Sensi Magazine - Los Angeles (July 2019)

LOS ANGELES

F U L LY System of A Down’s Serj Tankian talks music, coffee, and art SIGHTS ON SONOMA

Adventure for everyone— vegans included

GET REAL

Navigating the cannabis terrain

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7.2019

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4 JULY 2019 Los Angeles

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6 JULY 2019 Los Angeles

ISSUE 7 //VOLUME 2 //7.2019

FEATURES 20 Taking it Indoors

Design your own indoor cannabis garden.

32 The Lion’s Den

Maneuvering through the chaos, armed with knowledge and curiosity.

40 The Year of the Edible

Experts expect infused food and drinks to rule the pot market in the 2020s.

COFFEE TALK with Serj Tankian

17

SUMMER SIPS Stay cool and hot all at once

28

every issue 9 Editor’s Note 11 The Buzz 17 HomeMade

HOT + SALTY

24 TravelWell

DALLAS DEEP

28 HighProfile

CREATIVE + CAFFEINATED

50 HereWeGo

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA DOING IT UP

Sensi magazine is published monthly by Sensi Media Group LLC. © 2019 SENSI MEDIA GROUP LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

ON THE COVER Original photo of System Of A Down’s Serj Tankian

by Greg Watermann. Image enhancements by Josh Clark

sensimag.com JULY 2019 7

sensi magazine ISSUE 7 / VOLUME 2 / 7.2019

EXECUTIVE FOLLOW US

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

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

Alex Martinez alex@sensimag.com CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER

EDITORIAL sensimediagroup

Stephanie Wilson stephanie@sensimag.com EDITOR IN CHIEF

Dawn Garcia dawn.garcia@sensimag.com

MANAGING EDITOR, SENSI SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Leland Rucker leland.rucker@sensimag.com SENIOR EDITOR

Robyn Griggs Lawrence CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Eli Dupin, AJ Herrington CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

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A RT & D E S I G N Jamie Ezra Mark jamie@emagency.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR

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BUSINESS & A D M I N I S T R AT I V E Kristan Toth kristan.toth@sensimag.com HEAD OF PEOPLE

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M E D I A PA RT N E R S Marijuana Business Daily Minority Cannabis Business Association National Cannabis Industry Association Students for Sensible Drug Policy

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editor’s

SUMMER!

NOTE

As tantalizing as the latest trends

can seem,

life these days is more about being in the moment. The notion of sipping a well-made cup of coffee, traveling as much as we can, spending time outdoors, or basking in the home stretch of summer months—that can be just the right amount of “enough”.

This month begins with a bang. Literally. And as our nation gathers to celebrate independence—which, these days, is a little less liberating with every news story that trickles out—we seek out the best fireworks in the hopes that someone still carries a few childhood favorites. We celebrate the basics: family, friends, the creative spirit, and the wealth of opportunity this glorious city offers.

In this issue I talk to one of my music icons, Serj Tankian from System Of A Down. In a revolutionary era of music hitting the radio waves, along with bands like Soundgarden, Nirvana, Rage Against the Machine, Primus, and Fishbone, System Of A Down changed the way music moved us. Tankian has recorded with other artists, scored music for film, and has a musical range beyond hardcore rock. He is a passionate, aware, talented, purposeful singer, songwriter, activist, and artist, who also happens to have recently co-founded a divine new coffee company called Kavat with his friend Ari Anjounian.

Along with music, a little wanderlust is another pivotal way I revive myself when I need a jolt. I took an opportunity to travel to Texas with my best friend and discovered two art hubs in Dallas that took me by surprise. From street art, commissioned murals, and brisket so good I ate a whole slab with no apology, I got a taste of some real southern hospitality.

As you turn the pages of this issue, I hope you’re inspired to

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get out, visit the people you love and miss, get happily glutton-

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ous, finally start your own grow garden, and dare to be bolder than the month before. As they say, this isn’t a dress rehearsal.

Live bigger and get inspired because in the end, that’s the hottest thing you’re going to come across: a life well-lived.

Be brave and bold,

Dawn Garcia

M ANAG I NG E D I TO R

SENSI SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

sensimag.com JULY 2019 9

10 JULY 2019 Los Angeles

POPUP ANYONE?

Get Your Comic-Con On

Heroes & Villains: A Pop-Up Group Art Exhibition. // Tuesday, June 16 // 7 p.m. to midnight It’s an age-old adage; heroes and villains are two of our favorite things. Throughout the decades, we’ve flocked to comic book stores and theaters to watch tentpole blockbusters with robust excitement to surmise a world where these heroes and villains could be real. Now, thanks to the immortalization of our favorite heroes and villains represented at the world-renowned Comic-Con, access to modern-day takes on old-school art takes the love of dystopia to an all-new level. At the event, hosted

by Thumbprint Gallery, you can stuff your face with pizza and beer while digesting some pretty spectacular contemporary culture, a touch of nostalgia, urban art, and pop surrealism by Aaron Summers, Dom Wallflower, Juan Gonzalez, Karl Cossio, Mike Saavedra, Shaena Polly, Vincent Alvendia, and more.

–Dawn Garcia

The event is free, open to the public, and all ages before 9:30 p.m. For more Comic-Con events, check out SDCCBLOG.COM/EVENTS-CALENDAR .

WonderWorld Pop-Up

A chance to steep yourself in dreams. // July 18–29 // 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Leaving its rabbit hole wonderland adventure in New York, the WonderWorld pop-up is coming to Los Angeles. At this exhibition that invites you to experience a place where fantasy meets reality, you can find a mushroom garden, splash in a bubble swimming pool, fly to the moon, steep in a giant teacup, and dare to dream, all on the famous Hollywood Boulevard. This is an event appropriate for the whole family. Cost varies based on location and donations are encouraged. To find out where the pop-up will be each day, visit FACEBOOK.COM/WONDERWORLDSPACE .

