September / October 2020 InFluential Magazine

T HE A RT O F LI V IN G W ELL WWW.INFLUENTIAL-MAGAZINE.COM SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2020

It’s Our Ninth Anniversary Edition!

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150

PAGES

OUR INFLUENTIAL GIFT GIVING GUIDE

EXCLUSIVE

BEAUTY EXCLUSIVE FEATURES FASHION & STYLE FOOD & BEVERAGE HEALTH & WELLNESS INFLUENTIAL SPOTLIGHTS INNETWORK LIFESTYLE TECHNOLOGY

FAYRUZ BENYOUSEF Believes Each Day is a Gift and the Best Day of the Week is Today

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF KOREY HOWELL PHOTOGRAPHY GROUP. HAIR AND MAKEUP BY LIVIA POPE OF ALL DOLLED UP ATX.

CONTENTS

IN FLUENCE BEAUTY

64 | Beard Care and Grooming Guide

8 Ways to Maintain Your Beard FASHION & STYLE

80 | Exclusive James Bond Collection at Fashion Eyewear 84 | Aranyani Presents Artistry, Beauty,

Harmony, and Mindfulness. The Exquisite.

90 | Fall Fashion We’re Swooning Over From French Knot 96 | Ladies, Feel Confident Whatever Your Shape or Style with Boux Avenue

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FASHION EDITORIAL

104 | AMAZONAS

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EXCLUSIVE 12 | FAYRUZ BENYOUSEF BELIEVES EACH DAY IS A GIFT AND THE BEST DAY OF THE WEEK IS TODAY 28 | GASTON MARTINEZ ~ THE ROAD MIGHT BE BUMPY, BUT DON’T EVER GIVE UP ON YOUR DREAMS 70 | INTERNATIONAL FASHION MODEL CRISTIAN GRASSI IS FOLLOWING HIS PASSION

FOOD & BEVERAGE

118 | Chocolate as Medicine? Yes! These Gourmet

Chocolates are Packed with Powerful Adaptogens 122 | Featuring Chef Ed Harris, Executive Chef and Founder of Chef Life Consulting 126 | Featuring Erica Barrett, Founder and CEO of Southern Culture Artisan Foods 128 | For a Limited Time PBfit Introduces Pumpkin Spice Flavor 132 | Southern Spiked Sweet Tea is Delicious HEALTH & WELLNESS

138 | This Nine-Year-Old Vegan is Helping

Kids Learn STEM While Cooking at Home 140 | Tips to Get the Whole Family Moving at Home 144 | Life After Staying at Home Will We All Start to Eat Better?

146 | The Brink of Mental Exhaustion: Importance of Refueling Mind, Body, and Soul 150 | Foot Care Tips for Those with Diabetes 152 | Simple Ways to Soothe Your Teething Baby LIFESTYLE

164 | Vibrant and Warm, Fragrant and Wild 182 | 8 Truly Unique Camping Experiences

FEATURE 40 | THE ROLLING STONES OPEN ‘WORLD EXCLUSIVE’ FLAGSHIP STORE ON CARNABY STREET 44 | POST-PANDEMIC SALON SAFETY TIPS FROM CELEBRITY HAIR COLORIST MICHAEL CANALÉ 48 | 5 REASONS THE BMW PERFORMANCE CENTER WEST IS A TRAVEL ITINERARY IMPERATIVE 52 | STRENGTHEN MENTAL HEALTH BY EMBRACING CULTURE 154 | GOODING & COMPANY JOINS CONCURS OF ELEGANCE TO PRESENT THE GREATEST AUCTION OF THE YEAR

INFLUENTIAL SPOTLIGHT 58 | FEATURING DEVEN POWERS 190 | FEATURING BIANCA CORAL PUENTE VALENZUELA

170 | OUR INFLUENTIAL GIFT GIVING GUIDE

186 | 5 Ways to Encourage Your Cat to Drink More Water TECHNOLOGY

188 | Introducing Cure.fit: The Only Health

and Fitness App You’ll Ever Need

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IN NETWORK PEOPLE YOU SHOULD KNOW

10 | Will Henson

EDITORIAL CREDITS

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR shall be signed with a full name; please include a daytime phone number, full mailing address, or e-mail address.

Letters shall be no longer than 300 words. We reserve the right to edit all submissions. Letters may not be edited, added to, or changed by the sender once we receive them.

CHIEF BUSINESS OFFICER / EDITOR-IN-CHIEF / CHIEF CREATIVE DIRECTOR / CHIEF REVENUE OFFICER William Jackson, ABA, B.Acy., MBA, GQ Insider, 2018 Folio: 100 Honoree Round Rock, Texas EDITORIAL TEAM Beauty Editor: Kelli Ponce Fashion & Style and Technology Editor: William Jackson, ABA, B.Acy., MBA, GQ Insider, 2018 Folio: 100 Honoree Health & Wellness Editor: Ingrid Garner

WRITING TEAM Contributing Writers Dr. Kent Bradley, Chief Health and Nutrition Officer, Herbalife Nutrition Susan Bowerman, MS, RD, CSSD, CSOWM, FAND Merilee Kern, MBA Guest Contributing Writer William Jackson, ABA, B.Acy., MBA, GQ Insider, 2018 Folio: 100 Honoree

ART & PRODUCTION Creative Services

What Taller Gráfico Argenis Gudino

Jose Luis Venegas Quintero Contributing Photographers Aranyani Barton Perreira BMW Performance Center West Boux Avenue Susan Bowerman, MS, RD, CSSD, CSOWM, FAND Dr. Kent Bradley, Chief Health and Nutrition Officer, Chef Life Consulting, Herbalife Nutrition Michael Canalé–Anderson Group PR Colombiamoda 2020 The Concours of Elegance Harlow’s Harvest Korey Howell Photography PBFIT French Knot McQueens Flowers IZO Priscilla Miranda Maurizio Montani Isabelle Ruen RS No.9 Carnaby Fernando Sada Southern Culture Artisan Food

For Letters to the Editor please email: editor@influential-magazine.com.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF KOREY HOWELL PHOTOGRAPHY GROUP HAIR AND MAKEUP LIVA POPE OF ALL DOLLED UP ATX

For Advertising inquiries please email: ads@influential-magazine.com.

For Beauty inquiries please email our Beauty Editor, Kelli Ponce: Kelli@influential-magazine.com.

For Fashion & Style and Technology inquiries please email William Jackson, ABA, B.Acy., MBA, GQ Insider, 2018 Folio: 100 Honoree: William@influenital-magazine.com.

For Health & Wellness inquiries please email our Health & Wellness Editor, Ingrid Garner: Ingrid@influential-magazine.com.

For Public Relations inquiries please email: pr@influential-magazine.com.

For general information inquiries please email: info@influential-magazine.com.

Members of W. Jackson & Associates are BMI affiliates American Graphic Design Award Winning Magazine Recipient of the Lux Life 2018 Entertainment Awards for Best Lifestyle Magazine 2018 – Texas

Our mailing address InFluential Magazine, P.O. Box 1811, Round Rock, Texas 78680.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the Founder & Chief Business Officer. All the rights of the artwork and photography belong to the Founder & Chief Business Officer.

InFluential Magazine is Round Rock, Texas owned and operated.

Recipient of the American Graphic Design Award Greater Austin Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Capital of Texas Awards Univision Communication Media Award Finalist

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A NOTE FROM OUR FOUNDER AND PUBLISHER

AN ANNIVERSARY IS A TIME OF REFLECTION; TO LOOK BACK AT PAST SUCCESSES AND FAILURES AND FORWARD TO THE FUTURE, PUTTING WISDOM GAINED THROUGH EXPERIENCE TO USE.

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t’s a time to examine what has worked and what has not, develop strengths and improve weaknesses, and strategize and plan accordingly. These steps are valuable, since as a small business owner, it’s easy to get caught up in the details of daily operations and lose sight of long-term goals.

With every September / October edition we observe another anniversary of our multi award-winning magazine which eventually proudly came to include Spanish InFluential and Teen InFluential. This year, 2020, marks our ninth year of telling riveting stories of how folks around the world are “Dedicated to the Art of Living Well”.

Our Premiere Issue, published in September 2011, was 60 pages. Somehow, with few contacts and no reputation on which to stand, we were able to have a successful launch.

Our eager and excited team had no direct experience in design, production, or journalism; but we had a plan, great determination, and the business sense to partner with individuals who possessed the skills lacking. Through the years, our business

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has grown and evolved from its modest beginnings. We’ve embraced the inevitability of change and steered our way through unforeseen challenges.

As always, with each September / October edition, we express our large heartfelt appreciation for those of you who’ve continued to support us through nine amazing years. We beg you to continue to act prudently, with kindness, and empathy. We eagerly look forward the time when we’re able to socialize with you in person.

Peace & Blessings,

William Jackson, ABA, B.Acy., MBA, GQ Insider, 2018 Folio: 100 Honoree, and Founder, Chief Business Officer, and Publisher of InFluential Magazine, Spanish InFluential, and Teen InFluential

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IN NETWORK

A Person You Should Know

Who He Is: Will Henson, Psy.D, is the Co-founder and Clinical Director of 321 Insight, a digital platform that equips educators with actionable strategies and guidance through online tools, videos, and resources.

Dr. Henson is a licensed clinical psychologist and education consultant, teaching best practices for supporting students with emotional and behavioral disorders. His first book Behavior Support Strategies for Education Paraprofessionals was published in 2008.

Filling A Need: Dr. Henson’s guiding principle is all educators should feel empowered to meet the needs of today’s students. Too many trainings today don’t go far enough either by not translating into better decisions or reaching critical staff such as paraeducators.

He recognized the void in digital training opportunities that truly focus on trauma-informed practices, behavior management and support, inclusion strategies, and support strategies for diverse learners.

Trauma-Informed Learning: Educators are responsible for managing students’ behaviors on an almost daily basis.

Dr. Henson believes all school districts should prioritize trauma-informed training, and to make it accessible anytime and anywhere. That’s why his on-demand digital content platform is so essential for all school staff, including teachers, paraeducators, bus drivers, cafeteria staff, custodians, office staff, and school resource officers. With almost 45% of students in school today having enough adversity to impact their chance of success, this type of approach has never been more important.

WILL

HENSON, PSY.D

Co-founder and Clinical Director 321 Insight Portland, Oregon

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New Challenges: Dr. Henson understands educators and students alike are being presented with new challenges and opportunities this school year.

He encourages school districts to remain intentional in planning and delivering instruction, to maintain high expectations while providing high levels of support to students. Citing higher than normal expected rates of stressors and adversity, Dr. Henson is working with districts around the country to make trauma-informed practices part of their lens in working with students.

EXCLUSIVE

Fayruz Benyousef

BELIEVES EACH DAY IS A GIFT AND THE BEST DAY OF THE WEEK IS TODAY FAYRUZ BENYOUSEF IS FOUNDER AND PRINCIPAL OF FAYRUZ BENYOUSEF CONSULTING (KNOWN AS FBC). SHE IS PASSIONATE ABOUT THE VITAL SPACE PHILANTHROPIC ORGANIZATIONS HOLD IN ALL COMMUNITIES AND HAS MADE IT HER MISSION TO SUPPORT THESE ORGANIZATIONS AND THEIR LEADERSHIP, BOTH PROFESSIONALLY AND PERSONALLY.

F

ayruz is a frequently sought-after keynote, presenter, and coach at regional and national educational seminars on issues of fundraising, governance, and leadership. As a seasoned certified fundraising professional and woman of color that has lived on two disparate continents, she leverages her 26+ years of experience to help implement transformational change and sustainable infrastructure in a variety of organizations in both the nonprofit and forprofit sectors. Fayruz is known for her extraordinary method of solutions based problem-solving and strategic thinking; she’s a philanthropy advisor and expert

committed to the success of noble missions and the people who are leading them.

For Fayruz, philanthropic responsibility and civic engagement is a fundamental part of her core values. She walks her talk by supporting the work of a variety of nonprofits with her time and her own personal leadership giving. She served two terms as Board President for the Association of Fundraising Professionals of Austin where she helped to shape and implement the organization’s strategic goals, leveraging the fundraising profession and ethical philanthropic practice in the Austin community.

kINTERVIEW WRITTEN AND CONDUCTED BY WILLIAM JACKSON, ABA, B.ACY., MBA, GQ INSIDER, 2018 FOLIO: 100 HONOREE, AND FOUNDER, CHIEF BUSINESS OFFICER, AND PUBLISHER OF INFLUENTIAL MAGAZINE, SPANISH INFLUENTIAL, AND TEEN INFLUENTIAL PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF KOREY HOWELL PHOTOGRAPHY GROUP. HAIR AND MAKEUP BY LIVIA POPE OF ALL DOLLED UP ATX. 12

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EXCLUSIVE

“

Our mantra is happiness comes from helping others.

We’re deeply committed to serving and supporting.

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She has been awarded the Outstanding Fundraising Professional of the Year award by AFP Austin in recognition of her work.Fayruz was named a 2017 Ethics in Business and Community Award Winner and won the 2017 Team of the Year award by the Leukemia Lymphoma Society when she was a Woman of the Year candidate.

She is a two-time cancer survivor, most recently surviving breast cancer after an arduous year-long battle in 2019 and is currently working on her first book that will chronicle her experiences as a Libyan expat surviving two conditions: forced cultural assimilation and cancer. Fayruz resides in Austin with her husband Malek Ben-Musa and their daughter, Yara.

Fayruz is an astute woman who I find fascinating. Her professional savvy and the visible way she conducts her personal affairs are inspiring. It was a pleasure for me to learn more about Fayruz and I’m thrilled to share our conversation. I hope after reading our Exclusive Interview, you’ll be just as captivated and inspired.

William Jackson: Tell me about the little girl who was Fayruz Benyousef.

Fayruz Benyousef: I was born in Tripoli, Libya during a very idyllic time, before the political climate changed drastically. My parents came to the United States to study for their graduate degrees in food science/ technology (mom) and engineering (dad). I recall being a ‘child of the world’ traveling between Europe, Africa, and the United States and having a very loving and happy childhood until cancer struck our family, and also we needed to seek political asylum for our safety.

William: What important values did you learn from your family?

Fayruz: Really so many positive values from a strong faith practice, love, integrity, charity, compassion, humility, perseverance, and many more. My parents both came from large families where the family bond is important.

I recall being connected to my grandparents and even my dad’s grandma for whom I still carry fond memories.

William: How did they impress upon you these values?

Fayruz: Faith and our traditions were central to the way we lived out these values. From learning both Arabic and English at a young age and impressing the importance of knowing my heritage and our traditions, to living with our families overseas and being immersed in a very old-world culture. I recall walking with my father and when he would see trash in the street, he would pick it up and explain to me why this mattered and how if each of us did our part, then our communities would be stronger. This meant everything from caring about our neighbors to cleaning up trash on the street.

William: What are the fondest memories of your childhood?

Fayruz: I recall many travels to so many places. Among my favorites were Disney World in Florida with my parents and Morocco with my grandparents. I also have an uncle who lives in England and I have fond memories of visiting him with my parents and grandparents too. As an only child, I wished for siblings, but I managed to also enjoy being on my own. One time when my mother had a food technology conference in Paris, I was in heaven in the hotel room that had a closet I was able to go into and shut the doors. It had all sorts of mirrors and I’d play with ‘imaginary friends’ and then when mom was finished with her conference each day, we’d stroll along the beautiful Parisian streets and admire the architecture. And we always had warm fresh croissants, of course.

William: Tell me about your experiences with obtaining secular education?

Fayruz: I attended a wide array of schools in my life and I’m grateful for it. It began in Pennsylvania where I attended a Montessori preschool and then when we returned to Libya, I went to an American oil school and a Libyan public school. This was in great part what helped me to adopt the languages so easily and be able to speak them without any accent, as I still do today. I attended public schools again in the United States until college when I attended one of the oldest private liberal arts colleges in the United States, Dickinson College, which was founded in 1773. In college I was fortunate SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2020

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to have supportive advisors and professors who allowed me to conduct many independent study courses in French and Arabic.

William: What do you love most about Malek and Yara?

Fayruz: Oh, what’s not to love about these two amazing beings? Malek is my soul mate. And Yara is our miracle child. She was born 2 lbs 3 oz and it was quite risky for both me and her, as I had an underlying blood pressure issue and she stopped growing in utero. But to look at her today as she is as tall as I am and thriving, I feel so blessed. She is curious, smart, generous. and so full of life. And Malek has been a rock for me and our entire family since day one. If there was a human definition of loyal, it would be Mal. William: How do Malek and Yara feed your soul and inspire you?

Fayruz: Every single day they inspire and give me meaning. During my cancer journey, all I could think about was how hard this experience must be for them and for my mother, who was and continues to battle metastatic breast cancer. The compassion and care they all have for me is unbelievable. I’m truly blessed beyond measure and so grateful to have my family who is unwavering with love and support.

William: How have you continued to lift them upward?

Fayruz: One thing this most recent health experience of breast cancer has taught me is how we’re not in control and how uncertain ALL of life is. We’ve heard from the start of the COVID-19 pandemic about the “uncertainty” of this time, and all I can think about is, ‘wait a minute.

Every single day is uncertain. Regardless of a pandemic or not’. That is the wake-up call you get when you go through a cancer diagnosis. When I see either of them have a down day or feel challenged, I do my best to listen and then to encourage them. Each day is a gift and the best day of the week is today. They do the same for me.

William: How does your family remain connected, thriving, and happy?

Fayruz: Our mantra is happiness comes from helping others. We’re deeply committed to serving and

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supporting. That’s part of what we’re called to do and in the fabric of many generations of our combined families.

We also love to connect via food and fellowship. The best experiences we have as a family are usually centered around service and also around food. We have a diverse array of friends and we love learning about their cultures, their traditions, and experiencing those things together.

It’s a circle of love, respect, and appreciation for all.

William: How do you live an exemplified life before Yara?

Fayruz: Now that she’s a young lady, I see so much of me in her. But she is also so much more, and it inspires me. Since she was young, I’ve taken her with me to participate in many service projects. From attending conferences and helping to volunteer and handing out awards at a graduation ceremony or actively being part of a fundraising team, I’ve included her to be part of these experiences. And I realize, too when I began my own firm in 2011, she was keenly aware of this and watching every bit of what was happening. Today she tells me how proud she is of me. It’s very touching, and I feel grateful to be a role model for her that she can do whatever she puts her mind to do.

William: Tell me more about Fayruz Benyousef Consulting aka FBC. Fayruz: We’re a philanthropy strategy firm based in Austin with clients who are and can be anywhere in the world. We work with both nonprofits and for-profits. We believe strongly in the power of relationships and in going the extra mile for all of our clients. Our experience has shown us word of mouth and longstanding partnerships are always the best when it comes to how clients find us, and we’re grateful for this.

Our work centers around three fundamental things: 1) Quickly being able to see the short- and long-term opportunities for our clients and helping them to articulate their vision in a compelling manner, 2) Making connections through our trusted relationships to help open doors and navigate challenges, and 3) Providing a diverse and helpful point of view that brings successful project outcomes. Our core work has been providing SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2020

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consulting for major gift / campaign fundraising strategy development, organizational strategic planning, and coaching for executives and boards.

More recently we’ve been working with companies and philanthropists who are wanting to create a charitable arm for their businesses. We’re also doing more in the diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) space as we’ve been invited to provide training and education in this area locally, regionally, and even nationally.

William: What was the inspiration to start your own business?

Fayruz: The dream of going out on my own was forced upon me. I know that sounds funny and odd. In 2011, when the Arab Spring was happening, we watched our home country where I was born possibly have a chance to be liberated and freed from the tyrannical regime of 40+ years. At that time, I was the CEO of an international NGO, a new job I was thrilled to have. As we watched the war unfold in Libya, my in-laws and I knew we had to do something to help. We formed a nonprofit called Libyan Hearts, to help with the post-war injuries and to help with the removal of the many landmines placed along the Mediterranean cost of Libya.

