OCT
FALL
EVENTS
IN FULL FORCE
YOGA
BREATHING BENEFITS 2024
LUXURY AWARDS
CAST YOUR VOTES
SOIRÉES
FUNDRAISERS GALAS & MORE
SOBER OCTOBER
AMAZING ALCOHOL SUBSTITUTES THE
WELLNESS ISSUE
LOW-IMPACT HIGH-YIELD
WORKOUTS
AARON JUDGE SERVICE ABOVE SELF
WITH THE CENTRAL CALIFORNIA BLOOD CENTER
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Other master plan communities promise an elevated lifestyle, inspired by nature and an appreciation for open space.
The Preserve at Millerton Lake first began with an unbreakable commitment to take 2,100 acres of the most pristine land bordering Millerton Lake and protect over half of it to remain untouched. Then, instead of cramming as many homes onto flattened ground as we could, we let the terrain’s features inspire our neighborhoods’ design.
This is a guard gated community unlike any other, built around the ideals of 100% sustainability — including an ample supply of fresh water — with innovation and vision found in every feature. And unlike other communities that claim to be ‘at the lake,’ we’re as close to its shores as you can get. Spectacular new homes are now being built by our first builder
Take Friant Rd to Friant, left on Rd 206, cross San Joaquin River and you’re there at your right.
Future or proposed development plans are subject to change. © 2023 The Preserve, NFV-1 Investments, LLC
We’re the only ones who guarantee it.
t r n a o ct C with all FUTURE homeowners at
W
e, the undersigned developer at The Preserve at Millerton Lake, promise to never develop more than 42% of the beautiful wildlands surrounding our planned community,
maintaining a minimum 2:1 open land to development ratio in perpetuity. The Preserve at Millerton Lake boasts 2100 total acres of open space design, comprised of 1224 acres of protected nature preserve, abundant green space which provides breathing room among homes and neighborhoods, and only 876 acres of planned development. All of which adds up to a low total housing density of less than one per acre. Future or proposed development plans are subject to change. Acreage calculations are approximate within reasonable grace.
partner, Woodside Homes, that will make the most of breathtaking views and a 10-mile trail system designed to connect neighborhood villages with the Clubhouse, shopping, the future school site and the winding San Joaquin River. Come see for yourself how The Preserve at Millerton Lake is just a short drive to paradise, guaranteed.
NFV-1 Investments, LLC Ownership entity of The Preserve
Welcome to harmony. PreserveAtMillertonLake.com
Go to Woodsidehomes.com to learn about Cottonwood Creek and Canyon Ridge at The Preserve or call (559) 258-0825.
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FLEX H O M E S THAT
Savanna has something for everyone. Want a more flexible way to live? Our Savanna new home collection offers flexible plans to meet all of your needs for the way you want to live. Explore the Savanna Collection at Tesoro Viejo in Madera, just minutes north of Fresno. Savanna is steps from the resort-style clubhouse, onsite Hillside Elementary School, neighborhood parks, and 14 miles of trails.
Explore three new home collections in Tesoro Viejo, 2023 National Community of the Year*
at Tesoro Viejo
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We believe that in order to adequately and appropriately address an
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and patient, resulting in better relationships and improved outcomes. Based in Fresno, CA.
ahkmdgroup.com | (559) 478-5080
—10— OCT
Contents Wellness
IN EVERY ISSUE 22 WELCOME TO THE ISSUE 24 MASTHEAD 26 CONTRIBUTORS
54
SOCIAL AFFAIR 28 AROUND TOWN
October sees autumn events in full force. Check out the monthly community calendar to discover what’s happening around town during spooky season. 56 SUMMER SOIRÉE IN THE HAMPTONS
Salt + Light enlightened guests about local homelessness at their annual fundraising event, held at the Visalia Convention Center. 58 CELEBRATING LIFE’S SHINING MOMENTS GALA
Hinds Hospice emphasized the moments in life that are worth celebrating at the Clovis Veterans Memorial Building. 60 24TH ANNUAL CASA CRAB FEED
CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties put on their beloved Crab Feed, now in its 24th year, at the Garza residence. 62 FISH GALA 2023
FISH Philanthropy’s signature affair benefited Breaking the Chains, Fresno this year and took place in the Bezwada family’s backyard.
57
The all-new ALL-NEW
Comfort
AND QUALITY IN EVERY DETAIL
The new Stearns & Foster ® mattresses are handcrafted with the highest-quality materials, inside and out, to give you a more comfortable night’s sleep
Now inside
Fashion Furniture!
255 W. El Paso, Fresno / (559) 440-9600 / M-S: 10-7 / Sun: 11-6 / fashionfurnitureco.com
BUSINESS | HEALTHCARE | RESIDENTIAL emid-designgroup.com | 559.276.7300
2023 NATIONAL The National Community of the Year is a special honor, and the lifestyle offered has to be
new homes from the $300 s to $800 s
pretty special…to live up to it. Why take anyone’s word for it, though? Come see for yourself.
Photos depicted do not constitute an offer to sell nor a solicitation of an offer to purchase real property at Tesoro Viejo. Persons shown do not reflect racial preference. Prices are effective date of posting or publication deadline and subject to change without notice. Based on the information presently available, the developers of Tesoro Viejo understand that Tesoro Viejo will be served by the Chawanakee Unified School District. Buyer should contact the Chawanakee Unified School District to confirm the identity and location of the specific schools planned to service Tesoro Viejo, including the TK-8 Hillside School located adjacent to Tesoro Viejo. Obtain a copy of the Public Report as required by Federal law and/or the Public Report issued by the California Bureau of Real Estate and read them before signing any documents. © 2023 Tesoro Viejo Development, Inc.
—16— OCT
Contents Wellness
DEPARTMENTS 32 2024 LUXURY AWARDS
Voting for the 2024 Luxury Award Nominees is open! Make your voice heard by casting a vote for all your favorites, then save a seat for the most luxurious night of the year. 39 SOBER OCTOBER
If you’re observing the dry ritual during October, this round-up of alcohol substitutes will make it easy to forget what’s missing.
58
44 UNITING FOR A GREATER CAUSE
New York Yankee and former Fresno State Bulldog Aaron Judge is doing his part for the Valley through his partnership with the Central California Blood Center and the work of his ALL RISE Foundation. 50 LOW-IMPACT, HIGH-YIELD
For those looking to go easy on their bodies, low-impact workouts can offer high-yields with less risk of injury. 54 BREATHE FOR BALANCE
See how yoga can be beneficial beyond the mat with insight into the advantages of mindful breathwork. 64 COSTARS
Get ready to lay the groundwork for healthier relationships via new perspectives thanks to Libra.
For the October Edition, CVLUX features Aaron Judge and the Central California Blood Center for the Wellness Issue.
OCT
FEATURES CONTRIBUTOR HOLLY CLINARD PHOTOGRAPHER MARIANO FRIGINAL
42
COME IN FOR OUR COMPLIMENTARY SERVICES C U S TO M J E W E L RY C O N S U LTAT I O N S WAT C H B AT T E RY R E P L A C E M E N T J E W E L RY C L E A N I N G
SCAN TO LEARN MORE
|
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7 6 8 5 N B L A C K S T O N E AV E , F R E S N O, C A 9 3 7 2 0 (559) 449-7590 | THINKROGERS.COM
o ur ne w
Welcome Center & Monreau Model Home are N OW O P E N!
