDITOR leland.rucker@sensimag.com

Robyn Griggs Lawrence CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Ricardo Baca CONTRIBUTING WRITER

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MEDIA PARTNERS Marijuana Business Daily Minority Cannabis Business Association National Cannabis Industry Association Students for Sensible Drug Policy

8 JULY 2018 Las Vegas

editor’s

NOTE

Sizzling… I N V E G A S Las Vegas has been my home

for 40 years, so I have experienced some scorching summers. July brings triple digits during the day and a “balmy” 80 degrees at night. Still, exhilaration, glitz, and glamour prevail in one of the most exciting cities in the world.

How? Southern Nevada has emerged as a culinary capital with celebrity chefs and trending cuisine. Cutting edge technology developed through Las Vegas-based businesses connects the world digitally. Innovative attractions add to the fun of a hospitality-based economy.

Broadway shows, including Hamilton, perform here to the delight of theatergoers. Significant retailers consider Southern Nevada to be an essential component in the growth of brick-and-mortar storefronts. Superstars perform in residency shows, and touring musicians and artists book shows in Las Vegas as an integral part of their scheduled stops. To continue to grow, downtown has also transformed into a progressive and immersive community, enticing tourists and locals alike.

While Vegas was once considered a small town surrounding the Strip, by the 1970s, it quickly became the go-to place everyone had to experience. As we continue to evolve and thrive, Southern Nevada has become a wonderful place not just to play but to live and work as well. We also happen to be a progressive state.

Over a year ago, voters in the state of Nevada took a stand demonstrating the need for changing laws on the adult-recreational use of cannabis. Since legalization, the growth of

ADVISORY BOARD

the industry has transformed the cannabis landscape. Business people, politicians, government officials, residents, and tourists now navigate through the new terrain and, while we have a long way to go and adjustments will need to be made, we are part of the progress. What’s left to do is advocate for decriminalization, social lounges, educating the public—especially visitors—in understanding the fine print of cannabis legalization, and righting some past wrongs in the cannabis world. It’s important to note that it is still illegal to ingest or imbibe cannabis in a resort guest room or public places. However, I am confident that there will be a continuation of the progressive stance of the state.

While embracing a pro-cannabis attitude, Sensi is part of the mainstream, reaching out with a collective goal: creating a better Southern Nevada for locals and tourists.

Thank you for selecting and reading Sensi. We look forward to continuing our relationship with you, our readers.

Yours in the new normal,

Debbie Hall

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

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American Cannabis Company // CONSULTING

Libra Wellness // INFUSED GOURMET CHOCOLATES

CannaPunch // INFUSED CANDIES AND JUICES

Nevada Powders // POWDER PROCESSING SERVICES FOR EDIBLES

Cohen Medical Centers // MEDICAL CENTERS

NLVO // LAS VEGAS LUXURY CANNABIS

Emerald Harvest // NUTRIENTS

Oasis Cannabis // DISPENSARY

Evergreen Organix // PREMIUM BAKED GOODS

Spiked Soil // SOIL

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Strip Side Solutions // MARKETING

GreenHouse Payment Solutions // PAYMENT PROCESSING

Toast // MINDFUL CONSUMPTION

Grow Generation // HYDROPONICS

Undoo // OVERCONSUMPTION RELIEF sensimag.com JULY 2018 9

sensi

buzz

Connect Across All Platforms

Symposium unites expertise, sales, and influencers.

SOCIAL EMERGENCE

First Friday Festival thrives downtown

First Friday Las Vegas (FIRSTFRIDAYLASVEGAS.COM), the all-encompassing celebration of art, music, family, food, culture, and community, flourishes the first Friday of every month in the arts district and surrounding downtown neighborhoods.

HempWay adds to the festivities dedicated to the movement. Find hemp-based products including fashion, food, and art as well as engage with experts.

ArtWalk showcases emerging Las Vegas artists including the main festival area, Arts Factory, and Art Square. Art Style engages the public with artists along with arts and 10 JULY 2018 Las Vegas

People connect virtually for classroom instruction, business meetings, health care appointments, and events such as weddings and memorial services. The new app Symposium links social media, e-commerce, and the global marketplace together on this revolutionary platform.

Professionals monetize their expertise in such fields as therapy, legal assistance, tutoring, entertainment, fitness, and culinary skills. Influencers on YouTube or Instagram, musicians, artists, actors, educators, and nonprofit staff raise funds. Individuals searching for services or products can connect with almost any profession or area of interest.

Symposium offers other services including SymTalk, a one-to-one video chat session. SymCast features scheduled live streaming sessions and can be designed to be a pay-per-view event. SymGram presents a personalized video message to a special person or group.

Jonathan Ogden, Pro Football Hall of Fame offensive tackle with the NFL Baltimore Ravens, is one celebrity using Symposium as another platform for speaking engagements, pay-per-view events, and to raise money for activities for the Jonathan Ogden Foundation charity.

The free app can be downloaded from the Apple App Store, Google Play, or launched from its website (SYMPOSIUM.US ). All transactions are conducted directly through Symposium’s secure system with no sharing of personal phone numbers, emails, or credit card –Debbie Hall information.

SOCIAL EMERGENCE PHOTOS: FIRST FRIDAY LAS VEGAS; SUNGLASSES PHOTO: SOCIAL CUT; GLOW ZONE: GLOW ZONE

THE NEW NORMAL

NEON PLAY

Smile in the dark at Glow Zone Las Vegas

Guard eyes with protective shade.

With the bright desert sun in Las Vegas, everyone knows sunglasses are a must in the summer. Those cheap shades from the dollar store or branded freebies can actually harm eyes.

Sunglasses without the proper UV protection fail to balance conditions such as surfer’s eye (pterygium), cataracts, and age-related macular degeneration. Cancer can even develop.

Protection for the eyes is even more important for kids with developing sight. Those with blue eyes have a higher risk of damage than those with brown eyes. Where there is significant sun exposure, children are at risk for sunburn of the eyes. Babiator sunglasses, carried by Eyediology Vision Care, are designed for children—for both durability and protection.

Color and darkness do not determine actual protection from the sun. Look for pairs that provide both UVA and UVB protection. Opt for wraparound sunglasses or close-fitting sunglasses with wide lenses that protect eyes from every angle. Lenses should be impact resistant, matching color, free of distortions, and screen out 75 to 90 percent of visible light. Polarized lenses are another excellent option for reducing glare and significantly improving vision in direct sun. As for choices, stylish since 1937, Ray Ban remains one of the top brands for fashion and protection.

–DH

The sun blazes brightly outdoors, but after walking into Glowzone Las Vegas (LV.GLOWZONE.US), everyone’s eyes adjust to the cool darkness with black-lit games and glow-in-the-dark attractions.

Playing indoors is the perfect way to escape the heat while enjoying some leisure time.

The 36,000-foot entertainment center features a range of easy-to-play games, more intense competitions, and physical challenges. The neon-lit skyscraper ropes course, towering 26 feet above the complex, dare participants to climb and walk across on the ropes trying not to look down. Test ninja skills and challenge climbing abilities racing to the top of a 28-foot building, plunge down the drop slide or balance across the pole walk.

Adrenalin junkies bash in bumper cars or play bazooka ball. Ducking the laser maze will get the heart pumping.

