HisMagazine-Nov/Dec-2011 by Greg Richburg

H I S

M A G A Z I N E

The Official Start to the Holiday Party Season

THE STATE OF THE ARTS

P A G E

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N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R

FALLTINI 2011

C O N T E N T S

GET READY TO RIDE An Interview with Klaus Wohlfarth

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS The Christmas We Shared Apart

2 0 1 1

A WINNING COMBINATION A Candid Interview with Head Coach Rodney Terry

ON TREND Hot Holiday Fashion for Men and Women

Letters to the Editor: We want to hear from you. Please submit letters to: HiS Magazine, 351 W. Cromwell Ave. #108, Fresno CA, 93711 or e-mail to: hismagazine@1430espn.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 hismagazine@1430espn.com. Please allow six to eight weeks for a response. HiS Magazine is not responsible for unsolicited material. HiS Magazine is published bi-monthly by Fat Dawgs 7 Broadcasting LLC, 351 W. Cromwell, Ste. 108, Fresno, CA 93711. Copyright 2008 by Fat Dawgs Broadcasting, 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. HiS Magazine 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 Fat Dawgs 7 Broadcasting LLC and cannot be used or reproduced without permission in writing. Fat Dawgs 7 Broadcasting, LLC is not responsible for the opinions expressed within this publication. Prices quoted in advertisements are subject to change without notice.

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PUBLISHER Fat Dawgs 7 Broadcasting LLC MANAGING PARTNER Chris Pacheco EDITOR-IN-CHIEF David J. Manning GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Corby Cupp Felipe Hernandez EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Joyia Sandoval CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Guy Haberman Hammer Caleb Iness Dina Juve Valerie Nevens DeLaine Nikaido Ciara Norton Nick Papagni Monique Runge SENIOR FASHION STYLIST Ruthie Inocencio FAHION PHOTOGRAPHER Isaac Riley PHOTOGRAPHERS Chris Hernandez Eddie Melikian Julian Rivera TRAFFIC COORDINATORS Amanda Aduddell Jorge Soto ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Kathy Simonian ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Renee Adair Greg Lemon Richard B. Smith PROMOTIONS DIRECTOR Justin Cruz ACCOUNTING MANAGER Shannon Standifer MAIN OFFICE 351 W. Cromwell, Suite 108 Fresno, CA 9711 559.447.3570 ADVERTSING kathy@1430espn.com EMPLOYMENT resume to: info@1430espn.com

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011

A Note From The Editor Tradition [truh-dish-uh n] the handing down of statements, beliefs, legends, customs and information from generation to generation.

Traditionsâ&#x20AC;Ś we all have them, and there is something about the holidays which has a tendency to bring them out. When I was younger my family would go every year to midnight mass. I remember sitting restlessly as I counted the crystals on the gothic chandeliers which towered over my head. I would do anything to avoid actually being active during the service. All I was concerned with was Santa and all the toys which were waiting to be unwrapped. My sister and I would sleep in the same room (and I use the term sleep very loosely) counting down the hours until the appropriate time came to rouse our parents from their slumber. Then we would sit under the tree and divide the packages between the two of us. I of course always had a few more since I was the babyâ&#x20AC;Ś itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s funny how that has a tendency of working out. Over the years our traditions have changed. The presents have become fewer and the activities more abundant. It becomes clear over the years that the true gift each holiday season is time; time with your family and friends, making memories which carry more value than any cashmere sweater, diamond pendant or stuffed toy ever could. So I encourage you this year to make your own traditions, celebrate with family and friends, and by all means embrace the true meaning of the season. Happy Holidays and best wishes for the coming New Year.

David J. Manning Editor-in-Chief

Mission Statement The mission of HIS Magazine is to enrich, inform and educate the population. We are fashion forward, politically active, socially aware and culturally diverse. We promise to be current, radical, and constantly evolving. We welcome a challenge, insist on excellence and always strive to be above the crowd. When you invest in HIS Magazine you are choosing a lifestyle, a brand which represents superiority in print and marketing; a solid choice for your future, your business and your family.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011

A D V E R T I S E M E N T

LOCAL

NOVEMBER 3

Arthop. The first Thursday of every month, galleries, studios and museums across Downtown Fresno and the Tower District are packed with Valley art lovers for this monthly event. Here’s your chance to talk with local artists, meet new friends and take a peek at the art the Valley has to offer. Free admission. 5-8 p.m. Multiple locations. For more information please visit www.fresnoarthop.org.

Game Day Live: Fresno State vs. Louisiana Tech - Home Game.

Saint Agnes Foundation- Associate Fashion Show. Fashionistas from around the Valley will enjoy a night of glamour with the Saint Agnes Associates Fashion’s Night Out. Guests will take a peek at the season’s latest fashion trends featuring Fresno’s finest boutiques and retailers with hair and makeup by top local professional stylists and artists. This Fashion and Entertainment Event hits the runway at the Fresno Convention Center Ernest E. Valdez Hall. Proceeds from the event benefits Saint Agnes Holy Cross Center for Women in downtown Fresno. Tickets can be purchased online. For more information, call the Saint Agnes Foundation (559) 450-2040.

Nunsensations! The Nunsense Vegas Revue. This comedy musical takes the sisters on a brand new adventure. When a parishioner volunteers to donate $10,000 to the sisters’ school if they will perform in a club in Las Vegas, Mother Superior is hesitant to accept. But you know what they say, “What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas!” Roger Rocka’s Dinner Theatre. For tickets and showtimes, please visit www.rogerrockas.com or call (559) 266-9494.

Winter Jam Tour Spectacular 2011. Don’t miss the first time the Winter Jam Tour comes to Fresno! At the Save Mart Center. This Christian music festival features Newsboys, Kutless, Matthew West, RED, Fireflight, Newsong and KJ-52. 6 p.m. $10 admission. No advance purchase needed.

The Fresno Chaffee Zoo presents Safari Night beginning at 6 p.m. All ages are invited to attend this fundraising event that will end at midnight. All proceeds will go towards the new Sea Lion Cove exhibit coming soon.

Zoo Lights. This winter-time spectacular event features our Zoo full of brightly lit zoo themed lighting, entertainment from around the community, brilliantly decorated holiday trees, warm and toasty refreshments all the while enjoying the Zoo after dark. Visitors will enjoy the festivities while strolling along the Zoo’s pathways. Runs FridaySunday every weekend. 5-8 p.m. Admission: Zoo entrance fee. For more information visit www.fresnochaffeezoo.org.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011

EVENTS GUIDE

George Lopez. The comedian returns to Fresno’s Save Mart Center this year for another show full of jokes, laughter and fun. Friday, Nov. 25, 2011 at 7:00 p.m. For more information and ticket prices please visit www.savemartcenter.com.

Game Day Live: Fresno State Bulldogs vs. San Jose State - Home Game

DECEMBER 1

Beauty & The Beast, Junior, California Arts Academy will bring the Disney classic to stage this holiday season for six performances. Dancing and singing furniture fill the stage with thrills in this beloved fairy tale about two people learning how to love. Dec. 2-11, 2011 at the Cal Arts Blackstone Theatre. Tickets: $10 advances/$12 day of show. To order tickets please call (559)-222-6539. For more information please visit www.calartsacademy.com

Game Day Live: Fresno State Bulldogs vs. San Diego State - Away Game.

The 89th Annual Christmas Tree Lane. Van Ness Boulevard is transformed into a magical Christmas Wonderland! This longtime tradition of Fresno gives the community a chance to see a spectacular light display over the course of almost 2 miles of homes.

Runs Dec. 3-25, 2011 Sunday-Thursday, 6-10 p.m. & Friday-Saturday, 6-11 p.m. Walk night ONLY: Dec. 3 & 13. Steve Aoki. The worlds most iconic Producer/DJ, Steve Aoki, will perform at The Rainbow Ballroom to bring Fresno the biggest dance party yet. Doors open at 8 p.m. 16+ to dance & 21+ to drink. Clovis Children’s Electric Christmas Parade. This is one of the most eagerly anticipated events of the year. Children, adults, animals and floats make their way through Old Town Clovis. Parade participants have only one rule - the must be decorated with lights. The very last marcher is the great one himself - Santa Claus! Saturday, Dec. 3, 2011. Downtown Clovis. Admission is free.

A Most Wonderful Christmas. The best part of the holiday season is the music. Fresno Community Concert Band will host a Christmas concert at the Tower Theatre for everyone to enjoy their favorite holiday songs. 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Tickets: $10 general admission/$5 for children 12 and under. Tickets are available from Murphy Bank at Fig Garden Village. Please ask for Diane Esparza (559)-225-0225.

Adam Carolla Hates the Holiday. Looking for a good laugh this holiday season? Packed with humor and laughter, come see one of Hollywood’s favorite comedian at the Tower Theatre this Christmas season. 8:00 p.m. Ticket prices: $33.50 & $43.50

82nd Annual Christmas Parade in downtown Fresno. Celebrate the holiday season by visiting downtown Fresno and watch a number of Holiday floats make their way through the streets. This annual tradition is the perfect outing to jumpstart the holiday season. For more information please visit www.fresno.gov/ parade.

Crescent Arts and Music Festival. Visit one of Fresno’s hidden gems, Fulton 55 to celebrate contemporary arts and music. Featuring performances by The Musical Art Quintet and Eva Scow & The Jazz Collective. Art displays will showcase the work of local valley artists. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Tickets: $15-$25.

JANUARARY 11

My Fair Lady. Don’t miss the Broadway musical classic, My Fair Lady, coming to Fresno as part of the Broadway in Fresno 2011-2012 Season! Based on Shaw’s play and Pascal’s movie “Pygmalion,” with book music and lyrics by Lerner and Loewe, My Fair Lady is triumphant. Wednesday, Jan. 11-12, 2012 at 7:30 p.m. at William Saroyan Theatre. Tickets range from $30.00- $52.50.