Just a few weeks before I was about to board an airplane to head to north Africa for almost two months, I had two past clients reach out to me and ask me to help them. That was the start of FBC. While we were in Libya conducting the Libyan Hearts pilot project of working with hospitals and the military councils, I was literally on a burner phone by candlelight (due to electricity blackouts) conducting meetings of a national board in the United States. I then returned home to Austin with a very full and busy schedule ahead of me. It was all so unexpected, but it was the best gift I could’ve received.

William: You didn’t grow up in great financial wealth.

What were some of the experiences and decisions that have helped you succeed?

Fayruz: I’d say I did grow up with wealth. Perhaps it wasn’t the type of wealth most would think of as ‘wealth’ – not the financial type. I had tons of love,

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a large bustling family, an accessible high-quality education, and I recall so much happiness in my years before my father was diagnosed with Leukemia when I was eight years old. Then things took a drastic turn. I believe his scary illness, followed by my own cancer diagnosis as a 16-year-old, losing him at age 17 to an aggressive relapse of Leukemia, all instilled strength and grit in me at an early age. I had to grow up very quickly and learn about life’s greatest tragedies through those times and as I succeeded in my schooling, landed scholarships and worked three jobs to put myself through college, these experiences all instilled a strong work ethic in me.

William: How important is it for you to be an effective leader?

Fayruz: My perspective on being an effective leader is it’s not about me. I believe no matter how much experience we gain, we can and should always be learning. And learning is both self-driven and through having humility to know we don’t have all the answers.

As I get older and hopefully wiser, I’m working hard every day to listen more and speak less. If the way I’m living my life can inspire and bring new knowledge to others, I’m happy about it. In the words of the legendary poet and icon Maya Angelou, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” That’s how I want to live my life.

William: How do you effectively manage conflict?

Fayruz: Ooh, this is really hard for me and a continued place of growth. I’ve found while I used to avoid conflict because my nature is to build harmony and camaraderie, I now strive to address it compassionately if I see it looming. When I take that approach, it can bring about clarity with the issue and we no longer have to hide from the conflict. It doesn’t always work, but more times than not, it paves the way for an outcome that is a resolution.

William: What is it that makes you tick?

Fayruz: When it comes to what gets me annoyed, it’s

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injustice and disloyalty. If I see injustice, any kind of injustice knowingly done to another, I cannot sit by and do nothing. Same goes for giving my trust and having it taken for granted. On the flip side, I’d say the things that give me joy are simple: helping others, being with like-minded people, and being creative.

For me creativity is many things: singing, meditating, writing, and even putting together a fabulous outfit.

William: How do you define philanthropy?

Fayruz: In my view, anyone who actively and selflessly seeks to help others is a philanthropist. It’s not just about giving large sums of money.

William: When did you get serious about philanthropy?

Fayruz: I took it seriously from day one on the job at my alma mater. I was so honored to have a serious job in advancement and to learn. And when I moved to Texas and began working for a prominent national firm, that drove it home even more. And now with FBC, it’s central to who I am on both a personal and professional level. I cannot imagine my life without being immersed in philanthropy. And I’ve been on the receiving end

Fayruz and her daughter Yara

of philanthropy too. When we had our first daughter Yara, she was a preemie and received life-saving milk from the Mother’s Milk Bank. And when we lost our 2nd daughter, Zayna, we benefitted from the Healing Hearts program at Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Texas. Most recently the support of the Breast Cancer Resource Center helped me and my Mama Nuria through our difficult breast cancer experiences.

Philanthropy’s gifts are all around us and are core to our communities. But there’s so much need and so much more that can and should be done.

William: How do you arrive at your philanthropic priorities?

Fayruz: It’s very personal for me and for our family. Usually we make it a priority to support the things with which we have a connection and serve in a volunteer capacity too. Our giving focuses on faith, health, education, and causes where our friends and loved ones are involved. I couldn’t imagine our lives without philanthropy being front and center; from giving of our resources to our time and talent. I fully believe through giving we’re able to live a happy and prosperous life.

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William: How do you protect yourself from absorbing overwhelming problems on a grand scale?

Fayruz: That’s such a great question, William. It’s difficult, without a doubt. And lately I’ve felt troubled about the fact despite there being so much wealth in the world, we’ve done little in comparison to alleviate suffering. There’s so much we can do, and I’m hopeful we’ll see the resources become unlocked by those with the ability to give in big and impactful ways. I tell myself that every single day I’m doing all I can on a personal and professional level to do good and to coach others on how to maximize their efforts. That gives me some comfort in knowing I’m exerting my energy in the right direction.

William: Is it important to let the pain in; to let your heart break?

Fayruz: As much as it pains me to say so, yes. I can think about several instances in my life where this has happened and while some of life’s circumstances hurt deeply, there’s intense learning and discernment that can come from it if we allow ourselves to be open to that wisdom.

William: Do you have to be vulnerable?

Fayruz: I have struggled with this question from time to time. After being disappointed or hurt, it’s part of our emotional defense system to say, “No more. I won’t let myself be vulnerable and get hurt.” But then that creates a jaded and dark wall within us. So, the learning has been, be vulnerable, but cautious. Otherwise, we may miss some of life’s most beautiful experiences and always wonder, what if?

William: I know to you be an effective fundraiser.

Let’s say you’re involved with a capital campaign for The Jones Center in Austin. You’re on the phone with a potential wealthy benefactor who is ambivalent about the arts. Why should that person be giving to the capital campaign? What’s the benefit to society?

Fayruz: Thank you. In a moment like this it’s an opportunity to listen to the prospective donor about what they’re thinking and feeling that is creating the ambivalence.

When I was the Chief Development Officer for Ballet Austin and we were planning the campaign for the Butler Dance Education Center, I learned people wanted to

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know their community had a thriving arts culture, even if they never attended the ballet, symphony, or opera. Arts aren’t just about the specific art form, but they truly shape our communities and broader society. Science and art are so interrelated, and you can’t have one without the other.

Have you ever considered when you look at a beautiful work of art or witness a ballet or listen to moving music, that you’re experiencing math and science too? My approach would be to listen and to find out what the benefactor seeks in his or her life and for the community.

And then to make the connection. Sometimes, it’s not the right time for engagement or it is not a fit, but through listening we can learn a lot and ultimately, the individual feels heard, and a seed is planted.

“

My perspective on being an effective leader is it’s not about me.

I believe no matter how much experience we gain, we can and should always be learning.

”

William: You’re involved with a variety of causes. How do you decide where to focus your personal attention?

Fayruz: It really comes down to the experiences that have shaped my life and how I can give back and pay it forward, as others have for me. During this pandemic I was invited to join two outstanding boards and I said ‘yes’ because they focus on women and girls. One is ConnectHER where I’m privileged to serve as Chair of the Board. ConnectHER invests in women and girls across the globe by elevating their status through projects, stories, and film. The other is the National Domestic Violence Hotline Board. While I do not have a personal experience in this realm, I’m passionate about lifting women and those who are vulnerable. And of course, when dear friends and colleagues ask me to learn about and support are causes in which they’re involved, I’m always eager to support them as much as I can.

William: How does your success impact what you are able to do?

Fayruz: First and foremost, I have to say that I’m grateful to have the career I do and to practice a craft I love. It’s been a gift to meet to work with so many community leaders all over the world and to have the ability to connect with people from all walks of life. I love being a ‘connector’ and assisting others achieve their goals. I view my success as a catalyst to help others.

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William: What do you believe about every single person?

Fayruz: I believe everyone is gifted and beautiful. We’re all given characteristics and attributes that embody beauty. And this is not about outer beauty in my mind.

People’s hearts and their treatment of others is what make them lovable or not. Additionally, we all suffer in some form or another during our lives. And we want to be valued and loved. We all want to find purpose and happiness. Sadly, not everyone starts from the same place in life, so it’s up to those who can help to do what they can to afford those opportunities.

William: How do we continue to become the best version of ourselves?

Fayruz: It’s an ongoing process. And I don’t know that we’ll ever get there in this life even if we live to be 100.

First, it begins with deep humility. Knowing we don’t have all the answers we must humble ourselves to this notion. I’m a voracious learner and thereby even as I’m half-way in my 3rd decade of experience, I believe I’ve so much more to learn and can’t wait to keep learning. I know, it’s nerdy. But it’s true. We also need to be kind to ourselves. As I’ve grown older, I’m working hard to give myself the leniency to listen to my body and soul and not crossing off every item on the “to do list.” Practicing self-care is critical to be the best of who we are.

William: Do you believe our society can cure its own problems?

Fayruz: I so believe we’ve the ability to cure our own problems. We created them. The question is if we will put our egos aside to achieve that goal.

William: If you have the capacity, how would you and your family contribute in this regard?

Fayruz: I’m imagining how wonderful it would be if all the energy and time we had was devoted to this noble goal. It would be both electrifying and daunting. We’d give, give, give; so much more than we do now. We’d volunteer and advocate passionately among others who have the capacity to do the same. And with every bit, share how these efforts are helping to alleviate

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suffering and to transform lives. And we’d not be seeking any glory for this. For us, it isn’t about the recognition, but what can and should be done. And inspiring others to follow in the calling to be and do good.

William: What are the problems you want to solve now?

Fayruz: Goodness. I don’t think there’s just one. Poverty and a lack of access to live safely and in a fair and just society are things that weigh heavy on my heart right now. The lack of access to quality healthcare is right up there as well. I’m also disheartened our community’s elders are suffering and overlooked in many ways. I’d love to see us adore and support older adults in the same manner we do our beloved children.

William: What is your tried and tested formula for facing and overcoming life’s challenging situations?

Fayruz: Gratitude. All day and every day. When I was told on November 2, 2018 “You have breast cancer,” I actually took a deep breath and after the first few seconds of shock thanked God for whatever this meant and would be. I submitted my heart and soul to this news and to God’s will, and just let go. It was hard but it was also a relief. I felt a strength come over me to just do whatever I had to do and a mental will that was not going to give up. With all of life’s many hardships, I’ve come to realize there’s much beauty and blessings within the experience. This attitude has given me the ability to manage hard times and overcome the challenges.

William: What are the greatest pleasures in your life?

Fayruz: My trusted relationships. We need the support and love of others in this life. I’ve been so blessed to always encounter good hearted and loving people. I love to laugh and to be inspired. I’ve learned to be present and awakened to see the beauty that surrounds me through my lens of gratitude. Whether nature’s beauty, being creative in my work, my love of music and singing, or seeing a philanthropic project materialize from inception to completion, I find delight and appreciation in every morsel of life. l

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EXCLUSIVE

kINTERVIEW WRITTEN AND CONDUCTED BY WILLIAM JACKSON, ABA, B.ACY., MBA, GQ INSIDER, 2018 FOLIO: 100 HONOREE, AND FOUNDER, CHIEF BUSINESS OFFICER, AND PUBLISHER OF INFLUENTIAL MAGAZINE, SPANISH INFLUENTIAL, AND TEEN INFLUENTIAL PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF IZO. 28

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GASTON

MARTINEZ

THE ROAD MIGHT BE BUMPY,

BUT DON’T EVER GIVE UP ON YOUR DREAMS

A

native of Durango, Martinez created the IZO brand to carry out his lifelong vision of preserving the legacy of pure, all-natural Mezcal for which his hometown is known. “In my family and culture, mezcal was a symbol of celebration and the pure enjoyment of life,” explains Martinez.

Alongside a team of hand-picked local talent, he proudly shares the experience of an award-winning mezcal - the first of many fine, handcrafted IZO agave spirits - with the world beyond Durango. Made sustainably from slow-roasted, wild agave hearts harvested on local ranches, every sip of IZO Mezcal speaks to generations of Mezcaleros bringing people together around shared values of community, celebration, and savoring the reward of a job well done.

GASTON MARTINEZ IS THE FOUNDER AND CEO OF IZO, WHICH SUSTAINABLY PRODUCES A COLLECTION OF PREMIUM HANDCRAFTED AGAVE SPIRITS ACCORDING TO CENTURIES OF TRADITION IN THE HEART OF DURANGO, MEXICO.

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EXCLUSIVE

Every aspect of IZO pays respect to its point of origin, from the locally sourced onyx stopper featured atop the bottle, to the elegant, minimalist design that allows the flavorful spirit within to shine. The smooth, sophisticated taste of IZO Mezcal tells the story of centuries’ old Mexican tradition and of one man’s vision to share it with the world.

I’m privileged to learn more about this vision from the man himself, Gaston Martinez, who graciously shares his fascinating story via our Exclusive Interview. Additional information about the IZO collection of sustainably handcrafted agave spirits is found at www.IzoMezcal.com.

William Jackson: Gaston, tell me about your experiences in Durango, Mexico.

Gaston Martinez: The small town in northern Mexico where I was born and raised is steeped in a rich, familyoriented culture. There were always gatherings and get togethers; we never needed a reason to celebrate.

This open-hearted, community-centered approach informs much of our work here at IZO. William: How were you introduced to mezcal?

Gaston: From my earliest days, I remember mezcal being a central part of family gatherings. My greatgreat-grandfather passed the tradition down to my great-grandfather, then my grandfather, then my own father, who shared it with me. It was presented as an all-occasion spirit, perfect for lightening the mood or pouring with good friends around good food.

William: We’ve seen this spirit spelled as mescal and mezcal. What are the differences?

Gaston: We tend to use its Spanish form, mezcal (/mɛˈskæl/). Although some prefer to spell it with an “s”, there really is no difference. Both are pronounced “MEZ-KAL” and refer to a distilled alcoholic beverage made from any type of agave. The word comes from the Nahuatl mexcalli [meʃˈkalːi] language meaning “oven-cooked agave.”

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William: Now, what many really want to know is the difference between tequila and mezcal.

Gaston: Both feature the agave plant; however, mezcal can be made from more than 50 species of agave grown in over nine local regions while tequila can only be produced using Weber Blue Agave.

Mezcal is crafted by slow roasting the agave hearts in volcanic pits, whereas tequila requires the hearts be steamed, usually in industrial ovens. Government regulations also require tequila be produced in the Mexican state of Jalisco, along with a few limited municipalities in Guanjuato, Michoacán, Nayarit, and Tamaulipas.

William: As a distiller, how do you grasp the fact there are hundreds of types of agave and many producers?

Gaston: We concentrate on our region only, which produces a distinctive Cenizo Agave growing wild among the desert landscape. Its complex flavor delivers a superior mezcal with a hint of light smokiness and clean finish.

William: What are major factors that affect the flavor profile of an agave plant used to create mezcal?

Gaston: We don’t cultivate our agave, we prefer to let nature do the magic, relying on wild-grown local vegetation with nothing added or manipulated. We also use 100% natural yeast for fermentation to keep the process all-natural. We don’t like heavy smoke, which overwhelms the senses and takes away from a well-rounded product. All the flavors should combine equally and artfully to produce a smooth finish.

William: Talk to me about the differences in the methods of cooking.

Gaston: At IZO, we use a volcanic fire pit oven and flavor the agave with sustainably sourced oak wood found through foraging rather than fresh cut. We layer volcanic rock over the wood, then place the agave on top, adding fibrous gabozo. Finally, we cover the pit with a 100% cotton blanket and seal the oven with a layer of dirt, leaving it to smoke for four-five days.

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EXCLUSIVE

wood

William: What is the key characteristic of mezcal?

Gaston: A good mezcal should be smoky. We like ours with a hint of sweet and citrus to balance the depth of flavor.

William: Many term mezcal as a complex spirit. Do you agree? And, if so, why?

Gaston: Absolutely. Mezcal is the only clear spirit with many layers of flavor built in; smoky, volcanic, earthy, citrus, and sweet; all perfectly integrate to produce a truly multi-dimensional spirit.

William: Tell me about IZO. Gaston: Each sip of IZO premium spirits joyfully celebrates centuries of tradition expressed through a modern environmental approach that is meticulously controlled from ground to glass. From the locally sourced onyx or

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featured atop the bottle to the elegant, minimalist design that allows the artisanal spirit within to shine, every element artfully conveys its point of origin. Delicious alone or in cocktails, toast every moment with the smooth, all-natural flavor of IZO premium spirits, available now at select Costco stores. Learn more about the IZO brand and shop its historic collection of pure-distilled agave spirits - including Mezcal Joven, Mezcal Reposado, Mezcal AĂąejo, Mezcal Ensamble, Sotol, Bacanora, and Tequila Extra AĂąejo Cristalino at IZOMezcal.com.

William: How many products are offered currently?

Gaston: The IZO line includes six premium agave spirits. l IZO Mezcal Reposado is crafted from wild agave hearts traditionally slow roasted over volcanic rock and offers a velvety, subtly smoky flavor perfect for sipping.

Aged at least two months in American Oak barrels, each

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batch carries a soft, seductive aroma of banana and green apples set against hints of warm vanilla and rich walnut. l IZO Mezcal Añejo also begins with the lightly crisp flavor of all-natural wild agave. After slow roasting, each batch is aged at least 12 months in American Oak barrels for a rich depth of smoky flavor that warms the soul. l IZO Mezcal Ensamble artfully blends distilled Cenizo and Lamparillo agave - each wild-grown and native to high-altitude areas of Durango, Mexico - for an earthy, full-bodied flavor with a delightfully fruity finish. l IZO Sotol is distilled from the slow-roasted Mexican “Desert Spoon” plant. Maturing over 15 years and yielding only one bottle per plant, the distilled Sotol carries hints of the lightly sweet piñas (or “hearts”) from which it is sourced. l IZO 100% Agave Tequila Extra Cristalino Añejo features the distinctive taste of Blue Agave native to the

Mexican state of Jalisco. Aged for three years in wooden barrels for complexity of flavor, the spirit is then charcoal filtered to produce a bright, blanco finish. l IZO Bacanora is double distilled in copper and stainless steel. Aromas of desert minerals delicately combine with the smokey tones of anise, apple, and pepper to produce a full-bodied yet softly smooth finish.

William: I’ve read even the manufacturing of the bottle is unique?

Gaston: The IZO modern aesthetic was developed with a nod to our Mexican heritage of quality craftsmanship.

Every detail is chosen with careful consideration of our local resources, from the custom glass bottle designs to the natural wood or onyx cap. Each aspect shares a piece of our culture and speaks to the quality of the fine spirits within.

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EXCLUSIVE

William: Have you seen IZO’s impact on the mezcal industry as a whole?

Gaston: IZO has introduced many fans of fine spirits to mezcal, giving them a chance to refine their tastes and experience the complexity of new flavors. Our mezcal is not overly smoky, it’s the perfect choice for those who wish to explore new flavor palettes.

William: How do you effectively manage the business aspects of IZO? Gaston: Our most important asset is our people. We hand harvest, handcraft, and hand process our product from start to finish. We’re a team, working in sync to continuously excel and bring the absolute best products to market.

William: How do you continue to gauge whether you are an effective leader?

Gaston: Constant communication is key; always remaining in contact with my team to encourage and support them. This is not a one-man show. From our

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wonderful marketing / PR, production, and design teams to everyone on the ground making our product, we’re all connected.

William: How important is teamwork as a key aspect of business practices that contribute to your longterm successes?

Gaston: People process our product. Communication between all of us is a must. We’re constantly looking to do our best and excel in everything for which IZO stands. I always encourage our team to reach out and ask questions, because we’re here to support one another each step of the way.

William: How do you continue to improve your position in the marketplace?

Gaston: We’re always planning next steps. Our profile, our style, making our spirits new with innovative ideas. We consistently search for what we can do next as we strive to bring the best products to the marketplace.

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William: Why is it important to preserve the legacy of traditional, handcrafted agave spirits for future generations?

Gaston: Mezcal is an essential part of our Mexican heritage. This is our long-standing tradition and we aim to keep it alive for future generations by respecting the process, finding ways to integrate sustainability, and pursuing a vision of how beautiful this product can be.

William: What is your favorite drink to make right now and why?

Gaston: Drinking it straight is always my favorite. Neat mezcal on the rocks with a twist of orange. The citrus oils bring out the true taste of the spirit.

William: How would you recommend someone enjoys IZO? Gaston: I understand a cocktail is the most common way to enjoy it. If you like margaritas, try a Margarizo. If you want it skinny, simply leave out much of the syrup. It’s very refreshing with a lot of citrus flavor.