–DG Share your experience on Instagram: @WonderWorldSpace #MyWonder

sensimag.com JULY 2019 11

Independence Day Block Party PARTY ON

Get your fireworks ready, because it’s that time again. // July 4 // 3 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Celebrating independence has never been more timely, so this month as we raise our sparklers and fly the red, white, and blue in the heart of Los Angeles, there is cause to rejoice. At Grand Park, there will be a Fourth of July celebration that brings the downtown community together with live music, entertainment, food, waterplay, and fireworks under the DTLA skyline. Next, come splash and play, feast and marvel for the block party of all block parties. There is a block party happening between Temple Street and Second Street that includes various food stands, entertainment, and fireworks you can watch on the rooftops. Check your local apps for what is happening, where and when.

–DG

Free admission to the public. There will be security checks at the various entry points. // JULY4.GRANDPARKLA.ORG // HAPPENINGINDTLA.COM

Feeling Warped Vans Warped Tour // July 20 + July 21 FLOWERING

Pasadena Bound

The World CBD Expo is coming to Pasadena. // August 16–18 // All day CBD has become a recognized healing agent, but with so much information out there, navigating through the sea of brands, doses, and more can be daunting. The World CBD Expo is a weekend-long event dedicated to CDB with presentations, seminars, and vendors that are experts in the field. The event is designed for buyers, entrepreneurs, professionals, and global consumers with a curiosity to learn as much as they can about the intricacies, benefits, and uses of CBD. Visitors can expect product demos, education booths, brand-building opportunities, access to some of the best products on the market, and to be among like-minded individuals.

–DG TICKETS: $30–$100, day passes available for public and business professionals. // WORLDCBDEXPO.COM 12 JULY 2019 Los Angeles

Vans shoes symbolize three things: Surfing, skateboarding, and the Warped Tour. This month they’re back celebrating 25 years of kickass music with a lineup that will make every fan mosh for joy. Featuring All American Rejects, Fishbone, Bad Religion, Good Charlotte, The Offspring, Ozomatli, Skating Polly, The Vandals, We The Kings and more, this year’s weekend of rage is going to be one for the books. On premise, there will be the notorious Vans skate ramp for skaters to ollie on, a freestyle moto cross track, wrestling, the Warped Museum, and if they give it the greenlight (TBA the week of), you can donate blood for the American Red Cross on-site for a trip backstage. The event partners with some notable organizations doing good in the world such as A Voice for the Innocent (AVFTI.ORG), Amnesty International, Beyond Meat, and Blackcraft so even though you’ll be at the music fest of all music fests, you can rest easy knowing while you feed your music and X-games-like needs, you’re making a difference.

TICKETS $70–$150 // VANSWARPEDTOUR.COM

–DG

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S TAG E + S O U N D

Phantom Love + Breaking Barriers

Three classic musicals return to the Hollywood Stage. // July 1-14 // Times vary.

New York isn’t the only city with theatrical prowess anymore. This year the Hollywood Pantages Theatre has joined forces with several of the most popular Broadway shows of all time. This month, theatergoers are treated to performances of The Phantom of the Opera, Rent, and Miss Saigon. Located in the historic theatre that has been home to legendary performers, the streak continues with The Phantom of the Opera, made bigger and better thanks to director Laurence Connor and the brilliant scenic design of Paul Brown and Tony Award-winning lighting designer Paule Constable and Tony Award-winning costume designer Maria Björnson in a critically acclaimed limited run. The second performance of the month, Rent, tackles AIDS, love, creativity, and friendships in a modern reimagining of Puccini’s La Bohéme—and one you don’t want to miss. The month rounds out with the illustrious love story of Kim, The Engineer, and her interlude with an American GI With one of the most memorable scores ever, Miss Saigon is a powerful display of song, story, and beautiful set design.

–DG For ticketing information, visit HOLLYWOODPANTAGES.COM

Run For Cover

Presenting Sound and Fury Music Festival. // July 12 // 1:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Coming together to get the angst out, Sound and Fury is all about tapping into social activism while listening to some seriously fury-filled music.

For two days in downtown, the Belasco Theater will be the center of your musical rage. Performers scheduled to attend are Antagonize, Basement, DARE, Diztord, Fury, Have Heart, Three Knee Deep, Despise You, Fiddlehead, Never Ending Game, Power Trip, and many more. Get ready to thrash, mosh, and scream because this is a music fest to get the frustration out.

–DG Belasco Theater // 1050 South Hill St. // DTLA // Tickets: $12–$109 (Day passes, single performances, after-show parties) // SOUNDANDFURY.LA 14 JULY 2019 Los Angeles

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This month, the Hollywood Bowl welcomes one of the greatest actors, entertainers, and human beings to the stage. Hugh Jackman is coming to Hollywood, and this time he’s singing and dancing, giving fans a chance to see him in all of his showman glory. There is so much more to this performer—known for his famous role as Logan, a.k.a. Wolverine—than sharp blades. Jackman will be accompanied by the LA Philharmonic, performing his hit songs from films such as The Greatest Showman, Les Misérables, and other Broadway and blockbuster tunes we all know and love.

–DG TICKETS: $69–$99 // HOLLYWOODBOWL.COM

Rock Your Body

Backstreet Boys are back, alright! // August 3 // 8 p.m.

This boy band formed in 1993 made girls swoon, raised eyebrow game awareness (thanks Kevin Richardson), and made grown men sport dance moves they didn’t know they were capable of. The Backstreet Boys made the ‘90s a decade to remember, and now they’re back for those of us who still think they’re cool. Bandmates Richardson, Brian Littrell, Howie Dorough, AJ McLean, and Nick Carter come together to perform at the Staples Center for an epic stroll down memory lane, and to perform hits from their new album DNA. –DG TICKETS: $125–$975 (insert OMG face) // TICKETMASTER.COM

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{homemade }

by DAW N G A R C I A

HOT + SALTY A spicy margarita for the ages—and perfect for summer.

