CVLUX JUL | AUG 2020

JUL | AUG

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A REASON TO

CELEBRATE KAREN PARKER-BRYANT IS GRATEFUL TO BE ALIVE. Diagnosed with COVID-19 on April 2, she fought for her life at Clovis Community Medical Center on a ventilator for 35 days. She missed celebrating her 64th birthday and Mother’s Day. Today, Karen can celebrate. And it’s donations from people like you that helped save her life.

You understand what it takes to keep our Valley healthy and strong.

That is why so many of you reacted quickly as coronavirus took hold in our region, giving to the COVID-19 Response Fund.

Your donations fund life-saving supplies and equipment – including masks, protective gowns, in-house testing and ventilators, like the one that helped Karen.

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JUL | AUG

Contents Philanthropy

In Every Issue EDITOR'S NOTE ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 16 WELCOME TO THE ISSUE ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 18 MASTHEAD ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... .. .. .. ... ... ... ... 20 CONTRIBUTORS ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... .. .. .. ... ... ... ... 22

60

Departments

Interviewing Garcelle

SERVING THE SAN JOAQUIN ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 24 Catholic Charities, Diocese of Fresno VALLEY LIFE BLOOD ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 26 Central California Blood Center FEEDING CENTRAL CALIFORNIA ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 30 Central California Food Bank FOOD FOR THE FRONT LINE ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 32 FLAG, Central Valley HUMANITY PERSONIFIED ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 36 Hinds Hospice LEADING THE FIGHT AGAINST CANCER ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 38 Presidents Club HEART OF THE FAMILY ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 42 Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Central Valley GRACIOUS GARCELLE ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 44 Cover Story ANDROGYNOUS MOVES ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 56 MOODY BLUES ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... .. 58 SERENE SUMMMER ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 60 WILLA BY DESIGN ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 62 A Conversation with Willa Ford HAND HEROS ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 70 A CLOSER LOOK ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 72 Hyaluronic Acid

For the JUL | AUG Edition, CVLUX has included two additional cover mock-ups—featuring covergirl Garcelle Beauvais—to highlight the Philanthropy Issue.

JUL | AUG

VINTAGE JACKET FROM SWIFT VINTAGE DRESS BY VIERECK RING BY JENNY DAYCO

DRESS BY LAQUAN SMITH NECKLACE BY JENNY DAYCO

56 HEADPIECE BY JENNY DAYCO CAPE FROM GARCELLE’S OWN COLLECTION

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Editor's Note Philanthropy

TROUSERS BY SAINT LAURENT TOP FROM GARCELLE’S OWN COLLECTION SHOES BY ALICE & OLIVIA NECKLACE BY JENNY DAYCO

The American Fabric

I

t is time to take a breath and gain some perspective during these extremely challenging times. The fabric of our nation, woven over the last 244 years, is changing.

We are finding our way through civil and global unrest, all set amongst the backdrop of an international pandemic and massive financial uncertainty, while millions of Americans struggle daily just to put food on their tables.

What are we doing? How are we helping? These are questions asked daily that seem to have no clear answer. So, we looked for the helpers in our community, and profiled a few of them in this current edition. These philanthropies celebrate a collective humanity, which we so desperately need.

It is in the vein of humanity that we ask for unity, because unity is the panacea for our current condition. There are far more similarities between each other than differences. When we recognize

these similarities, we gain understanding and perspective. It is this fostering of good will that allows us to celebrate one another and to treat each other with respect.

We implore you to go into the world and seek out opportunities to be a helper. We ask you to find ways to connect with one another, listen, and let the voiceless be heard. We ask this for our children, our grandchildren, and for the future, whatever it may hold.

David As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, we will be combining our September Wellness Issue and October Men of Influence Issue to make a special edition to be released in September 2020. Your subscription will be extended accordingly.

CVLUX Magazine is pleased to present the 2021 Luxury Awards.

Each year, CVLUX recognizes the top businesses in the Central Valley by presenting the best of the best with Luxury Awards.

In addition, three coveted Diamond Awards are given to various businesses and individuals to acknowledge their philanthropic efforts within the community.

Nominations began on July 1st, 2020. Nominees will be announced on September 1st, 2020. Voting will continue until December 11th, 2020, and the winners will be announced at the Luxury Awards in January.

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Welcome to the Issue Philanthropy

Summer Vibes Garcelle Beauvais of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills speaks with insightful eloquence about reexamining how and with whom precious time is spent, as our modern society takes on the challenge of navigating a whole new manner of living, in this Philanthropy Issue’s cover story (page 44). Discover what the Central Valley’s top non-profit organizations are doing to help our community during the onset of COVID-19 (page 24-43). Fashion features androgynous styles, summer blues, and layered looks with seamlessly coordinated face masks (page 56-60). Learn how to save over-washed hands (page 70) and why hyaluronic acid should be in your skincare regimen (page 72). Dive into the mind of über-creative Willa Ford (page 62), and use it to inspire how you will live out the historical summer of 2020.

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C A L I F O R N I A · V I B E

DAVID MANNING Editor in Chief, Partner

DONNA ENSOM Creative Director, Partner

EDITORIAL Managing Editor LAUREN BARISIC Fashion Editor MELISSA SOUZA Senior Fashion Stylist ALMA WOLVERTON Beauty Editor JESSICA MCCAFFERTY Health & Fitness Editor DINA JUVE Interiors Editor ERIN MELKONIAN Interiors Contributor OLIVIA SCHMITZ Features Contributor ELISABETH ROSS ART Design Director PHENG MOUA Contributing Photographers DANNY CAMERON, CENTRAL CALIFORNIA FOOD BANK REANNON COOK, JAIME DILLMORE, DON DIZON, JEFFREY SCOTT AGENCY MEZA FILMS, PRECISION CIVIL ENGINEERING, LISA VANG, RICARDO VIVEROS ROBERT WALKER, JOSH WILLIAMS and JD YOUNG BUSINESS Regional Marketing Director CAROL DEFENDIS Account Executive MEGAN O'ROURKE Accounting Director DEE ANN LINKER Legal Counsel GONTORWON BORH Please submit all advertising inquires to donna@cvlux.com.

Letters To The Editor: We want to hear from you. Please submit letters to: CVLUX, 7797 N. First St. #172, Fresno CA, 93720 or e-mail to information@cvlux.com. Letters must be signed and deemed appropriate for our readership to be considered for publishing. Letters are subject to editing and may be cut for length.

Story Queries: Are you a writer? Please send story queries to lauren@cvlux.com. Please allow six to eight weeks for a response. CVLUX is not responsible for unsolicited material.

CVLUX is published bi-monthly by Modern Living Publishing LLC, 7797 N. First St. #172, Fresno CA, 93720. Copyright 2014 by Modern Living Publishing LLC. All rights reserved.

Every effort has been made to ensure the information within this publication is complete and accurate at the time of publication. CVLUX does not warrant such accuracy or the claims of its advertisers. All materials, articles, reports, original artwork, and photos published in this magazine are the property of Modern Living Publishing LLC and cannot be used or reproduced without permission in writing. Modern Living Publishing LLC is not responsible for the opinions expressed within the publication. Prices quoted in advertisements are subject to change without notice.

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Contributors Philanthropy

Alma Wolverton Senior Fashion Stylist

Alma is an editorial stylist, closet editor, personal shopper, image consultant, and boutique owner, based in California’s San Joaquin Valley. A small-town girl, she was raised with an impeccable work ethic and determination to achieve her dreams. Today, Alma owns and operates Pum Bum Society in Fresno, where she takes enormous pride in bringing the latest and most exclusive looks, brands, and trends, that both celebrities and fashion experts alike are wearing, to the Central Valley.

Josh Williams

Erin Melkonian

Josh grew up right outside of New Orleans and has taken his love for its culture anywhere he goes. He started his dream in photography in Sarasota, Florida at Ringling College of Art and Design. Directly after, he moved to Los Angeles, California, where he began building his photography career. After 10 years in Los Angeles, Josh has relocated back to the New Orleans area, but continues to travel, finding the beauty in everything he photographs.

Erin runs a collaborative design firm, EMID Design Group, specializing in healthcare, hospitality, and residential interior design, in Fresno, California. Seeing the world through an artistic lens has allowed Erin to experiment in a number of different styles.

Everything she does with a space is deliberate. Every piece has a purpose and has been thought about (from color, to position, to scale) in order to create the most unique and personal spaces for her clients.

Photographer

Interiors Editor

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Serving the San Joaquin CATHOLIC CHARITIES, DIOCESE OF FRESNO www.ccdof.org

Managing Editor Lauren Barisic Photographer Jeffrey Scott Agency

F

or over a century, Catholic Charities has been dedicated to helping people in need and those struggling with poverty in our nation. “Today, Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Fresno is part of a network of 160 partner Catholic Charities agencies throughout the country” who provide food, clothing, and other basic necessities, explains Jeff Negrete, Executive Director of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Fresno.

