SEP | OCT
DANIELLA MONET LIVING THE
VEGAN LIFE MODERN
MEN’S
HEALTH COVID AND THE
CENTRAL VALLEY
SUSTAINABLE
GREEN
STREET STYLE
KEYS TO
CALM
ESSENTIAL OILS
TIME TO
VOTE LUX AWARD NOMINEES
M OD E L I S A C YC L E S TA R F RO M C Y C L E B A R F R E SN O & C LO V I S
C
entral California’s largest purveyor of Pre-Owned authentic designer luxury goods. Specializing in bridal jewelry, certified loose diamonds, vintage and estate jewelry, Rolex, 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. Up to 10 months layaway available. Financing available subject to credit approval. Sell to us. Visit us for a no-obligation offer on your luxury goods, with immediate payment.
L U X U R Y · A W A R D S
2 0 2 1 · N O M I N E E
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1528 E. CHAMPLAIN DR. STE. 103 FRESNO, CA • 559.434.4589 • SCEPTREANDSASH.COM N.E. CORNER OF CEDAR AND SHEPHERD, NEAR YOSEMITE RANCH RESTAURANT
SCEPTRE & SASH IS INDEPENDENT OF ANY BRAND AFFILIATION. ITEMS ARE PRE-OWNED AND/OR VINTAGE. LICENSE #000000780
The do-everything
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The Lodge
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2019
Model Homes Open Daily www.RiverstoneCA.com @LifeAtRiverstoneCA From Fresno, go north on Highway 41, turn left at Avenue 12 and follow the signs. ©2020 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.
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—10— SEP | OCT
Contents Wellness
24 In Every Issue EDITOR'S NOTE ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 12 WELCOME TO THE ISSUE ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 14 MASTHEAD ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... .. .. .. ... ... ... ... 16
Departments 2021 LUXURY AWARDS ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 18 BIKER BABE CHIC ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 22 POLISHED YET APPROACHABLE ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 24 UNITARDS GO UNIVERSAL ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 26 KISS ME MED SPA ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 28 Advertorial SELF-CARE SIMPLIFIED ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 30 A CLOSER LOOK ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 32 Essential Oils THANKFUL FOR ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 34 HEALTHY APPETITE .... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 36 Cover Story PROFESSIONAL PROFILES ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 47 Wellness & Men in Business CONQUERING COVID-19 ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 59 Examining the Human Impact on the Central Valley MEN’S GROOMING ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 64 Natural is the New Luxury THE MODERN MAN ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 66 HIGH FASHION FUNCTION ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 68 THE RECONSTRUCTED TRACKSUIT ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 70 SIDEWALK SLAM-DUNK ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 72
26
Interviewing Daniella For the SEP | OCT Edition, CVLUX features covergirl Daniella Monet to highlight the Wellness Issue.
SEP | OCT
30 SWEATER BY RAG & BONE JEANS BY PAIGE EARRINGS BY NOA NECKLACE DANIELLA’S OWN COLLECTION RING DANIELLA’S OWN COLLECTION
—12— SEP | OCT
Editor's Note Wellness
TOP BY RAG & BONE BRALETTE BY COSABELLA PANTS BY LE KASHA SHOES BY STUART WEITZMAN EARRINGS BY UNCOMMON JAMES
The Great Democratic Experiment
E
leanor Roosevelt famously said, “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” On August 18th, 1920, the 19th Amendment was passed, giving women the right to vote. We have come so far in a century, and yet there is still so much more to accomplish.
Today in America, we are given so many opportunities to dream. Our freedom is dependent on this philosophy. We must always be looking forward, trying to stretch the ideas and principles of what is considered acceptable and the status quo. It is through this challenge that we evolve as a democracy. There are many things happening this year that none of us expected or could have ever dreamed. In recent editions, we have discussed the pandemic and loss of life, the civil unrest, the struggle for businesses to remain relevant, and how many citizens fight daily to provide food for their families. Despite the total uncertainty and divisive atmosphere, this remains constant—we are all American.
No matter your political affiliation, gender, or ethnicity, countless Americans before us have fought and died for our freedom to participate in what many historians consider to be the greatest democratic experiment, known as the United States. Because of our ancestors, the suffragists, the civil rights leaders, and our men and women in uniform, we have been able to secure our democracy by the one most sacred right—the right to perform a free and fair election. On November 3rd, we must all participate in this American right and privilege. No matter what your beliefs are, party affiliation or none, we have a duty to vote for those who have come before us, and those who will remain after us. If you don’t know your voter status, or if you have just turned 18, reach out to your local election board and ensure your registration. We encourage everyone to participate, because regardless of the uncertainty that seems to surround us on a daily basis, this one thing is very certain—there will be an election.
David
National Award-Winning Clubhouse
BE HAPPY. BE WELL.
at Tesoro Viejo. ESSENTIAL INGREDIENTS Resort-style Clubhouse
16 New Model Homes
Hillside K-8 School
AXIS Coffee Bar & Eatery
Neighborhood Parks
Madera County Fire Station No. 7
14 Miles of Walking/Biking Trails
Outdoor Amphitheater
Access to San Joaquin River
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6 New Neighborhoods & 16 Model Homes From the low $300s to $600s
Plan your visit today at TesoroViejoLiving.com or call 559.831.3075 Life. Unprecedented.
Hwy 41 & Tesoro Viejo Blvd in Madera—Just minutes north of Fresno
Photos and renderings depicted do not constitute an offer to sell nor a solicitation of an offer to purchase real property at Tesoro Viejo. Persons shown do not reflect racial preference. Prices are effective date of posting or publication deadline and subject to change without notice. Based on the information presently available, the developers of Tesoro Viejo understand that Tesoro Viejo will be served by the Chawanakee Unified School District. Buyer should contact the Chawanakee Unified School District to confirm the identity and location of the specific schools planned to service Tesoro Viejo, including the TK-8 Hillside School located adjacent to Tesoro Viejo. Obtain a copy of the Public Report as required by Federal law and/or the Public Report issued by the California Bureau of real Estate and read them before signing any documents. Š 2020 Tesoro Viejo Development, Inc.
—14— SEP | OCT
Welcome to the Issue Wellness
Be Well Cover girl actress-turned-entrepreneur and activist Daniella Monet shares how her vegan convictions translate to a better future for everyone (page 36). Tips for finding sanity and self will leave you thankful for every day (page 34). Learn about the local human impact of COVID-19 (page 59). Unearth the power of essential oils (page 32) and how to simplify at-home self-care (page 30). Three grooming brands worth trying cover everything from beard maintenance to dude skincare (page 64). Find out what wellness means to the modern guy (page 66). Get inspired for fall fashion with outfits that include green items, as well as the season’s most responsible trend: face masks. Women’s looks show you how to make biker shorts work at the office (page 22), dress up your favorite sweatpants (page 24), and style a unitard (page 26). Menswear illustrates that it’s possible to unite function with high fashion (page 68), elevate trackpants (page 70), and how to make basketball shorts appropriate off the court (page 72).
BEGUM KHAN EVIL EYE 24KT GOLD-PLATED PENDANT NECKLACE $900.00 FROM WWW.MATCHES.COM
. "LACKSTONE !VE ACROSS FROM 2IVER 0ARK
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© Forevermark 2020. Forevermark®,
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and
Less than 1% of the world’s natural diamonds can become a Forevermark diamond and receive the Forevermark inscription.
are Trade Marks used under license from De Beers Group.
B e a u t i f u l . Ra r e . R e s p o n s i b l y So u r c e d .
—16— SEP | OCT
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 Senior Fashion Stylist ALMA WOLVERTON Beauty Editor JESSICA MCCAFFERTY Beauty Contributor JESSICA PARISE Interiors Editor ERIN MELKONIAN Interiors Contributor OLIVIA SCHMITZ Health & Fitness Editor DINA JUVE Features Contributor ELISABETH ROSS ART Design Director PHENG MOUA Contributing Photographers BEN COPE and DON DIZON 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.
C VLU X Mag azi ne i s pl e a s e d t o pres e n t th e 2 02 1 L ux u ry Aw a rds . E a ch year, CVL UX recog n i z e s t he to p b us i n es s e s i n t he C e n t r al Val ley by present ing t h e b e s t o f t he b es t w i th L u xu ry Aw ards . In a dd it i on, t hree c ovet e d Di a mo nd Awa rd s are gi v en to va r i ou s businesses and i ndi v id u al s t o a ck no wl e dge th ei r ph il a n t h rop i c effor t s wi t h in th e c om m un i ty. V o ti ng is cur rent ly o pe n an d wi l l c l os e o n D e ce mb er 1 1 th , 20 20. T he winner s wi l l b e a n n ou n ce d at t h e L u xu ry Awa rd s .
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TORNI NO’ S BANQU ET S
5080 Nort h Bl ack st on e Av e nue F resn o, Ca li for n ia 9 3 71 0
F o r a d d it io n a l i n fo r m a tion , con tac t Do n na Ens o m at d o nn a@c v lu x. co m . A n ad d iti o na l c ont in gen c y da te has b e en re s e r v ed .