Enjoying a good margarita on a hot summer day is a rite of passage, so when you kick up a basic margarita and swap out tequila for mezcal, and toss in a little fire? All I can say is, you’re welcome. Below is a look at a festive, party-ready margarita that will add a some spice to your summer parties, impress your most fancy of friends, and can also double as an adult slushy.

Note: The Salty Paloma (SALTYPALOMA.COM ) makes some incredible salt rimmers for under $10. It offers seven different salt and sugar flavors that will uplift any cocktail.

INGREDIENTS

• 2 oz Mezcal (I love small batch and Ilegal is a great alternative) • 3 oz Margarita mix (natural and low-sugar is best) • 1 oz fresh lime juice • 1 jalapeño chili, sliced into small rounds • 4-5 dashes smoked chili Hella Bitters • Spicy salt rimmer (I love Salty Paloma Fiesta or Dynamite) • 4 lime wedges (for garnish) INSTRUCTIONS STEP 1: Pour 1 tbsp of cocktail rimmer onto a plate.

STEP 2: Dampen rim of glass with a lime wedge and dip the

glass into the rimmer (the lime acts as a bonding agent so the rimmer will stick and not dissipate with condensation).

STEP 3: Add all ingredients and shake in a cocktail shaker until outside is too cold to hold (at least 20 shakes).

STEP 4: Add five jalapeño slices into shaker and shake for no more than 5 shakes.

STEP 5: Pour over whiskey cube in rimmed glass and enjoy!

TIP: When you blend the mix with an equal measure of ice, this becomes a tasty adult slushy. sensimag.com JULY 2019 17

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18 JULY 2019 Los Angeles

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Design your own indoor cannabis garden.

by A . J . H E R R I N G T O N

TAKING IT Cultivating quality cannabis ISN’T DIFFICULT. IF YOU’RE HOLDING ONTO ANY STEREOTYPES ABOUT “HOMEGROWN,” IT’S TIME TO LET THEM GO AND GET GARDENING. WITH A LITTLE

KNOWLEDGE, PREPARATION, AND EFFORT, YOU’LL SOON BE PRODUCING BUDS YOU’LL BE PROUD TO SHARE. If you’ve bought at a dispensary recently, you’ve un-

For your plants to flower successfully, you must be able

doubtedly noticed that legalization came with a price.

to stop any stray light from entering the space. If you’re

But Prop 64 also gives Californians the right to cultivate

not using a closet or small room you can exclude light

cannabis at home, affording us the opportunity to avoid

from, you can use a grow tent or other lightproof contain-

the costs—including taxes—of the retail market for bud.

er (you can find options between $60 and $200 on Am-

One of the first decisions to make is where to place your

azon). Grow tents usually come with the infrastructure

garden. Unless you live in one of the few jurisdictions that

needed to install lighting and ventilation, which simpli-

allows outdoor personal cultivation (check local regula-

fies garden setup.

tions), you’ll have to grow indoors or in a secure green-

A location near a water source and a convenient place

house. For most apartment dwellers and homeowners, a

to mix nutrients will make maintaining your garden much

greenhouse isn’t a viable option, but by dedicating a small

easier. You don’t want to be lugging buckets up a flight of

space in a closet or a portion of a garage or bedroom, you’ll

stairs. Be sure your floor is protected from spills by using

be able to set up an area perfectly suited for growing.

a waterproof barrier, if necessary.

20 JULY 2019 Los Angeles

INDOORS

If you’re holding onto any stereotypes about “homegrown,” it’s time to let them go and get gardening.

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PREPPING THE SPACE

Commercial Auto

Paint all walls flat white for maximum light reflection. For a continuous

Employee Benefits

supply of CO2 and to keep the garden cool, it should be well-ventilated with an

Licensing Bonds Commercial Property Crop Coverage

exhaust fan or two that provides fresh air from outside the space.

There are several different lighting options. Many home growers and commercial operations turn to LEDs for their efficiency and cooler temperature. You can still use high-pressure sodium and metal halide lights, but you may need to in-

Professional Liability

crease ventilation or use air-cooled reflectors to keep your room from overheating.

Medical Malpractice

Be sure your electrical system is up to the task. As a rule, you don’t want to exceed

Employment Practices Liability

80 percent of an electrical circuit’s rated capacity—including lights and appliances already on the circuit. Consult an electrician to evaluate your system, and maybe also install your system if you aren’t confident in your skills. Improper equipment and overloaded circuits can have disastrous results. Don’t take chances.

Climate control for a home grow usually doesn’t require more than a steady supply of fresh air. Ideal relative humidity levels for cultivation range from 40 to 55 percent, and an indoor grow will rarely be much drier than that. But excessive moisture in the air can cause problems including mold and fungal infections, so

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increase ventilation if you’re consistently seeing levels higher than 60 percent.

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ROOM TO GROW Once you have your room set up, it’s time to move the plants in. The size of your grow room will dictate how large you can grow your plants. Once you switch plants from vegetative growth to the flowering period, you’re likely to see them grow another foot or more, so be sure not to wait too long to change light cycles.

Growing starts with design. While a productive garden can be achieved through trial and error, putting in some thought and planning will add to your enjoyment and productivity. Consult a reputable cannabis growing manual (Ed Rosenthal’s

Marijuana Grower’s Handbook is my personal favorite), your local hydroponics store, or online sources for more detailed information. Happy gardening!

22 JULY 2019 Los Angeles

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{travelwell}

by DAW N G A R C I A

GRAIN BOWL COURTESY OF SERVE. FOOD COURTESY OF TRIBAL

DALLAS DEEP Turns out this big city offers more than meets the eye.

Texas hasn’t always been high on my list of places to visit, and yet I’ve been to Houston, Galveston, Tiki Island, and Austin. Each city has its own appeal, but last month I headed to Dallas and explored parts of Texas I found to be districts including the Bishops Arts District and Deep Ellum, both warranting bragging rights for art and culture, global fare, and truly nice people.

