Sensi Magazine - Los Angeles (October 2019)

LOS ANGELES

THE NEW NORMAL

10.2019

THE POWER OF FILM How transformative storytelling shapes a generation

Bohemia Freedom unleashed

New Rules

The difference of 0.3 percent

{plus}

CHANGE: IT’S A GOOD THING

sensimag.com OCTOBER 2019 3

Enjoy The High

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ISSUE 10 //VOLUME 2 //10.2019

FEATURES 34

SP EC IAL R EP OR T

Pot or Not?

How the 0.3-percent THC rule is fraying the American hemp industry.

BOO! Deviled in the details

11

LIFE-ALTERING Transformative films

20 every issue 9 Editor’s Note 11 The Buzz 20 LifeStyle

REVELATORY ON FILM

28 TravelWell

FALLING FOR BOHEMIA

50 HereWeGo

WAYS TO CHANGE

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

sensimag.com OCTOBER 2019 7

sensi magazine ISSUE 10 / VOLUME 2 / 10.2019

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

Doug Schnitzspahn doug.schnitzspahn@sensimag.com EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Dawn Garcia dawn.garcia@sensimag.com

MANAGING EDITOR, SENSI SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Leland Rucker leland.rucker@sensimag.com SENIOR EDITOR

sensimagazine

Robyn Griggs Lawrence CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Ruth Cuevas CONTRIBUTING WRITER

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

Rheya Tanner, Wendy Mak, Josh Clark em@sensimag.com sensimag

DESIGN & LAYOUT

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

Mark Basser mark@sensimag.com PUBLISHER

Amber Orvik amber.orvik@sensimag.com CHIEF ADMINISTRATOR

Andre Velez andre.velez@sensimag.com MARKETING DIRECTOR

Neil Willis neil.willis@sensimag.com PRODUCTION MANAGER

Hector Irizarry distribution@sensimag.com DISTRIBUTION

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Change can be paralytic to some, but to others, it’s a chance for a do-over. And these days, who doesn’t want a chance for a redo? The fact of the matter is, we become unique individuals throughout our lives, adapting our own world views, ideologies, how we love, how we live, how we work, how we parent, how we survive, and how we grow. Take a chance; try something different.

Change can be anything from systemic to personal, but one thing is for certain—we all must be open to it. No one ever became their best selves by staying stagnant and being creatures of habit. There is a terrific anonymous quote, “Sometimes the fear won’t go away, so you’ll have to do it afraid.” That should be the motto for the rest of this year. We need to thrust ourselves into a state of discomfort and then navigate from there.

This issue encourages the notion that our safe space is on the verge of dull and begging for a little upheaval. Living a bit more extroverted, taking more risks, and making sure you feel alive are

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This month, we realize the value of cinema, the importance of explore truly sensational and culturally influential events happenFall is a pivotal season. It represents change, in every way— from trees shedding their leaves to the scorching sunshine dialing it down a few notches to make way for more temperamental weather. Don’t be afraid to shake things up this month. If you’re steadily facing down age, remind yourself what it’s like to be carefree like a teenager. If you’re young, revel in it because it will be gone faster than you can imagine. If you’re curious, open your arms and dive on in.

Change is here. You ready for it?

Live boldly and curiously,

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M ANAG I NG E D I TO R

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sensimag.com OCTOBER 2019 9

10 OCTOBER 2019 Los Angeles

F O O D I E F R I E N D LY

Taste Of Soul

Brunching Beauties

Bringing more soul to the city. // October 20 // 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. // FREE ENTRY

A little burlesque while you brunch. // October 13 // 12 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

The Taste of Soul Festival is coming back to LA’s Crenshaw District for its 14th year, bringing the African-American and neighboring communities together through soulful food, music, and entertainment. Yielding the power of togetherness in business and economic drive, this event invites thousands of people to join as one in a place of respect, appreciation, and unity.

“Taste of Soul has grown into the greatest demonstration of all that is possible for and within our community when we collectively pull our time, resources, and talents for the betterment of all,” says creator and founder Danny J. Bakewell. “The millions of people who have enjoyed Taste of Soul over the years sends a clear message to everyone that as businessmen and women, consumers and as a political force, we cannot and will not be ignored or denied.”

Taste of Soul will have five performance stages that have, in previous years, hosted legends like Stevie Wonder, Queen Latifah, War, and Doug E. Fresh. In the words of Bakewell, Taste of Soul is all about feeling the love.

–Dawn Garcia

Yes, you read that right, it’s brunch and a whole lot more. Named “LA’s Best Musical Brunch” by LAist, Foodies and Boobies combines two of our favorite things: delicious fare and dirty dancing. Starring Marie Devilreux, Dirty Little Secrets, Moxie Gold, Lola La Minx, Harley Harpurr, and more, this playful Sunday setup hosted by Lili Saint Byr is one to experience. The performance includes burlesque dancing and a dose of comedy.

This month’s theme is deviled eggs, paying tribute to Halloween. Come hungry.

–DG

ELCIDSUNSET.COM // Tickets $20-$200

Crenshaw Blvd. between Stocker St. and Barack Obama Blvd.

sensimag.com OCTOBER 2019 11

C E L E B R AT I N G T H E C I T Y

Hispanicize

Celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month as a community. // October 6 through October 15 Latin American countries gained independence from Spain on September 15, 1821. The countries of Latin America— Costa Rica, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua—gained independence after 300 years of colonial rule. Today, that major milestone is celebrated and honored during National Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs September 15 to October 15.

Eighteen percent of the American population is of Hispanic or Latino origin, and they are the largest minority in the nation, contributing an undeniably positive influence through their commitment to family, hard work, service, belief in the fabric of this nation, customs, cuisine, and values. The Hispanic and Latino cultures have also been instrumental in creating multicultural art that has proven transformative.

