THE
NEW YEAR ISSUE
REVAMP
YOUR CLOSET
7
WAYS TO
REFRESH YOUR HOME
CHEERS TO THE NEW YEAR
O
ffering a large assortment of pre-owned luxury goods, specializing in handbags, timepieces, certified loose diamonds, estate and bridal jewelry. Every purchase comes with a 100% lifetime authenticity guarantee, and a 14 day no-questions-asked return policy. Come in and experience all the brands we love from Rolex, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Hermès, and so much more! Buy from us: Financing is available subject to credit approval, and a 10-month layaway program is offered. Sell to us: Visit us for a no-obligation offer on your luxury goods, with immediate payment.
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1528 E. CHAMPLAIN DR. STE. 103 FRESNO, CA • 559.434.4589 • SCEPTREANDSASH.COM N.E. CORNER OF CEDAR AND SHEPHERD, NEAR YOSEMITE RANCH RESTAURANT
BEST BOUTIQUE 2018, 2019, 2021, 2022 & 2023 BEST JEWELER 2020
SCEPTRE & SASH IS INDEPENDENT OF ANY BRAND AFFILIATION. ITEMS ARE PRE-OWNED AND/OR VINTAGE. LICENSE #000000780
B U I L D I N G
V A L U E
F O R
G E N E R AT I O N S The Valley’s Premier Local Homebuilder for nearly 80 Years
l e a r n m o r e at b o n a d el l e .c o m
®
BONADELLE.COM
A FA M I LY TR A D ITI O N As the Central Valley’s premier local home builder known for “Building Value for Generations,” Bonadelle Neighborhoods has made luxury the standard for nearly 80 years. The tradition began when a young John Bonadelle, Sr. built his first Fresno neighborhood near Manchester Center for first-time home buyers — many of whom were soldiers returning from World War II. Today, John Bonadelle and his family continue his father’s tradition and have created a legacy of offering custom quality homes with luxurious features, superb craftsmanship and exceptional attention to detail that goes into each home they build. The Bonadelle family is thankful for every relationship they’ve built, every homebuyer they’ve served, and every community member who’s helped make Bonadelle Neighborhoods an award-winning builder. It’s only with your continued support that generations of Bonadelle family members have been able to build homes in which people can take pride in, families can grow, and traditions can be passed down.
Thank you for helping us build value for generations.
N OW SELLI N G
Located in northwest Fresno near the Fig Garden loop
Located on the northeast corner of Barstow Avenue and Leonard Avenue
Located just south of Avenue 12 in the Town Center District of Riverstone
l e a r n m o r e at b o n a d el l e .c o m
Located on the northeast corner of Barstow Avenue and Leonard Avenue
BUSINESS | HEALTHCARE | RESIDENTIAL emid-designgroup.com | 559.276.7300
OUR PASSION
©2023 McCaffrey Homes
YOUR HOME
Building homes has been our passion for three generations. You’ll feel it the first time you step through the front door, and see it in every thoughtfully considered detail. And like all great passions, it carries on and grows—when a McCaffrey home becomes your home.
THREE HOME COLLECTIONS AT TESORO VIEJO From the low $500s
at Tesoro Viejo
From the high $600s From the high $300s
NEW HOMES FROM THE $300s - $800s McCaffreyHomes.com
—10— JAN
Contents New Year
IN EVERY ISSUE
58
14 WELCOME TO THE ISSUE 16 MASTHEAD 18 CONTRIBUTORS
55
SOCIAL AFFAIR 20 AROUND TOWN
January kicks off another calendar cycle with a new tone around town. The holidays may be over, but there’s still plenty to see and do on the social circuit. 24 2024 LUXURY AWARDS
Voting is closed and now it’s time to get into party mode! Only a limited number of seats are still available for the Central Valley’s most luxurious night of the year. 54 TESORO VIEJO’S 6TH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY
The Madera development kicked-off the holiday season with a beloved tradition, which was held at the Town Center and attracted some 1,000 attendees. 56 ILLUMINATURE 21 & OVER
Adults enjoyed the Fresno Chaffee Zoo’s spectacular lighting exhibition as well as live reindeer, spirits galore, local food trucks, and more. 58 CANDLELIGHT GUILD BALL 2023
Hosted at Pardini’s, this holiday dinner event, which benefited five charities, was set in a beautiful winter wonderland comprised of 20 glorious Christmas trees.
Up, Down, Done.
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255 W. El Paso, Fresno / (559) 440-9600 / M-S: 10-7 / Sun: 11-6 / fashionfurnitureco.com
—12— JAN
Contents New Year
42 DEPARTMENTS 32 THE WARDROBE REVAMP
If you’re feeling uninspired when getting dresses, it might be time to reevaluate your closet, so we’ve got tips, tricks, and recommendations for how to make the old feel new. 36 HOME ANEW
It’s not quite time for spring cleaning, but you can still refresh your home with ease. On the cover is a guide to sprucing up your space with minimal effort and expense required.
32
44 GIVE OF YOURSELF
Consider this your call to continue the spirit of giving into the New Year by finding new or carrying on with volunteer work in five popular areas of focus around the Central Valley. 50 DREAM FORWARD
Renate C. Hume, the author of Personal Mandala Readings, talks about how this ancient practice can help anyone look back and dream forward by simply breaking out art materials. 62 ASTRO-VERSING THROUGH THE STARS
Costars always offer insight into what’s in store for the month, but this extended astrologic feature goes a step further with an overview of 2024 that discusses the Year of the Wood Dragon. For the January Edition, CVLUX features The Rousseau for the New Year Issue. INTERIORS EDITOR ERIN MELKONIAN PHOTOGRAPHER DON DIZON ARTWORK KRISTINE VOGT PILLOWS, THROW & DIFFUSER REVIVAL 23 LOCATION THE ROUSSEAU
Donald P. Dick congratulates Tesoro Viejo on the success of their community.
2023 National Community of the Year! By National Association of Home Builders
Bob McCaffery
“We’re very proud of our entire team who saw the vision of Tesoro Viejo so many years ago. The first trees were planted a decade before the first roads went in. This community is unlike any other. It’s 1,600 acres of the most walkable, wide-open spaces with parks, recreational amenities and miles of trails. It’s a small town feel, where home owners can walk their children to school along tree-lined streets and where weekends are celebrated at resort-style pools, festivals and concerts.”
CEO, Tesoro Viejo Development
DONALD P. DICK AIR CONDITIONING mrcool4ac.com
Proud provider of Heating, Air Conditioning and Solar to the building industry since 1970
Welcome to the Issue New Year
Reinvention On the cover of this New Year Issue, we’re sharing seven tried-and-true tricks to help make your home feel fresh with minimal effort and expense (page 36). Now that voting for the upcoming Luxury Awards is closed, be sure to secure your tickets for the most luxurious night of the year (page 24). Social Affair gives a glimpse at Tesoro Viejo’s 6th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony (page 54), IllumiNature 21 & Over (page 56), and the Candlelight Guild Ball 2023 (page 58). Even though the holidays are over, there’s still lots of social happenings around town during January (page 20). Continue the spirit of giving by volunteering locally (page 44). The renowned, multihyphenated author Renate C. Hume shares how practicing mandala can help you understand your unconscious (page 50). Revamp your wardrobe with this guide to auditing, shopping, and investing in your closet (page 32). An expanded version of Costars offers insight into what the cosmos and Year of the Wood Dragon have in store for 2024 (page 62).