William: Gaston, of what are you most proud?

Gaston: I’m immensely proud this journey has allowed me the opportunity to connect with wonderful people like you and our incredible customers and to share the proud tradition of handcrafted agave spirits with the world.

William: What makes you genuinely happy?

Gaston: There was a moment recently when I brought my kids to Costco and showed them our IZO Mezcal on the shelves. I told them, “If you have an idea and are persistent, you can bring any vision to life. The road might be bumpy, but don’t ever give up on your dreams.” l SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2020

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FEATURE

THE ROLLING STONES OPEN

‘WORLD EXCLUSIVE’ FLAGSHIP STORE ON CARNABY STREET

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THE ROCK ‘N’ ROLL LEGENDS THAT ARE THE ROLLING STONES HAVE OPENED A WORLD-FIRST FLAGSHIP STORE, ‘RS NO. 9 CARNABY’ AT 9 CARNABY STREET IN LONDON’S SOHO.

T

kPHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF RS NO. 9 CARNABY.

he new store, created in partnership with Bravado, Universal Music Group’s merchandise and brand management company, features all the hallmarks of the iconic band and include exclusive new fashion and merchandise under the ‘RS No. 9 Carnaby’ brand available instore and online beginning September 9, 2020.

The Rolling Stones said, “Soho has always encapsulated Rock ‘n’ Roll so Carnaby Street was the perfect spot for our own store. We are confident this exciting project that our friends at Bravado have created will be an unrivaled experience for everyone to come to London and enjoy.”

nes Red,’ the official color from Pantone which is established from the first use of the band’s iconic logo. A collection celebrating the Rolling Stones official Pantone color along with exclusive limited-edition vinyl will also launch with the store.

The band’s continuing album and single releases will be at the heart of the shop’s pulse and Bowers & Wilkins speakers will play tracks from the greatest rock ‘n’ roll band in the world including the upcoming release of the remastered Goats Head Soup album and Scarlet single. You can’t always get what you want, but you’ll be able to get what you need.

Jointly curated by the Rolling Stones and Bravado, the shop fit follows the brand colors of red and black and the glass floor features lyrics, while the fitting rooms are adorned with iconic album artwork.

Mat Vlasic, CEO, Bravado said, “With this innovative partnership, the Rolling Stones add yet another cultural touchpoint to their rich legacy. RS No. 9 Carnaby is the result of years of planning and decades of building one of the world’s most recognized brands. It creates a destination where fans can connect and immerse themselves in the music, style and spirit of one of the world’s most iconic and beloved bands.”

For those in the know, the store’s window features a world first soundwave installation - taken from the opening to the 1966 hit track Paint It Black.

The collections include exclusive and contemporary collaboration pieces for fans of all ages, including men’s, women’s and children’s fashion and accessories. A special glassware has been developed with Baccarat engraved with the Rolling Stones tongue.

One thing is for sure, fans of the band will want to stop soon into ‘RS No. 9 Carnaby’.

The store features chairs and scarves from The Soloist, and raincoats and hats from premium Swedish raincoat brand Stutterheim. The store introduces ‘Sto-

Learn more by visiting www.rollingstones.com and connecting via Instagram at @rollingstonescarnaby and #RSNo9. l SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2020

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FEATURE

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FEATURE kWRITTEN BY MERILEE KERN, ‘THE LUXE LIST’ EXECUTIVE EDITOR

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF MICHAEL CANALÉ–ANDERSON GROUP PR.

WITH THRONGS OF BEAUTY-MINDED FOLKS ENDEAVORING TO “SEE AND BE SEEN” POST-QUARANTINE AFTER A LONG AND ARDUOUS LOCKDOWN, IT’S TIME TO GET BACK ON BOARD WITH BEAUTY ROUTINES AND THIS CERTAINLY INCLUDES OUR HAIR COLORING EXPLOITS.

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POST-PANDEMIC SALON SAFETY TIPS FROM

CELEBRITY HAIR COLORIST

A

MICHAEL CANALÉ

s salons across the nation reopen, many are wondering how we can prepare for the new normal, one that ensures our health and safety in the pursuit of envy-worthy hair.

kWRITTEN BY MERILEE KERN,

For these answers and more, I turned to Michael Canalé, known to be Hollywood’s most sought-after colorist and co-creator of “The Rachel.” He’s reportedly revitalized actress Jennifer Aniston’s enviable hair for over a decade and is also credited to other A-list locks adorning the likes of Heidi Klum, Kate Hudson, Shakira, Penelope Cruz, and Carolyn Murphy.

of hair. He makes sure to protect and prevent damage, leaving clients with hair that is as healthy as it is gorgeous. This is also why his work has been published in Allure, Vogue, Vanity Fair, Women’s Health, Elle, Marie Claire, Redbook, Glamour, and New Beauty, just to name a few.

In fact, for over 30 years, Canalé has been called upon by celebs, models, and industry elites. His innovative technique and keen eye have made him highly regarded, not only for his corrective color method, but also for focusing on the natural beauty

‘THE LUXE LIST’ EXECUTIVE EDITOR PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF MICHAEL CANALÉ–ANDERSON GROUP PR.

Canalé shared this advice on how stylists and colorists can best keep clients safe, while accommodating the escalating demand for post-pandemic hair services. He also added some trend tips as well as how to get the best color and longevity out of your service. A true pioneer of his craft, Canalé is a rare and enduring SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2020

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FEATURE

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF WWW.SHOP.CANALESALON.COM

talent whose efforts will benefit untold beauty-seekers in the era ahead.

Merilee Kern: How can patrons stay safe while visiting a beauty salon?

Michael Canalé: Stay home if you don’t feel well or feel sick. Come alone; leave pets and kids at home to avoid overcrowding in the salon. Come to the salon with a mask and help do your part to keep everyone around you safe. Be prepared to have your temperature taken and sign a form regarding where you’ve been and if you’ve been traveling.

Merilee: What advice do you have for salon owners, stylists, and colorists on re-opening safeguards of which precaution-savvy consumers can also be mindful?

Michael: My advice would be to remember their training in school. Our training and licensing are based on 1,600 hours of learning how to properly sanitize and maintain a safe, clean, and sterile environment for our clients. Additionally, I’d say to fully set up all safety measures such as the sneeze guards, partitions (if needed), sanitizing tools at every station and extra masks for clients before officially reopening your salon.

I knew this was going to be the new normal, and so my salons prepared early, and the transition has been more seamless. Our salon input a red-carpet velvet rope to stop clients from entering the salon before having their temperature taken, along with forms to fill out regarding their whereabouts and standard questions.

Merilee: OK, let’s talk hair. How can customers get the best color from their stylist?

Michael: Bring in pictures and really discuss what you want with your colorist, along with listening and

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trusting them in what they think is achievable and best for your hair. I look at their eye color, face shape, and skin undertones to accentuate their overall look.

My assistants love that I say you cannot have a good haircut with bad hair color.

Merilee: Is there a secret for achieving the best color for your complexion?

Michael: Your skin undertones and eye color really do play a part in what color looks best on you. Face shape and personal style also play a role in what you feel comfortable with.

Merilee: What are a few of the biggest hair color trends of the moment?

Michael: I’ve seen a lot more women going back to their natural color or color that is easier for them to maintain. Because of COVID-19, we don’t know when or how long we’ll be able to keep seeing our hairdressers, so to have hair color that requires less maintenance is best. I’ve always stuck to the more natural hair color and highlight to accentuate your facial features. Using my products really allows your hair to maintain the best color, while it’s being protected.

Merilee:What are some highlighting or other techniques to prolong time between visits?

Michael: I don’t send any clients bleach. My salon has been great at making At-Home Color Kits for our base clients and for our highlight clients they’ve been receiving one of my signature glosses, along with their choice of conditioner. Both new and old clients have been sending in pictures so I can determine what kit to make and send them. My highlight clients that have been comfortable returning to the salon after

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conditioners, it can work great as a detangler, hair mask, and even styling aid. My clients and their hair love it.

our reopen have had the prettiest grow out of hair color. Although they aren’t so blonde anymore, they still look great.

Merilee: What’s new and exciting with you? Do you have any current projects or initiatives?

Michael: Currently, I’ve been working on my signature Canalé Gloss Collection. These are the first three of six. Each contains a UV sunblock along with our Canalé Cleanse and Soften that help maintain hair color and focuses on the skin undertones. Come midAugust, I’m launching a deeper blue, called Midnight blue. It’ll cool out warm brunettes, while removing yellow, and warm tones in blondes. Along with Cool Blue, these glosses were developed for clients with cool undertones. My Sunkissed Gloss will work with gold undertone and bring over-bleached and over processed hair back to life. It also works with golden tones such as baby blondes, strawberry blondes, and golden-brown red heads.

Additionally, I’ve two hair oils coming out in August, these are going to be great additives for the Canalé conditioners; Soften and Soften Plus. Once added to the

Merilee: Maintaining color between visits is a gold standard. Do any of your own products help facilitate this?

Michael: Yes, the c elongates hair color allowing you to go more days without washing. Along with my glosses, they last 20 shampoos and seal in hair color while giving your hair the shine to accentuate your undertones. The Cleanse and Soften items have been tested and proven to reduce fading and oxidation Merilee: I see you also offer dietary supplements. Do these support hair health and growth?

Michael: Yes, and my product line is about maintaining healthy hair. I’ve three hair vitamins; a topical called Nourish and two ingestible vitamins; Replenish and Replenish Boost. These products help hair growth both inside and out. I’ve seen Nourish bring in new hair growth around the client’s hairline while the Replenish vitamins thicken and help your hair grow.

Merilee: Where can folks access your salons and products?

Michael: Continue to stay safe and do your part to decrease the spread of this virus. We look forward to having you all back in our salon, feeling like yourself again. I’ve nine locations, which are in Newport Beach, Orange County, San Francisco, Beverly Hills, Pacific Palisades, West Hollywood, Dallas, Chicago, New York, and Washington DC. Additionally, my products are available on Amazon and on our website. l

About Merilee Kern, MBA Forbes Business Council Member Merilee Kern, MBA is an internationally regarded brand analyst, strategist, and futurist who reports on noteworthy industry change makers, movers, shakers, and innovators across all categories, both B2C and B2B. This includes field experts and thought leaders, brands, products, services, destinations, and events. Merilee is Founder, Executive Editor, and Producer of ‘The Luxe List’ as well as Host of the nationallysyndicated Savvy Living television show. As a prolific consumer and business trends, lifestyle and leisure industry voice of authority and tastemaker, she keeps her finger on the pulse of the marketplace in search of new and innovative must-haves and exemplary experiences at all price points, from the affordable to the extreme. Her work reaches multi-millions worldwide via broadcast TV (her own shows and copious others on which she appears) as well as a myriad of print and online publications. Connect with her at www.TheLuxeList.com and www.SavvyLiving.tv / Instagram www.Instagram.com/LuxeListReports / Twitter www.Twitter.com/ LuxeListReports / Facebook www.Facebook.com/LuxeListReports / LinkedIN www.LinkedIn.com/in/MerileeKern.

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FEATURE

5

REASONS THE

BMW PERFORMA CENTER WEST

IS A TRAVEL ITINERARY IMPERATIVE WITH THE TRAVEL AND TOURISM SECTOR HAVING TAKEN A GUT PUNCH THIS YEAR AMID CORONAVIRUS CONCERNS, MANY ARE SEEKING NEW AND INNOVATIVE WAYS TO ENJOY MEMORABLE VACATION ACTIVITIES; PARTICULARLY THOSE THAT ALLOW FOR INDIVIDUALIZED EXPERIENCES THAT INHERENTLY FACILITATE CROWD AVOIDANCE.

W

ith that, I’ve found a fabulous option in the BMW Performance Center West. This permanent performance driver training facility, located in Thermal, California near Palm Springs, offers one-ofa-kind experiences taught by BMW professional driving instructors on a private course.

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With up to 5.1 miles of expansive track layouts, the facility offers various driving programs and schools allowing participants to get behind the wheel of “the Ultimate Driving Machine” and learn key skills. Things like proper vision, basic car control, panic braking, handling, last-minute emergency lane changing, distracted driving, high-speed control and precision driving are all taught. Plus, it’s plain old adrenaline-inducing fun.

The facility, which opened in 2015, offers various driving solutions for people of all ages and capabilities, and they also have special programs and meeting space for private and corporate groups. So, your entire family can get in on the action (even teens with driver’s licenses)! There are multiple one- and two-day driving schools and experiences, private instruction, customizable events, and the opportunity to experience the expansive, luxurious facility in either BMW or MINI vehicles. Here are my top five reasons why this facility is a must-visit vacation destination, with the finer details courtesy of the BMW Performance Center West:

1

Private Instruction in the latest and greatest models

Instruction at the facility encompasses the full line of the newest BMW and MINI vehicles. In fact, there are

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kWRITTEN BY MERILEE KERN, ‘THE LUXE LIST’ EXECUTIVE EDITOR PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF BMW PERFORMANCE CENTER WEST.

ANCE

reportedly over 100 new models available for activities at the BMW Performance Center West.

Also notable is the fact that all BMW driving experiences and schools are taught by professional BMW Driving Instructors, many of whom are professional race car drivers with dozens of wins. They even hold two world records: Longest Drift in eight hours (232.5 miles) and Longest Tandem Drift (39.25 miles).

These BMW Professional Driving instructors teach you how to handle your vehicle in challenging situations

and conditions including accident avoidance, cornering, drifting, car control, braking and more. A skidpad allows drivers to feel oversteer and understeer, simulating hydroplaning or driving on black ice and providing the opportunity to learn how to handle those situations. The skidpad also provides advanced drivers with the thrilling experience of drifting. The tight performance track offers plenty of opportunity to learn how to control a vehicle at various speeds and cornering situations. Drivers can satisfy their need for speed and excitement on one of the four tracks and experience driving scenarios they’ve only ever seen in the movies.

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2

A variety of track experiences are available

In addition to BMW-dedicated tracks and a polished wet skidpad, some classes take advantage of the FIA certified racetracks of The Thermal Club. There are three tracks there with a combined length of 5.1 miles.

The North Palm track is 1.2 miles long, the Desert Palm track is 1.8 miles long, and the South Palm track is also 1.8 miles long. Their newly opened Off-Road Track allows drivers to experience extreme angles in the BMW X-series vehicles, splashing through water obstacles, driving over bumpy off-road trails and more.

The vertical angles are literally steeper than any street in San Francisco and the visual sensation is amazing.

Drivers often say, “I didn’t know a car could do that!”

3

A range of performance driving experiences are offered

Each BMW Performance Center West’s fun and actionpacked driving programs delivers a robust experience that you’re sure not to forget. These include: l BMW Performance Center Drive: This option packs a real punch with two intense and exhilarating driving sessions capped off with a Hot Lap by a Certified BMW instructor.

M Track Drive: This is the perfect combination of machine and track with six hard-charging laps on one of the tracks of The Thermal Club pushing a BMW M3 or M4 to its limits. Featuring the facility’s most powerful and responsive vehicles, the M Track Drive will put you behind the wheel of an M car for six exhilarating laps on an FIA Certified racetrack. You’ll follow an instructor’s car for a warm-up lap and learn the proper line for achieving the best time. Then, try to keep their car in your sights as speeds and g-forces increase, pushing your M car to its considerable limits. l

l The Ultimate BMW Mixer / The Track Meet: This

is a unique driving and dining experience that elevates gift-giving, business networking and client entertaining to a whole new level. It’s a great way to get a taste of

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what the group events can offer. The mixer is a halfday experience that includes a delicious chef-prepared lunch, three exhilarating driving sessions in a fleet of brand-new BMWs and a Hot Lap around the track with a BMW pro at the wheel. The afternoon is capped off at a private reception with hors d’oeuvres and beverages at the BMW Performance Center. If you do have business needs, the facility has meeting spaces with multimedia capabilities, site-wide Wi-Fi and both indoor and outdoor dining with a delicious catering menu.

3

Both one- and two-day car control schools open for adults and teens

Engage your senses and push through your comfort zone by learning vehicle handling, quick judgment, and accident avoidance skills; all developed in a controlled environment with a BMW-certified instructor observing and coaching via radio. These include real-world driving conditions and scenarios; wet pavement, emergency braking, and lane changes, distracted driving, and more.

For the two-day options, participants will build on and reinforce the skills and techniques learned on day one.

More seat time and real-time feedback takes driving

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abilities to the next level. Day two is when things really “click” and safe driving instincts kick in. This is also the day participants will experience an Instructor Hot Lap. There are a wide range of driving school options at the BMW Performance Driving Center that are available to individuals and groups, alike. Below is a brief synopsis of each: l Car Control School: Take the wheel of a BMW and head out to the track, where professional instructors will hone your driving skills. Understanding stability control, knowing what to do when a vehicle starts to slide on the wet skid-pad and practicing proper vision through the lane-change course will allow you to anticipate situations on a real road. Available as a one-day, or for even more in-depth instruction, two-day course.

M School: Take the wheel of a high-performance BMW M vehicle and experience the power of M firsthand. Accelerate, corner and brake faster than you ever have before, then learn to maintain control in low traction conditions on the facility’s wet skidpad and keep 400 horsepower under control. End the day with a hot lap in an instructor-driven M vehicle. Available as a one-day, or for even more pulse-pounding excitement, a full two-day course. l

One-Day M School: Learn the theory, physics, and mechanics of performance driving. M School builds confidence and consistency while perfecting control, handling, acceleration, and braking techniques. l

Two-Day M School: Take everything you learned on day one and push “GO.” Slaloms, drifting, braking, cornering at optimum slip, full- and modified-time laps at speeds you’ve only dreamed of. l

Advanced M School: Game on. M School graduates are an elite class of driver. They’ve proven that they’ve got what it takes to handle the ultimate challenge: BMW’s Advanced M School, held for two full days at road course tracks with pro Instructors, is the closest you can get to a racing experience.

MINI Motoring School: Take a John Cooper Works MINI Cooper and run it through an autocross course, lead/follow session and some stunt driving techniques, all under the watchful eye of a professional instructor. The mighty MINI will have you grinning from ear to ear all day long. l

MINI Tricks and Stunts School: The first half of the day gets you intimately familiar with the MINI’s handling and capabilities, but the fun meter gets cranked to 11 in the afternoon. They’ll cover silky smooth reverse donuts on the skidpad, J-turns and reverse turns. l

Teen School: There’s a lot for brand-new drivers to keep in mind and the BMW Teen School will allow them to experience how a vehicle feels at the limit in the safety of a closed environment. From wet skidpad exercises and panic braking to performing a double lane change, teens will leave with a solid foundation of vehicle control and a big smile. This option is available as either a one or two-day curriculum. l

5

Amenities abound

Set against a backdrop of breathtaking mountain views, the BMW Performance Center not only boasts a private course where only you can experience the Ultimate Driving Machine, but also a luxurious modern building, gourmet café, coffee bar and gift shop with exclusive merchandise that you cannot buy anywhere else.

In all, this is an unforgettable experience that also makes a great gift idea. With stay at home orders having been lifted, getting behind the wheel of a new BMW at the BMW Performance Center West is a “bucket list” excursion sure to leave you longing for more. l

l

Some or all of the accommodations(s), experience(s), item(s) and/or service(s) detailed above may have been provided or arranged at no cost to accommodate if this is review editorial, but all opinions expressed are entirely those of Merilee Kern and have not been influenced in any way.

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2020

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FEATURE

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STRENGTHEN

MENTAL HEALTH

BY EMBRACING CULTURE ONE IN FIVE U.S. ADULTS EXPERIENCE MENTAL ILLNESS EACH YEAR, ACCORDING TO THE NATIONAL ALLIANCE ON MENTAL ILLNESS, AND ADULT AFRICAN AMERICANS ARE 20% MORE LIKELY TO EXPERIENCE MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES COMPARED TO THE GENERAL POPULATION.

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“T

FEATURE

he factors that cause or exacerbate mental illness are often found in higher numbers among minorities,” said Dr. Rufus Spann, chief clinical officer with Henry Health, a culturally sensitive mental health organization. “Tackling this problem requires a unique understanding of cultural differences.”

begin with an online registration form, receive an email matching you with a therapist, login to the member portal to schedule an appointment and join your session from the convenience of a phone, tablet or computer.