While the nation navigates through some rough terrain, this month is an opportunity to celebrate the beauty and influence of Hispanic and Latino culture in Los Angeles. –DG Join the locals for several events. More info at HISPANICHERITAGEMONTH.ORG October 4-6 // 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. - Sabor de Mexico Lindo Downtown Festival // Pacific Blvd./Gage Ave., Huntington Park October 15 // 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. - Bilingual Family Concert by Nathalia Palis // East Los Angeles Public Library October 19 // 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. - Latino Heritage Parade and Festival // Pasadena Central Library 12 OCTOBER 2019 Los Angeles

Keeping Us Honest Making sure the city stays safe. // October 10 // 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

In an effort to build a far more resilient city, the Los Angeles Chamber of Commerce is organizing a county-wide discussion, “Creating a Safer Los Angeles.” The discussion will include speakers from the LA County offices of sustainability and emergency management, the Southern California Association of Governments, US Resiliency Council, and Optimum Seismic. The discussion will invite the Los Angeles community to learn about county updates, upgraded building safety, liability risks for building owners, earthquake safety, business preparedness, and more.

–DG

SCAG Offices // Downtown Los Angeles Registration and lunch begin at 11:30 a.m., and the program will start at 12 p.m.

Additional talks will be held throughout the coming months.

Wednesday, October 23, 2019 // Monarch Hall, Valley College, Van Nuys, CA Wednesday, November 6, 2019 // South Pasadena Library REGIONALCHAMBERSGV.COM

Art For Good

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CASA/LA returns for its 6th year with exceptional art and artists raising funds for kids in our foster care system. // November 2 // 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

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tem has an advocate and the opportunity to thrive. This fundraising event invites guests and supporters to a whole new experience at the intersection of wine, art, and food. The fundraiser is now Southern California’s largest art auction. Wine+Art is CASA/LA’s second largest annual fundraiser. The night is inspiring as you will be surrounded in creativity, libations, food tastings, and 150 pieces of donated art from prolific, local, and emerging artists.

The primary focus of this event is the silent art auction that benefits CASA/ LA’s vital mission of providing Court Appointed Special Advocates to children in the child welfare system who have experienced abuse, neglect and abandonment. CASA’s mission is to make sure all foster children are safe and cared for, while giving them joy, support, and community.

–DG

CASALA.ORG/WINEART/ // $50

Walk In Nature

Forage for edible and medicinal plants in the Santa Monica Mountains. // October 12 // 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Tellur Fenner of the Blue Wind School of Botanical Studies invites Angelenos to explore the coastal bluffs along the Pacific. The day will consist of heading to higher elevations of the eastern border of the Santa Monica mountains, a small range that is home to a bounty of botanical specimens. During the class and discovery, Fenner will help you with field botany and plant identification, plant characteristics, regional ethnobotany, plant toxicology (as well as identifying poisonous look-alike species), help you understand the legal-ethical harvesting, processing, and preparation methods. The class also includes samplings of the wild edible and medicinal plant preparation and conservation, and at-risk species.

The class emphasizes encompassing all of your senses to offer a far more immersive, rewarding, and insightful experience for anyone who has ever wanted to learn more about the flora of our unique bioregion.

–DG Seasonal Herb Walk // $50 // REGISTER: FACEBOOK.COM/BLUEWINDSCHOOL/ // BLUEWINDBMC@GMAIL.COM // No Pets. Bring water, lunch, notebook, hat, sunscreen, rain gear, and a camera.

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MUSIC + COMMUNITY

Pushing Veronica A young band making its mark. // October 3 + October 5

When we think of teenage kids with their own bands, we often think of garage bands hoping to make it. Pushing Veronica defies that because not only is this band of talented misfits playing steadily, it has a bit of Green Day/Social Distortion/Blink-182/Deftones. Band members Oli Litner, Julien Silvas, Noah Rozansky, and Brady Ward believe in creating music that has a purpose, wakes you up, and motivates you to have “uninhibited irreverence that’s worthy of chanting along to in unison.” The band (wise beyond their not-yet-of-legal-drinking age) avoid

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becoming inoffensive, corporate, and stuck in the quagmire of predictability.

“Ballpit Rock is how we describe our sound,” explains Litner. The term ballpit rock means music that is fun and ridiculous. It invites audiences and musicians to take pride in what makes them unique. “We’re celebrating what makes us all individuals, taking the piss out of everything, and having a good time doing it.

‘The Ballpit’ is a community and genre that you get lost inside, where you can forget your age and inhibitions. Embrace your wild side.”

“Pushing Veronica is the only place where we can truly be ourselves,” adds Silvas. “We act like f*cking weirdos, and we accept each other. We’re family. We get into all kinds of shenanigans and great adventures creating our art.”

The band has a unique sound with songs such as Dead Girl that show their depth. “It’s like nobody wants to be burdened with a relationship or any form of love,” Silvas explains. “Everybody just wants to chew people up and spit them out like emotionless zombies. It’s bullshit. We couldn’t help but stab that idea right in the heart. That’s why she’s dead. She represents what happens when we simply use others for their bodies and stop valuing real relationships and connections with each other.” Damn, that’s profound for post-millennials. Pushing Veronica

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is playing all around Southern California, and supporting them means supporting a generation of intention and positive change.

–DG

UPCOMING PERFORMANCES October 3 // They Came 2 By 2 Music Festival featuring ’68 The Inspector Cluzo in Anaheim. // October 5 // Rock City, Camarillo. // PUSHINGVERONICA.COM // @PUSHINGVERONICA

Secret Project

Warehouses, insomniacs, and the sprawling urban landscape. // October 12, 13 // All-day Festival Return to where it all began: the urban landscape of Downtown L.A. Insomniac was born amid the warehouse scene of early ‘90s Los Angeles, and here, Secret Project creates a unique world of art, culture, and the sounds of the underground. Featuring live music from crazy cool DJs and progressive bands such as Bears in Space, Dām Funk, Jayda G, and Modeselektor, the day promises to be fuel for the soul. Secret Project is an entirely immersive creative environment that incorporates art installations that will dig deep into who we are as a community and dare you to be a part of something more. The art on display includes graffiti, murals, and an outdoor oasis.