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Located south of Avenue 12, directly east of Road 40 on the northeast corner of Road 40 & Root Creek Parkway in Madera.
L E A R N M O R E AT B O N A D E L L E . C O M
All hits. No errors. Six years ago, Janzen Brands was asked by the Central California Blood Center (CCBC) to perform a wellness check on its branding and marketing. Since then, our collaborative partnership has hit it out of the park in originality and effectiveness, including the privilege to work with Aaron Judge and his All-Rise Foundation to advance a mission Aaron and the Blood Center share in promoting blood donation among youth. Maybe it’s time to discuss how a wellness check could improve the health of your company’s brand. So give Gary Janzen a call. We think our diagnosis might be just the ticket.
JANZEN BRANDS CAPTURE AND COMMUNICATE WHAT YOU DO BEST
Let’s talk. Gary Janzen (559) 289-0200 janzenbrands.com
Aaron Judge CCBC Spokesperson and Hometown Hero
Sam Namdarian D.M.D.
The Cosmetic Dentist who teaches other Cosmetic Dentists!
Get the smile you want from the Dentist you can trust!
Invisalign / Veneers / Full Mouth reconstruction / Implant Restorations We have completed extensive training specifically for cosmetic dentistry and utilize state-of-the-art materials and technology to create beautiful smiles. We enjoy collaborating with our patients to develop a treatment plan that will achieve their dental goals and obtain the smile of their dreams. We look forward to meeting you! Take the next step towards having a smile you love by requesting a Smile Virtual consulation today!
559-431-1772 | 7770 N Fresno St. #105, Fresno, CA 93720 | fresnosmilemakeovers.com
Listen & Win a K-Jewel 99.3 Office
LUNCH BREAK
Cour tesy of Fresno’s Favorite Sandwich Shops!
COSMOPOLITAN Tavern & Italian Grill Est. 1904 Downtown Fresno
oneputtbroadcasting.com
Welcome to the Issue Wellness
All is Well On this Wellness Issue cover is New York Yankee and former Fresno State Bulldog Aaron Judge, whose partnership with the Central California Blood Center exemplifies his “service above self” mentality (page 44). Interacting with the community is easy this month with so many spooky season events taking place (page 28). Social Affair covers the Summer Soirée in the Hamptons (page 56), Celebrating Life’s Shining Moments Gala (page 58), 24th Annual CASA Crab Feed (page 60), and FISH Gala 2023 (page 62). Vote for your favorite 2024 Luxury Award Nominees while you still can (page 32). A round-up of alcohol substitutes will make Sober October easy to observe (page 39). Consider implementing low-impact workouts that offer high-yields with a lessened risk of injury (page 50). Yoga breathwork will benefit all beyond the mat (page 54). Libra’s presence lays new groundwork and perspectives (page 64).
A Toast
The holiday months tend to be indulgent, yet it’s still important to take care and be well. Kick off this time of year with wellness at the forefront and allow that perspective to evolve into a service mentality. Cheers to the commencement of the holidays. Let’s toast to the good times ahead. PHOTOGRAPHER EL DON DIZON
—24— OCT
DAVID MANNING Publisher, Sole Owner
EDITORIAL Editorial Director LAUREN BARISIC Health & Fitness Editor DINA JUVE Features Contributor HOLLY CLINARD and CHRISTINE ROSE Astrologer SHARI SCHOPP ART Design Director PHENG MOUA Graphic Designer SAMANTHA DEATHERAGE Contributing Photographers BETHANIE BORQUEZ, DON DIZON, MARIANO FRIGINAL PAT JOHNSON, KRISTOPHER MAGANA, KATERINA MCTEER, PAUL MULLINS DIANE TJERRILD and ROBERT WALKER BUSINESS Regional Marketing Director CAROL DEFENDIS Sales Executive CAROLINE HOWARD Accounting Director DEE ANN LINKER Legal Counsel GONTORWON BORH Please submit all advertising inquires to information@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 twelve times a year 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.
PAMELA WEARS PANDORA INFINITE LAB-GROWN DIAMOND JEWELRY IN 14K GOLD
DIAMONDS FOR ALL © 2023 Pandora Jewelry, LLC
FASHION FAIR MALL 511 E. Shaw Avenue, Fresno 559-229-2515
—26— OCT
Contributors Wellness
Don Dizon Photographer
Don is a portrait and still-life photographer based on Fresno, California. He was a nursing major from Fresno City College, and while waiting to get in the nursing program, he continued to take photography classes. There he fell completely in love with photography. Capturing the right moment only takes one shot. But it is much more than that! You need to have the right lighting, angle, and expression to get the perfect photograph. Over the years, Don has mastered the art of capturing the moment.
Dina Juve
Christine Rose
Dina has been in health and fitness for over twenty years. Her health and wellness brand and methods utilize a mind, body, and soul approach to physical health, allowing her to help her clients create the bodies and lives they desire. Though based in California’s Central Valley, she is globally known as a fitness guru, transformation expert, weight loss specialist, and meditation teacher, and she has also worked with dozens of high-profile clients and celebrities across the world.
Christine is a yoga instructor and journalist. As a community healer, she spreads compassion through yoga, bringing people together through the practice to inspire, empower, and connect. It is an honor for Christine to serve the community, where she cultivates peace and encourages each person to become the best version of themselves. She is also grateful for the work she does as a writer for ABC30, which allows her to learn from and connect with so many of the amazing humans that live in the Central Valley.
Health & Fitness Editor
Features Contributor
—28— OCT
LUX locale Community Calendar
OCTOBER Around Town October 4th to 15th
The Big Fresno Fair Fresno Fairgrounds www.fresnofair.com
Head to The Big Fresno Fair for food, family, and fun! The Table Mountain Concert Series at the Paul Paul Theater offers music and entertainment almost every night. See live horse racing as well as livestock, fur and features, horticulture, agriculture, minerals, local art, industry, commerce, and much more while enjoying fair food in an uber walkable environment.
October 12th
Bourbon-Infused Dinner The Vintage Press www.thevintagepress.com
VP’s next specialty dinner will be with Rod & Hammer’s SLO Stills and Founders Rod Cegelski and Hamish Marshal. This bourbon-infused dining experience will be filled with mouth-watering selections prepared by Chef David Vartanian, along with some amazingly great spirits! After the reception, a four-course dinner and dessert will follow. Tickets are $135 per person.
October 12th to 28th
ZooBoo
Fresno Chaffee Zoo www.fresnochaffeezoo.org
The Fresno Chaffee Zoo’s annual fall celebration, ZooBoo, will take place Thursday to Saturdays nights for three weeks. Come see the animals with pumpkins, a pirate ship, activities, and candy galore. Everyone is encouraged to dress in family-friendly costumes in accordance with the zoo’s regular rules for dress. All ticket sales are final and range from $16 to $22.
GUEST CONDUCTOR STUART CHAFETZ LEADS THE FRESNO PHILHARMONIC IN TOTALLY ‘80S. PHOTOGRAPHER PAT JOHNSON
October 13th
Oh So Thankful Dinner & Fundraiser Parents & Addicts In Need www.painnonprofit.org
Parents & Addicts In Need (PAIN) serves those affected by substance abuse. The non-profit will host their annual fundraising event at the home of Jim and Terran Ashjian in Fresno. The event includes dinner and features live and silent auctions as well as a dessert auction. Individual tickets are $125 each. Sponsorship options are available and range from $1,500 to $5,000.
