SAN DIEGO
SINGLE, NOT SORRY Don’t bother buying a ring
Drink Up High tea time
{plus}
NO FILTER: INSPIRING INSTAGRAMMERS
THE NEW NORMAL
11.2019
sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 3
4 NOVEMBER 2019 Southern California
sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 5
WITH BIG GROWTH, COMES BIG CHANGES AND EVEN BIGGER OPPORTUNITIES. MJBizCon 2019 will bring more exhibitors, more speakers, more sessions and even more professionals in the industry together than ever before.
D E C E M B E R 11 -13 , 2 01 9 | L A S V E GA S REGISTER NOW AT MJBIZCON.COM/VEGAS Use Promo Code SENSIVEGAS50 to Save $50.00
6 NOVEMBER 2019 Southern California
ISSUE 11 // VOLUME 2 //11.2019
FEATURES 18 Woo-Woo Woofers
The pet wellness industry is taking off in California, where you’ll find plenty of ways to pamper your pooch.
40 Single, Not Sorry
More and more people are choosing uncoupled adulthood.
NOW IT’S A TEA PARTY
30
HITTING THE COLORADO SLOPES
36
every issue 9 Editor’s Note 11 The Buzz 24 AroundTown
PLANT, PEOPLE, AND PLACE
30 HighProfile
TEA CUPS UP
36 TravelWell
HIT THE SLOPES
50 HereWeGo GRATIFIED
Sensi magazine is published monthly by Sensi Media Group LLC. © 2019 SENSI MEDIA GROUP LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
ON THE COVER (SAN DIEGO EDITION) Photo by George Evans
sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 7
sensi magazine ISSUE 11 / VOLUME 2 / 11.2019
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
Robyn Griggs Lawrence robyn.lawrence@sensimag.com EDITOR AT LARGE
sensimagazine
David Durรกn, Nicole Riggs, Rachel Svoboda CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
A RT & D E S I G N Jamie Ezra Mark jamie@emagency.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Rheya Tanner, Wendy Mak, Jason Jones, 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
Rob Ball rob.ball@sensimag.com Angelique Kiss angelique.kiss@sensimag.com ASSOCIATE PUBLISHERS, SAN DIEGO
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
Hector Irizarry distribution@sensimag.com DISTRIBUTION
M E D I A PA RT N E R S Marijuana Business Daily Minority Cannabis Business Association National Cannabis Industry Association Students for Sensible Drug Policy
8 NOVEMBER 2019 Southern California
A STYLE ADVISORY BOARD
editor’s
NOTE
ALL HER OWN
55 Hydroponics // HYDROPONICS Bailey’s CBD //
PET CBD TINCTURE/PET TREATS
Fiddler’s Greens // CBD TINCTURES Genius Products T, Inc. //
RECREATIONAL CANNABIS PRODUCTS
Hellman Valley Growers Company // MEDICAL INFRASTRUCTURE SPECIALIST
HRS Commercial & Residential Realtor // REAL ESTATE
Ikanik Farms // CANNABIS DISTRIBUTION LINX Card // MERCHANT SERVICES ReNu // NANOEMULSIFIED CBD Therapy Tonics & Provisions // INFUSED DRINKS
Witlon, Inc // PAYROLL
Life in Southern California
often includes
countless days of sunshine, momentary escapes to the sea or snow, culinary boundlessness, and an element of style that ranges from chic to understated. This issue features a culmination of luxurious ladies who founded a line of cannabis tea, a deep dive into singlehood and loving it, and recipe resources that make cooking and cocktailing more fun. This month’s issue is also about exploring appellations, giving our canines the best in wellness, and discovering influencers who positively influence. Now that fall is officially on our doorstep, start thinking about the things you’ve learned this year, the obstacles you’ve overcome, the risks you’ve taken, and how you plan to curate the year that’s right around the corner. Taking a moment to remember who you’ve been this year opens the door to more than self-reflection. It’s a promising opportunity to manifest an even greater version of you in 2020—and there’s nothing quite like a little reinvention. November not only marks a change in everyday life and style, it marks the beginning of transition and reinvention for the new year. It’s time to unpack your sweaters and those gorgeous statement scarves, pull those boots out of their boxes, plan that trip to the mountains, and welcome in whatever is next.
Live boldly,
Dawn Garcia
M ANAG I NG E D I TO R
SENSI SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 9
CREATIVE CANNABIS EXPERIENCES
YYr Own Private PPty CCsumptii Bus to shuule yy nd Palm Springs and beyyd. 10 NOVEMBER 2019 Southern California
PRODUCT PICKS
Emily Ley’s Simplified Planners + Organizers Nice and tight.
Now that it’s only a month away from a brand-new year, it’s time to get organized and find a planner that has a playful sensibility while having plenty of pages to keep track of life: personal and business. The Simplified Planner by mother and mompreneur Emily Ley makes being on top of your game less tragic and overwhelming. The designs are simple and clean. These 16-month calendars feature visual cues of joy and positivity that rule supreme throughout the year, the month, and the days. Plus Ley seems to understand the design-thinking entrepreneur who loves aesthetics and effectiveness.
–Dawn Garcia
EMILY-LEY.COM
Boxy Is Legit Keen on organization.
Boxy Girl is a great gift idea for anyone who likes to keep things together but is over basic storage bins and fabric boxes. These clear, durable, stackable storage trays are easy to fall in love with. They’re ideal for storing medicine, jewelry, office supplies, makeup brushes, even nail polish because not only do they stack neatly, one atop the other, they’re see-through, making it easy to find what you’re looking for. A customer favorite, the line has several options such as the Everything Stack, Jewelry Stack, Half Brush Stack, Half Palette Stack, and Lip Stack. Creator Hannah Serjman launched the line in 2015 with a single product. It’s grown steadily since then, keeping women happy with artfully displayed jewelry, cosmetics, and even office supplies.
–DG
BOXYGIRL.COM
Elixicure Pain Relief Roll-On Rollin’ pain-free.
The neck is actually a great place to apply, and it’s easy to use, mess-free and the smell is calm-
Roll-on is a term for deodorant and 1980s perfume—or
ing. Elixicure also
is it? Turns out it also happens to be the easiest way to
recently launched
get a little CBD relief on-the-go. Elixicure has created an
pain relief cream
easy and effective way to temporarily cure some minor
pumps that offer
aches and pains with pain relief roll-ons (regular and lav-
relief from normal
ender scented). The plant-based pain remedy comes in a
aches and pains. This is an affordable way to kick your
discreet midnight blue design with simple application to
pain’s ass.
ease areas that are causing you a literal pain in the neck.
