Enjoy Magazine: San Joaquin Valley Living — February/March 2021

SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY

F E B R UA RY/ M A R C H 2 0 2 1

ISSUE 69

L E T LOV E G R OW feel it with your heart

www.enjoysouthvalley.com

Enjoy the magazine It’s on the house

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contents San Joaquin Valley Living

F E B R U A R Y/ M A R C H 2 0 2 1 // I S S U E 6 9

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inspiration

good things 14 | Getting Creative at Board and Brush, Hanford

home & garden 22 | 2021 Home Improvement Trends

TH E B E AUT Y O F B ECO M I N G The Work of Transformation

on the map 10 | Intimate Gatherings and Niche Weddings at Ol’ Buckaroo

supporting local 28 | Showing Love to Businesses in the South Valley

wedding trends 8 | 2021 Wedding Tips and Trends

in every issue 24 | Enjoy the View—Ralph Chojnacki 26 | What’s Cookin’— Peanut Butter Cup Crispy Rice Treats 31 | Giving Back— World Down Syndrome Day

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2021 www.EnjoySouthValley.com

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A trusted, locally owned business in downtown Selma since 1954.

Visit our store and let us design a piece that is uniquely you!

• Custom engagement rings • Men’s and women’s watches • One-of-a-kind pieces

MAKE THIS AN ENGAGEMENT

TO REMEMBER. Martin Jewelers

Tues-Fri: 9:30am to 4:30pm

Harold M. Phillips,G.G 1921 High Street • Selma, CA 93662 559.896.1930 • martinjewelersdowntown.com

editor’s note

on the cover

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2021

LOVE IS A TREASURE to be shared with family, friends, neighbors, strangers, even yourself. Nurture love in all its forms, from preparing a delicious meal together to penning a thoughtful note to a beloved friend, and let love grow.

Love is also about building bonds. Invest some quality time with a friend or plan a date night at Board and Brush in Hanford, where you don’t need to be an artist to create truly original decorative signs, cornhole games, clocks and much more.

Love is also about making memories with special people, and ol’ Buckaroo can set the scene. This food truck turned diner in breathtaking Three Rivers began as the dream of foodie partners Nicky French and T.R. Bousek.

Simplicity and ease are their jam, and the spot has become a coveted spot to hold an intimate gathering or a niche wedding.

If your love has evolved enough to lead you down the aisle, we have collected some unconventional, creative tips and trends, from charcuterie boxes for two to unplugged roaming musicians.

Behind each locally owned business in the South Valley is someone with a dream. If you have the means, we encourage you to check out a new-to-you business this month, show them some love, and tell a friend.

In a world that could use some healing, let love grow… and enjoy!

Cover models: TJ Sugg and Gabrielle Satterlee

by Dakota Lynn Photography

Enjoy Magazine YVONNE MAZZOTTA publisher MICHELLE ADAMS publisher RONDA ALVEY editor in chief KERRI REGAN copy editor MONICA FATICA creative & managing editor KENDRA KAISERMAN BRENNA DAVID advertising sales representative DANIELLE COLESBERRY CAMERON FATICA ANGEL CAMPOS deliveries

www.enjoysouthvalley.com Enjoy Magazine (559) 804-7411 • (530) 246-4687 Email General: infosouthvalley@enjoymagazine.net

Photo by Dakota Lynn Photography

Sales and Advertising information: infosouthvalley@enjoymagazine.net

©2021 by Enjoy Magazine. All rights reserved.

Reproductions without permission are strictly prohibited. Articles and advertisements in Enjoy Magazine do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the management, employees, or freelance writers.

Every effort is made to avoid errors, misspellings and omissions. If an error is found, please accept our sincere apologies and notify us of the mistake.

The businesses, locations and people mentioned in our articles are solely determined by the editorial staff and are not influenced by advertising.

Enjoy and Enjoy the Store are trademarks of Enjoy, Inc.

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2021 www.EnjoySouthValley.com

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“THE BEST AND MOST BEAUTIFUL THINGS IN THIS WORLD CANNOT BE SEEN OR EVEN HEARD, BUT MUST BE FELT WITH THE HEART.”