The soft city jungle gym cushions for a gentle landing with three slides and a twisting maze overlooking the center. A game of glowing mini golf or bowling can bring the kid out in everyone. The arcade features the latest in games plus some older favorites.

But Glowzone is not just for kids and families. Evenings dedicated to adults offer unique date options for hanging out with friends. Team sports and playing together bring people closer for some summertime fun.

–DH

crafts demonstrations and interactive painting in exploring creativity.

Family Activities by Core Academy focuses on the development and empowerment of Southern Nevada’s youth and provides free activities for families. Get physical and climb high at the ABC Adventures rock wall.

Music fills the air with local musicians on the main stage and throughout the venue. Tantalize taste buds

selecting from over 30 food trucks, artisan food vendors, and restaurants located throughout the area.

When planning to visit First Friday, there is paid parking. Alternatives include the Las Vegas Rickshaw pedicabs that pick up and drop off from Coolidge Avenue and 1st Street. The Downtown Loop bus provides transportation circling –DH downtown to First Friday. sensimag.com JULY 2018 11

THE NEW NORMAL

sensi

buzz

Mother’s Love Homegrown Roux & Bones natural products

Home treatments include soaking in the tub scented with a fizzy bath bomb, scrubbing with scented soap, and slathering on a creamy body lotion. Audrey Hale, the founder of Roux & Bones, loved those times when she would pamper herself.

But after the birth of her son, the certified aromatherapist embarked on creating her line of natural and organic products.

The Las Vegas-based entrepreneur, wife, and mother began by developing soaps. Hale then expanded her line to include bath bombs, bath salts, facial products, skin lotions, and fragrances.

While she can customize scents, every essential oil and ingredient has been thought out, paired, and serves a purpose. Since no preservatives are used, the products remain fresh and, if unopened, can be stored in a cool and dry space up to a year.

With her hands-on approach, Hale even knows the beekeeper that provides the honey and beeswax. The Roux & Bones line is

Our mission is to create equal access and economic empowerment for cannabis businesses, their patients, and the communities most affected by the war on drugs.

DEVELOPING A nationwide network of cannabis business owners within a variety of disciplines, including ancillary businesses ADVOCATING For creation and fair enforcement of sensible, equitable policies ACCELERATING Increased cannabis industry growth by ensuring patient and consumer access to the most people SERVING As a voice for the minority population with programs that foster opportunity, education, and equality

Visit us at MinorityCannabis.org to join the movement today!

memberships@minoritycannabis.org @MinCannBusAssoc 12 JULY 2018 Las Vegas

@MinorityCannabis

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF ROUX & BONES

free of paraben, phthalate, sulfate, petroleum, and formaldehyde with no cruelty testing.

The loving mom named the company after her children, daughter Annika Roux and son Lincoln Bones, and is currently developing infant and baby products. The design and packaging combine elements of whimsy, elegance, and dichotomy. Roux & Bones can be purchased online (ROUXANDBONES.COM) and in local boutiques. –DH

HOT GROOMED MEN David Beckham adds to rising temps with his HOUSE 99 line.

Soccer superstar David Beckham remains an icon of fashion and good taste with his recent venture of his new men’s grooming line.

L’Oréal developed his House 99 brand as an original product line.

The developed concept captures that men now embrace good grooming and remain masculine.

The 99 is significant since that was the year Beckham’s team, Manchester United Football Club, won the Treble—three championships in a single season. It is also the same year he would marry former Spice Girl (and fashionista) Victoria and his eldest son Brooklyn was born. The word “House” signifies community and bringing together a group (of men).

His line includes over 15 moisturizers, eye balms, shampoos, conditioners, body washes, hair gels, beard scrubs, and oils. Beauty retailer ULTA carries the line with mid-range pricing in a clean black and white packaging that screams masculinity. The formulas are declared to be innovative and designed to allow all men to express themselves through their unique style.

–DH

sensimag.com JULY 2018 13

{crossroads}

by R I C A R D O B A C A

THE

IS NOW Trends we’d like to see more of in legal cannabis.

14 JULY 2018 Las Vegas

So much this.

San Francisco Chronicle when my friend (and fellow canna-

Like any Gen Xer co-opting Millenialspeak, I’m certainly

bis journalist) David Downs pointed me in the direction of a

guilty of employing this modern linguistic device when

retail marijuana shop called Barbary Coast.

sharing something I wholeheartedly agree with on social

“Once you walk in, you’re inside the shop, of course,” he

media. In another era we might have said Exactly or I totally

said. “But keep going back, and let me know what you think.”

agree, but ultimately the meaning is the same: YAAAAS.

I headed over on my own, bought some of Kiva’s infused

So while there are countless heady conversations and de-

chocolate-covered coffee beans and walked to the back of the

bates to be had about the present and future of legal, regu-

dispensary, where a friendly gentlemen checked me into an ad-

lated cannabis—and other substances that should not be

joined lounge connected to the shop. The space was elegant and

deemed illegal—it’s summertime, and I’d like to celebrate

lush, and the leather booths were filled with lone professionals

some of the big wins we’re starting to see, some of the

on laptops, double-dates canoodling, and work meetings get-

trends born out of legalization that are beginning to develop,

ting shit done—not unlike the scene at Philz Coffee down the

some of the news stories that occasionally come across our

road—only these customers were hitting vapes, rigs, and joints.

feeds that inspire an RT with an exclamation, So much this!

So while there is still much work to be done, here are a few 420-friendly trends I’m jazzed about.

(LEGAL) SOCIAL CANNABIS USE Adult-use cannabis became the law of the land in Colorado in December 2012, when Gov. John Hickenlooper signed

It was beautiful, especially given the public consumption struggle we’ve witnessed in Colorado. But it was also painfully normal—boring, even. It felt like an elevated coffee shop or bar environment. The place wasn’t hot-boxed, but the scent of weed was certainly present. It was normalized, and as beautiful as it was, it was also frustrating knowing how much legislators and prohibitionists are fighting this kind of progress back in my home state.

Amendment 64 into the state’s constitution. Yet here we are nearly six years later, and it’s still illegal to consume marijuana almost anywhere in the state.

POST-LEGALIZATION SOCIAL EQUITY PROGRAMS

It’s just embarrassing, and even an enlightened attempt to

These kinds of headlines give me my favorite kind of

create the world’s first permitted cannabis consumption spac-

goosebumps: “San Francisco to Dismiss Thousands of

es—Denver County’s voter-approved Initiative 300—has yet

Marijuana Convictions,” National Public Radio; “Top New

to make a real impact in widening legal spaces for social use.

York Lawmaker: Expunge Convictions if Cannabis Goes Le-

So imagine Coloradans’ chagrin when they read about can-

gal,” The Associated Press; “In These States, Past Marijuana

nabis consumption lounges opening up in Northern California

Crimes Can Go Away,” HuffPost; “Details on Plan to Expunge

(San Francisco) and Southern California (West Hollywood) less

Some Vermont Pot Convictions,” CBS affiliate WCAX.

than six months after the state’s Proposition 64 was imple-

Think about it: Those four recent headlines from trusted,

mented. And as a lifelong Denverite, allow me to say to my

mainstream news organizations just took us coast-to-

friends and readers in Cali: We’re not hating, we’re just jealous.

coast-to-coast-to-coast, referencing local initiatives across

I was in the Bay Area earlier this year speaking at a Na-

the US that will expunge cannabis convictions from people’s

tional Association of Hispanic Journalists gathering at the

records now that marijuana is legal where they live. sensimag.com JULY 2018 15

This is right. This is just. This is fair. This is the future, and

based middle path ended up laying the groundwork for

thank goodness these nonviolent marijuana offenders will

much of the cannabis journalism you read today. (If you’re

no longer have to deal with the significant repercussions of

curious about those early days, check out the documenta-

having a weed citation or arrest on their criminal record.

ry Rolling Papers, which is still streaming on Netflix.)