Organizations like Henry Health make access to mental health care accessible and convenient for minorities, removing barriers to seeking treatment. The organization offers culturally intentional care delivered by practitioners equipped to treat any population dealing with emotional and mental health issues, and believes effective care follows three essential principles: it puts culture first, is evidence based and is built on best practices.

Common Stressors

This means culture and life experiences are at the center of therapy. Patients can expect their narratives will be not only heard and acknowledged, but also put into perspective to help gain a greater understanding of their experiences. Research shows therapists whose patients perceive them as having cultural humility deliver improved therapy outcomes. That’s why Henry Health therapists complete training that equips them with the skills needed to effectively address issues of race, ethnicity, class, and culture. A scientifically validated tool measures therapists’ cultural responsiveness and provides education and coaching to improve their cultural humility.

In addition to cultural considerations, therapy involves the noted clinical best practices of cognitive behavioral therapy and trauma-informed care. Cognitive behavior therapy is a widely used therapeutic technique that has lasting impacts on mental health outcomes while trauma-informed care ensures patients have access to safe spaces to examine, process and transcend trauma.

Getting Started It’s normal to be unsure or hesitant about trying therapy.

Some organizations even offer free 15-minute consultations so you can speak with a therapist before officially registering. When you are ready to start therapy, the process is usually simple. For example, through Henry Health, you

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Visit henry-health.com for more information or to register.

Culturally responsive care can help improve a variety of stressors, including: l Anger l Trauma l Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder l Domestic violence l Family and relationships

influential-magazine.com

l Money and finances l Race and racism l Health and illness l Jobs and career l Grief and loss

mental well-being is a process you can tackle one step at a time. Get started with these tips from Men Thrive, a digital community designed by Black men for Black men that focuses on providing the tools they need to thrive rather than simply survive.

l Substance use l Anxiety

Check In

l Depression

Be honest with yourself about how and what you’re feeling. Acknowledge your feelings even if you can’t name them. It can be more powerful than you may think. Then schedule a wellness call to assess your current quality of mental and physical health.

Live to Thrive Working constantly to get ahead without regard to the impact on your body, mind or productivity may produce the results you desire in the short-term, but the long-term implications are typically less favorable.

Shifting your focus from the familiar grind to your

Talk to Your Tribe Decide what you need from the people closest to you and be that to them. Identify a moment you would normally say, “I’m good” when you’re actually not and talk about what’s on your mind. Be honest if you don’t know what to do with what you feel and acknowledge that you’re tired of ignoring it, bottling it in and feeling the pressure.

Seek Culturally Responsive Advice Seek information and advice from an expert, like a therapist, who has professional and cultural intelligence that relates to your experiences and story. Research shows treatment outcomes greatly improve when cultural and historical knowledge are included in the approach to care.

Engage in the Process Place your focus on showing up whole, operating with joy and living with power. Aggressively pursue actions required to achieve a thriving lifestyle.

Join a Community A sense of community is essential to improving your mental health. A resource like Men Thrive can give you access to a community and a set of powerful selfmastery tools such as live segments, podcasts and guided meditation.

Explore more advice and resources at MenThrive. com. (Family Features) l SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2020

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INFLUENTIAL SPOTLIGHT

Powers FEATURING

BE AN INSPIRATION AND HELP MAKE THE LIVES OF OTHERS BETTER

D

kPHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF

ISABELLE RUEN. LOCATION FD STUDIOS.

even Powers, born Deven Lavale Purifoy on February 27, 1983 in San Bernardino California, is the tenth of 14 children. While growing up, his father was a pastor and mother a tremendous gospel singer.

Mr. Hollywood, as Deven is also known, started playing the drums at nine years of age and at 13 he was given his first drum set by a member of the legendary Gap Band. Soon thereafter, Deven became California’s state drummer in his church congregation.

During his freshman year at Rancho Verde High School in Moreno Valley, California, Deven joined their multi championship-winning marching band.

Deven has hosted the The LA Live Film Festival since 2018. He’s the Founder & CEO of Black Film Festival Los Angeles, Discover My Music Radio Awards and Mr. Hollywood Magazine. Deven has graced the cover of several popular local and national magazines and is hosting The Mr. Hollywood TV Show airing on AT&T U-Verse Channel 99, Charter Spectrum Channel 32, and coming soon to Amazon Prime. Mr. Hollywood has begun his ascension in the Hollywood scene and is the start of the upcoming film The Bad Boyz of Hollywood.

It’ll be thrilling to see the impact Deven will continue to make personally and professionally and we invite you to learn more about this star of the rise by visiting www.devenpowers.com.

Now, let’s chat briefly with Mr. Deven Powers.

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DEVEN

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JACKET & SHOES BENHEART.

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INFLUENTIAL SPOTLIGHT

InFluential Magazine: Deven, how do you describe yourself?

Deven Powers: I describe myself as an ambitious dude with a positive mental attitude. I basically go with the flow of life and go where the tide takes me.

InFluential: What important values have you learned from your family?

Deven: As a kid, I grew up in the church. My morals and values have always been faith based because of my upbringing. With my father being a pastor and my mother being a great gospel singer, they installed within me early on, the love of God and how to treat people.

InFluential: Talk to us about your love of music.

Deven: I love music, especially gospel music and while growing up in the church I was a drummer. I started playing the drums at age nine and by age 13, I became a California state drummer in my church congregation. I didn’t start writing songs and rhymes until a brief incarceration back in the early 2000’s where I used to engage in battle rap competitions with my fellow inmates. I’ve a new music video I Got California Love in heavy rotation around the world.

We’re currently at 100k streams worldwide.

I’m also working on the movie soundtrack for The Bad Boyz of Hollywood with lead singles Me & My Lowrider and The Detox Featuring TRU. InFluential: How are you taking charge of the trajectory of your career?

Deven: I’m creating opportunities, not only for myself, but for others. I love to do research and explore

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different avenues on how to break open new doors in Hollywood. I don’t just wait on an opportunity, I create it. This is the impetus for creating the Black Film Festival Los Angeles and Mr. Hollywood Productions 501 (c) 3. Through these endeavors, I’m able to manage my acting career .

InFluential: How do you describe working with the famed photographer Isabelle Ruen?

Deven: Isabelle Ruen is the best photographer I’ve had the pleasure to work with, and I’ve had the opportunity to work with several photographers. What I love about Isabelle is the fact she knows how to photograph me while capturing my best angles and features. She has a God given eye for photography which is a tremendous gift. What separates her is the ability to make me feel comfortable and flow naturally with every pose. I’m so honored to work with such a legendary and Iconic photographer.

InFluential: How do you make yourself comfortable in front of the camera?

Deven: When working with Isabelle it comes naturally.

Customarily, I like to grab my favorite candy, or a caramel frappe from Starbucks and set the mood. What really makes me feel comfortable is knowing the photographer I’m working with is comfortable InFluential: How do you want to make a lasting impact?

Deven: I want to be an inspiration to the masses. By educating and giving back to the underprivileged communities. I want to make the lives of others better. I appreciate you InFluential Magazine and thank you so much for featuring me I wish you plenty of blessings from God. l

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SUIT LORDS & FOOLS.

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INFLUENTIAL SPOTLIGHT

JACKET BENHEART.

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Powers FEATURING

DEVEN

FASHION PROVIDED BY IVAN BITTON STYLE HOUSE.

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IN FLUENCE

Beauty

8

BEARD CARE AND GROOMING GUIDE

WAYS TO MAINTAIN

YOUR BEARD

Wash It

Condition It

HUE - Core Shampoo

Keepit Handsome - Beard Moisturizer

Hue’s unique Core Shampoo is a blend of Salicylic acid and Ginger Root that will deeply cleanse, soothe and heal the hair and scalp. With a refreshing customized Hue Black Pepper scent, it’s perfect for everyday use. HUE was developed in recognition of the rapidly evolving cultural diversity in our world. Men of African, Asian, Latin, and Middle Eastern descent had specific hair and skin care needs. However, while formulating and testing the products it was found that they are truly FOR EVERY MAN.

Tired of a greasy, sparkly beard? Keepit Handsome Beard Moisturizer will hydrate the skin under your beard and help tame your unruly facial hair. Keepit Handsome uses a blend of emollients to ensure that your facial hair whether long or short is penetrated and hydrated all the way to your skin where it doubles as a moisturizer to the skin as well as beard. Prevent your beard from being dry and flakey by moisturizing it daily.

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WHETHER YOU’VE BEEN ROCKIN’ A BEARD FOR YEARS OR YOU’RE TRYING OUT A NEW LOCKDOWN TREND, UPKEEP IS ESSENTIAL. HERE IS EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO MAINTAIN YOUR BEARD AND KEEP YOUR FACIAL HAIR LOOKING FRESH.

Oil It

Nourish It

Outlaw Soaps - Magic Beard & Hair Elixir

Beard Buzz - Beard Balm

If you’d like to condition your beard with the quick-absorbing oil of jojoba, with the fine, woodsy smell of cedarwood essential oil and campfire, look no further than this beard oil. Outlaw Soaps’ Magic Beard & Hair Elixir soothes even the wildest bird nest of scraggly beard, while smelling divine. It can be used as beard oil, but also makes a great hair oil. Made by the fine folks at Outlaw Soaps, a tiny little soap company in the Silver State, Nevada, by people who love their jobs.

Beard Buzz is your daily dose of CBD nourishment whether you have a full-on man beard or a scruffy, no shave look.

The physician formulated balm rubbed in your beard and surrounding skin will make your facial hair healthy and irresistibly groomed. Using Beard Buzz CBD balm, your rejuvenated beard will no longer resemble the unruly mess it once did.

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IN FLUENCE

Beauty

Brush It

Style It

Wild Willies - Beard Brush

Bare + Bloom - Hair & Beard Pomade

Having the best beard means having the best beard tools in your toolbox. Having the best beard also means having the best beard brush. Luckily, Wild Willies carries the best beard brush on the market. Their beard and mustache brush is perfect for anyone who is trying to perfect their beard game. It’s made with boar bristles that are guaranteed to help you shape your beard with precision. Additionally, its sturdy construction fits evenly in your hand to ensure that it not only feels great on your face, but that it feels great in your hands as well.

Bare + Blooms’ style-enhancing formula offers a pliable hold, leaving you in full control of your look while locking in moisture to prevent frizziness and add luxurious fullness and shine. Not only does this pomade let you create magnificent flows and slick styles, but it’s also good for your skin. This natural hair & beard care product is free from ingredients that don’t belong on or in our bodies, yet it effectively promotes hair growth, thickness, and moisture retention. Also, that mustache twirl.

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influential-magazine.com

Trim It

Shave It

Wild Willies - Arsenal Men’s Grooming Kit

Dr. Tusk - 3-in-1-Shave Cream

This grooming kit is your one stop shop for all your men’s grooming needs that don’t involve your beard. l Arsenal Ultimate Grooming Set Includes: l Straight Edge Nail Clippers - trim nails & cuticles l Multi-Purpose Scissor - multiple use l Slanted Edge Clippers - trim nails & cuticles l Tweezers - multiple use l Nail File - file and shape nails l Scraping Tool - remove debris from underneath nails l Cuticle Stick - push cuticles back from nails l V-Shaped Push Stick - remove dead skin around nails l Needle and Loop Blackhead Remover remove dirt from clogged pores l Ear Pick – remove earwax

DR.TUSK Shave products are engineered for men and made with natural ingredients that men demand. This 3-in-1 Shave Cream took two years to develop and contains hemp seed oil, aloe vera, dragon’s blood and caffeine to specifically deliver a smooth shave, cool aftershave, and moisturizer in one formula. Dr. Tusk also works to preserve the elephant species, supports organic farmers and is a leader in environmental sustainability. l

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EXCLUSIVE

Cristian

INTERNATIONAL FASHION MODEL

IS FOLLOWING HIS PASSION

CRISTIAN GRASSI IS THE FAVORITE MODEL OF MANY INTERNATIONAL BRANDS. BORN IN ARGENTINA, HIS STRIKING FEATURES MAKE HIM ONE OF THE MOST RECOGNIZED MODELS IN THE INDUSTRY. kINTERVIEW WRITTEN AND CONDUCTED BY

WILLIAM JACKSON, ABA, B.ACY., MBA, GQ INSIDER, 2018 FOLIO: 100 HONOREE, AND FOUNDER, CHIEF BUSINESS OFFICER, AND PUBLISHER OF INFLUENTIAL MAGAZINE, SPANISH INFLUENTIAL, AND TEEN INFLUENTIAL PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF PRISCILLA MIRANDA AND MAURIZIO MONTANI.

Grassi J

ust For Men is a recent brand hiring Cristian to represent their hair and beard care products.

Cristian moved to Milan when he was 21 years old and began his international career in the fashion industry.

His fashion editorial work includes appearances in international magazines including GQ, Esquire, Cosmopolitan, Men’s Health, Elle, Glamor, Gentleman, Life & Style, and Arena. Soon thereafter, he started working for brands such as Garnier, Land Rover, Lee, Levis, and Scappino. Most recently, Cristian has done the campaign of Armani Beauty for Latin America, which opened even more doors for him.

Cristian says, “What I enjoy most about this profession is traveling the world and meeting people from different cultures; each new place is an adventure; a new world to explore. This profession has given me exceptionally good friends.”

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF PRISCILLA MIRANDA.

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EXCLUSIVE

“

...each job is an adventure.

Fashion is a profession where stories are created and you’re the main actor.

”

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PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF MAURIZIO MONTANI.

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EXCLUSIVE

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Cristian has not only worked with several celebrities, but also with some of the best fashion photographers in the business, such as Ben Watts and Martín Traynord.

One of the jobs Cristian enjoyed shooting the most, was the global campaign for Piz Buin shot on his favorite beach of Tulum, with the renowned model Nina Agbdal. Maybe one of the reasons is because Tulum is his favorite place in the world.

Cristian says, “Tulum is my favorite place in the world. My passion is to make hats, that’s why I’m the @intispirit brand ambassador. Inti Spirit is a brand of hats handmade in Tulum, México.”

William Jackson: Cristian, tell me about your life in the beautiful country of Argentina?

Cristian Grassi: I dreamed of being a rugby player. I loved sports, I trained hard and wanted to be able to dedicate myself professionally. In parallel, I decided to study sports journalism.

William: Speak to me about how you were discovered.

Cristian: One day I accompanied a girlfriend who had to take some photos, and the photographer offered me to take a couple of photos. I accepted, although I never went with that intention.

Those snapshots fell into the hands of a great photographer, Martin Traynor, who suggested he put together a professional portfolio.

I had no idea how to get in front of the camera, nor did I know anything about the medium. I was quite apprehensive due to my lack of knowledge about the profession.

William: How do you describe your personal style?

From where do you pull your inspiration?

Cristian: I like the bohemian look. I enjoy wearing ponchos, hats, rings, and bracelets. I believe in past lives I was a pirate, Lol.

“

I like the bohemian look.

I enjoy wearing ponchos, hats, rings, and bracelets.

I believe in past lives I was a pirate, Lol.

”

William: What do you believe, should fashion be fun?

Cristian: Of course, it’s fun; each job is an adventure.

Fashion is a profession where stories are created and you’re the main actor.

William: How are you going about building your personal brand?

Cristian: That’s a work in process. For the moment, I’m focused on and growing my brand of hats called Inti Spirit. These are artisanal hand-crafted hats made in the Riviera Maya region in Tulum. These are pieces of art that take a lot of energy, dedication, intention, and most of all, love.

William: Like playing a game of chess, how important is it to be strategic when planning your career long-term?

Cristian: In the beginning when you’re new to this industry, you need a manager to guide you and help to plan your career for the long run. As the road is long, you must be patient and wait for your moment to come. Many models are left behind because they’re not able to commit to the hard work it takes to become an active model in the industry.

William: What do you say is the value of social media and how do you use it wisely?

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF PRISCILLA MIRANDA.

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EXCLUSIVE

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EXCLUSIVE

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Cristian: Social media, in my opinion, is a fundamental new back bone of the industry. It’s now a source that gives more exposure than any other. I believe it can be immensely powerful if used correctly and at the same time it can bite if you post or do something about which your public doesn’t agree.

Cristian: It’s a profession and like any other, it has its pros and cons. There are days when you don’t feel like smiling at the camera, but you must do it.

William: How important to you in teamwork?

Cristian: Teamwork is essential. Without my agents and other professionals in my corner, I’d work much less.

William: What is your morning grooming routine?

Cristian: I get up early before sun rise and practice my yoga. This includes pranayama (breathing exercises) and meditation practices, then I prepare my Argentine tea and green juice.

William: Away from modeling, how do you relax? Any hidden gems we should embark upon for vacation?

Cristian: My vacations are always at some beach, either alone or accompanied by a good book.

William: Have you recently made any conscience lifestyle changes to help maintain your appearance?

Cristian: I’ve been practicing for seven years, yoga, meditation, pranayamas, and a diet based on plants.

William: Which living person do you most admire, and why?

Cristian: I admire my dad for all the love, education, and values he taught me and my sisters.

William: What is your weekly exercise routine?

Cristian: Yoga, bars, and functional exercises with my own weight.

William: Cristian, when are you the happiest?

Cristian: Every day, at the end of my yoga practice in the Savasana pose. Ah, that feeling of floating. l

William: How do you experience working closely with other models during photoshoots?

Cristian: Quite simply, teamwork is always more fun.

William: At times, the modeling profession is recognized for its less than stellar reputation of jealousy and egos demonstrated between other models and agencies.

Have you had encounters of such? How do you navigate through and make meaningful and lasting relationships?

Cristian: You can’t be liked by everybody and can’t take that offensively. I just follow my path without harming anyone; I don’t like drama.

William: Do you have moments of shyness in front of the camera? If so, how do you overcome?

Cristian: When that happens, just take a deep breath, and put my best face forward.

William: How do you describe the intensity of the modeling profession? Is it more strenuous than most people realize?

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF PRISCILLA MIRANDA.

“

Social media, in my opinion, is a fundamental new back bone of the industry.

It’s now a source that gives more exposure than any other.

”

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IN FLUENCE

Fashion & Style

EXCLUSIVE

JAMES BOND COLLECTION

AT FASHION EYEWEAR

C

kPHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF BARTON PERREIRA.

reate an iconic look with Barton Perreira’s exclusive Barton Perreira x 007 sunglasses, as seen in No Time To Die (2020). The sunglasses are finished with 007 inscribed temple and come with a limited edition 007 box, case, authenticity card and cleaning cloth.

The models called ‘Joe’, ‘Norton’, and ‘Courtier’ are all featured in the film, with the leading man wearing each on screen. Although the film has been delayed to November, get the official James Bond look in advance with these stylish glasses, exclusive to Fashion Eyewear in the UK.

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Patty Perreira, Co-Founder and Designer at Barton Perreira says, “We’re thrilled to integrate the Barton Perreira brand into such an iconic franchise and are excited for viewers to not only see the collection come to life in the film, but to also have the opportunity to purchase the styles. James Bond embodies many things Barton Perreira represents – style, innovation, design, and affinity for high quality luxury items and we’re proud to see him in our frames”.

See the James Bond Collection and more by visiting www.fashioneyewear.co.uk. l

influential-magazine.com

WITH THE HIGHLY ANTICIPATED ADDITION TO THE JAMES BOND FRANCHISE SOON TO GRACE OUR SCREENS, WE’RE PLEASED TO SHARE WITH YOU THE LIMITED-EDITION BARTON PERREIRA X 007 COLLECTION EXCLUSIVE TO FASHION EYEWEAR.

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IN FLUENCE

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EXCLUSIVE

JAMES BOND COLLECTION

AT FASHION EYEWEAR

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IN FLUENCE

Fashion & Style

ARANYANI

PRESENTS ARTISTRY, BEAUTY, HARMONY, AND MINDFULNESS.

THE EXQUISITE.