ELIXICURE.COM
–DG
sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 11
E AT I N G + D R I N K I N G W I T H A G O O D B O O K
For The Drinker
No one is judging you; learn all you can. Gin, tequila, bourbon, whiskey, mezcal, vodka, and a dozen other spirits can get a tad cumbersome when figuring out what you feel like drinking and how you want to proceed once you commit to a decision. The vast array of brands from small batch to big names can make you feel like you’re cramming for a trig test with only three minutes to study. Thankfully help is on the way—or rather, it’s readily available. The A-to-Z of all things… is your handy hardcover guide to just about everything that has to do with alcohol. The Gin Dictionary begins with using juniper berries and making the perfect gin and tonic; the Whisky Dictionary tells you the history and heritage of whisky, including explaining why, in the United States, we spell whiskey with an “e.” The Tequila Dictionary breaks down tequila, agave, and mezcal spirits without making you feel like you’ve just been handed a dunce cap. The entire series, published by Octopus Books, will educate you and get you well on your way to a happy cocktail. Check out their other books, such as Fine & Classic Cocktails, The Bourbon Bible, The World Atlas of Gin, SIP: 100 Gin Cocktails, and several fascinating cookbooks, including One Pot Feeds All, Happy Curry, and Gifts From the Modern Larder. –DG OCTOPUSBOOKS.CO.UK
12 NOVEMBER 2019 Southern California
Love & Lemons Cooking beautifully with simple ingredients.
Sometimes all you need is a little spark of inspiration to change up your regular cooking routine. Jeanine Donofrio is known for creating some of the most exquisite and stunning vegetable recipes, all displayed in the photography exhibited at @LOVEANDLEMONS . The recent cookbook, Love & Lemons Every Day offers everyday recipes that can turn breakfast into a decadent experience or a dinner into divinity. Whether using butternut squash to make a creamy queso, using sweet potato to create chocolate frosting, or making burritos using heirloom carrots, Donofrio has her pulse on something otherworldly. You have a sea of choices. This cookbook is a guide to eating clean and using fresh ingredients to create extraordinary dishes. Featuring more than 100 recipes, practice charts, seasonal produce guides, and a how-to on utilizing all your vegetables, Love & Lemons Every Day is not only a visual stunner but a practical and approachable look at plant-based eating. You can also find free recipes on the website. –DG LOVEANDLEMONS.COM/COOKBOOK
sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 13
W H AT TO D O
Community, Food, Beer, Quiz Shows, and More. My Yard Live delivers fun for all.
Founded by Mark McLarry and Jamie Minotti out of
our family continues to
a deep desire to bring people together with beer gar-
grow to include the great-
dens, family games, and food worth eating, My Yard
er San Diego populace. We
Live (MYL), located in San Marcos, is the brainchild
hope that you will stop by
of their love of others. Big believers that community
for re-imagined backyard
thrives when they work together, the 13,500-square-
fare,
foot venue does precisely that. “My Yard Live is a family
beer and libations, and all
of friends who are lifelong enthusiasts of great music,
the music and fun you can
tasty food, and imaginative beverages,” the brand ex-
handle. We’ll be here, waiting to welcome your family
plains on its website. MYL is the place where everyone
into ours!” says McLarry and Minotti.
exquisitely
crafted
is welcome, can feel comfortable being themselves,
They have Quiz Show nights accompanied by electron-
and do so while being entertained, fed, and included.
ic podiums and crazy fun trivia, air hockey, shuffleboard,
Partnering with Sweetwater Brewing Company
and on the adult-only patio there is outdoor ping-pong,
founder Freddy Bensch and Longhorn Steakhouse
a fire pit, and a bar. There is also a kids patio equipped
owner George McKerrow, guests at MYL get to expe-
with a play structure built by the people who made Tom
rience the world of food, music, entertainment, and
Sawyer’s island at Disneyland, a log climb-through, a net
adult beverages in one solid location. “As My Yard Live
climb, and even an elevated playhouse.
welcomes the community in to play, taste, and listen,
288 Rancheros Dr. // San Marcos // MYYARDLIVE.COM
14 NOVEMBER 2019 Southern California
–DG
sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 15
baileyscbd.com @ b a i l eys c b d
WE CARRY ALL NECESSARY EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES FOR EXCEPTIONAL HYDROPONIC SUCCESS TRIMMING • CO2 • GROW MEDIUMS GARDEN ACCESSORIES • LIGHTS • NUTRIENTS PEST & DISEASE CONTROL • PLANT CARE ELECTRICAL • IRRIGATION ACCESSORIES & MUCH MORE!!
714-259-7755
1727 Boyd St., Santa Ana, CA 92705 www.55hydro.com H OURS : M ON -T HURS 9:00 AM 16 NOVEMBER 2019 Southern California
TO
7:00 PM , S AT . 10:00 AM
TO
5:00 PM , S UN . 11:00 AM
TO
5:00 PM
Introducing Uleva TM
Full Spectrum Hemp Extract Herbal Supplements rich in phytocannabinoids to help support your body’s endocannabinoid system* Full Spectrum Hemp Extract perfectly blended to: FUEL™ with green tea, FLEX™ with glucosamine and chondroitin, DIGEST™ with ginger, RELAX™ with ashwagandha, RELIEVE™ with turmeric, SLEEP™ with melatonin
Use code SENSI20 for 20% off your first order Available now at www.uleva.com www.uleva.com
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. 2019 sensimag.com NOVEMBER
17
WOO-WOO
18 NOVEMBER 2019 Southern California
WOOFERS I’m sitting at my desk
IN THE
EARLY HOURS OF THE MORNING STRUGGLING TO WRITE THE ANECDOTAL OPENER TO THIS
The pet wellness industry is taking off in California, where you’ll find plenty of ways to give your pooch some extra pampering.
STORY. THERE’S SOFT MUSIC PLAYING, SO SOFT I CAN HEAR GIDGET’S CONTENT SNORES COMING FROM THE PINEAPPLE DOME SHE SLEEPS IN WHEN I’M AT MY DESK. If the music were too loud, she would stomp as much as a chihuahua could out to the living room to get in her pressure-activated heated bed, engulfed by the soft white throw blanket I bought for myself. Gidget saw it. She wanted it. She got it. This is the way it works. The nails on my fingertips are past due for a manicure (Gidget got hers done today). My dinner was peanut butter spooned from the jar. Gidget dined on a gourmet blend specially formulated to deliver the exact level of antioxidants, vitamins, fiber, probiotics, and minerals she needs for optimal health. After dinner, she got a bath and a towel massage before tucking into the pineapple. That’s when I sat down to start writing. I work hard so my dog can have a better life. The meme
by S T E P H A N I E WILSON
is real.