Of course, not enough states are pushing these kinds of

And so it makes me proud to see mainstream media or-

laws, and some progressive programs appear to be falling

ganizations report responsibly on cannabis, especially

short. (Funding For Social Equity Piece of Retail Marijuana

since most of them were still repeating the garbage gate-

is Slow in Coming—Worcester (Mass.) Telegram) But still,

way-drug narrative after Washingtonians and Coloradans

California and Vermont are on the right side of history, and

became the first to legalize it in 2012.

other states will soon follow suit.

SANE, FACT-BASED REPORTING IN THE MEDIA I’m a pretty average guy when it comes down to it, but if

Enter André Picard, the health columnist at The Globe and Mail, the most widely read newspaper in Canada with roots dating back nearly 175 years. Here’s what Picard columnized on late-May 2018, as Canada prepared its federal implementation of legal, regulated recreational weed:

I have a legacy, it will likely involve the impact my col-

“As Canada prepares to go live with pot sales in a few

leagues and I had on the way cannabis is discussed and

months, what can we learn from four years of practical,

reported on in the mainstream media.

hands-on experience in the western United States?

I started The Cannabist from inside The Denver Post’s

“The first takeaway is that all the fretting about the im-

newsroom in 2013, and while we refused to repeat the

pact on children and teens is largely unwarranted. Before

many lies of prohibition, we also ignored the blind activism

legalization, 17 percent of Grade 10 students in Washington

of publications like High Times—and that modern, fact-

State said they had smoked pot in the previous month. Four

16 JULY 2018 Las Vegas

THIS IS JUST. THIS IS RIGHT. THIS IS FAIR.

THIS IS THE FUTURE.

years of legal doobies later, 17 percent of Grade 10 students say they have smoked pot in the previous month.”

While some journalists and columnists still spread fear-

As the headline of his column hints: The kids will be alright.

And so long as journalists report on what is known, instead of what they were told as children, so will they, I hope.

based narratives with no basis in the legal market, Picard looked to the most experienced municipalities in legal cannabis and told his readers about what they have experienced, based entirely on government (state and federal) data.

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.

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{tastebuds}

by D E B B I E H A L L

Jammyland Cocktail Bar & Reggae Kitchen brings Jamaican-inspired fare downtown Las Vegas for the hottest cuisine and coolest vibe.

FLAVOR FROM THE

PHOTOS COURTESY OF JAMMYLAND / TEAM PHOTOGRAPH BY BLAKE JONES / COCKTAIL PHOTOGRAPHS BY LILIANA VANEGAS

ISLANDS

20 JULY 2018 Las Vegas

Jammyland co-owners Danielle Crouch and Allan Katz

concoction offered to tourists in the casino. It’s prepared

love the Caribbean. They especially love Jamaica, the birth-

according to the original recipe using Appleton Estate 12

place of reggae, the incredible beaches, flavorsome food,

YO Rum, Rhum Clemént VSOP, lime, in-house made

and delicious cocktails. That love inspired these restaura-

curaçao and Katz’s orgeat. The song that goes with it?

teurs to create a Jamaican bar and kitchen concept in the

“Among the Dead”, performed by Tim Armstrong.

heart of the arts district in downtown Las Vegas that transports you to the islands.

The Reckless Abandon is one of its specialty drinks made with Smith & Cross Navy Rum, lime, Sangue Morlac-

Inspired by Katz’ love of reggae and the original Jammy-

co Italian Cherry Liqueur, Amaro Cio Ciaro, and pineapple.

land (the renowned New York City record store he once pa-

All that’s missing is the crystal blue sea. Paired with “Reck-

tronized), Jammyland in Las Vegas blends music, food, and

less”, sung by Pepper, it adds to the intrigue of the volca-

cocktails to create something unique. When the owners of

no-inspired libation.

the NY record store were told what Katz and Crouch want-

Chef Bubba Grayer incorporates his varied and eclectic

ed to do in order to honor them, they gave their blessing to

culinary background with staples from Jamaica while adding

use the name. In true fashion, his menu is original. The

his twist. Touches of New York; Naples, Florida; San Diego;

menu is more like a liquid lyrical as each drink has a song to

New Orleans; and Portland come out in different dishes.

match. On the cocktail menu they write: Please don’t try to

“Very few dishes are from Jamaica, and that is what we

drink the whole playlist in one sitting and enjoy the Spotify

like. Food has become its own thing by everyone who has

mix we made you by loading the app, going to ‘Search,’

passed through the island,” explains Chef Grayer.

clicking the little camera icon, and aiming your phone at this nifty code.”

When creating their menu concept, Crouch and Katz created their cocktail program with an encyclopedia of recipes

From influences of Asian, Indian, and even British culture, the cuisine here is developed utilizing Chef’s travels and his research. The blending of different cultures creates an experience.

called “the playlist”. While they do serve some great wines,

While the British brought pastry to the islands, the Ja-

the focus is on their cocktails like Damn Close Mai Tai and

maicans spiced up the dishes including its patties. The beef

The Reckless Abandon.

choices are grass-fed, and grain finished from Utah, sea-

Damn Close Mai Tai exemplifies what Jammyland offers

soned with curry spice blend, chiles, and cilantro sauce. The

in terms of its beverage program. Made for connoisseurs

veggie option combines seasonal squashes, zucchini, red

who appreciate classic cocktails, this drink is not some

bell pepper, turmeric pastry, fresh ginger, galangal, caysensimag.com JULY 2018 21

FROM LEFT: Chef Bubba Grayer; Jen Len, assistant general manager; Danielle Crouch, co-owner; and Allan Katz, co-owner.

“It is also the oneness of it and the inclusiveness of our motto, ‘Out of many we are one.’ We embrace the philosophy of one love, which for me is the same as the philosophy of hospitality,” adds Crouch.

Before opening Jammyland, she lived in Las Vegas, worked on the Strip, and discovered the downtown community. She wanted to create a space where people come, enne, and kaffir. Both are served on a turmeric pastry.

African comfort food becomes a bar snack with Ugali

feel good, and have fun. Crouch finds delight in seeing guests having a good time.

sticks made with polenta, coconut, and Applewood-smoked

Resident DJs, Knocksteady Soundsystem with Josh

clover honey. Black pepper Shrimp & Porridge combines a

Coutts and Joseph Guadamuz, are what Katz calls “my nerd

quintet of prawns in a vibrant pepper sauce with corn por-

soulmates.” He discovered them on an indie radio station

ridge and fried okra.

and, appreciating their playlist of obscure tracks, invited

One side is Sweet Mash, often called by its Indian name, Batata. This nutritious side dish pairs perfectly with ribs, sweet potatoes, coconut milk, honey, brown sugar, bananas, and oranges.

them to share their love of music on Friday nights. (A stage is also being constructed for other live performances.)

The interior design reflects the history of makeshift pubs, or shebeen, spread from Ireland to Africa to Jamaica.