HOSPITAL
COSMETIC DENTIST
CLOVIS COMMUNITY MEDICAL CENTER
ARTASHES AVAKIAN, DDS Professional Dental Care
COMMUNITY REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER FRESNO HEART & SURGICAL HOSPITAL SAINT AGNES MEDICAL CENTER VALLEY CHILDREN’S HEALTHCARE
COSMETIC/PLASTIC SURGEON HEDIEH ARBABZADEH, MD Women’s Plastic Surgery CARL ASKREN, MD Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Pavilion MARK CHIN, MD, MPH Valley Institute of Plastic Surgery JAMES KNOETGEN, MD Beautologie Cosmetic Surgery & Medical Aesthetics KAYE RIOLO, MD Riolo Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
DERMATOLOGIST KATHLEEN L. BEHR, MD Behr Laser & Skin Care Center
HUGO CORONADO, DDS Cosmetic Dentistry, Implants & Orthodontics JEREMY E. GRABE, DDS Fresno Dental Professionals JOANN MILLER, DDS Community Dental Group SAM NAMDARIAN, DMD Fresno Smile Makeovers
DEALERSHIP BMW FRESNO FRESNO ACURA HARON JAGUAR MERCEDES-BENZ OF FRESNO PORSCHE FRESNO
SHOPPING CENTER FIG GARDEN VILLAGE MARKETPLACE AT EL PASEO
JANE F. KARDASHIAN, MD Advanced Dermatology Surgery Center
PARK CROSSING
MARKÉTA LÍMOVÁ, MD Intelligent Skincare
VILLAGGIO
CARLOS PAZ, MD Paz Dermatology LESLIE STOREY, MD Valley Skin Institute
RIVER PARK
JEWELER CREATIVE JEWELRY WORKS GIANNI FINE JEWELERS
MEDICAL SPA AWAKEN AESTHETICS & ANTI-AGING BODY DEL SOL MEDICAL SPA KISS ME MED SPA MYSTIQUE MEDICAL SPA ZOROASTER MEDICAL SPA
SALON + SPA ALCHEMY SALON AT THE PALATINE INTRINSIC PREEN A BOUTIQUE SALON THE SPA & HUNGRY HAIR SALON AT FIG GARDEN VILLAGE SPECTRUM SALON, DAY SPA & BARBER SHOP
ORLOFF JEWELERS ROGERS JEWELRY CO. SCEPTRE & SASH AUTHENTIC LUXURY
BOUTIQUE THE FOUNDRY OOH LA LA PUM BUM SOCIETY REVIVAL 23 SCEPTRE & SASH AUTHENTIC LUXURY
FINE GIFTS + DÉCOR
REALTOR
HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE
LAURA MATHER The Mather Method
JUDE’S
ISAAC RAMIREZ The Isaac Ramirez Company
RSVP STYLE VERDALEE
LUIS ROSALES London Properties
VONDA’S
HOME FURNISHINGS BRICK & MORTAR
ROB SPARKS Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate GoldLeaf PAUL TATARIAN Tatarian Group at Gentile Real Estate
FASHION FURNITURE HEMISPHERE HOME
CASINO
NOBLE HOUSE DESIGN
CHUKCHANSI GOLD RESORT & CASINO
RSVP STYLE
CLUB ONE CASINO MONO WIND CASINO
COMMUNITY
TABLE MOUNTAIN CASINO TACHI PALACE CASINO RESORT
COPPER RIVER RANCH OLD FIG GARDEN OLD TOWN CLOVIS
BAR
RIVERSTONE DEVELOPMENT
CAMPAGNIA
TESORO VIEJO
THE LIME LITE MAX’WS BISTRO & BAR
BUILDER
MODERNIST CRAFT COCKTAIL BAR
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THE POINT PATIO BAR & BISTRO
DE YOUNG PROPERTIES D.R. HORTON
DINING
MCCAFFREY HOMES
13 PRIME STEAK
WATHEN CASTANOS HOMES
THE ANNEX KITCHEN
MORTGAGE LENDER
CRACKED PEPPER BISTRO ELBOW ROOM BAR & GRILL FIVE
MICHELLE BRUNN Peerless Lending LISA FLORES Homebridge
HIDDEN GEM
MICHELLE GLASS Sierra Pacific Mortgage
AXIS COFFEE BAR + EATERY
TOBY PETRUCELLI The Toby Team at Opes Advisors
FRESNO COIN GALLERY, THE SHOWROOM
MICHELLE WALKER Alameda Mortgage Corporation
THE PALATINE BUILDING
THE BODY BUILDING GOOD VIBES NUTRITION
CAST YOUR VOTE WWW.CVLUX.COM
—22— SEP | OCT
Biker Babe Chic
LUX looks Fashion Trends
3
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Fashion Editor Melissa Souza
4
In the age of Zoom, elevating athleticwear wardrobe staples is on the rise. While leggings have lost momentum and become a staple rather than a trend, bike shorts are turning the athleisure game on its side. Since sustainability is the new black, who says you can’t have it all?
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1. Brixton Ashland Fisherman Cap in Grey $45.00 from www.nordstrom.com 2. Calleen Cordero Sonya Belt Bag in Grey Baroni $495.00 from www.calleencordero.com 3. John Hardy Classic Chain Extra-Large Hoop Earrings $495.00 from www.neimanmarcus.com 4. Everlane The Oversized Blazer in Glen Plaid $180.00 from www.everlane.com 5. Everlane The Perform Bike Short in Black $38.00 from www.everlane.com 6. Everlane The Mesh Soft Cotton Crew in Black $68.00 from www.everlane.com 7. Balenciaga Speed Bubble-Heel High-Top Sock Trainers in Black $795.00 from www.matchesfashion.com 8. Mostly Heard Rarely Seen Herringbone Weave Face Mask $75.00 from www.farfetch.com
—24— SEP | OCT
LUX looks Fashion Trends
1
POLISHED Yet Approachable
2
Fashion Editor Melissa Souza
Nothing vanilla about this look! When it comes to chicly styling activewear, neutrals are your best bet. You can still relax in sweats and a tank, but a tailored piece raises the bar, transforming laid-back into polished style. Gold accents make it highly approachable yet extremely stylish.
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1. Lizzie Mandler Diamond & 18kt Gold Cable-Chain Necklace $5,455.00 from www.matchesfashion.com 2. Everlane The Organic Cotton Cutaway Tank in White $18.00 from www.everlane.com 3. Bottega Veneta Half-Twist Double-Hoop Ring $540.00 from www.matchesfashion.com 4. Everlane The Lunchbox Bag in Black $148.00 from www.everlane.com 5. The Elder Statesman Patch-Pocket Cashmere Track Pants in Ivory $899.00 from www.matchesfashion.com 6. Balenciaga 80mm Square-Back Lambskin Knife Pumps in White $795.00 from www.neimanmarcus.com 7. Burberry Chelsea Heritage Slim-Fit Trench Coat $1,990.00 from www.neimanmarcus.com 8. Rag & Bone The Multi Pleat Mask in Black Multi $30.00 from www.ragbone.com
When it’s time to own your first home, Sierra Pacific is here to help.
Michelle Glass
Retail Branch Manager NMLS# 307279 1080 W. Shaw Ave., Suite #101 Fresno, CA 93711 o - 559.490.0470 c - 559.779.8057 f - 866.236.0581 michelle.glass@spmc.com
Š2019 Sierra Pacific Mortgage Company, Inc. NMLS # 1788. (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org) Equal Housing Lender. Licensed in California by the Department of Business Oversight under the Residential Mortgage Lending Act 417-0015.
—26— SEP | OCT
Unitards Go Universal
LUX looks Fashion Trends
1
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Fashion Editor Melissa Souza
The newest athleisure trend is the yoga unitard. These one-pieces are like your favorite leggings, but elevated. Dip your toes in and take this trend to the mat, then top it off with tie dye and an über-functional phone pouch to create the ultimate street style standard. 6 3 5
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1. Begum Khan Evil Eye 24kt Gold-Plated Pendant Necklace $900.00 from www.matches.com 2. Everlane The 100% Human Face Mask 5-Pack in Tie-Dye $45.00 from www.everlane.com 3. Beyond Yoga Play The Angles Jumpsuit $135.00 from www.beyondyoga.com 4. Mulberry Cashmere Scarf in Pink $250.00 from www.farfetch.com 5. MSGM Tie-Dye Denim Jacket in Pink $453.00 from www.farfetch.com 6. Lelet NY Mattar Pearl Barrette $148.00 from www.leletny.com 7. NeroGiardini E010790D Sneakers $269.00 from www.neimanmarcus.com 8. Christian Louboutin Elisa Leather Phone Pouch Case in Blush $990.00 from www.neimanmarcus.com
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Back Row: Karen Tesi RN, Bailey Eisley Patient Liaison, Kiley Attkisson Office Manager, Teesha Kitterman Patient Liaison, Deborah Kahl Dermatology Technician, Regina (Gina) Jones RN Front Row: Ajanamjot Grewal MD, Brenda Berry MD, and Mary Hudson PA.
K
Spotlight On: iss Me Med Spa is the name on everyone’s lips! As a full-service medical and rejuvenation spa, they’re the Central Valley’s fastest growing medical spa group. They offer competitive pricing, multiple modalities, and years of experience, all set in a safe, chic boutique setting.
Before Kiss Me Med Spa, Karen Tesi, RN & Director of Nursing, worked for multiple medical facilities, including plastic and cosmetic surgery clinics as well as local medical spas. She learned firsthand what was lacking or could be improved in these fields. Karen owned the first day spa in Clovis several years ago, making her well-acquainted with the spa industry. Influenced by these experiences, she conceptualized an office that could offer minimally invasive treatments in a boutique atmosphere, as she believed that such a setting would alleviate the fear and anxiety most people suffer while undergoing medical procedures. Using a concierge approach to state-of-the-art beauty-enhancing treatments, Kiss Me Med Spa emphasizes safety, comfort, and noticeable results specifically tailored to each client’s needs. Karen’s goal is to make patients feel at ease for a more enjoyable experience, which includes everything from a glamorous atmosphere to a personable, attentive staff. Upon entering the building, patients are greeted with a friendly smile, soothing music, and a relaxing color scheme featuring sparkling chandeliers and white lacquered cabinetry.
Kiss Me Med Spa’s boutique aesthetic features a glamorous atmosphere and relaxing color schemes.