The local chapter serves the Central Valley (regardless of age, race, or beliefs) through three locations overseen by Bishop Joseph Brennan, who cares for not only the 1.2 million registered Catholics within the region, but also for the three million souls that reside here. “Today and always, Catholic Charities is here to support him in doing just that,” says Negrete.

Though based in Fresno, Bakersfield, and Merced, the Community Benefit Organization serves all those within the 35,239 square miles that make up the San Joaquin Valley, from Kern to Merced counties.

Everyone is encouraged to join them in service. “Whether it’s through volunteering, donating, or simply praying for us and those we serve, it is only because of this support that we’re able to exude love and compassion to 200,000+ people each year.” In these times of widespread uncertainty, Catholic Charities is lending a helping hand to more families and individuals than ever—and the surge in need has also been answered by an outpour of increased support.

Food supplementation is the Agency’s largest program. “We also have a career and education center, a representative payee program that provides financial management for those receiving social security or veterans’ benefits, a Senior Companion Program, as well as a Thrift Store and clothing referral program,” Negrete elaborates. “The plea from those throughout our community is constant and reflective of every age group, demographic, zip code, and more … The services provided by Catholic Charities don’t fit within a box right now, and they can’t. Our goal is to never turn any individual or community partner away empty-handed or without hope.”

Catholic Charities hosts a number of events year-round to support that mission. Chief among them is the much-anticipated Harvest of Hope (usually held each fall), which provides critical financial support to the Agency. “Though there is still much uncertainty surrounding the event,” reflects Negrete, “we remain hopeful that whatever happens, our community will continue to be there to support our neighbors in crisis.”

“Our donor base is fully engaged with our mission and since the beginning of the pandemic, their support has been present in so many extraordinary and different ways—making a tangible difference in the lives of others,” Negrete goes on. “During these unprecedented times, we are laser focused on being there for our clients and those who have nowhere else to turn.”

Whether you are in need or your heart is urging you towards service, Catholic Charities is a beacon of unification, meeting the needs of any and all wherever they may be.

LB How do those in need get in touch with Catholic Charities?

JN Catholic Charities’ three brick and mortar sites are open for services Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and we have volunteer receptionists answering our phones for any questions someone might have. Though the Agency serves all regardless of religious preference, we also rely on parish partnerships to help generate a pulse of greater community needs and refer individuals who may not know where to turn, especially in rural communities throughout the Valley where small missions or churches have a defining presence. After fulfilling what we assessed as a gap in services throughout the San Joaquin Valley, our Rural Outreach Program now accounts for 25% of all our food distribution taking place.

LB As a result of coronavirus, have any new charity partnerships developed?

JN Catholic Charities has multiple community partnerships with likeminded goals and, as a result of coronavirus, those relationships have deepened. We have been able to expand our normal reach and assist senior living communities, veterans, those who are home-bound, churches, and

FRESNO 149 North Fulton Street Fresno, CA 93701 559.237.0851

BAKERSFIELD 825 Chester Avenue Bakersfield, CA 93301 661.281.2130

other organizations who continue to try and serve through the financial devastation and non-essential business protocols that’re affecting many.

The calls keep coming in and we feel so blessed that we’re able to say “yes” every time—that they can count on us to help. Last month, over 40,000 pounds of food were redistributed from Catholic Charities’ warehouses to partner agencies who are also serving our community.

LB What differences has Catholic Charities seen in the needs of the community due to coronavirus?

JN Catholic Charities has seen a 74% increase in the need for food services since the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic began to impact our community. Over 40% seeking out services have never visited us before.

Recently a young mother standing in our line with her two kids said, “I didn’t know there were people like you to help people like me until my neighbor told me to come here.” There’s a common misperception that Catholic Charities only serves Catholics when in reality, Catholic Charities is about care and not conversion. As so many families in our community have been impacted by COVID-19, the spirit of community and “neighbor helping neighbor” have never felt greater.

MERCED 336 West Main Street, Suite 1 Merced, CA 95340 209.383.2494

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Valley Life Blood CENTRAL CALIFORNIA BLOOD CENTER www.donateblood.org

Managing Editor Lauren Barisic Photographer JD Young

T

he Central California Blood Center (CCBC) provides blood and services to hospitals within the five counties it serves: Fresno, Kings, Madera, Mariposa, and Tulare. “Central California Blood Center is committed to saving lives and improving patient care by providing a safe and abundant blood supply for the patients and families in the communities we serve,” professes their mission statement. Anywhere from 5,000 to 6,000 pints of blood must be collected monthly to meet patient needs in the Central Valley.

Regions have only one blood bank. “Blood banks collect blood for hospitals, and then hospitals pay a fee: the cost of collecting, recruiting, and processing the blood. This is how it is in the country,” from small independent blood banks to nationally recognized names, such as the American Red Cross, explains Christopher Staub, President and CEO of the Central California Blood Center.

Yet the history of blood banking is much younger than many may realize.

The tremendous success of drawn blood used to treat combat injuries during World War II inspired doctors to bring the treatment back to the Central Valley after their service, though the supply at local hospitals could not keep up with the demand. A committee from the Fresno County Medical Society formed in response to the Central Valley’s need between 1946 and 1947, with the Valley Blood Bank opening a couple

years later. At the urging of the California Medical Association’s Blood Bank Commission, the Central California Blood Bank opened its doors in 1954—the name change to Central California Blood Center came in 1995.

Expansion dictated the necessity for larger facilities and more locations over the years. Today, four donation centers facilitate the CCBC’s work, located in Northwest Fresno, Central Fresno, North Fresno, and Visalia.

The Northwest Fresno location, named the Jenny Eller Donor Center, opened as the Central California Blood Center’s headquarters in 2009, where the “bus barn” houses its bloodmobiles. Five mobile collection units will also travel to work sites, schools, and other such locations for blood drive events throughout the Central Valley.

Since the origin of blood banking, “It was always about collecting whole blood, and platelets and plasma,” recounts Staub. Over the years, increasing costs of healthcare operations trickled down to the blood banks. Of those who maintained the traditional trifecta of blood offerings, many were forced to consolidate, some were absorbed by larger organizations, others went out of business entirely. But those who found innovative revenue streams (that were simultaneously mission-compatible) were able to not only push on, but also advance the technology of blood banking services.

Staub has been on the lookout for contacts and collaborators to help advance the sustainability of blood banking and the advent of new cures and treatments for blood diseases since before joining the Central California Blood Center. His foresight for what the future of blood banking would require led to the CCBC partnering with biotech companies, “most notably with Cerus Corporation. Based in Concord, California, they are an international company that has developed procedures for making blood safer,” says Staub, and they need blood for clinical trials in order to get US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval. Being a local organization with nimble leadership, using the CCBC (as opposed to a mammoth organization such as the American Red Cross) was an ideal partnership for Cerus. “By reaching out and partnering in ways that traditional blood banks would never have done, we were able to find niche business lines.”

O

ne of those, begun almost two years ago, was the collection of pathogen-reduced red blood cells. Using a process developed by Cerus, the CCBC is essentially able to treat them so that if a virus, bacteria, or parasite was in the blood inadvertently, it would be destroyed. “We have been making a limited number of red cells pathogen-reduced for FDAapproved Phase III clinical trials in the United States,” shares Staub.

“We are one of only two blood centers in the country that has this agreement with Cerus to make these pathogen-reduce red cells.” As a

four-year project, it is bringing the CCBC about $1.5 million—more than an increase in revenue, it’s an example of how innovation helps set the Central California Blood Center apart from other average blood banks to being nationally recognized as one of the most forward-thinking small to mid-size blood centers in the country.

In February, the FDA asked blood centers to begin collecting plasma from recovered coronavirus survivors, and the CCBC eagerly obliged. Based on how other viruses are deactivated, “If you treat a patient with antibodies from a recovered person, you can neutralize viruses,” rationalizes Staub.

“It’s a basic biological principal that has shown to work in other viruses.”

People who have recovered from coronavirus develop virus antibodies, which remain in the plasma portion of their blood. Once collected from a recovered COVID-19 patient, the product is referred to as convalescent plasma.

Introducing the COVID-19 Convalescent Plasma Program is another prime example of how the CCBC stands at the forefront of blood technology and applicational advancement. Though not required by the FDA to be pathogen-reduced, they are the first blood center in the United States to produce pathogen-reduced COVID-19 convalescent plasma.

It’s experimental, but the FDA approved the treatment for use on an emergency basis as an expanded access protocol.

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Transfusing convalescent plasma into a person who is still fighting coronavirus could help boost the patient’s immune system and potentially aide their recovery. The convalescent plasma collections made by the CCBC (at the North Fresno and Visalia locations) are used by hospitals both locally and nationally for severely ill coronavirus patients. Those who have recovered can participate in the COVID-19 Convalescent Plasma Program by completing the Donor Eligibility Form available on the CCBC website.

