We’re doing a double-take. Because for the 2023 CVLUX Luxury Awards, we’ve been nominated in two categories: Best Community and Best Shopping Center. It means that Riverstone is being considered as the Valley’s best place to live—with next-door Riverwalk getting the nod for the best place to work, shop and play. And when it’s complete, it will be exactly that. So this year, let’s double the wins! Just visit CVLUX.com/voting to give us your votes. Voting is open until January 31, 2023.
The Lodge | Trails & Parks | Dog Park Stone Creek Elementary | Stylish Homes Riverwalk | Community Farm*
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Tour the Model Homes
From Fresno, go north on Highway 41, turn left at Avenue 12 and follow the signs.
©2022 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. *Future amenity coming soon.
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.
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Publisher’s Perspective
Welcome to the Issue Masthead
2023 Luxury Awards
Cast Your Votes
Lomie’s Grand Opening
2nd Annual Sip & Support
Benefiting Valley Children’s Adaptive Sports Program
23rd Annual Crab Feed
Benefiting CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties
Hot Rods and Hot Nights Benefiting Helping One Woman
Oh So Thankful Dinner + Fundraiser Benefiting Parents & Addicts In Need
Gala of Light
Benefiting Exceptional Parents Unlimited
Casino Night Benefiting Saint Agnes Medical Center Programs and Services
Safari Night
Benefiting the Fresno Chaffee Zoo
50th Anniversary Gala
Benefiting Centro La Familia Advocacy Services
19th Annual Harvest of Hope
Benefiting Catholic Charities, Diocese of Fresno
Shine a Light on Hope & Healing Gala
Benefiting Hinds Hospice Center for Grief & Healing
Just Jaylen Cover Story: Jaylen Barron
Gather & Graze Formulas for charcuterie boards.
How is your gratitude practice?
Harvest Wine & Cheese Pairings How to make the perfect match.
Loving Lahvosh Celebrating 100 years of Valley Lahvosh.
Caution: Contents Hot A round-up of warm libations.
For the NOV Edition, CVLUX features Jaylen Barron for the Harvest Issue.
ASSISTANT KYRA BISSETT
TAILOR MICHELLE THOMAS DRESS BY NICHOLAS VINTAGE JEWELRY
As the fall foliage comes into full autumn color, we begin to look back on the year. Many of us hibernate and take refuge in the simple pleasures of life. Indulging in that nice bottle of wine we’ve been saving for a special occasion, sharing stories of summer trips with our close friends over a plethora of harvest bounty, or simply making time to just relax and unwind in front of a fire while dreaming of the winter to come. However you choose to spend this season, we are honored to have you share just a little time with us as you peruse this most recent edition.
With Luxury Award voting season in full swing, we celebrate some of the Valley’s most accomplished businesses. If you haven’t secured your table or sponsorship, there’s still time. You can visit our website at www.cvlux.com for more information. While you are there, be sure to vote for your favorites. There is only one vote per email, so get clicking!
On a personal note, I’d like to express my gratitude to all our advertisers who have been so loyal over the last 10 years. With all our changes and growth, one thing remains constant: our commitment to celebrating the Central Valley. As we move to a monthly format, we look forward to sharing more stories of our community with all of you.
May this season be filled with laughter and camaraderie.
Rogers Jewelry Co. was built on a legacy of integrity, trust, and friendly service to our customers and the community. Being in business for more than 85 years, we’ve learned exactly what our customers want—better brands, bigger selection, and superior service.
SAMPLE LOCAL FARE AT AXIS COFFEE BAR & EATERY
NEW ONSITE AND WALKABLE HILLSIDE TK-8 SCHOOL
TOWN CENTER WITH YEAR-ROUND FARMER’S
Living at Tesoro Viejo, feeling free isn’t about getting far away. It’s about enjoying everything right outside your door. Here, you can walk to a farmer’s market and your kids can walk to school—or to the pool. There are fourteen miles of trails to trek or ride, and four hundred acres of open space to explore and enjoy. The neighborly connection of a shared bite, cup of coffee, or glass of wine is just a stroll away, too. All part of a notion that a full life never has to lead to an empty tank. Come see for yourself.
Coverwoman and actress Jaylen Barron chats about her diverse career and what draws her to the versatile characters she plays (page 48). Remember to cast a vote for your favorite 2023 Luxury Award Nominees (page 22). Get an inside look at the plethora of events featured in Social Affair (page 26). Gain insight from a pro on how to perfectly pair wines with cheeses (page 62). One of Fresno’s top grazing companies shares their formula for crafting the perfect charcuterie board (page 56).
Read about the 100-year-old history and evolution of Valley Lahvosh Baking Company (page 66). Learn how a gratitude practice can benefit you beyond the season of thanks (page 60). Find out where to go for hot cocktails on cold nights (page 68). Discover what the stars have in store for you with Scorpio in the sky (page 72).
When fall is in the air, it composes a symphony of color, scent, and bounty. It leaves us feasting with our eyes as much as our taste buds. And whenever abundance manifests, the spirit of generosity is amplified. Make time to share and relish as autumn settles into the most bountiful state in the Union.
PHOTOGRAPHER SAM PAYNE
DAVID MANNING Publisher, Sole Owner
EDITORIAL Editorial Director LAUREN BARISIC Interiors Editor ERIN MELKONIAN Health & Fitness Editor DINA JUVE Features Editor ELISABETH ROSS Features Contributors ALLISON CASSABON CHRISTINE ROSE and PANDORA VANDERPUMP SABO Astrologer SHARI SCHOPP
Design Director PHENG MOUA Graphic Designer SAMANTHA DEATHERAGE Contributing Photographers DON DIZON, LOUIS LEE, JULIO LOPEZ, KYLE LOWE, BETSY NEWMAN SAM PAYNE, KELLY PETERSEN, NIKKI RYAN, AMBIENT ART PHOTOGRAPHY, BFA CLAIRE TAKAHASHI PHOTOGRAPHY, HINDS HOSPICE and MARIANO FRIGINAL PHOTOGRAPHY
BUSINESS Regional Marketing Director CAROL DEFENDIS Sales Executives CAROLINE HOWARD and EMMA TOSTE Accounting Director DEE ANN LINKER Legal Counsel GONTORWON BORH
Please submit all advertising inquires to information@cvlux.com.
Letters To The Editor: We want to hear from you. Please submit letters to: CVLUX, 7797 N. First St. #172, Fresno CA, 93720 or e-mail to information@cvlux.com. Letters must be signed and deemed appropriate for our readership to be considered for publishing. Letters are subject to editing and may be cut for length.
