LAS VEGAS
THE NEW NORMAL
11.2019
PUPPY LOVE
THE DEVOTION OF MAYTE GARCIA Prince’s ex runs a local pet rescue
{plus}
THE GODFATHER OF THE CANNABIS MOVEMENT
sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 3
4 NOVEMBER 2019 Las Vegas
sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 5
6 NOVEMBER 2019 Las Vegas
ISSUE 11 //VOLUME 2 //11.2019
FEATURES
SP EC IAL R EP OR T
28 Further Down the Line
As congress dithers over national legalization bills, more states prepare for sales to adults.
34 Single, Not Sorry
More and more people are choosing uncoupled adulthood.
40 Going to the Dogs
Mayte’s Rescue and Boogie Time bring love to four-legged friends.
40 LOVE Rescuing vulnerable animals.
every issue 9 Editor’s Note 11 The Buzz 16 OpEd
RIGHTING WRONGS
20 TasteBuds
MEAT(ING) CUISINES
24 HighProfile
CELEBRATE THE FIGHT
44 Horoscope 48 The Scene
BLANC DE BLANK DEBUT
50 HereWeGo
REACH FOR THE SKY
Sensi magazine is published monthly by Sensi Media Group LLC. © 2019 SENSI MEDIA GROUP LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 7
sensi magazine ISSUE 11 / VOLUME 2 / 11.2019
EXECUTIVE FOLLOW US
ego gummies
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
Debbie Hall debbie.hall@sensimag.com MANAGING EDITOR, SENSI LAS VEGAS
Leland Rucker leland.rucker@sensimag.com SENIOR EDITOR
sensimagazine
Robyn Griggs Lawrence robyn.lawrence@sensimag.com EDITOR AT LARGE
Danielle Eugenia, Mona Van Joseph, Kema Odgen CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
A RT & D E S I G N Jamie Ezra Mark jamie@emagency.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR
sensimag
Rheya Tanner, Wendy Mak, Jason Jones, Josh Clark em@sensimag.com 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
Abi Wright abi.wright@sensimag.com ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER
Amber Orvik amber.orvik@sensimag.com DIRECTOR OF ADMINISTRATION
Andre Velez andre.velez@sensimag.com MARKETING DIRECTOR
Neil Willis neil.willis@sensimag.com PRODUCTION MANAGER
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DYNAMISM
NOTE
Life can either be about merely existing or embrac-
ing each opportunity with vigor. It is all about the approach. Style is an attitude and methodology expressing as an individual choice. Fashion, appearance, food, and entertainment can change, but how one presents themselves will always be chic. Perceptions about cannabis create how we are living our best
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lives and incorporating this plant as part of our life. The cannabis
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tion, VIP service, and branded retail. The image of Las Vegas is
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football team, Golden Knights hockey team fever, and four-star of the megastars performing in Las Vegas. Amazon, the global giant changing the retail landscape and influencing purchasing power, operates four facilities in Las Vegas, including fulfillment. This includes Zappos, another retail giant acquired by Amazon but operating independently in downtown Las Vegas. Google is building a new data center covering 64 acres in Henderson. Southern Nevada is becoming a hub for industries that touch all areas of our lives. According to The Daily Beast, Las Vegas is one of the hottest art cities in the US. There is a thriving art community in Southern Nevada including the Arts District, home of Preview Thursday and First Friday. Murals cover exterior walls, galleries exhibit works of local artists, and artistic talent is now available in our shopping malls. New
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Orleans Square, a retail block in Commercial Center built 50 years ago, has re-emerged as a hub for artists and musicians. The Las Vegas Artists’ Guild, with almost 400 members, displays paintings and sculptures in an ample retail space in Galleria at Sunset mall. Life and style have changed as culture evolves and new ideas emerge. Las Vegas demonstrates that cutting-edge lifestyle, as we proudly embrace our past, present, and future. We hope Sensi magazine makes you think, laugh, share, and explore, Yours in the new normal,
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M ANAG I NG E D I TO R SENSI LAS VEGAS
sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 9
10 NOVEMBER 2019 Las Vegas
Making an Impact PunchCode educates a new workforce to fill tech jobs.
Las Vegas has always been a tourist destination with a hospitality-based economy. Tech giants Amazon and Google have come to Southern Nevada, and the emerging tech hub needs skilled employees. Education, however, can be costly and time-consuming. PunchCode (PUNCHCODE.ORG ), the only nonprofit software engineering school in Nevada, provides classes to help people start careers as application developers. In 2018, Tech Impact started PunchCode to fill the gap left behind when the only coding school in Nevada ceased operations in 2017. “It really does take a community to provide ideas and opportunities,” says Joshua Leavitt, regional director for Nevada Tech Impact. “Las Vegas has traditionally been a service culture. Our charge is to create opportunities for people to enter the rising technology job market.” PunchCode creates a highly collaborative and team-oriented environment. Part of the training requires everyone to be part of a team with daily “stand-ups” to discuss what they did yesterday, what they plan on accomplishing that day, and any blocks. “We have the opportunity to set the standard on what training programs deliver to students and community,” states Leavitt. “With PunchCode, we bring all stakeholders to the table to prepare students for the technical and cultural skills attractive to employers. It’s about outcomes rather than just access to curriculum.” The school is open during regular business hours, and students have 24/7 campus access during the 12-week program. 1112 S. Casino Center Blvd. // Las Vegas // (702) 560-5326
–Debbie Hall
Blink And Miss It
Hans Klok returns to Vegas to mystify audiences. Acclaimed as the world’s fastest illusionist, Hans Klok (HANSKLOK.VEGAS ) has returned to perform in Las Vegas in his newest show, Hans Klok: The World’s Fastest Magician, at the Excalibur Hotel & Casino. He dazzles with 50 electrifying illusions, and award-winning, world-class magic. Klok suspends the belief of reality while mesmerizing audiences in his family-friendly, fun-for-all-ages, magical adventure. Vegas’s audiences first discovered Klok when he performed The Beauty of Magic, featuring Pamela Anderson during his limited engagement at Planet Hollywood. After traveling the world, he wanted to return to Sin City. The new production will also feature his Divas of Magic dancers and one-of-a-kind illusions that will make their debut in the fully immersive, state-of-the-art Thunderland Showroom. The dazzling venue broadcasts on high-resolution LED walls on the main stage with several performance platforms throughout the showroom. Klok creates his large-scale illusions in an intimate showroom. Hans Klok: The World’s Fastest Magician performs Saturday to Thursday at 7:30 p.m. with matinees on Saturday and Sunday at 4 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at any MGM Resorts box office or online at HANSKLOK.COM/TICKETS . –DH Excalibur Hotel & Casino // Thunderland Showroom //3850 Las Vegas Blvd. S. // (702) 597-7777
sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 11
Burning Man Evolves
Compass of the Ephemeral captures essence through photos. Burning Man transformed the landscape of events into an experiment of community and art. Compass of the Ephemeral: Aerial Photography of Black Rock City through the Lens of Will Roger (SMALLWORKSPRESS.COM ) showcases its evolution throughout the years. Nevada artist and Burning Man event cofounder Roger photographs the ever-changing terrain of Black Rock City, Nevada, where Burning Man is held annually. The event began in 1986 in San Francisco as a bonfire ritual at Baker Beach. In 1990, a separate event was planned in Black Rock City while officials in San Francisco banned the bonfire. The following year, the burning of the man was moved to the desert in northwest Nevada as several smaller events. By 1996, the festival opened in Black Rock City. The symbolic ritual burning of a giant wooden effigy culminates the festival celebrating radical expression, self-reliance, and civic responsibility. Roger’s photographs feature a collection of aerial photos as never seen before. Photographic collaboration by Burning Man architect Rod Garrett is also included as a testament of its organic growth. This stunning historical travelogue in words and pictures depicts Black Rock City from generation to generation. –DH
Wrap Happy
Present a beautiful gift with Wrap Buddies. Handing a present to someone brings great joy as they … open the bag. Remember the time when the beautiful paper was ripped off with excitement and anticipation? But trying to measure, cut, and tape that paper can be such a hassle—Wrap Buddies (WRAPBUDDIES.CO ) came on the market. Wrap Buddies clips to a table or countertop to hold wrapping paper in place with a tape dispenser at the
Bret Wortman engineered the first Wrap Buddies in
end for ease of cutting. Supplies are close at hand, and
2008 when rolls of papers kept falling off the table. He
the clips are adjustable, so measuring, cutting, trimming,
didn’t want to sit on the floor to wrap gifts and designed
wrapping, and taping becomes easy.