Clean Slate
Putting away holiday decorations is a bittersweet transition. The most wonderful time of the year gets packed up, yet the gift this leaves behind is a clean slate. Take advantage of the clarity that comes with a more minimalist living space and let your spirit be rejuvenated by simplicity. PHOTOGRAPHER DON DIZON
—16— JAN
DAVID MANNING Publisher, Sole Owner
EDITORIAL Editorial Director LAUREN BARISIC Interiors Editor ERIN MELKONIAN Astrologer SHARI SCHOPP ART Design Director PHENG MOUA Graphic Designer SAMANTHA DEATHERAGE Contributing Photographers BETHANIE BORQUEZ, DON DIZON, RENATE C. HUME, SNEHA KUMAR NANCY MEZA, RYAN PASTORINO, ROBERT VARGAS, BUTLER BRANDING, DAVID JON PHOTOGRAPHY ELLIE KOLEEN PHOTOGRAPHY, FRESNO CHAFFEE ZOO and PROJECT SURVIVAL CAT HAVEN BUSINESS Regional Marketing Director CAROL DEFENDIS Sales Executive CAROLINE HOWARD-LILLES Accounting Director DEE ANN LINKER Legal Counsel GONTORWON BORH Please submit all advertising inquires to information@cvlux.com.
Letters To The Editor: We want to hear from you. Please submit letters to: CVLUX, 7797 N. First St. #172, Fresno CA, 93720 or e-mail to information@cvlux.com. Letters must be signed and deemed appropriate for our readership to be considered for publishing. Letters are subject to editing and may be cut for length. Story Queries: Are you a writer? Please send story queries to lauren@cvlux.com. Please allow six to eight weeks for a response. CVLUX is not responsible for unsolicited material. CVLUX is published twelve times a year by Modern Living Publishing LLC, 7797 N. First St. #172, Fresno CA, 93720. Copyright 2014 by Modern Living Publishing LLC. All rights reserved. Every effort has been made to ensure the information within this publication is complete and accurate at the time of publication. CVLUX does not warrant such accuracy or the claims of its advertisers. All materials, articles, reports, original artwork, and photos published in this magazine are the property of Modern Living Publishing LLC and cannot be used or reproduced without permission in writing. Modern Living Publishing LLC is not responsible for the opinions expressed within the publication. Prices quoted in advertisements are subject to change without notice.
HAPPENING NOW – FEB 9 TH GET YOUR TICKETS AT FRESNOCHAFFEEZOO.ORG
—18— JAN
Contributors New Year
Don Dizon
Erin Melkonian
Don is a portrait and still-life photographer based on Fresno, California. He was a nursing major from Fresno City College, and while waiting to get in the nursing program, he continued to take photography classes. There he fell completely in love with photography. Capturing the right moment only takes one shot. But it is much more than that! You need to have the right lighting, angle, and expression to get the perfect photograph. Over the years, Don has mastered the art of capturing the moment.
Erin runs a collaborative design firm, EMID Design Group, specializing in healthcare, hospitality, and residential interior design, in Fresno, California. Seeing the world through an artistic lens has allowed Erin to experiment in a number of different styles. Everything she does with a space is deliberate. Every piece has a purpose and has been thought about (from color, to position, to scale) in order to create the most unique and personal spaces for her clients.
Photographer
Interiors Editor
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—20—
LUX locale
JAN
Community Calendar
JANUARY Around Town January 4th to 27th
Arts Visalia Presents Christina Brunk and Beckie Ballew Nava Arts Visalia Visual Art Center www.artsvisalia.org
Photography by local photographers Christina Brunk and Beckie Ballew Nava are on display for just over three weeks at Arts Visalia Visual Art Center. Brunk showcases her “Highlands” collection and Beckie Ballew Nava her “Light, Color, Near & Far”. An opening reception will take place on January 5th, followed by an Artist Talk on January 6th.
January 5th to February 18th
Amadeus
Good Company Players 2nd Space Theatre www.2ndspacetheatre.com
Hailed as Peter Shaffer’s greatest play, Amadeus portrays a brilliant dramatization about the two composers, Antonio Salieri and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Salieri is respected, successful, and royally sanctioned, whereas Mozart is a foul-mouthed, graceless oaf with something beyond Salieri’s envious grasp: genius. This show is rated PG13.
January 7th
Last Day for Summer/Fall Exhibitions Fresno Art Museum www.fresnoartmuseum.org
The first Sunday of January marks the last day of the Fresno Art Museum’s summer and fall exhibitions. This will be the final opportunity to see Maurice Sendak: 60 Years of Wild Things, Imaginings: Portraits & False Flag, The Magic and Flair of Mary Blair, and Art of the Word: Growing an Artist. The museum will be closed until February for new exhibit installations.
MAKE-A-WISH’S GALA OF WISHES 2024 WILL TAKE PLACE AT THE PAINTED TABLE. PHOTOGRAPHER DON DIZON
January 11th to March 10th
January 14th
Beautiful: The Carole King Musical
Bridesmaids (The Movie) & Wedding Show
Roger Rocka’s Dinner Theater kicks off Season 2024 with Beautiful: The Carole King Musical. This jukebox musical, with a book by Douglas McGrath, tells the story of Carole King’s early life and career through songs that she wrote, often together with Gerry Goffin, as well as other contemporary songs by Barry Mann, Cynthia Weil, Phil Spector, and more.
The Blissfully Yours Wedding Expo is now a bridesmaid brunch live show experience. This afternoon event includes a red-carpet entrance, a mimosa bar, mingling with select wedding vendors, appetizers, a fashion show, on-stage demos, presentations, and more. A matinee screening of Bridesmaids will take place after the stage show. Tickets are $10 each.
January 13th
January 15th
Good Company Players Roger Rocka’s Dinner Theater www.rogerrockas.com
Stewardship Day
Sequoia Riverlands Trust Kaweah Oaks Preserve www.sequoiariverlands.org
Join the Sequoia Riverlands Trust at one of their monthly Stewardship Days at the Kaweah Oaks Preserve. Volunteer activities include planting trees and native plants, removing invasive plants, trail maintenance, educational programs, and other activities that can be tailored to all abilities and ages. This event is held on the third Saturday of each month from 9:00AM to noon.
Visalia Fox Theatre www.foxvisalia.org
Free Entrance Day All National Parks www.nps.gov
The first of six Free Entrance Days to the National Parks will take place on the birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr. Experience the National Parks for free at all National Park Service sites that charge an entrance fee. With over 400 National Parks to choose from, this is a great opportunity to explore a new park or revisit a beloved piece of protected land.
For more information, contact event organizer as events may be subject to change.
Sam Namdarian D.M.D.
The Cosmetic Dentist who teaches other Cosmetic Dentists!
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—22— JAN
LUX locale Community Calendar
JANUARY Around Town January 19th
Fulton 55’s 13th Anniversary Month Party Fulton 55 www.fulton55.com
Celebrate Fulton 55’s 13th Anniversary Month with the incredible 40 Watt Hype band. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to this Downtown Fresno venue, now is the time to experience Fulton 55’s vibrant energy. Starting at 9:00PM, the night will be filled with incredible music and non-stop fun for people 21 and over. The doors open at 8:00PM. Tickets range from $15 to $20.
