JUL | AUG
AGELESS
FASHION TRENDS
+
CAUSES WORTH FIGHTING FOR
the
Issue
PHILANTHROPY
1528 E. CHAMPLAIN DR. STE. 103 FRESNO, CA • 559.434.4589 • WWW.SCEPTREANDSASH.COM N.E. CORNER OF CEDAR AND SHEPHERD, TWO DOORS DOWN FROM YOSEMITE RANCH RESTAURANT
THE
BRANDS YOUWANT Central California’s largest purveyor of pre-owned authentic designer luxury goods. Specializing in bridal jewelry, certified loose diamonds, watches, vintage and estate jewelry, handbags, and accessories.We offer a 100% lifetime authenticity guarantee, a one year warranty on all watches, and a 14-day no-questions-asked return policy, with layaway available. Sell to us. Visit us for a no-obligation evaluation and offer on your luxury goods, with immediate payment.
BEST BOUTIQUE ALL ITEMS SHOWN ARE PRE-OWNED AND/OR VINTAGE. SCEPTRE & SASH IS NOT AN AUTHORIZED RETAILER OR AFFILIATED WITH BRANDS PICTURED. LICENSE #000000780
www.RiverstoneCA.com New Homes | Parks & Trails | The Lodge with Pool, Fitness, Demo Kitchen & Gear Barn | Dog Park | Future Retail & On-Site School
From Fresno, go north on Highway 41, turn left at Avenue 12 and follow the signs. Š2019 Riverstone Development, LLC. Obtain a copy of the Public Report as required by Federal law and/or the Public Report issued by the California Bureau of Real Estate and read them before signing any documents. No Federal or State agency has judged the merits or value, if any, of this property. This advertisement is not a solicitation to purchase or sell property in any state where prohibited by law. The stylized R logo is a service mark of Riverstone Development, LLC. Riverstone and Riverstone Development are trade names of Riverstone Development, LLC. The San Joaquin River and River Park are located approximately six miles from Riverstone.
Look forward to s’more making a future on-site school an active social calendar lower utility bills getting fit miles of future trails making new friends
Home choices from 5 builders swim days
backyard barbecues movie nights a sustainable water supply
atasteofriverpark.com
Benefiting American Red Cross Central California
DISCOVER
RIVER PARK Visit RIVER PARK in July & August! Farmers Market, Dance Socials, High Fitness, Boot Camp, Live Bands, Art Hop, Senior Bingo & Paint Parties, Senior Walking Group & Tai Chi.
RIVER PARK Shopping Center
71 East Via La Plata, Fresno, CA 93720 559.437.4855
Entrée
BRIDAL REGISTRY
at
RE IM AG IN E YO U R H O M E LIVE IN
Ask about our concierge interior design services
—08— JUL | AUG
Contents In Every Issue LETTER FROM THE EDITOR ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 14 MASTHEAD ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... .. .. .. ... ... ... ... 16 CONTRIBUTORS ... ... ... ... .... ... .... ... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... ... ... ... 18
Social Affair
53
MAN & WOMAN OF THE YEAR FRESNO GRAND FINALE .... 21 Benefiting the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society DERBY DOWN: A DAY AT THE RACES ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... .. 24 Benefiting Valley Children’s Hospital FIESTA DE LOS NIÑOS ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 27 Benefiting Exceptional Parents Unlimited
Departments 2020 LUXURY AWARDS ... ... ... ... .... ... .... ... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... 30 SHAKE + STIR ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... .... .... ... ... ... ... ... ... 33 Hosted at Cracked Pepper Bistro HIGH PROFILE ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 39 Featuring Harry Overly MAKE-A-WISH ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 44 THE ROAD TO PINK ... ... ... . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 49 PHILANTHROPICALLY SPEAKING ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 52 Cover Story
HIGHLIGHTED NEON POP ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . ... ... ... ... 66 FAIR TRADE ... ... ... ... ... ... .. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 67 SUMMER SIZZLE ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 68 ELEVATED ON-TREND DENIM ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . ... ... ... ... ... 70 SILHOUETTE FLATTERING STRIPES ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 72
44
25
twelve time-honored finishes Steel
Aged Bridle
Weathered Truss Aged Saddle
Dark Chestnut
Weathered Barn Berry
Lamp Black
Distinct furniture made by hand from solid wood so that each piece is unique in style and superior in quality.
Fawn
Farmhouse White Robin’s Egg
Graphite
255 W. El Paso, Fresno / Behind Bed Bath & Beyond / (559) 440-9600 M-S: 10-7 / Sun: 11-6 / www.fashionfurnitureco.com
or v You f oting u k s n B ha
E! OR
Exclusively at
JEWELRY T ST ES
T
Est. 1975
starting at $400
L U X U
R Y 2 0 · A W A 1 9 R D · W S I N N E R
shop the collection online now
Hours: Tuesday-Friday 11-6, Saturday 11-5 | 7455 N. Fresno Street {NW Corner of Fresno & Alluvial} GianniJewelry.com | 559.432.0600 | Financing Available
559 | 431 | 8810 711 West Alluvial, Fresno, CA 93711 preensalon.com
—14—
JUL | AUG
LETTER from the
EDITOR
O
ver the last few years, we have told the stories of people. Some were celebrities, others models, influencers, and so forth. For this JUL|AUG Edition, we took a slightly different approach. This Philanthropy Issue is perhaps my favorite to date because we have profiled three strong, beautiful, and gifted women who are giving back to the community and across the nation in large ways. Susan Gladding, Charlotte Bavaro, and Jody Hudson embrace each day with courage, and an unresolved faith that guides their lives with a sense of gratitude, and with the genuine purpose to leave our community just a little bit better off than how they found it. Through this process, I have grown to love each woman in their own individual and special way, while simultaneously reaffirming my belief in humanity. You can read all about these women starting on page 52. While we all try to escape the summer heat for the next few months, I turn my focus to fall and all the magic the coming season has to offer for a variety of reasons. I always get excited as the end of the year approaches for one major reason...my personal holiday: the Luxury Awards. This year is sure to not disappoint. Slated for January 24th, 2020, this year will be filled with lots of unexpected surprises as we embrace our own Twenty/Twenty Experience offering to see things a little clearer this new decade. So be sure to reserve your table sooner rather than later, since we are quickly approaching our sold-out mark. To nominate your favorites, please visit www.cvlux.com during the month of July and let your opinion matter. To learn more about this year’s event, simply flip to page 30 in this issue, then head to page 44 to read about the selected non-profit. So take some time to learn a little more about this community we call home, and please enjoy our latest edition of CVLUX. Cheers,
David
thinkrogers.com Fresno (Across From River Park) 7685 N Blackstone Ave (559)449-7590
—16— JUL | AUG
C A L I F O R N I A · V I B E
DAVID MANNING Editor in Chief, Partner
DONNA ENSOM Creative Director, Partner
EDITORIAL Managing Editor LAUREN BARISIC Fashion Editor MELISSA SOUZA Beauty Editor JESSICA MCCAFFERTY Interiors Editors ROSEANNE GUAGLIANONE and ERIN MELKONIAN Lifestyle Editor GINA JELLADIAN Travel Editor AMY K. GUERRA Features Editors ANDREA TOWERS and ANN T. SULLIVAN WHITEHURST ART Design Director PHENG MOUA Graphic Artist JENNIFER REDDING Contributing Photographers DON DIZON, THERESA JEBIAN, ELLIE KOLEEN, JEN SALAHI DILLMORE PORTRAITS and TOVAR PHOTO BUSINESS Regional Marketing Director CAROL DEFENDIS Accounting Director DEE ANN LINKER Legal Counsel GONTORWON BORH Please submit all advertising inquires to donna@cvlux.com.
Letters To The Editor: We want to hear from you. Please submit letters to: CVLUX, 7797 N. First St. #172, Fresno CA, 93720 or e-mail to information@cvlux.com. Letters must be signed and deemed appropriate for our readership to be considered for publishing. Letters are subject to editing and may be cut for length. Story Queries: Are you a writer? Please send story queries to lauren@cvlux.com. Please allow six to eight weeks for a response. CVLUX is not responsible for unsolicited material. CVLUX is published bi-monthly by Modern Living Publishing LLC, 7797 N. First St. #172, Fresno CA, 93720. Copyright 2014 by Modern Living Publishing LLC. All rights reserved. Every effort has been made to ensure the information within this publication is complete and accurate at the time of publication. CVLUX does not warrant such accuracy or the claims of its advertisers. All materials, articles, reports, original artwork, and photos published in this magazine are the property of Modern Living Publishing LLC and cannot be used or reproduced without permission in writing. Modern Living Publishing LLC is not responsible for the opinions expressed within the publication. Prices quoted in advertisements are subject to change without notice.
Experience Deliciousness!
–2018 BEST NEWCOMER–
Executive Chef Tommy’s FILET DIANE
Tender. Juicy. Prime.
1345 N. WILLOW AVE. #190 CLOVIS 559.216.1313 13primesteak.com
—18— JUL | AUG
Contributors
Ellie Koleen
Erin Melkonian
Ellie is a lifestyle, wedding, and brand photographer based in Fresno, California. She uses her love for all things design related as inspiration for her work, and you can find her traveling any opportunity she gets to capture stories for her clients. The Fresno Bee named Ellie Best Photographer for the People's Choice Awards in 2018 and 2019.