By collecting convalescent plasma, the Central California Blood Center is doing their part to fight the coronavirus pandemic, yet those recipients are not the only people in need of the offerings they produce. Sickness, surgery, injury, and other life-threatening health issues still require blood donations. Being a donor is an easy way to gift a life-altering necessity of oneself, which in turn benefits our Central Valley community. Practically everyone knows someone who has been in need of blood at one point in their lives—from accident and burn victims, to patients battling cancer or receiving organ transplants. Do your part to make sure there is an adequate supply of blood available for your family, friends, and neighbors by donating at any one of the Central California Blood Centers, or by visiting a bloodmobile.

Blood donations require only a simple, four-step process. 1) Register using a photo identification—you’ll need to verify your name and address.

2) Submit to a mini physical and interview—both parts are kept strictly confidential, and ensure that giving blood is a healthy option for both you and a potential recipient. 3) Give your whole blood donation—this starts with a small pinch felt when the needle is inserted, though many donors feel no pain during the process. Collection of one pint of blood usually takes about 15 minutes. After the bag is filled, additional small tubes of blood are drawn for laboratory testing. 4) Relax—after your donation is made, the CCBC encourages donors to enjoy the refreshments and snacks provided (to help replenish fluids and energy) before resuming normal daily activities.

The wait time between donations varies depending on the type of donation made. Whole blood donors may give once every 56 days—this allows plenty of time for red blood cells (those that carry oxygen) to replenish, considering that they can take two weeks or longer to fully return to normal levels. Apheresis (also known as platelet) donors may donate up to twice a month—this is because the platelet and plasma components in the body are replaced more rapidly than red blood cells, with platelets and plasma actually returning to normal levels within just hours after donating. With the knowledge of your donation’s potential impact, don’t hesitate to make an appointment—in these times of great uncertainty and not always being sure of the best way to serve, you’ll enjoy the feeling of knowing that you have helped to save lives through the Central California Blood Center.

JENNY ELLER DONOR CENTER 4343 West Herndon Avenue Fresno, CA 93722 559.389.5433 FRESNO DONOR CENTER 1196 East Shaw Avenue, Suite 102 Fresno, CA 93710 559.389.5500 NORTH FRESNO DONOR CENTER 1010 East Perrin Avenue Fresno, CA 93720 559.389.5600 VISALIA DONOR CENTER 2245 West Caldwell Avenue Visalia, CA 93277 559.302.1300

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Feeding Central California CENTRAL CALIFORNIA FOOD BANK www.ccfoodbank.org

Managing Editor Lauren Barisic Photographers Central California Food Bank & Meza Films

C

entral California Food Bank (CCFB) is waging a war on hunger. As a member of Feeding America, they fight hunger by gathering and distributing food, engaging in community partnerships that advance self-sufficiency, and by providing community leadership on issues related to hunger. They source food to more than 220 agencies between Fresno, Kern, Kings, Madera, and Tulare Counties, which serve over 280,000 people monthly, yet the uptick in food need has increased exponentially since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic.

Two years ago, then-CEO Andy Souza announced a name change, from Community Food Bank to the current Central California Food Bank, to reflect the organization’s far reach in the Golden State. When he retired at the beginning of this summer, it was a logical transition to promote from within. Co-CEOs Kym Dildine and Natalie Caples are dedicated to ending hunger in Central California. “The purpose is to create continuity and consistency for the organization’s transition during these challenging circumstances presented by the pandemic,” says Caples.

“With both of us at the helm,” Dildine believes, “we can leverage our strengths and diverse expertise to make an even larger impact on our organization and community.” Their partnership “is the result of having worked closely together for the past 8 years,” elaborates Caples. “Together we will work to strengthen relationships with our amazing agency partner

network and other organizations outside our network to close the meal gap and serve more food to people in need.”

“We have wonderful relationships with other food banks, so when we have a surplus of a product we share it with others in our network and vice versa. We love seeing local produce leaving our warehouse and heading to dinner tables across the Valley,” relishes Robin Allen-Maddox, Communications Specialist at CCFB. “We know that the strawberries, mandarins, cabbage, squash, and more are providing people with the nutrients and energy they need to face the day.” No one should go hungry— especially in the agricultural capitol of the world. “Approximately 80% of our distributed produce is sourced locally. Any produce not obtained locally is from another county in California.”

There are three main ways in which Central California Food Bank invites the community to engage with them: volunteering, donating, and spreading the word. “Anyone five years of age and older can volunteer in our warehouse bagging produce, building food boxes, and more,” offers Allen-Maddox. “All volunteer information, waivers, and registration forms can be found on our website at www.ccfoodbank.org/volunteer.

There are several ways to donate as well. You can become a monthly donor through our FEED365 program—it’s a budget-friendly way to help provide meals all year round! Additionally, you can make a onetime donation at www.ccfoodbank.org/donate.” CCFB’s partnerships

with various food sources enables them to obtain food at a much lower cost than traditional outlets, enabling a mere $1 to provide up to seven meals.

Hunger Heroes, CCFB’s annual peer-to-peer fundraising campaign, gets the word out between April and June. Though its competitive fundraising teams were unable to complete their campaigns in-person this year, “it didn’t stop our participants from getting creative,” Allen-Maddox exclaims. “This year, we went exclusively online and our Hunger Heroes teams surpassed our $60,000 goal!” To stay up-to-date on current fundraising and awareness promotions, “We would love everyone to follow, like, and share the pertinent information we share on our social media platforms.” From engaging in social media to hands-on service and making a monetary donation, anyone can assist in feeding Central California.

LB Where and how can people get access to food provided through Central California Food Bank?

RAM There are many ways that people can access food provided

by Central California Food Bank. We have a distribution calendar, a food locator map, and a pick-up/delivery appointment system all on our website under www.ccfoodbank.org/findfood.

People can search for food distributions in their area code or on a day that works best for them. Neighbors in need can obtain fresh produce, shelf-stable goods, dairy, or meat depending on which type of distribution they attend: Neighborhood Market, food pantry, food box delivery/pick-up, or a USDA distribution.

LB How has Central California Food Bank revved up its efforts due to the effects of coronavirus?

RAM Beginning in mid-March, Central California Food Bank quickly pivoted all efforts to meet the demand and safety protocols brought on by this pandemic. We ran a gap analysis to find out where the greatest needs were, increased the amount of food being distributed to partner agencies, recruited additional partners, and launched a brand-new program called Groceries2Go. This innovative new program allows individuals to receive a food box by scheduling a pick-up or delivery appointment. It is our goal to make sure that food can be accessed by anyone who is in need.

LB In what ways has the food packaging and distribution process altered because of coronavirus?

RAM We have made several alterations to our practices to remain safe and healthy. Volunteers and staff complete a health survey every time they are in the office or distribution center.

Additionally, everyone on-site wears a mask and practices appropriate social distancing. We have reduced the number of volunteers we can host at a time. Almost all produce is now bagged on-site so that fewer people are in contact with the food that is being distributed. Over 1,000 meal boxes are constructed each week by our dedicated volunteers!

FRESNO HEADQUARTERS 4010 East Amendola Drive Fresno, CA 93725 559.237.3663

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Food for the Front Line FLAG, CENTRAL VALLEY www.flagcv.org

Managing Editor Lauren Barisic Photographers Lisa Vang & Ricardo Viveros

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ront Line Appreciation Group (FLAG) answers the needs of both front line caregivers (who are in need of easily accessible meals) and restaurants (which are suffering from operational limitations) in a single stroke—problems that were both brought on by the coronavirus pandemic. Through FLAG’s community partnerships, they are helping to feed healthcare providers and first responders and keep local restaurants in business simultaneously.

The organization was started by two New Jersey women, Liz Bernich and Gina McGuire, who raised over $100,000 for the cause within its first two weeks of existence. “Now, there are over 100 FLAG groups nationwide, each operated independently,” explains Tali Whelan, RN, Founder of FLAG, Central Valley. “We share ideas, the name, and support one another, but there is no centralized control or organization. It has become a movement to engage the community in meeting local needs.”

On March 31st, Whelan read an article about the New Jersey FLAG, and instantly knew she had to bring it to Fresno. “I know what it is like to work long shifts, care for critically ill patients, and be a part of emotionally difficult and dire situations. With restaurants suffering, hospital cafeterias closed, and medical professionals unable to leave and get a meal, I knew

I could fill a need in the community by feeding people,” Whelan recounts, “and that is what pushed me to start FLAG, Central Valley.”

“The broad mission is to support our local community, while promoting and creating economic impact and community collaboration,” specifies Whelan. During this pandemic, they have specifically focused on supporting locally owned restaurants, while feeding our community’s healthcare providers and first responders. “The outpouring of good will and support is really a reflection of people’s goodness here in the Valley.

We have merely helped provide an avenue to express that in dire times.

We have great people that are living as neighbors all around us here.

FLAG will continue to do whatever we can to create positive change and impact the community (small businesses, healthcare providers, and others) in a meaningful and significant way.” FLAG’s mission will evolve as we all adjust to a new normal, and they will continue to evolve and help for as long as they are needed.

Because the groups are independently operated, each are able to meet the specific needs of the community they serve with greater ease and ability. In the Central Valley, that meant finding a way to reach those on the outskirts. “We have also reached out to rural healthcare communities

to help those who help our underserved populations,” elaborates Whelan.