HOOMANS AND FLOOFERS I wouldn’t have it any other way. Gidget may be a furry freeloader, but she’s my furry freeloader and I love her hard. Because she is awesome. All dogs are. Fight me: I’m an elder millennial, and I’ve got a generational army of pet-pampering 20- and 30-somethings to back me up. Millennials have been accused of killing a whole host of things.* Really, we’re just redirecting our limited discretionary funds to things we deem more worthy than, say, an intrinsically worthless shiny stone that De Beers’
*I typed “millennials killed” into the search bar and autocomplete results included “mayo,” “Hooters,” “golf,” “romance,” and “malls.” We should be thanked; all of those sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 19 needed to go—yes, including romance as defined by the patriarchal archetype, but that’s a different topic for a different day. We’re talking about dogs here.
20 NOVEMBER 2019 Southern California
marketing firm convinced Americans is a token of love
Us hoomans
and esteem that lasts forever. (Read: millennials are killing diamonds.) Millennials do spend money on pets. This year, the US
chase our
pet industry is projected to rake in $75.28 billion, up more
heckin floofers,
than 30 percent since 2010 according to the American Pet Product Association (APPA). A majority of millennials (76
iPhones in hand,
percent) would be more likely to splurge on luxury items
snapping pics
like expensive treats or a custom bed for their pets than for themselves. “The pet care industry is booming, as people around
of their snoots
the world—especially millennials—blur the line between
and bleps to
The senior brand manager of Purina, Ryan Gass, suggests
share with frens, posting with captions about the goodest boy in the world.
human child and animal,” according to Business Insider. that millennials are putting off marriage and having children, turning to pets to “fill that void,” but I don’t know what void he’s talking about, so we’re moving on. Millennials’ love for their pups is so intense, it’s spawned its own language. Us hoomans chase our heckin
floofers, iPhones in hand, snapping pics of their snoots and bleps to share with frens, posting with captions about the goodest boy in the world. This has all led to a rise in what more serious folks call the “humanization of pets.” Sounds ominous. But it indicates how much our lives and our pets’ lives are intertwined—and therefore following the same trends. And what’s trendier or more millennial than wellness, wellness everywhere? In 1979, veteran journalist Dan Rather quipped during an episode of 60 Minutes, “Wellness…that’s a word you don’t hear every day.” Fast forward 40 years, and we’re hearing the word so much every day it’s almost lost all meaning. The fresh “pet wellness” phrase could mean pets are doing well overall or it could mean pets are judging you for not drinking kombucha. Don’t worry, dogs don’t judge. But they are getting more probiotics in their diets, just not from kombucha. Probiotics in pet foods sales grew by 139 percent last year, according to the Nielsen market report, “Trends in Pet Care Mirror Those of Pet Owners.” We eat super foods; our dogs eat super foods. We take CBD; our pups take CBD. We get massages; our dogs get massages. We have fitness studios where you can work out with your dog, acupuncture for pets, doggy day spas with swimming pools you can rent out for puppy parties.
LAYING ON HANDS Oh, yeah, and dog Reiki is a thing here, too. Gidget hasn’t tried it yet; she—like me—thinks it sounds a little bit woo-woo. This is how Health mag describes the basic principle: “Energy medicine (or biofield therapies) is the act of sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 21
22 NOVEMBER 2019 Southern California
channeling and manipulating the energy that courses
It’s a nonsurgical, drug-free option for correcting dis-
through your body in order to heal it. This can be done
orders related to a fixation in the spine or joint. When
with hands-on practices such as acupuncture and Rei-
vertebrae become immovable through trauma, injury,
ki, as well as sensory-based experiences, like the use of
or standard wear-and-tear, the joints between them
crystals, sound baths, and aromatherapy.”
become jammed, often affecting the nerves in the con-
While energy medicine is the farthest mystical ex-
gested area. Those nerves are the communication link
treme of the modern wellness world, there are some
between the brain and the spinal cord, so when they are
forms backed by science. Acupuncture, for one, and even
out of order, it can set off a cascade of effects that leads
Reiki. Health reports that a 2010 review of research in
to pain and loss of function.
the International Journal of Behavioral Medicine found
But pets can’t tell us where they hurt or why they’re
strong evidence that biofield therapies such as Reiki and
limping, so treatments are a bit more complicated. When
therapeutic touch can alleviate pain.
working with animals, Block looks for abnormal or re-
In Torrance, Tranquil Pet is all about these modalities. Run by Jean Brusavich, CAMT, the holistic veterinary ser-
stricted movement, with a goal of restoring it to reduce pain and improve mobility.
vices offered include reiki, canine aquatics, and massage.
Animal chiropractic care is not meant to replace vet-
Brusavich specializes in working with Reiki to treat a
erinary medicine. Rather, animal chiropractors work in
range of issues, such as end of life transitioning, stress,
conjunction with veterinarians, treating areas that often
anxiety, trauma, pain, injury, abandonment, and more.
go unnoticed by traditional care.
“Reiki is safe, gentle, stress-free. There need be no
And that pain in your back as a result of hunching over
physical contact and Reiki treats the entire person and/
your desk spoon-feeding yourself peanut butter while
or animal, including physical, mental, emotional, spiri-
your pooch snuggles in your new comforter? As it turns
tual levels simultaneously,” says Brusavich. “Due to its
out, living with a dog is good for human health as well.
noninvasive, painless nature, Reiki is a natural healing
Having a pet lowers stress, reduces blood pressure, and
method for all, especially our pets, as animals are ex-
may even help you live longer. So says science. So they
tremely sensitive to energy.”
deserve to live the same aspirational lifestyle to which
The caveat: It could be a placebo effect, and our pups aren’t swayed by the power of suggestion. But if you think it’s working for her, then the session is working— for you. It’s called the “caregiver placebo effect,” and
we have made them accustomed. It’s the least we can do to repay the unconditional love. Rebecca Treon contributed to this piece.
there’s nothing wrong with it. As long as it’s used in conjunction with traditional vet visits—a supplemental part of a whole wellness plan.
CHIRO FOR CANINES Dog chiropractic is an another emerging field gaining traction as a beneficial supplemental treatment therapy. In Irvine, Animal Chiropractor Dr. Norman “Rod” Block has made it his mission to provide chiropractic care to all animals. “Animals are amazing. Unlike humans, who are constantly distracted by life, technology, media, and work; animals live in a state of being.” says Block, who is also the author of Like Chiropractic for Elephants. “This sense of PHOTO BY STEPHANIE WILSON
being and observing allows an animal to be in a constant state of awareness, which nature has given it in order to survive. Being gives them a sixth sense.They know if one is in fear, pain, happy or sad, or if they’re a threat.” According to Block, animal chiropractic care—adjusting the joints and spine—releases pressure and obstacles, giving our animals proper energy flow and movement, simultaneously providing relief of pain, stress, and fatigue. sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 23
{aroundtown } by N I C O L E R I G G S
UNDERSTANDING PLANT, PEOPLE, AND PLACE We spoke with local farmers and French winemakers to understand why cannabis appellations matter.