- Helen Keller

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2021 www.EnjoySouthValley.com

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WEDDING TRENDS

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BY MONICA FATICA

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target

2021 WEDDING TIPS AND TRENDS

GET ON BOARD with the charcuterie craze by serving boxes for one or two. This is a great option in lieu of appetizers for a smaller crowd, and is a pandemic-friendly shift from the typical help-yourself grazing tables. The boxes can also include dessert bites and be wrapped with velvet or satin ribbon for the perfect touch.

Photo by Dakota Lynn Photography

SET THE STAGE for a memorable vow exchange with a beautiful backdrop. Wedding arches can be made into circular shapes with pampas grass and neutral color tones, or pair modern macrame with a tapestry rug. Draped linens with lush greenery also create a romantic scene.

Photo courtesty of At The Graze Charcuterie

Photo by Dakota Lynn Photography

Photo by

Kelli Avila

Photogra

PICTURE PERFECT can mean wearing what makes you feel amazing on your special day, even if it’s more casual wedding attire that you generally prefer.

Blocking out time to have your hair and makeup done will give the polished look for memorable photo taking.

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phy

UNPLUGGED is becoming a popular option with a smaller guest list. Hiring an acoustic guitarist or other instrumental performer can create a café or bistro feel, resulting in a more intimate experience for family and friends. Roaming musicians such as string quartets, barbershop or gospel groups can make your special day unforgettable and unique.

UNCONVENTIONAL AND CREATIVE is one of the themes being embraced for 2021 nuptials.

Dried and fresh flower arrangements in rich fall colors make for stunning centerpieces and lovely bouquets.

Incorporating palm stems, pampas grass and bunny tails can give a modern vintage vibe. You could also create a hair comb using the dried flowers flowing loosely throughout long hair.

LOVE STREAM your wedding by including guests virtually who are unable attend in person. This is a great option during the pandemic, whether you can only have a small amount of in-person guests or if you are having a destination wedding, but want to include others during your special day. You could arrange for charcuterie box deliveries with mini champagne bottles to create an inclusive feel for your viewers.

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2021 www.EnjoySouthValley.com

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ON THE MAP

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BY RACHEL TRIGUEIRO

Photos Courtesy of Ol’ Buckaroo

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original favorites I N T I M AT E G AT H E R I N G S A N D N I C H E W E D D I N G S AT O L’ B U C K A R O O

SIMPLICITY, ease, minimalism and unfussiness seem to be goals of the modern-day individual or business, and ol’ Buckaroo is right on trend.

Successful foodie partners Nicky French and T.R. Bousek are easing into this new year by going back to the nuts and bolts, remembering what inspired their dream and what’s kept their customers happy for years.

“We started as a food truck in 2014, with an acre and a half on the beautiful Kaweah River.

We established a roadside food truck and it worked. We served Americana fare – farm to table food – with a small seasonal and curated menu,” says French.

In February 2017, the duo remodeled the original Three Rivers diner building, bringing it up to code, and it became the Buckaroo diner with the ol’ Buckaroo food truck still on the premises. “We quickly learned that what we were going for in the diner coming from San Francisco was not really working in the Sequoia Park, and we’ve switched back to the original favorites that were so popular,” French says. “We’ve relaxed the vibe and it seems to work better in this area.”

While running a full-service restaurant and venue in 2020 was next to impossible, silver linings exist to all who are willing to find them, like French. “COVID created space to think things through and make the business what we truly want it to be. We want to offer experiences that stick with people their whole lives, and one of those is weddings.”

The first wedding at ol’ Buckaroo was at the end of 2014, “and it was only because we were asked to do one,” he says. “We’ve never really focused on that until more recently. Obviously, 2020 made it weird, but it was the year of pivot for many businesses.”

Going forward, the partners expect more intimate gatherings and niche weddings. With a property rich in history and delightful restorations, ol’ Buckaroo offers guests a unique wedding experience that’s quaint and adaptable to any style. 4

continued on page 12

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“We’re really excited about the amazing space we have to offer. It’s the ultimate for a creative,” French says. “The gardens and river are so lovely. It can truly be whatever you want it to be: Sophisticated, rustic, simple. The options are endless out here.” Of course, along with the beautiful landscape come the ol’ Buck staples: Good food and nice drink.