January 21st
Fresno Wedding Festival
Fresno Convention Center www.internationalweddingfestival.com
THE FIRST OF SIX FREE ENTRANCE DAYS TO THE NATIONAL PARKS WILL TAKE PLACE THIS MONTH. PHOTOGRAPHER RYAN PASTORINO
January 26th
Theresa Caputo Live
Saroyan Theatre events.fresnoconventioncenter.com
Gather your “I Do Crew” or “Wedding Warriors” for an inspiring day of wedding planning. This International Wedding Festival expo offers an ideal opportunity to plan your perfect day in person. Meet wedding professionals, watch live fashion shows and demos, and win prizes while exploring on-site music, entertainment, photo booths, florists, and other wedding industry vendors.
For more than a decade, Theresa Caputo, the renowned star of TLC’s beloved Long Island Medium series, has touched the lives of over a million people around the world with messages of solace and reassurance. Witness her remarkable ability to connect with those who have crossed over at an evening that promises awe-inspiring moments and a profound connection to the spiritual world.
January 25th and 26th
January 27th
Disney On Ice Presents Frozen and Encanto
Selland Arena events.fresnoconventioncenter.com
Thanks to the magic of Disney On Ice, the fantastical adventures of Frozen and Encanto are brought to life like never before. Hosted by Mickey and Minnie, dazzling ice-skating transports you to Arendelle and the mountains of Colombia. Families should be prepared for a getaway jam-packed with unexpected hijinks and surprises as well as up-close character interactions.
Elton The Early Years Visalia Fox Theatre www.foxvisalia.org
Elton The Early Years is a Visalia Fox Theatre Fundraiser sponsored by Visalia Breakfast Rotary, Rotary Club of Visalia, Rotary Club of Visalia Sunset, Visalia County Center Rotary, and Visalia Latino Rotary. This tribute is more than just a show starring Kenny Metcalf as Elton John. The entire band skillfully recreates the original album sounds. Tickets range from $20 to $50.
January 27th
Gala of Wishes 2024
Make-A-Wish Northeastern & Central California and Northern Nevada The Painted Table www.wish.org/canv
The transformative power of a wish can be seen at the Gala of Wishes 2024, hosted by Make-A-Wish Northeastern & Central California and Northern Nevada. The organization is on a mission to grant the wishes of children with critical illnesses. The Gala of Wishes is always filled with delicious food, great drinks, and the hope that comes with a wish.
January 30th
Enrique Iglesias, Pitbull, Ricky Martin: The Trilogy Tour Save Mart Center www.savemartcenter.com
Enrique Iglesias, Pitbull, and Ricky Martin will kick off the second leg of The Trilogy Tour at the Save Mart Center. Fans can look forward to an unforgettable night of music as the megastars deliver a mix of their biggest hits backed by world-class production and state-of-the-art visuals. Tickets are available through Ticketmaster or the Save Mart Center Box Office.
For more information, contact event organizer as events may be subject to change.
NEW LOOK. SAME ATTITUDE.
Step into a world where every click opens the door to new experiences. CVLUX.COM
CULTURE. BEAUTY. STYLE. DESIGN. CUISINE. CVLUX Magazine is pleased to present the 2024 Luxury Awards. Each year, CVLUX recognizes the Central Valley’s favorite businesses with Luxury Awards. Nominations were submitted in July 2023. The top five in each category made it to this year’s ballot. Voting began in September 2023 and closed on December 29, 2023. The winners will be announced at the Luxury Awards. For additional information, contact information@cvlux.com. No refunds or exchanges. All sales are final.
WHERE and WHEN The Grand 1401 1401 Fulton Street Fresno, California 93721 Friday, March 8th, 2024 5:30 P.M. to 11:30 P.M. DRESS CODE: BLACK TIE FORMAL
CVLUX.COM
The Menu First Course
ARTISAN BREAD
Accompanied by whipped butter and black sea salt.
Second Course FIG & GOAT CHEESE SALAD
Mixed baby greens, fresh figs, and goat cheese, dressed in champagne vinaigrette and topped with house-made croutons.
Third Course
(select one)
FILET MIGNON
Served alongside whipped potatoes and charred asparagus, with blackberry bordelaise and topped with tarragon vinaigrette-dressed mustard frisée.
PAN-SEARED SALMON
Zesty romesco, grilled squash, roasted fingerling potatoes, honey glazed rainbow carrots, and tarragon vinaigrette-dressed mustard frisée.
VEGETARIAN BUCATINI
In a parmesan cream sauce with asparagus, leeks, crouton crumble, pan-seared trumpet mushroom, and charred Meyer lemon.
Fourth Course TRIPLE CHOCOLATE MOUSSE CAKE Finished with berry purée.
HOSPITAL Community Medical Centers Fresno Surgical Hospital Kaiser Permanente Kaweah Health Medical Center Saint Agnes Medical Center
COSMETIC/PLASTIC SURGEON Hedieh Arbabzadeh, MD WPS Fresno Carl Askren, MD, FACS Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Pavilion Mark A. Chin, MD, MPH Valley Institute of Plastic Surgery James Knoetgen, MD Beautologie Kaye Riolo, MD, FACS Riolo Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
ANTI-AGING & REGENERATIVE MEDICINE Diego Allende, DO Allende Centre for Regenerative Medicine & Vitality Juan G. Bautista, MD Bautista Health & Anti-Aging Juan Chavez, MD Optimal Medical Group Ignacio Guzman, MD North Fresno Primary Care Daria Majzoubi, MD Maj Medical Clinic
DERMATOLOGIST Kathleen Behr, MD Behr Laser & Skin Care Center Carlos Paz, MD, PhD Paz Dermatology Babar K. Rao, MD, FAAD Rao Dermatology Gregory L. Simpson, MD Central California Faculty Medical Group Leslie Storey, MD Valley Skin Institute
ALLERGIST
ORTHODONTIST
A.M. Aminian, MD Allergy Institute
John Bayrakdarian, DMD Unique Orthodontics
Malik Baz, MD Baz Allergy, Asthma & Sinus Center
Ryann Christensen, DDS, MS Christensen Family Orthodontics
Praveen Buddiga, MD, FAAAAI Buddiga Family Allergy, Skin & Immunology
Mark Lowe, DDS Mark Lowe DDS Orthodontics
Richard S. DeMera, MD DeMera Allergy, Asthma & ENT Center
Nicole Nalchajian, DDS, MD Nalchajian Orthodontics
Rabinder Sidhu, MD Sidhu Allergy
Brian Thurman, DDS Thurman Orthodontics
OPTOMETRIST/ OPHTHALMOLOGIST
ORAL SURGEON
Anthony Chavez, OD Fogg Remington EyeCare Rick W. Ideta, OD Aloha Family Optometric Group Jeffrey Krohn, OD, FAAO, Diplomate (ABO and AAO) Fig Garden Optometry Thomas Shute, MD Eye-Q Vision Care Desiree Sison, OD Eye Medical Center of Fresno
OPTICAL SURGEON Maziar Bidar, MD Eye Medical Center of Fresno Andrew Maxwell, MD, PhD InSight Vision Center Eric J. Poulsen, MD InSight Vision Center Rodney C. Remington, MD Fogg Remington EyeCare Campbell Waldrop, MD Eye-Q Vision Care