24 NOVEMBER 2019 Southern California
Wendy Kornberg, Doug Cook, and their daughters, Coral and Mirabella
On a warm July morning in Humboldt County’s Benbow Valley, 5-year-old Mirabella plunges her hand into the earth. The blue sky shimmers over hills densely forested with madrone, manzanita, and oak. Down the path flows the emerald waters of the Eel River, where she’ll go swimming later in the day. Mirabella scoops a handful of dirt, adds compost
CONSUMERS UNDERSTAND APPELLATIONS TO MEAN A PLACE OF ORIGIN WITH UNIQUE GENETIC FACTORS THAT RENDER DISTINCTIVE AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS.
and chicken manure, and lifts her cupped hands to the sky:
In 2018, the California Department of Food and Agriculture
“This is how I make soil,” she explains. Her 9-year-old sister,
(CDFA) established the CalCannabis Appellations Project to
quick-minded Coral, makes a different blend: more compost,
expand on county-of-origin regulations and create a state-
less chicken manure. They learn this from their parents,
wide Cannabis Appellations system by January 1, 2020. With
Wendy Kornberg and her husband, Doug Cook, who run Sun-
two months to go, working groups are still actively grappling
nabis, a state-licensed family farm. Nearby, cannabis plants
with what the guidelines will be.
(varietal 24K#6) bloom under the Humboldt sunshine.
WHY DO APPELLATIONS MATTER?
Unlike the wine industry’s American Viticultural Area (AVA), which is largely a geographic designation, an appellation is a legally defined and protected indication of not only where an
The root of appellation, from the Latin appelāre, means “to in-
agricultural product comes from but also how it’s produced.
voke, to summon.” Around the world, consumers understand
Bordeaux wine, Roquefort cheese, Champagne—these are
appellations to mean a place of origin with unique genetic
all appellation products because they express their native
factors that render distinctive agricultural products. Appella-
environment through food and drink.
tions are fundamentally related to what the French call ter-
“Appellations express the character of a place,” explains
roir, meaning not only soil but the overall native environment,
winemaker Pat Knittel, who bottles both North Story wines
which is not to be frelaté (corrupted or modified).
and Wrangletown Cider in Arcata. sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 25
gratitude 26 NOVEMBER 2019 Southern California
“CURING IS AN ART THAT IS LEARNED OVER TIME AND TRANSMITTED BETWEEN FARMERS, A LEGACY THAT WE CAN DRAW ON.” —Dominic Corva
To understand the complexity and potential of appella-
“Worms enrich the soil biology and maintain soil moisture,”
tions, we studied each component of a working cannabis
explains Lloyd. “Everything is part of the nutrient cycle, and
farm and how it relates to the genetic expression of a place.
worms, who eat from half to two times their weight ev-
SOIL
ery day, are a natural way to convert a biomass into nitrogen-rich, calcium-rich, plant-ready nutrients.”
The soil in which plants grow is a key aspect of appellation
In Holmes Flat, Sunshine Johnston lives and farms at Sun-
products, from cannabis to wine. “The soil is alive,” says So-
boldt Grown. The daughter of back-to-the-landers, Johnston
phie Kumpf, a third-generation winemaker and owner of
grew up in cannabis and today, she is one of the leading dry
Kumpf & Meyer in Alsace, France. In her approach to farm-
cannabis farmers in California, along with neighbor, Chrys-
ing, she seeks to “interfere as little as possible in the natural
tal Ortiz of True Humboldt. Both farmers utilize sustainable
process.” In France, it’s common knowledge that native soil
cultivation practices without the use of irrigation. Johnston
gives an appellation product its unique geographic expres-
understands her environment in dialectical terms: “The land-
sion, which consumers are willing to pay for.
scape creates us, and we create it too.” As state regulations
At Sunnabis Farms, Wendy Kornberg admits to being “a research junkie” when it comes to soil. She points to her 8,000-square-foot “proving-ground” garden, where she will conduct an A/B test by growing a portfolio of varietals across different soil managements: biologic and Korean Natural Farming (a method that uses indigenous micro-organisms such as bacteria and fungi to produce fertile soils). She plans to get feedback from consumers through QR codes. Stacey and Lloyd Barker own Local Worm Guy, voted Best New Business in Humboldt County in 2019. They work with several cannabis cultivators to optimize sustainable farming techniques for “living soil.” sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 27
In Garberville, Kristin Nevedal, founder and executive director of the International Cannabis Farmers Association (ICFA), notes that though most of California’s legal cannabis is grown indoors, it’s impossible to classify by metrics of quality related to appellation. “Indoor high-intensity discharge usage is a modification of terroir—as well as a climate issue—so it should not qualify for appellation,” says Nevedal.
WATER Agriculture needs water, and with climate change, conservation is more urgent than ever. “Understand that water is part of a watershed,” says Johnston. “How do you share that watershed with the environment?” A World Bank report released in August 2019 warns of the economic consequences of a clean water shortage. Forward-thinking cannabis cultivators and winemakers are acutely aware of the challenges ahead. Both industries are innovating with dry farming and/or minimal water use. In Alsace, Riss uses bacteria and micro-organisms as a natural pest repellent to retain moisture in her vineyard. Letshake out, what might appellation guidelines say about soil regulation in the future? “You want to build soil, not throw it away,” says Johnston. “Cultivate microbiota that are native to your region.” In France, Catherine Riss is the owner and winemaker at Domaine Riss in Reichsfeld, Alsace. “In Alsace, terroir has a lot to do with the geological composition of the soil. Terroir is complex,” she explains. “It’s the soil, but also the slope, the sun exposition, and the varietal.” Her vineyards are on two soil types: sandstone terroir and slate terroir. Whether it’s wine or cannabis, she sees the future of appellations as “local and sustainable.”
LIGHT Terra Carver is executive director of the Humboldt County Growers Alliance (HCGA), representing more than 270 Humboldt County growers, and participates in the working group that will define appellation guidelines for California’s cannabis industry. Carver believes cannabis farmers are positioned to become leaders in sustainable agriculture, particularly sun-grown. “We want to take her [cannabis] back outside,” says Carver. 28 NOVEMBER 2019 Southern California
ting ground cover grow tall between the vines “keeps the soil cooler and moist,” explains Riss. Appellation-designated cannabis farms can draw on practices of minimal water use to provide the sustainability value that consumers demand.
ery morning,” explains Sandomeno. The couple pays careful attention to every step of the process and is especially adamant about proper curing, emphasizing that it takes time. “Curing is an art that is learned over time and transmitted between farmers, a legacy that we can draw on,” says Dominic Corva, the recently appointed co-director at the Humboldt Institute for Interdisciplinary Marijuana Research (HiiMR) at Humboldt State University. “The cultural stories about cannabis provide extra meaning that has exchange value while also reproducing human skill across generations,” says Corva, who is also the founder and executive director at the Center for the Study of Cannabis and Social Policy (CASP) in Seattle. For these reasons, practices and generational knowledge are an integral part of where appellation lines are drawn.
