History
HolySmoke was established in 2018 by a group of cigar-smoking friends, who are also followers of Christ. Today, it has evolved into a way to discuss the word of God over a cigar and to include friends who are curious about Christianity and the Bible. Typically, your normal cigar smokes for about an hour and a half, so that’s how long our Bible Study lasts: 90 minutes.
Understanding we needed some rules to ensure that everyone felt safe to share their personal experiences and perspectives as we discuss the verses, we have created three rules.
- PRIVATE – What’s said at HolySmoke stays at HolySmoke.
- PARTICIPATORY – If you are a person who doesn’t share much, we encourage you to open up. And if you are someone who tends to share a lot, consider holding back a bit and let others have some time to share as well.
- PERSONAL – We do not ask that you use flowery words; please share and discuss as you feel comfortable.
What started in Fresno has now multiplied into many groups throughout California and other states. We hope you will join one of our groups.
Board Members
Founder / CEO
Eric Tienken
Eric is a native Californian, currently residing in Clovis California. Husband to his best friend, Jane Tienken for 30+ years. Proud father of Alexandra, Devin, Faith & Grace. Loves real estate development, smoking cigars and traveling with friends and family.
Jazz Sidhu
Jazz moved to Fresno from Orange County in 1989 and makes the city his primary residence. He has two boys, Abneer and Jaden. Jazz supports the community in a number of ways, including directing fundraising efforts as a member of The Presidents Club, a philanthropic group associated with Community Health Systems. In the past, he has also been the president of Susan G. Komen Central and Northern California. His passion for cigars led him to the idea of developing the HolySmoke Cigar and bringing it to fruition.
Vice President
CFO
Scott GossenbergeR
Scott has been a pastor for 32 years, 20 of those serving in Fresno/Clovis. He is married to Jackie (11 years) and has two children and five stepchildren. Scott’s unique journey back into ministry influences how he applies the Word of God. God is glorified most profoundly when the imperfect is used to accomplish God’s perfect will. It’s a miracle. It is God building a church that only He can build.
His favorite verse is John 10:10 which is his calling: to lead people to the abundant life Jesus has for them. This is what following Jesus is all about. It’s neither an obligation nor a responsibility. It is a privilege!
Joe Basile
Joe Basile is the author of two sci-fi novel series, “The Last Qumranian” and “Tin Cans: The Girls with Red and Black Hair.” He is also the host for The History Channel’s, “The Jesus Strand: A Search for DNA,” is a radio personality for KMJ, and a pastor at First Street Church in Fresno. Joe is originally from Chicago and grew up as a part of a mob crime family. During a brief rap career, he became a Christian and then a pastor and God eventually brought him to the AMAZING Central Valley, which he adores. Joe loves cigars and golf and humans. He has three great kids and is married to the beautiful Lisa Basile, who is his favorite person to laugh with and discuss things like religion, politics, current affairs, and overall odd news on their comedy podcast, “Politically Corrected.”
Secretary
Frank Turner
Around 25 years ago, Frank Turner was introduced to cigars by his dear friend and HolySmoke founder, Eric Tienken. After many of life’s twists and turns, including many failures and a few successes, Frank remains an enthusiastic cigar smoker. Frank has been a Christian since childhood, an entrepreneur since high school, a father since his 30s, and a dreamer since forever. During his involvement with HolySmoke, he has seen more life-changing “church” than decades in church and considers it a privilege to serve HolySmoke and its vision for connecting men to the Message.
Judge Jim Petrucelli (Ret.)
Jim, a retired California Superior Court Judge, former lawyer and Fresno County Deputy Sheriff, has been a life-long resident of the Fresno area. He has been enjoying fine cigars since the ’70’s. Jim now spends his time traveling the world with his loving bride, Catherine. “Judge” both leads his own HolySmoke group and participates in other area groups as well.
He invites you to “Judge’s Daily Devotional” which are also available all HolySmoke social media platforms.
Terrence Martinusen
Terrence Martinusen lived in Fresno up until 1995 at which point he moved to Kingsburg. He is married to Cindy Martinusen and has a son named John. Together, they own Fat Boys Torch welding business.
Devin Tienken