DENTIST Ryan Dunlop, DMD Better Life Center Implant & General Dentistry Bryan C. Fung, DDS Bryan C. Fung, DDS Sam Namdarian, DMD Fresno Smile Makeovers Gerald T. Shinkawa, DDS Shinkawa Dental Surdeep Singh, DDS Clovis Family Dentistry
Shannon Barnhart, DDS Fresno Oral Maxillofacial Surgery & Dental Implant Center Mehrdad Fay, DDS Fresno Prosthodontic Centrè Scott Jett, DMD, MS Advanced Perio Endo eXperts Andrew R. Rahn, DDS, PC Andrew R. Rahn DDS PC David J. Smith, DDS Central Valley Dental Implant & Oral Surgery Institute
ORTHOPEDIC SURGEON Ronald Castonguay, MD Fresno Surgical Hospital Ian Duncan, MD Orthopaedic Associates Medical Clinic, Inc. Don Lester, MD Community Care Health Peter T. Simonian, MD Simonian Sports Medicine Clinic Connor J. Telles, MD Sierra Pacific Orthopedics
SPORTS MEDICINE Green Sports Medicine Pride Sports Medicine Sierra Pacific Orthopedics Simonian Sports Medicine Clinic Sports & Orthopedic Physical Therapy
CHIROPRACTOR
FITNESS STUDIO
London Jones, DC Feel Good Chiropractic
Blue Moon Yoga & Juice Bar
Thomas Potigian, DC Sunnyside Wellness & Chiropractic Center Joshua T. Ritter, DC Fresno Family Chiropractic Thomas Schroeder, DC Schroeder Family Chiropractic
Boppilates The Iron Office Mayweather Boxing + Fitness Olympus Fitness
WEIGHT LOSS CENTER
Matthew Vinson, DC Preferred Chiropractic Center
AHK MD Primary + Preventative Medicine
MEDICAL SPA
Body Goal Fresno
Aspire Medispa Body del Sol Aesthetics Kiss Me Med Spa The Medical Spa and Laser Center at Fig Garden Village Revay Aesthetics
DAY SPA La Peau Spa Muses Day Spa PREEN a boutique salon Serenity Springs Spa The Spa at Fig Garden Village
HAIR SALON Gentry Salon Hungry Hair Salon La Dama Salon PREEN a boutique salon Spectrum Salon, Day Spa & Barber Shop
NAIL SALON Blush Salon Head Over Heels Salon Hitech Nails & Spa Polish’d Nail Bar PREEN a boutique salon
Body del Sol Aesthetics Her Body Bar Restorative Health & Wellness
SHOPPING CENTER Fig Garden Village Pavilion West River Park Riverwalk Villaggio
BOUTIQUE The Closet Daughters of Simone LOMIE’S pum bum Sceptre & Sash Authentic Luxury
GIFTS & DÉCOR Jude’s Revival 23 RPL. Lifestyle RSVP Style Shoppe At The Avenue
JEWELER
REALTOR
Gianni Fine Jewelers
Brian Domingos Jr. Premier Valley Realty
Orloff Jewelers Rogers Jewelry Co. Sceptre & Sash Authentic Luxury The Vault Fine Jewelers
DEALERSHIP BMW Fresno Fresno Acura Fresno Jaguar, Land Rover, Volvo Mercedes-Benz of Fresno Porsche Fresno
COMMUNITY Copper River Ranch Old Fig Garden Riverstone San Joaquin Tesoro Viejo
BUILDER Bonadelle Neighborhoods De Young Properties McCaffrey Homes Wathen Castanos Homes Woodside Homes
MORTGAGE LENDER Elias Delgado Guaranteed Rate Michelle Glass Union Home Mortgage Jessica Gonzalez Affirm Capital Toby Petrucelli Premier Mortgage Resources Tami Rima Gold Standard Mortgage
Nico Gentile Gentile Real Estate Laura Mather The Mather Method Victoria Sherlock Sherlock Homes Real Estate Group Paul Tatarian The Apex Broker
CONTRACTOR/REMODELING SPECIALIST Dodson Builders Construction Inc. Icon Construction & Design Imagine Remodeling Legacy Construction Trademark
INTERIOR DESIGN dlb Design EMID Design Group Facility Designs Katie Mendrin Design Stephanie Catron Design Collaborative, Inc.
HOME FURNISHINGS 4 Seasons Furniture Amparan Design Fashion Furniture RPL. Lifestyle Shoppe At The Avenue
LANDSCAPER/NURSERY Elite Landscape Construction First Impressions Gazebo Gardens Pratt Landscape Design Willow Gardens Nursery
BANK
CASINO
Central Valley Community Bank
Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino
Citizens Business Bank
Club One Casino, Granite Park
Educational Employees Credit Union
Eagle Mountain Casino
FFB Bank
Table Mountain Casino Resort
Premier Valley Bank
Tachi Palace Casino Resort
WEALTH MANAGEMENT
BAR
Blue Oak Wealth Management
Bella Vino Cellar
The Coury Firm
Cracked Pepper Bistro
Thiesen Dueker Modern Wealth Management
Elbow Room Bar & Grill
Valley Wealth Management
Manhattan Steakhouse & Bar
Whelan Financial
Modernist Craft Cocktail Bar
INSURANCE COMPANY
DINING
DiBuduo & DeFendis Insurance
FIVE
McCarty Insurance
Max’s Bistro & Bar
M.D. Manouel Insurance Agency Inc.
Parma Ristorante
Personal Express Insurance
Sabor Cocina Latina & Bar
Professional Benefits Team Inc.
Saizon
LAW FIRM
HIDDEN GEM
Carter Law Group
Bentley’s Barkery & Barktique
Goldberg & Ibarra
Georgio’s
Law Office of Miles A. Harris Esq.
Rejuvenated Living Organizing Services
Law Offices of Valdez & Valdez
Resort Life Carts
Moran Law Firm
The Safe Gal
ACCOUNTING FIRM
LEGACY
Brent F. Freeman, Jr.
Beal Properties Inc.
The Garabedian Group
Creative Tile
Ratzlaff Tamberi & Wong Accountancy Corporation
Fresno Coin Gallery, The Showroom
SBA Accounting & Tax Solutions
Harris Family Enterprises
W CPA Group
Sam’s Italian Deli & Market
—33— JAN
the
WARDROBE REVAMP Features Contributor Caroline Howard-Lilles
Are you ready to enter the New Year with a revitalized wardrobe that genuinely reflects your style? We’ve got you covered with tips on refreshing your closet and creating new looks using the clothes you already own. Take your fashion sense to new heights this year by saying goodbye to fast fashion, shopping the pieces you already own, and investing in staples that will inevitably be the foundation of a wardrobe that makes you look and feel your best.
AUDIT YOUR CLOSET
The first step in rejuvenating your closet is to declutter, organize, and take stock of the items you already own. Take some time to go through your wardrobe and be honest in assessing your choices. Engaging in this task with someone you trust, who can offer an objective viewpoint, can make it easier. Consider donating or selling items that no longer fit, are damaged, or fail to bring you excitement. Decluttering will result in more space and less decision fatigue when selecting your outfits, allowing you to focus on the pieces that truly resonate with your style.
SHOP YOUR CLOSET
With your wardrobe now refreshed and organized, it’s time to explore your closet and experiment with your existing pieces. Browse through your collection of style inspiration, such as saved outfits from Pinterest or Instagram, and experiment by combining similar items you already own to create fresh, reimagined looks. Embrace the idea of mixing textures, patterns, and colors, and try layering items that you haven’t previously paired together. This helps to add depth and dimension to your outfits.