MARKETING Appellations touch on environmental standards, varietals,
VARIETALS
and cultivation practices. Ultimately, these combine to
What will appellation guidelines look like when it comes
create an appellation product that is a unique genetic expres-
to varietals?
sion of a place.
Watershed expert and cannabis consultant Hollie Hall says
Jesse Fiedler, a cannabis professional with experience
more data is needed. “It’s about the phenotype expression
across the supply chain, sees “a parallel between Cuba’s ci-
of genes,” she explains. Connoisseurs of cannabis recognize
gars that have been crafted by knowledgeable artisans over
that the same varietal grown with similar practices in differ-
decades and the Emerald Triangle’s cannabis, cultivated by
ent environments still looks, tastes, and feels different.
experienced growers with intimate knowledge of the local
Clearly, terroir plays a role in the final product, as does
climate.” To explain, he asks with a laugh, “Who would you
climate. “Certain mold-resistant strains are best suited to
rather get a cigar from? The old lady who’s grown it for 35
the Humboldt climate,” notes Rob Golightly, co-owner of a
years or a guy who just bought a farm?”
10,000-square- foot farm.
Amanda Reiman is the head of community relations at Flow Kana, a Mendocino County collective that processes
PRACTICES
and distributes cannabis from small-scale farms in Northern
As farmers come together, they’ll want to define what drying
California. “Appellations are a way to add value and differen-
and curing practices specific appellations should follow. Such
tiate,” explains Reiman. “If we’re going to establish appella-
measures will further differentiate appellation-designated
tions, we have to hold true to these values.”
cannabis from commercial products that are often cut too
Whether you think in terms of marketing (value-added
early, flush-dried, and rushed to market—the fast-food of
distinction in the market) or biology (exploring the genetic
the industry, or “Styrofoam cannabis.”
expression of a place), appellations become powerful when
At Sunrise Mountain Farms in northeastern Humboldt
they mean something—sustainability, craft, or climate.
County, Lorelie and Dave Sandomeno farm cannabis at 2,500
The challenge is to define meaning in the face of a rapidly
feet in elevation, bordered by national forest. “The plants
growing industry, climate change, and ever-evolving laws
drink spring water, root into vital soil, and see the sunrise ev-
regulating cannabis cultivation and sale. sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 29
{highprofile } by R A C H E L S VO B O DA
TEA CUPS UP Introducing high tea, a more thoughtful for that other kind of adult beverage.
30 NOVEMBER 2019 Southern California
Founded in 2015 by former journalist Amanda Jones
percent to 27 percent. Jones and Chapin believe this is be-
and tech entrepreneur Jennifer Chapin, Kikoko, a cannabis
cause, “big money is coming in, and the big money is white
tea brand, emerged as a solution for women to take back
and male.” This led them to research consumption among
their health and life with more joy. Kikoko was created to
women, including alcohol consumption.
help revolutionize women’s health after a mutual friend of
Women are an equally targeted audience for alcohol mar-
theirs was looking for an alternative to pharmaceuticals to
keting campaigns. Brands realize that in modern society, it’s
alleviate the pain, anxiety, insomnia, loss of appetite, and
the moms, sisters, friends, wives, and boss ladies who are in
nausea she felt while battling cancer.
need of a remedy for stress relief, playing to their desire for re-
Having worked together at
laxation. Usually, a good glass
a nonprofit in the year prior
of wine, or as market trends
to founding Kikoko, Jones
show, brown spirits or tequila,
and Chapin were familiar
appeal to the working moms
with how to successfully
and women out there who
build a positive team envi-
need to wind down at the end
ronment for a company to
of the day. This shift in market-
thrive. “With no prior histo-
ing directly to women is seen
ry in the cannabis industry,
in films, books, social media,
there was a steep learning
including the wry, inappropri-
curve at first but getting
ate comedic moms and found-
in early was worth it,” says
ers of #IMomSoHard, Kristin
Jones. The cofounders are
Hensley and Jen Smedley, who
mindful about building a
have built a wildly successful
company and doing things “the women’s way.”
career around drinking—and riffing on motherhood. According WebMD, alcohol consumption among women
their nearly four dozen employees work in an environ-
has increased over the years. “Males still consume more
ment built on trust, respect, and open communication.
alcohol, but the differences between men and women
According to Marijuana Business Daily, in 2017, the num-
are diminishing,” says Aaron White, PhD, senior scientific
ber of women-run cannabis businesses dropped from 36
advisor to the director of the National Institute on Alcohol
PHOTO (LEFT) BY GEORGE EVANS
Structuring the company with this foundation means
sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 31
NCIA’S
CONFERENCES & TRADE SHOWS SAVE THE DATE
For the cannabis industry’s only association-led business-to-business events empowering the industry through education and commerce. NCIA’s Conferences and Trade Shows embody the values of NCIA—education, advocacy, and community— to deliver invaluable insights and best practices to both the novice and experienced cannabis business owner.
OCTOBER 8-9, 2019 | LONG BEACH, CA
CALIFORNIACANNABISBUSINESSCONFERENCE.COM #CACANNABIZCON
FEBRUARY 19-20, 2020 | BOSTON, MA
NCIA’S
NORTHEASTCANNABISBUSINESSCONFERENCE.COM #NECANNABIZCON
CANNABIS BUSINESS SUMMIT &EXPO
JUNE 15-17, 2020 | SAN FRANCISCO, CA CANNABISBUSINESSSUMMIT.COM #CANNABIZSUMMIT
AUGUST 26-27, 2020 | DETROIT, MI
MIDWESTCANNABISBUSINESSCONFERENCE.COM #MWCANNABIZCON
A DVO CACY | ED U CATION | COM M U NITY 32 NOVEMBER 2019 Southern California
Abuse and Alcoholism. Women around the world continue to raise a glass in solidarity, bonded by the foundation that work is hard, kids are challenging, husbands are a chore, and alcohol is necessary. But small doses of cannabis may offer a better solution than booze. Upon launch, Jones and Chapin put a major focus on micro-doses of THC. Formulated in low doses that range from 3 milligrams to 10 milligrams of THC (a 1-gram joint, by comparison, has roughly 10 times that), their teas re-
DON’T STEEP ON THESE TEAS All Kikoko teas are sold as individually wrapped sachets and cans of 10 tea bags. There is a ready-to-go gift box with one of each type of tea in a reusable box. Prices range from $5 to $65, depending on the product.