“FLAG, Central Valley continues to raise funds to purchase meals from locally owned restaurants, who then deliver the meals to healthcare providers and first responders throughout the Central Valley,” whose needs are brought to FLAG’s attention by members of the community.

“FLAG is in continuous contact with community members, elected leaders, and business owners, local hospitals, clinics, and restaurants,” Whelan shares of the demand and response process. “Local business owners, with their sponsorship donation, communicate to FLAG where they would like meals sent and what restaurants they would like to support. Being in constant communication with supporters gives FLAG the unique opportunity to hear directly from the community and learn where the impact of FLAG’s services would best be utilized.”

Through input from the community and its leaders, FLAG’s partnerships with Central Valley restaurants allow the public to be involved in a way that will continue to generate participation and community engagement.

“To date, FLAG has partnered and delivered meals to Community Regional Medical Center, Clovis Community Medical Center, Saint Agnes Medical Center, Kaiser Permanente, and Madera Community

Hospital,” lists Whelan. “FLAG also has created a meal partnership with United Health Centers, raising awareness and creating a focus on our rural communities.” FLAG has now worked with 26 restaurants, all of which are locally owned with firm Central Valley roots.

FLAG, Central Valley feels especially fortunate to work alongside the Fresno Area Hispanic Foundation, who is their fiscal sponsor. “Because of the support of the Fresno Area Hispanic Foundation, FLAG is able to offer its donors the benefit of a tax deduction. To donate, simply go to our website and you will be able to place that tax-deductible donation,” suggests Whelan. For those who would like to write a check, email her at info@flagcv.org for mailing details.

Word of mouth and creating a place for community involvement is of utmost importance to FLAG. “So many individuals want to help, but don’t feel like they know how,” understands Whelan. “With FLAG, individuals can volunteer and engage from home.” In addition, “getting the community involved is at the core of our mission/cause. We have partnered with the Girl Scouts of Central California South, Best Buddies of Fresno, the local Miss America organization, Toca Madera Winery, Quady Winery, and more. We are of the mentality that, ‘If you want to

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go quickly, go alone. If you want to go far, go together,’” as the African proverb goes.

appreciated. Together we will have (and have had) a lasting and profound impact on our community.”

Their recent partnership with Best Buddies, Team Central Valley was especially moving. As a local non-profit dedicated to assisting those with intellectual and developmental disabilities, the Best Buddies interns made cards of support for healthcare providers at Community Regional Medical Center. “It was moving,” admits Whelan. “Local schools have also sent cards of support, too. Getting diverse communities involved has been a way to not only help local businesses and front line workers, but to strengthen the great community we have in the Central Valley!”

“FLAG is also looking for volunteers that would like to get involved!”

Whelan exclaims. “We value community involvement, ideas, and collaborations! We are accepting volunteers for a variety of tasks and responsibilities.” Donations, however, are the most effective way people can get involved. “FLAG is able to continue because of the generosity of the community! In order to continue, we need monetary donations.

We have various donation sponsorship packages for individuals and businesses interested in donating a large meal package. We also value individual donations and accept them with gratitude.”

Since their launch, FLAG has grown from supporting primarily local hospitals to also serving rural healthcare clinics and first responders, such as the fire department staff. “FLAG is constantly looking for ways to grow community partnerships to engage and support local businesses while reaching as many healthcare providers as we can to show them support,” expresses Whelan, and they are lucky to have had the community’s support from the beginning.

Being shown so much generous support doesn’t mean FLAG’s story has been without some difficulty. “The challenge, of course, is the economic climate and concern people have,” Whelan confesses. Yet in spite of those concerns, “Fortunately, many people have dug deep to help. In order to continue our positive impact on small businesses, we run on donations.

This is an especially difficult time for everyone, but any amount is very

Despite the uncertainty of current times, it is encouraging to see the togetherness that has evolved. People want to help each other, and everyone relishes the opportunity to strike a win-win. FLAG, Central Valley is a win-win. Whelan asks that we “help our local restaurants, feed our amazing healthcare staff, and give everyone a way to help! Please share this group and donate, if possible. No donation is too small.”

FRESNO HEADQUARTERS 1444 Fulton Street Fresno, CA 93721 559.349.3778

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Humanity Personified HINDS HOSPICE

www.hindshospice.org Managing Editor Lauren Barisic Photographer Robert Walker

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s the Founder and the heart of Hinds Hospice, “Nancy Hinds’ mission is to uphold the dignity and ease the suffering of the terminally ill while supporting their loved ones, and those who are grieving,” explains Robert Walker, Manager of Communications & Marketing at Hinds Hospice. Nancy’s dedication to the nursing profession took her around the globe before she settled in the Central Valley. “While working as an oncology nurse for Saint Agnes Medical Center,” Walker recounts, “she saw a huge need for hospice care in the Valley.” Hinds Hospice was born in 1981, when Nancy began with a four-patient capacity in her Fresno home. “During those first four years, she cared for 72 patients and their families.”

Today, Hinds Hospice is led by CEO Eric Klimes and the Board of Directors, who oversee over 200 employees and 300 volunteers. “We care for more than 350 patients every day in three counties while still adhering to Nancy’s mission,” Walker expresses. “Last year, Hinds Hospice cared for 1,641 patients, and 4,804 people received grief support. Hinds Hospice is truly ‘the Valley’s hospice,’ and never turns patients away because they lack the ability to pay for their care.”

Between the Fresno, Madera, and Merced locations, Hinds Hospice has grown to a comprehensive level of care not available at any other hospice in the Central Valley. “One of our newer programs is our Local Outreach to Suicide Survivors formed in 2019 … we developed a stateof-the-art Simulation Education Learning Lab,” that same year. Walker goes on to add, “We have enhanced our grief support programs and

added the Hinds Hospice Palliative Care Program for pain and symptom management.” A long list of service programs includes: the Hinds Kids Pediatric Concurrent Care Program, Angel Babies, Circle of Friends, Fresno Survivors of Suicide Loss, as well as a variety of workshops, support groups, and individual counseling through the Center for Grief & Healing.

Considering that next year marks four decades of service for Hinds Hospice, “We look forward to celebrating our 40th anniversary all year in 2021. We will highlight our accomplishments and recognize those who have made Hinds Hospice possible,” Walker professes. The celebration will continue through fall and winter, culminating with their Annual Hinds Hospice Gala, where a special 40th Anniversary Initiative will be launched.

The needs and services of Hinds Hospice haven’t been paused with the onset of COVID-19—they are doing everything they can to support their front line caregivers, while continuing to deliver exemplary care with added measures and precautions, including: screening all patients and staff for symptoms of COVID-19, using established protocols for anyone who may be symptomatic, implementing telehealth to limit faceto-face contact, providing appropriate personal protective equipment for all employees, mandating social distancing while at work, limiting support staff on-site, and tracking protocols for anyone who may display symptoms or who has tested positive for COVID-19. The public can help serve those who need their care by giving donations or gifts, visiting their thrift stores, or becoming a volunteer.

LB How has coronavirus impacted Hinds Hospice’s services and fundraising efforts?

RW As part of our commitment to the safety of our community, we made changes to all our upcoming events, including: • Postponing the Hinds Ladies Guild Noon Tea fundraiser until October 9th, 2020.

• Cancelling the 16th Annual Angel Babies Walk Run and making it a “virtual event.”

• Cancelling the Fresno Survivors of Suicide Loss Moms to Moms Luncheon and rescheduling it on a later date.

• Postponing the Granville Home of Hope Grand Prize Drawing until later in the year. (For those who already purchased tickets, your ticket is still valid, and we will continue selling tickets until they are sold out.)

• Possibly cancelling or postponing our Annual Hinds Hospice Gala in September.

We hope the community will understand how important these fundraising events are to our mission, and support these special events on their rescheduled dates.

LB Since the outbreak of coronavirus, in what ways have the offerings and procedures of Hinds Hospice altered?

RW Hinds Hospice has a nearly 40-year established history of caring for patients with complex medical conditions. Our Founder Nancy Hinds provided hospice care to HIV positive patients when no one else would.

As a registered nurse, Nancy understood how to care for those in need, while providing the necessary safety precautions. Today, Hinds Hospice

continues Nancy’s mission to ease suffering, and continues to deliver exemplary care by following and exceeding the safety standards from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), World Health Organization, California Department of Public Health, and the health departments in the three counties we serve.

LB How has Hinds Hospice adapted interactions between loved ones and those in the end-of-life journey during this time?

RW Hinds Hospice is following the CDC guidelines for COVID-19 to protect patients, visitors, and staff. We perform screenings and temperature checks on all visitors and provide masks, which must be worn while visiting our in-patient unit. Unlike many nursing homes, we are allowing one family member to remain at the bedside from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. When a patient is actively transitioning, we do allow multiple family members to the bedside. We utilize our emergency exits in those cases to minimize the number of visitors who come into contact with the rest of the unit. We are not allowing families to congregate in our public areas, but encourage families to rotate their visits to our home.