Superior cosmetic treatments not only take years of experience but also require an aesthetic eye, which a provider either possesses or doesn’t. When questioned about this, Karen says, “The best results come from combination therapy at the hand of an expert provider. Once again, one size does not fit all. Each face is unique. There are no cookie-cutter formulas at Kiss Me Med Spa. When a client comes in for a complimentary consultation, we go over all the options and then proceed according to client budget and maintenance tolerance. We strive for a long-lasting relationship with each and every one of our clients.” Kiss Me Med Spa makes every effort to be at the forefront of what is new and safe in anti-aging treatments for the face and body—they are not a typical medical spa. They started out as a cosmetic injectable studio with only two staff members and have grown to be the Central Valley’s only medical spa that has a multi-disciplinary staff and practitioners with advanced licensure. All these experiences come together to make a oneof-a-kind company that stands out in the world of minimally invasive cosmetic treatments. EXCLUSIVE OFFERINGS Kiss Me Med Spa was the first in the Central Valley to offer AQUAGOLD technology and PDO threads. AQUAGOLD is a sterile device that is filled with the signature “Kiss Me Cocktail” for tightening and brightening, which is infused into the skin. PDO threads are made of dissolvable suture material and used to stimulate collagen production, improve the appearance of cellulite and crepiness, and achieve a more youthful appearance without surgery or risking the unnatural look of traditional fillers, particularly when used to retract the mid face, jawline, and neck. SELECTIVE SKINCARE Kiss Me Med Spa is highly discriminating when it comes to products— they carry only high-quality skincare products that are backed by science. The staff also tries each product themselves before agreeing to carry them and never sell something solely based on popularity. They will actually “cherry pick” their favorites, so they often don’t carry a brand’s full line. Rest assured that when you purchase skincare products from Kiss Me Med Spa, they will be of the highest quality and quite effective. MAINTAINING TREATMENT RESULTS Home-care products help upkeep treatments—see them for a personalized regime that may include a prescription to improve texture, hydration, and tone. A retinoid is a must in your skincare program, as well as SPF and a great neck and eye crème. Exfoliation will reveal a brighter, healthier complexion as well. Antioxidant serums help fight against free radical damage. Kiss Me Med Spa also suggests a monthly DermaSweep with infusion treatments with their dermatology technician to enhance the efficacy of these products and attain a healthy glow. MONTHLY SPECIALS The monthly specials always carry a message from Karen that is relevant to them. They cover finance options and focus on a particular topic about the face and body each month. Sign up on www.kissmemedspa.com/spaspecials to begin receiving monthly emails. You can also visit their YouTube channel for more content. RAISING THE BAR The team of specialized medical professionals at Kiss Me Med Spa is available to answer any concern you may have, and many of their options go far beyond their competitors—CoolSculpting, dermatology consultations, concierge gynecology, sexual health restoration, and Myers’ Cocktail intravenous therapy, to name a few. Give them a call for a complimentary consultation.
Ajanamjot Grewal MD, Mary Hudson PA, and Brenda Berry MD.
KISS ME MED SPA 1642 East Herndon Avenue, Suite 104 Fresno, CA 93720 559.838.0500 www.kissmemedspa.com | info@kissmemedspa.com | @kissmemedspa
OUR SERVICES Botox Fillers Sculptra/Bellafill PDO Thread Lift Skin Tightening CoolSculpting IV Therapy/Skinny Shot Dermatology
Microneedling/PRP Sexual Rejuvenation Concierge Gynecology Hair Loss Treatment Laser Hair Removal Laser Resurfacing Photo Facial Tattoo Removal
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—30— SEP | OCT
LUX looks
SELF Care Simplified Beauty Trends
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Beauty Editor Jessica McCafferty
It’s more important, now than ever, to practice self-care at home. Whether it’s simply putting on a luxe face mask or lighting a candle, “me” time is a must. We have put together a list of CVLUX-approved wellness and beauty items for your next Zen retreat at home. CBD tinctures to support stress and pain relief? Check! How about a heated natural gemstone mat used by spas and professional massage therapists? Check! They’re your new self-care tricks—simplified. 5 4 6
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1. ZEN by Esnavi Agave Sugar Lip Scrub $18.00 from www.zenbyesnavi.com 2. Sukin Detoxifying Facial Scrub | Super Greens $11.99 from www.sukinnaturals.com 3. Jo Collection Cosmetics Pineapple Peel $42.00 from www.amazon.com 4. PHYTO-C Skin Care Superheal™ O-Live Mask $140.00 from www.phyto-c.com 5. FINN & CO. Black Sand Candle $48.00 from www.thefaceoffinn.com 6. Volto Urbano Exfoliating Mud Mask $60.00 from www.voltourbano.com 7. HealthyLine Far Infrared Heating Pad - TAO Mat Small 1818 Soft InfraMat Pro® TAO-Mat® Small 1818 $159.00 from www.amazon.com 8. FAITH IN FLOWER Lifted CBD Tincture $120.00 from www.faithinflower.com 9. booni doon CALM CLEANSING CAPSULES $38.00 from www.boonidoon.com 10. Tammy Fender Bulgarian Lavender Body Oil $65.00 from www.saksfifthavenue.com
—32— SEP | OCT
LUX looks Beauty Trends
A Closer Look
Essential Oils Beauty Editor Jessica McCafferty
Whether used to scent or add major beauty benefits to your favorite products, the essential oils once prized by the ancient Egyptians are still as relevant today as ever. What are they and why should we use essentials oils in our day to day lives? CVLUX takes a closer look.
“Essential oils are highly aromatic substances extracted from certain plants through distillation and cold pressing,” explains aromatherapist Dori Eldridge Bell (www.theblossombar.com). “They are highly complex chemically and contain many different molecules that act together to create a balanced, safe substance.” Due to this complexity, it is important to know how potent they are. Most essential oils need to be diluted in a carrier oil before being applied to the skin. “When adding essential oils to a face product, for example, do so at a 1% dilution,” explains Eldridge. “That means one drop of essential oil to 99 drops of the carrier.” CHI Haircare makes trying oils easy with their new CHI Egyptian Aromatherapy products, available in two options. Their Pure Notes line features 100% pure, natural essential oils that are undiluted for personalization, while the Fixed Oils line has options that can be used as carrier oils for their stronger pure essential oils to minimize sensitivity. CHI even has an Ultrasonic Essential Oil Diffuser. “But, if you’ve never tried essential oils, any of our Healing Roll-On Oils are a great place to start,” says Becca Stevens, founder and president of Thistle Farms, a national nonprofit that provides healing and hope for women survivors of trafficking, prostitution, and addiction. The women of Thistle Farms actually make natural products, including essential oils. Their roll-ons are handcrafted and specially blended to promote Comfort,
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Calm, Focus, Immunity, or Balance. Apply onto your pulse points at inner wrist, base of your throat, behind ear lobes and knees, and top of feet. Other important details? Packaging and price. “One safety tip is to never buy essential oils in plastic bottles. You want to get them in glass bottles, specifically dark and amber-colored glass, in order to protect it from oxidation,” explains Dr. Christian Gonzalez, an Los Angeles-based naturopathic doctor, non-toxic living expert, and podcast host of Heal Thy Self. (www.instagram.com/doctor.g_). “You shouldn’t be going online and buying a $10 essential oil,” Dr. Gonzalez notes. “A really good bottle of essential oil is going to be about $20 to $30. This is actually something where there is a real benefit to paying more.” Some of other picks include Avon’s Aromatherapy Minding My Mood 4-in-1 Essential Oil Blends. This set includes two essential oil blends (Energize and Calm), made with premium ingredients that will leave you feeling relaxed and refreshed—perfect for AM and PM use. “Essential oils are great for mood boosting, stress relief, reducing muscle pain, relaxation, and meditation,” furthers Stevens. “They even help our skin by moisturizing, toning, and reducing wrinkles, while making us feel beautiful from the inside out.” What more can you ask for? Sign us up!
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1. CHI Egyptian Aromatherapy $15.00 to $45.00 from www.chi.com 2. CHI Egyptian Aromatherapy Ultrasonic Essential Oil Diffuser $24.99 from www.chi.com 3. Thistle Farms Healing Essential Oil Roll-Ons $15.00 from www.thistlefarms.org 4. Avon Aromatherapy Minding My Mood 4-in-1 Essential Oil Blends $28.00 from www.avon.com
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thankful for... Health & Fitness Editor Dina Juve
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he year 2020 started off with a lot of excitement. The top New Year resolutions of 2020 included exercising more, saving money, eating better, losing weight, reducing stress, sleeping more, sticking to a budget, spiritual growth, improving relationships, spending more time with family, making new friends, finding a new job, volunteering, travel, and learning a new skill. As a health, fitness, nutrition, and meditation expert, I was impressed that people went beyond imposed limitations and started thinking of evolving toward a conscious awakening! A greater meaning was behind these resolutions—one with exhilaration, excitement, and dedication unlike anything I had ever seen before. More people were sharing and encouraging their families, friends, and communities to make lifestyle changes together. The methods may have been different for each person, but the objective was the same—to take better care of our bodies, minds, and spirits. Change was in motion! You could physically see the difference. Then a pandemic brought us to a halt, turning our lives and world upside down. Just like that, goals and convictions were no longer priorities. Most of us went into survival mode, focused on keeping our families, friends, and communities safe and healthy. Every night, I went to bed with hope and woke up with a positive attitude. However, after watching the news or scrolling through social media, I’d feel an overwhelming sadness and numbness, which I struggled to shake. Even with my 20 years of experience, training, and education, I fought
daily to find strength to spread more love and light during this darkness. I did what I believe was best for myself and family, but I’d be dishonest to say it was easy. My heart still hurts as I watch this tragedy unfold, affecting our humanity. Stress, depression, and anxiety levels are high. Isolation makes us feel alone, adding to worries over finances, health, and loved ones. This can change sleeping patterns and eating habits, and increase alcohol and smoking use, thereby exacerbating chronic health problems and mental health conditions. It’s important to remember we always have a choice, even if it feels like we don’t. We have control over our thoughts and actions. We can choose to act out of fear or love. No matter what you choose, remember that we’re all searching for the same thing: bliss. This year hasn’t turned out the way any of us could’ve ever imagined, but we can press forward, doing our part to enrich ourselves and others. No matter what we’re personally experiencing, the majority of our communities have come together, doing what’s needed to survive. Whenever I feel lost, journaling, moving, nourishing my body, laughing, praying, and meditating always help me find my way. I have developed a simple technique to help my clients manage their inner struggles. This daily practice can be done anywhere, anytime! 1. Stop when you notice negative thoughts coming. 2. Say a positive word that makes you feel good. 3. Repeat it several times.