October 14th
2nd Annual Fresno Fungi Festival
Vineyard Farmers Market www.vineyardfarmersmarket.com
The Fresno Fungi Festival will run from 10:00AM to 2:00PM. This event features Fresno State Mycologist Alijia Mujic, local food booths, mushroom-themed crafts, mushroom product vendors, a mushroom costume contest, and a beer garden. Touch of Gravy, the Central Valley’s Grateful Dead tribute band, will perform. Admission is $10 and includes four food samples.
October 14th
PRIDE Visalia
Valley Strong Ballpark www.visitvisalia.com
The Central Valley’s only Pride festival will commence at Valley Strong Ballpark from 11:00AM to 3:00PM on a Saturday. This celebration of diversity welcomes everyone to attend. Participants are encouraged to make a weekend of it. Start on Friday with a visit to Downtown Visalia for a bite and the First Friday Art Walk. Wrap up with a visit to Sequoia National Park on Sunday.
October 14th
Eli Young Band Visalia Fox Theatre www.foxvisalia.org
The Eli Young Band is coming to the Visalia Fox Theatre. This group has always been unique in modern country music, as each member plays their own instruments, writes their own songs, and clings fast to their Texas roots. Their album Love Talking is out now via The Valory Music Co. The show starts at 7:30PM, with doors opening at 6:30PM. Tickets are priced at $38.50 to $125.
For more information, contact event organizer as events may be subject to change.
COCINA LATINA & BAR Hottest new weekend brunch spot in Fresno! Happy Hour TUE-SAT 3-5:30 pm 7845 N. Palm Ave. Suite 104 Fresno, CA 93711 (559) 375-1644
MENU & RESERVATIONS AT SABORCOCINA.COM
—30— OCT
LUX locale Community Calendar
OCTOBER Around Town October 15th
Leonard Marcus Lectures on Maurice Sendak Fresno Art Museum www.fresnoartmuseum.org
Guest speaker and historian Leonard Marcus will give a lively illustrated presentation at the Fresno Art Museum (FAM) at 11:00AM and 2:00PM. His insight on the work of his friend, author Maurice Sendak, offers insight into the making of beloved classics such as Where the Wild Things Are and how children’s picture books are an indelible art form. Tickets are $5 to $10 each.
October 20th
Adam Sandler: I Missed You Tour Save Mart Center www.savemartcenter.com
Legendary actor and renowned comedian Adam Sandler is bringing his I Missed You tour to the Save Mart Center. A surprise guest will make an appearance during the performance. This show is for mature audiences only, and all audience members must be 16+ to attend. Get tickets through Ticketmaster or the Save Mart Center Box Office for $39.50 to $169.50.
October 20th and 21st
Mystery at the Darling Hotel The Darling Hotel www.thedarlingvisalia.com
The Darling Hotel is offering two nights to experience an immersive, whodunnit dinner and hotel events based on the tales of Sherlock Holmes. Guests will participate in a live theater mystery game and receive signature cocktails and a four-course meal from the hotel restaurant, Elderwood. Choose between a General Admission Ticket or upgrade to a Hotel Package.
THE CRŪ WINERY HARVEST CELEBRATION WILL COMMEMORATE ITS 20TH ANNIVERSARY. PHOTOGRAPHER DIANE TJERRILD
October 21st
Totally ‘80s
Fresno Philharmonic Saroyan Theatre www.fresnophil.org
Guest conductor Stuart Chafetz leads the Fresno Philharmonic in Totally ‘80s, a celebration of one of the most decadent decades of music, with hits from icons like George Michael, Phil Collins, Blondie, Huey Lewis & The News, Cher, and more. This musical event is the perfect excuse to break out your Swatch watch, tease up your hair, and enjoy some bodacious tunes.
October 21st
Fall Wine Walk
Old Town Clovis www.clovischamber.com
Walk the wine down the streets of Old Town Clovis. Enjoy wine tastings from a variety of local and regional wineries, located inside participating merchant shops, from 5:00PM to 8:30PM, allowing attendees who are 21+ to sip and shop through town. Bottles and cases will be available for purchase at the Wine Shop, located on the corner of 5th and Pollasky. Tickets are $40 to $45.
October 28th
CRŪ Winery Harvest Celebration CRŪ Winery www.cruwinery.com
The CRŪ Winery Harvest Celebration will include a commemorative 20th Anniversary CRŪ glass. Join in celebrating the 2023 harvest while enjoying the latest release of wines, artisan pizzas, The Morenos six-piece band, lawn games, fall activities, and more! Tickets are $55 per person. There’s an option to add on a special Focused Tasting immediately preceding the event.
October 31st
Halloween Cemetery Tour Yosemite Conservatory Yosemite Museum www.travelyosemite.com
Take a step back in time and discover the magic of Yosemite at night with the Halloween Cemetery Tour. This free, after-dark, hour-long walking tour of the Yosemite Cemetery highlights the graves of this national park’s most storied pioneers. No registration is required. Simply meet at the fire pit in front of the Yosemite Museum at either 7:00PM or 8:00PM.
For more information, contact event organizer as events may be subject to change.
Donald P. Dick congratulates Tesoro Viejo on the success of their community.
2023 National Community of the Year! By National Association of Home Builders
Bob McCaffery
“We’re very proud of our entire team who saw the vision of Tesoro Viejo so many years ago. The first trees were planted a decade before the first roads went in. This community is unlike any other. It’s 1,600 acres of the most walkable, wide-open spaces with parks, recreational amenities and miles of trails. It’s a small town feel, where home owners can walk their children to school along tree-lined streets and where weekends are celebrated at resort-style pools, festivals and concerts.”
CEO, Tesoro Viejo Development
DONALD P. DICK AIR CONDITIONING mrcool4ac.com
Proud provider of Heating, Air Conditioning and Solar to the building industry since 1970
VOTING now OPEN! CULTURE. BEAUTY. STYLE. DESIGN. CUISINE.
CVLUX Magazine is pleased to present the 2024 Luxury Awards. Each year, CVLUX recognizes the Central Valley’s favorite businesses with Luxury Awards. Nominations were submitted in July 2023. The top five in each category have made it to this year’s ballot. The winners will be announced at the Luxury Awards. Voting is open until Friday, December 29th, 2023—each email address may only vote once and all emails are authenticated at the end of the voting period. For additional information, contact information@cvlux.com. No refunds or exchanges. All sales are final.