quire little more than heating water, pouring it in a cup, and enjoying. The teas, however, don’t have the same after effects of alcohol—night sweats, increased weight gain, self-loathing or anxiety, sleeplessness. Hangovers aren’t conducive to being on your A-game. According to Jones and Chapin, low-dose products that won’t get you stoned are the future of cannabis use. Anyone who has ever had a bad time from too much THC might agree. “We were hearing over and over what we call the ‘whole brownie syndrome’ where they ate the whole
In addition to tea, Kikoko is expanding to offer additional products to its loyal consumer base. New Zealand Manuka and Kanuka Honeyshots are cannabis-infused and come in four blends that are complementary to a tea: Calm pairs with Simpa-Tea, Snooze pairs with Tranquili-Tea, Focus pairs with Positivi-Tea, and Buzz can be enjoyed on its own, since it contains 10 milligrams of THC.
brownie and rode the crazy train for hours and hours,” says
Honeyshots can be eaten directly from the package or added to smoothies, juice drinks, toast—anything you can think of. Honeyshots can be purchased individually for $5, in packs of 5 for $25, or in a pack of 10 for $48.
to get very high all the time—they wanted an alternative to
Jones. Kikoko is meant to curb the side effects of alcohol by offering a healthier and more tolerant form of unwinding. “When we first started the business, people said, ‘You have to do it this way,’ and we said, ‘Why? Let’s just do it the way we think is right,’” Jones says. “We were told we’d get laughed out of dispensaries with low doses. We had a strong gut feeling that women all over the place didn’t want that. Ideally, we’d like to go even lower,” says Jones.
Kikoko also has more low-dose THC and CBD products that will be launching soon. These will include mints, tinctures, and more gift boxes. Similarly, to the teas and HoneyShots, there will be multiple blends of each product to address different health and wellness needs. For more information, visit KIKOKO.COM .
sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 33
www.ikanikfarms.com
34 NOVEMBER 2019 Southern California
C11-0000499-LIC
enjoy the high
There are currently four formulas offered to address
Positivi-Tea is a cannabis tea for enhancing your mood
different health and wellness concerns most frequently
and creativity. It is caffeinated and has organic herbs like
reported by women.
mint, green tea spearmint and lemon grass with 10 milli-
Sympa-Tea is a cannabis tea for pain and anxiety. It’s
grams of THC and 5 milligrams of CBD per tea bag.
caffeine-free, has healing anti-inflammatory herbs from
The goal of Kikoko is to make life easier for women and
turmeric, ginger, and black pepper plus 3 milligrams of
remove the stigma around cannabis in order for people,
THC and 20 milligrams of CBD per tea bag.
particularly women, to make healthier decisions. If canna-
Tranquili-Tea is a cannabis tea for sleep. It’s caf-
bis can successfully make you a more tolerant mother and
feine-free, has sleep supporting herbs from chamomile
allow you to better cope with all the craziness in your life,
and valerian, plus 3 milligrams of THC and 5 milligrams of
then maybe it’s time to explore it as a viable option.
CBD per tea bag. This low THC tea is great for anyone with sleep issues.
Jones and Chapin encourage Kikoko customers to host private high tea parties where women can sample
Sensual-Tea is a cannabis tea for sex and connection.
cannabis tea in a setting that’s non-intimidating. It’s fully
It’s caffeine-free, has organically sun-grown herbs from
legal in California to host a private event at your home and
hibiscus cardamom, rose petals, and licorice root with 7
serve your guests marijuana tea (if they’re over 21). The
milligrams of THC per tea bag. This medium-high THC tea
female founders offer step-by-step high tea guides, reci-
is a discreet and healthy alternative to edibles that en-
pes, information to educate your guests, and the do’s and
courages passion and playfulness.
don’ts at KIKOKO.COM . sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 35
{travelwell } by DAV I D D U R Á N
HIT THE SLOPES Your guide to traversing through Vail, Colorado.
Vail Mountain has been attracting
They provide service back and forth
domestic and international travelers
throughout the day. One of Vail’s
since it opened in 1962, and today
gleaming attributes is it is home to
stands as one of Colorado’s most
one of the largest free transporta-
popular destinations and a world-
tion systems in the country. Buses
renowned ski resort. This month
are constantly traveling between Vail
launches the season with opening
Village and Lionshead to help you get
day taking place November 15.
to and from whatever activities you
For those who want to escape local
have planned and whatever hotel you
terrain to try something a bit more
decide to stay in. Whether you are an
mountainous, Vail is calling. With
avid skier or a lover of hiking and en-
some of the best skiing and snow-
joying nature—or both—Vail has you
boarding around, Vail launched North
covered year-round.
America’s largest snow-making en-
“The Mid-Vail experience is going
hancement project and progress is
to be something I think that our early
quickly coming together just in time
season guests, if they haven’t seen it
for a new season. The first phases of
before at that time of year, are real-
the expansion will offer guests a leg-
ly going to fall in love with,” says Di-
endary early season experience with
rector of Mountain Operations Bryan
more predictable dates, and deliver a
Rooney, “The sweeping views of the
better late season. The project will have 421 new snow
Gore Range from up there are phenomenal.” (VAIL.COM )
of snowmaking, giving travelers more terrain to traverse
WINTER ACTIVITIES
than ever before.
Vail Mountain
The ski region is relatively painless when flying into
With more than 5,200 acres of developed ski and snow-
Denver International Airport, and the large ski chalet
board terrain and 31 lifts, Vail Mountain during the winter
luggage carousels will nudge you that you’re in the right
is one of the premier winter destinations in the US. Enjoy
place. With several airlines flying non-stop to Denver,
the seven legendary back bowls full of soft powder that
the easiest way to get to Vail is by way of shared
span six miles, the natural terrain that mimics a back-
(or private) shuttles through Epic Mountain Express
country skiing experience in Blue Sky Basin, and the 127
(EPICMOUNTAINEXPRESS.COM ).
runs on the front side of Vail Mountain.
36 NOVEMBER 2019 Southern California
MATTHEW INDEN/MILES
guns and 19 miles of new pipe with more than 500 acres
Cross Country and Snow Shoeing Vail Nordic Center is in East Vail at the Vail Golf course. Along with views of the Gore Range, there are 17 miles of groomed trails for skate and classic cross-country skiing and more trails for snowshoeing. Another Nordic Center is located at Vail’s Golden Peak, where cross-country skiers enjoy 19 miles of groomed trails with spectacular views. Experience the peace and quiet of the backcountry and get some great exercise. Ski-Biking Explore the mountain at night while ski-biking with a group of like-minded adventure seekers. Steer down the mountain with a headlamp during these nocturnal tours, which are available throughout the winter season for skiers and snowboarders who are comfortable on blue and black runs. Strap on short skis for balance, but once you get going, lift your feet and just hold onto the handlebars as you swivel
MATTHEW INDEN/MILES
the bike back and forth across the slippery snow.
sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 37
Should you decide to book a trip to Vail once fall and winter have gone, there are still plenty of off-season things to do.