INVEST IN KEY PIECES
While the focus is on utilizing what you already own, it’s also essential to invest in key pieces that will complement your current wardrobe. Consider the staples you gravitate towards most—these are items worth the investment for quality. For instance, be content with spending more to acquire a high-quality pair of jeans that you’ll wear constantly or investing in cashmere pieces that you’ll enjoy for years to come. Additionally, high-quality accessories are another powerful way to revitalize your wardrobe by completely transforming an outfit.
ACCESSORY FOUNDATIONS
Look for high-quality, versatile accessory items that can blend with your current style. A classic luxury bag, quality leather items such as belts and boots, statement scarves, and timeless pieces of authentic jewelry are all excellent items. These items will transcend trends and provide a solid foundation for creating a variety of stylish outfits, embellishing the pieces you already own. Following are just a few recommendations to get you inspired.
—34— JAN
LUX looks Fashion Trends
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LUXURY HANDBAGS Investing in classic, luxury handbags, such as Chanel or Yves Saint Laurent, is an excellent starting point. Opt for a color that complements your existing wardrobe and choose classic styles over trendy ones, as these iconic bags have the potential to become cherished heirlooms.
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TIMELESS JEWELRY
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These enduring, luxurious jewelry pieces are true statement-makers that speak for themselves, whether worn individually or incorporated into a chic bracelet stack. Brands such as Cartier and Van Cleef & Arpels are renowned for their timeless style and designs that will last a lifetime.
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1. Chanel Mini Flap Bag Calfskin & Gold-Tone Metal in White $5,500.00 from www.chanel.com 2. Saint Laurent Small YSL Monogram Leather Satchel Bag in Grey Brown $2,650.00 from www.neimanmarcus.com 3. Saint Laurent Le 5 A & YSL Leather Hobo Shoulder Bag in Black $2,400.00 from www.neimanmarcus.com 4. David Yurman Crossover Wide Ring with Diamonds in Gold $2,950.00 to $3,050.00 from www.bloomingdales.com 5. Cartier Love Bracelet, Small Model, 18K Yellow Gold $4,750.00 from www.cartier.com 6. Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Bracelet, 5 Motifs in 18K Yellow Gold, Mother of Pearl $4,200.00 from www.vancleefarpels.com 7. Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Pendant in 18K Yellow Gold $3,700.00 from www.vancleefarpels.com
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STATEMENT SCARVES Neutral silk scarves are the perfect year-round accessory that can be easily blended into your wardrobe to enhance any ensemble. Whether worn around your neck or gracefully tied to your handbag, there are a myriad of different styles and prints to suit your preferences. 10
STAPLE BELTS A luxury belt is one of the most versatile accessories, effortlessly enhancing any outfit and refining your appearance. It seamlessly transitions attire from casual to formal, all while adding a touch of understated sophistication to your existing wardrobe.
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CLASSIC BOOTS
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Elegant boots crafted with high-quality leather in neutral hues are a must-have addition to your footwear collection, particularly for the fall and winter seasons. A unique boot, such as Reformation’s Gaelle Knee Boot, with its glossy finish and small buckle detail, offers versatility by enhancing a variety of simple looks.
8. Fraas Lightweight Colorblock Scarf $148.00 from www.bloomingdales.com 9. Burberry Vintage Check & Logo Silk Skinny Scarf $220.00 from www.bloomingdales.com 10. Valentino Garavani VLOGO Leather Belt in Nero/Rouge $650.00 from www.neimanmarcus.com 11. Bottega Veneta Knot Buckle Leather Belt in Travertine Brass $550.00 from www.neimanmarcus.com 12. Ralph Lauren Collection Tooled Engraved Leather Medium Belt $1,500.00 from www.neimanmarcus.com 13. Christian Louboutin Adoxa Zip Ankle Booties $1,195 from www.neimanmarcus.com 14. Reformation Gaelle Knee Boot in Ruby $548.00 from www.thereformation.com
Home Anew
seven ways to refresh your space in the new year Editorial Director Lauren Barisic Interiors Editor Erin Melkonian Photographer Don Dizon Artwork Kristine Vogt Pillows, Throw & Diffuser Revival 23 Location The Rousseau
The great thing about refreshing as opposed to redoing is that it just doesn’t feel like such an undertaking. Don’t make this a project to check-off your chore list—allow this to be something that lets you be inspired and, thus, excited to do. Remember, a refresh only requires a simple change. It can be as little as a single update or as complicated as full color story makeover. The point is to evolve with what you have rather than start from scratch. You’ll be amazed at how it doesn’t take much to make your space feel anew.
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Swap One Rug Few interior décor items are as subliminally impactful as rugs. It can take years to find a rug that really ties the room together, which is why this swap can completely transform any space. Switching out a rug can be a bit of a task depending on the furniture it’s anchoring, but this also affords you the opportunity to do some post-holiday deep cleaning. However, if this is just too much bother, layering on a new rug can also be a game changer from the ground up.
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Move Lamps Around Lamps offer some of the best light. Having multiple lighting points in any room adds dimension to functionality. It’s also amazing how light sources influence ambiance, which is why moving lamps around is an easy, costless, and painless way to make the house feel fresh and bright. Try placing a floor lamp next to a spot where a table lamp once stood. Shift a few lamps to and from another room. Once you like the new placement, remember to reassess the color and intensity of the bulbs.
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Splurge on a Vase And some stems! Or branches. Vases are one of those items we tend to reuse rather than buy again, making this purchase one that hits differently if you love having the outdoors inside. Pick a silhouette you can’t wait to keep refilling. Bringing in seasonal flowers effortlessly ushers in the seasons given all their variety. Plus, buying what’s currently blooming means the stems will last longer. If you’d rather go a more naturelle route, cutting some bare branches poetically symbolizes a clean slate.
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Update Scents Your home has probably smelled festive for three months—give or take—by the time New Year’s Eve hits. Smell is our strongest sense of memory, with an unparalleled ability to affect emotion. So, if you’re really looking to refresh your space post-holidays, it’s absolutely essential to update the scent of your home come January. Box-up Christmas candles, use a new air freshener, and change out the plug-ins. Crisp aromas will make the air in your home feel clean and fresh.
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Invest in Artwork Art is as expressive as it is transformative. Once all the holiday decorations are put away and you’ve reclaimed your space, the opportunity to really appreciate a new piece of artwork becomes apparent. If you’ve been eyeing a particular piece or waiting to invest in something you’ll love looking at for years, the New Year is the perfect time to pull the trigger. Think of this timing as a way to set a new, positive tone for your home in the upcoming year.
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Throw Blankets & Pillows This can be the act of adding to or removing throw blankets and pillows. Both can be found in all price ranges; so, getting rid of some or acquiring more shouldn’t trigger buyer’s remorse. And if it does, it’s easy to remedy because it’s just as easy to fix. Freshen the sofa you spend the most time on with a few new ornamental cushions or a different blanket. Alternatively, moving some from another room will also help your critical eye on its quest for fluid styling throughout your home.
Try a Tray Accessories offer the finishing touch to any room, but too much of a good thing can also qualify as clutter. Trays are like pretty corals! Instead of packing away or getting rid of decorative objects, try grouping them on a tray. Trays are also a great place to keep remotes, coasters, and tissue boxes (i.e., the stuff you need easy access to daily). Even though the same number of items are out, visually, your eye sees them now as being “in their place” and not scattered about.