Story Queries: Are you a writer? Please send story queries to lauren@cvlux.com. Please allow six to eight weeks for a response. CVLUX is not responsible for unsolicited material. CVLUX is published 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.
CVLUX Magazine is pleased to present the 2023 Luxury Awards. Each year, CVLUX recognizes the Central Valley’s favorite businesses with Luxury Awards. Nominations were submitted in July 2022. The top five in each category have made it to this year’s ballot. The winners will be announced at the Luxury Awards.
Voting is open until Tuesday, January 31st, 2023—each email address may only vote once and all emails are authenticated at the end of the voting period.
Come celebrate the 10th Anniversary of CVLUX Magazine at this year’s Luxury Awards!
Tickets and Sponsorships now on sale.
Holy Trinity Ballroom, Lounge & Courtyard 2226 Ventura Avenue Fresno, California 93721
Friday, March 10th, 2023 5:30 P.M. to 11:30 P.M.
DRESS CODE: BLACK TIE FORMAL
For additional information, contact information@cvlux.com.
Hedieh Arbabzadeh, MD Women’s Plastic Surgery
Carl Askren, MD, FACS
Aesthetics Plastic Surgery Pavilion
Maziar Bidar, MD
Eye Medical Center of Fresno
Mark Chin, MD, MPH
Valley Institute of Plastic Surgery
Kaye Riolo, MD, FACS
Riolo Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
Kathleen Behr, MD
Behr Laser & Skin Care Center
J. Scott Boswell, MD
Boswell Dermatology
Carlos Paz, MD, PHD
Paz Dermatology
Gregory L. Simpson, MD
University Dermatology Associates
Leslie Storey, MD
Valley Skin Institute
A.M. Aminian, MD
Allergy Institute
Malik Baz, MD
Baz Allergy, Asthma & Sinus Center
Praveen Buddiga, MD, FAAAAI
Buddiga Family Allergy, Skin and Immunology
Richard S. DeMera, MD
DeMera Allergy Asthma & Immunology Center
Rabinder Sidhu, MD Sidhu Allergy
Michelle Asselin, DDS, FAGD, FACD, FICD
Fresno Dental Professionals
Hugo Coronado, DDS
Cosmetic Dentistry, Implants & Orthodontics
J. Art Mirelez, Jr., DDS, FICOI, FAGD
Mirelez Wellness Dental
Sam Namdarian, DMD
Fresno Smile Makeovers
Kathryn A. Siemens, DDS
Kathryn A. Siemens Family Dentistry
Community Medical Centers
Kaiser Permanente
Kaweah Health Medical Center
Saint Agnes Medical Center
Valley Children’s Healthcare
Aspire Medispa
Body del Sol Aesthetics Esteem Med Spa
Kiss Me Med Spa
LaserAway
Adrina Martins SALON
INTRINSIC Muses Day Spa
PREEN a boutique salon
The Spa & Hungry Hair Salon at Fig Garden Village
Fightgirl Fitness
Fort Washington Fitness George Brown Sports Club Orangetheory Fitness, Fresno
Fig Garden Village Park Crossing River Park Riverwalk Villaggio
Central Valley Community Bank
Educational Employees Credit Union
Fresno First Bank
Murphy Bank Premier Valley Bank
Audi Fresno
Fresno Acura
Fresno Lexus
Haron Jaguar, Land Rover & Volvo
Mercedes-Benz of Fresno
Gianni Fine Jewelers
Orloff Jewelers
Rogers Jewelry Co.
Sceptre & Sash Authentic Luxury
The Vault Fine Jewelers
In Season A Lifestyle Boutique La Rouge Ooh La La Revival 23
Sceptre & Sash Authentic Luxury
Holiday Boutique Jude’s
RSVP Style Verdalee Vonda’s
Ammons Design & Home Décor Brick & Mortar
Fashion Furniture
Hemisphere Home Noble House Design
Copper River Ranch Harlan Ranch Old Fig Garden Riverstone Development Tesoro Viejo
Bonadelle Neighborhoods
De Young Properties
Gary McDonald Homes McCaffrey Homes
Wathen Castanos Homes
Dodson Builders Construction Inc. Henry Gatewood Construction J & J Quality Construction Inc. Nelson-Dye Remodeling Specialists Trademark
Emmanuel Chavez Universal Lending
Elias Delgado Guaranteed Rate
Michelle Glass Sierra Pacific Mortgage Adrienne Romero-Williams Alameda Mortgage Corporation
Kathy Stypula
Change Home Mortgage
Alexandra Cetti
Premier Valley Realty Ivette Chavez Park Place Real Estate Lena Marie Fisher London Properties
Laura Mather
The Mather Method at London Properties Victoria Sherlock Sherlock Homes Real Estate Group
Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino Club One Casino
Mono Wind Casino Table Mountain Casino Resort Tachi Palace Casino Resort
Annesso Pizzeria Elbow Room Bar & Grill Manhattan Steakhouse & Bar Modernist Craft Cocktail Bar
Pismo’s Coastal Grill
The Annex Kitchen
Cracked Pepper Bistro Max’s Bistro & Bar
FIVE
Parma Ristorante
Harris Ranch Inn & Restaurant
Neat Method, Fresno
Roger Rocka’s Dinner Theater
The Lash Lounge, River Park Fresno Coin Gallery, The Showroom
The Grand Opening celebration for Lomie’s clothing boutique, which included a ribbon cutting ceremony, was held on Saturday, September 17th in Fresno’s Via Montana Shopping Center. Guests sipped bubbly and snacked on dainty hors d’oeuvres while shopping for “Beautiful Essentials.” Three lucky raffle winners took home pieces hand-selected by the store’s owner. The women’s retail store offers a curated mix of high-end essentials and everyday necessities. For more information about Lomie’s, please visit www.lomies.shop.
The 2nd Annual Sip & Support benefiting Valley Children’s Adaptive Sports Program commenced on Saturday, October 1st and raised over $50,000. Held at Tesoro Viejo’s Ranch House Clubhouse, the event featured top local wineries and handcrafted beer, delicious food, desserts, a silent auction, and live music that was enjoyed by approximately 200 attendees. The silent auction included a Luxury Vacation Beach House, a Signed Derek Carr Football, and more. For more information about Valley Children’s, please visit www.valleychildrens.org.
CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties hosted the 23rd Annual Crab Feed at the beautiful home of former MLB player Matt & Serina Garza in Clovis on Friday, September 9th. A total of 700 guests enjoyed a warm breezy evening in the foothills, dined on 2,000 pounds of crab, and raised $243,000 in support of foster youth. Former foster youth Jammy Harris shared about the positive impact her CASA Advocate Allison Martinez made in her life and that of her siblings. For more information about CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties, please visit www.casafresnomadera.org.
Hot Rods and Hot Nights, a fundraiser benefiting Helping One Woman (HOW), took place on Friday, September 9th at Pardini’s Banquet Room. This year’s honoree was Richard Peters for his support of HOW since its inception. Dinner, an auction, and a performance by Jeremy “Elvis” Pearce was enjoyed by 235 attendees, who raised $26,000 for the HOW Organization. An “After Party Dance” was held with DJ KAI, husband of the Bakersfield Chapter Leader, Sherri Godmother. For more information about HOW, please visit www.helpingonewoman.org.
Make this holiday season magical with a festive celebration at Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino. Whether enjoying an intimate gathering with friends and family or a large-scale holiday event with colleagues, let Chukchansi Gold make your event memorable in our stunning Chukchansi Conference Center, which features panoramic views of the beautiful Sierra Foothills. Accommodating groups of all sizes, the Conference Center o ers a spectacular backdrop for any event, from a delicious Thanksgiving feast to toasting the new year.
Make this holiday season magical with a festive celebration at Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino. Whether enjoying an intimate gathering with friends and family or a large-scale holiday event with colleagues, let Chukchansi Gold make your event memorable in our stunning Chukchansi Conference Center, which features panoramic views of the beautiful Sierra Foothills. Accommodating groups of all sizes, the Conference Center o ers a spectacular backdrop for any event, from a delicious Thanksgiving feast to toasting the new year.
Christmas is right around the corner and a special time to join with family and friends. This year, let our chefs be your chefs, and allow our expert team to design all elements of your unique celebration so you can focus on your guests and enjoy the festivities. Chukchansi also o ers seasonal group rates on hotel bookings for both social and business events, and all attendees can enjoy full access to our award-winning resort amenities from incredible cuisine and a luxurious spa to the heart-pounding fun on our unrivaled gaming floor.
Contact our Sales Department at 559-692-5200 to begin planning today!
Christmas is right around the corner and a special time to join with family and friends. This year, let our chefs be your chefs, and allow our expert team to design all elements of your unique celebration so you can focus on your guests and enjoy the festivities. Chukchansi also o ers seasonal group rates on hotel bookings for both social and business events, and all attendees can enjoy full access to our award-winning resort amenities from incredible cuisine and a luxurious spa to the heart-pounding fun on our unrivaled gaming floor.
Contact our Sales Department at 559-692-5200 to begin planning today!
The Oh So Thankful Dinner + Fundraiser benefitting Parents & Addicts In Need (PAIN) was held on Friday, September 23rd at the home of Jim & Terran Ashjian. Gordan “Gordy” Webster, Founder of The Business Journal and longstanding PAIN board member, was honored and over $75,000 was raised. A total of 250 guests heard speeches from Assemblyman Jim Patterson and Fresno District Attorney Lisa Smittcamp, who spoke about combating the Central Valley fentanyl crisis. For more information about PAIN, please visit www.painnonprofit.org.
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 and Cone Beam CT scanner. 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:
Exceptional Parents Unlimited (EPU) hosted the Gala of Light on Saturday, October 1st, which raised over $80,000. Held at The Painted Table with 270 people in attendance, EPU Founder Marion Karian was honored with the Beacon of Hope Award. Courtney Shapiro accepted the Hope Grows Here Award for CalViva Health. Current Executive Director Lowell Ens stacked Legos to show the number of children that EPU reaches in a year would measure 176 feet in length if each child was an individual Lego block. For more information about EPU, please visit www.epuchildren.org.
The Saint Agnes Men’s Club hosted the epic return of their marquee event, Casino Night, on Saturday, October 1st. Held at Stockbridge Estates with 520 attendees, this year’s record-breaking event raised more than $150,000 that will directly benefit Saint Agnes patient care. The Men’s Club also presented Nancy Hollingsworth, Saint Agnes CEO, with a check for $130,000, which was a result from their other fundraising efforts in 2020 and 2021 while most in-person gatherings were paused. For more information about Saint Agnes Medical Center, please visit www.samc.com.
In just a few short months, you’ve made The Legend one of the most listened to radio stations in the Valley. It’s the music we grew up with that other radio stations left behind. Garth, Reba, George, Hank, Willie, Waylon, Tammy, Patsy – well, you get the idea. 55 minutes of music every hour of every day. We hope you like it.
Safari Night at the Fresno Chaffee Zoo took place on Friday, Septmeber 30th. A total of 549 guests attended the annual fundraising event. Patrons got a construction preview of the Kingdoms of Asia exhibit and an introduction of the new mission statement and master plan. This year, people could also participate in the event’s silent auction virtually. Participation in the auction helped raise funds to further the Zoo’s mission. For more information about the Fresno Chaffee Zoo, please visit www.fresnochaffeezoo.org.
Centro La Familia Advocacy Services’ 50th Anniversary Gala was held on Saturday, October 1st. The sold-out event hosted 370 guests at The Bankers Ballroom in Fresno and raised an estimated $100,000. For its 50th Anniversary, Centro La Familia was presented proclamations by Mayor Jerry Dyer and Fresno City Council, Fresno County Supervisor Sal Quintero, Assemblymember Dr. Joaquin Arambula and Senator Anna Caballero, Senator Melissa Hurtado, and Congressman Jim Costa. For more information about Centro La Familia Advocacy Services, please visit www.centrolafamilia.org.
The 19th Annual Harvest of Hope took place on Saturday, September 24th at Valdez Hall in Downtown Fresno with 530 people in attendance. Harvest of Hope, Catholic Charities’ largest annual fundraiser, generated significant support for the vital programs that assist over 200,000 people annually and helps serve families in the greatest of need throughout the San Joaquin Valley. This year’s event honored Don & Judy Peracchi and Frank & Stacy Roque, who received the Ministry of Presence Award. For more information about Catholic Charities, Diocese of Fresno, please visit www.ccdof.org.
The Shine a Light on Hope & Healing Gala took place on Friday, September 9th at The Painted Table and raised over $200,000. In attendance were 350 guests and 20 volunteers. The inaugural Dick and Sandy Gallagher Award, which recognizes those who further Hinds’ mission to support survivors, was presented to Kelly Matlock, Fresno County Senior Deputy Coroner and LOSS Advisory committee member, who was instrumental in developing the Local Outreach to Suicide Survivors (LOSS) team. For more information about Hinds Hospice, please visit www.hindshospice.org.