HARESH MIRPURI, AN INDONESIAN ENTREPRENEUR AND LONG-TIME ADVOCATE OF FAIR LABOR THROUGHOUT SOUTHWEST ASIA, FOUNDED ARANYANI, THE LUXURY INDIAN HANDBAG BRAND, IN 2016.

A

fter 20 years in the garment manufacturing industry, Haresh saw an opportunity to build a luxury brand that could spread Indian artistry and the message of sustainability to the world.

Over the summer, Aranyani relaunced the brand, debuting the Aravalli Story. This collection reflects India’s long tradition of luxury, interpreted in a contemporary aesthetic. The collection’s two lines, the Kesuda, named for the exotic flower, and the Stone Drops, named for the semi-precious stones used in detailing, both reflect and evoke the eternal beauty of India.

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kPHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ARANYANI. THE PRODUCT SHOTS ARE COURTESY OF VIKRANT KHARAT. THE CAMPAIGN SHOTS WITH THE MODEL ARE COURTESY OF UDO SPREITZENBARTH.

Aranyani’s brand philosophy is based on the three principles of SAI; service, awareness, and inclusivity.

These principles find their roots in the ancient Indian texts, The Vedas.

These philosophies inform how Aranyani runs its business, from its focus on environmentalism and sustainability, to its commitment to its workforce, stakeholders, customers, and all involved with the brand.

Aranyani is committed to reducing waste at every step of production and

FLUENTIAL SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2020

across all departments and makes a conscious effort to reduce energy consumption and its carbon footprint.

To ensure Aranyani’s bags meet the highest international standards, Mirpuri created Aranyani’s atelier, where all the bags are hand crafted.

Aranyani’s state-of-the-art atelier takes its inspiration from the Indian Kirana, a small, family run shop that served the community, as well as the ateliers of the great European Houses. Aranyani trains, educates, and houses all staff members and their families. Ensuring everyone is treated with the same respect and afforded equal opportunities no matter their position, Aranyani’s atelier provides an inspiring, enriching environment for their artisans to collaborate and create. Each exquisitely crafted handbag is the collective result of their inspiration, talents, and dedicated craftsmanship. Read more about the fashionable story of Aranyani by visiting www.aranyani.com. l

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ARANYANI

PRESENTS ARTISTRY, BEAUTY, HARMONY, AND MINDFULNESS.

THE EXQUISITE.

kHARESH MIRPURI

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FALL FASHION

WE’RE SWOONING OVER FROM FRENCH KNOT

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his brand is more than just an Anthropologie fan favorite. The colorful, sustainable, and ethically made line of fall and winter accessories is woman-owned and works with over 1,000 women in Nepal to create each hand-knitted piece. Every artisan is paid a living wage for her work.

Accessories are made from high quality yarn and then lined with fleece for extra warmth and durability. French Knot is the creation of designer Lindsay Mason, whose work emphasizes a playful blend of color, texture, and embellishments.

AS WE BEGAN TO WORK ON OUR FALL FASHION GUIDES, FRENCH KNOT INTRODUCES THEIR LINE OF BEST SELLERS THAT WILL KEEP EVERYONE FASHIONABLY WARM IN COLDER WEATHER.

An Embellished Beginning Plain white T’s are perfectly fine as an undershirt or even a clever name for your band. But as an outfit or work uniform? Hard pass for 16-year-old Lindsay. That’s why she decided to add a little color to her GAP standard while working for the retailer as a teen… only to be sent home to change out of her colorful custom embellishments.

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Thankfully, Lindsay didn’t let this little ding for her moment of expression alter her vision. Her personal style and passion for textiles continued to grow through the years. After studying fashion and textile design at Syracuse University, Lindsay spent seven years working in the fashion industry.

However, while working as a knitwear designer in Colorado, Lindsay was laid off. This meant she had to move back home to her small town in Massachusetts and start the career chase all over again.

She Couldn’t Shake the Feeling it Was Time to Start Her Own Business Two things were certain: she would miss working with the women artisans she had come to know, and she was passionate about designing knitwear. It was the summer of 2012. With little funds and a whole lot of encouragement from family and friends, Lindsay decided to get started and named her business after her favorite embroidery

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kPHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF FRENCH KNOT.

Designer Lindsay Mason has always worked alongside highly skilled artisans in Kathmandu, Nepal.

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stitch - French Knot. Her dad helped furnish a humble design office in an old barn on their family’s property where she worked day and night for six months to develop her first line of winter accessories.

She debuted the line in January 2013 at her first trade show in Salt Lake City, Utah. Her winter collection was full of inviting textures, playful blends of color and of course, beautiful embellishments. French Knot ended up taking orders for over 12,000 pieces in her first season - proving her tireless work in isolation during the previous six months was totally worth it!

Since then, French Knot has released a new line each Fall and is celebrating seven years of business.

Working out of Millbury, Massachusetts in a restored mill for the last few years, Lindsay recently relocated French Knot design headquarters to Lafayette, Indiana.

A Blend of Artistry and Ethics The fashion industry can be shockingly wasteful and unethical. Yet Lindsay believes that responsible sourcing and handcrafting can create beautiful products that not only endure, but also celebrate talented women artisans and time-

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honored craftsmanship. From the very beginning, French Knot’s mission has been to create stylish winter accessories that emphasize quality, design, and social responsibility.

As a result, Lindsay has always worked together with highly skilled female artisans in Kathmandu, Nepal. She now collaborates with over 1,000 women who spin, dye, knit, and felt French Knot accessories using skills entrusted by generations and guided by sustainable practices.

Some women choose to knit from their homes while they care for their families, and others prefer to work together in knitting circles. French Knot follows fair trade principles and pays the artisans a living wage.

French Knot winter accessories are made to last. They source highquality natural wools that are spun and dyed by hand, a process that produces little to no emissions.

The combination of French Knot’s unique patterns, stunning handembroidery, and elaborate embellishments create a line of winter hats and accessories unlike any other in today’s market.

Be fashion forward by visiting French Knot at www.frenchknot.com. l

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LADIES, FEEL CONFIDENT WHATEVER YOUR SHAPE OR STYLE WITH

BOUX AVENUE

BOUX AVENUE CREATES BEAUTIFULLY DESIGNED LINGERIE, SLEEPWEAR, AND SWIMWEAR, TO MAKE EVERY WOMAN FEEL CONFIDENT WHATEVER HER SHAPE OR STYLE.

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kPHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF BOUX AVENUE.

rom t-shirt bras to luxurious lingerie sets, sumptuous sleepwear, and stunning bridal wear to sunkissed swimwear, they’ve created the go-to destination for your lingerie drawer must-haves.

service with expert bra fittings that make shopping personable and exclusive to you. To complete the ultimate lingerie shopping package, they offer a beautiful gift-wrap service with every purchase.

Boux Avenue focuses on putting HER first, providing her with an expert fit in luxurious styles, at affordable prices. Their unique shopping destinations, mobile and desktop sites and convenient delivery options allow her to fit shopping into her busy lifestyle. They pride themselves on a superior fit, outstanding customer service, and their inclusive size offering.

Boux Avenue has 30 destination stores across the United Kingdom where you’ll find their lingerie is cleverly displayed in drawers according to size with three different light settings in the fitting rooms that emulate day, dusk, and night. These key elements make the Boux Avenue in-store experience a unique and memorable one. If you prefer shopping online, you can take advantage of free delivery when applicable, free returns, a click and collect in-store service and beautiful free gift wrapping.

Not only does Boux Avenue want to make you look and feel gorgeous and confident, they also want to make your shopping experience a memorable one too.

In-store, they offer customers a personalized concierge

Visit Boux Avenue at www.bouxavenue.com. l

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LADIES, FEEL CONFIDENT WHATEVER YOUR SHAPE OR STYLE WITH

BOUX AVENUE

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Inspired by the Colombian flora and fauna with natural fiber textiles such as linen and cotton, the collection designed

by Beatriz Camacho, is biodegradable and all the printing of the is digital to minimize water consumption.

The color palette ranges from off-white, through red, blue, gray, and black; contrasted by a wide range of greens.

The exuberance of nature comes to life through the prints, which were entirely envisioned by Beatriz Camacho’s team, seeking to highlight textures, shapes, and colors. kDESIGNER BEATRIZ CAMACHO

@BEATRIZCAMACHO3.

PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF COLOMBIAMODA 2020. @INEXMODA.

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CHOCOLATE AS MEDICINE?

Yes!

THESE GOURMET CHOCOLATES ARE PACKED WITH POWERFUL ADAPTOGENS

FUELED BY A PASSIONATE DESIRE TO HELP PEOPLE LIVE THE ULTIMATE LIFE AND CREATE A BETTER WORLD, SAGE STUDIED RAW AND SUPERFOOD NUTRITION AND TRADITIONAL HERBAL SYSTEMS, ESPECIALLY TAOIST TONIC HERBALISM. HE HAS WORKED WITH AND TRAINED UNDER THE WORLD’S LEADING MASTER HERBALISTS AND NUTRITION AND LONGEVITY EXPERTS IN COSTA RICA, AUSTRALIA, BALI, CHINA, AND AMERICA.

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age has developed products internationally and given lectures on peak performance nutrition in Australia, Bali, America, and France. His years of experience in this unique arena have allowed him to cultivate an

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unparalleled combination of cutting-edge nutritional and culinary expertise. Sage has started tonic elixir bars in 5-star luxury hotels in Paris and Sydney serving longevity elixirs disguised as gourmet treats, introducing the novel concept of

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healthy indulgences to the market of world travelers.

Ever since being raised in the countryside of Hungary on a diet that consisted of foods such as bee pollen, fermented vegetables, and kombucha long before they became popular in the west, AnnaBlanca has shared her passion for health and wellness throughout her world travels.

AnnaBlanca takes great pleasure in dancing, revitalizing her nervous system swimming in the cold ocean waves with Sage, and looking out for the well-being of her family. Prior to launching Addictive Wellness with Sage, she worked with ESE Funds, a boutique financial services company based in London and Los Angeles, which focused on building startups in the alternative healthcare space.

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Sage and AnnaBlanca created Addictive Wellness to share the incredible healthy indulgences they had been making and enjoying every day. Into each piece of Chocolate and each packet of Elixir Blend they infuse their love for each other, for life, for nature, and the desire to help everyone live their own version of the ultimate life. They see each day as a new opportunity to feel more revitalized,

youthful, glowing, conscious, and strong. They’re deeply passionate about teaching and living a lifestyle that supports the goals they’ve set for their company, relationships, health, and happiness.

What makes this chocolate incredibly unique is the superfoods and superherbs included in every bite: l Tranquility: Includes herbs which are highly effective at reducing stress and anxiety. l Energy: Infused with herbs to improve one’s own natural energy production. l Beauty: Made with herbs that increase natural hyaluronic acid production and improve the moisture and elasticity of the skin. l Focus: Includes nootropic herbs that enhance cognitive function: memory, recall, focus, and attention. l Love: Features aphrodisiac herbs alongside other heart-opening and stress-reducing adaptogens.

l Recharge: Created with herbs that

support adrenal and hormone health.

All Addictive Wellness chocolates are made with heirloom mycotoxinfree raw cacao. It’s a rich source of magnesium and chromium, the vitally important minerals that most Americans are chronically deficient in.

This special cacao comes from trees growing wild in the mineral-rich soil of an intact rainforest environment. Most cacao production of the world is cultivated in monocropped open fields in soil that is devoid of nutrients.

Addictive Wellness donates 5% of net profits to support and protect the rainforest through The Rainforest Trust. Addictive Wellness has an affiliate program through: www.addictivewellness.com/affiliateregistration and is available on Amazon.

Learn all the sweet details by visiting www.addictivewellness.com. l

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CHOCOLATE AS MEDICINE?

Yes!

THESE GOURMET CHOCOLATES ARE PACKED WITH POWERFUL ADAPTOGENS

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FEATURING

CHEF ED HARRIS, EXECUTIVE CHEF AND FOUNDER OF CHEF LIFE CONSULTING

CHEF ED HARRIS IS MOST FAMOUS FOR BEING A WINNER ON FOOD NETWORK’S HIT COOKING SHOW, “CHOPPED SEASON 4” AND COMPETING ON IRON CHEF INTERNATIONAL.

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hef Ed currently runs his own consulting firm Chef Life Consulting.

Through his company, he does private inhome dinners and restaurant consulting to train staff and update menus. Last Year, Chef Ed released his own line of seasonings: Faye’s Flavor Enhancers, named after his mom, Faye.

After graduating high school, Chef Ed studied culinary arts at the Art Institute of New York City. When his career landed him at Buddakan restaurant in New York City he developed a passion for Asian cuisine.

During his five years there, he trained with a master dim sum chef and perfected the art of cooking dumplings as well as making Asian sauces and fried rice.

Chef Ed specializes in creating dishes that are healthy, taste great, and can provide health benefits in the prevention of diseases.

We’re thrilled to feature his delicious recipe for Mushroom Pot Stickers.

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kPHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF

CHEF LIFE CONSULTING.

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1 cup of corn, sliced off the cob 1-1/2 oz salt 1 teaspoon white pepper 3 tablespoon sesame oil 2 oz vegetarian oyster sauce 1 oz mushroom soy 5 oz corn starch 5 oz of water 1/4 cup cilantro leaves, chopped 1-1/2 cup of rice wine vinegar 1 cup of low sodium soy sauce 1 tablespoon sambal chili sauce Potsticker (gyoza) wrapper (white)

a baking sheet tray lined with parchment paper near your workspace.

6. Lay about 2-4 dumpling wrappers on the work surface and place about a tablespoon of filling in the middle of each. Make one at a time if this is your first-time making dumplings. The skin tends to dry out if left in open air too long.

7. Dip a finger or two in the h2o and run it around the edges of the first dumpling wrapper and fold, then repeat.

8. Fold the wrapper over and pinch it closed. If the wrapper opens again, dab it with a little h2o and pinch again. Wrappers will dry out, so work quickly to seal them up.

Directions 1. Blanch briefly the shiitake mushrooms, chestnuts, carrots & corn.

2. Drain dry all blanched vegetables.

Mushroom Pot Stickers Cooking Time: 30 mins Servings: 5 Preparation Time: About 20 mins Ingredients 1 lb shiitake mushrooms, small chop 1/2 lb water chestnuts, small diced 3/4 lb carrots, small diced 4 oz Thai chili, minced 8 oz ginger, minced 4 oz garlic, minced

3. In a wok add about 4-6 tablespoons of oil and heat. Add garlic, chili, ginger and cook for about 2 minutes.

Stir fry all ingredients and season with salt, sugar, white pepper, sesame oil, vegetarian oyster sauce and mushroom soy. Make a slurry with the cornstarch and water, add as needed to the mix to thicken the stir-fry. Cool down then fold in cilantro.

4. Once filling is fully cooled, we can start the dumpling making.

5. Set aside a small bowl of h2o and

9. Repeat with remaining wrappers until all the filling is used.

10. To cook the pot stickers, fill a medium size sauce pot with h2o halfway up and bring to a boil. Add dumplings small batches at a time and cook. When ready they should float about 6 minutes. Once dumplings are ready, drain and set aside.

11. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and coat the bottom with about a tablespoon of oil. Once the oil is hot, add cooked dumplings to get color. You are looking for golden brown. Remove from oil to a paper-towel on a plate.

12. Serve immediately with soy sauce mixed with rice wine vinegar & chili sauce for dipping. l

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FEATURING

ERICA BARRETT, FOUNDER AND CEO OF SOUTHERN CULTURE ARTISAN FOODS

ERICA BARRETT IS THE FOUNDER AND CEO OF SOUTHERN CULTURE ARTISAN FOODS, A BREAKFAST LIFESTYLE BRAND SHE STARTED AFTER VISITING THE GROCERY STORE AND SEEING THAT THERE WAS A LACK OF QUALITY BREAKFAST PRODUCTS ON THE SHELF. 126

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rica Barrett is most notably known for appearing on the Emmy Award Winning Show ABC’s Shark Tank where she went head to head with the Sharks and received two offers; one from Kevin O’Leary and one from Barbara Corcoran and ultimately landed a deal with Barbara Corcoran on the show. Erica’s approach to food is to always create the best version of what you love.

Currently, Barrett owns and operates SOCU Southern Kitchen & Oyster Bar. The restaurant, which opened last year is famous for their Fried Lobster Deviled Eggs, Oprah’s Favorite Shrimp & Grits, and of course, their oysters. The focus of the restaurant is seafood and elevated southern food -- with a reinvention of classic southern traditions.

We’re pleased to share with you Erica Barrett’s recipe on how to make perfect charbroiled oysters.

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Charbroiled Oyster Recipe Ingredients Cheese Topping: 2 cups grated Parmesan cheese 2 tablespoons old bay 1 bunch Italian parsley, chopped Garlic Finishing Butter: 1 stick unsalted butter 1 cup fresh lemon juice 1/4 cup white wine 1/2 cup hot sauce, such as the Louisiana brand 1/2 cup Worcestershire sauce 1/4 cup chopped garlic 24 oysters, shucked on the half shell Directions 1. For the cheese topping: Mix the Parmesan, old bay and parsley in a bowl and reserve for later use.

kPHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF SOUTHERN CULTURE ARTISAN FOOD.

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2. For the finishing butter: Place the butter, lemon juice, hot sauce, Worcestershire, chopped garlic, granulated garlic and 1/2 cup water into a small pot on the stove. Slowly melt and whisk ingredients until incorporated.

3. For the oysters: Preheat the grill until it is very hot, about 400 degrees F. 4. Top each oyster with a liberal amount of the cheese mixture. Carefully place the oysters on the grill and close. Cook until the cheese is melted and the oysters are starting to get some color, about 10 minutes.

5. Remove the oysters from the grill with tongs and place them onto a cookie sheet or a heat-proof surface.

6. Arrange 6 oysters per plate or leave on the large platter. Ladle some melted garlic butter over the oysters. l

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FOR A LIMITED TIME

PBFIT

INTRODUCES PUMPKIN SPICE FLAVOR

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IT’S BAAAAAACK! PBFIT IS EXCITED TO MARK THE RETURN OF THEIR PUMPKIN SPICE FLAVOR. PUMPKIN SPICE PBFIT HAS ALL THE YUMMY SPICE AND FLAVOR YOU EXPECT OUT OF PUMPKIN SPICE BUT COMBINED WITH PEANUT BUTTER.

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Bfit is a healthy alternative to traditional peanut butter — it’s a powdered peanut butter you can mix right into your smoothies or recipes. With a dash of organic coconut palm sugar and salt, 90% less fat and 1/3 of the calories, PBfit lets you keep the nutrients, along with the peanut butter taste you love, but lets you ditch the fat and calories.

Now with Pumpkin Spice, it’s perfect to mix into baked goods like bread, pancakes, waffles, and cookies to add a great Pumpkin Spice flavor. You can also blend it into breakfast smoothies and other drinks for a tasty, low-fat protein boost after the gym.

Is a traditional Pumpkin Spice latte what you’re craving? Check out these ideas on how you can bake, blend, and cook with Pumpkin Spice PBfit. Pumpkin Spice PBfit will be available for a limited time.

Happy Pumpkin Season.

Pumpkin Spice Recipes

PBFIT Pumpkin Spice White Chocolate Popcorn with Sugared Pepitas Prep time 20 minutes Bake time 20 minutes Recipe assemble 15 minutes Servings 10 Cal 330 | Fat 18 | Carbs 35 | Fiber 3 | Protein 9

kPHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF PBFIT.

Ingredients: 10 cups popped popcorn 1/4 cup PBfit Pumpkin Spice powder 2 cups white chocolate chips 3 tablespoons PBfit Pumpkin Spice for dusting 1 cup Sugared Pepitas (recipe follows, prepare first) Directions: 1. Place the popcorn in a large bowl.

2. Melt the white chocolate, mix with PBfit Pumpkin Spice powder.

Whisk just until incorporated. Do not mix too long or chocolate will begin to set.

3. Pour the chocolate mixture over the popcorn and mix gently until all the popcorn is coated. Fold in the sugared pepitas.

4. Spread the popcorn mixture onto a parchment lined sheet tray.

Dust with the 3 tablespoons of the PBfit Pumpkin Spice powder.

