CVLUX SEP | OCT 2021

GUY’S

SEP | OCT

GROOMING GUIDE

LIQUID AMBER COCKTAILS

MEN IN BUSINESS MEET THE EXPERTS FALL STREET

STYLE

LUXURY AWARDS NOMINEES REVEALED

MODERN RENAISSANCE MAN

JAMES BROLIN

At Sceptre & Sash, we know that luxury is in the details. As Central California’s premiere sustainable boutique experience, we find only the most luxurious pre-owned and vintage accessories, perfect for every occasion. We specialize in bridal and estate jewelry, certified loose diamonds, timepieces, handbags and accessories, all while offering a 100% lifetime authenticity guarantee, and a 14 day no-questions-asked return policy. We additionally offer a one year limited warranty on all timepieces, details of which are available in store. Experience all the brands we love as you peruse our collections of Rolex, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Hermès, and so much more!

Financing is available subject to credit approval, and a 10-month layaway program complete our buying opportunities. We pride ourselves in working with each customer to create a unique look that will leave a lasting impression.

Sell to us. Visit us for a no-obligation offer on your luxury goods, with immediate payment.

1528 E. CHAMPLAIN DR. STE. 103 FRESNO, CA • 559.434.4589 • SCEPTREANDSASH.COM N.E. CORNER OF CEDAR AND SHEPHERD, NEAR YOSEMITE RANCH RESTAURANT

SCEPTRE & SASH IS INDEPENDENT OF ANY BRAND AFFILIATION. ITEMS ARE PRE-OWNED AND/OR VINTAGE. LICENSE #000000780

BEST BOUTIQUE 2018, 2019 & 2021

Urgent Care Services The Extraordinary Care You Expect For The Injuries You Don’t.

Gregory Williams, M.D. Associate Medical Officer

No Appointments Necessary & Short Wait Times

Dr. Gregory Williams, Associate Medical Officer Responsible for various clinical operations including the Urgent Care Centers. Dr. Williams also sees patients at the Bullard and Milburn health centers.

We Make Health Care Accessible

“We have to be more than just medical providers. We have to be a source for our community to look to whenever they need help of any type. UHC has all the tools necessary to accomplish this goal and we are well on our way to doing that.”

- Dr. Williams

United Health Centers operates several dedicated Urgent Care suites that are open weekends and evenings for your convenience including Fresno, Mendota, Sanger and coming soon to Dinuba. UHC also offers extended hours of operation at all of its locations accepting walk-in appointments for urgent needs. Urgent Care services are available for several minor injuries and illnesses such as eye infections, headaches, ear aches, cough, fever, sprains, urinary tract infections, stomach and digestive pain, sore throat, upper respiratory infections and more.

Visit www.unitedhealthcenters.org for hours of operation and services provided by location.

United Health Centers of the San Joaquin Valley

The Bullard Health Center offers comprehensive primary healthcare including Medical, Dental, Behavioral Health, Chiropractic, X-Ray, Laboratory and Urgent Care services.

The Milburn Health Center offers comprehensive primary healthcare including Medical, Dental, Optometry, Behavioral Health, Chiropractic, X-Ray, Laboratory and Urgent Care services.

Bullard Health Center 1780 E. Bullard Ave Fresno, CA 93710

Milburn Health Center 6810 N. Milburn Ave Fresno, CA 93722

Visit United Health Centers at: www.unitedhealthcenters.org

Follow us: @unitedhealthcenters 800.492.4227

­—08— SEP | OCT

Contents Men of Influence

In Every Issue 10 12 14 16

Publisher’s Perspective Welcome to the Issue Masthead Contributors

Social Affair 18

24

2022 Luxury Awards

Nominees Revealed

White Hot Summer Night

Benefiting Cancer Care at Community Medical Centers

Departments 26 29 32 38 40

66

42 44

Interviewing James For the SEP | OCT Edition, CVLUX features James Brolin for the Men of Influence Issue.

53 66 72

SEP | OCT

PHOTOGRAPHER, CREATIVE DIRECTOR, STYLIST & GROOMER JIM JORDAN LOCATION WHITE CROSS STUDIOS PRODUCER WHITE CROSS PRODUCTIONS

6 Degrees of Sanity

Featuring Publisher & Owner David Manning.

High Profile

Featuring Brian Copner of Dignity Memorial.

Feast the Season

Three comforting recipes for the harvest season.

Handsome Helpers

Men’s grooming products to meet every need.

Sweater Weather Leather

Showcasing two of autumn’s favorite textural trends.

Dapper & Moody Blues

Shop dressed up denim and various indigo accents.

Modern Renaissance Man

Cover Story: James Brolin Profiles

Men in Business Liquid Amber

A round-up of Central Valley whiskey cocktails.

Costars

Virgo & Libra

­—10— SEP | OCT

Publisher’s Perspective Men of Influence

PHOTOGRAPHER, CREATIVE DIRECTOR, STYLIST & GROOMER JIM JORDAN LOCATION WHITE CROSS STUDIOS PRODUCER WHITE CROSS PRODUCTIONS

Time to Celebrate

S

eptember is finally here, which means it’s time to reveal this year’s class of Luxury Award Nominees. Within the pages of this edition, we highlight some of the Central Valley’s best businesses as we gear up for the return of the Luxury Awards. The awards ceremony will take place in January of 2022 in the heart of Downtown Fresno. Please be sure to take a moment and go to www.cvlux.com to cast your vote for all your favorite nominees!

highlighting some of the season’s best whiskey libations. Be sure to make a list of all our favorites and sample everything this area has to offer—all within moderation, of course.

This issue also marks a first for us, as we unveil our first Men of Influence Issue. We are so fortunate to have James Brolin grace the cover. Expertly photographed by Jim Jordan, this article will take you through the life and time of Mr. Brolin, explore his career spent in devotion to the film industry, and discuss what the he’s working on now.

Cheers,

My personal favorite piece in this edition is our Liquid Amber feature. Editorial Director Lauren Barisic takes us on a tour through a handful of the Valley’s most exciting bars and restaurants,

So please take some time, unwind, and enjoy this most recent volume of CVLUX. Thank you for all your continued support. We so appreciate how you’ve stood by us, and know we would be nothing without you—our valued readers and advertisers.

David

Welcome to the Issue Men of Influence

Falling Forward Modern Renaissance man, jack of all trades, and Hollywood powerhouse James Brolin candidly reflects on his 60-year career and the art of acting, directing, and producing (page 44). Get to know the men who are taking care of business in the Central Valley (page 53). High Profile returns, featuring Brian Copner of Dignity Memorial (page 29). Nominees are announced for the 2022 Luxury Awards (page 18) and coverage of White Hot Summer Night is unveiled (page 24). Clothier Patrick James showcases men’s fashion featuring textural staples (page 40) and all things indigo (page 42). Make it handsome using an array of must-try grooming products (page 38). A round-up of six favorite things will leave you excited to get out and shop your city (page 26). Feast the season with hearty favorites and comfort foods (page 32). Embrace whiskey weather by sipping on a selection of original local cocktails that’ll warm you from the inside out (page 66). See how the influence of Virgo and Libra shift the atmosphere with the autumn equinox (page 72).

Savoring the Moment

After an unusually hot summer, it’s time to embrace all the delights that come with cooler weather, nippy evenings, longer nights, cascading leaves, and the incoming harvest. As anticipation of the holiday season starts to set in, relish the opportunity to savor each and every moment autumn offers from dawn until dusk.

PHOTOGRAPHER DON DIZON

­—14— SEP | OCT

DAVID MANNING Publisher, Owner

EDITORIAL Editorial Director LAUREN BARISIC Interiors Editor ERIN MELKONIAN Health & Fitness Editor DINA JUVE Features Editors ELISABETH ROSS and ANN T. SULLIVAN WHITEHURST Beauty Editor JESSICA MCCAFFERTY Beauty Contributor JESSICA PARISE Fashion Stylist ALMA WOLVERTON Astrologer SHARI SCHOPP ART Design Director PHENG MOUA Social Media Director SYDNEE STOTTLEMYRE BURKE Contributing Photographers DON DIZON and JIM JORDAN BUSINESS Regional Marketing Director CAROL DEFENDIS Sales Executive EMMA TOSTE 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 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.

