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South Valley Living
DECEMBER 2016
Be Merry
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contents D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 6 // I S S U E # 26
South Valley Living
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VINTAGE METAL CO
STOR E FRON T
BET T ER TO GI V E
LOCA L S
17 Holiday Advertising Section
13 Custom Signs With Vintage Metal Co 22 Stop By and Say Hi to Visalia’s Non-Grinchy Grinch
CR A F TING 39 DIY: Paint & Gold Leaf Ornaments
GOOD TI M ES 27 The Jingle Bell Run and Toys for Tots Make Spirits Bright
IN TER EST 7 Fresno’s Valley Fig Growers 19 Tips on Picking the Perfect Pine (or Tree of Choice)
ON THE M A P 31 Get Away from it All at Shaver Lake
SHOW TI M E 10 The Sons of the San Joaquin at Visalia Fox Theatre
4 0 What’s in Store— Gifts for All
IN EV ERY ISSU E 3 4 Enjoy the View— Joshua Cates 36 What’s Cookin’— Holiday Crispy, Spicy Nuts 4 2 Calendar of Events 45 Giving Back—Family Services of Tulare County Provides a Helping Hand with the Santa Store
Vintage Metal Co Photo by Ty Stewart
Enjoy magazine is not affiliated with JOY magazine or Bauer German Premium GmbH.
DECEMBER 2016 www.EnjoySouthValley.com 3
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editor’s note
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DECEMBER 2016
YVONNE MAZZOTTA publisher
The hustle and bustle of the holidays are upon us – we encourage you to make time to truly enjoy the magic of the season. Put on your reindeer antler headband and get your heart rate up at the 5th annual Jingle Bell Run, a family tradition that raises money for Toys for Tots. Every calorie you burn means one more calorie you can spend on egg nog. Another way to embrace the holiday spirit is to treat yourself to some quality time with the arts. Visalia’s KELLIE STIFF Fox Theatre will again host the 25th annual Cowboy by Amber Smith Christmas, where the Sons of the San Joaquin will belt out classic cowboy tunes and traditional Christmas hymns. Then take a spin by the home of Van Crawford, the rock-n’-rollin’, gift-givin’ Grinch. Bring by a donation for the local food bank and you’ll boost your odds of landing on Santa’s nice list. Have a house full of stir-crazy houseguests? Take the short trip downhill to Shaver Lake and immerse yourself in some natural beauty. We’ve also got tips for choosing your best Christmas tree yet, paying it forward over the holidays and creating some whimsical handmade ornaments. If you’re still working on your shopping list, check out the offerings at Enjoy the Store Visalia, where we’ll help you select the perfect hand-crafted gifts for everyone on your list, and wrap them up in our signature wooden crates. Celebrate this festive season with love, unity, generosity and compassion. Enjoy!
MICHELLE ADAMS publisher
SOUTH VALLEY LIVING
RONDA BALL editor-in-chief KERRI REGAN copy editor KENDRA KAISERMAN marketing & sales assistant JERED MILLER STEPHANIE GIMLIN MARY GENDRON MICHELLE ADAMS contributing graphic designers MONICA FATICA consultant VALERI BARNES advertising sales representative KELLY DADA advertising sales representative ALEX PUJOL WILLIAM MCCAFFERTY JOSH LOPEZ DADRIEN KEENE deliveries www.enjoysouthvalley.com 505 W. Center Ave. Visalia, CA 93291 559.804.7411 Email General: infosouthvalley@enjoymagazine.net
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WE ENJOY GETTING AN EXTRA HOUR OF SLEEP WITH DAYLIGHT SAVINGS, BUT IT TAKES A BIT TO GET USED TO IT BEING DARK SO EARLY.
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THINGS WE LEARNED MAKING THIS ISSUE
2 WE LOVE BEING REMINDED HOW KIND AND GENEROUS OUR COMMUNITIES ARE AND WE ARE THANKFUL TO BE A PART.
3 WE ARE SO VERY GRATEFUL FOR ALL THE VETERANS WHO HAVE FOUGHT FOR OUR COUNTRY AND OUR FREEDOM.
4 WE DIDN’T KNOW THAT ALL COMMERCIALLY SOLD DRIED FIGS PRODUCED IN THE COUNTRY ARE GROWN IN THE SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY.
5
© 2016 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.
THE GENERAL CONSENSUS AROUND HERE IS WE’D MUCH RATHER BE BUSY THAN BORED, AND DEADLINE KEEPS US VERY BUSY!
DECEMBER 2016 www.EnjoySouthValley.com 5
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INTEREST
| BY KIMBERLY HORG
F R E S N O ’ S VA L L E Y F I G G R O W E R S IN 1959, the largest handler of figs in North America opened in Fresno. Valley Fig Growers now markets its fig products not only throughout the country, but worldwide. Back in the day, the world market was dominated by the lightcolored Smyrna fig grown primarily in Turkey. A local fig lover, George C. Roeding, brought cuttings of the Smyrna fig to California and attempted to grow them in the Valley. At first, the figs did not grow well, but he did not give up. Roeding found out that the Smyrna figs needed male trees (called Capri figs), as well as a wasp, for pollination. After 20 years of trying while working feverishly with the California Department of Agriculture, the California fig industry was born.
He created the name Calimyrna to identify the golden fig as the state’s own variety of fig. Before then, the main one was the dark purple Mission, named after the missionaries who brought it to California. Roeding partnered with Jessie Clayton Forkner, an area farmer who helped him establish the commercial fig industry in Fresno. Both believed Fresno had the perfect climate for growing figs. Today, all commercially sold dried figs produced in the country are grown in the fertile soils of the San Joaquin Valley. 4 continued on page 8
DECEMBER 2016 www.EnjoySouthValley.com 7
The success of Valley Fig Growers lies in its ability to use an old product in an entirely new way that fits today’s consumer buying habits. The cooperative’s history of meeting challenges through innovation is seen in its various product lines: soft fig paste, fig slurry, concentrate, diced and sliced figs, fig balsamic vinegar, fig nuggets, organic fig products and custom-made fig ingredients. It has also been on the forefront of technology with the addition of state-of-the-art equipment, including the first anaerobic digester installed in a food processing facility in California. The digester converts processed wastewater into methane gas, which is then converted into electricity and used by the facility. Cain says figs are iconic in the Fresno area. “While they are relatively small in size for tons harvested, they hold a special place in the heart of our growers and consumers,” Cain says. Cain’s favorite figs are California Mission for their robust, sweet flavor and Golden figs for their nutty, mild flavor. “I love our California figs dipped in dark chocolate, with a California almond tucked in each fig,” she says. Figs are now emerging in the “foodie” trend, appearing as popular ingredients in Western and European dishes. Figs are paired with wines, chocolate and gourmet cheeses. Health nuts around the country, cooks at home and culinary professionals are turning to figs as a healthy treat. Figs offer a sweet, richly flavored way to obtain dietary fiber, calcium, iron, potassium and health-promoting antioxidants. • Valley Fig Growers • 2028 S. 3rd Street, Fresno (559) 237-3893 www.valleyfig.com • Find them on Facebook and Instagram
8 www.EnjoySouthValley.com DECEMBER 2016
Kimberly Horg earned her Bachelor of Arts in journalism from Humboldt State University. She is pursuing her Master of Fine Arts in creative writing at Fresno State University. Kimberly has had hundreds of articles published throughout the country. To read more of her work, visit www.kimberlyhorg.com.