HOSPITAL Community Medical Centers Fresno Surgical Hospital Kaiser Permanente Kaweah Health Medical Center Saint Agnes Medical Center
COSMETIC/PLASTIC SURGEON Hedieh Arbabzadeh, MD WPS Fresno Carl Askren, MD, FACS Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Pavilion Mark A. Chin, MD, MPH Valley Institute of Plastic Surgery James Knoetgen, MD Beautologie Kaye Riolo, MD, FACS Riolo Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
ANTI-AGING & REGENERATIVE MEDICINE Diego Allende, DO Allende Centre for Regenerative Medicine & Vitality Juan G. Bautista, MD Bautista Health & Anti-Aging Juan Chavez, MD Optimal Medical Group Ignacio Guzman, MD North Fresno Primary Care Daria Majzoubi, MD Maj Medical Clinic
DERMATOLOGIST Kathleen Behr, MD Behr Laser & Skin Care Center Carlos Paz, MD, PhD Paz Dermatology Babar K. Rao, MD, FAAD Rao Dermatology Gregory L. Simpson, MD Central California Faculty Medical Group Leslie Storey, MD Valley Skin Institute
ALLERGIST
ORTHODONTIST
A.M. Aminian, MD Allergy Institute
John Bayrakdarian, DMD Unique Orthodontics
Malik Baz, MD Baz Allergy, Asthma & Sinus Center
Ryann Christensen, DDS, MS Christensen Family Orthodontics
Praveen Buddiga, MD, FAAAAI Buddiga Family Allergy, Skin & Immunology
Mark Lowe, DDS Mark Lowe DDS Orthodontics
Richard S. DeMera, MD DeMera Allergy, Asthma & ENT Center
Nicole Nalchajian, DDS, MD Nalchajian Orthodontics
Rabinder Sidhu, MD Sidhu Allergy
Brian Thurman, DDS Thurman Orthodontics
OPTOMETRIST/ OPHTHALMOLOGIST
ORAL SURGEON
Anthony Chavez, OD Fogg Remington EyeCare Rick W. Ideta, OD Aloha Family Optometric Group Jeffrey Krohn, OD, FAAO, Diplomate (ABO and AAO) Fig Garden Optometry Thomas Shute, MD Eye-Q Vision Care Desiree Sison, OD Eye Medical Center of Fresno
OPTICAL SURGEON Maziar Bidar, MD Eye Medical Center of Fresno Andrew Maxwell, MD, PhD InSight Vision Center Eric J. Poulsen, MD InSight Vision Center Rodney C. Remington, MD Fogg Remington EyeCare Campbell Waldrop, MD Eye-Q Vision Care
DENTIST Ryan Dunlop, DMD Better Life Center Implant & General Dentistry Bryan C. Fung, DDS Bryan C. Fung, DDS Sam Namdarian, DMD Fresno Smile Makeovers Gerald T. Shinkawa, DDS Shinkawa Dental Surdeep Singh, DDS Clovis Family Dentistry
Shannon Barnhart, DDS Fresno Oral Maxillofacial Surgery & Dental Implant Center Mehrdad Fay, DDS Fresno Prosthodontic Centrè Scott Jett, DMD, MS Advanced Perio Endo eXperts Andrew R. Rahn, DDS, PC Andrew R. Rahn DDS PC David J. Smith, DDS Central Valley Dental Implant & Oral Surgery Institute
ORTHOPEDIC SURGEON Ronald Castonguay, MD Fresno Surgical Hospital Ian Duncan, MD Orthopaedic Associates Medical Clinic, Inc. Don Lester, MD Community Care Health Peter T. Simonian, MD Simonian Sports Medicine Clinic Connor J. Telles, MD Sierra Pacific Orthopedics
SPORTS MEDICINE Green Sports Medicine Pride Sports Medicine Sierra Pacific Orthopedics Simonian Sports Medicine Clinic Sports & Orthopedic Physical Therapy
CHIROPRACTOR
FITNESS STUDIO
London Jones, DC Feel Good Chiropractic
Blue Moon Yoga & Juice Bar
Thomas Potigian, DC Sunnyside Wellness & Chiropractic Center Joshua T. Ritter, DC Fresno Family Chiropractic Thomas Schroeder, DC Schroeder Family Chiropractic
Boppilates The Iron Office Mayweather Boxing + Fitness Olympus Fitness
WEIGHT LOSS CENTER
Matthew Vinson, DC Preferred Chiropractic Center
AHK MD Primary + Preventative Medicine
MEDICAL SPA
Body Goal Fresno
Aspire Medispa Body del Sol Aesthetics Kiss Me Med Spa The Medical Spa and Laser Center at Fig Garden Village Revay Aesthetics
DAY SPA La Peau Spa Muses Day Spa PREEN a boutique salon Serenity Springs Spa The Spa at Fig Garden Village
HAIR SALON Gentry Salon Hungry Hair Salon La Dama Salon PREEN a boutique salon Spectrum Salon, Day Spa & Barber Shop
NAIL SALON Blush Salon Head Over Heels Salon Hitech Nails & Spa Polish’d Nail Bar PREEN a boutique salon
Body del Sol Aesthetics Her Body Bar Restorative Health & Wellness
SHOPPING CENTER Fig Garden Village Pavilion West River Park Riverwalk Villaggio
BOUTIQUE The Closet Daughters of Simone LOMIE’S pum bum Sceptre & Sash Authentic Luxury
GIFTS & DÉCOR Jude’s Revival 23 RPL. Lifestyle RSVP Style Shoppe At The Avenue
JEWELER
REALTOR
Gianni Fine Jewelers
Brian Domingos Jr. Premier Valley Realty
Orloff Jewelers Rogers Jewelry Co. Sceptre & Sash Authentic Luxury The Vault Fine Jewelers
DEALERSHIP BMW Fresno Fresno Acura Haron Jaguar, Land Rover & Volvo Mercedes-Benz of Fresno Porsche Fresno
COMMUNITY Copper River Ranch Old Fig Garden Riverstone San Joaquin Tesoro Viejo
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SOBER
October Editorial Director Lauren Barisic Photographer Don Dizon
What is Sober October? The concept took form over ten years ago, “when the Australian youth health organization Life Education raised money with its ‘Ocsober’ fundraiser in 2010,” according to The Zero Proof online. Yet the name “Sober October” is credited to Macmillan Cancer Support, a UK- based cancer charity, and the movement is now a pre-holidays wellness trend observed by millions across the globe. Sober October is a challenge wherein observers renounce consumption of beer, wine, and spirits during the month. The reasons to give up alcohol are aplenty, but the motion of having a drink with someone, whether it’s alcoholic or not, is a deeply ingrained social act and an important component of the human experience. Thus, it can be difficult for people to consider quitting alcohol for an entire month. This is where “mocktails” come in! They’re a flavorful replacement for alcohol. Remember, giving up liquor doesn’t mean giving up drinking, per se. Alcohol-free beverages have become quite the sensation in recent years, and the ready-made mocktails and alcohol alternatives now available on store shelves make it easy to forget what’s missing. Whatever your preferred poison, here are some brands that offer baseline spirit substitutes for when you aren’t imbibing.
—40— OCT
LUX locale
Alcohol Substitute Guide
Gin
Monday www.drinkmonday.co When you drink Monday, you’re drinking a cultural shift toward self-care. Their flagship Zero-Alcohol Gin is handcrafted in small batches at the brand’s Southern California craft distillery with natural ingredients. Juniper-forward with a bold nose, bitter lemon shines through, along with grapefruit and a hint of coriander at the finish, creating a complex, lingering heat.
Tequila
Ritual Zero Proof www.ritualzeroproof.com With 98 points, Ritual’s Tequila Alternative is the highest-rated spirit alternative in the world. Its peppery flavor is tempered by a hint of rock salt and a clean burn at the end. It gives drinkers the grassy flavor, smoky aroma, and bright fire that the spirit is known for. Just give it a shot (no pun intended)! This liqueur replacement is margarita-grade, so plan to mix it.
—41— OCT
LUX locale
Alcohol Substitute Guide
Vodka Strykk
us.strykk.com The brand readily admits that vodka has fueled—literally, fueled—many a night out. But Strykk Not Vodka allows you to power through the party and still be bright-eyed and bushy-tailed the next morning since it’s 100% natural with no added sugars or artificial flavors. A combination of warming spices with cooling cucumber and menthol emulates vodka’s classic characteristics.