FRESNO HEADQUARTERS 2490 West Shaw Avenue Fresno, CA 93711 559.226.5683

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Leading the Fight Against Cancer PRESIDENTS CLUB

www.communitymedical.org/presidents-club Managing Editor Lauren Barisic Photographers Danny Cameron, Reannon Cook & Precision Civil Engineering

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he Presidents Club (PC) is a group of philanthropic business owners who raise money for Community Medical Centers, specifically benefiting its new state-of-the-art Community Cancer Institute, located on the campus of Clovis Community Medical Center. Theirs is a fraternal bond of men who are fighting for a common good, while sharing a common tragedy: all have been affected in some way by cancer. Their objective is simple yet inspiring—each is doing their part to eradicate cancer.

Under the umbrella of the Community Medical Foundation (CMF), the organization serves the greater Central Valley in a number of compacities.

“CMF exists to advance the mission of Community Medical Centers by generating private support for healthcare programs and services like cancer care, neurosciences, burn and level 1 trauma—the highest level in this region,” boasts Katie Zenovich, Senior Vice President of Development & External Affairs and Chief Executive Officer at the Community Medical Foundation. “Everyone in this Valley deserves to have access to top medical care and not feel that they have to drive 3-4 hours north or south to find it. We work every day to provide the resources to fix that problem … Philanthropy helps make things like this possible.

It is a big piece of the financial equation and people in the Central Valley (like the PC) are very caring, generous people. For that, we’re eternally grateful.”

The Presidents Club stands as a pillar of the Community Medical Foundation—befitting, given that its members are all leaders. “They represent a myriad of backgrounds and all have found success, so they want to make a difference in our community for themselves, their families, their friends, their neighbors, and for generations to come,” states Zenovich. “They work hard in order to accomplish a lot—both as a PC member and in their careers. This is a fantastic example of good will and giving back. It’s not for everyone, but this group has really stepped up and shown what can be done with a strong partnership.”

As the Founding President, Mark Astone had a clear vision for the organization from the beginning. “If I’m doing it, I’m motivated to direct it at cancer,” he told Zenovich. “If there’s a better mission, I’d be willing to debate that.” But when the core group assembled, a pattern

of experience emerged. “When it first started, it was about helping the mission of Community Medical Centers, but since we have all had an experience with cancer, it was logical to make our focus about cancer,” relays Astone.

Established in 2017, the Presidents Club was a combined effort of origin in many ways. “In short, a couple of guys in the community (now PC members), who had been active as volunteers with other organizations over the years, approached me and asked what Community Medical Centers had for them in terms of volunteer opportunities,” remembers Zenovich. “They were extremely impressed with the progress of Community’s healthcare system and its plans to build a world-class cancer institute right here in the Valley. I had no such volunteer group for them to join at the time. But, after several private conversations, they insisted that they could bring 25-30 guys—so I committed to working with them to put something unique and impactful together.”

Today, the Presidents Club is 40 members strong with vast diversity.

Ranging in age from 35 to 60 years old, they represent an extensive list of professional backgrounds: technology, finance, insurance, construction, environment, medicine, engineering, real estate, transportation, law, and business/marketing. Yet 100% of membership has been adversely affected by cancer, and nearly every one of its founding and existing members have been or currently are president of some sort of organization or business—hence where the name “Presidents Club” came from.

Not just anyone can join the Presidents Club. It is currently maintaining a strict membership count, though a vote from the highly democratic group might allow expansion eventually. “You can express interest, but you must be invited in. You have to be sponsored,” and the sponsor (an existing Presidents Club member) “is responsible for making sure you do your part,” Astone says of new membership. “If you don’t fulfill your requirements, you can be asked to leave.” According to Astone, they are, however, always adding to the wait-list. “It’s not who you are, it’s what you’re willing to do.” One’s willingness to get involved dictates whether or not the PC is a good fit for that person.

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Upon formation of the Presidents Club, the bar was raised in a lot of ways. “The group voted on a focus area and agreed that all dollars raised will benefit the Community Cancer Institute. And, they set a lofty goal of $500,000 in three years,” Zenovich clarifies. “Each member has their own ‘skin in the game’ and is responsible for a minimum of $5,000 annually.

They can donate this directly or satisfy it by selling sponsorships to the White Hot Summer Night (WHSN) event. In just two years, they blew their goal away! They’ve raised just under $800,000 and the WHSN event has become one of the most anticipated around.”

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hite Hot Summer Night is the Presidents Club’s annual fundraiser. “The plan was to do one major event per year, and make it the event that people would plan their calendar around,” Astone recalls.

“We liked the thought of doing something during the summer,” and the idea to do a white party emerged. “There is no status around here,” says Astone, referring to the set-up and preparation for WHSN, which club members do themselves to save money. “You roll up your sleeves and work.”

In just a few years, White Hot Summer Night is proving to be a financial success, with each event growing in proceeds over the year prior. Most of the club’s money is raised from that event. “It also really brings some good publicity to the Community Cancer Institute,” relishes Astone. In fact, the evening is held in view of the Community Cancer Institute, which draws attention in a way that makes the building a sort of rallying cry.

Despite current social constraints, the Presidents Club’s adaptation mentality has helped them find ways to carry on with preparations for the 2020 WHSN, though it won’t be held on its traditional July date. In

compliance with state and Community Medical Centers’ protocols, the club members are not meeting in-person (they usually meet monthly), yet they are managing to still make an impact on their own. “We are kind of business as usual,” Astone reveals of planning the event, as they are still finding donors and potential sponsors—they are keeping fingers crossed for a reschedule date in September. “We’re just doing it differently with Zoom instead of in-person. People have stayed pretty generous and supportive,” much like the PC members themselves.

Their commitment is deep. Similar to the closeness cultivated by men in the trenches, so be the Presidents Club members—truly, they are a “band of brothers.” All community-minded and hardworking, “their hearts are big and their commitment is rock-solid. Advocating and fundraising for the Community Cancer Institute is not a chore to them,” assures Astone.

“The fraternal bond creates a closeness and trust that allows the group to achieve extraordinary results with a limited number of people.” Our community can support their ongoing work by helping to sponsor the White Hot Summer Night event, of which there are numerous ways: “Buy tickets, or donate money—all the money goes to the Community Cancer institute. Support the event. Make a donation. Get in touch. Be a part of it. Be active,” Astone urges.

COMMUNITY MEDICAL CENTERS PO Box 1232 Fresno, CA 93715

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Heart of the Family RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE CHARITIES OF THE CENTRAL VALLEY www.rmhccv.org

Managing Editor Lauren Barisic Photographer Jaime Dillmore

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he Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Central Valley (RMHCCV) is more than just a place to stay. It “provides a ‘home away from home’ and resources for the families of hospitalized children,” explains Alene Mestjian, the chapter’s Director of Development. “Our goal is to create a world where all children have access to medical care, and their families are supported and actively involved in their children’s care.” The mission of the Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) has remained steadfast since the organization’s founding over four decades ago.

The original Central Valley location opened on Fresno’s Millbrook Avenue in 1984 as the fourth RMHC within California—this one in partnership with Valley Children’s Hospital. As the hospital continued to grow, the needs of the families staying there followed. In February of 2001, RMHCCV opened the doors of its current facility in Madera, expanding to include 18 bedrooms, located adjacent to Valley Children’s Hospital.

“The 18 guest suites at the Ronald McDonald House are at full capacity every single night.” Wait-listed families can utilize the Day Room. “Our Day Room program allows families, who do not have an overnight guest suite, to check into the house to eat, take a nap, and relax while their child is receiving medical treatment,” Mestjian shares. “In the evenings, this room becomes our ‘Spare Room,’ where families can sleep prior to an early morning surgery at the hospital. In 2019 alone, we served 1,630 families from nine counties in California.”

“McDonald’s support extends from monetary contributions and volunteerism, to cause-related marketing promotions and the space to place RMHC Donation Boxes that raise money for chapters around the world,” clarifies Mestjian. Though the McDonald’s system is their largest corporate partner, RMHC rely on and greatly value donations from the community and other corporate partners, as well as volunteer support.

Coronavirus has greatly affected volunteer involvement at the Ronald McDonald House. Meals From the Heart has been paused due to social distancing restrictions—however, Adopt A Meal was created to fill its void. AmazonSmile is an easy way to lend support—through it, Amazon will donate 0.5% of eligible purchases to RMHC. “This works really well for us as we are always in need of household staples available on Amazon, like snacks and cleaning supplies,” Mestjian reveals. Donors can access the RMHCCV Amazon Wish List via their Facebook every Wednesday.

Three major fundraising events support the Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Central Valley: the Red Heart Ball, the Sporting Clays Classic, and the FORE! The House Golf Tournament. “We also actively fundraise on social media with our Dollars For Dinner crowdfunding campaign in August of each year.” Mestjian adds, “In the summer of 2019, the new Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Central Valley Ambassador Program launched,” now considered one of the most precious initiatives of that year. Utilizing “young men and women of social influence … What resulted was a beautiful partnership with a new generation of donors in the Central Valley.” The RMHCCV invites you to be one of those fledgling donors, through whatever means possible.