Photos courtesy of Valley Fig Growers
Valley Fig Growers, an agricultural cooperative which processes, packages, markets and sells dried fig products, represents 40 percent of the California fig industry. The industry grows about 8,000 tons of the dried figs harvested each year. It has about 30 grower members, and products are sold under Valley Fig Growers’ own brand names of Blue Ribbon Orchard Choice, Sun-Maid, Orchard Choice and Blue Ribbon. “Figs are a unique valley crop,” says Linda Cain, Valley Fig Growers’ vice president of marketing and retail sales. “California figs have a special place in the history of agriculture of the Central Valley.” Cain has worked there for 22 years and says it has many long-term employees in both management and staff, who contribute decades of experience and expertise to consumers. “Valley Fig Growers has been a steady presence in the Fresno area for employment and a home for the valley’s figs. Our plant employment has ranged from the dozens to the hundreds over the years. Each of these jobs lends itself to trickledown economics for the valley as our employees spend their wages locally,” Cain says. The company was established by a group of fig growers who were frustrated and disappointed with established industry prices. The growers purchased two packing plants, one owned by Roeding.
Merry Christmas
SHOWTIME
| BY JORDAN VENEMA
10 www.EnjoySouthValley.com DECEMBER 2016
T H E S O N S O F T H E S A N J O A Q U I N AT V I S A L I A F OX T H E AT R E IT’S BEEN A LONG ROAD for the Sons of the San Joaquin, but like any cowboy worth his salt, they’ve always found their way back home. Over the last quarter century, brothers Jack and John Hannah, and John’s son Lon, have dragged their instruments back and forth across the country, but they’ve always, always been sure to be home in time for Christmas. On December 17, the Sons of the San Joaquin will take the stage at Visalia’s Fox Theatre for their 25th annual Cowboy Christmas, performing a bevy of classic cowboy tunes and traditional Christmas hymns. “We’ll be playing, for lack of a better word, some of our greatest hits and some of our cowboy stuff that people will remember,” says Lon. The Sons’ repertoire of music goes back 25 years, but their songs are timeless. A few notes into a tune like “From When Came the Cowboy” and it’s clear the harmonies and melodies belong to every campfire and saddle and long and lonely road. There’s a mythic quality to their lyrics, like tales of unsung heroes, with the cadence of their melodies carrying across the plain like a horse’s gentle canter. A long road for the Sons, but one they might never have taken if not for Lon’s encouragement. “They were great singers all along,” he says about his father and uncle, “and they would sing with my grandpa, and sing at family gatherings. And one time” – he was 26, maybe 27 years old – “I asked if I could sing along.” Lon laughs, saying that they responded, “You don’t know these songs!” But Lon proved them wrong. “They had the disadvantage of seeing the kind of music that we do disappear off the radio, you know,” says Lon, “but I talked them into letting me book us.” They played some small shows, “this, that or the other,” says Lon, but the size of the venue didn’t really matter. “We used to tell people that we would have done it in the backyard if nobody was listening,” he says. “We were just happy that people enjoyed it.” People did enjoy the music, though, even if it had gone out of style, though Lon says the genre saw something of a resurgence in the early ‘90s. Within two years, the Sons of San Joaquin signed a record deal with Warner Western.
Now the Sons have played shows all over the West, and in most of the contiguous United States, even Alaska. They performed at Austin City Limits, and once at Carnegie Hall. “We’ve probably driven about a million miles over the years, hauling a trailer and pulling ourselves all over the West,” says Lon, and yet every year, they made it home for Christmas. This is the Sons’ 25th annual holiday show, but this year’s performance comes with an early Christmas gift: their latest album, “One More Ride,” will officially be released in January 2017, but copies will be available for purchase at the December 17 show. Having released more than a dozen albums, “One More Ride” is the Sons’ first album since 2011, and also likely their last. Most of the tracks were recorded between sessions in Nashville and Texas from about 10 years ago. It’s one last ride in name, but not necessarily the end of the road for the trio, though Lon admits they’ve cut back. “Nowadays we’re not touring very much because my dad is 84 and Jack is 83. We’re not completely giving up the ghost, but this will be our last recording.” Whatever happens, Lon insists this won’t be the last Cowboy Christmas. Should the Hannahs stop playing together as the Sons of San Joaquin, Lon plans to keep the tradition alive, even if under another name. It’s hard to give up the ghost when the tradition reaches across generations, and your family and friends have come to expect the gift every Christmas. “We just want to be home at Christmas time,” agrees Lon. “We’ve kept that up. We love to see our Visalia family and friends.” • Sons of the San Joaquin • www.thesons.com December 17 at 3 pm (doors open at 2 pm), Visalia Fox Theatre 300 W. Main Street • (559) 625-1369 • www.foxvisalia.org Find them on Facebook
Jordan Venema is a freelance writer and California native. He’s a fan of wild stories, impetuous traveling, live music, and all the food. But mostly, he’s a fan of his seven-year old son, Cassian. He can be contacted by email at jordan.venema@gmail.com.
Photos courtesy of Russ Pate
DECEMBER 2016 www.EnjoySouthValley.com 11
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| BY JORDAN VENEMA | PHOTOS: AMBER SMITH
sign of the times
C U S TO M S I G N S W I T H V I N TA G E M E TA L CO THEY SAY THEY LAST FOREVER, that they’re a woman’s best friend, but why settle for diamonds when you can get your hands around an industrial-grade CNC plasma cutting table? The 10x5foot tool can cut sheet metal up to an inch thick, and from this, Jaime Baeza will craft the most delicately curved letters and designs that, when catching the light just right, outshine the purest carat diamond. Baeza began working with sheet metal earlier this year when she founded Vintage Metal Co, a business that creates custom signs, phrases and designs for customers across the country. “I started the brand in January, but we really began long before that,” says Baeza, who had a hodge-podge Etsy shop where she sold various crafty items.
“I’ve always been a creator, a crafter, a maker, but it was more like a hobby. I didn’t know how to turn it into a job,” says Baeza. With the help of her husband, who works with air conditioning units, Baeza created metal monograms that she framed and sold on her Etsy site. “I would cut a vinyl template and he would lay the vinyl on sheet metal that he would then cut by hand,” Baeza explains. She then began getting requests for custom phrases made with different fonts, sizes and logos, which were too difficult to create by hand. “I had to turn away so many people,” she says.4 continued on page 14
DECEMBER 2016 www.EnjoySouthValley.com 13
Baeza’s husband then told her about the plasma cutter, which she describes as “a machine that uses a torch to cut metal. Whatever you design on your computer, it sends through to the torch and then cuts for you.” In other words, they could offer custom designs more quickly and more precisely. They purchased the machine last winter. “It was kind of go big or go home,” she admits, and quite literally. “We had to build a whole new room just to hold this machine.” It took them nearly a year to save up for the plasma cutter, which was assembled on the East Coast and then shipped across country. When the machine finally arrived, it was surprisingly easy to set up (if not move), but once the table was ready to go, “we had no idea how to use it,” Baeza says with a laugh. “We watched tons and tons of YouTube videos,” she says, “and I spent nearly all January learning how to use it.” Finally, Baeza was ready for her first cut. “We wanted to learn how to cut a shape within a shape, so we cut a circle within a circle,” like a donut with an offset center. “We called it our Death Star, because that’s what it looked like.” That first piece still sits by her desk, a kind of reminder of their success, since “every step was like a big celebration for us.” Baeza hasn’t stopped at shapes within shapes, but has expanded Vintage Metal Co to create phrases with block prints and cursive letters, as well as custom logos. “That is what it’s about,” she says. “Words. Customers want words. They don’t want a circle in a circle.” “We can draw whatever we want,” Baeza says – with the right skills. “You can learn how to take images, or logos, or something that’s special, and that’s what we cut,” though she specifies that their cuts cannot have “grey areas.” Images must have positive or negative space; it’s either metal, or no metal. They do, however, offer lots of paint choices, “because not everyone wants raw steel in their house.” One of Baeza’s favorite custom designs was for a customer in Washington, who ordered a “keep out” sign cut in the shape of a large Sasquatch. Another favorite, which she displays in her own home, is a cutout of a giant Ball mason jar logo. “I collect the old vintage ones,” says Baeza. Since January, business has boomed, thanks to some savvy social media marketing on Baeza’s part. Plus, there’s something about the permanence of metal, which also complements the DIY, reclaimed wood home décor that is currently en vogue. And since most people with industrial plasma cutters are using the tool for industrial-related work, Baeza believes she has found something of a niche for using the tool to create custom designs. Which means she hasn’t gone back to let her old customers know that she’s finally able to create those different font and size letters. “No,” she admits with a laugh, “we have no shortage of requests.” • Vintage Metal Co Find them on Facebook and Instagram www.etsy.com/shop/vintagemetalco
Jordan Venema is a freelance writer and California native. He’s a fan of wild stories, impetuous traveling, live music, and all the food. But mostly, he’s a fan of his seven-year old son, Cassian. He can be contacted by email at jordan. venema@gmail.com.