7685 N BLACKSTONE AVE #108 FRESNO, CA 93720 (559) 449-7590 THINKROGERS.COM

Forevermark Icon ™ Setting Round Engagement Ring

I TA K E Y O U , U N T I L F O R E V E R .

A DIAMOND IS FOREVER

­—16— SEP | OCT

Contributors Men of Influence

Jim Jordan

Don Dizon

Jim is a world-class fashion and celebrity photographer. With an impeccable eye for beauty and detail, he developed his own style and quickly made a name for himself in the fashion industry worldwide. His remarkable and expanding portfolio includes photos of Hollywood A-listers such as Leonardo DiCaprio, Charlize Theron, Miley Cyrus, and James Brolin among many others. Jim has also shot for prestigious magazines including Vogue, Marie Claire, and Vanity Fair, to name a few.

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.

Photographer

Photographer

An award-winning lifestyle hotel in Honolulu, THE MODERN HONOLULU offers a contemporary luxury experience.

The highest rated hotel in our class in Honolulu, Forbes Travel Guide says, “The Modern Honolulu lives up to its name: it’s modern without being trendy, it’s hip without being stuffy. This sleek hotel is perfect for the urban traveler who tends to mix business with pleasure”

WWW.THEMODERNHONOLULU.COM

/

800 438 2929

g n i t o V n e p O w o N

T

he Central Valley’s most anticipated event is back! Voting for the most outstanding local businesses and professionals are now open. Visit www.cvlux.com to cast your vote.

Voting will continue through Friday, December 10th, 2021. Winners will be announced at the Luxury Awards.

WHEN + WHERE Friday, January 21st, 2022 6:00 P.M. to Midnight Hilton Ballroom DoubleTree, Downtown 2233 Ventura Street Fresno, California 93721

WWW.CVLUX.COM

LUX award

Nominees

HOSPITAL

MEDICAL SPA

COMMUNITY MEDICAL CENTERS KAISER PERMANENTE KAWEAH HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER SAINT AGNES MEDICAL CENTER VALLEY CHILDREN’S HEALTHCARE

ASPIRE MEDISPA AWAKEN AESTHETICS & ANTI-AGING BODY DEL SOL AESTHETICS ESTEEM MED SPA KISS ME MED SPA

COSMETIC/PLASTIC SURGEON

SALON + SPA

HEDIEH ARBABZADEH, MD Women’s Plastic Surgery MAZIAR BIDAR, MD Eye Medical Center of Fresno MARK CHIN, MD, MPH Valley Institute of Plastic Surgery JAMES KNOETGEN, MD Beautologie Cosmetic Surgery & Medical Aesthetics KAYE RIOLO, MD Riolo Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery

ADRINA MARTINS SALON INTRINSIC LA PEAU SPA PREEN A BOUTIQUE SALON RE:TREAT COLOR + HAIR DESIGN STUDIO

COSMETIC DENTIST MICHELLE ASSELIN, DDS, FAGD, FACD, FICD Fresno Dental Professionals ARTASHES AVAKIAN, DDS Professional Dental Care HUGO CORONADO, DDS Cosmetic Dentistry, Implants & Orthodontics J. ART MIRELEZ, JR., DDS, FICOI, FAGD Mirelez Wellness Dental SAM NAMDARIAN, DMD Fresno Smile Makeovers

DERMATOLOGIST KATHLEEN L. BEHR, MD Behr Laser & Skin Care Center JANE F. KARDASHIAN, MD Golden State Dermatology MARKÉTA LÍMOVÁ, MD Intelligent Skincare CARLOS PAZ, MD Paz Dermatology LESLIE STOREY, MD Valley Skin Institute

DEALERSHIP BMW FRESNO FRESNO ACURA HARON JAGUAR, LAND ROVER & VOLVO MERCEDES-BENZ OF FRESNO MICHAEL CADILLAC

SHOPPING CENTER FIG GARDEN VILLAGE MARKETPLACE AT EL PASEO PARK CROSSING RIVER PARK VILLAGGIO

JEWELER GIANNI FINE JEWELERS ORLOFF JEWELERS ROGERS JEWELRY CO. SCEPTRE & SASH AUTHENTIC LUXURY THE VAULT FINE JEWELERS

BOUTIQUE THE FOUNDRY IN SEASON A LIFESTYLE BOUTIQUE OOH LA LA REVIVAL 23 SCEPTRE & SASH AUTHENTIC LUXURY

FINE GIFTS + DÉCOR HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE JUDE’S RSVP STYLE VERDALEE VONDA’S

HOME FURNISHINGS AMMONS DESIGN & HOME DÉCOR BRICK & MORTAR FASHION FURNITURE HEMISPHERE HOME POTTERY BARN

COMMUNITY CLOVIS COPPER RIVER RANCH OLD FIG GARDEN RIVERSTONE DEVELOPMENT TESORO VIEJO

BUILDER BONADELLE NEIGHBORHOODS DE YOUNG PROPERTIES GRANVILLE HOMES McCAFFREY HOMES WATHEN CASTANOS HOMES

LUX award

Nominees

CONTRACTOR/ REMODELING SPECIALIST DODSON BUILDERS CONSTRUCTION INC. ICON CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN J & J QUALITY CONSTRUCTION INC. NELSON-DYE REMODELING SPECIALISTS RFMC CONSTRUCTION, INC.

MORTGAGE LENDER MICHELLE BRUNN Peerless Lending ELIAS DELGADO Platinum Home Mortgage LISA FLORES Homebridge MICHELLE GLASS Sierra Pacific Mortgage TOBY PETRUCELLI The Toby Team at Premier Mortgage Resources LLC

REALTOR

BAR

ELBOW ROOM BAR & GRILL FIVE MANHATTAN STEAKHOUSE & BAR MODERNIST CRAFT COCKTAIL BAR QUAIL STATE

DINING 13 PRIME STEAK THE ANNEX KITCHEN THE LIME LITE MAX’S BISTRO & BAR PARMA

HIDDEN GEM ANNESSO PIZZERIA ELDERWOOD MOCHUELO OGGI COSI SI MANGIA TRELIO FOOD & WINE

IVETTE CHAVEZ Western Pioneer Properties VICTORIA GREER Victoria Greer Real Estate LAURA MATHER The Mather Method at London Properties SEAN & CHELSEA SOARES The Soares Team at Iron Key Real Estate PAUL TATARIAN Tatarian Group at Gentile Real Estate

CASINO CHUKCHANSI GOLD RESORT & CASINO CLUB ONE CASINO MONO WIND CASINO TABLE MOUNTAIN CASINO TACHI PALACE CASINO RESORT

CAST YOUR VOTE WWW.CVLUX.COM

u o Y k n a h T s r o s n o p S

LUX award

Sponsors

­—24— SEP | OCT

SOCIAL affair

White Hot Summer Night

WHITE HOT SUMMER NIGHT Benefiting Cancer Care at the Community Cancer Institute On Saturday, July 10th, the Presidents Club hosted their annual White Hot Summer Night (WHSN) fundraiser for the first time in two years. Also a first, the event was held at a unique new indoor/outdoor event venue, Evanelle Vineyards. A total of 700 guests donned their best white outfits for a night filled with WHSN’s trademark fashion, dinner, and auction. Approximatley $400,000 were raised to benefit Cancer Care at the Community Cancer Institute. For more information about the Community Cancer Institute, please visit www.communitymedical.org.

­—25— SEP | OCT

SOCIAL affair

White Hot Summer Night

6 ­—26— SEP | OCT

DEGREES OF SANITY Publisher & Owner David Manning

1. I’m working.

Work may look different now than how it used to, but the need for a stylish carry-all persists. Sceptre & Sash has an incredible selection of pre-owned and/or vintage designer bags that cater to all tastes and loads.

Pre-Owned and/or Vintage Louis Vuitton Work Bag $1,795.00 from www.sceptreandsash.com

2. I’m grooming.

The key to a low-maintenance hair routine is great products. I use a high-quality pomade (so my hair moves but also stays in place) twice a day—full coverage in the morning and touch-ups to the sides before dinner.

Redken Brews Maneuver Cream Pomade $20.00 from www.retreatlifestyles.com

3. I’m indulging.

Beautiful jar candles are one of those small luxuries that make my day, and they’re also my weakness. The stunning variety at RSVP Style makes it hard for me to choose only one when shopping in-store or online.