LB How has coronavirus affected volunteerism and fundraising events at the Ronald McDonald House?

AM Implications from COVID-19 have drastically affected our volunteer programs and fundraising events. Our beloved Meals From the Heart program, which invites multiple volunteer groups to the house each day, has been temporarily suspended, causing a huge financial burden on our operations. Our three major fundraising events are also in jeopardy, with the cancellation of the 14th Annual Sporting Clays Classic in May. We are hopeful that our 9th Annual FORE! The House Golf Tournament will go on as planned on October 19th at Copper River Country Club.

LB Explain the Ronald McDonald House’s Adopt A Meal program.

AM In response to the overwhelming support for the Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Central Valley during these uncertain times, we launched the Adopt A Meal program to give donors the opportunity to give a monetary gift to the house so that we can purchase meals for our guest families. Donors can text MEALS to 20222 to automatically give $25, or visit our website to learn how to support further. This campaign has been such a blessing and we are so grateful for our generous community!

LB Tell us about the Ronald McDonald House’s involvement in the #GivingTuesdayNow campaign.

AM We participated in the #GivingTuesdayNow campaign due to the unprecedented need caused by COVID-19. As our volunteer programs were suspended and events were cancelled so abruptly, our charity faced huge financial challenges in response to the swift changes made in response to the coronavirus. Thus, the #GivingTuesdayNow campaign

invited our generous community to support the house during these trying times, raising over $10,000 in just a few short days.

LB Share how people can still support the Ronald McDonald House’s work despite societal constraints.

AM We are deeply appreciative of our community of generous donors and welcome their support in every way! Sharing about our organization on social media is such a great way to support our cause—we are always sharing good news and inspiring messages of support, and would love your help in sharing on your own social media channels and with your network of friends. Of course, giving a monetary or in-kind gift to support our operations is also an excellent way to give back.

RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE 9161 Randall Way Madera, CA 93636 559.447.6770

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garcelle GRACIOUS Features Contributor Elisabeth Ross Photographer Josh Williams Stylist Jenny Dayco Hair Robear Landeros Makeup Kym Nicole Oubre Assistant Chandra Brice

Garcelle Beauvais is experiencing a lot of new lately. To start, she’s the newest (and the first black) Housewife on The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills (RHOBH). She recently built a new house, launched a new podcast, has a new grandbaby, and is doing it all ever so glamorously while navigating a whole new manner of working and living. What isn’t new is her heart for others, as well as her work ethic, determination, and the staying power of her incredible career.

Hers is an ideal example of what the modern-day American Dream looks like. Born in Haiti, Garcelle immigrated to the United States with her mother and sisters at the age of seven. Since French and Creole were her native languages, she took it upon herself to learn English by watching Sesame Street—an early example of her persistent drive.

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arcelle launched a diverse career with modeling, moving to New York at the age of 17. Opportunity abounded her, leading to innumerable jobs with the industry’s biggest names over the course of a decade. That might have been enough for some, but Garcelle took it to the next level with an ironic transition. Her big break into Hollywood came with booking the role of Cynthia Nichols (a mature and collected model) in Aaron Spelling’s primetime soap Models Inc. in 1994, the third series continuity of Beverly Hills, 90210.

Then came The Jamie Foxx Show in 1996—there, Garcelle shined as Foxx’s co-star and love interest Francesca “Fancy” Monroe until 2001. The role of Assistant District Attorney Valerie Heywood on NYPD Blue followed that same year, which she played for three years. A slew of other television roles pepper her resume. Now, she is currently playing opposite Dennis Quaid in the Netflix series Merry Happy Whatever, as well as Cinderella’s Wicked Stepmother in the psychological television thriller Tell Me a Story.

She has also been seen in the feature films Wild Wild West and Spider-Man: Homecoming. Due for release at the end of the year, Coming 2 America is her latest movie. “I’m really excited about that project, and I just hope that by then theaters will be back to being open …

It’s really a great big-screen movie visually.”

Her career-founding modeling days may be a slightly distant memory, but her beauty is transcendent. In 2014, People Magazine awarded Garcelle a name on the year’s 50 Most Beautiful list. Between acting jobs, her versatility lent to Garcelle’s role as a co-host for shows like Fashion Police on E!, NBC’s Access Hollywood Live, and Window Warriors on GSN. Since 2019, Garcelle has been one of the co-hosts on Fox’s daytime talk-show Hollywood Today Live, where she breaks down the latest in entertainment, pop culture, and celebrity news.

Life has a way of taking us down paths that we may not have anticipated— for Garcelle, joining the cast of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills is

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one such example of that. “I never thought I would do reality. It wasn’t something that I was seeking out,” recalls Garcelle. “When I first started in the industry, if you were an actor, you were an actor. If you were a producer, the world didn’t blend, and now I think you can’t box us in. We can do anything, and it’s okay,” as there is much more fluidity between professional genres nowadays.

Garcelle believes the key is found in conduct—by demonstrating compassion and by getting back to humanity. “To me, compassion and humanity is where we need to start. This would be by treating everyone with kindness and respect.” Only then can America move forward in unity. “I think we’re starting to see America uniting with all the protests.

I am finally hopeful that change will come this time.”

So, how did her career lead to Housewives? “Still trying to figure that one out!” she says with a laugh. “It’s really more of a life decision,” Garcelle begins to explain. “Obviously I started off as a model, then became an actress, and I’ve been doing that for over 20 years successfully, which is a feat in itself to continue to work in this industry, so I’m grateful for that.”

When it came to Housewives, “Like anything else, timing is everything.”

What’s being witnessed is nothing new. “We are still fighting for change because we haven’t seen it yet! We want to be treated equally. We want to have the same opportunities across the board.” Despite her tremendous success, even Garcelle’s career has been shaped by the color of her skin.

“When I first started in the industry, there were jobs that I couldn’t get because I was black,” she recalls. “I would be told the words of the producers and casting were along the lines of, ‘We’re not going urban with this character.’ I believe storytelling is about people’s experiences and race should be secondary to the story.”

Having friends on both the Beverly Hills and Atlanta franchises, she watched the show here and there. “I really thought that there were some scripted parts of it.” On the contrary, “that was really surprising to me— that it’s really driven by us women. They don’t really tell you what to do.

We get together. They may say, ‘You’re going to have lunch with Rinna and Denise,’ but everything else is whatever we make of it.”

There’s still a reunion to be had. “Girl I don’t know if I’m ready! I gotta put my big girl panties on and show up! I’m hoping we can do it live and in-person, which is a big deal now with quarantine.” Garcelle cherishes the friendships between the Beverly Hills ladies, and loves that at the end of the day, “No one’s really trying to tear each other down. I think we will have, hopefully, honest conversations and people will sort of air their grievances, and then hopefully we can move on from that,” before going into a new season of filming.

She was wanting to try something outside the box. “As an actor, I’m away a lot. So I was really thrilled to do Housewives because,” first of all, “it shoots in LA, so it keeps me with my kids.” Garcelle and her ex-husband co-parent their teenage twin boys, Jax and Jaid. Housewives was a way for Garcelle to collaborate several aspects of her life in a way that just made sense. “I love the franchise. I’m friends with some of the women.”

Then Garcelle’s business-savvy side kicks in... “I’m a businesswoman.”

By doing Housewives, she thought, “It’s a great platform for me to have a bigger reach.” Especially for her philanthropic causes, and that list has grown recently due to the rapidly shifting current of American society.

Though the onset of social restrictions has made it tough to be hands-on, Garcelle finds ways to stay involved with numerous charities. “I make a lot of calls and raise money for Angels of Humanity, which is an organization that helps kids in Haiti.” Locally, she and the Housewives ladies came together to donate 5,000 masks to an LA hospital. Working at the Los Angeles Mission is a big part of what she and her boys do together. “It’s hard because everyone’s quarantined, but those are the people that are affected the most because they are out on the street.” Now more than ever, she believes in supporting black-owned businesses, “from smaller beauty brands, designers, to larger corporations. And of course, supporting the Black Lives Matter organization.”

Take a look at Garcelle’s Instagram and you’ll find a woman who is unapologetically defined by that which is important to her: she is a mother, actor, producer, author, host, humanitarian, and proud Haitian.

Yet her ability to express her political and societal stances in a manner that is not only unwavering but also benevolently logical is rare—and much needed during these times of unrest.

R

ewiring the mentality of current and future generations begins with open conversation. “I think we have to start with talking to our children and making sure that the next generation understands, so change remains.” The way we educate our children about the importance of equality must evolve. Garcelle urges, “By leading by example. If we show our children that everyone should be equal and treated that way, kids are so smart, they’ll get it.”

Garcelle has referred to herself as a strict parent before. Since quarantine began, she’s “a little looser, I think.” Her boys are very much into sports.