the first one out of wood to fit his table. When he accessed
Other uses include brown paper for art projects or ship-
3D printing, Wortman developed the prototype designs
ping. In the kitchen, aluminum foil can be easily cut to
that could adapt to multiple thicknesses to bring back
wrap cut up bulk food and leftovers.
the joy of wrapping presents.
12 NOVEMBER 2019 Las Vegas
–DH
sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 13
Scrumptious, Calming Munchies
A Boring Life brings taste with a dichotomy to snacking. A desire to leave urban commotion and anxiety attacks behind inspired Serafina Palandech and her business partner and wife, Chef Jennifer Johns, create A Boring Life (ABORINGLIFE.COM ) snack foods. The founders moved to Boring, Oregon, from San Francisco, and in a more serene setting, developed the organic line of snacks with CBD or hemp extract as well as hemp tincture and dog gummies. Johnson custom created everything with a carefully designed flavor. The whole plant formula with non-psychoactive hemp is used to aid in calming a person experiencing anxiety. Products are lab tested to ensure purity and potency. Snacks including roasted almonds with a hint of lavender, sweet and spicy roasted walnuts, and roasted almonds covered with dark chocolate are an excellent source of protein. Enjoy guilt-free food that is high in Omega 3s and gluten free. Most of the products offered are vegan as a source of plantbased protein. Palandech and Johnson first cornered the chicken nugget market with the successful brand Hip Chick Farms, even preparing a meal for former president Barack Obama and his staff of 200. They have now switched to CBD, hemp, and plant-based products for sale in retail locations across the country and on Amazon. –DH 14 NOVEMBER 2019 Las Vegas
A Taste Of Europe
La Belle Terre Bakery & Café offers continental cuisine in Vegas.
La Belle Terre Bakery & Café (LBTBAKERY.COM ) takes its guests on a culinary journey through Europe. Start the day with an energy-boosting breakfast; continue with that on-the-go power lunch, and treat yourself with a delectable dessert. Inspired by the vibe of a European café, the newly renovated La Belle Terre Bakery & Café, locally owned and operated by Bachir and Sandra Aboujaoude, offers a vast selection. The redesigned dining room and outside patio beckon guests to enjoy a leisurely time, and the owners encourage everyone to stay for an extended period. When Sandra, originally from Bosnia, retired as a competitive female body builder, she and her husband were happy to buy the bakery and make it their own. Many of the foods are imported to bring a full European cuisine experience to the menu. However, there are locally sourced foods as well for freshness. Day-starters include soufflés and quiches, including the Florentine Quiche with fresh spinach, mushrooms, onions, and mozzarella. There is a collection of homemade soups, salads, sandwiches, and paninis, such as Croque Monsieur with ham, Swiss cheese, Dijon mustard, and béchamel sauce. A rotating selection of pastries and desserts tempts with croissants, rolls, danish, and cakes. Pair with a beverage like Café Au Lait, Turkish coffee, espresso, caramel macchiato, white chocolate mocha, brulée caramel coffee, or chai tea latte.
–DH
8390 W. Sahara Ave. // Las Vegas // (702) 685-7712
sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 15
RIGHTING WRONGS It’s time for the NFL to abandon its archaic policy toward CBD. by K E M A O G D E N
NFL COMMISSIONER ROGER GOODELL HAS GIVEN THE LEAGUE THE
GREEN LIGHT. TEAM PHYSICIANS, ATHLETIC TRAINERS, AND MEDICAL EXPERTS CAN NOW CONVENE TO EXAMINE ALTERNATIVES FOR IMPROVING HEALTH IN THE WAKE OF CURRENT AND RETIRED FOOTBALL PLAYERS SUFFERING FROM OPIOID ADDICTIONS DUE TO MISGUIDED PAIN MANAGEMENT. Sadly, the NFL’s chief medical officer doesn’t feel the
Retired Rams defensive end Chris Long has said he
science supports the use of cannabis as an alternative
used cannabis during his 11-year career to ease his
to pain management, and therefore the NFL continues
pain. Hall of Fame quarterback Joe Montana believed
to ban its use. The NFL is simply wrong.
so strongly in the benefits of cannabis that he opened a
Science has found that cannabidiol (CBD) is effective in treating anxiety, insomnia, reducing inflammation, and
cannabis company, as did former players Terrell Davis and Rob Gronkowski.
lowering pain. The World Health Organization states that
Kyle Turley, who played eight years as an offensive
in humans, “CBD exhibits no effects indicative of any abuse
end, credits cannabis with saving his life. He suggests
or dependence potential.” Cases of people experiencing
that the NFL run one cannabis study in training camp.
pain relief from its use are documented almost daily.