Pulling from their previous time working together at Fat-

What was once a parking lot has been transformed into an

ty Crab, Chef Grayer, Katz, and Crouch worked together on

inviting patio facing the street. Lights twinkle above, and

the menu.

two beautiful murals on the north and south walls entice

“Jamaican food is an unexplored cuisine, and we are excited to bring food along with our love of cocktails. We also

pedestrians. The music invites everyone to enter this tropical enclave in the middle of the desert.

included some of the Fatty Crab specialties,” says Crouch.

“The beautiful thing about reggae is it touches all cul-

“We get to work with one of our best friends [the chef] who

tures in all languages. I am lucky enough to meet people

is so talented.”

from all over the world that share the same passion.”

Art is also an integral component. “When Jammyland was my teenage pipedream, I just discovered Jim Mahfood’s work with 40 oz Comics and his self-published books,” explains Katz. One sketch incorporated two-tone art created during the time Jamaican influences were brought to London and mixed with punk.

Years later, while operating someone else’s restaurant (as part of his plan to open one of his own), Katz attended a party for Mahfood and told the artist about his dream. Today Mahfood’s art embellishes the walls.

“It is about the culture and the connection between music and food, which are my two favorite things,” Katz says.

“It is a wonderful time to be alive. Music has never been more accessible and culinary culture in America is having a watershed moment. People want to eat and drink better.”

22 JULY 2018 Las Vegas

JAMMYLAND brings a taste of the islands, expression of music and art, the serious experience of the cocktails, and a front-row view of the burgeoning urban downtown Vegas scene.

1121 S. MAIN ST DOWNTOWN LAS VEGAS JAMMY.LAND

sensimag.com JULY 2018 23

{aroundtown}

by D E B B I E H A L L

24 JULY 2018 Las Vegas

Culture explodes in downtown Las

An actual grow in an artistic space ex-

Vegas at the Neonopolis complex with

pands knowledge with the importance of

the opening of Cannabition. While de-

lighting, soil, and other factors. Hug-a-

fined as an immersive cannabis muse-

bud and other creative exhibits enhance

um, this is so much more than a building

the encounters in a fun and informative

housing artifacts.

manner. Artists will be invited to share

The celebration of the cannabis lifestyle through a plant from seed to har-

their art and what inspires them as the artwork is rotated.

vest is demonstrated through multi-sen-

While educational pieces and some

sory art installations. Various platforms

historical artifacts scatter around the

embrace the morphing of society through

space, Cannabition follows the new expe-

the decades regarding cannabis. One of

rience for museums of interaction and

the exhibitions will be the world’s larg-

engagement. Extensively trained staff

est blown glass bong measuring 22

members guide the guests through the

feet through a partnership with Jerome

installations and share information

Baker Designs.

about art and the industry. Instead of

A narrative flows through the mu-

docents, it is all about entertaining as

seum with 12 exhibitions. The first one

well as informing with an emphasis on

honors the seed that is the beginning

taking and sharing photos.

of cannabis. But, no one will be staring

Originally from Denver, Cannabiton

at seeds placed behind glass with

CEO JJ Walker tells the world he loves

plaques or audio explanations. The

Las Vegas. He grabbed an opportunity

seed displayed has been created as a

to expand his knowledge as well as in-

large bed that guests can lie on while

corporate his expertise in the cannabis,

surrounded by the history of cannabis

event, convention, and nightlife indus-

in the 1970s.

tries. It was during his research to create an exceptional business in Southern Nevada that he discovered a unique attraction that is booming across the country. The model of a conversive museum (or Instagramization) appeals to younger demographics for its interactive experience.

ONE OF THE EXHIBITIONS WILL BE THE WORLD’S LARGEST BLOWN GLASS BONG MEASURING 22 FEET.

sensimag.com JULY 2018 25

The made-for-Instagram movement exemplifies its popu-

The glittering lights and legalization of medicinal and

larity at The Museum of Ice Cream in San Francisco with a

adult-use recreational cannabis in Nevada enticed him to de-

series of rooms designed as photo sets. Attendance at this

velop a Las Vegas-based tour. He then got a rude awakening.

transformed version of a museum reaches the maximum

“I realized that the county and state governments were

number of guests allowed on a daily basis. Walker realized he

not going to support anything related to the consumption of

could showcase the conversion of cannabis from an under-

cannabis,” he explains. “While our tours in Colorado are enor-

ground movement to mainstream society with this model.

“I knew the cannabis attraction would be wildly popular creating this space especially with the introduction of Instragramization,” says Walker. “People can attend for a 45-minute experience, take photos, and enjoy the unique environment. It is patterned much like Willie Wonka and the Chocolate Factory and Alice in Wonderland.”

Walker and his team brainstormed to create such a museum without the re-

mously successful, I needed to explore oth-

“OUR GOAL IS TO APPEAL TO EVERYONE FROM CONNOISSEURS TO NOVICES TO ENGAGE AND CELEBRATE THE CULTURE, HISTORY, AND LIFESTYLE OF CANNABIS.”

er business options in Nevada.”

He discovered the framework of Southern Nevada includes the city of Las Vegas proper (regulated by the city council) and unincorporated Clark County (governed by the county commissioners), which consists of the Strip. Walker recognized that Clark County does not support any business with the potential of becoming a social lounge and thus impacting the casino industry.

According to Walker, the city of Las Ve-

— Cannabiton CEO JJ Walker

gas governing downtown express a more

straints of a more traditional setting. “Our goal is to appeal to

progressive approach with a goal of becoming a trendset-

everyone from connoisseurs to novices to engage and cele-

ter community.

brate the culture, history, and lifestyle of cannabis.”

“We seized the opportunity to create this distinctive expe-

A 10-year veteran in the cannabis industry, Walker

rience and bring attention to the city. It has been a positive

opened one of the first dispensaries in Colorado (The

partnership with the mayor, city council, and licensing de-

Health Center). He developed the first marijuana tour (My

partment,” states Walker.

420 Tours) in 2013, as well as produced and promoted ma-

and social consumption with a goal to keep cannabis avail-

PHOTOGRAPHY AND RENDERING COURTESY OF CANNABITION

jor events, concerts, and expos.

In fact, Walker will lobby efforts to support the industry

26 JULY 2018 Las Vegas

able to a wide of range of adults. He appreciates the opportunities in one of the top tourist destinations with the legalization of adult-use recreational marijuana in July 2017. Cannabition will also give back by supporting selected charities and nonprofits including political and healthcare platforms.

“Doors were opened to reach to a new genre of people,” he says. “Now in the cannabis experience space, Las Vegas will be more open to create something experiential.” According to the Las Vegas Visitors and Convention Authority, 39 million people visited Southern Nevada in 2017, and these numbers generate possibilities for Walker.

The opening of Cannabition in Neonopolis continues to revitalize the complex initially built in 2002, featuring a 14-screen movie theater anchor with nightclubs and restaurants. After struggling for years, developers breathed new life into the center with the opening of a brewing company, art galleries, franchise chains, and the broadcast headquarters for Telemundo Las Vegas. The complex located on the northwest corner of the Fremont Street Experience is now a gateway to Fremont Street East. The eclectic east block with dining, music, and bars meshes perfectly with Cannabition.

The attraction will be ticketed with discounts for Nevada residents. Guests must be 21 years of age or older, even though it is a non-consumption facility.