Annie. The classic story of orphan Annie and Daddy Warbucks comes to life this holiday season at the Veterans Memorial Auditorium. A show for all ages, Annie is a memorable story that will stay with the audience forever. Dec. 9-18. Tickets are available at www.cmtworks.org.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011

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| SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER ISSUE

mber 24, 2011 • 6pm - 10pm e t p e s y a d r u sat

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011

ADVERTORIAL

GET READY TO RIDE By: Nick Papagni

The RaceRoom in River Park is one of a kind. In fact Fresno has the first RaceRoom in the Country. Yes FRESNO! The RaceRoom is a new concept and all you racing fans out there are going to love it. Most professional racecar drivers, that race, are usually born into the sport. If you are good at football, baseball or basketball, colleges will usually find you. Where do you go if you want to be a racecar driver? The PAG METER says start out at the RaceRoom in River Park. The owner Klaus Wohlfarth has brought the RaceRoom to Fresno for all you racecar fans. I got to sit down with Klaus Wohlfarth who is from Germany and opened the RaceRoom in River Park. Nick Papagni: What is the RaceRoom? Klaus Wohlfarth: RaceRoom offers extraordinary entertainment for young and old - no matter if you are racing against colleagues, friends, family, classmates or club members. Daring overtaking maneuvers and hard fights for positions in the game guarantee the ultimate adrenaline rush. Besides the thrilling virtual racing the RaceRoom lounge offers a pleasant atmosphere where players and visitors can relax from the adrenaline kicks with food and drinks or discuss the ideal racing line and optimal driving techniques while watching the live racing action from the simulators. NP: Would the RaceRoom be a great place for Birthday parties for your son or daughter? KW: Absolutely. Just call us and get all info. We love groups! Our staff will be ready to make your birthday experience very special!

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011

NP: How close is the RaceRoom to real racing? KW: It is the virtual racing experience in high class simulators multiple players can compete against each other in virtual live races on some of the most thrilling race circuits from around the world. It feels like a real race car,” And the real attraction is that we’re connecting up to 24 simulators in a network and offer an opportunity that people are racing against each other.” The simulators let players pick their own race route, and you also have dozens of options when it comes to the color and model of race car you pick. NP: I brought my daughter Gianna in and we raced against each other and she crushed me! It is very addicting. I can’t wait to go back! I felt like I really raced a real car when I was done! We had the best time! KW: This is one thing that is so fun about it. You will want to come back and race. You will want to get better and better. The better racecar drivers have to study and know the race track. The beginners always go way to fast and have problems turning the car. This is real racing and not an arcade! NP: When you go off the track it really feels like you went off the track! You feel it in your seat and the sounds is like you are in a race car! KW: That was the concept of the RaceRoom. We wanted you to feel as close to a real race car as you can get. Race bucket seats and high end steering wheels, integrated with a widescreen display system and immersive sound catapults the players straight into the world of racing. The RaceRoom software features more than 600 cars and 49 world famous racing circuits.

ADVERTORIAL

HOURS Monday-Thursday: Friday: Saturday: Sunday:

11:00 am - 9:00 pm 11:00 am - 11:00 pm 10:00 am - 11:00 pm 11:00 am - 7:00 pm

ADDRESS 80 El Camino, Fresno, CA 93720 PHONE 559.439.7223 www.raceroom-fresno.com

NP: When Gianna and I were done racing it lasted at least 20 minutes. We were exhausted I felt like I really got out of a racecar. ….. KW: That’s a great point; you don’t realize how tough it is to be a racecar driver. You focus so hard on the race and it drains you competing. It is very challenging at the RaceRoom. We wanted the feel that you are actually racing in a racecar. NP: If you want to race with a group of friends can you all race against each other? KW: Yes we love when a group comes in for some good old fashion racing with friends. Just come on in and our friendly staff will set you up with a race. You can always call and reserve a time. NP: What if you come in by yourself can you still race?

NP: A great thing if you are racing and you crash the car, you are not going to get hurt! KW: Yes we wanted the racers to feel what it would be like going off the track at high speeds. The sound and the steering wheel will be just as hard to hold on too and controlling the car. Being a real racecar driver is very expensive. They can go the RaceRoom and won’t have to get a bill for damaging a real racecar!

NP: In Fresno this is a big racing town. We have some great history here in the valley. Did you have any idea when you Takes Reservations thought about coming to Walk-Ins Welcome Fresno?

Good For Groups Good For Kids

Our Menu Qualifying Extras: Chicken Strips, Freschetta Pizza, German Soft Pretzel, French Fries, Green Salad, Fruit Cups ..... High Performance Salads: Grilled or Breaded Chicken Breast.... International Race Sausages: German Bratwurst, German Knackwurst, European Chicken, Italian Smoked, Spanish Chicken, Portuguese Linguica, All American Beef...

KW: It is a town of car people. I definitely knew all about Fresno and the history of racing here in the Valley. NP: Are there more RaceRoom’s going in? KW: We are opening up a RaceRoom about every two week’s this year. 18 locations in Europe and we started in 2007. Germany is a large market and I think Fresno is the perfect location for a new brand of racers! Racing is something that once people try they love! The RaceRoom is a place where you will want to come back!

KW: Yes absolutely, we will set you up racing Checkered Flag Desserts: against the NP: I have to say being the simulators Chocolate Molten Cake, a beginner with my Gourmet Bakery, Fresh baked and a daughter Gianna we Cookies beautiful race had no idea what we track from were doing. We both somewhere have never raced before around the world. There are so many and I have to say your staff made fantastic simulators to choose from. us feel so welcome and walked us thru everything. They stayed with NP: How about leagues? Will the us and showed us how to work the RaceRoom set up weekly leagues? car. I thought that was wonderful. KW: Yes we will. The RaceRoom will The PAG METER recommends have different leagues and this is a way that all athletes in the Valley to go to compete against the best! We will be have some fun and head over to the able to compete with other RaceRoom RaceRoom in River Park! locations...

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011

GUY haberman Interviews Kevin Olekaibe Fresno State sophomore guard Kevin Olekaibe (pronounced “O-laykey-bay”) joined The Guy Haberman Show to talk about his basketball team, his new bulk, and his new coach.

Guy Haberman: Counting players, coaches, the trainer and the team manager - new guys outnumber returning guys on this team – did that first practice or workout feel like a completely different team to you? Kevin Olekaibe: Yea it felt like a different team, a different atmosphere – a whole new energy. Everyone’s getting along and we’re just riding together right now and working hard. GH: What’s the biggest change for you, going into you going into your second season, when you compare it to your first? KO: I think the biggest difference is I’m in good shape. We spent a lot of hours running and get ting in s hape as a t eam and on our own... GH: How much has your bench press max improved? KO: My max last year was 195 and this year its 240… GH: Wow… you happy with that? KO: Yea I’m very happy with that; I see a big improvement on the court with my strength.

(both). I’m just looking to be a leader, me and (Steven) Shepp have to be leaders and generals on the floor at the same time so I can’t wait for that opportunity. GH: If you had to use one word to describe the identity of this team what would it be? KO: I would say “tough.” We’re going to be a tougher team this year. On the ball, up the court, on defense and on offense. We’re looking to score quickly and just run. GH: How has that toughness been established in practice? KO: We’ve accomplished some of it… Coach Terry is a tough coach and he’s making us tough too, I think we’ve done a great job with that. We’re not really big down low with our post guys so everyone has to help out and have each other’s back.

GH: What do you know now that you’d want to tell the freshman version of yourself to look out for? KO: I think it’d be the pace. The way the game is supposed to be played. Usually I play everything fast and not think, but Coach Terry has helped me a lot with that. Slow down and play the game with-in the game. GH: When the WAC preseason polls came out you guys were picked 6th in one, 7th in the other. Is that something you guys pay attention to, do you notice? Do you use it for motivation at all? KO: We use it as motivation, but we also don’t pay attention to it because only we know what we’re doing and what we’re going through and how we’re becoming a better team so we’ll just wait and see.

“We’re going to be a tougher team this year.”

GH: Why, are you pushing guys around now? KO: I’m starting to.

GH: How long did it take before Rodney Terry yelled at you for the first time? KO: I don’t remember but he yells at everybody, he gets on everybody. He treats every player the same.

GH: Have you been dunked on in practice yet? KO: No, I haven’t been dunked on.

GH: That’s good though… so you haven’t been late for anything… KO: No, no, no, I’m on time for everything.

GH: Because you stay out of that area? KO: I’m really not in that area because of the way we have our guards set up on defense… unless I’m blocking out. But I haven’t been dunked on yet…and don’t plan to.

GH: What’s Rodney Terry’s biggest pet peeve – w hat’s t he t hing t hat y ou k now w ill set him off? KO: Not being tough probably… and not following directions. One thing that makes him mad is if he writes it down for you, if he shows you what he wants, and you go out there and don’t do it…

GH: Last year you played some point-guard and shooting-guard – what’s your roll like this year - will it be the same? KO: It’s going to be the same; I’ll play

GH: That’s the fastest way out of the game… KO: Basically yes.

GH: Who brought it up? KO: The coaches brought it up once… but that was all. GH: Who is your favorite person to follow or read on Twitter? KO: I’d have to say Kevin Durant. GH: Have you asked Rodney Terry about Kevin Durant? KO: Yes I have… a lot of times. GH: What do you ask him? KO: I ask him if he’s going to get Kevin Durant to come down here to play with us… he says he’s going to work on it.

continues on page 20 >> NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011

GUY HABERMAN Interviews Kevin Olekaibe

continued from page 19 >>

GH: You should just tweet at Kevin yourself… KO: You know I haven’t thought of that but I might do that… GH: Offensively, from a schematic standpoint, is anything going to be different? KO: I think you’re going to see a lot of running up and down the floor and getting to our spots and just running everything. Coach Terry always tells us we always want to score in the first seven seconds and that’s what we’re going to look to do – and if not then we get into our offensive set. GH: And you like to hear that don’t you? KO: Yea I do, but we gotta be in shape for that. GH: Of the guys playing this year, who is winning the wind sprints in practice? KO: Me and Garrett (Johnson)… Garrett is in great shape; we’re all in great shape. Everybody is trying to compete with one another and that’s what you gotta do when you’re on the court. You can’t have friends on the court, you can’t “brother-in-law” anybody, that’s what Coach Terry always says, gotta compete with each other. ADVERTISEMENT

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011

“I haven’t been dunked on yet and don’t plan to."