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.
Melissa Souza
Roseanne Guaglianone
Melissa is an established celebrity and editorial stylist. She is passionate about bringing out the inner confidence in every client—be it creating celebrity style branding or for personal clientele’s everyday life. Melissa gets her inspiration from travel, culture, and the everyday. To date, Melissa has styled television appearances, red carpets, music videos, film, editorial, and has been invited to speak at fashion events and fashion panels. A self-proclaimed coffee addict, animal lover, and momma, she makes her home in Southern California, where she was born and raised, but works coast-to-coast.
Roseanne is known as a gifted, creative interior designer, tastemaker, and creator of Trashique, who crafts interiors that are as peaceful as they are stunning. A California native with a timeless sensibility, Roseanne has residential interior design projects sprinkled around the nation. Over the last twenty years, she has amassed a loyal following of clients and customers who look to her for signature, eclectic, and unique finds for the home, which are featured in her beautifully curated furniture showroom and full-service interior design studio, Hemisphere Home, in Fresno, California.
Photographer
Fashion Editor
Interiors Editor
Interiors Editor
Make
Count.
It’s important to learn from yesterday and plan for tomorrow. But, when it comes to your health, nothing matters more than what you do with TODAY.
CO M M U N IT Y M E D I C A L .O R G
H O ME
F U RN I SHIN G S/ IN T ER IOR
6049 N PALM AVE, FRESNO CA 93704
•
559.226.0666
•
DESI GN
HEMISPHEREHOME.COM
—21—
JUL | AUG
MAN & WOMAN OF THE YEAR FRESNO GRAND FINALE Benefiting the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society The Man & Woman of the Year for 2019 was announced at the Fresno Grand Finale celebration on Friday, April 26th, which honored two local children who are blood cancer survivors. A philanthropic competition to support blood cancer research, participants campaigned for ten weeks to raise funds for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. For more information about the Man & Woman of the Year campaign, please visit www.mwoy.org/fresno.
SOCIAL affair
—22—
SOCIAL affair
JUL | AUG
OAKS INTRODUCES THE CLASSIC SERIES With 3 New Floor Plans
Oaks at Tesoro Viejo offers the very best of Central Valley living. Now introducing the Classic Series with three new floor plans, you’ll find affordable luxury is closer than you think. Oaks homes are designed with dramatic architecture, open floor plans and outdoor living spaces that brings family and friends together. Plus, flexible floor plans and the opportunity to personalize your home for that ideal place to call home. Discover Oaks at Tesoro Viejo today!
•
Up to 5 Bedrooms, 3.5 Baths & 3-Car Garages
•
Available Scenic View & Extra Deep Lots
2,131 to 3,741 Sq. Ft.
• •
AVENUE 15
Indoor-Outdoor Living
TOWN CENTER
From the Mid $400s
Tesoro Viejo Amenities: Parks, Trails, Open Space, Scenic Views, Resort-Style Clubhouse & New Elementary School
AVENUE 12
McCaffreyHomes.com
HILL
RED
SIDE
ILLS
ROC
DR.
K RD .
RD.
TOWN C E N
T
VALLEY CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL
HERNDON AVE.
99 41
N
Model Homes Open: Mon-Sat 10am – 6pm, Sun 11am - 5pm
TESORO VIEJO BLVD.
EH
ER
•
S UR
Available Multi-Gen Suite
EA
•
OAKS
TR
6 Single-Level & Two-Story Homes
Oaks at Tesoro Viejo
B LVD.
•
TESORO VIEJO
MAP NOT TO SCALE
Hwy. 41 & Town Center Blvd. (559) 831-3070
All square footages stated are approximate. Actual square footage will vary. Included features vary throughout the models and are subject to change without notice. Information about community association facilities and assessments is available in the Sales Office. Pictured homes are models with some features, furnishings and landscaping not included in the purchase price. Homes, prices, financing, incentives and included features are effective date of publication deadline and subject to prior sale, change or cancellation without notice. Persons shown do not reflect racial preference. The McCaffrey Group, Inc. dba McCaffrey Homes. Offered by McCaffrey Home Realty, Inc., CA Real Estate Broker #01222049. 6/19
—24—
SOCIAL affair
JUL | AUG
DERBY DOWN: A DAY AT THE RACES Benefiting Valley Children’s Hospital Held on the same day as the Kentucky Derby, guests donned their most festive Derby hats at the annual Derby Down: A Day at the Races, which was held on the Big Fresno Fairgrounds’ infield racetrack on Saturday, May 4th. As the La Feliz Guild’s premier event, the Derby benefits the health and well-being of Valley Children’s Hospital’s patients. For more information about Valley Children’s Hospital, please visit www.valleychildrens.org.
—25— JUL | AUG
SOCIAL affair
LOVE
WHERE YOU
LIVE
LAURA MATHER
559. 341. 2476 |
Broker Associate Lic# 01155115
MatherMethod.com
—27— JUL | AUG
FIESTA DE LOS NIÑOS Benefiting Exceptional Parents Unlimited On Saturday, May 18th, Exceptional Parents Unlimited (EPU) held their 29th annual fundraiser, Fiesta De Los Niños. In keeping with its reputation as being one of the best parties of the summer, attendees had the opportunity to bid on an array of silent and live auction items at Fresno's Signature Flight hangar. For more information about EPU, please visit www.epuchildren.org.
SOCIAL affair
—28—
SOCIAL affair
JUL | AUG
LIKE NOTHING YOU’VE SEEN BEFORE. You’ve heard about Tesoro Viejo. Seen a few pictures. Now, it’s time to see it in person. You won’t “get it” till you get here—the scenic setting, the arrival experience, the Town Center, Hillside Village, amazing school, parks, trails, amenities and impressive new homes. You’ve got to see it, feel it—to understand how life changing Tesoro Viejo is.
COME EXPERIENCE: AXIS Coffee Bar & Eatery Madera County Fire Station No. 7 9 New Model Homes
Hillside Elementary School Outdoor Amphitheater Walking & Biking Trails
Neighborhood Parks Clubhouse opening this Fall Access to San Joaquin River
AVE. 15
TESORO VIEJO BLVD.
41
TOWN CTR. BLVD. TM
AVE. 12 168
HERNDON AVE. 99
Life. Unprecedented.
ALTURA
THE BLUFFS
OAKS
by McCaffrey Homes From the $300s
by D.R. Horton From the $400s
by McCaffrey Homes From the $400s
Plan your visit today at TesoroViejoLiving.com or call (559) 419-0965
N
Map Not To Scale
Minutes north of River Park
The Hub - Welcome Center Hwy 41 & Town Center Blvd. Open to the public daily: M-Sat 10am–6pm, Sun 11am–5pm
Photos and renderings depicted do not constitute an offer to sell nor a solicitation of an offer to purchase real property at Tesoro Viejo. Prices are effective date of posting or publication deadline and subject to change without notice. Based on the information presently available, the developers of Tesoro Viejo understand that Tesoro Viejo will be served by the Chawanakee Unified School District. Buyer should contact the Chawanakee Unified School District to confirm the identity and location of the specific schools planned to service Tesoro Viejo, including the TK-8 Hillside School located adjacent to Tesoro Viejo. Obtain a copy of the Public Report as required by Federal law and/or the Public Report issued by the California Bureau of real Estate and read them before signing any documents. © 2019 Tesoro Viejo Development, Inc.
Party Ad
OUR PARTNERS
WHEN + WHERE
TORNINO’S BANQUETS
Friday, January 24th, 2020 6:00 P.M. to Midnight
5080 North Blackstone Avenue Fresno, California 93710
CVLUX Magazine is pleased to present the 2020 Luxury Awards. A portion of this year’s proceeds will benefit Make-A-Wish® Northeastern & Central California and Northern Nevada. Each year, CVLUX recognizes the top businesses in the Central Valley by presenting the best of the best with Luxury Awards. In addition, three coveted Diamond Awards are given to various businesses and individuals to acknowledge their philanthropic efforts within the community. Nominations began on July 1st, 2019. Nominees will be announced on September 1st, 2019. Voting will continue until Friday, December 13th, 2019, and the winners will be announced at the Luxury Awards in January.
For table and sponsorship pricing, please contact Donna Ensom at donna@cvlux.com.
GIVING BACK TO THE
Community Giving to Heroes is a program offered exclusively by Bay Equity Home Loans and participating real estate agents. The program is designed to give back to community heroes by significantly reducing the cost of buying or refinancing a home.
You don’t have to earn “Hero” status to participate. You’re already a hero if you work for, or are retired from, the list of eligible industries.