14 www.EnjoySouthValley.com DECEMBER 2016
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DECEMBER 2016 www.EnjoySouthValley.com 17
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INTEREST
| BY KENDRA KAISERMAN
O’ Christmas Tree TIPS ON PICKING THE PERFECT PINE (O R T R E E O F C H O I C E )
REAL OR ARTIFICIAL, that is the question. Both have advantages and disadvantages, so you really can’t go wrong no matter what choice you make. If you are searching for a real tree, you have many choices, including fir, pine, spruce, cedar and cypress trees, with abundant varieties within those types. Popular pine tree varieties include Scotch, Virginia and White. There are quite a few fir varieties—Fraser, Balsam, Canaan, Douglas Noble, Grand and White. Colorado Blue, Norway and White spruce make for popular Christmas trees. The two well-known cypress varieties are Arizona and Leyland, and Eastern Red Cedars also make ideal Christmas trees. After choosing which variety of tree you want, consider the height and the width of the room in which you would like to place it. Don’t forget to subtract the height of the tree topper and the tree stand to get the exact numbers. Then, contemplate the four S’s—shape, size, scent and strength. Lastly, consider the size of the trunk. If you already have a stand at home, make sure you measure it before you pick out a tree.4 continued on page 20
DECEMBER 2016 www.EnjoySouthValley.com 19
O Christmas tree, o Christmas tree How lovely are thy branches While you can grab pre-cut trees from grocery or retail stores, you may enjoy cutting down your own from a local tree farm. The National Christmas Tree Association has a retail locator tool to help you find a spot. Just enter your location and it will list the names, addresses and contact information of the tree farms located nearby. Experts say the best way to get your tree home is to transport it inside your car, as placing it on the roof of the car dries it out quickly. If that’s not an option, you can cover the tree in a tarp before placing it on the roof. Once you’ve chosen your tree and decorated it to your liking, there are some things to remember to make your beloved sapling last longer. Water, water, water. Well, maybe only two waters. You should water your tree twice a day. You can also add nutrients, such as tree food, but as long as your tree plenty of water, it should be good to go. Choose a location for your tree that isn’t near anything that could dry it out, such as baseboard heaters, fans, vents or direct sunlight. This is not only for preservation’s sake, but for safety as well. Other tips include getting new LED bulbs for lighting your tree, keeping a good eye on the water level and running a humidifier in the room, which is good for your tree and your health, as well. When you are finished with your evergreen beauty, you can recycle it. Most cities have recycling programs, so check your local paper or the Internet for drop-off locations or pick-up dates and times. Looking for an alternative to the pine needles? Your options for artificial trees are endless, including most retail superstores and grocery stores. You can also get your tree online from numerous retail stores or Amazon. Some look more natural than others, some come pre-lit – shop around and find the one that suits your fancy. Along with your main Christmas tree, you can make smaller trees using everyday items and place them around your house. These are perfect accents to your main tree or even alternatives to the traditional tree. Fun ideas to create your tree may include buttons, cupcake wrappers, seashells, old magazines and more. Have you designed a creative tree that might inspire Enjoy readers? Share them on our Facebook page and we will post them on our website. •
Kendra Kaiserman is a recent graduate of Simpson University where she earned her bachelor’s degree in communication with an emphasis in journalism. Originally from Manteca, she enjoys trips to Santa Cruz, writing, reading and playing soccer.
20 www.EnjoySouthValley.com DECEMBER 2016
Taste the season
Visit our new location! Now serving Tea and Intelligentsia Coffee Stafford’s Chocolates 114 N. Main Street || Porterville (559) 784-6640 www.staffordschocolates.com
Enter to Win Gifts to Be Drawn on Christmas Eve!
Visit our new retail location for Gift Baskets, Stocking Stuffers, & Hammonds Handmade Candy Canes.
Est. 1979, 2nd Generation
Two Porterville locations: Retail, Local Finds & Gifting: 764 N. Prospect St. (559) 781-6328 Manufacturing & retail location: 697 S. Plano St. (559) 781-3487
LOCALS
| BY JORDAN VENEMA
Grinchmas Tree Lane
Photo courtesy of Visalia Grinch
S T O P B Y A N D S AY H I T O V I S A L I A’ S N O N - G R I N C H Y G R I N C H
BEHIND EVERY SUPERHERO, there’s usually a kindly, “I wanted to figure out how to do it,” Crawford says, unassuming figure – the Peter Parkers, the Clark Kents, “and soon people started stopping by. So I began passing the Van Crawfords. You might not pick out Van Crawford out candy canes in this Santa Claus suit, though it wasn’t walking down the street, but if you’ve ever followed the the most attractive suit.” Soon thereafter, his decorative luminescent glow to his Visalia home, you’d discover his centerpiece, a 12-foot inflatable Grinch, was vandalized, and Crawford decided the best response was to become alter ego, the rock-n’-rollin’ and gift-givin’ Grinch. Crawford doesn’t mind that people know he’s the man the Grinch. behind Visalia’s Grinch, but he’s also quick to add that it “It was actually a big hit with the kids, though it scared has never been about him. “It’s about trying to help others the adults,” he laughs. Then one night he was inspired to strap on his guitar just to further entertain people, “and change their lives in some way,” says Crawford. This winter marks the 10th year since Crawford turned next thing you know, cars are lining up, people are hooting his suburban home into a regional attraction of lights, and hollering, holding cigarette lighters up. It just kind of music, charity and good cheer. He was first inspired by evolved into what it is today.” a 2005 viral video of a house decorated with lights that flashed in sync with music.