Once team owners and Goodell see the positive results,
Several former NFL players have come out publicly
Turley believes this would silence critics once and for all.
to show their support for cannabis as a legitimate and
My husband, Jonathan Ogden, an NFL Hall of Fame in-
safe alternative to addictive opioids. Calvin Johnson,
ductee who played with the Ravens, also strongly believes
a retired Detroit Lions nine-year veteran, estimates he
in the benefits of CBD. He and several of his former team-
suffered at least nine concussions during his career and
mates who use cannabis for pain relief will be participat-
blacked out several times as a result. He had his choice
ing in our sixth annual Ogden Family Foundation Celebri-
of drugs in the training room to relieve his pain—a com-
ty Bowl next spring to raise money and bring awareness to
mon practice among the leagues—but in retirement, he
disadvantaged schools, families, and children in Southern
has opted for cannabis.
Nevada. These weekend golf and bowling events feature
16 NOVEMBER 2019 Las Vegas
PHOTO COURTESY OF OGDEN FAMILY FOUNDATION.
Jonathan Ogden (second from left) during the fifth annual Ogden Family Foundation Celebrity Bowl, which also features golfing.
SEVERAL FORMER NFL PLAYERS HAVE COME OUT PUBLICLY TO ENDORSE CANNABIS AS A SAFE ALTERNATIVE TO ADDICTIVE OPIOIDS.
current and former sports figures who are enjoying an active lifestyle thanks to the benefits of CBD. As the NFL season reaches its midway point, talks of injuries to key players continue to dominate the headlines. Please show your support for retired professional athletes as they rally behind the use of CBD and other cannabis-related products as a way to ease their pain for a healthier quality of life. KEMA OGDEN is executive director of the Community Outreach Medical Center and president and cofounder of the Ogden Family Foundation, both nonprofit organizations. She is the co-owner of TOP Notch THC and the first minority female to own a cannabis dispensary and cultivation business based in Las Vegas.
sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 17
baileyscbd.com @ b a i l eys c b d
18 NOVEMBER 2019 Las Vegas
sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 19
{tastebuds } by D E B B I E H A L L
Chosun Hwaro & Nara Teppan
Miracle Mile Shops inside Planet Hollywood 3663 Las Vegas Blvd. S. // (702) 857-7676
MEAT(ING) CUISINES Chosun Hwaro & Nara Teppan, the largest Korean BBQ and Teppan experience, tantalize on the Strip. Meat and fish lovers, imagine barbecue selections grilled at your seats, a teppanyaki show on custom cooking tables, or selecting from an extensive sushi menu. The first US restaurant from Ebadom restaurateurs, Chosun Hwaro & Nara Teppan (CHOSUNNARA.COM ), has arrived to The Korean BBQ is prepared on specially designed table
The company, which operates over 200 world-class din-
grills using specialty meats. The Pearl Steak is a jewel of
ing destinations, brought the authentic Korean BBQ expe-
beef known for its exquisite flavor retrieved by the most
rience on the Las Vegas Strip as the largest one in the state
skilled chefs. The Boneless Galbi is the highest-grade
of Nevada. Diners can feast on an expansive menu of Ko-
short rib flavored with Ebadom’s own signature seasoning.
rean BBQ, teppanyaki, sushi, soju, and signature cocktails.
Guests enjoy each dish cooked for their individual tastes.
“We go beyond one cuisine and offer three totally dif-
“We take great pride in offering the most authentic Korean
ferent dining options,” explains Eli Kim, executive general
BBQ in Las Vegas,” says Kim. “It is the most cultural-based
manager of Chosun Hwaro & Nara Teppan. “We are ready
traditional food. Our corporate office is located in Korea. Our
to show the US an unforgettable dining experience with
CEO and his wife are very well known in the industry and
Las Vegas flair from our thrilling teppanyaki shows to
strive to give the best experience in cultural-based tradi-
unique barbecue items exclusive to our restaurant.”
tional dining. In fact, his wife created the menu.”
20 NOVEMBER 2019 Las Vegas
PHOTO COURTESY OF EBADOM
offer delectable cuisines to Las Vegas.
“LAS VEGAS IS A GREAT CITY. THERE ARE SO MANY TOURISTS FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD AS WELL AS THE RESIDENTS WHO LIVE HERE. WE WANT TO SHOW OUR TRADITIONS TO A GLOBAL AUDIENCE.” —Eli Kim
with Tanqueray Rangpur gin, Aperol, house-made orange bitters, and fresh lemon juice. Traditional Korean drinks are also offered. Authentic Korean breakfast and lunch menus tempt with kimchi jjigae, a stew made with scallions, onions, diced tofu, pork, tuna, and seafood. Bulgogi, Korean for The teppanyaki experience combines the skill of the
“fire meat,” combines thin, marinated slices of beef or pork
chef at a custom cooking table with different foods grilled
grilled on a barbecue. Chosun gukbag is a hot soup made
and cooked to perfection.
by putting cooked rice into boiling soup.
The sushi bar features an extensive selection, including
The expansive 13,000-square-foot dining space pres-
Volcanic Yellowtail Roll with spicy yellowtail, micro cilantro,
ents 30 Korean BBQ tables and 12 teppanyaki tables. All
cucumber, sliced jalapeno, and ponzu sauce; and Creamy
the wood, finishes, and displays were flown in from Korea
Crunch Roll with cream cheese, avocado, shrimp tempura,
because details are essential to the restaurant group.
crab, eel sauce, and sweet mayo. Sushi can be enjoyed ei-
VIP private dining rooms, equipped with their own Ko-
ther at the sushi bar, at the guests’ table combining with
rean BBQ tables and special VIP menus, are available for
Korean BBQ, or with the teppanyaki show.
private parties. Guests on the go can still enjoy its menu at
The restaurant is working on introducing a new concept of Korean barbecue and steaks in teppanyaki next year. While cultural-based traditional cuisines are essential, there are some dishes created for America tastes.
Chosun Hwaro & Nara Teppan’s outdoor patio and walkup bar area adjacent to Harmon Avenue. “I think Las Vegas is a great city. There are so many tourists from all over the world as well as the residents
The menu features cocktails that combine Chamisul
who live here. We want to show our traditions to a global
Soju and Junmai Daiginjo Sake. Guests can also indulge
audience,” says Kim. “The Strip is the best place to offer
in specialty cocktails, including the Knight’s Voyage made
our dining experiences.” sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 21
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22 NOVEMBER 2019 Las Vegas
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23
{highprofile } by D E B B I E H A L L
CELEBRATE THE FIGHT The legacy of Jack Herer lives on.
Say the name “Jack Herer” and many images are conjured up by those in the know. Some will speak of the qual-
honest individuals and would never mislead or lie to the American people.”
ity of the tasty and popular strain named after him. There
As for the “evils” of marijuana, Jack believed everything
is the Jack Herer Cup, named after him to celebrate canna-
he was told, taught, and read since he thought the infor-
bis with award shows held globally. His book published in
mation released by the government would never be wrong.