Secret Project believes you are the headliner–this is your weekend to shine.

–DG

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Shop Rock Steady Check out the Rock ‘N’ Roll Flea Market. // 1st Saturday Every Month // 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Who doesn’t love a reason to rock out and shop old school rock memorabilia?! Rock ‘N’ Roll Flea Market features 40 rotating vinyl, vintage, food, and craft vendors; two full bars; a hearty food menu; bottomless mimosas; all-day vinyl DJs; and the Boozy Brunch Bingo, which takes place from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. during the flea market and includes concert tickets, t-shirts, and vinyl albums as prizes.

–DG

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sensimag.com OCTOBER 2019 15

SCARY STUFF

BOO!

Bring out the dead. // October 1 through November 2 It’s Halloween Month and there’s no escaping the city’s amazing list of events. Whether you’re celebrating Hallow’s Eve or Dia de los Muertos, Los Angeles has got your back.

All Month // Halloween Horror Nights // UNIVERSALSTUDIOSHOLLYWOOD.COM October 26 // Haunted W Hotel Rooftop – Costume Party // VIPNIGHTLIFE.COM October 26 // Sudamericana Halloween // SUDAMERICANAEVENTS.COM October 26 // Marina Spooktacular // VISITMARINADELREY.COM October 26 // Hitchcock Halloween // THEATRE.ACEHOTEL.COM October 31 // Oingo Boingo Halloween Part // SABAN.THEATRE November 2 // Hollywood Halloween Pub Crawl // PIGNWHISTLE.COM

16 OCTOBER 2019 Los Angeles

–DG

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18 OCTOBER 2019 Los Angeles

sensimag.com OCTOBER 2019 19

{lifestyle }

by DAW N G A R C I A

REVELATORY ON FILM Movies that changed me.

Some of my earliest memories consist of watching B

70s, spoke of it with a smile on her face and a brightness

movies, typically horror films, with my dad. A big fan of Elvira

in her eyes. I was curious. At the old Alex Theatre—erected

and Vincent Price, my six-year-old self could stomach mov-

in the 1930s whose walls had stories of their own, hosting

ies like The Hand, Swamp Thing, and Tarantula, but it was The

an array of Hollywood stars and starlets from once upon a

Worms that would create an anti-bath phase because I was

time—I watched as the red velvet curtain parted and Singin’

convinced worms would rise from the tub drain or descend

in the Rain started playing. I was enthralled. The strength of

through the faucet.

the lead played by Debbie Reynolds, the wit and welcomed

It wasn’t until The Shining came out on VHS that I was told

banter between Gene Kelly and Donald O’Connor, and the

I couldn’t watch a film because it was too scary, but my par-

joyous feel of a film showing the transition the industry was

ents watched it in the other room, sound blaring. (My dad

facing from silent films to talkies made this exceptional. It is

insists on theater-level volume when movie watching to this

a lesson in cinematic technology, the clear blurred line of a

day.) The horror of it all! I could hear it, and I can assure you,

woman’s place in society, and the beautifully complex world

that film is more terrifying to listen to when all you have is an

of eternal optimism. I watch

overactive imagination. Now that I’ve seen the movie, I real-

this film because the dance

ize what a brilliant psychological thriller and horror film it is.

routines, the story, and the

Fast-forward to being an adult, able to watch whatever I

songs garner a feeling of

please; movies are the way I recall the story of my life. Dif-

happiness so often lacking

ferent films mark pivotal moments in my memory. I have

in modern cinema.

learned so much from the cinematic arts, including understanding that a movie can reach inside of you, open your eyes, give you pause, educate you, inspire you, scare you,

The Power of One (1992)

encourage you, and endear you. I’ve seen hundreds of films,

The Power of One is a

and some forever changed me. And while I can’t list the

compelling tale of war in

many, I wanted to share some. (All these films

South Africa during the

are available to rent or stream if you want to

1930s and 1940s, told from the perspective of a

see them for yourself.)

South Afrikaner boy named P.K. A harrowing story of ex-

Singin’ in the Rain (1952)

cruciating loss, childhood cruelty, racism, twisted politics, beautiful friendships, deep love, and standing up for what’s

The first time I saw Singin’ in the Rain was

right, this is a film everyone should see. Starring Morgan

in the 1990s. My grandmother, then in her

Freeman, Stephen Dorff (17-year-old P.K.), Simon Fenton

sensimag.com OCTOBER 2019 21

Cut the Bullsh*t

It's time to stop saying "This is how we've always done it."

22 OCTOBER 2019 Los Angeles

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(12-year-old P.K.), and Guy Witcher (7-year-old P.K.), The Power of One is a film I return to often. After losing every-

Before Night Falls (2000) Before Night Falls may be one of the most impactful

one he loves, P.K. is sent to a boarding school where he is

films I’ve seen. Exposing the oppression of artists and the

repeatedly tormented by Nazi sympathizers. P.K is taught

gay community in Cuba during the 1950s and 1960s, this

to box as a young boy by Geel Piet, played by Freeman. In

movie takes you through the rise of Fidel Castro and his

an effort to stand up to those who have been bullying P.K.,

impact on a beautiful community that added color and

Piet teaches P.K. to fight “first with the head and then with

culture to the nation. The film stars the insanely talent-

the hands,” instilling integrity, strength of heart and spir-

ed Javier Bardem, who plays the world-renowned Cuban

it, and the mindfulness to think before acting. The film is

poet Reinaldo Arenas, and Johnny Depp, who plays Bon

based on the book by Australian author Bryce Courtenay.