A WINNING COMBINATION A Candid Interview With Head Coach Rodney Terry By: David J. Manning

The Fresno State Men’s Basketball program has seen its ups and downs over the years. Steeped in history this organization is looking forward to a bright future since Rodney Terry has been named Head Coach for the Bulldogs for this coming season. Coach Terry brings with him a renewed confidence and enthusiasm for the program as well as in the university. I sat down with Rodney the other day and chatted briefly about his ideas and views for the program and his players.

“The biggest game is always the next game and I am always excited for it.”

realizes that the city must “know what we stand for and what our brand is.” He is taking the right steps and is launching a multi-level public relations and publicity campaign, to even taking to Twitter to keep the students, the community and the media informed of the happenings within the organization. His goal is to make the red wave strong again and fill the seats in the Save Mart Center. When I asked the coach what game he was most looking forward to his response was, “The next game. The biggest game is always the next game and I am always excited for it.” This tenacious attitude, the view that all players are equal and all competitors are the same is what will make this season so different for the Bulldogs. The dogs are tough and determined this season, a winning combination for an organization which is making huge strides within the community.

“I want to be known for molding successful young men and great husbands.”

What struck me most about this man is his genuine concern for his players and his staff. He views his role less as a coach and more as preparing his athletes to be upstanding men in the community. The way he sees it is that, “The students are on loan to us from their families, and it is our responsibility to prepare them for the future.” He wants to instill more than just skills on the court but also skills in life. “I want to be known for molding successful young men and great husbands,” Coach Terry says. He calls them “24 Hour Men” and he seems to be doing just that. The players have spent more time on their own working out, coordinating 6 a.m. leadership runs and bonding as a unit prior to the season than they have in past years. He also believes that each player is the same and treats them as such. In an interview Kevin Olekaibe put it this way, “Coach Terry is a tough coach, and he is making us tough too… he yells at everybody, he gets on everybody. He treats every player the same.” Kevin also went on to praise his teammates and the coaching staff claiming that “we are going to be a tougher team this year.” Clearly this strategy is paying off for the program. He believes that you are only as effective as your team and your coaching staff, and his is strong on both fronts. One thing that he is most excited about is the support for the program from within the community. “We are a college town,” Rodney Terry said. “There is a tremendous amount of pride, and people feel vested in the university here.” To make the community interested, Terry

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011

HIS FITNESS The Gift of Health By: Dina Juve

When women think of sexy, Santa would not be the visual that comes to mind. But how does a guy not become Santa-like when eating healthy over the holidays is so challenging? ‘Tis the season where candy, cookies and cakes will be every place you look. There will be holiday parties to attend where there will be lots of food, alcohol and desserts. At some point temptation will most likely derail the best of intentions. Is making people fat the gift we really should be giving this holiday season? You have enough to think about over the holidays so I’m going to keep eating healthy really simple. Try the 85/15 eating rule. Eat clean 85% of your daily calories and let yourself enjoy some small splurges with the other 15%. That means if you

“Give yourself the gift of good health. You deserve it!”

consume 2,500 calories a day, which is the average for men (more if you are very active) you would eat 2,125 calories in healthy options and 375 calories of your favorite holiday treats. You could also save up during the week for a night out or event (17,500 calories for the week= 14,875 healthy calories/2,625 splurge calories). Let’s just make one thing clear; eating clean does not mean chicken wings for your protein, French fries as your vegetable and having beer as your complex carbohydrate even if there is barley in it. I’m talking clean diet… chicken breast, broccoli and brown rice, and if you smother it with sauces and sodium that would count as a splurge. Now you also need to find a little time to workout to maintain your manly muscles. We always have the best intentions but working out over the holidays will be another challenge. Holiday commitments, events and stress can keep us away from breaking a sweat. In an effort to keep Fresno men fit I researched some of the quickest workouts out there. Timothy Ferriss in The 4-Hour Body says, “His training schedule was so light as to be laughable by conventional standards”. What was this training plan that took him to his lowest body fat percentage? The Kettlebell Swings! High rep swings with the heaviest bell you can handle with proper form. As you know I just loved this since I’m a RKC Certified Russian Kettlebell Instructor. He used a 53lb Kettlebell with the goal to do 75 consecutive repetitions (which he could not do in the beginning) after a protein-rich breakfast, twice a week. If that is just too simple for you then try this quick workout sure to burn calories and build muscle 3-5 days a week.

“We’d prefer our Santa to be a jolly fit man!” I recommend doing this simple circuit in the a.m. before other things get in the way… and no sissy swings allowed! Kettlebell Swings – 25-75 Pull-ups – as many as you can Kettlebell Swings – 25-75 Push-ups – as many as you can Kettlebell Swings – 25-50 Repeat – 3-5 When swinging the Kettlebell feet should be shoulder width on both sides, each foot pointed outward 30 degrees, keep shoulders pulled back and down, the backswing is a sitting in the chair movement, not a squatting-down movement, do not let your shoulders go in front of your knees at any point and one of the most important parts… squeeze those butt checks like you are pinching a penny between them when you pop your hips forward. I think all of us ladies would agree we’d prefer our Santa to be a jolly fit man! So give yourself the gift of good health. You deserve it! Disclosure: Although you don’t want to give the gift of making your loved ones fat I am definitely not saying to give your wife, girlfriend, mom or boss a diet or workout gift… that would probably only get you punched in the face, single, homeless or jobless. Always check with your doctor before staring any diet or exercise program.

Dina Juve has completed Z-Health Essentials of Elite Performance course. Dina is a RKC Certified Russian Kettlebell Instructor, Assisted at RKC Certification, Battling Ropes Certified Coach & TRX Suspension Training Trainer with 10 years experience in Nutrition and Fitness. Check out her web site at www.kettlebellsoffresno.com. Classes offered at Fort Washington Fitness. Information in this article is referenced from The 4-Hour Body by Timothy Ferriss.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011

Don’t Be That Guy... By: Caleb Iness

I’m sure most of you are excited for the upcoming holiday season. You get time off of work, time off of school, time spent with family, and of course, lots of delicious food on Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s. Since everyone has the same idea to go to the gym and shed the holiday pounds they’ve gained, it’s important to remember to be courteous to others in the gym. Here are several things to do/avoid doing in the gym so you’ll be well liked by others (or at least politely tolerated). Say you wake up in the morning and decide to go to the gym. Good for you! Be sure you put on deodorant and brush your teeth. You might think that’s common sense, right? But if you’ve ever been in the gym and caught a whiff of some of the people there, you’d realize that common sense isn’t so common. So now that you’ve taken care of your personal hygiene, it’s time to select an exercising outfit. You should wear something comfortable because, after all, you’re going to be working out. If you select an outfit that looks like something Gene Simmons from KISS would wear onstage, you’re probably going to get some stares. If you’re a woman who wears very revealing clothing and yoga pants, you can’t be upset if guys check you out, that’s human nature. Personally, I recommend a t-shirt and gym shorts because it’s comfortable and not controversial. So now you drive to the gym, park, and walk to the front door. Don’t be afraid to hold open the door for someone or say “thank you” if someone else holds open the door for you. Just because the gym is the last place you want to be doesn’t mean you have to take your aggravation out on fellow gym members. Now that you’re inside you decide to warm up on a treadmill. If there’s a bunch of treadmills available, don’t choose one right next to someone. Instead, choose one a few treadmills down. This won’t make anyone feel creeped out or uncomfortable. If you

have a cell phone call and you answer it while walking on the treadmill, you should tell the person to either call you back or talk quietly. The serious marathon runner guy right next to you probably won’t appreciate you talking about how much you hate the new neighbors or how your kid got the lead role in the school play. Once you’re done with cardio, you want to lift some weights. There’s a guy on your favorite bench press machine. Don’t just stand next to the machine and mean-mug the guy using it; it’s okay to politely ask, “Excuse me, how many sets do you have left?” Usually the person will reply something like, “just two more” or “I have a lot left, you want to work in?” So you finally get on the machine and you begin your first set. There’s no need to scream or grunt at the top of your lungs after each rep. It’s understandable if a grunt comes out at the last rep as you’re really feeling the burn but to yell on the first rep is not only ridiculous but it’s distracting and annoying to everyone around you and it’s a great way to become known in the gym as “the weak guy who yells.” You don’t want that.

“Nobody wants to set his or her head in a big pool of your sweat.” So you finish with your set and it’s time to set the weight down. There’s no need to slam the weight; slamming the weight can cause injury and can also get you thrown out of the gym because it damages equipment. The only time you should ever slam a weight is in an emergency like there’s a car coming through the window and you need to move away quickly so you slam the weight, get off the machine, and jump out of the way. Once you’re done with the machine, you should unload all the weight you added and return the plates to the racks. The senior citizen using the machine after you won’t appreciate having to take off all the weight you added. If you’re strong enough to lift the weight, you’re strong enough to put it back. Next, you should inspect the machine to see if you left sweat on it. Nobody wants to set his or her head in a big pool of your sweat. Some gyms have sanitizing spray and towels so you can wipe down any machine before and after you use it. I know Fort Washington Fitness, Synergy, and Sierra Sport and Racket Club have spray and towels available for their members. I called GB3 to inquire about sanitation in their gym and asked, “Do you have sanitizing spray and towels available for members to wipe down sweat from machines?”