NON-WINTER ACTIVITES LA NONNA
WHERE TO EAT La Nonna // LANONNAVAIL.COM
Piney River Ranch // Located 9,350 feet above sea level at the end of a dirt road, the ranch is Vail’s most breathtaking destination for weddings, retreats, reunions and of course, daytrips. Piney River Ranch is open seasonally from June 21 through the last weekend in September. (PINEYRIVERRANCH.CO M )
This is the place where you gather with friends and family to enjoy delicious food. Executive Chef and Owner Simone Reatti has revived the recipes he learned to prepare in his youth, growing up in Cortina d’ Ampezzo with his grandmother, hence the name of his restaurant. The menu reflects that inspiration and showcases his 20 years of experience in creating the rustic and delicious cuisine of his native village in
Epic Discovery // Summer in the mountains is made easy with Vail’s Epic Discovery. Made up of adventure courses, ziplines, a mountain coaster, tubing hills, a climbing wall, and bungee trampoline. The options are endless. Epic Discover typically opens in mid-June. Gore Creek Fly Fishermen // Spend a day on a guided fly fishing trip with Gore Creek Fly Fisherman, which has been providing products and trips to the public for over 35 years. Learn how to catch fish all year long with fully licensed, professional guides. (GORECREEKFLYFISHERMAN.COM)
the Dolomites. Expect fresh homemade pasta, which is made daily using Pivetti flour from Ferrara, Italy, as well as locally sourced ingredients that are used whenever possible.
ence with their German Glühwein Cocktail and make your way through the traditional menu before ending your eve-
Almresi // ALMRESI-VAIL.COM
ning with homemade Black Forest cake.
Inspired by the Alps and the Rocky Mountains, the Almresi experience is unlike any other in Vail. Bringing a touch of
Sweet Basil // SWEETBASILVAIL.COM
romantic charm and European culture to the pristine and
A creative American restaurant located directly in the heart
rustic Vail Village, the international staff from Germany,
of Vail, the menu features imaginative seasonal cuisine
Austria, Switzerland, and America wear traditional and
with an innovative array of diverse influences. Expect to
authentic garb made by Wiesnkönig, a young and stylish
find items such as fried cheese sticks made with crispy
fashion brand that is the official licensed supplier for the
halloumi, olive tapenade, and served with harissa ketchup,
world-famous Munich Oktoberfest. Beyond the staff and
as well as root vegetable Bolognese served with whipped
atmosphere, it’s all about the food here. Start your experi-
parmesan, preserved tomato, sweet basil, and pappardelle.
38 NOVEMBER 2019 Southern California
FOUR SEASONS RESORT VAIL
WHERE TO STAY Four Seasons Resort Vail // FOURSEASONS.COM/VAIL Having just completed a series of enhancements to its main lobby area and public spaces, Four Seasons Resort and Residences Vail offers 121 guestrooms, provides a complimentary Ski Concierge that serves all the way to the slopes, and has an award-winning full-service spa, indoor/outdoor meditation garden, and a sunken 75-foot all-season outdoor saline pool that offers a serene atmosphere to relax and enjoy the outdoors year-round. In addition, through their partnership with Mercedes-Benz, guests of the resort can borrow a luxury vehicle from their fleet of Mercedes to use on a first-come, firstserved basis. And when it comes to food, expect locally grown, fresh seasonal produce to be used to create inventive dining options at the mountain steakhouse Flame and The Remedy Lounge.
sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 39
ing 40 NOVEMBER 2019 Southern California
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 41
42 NOVEMBER 2019 Southern California
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 43
44 NOVEMBER 2019 Southern California
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 45
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 Medical Infrastructure category. FOR A FULL LIST OF ADVISORY BOARD MEMBERS, SEE THE MASTHEAD ON PAGE 9.
MEDICAL CANNABIS & VETERANS Suicide, opioids, and PTSD affect some of our greatest citizens. by M AT T D E N H A M , D I R E C T O R , L E A R N I N G A N D D E V E L O P M E N T C O M M I T T E E AT H E L M A N D VA L L E Y G R O W E R S C O M PA N Y, L L C When it comes time to take a closer look at some of America’s most valuable citizens, our veterans, it’s impossible not to see an epidemic affecting them. Our country is facing a wide-scale opioid epidemic that has taken countless lives, and has critically impacted
An astounding number of soldiers returning from de-
the veteran community. When the U.S. Military deploys
ployment come back with Post Traumatic Stress Dis-
to a combat theater, roughly 60 percent of those deployed
order (PTSD). From the Vietnam War to Operation Iraqi
will be prescribed opioids upon return, and over half will
Freedom, 11 to 30 percent of veterans return home with
develop a dependency or addiction, according to Bryan
PTSD, reports the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs
Buckley, CEO of Helmand Valley Growers Company.
(VA). The VA has very little in its medical toolbox to treat
This has caused far too many veterans to lose their
veterans with PTSD and other mental disorders. PTSD is
way, feeling displaced, and too many have taken their
a complex condition affecting veterans in a multitude
own lives. In a September 2018 Stars and Stripes arti-
of ways, presenting mental and physical symptoms. One
cle by Nikki Wentling, she explains that 17 United States
could argue it affects every veteran in a unique way. Un-
veterans commit suicide every day; and 6,139 veterans
fortunately, the VA’s limited resources, aside from opi-
committed suicide in 2017.
oids and other prescription medications, aren’t equipped
Wentlnig goes on to say that the suicide rate of male veterans is 1.3 times higher than that of other adult men, and among female veterans the rate is an astonishing 2.2 times higher than non-vets. 46 NOVEMBER 2019 Southern California
to address these mental and physical problems facing our nation’s heroes. This leads to the question of using medical cannabis as an alternate treatment for PTSD, with far less habit form-
ing properties of opioids and other pharmaceuticals.
available data in no way moves the needle with regard
The thought that cannabis will be or could be a suc-
to the VA or its decision makers. What is needed is a
cessful treatment of PTSD is gaining momentum with-
randomized controlled trial—a necessary gold standard
in the medical community. Cannabis has been a viable
for determining efficacy.
substitute socially for many years. However, there is
The VA diagnosed more than 40,000 veterans with a
no empirical data available to the public that would or
dual diagnosis of PTSD and cannabis use disorder in
could cause the VA or members of Congress to consid-
2014. However, no formal testing of how or why these
er medical cannabis in a veteran’s treatment protocol.