Along with rolling with the (strange) punches of 2020 and filling a gap for smaller magical events, the partners also long to create an experience that meets the needs of all passersby.

“We realized all travelers, whether millennials, Europeans or locals, are looking for a ‘choose your own experience,’ so we are simplifying and morphing back into our staple menu. Come to ol’ Buckaroo and get your favorite foods, beer and wine, but not full service.” The idea is that guests can create the experience they want.

Feeling a little carsick down the mountain but want to grab some dinner? Pick up food in the front of the diner in the grab & go section Prefer to sit, take it slow and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed? Order your food and take a seat in many of the outdoor options

Hungry and looking to eat right now? Order from the food truck or the restaurant “Our deepest desire is to meet the individual needs of each customer. We are fortunate to have so much outdoor space where people can socially distance and feel safe, no matter what. People will continue to do that even after a semblance of normal. They’ve already been moving in that way. We are so thankful to be in the midst of these great outdoors.”

Customers may see some changes at ol’ Buckaroo, but “It’s the same space and branding. The food is more connected now more than ever,” French says. Here, food and drink will always be the heartbeat of the space with a more personalized version of the experience in 2021 and hopefully, a lot more music. • Ol’ Buckaroo • 41695 Sierra Drive, Three Rivers (559) 465-5088 • www.olbuckaroo.com Find them on Facebook and Instagram

Rachel Trigueiro, twin mom of four, loves adventuring with her family, especially near the beach. She holds a degree in business, but believes living in other countries and cultures offered her the greatest education. She dreamed of being a talk-show host; now, she enjoys story telling and drinking blonde coffee.

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2021 www.EnjoySouthValley.com

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GOOD THINGS

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BY MELISSA MENDONCA

BROAD STROKES G E T T I N G C R E AT I V E AT B O A R D A N D B R U S H , H A N F O R D WHEN HANFORD’S Board and Brush shop went up for sale last year, it had the potential to be another small business lost during the pandemic. Thankfully, a young couple, tempered with the tenacity of educators, took over in mid-December and is keeping the popular creative gathering space open.

“It’s connected us to our community so much,” says Allyson Sippel, who purchased the business with husband Phil, and says they feel validated by the many times they’ve been told how happy people are that they took it on. “We’re giving people something to do at a time when there’s nothing to do.”

That “something” is an opportunity for people to create a wide variety of wood projects with the support of expert instructors, all materials prepped and supplied. Custom decorative signs are popular, but so too are cornhole games and clocks, as well as trays and boxes.

“People say, ‘I’m not crafty.’ They may come in with a little anxiety,” says Allyson, “but we walk them through every step. We lead them

“PEOPLE SAY, ‘I’M NOT CRAFTY.’ THEY MAY COME IN WITH A LITTLE ANXIETY,” SAYS ALLYSON, “BUT WE WALK THEM THROUGH EVERY STEP. WE LEAD THEM THROUGH, BUT WE WANT THEM TO GET THEIR HANDS DIRTY.” through, but we want them to get their hands dirty.” Each piece is customized by sanding, distressing, painting and stenciling, and the names that a customer may want to use to personalize it. The majority of workshops are called Pick Your Project, so everyone in the

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room can be working on an entirely different project. “We really make sure to communicate with the customer to make sure they’re getting exactly what they want,” she says.

While a completed projected is certainly an important outcome of a workshop, Allyson says it’s also about connection. “It’s about the experience of the workshop,” she says. “We want people to be able to set everything aside and enjoy the time. When they leave, our goal is that they enjoyed themselves and they connected with whomever they came with.”

The demographic currently skews to women, with many mothers and daughters coming in together and groups of girlfriends, but Phil sees a big potential for men to enjoy themselves just as much. He maintains the day-to-day work of the business while Allyson continues to teach first grade at Pioneer Elementary School in Hanford. When he left his job at a parts department to run this business, his employers told him how much their wives enjoyed creating at Board and Brush. Now he’d like to get them to come in as well.