Call me today or visit
www.GivingToHeroes.net
KIM BRYANT Senior Loan Officer | NMLS ID #335826
kbryant@bayeq.com | 559.779.2000
We’re here to get you home.
www.KimBryantLoans.com | 7783 North Ingram Avenue, Fresno, CA 93711 Equal Housing Lender. This is not a commitment to lend or extend credit. Restrictions may apply. Rates may not be available at time of application. Information and/or data are subject to change without notice. All loans are subject to credit approval. Not all loans or products are available in all states. Bay Equity LLC, 28 Liberty Ship Way Suite 2800, Sausalito, CA 94965; NMLS ID#76988. Licensed by the Department of Business Oversight under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act- #4150077; NMLS consumer access: www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org BEKG-190529-4.0
SHAKE +STIR
HOSTED AT CRACKED PEPPER BISTRO Managing Editor Lauren Barisic Photographer Don Dizon
—34— JUL | AUG
C
racked Pepper Bistro’s Chef Vatche Moukhtarian’s recent victory on Food Network’s Guy’s Grocery Games brought an element of excitement and anticipation to Shake+Stir’s thirteenth edition. Daughter and mother Amanda and Miranda Jones, Laura Mather, Mary Papaleo, and Brandy Venturi joined CVLUX’s Donna Ensom for a seasonal tasting at the establishment. Three cocktails and five savory dishes later, the ladies finished one of the best dinners in the Central Valley with an infamously sweet ending. Whether you sit inside or out, there is an upscale coziness that immediately invites you to relish rather than rush your experience at Cracked Pepper, which is exactly what you are supposed to do there. Chef Vatche Moukhtarian caught the cooking bug by the time he was 12, leading to his enrollment in the San Francisco Culinary Academy. His resume boasts numerous renowned restaurant positions: an externship and then full-time employment at the Peppermill Casino in Reno, an invitation to help open the Chuckchansi Gold Resort & Casino where he eventually become Sous Chef at the Vintage Steakhouse, followed by several years as Sous Chef at Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite. Finally, in 2006, Chef Vatche returned to his hometown of Fresno and opened Cracked Pepper Bistro. His objective was to focus on regional cuisine using natural, close-tothe-source ingredients accompanied by California-grown wines. Thirteen years later, Cracked Pepper continues to be a beloved bistro featuring a California-style seasonal menu highlighting local ingredients and nightly specials. Chef Vatche is also recognized for supporting local farmers and wineries, with 60 percent of his wine list coming from the nearby Paso Robles appellation. It was his love of Californian crops that lead Chef Vatche to apply for Guy’s Grocery Games on Food Network. “I wanted to represent Fresno because of the abundance of produce we have. It’s all here, but we don’t get recognition—we should be on the radar more. We have great
restaurants here, but we just don’t get the same attention as those in bigger cities.” He hopes being on the show will help draw that greatly deserved attention to the Central Valley. In the one-hour show (Season 19, Episode 12), entitled “Ultimate Grocery List,” Chef Vatche and three other chefs were challenged to transform what was described as “Guy Fieri’s worst grocery list yet” into the best dish possible. The Ultimate Grocery List included: bananas, frozen pizza, spicy chips, ice cream sandwich, huitlacoche, canned tuna, and canned fruit cocktail. The challenges included: brunch (in 30 minutes), the Lunch Rush (in 20 minutes), and a pork dish (in 30 minutes). Bear in mind that all items on the list had to be used between the three challenges. By the end of the competition, Chef Vatche walked away with the $20,000 prize…and a kitchen knife injury to one finger. Despite having medical assistance on-site, “I went ahead and bandaged it because I’m used to doing it myself!” Chef Vatche reminisced. Certainly a memorable mishap that made the victory that much sweeter—yet every dish you try at Cracked Pepper leaves a lasting impression. Located in Fresno’s North Pointe Shopping Center, at Palm and Herndon Avenues, the bistro is tucked in its southwestern corner. If you didn’t know it was there, you wouldn’t likely stumble across it—Cracked Pepper is a destination. Guests can take advantage of the bistro’s covered patio, dine in the main room, or sit at their fantastic bar. Dinner is served Tuesday through Saturday from 5 o’clock until 10 p.m. The Persophone cocktail kicked off the evening. Equally vibrant in color (bright orange) as it is in flavor, Laura couldn’t help but exclaim, “Wow… That’s yummy!” after just one sip. A concoction of Grey Goose vodka, Giffard Pamplemouse, Aperol, and lime juice with a grapefruit twist, “It’s very summery” all around, Brandy complimented.
—35— JUL | AUG
Disclaimer: “Eating this possibly leads to madness.” Everyone thought that was a clever note on the menu until they actually tried the Mala-Insana Napoleon. If eggplant usually tasted like this, we’d all eat eggplant more often... Coated in crushed pumpkin seeds, it is layered with goat cheese, oven-roasted tomatoes, walnut pesto, and aged balsamic. Hands-down the crowd favorite dish of the night—everyone was excited for goat cheese! “That’s what really makes this dish special,” explained Brandy. The Aged Old Fashioned is not for the faint of palate. A blend of Woodford Reserve bourbon, cherry bitters, and sugar, it’s garnished with a brandied cherry and orange zest. “Now that’s good, but we can’t drink the whole thing,” Miranda referred to the drink’s strength with a laugh. (P.S. It was presented alongside the following Stilton Blue Salad; whiskey and rabbit food—dinner of champions…or cowgirls…whatever.) Amanda took it upon herself to chop and toss the Stilton Blue Salad—a reflexive act from her waitressing days doing tableside in Tahoe, she explained, “And this is a fantastic salad!” Whole Little Gem lettuce leaves are covered with wet and dry blue cheese, while clusters of sliced Asian pears and candied walnuts christened with port wine reduction corner the plate. Chef Vatche’s Slow Braised Short Ribs outshine your grandmother’s… Don’t argue because you’ll agree after you try them. “It’s like a really good roast beef, but so much better!” Mary said of the meat, which is braised with carrots, onions, and crushed tomatoes, served over the creamiest cheese polenta, and topped with walnut pesto. A sort of multi-cultural tone defines the Bacon Wrapped Achitote Pork Medallions. The meats (which have a notable smoky flavor) act as pillars surrounding a dome of oven-roasted corn, chorizo, and egg jasmine soy fried rice, accompanied by steamed vegetables. “It’s interesting in a way that makes you want to try every part—I’ve never had a dish like this before,” admitted Amanda.
—36— JUL | AUG
—37— JUL | AUG
“This filet is to-die-for!” Donna mused of the Wood Fire Grilled Filet Mignon. Perfectly pink, fork-tender, and expertly crisp around the edges, it is served with oven-roasted sunchokes and caramelized pearl onions, steamed green beans, and topped with a green peppercorn sauce. Rittenhouse rye whisky, blood orange soda, lemon juice, and mint create the Bloodhound. “I like the blood orange,” Laura eagerly reflected. It’s like a “summer-ized version” of the Aged Old Fashioned, elaborated Mary. Garnished with a sprig of mint and a little blood orange wedge, it’s easy on the eye and goes down just as easily. Leave room for dessert! The Cracked Pepper Bread Pudding uses cheese Danish croissants and dinner rolls as its base. Miranda’s eyes got wide as it was set down at the table. “You don’t have to ask me twice to try that one!” As if that’s not decadent enough, a scratch-made brandy and rum caramel is drizzled atop with a dollop of whipped cream. From its discrete location to limited hours of operation, Cracked Pepper Bistro feels exclusive—like a secret you hear about, but must seek out to confirm. Yet it’s no secret that practice breeds success. Chef Vatche has found that utilizing natural talent and local resources is his recipe for success, which is an attribute every person in this group shares. The Central Valley boasts some of the best produce in the world—it is also home to many of California’s leading business and creative professionals. “Everyone at this table is detail-oriented,” Mary matter-of-factly pointed out. When you eat at Cracked Pepper Bistro, you get to taste what it means to be detail-oriented.
Get your body summer-ready
559.435.7546
with
www.435skin.com
NONSURGICAL FAT REMOVAL Dr. Behr's CoolSculpting Patient
Before
After
Come in for your personalized treatment plan so we can help make your body goals a reality!
559-433-9824 997 E CHAMPLAIN DR STE 160, FRESNO, CA 93720
MONDAY 9AM–5PM TUESDAY-FRIDAY 9AM–7PM SATURDAY 9AM–5PM SUNDAY CLOSED
HAIR • NAILS • LASHES MASSAGES • MAKEUP FACIALS • WAXING
High Profile Raisin' Awareness Harry Overly
President and CEO, Sun-Maid Growers of California Features Editor Ann T. Sullivan Whitehurst Photographer Don Dizon
I
f you check Instagram and Pinterest regularly, you’ve probably noticed that society is fully engaged in an era obsessed with “natural.” From beauty to food, we are passionately consumed with finding the purest solutions to meet our everyday needs— and brands are capitalizing on that desire by introducing new products claiming to be those solutions. While many brands are new to this phenomenon, Sun-Maid has been marketing “Just Grapes & Sunshine®” in the “little red box” for more than 100 years—staying true to its roots (literally) with a steadfast commitment to all-natural, clean products. Now, under the leadership of President and CEO Harry Overly, Sun-Maid Growers of California is raisin’ awareness about just how relevant this quintessentially Californian agriculture cooperative is in our modern world. Relevancy has been Sun-Maid’s biggest challenge over the last decade as the brand has watched others enter the snacking market, winning the hearts and wallets of consumers—specifically, millennial moms. With millennials less likely to consider raisins than other audience demographics, including kids and boomers, Sun-Maid realized it needed to bring excitement to the dried fruit category to get its products back into the minds of these critical consumers. Enter Harry, who acknowledged the raisin industry needed some attention because it was not growing. “Sun-Maid is such a well-respected and worldly recognized brand that has not been nurtured in a long time. The opportunity, and significant challenge, to bring such an iconic brand back to the forefront and introduce it to today’s parents and kids was hard to pass up.”