Aperitif Wilfred’s
www.wilfredsdrinks.com Wilfred’s is reinventing the spritz. This alcohol-free aperitif is carefully crafted with a blend of distilled and extracted natural botanicals, including zesty bitter orange, aromatic rosemary, rhubarb, and clove. For a new-era spritz, mix it with your choice of bubbly, such as tonic or non-alcoholic sparkling white wine. It can be enjoyed year-round, and it tastes like pure sunshine.
—42— OCT
LUX locale
Alcohol Substitute Guide
Bourbon Lyre’s
www.lyres.com The impossible has been accomplished with the creation of Lyre’s American Classic Bourbon Malt. Crafted to capture the gentle essence of this patriotic favorite, its flavors are distinct yet contemporary. Notes of vanilla, toasted nuts, and herbs are offset by a mellow finish. A spiced palate lingers after every sip. Enjoy this bourbon substitute on the rocks or with your favorite mixer.
Rum ISH
us.ishspirits.com Okay, so it’s actually called RumISH because it tastes like rum, but it’s not really rum... Get it? Caramel, vanilla, and nutmeg flavors create the rich, warming notes that make this spirit familiar. The label uses a unique distillate utilizing chili seeds to provide the satisfying heat rum drinkers love. It’ll be tough to tell that those daiquiris and mojitos are the virgin versions!
—44— OCT
UNITING for a greater cause The ALL RISE Foundation’s Vital Partnership with Central California Blood Center Features Contributor Holly Clinard Photographer Mariano Friginal
G
—47— OCT
What does “wellness” mean to five-time All-Star and the 2017 American League Rookie of the Year, Aaron Judge? It means “service above self.” After all, in the world of professional sports, the impact of athletes often extends far beyond the playing field. Professional athletes, like Judge, possess the unique ability to inspire, motivate, and effect change in communities across the globe. One such athlete is Aaron Judge, the tower star of the New York Yankees. His off-field efforts have garnered as much attention and respect as his on-field prowess. Through Judge’s philanthropic venture, the ALL RISE Foundation, Judge has forged a significant partnership with the Central California Blood Center, exemplifying the power of sports to drive positive change in society.
The Genesis of the ALL RISE Foundation Born on April 26, 1992, in Sacramento, California, Aaron Judge grew up with a passion for both baseball and giving back. His journey to Major League Baseball (MLB) stardom was nothing short of remarkable. Standing at an imposing 6 feet 7 inches, Judge quickly became a dominant force on the field, capturing the hearts of fans and the respect of his peers. However, it was his compassionate nature and desire to make a difference in his community that prompted him to establish the ALL RISE Foundation in 2018, at the age of 26. The foundation’s name itself reflects Judge’s playing style and personality. The phrase “ALL RISE” is a nod to the common courtroom exclamation and aligns perfectly with Judge’s own ability to rise to the occasion—whether it be on the diamond or out in the community. The ALL RISE Foundation Mission The primary goal of the ALL RISE Foundation is to improve the lives of young people by supporting initiatives related to education, mentorship, citizenship, leadership development, and community development. Judge is committed to utilizing his platform to
RISE UP
inspire the next generation. From hosting youth baseball camps to partnering with local organizations, the foundation has worked tirelessly to create a positive impact. The foundation’s initiatives include the ALL RISE mini grants, the Aspiring Leaders program, #ICANHELP activities, #JUST5MINUTES campaign, leadership library, leadership master class and the Aaron Judge Book Club. Most recently, the partnership that has shone the spotlight on Judge’s commitment to his philanthropic endeavors is the collaboration with the Central California Blood Center. A former Fresno State Bulldog, the partnership between the two community-focused organizations paints a picture of the impact that can result when organizations with aligned values join forces. “For me, the goal of ALL RISE Foundation is to empower others to be their best selves,” said Judge. “I gave blood throughout high school and college at Fresno State, and there is no bigger reward than being able to save a life. If everyone who gives blood donated just one more time per year, there would always be a ready supply for every need.”
TO SAVE LIVES. donateblood.org
Aaron Judge
—48— OCT
A Lifesaving Partnership At the beginning of 2020 with the surge of COVID, over 280 blood drives representing over 10,000 prospective units were canceled in 48 hours, due to the pandemic and initial shut down orders. In student-related collection efforts alone, the Central California Blood Center saw a loss of over 6,000 units and the cancellation of over 120 drives. In 2021, this trend became even worse. After learning of the challenges Central California Blood Center faced in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, the ALL RISE Foundation agreed to a partnership to inspire donors, especially youth and young adults, to step up to the plate and put “service over self.” The Central California Blood Center, a non-profit organization, serves as a crucial link between blood donors and patients in need of blood transfusions. The center plays an essential role in ensuring a stable and safe blood and blood products supply for local hospitals and medical facilities in a heavily populated region of California. “I see so many bright futures in the students here, so whatever I can do to make a change in the Central Valley, I’m there.” Judge’s personal connection to the Central California region, where he spent much of his childhood, further underscores his dedication to making a meaningful impact. Through this partnership, Judge has demonstrated that philanthropy isn’t just about writing checks—it is about actively participating in initiatives that directly affect the lives of individuals and communities. Promoting Blood Donation Awareness One of the main objectives of this partnership is to raise awareness about the importance of blood donation. By leveraging his popularity, Judge has successfully drawn attention to this critical issue. Residents of Central California can’t help but notice their public transportation, billboards and bus wraps with Judge’s encouraging smile looking back at them, encouraging fans and followers to step up and donate blood. “Aaron was a perfect fit for being the face of increasing blood donations in the Central Valley,” said Christopher Staub, President and CEO of Central California Blood Center. “His genuine mission of service and connection to the valley he calls ‘home’ gave us the perfect mix to inspire our youth to serve their own community in this way.”
Judge’s partnership with the Central California Blood Center has not only boosted blood donation numbers but has also inspired acts of kindness throughout the community. The ripple effect of this partnership is reflected in the heartwarming stories of individuals who have stepped forward to donate blood for the first time or have become regular donors after being inspired by Judge’s advocacy. It’s a testament to the impact that athletes can have when they use their platform to champion positive change. “We know that community service and volunteerism enable students to attain valuable life skills, while providing service to those who need it most,” said Patty Judge, Executive Director and President of ALL RISE Foundation. “Healthy life habits, like volunteerism, blood donation and community service, start early, and if blood donation was more of a habit shaped at youth, imagine the impact on the health and well-being of our communities!” As fans watch Judge hit towering home runs on the baseball field this upcoming season, they will also be witnessing a humanitarian with a higher calling to use his fame to better society. In doing so, Aaron Judge is not just a sports star; he is a beacon of hope, encouraging us all to rise to the occasion and making a lasting impact on the place we call “home.” Challenges and Future Prospects While the partnership between the ALL RISE Foundation and the Central California Blood Center is achieving significant success, challenges remain. Sustaining high levels of blood and blood product donations requires consistent effort and maintaining that momentum of public engagement can be complex. As the Central California Blood Center looks at innovative angles to increase donations and donors—including virtual blood drives, interactive campaigns, and collaborations with others—to amplify the impact and extend the scope of the initiative, repeat donors are the main need. This year, the Central California Blood Center will launch a campaign called “One More Time” to motivate blood donors to roll up their sleeves and make it a habit to donate more than once a year. According to the Central California Blood Center, increasing new donors will not fulfill the need alone, but asking donors to come into one of their five donation centers in Fresno, Clovis, Visalia and their various mobile drives to donate “one more time” will make a significant impact in the lives of local patients and their families. This simple act of “service above self,” as Judge coined, has the Central California community truly uniting for a greater cause.