Photographer Louis Lee @louiseugenelee
Makeup Anton Khachaturian @antonmakeup
Stylist Enrique Melendez @mrenriquemelendez
Stylist Assistant Kyra Bissett
On-Site Tailor Michelle Thomas @auntfunkyscloset
To understand Jaylen’s craft and approach is to understand the woman herself.
A California native, Jaylen was born in West Covina. She danced competitively at Fairgrove Academy in La Puente—cheer, jazz, lyrical—for years, and fondly remembers traveling across the country for competitions. “I loved it,” gushes Jaylen. “And then, I grew up, for the rest of my teenage years, in the Inland Empire.” Fontana, to be specific, “so that’s where my family’s at right now,” she shares.
The performance bug started with dancing. Jaylen didn’t enter the acting realm until she was about 12 years old. “My first acting job was a Bratz commercial … I love Bratz,” she emphasizes. “Bratz is my life inspiration! It’s the look, the hair, the makeup, everything. And then my first big job, I guess you could say, was a co-starring role on Shake It Up.” From there, Jaylen went on See
Dad Run and Good Luck Charlie, “and then boom bang bow, here we are!”
Performing arts were consistently part of Jaylen’s childhood. In elementary school, she participated in talent shows, plays, and chorus. “I was always doing something like that,” recalls Jaylen. “As I got older, I was just like, ‘I feel like I could do this acting thing.’ I think about it and I feel like it accidentally fell into my lap. I didn’t go to some extravagant Juilliard, or any performing arts school that was renowned, or anything like that. It was really just raw and real from your local school and the local mall program of being in a play. That’s where I found my love for it—it’s just from local theaters.”
Only a few performers can portray vastly diverse characters, something Jaylen Barron does with ease far beyond her years of practice. The actress is well-known for her versatility, but within that versatility indeed lies a commonality.GLOVES SERMONETA WORN AS BELT BY CHANEL BOOTS BY KEEYAHRI X ZERINA AKERS BERET BY CULT GAIA
BANDEAU BY SKIMS
FAUX LEATHER JACKET & SKIRT BY ALICE + OLIVIA
JACKET BY GENNY JUMPSUIT BY SAINT LAURENT
GLOVES SERMONETA VINTAGE JEWELRY
When you get to be all these different people, and I think that’s why I chose the kind of career path I chose—not sticking to one particular character, being a multitude of characters—I think that’s therapy because I get to act out these different “fantasies” that you think about when you’re little.
Interestingly enough, Jaylen seems to still be drawn to raw, real characters, making her roles not only fun to watch but also intriguing to digest. That vulnerability factor, and the opportunity to explore those personality nuances, genuinely intrigues the actress. “You know what’s so funny about it?” Jaylen asks with a reflective tone. “With my roles, I see them as separate from me, but I feel like they all have a little bit of me in them.” With hindsight, she reveals, “I feel like now that I’m talking about it, I see a common occurrence: I love to see the flaws in the characters and I love to just have people watch and relate to it.”
Playing Dominique in Shameless perfectly exemplifies this perspective. “She was just real, and I feel like there wasn’t anything that was too amazing about her—she didn’t have any special talents. It was just this good girl that had turned bad,” imparts Jaylen. “And honestly, I feel like that was representative for a lot of girls in real life … She always had it together, and then, just like any of us, she went through a learning process and, heck, she just decided to be bad! And I feel like that’s a pretty fun thing to do because I feel like a lot of people get to see themselves in her. She made mistakes and I think that’s the realest thing you can do—just show representation to the consumers, to the fans watching it.”
Jaylen’s role as Zoe in Netflix’s Free Rein equestrian series (including two holiday specials: Free Rein: Valentine’s Day and Free Rein: The Twelve Neighs of Christmas) was a departure from that of Shameless. Aside from her love of animals, she couldn’t help but fall in love with this heartwarming story. “It was just a cute love, horse story. It was just as innocent as that, and the power of friendship and family, and I just love really what she stood for.”
Jaylen admits, “She was a little bit nosy at times, but that’s real! She had flaws, and that’s what I think I really loved.”
In Free Rein, Jaylen’s character was the only Black female on the equestrian team, making her the first American person of color to
play the lead in a Netflix children’s original series. “It makes me feel proud and it makes me feel like I made a small, tiny mark in history, in television, and that’s just something that I’ve always wanted to accomplish and do, and bring something raw and real, and bring awareness to audiences all around the world,” professes Jaylen. Seeing a young Black girl on a horse is another inspirational facet that the actress values. “I think that’s what I’m most proud of: it made people who’ve never even looked at horses, or never even looked at that thing that they wanted to try, and want to go for it,” she confesses.
Since starring in Free Rein, Jaylen admits she’s been taking her craft more seriously. “I didn’t have any proper training. I really was just auditioning and doing my best, and luckily, I was blessed enough to be able to even get this far,” she shares. “So, I think it made me want to go deeper within myself and understand this craft more because it is a craft, and it is an art. I feel like when I was younger, of course, we don’t understand the severity of things, and I feel like now, as I’m getting older, I’m like, ‘Oh, this is serious. This takes a lot of work and effort.’ I think I’m just falling in love with it more and more every single day and learning more about myself. It actually feels like therapy for me because I’m putting more personal feelings into my work when before I would be kind of detached from it.”
To liken acting to therapy makes sense when considering the inward reflection necessary to embody another personality. With such a diverse career and body of characters, it is easy to see how Jaylen is actively exploring herself through her craft. “When you get to be all these different people, and I think that’s why I chose the kind of career path I chose—not sticking to one particular character, being a multitude of people—I think that’s therapy because I get to act out these different ‘fantasies’ that you think about when you’re little.”
Jaylen has garnered quite a bit of recognition for her performance as Trish in Blindspotting. “Trish is a truly organic woman,” Jaylen describes, “meaning just from the earth; the realness and the rawness of who she brings to the table; of not necessarily caring about what anybody else thinks; she’s unapologetic … She’s very beautiful and spirited. I think everybody needs a friend like Trish,” she urges. “I learned to love myself more because she loves herself so much, and I have to practice that on set. She’s very open with her body and she’s very open with her words and her freedom of speech. I feel like before her, I was a little bit more in my shell and I was kind of jealous of her—it was weird! She taught me to really have more confidence in who I am as a woman and to really just be unapologetically myself and authentic.”