Bishop Arts District is a tiny Dallas town, big on character, cuisine, and culture. In this distinct town located in the center of North Oak Cliff, Bishop Arts is home to 60 restaurants, boutique shops, coffee shops, bars, and independent art galleries. Sprinkled through an active neighborhood comprised of darling turn-of-the-century homes and modern remodels, you’ll find sweet stores, businesses, doctors and law offices, and a relaxed vibe. With the Dallas city skyline visible in the distance and the scare of tornados safely behind me, Bishops Arts District is its own self-contained artist’s haven. Staying in an Airbnb located on top of the local antique store aptly called Mantiques (DFWMANTIQUES.COM ), my journey began.

That night, I set out to explore the area with a friend who resides in the neighboring town of Corsicana. We walked by a house with a sign for “Tacos y Vino,” and decided the 24 JULY 2019 Los Angeles

LANDMARK’S EYE (LEFT) AND DEEP ELLUM TRAVELING MAN (LEFT) COURTESY OF VISIT DALLAS.

downright wonderful. Dallas is a city consisting of several

TIRES AND MURAL PHOTOS BY DAWN GARCIA

combo too endearing to pass up. The restaurant packed with patrons did not disappoint. I highly recommend dining at Oddfellows (ODDFELLOWSDALLAS.COM ) serving exquisite coffee, cocktails, and meat-eating and vegetarian-friendly fare; Veracruz serving killer margaritas, tacos, molé and enchiladas; and Tribal (LIVETRIBAL.COM ) serving fresh pressed juices and dishes with an emphasis on clean eating. The last stop on our culinary journey may be my

lighting fixtures, local art, and furnishings that lean

favorite. Serve (SERVE.HOUSE ) is a beautiful café serving

towards post-modernism with a contemporary flare. Do

vegan dishes, super foods, and hearty smoothies, but

make sure you step outside, where you will find cornhole,

it’s the design of the space that invites you into a world

hammocks, massive murals, green grass, and swooning

of creativity and tranquility. The space is marked by

music. Serve’s mantra is “where fast lives slow down,” and

intentional art with messages like “Do What You Love”,

it’s heavenly and blissful.

sprawling displays of greenery, authentic handmade

In addition to an impressive selection of restaurants and bars, the neighborhood’s quaint shops and art galleries are so interesting, you’ll realize you’ve spent hours in a state of discovery. Check out Fete-ish (@FETE_ISH ), which is curated with works by local artists, quirky novelty items, Texas strong paraphernalia, and goodies that will make your house smell nice, give you a hearty belly laugh, or tap into creative ways to tell someone to piss off. It’s a must-see.

STREET ART PHOTO BY DAWN GARCIA

sensimag.com JULY 2019 25

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The Deep Ellum that began in 1873 as a commercial region now serves as a hub where barbecue is a religion, murals sprawl nearly every wall, and nothing is off-limits.

resounding amen that I had the best barbecue I’ve ever had— and I mean even better than Franklin’s in Austin.

Pecan Lodge (PECANLODGE.COM ) serves up a brisket that PHOTO BY DAWN GARCIA

will have you seeing double rainbows it’s so damn good.

Buttery brisket through and through, you absolutely have to go. When you are in the mood for a swanky cocktail, go visit Stirr (STIRRDALLAS.COM ). The architecture of the building tells a tale, the decor is minimalist and luxurious, and while dining on the main floor is highly encouraged, I say start on the rooftop.

Bishops Arts District is also home to art galleries like Mercado369 (MERCADO369.COM ) featuring Latin American art and gifts; Mosaic Makers Collective (MOSAICMAKERS.CO ) featuring only female-designed goods; and Red Pegasus Comics (REDPEGASUSCOMICS.COM ) carrying rare comic books.

Deep Ellum’s history runs deep. Born in 1873, this area started out as a commercial and residential region but now serves as a hub where barbecue is a religion, murals sprawl nearly every wall, music is almost as ample as in Nashville, bars and eateries are in plenty, and nothing seems to be off limits, including four-dollar cups of free-flowing coffee. With a contrast of high-end restaurants and shops, to pubs and wa-

COCKTAIL PHOTO COURTESY OF SERVE

tering holes you can stop in for a quick brew, Deep Ellum is a stop you have to experience. This is also where I can say with a

The mixology program is inspired and the view is gorgeous, as is the artwork that varies from rooftop to entry. For a pick-meup, stop in to BuzzBrews (BUZZBREWS.COM ), where endless cups of coffee available in more than a dozen flavors will cost you just four bucks. When you’re feeling that need for a sweet bite, that’s where “fine pies for fine people” comes in—a.k.a.

Emporium Pies (EMPORIUMPIES.COM ). This local shop offers pies that are sweet or savory, and even gluten-free.

When night falls and good music calls, you have a lot of choices. At the el diablo-themed Ruins bar and nightclub (RUINS.BUSINESS.SITE ), the Limbo Room in the back is where it’s at. Other options include Curtain Club, Trees, and the Bomb Factory, but wherever you choose to spend your evening and your dollars, you’ll be supporting a good cause. Deep Ellum and Bishop Arts District are heavily involved in community projects, such as Foundation 45, which brings musicians, artist, and creatives together to support those affected by depression and suicide.

No matter where you go, Dallas has a lot to offer. These two pockets of artistry just happen to be the kind of places you should get lost in.

To get to know more about both locations, check out BISHOPARTSDISTRICT.COM and VISITDEEPELLUMTEXAS.COM.

sensimag.com JULY 2019 27

{highprofile }

by DAW N G A R C I A

CREATIVE + CAFFEINATED Getting personal with Serj Tankian.

You may know him as the front man behind the epic band

Down bandmates first heard their song “Sugar” flood the

System of A Down, but Serj Tankian (SERJTANKIAN.COM ) is

airwaves during Jed the Fish’s DJ show. This was during

so much more. Known for being an outspoken voice for

the early days of Lollapalooza when bands like System of A

the Armenian community, a human rights activist, a killer

Down, Nirvana, Alice in Chains, Rage Against the Machine,

songwriter and musician, Tankian is adding to his reper-

Soundgarden, Sublime, Pearl Jam, Red Hot Chili Peppers,

toire with his latest endeavors in art and coffee.