“We really want to push guys coming in,” says Phil, noting that there are plenty of ideas offered for man cave signs and outdoor games.

“We can watch sports,” he says with a laugh, noting that it may be more popular than music that usually plays during workshops.

In regular times, wine and beer is served during the classes. While food and drink currently aren’t allowed, it doesn’t stop the fun. Nor is this the only precaution the business is taking to keep people safe. “We4 continued on page 16

“WE REALLY WANT TO PUSH GUYS COMING IN,” SAYS PHIL, NOTING THAT THERE ARE PLENTY OF IDEAS OFFERED FOR MAN CAVE SIGNS AND OUTDOOR GAMES. “WE CAN WATCH SPORTS,” HE SAYS WITH A LAUGH, NOTING THAT IT MAY BE MORE POPULAR THAN MUSIC THAT USUALLY PLAYS DURING WORKSHOPS.

Photos Courtesy of Board & Brush

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call our workshops small, safe and sanitized,” says Allyson, noting that workshops are now about half of their capacity and tables are small and occupied by people who know each other already.

Both Phil and Allyson grew up in the Hanford/Lemoore areas and say it means the world to them to contribute to the community of Hanford. “The community is really important to us, especially these downtown businesses,” Allyson says. Adds Phil, “There’s a brewery down here and one of the guys came here and bought something for his wife at Christmas. It’s been nothing but positive from everybody.”

That “everybody” includes the couple’s three children: Callie, Parker and Piper. “All three of them love it in a different way,” says Allyson, noting that the “WE WANT PEOPLE TO BE ABLE TO family spends a lot of time together at the shop. “It’s a family-run SET EVERYTHING ASIDE AND ENJOY business.” Phil laughs as he notes, “We have walkie talkies set up THE TIME. WHEN THEY LEAVE, OUR from top to bottom.” Board and Brush is in an old two-story GOAL IS THAT THEY ENJOYED building that once housed the large office supply store Branch THEMSELVES AND THEY CONNECTED and Chambers. Rounding out the family is Clementine, the Great Dane puppy they adopted in August 2020. They are WITH WHOMEVER THEY CAME WITH.” hoping she will mellow into a shop dog, but is currently a bit too hyper. “Thankfully we have a big backyard,” says Phil.

With three kids, Allyson’s full-time teaching job, a puppy and a new business, the Sippels certainly have their work cut out for them. And they wouldn’t have it any other way. “We love to take on big, crazy projects,” Allyson says. They invite you to choose your own project to work on at Board and Brush. It may be smaller, but it will be just as meaningful. • Board and Brush Hanford 207 N. Irwin St., Hanford • (559) 530-7933 www.boardandbrush.com/hanford/ Find them on Facebook and Instagram

Melissa Mendonca is a graduate of San Francisco State and Tulane universities. She’s a lover of airports and road trips and believes in mentoring and service to create communities everyone can enjoy. Her favorite words are rebar, wanderlust and change.

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•

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Serving California COMMERCIAL LOANS

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© 2021 Suncrest Bank.

All Rights Reserved.

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Email info@ediblesanjoaquin.com for more information.

INSPIRATION

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BY RACHEL TRIGUEIRO

the

beauty

of Becoming T H E W O R K O F T R A N S F O R M AT I O N METAMORPHOSIS: the transformation process from an immature form to an adult spurred on by abrupt change, producing a completely different outcome by natural or supernatural causes.

All magnificent things transition from one spectacular being into another, from embryo to fetus, baby to child, seed to plant, caterpillar to butterfly. The evolution of caterpillar to butterfly has astounded mankind for centuries, perhaps because we long to see our own lives transform in such miraculous ways. As a society, we root for the underdog. We live for the rags-to-riches stories. We long to see beauty rise from ashes.

Not commonly discussed, however, is the process it takes to get there. What starts as an egg becomes a larva. The larva becomes a very hungry caterpillar who swells himself with food and eventually wraps himself away from the world becoming a pupa. Horridly, this fuzzy worm-like creature begins to digest itself, turning into caterpillar soup.