“... I would be hard pressed to find another brand within the snacking space that has anywhere close to the emotional equity Sun-Maid has.” Rooted in Agriculture Born in Madison, Wisconsin, Harry grew up in a small town outside of the state’s capital. “Growing up in a heavy agricultural area (many dairy and hogs farms), I watched friends’ families ride the ups and downs of their respective farming operations,” reflects Harry. “I never thought I would be in a position to assist those in similar agriculturally-based situations. Now, Sun-Maid gives me the opportunity to strengthen a great business and provide greater economic value for 700+ growers and their families.”
Upon joining Sun-Maid, Harry knew he had to restructure and reposition the brand by expanding beyond raisins and creating a broader snacking platform for millennials and their kids. “Our research shows that millennials remember the brand fondly and have an affinity for raisins and the category as a whole,” he says. “We found millennials remember their own snack times with Sun-Maid as children and think back with positive, nostalgic feelings. Our approach is to market to the millennial parents by designing snacking solutions for them and their families.”
Harry touts Sun-Maid’s overall willingness to evolve and transform as one of the reasons he took the reins of the beloved brand. A graduate from the University of Madison as a Food Science major, Harry originally was double majoring in Medical Microbiology and Immunology with intentions to head to medical school. “One elective class, Food Microbiology, got me interested in the industry. I became fascinated with developing and marketing food products. I began interning for Kraft Foods and the rest is history.” Today, he boasts an impressive resume, having worked for The Kraft Heinz Company (their Oscar Mayer/Kraft Pizza Division), Wm. Wrigley Jr. Company (now Mars), BestSweet Inc., TreeHouse Foods, and Deoleo (best known in the US for Bertolli olive oil).
Step one was to address the need for more aggressive tactics towards innovation and marketing with Sun-Maid’s Board of Directors. Harry laid out a new vision for the company with a multi-year plan, and they have provided unwavering support for the new strategy. Marketing within the retail sector being the core of the company’s structure, he utilized national TV, online video, digital ads, Hulu, and Amazon, as well as Facebook, and new in-store displays to create the largest “360 marketing initiative” in more than a decade. When it came to messaging, Harry built a new team, with existing and new personnel, and enlisted new agency partners to come up with a creative campaign that encourages millennials to rediscover
Imagine a fruit snack that’s actually whole fruit! Sun-Maid’s new commercial “Remember Imagination” features new “Sour Raisin Snacks” and launches nationwide during back-to-school time.
Insights and Innovation Sun-Maid through their own children. The approach is designed to reignite nostalgic memories and, ultimately, recreate opportunities to introduce Sun-Maid’s “little red boxes” to this generation. The result was “Grow Young,” which celebrates the wonder of childhood and is designed to spark new moments of joy and curiosity for families. Along the way, the brand is staying true to its commitment to the timelessness of wholesome snacking that parents and kids alike love. What does the future of Sun-Maid look like? “Bright. Our new strategy is to leverage our most valuable corporate asset, beyond our people and our growers, that being the brand itself. We intend to aggressively market our brand while improving upon our core raisin operations to significantly increase our efficiencies. This will give us the foundation to extend the brand beyond its current singularly-focused commodity business and begin diversifying our portfolio. Our future portfolio will be focused on product innovation and marketing communications within the betterfor-you snacking space to solve the unmet needs of our customers. We will expand the entire business with a combination of internallyderived innovation efforts in addition to growth via acquisitions. Upon execution, we will be able to deliver unmatched, and previously unseen, shareholder returns to our grower base.” The results are already paying off with sales of “little red boxes” increasing double digits—reversing trends evident when Harry first arrived on the scene 18 months ago.
Sun-Maid is also building a product pipeline that appeals to all audiences. Beginning with the re-launch of its Sour Raisin Snacks, the brand is placing them in the fruit snacks aisle of grocery stores rather than the dried fruit aisle and rebranding the packaging to appeal to millennials. The brand also has a series of new product launches planned out over the next 36 months. While snack aisles are crowded with buzzworthy startups making a bold entrance and innovating with good products, Harry believes Sun-Maid’s recognition alone does half the work to be successful. “What we haven’t done, until now, is come to the table with relevant products or any innovation. But there’s not a brand in this category that can compete with us on an emotional level. In fact, I would be hard pressed to find another brand within the snacking space that has anywhere close to the emotional equity Sun-Maid has.” Today, Sun-Maid’s culture is truly better than it ever has been. “Our culture has been completely transformed to operate with the ideals of transparency, collaboration, accountability, and empowerment across our teams. This is critical as we now operate with a consumer insightdriven mindset and our teams are accountable to deliver upon their goals. It’s both incredible and humbling to see how our teams have embraced our new strategies and ways of working, resulting in them becoming energized to be a part of this growth plan. This required an open mind and an ambition to learn—and I’m very proud to see how our team has stepped up!” Harry’s down-to-earth approach demonstrates that with the leadership of a devoted trailblazer and the support of an open mind and community, adaptation can transform into thriving potential.
Happy Hours Friday 11am - 6pm Tues-Thurs, Sat 3 - 6pm Sunday 3pm - Close
Wine, Beer, Drinks & Snacks $3 to $7 1440 E. Champlain Dr #106 Fresno, CA. 93720 vinogrille.com | 559-434-1771
Vanishing Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Makes 48 cookies. Ingredients
Variations
1½ cups all-purpose flour ½ cup plus 6 tbs. butter (softened) ¾ cup brown sugar (firmly packed) ½ cup sugar (granulated) 2 eggs 1 tsp. vanilla extract 1 tsp. baking soda 1 tsp. cinnamon (ground) ½ tsp. salt (optional) 3 cups Quaker® oats (quick or old fashioned, uncooked) 1 cup Sun-Maid raisins
Bar Cookies Makes 24 bars. • Press dough onto bottom of ungreased 13x9-inch baking pan. • Bake 30-35 minutes or until light golden brown. • Cool completely in pan on wire rack. • Cut into bars. • Store tightly covered.
Directions • • • • • • • • •
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugars on medium speed of electric mixer until creamy. Add eggs and vanilla; beat well. Add combined flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt; mix well. Add oats and raisins; mix well. Drop dough by rounded tablespoonfuls onto ungreased cookie sheets. Bake 8-10 minutes or until light golden brown. Cool 1 minute on cookie sheets; remove to wire rack; cool completely. Store tightly covered.
Raisin Substitutions • Substitute or add in 1 cup chopped nuts. • Substitute 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips or candycoated chocolate pieces for raisins; omit cinnamon. • Substitute 1 cup diced dried mixed fruit.
—43— JUL | AUG
Fruit Tartines Makes 4 servings.
Fresno-Valley Zucchini & Raisin Pizza
Ingredients 1/2 cup cream cheese (softened) 4 English muffins (split and toasted) 1/2 cup chocolate-hazelnut spread (such as Nutella®) 1 apple (thinly sliced) 2 tbs. cinnamon sugar 1/2 cup Sun-Maid Natural Raisins 1/4 cup chopped Sun-Maid Apricots Directions • • • • •
Heat broiler. Spread cream cheese on each muffin half; spoon chocolate-hazelnut spread in center of cream cheese. Top with apple slices, raisins, and apricots. Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar. Broil 30 to 60 seconds, or until warm and lightly glazed.
Makes 4 servings. Ingredients 1 tbs. olive oil 1 clove garlic (large, minced or pressed) 1 tsp. lemon zest 1 zucchini (small) 1 large or 2 small Valley Lahvosh Cracker Bread ½ cup (4 oz.) feta cheese or goat cheese (crumbled) ¼ cup Parmesan cheese (shredded) 1 tbs. pine nuts ⅓ cup Sun-Maid raisins Directions • • • • • • • • •
Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Combine olive oil, garlic, and lemon zest in a medium bowl. Slide a vegetable peeler firmly along the length of the zucchini to make thin “ribbons.” Mix zucchini ribbons thoroughly with olive oil mixture. Crumble feta or spread goat cheese evenly over Cracker Bread. Sprinkle raisins over cheese. Arrange zucchini evenly on top, lightly folding and mounding the ribbons. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and pine nuts. Bake directly on oven rack or a baking sheet for 10 minutes or until cheese is melted.
—44— JUL | AUG
Make-A-Wish NORTHEASTERN & CENTRAL CALIFORNIA AND NORTHERN NEVADA Managing Editor Lauren Barisic Photos Courtesy of Make-A-Wish® Northeastern & Central California and Northern Nevada
—45— JUL | AUG
Children are our future. They are the foundation of a new generation, and the joy of today. Yet sometimes it is those purest of souls that are dealt the most difficult hand. That’s where Make-A-Wish® steps in—as a beacon of hope in the darkest of times. It all started with Chris Greicius: a little boy who was diagnosed with childhood leukemia. At seven years old, he always wanted to be in law enforcement. Single mom Linda Pauling, knowing her son would never see that dream come to fruition, asked a few of her local law enforcement friends to help make Chris’ wish come true—they did so, in a big way. Sadly, Chris passed away about a week later. A few weeks after that, Linda and a few others involved started Make-A-Wish with less than $100 between all of them in 1980.
Make-A-Wish Northeastern & Central California and Northern Nevada is one of 60 Make-A-Wish chapters nationwide. The Central California chapter realigned with the Northeastern California and Northern Nevada chapter to form the Northeastern & Central California and Northern Nevada chapter. “What folks need to know, however, is although we have a huge chapter, all money raised locally stays in that area to grant wishes to children in that area with critical illnesses,” clarified Michele Sanders, Vice President of Communications & Outreach.