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For example: “love” and “peace” are two of my positive words. Love conquers all and creates bliss within me, as it replaces any fears or indifferences I may be experiencing. Peace brings me freedom from any disturbances, creating calmness and tranquility within. At first this may seem basic, but it sets the foundation for achievable change. What else can you do on a daily basis? Below are some ideas to help. BREATHE, MEDITATE, AND PRAY • Use the method above. • Stop and breathe whenever you feel overwhelmed, sad, etc. • Download a meditation app. • Watch an online sermon. EXERCISE, MOVE MORE • Pick something that excites you. • Support and use online workouts. • Go for a walk. Don’t underestimate the effectiveness of walking. • Stretch! Stretching helps your joints move through their full range of motion, reducing risk of injury. EAT HEALTHY, WELL-BALANCED MEALS • Add more fruits and vegetables to your diet. • Don’t skip meals. • Don’t overeat due to stress or fatigue. • Take one unhealthy item out. Add one healthy item. GO OUTSIDE • Walk, hike, garden. • Look at water bodies, trees, the sky, birds. • The health benefits of simply being outside are plenty, even if it’s your porch or backyard. GET ADEQUATE SLEEP • Staying on a schedule brings back structure and normalizes your life. • Sleep is vital for mental and physical health. Sleep deficiencies are linked to increased health issues. START SOMETHING NEW • A hobby, project, journaling, or a new ritual. • Read for pleasure. Pick up that book! LEARN SOMETHING NEW • Study places, people, and subjects that interest you. • Sign up for an educational class.
REDUCE UNNECESSARY STRESSORS • Evaluate your daily routine, then remove or reduce anything that creates stress. • Make your home your sanctuary. • Pay attention to your environment. Try to avoid unhealthy places. • Keep up regular medical/dental checkups. Tests can help identify problems or underlying health issues. • Mend or create space from unhealthy relationships. Communicate openly, without judgment, and make time for healthy relationships. • Take a look at your finances and create a budget to ensure you’re living within your means. Find small ways to secure a financial safety net. • It’s okay to remove yourself from stressful situations. Find the nearest place to catch your breath and reset. JOIN OR CREATE AN ONLINE SUPPORT GROUP • A book, Netflix, or movie club, Zoom Happy Hours, friends and family night, game day, or children’s play times. • Fitness, health, or financial accountability. STAY CONNECTED • Call, text, or video call friends, family, or someone you’ve wanted to connect with. • Connecting reminds us we’re not alone, which is vital for mental and physical health. KNOW THAT PHYSICAL TOUCH IS INVALUABLE • If you can safely hug, hold hands, give/receive a massage, or help someone stretch, do it. • It’s the fundamental way we thrive, communicate, bond, and trust; it helps decrease disease and verbal and physical violence. DON’T BE AFRAID TO SEEK HELP • See a professional, if needed. • Call a support hotline or a friend.
Think basic and simple. Try not to look at these items as actions you have to do, but actions you get to do! It will keep you and your loved ones safe and mentally and physically healthy. Start by adding one item at a time or make small changes in a few areas, increasing with each week. If you’re already doing the aforementioned items, keep going! To keep the momentum, add in challenges or try something new outside of your comfort zone. If you made 2020 New Year resolutions, revisit them. If you set goals, set them again by finding new ways to achieve them. If you prefer to live in the moment, go for it! During this life-altering pandemic, having dreams, aspirations, and things to look forward to each day can give us a reason to do what is needed. Be thankful for yesterday. Live today. Anticipate a better tomorrow.
TOP BY ULLA JOHNSON FROM WWW.ULLAJOHNSON.COM EARRINGS BY UNCOMMON JAMES FROM WWW.UNCOMMONJAMES.COM BRACELETS FROM DANIELLA’S OWN COLLECTION
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Appetite healthy
Features Contributor Elisabeth Ross Photographer Ben Cope Stylist Kaylee Jackson Hair & Makeup Daniella Monet
Daniella Monet lives and breathes the big picture far beyond the big screen. An actress-turned-entrepreneur and activist, she’s making the world a greener place using creations ranging from beauty products to food, all rooted in passion and the conviction to lead by example. With her firstborn baby in tow, she is living in pursuit of a better future for everyone. It all started with film. Born in Southern California’s West Hills, Daniella broke into Hollywood at the age of seven and had parts in numerous television commercials before landing recurring roles in American Dreams, 8 Simple Rules, Listen Up, Zoey 101, Victorious, and Baby Daddy, among many other shows. In 2007, Daniella played Inga Veinshtein in the Nancy Drew movie, and she has since been in a handful of other films. She also hosted Paradise Run (shot in Hawaii) and made an appearance in her former co-star Ariana Grande’s “Thank U, Next” video. Along her acting journey, Daniella’s career focus shifted to another inherent passion. “I’ve always felt like acting will be a baseline for me. It’s a part of who I am. It’s got me to where I am today. It’s supported my lifestyle. But ultimately, I’ve always wanted to do more,” she says. Daniella, who has been vegan for over 20 years now, has always wanted to invest in plant-based companies. As she has inadvertently become a wellness and beauty guru, she uses her tremendous platform to further the altruistic mission of three thriving cruelty-free businesses she has invested in: Outstanding Foods, Kinder Beauty, and the newly opened Sugar Taco restaurant. “It’s been really exciting to be a part of a lot of innovative companies,” she says.
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his entrepreneurial segue started about five years ago with Outstanding Foods, which created the PigOut Pigless Bacon Chips. “Now we have the PigOut Pigless Pork Rinds,” Daniella says about the brand’s evolution. Though they originally launched with just the Pigless Bacon Chips, the popularity of keto diets and numerous requests for pork rinds led the company to create the PigOut Pigless Pork Rinds. “Pork rinds are very low in carbs, but they’re just so high in saturated fat, sodium, and they’re obviously awful for your cholesterol,” reasons Daniella. “When we reinvented the Pigless Pork Rinds, they really took off very quickly.” These are a healthy, vegan alternative that don’t sacrifice flavor and are now available in four options: Original, Hella Hot, Nacho Cheese, and Texas BBQ. The chips will probably come back in a new way at some point, and there are plenty of other products in the works for Outstanding Foods fans to look forward to. How Daniella came to be involved in creating pigless products is a fun story. As a teenage actress, she wasn’t bound by the constraints of attending traditional school, but she always wanted to fill her time. “So, I got some odd jobs along the way. One of them was working at a restaurant called Madeleine Bistro. The restaurant was fairly expensive to eat at. But there weren’t many really nice vegan restaurants at the time. And so, when I would eat there, I would kind of break my bank,” she recalls with a laugh. “Granted, I was working at the time, but I did at one point say jokingly, ‘If you ever need someone to work here, I would work for free and just eat the food.’ They took me up on it and I was totally up for the experience.” Little did she know that it would one day lead her into the world of vegan food products. “Chef Dave Anderson, who was the chef and one of the owners of the restaurant, is our head chef and co-founder of Outstanding Foods. Years and years later, maybe 10 years later, he called me up and asked me if I would be interested in going into business with him,” Daniella says. It made perfect sense for her to join his venture, as she wholeheartedly supports Chef Dave’s ideals, professing that, “He is so gifted—he helped create the Beyond Meat Burgers. He’s helped
TOP BY RAG & BONE FROM WWW.RAG-BONE.COM BRALETTE BY COSABELLA FROM WWW.COSABELLA.COM PANTS BY LE KASHA FROM WWW.LEKASHA.COM SHOES BY STUART WEITZMAN FROM WWW.STUARTWEITZMAN.COM EARRINGS BY UNCOMMON JAMES FROM WWW.UNCOMMONJAMES.COM
SWEATER BY RAG & BONE FROM WWW.RAG-BONE.COM JEANS BY PAIGE FROM WWW.PAIGE.COM SHOES BY MERCEDES CASTILLO FROM WWW.MERCEDESCASTILLO.COM EARRINGS BY NOA FROM WWW.NOAJEWELRY.SHOP NECKLACE FROM DANIELLA’S OWN COLLECTION RING FROM DANIELLA’S OWN COLLECTION
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create so many amazing, really well-known vegan items that people consume on the daily now. Outstanding Foods is his baby, and I’m just so happy to be a part of the journey.” “Shortly after that, Kinder Beauty and Sugar Taco kind of came into my life simultaneously,” she goes on. Kinder Beauty Box is the brainchild of Daniella and her partners Evanna Lynch (of Harry Potter) and Andrew Bernstein. “We all kind of came together and created this idea, and it’s been a huge labor of love,” she says, which not only reflects their core values but also fills a niche market. The Kinder Beauty Box is different from other beauty subscriptions in that all included products are vegan. Daniella and Evanna, both being vegan and activists, struggled to find cruelty-free, non-toxic, 100% vegan products that they loved and could trust. They recognized that when you do find them, they tend to cost a fortune. “It was just a struggle, and so that was our real core business question: ‘How do we make all of these products streamlined, accessible, and easy for customers to really trust?’ That’s what we’ve done,” she says of the Kinder Beauty Box. Their first box was launched in January 2019. “We started small and really just had access to Evanna’s and my following via social media,” she says. Having a great team behind them has also been key: “We are small, but we’re very strategic, and the people that we have now who work with us are incredibly good at what they do—they’re also very missiondriven, and I think that’s what helps us get through the challenging times businesses go through because we really do believe in it.” Over the past year, the subscription business has taken off a little more than when they’d started. “Some of the success, I think, ironically, has happened due to us not being able to just leisurely go out and get the things that we love,” reflects Daniella. Since becoming a mother, Daniella has become even more conscientious about the products she uses. Coupled with her vegan lifestyle, she’s basically a self-taught wellness guru. Staying hydrated and eating beautiful, colorful, nutrient-rich foods are the foundation for a youthful glow, according to her. With the onset of the coronavirus, Daniella has been doing her own hair and makeup, as seen in the socially distanced photoshoot in these pages. In conjunction with her Kinder Beauty products, she also swears by a self-made concoction of aloe vera gel and a clean, trusted oil (such as coconut or olive) as her baseline. “I’ll mix that together and it makes a lotion or a creamy texture—I use that everywhere, specifically on my face. I’ll use it on my arms, legs, on everything,” she says, calling everything else beauty related “sprinkles and icing on the cake—that’s the really luxurious stuff that I wouldn’t know how to make.” The Kinder Beauty Box curation process pulls products from numerous sources. “It could be a product that we are aware of, from small momand-pop businesses to large businesses you see in Sephora and Target,” she says. As their name suggests, “The real thing for us is it must be cruelty-free and vegan, hands down.” Then, there’s a list of targets in terms of ingredients and ethical standards. They will ask, “What does it have inside of it to determine whether it’s clean and non-toxic by our standards? And then, ultimately, we want to make sure that affiliated companies are also ethical and that they also care about a bigger picture.” The partnerships forged through this process are also of utmost importance to the Kinder Beauty partners. “We like cultivating really strong relationships with our partners—what’s cool is that they really
believe in us, we believe in them, and it’s a really good blend of us all supporting one another,” Daniella explains. She and Evanna then try every single item that has the potential to make it into a collection. They’re always trying to think ahead of the curve. According to Daniella, “We try to balance out each box so that it feels like if you’re a subscriber 12 months out of the year, you find yourself needing certain products at the right time, and that you’re trying new things seasonally that you wouldn’t necessarily think of. I’m so in love with our company and our mission, and the fact that our mission is really our through line—that really helps us feel good about the work that we’re doing. Ultimately, Kinder Beauty is like my second baby right now.”