22 www.EnjoySouthValley.com DECEMBER www.EnjoySouthValley.com OCTOBER 2016 2016
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isalia Grinc urtesy of V
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As the story of the Grinch grew, so did the light show. People offered to help pay for his electric bill, but Crawford instead took donations to give to Food Link of Tulare County, and later partnered with the Visalia Rescue Mission. Surprisingly, had Crawford settled to accept donations only toward his electric bill, the Grinch would have raised relatively little. People often guess Crawford’s bills run between $1,500 and $1,800, but his highest bill to date was $287, including his home’s regular usage. Crawford uses 17 32-channel controllers to orchestrate 272 different extension cords, which allow lights to flash, fade and flicker down to a tenth of a second, while in rhythm with the music he has programmed, amounting to more than 30 songs. Each song “takes me a minimum of 40 hours, and there are some songs that I’ve put up to 100 hours into it,” Crawford says. While the Grinch has been raising money for the Rescue Mission, have the lights and music also raised the eyebrows and ire of his neighbors? “I’ve pretty much been given a green light,” he says, humbly. “Once the cars started coming by, I thought they might get upset, but they’ve completely embraced this thing. Counting my house, there are eight houses connected in my neighborhood, and I control all eight houses’ lights. I’m using their electricity and lights, and we just hook them all together and have a nice little Grinchmas Tree Lane.” Besides the time Crawford spends programming songs and setting up decorations, he also performs as the Grinch each evening between Thanksgiving and Christmas. And more importantly than his neighbors’ approval, he has the blessing of his wife. “She is absolutely 100 percent behind this,” he says. “When we first started, we decided not to buy each other presents, and we still haven’t. We get more out of giving than getting. This isn’t about us.” Crawford does not know exactly how much the Grinch has raised over the years, but it includes canned goods, gently used clothing and cash. He guesses that since he’s been with the Rescue Mission, “it’s probably close to $30,000, maybe a little more? The last two years
I’ve been getting 90-plus barrels of food, and anywhere from $7,000 to $12,000 in cash and check donations.” Crawford says helping others has been a humbling experience, but sometimes the biggest moments of charity have come from the smallest of the Grinch’s fans. “I’m glad I have a mask on,” Crawford admits, “because sometimes I’m literally in tears underneath it, because of what they give. They’ll give me a bag of money and their parents will say that it was their entire piggy bank.” Crawford describes one child who reached through the car window: “Here, Grinch, I want you to give this to the Rescue Mission.” The child put a small white rock in Crawford’s hand and said, “It’s my diamond.’” The mother told Crawford that her child never went anywhere without the rock. Those moments of generosity and charity have the potential to go much farther than any monetary donation, when you consider the shift in that child’s perspective. It’s the lesson of the widow’s mite, which really captures the meaning of Christmas, and the purpose behind the Grinch. Yes, it’s about giving, but it’s also about a willingness and readiness to give. Crawford kept that little rock, among other tokens, on the desk in his office, though he recently made the decision to give that “diamond” to the Rescue Mission, because the Grinch told the little boy that he would. • Visalia Grinch Light Show and Donation Drop-off 2331 S. Jacques St., Visalia • 5:30–9:30pm Begins the day after Thanksgiving and runs through Christmas Find them on Facebook
Jordan Venema is a freelance writer and California native. He’s a fan of wild stories, impetuous traveling, live music, and all the food. But mostly, he’s a fan of his seven-year old son, Cassian. He can be contacted by email at jordan.venema@gmail.com.
DECEMBER 2016 www.EnjoySouthValley.com 23
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124 N. Willis St., Visalia • 559-627-0370 www.visaliacreativeflowers.com Hours: 8:30-5:30 Monday-Friday; 10-2 on Saturday
Merry Christmas 316 W MAIN VISALIA 559.734.7079 TU-F 10A - 5:30P SAT 10A - 4:30P MICHAELSCUSTOMJEWELRY.COM
FINE FURNITURE UNIQUE ACCESSORIES DESIGN CONSULTING 559-625-8884 / 220 W. Main Street., Visalia / www.janeensfurniture.com
GIVE CHEER GIVE TEA Take home a complimentary sample of our tea
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Come Home for the Holidays Shop Downtown Hanford
Small Business Saturday, November 26th. Shop Small Selfie Contest and Prizes! Shop or dine at participating businesses!
Hanford Antique Emporium & Gardens
Fill Freddie the Fire Truck with non-perishable food items from November 26 – December 16! Receive raffle tickets for a drawing! At Downtown Hanford businesses. 16th Annual Wine & Chocolate Tasting, Friday, December 2nd! In businesses throughout downtown Hanford! Tickets just $30 at Main Street Hanford!
108 E 8th St Hanford
(559) 852-1504 Open 7days a week.
Over 14,000 sq ft of unique boutiques & garden shops. Visit us soon! • hanfordantiqueemporium.com & Facebook!
Hanford’s original downtown consignment boutique
• Ladies & Junior Apparel • Home Decor & Handbags • Jewelry & Accessories • Complimentary Gift Box with Jewelry Purchase Mon-Fri 9:30-6:30 | Sat 9:30-5:00 | Sun 12:00-5:00 www.castawaysconsignments.com Facebook.com/castawaysconsignments
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GOOD TIMES
| BY KIMBERLY HORG
Run,Run Rudolph
T H E J I N G L E B E L L R U N A N D TOYS F O R TOT S M A K E S P I R I T S B R I G H T
Photo courtesy of Fresno Jingle Bell Run
THE 5THÂ ANNUAL Jingle Bell Run will soon make its way down Christmas Tree Lane in Fresno, continuing a family tradition for people of all ages to raise toys and cash for the Toys for Tots campaign. Run director Mike Herman says about 3,000 participants each year, from infants to folks in their 90s, get into the holiday spirit at the event, slated for Dec. 10. Generations of families walking and running together hail from all over the Valley.4 continued on page 28
DECEMBER 2016 www.EnjoySouthValley.com 27
gle Bell Run
sy of Fresno Jin
Photos courte
He has always enjoyed walking Christmas Tree Lane, and in 2012, the Toys for Tots campaign was struggling to meet it’s goal of presents for children. He thought, what better way to raise toys than a run/walk through one of the best known Christmas Tree Lanes in the Valley? The race is fast becoming a favorite of locals. Approximately 2,000 participants run the timed 5K, while around 1,000 participate in the 2-mile walk (which is not timed). “Christmas Tree Lane makes it unique,” he says. “For years, it was the only organized run using Christmas Tree Lane and, to this day, is the only organized run during the Christmas season to use this world-renowned street.” Another unusual amenity for participants is that each person receives a sweatshirt and jingle bells to wear during the event. Santa hats are given to all runners/walkers who bring a new unwrapped toy or donate to Toys for Tots. And there will be snow at the finish-line with the help of a little magic – the same technology that Disneyland uses to bring snow to Christmas Tree Lane. Snacks including Christmas cookies and hot chocolate will be provided at the finish line. Seeing so many people come out to the Jingle Bell Run is what Herman likes most about the race. There has been consistent growth over the years, as people return with extended families and friends. More than 2,500 toys are donated each
28 www.EnjoySouthValley.com DECEMBER 2016
year, he says. “We have been told this event is one of the largest toy collecting events that the Marines see in the Valley each year,” Herman said. “The generous donations that participants make all contribute to the success of the Marines’ Toys for Tots campaign.” The stroller-friendly course with easy parking access runs south on Wilson Avenue from the corner of Palm and Shaw, then returns up Van Ness Boulevard. Herman says he is grateful to the Fig Garden Home Owners Association for allowing the inconvenience. Without its commitment to the Toys for Tots campaign, he would not be able to put on the event. • Jingle Bell Run Where: Fresno Christmas Tree Lane When: Saturday, December 10 (559) 322-9371 5K begins at 9 am; two-mile run/walk begins at 9:10 am www.FresnoJingleBellRun.com Find them on Facebook
Kimberly Horg earned her Bachelor of Arts in journalism from Humboldt State University. She is pursuing her Master of Fine Arts in creative writing at Fresno State University. Kimberly has had hundreds of articles published throughout the country. To read more of her work, visit www. kimberlyhorg.com.
THE PREMIER CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES BOUTIQUE SERVING VISALIA AND THE SURROUNDING AREAS
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Free Gift Wrapping Holiday gifts for all—from women to men to kids Personal shopping available • Wish Lists Available Check out our holiday sales on Facebook and Instagram @envieboutiquevisalia!
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Complimentary Gift Wrapping For Machines!
Farm Fresh Walnuts
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Available in the following places:
Daniels Family Farm 20036 Ave. 160, Porterville Stop by this location for a free taste The Looking Glass in Visalia • Town and Country Market in Porterville
www.olsontradingcompany.com
BRICK & MORTAR RESTAURANT OPENING IN DECEMBER!