Since that time, 450,000 wishes have been granted globally and more than 300,000 nationally. Although the foundation began by serving children who were terminal, 75 percent of “wish children” survive and thrive today—many serve the mission as volunteers or staff.
Covering 45 counties in California and Nevada, it is one of the largest geographically, and its outreach certainly reflects that force: they are on target to grant 400 wishes this year, and another 125 in Central California. There are, however, more than 200 children locally who are waiting for their wish— this is why local funding is critical.
Granting a wish starts with a referral. Approximately 60 percent of children are referred to Make-A-Wish by someone on their medical team, but referrals also come from their families or the child themselves. Once referred, there are steps to determine eligibility. Once confirmed eligible, Make-A-Wish reaches out—that’s when the magic begins. Many of the children will start with a visit to the Wishing Place in Sacramento’s headquarters—this chapter is one of only five who have a Wishing Place or a dedicated building to start the wish journey. But children are often visited in their homes, too. The wish child chooses a wish in each of the four categories: they wish to go, be, have, or meet at this initial visit. At the end of that visit, the four wishes are written on a scroll. That scroll will be either dropped in the Wishing Well (at the Wishing Place) or taken directly to the Wish Fairies (who determine which wish will be granted). Part of the magic comes from not knowing—this purposeful journey, of about nine months (depending on the wish), has proven to be healing for the child as they anticipate their one true wish.
“In our chapter, more than 600 children are referred. We are fortunate in that every child referred and who is eligible for a wish will receive a wish. We do not want these children to have to wait too long for a wish, so it is imperative that we have a steady stream of funding,” Sanders explained. The Gala of Wishes is Make-A-Wish’s signature event, held annually in June. An extraordinary night (that takes place in Fresno), it is comprised of good friends, an elegant dinner, a unique live auction, and a wish is revealed live at the event to a local Central Valley child. Valley Vines & Wishes is a wine, beer, spirits, and culinary tasting mixed with shopping. Held at the beautiful North Pointe Shopping Center in late September, this unique event has been deemed the summer party you always wanted to throw but didn’t have time to!
—46— JUL | AUG
The 9th Annual Michelangelo’s Charity Golf Tournament will be held at Riverside Golf Course this October, with a post-tournament meal at Michelangelo’s Pizzeria in Clovis. The Abreu Vineyards Trophy Cup Sprint car race, sponsored by Rudeen Racing, is in its 26th year and will be also be held mid in October at Tulare’s Thunderbowl Raceway. At the Wishes & Dreams dinner, a grand silent auction and live auction will be held next April in Merced. This event is completely run by loyal volunteers and wish ambassadors. In addition to these events, Make-A-Wish also has a program known as Adopt-A-Wish®. Its supporting partners have the power to grant a wish for a deserving child and family from the community with a gift of $7,500 or more. “The Adopt-A-Wish program allows families or companies to select a child from their geographic area and provides these partners with a variety of ways that they can become engaged and witness the impact of their generosity firsthand,” said Kathleen Price, Vice President of Development, Central California. “The impact of a wish not only positively effects the wish child, but it leaves a lasting impression on the donor that made that child’s wish possible.” In terms of volunteers, more than 400 officially serve this chapter, but if you consider the number of individual, corporate, and community supporters and their respective families, friends, and employees there are thousands. “A number we hear often is for every wish granted, 100 people are impacted,” Sanders revealed. “Considering we have granted 8,500 in our chapter (since it was formed in 1983), that’s potentially 850,000 people who have been impacted by a wish.”
Senior Development Manager Cortney Snapp understands that domino effect on a personal level. “I hold the title of Wish Auntie a tad closer than my career title. My nephew Chase was two and a half when he was diagnosed with blood cancer and had his wish experience at five years old.” This was her first interaction with Make-A-Wish. Living through seeing her first nephew endure all the poking and medications and then thriving through his wish experience caused her to think intently about what other families might be going through—nine years ago, she began her journey as a Make-A-Wish employee. Today, her nephew Chase is a happy, healthy 16-year-old, and Snapp is helping to lead Make-A-Wish in its desire to continually exceed its phenomenal work. Her passion for and devotion to Make-A-Wish is exactly the kind of attitude that can’t help but inspire children and adults alike to feel empowered to overcome adversity. “Seeing the generosity of others brings out the best in me. I have seen employees of our Adopt-A-Wish partner companies changed forever because of their experience helping a local family. I have seen wish families, who have been through the worst of the worst, have a wish experience that they will never forget. Some people ask if my job is rewarding—I don’t know that it’s rewarding as much as it’s an honor and a privilege to work with amazing community partners and wish families.” CVLUX Magazine wishes to contribute to this empowerment by selecting Make-A-Wish Northeastern & Central California and Northern Nevada as the beneficiary of the 2020 Luxury Awards, which will be held on the 24th of January in Fresno.
Living in
Style
Pavilion West Shopping Center 2047 W. Bullard Avenue, Fresno, CA 93711 559.549.6700 • judesdecor.com
ADVERTISEMENT
CVLUX.COM The best of California—anytime, anywhere.
Print • Digital • Social
@CVLUX
—49— JUL | AUG
the
ROAD to
Managing Editor Lauren Barisic Photos Courtesy of Fresno Acura
—50— JUL | AUG
—51—
JUL | AUG
Fresno Acura’s Compliance and Outreach Director Ellena Woodhams Shares How the #PinkAcura is Driving Towards Breast Cancer Awareness
F
resno Acura is on the road to pink, paving the way for a new wave of breast cancer awareness in the Central Valley. October commemorates National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, but the disease affects the lives of loved ones in a much broader sense. “Many of our customers and employees have been touched by breast cancer in some way, shape, or form. It was important to us as a female-owned business to show them that we stand behind them with our full support,” explains Ellena. “But simply wearing a pink ribbon or having a ‘pink’ day didn’t seem like enough for us. We realized that we already had a great tool at our fingertips—one that could go all over the Valley to make an impact! So the #PinkAcura was born.” The #PinkAcura is a physical representation of the countless women in the Central Valley who have gone through some form of breast cancer—it is a physical reminder that we must continue to fight for a cure, all while remembering those who have lost their battle. “Fresno Acura invites the entire community to come and sign the vehicle every year—for every signature on the vehicle, Fresno Acura donates $1 to local breast cancer research.” Established in 2015, each year a new vehicle dons the signature breast cancer pink. “The #PinkAcura is wrapped every year by the amazing team at Method Media. The owner, Jeremy Wilson, has been a part of our vision from the beginning and whips out an awesome new design each year.” Thus, there have been four different #PinkAcuras driving around Fresno since its founding. Each new #PinkAcura receives its first signature at the Central California Women’s Conference in September. “From there, the vehicle is driven to various events and businesses throughout the Valley through the end of October or mid-November.” When Ellena first came up with the idea for the #PinkAcura, there was uncertainty around how it would be received. “We started the #PinkAcura without really knowing if it would be a success or not. We called everyone we knew to see if they would be open to letting us bring it out to an event or to their place of business. Now we receive requests all year long asking to bring the car out to events, schools, businesses, etc. We now have a running schedule for where the #PinkAcura will be so people can check-in or try to catch it out in the wild.” Needless to say, it was a sensation from the get-go. Yet Ellena recalls the moment she realized the brevity of what they had created: “The #PinkAcura was a success the moment a member of our community
walked into the showroom at Fresno Acura just to sign the car. She broke down into tears and told us that it meant so much to her because she had just lost her mother to breast cancer. It’s the impact that the car has made on people’s lives that makes it a true success.” “We have people that tell us every year that they always look forward to signing the car, whether it be for themselves or for a loved one that has gone through cancer. Each signature is worth a $1 donation from us, but it seems like the community has come to understand that if they work together, they can help make a difference through collaboration.” How can people get involved with the #PinkAcura? “Just ask!” Ellena exclaims. Anyone who would like to be more involved or would like more information can simply reach out to Fresno Acura by calling 559.431.3400 or emailing Ellena directly at ewoodhams@fresnoacura. com. “We love being able to bring the #PinkAcura to businesses for employees and customers to sign or to community events.” A major moment for the #PinkAcura happened in 2018, when it was invited to a luncheon where Senator Dianne Feinstein was speaking. “She has raised millions of dollars for breast cancer research through her creation of the pink ribbon postage stamp and countless other efforts. We definitely had a fangirl moment!” Fresno Acura hosts “a different event around the #PinkAcura at the dealership every year. We have teamed up with different local non-profits to make each event unique from the last. Who knows what we will do this fall!” The #PinkAcura is promoted on the dealership’s website, all of their social media channels, and through local media. “We have been featured on ABC30, KSEE24, KMPH Fox 26, and The Fresno Bee.” But what happens to the pink car after it’s done collecting signatures for the season? “The vehicle is unwrapped and offered up for sale! We have had many customers that specifically request to purchase the vehicle since it has an emotional significance to them,” shares Ellena. To-date, the #PinkAcura has collected 12,500 signatures, 5,000 of which were compiled last year alone. For the 2019 season, Fresno Acura aims to double last year’s record by cracking $10,000 in signatures on the #PinkAcura. Together, we can help make that happen by dropping in at Fresno Acura and picking up a pen. Visit www.fresnoacura.com to learn more about the #PinkAcura campaign and schedule as the September launch approaches.