“I feel badly in a way that they can’t … do that now, and I don’t even know what that’s going to look like once we are back open. So I’m a little bit more laxed with the amount of video time that they get, but there’s a certain curfew because I’m like, ‘You can’t stay up past midnight! They’re like, ‘At dad’s we can!’ And I’m like, ‘Well, two different households!

Two different rules.’”

Speaking of house rules, her newly built home couldn’t have been finished at a better time. “I’m so grateful, especially through quarantine.”

Yet Garcelle’s home means much more for her big picture. “For me, it really, really signifies a new beginning,” she reflects. “When I was living in my old neighborhood and my old house, sometimes I still felt married because I would go to the same places, the same markets and the same everything. And it just felt like there wasn’t that big of a shift, even though there was. But I think this is like a new beginning to me.”

“I feel like I’m freer now … I don’t know why,” Garcelle speaks of this new chapter. “Maybe it’s because of my age. Maybe because of my experience … and I think that probably lends itself to being single. I don’t have to worry about somebody else—what they’re thinking and how they feel.” With her kids being older and understanding more, her life doesn’t need to be quite so edited, “and so I think that lends itself to the podcast, to being able to be so free, and I think women now can take our own empowerment, and do what we want with it.”

Starting the Going to Bed with Garcelle podcast during quarantine “has been a godsend because it’s giving me something to do!” Having always wanted to do a late-night show, “I feel like late-night looks a certain way across the board, and it’s time that we sort of diversify it. Not just color, I’m talking about women as opposed to just men in late-night.”

Her partnership with MGM seemed like the perfect fit to launch it. “So

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what we’re trying to do is incubate it as a podcast, but eventually a late-night talk show is what I want.”

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ith so many irons in the fire, one can’t help but wonder: what does a day in the life of a quarantined Housewife look like? “Not as glamourous as you would think! When I have my kids, it’s a lot more cooking and cleaning and trying to get them outside, trying to get them to hang out with me,” Garcelle chuckles.

“Next time I’m quarantined, I want to be quarantined with a chef, with a manicurist, with a masseuse, and Brad Pitt, for sure. That’s my quarantine checklist for next time!”

“Maybe now we can appreciate the little things that we took for granted and just did on autopilot.” She is referring to coveted family time. Every bit a boy mom, she is now a grandmother to a darling baby boy. “He’s so cute I can’t stand it!” Garcelle gushes of her grandson, named after her oldest son Oliver. “I saw him right before quarantine, right before everything got shut down.” Until the end of May when, Garcelle admits, “We actually broke it for Mother’s Day.” With both families maintaining quarantine on their own, Garcelle and her family were still mindful to keep their distance during the holiday. “But I just couldn’t help it! He’s so cute. So it was a really nice Mother’s Day/Grandmother’s Day, which I never thought I’d say.”

We get to see Garcelle navigate the new norm, whatever that means.

Befitting, given that that’s exactly what everyone in the world is doing right now. The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills is a glamourous beacon of normalcy—watching her live out her life on RHOBH may be a vicarious respite, but by emulating her example of humanity, compassion, and inherent kind-heartedness, we may look forward to interacting with society as reborn members of the human race.

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Androgynous

LUX looks

Moves

Fashion Trends

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Fashion Editor Melissa Souza

Androgynous fashion transitions traditional pieces. Loose trousers pair perfectly with boxy jackets for cool summer nights and when temperatures dip in the fall. Accessorize minimally with a chic backpack and polished pinky ring. A brimmed topper and oxford shoes complete a solid silhouette.

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1. Helmut Lang Satin T-Shirt $404.00 from www.farfetch.com 2. Gladys Tamez Millinery Faye Hat in Camel $620.00 from www.gladystamez.com 3. Gucci GG Ramage Wool Silk Jacket $5,500.00 from www.gucci.com 4. Danse Lente Jamie Marshmallow Backpack $560.00 from www.danselente.com 5. Goossens Oval Cabochons Ring $254.00 from www.farfetch.com 6. Jan ‘N June Wide Pants Arouca Smaragd $112.00 from www.jannjune.com 7. Church’s Burwood Oxford Brogues $590.00 from www.farfetch.com 8. Marta Scarampi Deco Face Mask in Taupe Pleated $25.00 for 2 from www.martascarampi.com

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LUX looks

Blues

Fashion Trends

Moody

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Fashion Editor Melissa Souza

Move over animal prints! Make way for this timeless pattern: polka dots.

Achieve calm confidence and compliment your dotted style in blues—the color choice of trendsetters. Don’t forget to coordinate your mask (we love a dainty floral) to keep your look summery while staying safe.

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1. Araks Protective Face Mask in Chiara White $40.00 from www.araks.com 2. Adam Lippes Asymmetrical Polka Dot Silk Midi Dress $1,290.00 from www.nordstrom.com 3. Bonheur Jewelry Alaina Silver Circle Earrings $320.00 from www.bonheurjewelry.com 4. Gucci Square-Frame Sunglasses in Blue $450.00 from www.gucci.com 5. Gucci G-Timeless Watch, 27mm $960.00 from www.gucci.com 6. Viktor & Rolf Classic Denim Jacket $548.00 from www.farfetch.com 7. Studio Amelia 2.4 75mm Sandals $385.00 from www.farfetch.com 8. Danse Lente Pablo Pale Blue Croc Bag $265.00 from www.danselente.com

Spiritual Gangster Flying Monkey Free People Pistola Denim Vince Camuto Spanx

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LUX looks

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Summer

Fashion Trends

Serene

Fashion Editor Melissa Souza

Swaddle yourself in a little color therapy and ground your fashion in mood-altering colors. This summer, opt to spend your days wearing healing hues of green in eco-friendly fabrics. Blend serene colors with refined styles and wrap yourself in curated yet cool items as you face the hot days ahead.

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1. Gucci Oversize Round Metal Sunglasses in Gold/Grey Gradient $725.00 from www.gucci.com 2. Satya Innate Knowing Necklace $129.00 from www.satyajewelry.com 3. Satya Dawn to Dusk Earrings $49.00 from www.satyajewelry.com 4. Lemlem Lena Ballet One Piece $250.00 from www.lemlem.com 5. Jacquemus Les Sandales Manosque Sandals in White $537.00 from www.farfetch.com 6. Camilla White Moon Print Asymmetrical Skirt $449.00 from www.farfetch.com 7. Altea Two-Tone Silk Scarf in Light Blue and Dark Green $131.00 from www.farfetch.com 8. Hedley & Bennett The Wake Up & Fight Mask in Light Green Oxford $22.00 from www.hedleyandbennett.com 9. Mansur Gavriel Pleated Waxed Canvas Tote $595.00 from www.matchesfashion.com

WILLA BY

DESIGN Features Contributor Elisabeth Ross Photographer Josh Williams Stylist Jenny Dayco Hair Scott King with The Only Agency using Oribe Makeup Anthony Merante Assistant Michael Vogue

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Willa Ford has spent a lifetime exploring what it means to be a creative. Having been raised in Ruskin, Florida, she began singing in the Tampa Bay Children’s Choir at the age of eight—she eventually became a soloist before leaving for Los Angeles as a teenager. The singer first broke into the music scene in 2001 as the self-proclaimed “Bad Girl of Pop” with the release of her debut album, Willa Was Here. Playing Anna Nicole Smith in The Anna Nicole Smith Story in 2007 made her a household name, and introduced a transition into acting. In 2011, Willa’s career took a turn that left her questioning what she wanted to do with her life. The following year, she launched WFord Interiors, an LA-based design firm. As the Founder and Head Designer, her love for interior design is fueled by an inherent passion for style and people, allowing her to exercise a broad range of aesthetics for her clients. Willa and her husband, retired NFL player turned venture capitalist Ryan Nece, have a son who is just under four years old—with a strong sense of family and home, her work embodies a conscious authenticity that is attainable by all who are willing to discover it within themselves.

ER What has been the most significant/influential moment of your life thus far?

WF I take my life in sections. It’s the only way I can really explain it. I would start with my base, which is my upbringing. I grew up on a farm, so I’m extremely connected and grounded to the simple things. Obviously, I was very aware of the nicer things and the finer things as life changed and evolved for me. But, singlehandedly, I think the most pivotal and important thing as far as my trajectory goes is probably how I grew up.

ER How has your career evolution impacted your outlook/ perspective?

WF One of the greatest parts of my journey has been the roller coaster ride—I’ve really been able to embrace changes. My pop career was fun, it was amazing, and it was so fast. There was just so much happening around me at that time, and it’s really hard to take it in while it’s happening to you. But then there was a time where I could step back, really appreciate it, and see the big picture, and I thought, “Okay, I feel like I kind of want to close that door.”

Sometimes I think doors close because we want them to, sometimes that’s the universe. Another door will open if we choose to walk through. For me, I transitioned from a pop singer to an actress, then went into interior design—I just live my life with the ups and downs as they’re all meant to happen.

ER In what ways has your diversely creative career enhanced and educated your design aesthetic and abilities?

WF I was some girl off the farm and I never saw the world, which my pop career allowed me to do. It also allowed me to stay in fancy hotels and learn about finer things. That whole time, I was a sponge.