The show really emphasizes its Oakland roots, as well as family dynamics, and has been renewed for a highly anticipated second season. “The realness of it, the everyday hustle and bustle of what, maybe, lower middle class people go through—I think people want to see that, especially people of color. Seeing the reality of somebody whose sibling, boyfriend, brother, husband, son, cousin goes to jail—what is that like?” The cast and storylines of Blindspotting explore the dynamics and trickle-down effects of that question masterfully. “I think that people really resonate with it because of the art in it as well. The emotional expression that they show and they create throughout the series, and the second season really only gets better, truly,” teases the actress.
Jaylen knows that life is short, and she reveals, “I’d like to experience living multiple, different lives and the way I get to do that is through my art.” Each of us possesses contradictory traits—we must learn to embrace the yin as well as the yang. “I have a sweet streak in me, just like I have a bad streak in me,” Jaylen acknowledges. “It really irritates me when characters are just portrayed as this one perfect entity all the time because that’s just not realistic; that is not reality,” she understands. “I get to play all these different people and tap into different parts of myself that I did not even know existed: the good girl, the sweet girl, the bad girl.” In doing so, self-discovery, self-awareness, and self-acceptance will follow. Life is a stage, and Jaylen Barron is here to command its audience.
BLAZER & SKIRT BY RAILS
SHIRT BY VINCE VINTAGE TIE/CRAVAT VINTAGE JEWELRY
Holidays are all about togetherness. The beautiful thing about creating a grazing board for your guests, friends, and family is that it is simultaneously an icebreaker, a talking point to gather around and enjoy together, and an edible centerpiece that makes the holiday season more special.
What sets a great grazing board apart from others is attention to detail and use of local, in-season produce that will be the delight of those who come to your home. Living in California, we have the most beautiful and bountiful produce at our fingertips and all one needs to do is find their local farmers’ market to explore that abundance straight from the fields. Over the years of running a boutique catering business that focuses on grazing tables and boards, we have gathered a few tips to share on what makes a great grazing board shine and stand out in the crowd.
First, you will need to choose a board! You do not need to necessarily run out and buy something expensive—think outside the box and use what you already have. Some of the cutest, most creative displays we have seen have been made using casserole dishes, silver trays, slate or marble slabs. You can even cut some parchment or kraft paper, and create a base using the countertop itself! The same concept goes for the bowls you will use to place pickled items, honey, jam, etc. Mini ramekins, jars, or small bowls add a warm and eclectic touch to the board.
Choosing the cheese is most important! You want to choose three to four cheeses based on a few elements: texture (aging), milk type (cow, sheep, or goat), and whether it’s soft, semi-soft, or hard. We suggest having at least one crowd pleaser, and also grabbing a cheese that may be new to people. Now, how much would you need? Our suggestion, and what we
base our catering boards around, is to account for 1.5 ounces per person for an appetizer and 3 ounces per person for a full meal.
As far as the charcuterie, we suggest grabbing at least one neutral meat like an Italian dry salami. If you choose to use more, try a cured meat such as coppa or prosciutto to diversify the meat textures offered. You could also add flavored salamis, like an herbed or peppered option, or Spanish chorizo, which would add both a nice smoky element and a beautiful color to the board.
For the accompaniments, have at least one pickled item and sweet item to pair with the different cheeses. There is so much to choose from, but our go-to’s are cornichons, Castelvetrano olives, pickled onions and/or caper berries for the briny element. Add fig or seasonal jam and honey and/or honeycomb for the sweet. These are best served in small bowls so that the flavors do not run into each other.
We always add in-season fruit to our boards. The best way to get the best is to go to your local farmers’ market and see what’s available and use that! Be inspired by the seasons and let the fruit shine. Most mass-produced fruits are shipped unripened to stores and do not necessarily reflect the seasons. At the farmers’ market, you can find more unique offerings, support your farmers and community, and have more to share with your guests.
Features Contributor Allison Cassabon, Co-owner of Fig and Honey, LLC Photographer Sam Payne
Nuts and dried fruit also add an element of texture and pops of color to the board. We love using dried figs, for example, when there are no fresh figs available. It is a way of adding a fruit element when certain items are out of season. Nuts are a great way to fill in the gaps around the cheeses, plus they pair beautifully with cheese and add that vital crunch to the board.
One of the key details that will make your board stand out is the addition of fresh herbs and greenery. This has become our signature and will take an “okay” board to the next level.
Fresh sage, rosemary, thyme, or other hardy herbs that will not wilt add the perfect touch to the crackers and bread, and the finished board as a whole. The herbaceous aroma also adds to the overall atmosphere. Greenery, such as Swiss or rainbow chard or collard greens, when added to the corners underneath the cheese helps fill in the board and creates the same effect.
Choosing at least one neutral cracker, that allows your cheese to shine, is important, but displaying your cracker assortment separately is a game-changer. This way, if you make your board ahead of time, the crackers will not get soggy in the fridge. They make for a beautiful and bountiful display on their own.
The final touch, of course, is the garnishes. Edible flowers and herbs are also a great source. Consider also foraging in your yard if you know they are not sprayed with pesticides. In most cities nowadays, you should be able to find an edible flower company; it is a new and upcoming business. Do not buy pansies or other edible flowers from the hardware store; most commercially grown flowers are sprayed with chemicals. We also use dehydrated citrus as a garnish to give a bright pop of color in the corners of the board.
Our final pieces of advice would be to always serve cheeses at room temperature. This allows their flavors to open fully. Slice, chunk, or cube cheeses beforehand to make it easier for your guests to serve themselves. Place things that pair well right next to each other and, most importantly, get creative and have fun! Your friends and family will admire all those thoughtful details which make the holiday time so special and memorable.
’Tis the season for pumpkin spice everything and the time of the year when gratitude is at the front and center for most of us. It’s hard not to think about all of the things that bring joy and warmth to our hearts: this is when so many of us are reunited with our loved ones for the holidays.
But giving yourself the gift of thanks is something you can and should do more beyond the holiday season. In fact, a consistent gratitude practice can go a long way in improving your outlook as well as your physical and mental health all year round.
It’s an emotion that comes up when we reflect on and appreciate the good things in our life. That includes material possessions, relationships, and/or experiences. There’s no right or wrong thing to be grateful for. As long as it makes you happy, it’s a good thing…and the more things you’re grateful for, the better.
The first time I was introduced to a gratitude practice, I was going through a rough patch in my life where I was struggling to find a healthy work-life balance (spoiler alert: this is an ongoing thing, but we’ll save that for another article). A good friend and fellow yoga instructor empowered me to begin my gratitude journey by asking me to start each day by thinking about the things in my life I was grateful for. She told me how this practice made such a big difference in her life by helping her shift her mindset and she knew it would do the same for me.