—52— JUL | AUG
Speak PHILANTHROPICALLY
ing Managing Editor Lauren Barisic Photographer Ellie Koleen Stylist Alma Wolverton Hair Nogodar Martinez Makeup Tiffany Simons Clothing provided by pum bum Society @shoppumbum Jewelry provided by Julia Vogue @julia_vogue
SUSAN BLAZER BY ATHINA COLLECTION PANTS BY PISTOLA DENIM SHOES BY STEVE MADDEN CHARLOTTE TOP BY BEULAH STYLE PANTS BY SPANX SHOES BY INC JODY DRESS BY DO+BE COLLECTION SHOES PERSONAL COLLECTION
—54— JUL | AUG
SUSAN GLADDING
GAVIN'S LAW
“Gavin’s Law came to be after my husband Gavin Gladding was killed in a hit and run accident on September 16th, 2018. Losing my husband was a terrible loss, but the way in which it happened and not knowing what had occurred for six days following the accident compounded our pain,” Susan Gladding recalls of the tragic event that altered not just her and her family’s lives, but also those of the students who knew him as Vice Principal Gladding at Fort Washington Elementary School in Clovis.
W
hen the man who hit Gavin (out on an early morning run) finally came forward, legal loopholes concerning how hit and runs are prosecuted became apparent. “The driver was eventually arrested and I learned that the maximum penalty for this crime was four years in prison.” That was because the driver fled—had he stayed and been assessed for substance impairment at the time the accident occurred, he could’ve faced as many as 10 years in prison. Because intoxication could not be proven, “The driver was sentenced to only three years in prison and my family and I knew that something needed to be done to change the law to close the loophole that incentivizes drivers to flee.” “Hit and run crimes are an epidemic in our county and in the state. Bringing attention to this issue is important. In the months after Gavin passed away, I was shocked by the number of hit and runs that occurred,” confesses Susan. “We still have a long way to go before the
Bill is approved, however to date, I believe our biggest success has been in raising awareness of the issue and getting others to acknowledge that the loophole exists.” Legal action had to be taken, so Susan rallied a team of public servants that transcends party lines. “Our team, under Assemblyman Jim Patterson, started work on [Assembly Bill] 582 in November of 2018 and the work is ongoing.” Co-authors to the Bill include Senator Andreas Borgeas, as well as Assemblymembers Adam Gray, Tom Lackey, James Gallagher, Dr. Joaquin Arambula, Frank Bigelow, Mike Gipson, and Eduardo Garcia. The Bill first appeared before the Public Safety Committee this past March 19th. Susan’s testimony was difficult to dispute—she argued that in California, drunk drivers who flee the scene of a fatal crash face a lighter punishment than those who stay, thus current laws are incentivizing delinquents to leave.
DRESS BY MISS CIRCLE SHOES BY KRISTIN CAVALLARI BY CHINESE LAUNDRY
—57— JUL | AUG
“... I knew that something needed to be done to change the law to close the loophole that incentivizes drivers to flee.”
Despite being less than optimistic about the outcome that day, Susan’s appeal was so exceptionally compelling that the Committee decided to postpone voting in order to further investigate the laws that she plead to rectify. “We went in anticipating that the Bill would not move past the Committee due to the state’s current movement to reduce incarceration and penalties for crimes. Instead, the Committee members acknowledged that the loophole exists in the current law and committed to working with us to move the Bill forward. While making it through that Committee was the first step in a long process, it was a critical one.” The next hearing for Gavin’s Law with the Public Safety Committee is scheduled for January of 2020. Continuous support from family, friends, and the community help make that wait more bearable for Susan. Patience is key. “I was told when we started down this path that getting the Bill approved would be an uphill battle. Others had tried in the past. Getting through the Public Safety Committee was going to be a difficult task. Not because the Bill did not make sense, but because the current movement in the state is to reduce prison sentences instead of increasing them. It will take patience and persistence to continue to move the Bill forward.” Persistence comes in the form of an array of media and outreach. “We have utilized social media, the local radio stations, and news stations to spread the word about Gavin’s Law and have encouraged people to visit the website at www.gavinslaw.com to sign the petition supporting the Bill.” A rally was held in Fresno a few days before the March Committee hearing to gain momentum, additional support, and to spread the word about Gavin’s Law and its need. “I anticipate that an additional rally will occur prior to the next hearing,” reveals Susan. Vice Principal Gavin Gladding was beloved by his students—Susan plans to honor his memory by touching young lives in a more direct sense. “In addition to the work on Gavin’s Law, I am starting a nonprofit organization called the Gavin Gladding Foundation. This Foundation will provide scholarships and grants to support education and environmental stewardship. The goal is to establish the Foundation by the end of the summer and begin fundraising in the fall.” Between her work with Gavin’s Law and the Foundation, being a mom, and working full-time, finding balance, or even sanity, can be a challenge. “This is tricky and I’m not certain that there is balance at all times. I am now a single mother of two children, work a full-time
corporate job, am advocating for Gavin’s Law, and starting a non-profit. There isn’t a lot of extra time in my days. I find that scheduling out my week is very important so that I know what is happening each day and where I need to ask for help. I’ve gotten very good at asking for help and couldn’t do all of these things without the support of my friends, family, and community.” Gavin and Susan have two children (son Carter, 11, and daughter Isla, 9) whom she calls “gifts and the most important people in my world … they bring so much joy and laughter to every single day … I want to raise them to lead with kindness, to fight for what’s important, and to also enjoy every single beautiful gift that life has to offer. I want to provide the tools and foundation for my kids to be successful both personally and professionally.” Susan’s kids may be her motivation, her why. But she begins each day with her “morning cup of coffee—I couldn’t start my day without it.” She’ll never pass up an ice-cream cookie sandwich from Cold Stone Creamery or a chocolate lava cake, straight from the oven. When she can, Susan finds physical and mental rejuvenation in exercise. “It is what keeps me even, focused, and energized to get through my days … just getting outside for a walk, hike, or bike ride and leaving the distraction of our busy lives behind, even a short period of time, is sometimes all I need.” Simply being grateful for the little things in life and the blessing of another day reminds us that happiness is a choice. “Even in this most difficult time in my life I am able to find happiness and joy because I am blessed in so many ways. Big and small. We all are. If you take the time to look at your life and what gifts you have been given, and appreciate those gifts, the joy and happiness will follow.” “Losing Gavin and living through the legal process that followed has been the most difficult experience of my life. I have realized over the past nine months my three truths: 1) The only thing that I have control over in this world is how I feel and how I choose to move on from here. I could sit in my anger and sadness or I could choose to see the goodness that still exists around me and choose happiness. It is a choice. 2) Don’t wait—do the thing today, as we are not promised tomorrow. 3) Community and connection is everything—it is what life is about. Nurture your relationships because in the end, the connection with those that you love mean the very most.”
—58— JUL | AUG
CHARLOTTE BAVARO
HELPING ONE WOMAN
How do you turn a charitable act into a national fundraising campaign? Charlotte Bavaro has been Helping One Woman (HOW) at a time since co-founding the organization in 2008. “My friend Brenda Critzer and I came up with the idea of getting together with some girlfriends once a month with each of us giving $10 to a need we recognized in our community.” The domino effect of helping a woman at a time when she most needed it was infectious.
T
oday, 28 chapters of HOW operate across the United States, with more scheduled to open this year. “I believe it’s the simplicity of the concept that allowed me to go from being a chapter leader for Fresno’s dinners to being a board member for the non-profit that oversees dozens of chapters across the country!”
Each chapter selects a designated restaurant where HOW meets for a monthly “girls night out.” Those chapters then honor a female recipient, whose name is drawn from nominations submitted by the attendees (primarily women) and randomly selected at the previous month’s event, with a cash gift. Attendees purchase their own meal in addition to providing a $10 or greater contribution at each month’s dinner, “with every penny being gifted to the woman who is that month’s recipient,” Charlotte explains. HOW’s motto speaks to its influence: “One woman with $10 can buy another woman lunch. Ten women with $10 can buy another woman’s groceries. One-hundred women with $10 can make a real difference in another woman’s life.” It is a powerful, healing, and supportive act that has a positive snowball effect on all those related to the circumstance.
This monetary gift to women who are struggling through a trying period serves as a supplement to help ease incurred financial difficulty. It is, however, the overwhelming emotional and heartfelt support that the attendees give the recipients that is the energy behind the Helping One Woman organization. Despite the tremendous outpour of support for their cause, Charlotte recalls a piece of advice she received in HOW’s early years: “Keep it simple, don’t over-sell it. Once the basic concept of women getting together once a month for dinner and each one giving $10 to a specific need was set, it was easy to want to add to it with ideas of things that would ‘incentivize’ women to attend. But at the end of the day, we knew we needed to keep the sole focus on the need/recipient and that would sell itself.” For this reason, HOW holds only one fundraiser a year outside of the monthly dinners—proceeds support and promote HOW National, which is “the non-profit entity that supports the development of new chapters and leaders and allows us to offer an annual scholarship as well.” More information about this year’s event, scheduled for September 6th, can be found on www.helpingonewoman.org.