“To yell on the first rep is not only ridiculous but it’s distracting and annoying to everyone around you.” They replied, “We have a maintenance guy who cleans the machines.” Not much you personally can do there to wipe down your sweat but at other places, you can wipe down the machines. During your workout there’s a high probability that you’ll see someone you know at the gym. When you go and say “hi” to them, keep in mind that the majority of people aren’t at the gym to have a long conversation and catch up; they’re there to get a workout in and leave. A few signs to be aware of when someone isn’t interested in talking: they don’t take their iPod headphones out of their ears so they can hear what you say and/or they comment to you, “well it was good seeing you!” That’s a polite way of saying, “please quit bothering me.” Now you’re finished with your workout. You should always wash your hands because the gym equipment has been handled by hundreds of people and there are all sorts of exotic bacteria that are living on the machines. You should also throw your water bottle away in the recycling trashcan, not the regular one. You’re trying to keep your body healthy so why not keep the earth healthy too while you’re at it. Most people will drag themselves to their cars and drive home but every now and then as I’m leaving the gym I see some 16-year-old punk who just got his license and thinks he looks so cool peeling out leaving the gym. Nothing is cool about that at all. I hope this has shed some light on what is considered socially acceptable gym behavior, and maybe you can apply this when you’re in an overcrowded gym on January 2nd, trying to burn off those holiday goodies. Caleb Iness I.S.S.A Certified Fitness Trainer Trainer at Fort Washington Fitness Email: calebiness@sbcglobal.net Phones: 559-367-6386

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HIS eats Sushi ‘n’ Pop 1788 East Barstow Ave. Fresno, CA (559) 438-1690

Sushi ‘n’ Pop is where everyone goes to get the most authentic Japanese fusion cuisine, which is prepared with the freshest ingredients daily. The new menu offers a wide array of tasty treats to tantalize anyone’s taste buds. Try their refreshing seaweed salad or the newest style of sashimi, just to mention a few of the mouth watering selections at Sushi ‘n’ Pop. Stop in and join the friendly staff for happy hour every Monday through Saturday starting at 4:30 p.m. So why not make it fun, make it fast, make it Sushi ‘n’ Pop!

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A D V E R T O R I A L

HIS eats Manhattan Steakhouse

(559) 449-1731 1731 W. Bullard Ave. Fresno, CA

“Meet me at the Manhattan,” has been a Fresno calling since 1992. Fresno’s most unique bar opens daily at 4 p.m. for the best happy hour in town. Serving up your favorite cocktail, beer, wine and appetizers is certainly their pleasure. The dining room is intimate and well appointed. The menu Dave and Karyn have created is one of a “classic steakhouse,” featuring great streaks, the freshest seafood, as well as outstanding appetizers, salads and desserts. The wine list is extensive and affordable. For your private functions, such as business meetings, company dinners, theme dinners, family affairs, or rehearsals dinners, the distinct Park Ave Room and the classic Carnegie Room are perfect for any special occasion. “How about it, meet me at the Manhattan, sounds great doesn’t it?” Join the staff and have some fun with your friends and family. Remember, “It’s always nicer when you’re here.” Dave and Karyn say thank you for twenty great years.

QN4U BBQ House (559) 765-4078 1414 Clovis Ave. Clovis, CA “Everyone loves barbeque” and QN4U BBQ HOUSE delivers the real thing with no false icons in a unique and comfortable setting. California’s #1 BBQ’ers, Brent and Kim Walton are 22 time BBQ circuit champions and BBQ Hall of Famers who have been featured on the Food Network. Also recently named the “Best of the Best” BBQ Restaurants in America! They have brought their championship BBQ home to Clovis. Come try our brisket, pulled pork and of course the ribs. QN4U BBQ HOUSE is home to the ‘Texas Tommie’ the world’s most outrageous hot dog. Open Everyday from 11am-9pm. Dine in or take out. We are the best at BBQ catering as well. Call for a quote. Visit us online: www.QN4UBBQHOUSE.com

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A D V E R T O R I A L

HIS eats Richard’s

(559) 266-4077 1609 East Belmont Ave. Fresno, CA Richard Stockle opened Richard’s Prime Rib & Seafood in downtown Fresno in the summer of 1969. Richard’s quickly became a Fresno hotspot known for its juicy steaks and fresh seafood. Soft lighting and tasteful nude artwork decorate the restaurant. There are many popular menu items like ‘The Something Good’, a New York steak wrapped in a flour tortilla with melted cheese. Another favorite is ‘The Something Special’, an open-faced New York steak sandwich. Also popular is ‘The Beef Eater’, which is deli-thin, sliced prime rib served as a French dip. Richard’s is a true family-run restaurant and even though it has undergone numerous changes over the years some things remain constant: great food, a wonderful atmosphere and a staff that welcomes its guests as if they were family.

Fleming’s (559) 222-5823 639 East Shaw Ave. Fresno, CA Indulge yourself with the finest USDA Prime steak –aged to perfection, hand-cut daily and cooked to your specifications—as well as fresh seafood, innovative side dishes and decadent desserts. Fleming’s also offers 100 wines by the glass, a unique Wine Flight tasting program and a world-class list of reserve wines to complement your dining experience. Visit us online: www.flemingssteakhouse.com

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HIS BBQ

The Holidays are Upon Us By: Brent Walton

We are coming to the end of another year and as always it seems like it went by so fast. As I get older the years seem to get shorter. Is it just me, or does it seem that the holiday season is starting earlier and earlier? I find that this time of year always gives me a chance to look back and reflect on the past year, and look to the New Year with a renewed sense of optimism. I find my thoughts to be with our military and their families at this time. Barbeque has given me the opportunity to connect with this group of people in a way I never imagined. I have come to really admire their dedication, honor and respect that they display for this country and each other.

In the last ten years, I have been lucky to have cooked barbeque many times for our military and their families that sacrifice so much for us. I really look forward to this type of event and I am honored each time I have been asked. They are always so appreciative to have us cook for them, when the fact of the matter is that we are so honored that they asked. Real hero’s, these guys and gals that serve in our military! One of my most prized possessions is a personal coin given to me by General McCardy of the United States Marines for a cook we did at 29 Palms Marine Base. I had never known about these personal coins that high ranking military officers have. They are all specially designed, individual works of art, and they give them out sparingly. So it is quite an honor to receive one and I keep mine in my pocket. If you see me, ask to look at it, I’m quite proud of it. The General said he appreciated the way we took care of his troops and personally took the time to thank each one of us and to present us with a coin in appreciation. At the other end of the spectrum, friends of mine lost their son in Afghanistan this year, Sgt. Matthew Abbate USMC and that was gut wrenching. Children are supposed A D V E R T I S E M E N T

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to out live their parents and war is fought far away, by people we don’t even know. Truth is wars are fought by young men and today, young women as well, that live in our neighborhoods. The Central Valley has given more than its “fair share” to this cause don’t you think? Funny, how life isn’t “fair”. So, as I reflect back on the year, with mixed emotions, life has not become any easier. The economy is in the toilet, we need to put people to work, politicians have sold their souls to the devil, it does not look or feel good in our collective immediate future. We just have to go make it happen, this is still The United States of America and things will change I am sure. I still feel fortunate to be able to live my dream. I get to barbeque everyday so I better not complain.... right? They say when you love what you do; you never have to work another day in your life... it’s absolutely true.

HIS

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The holiday season is once again upon us. What better gift is there than one that can be used on a daily basis. Music plays the soundtrack to our lives. Here are a few tech gifts the HIS Staff found at Brookstone which may be just what that special someone is looking for.

Replace a room full of equipment with one amazing tower system engineered especially for your iPod or iPhone device and your lifestyle by Brookstone®. By placing multi-angled speakers in a scientifically tuned cabinet, our iDesign® Tower System for iPod and iPhone devices is able to disperse the sound of your music throughout the entire room. From Bach to Beck, you’ll experience full, deep bass; crisp, clear highs; and warm middle tones as you’ve never before heard with your iPod or iPhone device. Price $249.99

Dock, play and charge your iPod/iPhone device with the slim stereo that also features a CD player and radio. Now enjoy music from your iPod/ iPhone device, your CD music library and the radio--right from one slim stereo music system. The 2-in-1 MicroSystem also docks and charges your iPod or iPhone device so it’s always ready to go. Price $99.99

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HIS music By: Hammer at New Rock 104

So, the holidays are upon us, which means you’ll be spending time with friends and family, catching up with those you haven’t seen in awhile. It’s also the time of the year for giving, and what better gift is there to give then the gift of music, especially if you’re a music fan yourself. It’s always cool to give the gift of something you been listening to, that you know someone else may appreciate. Now, if you’re looking to go BIG for someone, you can’t go wrong with an iPod or MP3 player of some sort, and to sweeten the deal, include a gift card they can use at an online music store, so they can load up the new gift with tons of their favorite songs.

Now, let’s say that person already has an iPod, load them up with some great albums. To say 2011 has been a great year for music, is a bit of an understatement, so much amazing music has come down this year, it’s has been hard at times to keep up – let’s start with some of the many ‘established’ artists that gave us new music this year. The Foo Fighters ‘Wasting Light’ album, which is my top album of 2011, also the new albums from the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Rise Against, Jane’s Addiction, Incubus, and a sleeper album, which was the Beasties Boys 1st album in a long time. The end of the year brought an album from one of my all time favs, in Dream Theater, who released their 1st album without founding member, Mike Portnoy, called ‘A Dramatic Turn of Events’ which is a huge personal favorite of mine

FOSTER THE PEOPLE

How about something new for someone? Baby bands were a huge part of the year as well, with Foster the People taking up a slot on many iPods and radio stations with ‘Pumped Up Kicks’ (though ‘Helena Beat’ is a better song), Free Energy’s ‘Stuck on Nothing’ continues on page 32 >> NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011

continued from page 31 >>

album was a solid surprise as well. I also enjoyed new music from baby/newer bands like the Joy Formidable, Grouplove, and maybe the best album from all of the newer artists, Theophilus London’s ‘Timez Are Weird These Days’ What about bands from our/your hometown? Tons of new music has dropped this year from our very own area. So many great bands made a splash this year, that if I started to name a couple, I would leave someone off and have to rewrite the article, but bands like 40 Watt Hype, Fierce Creatures, From the Fallen, Downword, Death Alley Motor Cult, and Clouded Vision, all made the valley proud this year.

holiday songs from any number of artists, just ‘Google’ your favorite artist and chances are they’ve done at least one holiday song. Giving music means you’ve put some thought into the gift your giving, whether it’s something you think the person will love or something you just want to share with them, the holidays are the perfect time to share the gift of music. Thanks to HIS Magazine for giving me the opportunity all year long and I look forward to sharing more thoughts on the state of music in 2012. Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!