Don’t get me wrong, I still stayed in my share of Holiday Inns, but there were extraordinary moments where I got to see beautiful things that as a girl on the farm I would have never had a chance to see. That really influenced me getting into design because I recognized that I had a passion and appreciation for putting these things together—it warms my heart because every single thing that goes in your home is somebody’s form of art.

ER Tell us about how good interior design reflects the people living within the space, and how you achieve that for your clients.

WF Designing is my art, but you have to check your ego at the door. You must listen to your client, learn about them, find out who they are, what makes them tick. You need to know the person who is living there because, ultimately, they are going to be in that home. So many clients have reached out to me and said, “Thank goodness we did what we did,” because they’ve been stuck at home with COVID. There’s a fine balance between telling people they’re making a wrong decision and influencing them with design— knowing them helps you know what is going to suit them best.

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My personal reset and upbringing allow me to not just spend to spend—in today’s market, we need to be really thoughtful where we spend our money, who we spend our money with, and think about how it impacts the earth.

ER How have you seen trends shift with current societal tides?

WF The way clients think now about their home is completely changing, and it’s going to continue to shift. We started doing virtual design, which is fine, but it’s not my favorite—I am a really hands-on designer. But I think we’re going to see a transition in response to how people live their lives now, and I need to keep all my employees safe at the same time. Now, we’ll do everything virtually, have it all shipped, then we come in for about three days and do nothing but install in our masks. You have to be there to get that last 25% done—that’s the touch of an interior designer coming into your home.

ER How is your brand growing?

WF There’re a couple of things. I have my first collaboration on a furniture line that I’m working on. We’re going back and forth on that, and I’ll be seeing the first piece next month. We are getting into commercial spaces, which will be long-term rentals—sort of hotel-esk. But with everything happening, I think that’s going to turn into Airbnb-style buildings. We are currently working on these historical buildings, one in Hollywood and one in Santa Monica, that are really incredible. That was one of our goals (to get into large commercial projects), and now we are actually doing that.

ER What grabs your attention?

WF While checking your ego at the door is important, when a client has a really interesting property and says, “I don’t know what to do with it, but I know that you’re going to come up with something,” and lets me go, I feel like it’s my best work. I would much rather somebody give me that kind of a project than somebody to say, “Here’s my Pinterest board—could you recreate this?” I love projects where I get to really reach and stretch my muscles, and be pushed to my ultimate limit. That sets the bar and tells me what I can do.

ER How do you hit the reset button?

WF By going back to my roots. I’m from the country and live in the city, but we have a cabin in the woods. Going there brings everything back into perspective, because I’m in a business that’s constantly

spending money—it’s a consumer industry. To strip it all away and have a moment to myself to reconnect to the earth, that translates into my work because then I go back with new perspective and ask myself how necessary pieces are. You don’t have to have the finest of everything. Less can be more. My personal reset and upbringing allow me to not just spend to spend—in today’s market, we need to be really thoughtful where we spend our money, who we spend our money with, and think about how it impacts the earth.

ER What methods reflect your convictions when sourcing interior décor?

WF Here’s an example: I ask myself, “Does it make more sense for me to make a custom sofa from scratch or to find an original and recover?” What’re the emissions and how does this choice effect our earth? I hit a wall with a lot of people who don’t want anything old in their house, but you can breathe renewed life into a piece so it feels new. Sourcing locally gives back to your local economy. Volume makes a difference. Take hotels for instance— there’s a lot of volume, so if you make the decision to start thinking in a sustainable way, your impact is quite large. It’s definitely more work, but I really believe in that sustainable life.

ER Share how you are leaving your mark.

WF People think everybody wants to be famous, and I disagree.

The number one thing I’m doing to leave my mark is raising a really good boy—that’s my most important job, and even more so today with everything that’s going on. We’re a biracial family. I am raising a son that is somewhere caught in the in-between, and he’s a male.

It’s my job as a mother to create a child that leads with kindness and the right intent. One of the biggest things that my husband and I have talked about during this time is the intent behind anything we want to say. People fight each other on social media about their stances, but what’s the intent behind it? If you’re not leading with kindness, I don’t care what side you’re on and what you’re arguing because the truth is never rude. People may not understand, and you need to educate them. It’s important to teach our kids to just be kind and truthful, and you can get your point across by doing so. We need change, we need love, we need each other!

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LUX looks Beauty Trends

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Heroes Hand

Beauty Editor Jessica McCafferty

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Rinse. Lather. Repeat. Our hands are experiencing some major action right now. As we become more conscious of frequent handwashing, remember that you can use products packed with extra beauty benefits, too. These items will not only keep you clean but also nourished, hydrated, and protected.

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1. Spongellé Revive | Hand Defense Hand Wash Infused Buffer $14.00 from www.spongelle.com 2. BEAUTY KITCHEN Watermelon Hand Sanitizer $12.00 from www.beautykitchen.net 3. Nectar Bath Treats Premium Gel Hand Sanitizer with Aloe Vera $5.50 from www.nectarusa.com 4. JUARA Skincare Candlenut Bar Soap $16.00 from www.juaraskincare.com 5. Avon Skin So Soft Original Replenishing Hand Cream $5.00 from www.avon.com 6. Nourish Natural Soap Co. Radiant Rose Bar Soap $8.99 from www.nourishnaturalsoap.com 7. Baylis & Harding Goodness Natural Hand Wash in Rose & Geranium $5.99 from www.target.com 8. Blissoma Botanical Beauty Neroli Healthy Skin Hand + Body Cream $33.00 from www.blissoma.com 9. MyKirei by KAO Nourishing Hand Wash with Yuzu & Rice Water $18.00 from www.amazon.com 10. Soap & Glory MELTY TALENTED™ Dry Skin Balm $8.00 from www.walgreens.com

More Fun. More Fashion!

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LUX looks Beauty Trends

A Closer Look

Hyaluronic Acid Beauty Editor Jessica McCafferty

It’s the buzzworthy ingredient we keep hearing about: hyaluronic acid (HA). But what is it and why should we be looking for skincare containing it?

CVLUX takes a closer look.

“Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring component that we find in various parts of our body. Within the skin, it is critical in keeping our skin hydrated,” explains double board-certified Oculoplastic Surgeon and Founder of Skinuva™ skincare, Dr. Christopher Zoumalan (www.drchristopherzoumalan.com). “It is not really an acid, but rather a gel-like molecule that helps to hold water.”

and delivers intense hydration with a blend of traditional purifying and detoxifying ingredients, like myrrh essential oil and clary sage extract.

How does retaining water help your skin? It’s all about hydration, creating that flawlessly dewy look we all want.

Dr. Hayag also has a skincare brand using HA called Overt. Her product, The Hydrator, is an organic hyaluronic acid serum that absorbs quickly and leaves your skin happy—never oily.

“Because of its stunning capacity to attract and hold 1,000-times its weight in water, HA makes the skin plump, supple, and hydrated,” shares Dr. Marie Hayag, board-certified Dermatologist and Founder of 5th Avenue Aesthetics (www.mariehayagmd.com). “It also supports skin elasticity and collagen production, thus contributing to a youthful complexion.”

Some top picks for HA formulas include the Saffron & Sage Skin Clarify Hypoallergenic Gel Cleanser—it is crafted with an aloe vera juice base, hyaluronic acid, radish root, and Saffron & Sage’s signature squalane oil blend to soothe and soften.

For an at-home treatment option, Inna Organic offers their Myrrh Deep Moisturizing Facial Mask—made from certified-organic cotton and woven into a soft, comfortable sheet mask. This deluxe material soaks up the potent botanical serum, so not a single drop is wasted. It softens skin

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You can also find HA in Dr. Zoumalan’s Skinuva™ Scar serum. “I selected hyaluronic acid as one of our ingredients, as it can help keep the healing scar effectively hydrated during the healing process,” he adds.

HA is not just a topical beauty wonder—it is something that can be taken internally, too.

“Hyaluronic acid can be found in supplements that work to improve the skin,” says Janna Ronert, Founder of Image Skincare and Co-Founder of Hush & Hush. “Internally, it helps to lubricate joints while also working from the inside out to keep the skin moist and plump and reduce the look of wrinkles.” You can spot HA in her powerful 4-in-1 anti-aging skin supplement TimeCapsule®. Ronert’s line Hush & Hush takes this one step further even using HA in the hair growth supplement DeeplyRooted®.

“Hyaluronic acid can be used for any skin type and in anyone who needs moisture, which is everyone,” concludes Dr. Hayag. “With aging, low intakes of water, and our busy schedule, who doesn’t need it?”

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1. Saffron & Sage Skin Clarify Hypoallergenic Gel Cleanser $48.00 from www.saffronandsageskin.com 2. Inna Organic Myrrh Deep Moisturizing Facial Mask $44.95 for 5 from www.amazon.com 3. Skinuva™ Scar $85.00 from www.skinuva.com 4. Overt The Hydrator $39.00 from www.overtskincare.com 5. Hush & Hush DeeplyRooted® $75.00 from www.hushandhush.com

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