Beginning my gratitude practice journey was simple. I made it a point to start my day by thinking about the good and positive things or people in my life and then actively feeling thankful for them. Since then, it’s evolved. Not only do I think about the things I’m grateful for, but I also write those things down. And when I have the time, I reflect while writing those things down and share my gratitude with those loved ones. I’ll let you in on a secret: you always have time for this…the key is making it a priority.
As you read this, try thinking of a couple of things that you are grateful for. Do you have the extra time to write those things down while reflecting upon them? The time you take to pause and reflect will make a difference in the way your body feels. But it’s not just a feeling. Research has been done on the long-term effects gratitude can have. Studies have shown that people who felt grateful for little, everyday things are more patient and are better able to make sensible decisions compared to those who didn’t feel grateful on a day-to-day basis.
Feeling grateful has also been found to help people sleep better and for longer durations. This is most likely because the more positive thoughts a person has before going to sleep will help soothe their nervous system. This is why practicing gratitude at night is a great habit to get into.
Lastly, other findings show that grateful folks are more likely to report higher levels of happiness and lower levels of stress, depression, and anxiety. Plus, those who practice gratitude had less social anxiety and feel more confident in social situations. I share all of these findings as a way to give you an added incentive to explore this form of self-care if you haven’t already.
Something to consider as you get started is that gratitude takes practice just like everything else. Set a goal to incorporate a gratitude practice into your routine for at least a week and do your best to stick to it. At the end of that week, take some time to reflect on the lessons you’ve learned and other feelings you’ve observed from doing this. I can guarantee you’ll experience a strong case of the warm fuzzies. Even if it’s tough for you to pinpoint anything, you can at least say you tried. After time and more reflection, it will become a way of life instead of something you need or “have” to do.
One of the best gifts I’ve been given was a 5-Minute Journal. Early in our relationship, my wife surprised me with one—you guessed it—during an emotionally challenging time. This took my gratitude practice to new levels because it helped me pinpoint the bright spots of my day while allowing me to find the positive even in the most challenging moments. Once I got into the swing of writing in my journal consistently, I found that I was able to practice gratitude even quicker, sometimes at the moment. It also opened me up to sharing my gratitude more freely. Doing so has strengthened my relationship with her and the other loved ones in my life.
Another lesson I’ve learned through this heightened practice is that there are going to be days when finding one thing to be grateful for could be seemingly impossible. That is so real and it’s okay. It’ll make it that much more meaningful when you get your gratitude groove back. On those challenging days, show some grace to yourself and give yourself time and space to sit in stillness. When you allow your nervous system to calm and reset, you’ll have the clarity to see a different perspective. Do your best to surround yourself with the things or people that bring you joy. Something that often works for me is flipping through my notes to remind myself of the past moments of happiness (that in itself can be a bright spot in my day!).
The journey to finding what works for you is one that will take time, patience, and vulnerability to explore. I’m proud to say that at this point in my life, I can look back at some of the most challenging moments I’ve experienced with gratitude. Remember to show grace with yourself as you make this part of your routine…and do the best you can to be consistent. After some time, it will become a way of life and will come naturally instead of feeling like something you have to work on.
For me, finding gratitude and powering through my toughest challenges have actually led to some of my most rewarding moments of growth. Making this a priority will affect you in different ways but it will undoubtedly trickle into the way you think, the decisions you make, and also the way you pour into others. The more you explore and share gratitude, it will lead to emotional empowerment for everyone—a gift that would only keep on giving this season and beyond!
One of the best entertaining staples during the harvest months is an incredible cheese board...and, if you know how to pair the cheeses correctly, they can be the perfect way to express the flavors of your wines and make for an incredible evening. Here are some tips for creating a stunning smorgasbord and choosing the correct cheese to complement your wines!
Don’t forget your visuals. Opt for cheeses with fabulous colors or something interesting to them. Try different textures for a well-rounded platter—creamy Bries, hard Gruyères, or crumbly goat cheeses. A board boasting a variety of complementary colors, textures, and accoutrements will have your guests feast with their eyes first!
Accoutrements can also be stars. Don’t just stop at cheeses! There are some gorgeous and decadent trimmings out there, so look around for crackers with nuts or dried fruits pressed into them; beautiful fig spreads; delicate prosciutto layered in loose, sexy piles; fresh fruits; candied nuts; and microgreens.
Think local. When pairing your wines with cheese, the best place to start is local. Often, the area your wine originates from will already be host to its perfect cheesy complement—plus, it’s a great way to really appreciate where your wine hails from!
Vanderpump Rosé is a classic Provence rosé, with a nose of red currant, pepper, and light citrus. On the palate, it has a touch of strawberry, tangerine, and peach in a dry, classic style.
Vanderpump Rosé pairs incredibly well with fresh cheeses, where the mild creaminess will complement the delicate strawberry notes in the wine. The acidity of the rosé will whisk the creaminess right off your tongue so that you can immediately indulge in another bite without your taste buds being overpowered. Try mild cheeses such as Burrata or fresh mozzarella, delicate salty cheese like feta, and raw-milk Alpine cheeses such as Comté.
What else to add to your board? Rosé is a great wine to pair with almost anything, but it’s also the perfect way to experiment with other flavors. Dying to try a truffle goat cheese or truffled almonds? Rosé is your pairing partner! Similarly, rosé is a great way to pair some lighter, saltier meats like prosciutto.
What to avoid? Avoid cheeses that will completely overpower the wine—extremely aged or rind-washed cheeses. Save those for the Cabernet course!
Vanderpump Chardonnay has beautiful notes of citrus, pear, and crisp apple, which are lined with floral notes and hints of brioche and toast.
Vanderpump Chardonnay pairs incredibly well with mild cheeses that won’t overpower its delicate flavors. One of the best pairings is Camembert— the buttery texture blends perfectly with the creamy, soft finish of chardonnay. French Camembert is delicious, but any work well! Also, try Robiola or Brie for a beautiful buttery finish.
Other cheese pairings that complement chardonnay are high acid cheeses such as fresh goat cheeses; cheeses like Humboldt Fog will have your taste buds tingling!
What else to add to your board? Lightly toasted salty elements can pair nicely with a toasted brioche finish—try some toasted pine nuts, lightly grilled artisan breads, or slightly nutty crackers!
What to avoid? Avoid cheeses that will compete with this wine—you want to bring out the flavors, not strangle them! Avoid rind-washed cheeses, pungent cheeses, overly aged cheeses, etc.