veterans were using cannabis or its effects on PTSD has
Almost shockingly, there has been very few open tri-
been documented. This leaves a great need for research
als with veteran participants suffering from PTSD that
in this area of concern open for exploration, and compa-
use cannabis as treatment. One such trial conducted by
nies are now gathering the information and data needed
Roitman, Mechoulam, Cooper-Kazaz, and Shalev at the
to conduct these studies to inevitably help our veterans
Program Evaluation and Resource Center on open-label,
get the peace they deserve.
pilot studies of add-on oral, reportedly demonstrated that THC was well tolerated and resulted in a decrease in hyperarousal symptoms. Although encouraging, the
HELMAND VALLEY GROWERS COMPANY has partnered with NiaMedic to perform research and provide data-driven information on the beneficial effects cannabis may have on veterans suffering from PTSD and related sleep disorders.
sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 47
48 NOVEMBER 2019 Southern California
TRILL PILLS
Keeping It Clean HOW ONE DISPENSARY WENT FROM CUSTOMER COLLABORATION TO INDUSTRY PIONEERS.
Educating the public on the healing properties
ommends new customers are diligent in researching
and the safe use of cannabis is the mission behind
what works best for you. He suggests keeping a journal
Trill Alternative founder, David Threlfall. Opening their
of what you’ve ingested, recording your reactions over
dispensary doors in 2009 in Boulder, Colorado, Threl-
the course of 10 to14 days.
fall soon realized one of the most common concerns
In addition to their leadership in the field as the first
customers had was finding a cannabis product that
dispensary to sell a CBD-only pill, their patent-pending
would offer the calming and health benefits of the
process of CBD extraction, which Threlfall compares to
plant without the psychotropic side effects that would
making chicken soup from scratch, sets them apart
impair their ability to function at work. This prompted
from other brands. They begin by boiling raw hemp
a deep dive into CBD as an alternative. In his explo-
flower for about three days, and then add organic and
ration, he came upon a customer that was growing
cold-pressed coconut oil which binds to the CBD. The
hemp and perfecting a lipid-based extraction meth-
fat-bound CBD rises to the top as the mixture cools
od, which led Threlfall to set his sights on creating the
and once skimmed, leaves water-soluble contami-
“Trill Pills.” That product became the innovation and
nants naturally separated at the bottom.
distinction behind Trill Alternative’s becoming the first dispensary selling CBD-only pills.
“After the separation process, we then run a third-party independent test on the product to verify
Trill Pills have no psychoactive effects and are cer-
cleanliness and potency,” says Threlfall, who adds “we
tified to have less than 0.3 percent THC (the Farm
have come up with one of the cleanest full-spectrum
Bill mandate), and come in a variety of strengths and
CBD products on the market today.” Although Trill Pills
qualities. The pills quickly skyrocketed to being the top
products are not certified organic, they are made with
seller at their dispensary, becoming the foundation for
organic ingredients whenever possible, are gluten-free,
the brand.
solvent-free, vegan, allergen-friendly, and contain no
Trill Pills offer CBD-infused MCT oil and full-spec-
additives. “It’s important to us that our products can
trum CBD pain relief. While a fan of CBD, Threlfall rec-
be used in essentially all diets,” states Lizzy Bratton, one of the managers. “Our experience working with senior citizens, ‘medical marijuana refugees,’ juveniles, veterans, and the medically vulnerable through our medical and recreational cannabis dispensaries over the years has given us the upper hand to determine which products and ‘regimen’ may work best for their needs,” Bratton explains. The company’s hope is that its products can be used as part of a daily healthy lifestyle. For more information, visit:
TRILLPILLS.COM
sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 49
{HereWeGo } by DAW N G A R C I A
GRATIFIED Happy social media accounts that aren’t a waste of your time. Instagram can be a crazy maze of false stories, so when you
Kim Lewis, Tiny Houses
come across the ones that are pure sunshine, reminding you that you’re among other dreamers, visionaries, hopefuls, and those who have had tremendous self-growth, you
@KIMLEWISDESIGNS Lewis got her start designing tiny hous-
appreciate it. Below are a few Instagrammers who aren’t
es. She was on TLC’s Tiny Houses and has since gone on to
“influencers,” but actual honest-to-goodness life-changers.
design some of the most beautiful little spaces you’ll ever see. A panelist at the 2017 Dwell On Design Show in Los Angeles, Lewis designs larger spaces too, but it’s her devotion to maintaining her sunny disposition that draws you in. The bright and happy nature she reveals on IG is exactly who she is. No fake highlight reel here; she’s the real deal. @GREATNESS In the stress and fast pace of life, finding a lit-
tle optimism can be like finding a hair follicle in a haystack. Seriously, it’s harder than the needle. That said, sometimes, someone believes in reminding you to stay positive and focus on the good stuff. Whether it’s through a quote or a video, @greatness has some genuine happiness nuggets that are encouraging when you feel less than bubbly. @THEBIRDSPAPAYA
Self-image is something that plagues
our modern society. The push for perfection is beyond what’s attainable and often leads to self-loathing instead of being motivating, but one mom bears her beauty, her stretch marks, and her truth on Instagram, and it’s downright refreshing. Sarah Nicole Landry is one of the most authentic, empowering, and inspiring women in the social media maze Sarah Nicole Landry 50 NOVEMBER 2019 Southern California
of mavens. Mom, writer, creator, and public speaker, her IG account will make you laugh, make you shout out a “hell, yeah,” and make you feel comfortable in your own skin.
Let Your Kookie Krumble Creativity You Can Taste
Chronic Kookies, Inc. is the industries FIRST and ONLY provider of fully custom baked edibles displaying art on the face of each Kookie. We strive on building a refreshing, creative platform encouraging the collective and individualist expression of the cannabis community. Our handcrafted Kookies are 100% all natural and infused with the purest butter before being tested to align with CA regulations.
Lemon Kookie
Snicker-Doodle Kookie
Brownie Kookie
Our tempting Lemon Kookies are mouthwatering and full of flavor. They are infused with our premium Hybrid, Indica or Sativa strains, delivering a subtle punch intended to be relaxing with an excellent body high.
Our savory fan-favorite Snicker-Doodle Kookies are heavenly. They are infused with our premium Hybrid, Indica or Sativa strains, delivering a subtle punch intended to be relaxing with an excellent body high.
Our Brownie Kookies are scrumptious, delectable, great tasting, and MUCH more than tasty. They are infused with our premium Hybrid, Indica or Sativa strains, delivering a subtle punch intended to be relaxing with an excellent body high.
ChronicKookies.com | (773) 417-9806 | support@chronickookies.com
Enjoy The High
# C11-0000499-LIC
ikanikfarms.com