Beastie Boys, Run DMC, Alanis Morissette, and more got

While Tankian is on the road for both his music and art, I had the fortune of catching up with him to get personal

a Woodstock-worthy audience of rockers, moshers, rabble-rousers, and genuine die-hard fans.

about life, music, politics, and coffee. As his career start-

In other words, it was a damn good time to be introduced

ed at a time when grunge and rap were both considered

to a new era of music, one where millions of listeners

revolutionary, his band was among those that raised the

around the world felt like someone spoke their language.

music bar with a sound no one had ever heard and lyrics

“It was an amazing feeling and something I had looked

that dared to question authority. It was the harkening of a

forward to experiencing,” Tankian recalls. “I couldn’t be-

new era of sound that raised its voice and demanded more

lieve others beyond our friends and people around us may

of political and social leaders.

have heard the song.”

In the 1980s and 1990s, Los Angeles’ KROQ 106.7FM

When asked how his parents felt about him pursuing a

radio station was where Tankian and his System of A

music career, he says, “My father, being a musician who

28 JULY 2019 Los Angeles

Vahe Berberian (left) and Serj Tankian (right) enjoying Kavat Coffee.

sensimag.com JULY 2019 29

30 JULY 2019 Los Angeles

Clock Crucifixion—Mixed Media painting by Serj Tankian

Violent Violins—Archival Lithograph by Serj Tankian

“I’M GRATEFUL TO HAVE HAD THE OPPORTUNITY TO DO WHAT I LOVE FOR A LIVING. I DO MY BEST TO ALWAYS FOLLOW MY VISION AS AN ARTIST, ACTIVIST, AND PERSON.” —Serj Tankian

Disarming Time—Mixed Media painting by Serj Tankian

had chosen another career out of necessity, was very encouraging and gave me the confidence I’d need.”

Part of Tankian’s message derived from a deeply rooted sense of duty to empower the Armenian people, who had

Instrumental in a new generation of music, System of

been through a tragic genocide. That was when the activist

A Down shook things up. Not only was it a mainstream

nature in his blood became the driving force of his life’s mis-

Armenian-American band, it was a hardcore rock band

sion to represent and fight for human rights. “Culture is the

with a message. The band formed in 1994 with original

color and flavor that is part of everything one does if they’re

members Tankian, Daron Malakian, Shavo Obadjian, and

doing it honestly,” he says. “In my case, Armenian culture

Ontronik Khachaturian, later welcoming drummer John

brings this unique melancholy and valor to what I do.”

Dolmayan. It stands as one of the most pivotal bands of the late ‘90s.

Taking an active stance to ensure that the United States did its part to properly represent Armenians and their

Tankian now creates his own music and musical scores

history is what prompted a lifetime of advocacy. “The hy-

on films and television shows. “My friend, composer Bear

pocrisy of successive US administrations and sessions of

McCreary, and I have talked for years about working to-

Congress shying away from using the word ‘genocide’ to

gether on a score to a film and always keep in touch,” he

describe what happened to my ancestors for political cap-

says. “He called me one day with the idea of doing a cover

ital or economic expediency made me a lifetime activist

of the Blue Oyster Cult song ‘Godzilla’ for the new Godzilla

and a seeker of truth and justice in all fields,” he says.

film he was scoring. It was a very exciting prospect as we

Tankian and fellow musician and activist Tom Mo-

both loved the original song and knew the band had never

relo (Rage Against the Machine, Prophets of Rage)

allowed the Godzilla franchise to use the song until now.”

joined forces to launch their nonprofit, Axis of Justice sensimag.com JULY 2019 31

California region where Cannasafe offers full-service cannabis testing with 2-3 day rush turnaround The BCC won’t let us drive across water.

32 JULY 2019 Los Angeles

(AXISOFJUSTICE.NET ). By bringing about social justice

WHAT’S BREWING?

through grassroots measures—and music—Axis of Justice

A rapid-fire Q&A session with Serj Tankian.

is bringing about change. Tankian believes anyone willing to

What does the Kavat insignia mean?

Kavat means cup in Armenian. And it starts with the Armenian letter , which is what we’ve made into our logo.

fight for social justice should. “We’ve always said organize locally to impact globally,” he says. “It’s not so much about [people] helping Axis of Justice, but helping themselves connect to causes they believe in. There are millions of amazing nonprofits seeking help and talent. Pick any one of them.”

Tankian also believes that how we share messages and go about social change matters. He is working on a film called Truth To Power, which attempts to answer the question, “Can music change the world?”

“I would say music changes your heart, the heart changes the mind, the mind changes the world—in that order,”

Any chance of Kavat Coffee going brick-and-mortar?

We are developing relationships with sales and distribution partners to take Kavat into premium supermarkets, cafes, and restaurants. We will also be launching internationally—starting in Armenia.

Can we plan to see an LA art show anytime soon?

We’re looking into doing an exhibition and event at a few galleries in LA. It’s an area where I don’t have formal representation, so we’re looking into that as well.

Tankian says. “We have to be inspired to visualize a better world and to work hard to achieve it. We have been told that our work having to do with genocide awareness has had a strong impact on public awareness of the Armenian genocide in the West. That’s a positive example.”

When Tankian needs another creative release, he turns to the canvas. “I got into painting because I wanted to see what my music looked like,” he says. “All my paintings have an accompanying musical score, allowing for a deeper connection to the art itself through a multisensory experience. I have been influenced by many traditional and modern painters but ultimately my work is a physical manifestation of my music.”

tea at night, though sometimes I’ll have a decaf espresso.

The next endeavor for Tankian? Coffee. Kavat Coffee

That habit led us to developing a very delicious decaf—yes,

(KAVATCOFFEE.COM ) makes delicious, organic Armenian

decaf—that we will soon be launching at Kavat.”

coffee using organic beans hand-selected from Ethiopia.