1985, The Emperor Wears No Clothes, continues to inspire
As an adult, Jack served his country and fought in the Ko-
people around the globe, now in its 12th Help End Marijuana Prohibition (HEMP), opened doors for activism today. What about the man? Yes, Herer, sometimes called the “Godfather of the Cannabis Movement” and the “Emperor of Hemp,” was an American cannabis activist. He was also a son, father, husband, lover, Republican (once), presidential candidate (Grassroots-Legalize
“I AM NOT SAYING THAT HEMP IS GOING TO SAVE THE WORLD, BUT IT IS THE ONLY THING THAT CAN.” —Jack Herer
Cannabis Party), and warrior. Jack stood up
wife, started a family, and lived the American dream as a staunch conservative, even bashing cannabis and other drugs. Then came the divorce. As a newly single man in the counterculture of the late 1960s, Jack moved to an apartment filled with hippies, swingers, and counterculture-centric men and women living in Southern California. According to Dan, he probably thought he was in hell. Jack then met a young wom-
to the US government, law enforcement agencies, and biased
an who he liked, but she was not attracted to him because
media. His journey, which began when he was born in 1939
of his attitude at the time.
in Buffalo, New York, took him through middle-class America
Lust and desire can motivate the most staunch conser-
to his exploration of the counterculture to his love of canna-
vative to try anything, and Jack decided to try cannabis as
bis. Until his passing in 2010, his goal was total legalization of
a way to pursue her. According to his son, Jack told him
cannabis and hemp, setting it free from prosecution.
that by trying cannabis, he experienced so many things in
Dan Herer, Jack’s son and founder of the Herer Group, shared his father’s backstory. “My father’s life is similar
a way that were simply unexplainable to him, such as listening to music, enjoying food, and making love.
to most Americans growing up in the 1940s, ‘50s, and
Jack searched for information and research on can-
‘60s. He believed that America was the greatest country
nabis, and was unable to find any data distributed after
on earth and that its leaders were the most genuine and
prohibition, only propaganda. He discovered the founding
24 NOVEMBER 2019 Las Vegas
PHOTOS COURTESY OF DAN HERER
edition. The organization he founded,
rean Conflict in the 1950s, met his first
sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 25
of America itself was to a degree based in cannabis, with cannabis and hemp grown freely on American soil. He studied the Bible, looked at ancient writings, interpreted hieroglyphics, and studied the development of other nations. Jack discovered cannabis and hemp had been instrumental in the development of many nations, and that lands and tribes had treasured it for centuries for economic, cultural, and spiritual use. Disillusioned by his country and feeling betrayed, Jack became an advocate and activist for cannabis, ready to set the record straight about the plant. At first, he just didn’t know how to accomplish this. One way he discovered was through the printed word, and Jack penned his first book, Grass, in the early 1970s. He became one of the supporters for the original Prop 19 in 1972 and then became a proponent for every initiative afterward. This would continue for decades including 1996, when cannabis activist Dennis Peron would write another initiative that would become California Proposition 215 as the compassionate care act, which would allow the use of medicinal cannabis. In the early 1980s, Jack took on the role of teacher and educator by opening a hemp booth on Venice Beach and talking to tourists and community members about the plant.
THE FIFTH ANNUAL JACK HERER CUP
(JACKHERERCUP.COM ) rolls back into Vegas at the Hard Rock Cafe on Dec. 12 to honor the excellence and intention of those who are growing and creating cannabis products now. The party culminates with a cannabis awards show, including lifetime achievement, industry leader, best flower, best greenhouse flower, and best concentrates. Some of the country’s top cannabis growers will be competing to take home the coveted Jack Herer Cup for best indica, sativa, and hybrid flowers. Hard Rock Cafe // 3771 Las Vegas Blvd. S. // Las Vegas
26 NOVEMBER 2019 Las Vegas
One of the most profound moments of change was when Jack, his son Dan, and others stood on the lawn of the Westwood Federal Building in Los Angeles for more than 80 days to advocate the legalization of cannabis in 1980. Ronald Reagan had just been elected president and, allegedly, drove by the building and saw the protest. As then-president-elect Reagan pulled into the building and was met by security, it was reported (although not verified) that Reagan mistook the cannabis leaf as a maple leaf and asked why the Canadians were protesting. Reagan wanted the protesters removed but was informed that under the constitution, they had a right to be there and state their opinion. After Reagan was sworn in, Jack and other activists were arrested while collecting signatures for an initiative and registering voters on federal property. They were told they were in violation of the Sedition Act. The Sedition Act of 1918 was enacted by the United States Congress to extend the Espionage Act of 1917 to cover a broader range of offenses, most notably speech and the expression of opinion. It also stated that during a time of war, citizens could not be on federal property after dark. Jack knew what the Sedition Act entailed due to his military background and told the arresting officer that the US was not at war in 1980. The officer then poked Jack in the chest and said to him that the US was at war with him and other cannabis activists. The protest was disbanded, but Jack fought his arrest and conviction and refused any deal (including a $5 fine). The country had declared a “war on drugs” and Jack ultimately had to do prison time (15 days) for registering people to vote, making him a convicted felon. It was during this period that Jack outlined his influential book, The Emperor Wears No Clothes, becoming a best seller with more than 33 printings in seven languages. He worked with High Times magazine, and through this partnership, he was able to travel the world and spread the message about the plant. During his travels to Holland, Jack met Ben Dronkers, who was developing a cannabis museum. The two became friends, and Dronkers then named a cannabis strain after Jack, which continues its fame today. The legacy lives on through Dan who manufactures and distributes the namesake brand to honor his father. “My father’s legacy is the opportunity of this plant around the globe. The people who are inspired by him are doing so much to utilize this plant medicinally and scientifically to develop useful products. We have only just begun to understand this plant. Its full utilization can help our ability to not just survive but thrive, and I am honored to continue my father’s legacy,” says Dan. As Jack Herer always said, “I am not saying that hemp is going to save the world, but it is the only thing that can.”
sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 27
SPEC IAL REPORT
Further Down the Line As congress dithers over national cannabis legalization bills, more states prepare for sales to adults. by L E L A N D R U C K E R
IT’S BEEN ALMOST SIX YEARS SINCE RETAIL CANNABIS STORES OPENED IN COL-
ORADO AND WASHINGTON. IN THAT TIME, NINE MORE STATES AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA HAVE
OPTED TO LEGALIZE, AND NOW ONE IN FOUR AMERICANS—ALMOST 80 MILLION ADULTS—HAVE ACCESS TO SOME FORM OF LAWFUL MARIJUANA. BUT IT’S STILL FEDERALLY ILLEGAL, WHICH MEANS AN ABSENCE OF NATIONAL REGULATION IS LEAVING STATES TO CREATE THEIR OWN LAWS. The US House of Representatives passed the SAFE
problem currently for many small companies and insti-
Banking Act September 25, the first individual cannabis
tutions that want to provide legal cannabis businesses
bill to ever receive a full congressional floor vote (321-
financial services. If it passes the Senate, which has its
103). It would prohibit federal regulators from punish-
own version of the bill with more than 30 cosponsors, it
ing banks that provide services to legal businesses, a
would be a big boost to federal legalization efforts.