Of course, there is always a massive amount of holiday albums out there. It seems every artist has to cut a holiday disc. Ones that I have that seem to liven up the family gettogethers include the Brian Setzer Orchestra’s three holiday discs; especially the old folks, who love anything with the word ‘orchestra’. You can’t go wrong with the more traditional ADVERTISEMENT

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JOE FORMIDABLE

HIS finance It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year! By: Monique Runge

The Holidays are Coming! It truly is a time of celebration and happiness, when you should really take the time to show appreciation towards all the people who are valued in your life. A wonderful time to spend socializing more and trying to work less. For many, this has been a difficult year filled with change and challenges. There are many people still out of work and even more just making ends meet. We have all heard of someone with a story that will break your heart. Simple Pleasures are all the more reason to take a moment to celebrate the gifts we already have in life. The holidays bring a time of year that we must force ourselves to slow down and lower the amount of daily responsibilities. But isn’t it much easier to “Say” than actually “Do”? I know personally that I have great intentions to do many things but often fail to do the simple niceties such as gift giving, baking, holiday parties, decorating etc. My daily life consists of running a mortgage business amidst a housing crisis, mother of two grade school children, wife to a wonderful husband who does the cooking, plus a caregiver for my 88 year old mother. If I don’t put it on my calendar or my “To Do” list, it will most likely not happen. Exactly because of this I make sure I calendar in “personal” time to make sure I can have a balanced life. What qualifies as “personal” time? This is anything that you do which does not involve your job or domestic responsibilities. It could be time with your spouse, sibling, best friend or just yourself doing something for personal benefit or enjoyment. Write this time into your calendar to ensure you are balancing your time. Don’t Stress Out! Unless you are Superman or Wonder Woman with super bionic holiday powers, you can find yourself completely stressed out and fatigued for the holiday season. Almost everyone, including you, is shopping right now is forgetting one important person to buy for, one person not on their list... themselves! What better time to invest in something for yourself than Christmas? It is a great time to gift yourself with some items to relieve a little of your stress. One of the most important gifts that you can give yourself is knowledge.

Commit to learn something new. Whether it be a new sport, language, dance, craft or trade. Set the time aside to learn this something new and really invest in yourself. Your days can easily be filled with daily responsibilities. So unless you make the time, it will only remain on the “One day, I would really like to learn how to ...” list. Push yourself to do the things you have always wanted to do but never had or made the time for. Great inexpensive resources are Community College, local DIY stores such as Lowe’s or Home Depot, Craft stores such as JoAnne’s or Michael’s, the internet is also a large resource tool for any idea. continues on page 34 >> NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011

continued from page 33 >>

Schedule a get-a-way. Make plans to go visit a person, place or thing that you have always dreamed of. If you do not have a current passport, make this your number one gift for the holidays. World travel is one of life’s never ending gifts. The cost to travel will vary depending on where you go and how you get there. There are many ways to see the world and you do not have to go broke doing so. If getting on an airplane is not your type of adventure, then open up a map of California. It is an amazing state with many of its natural free destinations within a few hours drive from Central California. People who travel and experience other ways of life are generally more creative, understanding and have a vision in life. I get some of my best ideas when I actually can get away from my daily responsibilities and allow my mind to be influenced by new people, places and things. It is OK to make it all about you once a year! Finding the Funds.

Establish a spending plan and stick to IT!

Change How You View Money

If you find it impossible not to pull out that credit card when you go shopping, leave all your cards at home and take just cash or only your debit card. Do not use more than the amount you’ve set aside for holiday spending.

Positive thinking won’t lower the dollar value on the bills you have to pay. But it will lower the stress that results from knowing you have to pay them. Stress can create mental blocks and cause you to focus on the problem instead of finding a solution.

Once you have mapped out your holiday spending plan, stick to it! Unlike the U.S. Government, you can’t print money. So you really do have to cover each extra expenditure with a cut-back somewhere else.

Friends and Family Discuss a plan with your friends and family to agree to redefine what you will do for each other for the holidays. After all, it is not about the gifts or how much someone spends on lavish entertaining. Rather it is about showing others you care by spending time together, sharing old memories and making new ones. Invent a new

to celebrate. “Value and appreciate what you way Make it reflect you and do have, instead of focusing who your loved ones truly are. Maybe solely on what you don’t.” you get up early

Asking how you are going to fund these self serving gifts you have just made a long list of? I might recommend opening up a savings account called “Christmas Club”. It is a basic bank account that you deposit money into weekly or as often as you want. Even if you only save $50 a week at the end of the year that’s $2600 plus interest. You most likely will not even miss the money throughout the year. Most credit unions offer “Christmas Club” accounts or you can simply open up any type of savings account with any bank. It is best to set up a “Direct Deposit” or automatic transfer from your regular checking account. This is an old-fashioned idea that is really simple, easy to use, and it really works. After taking care of #1, on to what is next to be prepared for the holiday season.

Money doesn’t just burn a hole in your pocket, it can also burn a hole in your stomach. Worrying about having (or not having) money is one of the major stressors all year round and can be even more difficult during the holidays. The increased level of temptation for all those shiny objects is hard to ignore with your present reality. So what happens? You smile and just put everything on a credit card and worry about it later. But you know when you’ve done that in the past, the stress in January is even worse as you open (or don’t open and just think about) your credit card statements. But what if you could avoid this entire scenario? Despite the temptations of holiday spending, you can take actions that will keep your financial situation from getting worse and lessen the grip that stress has on your everyday life without sacrificing what is most dear about the holidays.

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on Christmas Day and drive to a vantage point where you can see a sunrise, or be of service; volunteer to help serve a holiday meal at a shelter. Whatever you do, break the old patterns where a massive pile of unneeded (and often unwanted) gifts are piled up under the tree. You might be surprised and it may become a new family tradition.

Recognize the Difference Between a Need and a Want. Over the last ten years, our wants have grown exponentially and the lines between wants and needs have blurred. As a society, we have drifted so far from our real needs. We have been enabled by the credit market which allows us to use money we don’t have in order to get what we “want”. When it comes to the holidays, it’s obviously harder to cut back when you have children around, but it doesn’t hurt for them to learn a lesson or two about money. When they ask for something, take the time to show them how much it costs. It is an eye opening experience for them and teaches them value at a young age. Take a moment before going shopping for any gifts you’ve planned for. Think about that you have the choice of filling a momentary “want” for that recipient, or you could fulfill a more longlasting “need.” After the wrapping paper is torn off and thrown away, which do you think will leave a more lasting memory? The experience of being together and making a memory or the item you have just purchased for them?

Ways to promote positive thinking are to take a walk where you can get your mind clear, listen to music, watch something funny and by all means laugh whenever possible. Take a good look around you and count your blessings. Acknowledge that money does not buy you happiness. Value and appreciate what you do have, instead of focusing solely on what you don’t. Remember that we live in America where people who are struggling are far better off than those who aren’t struggling in other countries. And where many of us are waking up to the fact that we want to get out from under all our “stuff.” If you are the type of person who internalizes things and constantly worries, you are going to worry yourself sick. You need to train your mind to focus on things you can control. Avoid wasting any time considering negative possibilities like, “What if the economy gets even worse and I’m laid off?” Learn to separate what you “CAN” control from what you “CANNOT” control. Letting go of what you cannot change will enable you to release tons of frustration. Instead, focus on those things you can influence and control.

As the holidays approach and Christmas music fills the airwaves, hold your head high and do your best to enjoy and make this a magical time. But that magic comes with a high price tag. By planning in advance and being creative, I challenge you to find innovative ways to create that same magic … but in ways that don’t leave you more stressed when the mailman delivers those credit card bills in January. I wish you all a very wonderful Holiday Season and may you be blessed with all of the wonderful gifts in life that you deserve. Stay focused on you plan and map out your journey to becoming a more fulfilled individual. Embrace those around you who make you smile and bring you joy. You cannot buy this at any price! Monique Runge is licensed Certified Mortgage Planner in Fresno, CA. Providing quality advice and solutions for her valued clients in the areas of real estate, mortgage planning, credit repair and debt management for over thirteen years. She can be reached at Monique@MoniqueRunge.com or 559-433-9447.

THE STATE OF THE ARTS By: Ciara Norton Fresno might not be surrounded by skyscrapers like those in New York City and it might not be famous for iconic bridges like San Francisco; but Fresno is powerful and unique in its own way. The city has a lush agriculture landscape, architecture, diversity and above all, Fresno has an artistic persona that is local and symbolic of the energetic environment it is surrounded by.

Photo By: Matthew E. Cohen

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The artistic epicenter is mainly located in the Mural District, even though the art is venturing out in all directions, spreading waves and ideas to all Central Valley residents. The Mural District is outlined by paintings and sculptures from many local artists. Mural artist Mike Howe is known for his painting with the caption, “Art is now, this is neighborhood.” Other artists such and Jason Graham and Robert Amador are known for their artistic contributions to downtown Fresno. Downtown Fresno is not only surrounded by artistic expression, but it is also involved with many different areas of the arts. The Fresno Art Museum, Gallery 25 and The Door Art Gallery display stunning proof of the artistic environment Fresno is engulfed in.

Photo By: Matthew E. Cohen

“Fresno has an incredibly vibrant art scene.”

The Fresno Art Museum, located at 2233 North First Street in downtown Fresno, was founded in 1948 and is the only modern art museum between San Francisco and Los Angeles. It features art that represents the factors that make up the Central Valley. California: A Landscape of Dreams exhibit will be at the library until early January and takes a look at the many different landscape views of the area. Linda Cano, executive director for The Fresno Art Museum said that, “Fresno has an incredibly vibrant art scene and it’s focused on downtown and the Tower District. We’ve got the Mural District and tons of artists’ studios downtown.”

Photo By: Matthew E. Cohen

A popular art event that Cano is fond of is ArtHop, an active and successful event in downtown Fresno that invites artists and residents alike to come and experience the art that Fresno has to offer. The free event takes place the 1st and 3rd Thursday of every month and has become more popular with time. “All the galleries and the studios are open downtown,” Cano said. “The focus is the Mural District and part of it’s also in the Tower District, the Spectrum Gallery, Broadway Studios and Arte Americas. Everybody just has a huge open house and artists get to see what everybody else is working on. It’s a time to socialize. There is music and food, and it’s incredibly vibrant. It’s growing and it’s not just the visual arts but the lively arts as well like dance and music.” ArtHop is just one of the many successful events sponsored by the Fresno Arts Council. Other events include the National Recitation Contest, Poetry Out Loud and the annual fund raising event, Dining with the Artists.