Baobab Black Pearls Candle in Medium $145.00 from www.rsvp-style.com

4. I’m accessorizing.

Not being able to socialize for a long time has made me reassess which accessories bring me joy every day. I wear these stacked bracelets daily, even on days when I don’t leave my home office.

David Yurman Large Box Chain Bracelet $325.00 from www.orloffjewelers.com David Yurman Spiritual Beads Star of David Bracelet with Black Onyx $375.00 from www.orloffjewelers.com David Yurman Cable Cuff Bracelet with 18K Yellow Gold and Black Onyx Bracelet $975.00 from www.orloffjewelers.com

5. I’m grilling.

I’ve always loved steak, but being forced to cook for myself this past year has made me appreciate a good cut of beef in a whole new way.

Thank goodness that The Meat Up market has locals covered with their easy-to-use app!

The Meat Up www.themeatup.com

6. I’m sampling.

Few things are as satisfying to me as an ice-cold beer on a hot day, and the Central Valley’s growing brewery scene makes it easy to discover local draughts. I especially enjoy the seasonal selections at MachineHead Brewing Co. MachineHead Brewing Co. www.machineheadbrewery.com

When it’s time to own your dream home, Sierra Pacific is here to help.

A successful mortgage starts with a personal touch. Your goals are my goals and I’ll always make you a priority.

Michelle Glass

Retail Branch Manager NMLS# 307279 1080 W. Shaw Ave., Suite #101 Fresno, CA 93711 o - 559.490.0470 c - 559.779.8057 f - 866.236.0581 michelle.glass@spmc.com

©2019 Sierra Pacific Mortgage Company, Inc. NMLS # 1788. (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org) Equal Housing Lender. Licensed in California by the Department of Business Oversight under the Residential Mortgage Lending Act 417-0015.

High Profile Brian Copner Features Editor Ann T. Sullivan Whitehurst Photographer Don Dizon

B

rian Copner has spent his life honoring those who have passed on, yet this multifaceted mortician lives life to the fullest each day. He was born to Judith Ann and James W. Copner in Tacoma, Washington, on January 29th, 1963. Brian’s father had the biggest impact on his life—it is because of his father that he went into the funeral business, and his parents also imparted integrity, loyalty, and work ethic that he continues to hold very dear.

Family remains the single most important facet of his life—a great evening at home for him is watching TV with his family. Brian and his wife Stephanie have three children.

James, the eldest, lives in Valencia, builds offroad vehicles, and has two children—Ethan (6 years old) and Amalia (8 months old), whom Brian absolutely adores. His daughter Chelsea Potter is a licensed dietician in Arroyo Grande, and his younger son Nicklaus is a student at The University of Utah in Salt Lake City.

­—30— SEP | OCT

Two beloved greyhounds complete his family. Former racers Sully and Dutch were adopted from a racetrack, and Brian simply loves the breed—especially the retired hounds. “I highly recommend adopting greyhounds! There are many adoption agencies that do all the work. They are gentle giants and great companions. Don’t adopt these guys as guard dogs, though—they would rather greet your intruder and offer them kindness and love than risk missing out on a chance for a good belly scratch. I joke that ‘for the price of a good belly scratch and head pat, my boys would show a burglar right to my safe.’ We love our ‘couch potatoes,’ as they are extremely laid back and composed, and rarely bark. The beauty of adopting a greyhound is that for a nominal adoption fee, you get a world-class purebred racer and the pleasure of rehoming a hardworking animal.”

Outside of his family, Brian enjoys golf, flying, guitar, motorcycles, cooking, beer-making, and collecting watches. Though he will admit, regarding his watch collection, that “it’s gotten a bit out of hand.” His favorite game is soccer, but football (particularly the Dallas Cowboys) gets an honorable mention in the sports arena.

Flight has always fascinated him—he’d have to say his biggest regret is “not completing my commercial pilot’s certificate,” but that doesn’t stop Brian from still enjoying aviation.

Growing up, the funeral business was also the family business.

Brian’s first job, at age 15, was at his family’s funeral home, Tinkler Mission Chapel Mortuary, where he started out making $4.50 an hour. Throughout his life, he’s touched nearly every aspect of the industry. A mortician of 35 years, he’s also a licensed embalmer, and has been a funeral director, cemetery and crematory manager, and cemetery broker.

The best advice Brian ever received has helped shape his career: “If the leaders remain calm when facing adversity, then the followers will, too.” This wisdom has served him well over the years, as Brian has worked up into leadership roles time and again. Now, since 2014, he has served as Dignity Memorial’s Market Director of the Central California Region, which includes over a dozen locations across the Central Valley: Lakewood Funeral Home & Lakewood Memorial Park in Hughson; Whitehurst-Norton-Dias Funeral Service in Turlock; Stratford Evans Merced Funeral Home in Merced Palm Memorial – Worden Chapel in Chowchilla; Miller Memorial Chapel in Visalia; Miller Memorial Chapel in Woodlake; People’s Funeral Chapel in Hanford; Boice Funeral Home in Clovis; Lisle Funeral Home, Funeraria Del Angel Tinkler, Whitehurst Sullivan Burns &

Blair Funeral Home, Stephens and Bean Funeral Chapel, Palm La Paz Funerals & Cremations, and Fresno Memorial Gardens, all in Fresno.

Communication is part of the key to his success. “Communication is the responsibility of the one speaking. Confused people don’t act.” Every new year, he resolves to “be a better communicator.

If the person I’m communicating with did not understand my message, then it is my responsibility to recraft the message and to ensure both parties are on the same page. It’s the responsibility of the communicator to ensure communication has happened. Not that of the receiver.”

Being an excellent communicator helps Brian offer the most unique and personalized services for loved ones of those who have passed, changing how funeral services are composed. “As the premier funeral industry leader, we at Dignity Memorial are highly committed to service excellence and the pursuit of creating highly personalized celebrations of life to those we serve; to ensure one’s footprint on earth never goes forgotten. We all have different stories, which is why we go to great lengths to capture those stories and provide the most fitting celebration of life—from a highly formal traditional or religious service to a secular sport, hobby, occupational, or recreationally themed service.”

One particular memorial perfectly exemplifies Brian’s service style.

“About two years ago, I had the honor of planning and directing a celebration of life for my dear friend Alan Nyitray. I met Alan through the Fresno beer brewing scene and he was the brewmaster that taught me the art of brewing beer. Alan was a local painter who operated his painting company named Another Coat of Paint.

His last job, before mother nature brought him home, was to paint the Tower Theater. Putting our heads together, we came up with a painter-themed celebration. After all, this is part of our mission: creating meaningful celebrations and life remembrances. In the end, Alan’s life celebration was a theater performance! Instead of suits, the directors of the service wore painters’ overalls. Instead of a traditional memorial folder or prayer card, you were issued a highly customized admission ticket, as we held the service in the Tower Theater (ring a bell?). His painting tools and supplies decorated the stage and his cremated remains were on display in an urn made to look like a paint can.”

The Central Valley is lucky to have such a devoted and creative man charged with honoring those who remain with us only in memory.

National Award-Winning Clubhouse

LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE

at Tesoro Viejo.

Walk To School

ESSENTIAL INGREDIENTS Resort-style Clubhouse

Sunday Farmers Markets

Year-Round Community Activities

AXIS Coffee Bar + Eatery

Neighborhood Parks

Madera County Fire Station No. 7

14 Miles of Walking/Biking Trails

Hillside K-8 School

Access to San Joaquin River

TM

4 New Home Neighborhoods ALTURA

VERANO

IVY

SAVANNA

From the $300s (559) 822-4271

From the low $400s (559) 203-1866

From the $400s (559) 822-4244

Coming Soon (559) 822-4244

Visit today at TesoroViejoLiving.com

Officially nominated for Best Community

Life. Unprecedented.Hwy 41 & Ave. 15/Tesoro Viejo Blvd. in Madera—Just minutes north of Fresno 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. © 2021 Tesoro Viejo Development, Inc.