28 NOVEMBER 2019 Las Vegas
But other bills—the Regulate Marijuana Like Alcohol
uity issues. Millions of Americans still have cannabis
Act, the Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment and Ex-
charges on their record, and now that it’s legal, what
pungement Act, and the Veterans Medical Marijuana
should happen to them? The problem is out in the open,
Safe Harbor Act, among them—remain in committee,
and many states are moving to expunge, or remove, the
with little progress beyond a few hearings.
records of those convicted of nonviolent sales or posses-
Unless the Democrats retain the House and overturn
sion charges. This is a significant transformation that
the Senate next year, it still appears more likely that legal-
will allow millions of people to live without a criminal
ization will unfold state by state rather than by federal fiat.
record. Nonetheless, three-fourths of Americans can
Bright Spots: Social Equity in Previous Cannabis Charges
There has been some progress in regard to social-eq-
still be arrested and charged with possession in states where cannabis remains illegal. One of the major arguments against legalization was that it would lead to increased teenage use. But every sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 29
30 NOVEMBER 2019 Las Vegas
research paper or study continues to indicate that teen
regulatory process by allowing licensed medical shops
use is steady or down in states that have legalized. One
to be able to add adult-use sales. Some lessons learned
report released this year by four Western universities
from other states include allowing several types of con-
found that teenage use remained steady in states with
sumption licenses and lowering the asset requirements
medical marijuana and actually has decreased in states
to let more people start businesses.
with adult-use. It’s probably too early to tell for sure, but no significant research indicates any uptick in teen usage since 2013. Another issue arose this year over law enforcement and cannabis’ unique odor. There is an exception that allows police to search a motor vehicle without a search warrant by claiming they smell marijuana. Several cases are now challenging this smoking gun. A recent court of appeals ruling in Maryland found that police searches of vehicles that smelled like cannabis were no longer appropriate and that odor does not grant officers probable cause to conduct a search. In Pennsylvania, where medical marijuana is legal, a court said the same thing. A Bronx judge went even further and said that police reports on marijuana smell happen too often to be credible. “The time has come to reject the canard of marijuana emanating from nearly every vehi-
While the passing of a few upcoming bills, such as the SAFE Banking Act, would be a big boost to federal legalization efforts, it still appears more likely that legalization will unfold state by state.
cle subject to a traffic stop,” the judge wrote. Expect more cases like this around the country.
Gearing Up for Sales
The law also leaves it up to individual governments
Several states are preparing for adult-use sales to be-
to decide if they want retail shops. About 40 percent of
gin in 2020. In Pennsylvania, medical sales began in Feb-
counties so far, mostly in rural areas, even some that
ruary. Lt. Gov. John Fetterman spent a couple months
voted for adult-use in the election, have rejected retail
talking to constituents and reported about 65 percent of
shops in their jurisdictions. “Smaller municipalities
citizens are in favor of legalization. But it remains a par-
tend to want the big cities to go first and offer them re-
tisan issue. No Republican lawmakers are in favor of le-
assurance that the sky won’t fall, that crime rates won’t
galization or even to reduce possession charges to a civil
skyrocket, that teen access won’t go up,” Deputy Leafly
fine, so it probably doesn’t stand much of a chance since
Editor Bruce Barcott told Michigan Live in August. Sales
Republicans have controlled both houses since 2010.
are expected to begin in the first quarter of 2020.
On May 31, the Illinois General Assembly passed the Illinois Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act. Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed the bill on June 25, and the state set an am-
Some States Still Struggling
Vermont has allowed medical use since 2004, and in
bitious schedule to open stores, setting a target date of
2013 decriminalized possession of an ounce or less. It
January 1 for medical dispensaries to add adult-use.
became the first state to legislate cannabis reform when
Only medical patients will be allowed to grow their own
Gov. Phil Scott signed a bill passed by both houses in
plants, and it includes a provision to expunge all misde-
January 2018. However, the legislation contained no au-
meanor marijuana convictions.
thorization for the sale of cannabis to adults, and law-
Michigan voters, where medical sales began a decade
makers and the governor haven’t reached agreement on
ago, legalized adult use by a 55.9 percent majority with
how things will work. The latest plan is for licensing to
Proposal 1, a state ballot initiative, in November 2018. Gov.
begin in February 2021, with retail shops opening that
Gretchen Whitmer established the Marijuana Regulato-
summer. Don’t hold your breath.
ry Agency, and the state is crafting regulations, finally
Maine approved adult-use cannabis three years ago,
passing emergency rules to bring medical and adult-use
and shops still have not opened. Former governor Paul
under the same regulatory blanket and speeding up the
LePage did everything in his power to thwart voters’ sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 31
Q: Which U.S. President Asked Congress To Decriminalize Cannabis?
A: Jimmy Carter
Within ďŹ rst six months of taking oďŹƒce, President Jimmy Carter was candid about cannabis. During a 1977 address to Congress, he asked they abolish federal penalties for possession. If we know this much about cannabis, imagine what we know to Lift Your Business.
32 NOVEMBER 2019 Las Vegas
wishes, but current governor Janet Mills has approved a framework for getting shops open, and hopes are high
Looking Ahead
Look for Arizona, which lost an initiative effort to
that will finally happen in spring of next year. As in
legalize by two percentage points in 2016, to try again.
Michigan, however, few municipalities so far are allow-
New York and New Jersey were also on track to legalize
ing shops, which means many Mainers might still have
but got hung up on legislative details. There’s plenty of
to continue to use the black market.
voter support in both states, so expect action there.
A 65 percent majority of voters in the District of Colum-
Petitions are circulating in Mississippi, Nebraska,
bia approved adult-use in 2014, but five years later stores
South Dakota and Florida to reach the 2020 ballot. Mis-
have not opened. congressional Republicans, led by Mary-
sissippi would be the first deep-South state to legalize.
land legislator Andy Harris, attached a rider that disallows
Nebraska once sued Colorado to try and stop its legaliza-
the district from using its own funds to set up regulations
tion. Oklahoma joined that effort, which failed, and last
and retail stores. That led to a semi-underground “gifting”
year medical cannabis was legalized there, with Repub-
economy where a consumer “buys” something else and is
licans joining Democratic voters to pass the initiative.
gifted cannabis in return. Mayor Muriel Bowser has pro-
Advocates in Oklahoma are now pushing for full legal-
posed the Safe Cannabis Sales Act of 2019, which if passed
ization. The emergence of adult-use markets in Illinois
would allow for retail stores and provide equity require-
and Michigan, and medical sales in Missouri, means the
ments for those hit hardest by the Drug War.