When asked what his life’s journey has taught him, Tan-

“Ara [Anjounian] and I started Kavat Coffee to introduce

kian says, “It’s being creative in ways I have never been so

the rituals and culture of Armenian coffee to the world,” he

I can add to the art and help bring justice to the world—

says. “Sitting down with a pot of coffee for a chat has been

hopefully leaving this place better than I first saw it.”

a welcomed occasion in our family for years. My grand-

His most recent humanitarian call to action was his

mother would make a pot and sit down with my mom to

May Twitter challenge (@SERJTANKIAN ). Using hashtag

discuss family events and such. The aroma in the room,

#aznavour95, Tankian challenged fans to sing a few bars of

the banter, and accompanying sweets are a beautiful

their favorite Charles Aznavour song in support of the great

memory instilled in my consciousness.”

humanitarian work the Aznavour Foundation is doing.

With two premium lines, Kavat Coffee is now part of Tanki-

You can find Tankian these days making music, art, and

an’s daily ritual. “I usually begin my morning with a cup of our

coffee. “I am very grateful to have and to have had the

Kavat San Lazarro espresso and mix in a smidgen of heavy

opportunity to do what I love for a living since my 20s,”

whipping cream and brown sugar to start the day sweet,”

he says. “I’m always surprised by how excited others get

he says. “After lunch, I like to have a cup of Armenian coffee.

when I am excited about music, art, or coffee. I think as

Then midafternoon I usually have an espresso. I can’t sleep

long as what you do comes from the right place, that will

well if I have caffeine after 4 p.m., so I usually drink herbal

remain true. It’s worked for me so far.” sensimag.com JULY 2019 33

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sensimag.com JULY 2019 35

THE LION’S DEN

My experience maneuvering through the chaos, armed with knowledge and curiosity.

by DAW N G A R C I A

36 JULY 2019 Los Angeles

There’s a remarkable new world THAT SEEMS TO OOZE ALL AROUND US, BARRICADED IN POLITICAL CHAOS, SOCIETAL STRANGLEHOLDS, AND THE MANY WOES AND WHOAS THAT THAT ENCOMPASSES. THERE IS AN UNCERTAINTY OF LOVE AND LOYALTY AND A STRANGE POP CULTURE ON SOCIAL MEDIA THAT MASKS ITSELF IN WHAT WE ALL NOW REFER TO AS THE HIGHLIGHT REEL. It can feel like a cloud of anxiety and fabricated nar-

the plant, I have learned more than I ever imagined. The

cissism, but really, it’s merely a mirror and an antidotal

things I’ve learned—including the ways this plant can

questioning of everything. Whether it’s wrapping our

offer quality of life—I have learned by seeking out truth.

head around ever-changing policies, political fury, vacant

There are so many uses for cannabis. It would be won-

promises of a united nation, or trying to understand the

derful if brands and growers could make it easier for the

ins and outs of cannabis, our hands—and minds—are full.

general public to understand. For instance, most people

Yes, that age-old notion of hippies and societal humbug-

don’t know cannabis is being used to treat athletes—the

gers sitting around singing Kumbaya is the essence of what

heavy hitters, the ring wearers, the big-fancy-trophy-tot-

we need. The days of protests, raising our collective voices,

ing ones. As a topical and an ingestible, it sends a de-

and wondering what the hell we’re all doing is sounding

stress message to the muscles and joints that have been

louder than any other point in my lifetime—and I’m damn

drowning in far stronger and more addictive pain killers.

proud to be boots on the ground. Whether I volunteer in a

Cannabis deserves to be taken seriously—not merely

fight for equality, ask questions about our incredibly flawed

as a fun plant that enhances our euphoria, but as a gen-

medical system, or talk to dozens and dozens of strangers

uine plant that improves health and mental well-being

about their thoughts on the fight between Big Pharm and

and gives our bodies the balance they long for.

naturalists—opiates and cannabis—my eyes are open.

The opportunity to gain a more comprehensive can-

When I took on this role as managing editor, I had no

nabis education is priceless. Part of that education has

idea how complex the industry had become. I was unfa-

also led me to the realization that, while amazing, can-

miliar with the regulations, the financial hardships, the

nabis is more expensive than a top-shelf bourbon. That’s

jaded criminal justice system, and the cannabis entre-

another issue. While you can purchase flowers and pre-

preneurs who have to run business with employees all

rolls for a reasonable price, topicals, drops, and other

listed as independent contractors because economics

beneficial variations of the herb are costly.

haven’t caught up. I didn’t understand the difference

Wouldn’t it be lovely if healing could be affordable?

between seed and flower, oils and edibles, head high

Cannabis brand messaging could be more coherent, on-

and body high.

point, and representative of modern times? And how in-

Weed became complicated. Sometimes, I feel like I

credible would it be if the addictions of our nation and far

need some sort of cannabis PhD. And while I miss the

too many other nations to opioids were rendered nonex-

old days of smoking joints that didn’t make me think too

istent in the wake of cannabis accessibility? Sure, maybe

hard, I respect the journey the magical plant has taken

I’m asking for something that’s going to take decades to

over the decades. So much of the complexity and con-

happen, but that doesn’t make it any less necessary.

fusion surrounding cannabis stems from messaging.

In a world suffocating in uncertainty, chaos, and dis-

Brands still label themselves with tired views of weed,

placement, sometimes it feels like we’ve been tossed into

from reggae music fests and hacky sack to beanie-wear-

the lion’s den. It can be overwhelming, but perhaps can-

ing, environment-loving potheads when we know there

nabis is the call to betterment and the sense of communi-

is so much more to it than that. Those days don’t repre-

ty we’ve been longing for. So, instead of getting swallowed

sent the modern world.

whole by the placated social media highlight reel or al-

The truth—or at least my version of it—is that canna-

lowing that anxiety to fuel you, try exploring a little dose

bis messaging and cannabis accessibility shouldn’t be so

of nature. If nothing else, perhaps you’ll find this food for

conflicting. It’s not supposed to feel like rocket science

thought to be a small glimpse into a better existence.