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Breakfast & Lunch: Sun. 8:30-2:30 Sat. 8:30-2:30 Dinner: Thursday- Sunday 5-9
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Embellish & Restore 115 N. WEST ST. VISALIA CA • 559-901-3037
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HOLIDAY STORE HOURS: MON-WED, FRI 10-530PM • THURS 10-8PM SAT 10-4PM • SUN 11-3PM
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Located inside Embellish & Restore: 115 N. West St., Visalia • (559) 901-3513 HOLIDAY STORE HOURS: Mon-Wed, Fri 10-530pm Thurs 10-8pm • Sat 10-4pm • Sun 11-3pm Enjoy the Store Visalia • @enjoythestorevisalia
| BY JORDAN VENEMA
ON THE MAP
Photo courtesy of Joshua Cates, Shaver Lake Visitors Bureau
INTEREST
| BY JORDAN VENEMA
G E T AWAY F R O M I T A L L AT S H AV E R L A K E
Photo courtesy of Joshua Cates, Shaver Lake Visitors Bureau
Photo courtesy of Joshua Cates Shaver Lake Visitors Bureau
Photo courtesy of Mark Bouldouklan
WHEN WE MEASURE THE DISTANCE we’re willing to travel for leisure, it seems like there’s a corollary between the miles traveled and our expectations, so maybe it’s not surprising that those living on the coast will make their way up the hill, while those of us in the Central Valley drive “downhill” to get to the beach. “Everybody from the valley, for the most part, goes to the coast, and we all went up the mountains into the Sierras,” says Joshua Cates, who grew up on the central coast before attending Fresno State University. Though Shaver Lake is only about an hour drive away for some valley residents, it’s not a stretch to say that people driving from farther distances, as Cates did, visit the area more consistently. For Cates, that changed about three years ago when he and his family moved to the area for “a better quality of life,” and to take ownership of the Shaver Lake Village Hotel. He also is the vice president of the Shaver Lake Visitors Bureau, which probably means he’s something of an expert on “things to do” in the area, though even he admits he hasn’t seen it all – there’s so much to do.
“There’s still so many places to go, like backpacking through the Sierras, and so many lakes and trails all over the place that I haven’t even seen yet,” says Cates. At about 5,600 feet, Shaver Lake is one of the highest elevation towns in Fresno County, and though remotely removed from some urban amenities, Cates provides an actual list of Shaver to-dos that range from hiking and sightseeing to eating – oh, and there’s the lake, of course. He laughs that some people visit Shaver Lake, ask what the area has to offer, and then leave without driving (or hiking) the couple miles to the actual lake. Hard to believe, but then how much do we take for granted the playground in our very backyard? Cates agrees. “It’s close to home and everybody needs to get back into nature,” though he adds that it’s easy to overlook the familiar. “Natural beauty: it’s something that you take for granted a lot of times, but it’s something that you only get when you’re up in nature. It’s put here naturally, not by man,” Cates stresses. “All the organized chaos, the trees, the plants, the rocks, the lakes and waterfalls – you couldn’t recreate it.”4 continued on page 32
DECEMBER 2016 www.EnjoySouthValley.com 31
Photo courtesy of Joshua Cates, Shaver Lake Visitors Bureau Photo courtesy of Joshua Cates, Shaver Lake Visitors Bureau Photo courtesy of Mark Bouldouklan
It may be something that even Cates sometimes overlooks, but working in the hotel industry, he is constantly reminded by visitors who are seeing Shaver with fresh eyes. If the allure of beauty isn’t enough to counterbalance a 60- or 90-minute drive up the hill, Cates also says the cleaner, cooler air is a big draw for valley dwellers. “The big kicker is the air quality. You can see the difference, and you don’t realize what you’re living until you get up here, and the temperature is always 15 to 20 degrees cooler than down in the valley.” Plus, he adds, “it’s free.” Much of the Shaver Lake area offers the same big trees, the same big lakes as the national parks, just without the entry fee. “You get that feeling that you’re in the high, high Sierras, but you’re only hiking a few miles to it.” According to Cates, if there’s one must-see spot in Shaver, it’s the lake itself, though there are many smaller lakes and reservoirs also within a short driving distance. Huntington Lake, a renowned sailing lake, is about a 20-minute drive above Shaver Lake, and Indian Pools, near the China Peaks Ski Resort, is a popular spot with both pools and jumping rocks. Shaver can get busy in the summer months, especially July and August, but in the off-season it offers a quieter getaway. Recently, superstar Justin Bieber took a day off in Shaver while making a tour stop in Fresno. “Yeah, Justin Bieber just came up to Shaver Lake,” Cates says with a laugh. “He went fishing in the lake, hiking, all that stuff. It
32 www.EnjoySouthValley.com DECEMBER 2016
was great because he was able to come up to somewhere that wasn’t incredibly busy.” Already rife with hidden gems, and all within a proverbial rock’s throw of the urban cityscape, it might also surprise some that Shaver Lake offers quality cuisine. “Shaver Lake Pizza is stellar,” confirms Cates, “and it’s some of the best pizza you can have – and in Shaver of all places. And the Hungry Hut has been around for a long time, and has seriously some of the best tri-tip sandwiches I’ve had in a while.” Despite the food, nature and multiple events (which can be discovered through the Visitor Bureau’s website), Cates insists that Shaver Lake is “a little tourist stop.” But if it’s good enough for the Biebs, then Shaver is probably good enough for anybody. Cates also encourages visitors to stop by the Shaver Lake Village Hotel, where you can get directions and tips about the area, and maybe even hold him accountable if the pizza isn’t the best you’ve ever had. • Shaver Lake Visitors Bureau • Tollhouse Road, Shaver Lake www.goshaver.com • (559) 841-3350
Jordan Venema is a freelance writer and California native. He’s a fan of wild stories, impetuous traveling, live music, and all the food. But mostly, he’s a fan of his seven-year old son, Cassian. He can be contacted by email at jordan.venema@gmail.com.
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 woman’s watches • One of a kind pieces Mon: 9:30 am – 3:00 pm Tues – Fri: 9:30 am – 5:00 pm
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YOUR LOVED ONE SMILE
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y r t r h e g i M r e B B &
Wishing our good friends, valued patients and your families a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
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202 South N St., Tulare • 559-686-6815
www.202familydentistry.com Check us out on Instagram and Facebook
(formally Paris Flea Market)
JOIN US THIS HOLIDAY SEASON AS WE CELEBRATE 15 YEARS IN BUSINESS!
Enjoy decorated Christmas trees, decorations and more. Mention this ad and receive 10% off
601 East Main Street • Visalia, CA 93292 • 559-636-8000 Hours of operation: 11 to 5 Mon-Sat, 12-4 Sun
ENJOY THE VIEW
| PHOTO: JOSHUA CATES
34 www.EnjoySouthValley.com DECEMBER 2016
SNOWY WOODS, SHAVER LAKE: Joshua Cates is an avid backpacker and hiker who spends his free time photographing the Central Sierras. He and his wife own and operate the Historic Shaver Lake Village Hotel and he sits on the Shaver Lake Visitor Bureau board as vice president. His passion for nature and landscape photography are expressed through his work and his goal to bring more attention to the beauty of the Central Sierras.
DECEMBER OCTOBER 2016 www.EnjoySouthValley.com 35
WHAT’S COOKIN’ | BY LANA GRANFORS
recipe DECEMBER 2016
The holiday party invitations are coming in, and you are so busy with work, family and shopping! Here is an easy snack you can prepare and have on hand. Shop ahead for some small festive holiday dishes, and when it is time for a party, fill one with these crispy and spicy nuts, wrap up with some cellophane and a Christmas ribbon and enjoy the festivities. These nuts are toasted and covered with a light, crispy coating of holiday spices… cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg with a couple of twists – cayenne and black pepper. They make the most irresistible snack!