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hat we put in our bodies is just as important as what we put on them. Enter Sugar Taco, which offers planted-based Mexican food that is so beautiful and delicious that it’s raising the standards for vegan cuisine. Yelp reviews for the Melrose Avenue establishment continue to maintain over four-star ratings, which is even more impressive when considering that this is Daniella’s first venture as a restauranteur. Owing to her waitressing days, Daniella is very aware that restaurants can be a tough investment—especially one that opened up during a global pandemic. “It is a huge labor of love,” she admits. “But I think what separates us from so many other ones is that we really do practice what we preach.” She’s referring to how much they do outside of just selling food: “We’ve partnered with companies like 8 Billion Trees and Food for Life Global, and we’re always looking to partner with new rescues and organizations that might be smaller, doing more grassroots stuff for animals or the planet or just whatever is current at the time.” With so many tragedies recently, Daniella ruminates, “we’re just happy to donate where we can.” She relishes how Sugar Taco is a place people can go to and enjoy amazing food while knowing that their choices impact more than just their stomachs. They even offer a dog menu, the proceeds from which benefit a different organization each month that helps companion pets. Sugar Taco is proud to be female-owned. When Daniella’s partner, Jayde Nicole, reached out to her about the restaurant, she was extremely impressed by Jayde’s objective, now stated as their motto: “Saving The World One Taco At A Time.” Together, they set out to create something unlike anything else on the vegan restaurant scene. Sugar Taco has set the bar high for their competition. “The recipes are all authentic,” says a pleased Daniella. “I’ve had Mexican food before, obviously, but it is actually kind of uncommon to find a lot of vegan Mexican options.” “It’s important to us and we’ll do what we can because, again, it really comes down to that big picture and bringing awareness back to the people—we can do more with our hard-earned money,” Daniella says, prompting the question of, “Why can’t we learn to think of others and the planet and the animals and the environment? Having a bigger conversation around food is really important to us.” This practice-whatyou-preach mentality is beautifully exemplified in the purposeful choices made in every aspect of the restaurant design—from the menu to the utensils and take-out containers—reiterating, yet again, how important leading by example is to Daniella.
SWEATER BY RAG & BONE FROM WWW.RAG-BONE.COM EARRINGS BY NOA FROM WWW.NOAJEWELRY.SHOP NECKLACE FROM DANIELLA’S OWN COLLECTION
Adulting Like a Mother, Father is the first project Daniella and Andrew have partnered on. “Newly in my pregnancy,” reminisces Daniella, “I just remember thinking, ‘I’ve got to do this and I’ve got to get Andrew on board.’” At the time, Andrew was working a traditional finance job. Daniella got a producer and pitched the show to PodcastOne—and they loved it. “This is so outside of [Andrew’s] wheelhouse,” Daniella says. “But I talked him into it. I said, ‘We’ll record it at night after you’re home from work—it’ll be great!’ Little did I know what it would be like to bring a child into the world.”
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wo weeks after the birth of their son, Andrew decided to resign from his job to be a stay-at-home father. “The fact that we had Adulting already in the works, and that he felt so strongly about being home and being a family and being there for Gio, really fit seamlessly into our lives and gave us this vehicle to talk about the ins and outs of being new parents and all the things that go along with being adults,” says Daniella, and she admits that it’s led to challenges but also many new experiences. “It’s been something we’ve almost used as therapy. We have two totally different perspectives on things, but we have the common denominator, which is our family, our life, and our household.” The podcast sees them come together in conversation, facilitating not only understanding but also respect—for our journeys, perspectives, and big pictures. “Together, we are trying to figure out how to cultivate this life for ourselves amongst this pandemic!” Daniella exclaims. Her method, acting out of the purity of one’s heart, is one to be emulated during these uncertain times. As life leads us down unanticipated roads, being open-minded and fostering partnerships, from family and community to business, will only help us grow and adapt. Creative people and entrepreneurs alike can learn a lesson on how to make this world a better place from Daniella.
TOP BY & OTHER STORIES FROM WWW.STORIES.COM EARRINGS BY UNCOMMON JAMES FROM WWW.UNCOMMONJAMES.COM
This way of living also guides her personal life and drives her belief in our biggest picture: our children. Daniella and fiancé Andrew Gardner welcomed baby Gio into their family in September 2019. This new chapter in their lives inspired Daniella to open up a dialogue about parenting through podcasts.
559.435.7546 behrbodyfresno.com
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Patient received a series of 4 Emsculpt treatments.
More Fun. More Fashion! Villaggio Shopping Center 7973 N. Blackstone Avenue Fresno, CA 559.439.7770 Parkway Trails Shopping Center 1305 N. Willow Avenue Suite #140 Clovis, CA 93619 559.297.7770 Follow:
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wellness & men in business How do you measure success? It’s a subjective question, but following your dream and turning it into a livelihood is a good place to start. These professionals have done just that. They have established careers that reflect their personal interests and goals, often while building families and giving back to their communities— major accomplishments by any measure.
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Aviv Mediation & Partnership Consulting SMADAR AVIV, PHD
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Fresno Smile Makeovers SAM NAMDARIAN, DMD
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Fresno Oral Maxillofacial Surgery & Dental Implant Center SHANNON BARNHART, DDS ALLEN T. CHIEN, DDS BRIAN HUH, DMD THOMAS CURIEL, DMD ARDAVAN KHERADPIR, DMD, MD
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London Properties LUIS ROSALES
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Riverstone Development TIM JONES TYLER JONES
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
wellness
AVIV MEDIATION & PARTNERSHIP CONSULTING
Building powerful connections maximizes human potential.
SMADAR AVIV, PHD CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST FRESNO, CALIFORNIA
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have developed a unique approach to empower clients in their personal and organizational endeavors. This includes long- and short-term integrative, holistic psychotherapy for adults, couples, and families. I specialize in conflict resolution, mediation, and restorative justice in marital discord and other conflicts. As needed, I provide intensive sessions for 2 to 3 days.
MY SPECIALTY Together, we will work on emotional intelligence techniques, emphasizing concepts of self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship management. Understanding that early childhood traumas may be triggered in adult life, we will explore these roots and the role they play in present conflicts. Mindful meditation and relaxation are used to enhance the process of the mediation. MY PASSION I strongly believe in the power of education beyond academics to include techniques for self-love and self-esteem from an early age for students of all walks of life. Additionally, it is my conviction that creating safe, non-defensive communication, that promotes authentic connections in families, friendships, and the workplace, will promote a peaceful and nonjudgmental environment and world. WHAT I LOVE TO DO Traveling all over the world, especially to my native country, Israel, is what I look forward to most. I also love dancing, yoga, meditation, and brainstorming to make things more efficient. I’ll always preach and teach to anyone who wants to learn how to be engaged in self-love and feel good enough. The sound of ocean waves, sand between my toes, and coffee houses with friends (especially in Tel Aviv) recharges my mind and provides me with mental and physical balance.
Visit Dr. Aviv’s site at: www.sievertmd.com Location 7766 North Palm Avenue, Suite 107 Fresno, CA 93711 Email 1sievermd@gmail.com smaviv@gmail.com Phone 559.435.0800 ADVERTISEMENT
wellness
FRESNO ORAL MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY & DENTAL IMPLANT CENTER SHANNON BARNHART, DDS ALLEN T. CHIEN, DDS BRIAN HUH, DMD THOMAS CURIEL, DMD ARDAVAN KHERADPIR, DMD, MD
Delivering excellence in dental implants and oral surgery.
DR. BARNHART PROCEDURES THAT SET OUR OFFICE APART We can place immediate dental implants at the time of your tooth extraction, along with the option of placing newer trabecular metal implants that can be restored with a final crown in two or more weeks. DR. CHIEN
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resno Oral Maxillofacial Surgery & Dental Implant Center has a long history of putting the needs of our patients, our referring doctors, and our staff first. During this unprecedented global viral pandemic, rest assured that we have implemented screening protocols and workplace infection control measures to protect everyone’s safety.
WHY WORKING HERE IS UNIQUE The people of Fresno and Madera Counties are special. We have cared for generations of families and it is amazing to learn about their history and future in our community. DR. HUH WHAT WE DO DIFFERENTLY As board-certified providers at Fresno Oral Surgery, we help alleviate anxiety and deliver comfort during your dental implant procedures by providing different sedation techniques to enhance your experience. We pride ourselves on giving personalized, compassionate care in line with ever-changing technology standards. DR. CURIEL WHY OUR TEAM IS SO IMPORTANT Our team allows us to provide a patient experience like no other. The communication between our doctors, assistants, and office staff all play a crucial role in providing a pleasant experience from start to finish. DR. KHERADPIR HOW DENTAL IMPLANTS HAVE ADVANCED We’re often asked, “Can dentures be replaced with dental implants?” Today, dental implant surgery is the gold standard for replacing teeth. Replacing your dentures with dental implants is a very predictable procedure with excellent longterm, aesthetic, and functional outcomes.