Once the caterpillar is completely disintegrated, the protein-rich soup along with vital cells wondrously morph into the beauty we call a butterfly.

As humans, we have an innate desire for beauty, yet the work of becoming happens in the isolated unseen moments of the cocoon. It’s the painful dark that releases the transformative work of flying. We praise the end result instead of the process. We want the fairy-tale ending without the work of the chrysalis. 4 continued on page 20

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We long for beauty but resist brokenness We long for restoration but resist rehabilitatio We long for triumph but resist truth-tellers We long for simplicity but resist silenc We long for maturity but resist mundane We long for purpose but resist pai We long for healing but resist help We long for growth but resist grac We long for peace but resist the proces But what if the brokenness, rehabilitation, truth-tellers, silence, mundane, pain, help and grace is the process to the metamorphosis of life? What if the journey through pain is what transforms us into brilliant creatures?

We praise the butterfly and all her beauty, when really we should praise the simple caterpillar that willingly gave itself to the process.

How can we embrace metamorphosis?

BROKENNESS: Seeing each shard of brokenness as a piece to our own puzzle. Individually, they may not be beautiful, but when connected to the entirety of the whole, they create a spectacular representation of courage and strength.

REHABILITATION: Not rushing the being, resting and restoring process. Asking yourself what truly brings you life and making small changes toward that.

TRUTH–TELLERS: Finding safe people that speak truth to you, even when it’s hard to hear.

SILENCE: Turning off the noise, physically and mentally, in order to find solitude and connection with what matters most.

MUNDANE: Seeing each repetitive task as a step toward growth and a gift of being alive, instead of despising the small.

PAIN: Looking to see how your story might inspire hope in others, instead of sulking.

HELP: Seeking help when you need it, not just when you’re desperate. Healing often comes through the hands of others.

GRACE: So often, it’s easier to give to others than yourself. Practice giving yourself more grace to be, feel and not have it all together.

PROCESS: Leaning into the difficult moments instead of fighting them, though painful, brings clarity, peace and ultimately, freedom.

Inch by inch, life has its way and leads the flow, but we always move in the direction we long to go. We either view this change as a hollow tomb or allow the chrysalis of life to transform us.

Relinquishing control, embracing the dark unknown, and allowing life to reshape who we were always becoming. Darkness is not the end – it’s the beginning. “Just when the caterpillar thought the world was over, she became a butterfly.”•

Rachel Trigueiro, twin mom of four, loves adventuring with her family, especially near the beach. She holds a degree in business, but believes living in other countries and cultures offered her the greatest education. She dreamed of being a talk-show host; now, she enjoys story telling and drinking blonde coffee.

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just when the caterpillar thought the world was over it became a butterfly

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2021 www.EnjoySouthValley.com

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HOME AND GARDEN

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BY MONICA FATICA

on th

home front

2 02 1 H O M E I M P R OV E M E N T T R E N DS DOUBLE DUTY has been the name of the game for many of us this past year as we had to work and help our kids learn from home. Tapping into creative ways to maximize space became a survival necessity for those who aren’t lucky enough to have a spare room to utilize. Adding a small desk to a bedroom or living area was a quick fix. Another trend has been to close off open floor plans by adding a permanent or temporary partition to a dining space to create privacy but can be turned back into an eating area when needed.

INDOOR-OUTDOOR living spaces have become a popular trend this past year. Bi-fold or French doors allow you to bring the indoors out with a natural, flowing feel. If you do not have an attached covered patio, pergolas, wood decks, large stepping stones or outdoor rugs are also a great way to create dining or conversational areas. Adding large potted plants, a fire pit and some outdoor lights will help warm up the spaces. Creating your own outdoor oasis will allow more family memories to be made even if you aren’t able to travel as often as before.

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MORE FAMILY TIME at home meant for some parents investing in game rooms once it became apparent that travel, movie theatres, bowling alleys and other entertainment venues wouldn’t be an option anytime soon.

Adding a pool table, foosball, ping pong table or shuffleboard are good options for teens.