Companies and individuals can rent Cannabition as an event facility. Walker encourages guests to patronize the many establishments in Neonopolis and Fremont Street especially for the food and beverage offerings.

Cannabition (CANNABITION.COM ) is on the ground floor in the Neonopolis complex located at 450 Fremont St. in the Fremont Street Experience. The progressive experience continues to

PHOTO OF J J WALKER BY BRENT ANDECK PHOTOGRAPHY

transform and revitalize downtown Las Vegas.

sensimag.com JULY 2018 27

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{lifestyle}

by D E B B I E H A L L

DIGITAL CONTROL Technovation Solutions innovates the way we live, work, and play.

The sound of someone’s voice or the touch of a finger com-

build a satisfying experience as well as behind-the-scenes in-

municates an individual’s wants and needs in the new world of

novations needed to execute this. We build collaborative solu-

Technovation Solutions. The brainchild of CEO Peg McGregor,

tions by taking two or three partners, integrate the products,

she approached the market with a different business model.

and present it to the market as a single solution.” Part of the

She partnered with technology experts, combining products

business representation demonstrates the new expertise in a

and services that would be showcased in one space.

simulated setting.

Instead of presentations, potential clients can experience

According to Infraspeak, “hospitality is one of the largest

cutting-edge technology in simulated rooms, including a VIP

and fastest-growing industries in the world.” Challenges of the

suite, hotel lobby, casino, restaurant, and conference area.

industry, which impact the operators, include competition, cus-

Technovation is also expanding into healthcare, the retail in-

tomer expectations, staffing, sustainability, and technology.

dustry, and education.

The evolution of digital expansion now transcends any pre-

“The old model is doing exclusive product sales,” she ex-

vious experience by bringing tech to the guest in-room options

plains. “Decision makers can now look at the customer, guest,

including in-room dining, valet, concierge, and guest services.

or patient journey and bring together solutions. Our goal is to

One touch manages lights, climate control, and shades.

30 JULY 2018 Las Vegas

Voice control devices are the norm in many homes but have now expanded into hotel rooms. Guests command

and guests on the property. The goal is to create better physical security without impacting the experience.

Xbox and television with their voice and gestures and can

“We want to continue to develop this capability in a vari-

play games or make Skype calls in HD. The touch menu en-

ety of different ways to accommodate the needs and ex-

gages guests selecting different dining choices, avoiding

pectations of various properties,” says McGregor. “The tech-

food allergies, and creating a customized meal. The smart

nology can identify an abandoned bag, immediately assist

thermostat senses activity in the room and seamlessly ad-

someone who has fallen, and access controls to different

justs energy consumption. The hotel lobby created at Tech-

departments such as an IT room. It is all about solutions.”

novation also demonstrates how the tech developed for the guests is also utilized in the check-in process.

Properties offering gaming can monitor players with new systems. Data gathered on how much each player is betting provides the level of play and cheating is dramatically cut, if

THE TOUCH MENU ENGAGES GUESTS SELECTING DIFFERENT DINING CHOICES, AVOIDING FOOD ALLERGIES, AND CREATING A CUSTOMIZED MEAL. THE SMART THERMOSTAT SENSES ACTIVITY IN THE ROOM AND SEAMLESSLY ADJUSTS ENERGY CONSUMPTION.

not eliminated altogether. For pools, casino floors, and private

But this revolution also includes benefits for the resort

parties, the world’s first portable, patented touch-screen bar

operator saving on overall cost and energy for a lower car-

controls liquor costs and can even pour a variety of drinks.

bon footprint, as well as providing increased security for

Facial recognition technology creates a new world for se-

guests and staff.

curity and customized service. Used to ascertain if a person

While businesses still engage in conference room set-

is of legal age to be in casinos or ingest substances such as

tings, in 2017 the New York Times shared a Gallup poll con-

alcohol or cannabis, it becomes a tremendous asset to cli-

ducted, which stated that 43 percent of adults work virtu-

ents and protects everyone including guests. Facial recogni-

ally. The conference room at Technovation showcases how

tion identifies threats that walk near or on the property as

staff and management communicate with each other in a

well as those with a history of trespassing, theft, and van-

more personal, productive way. Participants observe a

dalism. The technology combines a biometrics platform

360-degree view of the conference room along with en-

with panic buttons for housekeeping or dining room staff to

hanced audio and video.

alert security. Push-to-talk capabilities allow security

As for healthcare, issues of real-time and immediate

teams to monitor and communicate with staff, vendors,

treatment transcend the traditional visit to an emergency sensimag.com JULY 2018 31

room or doctor’s office. Technology can monitor vital signs

strategic planning. A desire to create something new fueled

with data retrieved by personnel. For life-threatening situ-

her imagination, and she developed Technovation.

ations, help can be administered virtually by assisting staff onsite with the patient.

With a hospitality-based economy, including tourism and conventions as well as favorable business conditions,

Behind the scenes, McGregor coordinates and directs

Las Vegas became the obvious choice as its base of opera-

the traffic from the sectors. As for her unique perspective,

tions. The staff is minimal at Technovation with partners

being raised in Japan influenced her view of the world.

providing installation and maintenance. McGregor stays

Born in Philadelphia, her father was an executive at Dupont, and her family first moved to Montreal before set-

current, attending seminars and webinars, and travels extensively to forecast upcoming trends and innovation.

tling in Japan during McGregor’s childhood. She was edu-

The blending of Eastern and Western philosophies and

cated in a missionary school for other non-Japanese

cultures has given McGregor an unusual perspective in

families, but the family lived in the community.

business and the world overall. Technovation combines her

“I learned different languages and spoke Japanese since kindergarten,” she says. “We knew we were different and I

view for a new outlook on a global economy and changes how people live, work, and play.

was a redhead, which was a novelty then, in Japan. But I didn’t know any other way of life.”

Her family returned to Delaware when McGregor was a sophomore in high school. She obtained degrees in political science and economic commerce from the University of Delaware, Georgetown’s sister school in Japan, and American University. Strong language skills took McGregor down continued her profession in international trade and finance for the federal government and worked with the US Army.

McGregor traveled extensively becoming a global citizen.

But her entrepreneurial spirit and motherhood called, and McGregor followed, opening and operating several businesses as well as getting married and starting a family. Her business portfolio includes developing and producing catalogs focusing on children’s sportswear, direct marketing, and

32 JULY 2018 Las Vegas

PHOTOS BY JESSE LAMBERT / ARCH ANGEL STUDIOS

a career path with the US government as a translator. She

sensimag.com JULY 2018 33

, Oh Canna(da) Is our neighbor to the north poised to surpass us as the leading cannabis nation?

by LEL AND RUCKER

34 JULY 2018 Las Vegas

,

It’s happening. OUR NORTHERN NEIGHBOR

HAS

PASSED LEGISLATION THAT WILL ALLOW CANNABIS TO BE PURCHASED LEGALLY BY ADULTS. WHEN THAT DAY ARRIVES, PROBABLY IN OCTOBER, CANADA WILL BECOME THE FIRST G-7 COUNTRY IN THE WORLD TO DO SO. WITH LESS THAN A TENTH OF THE POPULATION OF THE UNITED STATES, CANADA IS LEVERAGING ITSELF TO

become a major player

IN THE INTERNATIONAL CANNABIS LANDSCAPE.