Bon/Lieutenant Victor. The story begins at the start of

It reminds us that we can all play a part in changing the

Arenas’s career when Cuba awards him one of the coun-

ugliness of the past and be instrumental in opening minds

try’s top honors for poetry. Even Castro was enamored by

and creating unity, not division.

Arenas’s poetry, but when he takes control of the coun-

This Changes Everything (2019)

try, artists and the LGBT community are banned. Bodem portrays a brilliant mind from a time in history that shamed the creative and open-minded, and fights

A documentary directed by

with every last bit of his soul not to lose the ability to

Tom Donahue and produced by

see beauty and hope and successfully flee from the

Geena Davis, This Changes Ev-

prison Castro created.

erything spotlights the gender disparity in Hollywood. While women held positions as writ-

Colors (1988) I grew up in Los Angeles during the 1980s and 1990s,

ers and directors during the

when the infamous battle between rival gangs and the

days of silent films, when

Rodney King trial exposed the deep-seated corruption

talkies came on the scene,

and racism within the LAPD. Colors showed the rest of

women were seen as little

the world the truth about surviving in certain parts of LA.

more than actresses. Despite the histo-

This film was one of the only that didn’t

ry of women’s suffrage, civil rights, and equal pay, we’re

shy away from real-time gangs and

here yet again, fighting to be seen as we are: half of the

the hardship of growing up in places

population. No matter how hard the fight, things changed

like East LA, nor did it diminish the hu-

only in increments of nine years before society and gender

manity and goodness of the people liv-

discrepancy went right back to its conditioned response.

ing in and through it, with the help of one

Women are not seen as equal or valued—at least not in

of the best soundtracks of the time.

the film industry.

Shadows have been cast on women in the indus-

Colors exposed a very different part of LA, far from the glitz and Hollywood glam-

try, especially as writers and directors. There are sever-

our often associated with the city. Starring

al award-winning women who have had huge box office

Sean Penn, Robert Duvall, Don Cheadle, Da-

successes only to then wait some 14 years between jobs,

mon Wayans, Maria Conchita Alonso, Randy

which male filmmakers rarely experience. Featuring Meryl

Brooks, and an unbelievable cast that made

Streep, Natalie Portman, Tiffany Haddish, Jackie Cruz, Jes-

up the world of East LA, Colors shows a very poignant part

sica Chastain, Reese Witherspoon, Zoe Saldana, Marisa

of Los Angeles history in a way that educates, informs,

Tomei, and a dozen other prominent actresses, This Chang-

and sheds light on surviving in a broken system that ne-

es Everything is important. The research and investigative

glected its neighborhoods and allowed corruption to run

data retrieved over the last 70 years is too solid to deny.

far too deep. sensimag.com OCTOBER 2019 23

24 OCTOBER 2019 Los Angeles

When Harry Met Sally (1989)

It’s a heartbreaking and hopeful tale that has some of the most stunning visuals in cinema, especially at the time, and

In true Rob Reiner form,

put del Toro on the map of cin-

When Harry Met Sally is one of

ematic brilliance. I recently at-

the wittiest and most honest

tended an anniversary screen-

romantic comedies of all time.

ing at the Academy Foundation

Starring Billy Crystal (Harry),

of Motion Pictures, Arts, and

Meg Ryan (Sally), Carrie Fish-

Sciences with the entire cast,

er (Marie), and Bruno Kirby

and I can tell you the film still

(Jess), When Harry Met Sally

resonates as one of the most

follows two oddly matched

magical,

people over 15 years, through

promising in movie history.

relationships, engagements, careers, friendships, and holidays. The result is a fast-paced, intelligently written, hysterically acted film that has the greatest (and funniest) fake orgasm scene you’ll likely ever see—in a diner.

devastating,

and

Films from here, there, and everywhere.

I could name a hundred more movies that impacted me

The story begins with a road trip to New York when Har-

and ultimately led me to my other career of writing for film

ry and Sally (two strangers) are leaving college for the real

and television. Regardless of where you land or what your

world and pair up on the drive for convenience. They bare-

favorites are, always explore not just American cinema,

ly tolerate each other as Harry has wild ideas about men

but foreign films as well. There is immense beauty, knowl-

and women not being able to be friends because of sex.

edge, and truth in films from abroad and, quite honestly,

Five years later, they meet again, only this time it’s less

they are some of the most profound.

awkward and both are in happy relationships. Another five years later, they’re set up on a blind date by their friends, and from there the real friendship begins. Reiner’s masterful way of showing the woes and humor of friendship and the potential of love is genius and, at times, uproarious.

Pan’s Labyrinth (2006) Seldom is there a movie that can toggle between fantasy and reality and leave you wondering which was more real.

Pan’s Labyrinth (El Laberinto del Fauno) is writer and director Guillermo del Toro’s masterpiece. This film tells the story of young Ofelia of Spain in 1944, forced to live in a home with her mother and her mother’s new husband, a sadistic army officer, while they wait for the arrival of the baby brother her mother is pregnant with. Treated as less-than, Ofelia turns to her imagination and playful visions, which become more than fantasy. Off exploring one day, Ofelia comes across a place in a tree that leads to a stairwell underground, where she meets an odd creature, Fauno, who informs her she must complete several tasks if she wants

Honorable Mentions

Here is a down-and-dirty list of other films that opened my eyes to the power of cinema: Mississippi Burning

Scarface

To Kill A Mockingbird

Eat Drink Man Woman

Battleship Potemkin

Cinema Paradiso

Léon (The Professional)

Tucker & Dale vs Evil

Run Lola Run

In the Mood for Love

Memento Nightmare on Elm Street The Matrix Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels Beasts of No Nation Elling Restrepo Amélie Roman Holiday In Bruges

to get back to her kingdom, a magical place where she is the princess. sensimag.com OCTOBER 2019 25

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sensimag.com OCTOBER 2019 27

by R U T H C U E VA S

FALLING FOR BOHEMIA The people, the history, and the creative spirit of the Czech Republic.