Adding hanging chairs or oversized plush floor chairs and a projector and screen for movie and video game nights are sure to cater to extended family time.

SOUL BALANCE by creating a bathroom made to rejuvenate your mind, body and soul.

Bathroom renovations have been an ongoing trend but it has become more valuable than ever before during these times. If a remodel isn’t an option then adding plush towels, soothing bath products, a soft robe, slippers and candles will set the stage for a your bathroom oasis.

DWELL in prefab units with kits that will fit in your extra backyard space. These Accessory Dwelling Units have become a doable way to add a home office, guest space or an in-law suite.

Depending on your sizing needs, some units do not require a permit and can be completed in no more than 90 days.

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2021 www.EnjoySouthValley.com

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ENJOY THE VIEW | BY RALPH CHOJNACKI

EASTERN SIERRAS, NEAR MAMMOTH

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Born and raised in Milwaukee, Wis., Ralph Chojnacki has lived in Visalia for 35 years. “Just as owning a keyboard does not make you a writer, having expensive equipment does not make you a photographer. I feel photography is 90 percent observation and 10 percent using the tools you have to capture it.”

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2021 www.EnjoySouthValley.com

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WHAT’S COOKIN’ | STORY AND PHOTO BY MACI MANTY

PEANUT BUTTER CUP CRISPY RICE TREATS

DO YOU HAVE A RECIPE YOU’D LIKE LANA OR MACI TO MAKE? Please submit it to lana@enjoymagazine.net

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F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 1 R E C I P E

Chocolate and peanut butter are one of the most satisfying sweet-and-salty flavor combos, and when you add it to crispy rice treats you’ve got an irresistible snack. This recipe is quick and easy to put together and makes plenty of treats to share with others. Enjoy

INGREDIENTS:

6 T butter

16 oz. bag mini marshmallows, divided

1 cup creamy peanut butter

(natural peanut butter won’t work)

1 tsp. vanilla

8 cups crisp rice cereal

1½ cups peanut butter cups, chopped and divided ¾ cup marshmallow cream ⅓ cup chocolate chips

PREP TIME: 10 MINUTES COOK TIME: 5 MINUTES COOL TIME: 30 MINUTES TOTAL TIME: 45 MINUTES MAKES: 24 SQUARES

LOVE OUR RECIPES? Come into Enjoy the Store in Redding each month and ask for your FREE recipe card.

DIRECTIONS: STEP 1: Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper and spray with nonstick cooking spray. Chop up peanut butter cups into smaller pieces using a sharp knife and set aside. Measure out 2 cups of the marshmallows and set aside.

STEP 2: In a large saucepan melt the butter, the remaining marshmallows and peanut butter on medium heat until melted and combined.

Stir frequently to prevent the ingredients from burning. Once melted and combined, remove from the heat.

STEP 3: Immediately add the vanilla, crisp rice cereal and the rest of the marshmallows to the saucepan containing the melted ingredients, and mix well until fully combined.

STEP 4: Lightly press half of the cereal/ marshmallow mixture into the prepared baking pan and sprinkle 1 cup of the chopped peanut butter cups over the top. Add spoonfuls of the marshmallow cream over the top of the peanut butter cups. Cover with the remaining cereal/ marshmallow mixture and lightly press down until even.

STEP 5: Melt the chocolate chips in a microwavesafe container in 20-second intervals, stirring well after each interval until fully melted. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of chopped peanut butter cups over the top, then drizzle the melted chocolate over the top.

STEP 6: Let the Peanut Butter Cup Crispy Rice Treats cool in the pan for about 30 minutes before cutting into squares. Store in an airtight container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in a resealable plastic bag. If wrapped tightly and stored correctly, they will stay soft and fresh for several days.

Maci Manty is a self taught baker and food photographer. She loves baking, spending time with her family and being outdoors. Follow her on Instagram @lovely_baking_co for more baking inspiration!