(though in fairness, it could be used as rocket fuel). In my own journey since I started delving into the wonders of

Here’s to the kumbayaers, the rabble-rouser, and the curious dwellers. sensimag.com JULY 2019 37

38 JULY 2019 Los Angeles

ZERO CALS. ZERO CARBS. NO ALC. NO GLUTEN.

Hi-Fi Hops Cannabis-Infused Hoppy Sparkling Water.

Find it nearby: hifihops.com

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sensimag.com JULY 2019 39

As innovation in cannabis-infusion takes great leaps, most experts expect infused food and drinks to rule the pot market in the 2020s.

by R O BY N G R I G G S L AW R E N C E

YEAR OF THE

EDIBLE 40 JULY 2019 Los Angeles

Fed by the best minds IN RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY, INNOVATION IN CANNABISINFUSED FOOD AND BEVERAGES IS ENTERING A NEW ERA. BIG AG AND BIG FOOD ARE CIRCLING, DIPPING THEIR TOES IN, READY TO POUNCE AS SOON AS THE US GOVERNMENT LEGALIZES CANNABIS—A MATTER OF WHEN, NOT IF, THAT MANY BELIEVE COULD COME AS SOON AS THIS YEAR OR NEXT. Anheuser-Busch, Molson Coors Brewing Co., Mooseh-

effects. They’ve found a way to make fat-soluble cannabi-

ead, Coca-Cola, Diageo (maker of Smirnoff and Baileys),

noids into water-soluble powders and liquids so that in-

and Mondelēz International (maker of Oreos) have all

fusing anything is a simple matter of adding and stirring.

announced they’re looking into CBD- and THC-infused

And that’s just the beginning. Late last year, the Human

(mostly CBD) food and beverages. CVS and Walgreens

Genome Project, which provides source information for

are planning to sell CBD products in some states. Scotts

gene farming that transforms commercially and thera-

Miracle-Gro is buying up cannabis cultivation companies

peutically valuable segments of the human genetic code

and making moves into genetically modifying cannabis,

into agricultural products, mapped the cannabis genome,

while Monsanto—consistently voted the world’s most evil

opening the door to an even more sophisticated level of

corporation—was one of the first companies to establish

research on par with other economically lucrative crops.

offices in Uruguay after that country legalized adult use.

Citing a study showing that consumers don’t have any

Scientists who honed their skills at the world’s top food

problems with corporations considering cannabis-in-

and pharmaceutical corporations and research institu-

fused products, Nancy Whiteman, CEO of Colorado’s

tions have put their minds to the plant, figuring out how

leading edibles maker Wana Brands, told Paul Barron of

to break cannabis down to its components and put it back

The Barron Report podcast, “My working assumption is

together again to create consistent, measured, predictable

that every major company is looking at this.”

sensimag.com JULY 2019 41

42 JULY 2019 Los Angeles

Everyone does appear to be eyeing the edibles market,

Mainstream food growers and producers are making

especially since The Arcview Group published a head-

moves. British Columbia-based Village Farms—one of the

line-grabbing report predicting edibles sales would qua-

largest producers, marketers, and distributors of green-

druple in the US and Canada, to $4.1 billion, and global sales

house-grown produce in North America—has already

would reach $32 billion by 2022. They can’t help but notice

converted a large portion of its vegetable greenhouses to

that consumers are gobbling up newly legal CBD-infused ev-

cannabis, and Newstrike Brands is partnering with food

erything—including food and drinks—pushing predictions

company Neal Brothers to produce cannabis edibles.

that CBD sales in the US will hit $22 billion (up from $262 million in 2016) in 2022, according to the New York Times.

Edibles Winning in California

They also like what they see in edible consumer de-

Cannabis legalization in the world’s fifth-largest econ-

mographics. Primarily female with post-secondary ed-

omy and largest legal cannabis market has gotten off to

ucation and high incomes, these shoppers buy edibles

a rocky start as high taxes have forced far too many Cal-

the same way they do groceries, looking for items that

ifornians to hang onto their black-market dealers, but

satisfy their food preferences, tolerances, and flavor

that hasn’t stopped analysts from predicting that $5.1

profiles, according to research firm High Yield Insights.

billion of cannabis edibles would be sold in the state—ri-

These consumers like edibles because they’re discreet

valing the beer market—this year.

and offer longer, more intense highs and better pain and

“While the cultivation and concentrates markets are

anxiety relief than smoking, according to an RTI Interna-

getting most of the buzz, it’s the edibles market that rep-

tional study of cannabis users in legal states.

resents one of the strongest sectors for growth in the can-

Cannabis is taking its rightful place as an established

nabis space,” Investing News reports. “This market sector

and valuable functional food ingredient, and we haven’t

is driven in large part by new users and those focused on

seen anything yet. Sylvan Charlebois, dean of the Fac-

health and wellness who want a smoke-free cannabis ex-

ulty of Management and professor of agri-food distri-

perience. There are signs this consumer segment is al-

bution and policy at Dalhousie University, predicts that

ready flooding into the California cannabis market.”

within 10 years, 5 to 7 percent of all food sold in Canada will contain cannabis.

A number of events and evolutions have converged so that more and more of us will be snacking on CBD-infused gummies and sipping mocktails microdosed with THC in the 2020s.

Canada Opens Up Edibles Market Though Canada’s population pales in comparison to the US’s, the country of 30 million people is the first G-7 nation to legalize, and it’s attracting a lot of attention. The Canadian government kicked the complex undertaking of designing a regulatory system for edibles down the road until this month, and earlier this year it held a two-month public consultation period to help craft those regulations, which were expected to impose tight limitations on potency and packaging. Ignoring consumers’ clear preference for gummies (which make up a quarter of the edibles market in the US), Health Canada is promoting healthier edible options such as cannabis-infused kombucha and protein drinks.