28 OCTOBER 2019 Los Angeles

PHOTO OF OLD TOWN SQUARE IN PRAGUE BY PRAGUECITYTOURISM.CZ

{travelwell }

As a little girl, I was told that anyone who referred to themselves as a Bohemian simply meant they were free spirits. Imagining long, cotton skirts that moved in the air as you twirled, massive oversized hoop earrings, a certain je ne sais quoi—that is what I had in mind when I went to visit Bohemia decades into my adulthood.

The moment I landed in the Czech Republic, it instantly seduced me with its natural beauty and expressive passion. Bohemia is a region of romanticism. It’s the place where artists took traditional art forms and made them modern. It’s where writers who, for fear of persecution, wrote in silence or underground, in the labyrinth of an ancient city that still exists below the streets.

sensimag.com OCTOBER 2019 29

30 OCTOBER 2019 Los Angeles

PHOTO OF VLTAVA RIVER AND CHARLES BRIDGE BY PRAGUECITYTOURISM.CZ

HISTORY + DESIGN

For a different kind of historic adventure, take a

Of all the cities in Bohemia, Prague is the place that drew

tour of the city’s underground tunnels dating back to

creatives in droves. Great writers such as Franz Kafka were

the 13th century. To book an underground tour, visit

inspired here to expose in the human condition. (The place

PRAGUE-UNDERGROUND-TOURS.COM .

where he did much of his work is now a Sofitel Hotel.) It’s

Above ground, walkways run parallel to the Vltava Riv-

where Milan Kundera’s fictional lovers ravaged each other

er, which runs alongside Bohemian Forest and is about

and toyed with ideas of sexuality generations before it was

a third of the Czech Republic territory. Cafes, parks, and

socially acceptable.

sculptures line the route. When you’re in the mood for di-

Prague’s history of wartime activity is worth exploring as well. It’s where the assassination of General der Polizei Rein-

vine cake and coffee, grab a seat on the outside patio at Bella Vida Café.

hard Heydrich took place during WWII—one of the only successful assassinations of a high-ranking Nazi officer. Prague was also one of the few European cities left relatively intact during the war, so traversing through the old town is like being

The Well-Worn Road to Freedom

see houses with stained glass, statues and ornate ironwork

The Czech Republic’s transformation and road to freedom was realized during what’s known as the Velvet Revolution, an outburst of protests signifying a desire to return to democracy and put an end to the oppression of the Iron Curtain. This desire for democratization was realized in 1989. Within a few years, the Czechs had a fully democratic government.

In the summer of 1989, crowds of Eastern Germans took a stand when asked to return to their homes.

They refused to leave Prague, taking the historic step to “live in a free and unfettered world.” After the fall of the Berlin Wall, the canonization of Saint Agnes of Bohemia on November 12, 1989, marked the beginning of a free Eastern Europe.

adorning front doors, and corner windows, making you feel

PRAGUE.EU // PRAGUECITYTOURISM.CZ // CZECHTOURISM.COM

transported to yesteryear. Let’s face it: Prague is pretty badass.

The city is an architecture enthusiast’s dream. Brightly colored Art Deco facades adorn the cobblestone streets. You’ll likely come across an array of styles from gothic and rococo to functionalism and the Moorish revival. There are remnants of the Communist era evident in city canals and streets.

Among the city’s celebrated modern structures, the work of world-renowned architects still stands out: the über-modern Dancing House by Frank Gehry and Jože Plečnik’s Church of the Most Sacred Heart. Nearby, you’ll

like you’ve stepped into an Alphonse Mucha poster. sensimag.com OCTOBER 2019 31

32 OCTOBER 2019 Los Angeles

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE HOTEL SCHWAIGER

THE SWAGGER OF SCHWAIGER

Nothing at the Hotel Schwaiger is typical. According to

Originally built in 1849, the Hotel Schwaiger served for

the hotel’s manager, Martin Čelko, the hotel keeps the best

years as a family residence under the name Villa Klára.

of the old and twists it with the new, all while preserving

Registered as a Czech Republic cultural heritage site

the artistic spirit known to the region. “We wanted the

since 1921 under the name Villa Schwaiger, the hotel

hotel to be eco-friendly and economical to the customer

underwent a full transformation and in August of 2017

while offering high-quality products.” Čelko says. “A decade

opened its doors as Hotel Schwaiger, an exclusive four-

of research helped our team circumvent common prob-

star boutique hotel. Reminiscent of the 1920s, clean lines

lems guests have and fine-tune our mission for the hotel.”

and solid colors accentuate the picturesque refinement of

If you’ve ever toyed with the idea of visiting Prague, I

modern affluence. Alongside its sister property, Pod Vezi,

couldn’t recommend it more. It’s a city of unsung heroes,

the Hotel Schwaiger offers a modern interpretation of the

impeccable beauty, artistic inspiration, and unparalleled

spirit of Prague that fostered some of the world’s most

hospitality. If you’re searching for that Bohemian je ne sais

creative artists, academics, and artisans. Prague is sexy.

quoi, you’ll feel its essence the moment you arrive. That

And so is the Hotel Schwaiger. HOTELSCHWAIGER.CZ

feeling is the epitome of luxury.

The Czech Republic is home to an abundance of dining experiences, and while it may not hold the most Michelin stars, its food speaks to the culture. At V Zahradě at the Hotel Schwaiger, the chef, Radek Ryška, shows his knowledge of Czech cuisine by taking traditional dishes and infusing them with modern flavors and textures that take you through a culinary wonderland. Coupled with freshly baked breads, every locally sourced dish can appease even the most selective palates.