FEAST the season Editorial Director Lauren Barisic Photographer Don Dizon

Fall is upon us! And so is the season of comfort food. While this style of cooking might mean something different for everyone, comfort foods share a common theme. Often prepared in a traditional manner, these meals usually have a nostalgic or sentimental appeal. But before we dive into the full-blown holiday favorites that prepare us for a state of hibernation, let’s seize the opportunity to enjoy the last bit of summer produce alongside the incoming harvest of autumn with a sort of hybridized flare.

Creamed Pesto Tortellini with Sun-Dried Tomatoes SERVES 3

9 oz. fresh tortellini 2 cups cream 3 tbs. butter ½ tsp. nutmeg Garlic salt Black pepper ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes

For the Pesto 1 bunch of fresh basil 3 garlic cloves ¼ cup parmesan cheese (grated; plus more for garnish) ¼ cup walnuts (chopped) ¼ cup olive oil 1 tbs. lemon juice 1 tsp. capers White pepper

Instructions Begin by setting a large pot of salted water to boil before preparing the pesto.

Put the fresh basil leaves, peeled garlic cloves, parmesan cheese, walnuts, olive oil, lemon juice, capers, and white pepper in the food processor and blend until the paste runs smooth. If the desired creaminess is not achieved, add some more olive oil.

Set a large saucepan to medium-high heat. Add the cream, butter, and nutmeg to the saucepan. Once the butter has melted, add in the pesto. When the pesto is fully mixed, season the mixture with garlic salt and add black pepper to taste. Allow the Creamed Pesto sauce to reduce by a quarter to a half.

Boil the tortellini in the salted water until they are al dente. Remove the cooked tortellini from the boiling water, and add it directly to the simmering sauce. Allow the sauce to marry with the tortellini for five to 10 minutes. If the sauce becomes too thick or only sparsely covers the pasta, add a bit of pasta water to revive it. When serving, garnish the Creamed Pesto Tortellini with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and, if desired, parmesan cheese.

Chicken Cordon Bleu with Dijon Sauce and Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus Bundles SERVES 4

2 chicken breasts 4 slices of ham (thin-cut or lunchmeat style works best) 4 slices of white melting cheese (Swiss cheese is traditional, but Havarti and Provolone will also work beautifully) Seasoned salt Black pepper Avocado oil Salted sweet cream butter

For the Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus Bundles 1 bunch of asparagus 4 slices of prosciutto For the Dijon Sauce 1 cup cream ½ cup white wine 1 heaping tbs. Dijon mustard 1 heaping tbs. capers

Instructions Begin by prepping the Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus Bundles. Snap off the stalk ends of the asparagus and group four smaller bundles together.

Wrap prosciutto around each bundle. You may need to secure them with a toothpick, and then, set the asparagus bundles aside.

Cut the chicken breasts in half, then slice them horizontally. Make sure to not cut all the way through—the objective is to create two thin yet connected quarters. Pound the cut chicken with a mallet so that the meat has a consistent thickness.

With the sliced side of the chicken breasts up, layer on a slice of ham, followed by a slice of cheese. This will allow the cheese to be in the center of the Chicken Cordon Bleu. Fold the chicken in half to hold the ham and cheese inside. You may need to tuck the ham around the cheese to protect it from the cooking process. Season both sides of the stuffed chicken breasts with seasoned salt and black pepper to taste.

Set a large skillet to medium-high heat. Add avocado oil and some butter to the skillet. Once the butter melts and coats the bottom of the pan, put in the stuffed chicken and sear both sides until golden brown and cooked through. While searing the second side, cover the skillet with a lid—this will help melt the cheese and completely cook the chicken. Once done, transfer the cooked stuffed chicken breasts to a plate and cover them with foil.

You’ll use the leftover chicken drippings to make the Dijon Sauce. Adjust the skillet heat to medium. Pour the white wine into the skillet, and use it to deglaze the bottom of the pan. Then, add the cream and whisk in the Dijon mustard before adding the capers. Allow the sauce to reduce by half.

Add a bit of avocado oil to a small pan, and set it to medium-high heat to prepare the asparagus bundles. Once hot, brown the prosciutto wrap on all sides. Then, cover the pan for a couple of minutes to cook the asparagus.

Once cooked, it will attain a brighter green color.

To serve, plate the Chicken Cordon Bleu with a Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus Bundle, then ladle the Dijon Sauce on top.

­—36— SEP | OCT

Surf & Turf Skewers with Tomatillo Avocado Sauce SERVES 6 1 lb. shrimp (shelled and deveined) 1 lb. beef tri-tip Seasoned salt Black pepper

For the Tomatillo Avocado Sauce 1 tomatillo 1 avocado ½ jalapeño 2 garlic cloves 4 oz. diced green chilies (canned)

Instructions Begin by prepping the shrimp and the beef tri-tip. Rinse and pat dry the shrimp. Cut the beef tri-tip into bite-size cubes. Assemble the shrimp and beef bites on separate skewers, as they should cook at different speeds. Season the Surf & Turf meat with seasoned salt and black pepper to taste and set it aside.

Prepare the vegetables for the Tomatillo Avocado Sauce. Shell, destem, and quarter the tomatillo. Peel and pit the avocado.

Deseed the jalapeño. Peel the garlic. Strain the diced green chilies.

Chop the cilantro.

¼ cup cilantro (chopped) ¼ tsp. cumin ½ tsp. chili powder ½ white pepper Garlic salt Black pepper

Add all of the vegetables to a food processor, followed by the cumin, chili powder, and white pepper. Emulsify until the mixture is nearly smooth. Add garlic salt and black pepper to taste. This sauce can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator.

Grill the skewered meat to the desired wellness. Allow the Surf & Turf Skewers to rest for five minutes before serving with the Tomatillo Avocado Sauce.

­—38— SEP | OCT

LUX looks Grooming Trends

1

Handsome

HELPERS Beauty Contributor Jessica Parise

Men’s grooming has come a long way. With so many new products on the market, the question is: what’s worth the splurge? Here’s a selection of the latest must-try products, ranging from beard upkeep to unisex skincare. Whether you are ready to change up your routine or just looking for gift ideas, this round-up is full of handsome helpers.

4

2 5

3

6

7

8 1. CaniBrands Can-i Mend Repair & Recover Soothing Relief CBD Cream $29.99 from www.canibrands.com 2. Heathmade Manly Lotion Bar $14.50 from www.heathmadela.com 3. Soo’AE Energizing Black Charcoal Hydrogel Mask $4.00 from www.sooaenewyork.com 4. Brandless Green Tea & Aloe Shave Gel $41.00 from www.brandless.com 5. Bad Ace Charcoal Facial Scrub $25.00 from www.youbadace.com 6. Outlaw Magic Beard & Hair Elixir $24.00 from www.liveoutlaw.com 7. Hank Skincare Shield The Hair Beard Balm $46.00 from www.hankskincare.com 8. Revy Skincare Repair: PH-Balanced Night Cream $39.00 from www.revyskincare.com

Fresno's Premiere Holistic Med Spa

559-614-7597 1485 West Shaw Avenue Fresno CA 93711 renewwellnessspa.com

Use QR Code to visit our website

At Renew Wellness we specialize in Non Invasive Body Sculpting using top of the line European technology. Central Valley's only location providing the award winning Pagani Cryo T Shock system for fat reduction as well as the clinically proven Endosphères Therapy for cellulite alleviation.

OTHER SERVICES INCLUDE Wellness Pods: Relax and burn calories in our Sculpt Pod and Hydrabody Pod. Plasma Fibroblast: Tighten and firm loose skin and wrinkles with this revolutionary procedure and alternative to laser treatments and surgery. Body Scanning: Track your body composition and treatment progress with a 3D Body Scan by Styku!

­—40— SEP | OCT

1

LUX looks Fashion Trends

Leather SWEATER WEATHER

Editorial Director Lauren Barisic Clothing provided by Patrick James.

Vests are a fresh take on leather goods this season. Not to mention, this sleeveless piece is more versatile. It’ll easily transition you from day to night. Pair it with an equally wearable mock-neck zipped cardigan for a classic touch.

Leather high-top sneakers will give the look a contemporary vibe.