Nine American states and the District of Columbia have legalized, or at least decriminalized, cannabis possession and use, and 29 have some kind of medical program. But the big difference here is that Canada is attacking legalization at a national level, says Dan Nelson, who watches financial trends as CEO of Wikileaf, a popular Canadian online guide to cannabis news, information, and prices. “This removes the vast amount of ambiguity around the market which you see practically everywhere in the States as they roll things out, with each state setting its own rules and framework.”

Since they are free to export product to any country with which Canada does business, Canadian companies are signing deals to export their cannabis and beat America to the global market. Germany, for instance, which legalized medical marijuana in March last year but has faced serious shortages of product ever since, has partnered with two large Canadian growers to supply its patients.

One of Canada’s largest medical producers, Aurora Cannabis, agreed in May to buy MedReleaf, the third-largest cannabis producer, pushing Aurora’s marketing value to more than $7 billion, with the ability to grow pot on more than a million acres of farmland. That valuation is slightly larger than Canopy Growth, Canada’s second-largest producer, which has filed to be listed on the New York Stock Exchange, making it the first pot stock to do so.

PreveCeutical Medical Inc., a Vancouver-based health company working on preventative medicines using plant-based products, has partnered with an Australian company to provide cannabis for its medical cannabis research. CEO Stephen Van Deventer says he would like to work with American companies, but it’s still too risky. “Even though a state might be legitimate, federal laws are illegal, and until federal law changes, there’s no point in taking those risks.”

American businesses, facing regulatory hurdles and limitations on outside investment, are now looking to be listed on the Canadian stock markets. Investors, perhaps hoping to latch on to what might become the Amazon or Google of cannabis, are buying stocks at a healthy pace. Even Canadian beer companies, fearful of the effects of cannabis legalization on their business, are investing in cannabis companies to hedge their bets.

Nelson adds that the situation offers Canada a unique opportunity to become a major player in a multibillion-dollar industry, something few Casensimag.com JULY 2018 35

nadians could have dreamed even a few years ago. “In the

ized lettering with little use of color and have no “brand ele-

past, Canada has tended to play little brother to the US on

ments,” celebrity endorsements, or testimonials.

most major industries,” he says. “But we’re already seeing a

The bill allows any adult to purchase cannabis and possess

lot of this kind of leadership in Canada begin to take shape.”

up to 30 grams (slightly more than an ounce) in public. People

“It’s such an interesting time,” says Sarah Bain of Nesta, a

will be able to choose from flower and cannabis oil products,

private equity firm that works with Canadian cannabis com-

but there will be no edibles for the time being. Most distribu-

panies. “Historically, when there are major industries, Canada

tion will be under the jurisdiction of the individual provinces’

is rarely at the front,” she says. “Mining is one. But we’re usu-

liquor boards. Unlike US states, which impose hefty excise

ally the cousins of the United States and Europe. Now we’re

and sales taxes, Canada plans to keep the rates even lower

being invited to invest and talk to other countries.”

than it does on alcohol. The bill imposes strict national penal-

Marijuana legalization was a cornerstone of the 2015 cam-

ties for driving under the influence and purchasing for minors.

paign of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his Liberal Party.

Beyond that, as provinces begin to release their own rules,

Polling over the years indicated that Canadians have favored

there seems to be as much variance as in US states. Alberta and

legalization, but Trudeau was the first politician to tap into

Quebec, for instance, will allow sales to 18-year-olds, but the rest

that support, endorsing legalizing personal use of cannabis

have set 19 as the age limit. Quebec and Manitoba banned home

for adults throughout his campaign. He made good on his

grows, but the other provinces will allow a four-plant per person

promise by introducing Bill C-45, titled simply “Cannabis

limit. Only the Northwest Territories has said no to online sales.

Act,” into Parliament on April 13, 2017.

British Columbia, which includes Vancouver, will license

The reasoning behind the Cannabis Act is outlined suc-

sales through government-run liquor stores and private re-

cinctly in its own straightforward language. “The objectives

tailers. Vancouver already has an existing “gray market,”

of the act are to prevent young persons from accessing can-

with about a hundred “medical clinics” around the city with

nabis, to protect public health and public safety by estab-

loose rules where adults can get good weed at low prices with

lishing strict product safety and product quality require-

no questions asked. “It’s essentially like having a bootleg bar

ments and to deter criminal activity by imposing serious

without a peephole to get in during Prohibition,” says Leslie

criminal penalties for those operating outside the legal

Bocskor, an American investor who recently returned from

framework. The act is also intended to reduce the burden on

that city. It’s not uncommon to encounter people smoking

the criminal justice system in relation to cannabis.”

joints while walking the streets. Residents there fear that

The Cannabis Act was passed by the House of Commons in the spring, and despite opposition from some Na-

these shops will be closed and replaced by higher-priced legal cannabis outlets.

tive American groups and still-reluctant lawmakers call-

In Newfoundland, grow facility Tweed will be able to sell di-

ing for a delay, the Senate passed the bill in June. The way

rectly from its location in Smith Falls, Ontario. Loblaws, one of

it’s set up, the government will supply all cannabis

the country’s largest supermarket chains, will be allowed to sell

through licensed growers, and leave sales, distribution

recreational cannabis over the counter at 10 of their locations in

and personal-use regulations to the 10 individual provinc-

Newfoundland and Labrador. Some provinces will allow tobac-

es and three territories, which are similar to our states.

co and coffee shops to apply for retail licenses; others won’t.

The country got a head start by allowing medical canna-

Legalization is going to look a lot different than it does here.

bis nationwide beginning in 2001. The medical system today

Derek Riedle distinctly remembers the time when his think-

is robust, with more than 200,000 current patients, all who

ing began to evolve about the possibilities for the Canadian

get their medicine by mail through the National Post. “As a

cannabis market. It was Nov. 8, 2016. “That night, as the New

Canadian patient, I can sit in Toronto, buy from a cultivator

York Times electoral college meter started to tip toward the red

in Vancouver, pick online what I want and have it mailed to

states and Donald Trump, we started getting calls from Ameri-

my house,” says Canadian George Naumovski, who now

can investors who were beginning to get nervous,” he explains.

lives in and operates two dispensaries in Illinois. “Going

“Jeff Sessions hadn’t been chosen but was already being touted

across state lines is not an issue.”

as attorney general. That alone started causing panic.”

To establish product safety and restrict access to children,

Riedle, who runs Civilized, a website and company with an

the government has imposed stern limits on advertising and

emphasis on adults who use cannabis as part of their life-

branding—strict enough that a Bloomberg headline sniffed

style, said he, like many Canadians, was envious when Amer-

that it will “take the fun out of legal weed.” That’s not much of

ican states began legalizing in 2012. “It was fascinating that

an exaggeration. Every product label has to display health

there were states that were to the left of Canada, and that

warnings much like those on cigarette packs, follow standard-

didn’t sit right with us. And then it completely flipped,” he

36 JULY 2018 Las Vegas

“Historically, when there are major industries, Canada is rarely at the front… Now we’re being invited to invest and talk to other countries.”

—SARAH BAIN, NESTA

says. “We all anticipated a Clinton presidency, and chaos ensued after Trump and Sessions took power. They absolutely squandered what good will the United States had.”