Midwest is no longer immune to legalization.
sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 33
ing 34 NOVEMBER 2019 Las Vegas
le,
NOT SORRY More and more people are choosing uncoupled adulthood. by R O BY N G R I G G S L AW R E N C E
My first newspaper job was on the night desk OF A DAILY. WEEKENDS
OFF WERE THE ONLY TIME TO HAVE ANY SORT OF NORMAL LIFE WITH NINE-TO-FIVERS (MOST OF THE WORLD), AND THEY WERE AWARDED BASED STRICTLY ON SENIORITY. When my time finally came to trade in Wednesday and
boomers are driving the numbers with divorce rates that
Thursday for Saturday and Sunday, my boss said not so
have nearly doubled (and involve unprecedented num-
fast. Steve, who had started several months after me,
bers of second and third marriages) from 1990 to 2015,
had a wife. Steve needed weekends off more than I did.
the Pew Research Center reports.
“You understand,” my boss said.
Determined not to make their parents’ mistakes, more
I was furious, but it was the ’80s. I gave Steve the week-
and more millennials are skipping the whole wedding
ends because that’s what you did (and my boss hadn’t re-
thing. The number of unmarried 18-to-29-year-olds has
ally given me a choice). Over the next couple years, I would
grown from 40 percent in 1960 to 80 percent today, and
leave the newspaper business and marry the first of two
the Pew Research Center predicts a quarter of today’s
wrong-for-me husbands, beginning decades of couple-
young adults will be single when they turn 50. More than
dom that ended recently. I’m single in the age of Tinder,
half—51 percent—of 18-to-34-year-olds reported not hav-
and this is a whole new world. Singledom today is noth-
ing a steady romantic partner last year, a record high for
ing like it was when I was a twentysomething copy editor
the annual University of Chicago survey.
looking for love (in all the wrong places, as it turns out).
Getting married isn’t the great big life goal it was 25 years
It’s no longer weird to be single. Lots of people have
ago, when I was among the last of my high school friends
made it their choice. And if you give weekends off to
to walk down the aisle at 27. More than half—55 percent—
the married guy, you’ll likely be called out as a singlist,
of participants in a 2017 Census Bureau report said getting
which some people consider just as bad as being a sexist
married wasn’t an important criterion for becoming an
or a racist. Singles are demanding respect—and getting
adult. Instead, 95 percent said formal schooling and full-
it—because they’ve (oh, sorry, we’ve) become a powerful
time employment were key. Half of young millennials told
force, in numbers as well as influence.
Tinder they were worried about being in a long-term re-
As Americans live longer, marry later (or not at all), and
lationship because they didn’t want to lose their indepen-
divorce more, singles have increased from 29 percent of
dence. A Bustle survey found that 60 percent of people who
the adult population in 1970 to 48 percent today. Baby
were single and not dating were prioritizing self-care. sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 35
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36 NOVEMBER 2019 Las Vegas
In an opinion piece for Inter Press Service, demographer Joseph Chamie, former director of the United Nations Population Division, calls this trend “a significant global demographic change having far-reaching consequences yet receiving scant attention.” He predicts single-person households will continue to grow exponentially throughout the world, increasing global demand for housing, transportation, natural resources, and energy. “People across the world are bucking the stigma of living alone and embracing independent lifestyles,” Euromonitor International’s “Top 10 Global Consumer Trends 2019” reports. Sociologist Eric Klinenberg told the Christian Sci-
ence Monitor the shift is “the greatest social change of the last 60 years that we haven’t already named and identified.” In “Make Way for the Single Age,” J Walter Thompson calls it “a paradigm shift in adulthood uncoupled … a natural evolution alongside job hopping, coliving, sexual openness, digital connection, and a nomadic workforce.”
“I MADE THESE CHOICES” Singledom is a choice that 44-year-old Brian Gross, who has owned BSG PR since 2001, made deliberately. A serial monogamist for many years, he nearly got married once
Alone AROUND THE WORLD
In Canada, where 28 percent of people live alone, one-person households are now the most common. Living alone has grown fastest among 35- to 64-year-olds. In South Korea, unmarried women between 30 and 34 have jumped from 1.4 percent of the population in 1970 to 30 percent today. Young Koreans are called the “sampo” (“giving up on three”) generation because they’re not interested in dating, marriage, and children. In Japan, 70 percent of single people in their 40s and older say they’ll never marry and are prepared to grow old alone. Single women proudly call themselves “wagamama,” which means “self-determining.”
and thought better of it. Now he relishes singlehood. He can make his clients his priority, answering to them 24/7. He travels to wherever he wants, whenever he wants, and meets new people along the way. He feeds himself when
his book, Happy Singlehood: The Rising Acceptance and
he’s hungry and works out at his whim. “I think what
Celebration of Solo Living, “yet we still live in a society
comes in time,” he says, “is your own strength and ability
where singles, especially in advanced adulthood, are
to say with confidence, ‘Hey, I made this life decision. I’m
urged to couple up or otherwise face prejudice.”
the one who lives with it. I made these choices.’”
The US Federal Code states the president can prohibit
Singledom has its advantages, as a viral Reddit thread
discrimination based on marital status, but there are more
asking what people loved most about it recently laid
than 1,000 laws giving married couples legal and financial
out, everything from not getting dragged to lame fam-
incentives and benefits. Singles make an average of $8,000
ily events to not having to laugh at unfunny Facebook
less per year and pay more for everything from housing,
memes. And with social media, no one ever feels lonely.
healthcare, and mortgages to cell phone plans, insurance,
Gross sets his Tinder radar to wherever he’s traveling to
and taxes. Unmarried women get hit on more in the work-
before he goes and has friends waiting in new places.
place, according to a Suffolk University study, and single
Sociologist Ekyakim Kislev says marriage isn’t for him because he likes his freedom and seeks other ways
workers are still being asked to stay late and cover weekends and holidays more often than married ones.
of interacting with significant others. “There are many
The stigma is real, Kislev says. “My research showed
ways to do things,” Kislev says, “and we need to accept,
me that it is critical for singles to replace falsely internal-
even celebrate, the whole spectrum.”
ized negative images of singlehood with positive ones.”