2

3

6

5

7

4

1. Reserve Connor Zip Cardigan $275.00 from www.patrickjames.com Calder Carmel Fine Line Stripe Sweater in Espresso $248.00 from www.patrickjames.com 2. Patrick James Plaid Flannel Shirt $175.00 from www.patrickjames.com 3. Patrick James Quilted Leather Vest in Brown $425.00 from www.patrickjames.com 4. Patrick James Melange Cashmere Cap in Jean $135.00 from www.patrickjames.com 5. Patrick James Corduroy Jeans in Sable $145.00 from www.patrickjames.com 6. Magnanni Bodhi Hi-Top Sneakers $450.00 from www.patrickjames.com 7. Marcoliani Electric Stripe Anklets in Light Blue Denim $29.50 from www.patrickjames.com

­—42— SEP | OCT

1

LUX looks Fashion Trends

Dapper & Moody

BLUES

2

Editorial Director Lauren Barisic Clothing provided by Patrick James.

Bring your favorite pieces together to create a dapper yet relaxed look.

A timeless windowpane blazer will be just as sophisticated with jeans as it would be with matching slacks. So, have fun with juxtaposed separates!

This refined color palette will ensure that you’ve achieved cultured style.

3

4 5

6

7

1. Robert Graham Airen Jeans $198.00 from www.patrickjames.com 2. Reserve Cashmere Scarf $195.00 from www.patrickjames.com 3. Reserve Windowpane Sport Coat $695.00 from www.patrickjames.com Patrick James Leaf Print Shirt $145.00 from www.patrickjames.com Patrick James Geometric Pocket Square $85.00 from www.patrickjames.com 4. Patrick James Marled Print Cashmere Sweater $385.00 from www.patrickjames.com 5. W. Kleinberg Alligator Patchwork Belt in Sky Multi $375.00 from www.patrickjames.com 6. Cole Haan Grand Ambition Chelsea Boots $200.00 from www.patrickjames.com 7. Kenton Michael Tan Blue Silver Double-Wrap Bracelet $165.00 from www.patrickjames.com

LOVE WHERE YOU LIVE

LAURA MATHER

Broker Associate Lic# 01155115

559.341.2476

JOE MATHER

Sales Associate Lic# 02046186

559.681.4906 Lic# 00463722

MatherMethod.com

TRENCH COAT BY BURBERRY SHIRT FROM WHITE CROSS COLLECTIONS SCARF FROM WHITE CROSS COLLECTIONS RING FROM JAMES’S OWN COLLECTION

MODERN

RENAISSANCE

MAN Features Editor Elisabeth Ross Photographer, Creative Director, Stylist & Groomer Jim Jordan Location White Cross Studios Producer White Cross Productions

Few actors have truly done it all the way James Brolin has.

One of Hollywood’s most eminent figures, the actor, director, and producer has been a force to be reckoned with in the film industry for over six decades. And he has no intention of slowing down anytime soon.

­—46— SEP | OCT

G

rowing up with an engineer father and an inherently creative mother, James’s own creativity was nurtured throughout his childhood. As he recalls, at the age of 10, “my grandmother gave me a Brownie camera—those little black square ones you’ll see.

I started being fascinated with not only that, but making my own cameras out of tape and cardboard.” He goes on to add, “I had a darkroom when I was 10 years old and then by 15 I graduated to film.” It was then that James started shooting films and realized that he wanted to be a filmmaker.

Musical arts were one of his earliest affinities. “I took up musical instruments, starting at seven.” However, “I never could remember if I didn’t play them all the time,” even if it was merely weeks later.

“Same with languages,” he adds, “both of which I just love. And I hate my brain for not being able to retain music and languages better because I learn them quickly and I forget them just as quick and always have.” However, he seems to have always been a fast learner—a skill that has served him especially well in terms of retaining new material, such as lines.

Already possessing a flair for acting, when James “was alone with my buddies, I would play Quasimodo and I would do characters and things in private, but that was all private.” In fact, for James, being in the presence of an unfamiliar audience was an entirely different story. In junior high and high school, if he was asked to present a book report in front of his class, paralyzing stage fright would leave him shaking in his seat, unable to complete the task at hand. It wasn’t memorizing lines that was an issue for him—it was getting the words out that left James stumped.

The opportunity to break that silence literally walked up to him one day. “It had to be somewhere near South West Hollywood or Beverly Hills where somebody stopped me,” recollects James.

“Said, ‘Would you be interested in being in a commercial?’ And I said, ‘Um, would I have to talk?’” he chuckles at this recollection. “‘Matter of fact, no. We just need you in a chambray shirt and cowboy hat driving a Dodge truck,’” the passerby responded. And this is how James went to work for BBD Commercial—he did two commercials for them and later one for Gallo wine. “All, basically, extemporaneous and not having to talk,” or, at least, nothing that made talking as issue.

Having already gotten his foot in the door, “I was about 18 when I started Santa Monica City College as a theater arts major.” Being able to choose a variety of classes across an array of subjects catered to his personality perfectly. “I was very fickle in my interests,” he admits. “I know a little bit about a lot of things, and I’m master at absolutely nothing.” James left city college and was able to start at University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) in the second year. “After a while, I was so bored,” confesses James.

It didn’t help that UCLA only offered theater. There was no film department, and James couldn’t get into University of Southern California’s film program.

Eventually, he wound up leaving UCLA. “My parents were starting to travel, and I went and followed them because there was a movie.”

He is referring to the production of the 1962 remake of Mutiny on the Bounty, which was filmed in Tahiti. A connection through his parents landed James the role of Marlon Brando’s son in the prologue and epilogue. “I was late 18 years old,” James recollects of what would go on to be his first, very memorable, major acting gig. “They changed directors three times. They got there in the middle of the monsoon season, so the town, everything was flooded. They had two barges that went 3,500 miles from MGM, with cameras and booms and stuff, all the way to Tahiti, which all just sat there for three months till the rain stopped. So, I waited and had a really good time in Tahiti!”

But as the saying goes, all good things must come to an end. “I had one year of fun, and I came home and started parking cars at Dino’s on the strip,” James says, referring to the Sunset Boulevard institution. He parked cars there for $42 a week and one meal a night out of the backdoor. This went on until an agent connection he’d made on the set of that Dodge commercial contacted him and sent James over to Fox. Although that gig didn’t manifest much, it did give James a means to pay for acting workshops. “I was literally at one almost five nights a week, a different one.” Just as the Outliers’ rule states, “I got my 10,000 hours in on stage, being humiliated, over and over, every night. Just humiliated! But I would do it, and I found out I didn’t die, you know?”

J

ames was finally shaking off the stage fright. “And the more I did it, not only the more proficient I got at it, but the more that horrible feeling started to go away.” Even nowadays, “when I start a new project, the first day is difficult, and after that, it just all goes away because I know what I do.” This seems to be especially true if the job still holds interest for him the next day. After all, the success of a project often lies in the harmonious collaboration of all those involved. “That’s kind of why I love this business,” he divulges.

“Because with the right crew and the right cast, it’s just amazing how giving and willing these people are.”

Initially, the set of Bus Stop didn’t exactly follow the nurturing directing style that James has honed over the years. “That first job was so difficult for me … I was used to being humiliated and then getting a check on Friday for it,” he laughs. There are many effective, tough directors out there, James acknowledges, but “I could never do anything but nurture the best out of people—I don’t have to demand it. I don’t think you get the best by demand, but sometimes you can get some pretty odd performances that film pretty well. It’s just not my way of doing it.”

James’s roles in Bus Stop and Follow the Sun, both in 1961, were only the beginning of an acting career that has been thriving practically non-stop since then, such that it spans across both the big screen and television. In 1970, he was recognized with the honor of Outstanding Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role in Drama Emmy® for his performance as Dr. Steven Kiley in the

PEACOAT FROM WHITE CROSS COLLECTIONS JEANS BY RALPH LAUREN SCARF FROM WHITE CROSS COLLECTIONS RING FROM JAMES’S OWN COLLECTION

SHIRT BY WRANGLER JEANS BY RALPH LAUREN SHOES FROM JAMES’S OWN COLLECTION SOCKS FROM JAMES’S OWN COLLECTION WATCH FROM JAMES’S OWN COLLECTION RING FROM JAMES’S OWN COLLECTION

­—50— SEP | OCT

I could never do anything but nurture the best out of people—I don’t have to demand it. I don’t think you get the best by demand, but sometimes you can get some pretty odd performances that film pretty well.