Nobody will argue, at least for the near future, that Canada, and Toronto’s Bay Street (its equivalent to Wall Street), will become the center of the international cannabis financial markets. The earliest the United States is likely to even consider legalizing cannabis nationwide is after the 2020 presidential election, which gives Canada even more time to grow its presence. “Because of our treatment of cannabis at the federal level and our market not opening up, I bet you we’ve given that up,” says Bob Hoban, a Denver lawyer whose firm works with cannabis companies worldwide. “The center of the cannabis financial world is now Toronto and always will be.”

But there are caveats. The Canadian markets are flooded with cash, but now all those well-funded companies have to ramp up and perform on a global scale, some of them for the first time. “The guys up there have raised a lot of capital, and they have huge facilities, with millions of square feet to grow,” says Naumovski. “Now they have to execute, to grow and process quality product. There are a lot of factors.”

Bocskor, who lives in Las Vegas, has been watching Canada’s growth carefully. He admits there’s still plenty of money to be made. “The market is chugging, and the regulatory

sensimag.com JULY 2018 37

framework functioning,” he says. “Growth is positive.

The overall experience is excellent.”

But he sees ambiguity in Canada’s rollout, too. For instance, how the government is handling—or not handling—the Vancouver “gray market” gives him pause. “That tells me that

nia market is just getting started, and it could eclipse Cana-

there’s a problem there,” he says. “It’s not bad that it’s unregu-

da and other legal US states as it matures.

lated. But it shows a cognitive dissonance between the mes-

When federal legalization happens here and the US mar-

sage coming from the government and what’s happening on

kets open up, the balance of power could shift as quickly and

the ground in Vancouver. It’s a disconnect, and people are

dramatically as it has in the last couple of years. “It’s a great

paying attention to it.”

win for Canada, in terms of this point in time,” Bocskor says.

And there’s California to consider. Canada has about two

“I really hope they can meet all their goals and deadlines. But

million less people than California, a state which allows

it’s a heavier lift than they thought it was going to be. What I

outside investment and is seeing more interest, even from

want to make sure that people understand is that soon

Canadian companies, since it legalized Jan. 1. The Califor-

enough, the US market will be the only game in town.”

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Go Ask Alice

A Super Troopers Hater’s Guide to Stoner Movies,

by ROBYN GRIGGS LAWRENCE

40 JULY 2018 Las Vegas

"You shouldn' t be allowed to write about stoner movies," SAID MY FRIEND AND FORMER ROOMMATE AFTER I TRIED—AND FAILED—TO WATCH SUPER TROOPERS WITH HIM, WHICH ISN’T EVEN FAIR. I NEVER JUDGED HIM FOR THINKING BULLETPROOF PENIS CUPS, CHEEKY SHENANIGANS, AND BEAR BUGGERS WERE FUNNY. (OR MAYBE I DID, A LITTLE.) And he’s probably right. I haven’t liked stoner movies since I went with a date to see Cheech and Chong’s Nice Dreams in high school, which went about as well as Super Troopers did with my roomie. I mean, I laughed with everyone else when we played Cheech and Chong’s “Sister Mary Elephant” record back in junior high (we could recite all the lines, even), but all I could think about during Nice Dreams was how much I hated being harassed by guys like those two.

My date thought the film was hilarious. The last thing he was interested in was my feminist take on it—and, after that, me.

He was cute. I might hold a little grudge against the genre.

I’m a nerd. A snob. Too critical for my own good. Never able to let loose and have fun. Friends, boyfriends, husbands, and my kids told me this every time I refused to watch another version of a maniacal journey involving super-stoned guys who won’t grow up, but whom we’re supposed to find lovable, sometimes involving a nudgey hot girl who disapproves of their copious weed smoking, and always riding on jokes involving dicks and scatological functions along with a few good chase scenes (preferably involving cops).

Those flicks aren’t my jam. I can’t let my brain rot through Dazed &

Confused when it could be getting lost in Carl Sagan’s fascinating original docu-series Cosmos or Akira Kurosawa’s mesmerizing magical realism film Dreams, or watching my all-time favorite movie, The

Graduate, which I do every year, religiously.

OK. I could lighten up.

But I can’t be the only person who loves to get high and watch a film that expands my mind, even frivolously, and represents cannabis with dignity, without Seth Rogan or references to God’s vagina.

sensimag.com JULY 2018 41

Raising the Whole Standard of a Nation

from having sexual relations with white people in mov-

In 1930, the Motion Picture Producers and Distributors

ies, have gotten even less screen time, and respect, than

of America laid down the Hays Code, censoring every-

cannabis has in cinematic history.)

thing from sex to profanity to drug and alcohol use in

As these things tend to go, real self-enforcement didn’t

movies because “entertainment and art are important in-

kick in until public pressure forced the industry’s hand.

fluences in the life of a nation.”

In 1934, Shirley Temple, “America’s sweetheart,” replaced

The code was enacted out of duress, after Hollywood

Mae West, “the sweetheart of Sigma Chi,” as Hollywood’s

scandals on and off screen drew the ire of religious and

box-office darling. For the next couple of decades, direc-

temperance groups with names like Legion of Decency.

tors and producers insinuated and teased, but, for the

Censorship had become a cumbersome states’ rights is-

most part, followed the rules.

sue, with some states banning D.W. Griffith’s Birth of a

Nation for its obscene racism and others declaring Mar-

Married couples slept in separate beds. Adulterous women were punished. Movie stars didn’t do drugs.

garet Sanger’s Birth Control an offense to public decency.

To avoid federal oversight, which appeared imminent,

1968: The Year of the Stoner Film

the MPPDA drafted a Jesuit priest and an industry jour-

Fifty years ago this year, the Hays Code was officially

nalist to write a set of moralizing self-regulations, based

rescinded and replaced with the MPAA film rating sys-

on Catholic theology, to help the industry represent “cor-

tem (G for general audiences, M for mature content, R for

rect standards of life.”

restricted, and X for sexually explicit). Movies got fun

“Correct entertainment raises the whole standard of a

again—really, really fun. X-rated Midnight Cowboy won

nation,” the code stated. “Wrong entertainment lowers

the Oscar for Best Picture in 1969 … and then there was

the whole living conditions and moral ideals of a race.”

1970’s Beyond the Valley of the Dolls (I blush).

(Which race the code was referring to is clear in the

Enforcement of the Hays Code had been unraveling

all-whiteness of my own favorite films. People of color,

throughout the 1960s, but Mrs. Robinson was still pretty

shut out of Hollywood and prohibited by the Hays Code

edgy when I was 3 years old in 1967, watching The Graduate

This Nerd’s Top 5 Stoner Movies (post-1968) Annie Hall (1977)

Diane Keaton was the first leading lady I ever saw smoke weed. It still didn’t make Woody Allen tolerable, but my love for her made me love this film.

9 to 5 (1980) Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, and Dolly Parton smoking weed in the “Just Say No” ‘80s is just too good, and their #metoo message was decades before its time.

The Breakfast Club (1985) I made my kids watch this at way too early an age. It’s still painfully relevant. Can’t we all smoke weed and get along?

42 JULY 2018 Las Vegas

Almost Famous (2000) This movie came out when my kids were in preschool.

I wanted to be spliff-smoking Penny Lane so bad that I ran out and bought a version of that coat. I still feel like a badass when I wear it.

Rolling Papers (2015)

What self-respecting nerd doesn’t include a documentary? This one covers the birth of an industry in a fun, lighthearted way.

on the drive-in screen from the back seat of the station

sense of the weird places consciousness reached that

wagon while my parents drank martinis in front. (Don’t

year. (Not that I’ve done this or anything, kids.)

judge. I think all of that might have been legal back then.)