Fresno Location 1903 East Fir Avenue, Suite 101 Fresno, CA 93720 Clovis Location 2026 Shaw Avenue, Suite 101 Clovis, CA 93611 Madera Location 515 North I Street Madera, CA 93637 Reedley Location 1140 F Street Reedley, CA 93654
Visit Fresno Oral Surgery’s site at: www.fresnooralsurgery.com Phone Fresno 559.226.2722 Clovis 559.472.4050 Madera 559.673.8337 Reedley 559.480.3002 Follow @fresnooralsurgery @fresnooralsurgerygroup @fresnosurgery ADVERTISEMENT
men in business
FRESNO SMILE MAKEOVERS
A better smile, a better you.
SAM NAMDARIAN, DMD FRESNO, CALIFORNIA
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resno Smile Makeovers offers solutions to unattractive or crooked teeth with a variety of treatments and procedures that address everything from poor alignment to discoloration. We are dedicated to providing all of our patients with excellent care, and we are confident that you will leave our office smiling. Our primary goal is to improve our friends’ and neighbors' smiles, while utilizing the latest, most cutting-edge technology.
WHY A GREAT SMILE IS IMPORTANT A great smile gives a fantastic first impression. It changes the mood of people, removing bitterness and soreness towards other people. It gives and builds confidence to the person who smiles. WHAT DREW ME TO COSMETIC DENTISTRY Cosmetic dentistry can truly transform smiles and a person’s life. Every time I start and finish a cosmetic procedure, I can see life changing moments for the individual—the joy and excitement in their face, and the positive impact my cosmetic work has on people’s lives. My patients can smile confidently, share their happiness with others, and socialize more with friends and family. WHAT SETS MY PRACTICE APART The main goal of our practice is to bring excellent patient care and customer service. We strive to accommodate every patient’s needs. We feel our patients are part of our family. They are the center of attention at Fresno Smile Makeovers. THE FUTURE OF DENTISTRY I see a great future for the field of dentistry. People in California tend to care more about their smile and dental health than ever before. Due to the fast-growing population, there will be more of a need for dentists to provide dental care.
Visit Fresno Smile Makeover's site at: www.fresnosmilemakeovers.com Location 7770 North Fresno Street, Suite 105 Fresno, CA 93720 Email info@fresnosmilemakeovers.com Phone 559.431.1772 Follow @SamNamdarianDMD @samnamdariandmd_fresno_dentist @SamNamdarianDMD ADVERTISEMENT
men in business
LONDON PROPERTIES LUIS ROSALES, REALTOR
Never let success get to your head. Never let your failures get to your heart.
FRESNO, CALIFORNIA
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y career began when Mom said, “Take a class in real estate so this won’t happen to you.” In 2006, my mother had a foreclosure letter on the door and was nearly scammed from our home. I never saw her cry until that day. Fortunately, we found a solution and kept our home, but I will never forget that day—how lack of knowledge and not knowing how to defend yourself can make life rigorous. It was a blessing in disguise that led me to be a real estate agent, enabling me to help my community through the biggest investment of people’s lives.
WHAT MOTIVATES ME Being alive and well, especially during this time. I have the blessing of doing what I love. I have some of the most interesting clients and have been able to connect people so they can benefit from each other in some way. ADVICE FOR YOUNG MEN Never bring your work home when in a relationship—leave work at work. A girlfriend or wife is the backbone of who you are and how your next day will play out. If you’re single, stay single to build your foundation, travel the world, meet new people—you run into someone when you least expect it. WHO MENTORED ME IN MY CAREER Barry and Betty Tashakorian with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices in La Jolla were like second parents to me. They taught me everything there is to know in luxury real estate, from pulling permits and learning where materials come from, to how to talk to heavy hitters and market luxury homes worth millions. They welcomed me into their home, and I worked 24/7. I loved every single moment I was with them—those were the best years of my twenties.
NMLS ID# 02015518 Visit Luis’ site at: www.luis-rosales.com Location 6442 North Maroa Avenue Fresno, CA 93704 Email lrosales@londonproperties.com Phone 559.708.7559 Follow @luisrosales___ ADVERTISEMENT
men in business
RIVERSTONE DEVELOPMENT
Tempus Fugit, Time Flies.
TIM JONES, OWNER & DEVELOPER TYLER JONES, PROPERTY MANAGER MADERA, CALIFORNIA
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he saying goes, “Like father, like son.” Tyler Jones is learning the ropes from his father, Tim. These two enjoy the simple things in life together, like fishing, hiking, and dirt bike riding, but they always dream big. They both take the good of life and try to make it even better for those around them, understanding that moments in life are too precious to waste. Their drive is what makes Riverstone increasingly better each day.
THE SECRET TO OUR SUCCESS Never put off to tomorrow what you can accomplish today. Our motto (given to Tim by his mother as a young boy), Tempus Fugit, emphasizes that time has a funny way of slipping by, but we do not take this for granted at Riverstone. Riverstone is designed to make fun easily accessible, whether it is a quick workout at The Lodge before getting kids ready for the day and you ready for work or a stroll to a neighborhood park along the olive tree path after work—whatever time you have, Riverstone helps make the most of every minute. TRENDS IN OUR MARKETPLACE In a year unlike any other, the housing market has seen a number of leading trends: increased hygiene awareness, adaptable spaces, and enjoyment of the outdoors. While we have always put an emphasis on cleanliness, Riverstone’s HOA team jumped into action to keep up with CDC regulations and increased sterilization. As for adaptable spaces, our five homebuilders do a phenomenal job at designing homes with flexibility, offering a fit for every family. Whether you’re setting up home gyms, home offices, or school rooms, Riverstone’s builders have foreseen the need to have adaptable space for all pursuits. The entire design of Riverstone emphasizes outdoor life—from the parks and the walking to connected communities and the amenities of The Lodge, we help people Look Forward to Life.
Visit Riverstone's site at: www.riverstoneca.com Location Highway 41 & Avenue 12 Madera, CA 93636 Email tjones@vdcllc.com tyler@vdcllc.com Phone 559.237.7000 Follow @LifeAtRiverstone @lifeatriverstoneca ADVERTISEMENT
Conquering COVID-19 Examining the Human Impact on the Central Valley Managing Editor Lauren Barisic
—60— SEP | OCT
The human impact of COVID-19 is unprecedented. Everyone’s big picture is different—yet it is important to understand the similar facets that have contributed to such upheaval. Livelihoods have been put in jeopardy, philanthropic organizations have been struggling to keep giving, and the maintenance of mental health has been pushed to new bounds. Coronavirus has forced our communities to adapt in ways we never imagined we’d have to. While the ensuing changes have come with countless challenges and hardships, we must recognize that some advantages have also emerged. As we move forward together, it is essential to maintain hope while doing everything we can in a global effort to reach the end of this pandemic as quickly as possible.
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inancial instability has been prevalent, as each of California’s 11 industry sectors underwent job losses in April (when the breadth of the economic crisis became truly apparent). According to the Employment Development Department (EDD), State of California, California’s unemployment rate spiked from 10 to 16.4 percent in April alone (up from 4.2 percent in April 2019), eclipsing the state’s previous record high of 12.3 percent at the height of the Great Recession. To put this into perspective, California, with 2,344,700 jobs lost, had the largest month-over non-farm payroll job loss on record in April. In just one month, this total is over one million more jobs lost than during the entire 2.5-year-long recession (from July 2007 to February 2010). According to the EDD’s June statistics, the highest unemployment is in the population aged 16–19 years at 20 percent, followed by 11.8 percent in the age group of 20–24, dropping below 7.1 percent for the remaining six brackets (for age 25 through 65 and over). The exponentially higher rates for younger people argue that this was likely the first time many had filed for unemployment benefits. In addition to the calculated Weekly Benefit Amount issued by the EDD, $600 in Federal Additional Compensation (FAD) was automatically added to dispersed payments through July, as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. Owing to the additional FAD stipend, many recipients nationwide were making more on unemployment than with the jobs they lost, skewing the concept of unemployment benefits for first-time recipients. While stimulus checks helped those struggling to make ends meet, the intended purpose serves a broader scope. As defined by the Corporate Financial Institute, “Stimulus checks are given to boost the economy by providing consumers with funds to spend.” Yes, it was nice to have a little extra spending money, but it could be debated that the extra money created a disproportionate and contradicting understanding, as people began adapting their budgets to accommodate tighter times. Small businesses bore the brunt of this actuality. Applications for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) topped at only two pages, but countless documents and extensive paperwork are required to apply for forgiveness. Controversially, false hope emanated through small-town America with the promise of enough money to sustain employees for four months, as there was hope of reopening after two months of quarantine; obviously, that best-case scenario didn’t manifest in California. Suddenly, when reality didn’t match expectation, the money issued by the PPP
felt like an economic band-aid. Questions arose about appropriate prioritization—who was given what, and was it too early for money to be distributed? In a sense, it was a lose-lose situation. With temporary shutdowns becoming indefinite and re-opening phases jerking back and forth, only a fraction of locally owned restaurants and retail shops are expected to survive. Brick-and-mortar establishments, having been in competition with online retailers for years, are suddenly transitioning from steady shift to exponential upsurge in virtual shopping. Restaurants have been forced to find innovative take-out options to draw customers in (even before patio dining was deemed acceptable), which has become a challenge, as people have reexamined their eating-out habits owing to safety and budgetary reasons. Limited human contact and lack of disposable income has left philanthropic organizations struggling, too. A financial trickle-down effect influences the loss and restructure of many beloved charities throughout the Central Valley. Make-A-Wish (MAW) Northeastern & Central California and Northern Nevada has had to pivot their work and services. New wish-granting policies have been designed “because the hope that comes with a wish is more important now than ever,” expounds Michele Sanders, Vice President of Communications & Outreach for the chapter. “The biggest challenge has been the pause of many of our wishes, considering a significant number [75 percent] are travel-related wishes.” Despite experiencing a significant drop in revenue due to the cancellation of several annual partnered events, “fortunately, our partners and supporters have remained by our side and continued their generous support,” allowing MAW to still grant wishes (that don’t require travel or large gatherings) weekly, Sanders gratefully recognizes. “As we look forward, we have built several contingencies into our plans should the pandemic continue to make it challenging to safely gather large groups together.” The conflict between personal experience and messages disseminated to the public is perhaps one of the most pivotal dilemmas Americans are dealing with, as the plethora of contradictory information leaves the population with a sense of despair, disbelief, confusion, and frustration. Simply put, many don’t know who or what to trust—but there is hope. Sickness is not a political issue, but one of humanity. By putting aside our differences, we have transcended party lines, working in cooperation with business leaders and medical professionals to find unique solutions for our communities. “I’m very thankful and proud of the collaboration
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that we’ve been able to achieve—this is most definitely a sustained team effort,” imparts Dr. Rais Vohra, Interim Health Officer at Fresno County Department of Public Health and Professor of Emergency Medicine and Clinical Pharmacy at UCSF, Fresno, speaking to Public Health’s early preparation efforts and local response. “All of these shelter-in-place orders are not meant to be permanent; they’re meant to be fluid—I know that can be frustrating, but it’s the same thing with wildfires,” compares Dr. Vohra. The Threat Level Assessment they’ve developed, set up like the wildfire danger level wheels seen along Californian highways, indicates our local threat level. Wearing masks, physically distancing, washing hands, and minimizing mixing, as Governor Gavin Newsom urges, will help drive the needle back into the green. Understanding that Fresno County’s diverse culture and population responds to messaging in different ways is critical for effectively addressing its unique needs. For instance, whether The Big Fresno Fair will commence this year. “We understand that Sacramento and authorities at the national level are not going to be able to answer those specifics for us—that’s one example of the kinds of decisions that we need to make,” explains Dr. Vohra. “We have to talk to the real people that live here, that are operating businesses or operating social events, and really ask them what their needs are, and try to give them the best information that we can to arm them with the right information to make the decisions.” Dr. Vohra helps lead the team navigating the Central Valley’s COVID-19 medical initiatives. Yet coronavirus is not the only health concern the population is dealing with right now. Preexisting, common, and seasonal health issues are still rampant, and putting off some surgeries and treatments for even a few months may prove too late for some people. “One of the great tragedies of this pandemic has been that a lot of other medical conditions have been ignored, sidelined, or postponed.” Dr. Vohra and his team are working very closely with hospitals, primary care providers, and even dentists and chiropractors to get them back to their patients. Keeping people safe is essential, understands Dr. Vohra, “but so is restarting the many things we need to do to maintain good medical health, and maintain, hopefully, emotional and mental health as well during this pandemic.”