It’s just not my way of doing it.

pilot episode of Marcus Welby, M.D. The show also earned him two Golden Globe® awards for Best Supporting Actor in 1971 and 1973.

Adding to that, The Amityville Horror in 1979, 1973’s Westworld, and Traffic in 2000 are just a few of the most memorable movie performances of his career.

While he has done roughly 40 to 50 voice sample tapes, over just as many years, that were submitted for narration parts, the Netflix/DC Comics series Sweet Tooth is his first official credit in that realm. James stars as the integral narrator for the show, which also stars Will Forte and is produced by Robert Downey, Jr.

In fact, The Amityville Horror was quite the turning point for James’s career. “Then when I played the crazy guy, I mean, the nice family guy, who went nuts in Amityville, nobody knew what to do with me!” The movie was the highest grossing independent of all time back then, but the subsequent roles offered to him were, for the most part, not worthwhile—until the most prolific producer in television history got in touch.

“Robert Downey and Susan Downey called and said, ‘We decided that you are narrating Sweet Tooth.’ And I said, ‘Really? What is it about?’ And they said, ‘We can’t tell you.’ We couldn’t go down to the studio because of COVID, so they set up a portastudio, delivered outside. I set it up myself with the visual and earphone.”

The only thing he knew about the show came from seeing short clips on an iPad that was sent to him, and he actually watched the premiere alongside the rest of the world. The show has made it to Netflix’s top-ten most-watched English language originals list.

“Aaron Spelling called and said, ‘We’ll give him anything, whatever he desires, to be in Hotel.’ And I took it.” But, as it turned out, there was a contingency. “Part of my request was, ‘I want to direct.’

And he said, ‘Well after you’ve been here a year, we know we’re successful, you know the ropes. We’re going to do 22 shows this year, then at the start of next year, I’ll give you a chance to direct.’”

James spent that entire year watching every director, taking notes, doing director’s breakdowns, and observing the skilled actors and movie stars Spelling was known to cast.

H

e called me the second year … and said, ‘Okay, all right, your year’s up. You want to direct? We got three scripts already. Pick the one you like.’” The studio had been on the crew because they were spending too much time and, incidentally, money on long shooting days. James remembers that they’d start at 6:30 in the morning and go until 8:30 at night, sometimes even 10 or 10:30. “So, I picked one and I broke it down so well and the first day of shooting,” he fondly reminisces, “I sent everybody home at 3:00, saying I got everything I need.”

What’s more? “Nobody got bored because we were always moving fast.” As a director, he is keenly aware about not wasting anyone’s time and always finds ways to keep people interested and engaged.

James immediately got several more assignments directing shows for Spelling and eventually jumped over to Pensacola: Wings of Gold. This also went on to become his most prolific producing job—he’s credited as the executive producer for over 60 episodes from 1997 through 2000.

Having a career that has touched on so many different aspects of the film industry, it’s easier to list what James hasn’t done.

In a world altered by sickness, a newly emerged human-animal hybrid race takes center stage in Sweet Tooth, now in its second season. In many ways, Sweet Tooth alludes to the struggles of living in a pandemic-stricken world, the kind everyone is living in today. “Nobody wants to watch normal, really. They want to get rocked a little bit and so every movie starts with, ‘What if?’ And this is the artistic value in a creator or a director,” professes James. “‘How would each one of them resolve their differences or the decisions with the world or whatever?’ And, to me, every movie should start with just that, and then it can morph into whatever.

But it should start with that notion: ‘What if?’”

W

hen we used to leave the theater, on the way home in the car, we’d discuss the film all the way home. Now, you call your buddy and say, ‘I just saw a movie on HBO Max that you ought to see’ or you don’t.” This is how, James explains, the interactive element of moviegoing becomes somewhat lost. “Generally, everybody wants a real problem that gets resolved, and it has a happy ending, and you do understand what transpired, and that the characters grew up, and maybe you even grew up just watching it. I feel like movies are the best free shrink you can buy,” he believes. “A lot of people, and couples, won’t go to shrinks … But if they go to a movie that explains their situation,” James reasons, oftentimes, “suddenly their marriage is starting to get cohesive.” Considering that James and Barbra Streisand have been married for 23 years, it’s difficult to dispute his rationale. Truly a modern Renaissance man, and contrary to what he may believe, Brolin is a Jack, ahem, James of all trades and, indeed, a master of Hollywood.

SHIRT BY RALPH LAUREN JEANS BY RALPH LAUREN HAT FROM VINTAGE WHITE CROSS COLLECTIONS WATCH FROM JAMES’S OWN COLLECTION RING FROM JAMES’S OWN COLLECTION

ShopCVLUX.com Curated by the editors of CVLUX.

Sharp Dressed Man Explore the fashionable world of CVLUX.

Dapper men’s style is just a click away thanks to Shop CVLUX. Hone athleisure chic, business casual, dressy daywear, and formal tuxedo looks that cater to all aspects of your livelihood. Whether you’re in need of professional or personal wardrobe staples, discover how to perfect every outfit for every occasion. You’ll be living the LUXlife, head to toe, in everything from sportswear separates to three-piece suits.

Discover at shopCVLUX.com

­—53— SEP | OCT

men in business How do you measure success? It’s a subjective question, but following your dream and turning it into a livelihood is a good place to start.

54

Central Valley Ag Management, LLC TIM JONES HENK GRIFFIN

60

McCaffrey Homes BRENT McCAFFREY ASH KNOWLTON

56

Fresno Smile Makeovers SAM NAMDARIAN, DMD

62

Platinum Home Mortgage Corporation ELIAS DELGADO

These professionals have done just that. They have established careers that reflect their personal interests and goals, often while building families and giving back to their communities— major accomplishments by any measure.

58

Intrinsic LAWRENCE LUNA CHRISTOPHER FIFFE

64

United Health Centers of the San Joaquin Valley JUSTIN PREAS

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

men in business

CENTRAL VALLEY AG MANAGEMENT, LLC TIM JONES, OWNER & MANAGER HENK GRIFFIN, DIRECTOR OF FARMING

“It is only the farmer who faithfully plants seeds in the Spring, who reaps a harvest in Autumn.”

—B.C. Forbes

FRESNO, CALIFORNIA

V

alley Development Company, LLC (Riverstone Development LLC, San Joaquin River Ranch LLC, Riverstone Farms LLC) is proud to announce it is expanding its operations to include farm management through Central Valley Ag Management, LLC (CVAM). Tim Jones and Henk Griffin take on this new venture with an undeniable love for agriculture and what the Central Valley has provided for many, many years. Farming is one of the oldest professions, dating back through the centuries, and the fraction of the population engaged in farming is dwindling. However, farming is unique in the sense that while the number of farmers is decreasing, the world’s population, and the demand for food, is increasing.

NEW SERVICES WE ARE EXCITED TO OFFER Central Valley Ag Management, LLC is currently farming almonds, pistachios, oranges, and mandarins with big plans for the Central Valley. Henk Griffin, a 25-plus-year farming veteran and our proud Director of Farming, treats every acre and every crop as if it were his own. His commitment to growing the best crops is reflected in the enthusiastic spark in his eyes when he talks about his everyday activities and the crops he is producing.

As in everything Valley Development Company, LLC has done, our growers’ success is our success—the key to our mission.

WHAT WE LOVE ABOUT OUR PROFESSION For us, there is simply something mystical about farming.

There is great reward and satisfaction in seeing the crops being grown, nurtured, and harvested, especially knowing that what we harvest serves the nutritional needs of the world. CVAM’s highly trained staff is built on decades of experience and research, all designed to provide our clients with great service and great crops.

Location 265 East River Park Circle, Suite 310 Fresno, CA 93270 Email amanda@vdcllc.com ADVERTISEMENT

men in business

FRESNO SMILE MAKEOVERS

A better smile, a better you.

SAM NAMDARIAN, DMD DENTIST & OWNER FRESNO, CALIFORNIA

F

resno Smile Makeovers offers solutions to unattractive or crooked teeth with a variety of treatments and procedures that address everything from poor alignment to discoloration. We are dedicated to providing all of our patients with excellent care, and we are confident that you will leave our office smiling. Our primary goal is to improve our friends’ and neighbors' smiles, while utilizing the latest, most cutting-edge technology.