But Kislev has found most people to be pretty closed-minded about marital status. Singles have heavier workloads and earn less money, he says, and have a harder time renting apartments because they’re con-
“THE MOST EXCITING, CHALLENGING, AND SIGNIFICANT RELATIONSHIP OF ALL”
sidered less reliable and stable. “We are open to various
Single people exercise more, sleep better, are more
sexual identities, we celebrate different ethnicities, and
open-minded and deeply engaged in social and civil
we tolerate a wide array of political views,” he writes in
life, and have a much broader definition of “family” than sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 37
38 NOVEMBER 2019 Las Vegas
married people. They’re more generous with their time,
Paul Dolan, who wrote Happily Ever After: Escaping
money, and caregiving, according to numerous studies,
the Myths of the Perfect Life, told The Guardian that
and are happy and satisfied with their lives. They take
married people only present as happier than singles
music and art classes, dine out more often, and keep Lu-
when interviews are conducted with spouses in the
lulemon in business.
room. “When the spouse is not present: fucking misera-
In a three-year study of 79,000 US women aged 50 to 79, women who stayed single or got divorced ate healthier,
ble,” he says. Women who never married or had children are the healthiest and happiest, Dolan found.
exercised more, and drank less than married women. Sev-
We ladies are getting it. The number of married Ameri-
eral studies have found that single people pay more atten-
can women dropped below 50 percent for the first time in
tion to relationships with friends, neighbors, siblings, and
2009, and it has continued to drop as a new feminist wave
parents, while married couples are more insular.
challenges traditional roles and sexuality. We don’t need
“There is a huge misconception that being alone and
marriage for money, social status, sex, or babies anymore.
lonely are the same,” Kislev says. “Married people can
Over the life of Sex and the City, the early twenty-first
sometimes still feel lonely even if they are not ‘alone.’ It
century series that Harper’s Bazaar said changed our
was proven time and again in many studies that married
view of single life forever, Carrie Bradshaw goes from
people can be very lonely and emotionally deprived with-
thinking that being alone was the modern-day equiva-
in their wedlock.” In Happy Singlehood, Kislev explains:
lent of being a leper to thinking it meant “you’re pretty
“Instead of facing loneliness at its roots, many people
sexy and you’re taking your time deciding how you want
chase partnership only to discover that loneliness is a
your life to be and who you want to spend it with.”
standalone problem, the cure for which lies mainly within oneself, as researchers have repeatedly argued.”
With its focus on Carrie and her friends’ romantic exploits and weddings for all in the end, Sex and the City
In a popular TED Talk, women’s rights activist and
was hardly a poster child for modern singledom. But
What a Time to Be Alone author Chidera Eggerue agrees,
Carrie did figure out something about relationships to-
saying people often use relationships as a distraction
ward the series’ end that bears repeating. “There are
from themselves. “We use other people as a tool to run
those that open you up to something new and exotic,
away from the responsibility of getting to know who we
those that are old and familiar, those that bring up lots of
really are,” she says.
questions, those that bring you back,” she says. “But the most exciting, challenging, and significant relationship of all is the one you have with yourself.” ROBYN GRIGGS LAWRENCE is the author of the bestselling Cannabis Kitchen Cookbook and Pot in Pans: A History of Eating Cannabis.
1oftopeople 3%
are asexual, meaning they do not experience sexual attraction. Like every sexual orientation, asexuality is not a choice.
sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 39
Going Dogs to the
Mayte’s Rescue and Boogie Time
bring love to four-legged friends.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY DANIELLE EUGENIA
by DANIELLE EUGENIA and D E B B I E H A L L
40 NOVEMBER 2019 Las Vegas
Fans of the late, great musician Prince MIGHT DO A DOUBLE-TAKE WHEN SPOTTING MAYTE GARCIA AMID A DOGPILE OF FOUR-LEGGED FRIENDS. BUT WHILE GARCIA MIGHT BEST BE KNOWN AS THE EX-WIFE OF PRINCE, SHE IS NOW DEVOTED TO RESCUING ABANDONED DOGS AND CATS. Then came one of the darkest days of her life when Prince passed away. She was in shock and still has trouble talking about it. However, hope can often be found in dark times. “People read about my rescue on social media because of Prince’s passing and sent donations,” she says. “Rescues are so oversaturated. I would house a dog for up to a year because I couldn’t find a home. I decided to get a building, and then I realized I needed to become self-sufficient with this direction in my life.” With that motivation, she opened Boogie Time with partner Veronica Stiles, offering boarding, daycare, training, and grooming services to offset some of the In connection with Mayte’s Rescue (MAYTESRESCUE.COM), a
costs of the nonprofit rescue. A certain percentage of the
nonprofit animal shelter and adoption center, Garcia recent-
profits from Boogie Time, merchandise sales, and dona-
ly opened Boogie Time (BOOGIETIMELV.COM), which offers pet
tions support the rescue.
boarding, grooming, and daycare services. It must be in her
Garcia has rescued more than 1,000 dogs and puppies.
genes, as Garcia’s grandmother also rescued dogs and was
“I admit I wish I could keep all the dogs I rescue, but I do
a significant influence on her. “Every time we would visit
find them homes,” she says. Garcia takes in animals from
our grandmother over the summer, she always had up to 15
across America since there are more available homes for
dogs in a 1,000-square-foot house,” she says. “The word ‘res-
them in Las Vegas. She works with breeds such as pit
cue’ wasn’t even a term they used back then. She was saving
bulls that are more difficult to place.
these animals and giving them a good home. The ones that she couldn’t save, she would leave food out for them.”
She never lost her heart for dance and still teaches classes along with other plans outside of her rescue and
While adjusting to a newly divorced life in the early
businesses. “I am about empowerment and entrepre-
2000s, Garcia inadvertently saw an image online of a vat
neurship,” she says, especially her love of animals and
of euthanized animals. The photo was so disturbing that
making their world better.
she tracked down the location of the image and made a personal visit to the shelter to rescue a dog. A pregnant
Mayte’s Rescue and Boogie Time // 3345 E. Patrick Lane // Las Vegas // (702) 333-0221
Chihuahua caught her attention, but when she asked to adopt that dog, the shelter informed her that only a representative of a licensed rescue could adopt her. Fortunately, one such licensed representative happened to witness Garcia’s attempted adoption and reached out to her the next day. The licensed rescue arranged everything so she could adopt the Chihuahua. Fast-forward to 2013. Full of inspiration and a lot of love to give, Garcia created a licensed rescue of her own. She admits that at the beginning, she could only rescue one or two dogs at a time but took full responsibility for medical care, vaccinations, chips, spay or neuter, and grooming. sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 41
42 NOVEMBER 2019 Las Vegas
sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 43
{horoscope } by M O N A VA N J O S E P H
NOVEMBER HOROSCOPES PISCES
SCORPIO
Feb. 19–Mar. 20
Oct. 23–Nov. 21
“Trust” is a big word in your vocabulary. Instead of looking at that word in a self-preserving way, ask yourself, “Who trusts me?” This is the month to contemplate how you’ve earned other people’s respect, and extend a little effort to mend some bridges.
SAGITTARIUS
Nov. 22–Dec. 21
You are allowed to be creative and have oth-
Scorpio, instead of asking “Who do I trust” this month,
Love is all over you this month. You’ve discovered that the real essence of love starts with loving yourself enough to be yourself. You’re experiencing what a real connection to another person means. Your honesty, wit, and kindness are moving every relationship forward.