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LUX looks
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Home Trends
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8 1. Threshold Oak Wood Tripod Floor Lamp Dark Brown $110.00 from www.target.com 2. Anthropologie Flatwoven Mateo Jute Rug $68.00 to $998.00 from www.anthropologie.com 3. West Elm Oversized Antique Brass Metal Trays $90.00 to $202.00 from www.westelm.com 4. Pottery Barn Joshua Handcrafted Ceramics Collection in Black Medium $79.00 from www.potterybarn.com 5. Kristine Vogt “Conscious Choice” $4,500.00 from www.kristinevogt.com 6. Throw Blanket $89.99 from www.revival23interiors.com 7. Cereria Molla Black Orchid & Lily Diffuser $129.99 from www.revival23interiors.com 8. Various Pillows $79.99 each from www.revival23interiors.com
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yourself GIVE OF Editorial Director Lauren Barisic
The holidays are known for being the season of giving—of yourself, your time, and your treasure. But what if this spirit of generosity extended beyond the holiday season? What if it was a precursor to the manner in which we enter the New Year? A sort of “head start” when beginning again? Instead of starting over annually, January could be the proverbial second step, rather than the initial one. This would offer a remarkable momentum to our movement towards betterment in yet another calendar cycle. Rather than making another resolution that might very well be thrown by the wayside all too quickly, put yourself in a position where your presence not only serves others, but helps to build a better community by building a better you. Volunteering is a great way to get out of your comfort zone and into someone else’s shoes. As we enter 2024, let us look at volunteering opportunities as a way to help maintain the spirit of giving beyond the holiday season. There are countless ways to give of yourself. First and foremost, pick an area that speaks to your heart. Locally, some of the most popular organizations aid animals, children, the differently abled, the homeless, and the environment. So, we have rounded up a few Central Valley organizations from each of these categories to give ideas about where you can keep on giving. Being local, these non-profits make it easy to see the ripple effect volunteer work can have in our own community.
PHOTOGRAPHER PROJECT SURVIVAL CAT HAVEN
PHOTOGRAPHER PROJECT SURVIVAL CAT HAVEN
Animals Animal Rescue of Fresno (ARF) www.arf-fresno.com ARF is a volunteer-based, non-profit organization that receives no government funding. They rely entirely on community support to sustain their operations and programs. You can join ARF’s cause by volunteering at their facility, helping with events, engaging in outreach, or offering whatever you believe might contribute to their mission. Central California SPCA www.ccspca.com Those who are passionate about animal welfare have plenty of ways to get involved at the Central California SPCA, “Fresno’s Humane Society”.
PHOTOGRAPHER PROJECT SURVIVAL CAT HAVEN
Volunteer opportunities for a wide variety of job assignments, related to any skill set, are available every day throughout the entire year. All that is needed is a small mandatory fee that will cover a volunteer t-shirt and other essential supplies. Project Survival Cat Haven www.cathaven.com Volunteering at the Cat Haven is for those who love to teach and work with the public. It also provides an excellent opportunity to be involved in wild cat conservation without traveling to exotic locations. Volunteers assist faculty with educational goals and cover routine duties such as managing the gift shop. You can apply to be a docent, keeper, coordinator, or to help with maintenance and cleanup.
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PHOTOGRAPHER BUTLER BRANDING
Children Boys & Girls Clubs of Fresno County www.bgcfresno.org Spending just a few hours a week in a Boys & Girls Club, which counts on volunteers to carry out their mission, can have a tremendous impact on a child’s life. The Clubs offer opportunities for adults to work directly with youth as homework helpers and tutors, activity assistants, and mentors. They strive to connect everyone with an opportunity that fits individual skills, interests, and availability. CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties www.casafresnomadera.org There are a few remarkable ways to stand up for foster youth if you join CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties. By getting involved, you can help change the trajectories of foster kids, helping them transition into successful futures. Become an advocate and give a voice to the children in our community who need it the most. Several CASA fundraising events throughout the year are also in need of volunteers. Exceptional Parents Unlimited (EPU) www.epuchildren.org Volunteers play an important role in EPU’s mission to provide family-focused services. They offer opportunities for volunteers to support their contributions towards our communities by working with children between the ages of 18 to 36 months in the Child Development Center or by supporting their various one-day events throughout the year. Simply apply online.
The Differently Abled PHOTOGRAPHER DON DIZON
Able Advocates www.ableadvocates.org Able Advocates’ amazing team of regular and part-time volunteers are committed to providing services and equipment to children with special needs. The non-profit offers a no-cost equipment closet to Central Valley families in need as well as family support and community connections. If you think you would be a good fit, get in touch for more information. Best Buddies www.bestbuddies.org Best Buddies offers One-to-One Friendship, Integrated Employment, Leadership Development, and Inclusive Living for individuals with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in California. Volunteers can help end the social, physical, and economic isolation of 200 million people with IDD. Just sign up and let the organization find the perfect way for you to get involved.
PHOTOGRAPHER NANCY MEZA
The Creative Center Foundation www.thecreativecenter-visalia.org The Creative Center in Visalia is a community arts center for adults with developmental disabilities. Their work fosters self-expression, self-worth, and personal growth through arts and community integration. The foundation’s board and volunteers help to provide cultural resources to the community and recognize individuals’ value and contributions.
PHOTOGRAPHER BETHANIE BORQUEZ
COPYRIGHT 2023; SNEHA KUMAR, SEQUOIA RIVERLANDS TRUST
PHOTOGRAPHER BETHANIE BORQUEZ
Environment
Homeless
Beautify Fresno www.beautifyfresno.org Beautify Fresno is a city-wide effort to clean the city’s neighborhoods, streets, and highways in partnership with local organizations, non-profits, churches, service organizations, and individuals in the community. If you want to help this cause and are willing to spend a couple hours to help clean up and beautify the community, simply check out their opportunity calendar.
Eco Village Project of Fresno www.ecovillagefresno.org Anyone can help provide “A Green Solution to Homelessness” via the safe and dignified living spaces built in an environmentally sustainable manner through Eco Village Project of Fresno. Their model gives each resident the educational, emotional, and physical tools as well as the caring support and training needed to escape the cycle of homelessness.
San Joaquin River Parkway and Conservation Trust www.riverparkway.org From occasional to long-term commitments, time and talent is always needed to support programs and projects such as habitat restoration, river field-trips for children, summer camp, fundraising, advocacy, and more to help the mission of the San Joaquin Parkway and Conservation Trust. They also utilize the Trust’s Website Calendar and Volunteer Match to share volunteer opportunities. Sequoia Riverlands Trust www.sequoiariverlands.org You can serve the land and the people with the Sequoia Riverlands Trust. They offer a wide variety of volunteer opportunities for all ages, physical abilities, and levels of interest. Their many stewardship activities include planting native plants for the trust’s restoration and mitigation projects, building trails, trash cleanups, assisting with environmental education presentations, and more.
Fresno Mission www.fresnomission.org Life change starts with a meal at Fresno Mission, but that’s not all that they do. The organization has recently launched a new online volunteer orientation program that allows volunteers to complete preliminary orientation from the comfort of home. You can make a difference by helping in the kitchen, working with children, or assisting in outreach programs there. Salt + Light www.saltandlightworks.org Salt + Light is changing the approach to and treatment of homelessness in a radically different way, and in doing so they are cultivating community. Check out VOMO to see how you can serve our neighbors experiencing homelessness through a variety of means, such as food preparation, pick-up, transport, and distribution; food-truck loading and delivery, neighbor shuttle, or as a merchandise and office assistant.