HOW DENTISTRY IS LIKE ART Cosmetic dentistry is an art, just like painting or sculpture. I need to see and know the end result before any work is started.

After collecting all the dental records, such as x-rays, digital scans, photos, and impressions, a wax-up model is designed and produced based on the facial structure, lip position, and smile line. The wax-up model is used as a blueprint to make the provisional models. Cosmetic dentistry is mainly involved in the appearance of teeth and enhancement of smile. The emphasis is on the art of dentistry along with the science.

WHAT DREW ME TO COSMETIC DENTISTRY I love dentistry. Every day is a new opportunity for me to understand my patients’ concerns and needs by talking with them and visualizing the outcome. Cosmetic dentistry has helped me listen better, pay more attention to my patients, be more sensitive to what my patients like or dislike, and gives me a better understanding of how I can enhance the total health of my community. It makes a better smile for the patient and a better me as a healthcare provider, and gives me more strength to keep up with the high standards needed for dental skills.

THE FIRST STEP IN GETTING A GREAT NEW SMILE We will schedule a cosmetic consultation, where we will attentively listen to our patients’ main cosmetic concerns and work to achieve their wishes. Each case starts with complete photography of the patient’s teeth. I review the pictures with them and always try to give them alternative treatments that they can choose from.

Visit Fresno Smile Makeovers' site at: www.fresnosmilemakeovers.com Location 7770 North Fresno Street, Suite 105 Fresno, CA 93720 Email info@fresnosmilemakeovers.com Phone 559.431.1772 Follow @SamNamdarianDMD @SamNamdarianDMD @samnamdariandmd_fresno_dentist ADVERTISEMENT

men in business

We do what we do to make others feel better, that’s what makes us Intrinsic.

INTRINSIC LAWRENCE LUNA & CHRISTOPHER FIFFE, OWNERS FRESNO, CALIFORNIA

I

ntrinsic was born just over five years ago out of a need for something different. Both being at a place where they knew the industry needed to be elevated and viewed in a different way, Lawrence and Christopher wanted to bring together the most original team of hairstylists, who could be free to be exactly who they were, and for them to be given the opportunity to portray their art in their own unique way. A dream inspired Lawrence to call the salon Intrinsic, and when he looked up the definition (belonging naturally; essential), he and Christopher knew it perfectly suited their ideal.

WHO WE ARE Intrinsic is a full-service hair salon that offers a full range of haircare services from a unique and diverse group of talented stylists. We believe in supporting small local businesses and showcasing a variety of artists within our creative workspace.

We are an all-inclusive salon that encourages people to be their true, authentic selves.

OUR BIGGEST ACCOMPLISHMENT Surviving 2020 during the pandemic. In September 2019, we expanded and moved into our new salon home, not knowing that in March 2020 we would face our first shut down. Our core is still intact after being closed for just over six months, and we are proud to say we are stronger than ever thanks to the amazing support of our salon family.

WHAT MAKES HAIRCARE SO PERSONAL We’re more than just hairdressers—we have the ability to touch and change the lives of people from all walks of life.

We become an extension of our clients’ families, just like they are an extension of ours. From special occasions to sickness, sometimes we are the only people who can listen without judgment, and we’re here to help you through it all.

THE BRANDS WE TRUST Our full array of haircare can be tailored specifically to each individual who comes through our doors. We proudly carry exclusive, luxury haircare, such as Kérastase and Bumble and bumble. For those clients who have severe allergies, we offer Loma, which is gluten free.

WHAT’S TRENDING WITH HAIR We believe that each individual client has the ability to BE the trend. With tailored haircare services and attention to detail, we can transform each person into the best version of themselves.

Set in a luxurious setting, we have someone for everyone.

Relax and indulge while our staff washes the cares of the world away.

Visit Intrinsic’s site at: www.intrinsicsalon.com Location 1158 East Champlain Drive, Suite 101 Fresno, CA 93720 Email lawrenceluna69@gmail.com christopherfiffe@hotmail.com Phone 559.434.0843 Follow @lawrenceluna69 @christopherfiffe ADVERTISEMENT

men in business

MCCAFFREY HOMES

Rise and Shine, It’s Building Time!

LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE AT TESORO VIEJO FRESNO, CALIFORNIA

F

amily business can be the best business. Just ask Brent McCaffrey, who grew up in the homebuilding business and Ash Knowlton, who joined 15 years ago after marrying Brent’s sister, Lauren. The brothers-in-law share the drive of college athletes – Brent played football for USC and Ash played basketball for Portland State – and the love of homebuilding. Together they have helped to create the vibrant Tesoro Viejo, Madera County’s newest, award-winning master-planned community.

THREE GENERATIONS OF HOME BUILDERS The business started with Brent’s grandfather John Bonadelle, a pioneer in the homebuilding industry, who would say, “Rise and shine, it’s building time!” He emphasized the importance of hard work, integrity, and keeping your word. Brent’s parents, Bob and Karen McCaffrey, started McCaffrey Homes, the builder of more than 10,000 homes over the last 45 years.

Now their son and son-in-law are continuing the tradition of strong homebuilding.

DESIGN & INNOVATION To promote active and healthy lifestyles, we build communities that feature open space for parks, trails, and recreational amenities. Our homes provide flexible space for fitness, work, and family time. McCaffrey Homes incorporates designs that fit every lifestyle with three distinct collections of new home designs offered at Tesoro Viejo – including the Altura and Ivy collections, as well as the soon-to-be-introduced Savanna collection.

WHAT SETS US APART We’re passionate about homebuilding and know that “home” matters as your sanctuary and retreat. “Built for a Lifetime” means more than quality homes built to last; it’s also about a tradition of family pride and craftsmanship. We’re proud that for three generations, thousands of Central Valley residents have turned to us as their trusted home builder.

Ash Knowlton, President of Construction and Brent McCaffrey, President, the third generation leaders of local family homebuilder McCaffrey Homes.

Tesoro Viejo’s Ranch House Clubhouse/Recreation Center provides a resort lifestyle in a masterfully planned community.

Visit McCaffrey Homes site at: www.mccaffreyhomes.com Location 7020 N. Van Ness Blvd.

Fresno, CA 93711

McCaffrey Homes offers luxury living at Tesoro Viejo.

Follow @McCaffreyHomes @McCaffreyHomes @McCaffreyHomes @McCaffreyHomes ADVERTISEMENT

men in business

PLATINUM HOME MORTGAGE CORPORATION

Never dream of success.

Work for it.

ELIAS DELGADO, BRANCH MANAGER FRESNO, CALIFORNIA

I

have a passion for lending.

I started my career working at local credit unions, banks, and then I jumped to the non-profit sector, working at the Fair Housing Council of Central California, a HUD Certified non-profit, and other non-profit organizations that helped people modify their loans for free. During this time my focus shifted, and it became clear that I wanted to assist others with their dream of owning a home and be a different mortgage banker—someone who can make a small difference in our community and the people’s lives I touch. Platinum Home Mortgage Corporation offers customized mortgage solutions for all homebuyers. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, buying your dream home, or interested in refinance, I’m here to help.

THREE WORDS THAT BEST DESCRIBE ME Adventurous. Passionate. Creative.

WHAT I LOVE ABOUT MY PROFESSION As an essential community service, home loans contribute to a larger purpose and help people achieve the American Dream.

THE SECRET TO MY SUCCESS A strong will—no great work can be done without toil and effort. Always insist on being successful before taking up the work. Any successful person will tell you that while other people were waiting, they were climbing.

MY SPECIALTY I specialize in custom mortgage solutions, particularly with new construction homes—I work with builders all over California, from San Diego to Redding, and work with various realtor partners throughout the state of California.

WHAT MOTIVATES ME I have always wanted to ensure that our clients get the best customer service possible. I feel it's important, not only to me personally but also for Platinum and our clients, to provide a positive customer experience that creates a relationship for life. We have clients who come back to us again and again—they’re ready for their second house, refinancing, or their dream vacation home.

NMLS ID# 929189 Platinum Home Mortgage Corporation, 5200 North Palm Avenue, Suite 209, Fresno, CA 93704 (847)797-9500. NMLS ID #13589.

For licensing information, go to www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org.