Without the girdle of the Hays Code, celluloid psyche-

Mad Men, on Edibles, with Sitar

delia exploded. Cannabis, and a lot of other drugs, landed

Because I wrote a cannabis cookbook and am just fin-

firmly in the American cinemascape as both muse and

ishing up writing a history of cannabis food (once a

new-age plot hook. The stoner movie was born.

nerd, always a nerd), my favorite 1968 stoner movie is I

There was The Beatles’ fantastical animated Yellow

Love You, Alice B. Toklas, the film that put the pot

Submarine, which Beat writer Ken Kesey said “looks bet-

brownie on the map. It was the first major motion pic-

ter stoned, but that’s true of all movies,” and 2001: A Space

ture to make cannabis an integral part of the plot—the

Odyssey, the sci-fi classic that spawned conspiracy the-

first stoner movie.

ories about Stanley Kubrick faking the moon landing and

I Love You, Alice B. Toklas, with its breezy, sitar-laden

the first movie to be marketed directly to a new and

soundtrack and campy hippie jokes, was considered

quickly expanding stoner class.

something of a lightweight in the year of Yellow Subma-

Both movies were celebrated with special 50th-anni-

rine and Head, but I like it. It has exchanges like this one

versary releases in theaters across the country this year,

(and I know my deep nerd is showing):

but they were hardly alone in emancipating drugs and

Nancy: Beautiful. Is that Ginsberg?

consciousness on the big screen during that banner year

Guru: No, Tennyson.

between the Summer of Love and Woodstock, and the films played to appreciative audiences.

In the film, Peter Sellers plays Harold Fine, a dissatisfied L.A. lawyer who leaves his shrewish secretary-fian-

If you’ve ever eaten a mega-dose of cannabis-infused

cée (because why else did women become secretaries?)

chocolate mousse, which is kind of like eating acid, and

Joyce for dreamy flower girl Nancy after eating “groovy”

watched The Monkees’ Head or Walt Disney’s Alice in

brownies, which Nancy says were made from a recipe in

Wonderland, both released in 1968, you get a pretty good

Toklas’s “freaky” cookbook.

sensimag.com JULY 2018 43

(They weren’t, and the recipe for improperly named “Haschich Fudge” that made Toklas’s 1954 cookbook famous was actually for majoun, a Moroccan confection made from dates, figs, nuts, and cannabis that Toklas’s friend, Beat artist and writer Brion Gysin, had learned to make while living as an expat in Morocco. But I’m talking over the movie.)

Harold shares the brownies with his parents, who laugh hysterically as his fiancée rips off his clothes and begs him to take her in a scene reminiscent of Reefer Madness.

(You’ve seen that one, right?)

The brownie trip changes Harold’s life. He leaves Joyce at the altar, grows his hair long (seemingly overnight), lives for a while with Nancy in his car, then moves back home and gets annoyed about her friends and free love, gets back together with Joyce, and leaves her at the altar again. The movie ends with Harold running out of the synagogue, yelling that there’s got to be something beautiful out there.

I’m a sucker for movies that end with people running from the altar, I get it. But I Love You, Alice B. Toklas made me think, about what the world was like 50 years ago and what it’s like today. About whether or not there really is something beautiful out there, and what it might be.

That, to me, is what a great stoner flick is all about.

44 JULY 2018 Las Vegas

sensimag.com JULY 2018 45

PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

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Cryptocurrency Revolution MONEY TRANSFORMS FROM PAPER AND COIN TO DIGITAL.

by Frank Staber

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A person thinking of investing in Bitcoins or any of

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before deciding on the value of the coins. Information

ing civilization into a future never imagined before by

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courses are available on cryptocurrencies and Blockchain

Bitcoin is classified as a digital asset and is more com-

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monly referred to as digital currency, or cryptocurrency.

and pizza. In 2010, a developer made the first purchase

Every time Bitcoins are bought, sold, traded, or used for

with Bitcoin, buying two pizzas for 10,000 Bitcoins (worth

purchases, those transactions are recorded on the com-

about $30 at the time). Those same Bitcoins today are

puter ledgers known as the Blockchain. A new transac-

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tion is added to a block about every 10 minutes through

Some of the most significant changes will be seen in

the efforts of “miners” verifying the transactions. Control of

the retail industry. Already, there are hundreds of on-

the recording of transactions is decentralized. There is no

line stores that accept Bitcoin or other alternative coins

one entity such as a bank or government agency having

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tied into their Bitcoin wallet and use their coins to pay

Since the startup of Bitcoin, many new digital coins

for products or services anywhere credit cards are ac-

have appeared. In fact, 1565 different coins are now list-

cepted. Soon, Bitcoin ATMs will be found in retail and

ed on the market. Collectively, these coins are known

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as altcoins. Some of the popular altcoins are Ether

to obtain Bitcoins. The gaming, travel, and entertainment industries are also seeing the benefits of using cryptocurrencies. People can visit casinos, buy airline tickets, make hotel reservations, and attend concerts and sporting events using Bitcoins.

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the

© PHOTOGRAPHY BY TONYA HARVEY

SCENE

LAS VEGAS T E A T I M E

Outrageous hats and colorful characters popped up during the Cure 4 The Kids Foundation’s third annual Mad Hatter’s Tea Party. Based on the Lewis Carroll classic story, Alice in Wonderland, the event benefited StoryBook Homes Long-Term Follow-Up Clinic for childhood cancer survivors.

48 JULY 2018 Las Vegas

What: Mad Hatter’s Tea Party Where: Roseman University When: June 9, 2018

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{HereWeGo}

by D E B B I E H A L L

A Bygone Era

El Rancho Vegas Hotel was the first hotel and casino resort to call Highway 91 home in 1941. This western-themed resort set the stage for what is now one of the most glamorous roadways in the world: The Las Vegas Strip. With a “come as you are” attitude, El Rancho was the place you wanted to be. With scheduled shows, specialty acts, and a pool designed to intrigue anyone who wanted to enjoy the best parts of life, it was one girl with big dreams that would end up leaving an indelible mark on the city.

Coming to Las Vegas to dance in a two-week show, Nancy Williams Baker performed alongside seven other girls in what would lovingly become known as the Dice Girls. With performers like Lena Horne and comedic vaudeville acts, she fell in love with the city and the life. Two weeks turned into a lifetime here in Las Vegas, and her legacy is one to applaud. Opening the theatrical 50 JULY 2018 Las Vegas

shop, Williams Costume Co. in the 1950s, Baker created a hub where performers would go for costuming, unique beads, headdresses, fabrics, feathers, wigs, makeup, you name it! Everything anyone needed to be a showstopper was there.

As a huge part of Las Vegas’ humble beginnings, Baker became the face everyone would come to know and love. In honor of her start, Baker commissioned a mural to adorn the exterior walls of the store. The mural of the Dice Girls, including a depiction of Baker herself, embodies the spirit of Vegas’ past. That mural is now a famous fixture on the famed arts district on 3rd Street. Even though Baker passed away last year at the age of 86, her legacy continues to remind anyone who comes here what life used to be when the Strip was just a stretch of highway.

PHOTO BY DEBBIE HALL

El Rancho’s Dice Girls Mural symbolizes a Vegas dream come true.

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