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2021 www.EnjoySouthValley.com

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SUPPORTING LOCAL

loca love

S H OW I N G LOV E TO BUSINESSES IN THE S O U T H VA L L E Y Find them on Facebook and Instagram

The Downtown Dream 241 E. Kern Ave., Tulare Open 7 days a week www.thedowntowndream.com

JR Meat Company 24 S. Cobb Street, Porterville Open Monday-Saturday www.jrmeatcompany.com

The Nest 1032 34 G Street, Reedley Open Monday-Saturday

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Rosa’s Italian Restaurant 314 S. Johnson St., Visalia Open 7 days a week www.rosasitalianristorante.com

T hink B ig S upp ort S m all S hare the L ove

•

Heritage Co. Boutique 1369 Draper St., Kingsburg Open Tuesday-Saturday www.shopheritageco.com

BellCraft Brew Co. 130 N. E Street, Exeter Open Thursday-Sunday www.my-business-101236.square.site

Photos sourced from Instagram and Facebook

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DAkoTA LYNN

FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS

From Our Family To Yours

photography

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559-622-0968

Lic.Lic.#810617 #810617 blindsforlessvisalia.com blindsforlessvisalia.com

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Since the fall of 2014, Enjoy has featured local destinations, creative and caring people, community living, family, recreation and most of all, a love of life. Whether you’ve lived here for a short time or all your life, there is plenty to learn, love and enjoy about this one of a kind area. Our view will open your eyes to the many reasons you live in this beautiful region.

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GIVING BACK

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BY NATALIE CAUDLE

A Beautiful Extra WO R L D D OW N SY N D R O M E DAY

EVERY MARCH, the world pauses to celebrate Down syndrome and the beautiful people who have been born with a little extra.

On March 21, joyful participants around the world clad their feet in silly socks as a way to honor those who rock three copies of the 21st chromosome. Down syndrome was named after John Langdon Down, who officially categorized the common traits of Down syndrome. Each person with Down syndrome develops at their own rate and reaches goals based on individual potential, coupled with family and community support. Oftentimes Down syndrome is described as a hidden blessing, with families calling themselves “the lucky few” as they have been given a unique lens with which to see and experience the world.

Tina Salvador of Fresno adopted her daughter from China in 2015 at age 7. Salvador is passionate about advocating for her daughter and the perception of people with Down syndrome. “It’s hard work but the greatest thing ever,” Salvador says. “Their lives are valuable and they are worthy of living a life with all the things available to them just like anyone else.

She’s the way we should all strive to live, in the moment and so very forgiving. We could all learn a lot from people with Down syndrome.”

The beginning of the journey into the world of Down syndrome can be full of unknowns and fear for new parents. The Down Syndrome Association of Central California helps families as they adjust to their new normal. In 2014, Kayla Mora of Visalia gave birth to her daughter, Teegan, who was given a diagnosis of Down syndrome and sent to the neonatal intensive care unit. With her world swirling and needing help in navigating her new reality, Mora found the Down Syndrome Association of Central California in Fresno and can’t speak highly enough about the organization. “We utilized some of the classes, and it was great meeting all the parents and hearing their experiences and knowledge,” she says.

The association offers resources and opportunities to families and caregivers. Workshops, support groups, fundraisers and events are peppered throughout the annual calendar.

Serving six counties in the Valley, the association supports families and advocates and educates the community about the blessing and complexities of Down syndrome. Executive Director Jennifer Whiting has devoted her time over the last eight years to create a network and community where support, resources and hope can be found.

Though celebrations may look a little different this year for World Down Syndrome Day, Whiting has organized a happy at-home hoopla. “Down Syndrome Association of Central California is so sad we can’t celebrate World Down Syndrome Day together, but we are excited to partner with two amazing local restaurants for a grab-n-go pasta feed in celebration on March 21,” Whiting says. “We can all kick our feet up in our wacky crazy socks and eat some amazing food separately, but together.” To participate in the fun, dress yourself in silly socks and visit www.DSACC.org. • Down Syndrome Association of Central California www.DSACC.org Find them on Facebook and Instagram

Homegrown in the Valley, Natalie Caudle finds beauty in the mundane and is ever on the hunt for the perfect salsa recipe. A mother of four, this minivan chauffeur is passionate about adoption and strives to perfect the art of balancing grace and grit.

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2021 www.EnjoySouthValley.com

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