A television producer by training, Bardon says he's "looking to create content -- a talk show, a grow show, probably a radio show and a cooking show" inspired by events like this weekend's "Introduction to Cannabis Edibles," which takes place tomorrow; get more details below.
But the site is also designed as a hub for members of the marijuana community to get discounts on all types of businesses, weed-related or not, through the use of a ChronicCareConnect.com card. "It's similar to a Sam's Club Card," he says.
ChronicCareConnect's "core business is to build the medical marijuana industry by opening up new avenues for business people who may not necessarily be directly related to it," Bardon allows. "We have close to 300 service providers -- local businesses in the Colorado area who are offering up a discount to members in Colorado. It's like a Gold C book, with everyone from electricians to photographers to graphic design artists to doctors and lawyers -- and lots of dispensaries -- will give deals to our card holders."
In addition to potentially benefiting those with ChronicCareConnect cards, Bardon believes the concept can also boost businesses -- particularly ones that may offer services needed by members of the medical marijuana community.
"Interior decorators need to be on our site," he maintains. "There are so many people in this community opening up businesses, and they've never done it before, and don't know what they're supposed to look like. They want it to be a welcoming place, a professional place, and they don't know how to go about it. But interior decorators know."
Prior to launching this project, Bardon worked at ManiaTV, the online TV network originally based in Denver. He wound up working on the program starring former Jane's Addiction and Red Hot Chili Peppers guitarist Dave Navarro, among other shows. But ManiaTV's ambitions eventually got the best of it. The net relocated to Los Angeles in 2008 in an attempt to cash-in on celebrity access; the operation also provided a platform for comic Tom Green, among others. But by the following March, the operation shut down -- and while the net's still online, it seems to be in preview mode.From there, Bardon created a show for Fox Sports Net Rocky Mountain called Get Jookt, which focused on high school athletics. But now, he's teaching at the Ohio Center for Broadcasting in Denver while not working on ChronicCareConnect. "I saw a lot of my friends embracing the community, and I figured, why not create some shows around it?" he says.
Which brings us to tomorrow's "An Introduction to Cannabis Edibles," which will feature 45-minute cooking demonstrations by three prominent local chefs, including Scott Durrah, as well as a special appearance by Kush magazine founder Michael Lerner. Bardon will be getting video of the extravaganza for later posting on his website -- but for those who'd rather not wait, get details about how to see it live in the following press release:
ChronicCareConnect Cooking Event to Feature Celebrity Chefs and Prominent SpeakersMembership Club operator ChronicCareConnect will bring the medical marijuana (MMJ) community together to focus on the growing business of cannabis edibles. The first of ChronicCareConnect's Community Seminars Series, An Introduction to Cannabis Edibles, is attracting a couple of hundred MMJ business owners, professionals and supporters to meet at Casselman's Bar and Venue in Denver's North Downtown neighborhood (2620 Walnut Street, Denver CO 80205). The cannabis edibles event on Saturday March 27th will feature a series of cooking demonstrations and MMJ industry speakers between 10 and 3pm. Attendees are invited to stay and network for a few hours afterwards.
Special appearance by Michael Lerner, publisher of Kush magazine & dailybuds.com
Medical marijuana and the broader legalization movement have become hot topics over the past year, with the burgeoning industry showing financial muscle even as other parts of the U.S. economy continue to falter. Mr. Lerner will be sharing his experiences as founder of the world's largest cannabis lifestyle media publication, Kush magazine. Mr. Lerner will also be giving attendees a preview of what to expect from his upcoming Colorado Cannabis Convention (April 2nd and 3rd at the Colorado Convention Center).
Cooking demonstrations by prominent Denver Chefs
Chef Scott Durrah, recently featured in Denver's Westword Magazine, is a prime example of the emerging class of entrepreneurs and artists who are helping to professionalize the MMJ industry. Chef Scott turned his first restaurant, The Jamaican Café, into a Santa Monica, California favorite, eventually named one of the "Best of LA." With partner Wanda James, Scott opened his mile high eatery, 8 Rivers, in 2006 and was named "Best of Denver" by Westword and "Top of the Town" by 5280 magazine. In December of 2009, Wanda and Scott opened Apothecary of Colorado (AOC) - the most complete MMJ Gourmet Shoppe in Denver. AOC carries not only candy, cakes and pies, but also real food made by real chefs, including a line of fine food created by Durrah himself.
Event attendees will see additional cooking demonstrations by Chef Rachel Wolpo, Pastry Chef and Owner of Baked at a Mile High and Chef Lauren Gennett, Owner of The Mad Batter Baking Company and The Pure Gourmet, a personal chef services company.
Business Presentations for the MMJ Edibles Industry
Colorado attorney Michael Selinfreund will give attendees the benefit of his 18 years in practice, by presenting an overview of pending state legislation expected to significantly impact all parts of the MMJ industry, particularly proposed rules for Infused Products, including cannabis edibles.
Commercial insurance agent Neal Hirsch will introduce attendees to his industry leading All Green Insurance products. Mr. Hirsch can write policies for MMJ business owners covering dispensaries, grow facilities, green Dr. offices, worker's comp, buildings, crops and of course edibles production.
After the Main Stage Presentations, Enjoy Some Chronic Comedy
Comedy Works regular Chuck Roy will headline a trio of Denver comedians who'll give us their take on the highs and lows of developments in the world of MMJ.
Network with the MMJ Community
A Full Day pass to the ChronicCareConnect's Seminar: An Introduction to Cannabis Edibles, is only $25, which includes edibles samples for MMJ license holders. In addition to the main stage speakers, the event will include over 20 MMJ businesses that will positioned at tables throughout the Casselman's venue to meet attendees. Chefs and edibles makers, dispensary owners and growers will be available to answer questions as well as explain their products and services. A physician from Health Star Medical Evaluation Clinics will also be on-hand to answer questions and discuss the medical referral process.
Part of proceeds will be donate to Coloradans for Medical Marijuana Regulation
Coloradans for Medical Marijuana Regulation is a coalition of medical marijuana patients and providers supporting responsible regulation of medical marijuana. Formed in 2009, the coalition is actively engaged with Colorado legislators and law enforcement officers to establish criteria for the regulation of medical marijuana in order to make a positive difference in people's lives. Tickets on sale thru Casselman's Bar & Venue (2620 Walnut Street, Denver CO 80205)
About ChronicCareConnect
ChronicCareConnect is a Colorado based company which operates a membership community dedicated to linking patients, service providers and supporters of the Medical Marijuana movement. Our signature Discount Savings Card allows shoppers to enjoy exclusive offers from participating merchants. Educational and networking Seminars are open to the public.
ChronicCareConnect offers businesses a range of merchant services designed to increase sales and lower costs. Merchant Partner packages include features like listing in our Merchant Directory, customized business micro sites, video business profiles, in-store TV and radio programming, marketing management and design services.
To learn how ChronicCareConnect can help you save money and increase your business opportunities, contact us today at (310) 720-3552 or send us an email to [email protected].