ARIES
Mar. 21–Apr. 19 This month, your key word is “finesse”. Do
ers help you with their creativity. Ask Spirit
not sweat the small stuff. If something is
and people about solutions. Your question
not meant for you, do not push. Instead,
of the month, “How would you handle the
embrace your feminine energy. Be charm-
issue of [fill in the blank]?” Listen, and let
ing, be gorgeous, be magnetic, and have
things be solved for you for a change.
absolutely no expectations.
TAURUS
CAPRICORN
Apr. 20–May 20
Dec. 22–Jan. 19
Truth is a gift and not a weapon. Do not
Partnerships and legal situations need
volunteer the truth on an issue. Wait to be
your attention this month. Do not agree
asked for your opinion. The control of your
to anything that seems to benefit the
emotions right now is essential because
other person more than it benefits you.
there are fragile people around you who
Do not trust verbal agreements at this
really can’t handle your truth.
AQUARIUS
Jan. 20–Feb. 18
You are the master of manifesting thoughts to reality. You were born to cre-
ask yourself, “Who trusts me?”
time. Avoid your usual procrastination and clean out old files.
GEMINI
May 21–June 21 This is an exceptionally fortuitous month
ate with your gifts. Now it’s time to ad-
for contacts for you to know in the fu-
dress your legacy. How do you preserve
ture. Be aware of a new project, job,
what you’ve created for future genera-
showcase, or media appearance. Make
tions? Decide who around you aligns with
an effort to look your best and leave any
your idea of the future.
negativity at home.
44 NOVEMBER 2019 Las Vegas
Cancer, avoid small-minded people and concentrate on your fabulous uniqueness. Keep your sense of humor.
CANCER
June 22–July 22 No one does what you do the way you do it. Lately, you’ve discovered that there are people around you who have not been as thoughtful about their future as you. Avoid these small-minded people and instead concentrate on your fabulous uniqueness. Keep your sense of humor.
LEO
July 23–Aug. 22 You are preparing for your amazing 2020 right now. Others will find your frank honesty amusing and interesting. Speak these words out loud, “Someday, I want [fill in the blank].” The more outrageous it is, the more it will be drawn to you. Focus on one thing at a time.
VIRGO
Aug. 23–Sept. 22 Avoid the spotlight this month and just work your magic. It’s time to prove that your words are true and you can make things move quickly. Renew those connections that have been good to you.
LIBRA
Sept. 23–Oct. 22 Say this, “I am a duck; everything rolls off my back.” The other thing about ducks is they look serene on the surface of the water, but their feet are moving like crazy. Do not let anything rattle you this month. Everything is being presented to get your attention. Las Vegas intuitive MONA VAN JOSEPH (MONA.VEGAS ) has been predicting her clients’ potential since 2002. She’s an author, columnist, host of “Psychic View Radio,” and creator of the Dice Wisdom (DICEWISDOM.COM ) app.
sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 45
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THE A/C GUYS
Refining The Cultivation Climate THE A/C GUYS COOLING AND HEATING SYSTEMS COMPANY HELPS KEEP THE ENVIRONMENT PERFECT.
No matter where the grow facility is located, keep-
tems that can give a real-time analysis of the condition
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tions fall out of predetermined parameters.
ment. The sometimes overlooked importance of the
The A/C Guys also specialize in unique stand-alone
cultivation climate inside a grow operation is getting
dehumidification units and mini-split systems―small-
more attention today; in part because of the spread
er heating and cooling systems―to more accurately
of grow operations in different parts of the country
control the temperature for each of the spaces in the
where heat and humidity vary widely. But also in re-
cultivation facility.
sponse to a need for a better-controlled environment
Another vital area that the company helps its cus-
to grow what informed growers know to be a sensitive,
tomers address is proper filtration and sterilization to
demanding plant.
reduce the chances of any unwanted particles or bac-
“The importance of climate control in a cultivation
teria infiltrating the product or space.
facility is one of the most highly addressed ingredi-
“With all this, and considering the clients’ budget,
ents in producing a quality product,” explains Chris
we also engineer efficient systems that will save our
Marshall, managing partner of The A/C Guys Cooling
customers on their power consumption to try and off-
and Heating Systems, a heating, venting, and air-con-
set the high overhead of running such a facility,” says
ditioning business. The A/C Guys is an 11-year-old fam-
Marshall.
ily-owned and operated full-service HVAC company serving customers in southern Nevada.
Christy Garcia, managing partner for The A/C Guys, added that for the Las Vegas summer climate, typi-
“Ensuring that temperatures and humidity levels are
cally the air conditioning bill is one of the highest por-
stable and within the range have been a crucial aspect
tions of a cultivation facility’s energy consumption. “So
for our past clients, with power factors being a close
anything we can do to help is important,” she says. “We
second,” says Marshall.
can customize anything they need. We go in, and they
The A/C Guys have developed a comprehensive and systematic approach to obtain and sustain goals in
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HVAC, engineering systems to both dehumidify and condition spaces, and have installed redundant systems in case of power outages and/or mechanical failures. Their systems are equipped with remote monitoring
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sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 47
BLANC DE BLANC DEBUTS TO RAVE REVIEWS
Champagne flowed at the newly christened Sahara Las Vegas when international cabaret sensation Blanc de Blanc made its debut inside the recently renamed Blanc de Blanc ThePHOTOGRAPHY BY DENISE TRUSCELLO
atre attended by VIPs and Las Vegas entertainers. The acclaimed production from Australia features high-flying aerial stunts, serious booty, and one fine French hunk bringing sensuality to the Strip.
48 NOVEMBER 2019 Las Vegas
Where: Sahara Las Vegas When: September 4, 2019
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Big Rig Jig
1031 Fremont St. // Las Vegas
Standing tall, the Big Rig Jig, four stories of two 18-wheelers fused together, captures the hope and whimsy of Las Vegas. The artwork is on the lawn of Fergusons Downtown (FERGUSONSDOWNTOWN.COM ) courtyard, drawing everyone in to view its magnificence as they walk on Fremont Street. Big Rig Jig came to life as a temporary Burning Man sculpture created by artist Mike Ross in 2007. It’s joined together as steel-truss work, allowing the art piece to withstand the high winds of the climate. The structure is anchored down with a large metal base and custom-built screws.
REACH FOR THE SKY
Big Rig Jig towers over downtown Las Vegas.
and they’ve traveled as an exhibit at the Coachella Music Festival in 2008 and Dismaland in 2015. The sculptor, known for large-scale public art works, created it as a commentary on the economy based on unsustainable petroleum resources. Fergusons Downtown has transformed a blighted neighborhood into a creative city block rooted in community and filled with events, restaurants, retail, art, a coffee shop, and an inviting lawn to connect locals and visitors alike.
50 NOVEMBER 2019 Las Vegas
PHOTO COURTESY OF FERGUSONS DOWNTOWN
The two tanker trucks are attached in an “S” shape, and