Photo By: Elliott Johnson

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Created by the National Endowment for the Arts and Poetry Foundation, Poetry Out Loud supports the arts by allowing youth contestants to learn about art, history and

Photo By: Matthew E. Cohen

culture through the recitation of poems. National winners of the poetry contest are awarded with a $20,000 scholarship and the experience to appreciate different art forms.

Arte America and said that part-time hiring will most likely begin in the near future. Now, Arte America is a free non-profit art center, but it wasn’t always that way.

The next Dining with the Artists event will take place on January 21, 2012 at the Downtown Club, located at 2120 Kern Street. The event will begin at 6 p.m. and will include a live auction as well as the chance to meet and mingle with upcoming and seasoned artists.

“We found that putting a price on the door can keep people out,” Rodriguez said. “We make more money now because we wind up getting the same amount or more in our donation box than when we charged at the door.”

Even though most art galleries and events in downtown Fresno are non-profit, Cano said that they are still managing to rise above the economic financial situation. “Despite the economy, things continue to grow and I know they’re going to keep growing that way,” Cano said. “We’ve had to adjust to the times, the new reality. We have cut staff and a lot of places like Arte Americas are all volunteer staff.” Arte Americas: Casa De La Cultura opened in 1995 and is now the largest non-profit cultural center in the Central Valley completely operated by volunteers. Located at 1630 Van Ness Avenue, Arte Americas aims “to make the Central Valley a flourishing place for Latino art.” The 10,000 square feet of gallery that makes up Arte America features children’s and adult theatre classes, book readings, poetry slams, ballet lessons, art shows, exhibits and even workshops on toy making, beadwork and ceramics. “We’ve been pretty fortunate by getting grants for the past couple of years,” said Elva Rodriguez, Arte America Executive Director. “Another advantage that we have is that we own our own building so we don’t have to make those payments.” Rodriguez is a retired full-time volunteer at

Even though the economy has taken a toll on Arte America, Rodriguez feels that it has proven to be one of the many lucky art venues in downtown Fresno. “We are really fortunate,” Rodriguez said. “We’ve worked really hard to get caught up and now we’re going on 25 years.”

“Art is an important learning tool that every city needs to have.” Even with Cano and Rodriguez’s positive attitude about the arts in Fresno, many art venues are looking for ways to save money. On the Fresno Art Museum’s website future goals for the museum are outlined. The Board of Trustees plan to “rebuild finances of the museum to ensure long-term sustainability. The museum will strengthen its capacity to generate income through greater Board participation in fundraising, a reinvigorated membership program, exciting special events and a variety of earned income streams.” Another way that the Fresno Art Museum is staying afloat in this difficult financial situation is by working together with other outlets in Fresno. “We’ve also gone to collaboration so that we’re working smarter,” Cano said. “We’re

getting together to do projects. It brings more versatility and brainpower into the programs that we’re doing because you’ve got these multiple organizations and multiple people coming from different disciplines working on projects together, so you get all this different input and it just is dynamite. It makes for a really interesting mix and it makes the programs much more exciting.” Not all art institutions have been able to stay afloat like the Fresno Art Museum. In January 2010 the Fresno Metropolitan Museum of Art and Science closed its doors for good after providing art education, history and culture appreciation to Central Valley residents for about 25 years. The Met, as it became known, was established in 1984 and was one of the Central Valley’s largest museums. Still located at 1555 Van Ness Avenue, The Met closed shortly after its extensive renovation that finished in 2008. Neither Cano nor the Fresno Art Museum is naïve to the fact that finances are low, no matter how positive of a spin you put on things. “Everyone is struggling and the dollars are down,” Cano said. “That goes for grants and that goes for public donations. All across the board the money is down. We have very loyal supporters who are still supporting us but they just give fewer dollars.” Supporting the arts can come in many different forms and Cano encourages artists and local residents to open their eyes to the many various ways that the art programs can be assisted. “The importance for support is really critical right now. If you can’t write a big check then come on down and come to our events and support us that way or just donate your time and talent to helping out.”

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Often putting his time into supporting the arts is Fresno City College Theatre Arts Department Chair, Chuck Erven, who first began his creative art career as an actor. Like Cano, Erven is optimistic for the future of the arts in Fresno but thinks that more people need to get involved. “I think one of the challenges for Fresno is that the arts are not necessarily on everyone’s radar,” Erven said. “In a city this size, compared to other places, there probably could be more of a variety and more theatre companies and more museums. But what there is here, I think is very vibrant and there’s just this great energy that’s happening. The upside is that the local arts community is really tight knit. People that go to ArtHop often go to the theatre productions and vice versa. That community bond is pretty strong. The challenge is expanding it to more people.” Along with the challenge of bringing in more people to appreciate the art in Fresno, comes the challenge of financially supporting the art institutions and educational outlets.

“One of the challenges for Fresno is that the arts are not necessarily on everyone’s radar.”

In a September 2011 budget bill released by the House Appropriations Committee, Arts in Education is expected to take a $27 million budget cut. The Republican plan is scheduled to take place during the 2012 fiscal year, which began on October 1, 2011. Along with Arts in Education, Foreign Language Assistance will be taking a $27 million budget cut and Teaching American History grants a $47 million budget cut.

Photo By: Elliott Johnson

The budget bill isn’t aimed completely at cutting programs however. The bill also plans to increase the spending by $1 billion on the Title 1 program for disadvantaged students. It also plans to provide the Federal Rural Education Program with an extra $25 million. No matter how good or bad the financial situation could be for the arts, Cano thinks that art is an important learning tool that every city needs to have. “This is an economic driver and it brings up the quality of life for all of us,” Cano said. “The reason that people settle and move into a place is because the quality of life, and if you have art and culture offerings, people are going to live in a place, they’re going to enjoy their lives more and we’re going to stop the terrible brain-drain that we have here in Fresno” For art and culture cravers, the brain-drain that Cano refers to is no foreign idea.

Photos By: Dan Wong

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“People come here and they go to college and then they move away because they think we don’t have the culture offerings that other places have,” Cano said. “As a community we need to support the arts and culture because it benefits all of us. It makes Fresno a better

place and it enriches everyone’s lives to have healthy arts and culture in our community.” Not all Fresno high school and college graduates choose to stay in the Central Valley. Since they perceive there is less culture and art in Fresno and they aren’t receiving it with their education, many graduates flock to other areas of California and beyond. “It’s unfortunate, but when it comes to academics, high school and college universities art programs are hit often,” Erven said. Melissa Gibson, Fresno State Theatre Arts Department Chair acknowledges the budget cuts in art education but still encourages students to pursue a career in art if it is something they are truly passionate about. “I think there is a career to be had in the arts because there’s more of a range of people working than just actors,” Gibson said. “There’s a gigantic support industry behind the scenes that people are unaware of.” Students looking to pursue a career in art aren’t just limited to acting, painting or sculpting. Art majors can and often do work as graphic designers, photographers, film directors, computer game creators and cartoon illustrators. Gibson recalls recently hearing about one alumni art student who now creates and directs TV commercials.

“Art is now, and this is the city.” Gibson, who specializes in theatre arts, has lived in Fresno for the past ten years. While the current financial situation may be hard on art venues, she thinks that overall the art in Fresno has improved. “The past ten years have been overall good for theatre arts in Fresno,” Gibson said. “It’s rough all around economically so naturally the arts are going to feel it too. Definitely in terms of theatre arts there is a lot more going on now. There’s been a lot of growth such as the popular Woodward Park Shakespeare Festival plus a lot of little time theatre companies are starting to pop up.” The Woodward Park Shakespeare Festival began in 2004 and is a free event that supports theatre arts through the acting and directing of plays such as “Othello,” “Hamlet” and “King Lear.” “For performing arts there’s a magic that can happen that doesn’t happen in front of the TV screen,” Gibson said. “It makes life worth living.” For Gibson, art is more than just something to be appreciated. She thinks that people should support the local arts in their community

Photos By: Dan Wong

because in the end it will turn right back around and support that communities’ economic status. “It’s about supporting the area that you live in,” Gibson said. “It really is your local community doing things for community rather than giving the money to Pixar or somewhere that isn’t local.” The art industry isn’t a closed-minded area. Art lovers and artists alike can come together creatively in many different areas of life that will encourage growth and development.

“Each of the two entities has its own challenges with the economy,” said Dan Pessano. “The economy has applied pressure to us but then again, not many companies can say that they’ve been in business for 39 years.” Pessano added that for Good Company Players, not a non-profit organization, “the pressure is definitely on at the box office.” “In the end, art is important for everybody to support it, but it’s important for us to give the people something to support,” Pessano said. “That’s what we work for, for quality.”

“Transferable skills you learn in the arts can push you into all kinds of different directions,” Gibson said. “It’s a springboard. The skills can be applied almost anywhere.”

In other theatres such as the Tower Theatre, constructed in 1939, art is not only taking place inside of it, but the building in itself is a piece of artwork.

Besides visual, performing and theatre arts, music is another beloved art venue in all areas of Fresno.

The Tower Theater’s website describes the construction with detail. “At the Tower Theater’s Box Office and exterior Lobby, an eighty foot fluted prominence rises dramatically over the surrounding business and residential mixed-use zone. At night, the lighted towers fittings of linear neon tube lighting, is crowned by a radiant multi-colored globe.”

The Fresno Grand Opera, located at 2405 Capitol Street, offers theatre performances as well as ballet and orchestra performances. Opened in 1998, Fresno Grand Opera has held performances by world renowned artists such as Audra McDonald, Placido Domingo, Marcello Giordani and Juan Diego Florez. Performances of “The Secret Garden” and “Nutcracker” have also been held at the Fresno Grand Opera. Other music venues such as Roger Rocka’s Dinner Theater, located at 1226 North Wishon Avenue, and The Tower Theatre, located at 815 East Olive Avenue, are known for hosting popular performers. Good Company Players, founded in 1973 by Dan Pessano, Chris Moad and Ronald J. Harlan, is composed of Roger Rocka’s Dinner Theater and 2nd Space Theatre.

Art inside, on the building and across the street from the Tower Theatre are only small glimpses of the creative art world that make up Fresno. The world that isn’t going anywhere any time soon. Art in Fresno is not only about art galleries and paintings. Art in Fresno is about creativity and vivacity through music, dance, photographs and the self-expression of residents that together make the Central Valley the unique and talented area that it is. No disrespect to Mike Howe, but clearly “Art is now, and this is the city.”