Happy holidays!
HOLIDAY CRISPY, SPICY NUTS YIELDS: 4 CUPS
INGREDIENTS ¾ cup brown sugar ½ cup sugar 1 tsp. ground cinnamon ½ tsp. ground nutmeg 1 tsp. ground cloves ½ tsp. ground ginger ½ tsp. cayenne (or more, depending on heat wanted) ½ tsp. black pepper ¼ cup water 1½ cup walnuts, whole 1½ cup raw almonds, whole 1½ cup raw pecans, whole PREP TIME: 15 minutes COOK TIME: 30 minutes TOTAL TIME: 45 minutes
LOVE OUR RECIPES? Come into Enjoy the Store (Visalia, Redding or Red Bluff ) each month and ask for your FREE recipe card. 36 www.EnjoySouthValley.com DECEMBER 2016
TS SPY, SPIC Y NU HO LID AY CRI
December Recipe 2016
GRANF ORS RECIPE BY LANA
TS SPY, SPIC Y NU HO LID AY CRI
December Recipe 16
STEWA RT | PHOTO : KARA
DIRECTIONS STEP 1: Heat oven to 200 degrees. STEP 2: In a skillet, over medium low heat, combine all ingredients except nuts. Stir until all sugar and spices have dissolved completely. STEP 3: Add in nuts and stir, making sure all are coated with the sugar and spice mixture. Stir constantly for about 5 minutes, or until the liquid has cooked off.
STEP 4: Line a large cookie sheet with foil and spread the coated nuts onto the covered sheet. If using smaller pans, you may need to use two, as you want the nuts in a flat, single layer. STEP 5: Bake at 200 degrees for 1 hour, being sure to stir every 20 minutes. STEP 6: Take out and let cool completely. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to three months.
Lana Granfors enjoys traveling, gardening, cooking and spending time with her friends and family– especially her grandchildren, Jillian and Garet.
Photo by Kara Stewart
DECEMBER 2016 www.EnjoySouthValley.com 37
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CRAFTING
Golden Opportunity D I Y: PA I N T & G O L D L E A F ORNAMENTS
Add some bling to your tree using craft store supplies and clear bulbs.
| BY MONICA FATICA | PHOTOS: CHRISTY ZILLGES
1. Add a generous amount of craft paint to the inside of your glass bulbs.
2. Cover the hole with your finger or with a paper towel and shake until the paint completely coats your bulb. We added a few drops of water to help evenly distribute the paint. If your paint is runny, let it dry or cover the hole when moving onto the next step.
3. Apply the adhesive sporadically to the bottom half of your bulb using your paint brush. If you want a more rustic look, apply less; if you want the gold leaf to show more solidly, evenly apply the adhesive. Follow the instructions on the adhesive bottle by allowing it to sit for a few minutes to become tacky.
4. Apply the gold leaf sheets where you applied the adhesive; you may need a few sheets to completely cover the area, depending on the look you want.
5. Use your paint brush to help push the excess gold leaf pieces onto the bulb and to create a smooth finish.
6. Optional – use the gold spray paint or gold gilding wax to coat the metal ornament hanger.
SUPPLIES • Clear glass bulbs • Craft paint in whatever colors you choose • Gold leaf sheets • Adhesive for gold leaf • Paint brushes (we used natural bristle) • Thin ribbon • Gold spray paint or gilding wax (optional)
TIP: USE YOUR COMPLETED BULBS ON YOUR TREE, WREATHS, BRANCH SWAGS OR TABLE CENTERPIECES.
DECEMBER 2016 www.EnjoySouthValley.com 39
STORE FRONT
|
DECEMBER 2016
TASTE, SMELL, TOUCH, SEE... GIFTS FOR ALL
Let the Adventures Begin. SOUTH VALLEY
Knit Scarves by Buttons & Birds
Pottery by River Water Pottery
Wood Wall Art by My Thrifty Sister
Clutches and bags by Iron+Copper+Bronze
Located inside Embellish & Restore 115 N. West St., Visalia • (559) 901-3513 Holiday Store Hours: Mon-Wed, Fri 10-530pm, Thurs 10-8pm, Sat 10-4pm, Sun 11-3pm Enjoy the Store Visalia @enjoythestorevisalia 40 www.EnjoySouthValley.com DECEMBER 2016
St. Paul’s School St. Paul’s School Celebrating 50 Years of Love & Learning Celebrating 50 Years of Love & Learning
Small Classes • Technology • Music • Art • Sports Small Classes • Technology • Music • Art • Sports St. Paul’s School is accredited by the California Association of Independent Schools St. Paul’s School is accredited by the California Association of Independent Schools
www.spsvisalia.com | 559.739.1619 | 6101 W. Goshen Ave, Visalia, CA 93291 www.spsvisalia.com | 559.739.1619 | 6101 W. Goshen Ave, Visalia, CA 93291
CALENDAR
|
DECEMBER 2016
calendar DECEMBER 2016
FROM FOOD TO FUN, SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE TO ENJOY
clovis
December 3-4, 10-11, 17-18 • Horse-drawn carriage rides, Old Town Clovis, 1-4 pm, www.oldtownclovis.org/horse-drawncarriage-rides-in-old-town-clovis December 3 • Children’s Electric Christmas Parade, Old Town Clovis, 6:30-8:30 pm, (559) 916-9124, www.visitclovis.com
3 Each December, Valley residents look forward to the Clovis Children’s Electric Christmas Parade, ushering in the holiday with a spectacular display of holiday cheer alive with thousands of local children, adults, animals and floats, all blanketed in a blizzard of lights. December 5 • Christmas Tree Lighting, City Hall, 1033 Fifth St., 6:30 pm, (559) 324-2780, www.visitclovis.com December 9-10 • Excerpts from the Nutcracker, Mercedes Edwards Theatre, 902 Fifth St., 7 pm Friday, 2 and 5 pm Saturday, (559) 432-6292, www.breakthebarriers.org/event-directory
Through December 24
• Old Town Clovis Farmers Market, Old Town, Pollasky and Bullard, 8-11:30 am, (559) 298-5774, www.oldtownclovis.org
exeter
December 2 • Christmas Parade, Downtown Exeter, 6:30 pm, (559) 562-5262 December 3 • 25th Annual “Spirit of the Holidays” Christmas Tree Auction and Wine Tasting, Veterans Memorial Building, 324 N. Kaweah Ave., 5-8 pm, (559) 592-2929 December 3, 10, 15, 17 • Christmas home tour of the Clover House, 224 North E St., 3 pm December 3 and 10, 6 pm December 15 and 17 42 www.EnjoySouthValley.com DECEMBER 2016
December 9 • Christmas Home Tour, Exeter Woman’s Club, 201 N Kaweah Ave., 4-8 pm, (559) 799-3641, www.exeterwomansclub.com December 31 • New Year’s Eve celebration, Doo-Dah Parade and fireworks show, Pine Street, 6 pm, (559) 592-9411
hanford
December 4 • Rockin’ Rudolph Run 5K run/walk, Downtown Hanford, 325 N. Douty St., 8 am, www.runsignup.com/Race/CA/Hanford/ HanfordRockinRudolphRun
fresno
December 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 • Carthop, Historic Fulton Mall, 11 am-2 pm, www.downtownfresno.org/events/carthop December 1, 8 • Hinds Hospice: Lights of Love, Shops at River Park, 160 E. Paseo Del Centro, 6-7 pm, www.hindshospice.org/news--events December 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 • Live jazz at The Standard, 9455 N. Fort Washington, 6-8 pm, www.standardfresno.com/events/live-jazz December 3 • Blown Away: Make Your Own Glass Ornament, Kliszewksi Glass Gallery, 2746 E. Lorena Ave., 5:30 pm, (559) 248-8480 December 10 • Christmas in the City, meet the bus at the River Center, 11605 Old Friant Road, 7 am, (559) 248-8480, www.riverparkway.org • River Stewards Volunteer Day: Planting Day at the Spano River Ranch, 311 W. Bluff Ave., 9 am-noon, (559) 248-8480, www.riverparkway.org December 11 • Jingle Bell Run for Toys for Tots, Christmas Tree Lane, 4946 N. Van Ness Blvd, 9-11 am, www.fresnojinglebellrun.com December 17 • Walk With a Doc, River Parkway Trust, 11605 Old Friant Road, 8:30-10 am, (559) 248-8480, www.riverparkway.org Through December 18 • It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play, 2nd Space Theatre, 7:30 pm Thursdays, 8 pm Fridays and Saturdays, 2 pm Sundays, (559) 266-0667, www.2ndspacetheatre.com Through December 28 • Vineyard Farmers Market, 20 W. Shaw Ave., 3-6 pm Wednesdays, 7 am-noon Saturdays, www.vineyardfarmersmarket.com Through December 31 • Cherry Ave. Auction, 4640 S. Cherry, 7:30 am Tuesday and Saturday, www.cherryavenueauction.com
4 Support the Adventist Health Central Valley Network and Hospice Services and participate in the Rockin’ Rudolph Run 5K run/walk. There is a Kids’ Reindeer Run for children 12 and younger and a costume contest. Rockin’ Rudolph Run/Walk is $30 and Kids’ Reindeer Run is $15; cost increases to $35 and $20 after November 27 and $40 and $25 the day of the event. Teams welcomed and the largest team will be rewarded by Santa who will also be there for pictures.