Marijuana Policy Group co-founder Miles Light told

CBC News that edibles and non-flower products are the ultimate end-game for cannabis companies in Canada

A number of events and evolutions have converged so that more and more of us will be snacking on CBD-infused gummies and sipping mocktails microdosed with THC in the 2020s

because food is a friendlier niche for new, smaller companies than cannabis production, which is already dominated by a handful of mega-producers. sensimag.com JULY 2019 43

44 JULY 2019 Los Angeles

“People will never trust products that don’t deliver consistent experiences. We can take the plant components apart and put them back together, literally at will, to drive those experiences.”

—Jon Cooper, Ebbu

Better Eating Through Chemistry?

ing oils, and brewers such as Heineken-owned Lagunitas

A couple years ago, Jon Cooper, CEO of Colorado-based

are giving beer a dank edge by adding common cannabis

cannabis research company Ebbu—which industry gi-

terpenes pinene and myrcene. Terpenes were among the

ant Canopy Growth Corporation acquired last year as

most studied compounds last year, Analytical Cannabis

part of its efforts to build a collection of patented, stan-

reports, and that research is now shaping the industry

dardized products that deliver specific outcomes—told

as companies like Steep Hill Laboratories establish data-

me that trust, control, responsibility, and safety would be

bases of terpenes and their usefulness for growers.

the cannabis industry’s defining message as it evolved.

Synthetics—CBD and THC created in a lab from organic

“People will never trust products that don’t deliver con-

hosts such as yeast, sugar, or petroleum-based chemicals—

sistent experiences,” he said. “Big companies coming

will also play a big role. Hyasynth Bio, a Montreal-based

into this space will have no choice but to achieve that.”

startup recently acquired by Organigram Holdings, plans to

His prediction is proving to be prescient, and you can ex-

produce thousands of kilograms of CBD powder made from

pect to see more and more edibles designed to promote spe-

yeast for pharmaceuticals and packaged goods within two

cific effects such as relaxation, focus, energy, stress-relief,

years. (Organigram is investing heavily in edibles innova-

and sleep on cannabis store shelves. “We can take the plant

tion, including a $15 million fully automated production line

components apart and put them back together, literally at

that can produce 4 million kilograms of chocolate cannabis

will, to drive experiences,” Scott Riefler, vice president of sci-

edibles per year using advanced engineering and robotics.)

ence for cannabinoid company Tarukino, marveled during a “Smart Kitchen Summit” podcast sponsored by The Spoon.

David Kideckel, managing director and senior equity research analyst at investment firm AltaCorp Capital, told

Tarukino, Ebbu, and several other companies have de-

The Growth Op that the ability to make cannabinoids in

veloped processing techniques that emulsify cannabi-

bulk in a lab allows for more consistency in the produc-

noids into nano-size particles that dissolve into water and

tion of all cannabinoids and will open up a whole world

mix more easily into blood. These water-soluble concen-

beyond THC and CBD. “As soon as cannabis is descheduled

trates are game changers, making it a breeze for food and

as a controlled substance on a federal level in the United

beverage manufacturers to infuse products with dose- and

States, you’re going to start seeing research dollars pouring

effect-specific formulations of cannabinoids and terpenes.

in from Big Pharma and CPG [consumer packaged goods]

Terpenes are a big factor here, and they’ve become all

companies,” he predicts. “They’re going to work on figuring

the rage—expect to see more and more of them. Dispensaries and retail stores offer everything from terpene concentrates and vaping liquids to terpene-infused cook-

out the potential of every cannabinoid in the plant.”

ROBYN GRIGGS LAWRENCE is the author of the best-selling Cannabis Kitchen Cookbook and the newly released Pot in Pans: A History of Eating Cannabis.

sensimag.com JULY 2019 45

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{HereWeGo }

by DAW N G A R C I A

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA DOING IT UP Dance, drink, laugh, and eat to your heart’s content.

Sonoma County is expanding its portfolio of experiences

and have been rebuilding. Part of that rebuild is the reopening

this summer to bring travelers and locals alike the best eats,

of the Paradise Ridge Estate and the famed Wines and Sun-

entertainment, sips, and adventure. This month Sonoma wel-

sets series. Guests can expect a plethora of local wines by the

comes back wine nights, burger joints, public kitchens, cock-

bottle or the glass, live music, and local food trucks. For a full

tail bars, vegan wine tours, biking, hiking, art and picnicking.

look at what’s on the calendar, visit PRWINERY.COM.

The following experiences are limited to summer only.

Sonoma’s wine country and town center is a com-

Bartholomew Park (BARTHOLOMEWESTATE.COM), the gor-

munity-centered, artisan-lovers dream. Host to many

geous historical estate is inviting wine lovers to have a picnic,

award-winning restaurants, cider houses, artists, and be-

do a wine flight on an oak knoll, and take a 30-minute stroll

guiling landscapes, there is always something to see and do.

through the gorgeous lush vineyard. For those looking for a

SONOMACOUNTY.COM .

longer excursion, there is a three-mile trail to a windmill, duck pond, and wildflowers winding up to the Bay. For an exclusive tour in a Mercedes Sprinter Van, La Belle Vie offers a chance to see a local farm sanctuary with a range of rescued livestock, and then onto wine tasting at two local vegan wineries in the rolling green countryside and enjoy a gourmet vegan boxed-lunch. This tour is $130 per person from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (LABELLEVIETOURS.COM/VEGAN-WINE-TOURS ) The most interesting way to see Sonoma may very well be on bike. Ace It Bike Tours offers a four-to-five-hour cycling tour from Windsor to Santa Rosa with stops at chowder houses including Spud Point Crab Company. The cost is $135 per person.

ACEITBIKETOURS.COM/BIKE-TOURS .

Horseback riding and wine-tasting tours are also available during the sunset music series at the Ranch at Lake Sonoma (THERANCHATLAKESONOMA.COM ).

This past year, Sonoma was among the many California terrains ravaged by fire, but the community rallied together 50 JULY 2019 Los Angeles