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S:

the christmas we shared apart By: Valerie Nevens

When many think of the holiday season, they think of fragrant pine trees covered in lights and garland with neatly wrapped packages underneath, or of feasting on hams, casseroles and pumpkin pies and sipping heaping cups of hot cocoa by the fire. Above all, though, people reminisce about good times with family and friends.

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“75 percent of us on the plane were crying when we hit U.S. ground.” For average Americans, it’s hard to imagine celebrating the holidays without spouses, children and parents, but throughout history millions of Americans have had to cope with being separated from loved ones in the armed forces who are deployed overseas from Thanksgiving to New Years. During the great patriotic war of WWII my own grandparents faced such a separation before they were even wed. To cope, they would exchange letters back and forth. These letters, called V-mail, would sometimes take months to be processed by the federal government, which monitored them, before being sent off to their recipients. In a letter dated November 1, 1944, my grandfather responds to my grandmother’s previous letter saying “It has been quite a long time since I last heard from you” and later “I imagine things have changed considerably at home.” The letter was simple and concise, explaining where he had been, what battles he had fought in, and ending with the endearment “love always.” Brief as it was, the weight every word held for each of them was immeasurable. I can only imagine the relief my grandmother felt just knowing my grandfather was alive and well after his unit had fought in deadly D-day battle.

Today, communication has vastly improved. While phone calls may be short and e-mails brief, soldiers and their families are able to connect more frequently and their conversations are more private then in the past. Webcams have even made it possible for a soldier to see his/her family. There is no doubt this has helped military families stay connected and cope throughout deployments.

Photo Courtesy of Miriam McKim

At the same time, however, families still worry as much as ever about their men and women overseas. The wars post-9/11 are being fought against an enemy whose battle tactics are foreign to us. While soldiers in the 40’s fought face to face against foes in the trenches, soldiers today don’t always know where to aim their weapons and any innocent Iraqi or Afghan man, woman or child could be a walking bomb. This constant threat of an enemy unknown gives modern military families plenty of reason to be concerned.

As of December 2010, according to the Department of Defense, 1.2 million spouses and 2 million children have had to deal with the deployment of a family member to Iraq or Afghanistan since 9/11. It’s unknown how many have had to cope with a loved one’s absence during the holidays, but

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since most deployments last six months to a year, we can imagine a good percentage of military families have had to celebrate the season while their soldier is fighting overseas. Miriam McKim, of Tracy, California, is just one of many military wives who has been through this tough scenario. Her husband Robert, who has served in the Army for nearly 20 years as an air trooper in the airborne infantry and more recently as a military police officer, was sent on one tour to Iraq which lasted from December 2004 to December 2005. “I was worried about everything in general when he first left,” Miriam said. “I didn’t know much about deployment then, but eventually I settled into a routine and once I understood what the mission was—to instruct Iraqi citizens to become Iraqi police— and where he was located, it became easier.” Due to the fact Robert had just left a few weeks prior, Miriam said celebrating

how Americans are viewed in Iraq. That’s something those boys will never forget.”

Photo Courtesy of Miriam McKim

Christmas and the New Year was difficult. Ordinarily, she, Robert and their three children would have gone visit his parents, but Miriam said she wasn’t in the right frame of mind to travel anywhere. Another Army wife, lending her support, even invited Miriam to travel to Phoenix to join in her family’s festivities, but Miriam declined that generous offer as well. “I still had a good time, just me and the kids. The deployment was still too fresh and I was just trying to get used to it, so I didn’t feel like going anywhere,” she said.

maintenance, managing other soldiers and checking on them, things like that. We always had to be prepared no matter what day it was because we can’t dictate when the enemy is going to attack, which they would on average four or five times in a week. One morning we had 29 car bombs go off in the area.” Fighting the war was a daily struggle but one way Robert dealt was to think of the positive impact he and other soldiers could make regarding the future of Iraq and its diplomatic relationship with the United States. One time while on patrol, Robert and another soldier came upon two young boys who were initially scarred of them and their weapons. “I gave each of them a dollar, which to them is probably like $20. Then I took a picture with them and the other soldier with me said the next time he went out on patrol one of the boys went up to him and held his hand and walked with him a bit. This just showed we were in a position to change

“I just remember we were standing in the road hugging. I didn’t want it to end.”

Nearly 8,000 miles away in Baghdad, Robert was also feeling the pangs of the separation, but for him there was no time to dwell on how much he missed his family. The focus, he said, was solely on survival. “That year—2005— was a long year,” Robert said. “We were on missions 24-7 and during any downtime we were mostly training, doing weapons

Other than trying to maintain a positive outlook, to cope, both overseas and on the homefront, Robert and Miriam turned to friendship and camaraderie with others going through the same situation. For Robert, the bond formed between him and the other soldiers in his unit was incredible. “You just know you are placing your life in the other men’s hands and things are simplified to the basic instincts. You eat, sleep, train and fight beside one another,” he said. Although there was little time to think of anything else but the war in Baghdad, Robert said the men did take the time the recreate the famous “Welcome to Las Vegas, Nevada” sign together. Robert’s small unit, composed of soldiers from Northern and Southern California, was cross leveled with another small unit out of Las Vegas and the first sergeant of that unit came up with the idea to bring just a hint of the sunset strip to the Iraqi desert. “It was something that was completely unique to that unit,” Robert said. As for Miriam, leaning on the other Army wives in the unit was a must, and she soon became a Family Readiness Group Regional Representative, which put her in charge of leading group discussions and organizing meetings among the spouses and children in her unit. Her other duty was to answer calls and provide support to other wives and family members in need. Miriam said forming get-togethers was tricky since the group was spread apart with some families in Las Vegas or Phoenix and the rest scattered throughout California. “It’s a reserve unit so there are three main pockets or geographic locations, so there were 10 or 11 families from Northern California, 14 to 16 from Southern California and about 12 from the Las Vegas and Phoenix area, so we have never had one time where all the families have been together. As a leader I organized monthly meetings where we would discuss certain topics or have guest speakers and sometimes we would have family fun days, but these were all mostly in Northern California. I drove to Los Angeles once to meet with the families down there, but I haven’t gone to Las Vegas. I try to accommodate everyone by having meetings over speaker phone or conference call. Every area would do their own social activities though, like we would always arrange to get together to make care packages before any holiday and the families in Southern California held a food drive.” The main social activity for Miriam and the families in Northern California was creating the care packages, which she said had to be planned well in advance to ensure the troops NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011

received them prior to or on the special day. With the help of the rest of the leadership committee, Miriam scheduled dates to make the packages a month or more before the holiday. For Valentine’s Day, she said the group met in January to wrap up gifts complete with heart-shaped cookies for each of the 45 soldiers. For the soldier in Iraq, these care packages were special reminders of loved ones at home. “We always enjoyed the care packages and we would even set up our own store on the FOB (Federal Operating Base) in Baghdad that would make all the items we didn’t need available to other soldiers that ran out of something,” Robert said. Miriam would also help arrange potlucks for the group around major holidays. Overall, however, it wasn’t the group activities that were most helpful for families, but the support given via telephone. “Families would keep in contact over Phone Tree, so whenever someone needed to talk they would call me or one of the phone call coordinators. It wasn’t like counseling because I’m not trained in psychology or anything like that, it was just for people going through a rough time who just needed to talk. Sometimes just talking to another spouse going through the same thing makes all the difference. Even if there is no great revelation involved, it’s the bonding and camaraderie. If there is a major situation though, I’ve been trained to refer them to the Chaplain or Military One, which is a counseling source. Most of the time though people just need a friendly ear.”

was the others. Their three children were also eager to talk to dad. “The kids did okay,” Miriam said. “They just missed him a lot and wondered when he would be coming home. We were fortunate enough, though, to talk on the phone several times a week for one or two minutes. We also had a webcam set up which really helped, although the time difference made it so we could only talk late at night when he was available since everything had to go by his schedule. We also made videos that we sent with the care packages. The technology we have today just makes everything so much easier.” Of course no amount of video footage could measure up to the daily face-to-face interaction they all missed. So when it came

It sounds silly, but I had to be at McChord when he flew in and I knew months in advance I would be there. They arrived late one night in December after being away from home for 15 months—four in training and 12 overseas—and it was the dead of winter. The sergeant’s wife and I met at the airport and waited together in a van. It was so foggy we couldn’t see. Even when we rolled down the windows we couldn’t see 20 feet ahead, but when we heard the plane we were both so excited. Then we saw the taxi come into view and saw them getting out to load up the charter bus so they could go check into the barracks and we just waited. She saw her husband first and I stayed with their 6-yearold daughter who was asleep. Then when I finally saw Robert I just remember we were standing in the road hugging for what seemed like forever and I didn’t want it to end, no matter how cold or foggy it was. It was wonderful. Then we went on vacation to Disneyland to celebrate a few days later.”

“The kids did okay. They just missed him a lot and wondered when he would be coming home.”

As helpful as bonding with those outside the immediate family was for both Miriam and Robert, during the holidays they spent apart the voice each of them wanted to hear most

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time for Robert to return to U.S. soil in late 2005—just in time for Christmas—Miriam says it was a no brainer for her to go and meet him at Lewis-McChord Air Force Base in Washington, although his unit would be headed for the much closer Las Vegas, Nevada in a matter of days. “I had to see him the moment he landed on U.S. ground,” she said. Both of them described the happy homecoming as one of the best moments in their lives, stating it was worth the separation anxiety they went through during the deployment’s duration. “I’ll never forget the day he left for Iraq,” Miriam said. “But that day was completely overshadowed by the day he came home. I remember it so vividly.

While Miriam’s homecoming memories conjure up that famous image of V-J Day in Times Square where a sailor kisses a young nurse in celebration of the end of WWII, Robert described himself a wide-eyed boy on Christmas morning after unwrapping the gift he had been wishing for. “It felt like I had just run a 26-mile race and I’d finally made it to the finish line. I would say 75 percent of us on the plane were crying when we hit U.S. ground. We just didn’t know what to make of it. It was like being a kid on Christmas. We just couldn’t believe it. It was just incredible and it was the most emotional day of my life.”