lemoore
December 3 • Christmas Parade, Downtown Lemoore, 6 pm, (559) 924-6401 December 4 • Breakfast with Santa, Civic Auditorium, 435 C St., 8-10 am, (559) 924-6767
lindsay
December 3 • Country Line Trio, Lindsay Community Theatre, 190 N. Elmwood, 7:30 pm December 16 • Tree Lighting and Christmas Parade, City Hall, 251 E. Honolulu St., 6 pm, (559) 333-1994 December 16-18 • Journey to Bethlehem, Lindsay Community Theatre, 190 N. Elmwood, 7:30 pm Friday and Saturday, 2 pm Sunday
madera
November 17 • Children’s Arts and Craft Day, Fossil Discovery Center, (559) 665-7107
porterville
December 1 • Children’s Christmas Parade, Downtown Main Street, 7-9 pm
December 2 • First Friday Coffee, Galaxy 9 Theatre, 7-8:15 am December 3, 6, 13 • Santa visits the library, 41 W. Thurman Ave., 10 am-noon December 3, 5-6 pm December 6, 11 am-12:30 pm December 13 December 4 • Sierra Vocal Arts Ensemble presents “Sing Noel,” First United Methodist Church, 344 E. Morton, 3 pm, (559) 804-7995 December 6 • Myers Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, 7-8 pm December 7 • Optimal Hospice Foundation Light Up a Life, Sierra View Cancer Center, 456 W. Putnam Ave., 6-7 pm, (559) 334-5120, www.optimalhospicefoundation.com
7
The celebration includes a personal reflection by a hospice family member, the reading of memorial names by hospice nurses and volunteers, inspirational music and the lighting of the Tree of Life. This tree is adorned with ornaments representing a light in memory of loved ones and friends. The celebration is free and open to all. For a minimum $10 donation, an ornament with a loved one’s name will be placed on the tree. If received prior to the event date, the name will be read at the celebration.
sanger
December 3 • 69th Annual Nation’s Christmas Tree City Toyland Parade, 7th Street, 11 am December 10 • Disabled American Veterans Benefit Dinner, Eagles Hall, 2010 Montgomery St., 6-8 pm, (530) 533-9801 December 11 • 91st Annual Trek to the Nation’s Christmas Tree, Kings Canyon National Park, 2:30 pm
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selma
December 3 • Santa’s Arrival/Tree Lighting Ceremony, 5 pm, (559) 891-2235
sequoia national park
December 17 • Bird Blitz, 7 am-5 pm, (559) 565-4212
three rivers
December 26-29 • Horse Camp for all ages, Wood N Horse Training Stables, 42846 North Fork Drive, 10 am-12:30 pm, www.wdnhorse.com
tulare
Through December 31 • “Under the Same Sun” Paintings by R.W. “Bob” Goetting, Heritage Art Gallery at Tulare Historical Museum, 444 W. Tulare Ave., 5-7 pm
visalia
December 1-3, 7-10, 14-17 • Arts Visalia Holiday Show and Sale, Arts Visalia Gallery and Gift Shop, 214 East Oak Ave., noon-5:30 pm, (559) 739-0905, www.artsvisalia.org December 2-3 • Holiday Marketplace, Visalia Nazarene Church, 3333 W. Caldwell Ave., 6:30-8:30 pm Friday, 9 am-3 pm Saturday, (559) 734-1117 December 3 • Redwood Band and Color Guard Holiday Home Tour, Quail Park, 4520 W. Cypress Ave., noon-5 pm, (559) 920-5950, www.redwoodrangerband.org December 5 • Kaweah Delta Hospital Guild presents Books Are Fun, Kaweah Delta Medical Center lobby, 400 W. Mineral King, 7 am-5 pm, (559) 972-1880 December 9 • 36th Annual Christmas Tree Auction, Convention Center, 303 E Acequia Ave., 5:30 pm
9
The 36th Annual Christmas Tree Auction, themed “White Christmas,” will include a live Christmas tree auction, silent tree auction and silent item auction. VIP full table package (seats for 8) are $1,000. VIP individual tickets are $130. Doors open at 5:30 pm for VIP tickets, which include sitdown dinner (served at 6 pm), wine tasting, hors d’oeuvres, dessert and dancing. General admission tickets are $70. Doors open at 7:30 pm for general admission tickets, which include wine tasting, hors d’oeuvres, dessert and dancing. December 11 • “The Olate Dogs” Santa Paws Holiday Show, Convention Center, 303 E Acequia Ave., 2 pm December 19-21 • R.C. Spy Company: Investigating Clues to Christmas, Shannon Ranch Elementary School, 3637 N. Ranch St., 8:30-11:30 am, (559) 738-9278, www.rivercrossvisalia.com
barn theatre - porterville www.barntheater.porterville.com
December 3, 9-10 • Barn Theater’s Children’s Musical: Beauty and the Beast
cellar door - visalia www.cellardoor101.com
December 3 • The Donkeys with special guests, 8 pm December 10 • The Album Leaf with Sister Crayon, 8 pm
college of the sequoias theatre - visalia www.costheatre.org
Through December 4 • White Christmas
the fox theatre - visalia www.foxvisalia.org
December 1 • “Die Hard” (1988), 6:30 pm December 2 • A Comedy Show with CJ Jones, 7 pm December 4 • A Merry-achi Christmas with Mariachi Sol De Mexico De Jose Hernandez, 5 pm December 6 • Alloy Orchestra Plays “Man with a Movie Camera,” 7 pm December 10 • Tulare County Symphony, 7:30 pm December 14 • “Going My Way” (1944), 6:30 pm
Sanger is known as the “Nation’s Christmas Tree City.” It has hosted the Trek to the Tree Ceremony every second Sunday in December since 1926 at the General Grant Tree in Kings Canyon National Park, which is the Nation’s Christmas Tree.