With exciting creations such as cream of goat cheese served with pumpkin and pistachio or smoked trout with marinated cucumber and ash bread, Ryška has created more than just a meal. Soft jazz, fresh bouquets, and handmade colored glasses adorning each table make for one unforgettable introduction to modern Czech cuisine. sensimag.com OCTOBER 2019 33

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POT S PE C I A L R E PO R T

OR

HEMP IS NOW LEGAL ON A FEDERAL LEVEL, BUT LAW ENFORCEMENT STRUGGLES TO DISTINGUISH IT FROM CANNABIS. THE 2018 FARM BILL, WHICH LEGALIZED INDUSTRIAL

HEMP WITH LESS THAN 0.3 PERCENT THC, WAS HAILED BY THE US HEMP INDUSTRY AS CAUSE FOR INTENSE CELEBRATION. AN AGRICULTURAL STAPLE ONCE PRODUCED IN ABUNDANCE BEFORE WORLD WAR II, HEMP WAS, FINALLY, AGAIN TO BE TREATED LIKE ANY OTHER PLANT. The 2018 Farm Bill was lauded as the first step toward

nies on legal issues. “The hemp bill is clearly pro-farm-

giving farmers the chance to make the US a hemp na-

er and pro-cultivation. Let’s grow it, process it, create a

tion once more. “Congress clearly wanted to encourage a

thriving market, and in my opinion also turn it into in-

hemp industry. It couldn’t be more obvious,” says Frank

ternational commerce,” he says. “The language is clear

Robison, a Denver lawyer who works with hemp compa-

that it wanted to create a market.”

36 OCTOBER 2019 Los Angeles

NOT? How the 0.3-percent THC figure is fraying the American hemp industry.

by L E L A N D R U C K E R

Some unexpected problems are threatening to under-

In January, a trailer carrying 7,000 pounds of hemp

mine this growth. And it all boils down to this: What is

was seized and the driver arrested by the Idaho State Po-

hemp, what is cannabis, and how is that determined?

lice. A truckful of hemp was apprehended in South Da-

Since the 2018 Farm Bill’s implementation, neither the

kota and the driver charged with cannabis possession

Federal Drug Administration nor the Department of Ag-

in August. A company whose shipment of hemp was

riculture have produced national rules and regulations

seized by Oklahoma police, who claimed it was marijua-

for hemp. And because most hemp is now being trans-

na, are suing the police, the county, and an attorney to

ported by trucks and trailers passing between states,

get their product back.

each with different rules and knowledge about the legality of hemp, it’s causing any number of hassles.

Police and district attorneys in several states are complaining they don’t have the equipment or knowledge to sensimag.com OCTOBER 2019 37

38 OCTOBER 2019 Los Angeles

make the distinction, either. In Florida, the State Attorney’s Office has ruled that the sight or smell of marijuana can no longer be used as probable cause for search because they both smell skanky. Charges against University of Nebraska football players for possession were dropped because the state couldn’t prove whether what they had was cannabis or hemp. In Texas, the Austin district attorney said her office would stop prosecuting possession cases involving four ounces or less unless there was a lab test, and Houston’s DA dismissed 32 felony marijuana cases, estimating that it would cost $185,000 and take up to a year to implement the testing procedure and hire people to run it.

In a sign of the significance of the problem, the US Drug Enforcement Administration put out a request for information on private companies that might have the technology for field tests sensitive enough to distinguish between hemp and marijuana. The USDA’s William Richmond said in August that the agency is grappling with the Farm Bill‘s requirement for a national THC testing protocol. “We need to have testing procedures in place,” he said, but coming up with reliable testing methods is “as complicated as you think it is.”

IS IT REALLY THAT TOUGH? Not everybody feels it’s that difficult. Cannabis, or marijuana, and hemp are the same plant species, Cannabis

sativa. Though similar in appearance and odor, they are distinctly different in composition and the chemicals they produce. The national standard written into the 2018 Farm Bill for determining whether a crop is hemp or cannabis is that hemp must contain no more than 0.3 percent of the chemical delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) on a dry-weight basis.

“And that’s just a very random, arbitrary number,” says Cindy Orser, chief scientific officer at Digipath, an independent cannabis testing lab in Las Vegas. “And you

good chance of coming in above that 0.3 percent delta-9 THC percent limit at maturity.”

THREE-TENTHS OF ONE PERCENT

know, it’s just not right to define a plant species based

In 1937, hemp and cannabis were both essentially

on a chemical that can fluctuate based on its growing

demonized and taxed out of existence. There is reason

environment and by its genetics.”

to believe that other industries—cotton, building—were

Hemp has been grown forever for its fiber and seed

behind the hemp ban, but at least one was because of

for use in a wide variety of products. “When people say

law-enforcement difficulties distinguishing between

hemp, they usually mean industrial hemp, which is also

hemp and cannabis. With both illegal, there was no need

called European hemp,” she explains. “It’s been bred for

to differentiate between the two, and no attempt was

centuries for its fiber content, and it has very low canna-

made. The number 0.3 percent delta-9 THC (3/10 of 1 per-

binoid content.”

cent) on a dry weight basis comes from a 1976 study of

Orser notes that there is also another hemp, what she calls American hemp, or resin hemp, which is grown for

cannabis taxonomy and was never intended as a legal distinction, Orser says.

its higher CBD content. “It’s not being grown for fiber,

While there are several different forms of THC, only one,

it’s not being grown for its flower,” she says. “It’s being

delta-9 THC, gets you “high.” The 0.3 percent legal limit

grown for oil, from either seeds or clones that have a

only applies to delta-9 THC. By law, this is the sole cansensimag.com OCTOBER 2019 39

40 OCTOBER 2019 Los Angeles

nabinoid that is considered when determining whether a cannabis plant is lawful hemp or unlawful marijuana.

The issue is that gas chromatography (GC), a primary testing method used by both law enforcement agencies and state departments of agriculture, heats up a cannabis sample in order to tease out and measure delta-9 THC levels.