TOP BY BAR III PANTS BY SPANX SHOES BY INC
—61— JUL | AUG
“... when we help one woman, we are helping one family and through that family we are helping our community.”
An entity that can stand on its own merit, HOW strives to keep itself free from affiliations so as to let its sole focus stay on supporting and benefitting their recipients, which allows it to be an all-inclusive organization. “I try to focus on ‘keeping the main thing the main thing,’” elaborats Charlotte. “It’s overwhelming to think about how you can individually address needs you know about in your community. But if a bunch of us, who could do a little, got together, maybe we could address those needs corporately. If my work with HOW can encourage people to look beyond their own abilities and find others to work with to tackle issues and needs…I feel the good coming from that would be a pretty good legacy.” Yet Charlotte didn’t start Helping One Woman with the intention of being a national force. “When we first started, our recipients came from a broader community since we were just the Fresno chapter. One of those recipients was so moved by the experience that she decided to start our second chapter in her hometown. When we saw the simplicity and relatability of our mission made the possibilities limitless, we knew it wasn’t enough to stay local. So, we looked into becoming a non-profit that could oversee chapters across the country.” HOW’s growth speaks for itself. “We started with one chapter here in Fresno and now we have dozens of chapters across the country. You can really feel the success though when a woman who was the family member or friend of a recipient says, ‘I want to start this in my community.’ That is how most of our chapters get started. The concept is so simple and relatable and that has driven the success.” Now, Charlotte is looking to reach those who serve our country in a self-sacrificing way. “My dream for HOW is to launch as many chapters across the country as possible. But, more specifically, I want to bring HOW to our military bases for women who are enlisted as well as military wives.” Juggling a nation-wide organization and a personal life can be a bit of a challenge, but to her, “it isn’t so much about balancing the two, but making sure I am fulfilled in both and giving proper attention to both …
Personally though, I need to figure out how to not take on so much that I feel overwhelmed. I know that’s cliché, but it’s true.” Charlotte confesses that being blessed with a supportive husband certainly helps. “Setting my husband and family aside, I must admit my sweet little Yorkie Luigi has brought a lot of joy to my life and saved me from being a stressed-out mess. It’s nearly impossible not to smile from the inside out when he is so happy to see me or when he cuddles with my husband.” In addition, Charlotte relies on her faith to help guide her through each day. “I have found that my day goes much better when I start it with Him! … My faith in God reminds me that struggles have purpose and focusing on Him will bring me to the other side better for it.” Therein lies the joy of life, by “being able to have peace even if things are chaotic, unsettled, or negative. I find that joy by trusting God has my life in His hand and my circumstances under His control.” Coffee also helps—she calls it the second best way to start her day. Throw in her cheater glasses (“to double-check those text messages before I hit send!”) and ice cream (“I don’t eat it very often, but I love it and I don’t even care what flavor!”) and you suddenly realize Charlotte is definitely one of the girls. “Nothing relaxes me like a bubble bath and a glass of wine!” Between her work for women and her friendships, it is evident that relationships are a core value of Charlotte’s being—custodians such as her facilitate the betterment of our world. “It is inspiring to meet the various recipients who have gone through such difficult times. Their strength, courage, and incredible desire to give back and pay it forward are impossible to ignore. That attitude seeps into your own outlook, fortunately, and I find myself looking at tough or sad situations as opportunities to exhibit the same attributes I’ve seen in these recipients!” True to HOW’s mission statement, “when we help one woman, we are helping one family and through that family we are helping our community.”
—62— JUL | AUG
JODY HUDSON
ALEX HUDSON LYME FOUNDATION
“Anyone that knows my story realizes that I haven’t always had an easy life,” explains Jody Hudson. “However, I have worked hard at building internal strength with endurance. Of moving forward with grace no matter what comes my way.” Jody is referring to founding the Alex Hudson Lyme Foundation (AHLF), which honors the memory of her daughter. “If you stay focused on the blessings in life, you will always find gratitude in your days.”
D
eemed a “medical mystery” from the time she was 10 years old, Alex Hudson battled a vast array of symptoms for 12 years. From an early age, she excelled as an athlete and was an exceptional student, yet countless health issues plagued her in unexplainable waves. It wasn’t until she was living in Southern California (having been accepted to the University of California, Los Angeles on a full-ride scholarship) in 2017 that she found a doctor at CedarsSinai Medical Center who finally suggested that she perhaps had Lyme disease (known as the great imitator).
trying to improve her own health, Alex was on a mission to help and educate others who were also affected by these medical conditions.
Alex was diagnosed with not only Lyme disease, but also Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (an immunological condition which causes the body to have an allergic-like reaction to almost anything consumed), which had developed as a direct result of untreated Lyme disease. Jody and Alex set out on a research crusade to find proper treatment. Besides
Alex lost her war against Lyme disease and Mass Cell Activation Syndrome on the 24th of March, 2018. But her passing also marked the birth of her living legacy. “I don’t want another child to ever have to be labeled a ‘medical mystery.’” And so the Alex Hudson Lyme Foundation was born from this defining moment.
“Despite the immense pain and suffering that she battled, Alex never complained and only wanted to help others.” Hoping to beat her illness and become a testimony for others, Alex fought to the end. “My daughter showed me what true courage and strength looked like as she heroically fought for her life,” recalls Jody. “When she knew that God had other plans for her, we made a pact. She told me to tell her story and carry out her wishes to help others.”
TOP BY VENTI FASHION PANTS BY PISTOLA DENIM SHOES BY STEVE MADDEN
—65— JUL | AUG
“That was important to me because I wanted to make sure Alex’s name was attached to research efforts.”
Jody knew that she was going to honor Alex’s legacy by becoming an advocate for the Lyme community. Her desire to dispel the misbeliefs about Lyme disease that Alex faced was the incentive for her mission to give credibility to her daughter’s pain and suffering, which is rooted in educating the medical profession and the community at large on Lyme disease. But Jody didn’t anticipate the national platform that the AHLF would evolve to within a short period of time. “When I set out to petition for a 501c3 status, I was told that it would take up to 9+ months for approval. Imagine my surprise when thirty days later, I received an approval letter in the mail stating that AHLF had been granted non-profit status.” That was in June of 2018, a mere three months after Alex’s passing. “My accountant summed it up best by saying, ‘Sometimes the good Lord does things that there are no explanations for.’” The Alex Hudson Lyme Foundation has made impressive strides, despite being just over a year old. “From granting our first Bluebird Scholarship to assist a Lyme patient with treatment costs, to executing our first annual fundraiser [Tea for Alex] for research, AHLF continues to gather local and national support … AHLF has been collaborating with and supporting national Lyme organizations such as: Global Lyme Alliance, Bay Area Lyme Foundation, LivLyme Foundation, LymeLight Foundation, Sam’s Spoons Foundation, Focus On Lyme, and LymeDisease.org. We support one another by attendance at galas, speaker conferences, and other important initiatives.”
Fundraising and awareness efforts are not new to Jody. As Operations Director for Catholic Charities Diocese of Fresno, being Founder of the AHLF meant working two full-time jobs this past year, which she admits “has tipped my scales unevenly. My goal for the remainder of the year is to bring some balance back into my life.” “I need to pause and redirect my attention to my friends and loved ones who have been so supportive of me this past year.” Hitting the pause button, however, doesn’t come easy for Jody. “This has always been a tough one for me because I have a tendency to want everything yesterday. I set goals and am quick to want to check them off my list. I am learning to have more ‘pause’ moments and appreciate the processes as well as the accomplishments.” That means allowing herself some “ME” time. “Whether it’s doing a spin or Pilates class, grabbing my Starbucks skinny vanilla latte with almond milk at 140 degrees (yes I’m that high-maintenance customer), or grabbing lunch with a girlfriend,” all those make Jody happy. “Taking a nice detox bath” and “having a ME day with my glam team” make all the difference in the world. Faith, family, and friends are the cornerstones of Jody’s life. “My faith has always been my source of strength and substance … When I’m struggling or have hit a rough spot in the road, I dig even deeper with my faith. Spending time with God in reflection and prayer always gets me back on track.”
There is still plenty more to accomplish. “Improved diagnostic testing, better target clinical research, clinician education, and state legislation are just a couple of focus areas for the following year,” lists Jody. “I have also started writing a book on Alex’s journey and am in a monthly writing group to keep me on track.”
Yet, motherhood is what she considers her greatest source of happiness. “It has been, and will always be, my most important job here on earth. I am so proud of my 26-year-old son, who has weathered many storms to get where he is today in life. His accomplishments and success always makes my heart happy.”
The Lyme community is a very strong and supportive group, and Jody is doing her part as an advocate. May is Lyme Disease Awareness Month. “We host awareness events during the month of May,” and the “AHLF held an active Lyme Awareness campaign this past May.”
Jody’s endurance can be credited to her children and faith. “After the passing of Alex, I flooded my mind with plenty of woulda, shoulda, couldas. It all came down to this: I have learned to surrender myself to His will. Alex demonstrated this so beautifully with her passing and it will forever be etched in my heart … Every day it’s Alex who guides me and gives me direction with her foundation. She hasn’t steered me wrong yet.”
The first annual Tea for Alex fundraiser, which raises funds for research, was held in October of 2018. “Last year we were able to sponsor a $50k research grant with Global Lyme Alliance. That was important to me because I wanted to make sure Alex’s name was attached to research efforts.” The second annual fundraiser will be held on Sunday, October 27th, 2019 in Fresno at TorNino's—for more information about the event, visit www.alexhudsonlymefoundation.org.