Visit Elias’ site at: www.delgadoloans.com Location 5200 North Palm Avenue, Suite 209 Fresno, CA 93704 Email elias.delgado@phmc.com Phone 559.287.4760 ADVERTISEMENT

men in business

UNITED HEALTH CENTERS OF THE SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY JUSTIN PREAS, DEPUTY CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Work hard and good things will happen.

FRESNO, CALIFORNIA

W

hen I began my journey with United, I was pleased to discover the close connections we had with each community, some dating back to our grassroots origins. Even as we celebrate our 50th year, we still emphasize the importance of advocacy in new communities unfamiliar with our name. As a native Fresnan with family ties to rural cities and as a Bulldog alumnus, I can truly appreciate the resources we allocate to our underserved communities. While I get great satisfaction in the hard work we do constructing beautiful health centers, it is serving everyone with meaningful visits that matters most to me.

WHAT MOTIVATES ME Motivation is working with like-minded leaders and business partners who place hard work and quality at the forefront of their efforts to provide accessible care to everyone. Together we have assembled beautiful new facilities where everyone knows that they are receiving the best in healthcare services from those who truly care.

WHAT I AM THANKFUL FOR I am thankful that the nation has come to realize the value of quality healthcare for everyone. The Affordable Care Act has provided the essential tools necessary for our leadership team of strategic thinkers to craft our healthcare system to exceed the expectations of those we serve.

HOW I MEASURE SUCCESS I often measure success by knowing the decisions I make are based in the confidence I have in our core values, which are linked directly to our vision and mission. I really measure the success of the organization on how we make people feel, both our customers (patients) and our employees.

We take great pride in our warm and welcoming health center design.

Multiple locations help make our services easily available.

Visit United Health Centers’ site at: www.unitedhealthcenters.org Location 3875 West Beechwood Avenue Fresno, CA 93722 Email preasj@unitedhealthcenters.org Phone 559.646.6618 Follow @United Health Centers @unitedhealthcenters ADVERTISEMENT

LIQUID Amber

Editorial Director Lauren Barisic Photographer Don Dizon

Care for a dram? A shot? A nightcap? Make it a whiskey. This tawny tradition has remained the pride and joy of the mountainous southern states for generations in spite of many challenges, such as prohibition. The Prohibition Era ushered in the practice and popularity of cocktails in the 1920s, which gave way to the art of mixology.

The modern cocktail insurgence has left many interested in the novel, rather than the familiar, cocktail, and this array of liquid amber concoctions gracefully waves at a handful of classic whiskey libations with contemporary, zesty twists. With cold nights now upon us, warm yourself with this selection of local whiskey drinks from some of the Central Valley’s hottest haunts.

Elderwood

Slow Departure | $14 Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Dolin Red Vermouth, Amaro Averna, González Byass Sherry, and Bittercube Cherry BarkVanilla Bitters.

References to a Manhattan are clear, but this drink deviates with the addition of amaro, an altered ration of vermouth, and the inversion of its cherry and orange components. A micro clothes pin anchors the rind, its essence, of which, are expelled across the coupe’s surface.

­—68— SEP | OCT

LUX locale Whiskey Cocktail Guide

Vino Grille & Spirits Kick It Up Old Fashion | $13

Rebel Yell Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Angostura Aromatic Bitters, sugar cube, house-brandied cheer, and flamed orange.

What makes this Old-Fashioned unique is the layering of flavors, so as to not let the spirits be diluted with shaking and stirring.

Each drink is finished with a hand-flamed orange peel as well as a house-made brandied cherry, both of which rest atop a giant ice ball.

Quail State Group Hug | $15

Rye, bourbon, Oloroso, Amaro CioCiarro, and Carpano Botanic Bitter.

A slew of original concoctions rotates on the new establishment’s ever-changing menu. Hickory chips smoked into the glass and a jumbo ice cube hand-stamped with the Quail State logo serve as the perfect backdrop for this drink, which features both rye and bourbon.

­—69— SEP | OCT

LUX locale

Whiskey Cocktail Guide

Max’s Bistro & Bar Bullardier | $11

Basil Hayden’s Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Campari, Cocchi Vermouth di Torino, and orange bitters.

Essentially a Boulevardier, this local version nods at the street and high school for which it’s named and dons a dehydrated citrus slice instead of the traditional rind. A lovely sipper, the luscious red amber color is made all the more striking against a single large ice cube.

The Lime Lite

Blackberry Sour | $12 Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, house-made blackberry syrup, and fresh lemon and lime juices.

This ingenious take on the Whiskey Sour uses a house-made blackberry syrup, instead of the traditional simple syrup, which is also the source of its seductive fuchsia shade. A black cherry garnish seamlessly complements the cocktail. It goes down easy and beckons you to leisurely savor each and every sip.

13 Prime Steak Triple Crown | $15

Michter’s Straight Rye Whiskey, Ferrand Cognac 1840 Original Formula, Amaro Montenegro, honey, and fresh lemon and grapefruit juices.

Inspired by two classics, the Sidecar and Brown Derby, this peach hued drink is perfectly chilled and garnished with an orange twist.

The cocktail is fine and balanced, a refreshing blend of rye and cognac—spice on the lead, tart on its heels, and smooth at the finish.

ADVERTISEMENT

The best of the Central Valley—anytime, anywhere.

CVLUX.COM Print • Digital • Social @ C V LU X

­—72— SEP | OCT

LUX lifestyle Horoscopes

COSTARS Astrologer Shari Schopp @shari_starlight www.eyeonastrology.com

Virgo

Libra

August 23rd to September 22nd

In the next few months, frustrations may run high when things don’t turn out perfectly. Setting clear intentions will help strategize a better path and expand the creative project in development.

Virgo is all about integration. Her symbolic maiden, the goddess of the harvest, transitions us from summer to fall. This mutable earth sign brings order out of chaos. Utilize its analytical, discriminating, and practical approach to find solutions. Detox your mind, body, and soul using herbal wraps, fasting, and steam baths.

September 23rd to October 23rd

Aquarius

This fall, Librans will find an innate inner balance that brings ideas and dreams to fruition. Being clear about what you need to do will allow creative vision to progress. This cardinal air sign marks a turning point on the calendar: the autumn equinox—equal day and night. Aptly represented by the scales, it also embodies diplomacy and justice, and has faith in the power of relationships and the force of attraction.

Pamper yourself with sugar body scrubs, lomilomi massage, and facials to reinforce equilibrium.

January 20th to February 18th

Scorpio

October 24th to November 21st

Effy 14K White Gold, Sapphire & Diamond Cufflinks $5,875.00 from www.saksoff5th.com

When things are not going as planned, focus on the process without going on the defense. Dotting your Is and crossing your Ts allows you to adjust and build resilience.

Sagittarius

November 22nd to December 21st

Engage in self-reflection, contemplation, and patience to unlock your ideas.

Renewed optimism will reward your vision of utilizing your unique skills to make the world a better place.

Capricorn

December 22nd to January 19th

Put effort into physical activities that can help you better focus on finding space for other interests. A new cycle is emerging for building a life that aligns with your dreams and aspirations.

Be ready, as things may come rushing once they start rolling. Trust the inner wisdom gained from the past to build momentum for pursuing your purpose.

Pisces

February 19th to March 20th

Introspection and healing waters will reconnect you to the source, awakening a sense of magic and imagination. This interactivity will implement new ideas in a practical manner. Trust your intuition.

Aries

March 21st to April 19th

As part of your learning process, take steps toward being diplomatic and collaborate with others. Pursuing this path will energize you and inspire a sense of self while taking risks.

Taurus

April 20th to May 20th

Search outside your comfort zone to balance yourself and find resolutions.

A reset of well-being and health routine invites opportunities for sensual, luxurious experiences for healing.

Gemini

May 21st to June 21st

To move forward from inaction or delays, network with friends for motivation and compromise to move beyond the roadblocks. Pace yourself to finish projects or refocus on completing them to feel better.

Cancer

June 22nd to July 22nd

Create a home sanctuary for reflection, document your feelings, and set healthy boundaries. Incorporating these actions will lay the groundwork for future gratification.

Leo

July 23rd to August 22nd

A reality check is needed for opportunities and future rewards. Hard work and inner focus will bring clarity to see the big picture. Find others who share your drive and enthusiasm.

LEARN MORE kaweahhealth.org/awards