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hile Public Health handles questions about testing and the physical components of coronavirus, Behavioral Health helps people to psychologically deal with the situation. Dawan Utecht, Director at Fresno County Department of Behavioral Health, understands that psychological well-being is essential for adults and children. “During the pandemic, what we’ve really tried to do is multitier. We’ve pushed out a lot of resources for parents on how to talk to their kids and how to deal with stay-at-home orders.” Behavioral Health also offers recommendations on how to stay connected and maintain mental health services, such as therapy, using telehealth. There is a fear of not knowing what’s next, which is understandable. “Don’t ruminate on COVID, social media, or the news, as it can be overwhelming.” Utecht also advises that people limit their intake and “focus on what you can control.” Running through the limited motions of day-to-day reality mimics Groundhog Day in a sense—the feeling of being stuck in a time loop, exasperated by not knowing when life will get back to normal. “Learn to live with COVID!” advocates Utecht.
Whether you have struggled with change or embraced it, the necessity for an adaptative mindset, from work to play, has become even more essential. How we obtain services (medical visits, cosmetic upkeeps like hair and nails), shop (routine errands, essentials, for fun), keep in touch, see family and friends, and cook is forever altered, but many positives have come with this uncomfortable, inevitable growth. The way we think about and live in our homes is evolving—the most requested décor update that Central Valley interior designers are receiving is for dining room makeovers, suggesting that families are coming together at the dinner table more often than before. Tech businesses and methods have gained prominence, as they answer new challenges. Grocery delivery services and pickup apps have drastically cut time spent in stores and reduced the body count inside. Food subscription boxes take the guesswork out of meal planning while showing people how to cook at home. Zoom eliminates travel time for appointments and allows meetings to take place from anywhere in the world. All are time savers, making life more efficient. Before quarantine, most people would say they wished they had more time—with COVID, we actually got the time! With this came reflection. There has been more opportunity to practice self-care. California is a state known for its preference to drive, yet it has been realized that road time can be significantly reduced. Increased respect for personal space and time has developed. Hygiene is better, as people have relearned how to wash their hands properly. These are just a handful of silver linings surrounding a crippling global nightmare, imparting hope that the human race will emerge with a newfound strength in partnerships between communities and their leaders. The strain on medical professionals has been extreme—gauging hospital responsiveness and needs are essential. Though some measures have been grim, Central Valley leaders are hoping for the best while planning for the worst. While remdesivir, Z-Paks, and convalescent plasma are all experimental, they are showing promising results. “The combination of all of those medications gives me a lot of hope that even before a vaccine, we will figure out some kind of a drug cocktail, or some combination of medications, that can save a lot of lives,” Dr. Vohra reflects. Consider what the United States’ government asked citizens to do during World War II and the Korean War. Now, Americans are being asked to serve their country by simply staying home. Make the most of your personal time. Work on your inner self. Be an example to our children and future generations. Embrace masks as a socially responsible fashion trend. Be respectful of fellow humankind. Continue to support local businesses. Relish the little things and small interactions. The way people interact with one another, conduct their lives, and think about disease will be affected by this pandemic, largely for the better. Whether you are an introvert or an extrovert, psyche is being influenced on several levels—recognizing this could lead to a more positive, open conversation surrounding mental health in the United States. “If more people were attuned to kindness, especially the many ways that they can be kind to each other and to themselves, we would have a lot less conflict,” believes Dr. Vohra, “and, hopefully, a lot more grace and empathy as we move forward through this pandemic and come together.”
M OD EL I S A C Y C LE S TA R F RO M C Y C L EB A R F R ES N O & C L O V I S 1528 E. CHAMPLAIN DR. STE. 103 FRESNO, CA • 559.434.4589 • SCEPTREANDSASH.COM N.E. CORNER OF CEDAR AND SHEPHERD, NEAR YOSEMITE RANCH RESTAURANT
SCEPTRE & SASH IS INDEPENDENT OF ANY BRAND AFFILIATION. ITEMS ARE PRE-OWNED AND/OR VINTAGE. LICENSE #000000780
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LUX looks Beauty Trends
Men’s Grooming
Natural is the New Luxury Beauty Contributor Jessica Parise
Why should women’s beauty products have all the fun utilizing naturally healthy ingredients? CVLUX looks into three men’s grooming brands who are leaving the toxicity out of creating a handsome confidence. Make no mistake, men have their own self-care rituals to feel their best. They might come in the form of a great shave instead of a mud mask, or a beard oil as opposed to an anti-aging serum. But one preference remains the same: men, just like women, care about the ingredients used on their skin and hair.
“We don’t believe that natural has to be boring,” she said. “At Outlaw, we’ve created a line-up of bold, exciting products that are also ethically produced. We use natural ingredients and sustainable production methods, and create products even the most rugged adventurer would be proud to use.”
“Men more than ever are looking for natural, sustainable products,” explains Brian Stanilla, Vice President of Product Development for Dr. Tusk.
Natural formulas are even transcending barber shops and salons. KEEPIT Handsome is the salon-quality line of men’s care products using lichen extract rather than parabens and other chemicals, which often do more harm than good to men’s hair and skin. The properties of this arctic plant work as a healing anti-inflammatory and antifungal agent benefiting hair and skin.
This men’s line of personal care products encourages customers to “shower, shave, and save the elephants,” as the brand donates 5% of all profits to charitable partners who are directly involved in helping these majestic creatures. With this nature-saving ethos, Dr. Tusk features cruelty-free and 100% vegan products that are also free from parabens, sodium lauryl sulfates, petroleum, mineral oil, and artificial colors. “Dr. Tusk’s hemp and caffeine formulas are 99% natural,” Stanilla adds. “This ingredient combination provides a unique base for healthy skin and hair.” Why weren’t natural products sought after in men’s care until now? Cofounder of the adventurous personal care brand Outlaw, Danielle Vincent, explains that they used to be marketed as subtle or neutral. Men (and women, for this matter) had to make a compromise between neutral and natural, or bold and full of chemicals. With scents like campfire, whiskey, leather, and clove, Outlaw finds itself changing the game in manly scents. Vincent explains that the brand does so while keeping their soap, lotion, body wash, deodorant, solid cologne, and other products “clean” both literally and metaphorically.
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According to co-founder Mirko Djurovich, the professional line wasn’t only created from a need to escape the chemicals. He found them ineffective to keep up with his appearance. What started as playful marital banter years ago turned into a high-performing collection of products. As a co-owner of a trendy Montreal salon, his wife Claudia expressed her frustration about his less than well-groomed looks, asking him to “keep it handsome.” She made the counterpoint that he should make his own, and that’s precisely what businessman Djurovich did. The brand’s name is a homage to the conversation that started their journey. It is easy for all men to up their grooming game. With an arsenal of effective and eco-friendly products already on the market, the future of men’s beauty is looking handsomer than ever before.
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1. KEEPIT Handsome Grooming Cream $22.00 from www.keepithandsome.com 2. KEEPIT Handsome Beard Moisturizer $22.00 from www.keepithandsome.com 3. Outlaw Body Wash in The Gambler $14.00 from www.liveoutlaw.com 4. Outlaw Body Lotion in Blazing Saddles $15.00 from www.liveoutlaw.com 5. Dr. Tusk Hemp + Caffeine Deodorant in Burmese Sandalwood $11.00 from www.drtusk.com 6. Dr. Tusk 3-in-1 Shave Cream $12.00 from www.drtusk.com
THE NEXT CHAPTER Y O U ’ V E B E E N D R E A M I N G O F.