—66— JUL | AUG
1
LUX looks
Highlighted Neon Pop 4
Fashion Editor Melissa Souza
Neon has had a bad rap, but it’s shed its tacky past and taken a more sophisticated approach. Infusing this hot color is the trend in all fashion this season. Boldly switch out a basic with this trendy color, or try it out as a color-pop with your accessories.
3
2
5
6 7
1. Wandler Neon Yellow Luna Leather Shoulder Bag $671 from www.farfetch.com 2. Gucci Interlocking Leather Strap Watch 37mm in Black/Gold $1,230 from www.nordstrom.com 3. Reinaldo Lourenco Silk Blouse $432 from www.farfetch.com 4. Nanushka Wrap Silky Top $495 from www.farfetch.com 5. Nanushka High-waist Tailored Trousers $440 from www.farfetch.com 6. Shay Fine Jewelry Baguette Drop Huggies in Yellow Gold $1,155 from www.shayfinejewelry.com 7. Prada Slingback Pumps in Black $990 from www.farfetch.com
1
2
Fair Trade Beauty Editor Jessica McCafferty
Beauty is so much more than skin deep. It can be meaningful and, most importantly, it can be fair, too. As we become more in tune with what we are putting on our bodies, it is not just the quality of ingredients that counts. It is where the formulas actually come from and how they are sourced.
“Fair trade beauty means prioritizing how a product is made and sourced. In many traditional business models, the pursuit of reducing cost to maximize profit can often overshadow best sourcing practices that benefit all,” explains Rahama Wright, Founder and CEO Shea Yeleen. “When equal attention is placed on ethical sourcing, it can have multiplier affects that not only improve the quality of the product for the customer, but also tackle social issues like poverty alleviation and environmental sustainability.”
ancestral lands and its richness. Amazource, a purpose-driven brand of skincare products, is made with ingredients directly sourced from the Amazon rainforest. By partnering with indigenous communities in Amazonia, each product purchase finances the conservation of at least 2,000 square feet of virgin forest.
Her company, Shea Yeleen, has been committed to ethical trade practices since day one. For each product made, they partner with women-owned cooperatives, working with them through each step of the supply chain from seed to shelf. Besides poverty alleviation, the brand even assists with wealthbuilding through savings programs and access to health services.
More than a store for handcrafted goods, Ten Thousand Villages is making it even easier for consumers to shop with intention and connect with makers in ten thousand villages globally. From agreeing on a fair price together with artisans and ensuring that workshops are safe to promoting gender equality and environmental sustainability, you can trust your purchases are made to put people and the planet first.
Enter the world of fair trade beauty brands.
“Fair trade is important for us because there is life beyond profits,” echoes Sergio C. Rossi, Founder and CEO at Amazource. “We are not against business. We are a business company but our distinctive feature is our purpose. And we have set this purpose because there’s a world that we have to protect not only for ourselves but for future generations.” 3
For his company, the mission takes on another important aspect of being fair trade—protecting their suppliers’
6
“Being a fair trade brand matters because there is an enormous amount of pressure on craftspeople and farmers all over the world to produce faster and cheaper,” shares Llenay Ferretti, Acting CEO of Ten Thousand Villages.
“When people have access to steady employment and fair income, it is life-changing,” concludes Ferretti. We couldn’t agree more.
1. Shea Yeleen Shea Body Balm $19.00 from www.sheayeleen.com 2. Amazource Amazon Mist® $19.99 from www.amazource.com 3. Ten Thousand Villages Coffee Ground Exfoliating Soap $5.99 from www.tenthousandvillages.com 4. SheaMoisture 100% Virgin Coconut Oil Haircare starting at $10.99 from www.sheamoisture.com 5. Amala Rejuvenate Treatment Oil $186.00 from www.shopamala.com 6. Weleda Skin Food Original Ultra-Rich Cream $18.99 4 from www.weleda.com
5
SUMMER sizzle Beauty Editor Jessica McCafferty
Our favorite season is here and it’s time for some much-needed fun in the sun! Just as fashion changes for the warmer weather, it is just as important to swap out your beauty products, too. What are some great picks to try? We have your ultimate list for the top summer staples— CVLUX approved. 5
4
1
3 2
1. City Beauty City Lips in Watermelon $35.00 from www.citybeauty.com 6
7
8
2. KBShimmer Papaya Don’t Preach Nail Polish $10.00 from www.kbshimmer.com 3. The Better Skin Co. Super Shield Boost Anti-Pollution Toner & Mist $22.00 from www.thebetterskinco.com 4. Cheeky Physique Luxe Scrub Crushed Pearl Body Polish $32.00 from www.cheekyphysique.com 5. SAND CLOUD Organic Reef Safe Sunscreen $18.00 from www.sandcloud.com 6. CHI Aloe Vera Humidity Resistant Leave-In Conditioner $21.00 from www.chi.com 7. Elina Organics Mermaid Elixir $78.00 from www.elinaorganicsskincare.com 8. Bawdy Beauty Butt Sheet Masks $9.00 each from www.bawdybeauty.com 9. Tropic Labs Over Exposed Rapid Sun Recovery Gel $29.00 from www.tropic-labs.com 10. W7 Cosmetics Honolulu Bronzer $7.95 from www.w7makeup.com
9
10
OUR STRENGTH IS
YOUR BEAUTY
BEAUTY BEGINS THE MINUTE YOU WALK INTO THE SALON
680 W. Shaw Ave #101 | Fresno, CA | (559) 229-9553 | thespaatfgv.com
—70— JUL | AUG
1
LUX looks
Elevated On-Trend Denim
5
Fashion Editor Melissa Souza
Elevate essential denim for fashionable and flattering style. On-trend high-waisted, straight-leg denim pairs perfectly with a white button down and heel for a dressed up option. Opt for a graphic tee and flat for an elevated casual feel. 3 4
2 7
6 8 1. Maria Black 14K Yellow Gold Liv 50 Hoop Earrings $494 from www.farfetch.com 2. Lizzie Mandler Fine Jewelry18K Yellow Gold Ring $558 from www.farfetch.com 3. Lafayette 148 New York Minnie Shirt $398 from www.nordstrom.com 4. Frame Le Sylvie Slender Straight Leg Jeans $275 from www.nordstrom.com 5. Marni Trunk Medium Saffiano-leather Shoulder Bag in Brown $1,890 from www.matchesfashion.com 6. Christian Louboutin Anjalina 85mm in Chestnut Suede $845 from www.christianlouboutin.com 7. Prince Peter Golden State of Mind Graphic Tee $60 from www.nordstrom.com 8. Neous Loda Closed-Toe Mules $680 from www.farfetch.com
Get the smile you want from the Dentist you can trust!
Sam Namdarian D.M.D. The Cosmetic Dentist who teaches other Cosmetic Dentists! InvisalignÂŽ | Fillings | Bridges Crowns | Whitening Full Mouth Reconstruction Veneers | Dental Implants Sleep Apnea Treatment & More!
Dr. Namdarian is a member of the Frontier Institute where he now serves as clinical instructor to Dentists attending their cosmetic courses. Dr. Namdarian uses the latest in Cosmetic Dentistry Techniques and Technology, including Caries Detector, Intra-oral Cameras, Itero Digital Impression Scanner, and Full Digital X-Rays including Panorex. Dr. Namdarian achieved post-graduate certification from UCLA Dental School and he is a member of numerous professional organizations, such as Fresno Madera Dental society and: 7770 N Fresno St. #105 Fresno, CA 93720
(559) 431-1772 fresnosmilemakeovers.com
—72— JUL | AUG
LUX looks
Silhouette Flattering 1
Fashion Editor Melissa Souza
Show off what your momma gave you with the right silhouette for your body type in a timeless trend: stripes. A striped dress requires minimal effort while giving maximum impact. Give an athletic body type shape with ruching, and show off curves with a belted waist.
Stripes 2
3
4
6
1. BaubleBar Dalya 2-Pack Imitation Pearl Boddy Pins $24 from www.nordstrom.com 2. Lafayette 148 New York Peggy Stripe Shirtdress in Malachite $548 from www.nordstrom.com 3. Veronica Beard Striped Ruched Shirt Dress in Blue $450 from www.farfetch.com 4. Oscar de la Renta Cognac Leather Bento Bucket Tote $3,290 from www.oscardelarenta.com 5. Manolo Blahnik Jedjulul Genuine Snakeskin Slide Sandal in Brown $507 from www.nordstrom.com 6. Luxchilas Straw Flower Drop Earrings in Neutral $98 from www.antrhopologie.com 5
High-tech. Higher purpose. As our surgeons’ skilled hands control innovative treatments in our operating rooms, Saint Agnes stays in touch with our highest goal: protecting every blessing that walks through our doors. Caring for the Central Valley. With all our hearts.
Saint Agnes Medical Center samc.com
Fresno Police Chaplaincy
E
ach year through
American Red Cross
Charitable giving, Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino proudly supports non-profits making a positive impact in the
Downs Syndrome Assoc. of Central CA
lives of others throughout our local communities. Poverello House
Over the last 15 years, Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino has donated over
$18 million.
711 Lucky Lane Coarsegold, CA 93614 1-866-794-6946 chukchansigold.com