To make an appointment to donate blood in your community, visit www.donateblood.org. For more information on the ALL RISE Foundation, visit www.aaronjudgeallrisefoundation.org.
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low-impact,
HIGH-YIELD Health & Fitness Editor Dina Juve
I love to hear and learn about the new, hot, “it”, workouts. As we learn more about our bodies and how they function, it is expected that new ways to exercise are brought to light and publicized. If it has been tested by an accredited source and taught by professionals, who have received training by experts, then by all means…please share! It is always exciting to learn something new!! Especially when it comes to exercise!!! Low-impact workouts are making a comeback. Also, to be clear, low-impact does not mean low-intensity. All low-impact workouts can be low-, moderate-, and high-intensity. Low-impact workouts can deliver a high yield, too. Exercise has never been a “one size fits all” methodology. That is why I love teaching kettlebells. It’s low-impact, which is great for my arthritis, stenosis, and EDS. This drew me to kettlebells initially. But then when I started doing private trainings, small group classes, and large events, I realized I could adapt them to all different fitness levels as well as different ages and health issues. I could teach all students and ensure a lower injury risk by giving everyone a kettlebell weight that fit their needs. I saw that I could also customize the intensity for each individual and that they, in turn, had high yields.
When researching workouts, workout programs, and workout equipment or tools, many stand out because they have been around for a long time. Some examples of low-impact cardio and strength training exercises, as outlined in “Low-Impact Workouts: Health Benefits, How to Get Started, and How to Get Better” on www.everydayhealth.com, include,
Low-Impact Cardio Exercises • Walking • Cycling • Elliptical training • Swimming • Water aerobics
Low-Impact Strength Training Exercises
• Weight lifting • Tai chi • Suspension training (such as with the TRX system) • Yoga • Barre They also provided a simple way to understand the true meaning of low-impact exercise: “Low impact exercise is any activity where at least one foot is always in contact with the ground.” High-impact workouts are exercises where both of your feet are off the ground at the same time. Many people feel that if they don’t do a high-impact workout—where they have sweat dripping all over them and are always giving 100% effort—the said workout doesn’t count. Just be mindful, as what you do might end up beating up your body instead of caring for it. If you are not careful, it is easy to injure yourself. Switching from high-impact exercises to low-impact workouts that mimic the functions you perform in everyday life can help in recovering from an injury and preventing one from happening.
How do you get started? It is actually pretty simple. According to Move Your Way via www.health.gov, adults need a mix of moderate-intensity aerobic activities for at least 150 minutes a week in addition to muscle strengthening activity 2 days a week. They even provide the option to add workouts that build a personalized physical activity plan for the week through their Move Your Way Activity Planner. I put in my information and it did not show a single moderate- or high-impact workout. What it showed me was how I could do low-impact exercises with the option to increase the intensity to moderate and high.
What does yield have to do with exercising? Yield is what you receive or produce from working out. Most people do not work out to receive no- or low-yield after investing time, energy, and money. What’s worse is finding out the exercises you’ve been doing “yielded more damage than progress,” leaving you with an injury. That is why more people are going back to what I consider “the basics of exercising.” Low-impact exercises typically include fundamental movements, including warming up and cooling down, which is important for reducing injury risk. And since low-impact workouts can be modified to fit your needs, you have a lot of control over the yields you receive.
Does low-impact exercise provide high-yields? More and more, we are finding this to be true. The low-impact cardio exercises mentioned above allow us to safely increase our intensity and produce high yields for our heart health by strengthening our hearts and lung function, as well as helping our mental health, all while reducing risk of heart disease and heart attacks. The low-impact strength training exercises mentioned above keep our bodies strong via maintaining muscle tissue, increasing strength, improving bone health, controlling body fat, and enhancing balance. For many, like me, those cumulative health benefits are worth my time, energy, and investment in doing them.
Can you increase the yields from low-impact exercises? Absolutely! Everyone can exercise and receive the yield they want. If you like challenges, get bored easily with exercising, do not want to plateau, or are always looking for higher yields, low-impact is the way to go. It puts less tension on your body, allowing you can really focus on the unique movements of each exercises, which, in turn, produces higher yields because it minimizes distractions. Then, you can add more time, weight, or repetitions. Next, remember you are in control of the intensity. It might be low-impact, but you decide when it is time to move from low-intensity, moderate-intensity, and high-intensity, or a combination of all three. Yield looks different for everyone, yet low-impact workouts can assist in everyone’s fitness goals. For example: toning of muscles, sculpting a specific area, building strength to aid in addressing aches and pains (like how core strength helps diminish lower back pain, which tends to increase with age), or keeping joints in optimal condition (hence, being kind to your knees). Continually adapting a low-impact routine that meets your unique and changing needs will benefit your health for years to come.
Always a
BEAT AHEAD Caring for Hearts as the Heartbeat of the Valley
B
ack in the days of 8-track tape players, earth shoes, and puka shells, three cardiologists settled in California’s Central Valley and established the first cardiology group in Fresno. Formed in 1970 as a matter of convenience and efficiency, its founding became the first of many firsts for the pioneering practice now known as The Heart Group.
At the time, cardiology was a subspeciality of medicine, not a specialty with subspecialties of its own. But with heart attacks claiming the lives of more Americans than any other cause of death, a drive to save lives propelled rapid and phenomenal growth in the field of cardiology. From its founding, the energizing force behind The Heart Group has been to remain a beat ahead of emerging technologies. The Heart Group’s founding physicians shared a mindset to focus on acquiring the tools and training needed to implement cutting-edge technologies and perform innovative procedures. The practice soon gained a reputation for pushing ahead to bring new lifesaving procedures to the Valley. The Heart Group performed the first angioplasty in Fresno in 1978. The procedure, which opens clogged arteries with a balloon, limited the number of heart patients requiring surgery. In the 1980s, The Heart Group introduced the ground-breaking practice of electrophysiology to its patient population, who received some of the first ablations in the Valley.
The Heart Group has not only set the bar by being the first in the Valley to perform all of these cardiac procedures, but their physicians also have earned a reputation of expertise. For example, The Heart Group has performed more than 1,200 TAVRs and 150 Mitraclip procedures with good outcomes. The past 50 years have seen remarkable improvements in cardiovascular care. Back in the 1970s, angioplasty cleared arteries by inserting a balloon into an artery near the groin, and then running it up toward the heart. Today, patients are able to receive a stent through their wrists. As the care of heart patients has evolved, so has The Heart Group. The practice continues to preserve its position as the vanguard of cardiac care by recruiting subspecialty trained cardiologists who bring an even greater depth and breadth of services to the practice. The Heart Group currently employs 10 cardiologists who are trained in a range of cardiac subspecialities, including board-certified interventional cardiology, structural heart cardiology, electrophysiology, heart failure, and general cardiology. The practice is supported by nine nurse practitioners and two physician assistants who are skilled in the practice of cardiology and devoted to the provision of compassionate care. The Heart Group currently practices in two offices with a vascular lab and expansive diagnostic departments. With plans to build an 11-acre cardiology campus, the practice continues to grow and thrive.