Vanderpump Cabernet is complex with dark fruit flavors such as blueberry, rich plum, and red raspberry. The lush tannins give it a long elegant finish, perfect for pairing with a rich and delicious cheese board.
Semi-hard and aged cow’s milk cheeses are the way to go—the nuttiness and rich flavors pair perfectly but don’t overpower the wine. Think aged cheddar—the fattiness of the cheese will work perfectly with the tannins in the cabernet for a bold complement. Gruyère is also delicious!
This is also the time to experiment with some earthy flavors in your cheese! Cheeses with dried herbs in the rind or truffles can add a delicious element to your cheese board and will bring out the berries in the wine.
What else to add to your board? This is where you can have some fun! Try adding thick, beautiful grilled breads and smoky meats like salami. Herbed crackers will bring out the flavors of the cabernet beautifully, and this is definitely the time to indulge in some mild Castelvetrano olives!
What to avoid? Skip the young, fresh cheeses—things such as soft goat cheeses are high-acid cheeses that will only serve to bring out the alcohol in the wine, not the flavors! Also, save the Camemberts and Bries for your chardonnay—they might bring out some bitter notes in your cab.
Find Vanderpump Wines at www.VanderpumpWines.com Pandora Vanderpump Sabo is a Certified Specialist of Wine and Culinary ConsultantIf you’re from the Central Valley, chances are you’re familiar with Valley Lahvosh Baking Company. But did you know that this local favorite is beloved nationwide? Valley Lahvosh is more than just a Saghatelian family tradition in taste—it’s practically an institution. “The Bakery with a Heart” has been baking delectable, quality bread products since 1922 in Downtown Fresno. To meet the growing demand for Lahvosh, it expanded from its humble corner bakery origins to a block-wide production facility in 1985. This year, the Armenian bakery is celebrating a century of making a cook’s favorite cracker for every occasion.
The history of this Fresno bread dates back to 1922 on M Street in the city’s downtown. Its Founder Gazair Saghatelian was a master baker back in his native Armenia. There, he was well-known for creating delicious yet different types of bread and crackerbreads, a craft he brought with him to the United States. A true family business, his relatives have been the cornerstone of the bakery since its inception. Over the years, Gazair’s daughter Janet carried the tradition he set forth there. Today, Janet’s daughter Agnes is continuing the bakery’s legacy and commitment to her grandfather’s recipes with its Lahvosh at the forefront.
But it all started with the Peda. “The story goes that … he created the Peda bread to commemorate his new life coming to America,” divulges Agnes Saghatelian, President & Owner of Valley Lahvosh Baking Company. Gazair brushed the sponge dough with a milk wash, added the coveted circle to the loaf’s center, and sprinkled
sesame seeds (a company trademark) atop to make it pretty. Even to this day, Valley Lahvosh’s mouth-watering, freshly baked Valley Peda bread is still baked from scratch. It is, however, only available at the bakery storefront on M Street on Fridays during business hours.
While the hallmark large round Peda Bread is available throughout the year, special holiday shapes are featured in accordance with the occasion: heart loaves and buns on Valentine’s Day, bunny heads and eggs for Easter, pumpkins at Thanksgiving, and Christmas trees and braided wreaths during the holidays. For larger crowds, the Party Punch Peda is the perfect pull-apart solution. Peda Buns and Dinner Rolls make for excellent individual options. For loaves, the Twist and Small Long Pedas, as well as the Lifesaver ring (coated in poppyseeds) are delightful, sliceable selections. Similar in appearance to the Twist, Valley Lahvosh also offers Chorag, an Armenian sweet bread.
But perhaps the most well-known of their offerings is the Cracker Bread, the actual Lahvosh, which is a bakery original and now available in a variety of shapes and sizes. The oversized 15” Cracker Round is designed for “breaking bread” with family and friends. Available in Original or Whole Wheat, as well as a Seasoned Rosemary option, they may be broken for snacking or moistened and then used for wrap sandwiches. Packages of the 15” Rounds include three crackers, while the 10” Rounds come with ten in each sleeve. This slightly smaller size is still great as a bread alternative, and they make a fabulous light and crispy pizza crust. A 5” is easy to adapt into mini pizzas or even dessert cups. The 15”, 10”, and 5” Lahvosh are all still packaged by hand in-house.
The concept of moistening a crackerbread may seem quite unusual for some, but Lahvosh isn’t your typical cracker. “That is the traditional, old-fashioned way. That’s also how they used to make the roll-up caravan sandwiches.” For those unfamiliar with the wetting process, Agnes shares, “You can do this with any size, really, but say the 15”, you literally run it under the faucet—completely drench both sides under running water. Then get a couple of dish towels, get those wet, and lay one down. Put your Lahvosh on top of it, lay the other wet towel on top, and just let it soak for about 20 minutes or so.” The result is a soft, not soggy, thin bread.
In addition to the oversized selections, the traditional Cracker Rounds come in smaller sizes: the 3” is best suited as an hors d’oeuvres base while the 2” wonderfully compliments fine wines, cheeses, and spreads. Bite-size Minis come with just a dash of sea salt for added intrigue, making them perfectly suited for charcuterie boards. Valley Lahvosh’s specialty shapes, like the Stars, are deliciously functional conversation pieces. Christmas Trees crackers are a holiday staple. The Lucky Lahvosh assortment contains Clubs, Diamonds, Hearts, and Spades that fit right in at a poker party.
But the Hearts stand alone as a fan favorite—no Valley Lahvosh product captures the bakery’s spirit quite like it. After all, the Valley Lahvosh Baking Company logo even features a small heart! Agnes’ mother Janet always had an affinity for hearts and wanted to introduce a heart-shaped cracker. Though the idea was initially met with some hesitation, they’ve been a hit since day one. This popular crackerbread is playful, unique, packed with personality, and enables users to add an element of fun and love to any occasion. Hearts come in one of two flavors: Original or Cinnamon. Janet actually came up with the cinnamon cracker to troubleshoot damaged yet still good product, which was eventually developed into the Cinnamon Heart on shelves today.
The bakery’s name has evolved over the years. Gazair established it as California Baking Company, though it eventually came to be called Valley Bakery. “In the early 1990s, what we were discovering is that as the Lahvosh grew throughout the country, people would say, ‘I want that Lahvosh from Valley’ instead of saying ‘Valley Bakery.’ They were putting ‘Valley Lahvosh’ in front of our product, and it really became known out in the trade that Valley Lahvosh just kind of stuck together,” explains Agnes. So when the branding and packaging were revised in recent years, the decision was made to formally be renamed as Valley Lahvosh Baking Company. Now, the current logo proudly declares it “The Bakery with a Heart.”