5. Let chocolate firm up before eating.

Sugared Pepitas Recipe Directions: 1. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees.

Grease a 15x10 inch baking pan.

2. In a small bowl combine 2 egg whites, 4 tablespoons sugar 1/2 tsp. Ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Stir in 1 cup raw pumpkin seeds(pepitas).

3. Spread on the prepared pan.

4. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until seeds start to brown, stirring every 10 minutes. Cool. (pepitas will crisp slightly while cooling).

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PBfit Pumpkin Spice Latte Smoothie Prep time 10 minutes Servings 1 Cal 240 | Fat 5 | Carb 44 | Fiber 7 | Protein 9 Ingredients: 1/3 cup pumpkin puree 1/4 cup oat milk 1/4 cup coconut milk yogurt 2 tablespoon PBfit Pumpkin Spice powder 1 banana quartered and frozen 1 teaspoon instant coffee 1 cup ice cubes Directions: 1. Add all ingredients to a blender, and process until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add in additional oat milk if a thinner consistency is desired.

Pumpkin Whoopie Pies with Browned Butter Bourbon PBfit Pumpkin Spice Filling Prep time 45 minutes Bake time 12 minutes Chill time 30 minutes Makes 24 cookies Cal 174 | Fat 10 | Carb 20 | Fiber 1 | Protein 2 Ingredients: 1 1/4 cups all purpose flour 1/4 cup PBfit Pumpkin Spice powder 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking soda ½ teaspoon cinnamon

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1/2 teaspoon salt 1 cup brown sugar 1/2 cup melted butter 1 1/4 cups canned pumpkin 1 egg and 1 teaspoon vanilla Frosting 3 tablespoons browned butter 3 oz softened cream cheese 1/8 teaspoon salt 1/4 cup PBfit Pumpkin Spice powder 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar 1 tablespoon bourbon 2 tablespoons milk

on medium speed 2 minutes or until fluffy. Gradually beat in powdered sugar and PBfit Pumpkin Spice powder to reach spreading consistency. You may need to add a little milk if frosting is too thick to spread.

6. Spread filling on bottoms of half of the cookies, using about 2 teaspoons for each cookie. Top with remaining cookies, bottom side down; press gently to spread filling.

Chill 30 minutes before serving

Directions: 1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper. In a medium bowl stir together first 6 ingredients (through salt) 2. In a large mixing bowl beat brown sugar, melted butter with a mixer on medium until combined.

Add pumpkin, eggs, and vanilla; beat 1 minute. Add flour mixture, half at a time, beating well after each addition (batter will resemble thick cake batter) 3. Drop 1 tablespoon batter 1 ½ inches apart onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12 to 14 minutes or until tops spring back when lightly touched.

4. Meanwhile, prepare frosting filling.

Cool cookies on cookie sheet for 5 minutes. Remove; cool on the wire rack.

5. To prepare frosting: in a small saucepan heat 3 tablespoons butter over medium heat until melted. Continue cooking until butter turns a light golden brown, stirring occasionally. Cool 15 minutes. In a large bowl beat browned butter, cream cheese, and salt with a mixer

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Pumpkin Spice Latte Prep time 5 minutes Cook time 5 minutes Total 10 minutes Makes 2 Drinks Cal 199 | Fat 3 | Carb 39 | Fiber 4 | Protein 6 Ingredients: 2 cups oat milk 3 tablespoons pumpkin puree, or more to taste 1 to 3 tablespoons BBF agave, depending on how sweet you like it 3 tablespoons PBfit Pumpkin Spice powder, plus more for dusting when serving 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon, plus more for serving 1/2 cup strong hot coffee Whipped cream, for serving Directions: 1. Add oat milk, pumpkin puree, PBfit, and agave syrup to a saucepan over medium heat. Heat until hot, but do not boil. Remove the

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egg whites, 6 tablespoons sugar, 1 tablespoon PBfit Pumpkin Spice powder, 1/2 teaspoon. Ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.

Stir in 1 1/2 cups raw pecan halves.

3. Spread on the prepared pan.

Mixture should be runny and wet.

4. Bake for 15 minutes, stirring every 7 minutes. Cool. Nuts will still be slightly sticky which is okay as they will get a second bake with the popcorn.

saucepan from the heat and whisk in the vanilla, and the coffee.

2. Divide the mixture between two mugs. Top with your favorite non-dairy whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon and PBfit Pumpkin Spice powder.

PBfit Pumpkin Spice Pecan Bourbon Crunch and Munch Prep time 25 minutes Bake time 45 minutes to 1 hour Servings 10 Cal 280 | Fat 13 | Carb 36 | Fiber 2 | Protein 3 Ingredients: 10 cups popped popcorn ½ cups Bourbon sugared pecans (recipe follows) 4 ounces butter cut into chunks ¾ cup sugar ½ cup BBF agave

1 teaspoon salt ½ cup PBfit Pumpkin Spice powder ½ teaspoon baking soda ¼ cup bourbon Ingredients for Sugared Pecans: ½ cups whole pecans ¼ teaspoon salt 6 tablespoons sugar ½ teaspoon cinnamon 6 tablespoons PBfit Pumpkin Spice powder 2 egg whites 1 tablespoon Bourbon Directions: • Prepare the sugared pecans first and set aside.

• Pop popcorn and set aside.

• Prepare bourbon caramel sauce.

Sugared Pecan Instructions: 1. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees.

Grease a 15x10 inch baking pan.

2. In a small bowl combine 2

Bourbon Caramel Sauce instructions: 1. Preheat the oven to 300 degrees.

2. Generously grease a large baking sheet with oil.

3. Place popped popcorn in a large mixing bowl that has been lightly greased. Make sure the bowl is big enough to stir the mixture without the popcorn falling out. Set aside.

4. In a medium saucepan combine butter, sugar, agave, and salt.

5. In a separate bowl combine PBfit Pumpkin Spice powder, and baking soda and set aside.

6. Measure out bourbon and set aside.

7. Heat butter sugar mixture on medium high heat stirring occasionally until it comes to a boil and continue boiling for 4 minutes.

8. Remove from heat and stir in the Pumpkin Spice powder mixture.

Whisk quickly to combine and pour in bourbon, be careful when adding the bourbon as the mixture will splatter. Quickly whisk in the bourbon and pour over the popcorn. Stir to coat all the popcorn evenly. Fold in the sugared pecans. l

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SOUTHERN SPIKED

SWEET TEA IS DELICIOUS

SO, WE’VE A FEW DELICIOUS RECIPES FOR YOU SOUTHERN SPIKED SWEET TEA IS A DELICIOUS, REFRESHING, AND SATISFYING SUMMER BEVERAGE. FORTUNATELY, WE’VE GOT DELICIOUS RECIPES FROM TWO POPULAR TEXAS RESTAURANTS SURE TO DELIGHT TASTE BUDS. FEATURING FM KITCHEN & BAR IN HOUSTON, TEXAS ROCHELLE TOUGAS, GENERAL MANAGER (EXPERIENCED BARTENDER) ON MAKING SOUTHERN SPIKED SWEET TEA I am a HUGE tea lover, especially a spiked tea. Bourbon is traditionally used to create a spiked tea. I do whiskey more often than any other spirit in my spiked tea, but the second choice for me would have to be vodka — specifically Monopolowa as it’s just a clean vodka not crazy expensive without the burn.

If I am going to use whiskey in my spiked tea, my choice is always Maker’s Mark bourbon, all the way.

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When aiming for the right sugar ratios in tea, I believe it comes down to personal preference. I feel I represent myself as a Southerner through and through as I need my Sweet Tea to be SWEET. I will generally use: Recipe 2 ounces of spirit 3 ounces of Luizianne tea 1 ounce of simple syrup (or make

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a peach syrup at home that I love in my tea).

My accoutrement of choice is frozen peaches; for my boyfriend, I throw in fresh mint leaves from our garden.

Glassware is one of the most important parts of cocktail presentation, because it just gives you an idea of what you’re about to get yourself into. When I hear “spiked tea,” I think of sitting on a porch at my family house in Alabama with a mason jar filled with spiked tea and frozen peaches to keep it from getting watered down and imparting more flavor as you get down into the drink more.

Plus, you get a snack at the end.

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About FM Kitchen & Bar Based in Houston, Texas, FM Kitchen and Bar serves our take on favorite southern regional fare prepared fresh seven days a week. We are open for lunch, dinner, happy hour and brunch, and anytime in between, and our cocktails, beer and wines are created to pair deliciously with our food that ranges from Starters like Street Corn and Frito Pie to our celebrated Burgers, Gumbo, and Chicken Fried Steak. Inspired daily by the culinary diversity of our region and camaraderie of our community, at FM we want you to enjoy our vibe, the food and each other.

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FEATURING HAI HOSPITALITY IN AUSTIN, TEXAS JASON KOSMAS, HAI HOSPITALITY BEVERAGE DIRECTOR, ON SOUTHERN SPIKED SWEET TEA Bourbon is the traditional spirit for spiked tea, and I prefer to use Wild Turkey Bourbon is big and bold and has a nice “spicy” finish to it. Blended with flavors like peach and ginger, it can make it dimensional.

That said, vodka works well with tea too. Especially if you are trying to focus on the tea’s tannins, vodka will leave them unobstructed.

When it comes to sweetener, 2 parts tea to 1 part sweetener is pretty ideal. The best part of using tea in cocktails is the finish. Too much sweetener will destroy this finish; the result is less refreshing and a little overwhelming. If you test at home, do it in increments.

You will note there is a tipping point where the beverage goes from tasting like tea to tasting like sugar. I like to stay below that line.

Depending on the spirit, you might want more or less spirit. For bourbon, I would say it is about 2 parts tea (and sweetener combined) to 1.5 parts bourbon. With Vodka,

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you can do equal parts. Considering body and balance — tea does not have any body and while the sugar adds a little to the party, it still falls flat against any spirit. A little lemon juice (or lemonade) will bring it into balance. (my personal tip to making sweet tea cocktails). Never underestimate a John Daly.

Flavors that traditionally work well with tea are peach, lemon, orange, mint, and ginger. Don’t forget that there are multitudes of teas you can use to add flavor.

The best glassware for this Southern staple is big and tall...I also like using Ball Canning Jars.

Recipe Peach Palmer 1.5 oz Tito’s Vodka or Wild Turkey Bourbon 81 .75 oz Oolong black sweet tea (2 parts tea to 1 part sugar) .75 oz lemon juice .5 oz peach juice or puree l

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About Jason Kosmas, Hai Hospitality Beverage Director Jason Kosmas has been an influential force in shaping drinking and night life as a bartender, restaurant owner, consultant, author, and spirits producer. Kosmas pioneered the craft cocktail movement starting as a bartender in New York City in the mid-1990s after finding inspiration in the classic way of making cocktails. In 2004 he co-founded Employees Only, named Best Cocktail Bar in the World in 2011. In 2010, Kosmas released SPEAKEASY: The Employees Only Guide to Classic Cocktails Reimagined, which was nominated for Best Cocktail Book at Tales of the Cocktail in 2011. In 2012, Kosmas transitioned from the restaurant business to spirit production when he formed The 86 Co. as a producer of Fords Gin, winner of the Chairman’s Trophy for Best Gin at the 2013 Ultimate Spirits Challenge.

Kosmas returned to the restaurant industry in 2018 to become Beverage Director for James Beard Award-winning Hai Hospitality overseeing wine, sake, beer, and cocktails for the group’s portfolio of concepts including Uchi, Uchiko, Uchibā, and LORO.

About Hai Hospitality Hai Hospitality is a restaurant group based in Austin, Texas. Restaurants in the group include Uchi Austin, Uchi and Uchibā Dallas, Uchi Denver, Uchi Houston, Uchiko Austin, and LORO Austin, with Uchi Miami and LORO Dallas slated to open in 2020, followed by Uchiko Houston and LORO Houston in 2021.

Hai Hospitality supports each restaurant in a variety of capacities so that each shop has the freedom to grow while still being part of the bigger family—a family that has a common set of core values, a shared vision for food, service, and design, and a collective pool of knowledge and expertise that we can bring to bear regardless of where we call home.

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kPHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF HARLOW’S HARVEST.

THIS NINE-YEAR-OLD VEGAN IS HELPING KIDS LEARN STEM WHILE

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IT’S A WHOLE NEW WORLD FOR PARENTS AND SCHOOLING. PARENTS ARE HAVING TO TAKE CHARGE WITH HOW THEIR KIDS ARE LEARNING AND TEACHING FROM HOME.

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long with the new challenges, one of the most pressing issues is they’ll be looking for ways to get kids off the computer by teaching them with real activities that don’t include screen time.

Harlow’s Harvest is leading the way with this concept. Harlow’s Harvest comes kid (and mom) tested and approved. It’s the brainchild of nine-year-old entrepreneur, Harlow Tyrner and her mom, Ashley Tyrner, CEO of Farmbox Direct. Harlow, a self-proclaimed vegan, wanted to follow in her mom’s footsteps in helping her peers learn more about eating more nutritiously but in a way that would inspire them to do so. As a single mom, who is also homeschooling, Ashley knows a thing or two about how to make learning more engaging and fun.

kids to cook their own food and learn their way around the kitchen all while supplementing what they learn in school and getting them away from hours of sitting in front of a screen.

Each STEM influenced box comes with recipe cards, a science project, background on the dish they’re making connected to that month’s theme. Through cooking, they get to practice reading recipes, calculate the costs of food/grocery shopping, work on fractions by measuring, experiment with their food, and provide nutritional facts so children can learn about nutrition and go for something green instead of something sweet.

Upcoming Themes include: l September - This kit is out of this world. Enjoy campfire foods and solar system activities under the stars with the Starry Night kit. l October - Celebrate culture in the Country of Mexico kit complete with facts around Día de los Muertos. If your kid is a fan of the movie Coco, they’ll love this.

November - Happiness is homemade and food is the ingredient that binds us together. Cultivate this season of thanks with the Gratitude kit. l December - Tis the season to bake and make memories. Get festive in the kitchen with the Holiday Spirit kit. l

Ideal for children between the ages of four and 15, younger children will need help from parents, whereas older kids will love to demonstrate their skills to an audience. The recipes are simple enough even for those who have never cooked before yet difficult enough for those who want a challenge in the kitchen. Each recipe has a custom nutrition facts panel to help your child learn to navigate reading food labels with confidence. Parents have the option of purchasing 1 box, a 6-month subscription, or 1-year monthly box subscription.

It’s science, geography, space and so much more. What a way to learn. l

Harlow’s Harvest is a child’s cooking and education partner with benefits. This monthly, STEM influenced, subscription box provides hands on cooking and education, encouraging SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2020

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TIPS TO GET THE WHOLE

FAMILY MOVING AT HOME

WITH MANY FAMILIES STUCK AT HOME JUGGLING WORKING REMOTELY, HOMESCHOOLING AND TRYING TO KEEP EVERYONE HAPPY AND HEALTHY, IT CAN BE EASY TO LET AN OTHERWISE ACTIVE LIFESTYLE FALL

BY THE WAYSIDE.

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egardless of age, being physically active provides numerous health benefits. The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity for adults each week, and 60 minutes of moderate-tovigorous physical activity for kids between the ages of 6-17 each day. Finding ways to move daily

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can help everyone in the family maintain their health – and prevent them from going stir crazy.

Although prioritizing activity in a quarantined environment might be one of the last things on your mind, parents who model healthy behaviors can inspire their kids to do the same.

When you sweat during family activities, don’t forget to stay hydrated.

An option like Propel Flavored Electrolyte Water can help parents replace electrolytes lost in sweat. With zero calories, no sugar, and nine fruit flavors, it can help keep you hydrated and moving at home or outdoors.

Consider these tips to keep the whole family motivated and moving – you might be surprised to find that exercise can be fun.

Go for a walk or bike ride. Incorporating walks or bike rides into your family’s daily routine can help get everyone moving as well as create quality bonding time. If your family is more on the adventurous side, consider venturing outside your neighborhood to find new trails or rougher terrain to explore nature while getting active.

While your annual family vacation might’ve been canceled, there are likely hidden trails within a short drive from home.

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l Take a virtual class. Many fitness

instructors and gyms are sharing free classes online designed for the whole family. Simply connect a streaming device to your television and search for virtual classes that are geared toward getting families moving, regardless of fitness level.

Fitness instructors and studios are also sharing a variety of workouts – from family yoga to dance cardio in various time increments – on social media that you can find by searching various fitness-related hashtags.

Play a family game. Playing games together is an old-fashioned way to get the whole family moving and having fun. An activity as simple as tag or racing around the house, or even a game that requires some equipment such as soccer or basketball, can get everyone’s heart rate up. You can even create a fitness deck or activity dice to turn working out into a fun game.

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l Build your own obstacle course.

Set out hoops, pillows, rope, ladders, cardboard boxes, and other items you find around the house to create a fun and challenging obstacle course either indoors or out. This can be easily adapted to varying levels of difficulty to meet each family member’s level. Don’t forget a stopwatch to see who can complete the course the quickest.

Get your family moving and find more hydration tips at propelwater. com. (Family Features) l

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LIFE AFTER STAYING AT HOME

WILL WE ALL START TO EAT BETTER? IN THIS CURRENT ENVIRONMENT, WE’VE ALL HAD TO MAKE SOME BIG ADJUSTMENTS TO THE WAY WE EAT. kWRITTEN BY SUSAN BOWERMAN, MS, RD, CSSD, CSOWM, FAND. PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF SUSAN BOWERMAN.

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e’ve had to deal with occasional food shortages and fewer trips to the grocery store. Those who didn’t know how to cook (or didn’t want to) suddenly had to learn how. And, before restaurants started re-opening, we were forced to nourish ourselves – often making do with whatever we had available.

As difficult as this has been, there may be a bright side. Some of the adjustments we’ve had to make in the way we shop, cook, and eat

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Here are five nutrition trends of which nutritionists are taking note: l A new appreciation for canned and shelf-stable foods. Canned foods have gotten an undeserved bad reputation. True, some canned foods might be high in sodium or sugar, but low sodium and low sugar varieties are widely available.

And the bottom line is that there are certain canned foods that are just handy to keep around – and they can help boost your nutrition, too.

For instance, most of us don’t eat as much fish as we should, but it’s easier to get your omega-3s when you can grab a can of tuna for a sandwich or turn a pouch of salmon into a tasty burger. Canned beans are a terrific source of plant-based protein and fiber that can be added to salads or slow-cooked foods like soups or chili, and canned tomato products have all kinds of uses beyond pasta sauce. And aside from being convenient, there’s a nutritional plus to canned tomatoes – the heating and processing releases certain Susan could be promoting better health vitamins and phytonutrients from Bowerman, – and they’re habits we should the cell walls of the tomato, making MS, RD, CSSD, seriously consider adopting for the them more readily available for your CSOWM, long-term. body to take up.

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A new appreciation for frozen foods. As with canned foods, those who have always relied on a steady supply of fresh foods may be learning to appreciate the convenience of frozen foods. We’re finding that having a stash of frozen seafood, chicken or veggie burgers means we can put together quick healthy meals even when we haven’t given dinner a second thought. And many people don’t realize that, in some cases, frozen foods can be nutritionally superior to fresh. Frozen fruits and veggies tend to be picked at their peak, then processed quickly – which preserves nutrients.

Compared with foods that have been picked too soon, transported over long distances, then exposed to air, oxygen, light and water in the grocery store – all of which can destroy some fragile nutrients – and you can make a pretty solid case for choosing frozen items.

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More family meals, and more family time in general. There’s a lot to be said for family meals. Studies have shown over and over that home-cooked meals tend to be nutritionally superior to most restaurant fare, and there is even evidence that children who eat more meals at home perform better in school. When you prepare your own meals, you have a lot of control over what you eat, which probably explains why many home-cooked foods tend to have fewer calories, less fat and less sodium. Home cooked meals usually have more fruits and veggies on the plate, too.

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And, many people are just now getting into the habit of sitting down for meals on a regular basis rather than eating on the run. Sharing a meal with others provides a muchneeded pause from the 24/7 news cycle and creates an opportunity to reset. It’s a habit worth keeping. l A new awareness of food waste.