From the beginning, the mission of The Heart Group has been straightforward: practice good cardiology. As the founding physicians Specialized training at a research hospital in the Pacific Northwest transition into retirement, the younger members of The Heart Group equipped the practice to offer the Valley’s first treatments for chronic have stepped up to carry on the legacy to remain a beat ahead in the total occlusion (CTO) of the coronary artery. Patients with 100 percent practice of cardiology. Standing on the shoulders of more than 50 years’ blockage began receiving state-of-the-art CTO treatment in Fresno in the experience, the next generation of cardiologists are demonstrating the early 2000s. same commitment to offer the latest technologies and provide the best THE HEART GROUP LOGO COMPARISON cardiac care in the Valley. Continuing their practice of bringing the latest technology and expertise to the Valley, The Heart Group performed the first transcatheter aortic Just as the 8-track tapes of the 1970s evolved into the mp3 files of today, valve replacement (TAVR) in April 2014. Two years later, they performed technological advancements have transformed the practice of cardiology. the LOGO first transcatheter mitral valve-in-valve replacement (TMViVR) andSUPPLIED Like LOGO a steady heartbeat, The Heart Group has proven its consistent AS DESIGNED BY FIVE CREATIVE RECENTLY the first transcatheter mitral edge-to-edge repair (Mitraclip). dedication to the practice of cardiology by continually expanding and enhancing services to improve patient care. This rich history provides a solid foundation for a bright future.
The Heart Group remains a beat ahead of emerging technologies.
SANGER REEDLEY VISTA PHOTO BY PAUL MULLINS
The Heart Group Physicians
• • • • • • • • • • • •
Shaukat Ali MD, FACC Jagroop S. Basraon, DO, FACC Jaswant S. Basraon DO, MPH, FACC Robert D. Chambers, MD, FACC (retired) Vamshi Gade, MD, FACC, FSCAI, RPVI Usman Javed, MD, FACC, RPVI Dale L. Merrill, MD, FACC, FSCAI (retired) Rimvydas Plenys, MD Shradha Rathi MD, FACC Dalpinder S. Sandhu, MD, FACC John G. Telles, MD, FACC, FHRS Alfred G. Valles MD, FACC, FSCAI
Nurse Practitioners & Physician Assistants
• • • • •
Christine Bennett, FNP-C Ana Duncan, MSN, FNP-C Isaac Dunn, FNP-C Karanvir Kaur, FNP- C Reanin Kielmeyer MSN, FNP-C
• • • • • •
Cecil Litiema, NP-C Melissa Maduell, PA-C Jenna Reading, PA-C Dan Sawyer, FNP-BC Andrea Turnage, MSN, FNP-BC Amanda Tymn, MSN, NP-C
The Heart Group’s Cardiac Services Diagnostic & Interventional Procedures
• • • • • • • • • • • • •
Cardiac Catheterization Coronary Angioplasty Coronary Stenting Atherectomy Chronic Total Occlusion Intervention Thrombolysis MitraClip TAVR TMVR ASD/PFO Closure Intravascular Ultrasound Peripheral Vascular Intervention Venous Ablation
Electrophysiology
• • • • • •
Pacemaker Therapy Resynchronization Therapy Arrhythmia Management Ablation Therapy Cardiac Monitoring Electrophysiology Studies
Cardiovascular Ultrasound
• • • • •
Echocardiography Carotid Ultrasound Stress Echocardiography Trans Esophageal Echocardiography Non-Invasive Vascular Imaging
Nuclear Cardiology
• •
Nuclear Imaging Cardiac PET Imaging
ADVERTORIAL
B R E AT H E
for
BALANCE Features Contributor Christine Rose
I
—55— OCT
I
t’s a Monday morning, and I’m walking into my favorite coffee shop (shout-out to Fulton Street Coffee!) when I see a friend approaching. Their first words to me are: “I’m so sorry I haven’t been to [yoga] class. I’ve been so busy with work and so much is happening.” 9 times out of 10, my response is: “a) SAME or b) please don’t apologize!” In my 12+ years of teaching, I’ve lost track of how often these conversations have happened. Folks have stopped me everywhere—the movies, at dinner—you name it, chances are I’ve had a conversation about yoga there. We could spend all day talking about the things in our lives getting in the way of doing what we need to do. This isn’t something I’m sharing to remind you to prioritize self-care. I share this to explain that yoga is not something you owe to anyone but YOURSELF. It is a practice of love; it is a beautiful form of self-care and the ultimate act of self-love. Through my years of practice, one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that it’s when I’m the busiest that I need yoga the most. Yoga came to me during my time as a marathon runner, when I needed the physical benefits of the practice. Stretching and learning to breathe helped me feel better in my body, so I kept coming back. It took me some time, but I eventually learned that the movements were the icing on top of something even more meaningful. It gave me time to go within and dive deep into my inner landscape. This ancient form of healing has been transforming lives for centuries. Yoga traces its origins back to ancient India, where it emerged as a holistic system for harmonizing the mind, body, and spirit. The meaning of the word “yoga” is “to yolk” or unite, symbolizing the deep connection between our inner selves and the world around us. Yoga transcends the physical and mental self; it is a holistic approach. After each session, I felt more drawn to yoga because it encouraged me to learn more about myself and, most importantly, to breathe. Breathwork is at the center of the practice. Breathing is capable of creating change, with or without movements, by helping regulate the nervous system and reducing stress and anxiety. Breathwork is prioritized in yoga because it helps strengthen the connection between your mind and body. While that mindfulness practice goes a long way when you’re on your mat, it’s an even bigger gift when stressors emerge when you’re off the mat. It took me some time, but eventually, I found myself practicing yoga breathing everywhere—at work under a deadline, behind the wheel while caught up in traffic, and even in the middle of heavy conversations. The hope is that mindful breathing will eventually assist in coping. Breathing in the right way will exponentially improve the impact of movements when you’re doing yoga. We feel amazing at the end of each session because we’ve worked through tense spots in our bodies not just soreness from other physical activities but the
tension that may have been building up from traumatic experiences in the past. Thus, yoga breathwork heals the mind and body. Just like everything else in life, the benefits of yoga depend on the effort and focus we put into it. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned yogi, below are some tips to help you feel your best when practicing: Always Start Slow Your body and mind are different every day depending on the way you sleep, what you’ve eaten, and other activities. This is why grounding in stillness is the first thing you do when you start a session. It helps you get into your body and out of your mind to help you be fully focused on the movement ahead. Honor Your Body As you change postures, be mindful of your alignment and pay attention to the way your body feels with every transition. The more focused you are on yourself (including your breathing), the easier it will be to pinpoint when something is wrong. Introduce more complex postures gradually as you become more comfortable or modify movements during moments of discomfort. Props Are There to Help You Yes, we accessorize on the mat, too! Props like blocks, straps, and bolsters are phenomenal in supporting yourself while on the mat, making postures more accessible. Have an Open Mind and Heart Showing up is always the hardest part. Try to get to class early enough so that you have enough time to disconnect from your day and be still before the session begins. It will make a difference in the way you feel throughout the class! Your Practice is YOUR Practice You show up on your mat for you…and your practice is all about learning to feel good in your own body. Do the best you can to stay focused on the way the movements are making you feel rather than what you look like. In that way, your body will receive the movements in the best possible way. Do Some Research Find a studio and/or instructors that align with you and your values and make you feel safe. Never hesitate to call or send a message beforehand to ask questions for extra ease. I became a yoga instructor and opened my studio because I fell in love with the practice for the ways it changed my life, and I wanted to help empower others to explore themselves on the mat. And even with all my experiences through the years, I’m a student first. It never ceases to amaze me how beautifully it allows us to find balance in all aspects of our lives. I will forever be in awe of the new things I learn about myself through movement, stillness, and breath. And no matter what, I will never get tired of reminding my friends (and even strangers) to show grace and patience to themselves as they navigate their lives to make time for their own practice.