DECEMBER 2016 www.EnjoySouthValley.com 43
December 16 • The Magic of Abba: Featuring Abbacadabra, 7:30 pm
fresno pacific university theater
www.fresnostate.edu/artshum/theatrearts
December 3 • The Fab Four: The Ultimate Beatles Experience, 8 pm
December 2-10 • Passion Play: Part 1 and Part 2, John Wright Theatre, 5201 N. Maple Ave., 7:30 pm Tuesday-Saturday, 2 pm Sunday
ice house theatre - visalia
16 With the resurgence of the ‘70s, portrayed in part by the popular live musical production and the worldwide release of “Mamma Mia - The Movie,” the music of ABBA is finding its way back into the hearts of those who lived it then, and taking over the hearts of those experiencing it for the first time. Abbacadabra promises to continue the momentum by performing 20 of the group’s greatest hits in full ABBA fashion and flair. Tickets vary from $17-$45. December 17 • Sons of the San Joaquin and Friends Christmas Celebration, 3 pm
fresno convention center
www.fresnoconventioncenter.com
December 10 • Life in Color, 7 pm
fresno pacific university music www.fresno.edu/events/music
December 2-3 • Opera at Pacific presents Menotti’s “Amahl & the Night Visitors,” Butler Church, 4884 E. Butler Ave., 7:30 pm December 2 • San Joaquin Chorale concert, First Mennonite Church, 1208 L St., 8 pm December 3 • San Joaquin Chorale concert, Paul Shaghoian Concert Hall, 2770 E. International Ave., 7:30 pm December 4 • Pacific Bronze performance, North Fresno Mennonite Brethren Church, 5724 N. Fresno St., 6 pm December 6 • Fresno Pacific University Percussion Ensemble concert, Ashley Auditorium, 1717 S. Chestnut Ave., 7:30 pm December 7 • Pacific Bronze concert, Ashley Auditorium, 1717 S. Chestnut Ave., 7:30 pm December 9 • Crosswind Evening of Praise and Worship, Butler Church, 4884 E. Butler Ave., 7:30 pm
44 www.EnjoySouthValley.com DECEMBER 2016
www.visaliaplayers.org
December 9-11 • Christmas America, 7:30 pm Friday and Saturday, 4 pm Sunday
rabobank arena - bakersfield www.rabobankarena.com
December 18 • A Merry-achi Christmas with Mariachi Sol De Mexico, 7:30 pm December 22 • Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, 7:30 pm
roger rocka’s dinner theatre - fresno www.rogerrockas.com
Through January 8 • A Christmas Story: The Musical, 5:30 pm Thursday-Saturday, 11 am Sunday, (559) 266-9494
saroyan theater - fresno
www.fresnoconventioncenter.com
December 3 • Fresno Philharmonic Presents Home for the Holidays, 7:30 pm, www.fresnophil.org/index.php December 10-11 • Central California Ballet’s The Nutcracker Presented by Lively Arts Foundation, 2 pm Saturday and Sunday, 7:30 pm Saturday December 17 • Elf the Broadway Musical, 7:30 pm, www.broadwayinfresno.com/shows December 14-15 • John Prine, 8 pm, www.johnprine.net December 18 • An Irish Christmas, 2 pm, www.anirishchristmastour.com December 27-28 • Shen Yun, 7:30 pm, www.shenyunperformingarts.org
save mart center - fresno
3 The Emmy Award-winning Fab Four is elevated far above every other Beatles Tribute band due to its precise attention to detail. With uncanny, note-for-note live renditions of Beatles’ classics such as “Can’t Buy Me Love” and “Hey Jude,” the Fab Four will make you think you’re watching the real thing. Tickets range from $32.50-$54.50. December 6 • The Strumbellas with special guests K. Flay and the Unlikely Candidates, 7 pm December 7 • Popovich Holiday Circus, 7 pm December 13 • Jonny Lang, 7:30 pm December 16 • A Peter White Christmas with Rick Braun and Euge Groove, 8 pm December 18 • Monsters of Soft Rock Christmas Tour, 5 pm
valdez hall - fresno
www.fresnoconventioncenter.com
December 2 • Right to Life’s 28th annual Christmas Dinner and Auction Gala
warnors center - fresno www.warnors.org
December 2 • Johnny Mathis’ 60th Anniversary Tour, 7:30 pm December 15 • (Modern) Classic Film: A Christmas Story, 7 pm Event times and dates are subject to change without notice. Please check event phone number or to verify dates and times. Enjoy Magazine is not responsible for any inconvenience due to event changes.
www.savemartcenter.com
December 2 • Fight For Water 6, 6 pm
the tower theatre - fresno www.towertheatrefresno.com
December 1 • Home Free: “A Country Christmas,” 7:30 pm December 2 • The Atomic Punks, a Van Halen Tribute 7 pm
GET YOUR EVENT ON THE CALENDAR! Please visit www.enjoysouthvalley.com or email infosouthvalley@enjoymagazine.net to post your calendar events. If you’d like your event to be listed in this section of Enjoy magazine, it must be posted on our website or emailed by the 5th of the month—one month prior to the next magazine issue. For example, a January event will need to post by December 5. Thank you.
GIVING BACK
| BY BEN RALPH
Santa's Helpers FA M I LY S E R V I C E S O F T U L A R E C O U N T Y PROVIDES A HELPING HAND W I T H T H E S A N TA S T O R E THANKSGIVING IS BEHIND US, and some gave thanks by giving back. Whether by donating time or food, Thanksgiving was an opportunity to be grateful for what has been given and to help those who have all too little. Now the Christmas season is upon us. While Thanksgiving brings to mind the blessings we have when it comes to food, the winter holidays bring anticipation and excitement for many, as they plan ways to surprise the ones they love with goodies and gifts. 4 continued on page 46
DECEMBER 2016 www.EnjoySouthValley.com 45
Many also exhibit great kindness throughout the holiday season to those who are struggling. Family Services of Tulare County is one such agent of generosity, and their Santa Store adds a particularly empowering twist to the Christmas tradition of giving by formatting the distribution of donations into a store-like shopping experience. By taking a temporary space and setting it up like a retail store, participants can peruse items and select gifts for family members on their own terms and to their own tastes. When a person has spent time struggling to provide, struggling to survive, struggling to recover, one of the better gifts to receive is what many take for granted: a sense of agency. “It’s more empowering for them,” says Erica Tootle, the director of development at Family Services. And empowerment is the central focus of the Santa Store. Not only can parents browse and find something special for their child, but the kids can find something to give to Mom and Dad, as well. After making their selections, they move on to the wrapping station to give their gift that final Christmas touch. “It becomes a pretty special experience,” noted Tootle.
What is the need for this year? There are many, but the main categories are gifts for children, gifts for parents and gifts for teenagers. “Teenagers like gift cards,” explains Tootle, as they are a flexible and versatile gift. Being a teen can be especially hard for those who need to focus on things more vital than making the football team or going to prom. And yet, teens can get lost in the mix of adult and child programs. The need is real, and the opportunity to meet that need is also real. Tootle described many ways in which people can help, but the most prevalent is giving. Whether gifts, gift cards, cash donations or something as simple as wrapping supplies, it all goes to a good cause. After all, is not the true meaning of Christmas to celebrate the hope that people could live their lives abundantly? • For more information on how to give to the Santa Store or volunteer opportunities: www.fstc.net or (559) 741-7310 815 W. Oak Ave., Visalia • Find them on Facebook
Ben Ralph is a longtime off-and-on Visalia local. Originally hailing from the outskirts of Ave. 328, he now spends his time balancing a career with walking the Earth, like Caine from the TV series Kung Fu. His writing is about the latter.
46 www.EnjoySouthValley.com DECEMBER 2016