This is a big one – since it’s been estimated that U.S. consumers waste an estimated 21% of the available food supply every year. Not all of this is due to food we throw away, but food per year. As we take fewer trips to the grocery store and learn to cook with what we have, we have an opportunity to teach ourselves to waste less food. We’ve learned to appreciate a meal of leftovers or the magic of ‘leftover makeovers’. Rather than tossing the last bit of an onion or the end of a carrot, we’re stashing it in a freezer bag to add to a homemade soup or stew. We peel too-ripe bananas and freeze them because they’re delicious in our morning smoothies, and we’ve learned that we can freshen limp lettuce with a dunk in cold water and a few hours in the ‘fridge in an airtight plastic bag. We now know that many foods are perfectly safe to eat well past their ‘use by’ dates (foods may lose quality, but most are still safe) so we’re not tossing items needlessly, fearing they’ve expired. Not only is all this better for our wallets, it’s better for the planet, too.

Less meat, more plant protein.

During the first few weeks of shel-

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ter-in-place, finding fresh meat, fish and poultry was often a challenge.

As a result, consumers had to look for protein elsewhere – turning to plant-based sources such as beans, lentils, and tofu. Recipes featuring these vegetarian staples popped up everywhere, and people found these foods delicious, versatile, and affordable. Plant-based options had already been trending lately, fueled in part by environmental concerns, but a shortage of animal protein nudged many hard-core meat eaters to ride the wave. But these foods have a lot going for them nutritionally, too. Plant proteins can provide all the essential amino acids the body needs – and they’re wrapped in an impressive package of vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients, and fiber, with no cholesterol and little fat. Meatless Mondays have been around for a while – can Tofu Tuesdays be far behind? l

About Susan Bowerman, MS, RD, CSSD, CSOWM, FAND Susan Bowerman is the senior director of Worldwide Nutrition Education and Training at Herbalife Nutrition and is one of the primary authors of the company-sponsored blogs, I Am Herbalife Nutrition and Discover Good Nutrition.

Bowerman is a registered dietitian, holds two board certifications from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics as a certified specialist in sports dietetics, and a certified specialist in obesity and weight management, and is a Fellow of the Academy.

www.ers.usda.gov/webdocs/publications/43833/43680_eib121.pdf?v=0 SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2020

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THE BRINK OF MENTAL EXHAUSTION:

IMPORTANCE OF REFUELING MIND, BODY, AND SOUL

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o, why is it a surprise humans aren’t meant to work and think nonstop? Unfortunately, fuel is too obvious of an answer. When we run out of fuel, much like a car, we simply stop. So, fueling our bodies is important and a topic I will address shortly. But first I’ll address our mental health.

A more subtle analogy to mental health is the oil in the car. As we drive, we eventually begin to breakdown the oil, and over time that oil becomes less effective. If we don’t heed the car’s warnings, our engine is forced to run with low or no oil and will literally burn out – it will overheat and stop working.

Like low oil in a car, mental exhaustion can cause you to burnout.

This is a result of placing demands beyond what our bodies were meant to sustain.

What are ways to keep our minds properly lubricated, and to

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IF I’VE SAID YOU NEEDED TO DRIVE YOUR CAR NONSTOP CROSS THE UNITED STATES, NO FUEL STOPS, WHAT WOULD YOU SAY? IMPOSSIBLE – WHY? BECAUSE OUR CARS WEREN’T BUILT TO GO THAT FAR WITHOUT STOPPING FOR FUEL. kWRITTEN BY DR. KENT BRADLEY, CHIEF

HEALTH AND NUTRITION OFFICER, HERBALIFE NUTRITION. PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF KENT BRADLEY.

as we look for meaning and patterns.

We draw conclusions and beliefs by the constant scanning of data. Those conclusions and beliefs are the basis of how we respond to life.

This pandemic has been a tsunami of new information. We want to synthesize and draw conclusions because that is how our brains are wired. When we get new data that amends or even contradicts earlier data, it creates conflict. Resolving that mental conflict so we can make good decisions is important.

We do this by creating distance between the data. Time is often a great distance creator. We need to slow down the pace to get our needed space to think, to put things into perspective.

replenish ourselves so we prevent burnout?

How Do We Slow Down The Pace?

Stop consuming information nonstop.

First, our minds are constantly being fed data. That data must be processed

Recognize information is not timeless. Information is bound by

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About Kent Bradley, M.D., MPH, MBA Kent Bradley, M.D., MPH, MBA, is the Chief Health and Nutrition Officer at Herbalife Nutrition and chairman of the Herbalife Nutrition Advisory Board. Dr. Bradley is responsible for nutrition and product education and training for the Company, including developing educational tools and learning platforms for distributors to ensure they receive ongoing training to deliver a best-in-class customer experience tailored to everyone’s needs.

what is known at the time. We are wired to make meaning, and from that meaning draw conclusions.

But that may not be possible and conclusions we may make are not timeless.

Calm your mind through intentional practices. Meditation is something often discussed but seldom practiced by many.

Think about something else – give your mind something else to think about other than the pandemic. It would be preferable to think about something energizing and uplifting.

Practicing these steps can help you be more intentional on how you consume, analyze and act on data. Unfortunately, sometimes we’re uncertain of the actions we must take and that can cause anxiety.

The 6 “Rs” That Can Help You Deal With Anxiety Uncertainty is caused by not having the ability to predict what will be happening. And although we deal with uncertainty every minute of our lives, as we really don’t know what will happen the very next minute, we’re comforted by the repeated patterns in our lives. We call these patterns routines.

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in what and when something will happen. Dealing with uncertainty can be stressful, even anxiety provoking. Over a prolonged period, it may result in mental exhaustion or even burnout. This pandemic has taken away a lot of our routines.

Many of us can’t go to the workplace, we’re not able to go out to the places we used to go, see the people we used to see. However, there are some things still predictable, and we can also create a routine that will help us manage uncertainty.

I’ve been a big proponent of not just routines but rest – physical rest as well as mental rest from the overconsumption of media and the thirst for having to have an answer.

But I’m also a proponent of recreation – going out and getting active as well as doing something that brings you joy.

And of course, to calm the mind we have the opportunity to practice relaxation techniques that help us tremendously as well as give us the ability to reframe – provide a different perspective on events, data, and perhaps discover new beliefs that might be more helpful and energizing.

We also can’t forget that relationships are critical as we need one another to help put things in perspective and the encouragement that comes with knowing we’re not experiencing life alone.

And finally, the important aspect of reframing.

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This is what I will address through how we change our mindset below.

Adjusting Your Mindset Another way we can look at how to deal with stress and anxiety is to take a more long-term approach by developing practices that provide us resilience when faced with life’s challenges.

Resilience is this ability to move through adversity in a way that is healthy and effective. It assumes adversity will occur but provides a buffer to reduce its impact. Everything we spoke about concerning ways to reduce stress is applicable but there are five specific ways of thinking that are extremely powerful. If we were to practice these attitudinal mindsets, we can buffer ourselves from mental exhaustion and burnout.

A mindset of gratitude - so easy to say, so hard to do. Gratitude is a mindset that searches for and recognizes the things we can be grateful for. The practice of gratitude energizes us and helps us in times of adversity.

A mindset of confidence - this is more than “the little engine that could.” It’s also a mindset based on a belief we can take the action needed to accomplish what is needed in the face of adversity. Confidence inspires hope.

A mindset of meaning and purpose - this is the mindset my life has meaning and value and purpose. It’s also

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a mindset my actions have purpose and thus I must take action to continue despite setbacks and difficulty.

A mindset of connectedness - this is the mindset I don’t have to do this alone and in fact shouldn’t have to.

That we’re not alone and there are many who are on this journey, and together, we can overcome.

A mindset of positivity - this isn’t a glass is half full orientation although that can be helpful. It’s a mindset nourished by the benefit of positive emotions that often come from gratitude, purpose, and connectedness. It’s both a result, as well as a mindset, as we recognize we need to have a life enriched with positive thoughts to help buffer us in times of adversity.

And Finally, Fueling Our Bodies As mentioned in the car analogy above, our bodies, like the car, need fuel. But we need fuel that helps our overall health. We must consume important sources of nutrients to fuel our cells to do what they were designed to do. This involves a host of nutrients found in a healthy diet, that unfortunately we often fail to consume.

The diets of many people around the world, according to the World Health Organization (WHO) deliver less than recommended amounts of magnesium and vitamins A, C, D, and E. We should think about nutrient needs and meeting nutrient gaps to fuel our bodies. l

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FOOT CARE TIPS

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FOR THOSE WITH DIABETES

iving with diabetes increases the risk of developing a wide range of foot problems, often because of two complications of the disease: nerve damage and poor circulation,” says Dr. Brett Sachs, DPM, FACFAS, a Denver foot and ankle surgeon and Fellow Member of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS). “However, you can play a vital role in prevention.” To avoid serious foot problems that could result in losing a toe, foot or leg, follow these guidelines from ACFAS foot and ankle surgeons:

FOR THOSE WITH DIABETES, A SEEMINGLY INSIGNIFICANT FOOT PROBLEM CAN PRODUCE DANGEROUS CONSEQUENCES. EXPERTS SAY THAT MANAGING THIS RISK IS AN IMPORTANT PART OF DIABETES CARE.

Inspect feet daily. Diabetes may cause nerve damage, which takes away the feeling in your feet, so a daily visual inspection is important. Check for cuts, blisters, redness, swelling or nail problems. Use a magnifying hand mirror to look at the bottom of your feet. Call your foot and ankle surgeon if you notice any issues.

kPHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF (C) ANDREYPOPOV / ISTOCK VIA GETTY IMAGES PLUS.

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Bathe feet gently. Wash your feet daily with a soft washcloth or sponge using only lukewarm water.

Dry by blotting carefully.

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Moisturize. Use a moisturizer daily to keep dry skin from itching

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or cracking. But don’t moisturize between the toes -- that could encourage a fungal infection.

l Wear proper socks. Always wear

clean, dry socks. You may want to consider those made specifically for patients living with diabetes, which have extra cushioning, no elastic tops, are higher than the ankle and are made from moisturewicking fibers. l Shake out your shoes. Remem-

ber, your feet may not be able to feel a pebble or other foreign objects, so always inspect shoes before wearing them to help prevent blisters and sores that could lead to an infection or non-healing wound.

Keep feet dry. Change your socks if they get wet. You may also consider using an antiperspirant on the soles of your feet. l

Cut nails carefully. Cut nails straight across and file the edges.

Don’t cut too short, as this could lead to ingrown toenails.

Never walk barefoot. It can be tempting to go barefoot in warmer weather. Never do so, not even at home. Always wear shoes or slippers to avoid getting scratched, cut or even burned from hot surfaces.

Never treat corns or calluses yourself. Don’t perform “bathroom surgery” or use medicated pads. Visit your doctor for appropriate treatment.

Be active. Staying active is important. Just be extra careful, particularly if you play sports, to monitor your feet for related injuries.

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Treat your diabetes. Keep your blood sugar levels under control.

Untreated diabetes can result in other conditions affecting the feet, including diabetic peripheral neuropathy and Charcot foot, a condition in which the bones of the foot are weakened enough to fracture.

and ankle surgeon works with your other healthcare providers to prevent and treat complications from diabetes. See your foot and ankle surgeon regularly, or as soon as you notice any problems, to help prevent the foot complications of diabetes.

Don’t smoke. Smoking restricts blood flow in your feet.

For more resources and tips regarding foot and ankle health and con-

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l Get periodic foot exams. Your foot

ditions, visit the ACFAS patient education website, FootHealthFacts.org.

“When it comes to diabetes care, don’t neglect your feet. Proper preventive care with the help of a foot and ankle surgeon can help keep your whole body healthy,” says Dr. Sachs. (StatePoint) l

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SIMPLE WAYS TO SOOTHE YOUR

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TEETHING BABY kPHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF (C) FAMVELD / ISTOCK VIA GETTY IMAGES PLUS.

aving a better understanding of what to expect and some smart strategies for relieving your baby’s discomfort can make the process smoother.

What to Expect While most babies teethe around six months, that first tooth can appear any time between three and 14 months. Teeth typically come in pairs, starting with the bottom front two, followed by the top front two.

Your baby’s primary pearly whites should be completely in by age 3.

Many babies show early signs when a tooth is on the way. In a study published in Pediatrics in 2000, researchers at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation followed 125 children from their 3-month checkup through their first birthday and

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found that during teething, there was a notable increase in biting, drooling, gum rubbing, sucking, irritability, wakefulness, ear rubbing, facial rash, decreased appetite for solid food and mild temperature.

What to Do About It While teething can be stressful for child and parents alike, these recommendations can help you naturally ease your baby’s discomfort: “The pressure of an emerging tooth beneath the gums may be relieved by counter pressure,” says Dr. Ken Redcross, primary care physician and founder of Redcross Concierge. He recommends massaging your baby’s gums with a moistened gauze pad or washcloth.Teething toys allow your baby to ease discomfort on their own. Firm rubber

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CARING FOR A BABY CAN BE EXTREMELY REWARDING. IT CAN ALSO BE EXHAUSTING. ALONG WITH THOSE AMAZING FIRST-YEAR MILESTONES CAN ARISE TEETHING MISERY THAT DISRUPTS THE ENTIRE HOUSEHOLD.

teething rings are a good choice, as they’re unlikely to break from the pressure of your baby’s chewing.

Contact with cold items can have a soothing effect. Offer cold foods, teething rings and washcloths. Stick with chilled, not frozen items. Extreme cold can make matters worse.

Brace yourself for active evenings.

According to Dr. Redcross, “When the tooth moves through the bone and gum, it tends to come in stages, with more activity at night, so a baby may be more irritable at bedtime.”

Because teething may cause your baby to drool excessively, it can also be the indirect cause of skin irritation. Dry your baby’s chin

regularly. Then, apply soothing calendula cream. Absorbent sheets can help manage the problem overnight and during naps.

For babies 1 month and older, Dr. Redcross recommends Camilia, a plant-based homeopathic medicine from Boiron used to relieve teething symptoms naturally, including painful gums and irritability.

These claims are based on traditional homeopathic practice, not accepted medical evidence and are not FDA evaluated. These hygienic liquid doses are pre-measured, easy to use, and small enough to carry anywhere. Made without benzocaine, sweeteners, flavors, dyes and preservatives, parents can use Camilia worry-free. To learn more, as well as download a free teething guide, visit CamiliaTeething.com.

Lastly, Dr. Redcross reminds parents to take care of their own needs during these teething struggles. “Be sure to give yourself breaks. Get as much rest as you can. And don’t be afraid to ask for help,” he says.

Using a mix of these new and triedand-true teething methods, your entire household can get through the teething process with less stress and more smiles. (StatePoint) l

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FEATURE

GOODING

& COMPANY

JOINS CONCOURS OF ELEGANCE TO PRESENT THE GREATEST AUCTION OF THE YEAR

kPHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF CONCOURS OF ELEGANCE. 154

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THE CONCOURS OF ELEGANCE, PRESENTED

BY A. LANGE & SÖHNE, IS DELIGHTED THE LEADING AUTOMOTIVE AUCTION HOUSE, GOODING & COMPANY, PRESENTED THE GREATEST CLASSIC CAR AUCTION OF THE YEAR AT THE 2020 CONCOURS OF ELEGANCE.

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FEATURE

he “Passion of a Lifetime” auction, originally slated for April, marked the first time Gooding & Company has ever held an auction outside of the United States of America. The UK’s finest concours d’elegance event was a fitting setting for the world’s leading automotive auction house to present for viewing a selection of automotive masterpieces from a revered private collection. These vehicles represented a meticulous commitment to bring together the most coveted and valuable examples of European sports and racing automobiles of the 20th century.

Taking place from September 4th through 6th, the Concours of Elegance was the first major international concours d’elegance since March, bringing together the global motoring community for the first time in six months. The Gooding & Company “Passion of a Lifetime” sale was another example of perfectly curated content at the Concours of Elegance. This year’s displays included a line-up of the McLaren F1 GTRs that triumphed at Le Mans in 1995, a display of championship-winning Formula One cars in celebration of 70 years of F1 and – as ever – a hand-picked collection of the world’s rarest cars. In total, nearly 1,000 cars were on display across the weekend.

James Brooks-Ward, Concours of Elegance CEO, said: “From our venue to our cars to our sponsors, we handpick each and every aspect of the Concours of Elegance. Really, there can only be one auction house with the global renown necessary to host an auction at our event, and it’s Gooding & Company. David Gooding has been an active member of our Steering Committee and a great supporter of ours and we’re delighted to be able to bring 2020’s greatest auction to Hampton Court Palace. It’s the latest development in what will be an astonishing event, at a time when many of us need it most.”

Gooding & Company’s website, YouTube channel, and mobile apps for iOS and Android, with telephone and absentee bidding available.

In total, 15 cars formed the auction lots, including a 1934 Bugatti Type 59, widely regarded as the most significant and original competition Bugatti. With several historic victories and pole positions to its name, this Type 59 was then sold to King Leopold III of Belgium in 1938 and remains in the original condition of his ownership. Alongside the Bugatti was a one-of-19 1961 Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato, the sole example finished in Peony Red and considered to be one of the absolute best, most original DB GT Zagatos in existence. The Gooding & Company sale also included further Aston Martins, Bentleys, Bugattis, Lamborghinis, Lancias, a Rolls-Royce, and a Vauxhall.

David Gooding, President and Founder, Gooding & Company, said: “It is our great honor for Gooding & Company to present ‘Passion of a Lifetime’ at the Concours of Elegance at Hampton Court Palace. Car enthusiasts from around the globe have been anticipating this event since we announced in December of 2019. The world is eager to witness the bidding as these exceptional motorcars find their new homes.”

Complete List of Passion of a Lifetime Offerings: l 1961 Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato l 1955 Aston Martin DB3S l 1935 Aston Martin Ulster l 1939 Bentley 4 1/4 Litre Cabriolet l 1927 Bentley 3 Litre Speed Model Sports Tourer l 1934 Bugatti Type 59 Sports l 1937 Bugatti Type 57S Atalante l 1928 Bugatti Type 35C Grand Prix l 1971 Lamborghini Miura P400 SV Speciale l 1965 Lamborghini 350 GT

The Gooding & Company “Passion of a Lifetime” lots were displayed at Hampton Court Palace from September 4th through 5th. The auction itself took place in the Fountain Gardens of Hampton Court Palace, amongst the event, on Saturday, September 5th. Enthusiasts worldwide could watch the live auction broadcast on

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l 1955 Lancia Aurelia B24S Spider America l 1959 Lancia Flaminia 2500 Sport l 1924 Lancia Lambda 3rd Series Torpédo l 1919 Rolls-Royce 40/50 HP Silver Ghost

Alpine Eagle Tourer l 1924 Vauxhall 30-98 OE-Type Wensum l

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1924 Vauxhall 30-98 Type OE Wensum

1928 Bugatti Type 35C Grand Prix

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About the Annual Concours of Elegance

1934 Bugatti Type 59 Sports

Established in 2012, the inaugural Concours of Elegance was held within Windsor Castle to mark the diamond jubilee of Her Majesty The Queen’s reign. Organized by Thorough Events, the first Concours of Elegance set a new global benchmark for a classic car concours; winning prestigious awards in the process; unheard of for a ‘start-up’ event in its first year. The second Concours of Elegance was held in 2013 to equal fanfare at the historic Royal Palace of St James in London, with the widely acclaimed third Concours set in the stunning grounds of Hampton Court Palace in September 2014, before heading to the Palace of Holyroodhouse in 2015.

Only cars of the highest caliber are invited to the Concours of Elegance, from all over the world, painstakingly selected by the Concours Steering Committee, a respected team of authoritative historic car experts. A key objective of the annual Concours of Elegance is to raise significant sums for charity. www.concoursofelegance.co.uk.