2550 S. East Ave. Ste. 120, Fresno, CA 93706 • (559)266-4844 • info@thesafegal.com • www.thesafegal.com | Monday-Friday: 9AM-5PM
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Dream —51— JAN
FORWARD Editorial Director Lauren Barisic Photos courtesy of Renate C. Hume
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very January, there seems to be a strong desire for self-improvement filling the air, and with that tends to come a slew of resolutions: eat healthier, exercise more, swear less. While all are certainly not bad ways to start a new calendar cycle, there is an undeniable element of cliché associated with making a New Year’s resolution. Physical improvement is a great thing at any time of the year; however, internal well-being should be accorded equal priority, irrespective of the date. In an era where mental health is given much attention, the need to undertake psychological resolutions should be at the top of one’s list. This is where harnessing the power of mandalas can teach one a thing or two about oneself. Through mandala practice, looking back will allow you to dream forward. The term “mandala” is of Sanskrit origin, meaning “center and circle.” Cave drawings, predating the invention of the wheel (another manifestation of a transporting circle), depict circles with a central dot. This shape has existed across diverse cultures and within numerous religions. “Wherever we look there is evidence of mandalas,” professes Renate C. Hume, the renowned multihyphenate and author of Personal Mandala Readings. Examples include the design of rosette windows in Christian churches, Native American medicine wheels, and Aborigine circles drawn in the sand. “The concept is a natural one,” she elaborates, as “we are attracted to a center that is ‘still,’ while the rest of the world is swirling around us.” Consequently, the mandala is symbolic in shape and explorative in concept. The practice of mandala begins with drawing a large circle—your universe—fitting just within a square. At its center lies a smaller
circle, while the outer section of the larger circle is divided into four parts diagonally. In each section, you draw what speaks to you. Each quadrant represents a direction and a corresponding phase of life: “youth” to the east, “adult life” to the south, “wisdom age” to the west, and “support belief systems” to the north—representing the highest level of understanding—with the center circle being “you in essence.” The circle inside a square illustrates the contradiction between our circular inclinations despite living in a square world—you’re probably reading this article on a square screen or page in a room with four corners, which contains doors and windows of the same shape, in a building comprised of cubical spaces. Poetically, the mandala’s geometric design aims to help you find your organic center nonetheless. “The mandala is an all-embracing, timeless symbol of human experience,” Renate asserts. “Its concentric structure suggests a passage from the outer to the inner experience. The mandala is one of the most potent symbols of mankind. It can be a representation of the cosmos or a representation of the psyche. C.G. Jung found that his clients were able to access their unconscious when they drew their dream experiences in a circle.” This is much like how one goes about creating a “Personal Mandala.” Renate explains, “In a Personal Mandala, one starts out with a journey inward, looking back on one’s life, dreaming forward, but also getting in touch with the very essence of self. In addition, one may contemplate what kind of emotional, spiritual support one has adopted for needy times.” When doing a private session with Renate, “the process entails a quiet journey initially, followed by private feedback based on the universal meaning of symbols, colors, numbers, placement, and ‘accidentals.’ The average session takes about an hour and a half.”
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et mandala is a practice that can be incorporated into daily life, personally, alone, in the comfort of one’s home, and at your own pace. Similar to how journaling aids in processing experiences, mandala allows you to reflect on your current feelings through art, fostering personal growth by revealing aspects that might otherwise remain hidden in your unconscious mind. To begin, one must first prepare the previously described circle outline on a square sheet of paper. The color and texture of the paper selected hold significance as well. “For giving your experiences (remembered or dreamed) an expression,” Renate advises regarding the upcoming drawings, “I recommend the use of colored pencils, crayons, pastels (both oil and chalk), or anything you are comfortable with, as long as it does not take days to dry.” You need to be able to finish the work in a single sitting. Then, take a deep breath—the kind that goes deep into your belly. Consciously relax your shoulders, easing away excessive thoughts. Embrace the stilling of your mind and begin reflecting on your life. Pay mindful attention to the sensations in your belly. “You can approach your mandala with a particular question in mind and follow the path of ‘looking back—dreaming forward’, always with your question in mind,” Renate suggests. For example, inquire: “Who am I right now? What is it that supports me? Where am I headed based on where I come from, and what do I dream about and believe in?” Do not analyze what comes up—just continue to listen to your belly. “Whenever you find yourself ‘thinking’ instead of ‘listening,’ take a deep breath into your belly again.” “Whatever comes up, please give it an expression: a stick figure, a symbol, or just a color,” encourages Renate, noting that you shouldn’t use any words. “As you go around the timeline of your personal Mandala, you start out by looking back. Eventually, you reach the point of ‘now’, which is when you switch gears. You stop looking back and begin to dream forward.” There is no right or wrong method to draw your Personal Mandala. Renate keenly points out, “The important part is that you listen to yourself and give yourself the time to allow pertinent events to float up into your consciousness.” Upon completion of your Personal Mandala, “take a moment to thank your unconscious mind for providing you with the information that is pertinent to your life at this very instant.” A single mandala session will undoubtedly be a life-altering experience. However, practicing mandala on a regular basis can aid individuals in gaining a better understanding of themselves. “Remember, this is not about art; this is about being authentic!” Renate emphasizes. Moreover, this is not a marathon—take all the time you need to quietly complete your mandala. Whatever comes up is pertinent to the present. “An authentic Personal Mandala is a representation of where you are at this very moment in time, a ‘snapshot’ of you, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.” Much of the essence of mandalas is about intuition and trusting your instincts, but we live in a world that often questions both. Engaging in mandala practice can help us build confidence in our inner selves because, as Renate reiterates, “You are the one who is giving yourself these messages.”
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andala teaches us the importance of listening to ourselves and honoring our gut reactions. “To draw Personal Mandalas on a daily basis is a great tool for self-discovery, even if you don’t venture into any interpretations,” Renate imparts. But exploring the symbolism within your mandala can reveal deeper messages you are receiving from your unconscious. Renate’s book, Personal Mandala Readings, offers insights into these explanations. Alternatively, searching the internet for more information or picking up a good dream interpretation
book can also shed light on these meanings. “The feedback will offer much insight and illumine meaning and purpose of your life,” Renate believes. No two mandalas will ever be the same because we change from one moment to the next. Mandala is a manifestation of that gift of life, and when we listen to its teachings and dream forward, it can influence our trajectory in unimaginable ways. If truly embraced, the mandala can reveal your core essence.
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SOCIAL affair
Tesoro Viejo’s 6th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
TESORO VIEJO’S 6TH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY Photographer David Jon Photography
Tesoro Viejo’s 6th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony was held at Tesoro Viejo’s Town Center on Friday, December 1st. Over 1,000 attendees came out to experience this kick-off to the holiday season. Madera County Sheriff Tyson Pogue and Santa Claus officially flipped the switch that lights the 35-foot Christmas tree from the top of a fire engine ladder. Students from Hillside Elementary added to the holiday magic by singing some holiday songs. Festivities surrounding the tree lighting ceremony included photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, The Grinch, snow fall, horse drawn carriage rides, Polar Express train rides, caroling by The Gilly Girls, and seasonal treats from AXIS Coffee Bar + Eatery along with a variety of food vendors. For more information about Tesoro Viejo, please visit www.tesoroviejo.com.