—56— OCT
SOCIAL affair
Summer Soirée in the Hamptons
SUMMER SOIRÉE IN THE HAMPTONS Benefiting Salt + Light
Photographer Bethanie Borquez Salt + Light (S+L) hosted their annual Summer Soirée in the Hampton event at the Visalia Convention Center on Friday, August 25th. The affair was thoughtfully curated to be as communal as possible with multiple tasting, food, and dessert stations in addition to long community tables. Many city and county officials, attendees from the Governors’ office, and Olympic athlete Richard Torrez Jr. were among the 690 guests. S+L CEO & Founder Adrianne Hillman delivered a powerful keynote address about our neighbors experiencing homelessness and joined the Brandon Pasion Band for one song. Visalia Chief of Police Jason Salazar played guitar and sang a song with the band. Two Light of the Valley awards recognized a couple of local people for their work with folks experiencing homelessness. One Salt of the Earth award honored Brody Willette, a S+L team member who recently saved a neighbor’s life by giving them mouth-to-mouth when they were overdosing. For more information about Salt + Light, please visit www.saltandlightworks.org.
—57— OCT
—58— OCT
SOCIAL affair
Celebrating Life’s Shining Moments
CELEBRATING LIFE’S SHINING MOMENTS Benefiting Hinds Hospice Photographer Robert Walker The Hinds Hospice 2023 gala, held at the Clovis Veterans Memorial District, was all about Celebrating Life’s Shining Moments on Friday, September 8th, 2023. Nearly 400 attended and over $180,000 was raised for the organization’s unfunded and underfunded community programs. Hinds Hospice provides a compassionate presence, comfort, hope, and companionship on patients’ sacred journeys, affirming their dignity, and honoring the wishes of both patients and their families. Proceeds help Hinds Hospice to serve the needs of those with life-limiting illnesses and their families. Many thanks go to Richard and Karen Spencer, CRŪ Winery, and Derrel’s Mini Storage for their generous Memento-level support of Hinds Hospice and the gala. Support of this event helps to make it especially memorable all while supporting the programs that aid so many through the Valley to find healing. For more information about Hinds Hospice, please visit www.hindshospice.org.
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SOCIAL affair
24th Annual CASA Crab Feed
24TH ANNUAL CASA CRAB FEED Benefiting CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties Photographer Katerina McTeer CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties held their 24th Annual Crab Feed on Friday, September 8that the Garza residence in Clovis. Known as one of the Central Valley’s favorite fundraising events of the season, a total of 1,750 pounds of crab was served to 650 attendees, who raised $271,00 to expand CASA’s programs and serve children in foster care under the leadership of Executive Director Wilma Tom Hashimoto. Guests celebrated an evening filled with delightful food, camaraderie, exciting games, and spirited silent and live auctions. Some 80 volunteers helped make the event run seamlessly. The evening was emceed by ABC30 news anchor Jessica Herrington and the 2023 CASA Business Partnership Award was given to Fennemore Dowling Aaron. Guests learned more about the foster care journey by a youth with lived experience. For more information about CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties, please visit www.casafresnomadera.org.
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SOCIAL affair
FISH Gala 2023
FISH GALA 2023 Benefiting Breaking the Chains, Fresno Photographer Kristopher Magana FISH (Fund for Indian Subcontinent Heritage) Philanthropies hosted their FISH Gala 2023 on Saturday, September 16th, 2023 in the backyard of the Bezwada family in Fresno. The event aims to raise awareness and funds for local organizations that the South Asian Community wants to support. This year, it benefited Breaking the Chains, Fresno with 420+ attendees present. A live auction was hosted for the first time. The Fresno Philharmonic graciously donated their performance for the evening. Alongside this, classic Indian melodies enriched the ambiance. Attendees appreciated the thoughtful addition of a candle bar, and the event was complemented by a spread of delectable Indian cuisine. Assemblyman Jim Patterson inaugurated the gala. He spoke about the recently passed bill SB 14 that he championed—its objective is to redefine human trafficking of minors as a “serious felony” for various legal purposes. For more information about FISH Philanthropies, please visit www.fishfund.org.
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LUX lifestyle Horoscopes
COSTARS Astrologer Shari Schopp @shari_starlight www.eyeonastrology.com
Libra
September 23rd to October 23rd
Lay the groundwork for healthier relationships by clearing space for new perspectives. Draw upon Libra’s symbolic scales to establish inner balance and weigh all the options. This process of integrating information will enable you to move beyond conflicts and challenges, thus creating harmony with significant others. Libra’s ruler is Venus—the goddess of refinement, love of beauty, artistry, music, and sexuality. Enjoy its aesthetic fulfillment and pleasures by infusing meals with special touches, creating small works of art, and pampering yourself with facials and various massages.
Scorpio
Gemini
May 21st to June 21st
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October 24th to November 21st
Embrace the catalyst for change by purging the irrelevant to help shift patterns. This focuses energy towards generating a sense of security and supports internal transformation for self-renewal.
Sagittarius
November 22nd to December 21st
The public at large wants to collaborate with you. They feed off of your ideas and blast you forward towards opportunities that materialize. This opens a pathway of possibilities for other pursuits.
Capricorn
December 22nd to January 19th
It’s a time for guilty pleasures that satisfy your cravings. Release the hamster wheel of productivity and relax the self-control button. Splurge and let your senses take part in activities that ignite new interests.
Aquarius
January 20th to February 18th
Communication and witty conversations with others lead to meaningful relationships that make you feel good. These new ideas spread through group encounters and offer unusual yet meaningful perspectives.
Pisces
February 19th to March 20th
Timing is key to bringing new projects into existence. If obstacles are in the way, assert your ideas to work out the kinks. Adaptability takes you far. Look at alternatives and work towards the greater goal.
Aries
March 21st to April 19th
Current realities are not what they seem to be. Pursue objectivity and assess the situation. Investigate the intent and revise what’s important into a plan of action. This helps you move forward in a positive direction.
Taurus
April 20th to May 20th
The pleasures of intimacy with friends are beneficial if it is balanced with other pressing responsibilities. Avoidance issues can create disappointments. Be present and savor the moment.
Clarity of thought and discussions with others are energizing. Conversations freshen social activities and build insightful communities that introduce a creative muse for self-expression and expansion.
Cancer June 22nd to July 22nd
Home, family, and friends are more enjoyable when interactions benefit everyone. When initiating activities, think of the community and stay open to sharing ideas with others for an effortless outcome.
Leo
July 23rd to August 22nd
Refine and adjust developments in your work. Accept criticism and critiques from those you trust and who have the same vision, which allows the final product to be the most ideal creation possible.
Virgo
August 23rd to September 22nd
Take extra time for self-care and be vigilant about balancing work and life. Relaxation practices are an important regimen to help quiet the mind of worries and concerns and enhance well-being.
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