THCa, another of more than 100 chemicals produced by the plant which is not mentioned in the statute, converts to delta-9 THC when heated. “In other words, the GC testing method actually creates the very same cannabinoid that is being tested,” says Asheville, NC, cannabis attorney Rod Kight.

Here’s what Project CBD says about the number. “The 0.3 percent THC legal limit is an arbitrary, impractical, euphoria-phobic relic of reefer madness. Although it lacks a scientific basis, it has become the latest lynchpin of cannabis prohibition, a dishonest, anachronistic policy that impedes medical discovery and blocks patient access to valuable therapeutic options, including herbal extracts with various combinations of CBD and THC.”

A POSSIBLE SOLUTION Farmers are uncertain, too, and for good reason. If any portion of a hemp crop comes up at 0.4 percent delta-9 THC or higher at harvest time, that entire crop would have to be destroyed. Orser is trying to empirically determine a representative value for THC that would enable farmers and not confuse law enforcement. She has done testing on American hemp and has found that more than half of the plant samples of CBD resin hemp, turn up “hot,” or above the 0.3 percent number. Digipath is currently beta-testing a molecular or DNA-based assay that distinguishes industrial hemp from resin hemp and drug-type cannabis within two hours.

Growing hemp for CBD is difficult enough, Kight says, and limiting the strains a farmer can use places an undue and unnecessary burden. “Aside from legal considerations, the reason that this issue is important is because widespread adoption of the total THC position would be harmful to the hemp industry—in particular hemp farmers,” Kight says. “Requiring total THC concentrations to remain within 0.3 percent, rather than just limiting delta-9 THC, severely limits the hemp strains a farmer can grow.”

Although the gas chromotography test is the most widely used, Kight and others argue that another test— high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)—does

“We’re talking about such minuscule amounts [of THC]. On or off the record, WHO CARES?”

not use heat to separate and measure delta-9 THC con-

—Frank Robison, Lawyer

be sold or used instead as recreational or medical canna-

centrations, which means it’s testing the actual amount of delta-9 THC in any sample.

The HPLC test doesn’t create higher concentrations of the same molecule that determines whether a plant is lawful or an illegal controlled substance. Because GC testing creates delta-9 THC, Kight says that using it to test hemp is contrary to law and can even amount to evidence tampering in the context of a criminal case.

One final thing to remember here is that we are talking about minuscule amounts of delta-9 THC. There are no concerns that a hemp crop that comes in at 0.4 percent, or 0.7 percent, or even 1.0 percent delta-9 THC, is going to bis. Most legally available cannabis begins at around 15 percent delta-9 THC and goes up from there. Nobody will ever get high using any hemp product, even if it comes in over the limit. And it’s the farmers, the ones who find out whether their crop is legal or not after it has grown to maturity, who are paying the price for such a fickle number.

“Farmers work on razor-thin margins. We should be giving them the most latitude possible and have this uniform from state to state,” says Robison. “We’re talking about such minuscule amounts. On or off the record, who cares? It doesn’t make any sense. Why not give farmers the chance?” sensimag.com OCTOBER 2019 41

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As the cannabis industry grows, so does the number of professionals within it, acting as incredible sources of insider info on the trends and issues driving the marketplace forward. The Sensi Advisory Board is comprised of select industry leaders in a variety of fields, from compliance and education to concentrates and cultivation. They are invited to share specialized insight in this dedicated section. This month, we hear from a member in the Employee Benefits and Cultivation categories.

FOR A FULL LIST OF ADVISORY BOARD MEMBERS, SEE THE MASTHEAD ON PAGE 9.

HOW TO CREATIVELY STRUCTURE BENEFITS FOR YOUR UNIQUE WORKFORCE

by H E AT H E R H I M E LW R I G H T, P R E S I D E N T O F I N T E G R AT E D B E N E F I T S O L U T I O N S Creating a solid benefits plan is a great way to attract and retain workers in today’s tight job market. The low unemployment rate means good workers have their choice of job opportunities, making enticing benefits packages especially important. And because no two workers are exactly the same, a one-size-fits-all approach to benefits won’t cut it. If you’re in the cannabis industry, you need to think outside the box to create benefit options that cater to your unique workforce.

The Challenges of Engaging a Young Workforce The cannabis industry tends to attract a relatively young workforce. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, younger workers tend to change jobs much more frequently than older workers. Approximately twothirds of jobs that people start between the ages of 18 and 24 end within a year.

44 OCTOBER 2019 Los Angeles

As every employer knows, recruiting and training new workers drains a company’s resources. Once you find good workers, you want to keep them for as long as possible.

The right benefits can help you.

Incorporate Technology into Your Health Offering Having grown up with computers and the internet, young workers are tech-savvy. These young workers are especially likely to appreciate the new technological advances impacting health care.

According to Accenture’s 2018 Consumer Survey on Digital Health, 56 percent of people used websites and 46

health care into their busy schedules. Virtual appointments are quick and convenient, so workers can get feeling better and back to work faster.

Round Out Your Plan with Other Benefits A good health insurance plan is important, but it’s not the only benefit workers want. Traditional ancillary benefits include dental, vision, life insurance and disability insurance. Other benefits are also gaining popularity.

Many Americans struggle with lack of savings and abundance of debt. Financial wellness benefits can help them get ahead. Student loan repayment plans are especially trendy. According to Student Loan Hero, 69 percent of the class of 2018 took out student loans, and the average debt was $29,800.

Add Value with Voluntary Benefits As the list of possible benefits grows, you might worry it’s getting too expensive. Fortunately, you may be able to add more options without incurring more costs by using voluntary benefits like plans to fill gaps in health insurance to meet their needs. Voluntary benefits are typically paid for by the employee using payroll deductions. In some states, employees can fund 100 percent of the costs; the employer just has to set it up. This is convenient for employees, but more than that, it also means employees can take advantage of discounted group rates. percent used mobile devices or tablets to manage health in 2018. One-third of people used wearable technology. In 2018, 36 percent of people said healthcare technology was very important to them, an increase of 6 percent from just two years earlier, and 39 percent said it was somewhat important.