F O U R N E W N E I G H B O R H O O D S . E N D L E S S N E W W A Y S T O L I V E Y O U R S T O R Y.
Sometimes things line up perfectly—the right home in the right place at the right time. If you’re looking for something amazing on all fronts, we invite you to tour our new neighborhoods at Tesoro Viejo, where an extraordinary lifestyle is complemented by stylish homes with airy interiors, oversized kitchen islands, and a long list of included energy efficient features.
A L T U R A – New Phase
H I C K O R Y – New Models
I V Y – New View Lots
O A K S – Luxury Homes
1,581 to 2,205 approx. sq. ft. From the low $300s
1,960 to 3,384 approx. sq. ft. From the low $400s
1,846 to 2,953 approx. sq. ft. From the low $400s
2,278 to 3,741 approx. sq. ft. From the high $400s
TESORO VIEJO AMENITIES
Resort-Style Clubhouse | New Hillside K–8 School | 14 Miles of Walking/Biking Trails Scenic Landscape | Town Center with AXIS Coffee Bar & Eatery | Madera County Fire Station No. 7
McCaffreyHomes.com
TM
Hwy 41 & Tesoro Viejo Blvd. | Sales Office Hours Tues – Sat 10am-6pm, Sun & Mon 11am-5pm | Walk-ins Welcome 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 Offi ce. 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.
Life. Unprecedented.
—66— SEP | OCT
THE MODERN MAN
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Managing Editor Lauren Barisic
ellness is a buzzword in our modern age—it captures the idea of mind, body, and soul working in tandem to achieve the most toned version of one’s self. It is a universally sound concept, yet the term seems to be primarily associated with women’s well-being. Men have recently boarded the wellness train, albeit in their own way. What does wellness mean to men? “In today’s world, ‘wellness’ to a man implies more than it did 10 years ago,” answers Kasey Kahl, owner of The Body Building in Clovis, California. “Simply, wellness for men entails the overall encompassing feeling of being most optimal in your physique, endurance, sexual performance, and overall health.” With the gender gap closing, it makes sense for men’s and women’s overall values, from health to head, to align. How we take care of our bodies, emotions, and relationships goes hand-in-hand with this principle—good health and soundness of mind is just as much about your loved ones as it is about you. How we conduct our personal lives greatly affects our external actions as well, such as professional and community work. Men’s health, fitness, and wellness needs don’t differ much from those of women. “We both want relatively the same outcome—to feel and look our best,” says Kahl. We all know that a balanced diet, plenty of water, and exercise form the foundation for good health at any age, but wellness is about the bigger picture. Feeling and looking your best is rooted in confidence, regardless of gender. When our best is achieved, performance is enhanced. Everyone’s needs and priorities are different in this regard, and facilities like The Body Building help people tailor treatment plans to individual objectives. Having a knowledgeable team to turn to is a valuable resource, but, living in the age of social influencers, it is also easy to find trusted resources from the comfort of anywhere with internet access—being your own advocate can help boost confidence in knowing what to ask, trust, and research further, making wellness accessible on any budget. The biggest barrier to men’s wellness, physically and psychologically, tends to be perceived financial loss. “Most assume health, wellness, and fitness will break the bank,” Kahl explains, “or that their only option to reach their end point is to go under the knife, which is inaccurate.” There are various affordable services that allow men to reach their wellness goals with minimal costs. Therapies and treatments such as pill-form and intravenous vitamins, cryotherapy, chiropractic services, and testosterone injections are affordable and have become increasingly popular amongst male clientele, according to Kahl. In recent years, the evolution of men’s health has been transcendent as the caliber of technology and products available continues to skyrocket. Vitamin treatments continue to advance in leaps and bounds. A slew of men’s multivitamins have been on the market for years, but they are now cleaner and purer than ever before. Numerous vitamins and supplements
specifically geared toward men are now available, eliminating any and all excuses that come with hectic, on-the-go lifestyles. Men who wish to up their vitamin intake can even have them administered intravenously by a professional, which has increased the popularity of IV therapy infusion bars. Several clinically administered therapies and treatments have gained especial popularity in recent years. Vasper training systems generate the illusion of a 5-hour workout in just 21 minutes through the use of multimodality technology. Cryotherapy, sometimes referred to as cold therapy, is the localized or general use of freezing or near-freezing temperatures to treat a variety of tissue lesions. Joseph Pilates, who invented the exercise bearing his name, once said, “A man is as young as his spinal column,” and without proper alignment, a host of health problems can ensue— chiropractic services can help reduce the risk of common male health issues, including erectile dysfunction. Testosterone helps maintain men’s bone density, fat distribution, muscle strength and mass, facial and body hair, red blood cell production, sex drive, and sperm production. Levels generally peak during adolescence and early adulthood, with testosterone production gradually declining at a rate of about one percent a year after the age of 30 or 40. Routine doctor visits are important to determine if low testosterone levels are due to normal aging or hypogonadism—a disease that affects the body’s ability to produce normal amounts of the hormone. The Mayo Clinic reports that hypogonadism due to aging can be treated naturally with weight loss and by increasing muscle mass through resistance exercises. If that isn’t enough, testosterone injections can help reverse its effects, improving sexual function and affecting physical and emotional changes. It shouldn’t come as a surprise that men are increasingly using one of the most well-known injectables on the market. “Recently, we’ve been seeing an influx in the coined term ‘Brotox,’ which is Botox administered on males,” explains Kahl, “reinforcing the idea that men are caring more about their appearance and aging backwards!” Along with combating the fine lines and wrinkles that come with aging, botulinum toxin injections also effectively treat hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) and migraines. According to data collected in 2017 by the American Society for Plastic Surgeons, Botox for men makes up almost ten percent of all “cosmetic surgeries,” despite the fact that there is no knife involved. Botox is a costeffective option for men who want to manage the aging process without downtime or risk of surgery. As with women, men’s health, fitness, and wellness routines must evolve with age, which requires launching new practices and/or treatments, and pioneering new ones. “Very similar to aging, we have no choice but to age; we then have to figure out how to be our best selves at that stage of life,” imparts Kahl. This involves listening to your body and providing whatever it may need, physically and emotionally. With every birthday, re-evaluate how in-shape, healthy, and overall confident you are in your current state of wellness. There are countless sources to help you look and feel your best—take advantage of them!
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High Fashion Function
LUX looks Fashion Trends
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Fashion Editor Melissa Souza
Sweatshirts get a high fashion twist. The uniform of the cool is form meets function. Combine off-duty staples (like sock sneakers and goggle sunglasses) with luxury brand elements. Highlight that wellness glow with neon accents, and don’t forget your coordinated, eco-friendly mask. 3
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1. Haculla One of a Kind Face Mask $90.00 from www.farfetch.com 2. Arvin Goods Casual Socks in Blue Heather $14.00 from www.outerknown.com 3. Thom Browne Unconstructed Overcoat in Blue $1,890.00 from www.farfetch.com 4. Balenciaga Speed Sock Sneakers in Black White Neon $795.00 from www.farfetch.com 5. Topman Slim Fit Cargo Jeans in Black $85.00 from www.nordstrom.com 6. Izipizi Sun Glacier Glasses in Yellow Citrus $80.00 from www.alternativeapparel.com 7. Karl Lagerfeld Neon Ikonik Sweatshirt $225.00 from www.farfetch.com 8. MSGM Neon-Logo Messenger Bag $111.00 from www.farfetch.com
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—70—
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SEP | OCT
LUX looks
THE D E T C U R T RECONS
Fashion Trends
T I U S K C TRA Fashion Editor Melissa Souza
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Get on the right track in luxe layers. A high-performance pant, like this Moncler tracksuit option, perfectly anchors all the pieces in your closet with sporty flair. Top with a vest—a purposeful choice for elevated streetwear style, ideal for Friday casual or date night chill. 7
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1. Buck Mason Anti-Microbial Prevention Face Mask 5-Pack $20.00 from www.buckmason.com 2. Mazzucato Rim Reversible 48mm Watch in Black $1,761.00 from www.farfetch.com 3. Thom Browne 4-Bar Down Quilted Vest in Grey $1,690.00 from www.farfetch.com 4. Thom Browne 4-Bar MidCalf Socks in Black $170.00 from www.farfetch.com 5. Valentino Garavani VL7N Low-Top Sneakers in Black $795.00 from www.farfetch.com 6. Moncler Grenoble Zipped Hem Stripe Trousers $750.00 from www.farfetch.com 7. Iffley Road Sidmouth Piqué T-Shirt in Grey $75.00 from www.matchesfashion.com 8. Thom Browne Leather Pocket Backpack in Grey $1,550.00 from www.farfetch.com
R eE v e nt nt al s
E V E N T S
Expo Events and Tents
Event Rentals • Custom Designs • Tradeshow Set-up & Design • Audio Visual 3714 N. Valentine, Fresno, CA 93722 | exporentals.com | 559.495.3300 Photo by Ambient Art
—72— SEP | OCT
LUX looks Fashion Trends
Sidewalk
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Slam-Dunk Fashion Editor Melissa Souza
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What’s big, baggy, and has an elastic waist? Basketball shorts. Despite being so comfortable and a favorite around the house, there aren’t many scenarios where these bad boys are appropriate. But with sharp details and intentional styling, your favorite loungewear can shine off the court. 5
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9 1. Everlane The Mover Pack in Black $88.00 from www.everlane.com 2. Osklen Regata Tank Top $95.00 from www.farfetch.com 3. Salvatore Ferragamo Gancini iPhone 11 Pro Case $295.00 from www.farfetch.com 4. Givenchy Paneled Bomber Jacket $1,215.00 from www.farfetch.com 5. Yohji Yamamoto Strap Detail Shorts $1,933.00 from www.farfetch.com 6. Raeburn Logo Beanie $72.00 from www.farfetch.com 7. Adidas Face Covers 3-Pack in Black $20.00 from www.adidas.com 8. Rombaut Boccaccio Boots in White $395.00 from www.farfetch.com 9. Stella McCartney Eyewear Oversized Sunglasses $346.00 from www.farfetch.com