Fall fashions are fun and fierce this season. Mix bold patterns with bright colors to play up the holiday cheer. Pull in some metallicâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s to add a festive punch. These looks available at Foreign Exchange located at Fashion Fair Mall.

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On Trend This season is all about the unexpected. Pamper yourself with chic, sophisticated looks. Lines and asymmetry are played up with bold colors, graphic prints and metallic accessories to create the perfect holiday ensemble. Take a cue from this spread and let the trends of the season inspire your own wardrobe.

CREDITS PHOTOGRAPHER:

Isaac Riley

PHOTOGRAPHY ASSISTNAT:

Nash Bazyani

ART DIRECTOR:

David J. Manning

ASSITANT AD:

Joyia Sandoval

WARDROBE STYLISTS:

Ruthie Inocencio

HAIR STYLISTS:

Yolie Gutierrez Jamie Miller Maximiliano Sosa

MAKEUP ARTIST:

Jack R. Flores Juan Salcedo

MODELS:

Jordan Hamel Mackenzie Harrington Deventrya Howard Amber Smith Allan Williamson

Wardrobe and accessories provided by: bebe, Charming Charlie, Foreign Exchange and Lucky Brand Jeans. A special thank you to Fashion Fair Mall, Reflections Salon, Synergy Personal Training and tuttiemelon for their hospitality.

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OPPOSITE: For men keep it casual this year with denim and plaid. Layer your look to give dimension and interest. Looks provided by Foreign Exchange and Lucky Brand Jeans. THIS PAGE: Bohemian Chic is another popular trend this season. To discover how to integrate this trend in your wardrobe see page 50. Looks provided by Lucky Brand Jeans.

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B chic OHO

This season trends are abundant. One that seems to be picking up

steam is that of Bohemian Chic. Effortless styling, paisley prints, ponchos and layers are key essentials to creating this look in your own wardrobe. Look for boot fit denim from your favorite retailer. Some retailers which are sporting great pieces are Anthropologie,

Lucky Brand Jeans and Urban Outfitters. Find an oversized peasant top and pair it with a classic 60â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inspired knee length fur cuffed coat reflected in this years line at BCBG Maxazaria. Bangles, classic riding boots and slouch satchel complete the ensemble. Stop by Sephora and pick up a bronzer and sheer gloss finish this effortless look.

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Sport a simple flannel, thermal and graphic tee to add warmth and layers to your day to day attire. Vintage dark denim and belt complete the look. Clothing available at Lucky Brand Jeans.

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OPPOSITE: All that glitters truly is gold. Layer up your simple accessories this season to add a pop to any basic ensemble. Whoever said less is more. Jewelry available at bebe and Charming Charlie. THIS PAGE: Faux leather and fur adds edge to any basic outfit this season. Let the jacket speak for itself. Pair with motorcycle boots and your favorite plaid from the season and you are ready to hit the streets. Look available at Foreign Exchange.

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glamour NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011

S weetTreats

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Holiday dresses, shoes and accessories available at bebe.

S parkle

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HIG ociety H

For the party girl in everyone. This trend speaks to high heels, frosted accessories, precision tailoring and bold colors. To make this look pop invest in deep charcoals, blacks, whites and of course

Red!

Purples and Pinks are another trend color this season. For a tailored suit pop into BEBE, BCBG Maxazria or even Express and indulge your inner sassy Santa. Accessorize yourself with lots of bling and simple chains to add a splash of interest. Give your look a final touch with bold eyeshadow, pink cheeks and bright lips. Make the streets your runway and own your next holiday party by following these simple styling tips.

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Bring on the faux fur and fitted dresses. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be afraid of stepping out and taking a chance this season. This ensemble is available at bebe.

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OPPOPSITE: This red faux fur hooded wrap is a stand out piece on its own. Keep the styling simple with cocktail rings and a fun metallic clutch. This look is available at bebe. THIS PAGE: Be a golden goddess with a fun flirty metallic knee length party dress. Complete your look with strappy stilettos and oversized earrings. Available at bebe.

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Questions to ask Before Popping THE Question By: DeLaine Nikaido

Thinking about popping the question this holiday season? You’re not alone. December is the most popular month to get engaged. You’ll be doing yourself and your girlfriend a favor in the long run if you honestly evaluate your relationship before getting down on one knee. Getting engaged, after all, is a step toward making what is supposed to be a lifelong commitment. So how do you know if she’s truly the one for you? There’s no quiz or test that will say for sure. There are signs, however, that will help you make an educated decision. HIS Magazine asks the questions necessary to help you decide whether to pop THE question.

Do you trust her? While it’s normal to feel insecure occasionally, if you’re planning on spending the rest of your life with someone, you must trust and be able to count on her. You should trust her to be faithful. You should expect that she will keep private details confidential. She should be there when you need her. If necessary, you should trust her to make decisions for you if you were unable to make them yourself.

Is she well-adjusted? Everyone experiences highs and lows from time to time, but if she’s consistently unstable now, odds are she will continue to be unstable after you get married. Drastic change is rare. Some personality quirks are tolerable even cute. But behavioral issues such as dishonesty, chronic insecurity, insane jealousy or substance abuse are problematic and should not be overlooked. Think twice, also, if her life revolves completely around you. A well-adjusted woman should have friends and interests of her own. If she’s happy with herself, she’s more likely to be happy with you.

Does she accept you for you? There is a difference between making reasonable requests of you and insisting that you make major changes to who you are and what you stand for. Someone who is constantly trying to change you does not necessarily accept you the way you are. That’s a red flag.

“I only guarantee the merchandise, not the relationship.” Do you have similar interests and hobbies? It’s not essential for you to do everything together. Personal time and space are important. It is a bonus though if you have interests and hobbies in common.

Are you sexually compatible? Sexual intimacy is an important part of a healthy marriage. Do your sex drives, turn on’s and dislikes match up? If she’s a once-a-week-or-less kind of girl and you’re a three-timesa-week-or-more kind of guy, it could become an issue if it isn’t one already. Likewise, it may cause problems over time if she’s not as adventurous as you. Finding compromise is essential here.

Do you have like-minded beliefs? Sure, you can have differences of opinion, but you’ll have far less to argue about if you can agree on issues such as how you two spend your money, how you raise your children (assuming you both want kids), where you to go church and who and what you vote for.

Do you get along with her family? It isn’t a deal breaker if her family members aren’t among your favorite people. You’re marrying her - not them - but keep in mind, you are marrying into the family. They’ll be at the wedding and you’ll most likely see them at holidays if not more frequently. Getting along with her family is helpful and tolerating them is a must, especially if she’s close to them. continues on page 62 >> NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011

Questions to ask Before Popping THE Question continued from page 61 >>

Does she get along with your friends?

Do your goals for the future line up?

Provided they’re upstanding people, your fiancée (and ultimately your wife) should get along with your friends. They are the family you choose for yourself and a reflection and an extension of you. If they don’t like her or she doesn’t want you hanging out with them, ask why. Does she monopolize your time and attention? Do you spend too much of your free time with your friends and not enough with her? Are your friends single and they don’t want to lose you to the old ball and chain? Or do they think she’s a bad match for you?

Do you want a stay-at-home wife and mother? Is she a career woman? Do you both want children? If one of you needed or wanted to move, would the other be willing to relocate, too? Do you want to save for a new house? Would she rather spend on an exotic vacation? The time to ask these types of questions is now. You’ll want to confirm that you’re both walking the same path before you walk down the aisle.

“Relationships with strong levels of commitment, compatibility and good communication have far better chances than those without.” If you answered yes to all of the above, she’s a keeper. If your answers were mostly “yes” mixed with a few “no’s,” have a conversation with your girlfriend to determine what the sticking points are and where there can be compromise before you get engaged. Who knows? She may be sizing you up, too, and the talk will be helpful to both of you. If you answered “I don’t know” to several questions, take time to get to know her better… and if your answers were mostly “no,” consider whether you are being too harsh of a critic or if your relationship has serious underlying issues that will ruin your bond in the long term. A jeweler friend of mine likes to say “I only guarantee the merchandise, not the relationship.” The fact is there are no real guarantees. But relationships with strong levels of commitment, compatibility and good communication have far better chances than those without. When it comes to getting engaged and married, consider the above and go with your instincts. You know if it feels right and when it doesn’t.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011

WHAT TO GET HER? a man’s guide to shopping

This fall trends are everywhere. When shopping for you sister, mom or partner it is important to remember her personality. Look around her closet, her jewelry and listen to her wants. When you have done your research shopping for your lady is a breeze. Take a look at some of these cool gift items and stay current by knowing the latest trends for this season. One more final tip, when you go into a store or boutique ask for help, its amazing how simply asking a question can make your shopping experience an easy one.

Diva Staff (from left to right): Ranisa Wells, Andrea Packey, Lori Adams, Vanessa Ginder Dinkel, Debra Ginder, Maria Laursen, Lisa McFall

Diva A NAIL BOUTIQUE 559.449.1111 | 735 W Alluvial Ave Ste 104 Fresno, Ca Diva offers a wide array of clothing, bags and accessories for that special woman in your life. Known for their exclusive blend of skincare, the Diva line will pamper you with its lotions, bath oils and scrubs. Let the friendly staff at Diva cater to your every whim and indulge in this unique an innovative boutique salon. If you are looking at doing something a little extra for your special someone, why not plan a party for her and her friends. Their reflexology techniques are the best in the city. Call and make your appointment today.

Powell’s Sweet Shoppe 559.298.7761 | 1260 Shaw Ave Ste 113 Clovis, Ca Every girl has a sweet tooth and Powell’s Sweet Shoppe is the perfect place to indulge in your candy fantasy. With 5,200 different types of candy there is something for every taste. Enjoy an old fashioned soda in a bottle with some gelato, or reminisce with those yummy candies from your childhood. Every girl needs a little sweet in her life and Powell’s is the perfect place to find sweets for your sweet. Remember to fill your holiday stocking with treats from Powell’s. NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011

Isaacâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eye Photography offers quality portraits and a refined attention to detail. All clients are guaranteed satisfaction at a competitive price. To review packages and contact information please visit: www.isaacseyephotography.com