As technology plays a bigger and bigger role in healthcare, employers need to make sure their benefits incorporate these advancements.

This should include telemedicine. Telemedicine is

Your Benefits Should Be an Asset Your company has its own unique culture, and your benefits plan should reflect that. Take the time to survey your team and learn their priorities. Then work with your benefits consultant to design a plan that works for your team. With some thought and creativity, your benefit plan can become an important asset that helps your business scale and grow.

HEATHER HIMELWRIGHT, president of Integrated Benefit Solutions (IBC), has more than 25 years of experience working in the employee benefits field. IBENEFITCONSULT.COM

quickly growing as a popular way for individuals to fit sensimag.com OCTOBER 2019 45

46 OCTOBER 2019 Los Angeles

BUDDING CANNABIS TRENDS

by A U T U M N S H E LT O N , C O - F O U N D E R O F AUTUMN BRANDS. I make it a priority to stay on top of the ever-changing trends of the cannabis industry. Cannabis is a plant that is no longer being grown roadside and smoked out of fruit bongs (unless you’re into that). Looking at the trends gaining popularity and momentum amid cannabis users, below is an overall look at what I’ve noticed. I hope you’ll learn a little something about everyone’s favorite flower—or at the very least, find a new way to appreciate it.

MICRODOSING The ethos behind microdosing is the desire to reap the benefits of cannabis without the sometimes intense psy-

cannabis. As more and more information comes out about

choactive side effects of the plant by ingesting very small

the holistic and wellness benefits, baby boomers can tru-

amounts of THC, typically 2.5 milligrams or less. Some peo-

ly appreciate and benefit from cannabis as they confront

ple say smoking or ingesting cannabis causes them to feel

the physical and mental health effects of aging. Cannabis

anxious, or even have panic attacks, and that is where mi-

topicals such as balms and creams are perfect for treating

cro-dosing comes into play. Like anything, some people find

aches and pains like those that come with arthritis. This

too much of a good thing can occasionally backfire, having

growing cannabis demographic is also embracing the

the opposite effect. Microdosing cannabis can deliver some

plant’s social benefits, making for better quality of life in

incredible positive benefits, and some people have found it

the golden years.

helped decrease anxiety, reduce depression, control ADHD, manage pain, and aid a variety of chronic illnesses.

WOMEN USING CANNABIS

SUSTAINABLE AND ETHICAL GROW PRACTICES. As we get further into 2019, it has become obvious that

For a long time, it was understood that men were the

this is the year of health, and that extends into where our

primary cannabis users, but that’s been turned on its head

health products are coming from. Widely accepted as an

as of this year. Research shows quite a significant rise in

integral part of the agricultural world, cannabis utilizes

women using cannabis as a wellness resource, and they

sustainable gardening practices and ranks high in im-

are using it socially. In terms of wellness, women use can-

portance when people are deciding which products to

nabis to aid a number of persistent things like insomnia,

put into their body. This body consciousness is obviously

anxiety, menstrual cramps, and some have replaced their

a good thing, and the cannabis industry is becoming in-

vino for the flower. With so many discreet ways to utilize

creasingly ethical.

the plant, women are contributing to the rise in economic value of cannabis.

BABY BOOMERS Once seen as public enemy number one in the fight to legalize, baby boomers are now starting to ride the wave of

Cannabis is a plant that absorbs everything in the environment it was grown in, so making sure your kush is pesticide-free before you light up is becoming habit for most people. Overall, cannabis is an industry that plans to stick around for the long-haul, and like any industry, the popular trends will be ever-changing. sensimag.com OCTOBER 2019 47

48 OCTOBER 2019 Los Angeles

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{HereWeGo }

by DAW N G A R C I A

WAYS TO CHANGE Time, as the Rolling Stones say, is on your side.

“Everyone thinks of changing the world, but no one thinks of changing himself.”

—Leo Tolstoy

Change is one of the fundamental things required of us

CHANGE YOUR PERSPECTIVE: As we age, are more ex-

all. Whether it be changing jobs, perspectives, opinions,

posed to more, we see the multiple layers that make up hu-

home décor, personal style, hair color, attitude, habits,

manity, being open to learning more is the one way we can

routines, diet, etcetera, it can be only two things: easy

continue to enrich ourselves. Rather than get stuck in your

or challenging. That said, change is essential to growth

ways, consider taking a college course at a community col-

as human beings. Thinking of the many ways our lives

lege, attending a free lecture at a museum, or spending a day

are impacted daily in the city, here are 3 ways to impact

or two in nature. There is something to be said for opening

change and foster positivity.

your mind and seeing the world from a new perspective.

CHANGE YOUR JOB: One thing that holds true no matter

CHANGE YOUR ENVIRONMENT: Home is where you rest

who says it: Life is too short to do something that makes

your head and where you feel most you. When the new

you miserable. Finding work you feel good about is imper-

seasons arrive, a spark of color in your decor, the purging of

ative to longevity, and perhaps doing something that also

old things, and tackling a creative project may be precisely

contributes to the betterment of mankind will suffice. If

what you need to open the door to a more refreshing en-

you don’t have the means to change jobs, consider offering

vironment. Something as simple as updating your photos,

your time instead. Los Angeles has an incredible resource

framing a piece of art, or planting a few indoor succulents

of nonprofits (including job opportunities should the need

can brighten your space and generate a feeling of warmth.

arise), and you can find out about volunteer and employ-

Regardless of how you choose to make a change, do

ment opportunities at WORKFORGOOD.ORG . Organizations

take time to change. We cannot grow as people with-

such as Union Rescue Mission, the LA LGBT Center, or a

out first being willing to change. Work on eliminating old

local hospital are always looking for volunteers.

habits and do whatever it takes to be your best self.

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