Historic Royal Palaces Hampton Court Palace is cared for by Historic Royal Palaces, the independent charity that also looks after the Tower of London, the Banqueting House, Kensington Palace, Kew Palace, and Hillsborough Castle in Northern Ireland. We help everyone explore the story of how monarchs and people have shaped society, in some of the greatest palaces ever built. We raise all our own funds and depend on the support of our visitors, members, donors, sponsors, and volunteers. Except for Hillsborough Castle, these palaces are owned by The Queen on behalf of the nation, and we manage them for the Secretary of State for Culture, Media, and Sport. For more information, visit www.hrp.org.uk.

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FEATURE

1952 Bentley R-Type Continental Fastback

1961 Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato

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1961 Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato

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FEATURE

About Gooding & Company The “Passion of a Lifetime” Auction is presented by Gooding UK, LLC, a division of Gooding & Company.

Gooding & Company is celebrated for its world-class automotive auctions and unparalleled service in the international collector car market, achieving over $2 billion in sales since the company’s inception. The auction house continues to deliver marketleading results, while setting new trends and selling best-of-category cars across numerous collector car verticals. Gooding & Company consistently presents the highestquality consignments while operating with openness and integrity, which have earned the company a reputation of trust and respect unmatched in the industry. Offering a wide range of services including private and estate sales, appraisals and collection management, the auction house is ready to assist you with numerous collector car services.

1937 Bugatti Type 57S Atalante 5

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VIBRANT AND WARM,

FRAGRANT AND WILD SEND MCQUEENS FLOWERS FOR THE MOST BEAUTIFUL FLORAL OFFERINGS

M

cQueens Flowers has been creating beautiful and memorable designs since 1991, building a reputation around the world for colorful and creative floral creations perfectly matched to every occasion and setting.

the floral design partner for the All England Lawn Tennis Club’s Wimbledon Champion’s Ball and the London Evening Standard Theatre Awards, along with hundreds of other stunning events and highprofile weddings each year.

What started out as a home of simple, stylish London flowers beautifully presented, has grown to become one of the world’s most respected and admired floral design companies, setting the standard for floral quality, style, and elegance.

They also have an online shop so you can have a McQueens bouquet delivered straight to your home.

The McQueens Flowers bouquet is a unique work of floral art, crafted by one of their talented florists. You can send your flowers with sameday London delivery for orders placed before 2:00 PM or next-day United Kingdom delivery available until 2:00 PM the day prior.

With creative studios, workshops and flower schools in London, New York, and Seoul – and more international cities underway, McQueens is a truly international affair, with customers in Mexico, United States, Japan, France, Korea, Kuwait, Singapore, Hong Kong, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Italy, Spain, and Australia.

kPHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF

MCQUEENS FLOWERS.

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They’re proud to have provided flowers for Vanity Fair’s Oscars After Party for the last 25 years, to be

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From sourcing the most beautiful seasonal stems to the exquisite finish on our packaging, each luxury bouquet has been handled with an enormous amount of care. You can also add a finishing flourish, choose a beautiful accompaniment from our gift edit from McQueens Flower x Miller Harris scented candles to statement vases. l

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VIBRANT AND WARM,

FRAGRANT AND WILD

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OUR INFLUENTIAL GIFT GIVING GUIDE

Our InFluential WHETHER YOU’RE SHOPPING FOR A GIFT FOR MOM, DAD, GRANDPA, GRANDMA, THE KIDS, OR ANYONE ELSE, YOU’LL BE SURE TO FIND A GIFT THEY’LL LOVE FROM ONE OF THESE THOUGHTFUL BRANDS.

Gift Giving

Guide

Intelligent Threads I

ntelligent Threads® is a wearable breakthrough technology designed to help athletes and non-athletes alike perform at their highest level. Developed by Synergy Release Method® provider Brian Burzynski, D.PSc., SRM, and featuring technology more than 15 years in the making, Intelligent Threads® drastically improves muscle relaxation and recovery time. Using lightweight dryfit PosiCharge polyester material that is lab-proven to be chemical-free, each piece stabilizes bone structure while releasing muscles to help the body achieve its correct anatomical position.

Rather than acting as a bandaid to mask pain, the Intelligent Threads® collection alters pain at its source by stopping the body from overcompensating for imbalances or injuries.

Achieve the proper body alignment vital to faster recovery, with added benefits of helping to restore blood flow, gain better posture, relax the muscles, eliminate soreness, and prevent injury. Athletes like NFL defensive end Justin Houston, pro golfer Tom Byrum, and MLB player Asa Lacy rely on Intelligent Threads for more consistent physical ability that gives them an edge over their competition. Improve performance and reach peak potential in the gym, yoga studio, or on the field. Relieve soreness, pain, and bad posture for better performance at work, home, or on the go. Intelligent Threads® is built to restore the body to optimum functionality so it can perform according to its design.

Stop investing in temporary fixes that only mask issues of pain and discomfort, and start relying on a full-body, science-backed solution.

Discover Intelligent Threads online at IntelligentThreads.com. Follow on YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook @IntelligentThreads. Intelligent Threads - You deserve it. l

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OUR INFLUENTIAL GIFT GIVING GUIDE

Girlfriend Box G

irlfriend Box is a subscription jewelry gifting service that takes the guesswork and stress out of finding the right way to celebrate every important occasion. The company was born when founder Arianny Celeste, a self-made Latina celebrity influencer, model, and entrepreneur, discovered several of her male fans needed help figuring out what to gift their significant others. Having worked

with global brands such as Bebe, Fashion Nova, Guess, and Urban Decay, Celeste hand-picked a selection of designer style accessories she will love, and that is perfect for any occasion. Now, never forget an important date again with personalized, pre-scheduled affordable subscription options that include: five special occasion dates, a once-monthly gift, or a one-time present.

Learn more at GirlfriendBox.com and follow on Instagram @GirlfriendBox to sign up (so you never mess up.). Girlfriend Box: the new standard for gifting. l

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Little Lady Products F

ounded by mompreneur and cosmetic manufacturing expert Arda Tashdjian, Little Lady premium nail polish is safe and made to spark imagination and free play. Designed with help from Tashdjian’s own kids, Little Lady is available in a spectrum of quick-dry colors and kid-approved scents, each topped with a child-sized wearable pink or blue bow ring to complete the “minicure.” The full Little Lady collection of vegan, cruelty-free polish is formulated with health and safety

in mind, offering an ideal solution for kids, moms-tobe, and anyone seeking a relaxing mani-pedi. To shop, visit product showrooms in Los Angeles, New York, Dallas, and Atlanta, or find Little Lady at select US stores.

Shoppers can also browse the complete collection online at LittleLadyProducts.com and enjoy free shipping anywhere in the United States. Follow Little Lady on Instagram @LittleLadyProducts for new releases, gift ideas, and style inspiration.l

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LUXIE Beauty S

ince 2014, LUXIE has grown from an indie brand to a global phenomenon beloved by top US influencers and beauty lovers alike. Sourcing the best components from around the world, the female-founded company developed one of the first high-performing, cruelty-free, and 100% vegan makeup brushes. Today, their complete collection features a wide array of multi-use beauty tools that combine sleek design with problem-solving functionality, including signature brushes made with premium soft, synthetic bristles. Headquartered in San Jose, California, LUXIE is available in retail stores across the Americas, Europe, and Asia. Led by CEO Conor Riley and CFO Claudia Poccia - known for her work with Shiseido, Bare Escentuals, Stila, and Laura Mercier - the LUXIE team is constantly innovating in a non-stop effort to deliver flawless perfection. They strive to partner with exceptional retailers, influencers, and industry leaders who share their core environmental and community values, along with an authentic passion for next-generation beauty products.

Learn more at LuxieBeauty.com and follow on Instagram @LuxieBeauty. l

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OUR INFLUENTIAL GIFT GIVING GUIDE

SWIMINISTA F

rom Rock & Republic Co-Founder Andréa Bernholtz comes SWIMINISTA, an all-new collection of comfortable, ultra-chic swimwear made from luxury recycled fabrics and featuring adjustable, personalized fits in sizes A-DDD. To give women the confidence to celebrate their own bodies while reducing the swim industry’s impact on the planet, SWIMINISTA relies on high-quality fabric made from post-consumer plastics to create sexy, supportive pieces made for movement.

Using the SWIMINISTA personalized fit guide, shoppers can select their ideal style and enter details about their jeans and bra sizes to easily find the right suit to complement their unique body. Through the company’s discrete “Try At Home” option, shoppers can choose a selection of suits to try, decide which to keep and send back the rest. Discover the new era of eco-conscious, supportive swimwear in the SWIMINISTA online shop, along with care tips and updates on the company’s efforts to give back, both globally and locally.

Shop the SWIMINISTA collection exclusively at SWIMINISTA.com and follow on Instagram @SWIMINISTA for style ideas, new releases, and brand updates. l

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IN FLUENCE

Lifestyle

8

TRULY UNIQUE

CAMPING EXPERIENCES

THIS IS THE YEAR FOR OUT OF THE ORDINARY, SO WHY NOT DO SOMETHING DIFFERENT WHEN IT COMES TO CAMPING? 182

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C

amping locations typically center around national parks and forestlands, and campgrounds and resorts are designed with campers in mind with amenities like swimming pools, laundry

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In a Tiny House: Is there anything cuter than the tiny houses that are all the rage when it comes to camping accommodations? Check out the Mt. Hood Tiny House Village in Welches, Oregon and choose from one of seven perfectly appointed tiny homes for your camping adventure in the beautiful Mt. Hood area. With full bathrooms, kitchens, and surprisingly roomy living space for activities this is camping at its best. Plus, the outdoor fun in the area, including hiking, fishing, and biking, make for the perfect camping vacation.

facilities, a clubhouse, and an assortment of sports courts. But if you are looking for a little something different for your next camping adventure, consider camping on a working ranch, in a covered wagon, in a vineyard, or even in a treehouse.

Gettysburg Farm RV Campground Mt. Hood Tiny House Village

ground has RV and tent sites and a rental loft unit. Get up close and personal with the farm animals and learn about crops and harvesting. A visit to nearby historic Gettysburg is another option for a great family activity.

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In an RV: Always been curious but don’t plan on buying one just yet? Consider renting one to see how RV life suits you. Check out Outdoorsy.com, considered one of the most trusted RV rental marketplaces in the country. Outdoor-

Outdoorsy

There are plenty of neat, and completely unique, camping options that promise a camping experience like no other. Consider these out-ofthe-ordinary ideas if you’re looking to switch it up when it comes to camping this year:

1

On a Working Farm: Camp with goats, horses, sheep, turkeys, and other friendly farm animals at Gettysburg Farm RV Campground in Dover, Pennsylvania, the heart of Amish country. In addition to the working farm, this 120-acre campSEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2020

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Rancho Oso RV Campground in the mountains of Santa Barbara circle a communal fire pit and come equipped with four sleeping cots.

The campground sits on 300-plus acres surrounded by the beautiful Los Padres National Forest with opportunities for hiking and fishing. Nearby Santa Barbara is great for architectural walks, shopping, and fabulous beach sunsets.

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sy offers a wide selection of peerto-peer RV rentals, with a selection spanning vintage Airstreams, toy haulers, fifth wheelers, Class A, B and C motorhomes, popups, and more.

camping experience you’re looking for, except these wagons have the luxury of electricity. The covered wagon rental options at California’s

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On the Beach: The Long Beach Peninsula in Washington State offers 28 miles of beachfront along the Pacific Ocean and the chance to camp here is yours for the taking if you stay at the Long Beach RV and Camping Resort which is just 1200 feet from the beach. Imagine the sounds of the rolling waves lulling you to sleep at your campsite. Come sunrise, enjoy the day beachside where you’re never far from “home.”

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In a Covered Wagon: This choice of camping accommodation could give you the old-time

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Long Beach RV and Camping Resort

On a Working Ranch: Rancho Oso Campground is also a working ranch complete with horses and a bucking bull. Ride horseback along the trails and enjoy the beautiful countryside. Learn to tie, swing, and throw a lasso or just sit back and enjoy the glimpses of

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wildlife including wild turkeys, deer, and woodpeckers that roam near the campground. A wild west experience for sure.

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In a Treehouse: Don’t just camp among the trees, camp in a tree. If being in a treehouse doesn’t bring you back to simpler times, then you need more than just a short vacation. There are plenty of magical treehouse accommodations around the country, including the Whispering Wind Treehouse in Argyle, New York. Treehouse camping gets you closer than close to nature.

Rancho Oso RV Campground Whispering Wind Treehouse Hickman Family Vineyards

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In a Vineyard: Looking for a truly immersive vineyard experience that goes beyond a simple tasting? Try camping in a working vineyard. Hickman Family Vineyards in Bangor, California is a great option where you can set up camp among the vines. l SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2020

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5

Lifestyle

WAYS TO ENCOURAGE

YOUR CAT TO DRINK MORE WATER

at owners might not know that felines are inefficient at drinking fluids compared to dogs or other pets, which can lead to dehydration or other issues.

“Although water is the most necessary nutrient for cats and serves a variety of physiological functions, cats tend to be poor drinkers,” says Dr. Deborah S. Greco, Senior Research Scientist at Purina. “Unlike dogs, cats are inefficient at lapping thin fluids like water and only consume approximately 3/100s of a teaspoon with each lap.”1 Feline Hydration: An Overlooked Yet Critical Issue Hydration is often an overlooked issue by cat owners who assume their cats are drinking enough rather than knowing how much they drink. In fact, according to a recent Purina survey2, 79% say they believe their cats drink enough water each day; however, only 37% say they know how much their cats need to drink daily. What’s more, 14% of cat owners surveyed say they have no idea how much water their cats drink daily.

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When cats don’t get enough water, dehydration can occur in healthy cats as well as cats with urinary issues. Dehydration can lead to many other concerns from sluggishness and irritability to disorientation and organ failure. To help support healthy hydration in your cat, Greco says it’s best to take proactive action.

WATER IS AN ESSENTIAL NUTRIENT FOR HUMANS - AND IT’S THE SAME FOR OUR PETS AS WELL.

[1] Reis et al.

How cats lap water: water uptake by Felis catus. Science 330. 1231-1234 (2010).

[2] Pro Plan Veterinary Supplements online survey of 1,018 cat owners age 18 -65, fielded August 2019

by Relevation Research [3] Reis et al.

How cats lap water: water uptake by Felis catus. Science 330. 1231-1234 (2010).

5 Steps to Encourage Cat Hydration

use a chilled bowl to keep it cool for longer periods of time.

Step 1: Try a supplement Cats need daily hydration, and it might take time to determine the right methods to encourage drinking. That’s why starting with a hydration supplement is a good first step. Then you can try other strategies to help your cat drink more water. Designed to be given in a third bowl alongside food and water, Hydra Care from Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Supplements is a hydration supplement for cats that has been shown to increase total liquid intake when compared to cats consuming only water in addition to dry feeding. In fact, when offered the supplement, cats consumed 28% more liquid on average than cats who were only fed water and dry food alone. In addition to its liver flavor, the nutrient-enriched water also offers added nutritional osmolytes, molecular compounds that support water absorption and healthy hydration. Learn more at proplanvetdirect.com.

Step 3: Replace the bowl If it’s not the temperature of the water, it might be the water container that is deterring your cat. Try out different bowls and see if your cat drinks more from one versus another. When selecting a bowl, opt for shapes that are wider and lower; cats may not like their whiskers hitting the side of the bowl. Additionally, stainless steel, glass or ceramic bowls are better options than plastic because they are heavier and easier to clean, so they don’t tip over.

Step 2: Regulate water temperature If it appears your cat isn’t drinking much, you may want to try different temperatures of water. While some cats enjoy room temperature water, others will drink much more when it’s cold. The only way to know is to try and observe differences when you offer various temperatures. If you find your cat prefers cool water,

Step 4: Replace water regularly Your cat has a much stronger sense of smell than you. What might look fresh to you, might not be to your cat. Therefore, remember to replace the water regularly to help encourage your felines to drink more. This might mean replacing their water multiple times a day, depending on your cat’s preference. To keep things fresh, clean the bowl with soap and hot water once a week.

Step 5: Consider a cat fountain Because their eyesight is adapted for distance vision versus near vision, cats poorly visualize the water in a bowl, which is how most pet owners provide hydration to cats. Research shows they prefer fresh, moving water and are sensitive to both the presentation and taste of water.3 A cat fountain moves water, which appeals to felines, and many have filters to keep the water clean. (BPT) l

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Technology

INTRODUCING CURE.FIT:

THE ONLY HEALTH AND FITNESS APP YOU’LL EVER NEED

I

ntroducing Cure.fit, a comprehensive health app that includes all facets of a healthy lifestyle on one platform. It has holistic health offerings across physical fitness and workouts, healthy food, and mental well-being.

The app currently offers three verticals. Its flagship offering Cult.fit provides a large variety of workouts that make fitness fun and easy. Eat. fit offers healthy and delicious recipes. Mind.fit offers training mo-

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DURING A TIME WHEN MANY CAN’T LEAVE THE HOUSE AND PEOPLE DON’T WANT TO SPEND THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS ON GYM EQUIPMENT, WE ARE ALL SEARCHING FOR NEW WAYS TO STAY HEALTHY.

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dules in mental well-being which aims at helping people to deal with issues like stress, anxiety, and sleep disorders through a combination of yoga and meditation.

Ranked as one of the best fitness apps of 2020, Cure.fit’s proprietary AI-based Energy Meter helps users understand the effort they put into each workout. Once the camera is enabled, explosive movements can be captured, and the user is assigned an energy score which lets them

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compete with others in the class to obtain a class ranking at the end of each session.

The Energy Meter keeps the user engaged and motivated throughout the entire class, makes them feel part of a group, allows them to compete with others in real-time, and offers weekly reports.

Photography Courtesy of Cure.Fit.

Highlighted offerings: l LIVE workout sessions 24/7 - Turn your living room into a workout studio. Book classes that work with your schedule and get notified before the classes start. l Wide variety of workouts — Dance, Yoga, HIIT, Pilates, HRX, Strength, Cardio, and more taught by world-class trainers and athletes

AI-based Energy Meter — Tracks user movements throughout whole class and calculates LIVE energy score during the session l On-demand classes — Real workouts with real athletes. You get trained only by the best. l Masterclasses — Enjoy classes taught by celebrities l Healthy recipes — Access a wide variety of healthy recipes—salads, vegan, world cuisine, smoothies, desserts, snacks, and more l Peace of mind — Mindfulness and mediation at home, at your convenience. Meditate to release stress, reduce anxiety, and sleep better. l

Recently launched in the US, India’s most popular integrative health app was founded in 2016 by successful serial entrepreneurs, Mukesh Bansal and Ankit Nagori. l SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2020

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INFLUENTIAL SPOTLIGHT

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FEATURING

Puente Valenzuela

BIANCA CORAL CHARACTER DIRECTOR FERNANDO FRIAS DE LA PARRA CREATED A ROLE FOR BIANCA CORAL PUENTE VALENZUELA IN THE MOVIE ‘I’M NOT HERE ANYMORE. THE FILM, WHICH PREMIERED ON THE NETFLIX STREAMING PLATFORM, WAS AWARDED PRIZES IN EGYPT AND RECOMMENDED BY DIRECTOR GUILLERMO DEL TORO GÓMEZ. BIANCA IS NOMINATED FOR THE 2020 ARIEL AWARD FROM THE MEXICAN ACADEMY OF FILM ARTS AND SCIENCES IN THE ACTORAL REVELATION CATEGORY.

kPHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF FERNANDO SADA @FERNANDO.SADA.

MODEL IS CORAL PUENTE @BIANCACORALPUENTE. PRODUCTION BY MARIEL MORENO @MARIEL_MORENO / JOHNY LAGUNA. @JOHNYLAGVNA / ROBERTO MADAR @MEDICEMADAR. HAIR BY SAUL GONZALEZ @ELIHUS_SAUL / MAKE UP JULISSA MARTINEZ @JULSMTZLAVIN. STYLING BY ALY FLORES @_ALYFLORESS. SPECIAL THANKS MELISA QUEZADA @MELISA.QUEZADA.S / GUILLERMO QUINTERO @CHEFGUILLEKIU.

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Puente Valen

BIANCA CO

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nzuela

ORAL

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