Today, a century after first being introduced to the Central Valley, Valley Lahvosh Baking Company retail and foodservice can be found in over 40 states. “My goal was always to get it to 100 years, so now I’m like, ‘Well now what do we do?’ We did that!” Agnes shares with a laugh. “I just want to see it grow. I want to continue to grow the company. We’ve got an amazing crew, an amazing product, and a lot of potential still … I want to keep it going, see what my daughter [Danielle] wants to do because, at some point, I’ll have to, I’ll want to, retire, not for another good 15 or 20 years or so,” she assures while looking forward to the next chapter in the bakery’s future. They say “perfection comes with time,” and now you, too, can experience the perfect crackerbread thanks to Valley Lahvosh.
Grabbing drinks is a social affair, but sipping a warm cocktail is a memory. It brings with it a time, place, or occasion—a moment to cherish. The rise of mixology culture has resulted in innumerable recipes for steaming libations. At their origin is the “toddy,” the concept of which appears to be rooted in Indian tradition before being commandeered by the British. The hot toddy may have debated origins, but it’s indisputable that heated beverages appear to have medicinal properties—whether it’s a cure for feeling under the weather or a formula for facilitating a good time, they seem to heal and warm sippers in more ways than one. So, as the temperature drops, raise a glass with one of these hot cocktails that will definitely ramp up the heat.
Old Forester Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whisky, St. Elizabeth Allspice Dram, house-made apple cider, lightly whipped sweetened cream, and house-made salted caramel.
During the holidays, restaurant guests are greeted by house-made hot apple cider reception. This shooter takes that custom up a notch. Subtly sweet and perfectly spiced, it’s warming without any burn. The “SH” initials in caramel atop soft whip make for an exquisite finish.
Editorial Director Lauren Barisic Photographer Don Dizon School House
Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey, hot water, fresh lemon juice, honey, a dehydrated orange slice, and a cinnamon stick.
The presentation is what distinguishes this classic in this instance. A traditional concoction of whiskey, hot water, honey, and lemon juice is topped with a dehydrated orange slice and cinnamon stick, yet every lady’s glass comes with a miniature rose clipped to the rim.
Amaro Averna, Kahlúa, Baileys Original Irish Cream, espresso, simple syrup, Luxardo Amaretto Di Saschira whipped cream, and shaved dark chocolate.
Italian for “espresso kisses,” the ingredients meet in a frothing pitcher and are steamed to perfection. The outcome is presented in a quaint glass that showcases a striking ombre effect beneath lightly whipped, boozy cream with shaved dark chocolate on top.
The Original Pimm’s No. 1 Cup, Bulleit Bourbon Frontier Whiskey, St. George Spiced Pear Liqueur, Rich Sin (house-made cinnamon syrup), ginger syrup, honey, a dehydrated apple, and a cinnamon stick.
Where do you envision sipping this concoction? Fireside, obviously. Served in a traditional punch cup, its cinnamon stick garnish is fire-lit and allowed to smoke briefly before extinguishing atop a dehydrated apple slice, facilitating a multi-sensory experience.
Empress 1908 Indigo Gin, hot water, house-made simple syrup, fresh lemon juice, and a cinnamon stick.
Gin drinkers, this one’s for you. Empress Gin goes in first, the addition of simple syrup and hot water makes it light blue, and a squeeze of lemon juice turns the libation lavender drop by drop. A quick swirl with a cinnamon stick creates a subtly spiced finish.
The Kraken Black Spiced Rum, steamed milk, hot water, house-made salted caramel, flamed orange, and nutmeg.
Inspired by Jerry Thomas’ Blue Blazer, two Blazer mugs are required for mixing: one containing rum is lit on fire, yielding a blue flame, and the other with water is heated by transferring the liquids back and forth—the flame follows! Once assembled, it’s dangerously delicious.
October 24th to November 21st
Understanding close relationships and collaborations offers you deep intuitive perception and insight into the human psyche. Scorpios are intensely passionate, driven to self-discovery; they seek solitude for control, and thrive in our fast-paced, evolving world. Pluto, the scorpion’s ruler, is transformative and has survival instincts. Scorpio’s resiliency, willpower, and emotional depth could be offset by deceit and egocentrism, but their idealism offers fresh perspectives and new practices, making life easier. For detoxing, eat nutrient-rich foods, avoid excessive drinking and drugs, meditate, and partake in colonics, mud treatments, and kundalini yoga.
November 22nd to December 21st
Connect with your calling by revisiting places, books, or interests that inspire new ideas to be explored. This stimulation boosts your charisma and leads to successful situations through the fall season.
December 22nd to January 19th Productivity and organizing every aspect of your life may feel never-ending. Let go of tedious responsibilities so that you can be freer. When you follow your creative desires, your dreams will manifest.
January 20th to February 18th
The connections you have with others reflect the emotions and empathy you share. The deeper acceptance of who you are opens up a broader perspective when socializing. Use this energy to heal yourself.
February 19th to March 20th
The commitments you keep should align with your vision of what you want.
Maintain your needs and don’t lose yourself by taking on other people’s energy. Cooperation brings everyone a win-win solution.
March 21st to April 19th
Creative juices are flowing from you. Write down ideas and share them with colleagues. Reassess how you share information with others. Using diplomacy gets the point across and doesn’t burn any bridges.
April 20th to May 20th
Knowing what you value in friends mirrors your own needs. Insights into relationships strengthen and validate your sense of self-worth. It’s an opportunity to recharge energy and provide tranquility.
May 21st to June 21st
There is plenty of energy available for accomplishing projects, but adjustments are needed as well as networking interactions. Exercising patience and the art of compromise will be an asset.
June 22nd to July 22nd
Share your strengths, skills, wisdom, and accumulated experiences with others. They need to know your talents to promote you. Having a strong support system is very important for your success.
July 23rd to August 22nd
Assess where you are versus where you want to be. There are available prospects and more time at hand if you release responsibilities that aren’t yours.
Allies who align with your goals will help this determination.
August 23rd to September 22nd
Direct your efforts efficiently towards your purpose. Honest introspections help to change perspectives for learning. Take stock of the resources and assistance available so that positive outcomes can come your way.
September 23rd to October 23rd
Focusing on thoughts and feelings will help clarify communications. Balancing partnerships and personal exploration may leave you at odds. Negotiate your needs and reassure others that you care about them