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SOCIAL affair
IllumiNature 21 & Over
ILLUMINATURE 21 & OVER Benefiting the Fresno Chaffee Zoo Photographer Fresno Chaffee Zoo IllumiNature 21 & Over took place at the Fresno Chaffee Zoo on the evening of Friday, December 8th. This special event allowed more than 1,600 adults age 21 and over to enjoy the Fresno Chaffee Zoo’s spectacular IllumiNature exhibition, including magnificent lantern displays all around the Zoo, live reindeer, Santa Spirits stations throughout to enjoy acholic and non-acholic beverages, local food trucks, and more. For more information about the Fresno Chaffee Zoo, please visit www.fresnochaffeezoo.org.
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SOCIAL affair
Candlelight Guild Ball 2023
CANDLELIGHT GUILD BALL 2023 Benefiting five charities. Photographer Robert Vargas The Candlelight Guild Ball 2023 was hosted at Pardini’s on Saturday, December 9th. The holiday dinner event was kicked off in a beautiful winter wonderland set amongst 20 gloriously flocked and lit Christmas trees. Some 200 guests enjoyed live music, a raffle for a Louis Vuitton handbag, and a wine and spirits auction before dancing the night away while raising over $60,000 for five amazing local non-profits: Good Dirt Collection, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5057, Parents and Addicts in Need, Fresno Police Department - Mounted Patrol Unit, and Fresno Mission - Rescue the Children. For more information about the Candlelight Guild, please visit www.candlelightguild.com.
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LUX lifestyle Horoscopes
ASTRO-VERSING
through the stars 2024
Astrologer Shari Schopp @shari_starlight www.eyeonastrology.com
As we embark on a New Year, the opportunities ahead are mind-expanding. In this very moment, with the curtain pulled back, let’s catch a glimpse of what the future holds and envision its potential. At the break of dawn, a waking revelatory light ignites curiosity in us to understand the diversity within communities woven of people different from ourselves. We are being launched into a great, collective transformation to figure out how all of it fits together. A rebirth through Aquarius offers challenges, disruptions, paradigm shifts, and liberation that transcend the material world. We have been in transition for a while, purging dysfunction, crises, grief, and political unrest. This age of enlightenment brings higher states of truth and future-oriented technology, innovation, and experimentation. An important manifestation of this new age is collaborative working for everyone, promoting ideals for creating an equitable society as opposed to overvaluing the intellect and rationalizing radical change for the few. A wealth of tools is available with three earth signs providing resources for bringing spirit into matter and building stable foundations. An immediate focus that will benefit society is fostering environmental management by adapting and nurturing healthier outcomes, collaborating wisely with the natural world, and focusing on pragmatic goals that support sustainability, making our world a better place. This is the Year of the Wood Dragon (Chinese zodiac), which has supernatural qualities concerning health and good fortune. This symbol is associated with luck, money, power, creativity, and drama. It’s an excellent year for starting projects, taking risks, and realizing undreamed successes or fantasies. 2024 is also a leap year comprising 366 days, with an extra day in February. In Irish traditions, this day was used for balancing the traditional roles of men and women as well as bringing omens of good luck. Adding a day stabilizes the inconsistencies in our calendar, creating a vibrational impact on the dimension of time. Pay attention to messages for guidance and opportunities aiding spiritual growth and life transformations. Unveil what the stars have in store for your zodiac in 2024!
COSTARS Capricorn
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December 22nd to January 19th
As the gateway sign of the New Year, you will bring practicality and support in forecasting what is brought into reality, including building the actual structures. Your creativity is freely flowing once abundant ideas are articulated and expressed. Attune to what works and leverage this strength when things aren’t working. It’s your time to thrive. So, relax, breathe, and take it easy.
Aries
March 21st to April 19th
2024 is for reinventing an out-of-balance system and finding solutions as a leader. During times of initial stress, explore territories closer to home. This will lead to discoveries of fascinating gems about those who live nearby and further encourage authentic connections and motivate others to collaborate on shared goals.
Aquarius January 20th to February 18th
You will be undergoing a gradual foundational metamorphosis from the inside out. These changes are driven by principles of social evolution, which gain support from like-minded groups. Speak up and present your unique and important vision to the masses. For launching proposals into tangible forms, connect with others to provide capital through the internet for crowdsourcing and financial backing.
Taurus
April 20th to May 20th
Your life takes on a whole new outlook when you experience varying endeavors instead of the same old routine. New experiences arrive in the form of people and resources, which work to your advantage. Trust your instincts and regain control of the path you’ve chosen out in public. These changes open new perceptions and reinforce hidden talents necessary for the future.
Pisces
February 19th to March 20th
Your journey symbolizes an introspective dive into altered states, so it’s important to carve out time to nourish yourself. Accessing other realms offers meaningful rewards and is a healthy process for reassembling a soulful, transcendent being. Your intuitive talents emerge from dreams shared with the world through actively engaging with the physical domain.
Gemini
May 21st to June 21st
This year, you can rise to who you are truly meant to be. The high-speed connections available throughout 2024 allow you to soar in a world of images and idea-exchanges. As a skilled facilitator, you can brainstorm, network, and give others valid information. A hummingbird aptly illustrates the accessible energy that flows through you for most of the year to explore new pathways.
—64— JAN
LUX lifestyle Horoscopes
Cancer
June 22nd to July 22nd
Ride new ways to create familial bonds and stay incubated throughout this year. Being close to home nurtures the crab and saves financial reserves. Your well-being is pivotal to mastering moods and deep emotions, which helps release the past. Embrace meaningful pursuits such as genealogy, aquatic fitness classes, and natural medicine found in gardening as achievable actions that will pay off.
Libra
September 23rd to October 23rd
Understanding your role in society while being in the limelight offers auspicious opportunities. Moreover, having clarity helps you create ideas with advantageous rewards. A larger audience awaits your imaginative vision, words, sounds, film, etc. Later in the year, a release of outdated perspectives within relationships will build a bridge for rebalancing equality and collaboration.
Leo
July 23rd to August 22nd
Keeping simple plans and low expectations will make way for experiences that destiny and life present to you. This will allow the illuminated spotlight that shines on you to radiate essential strength. Adjust as needed to fire up the projects undertaken with compatible people. Encountering adversity engages your authentic self, so give it all you have.
Virgo
August 23rd to September 22nd
Put everything in order for maximum impact this year. Your organizational skills and grip on reality prepare you for perfecting projects and experiencing promising adventures. The grounded earth gives you an arena for integrating health, which starts with correcting imbalances in nutrition, well-being, and career. Dedicate yourself to restoring harmony and educating others with your expertise on choosing healthier patterns.
Scorpio
Sagittarius
October 24th to November 21st
November 22nd to December 21st
Apply your intuitive skills for channeling activities, people, or scenarios that captivate your interests. As the detective of the zodiac, employ your resourcefulness to alter situations favorably and utilize persistence to move intentions forward. Communal connections help you establish a place to call home, and their similar viewpoints offer support and kinship.
You’re a way-shower with a positive attitude, which serves you well in the year ahead. As a speaker of truth, express your vision out loud to the masses; the energy will grow and bring meaning to your life. Your optimism and knowledge always inspire and guide everyone with purpose. If there are setbacks, tap into humor and laughter to find an outlet for buoying you upright.
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Here’s to good fortune & 24 Carat Fun in ‘24.
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