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September 2018
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Fair enough
10 12 16 44 50
The Big Fresno Fair is a local tradition, managed by CEO John Alkire. Read 25 things you don’t know about him.
Creativity is all around us Our four-county area is ripe with creativity. From our painted towns to ArtHop, there’s something for everyone.
Welcome home Wilson Homes has a decades-long history of building top-quality one-of-akind homes in the Central Valley.
Clovis is a home décor hot spot If you haven’t been to Clovis lately, you might be surprised to know the small town is making a big home décor splash.
The art of barbecue
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6 Sneak Peeks 7 Believe Its 8 Pastimes 10 25 Things You Didn’t Know...
12 In The Spotlight
Central Valley chefs know there’s an art to good barbecue. We have the mouthwatering details.
14 Contest! 15 Don’t Miss Calendar 16 Luxury Homes 22-42 Special Advertising Section: Five Star Home Professionals 44 Luxury Homes 50 Eat, Drink, Be Merry 55 Snapshots
16 4 SEPTEMBER 2018 | Central Valley Magazine
Leo and Todd Wilson of Wilson Homes are celebrating a longtime tradition of providing the Central Valley with top-quality luxury homes. PHOTOGRAPHY: Gary Kazanjian
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At Home
It’s good to be home Home. The very word evokes feelings of warmth and comfort. In this special Luxury Homes edition, Central Valley is pleased to be able to feature our cover story on Wilson Homes, a Valley leader in home building. As a Hall of Fame Builder, Wilson Homes has more than 50 years of building in the Valley. Even after 50 years, Wilson Homes isn’t slowing down. I’ve had the pleasure of watching some of the Wilson neighborhoods pop up in my neighborhood. Let me tell you, just one look at the drool-worthy model homes at several growing Loma Vista neighborhoods — Regent Park, Elev8tions or Chadwick — may make you want to come home to something new. Read our story about the Wilson Homes legacy beginning on page 16. If you’re moving in, you’re going to need to decorate. And we’re in luck. Two of my very favorite Clovis boutiques have recently expanded their offerings and opened home stores. If you haven’t checked out the new stores, stop what you’re doing and head to Clovis. These places are well worth your time.
at that moment...
Read Janessa Tyler’s story about Revival 23 and The Foundry Home beginning on page 44. If all this has you in the mood to thing about moving to a new place, you’re going to want to check out our special advertising section featuring the 2018 Fresno Five Star Award Winners. Five Star Professional partnered with Central Valley magazine to identify real estate, mortgage and insurance professionals in the Fresno area who deliver outstanding service and client satisfaction. These are the industry’s leaders you are going to want to meet. The Five Star Professional Award Winners section begins on page 22. As always, our regular features offer you a glimpse of the best of what the Valley has to offer. Read Janice Stevens and Pat Hunter’s Pastimes column on page 8. Read our 25 Things feature — this month about The Big Fresno Fair’s leader John Alkire — on page 11. Our Don’t Miss Calendar is on page 15. And, last, but not least, check out writer Cyndee Fontana’s story about mouth-watering barbecue on page 50.
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Fall in love with the arts
Sept. 2018/ Vol. 7, Issue 9 ......................... Central Valley magazine is produced by the Custom Publications staff of The Fresno Bee and published by The Fresno Bee. It is inserted into The Fresno Bee on the fourth Saturday of the month in the Fresno/Clovis area. It can also be found in waiting rooms throughout Fresno/Clovis. Cover price $3.95 President & Publisher Ken Riddick Vice President, Sales & Strategic Marketing John Coakley Editor Carey Norton | 559-441-6755 Central Valley Sales Leader Sonia White | 559-441-6156 Production Coordinator Anna Ramseier | 559-441-6751 Central Valley Sales Leader Sonia White | 559-441-6156 Assistant Editor Monica Stevens | 559-441-6149 Custom Publications Staff Janessa Tyler | 559-441-6764 Dani Villalobos, Gary Kazanjian Contributing Writers Cyndee Fontana-Ott, Douglas Hoagland, Janice Stevens Contributing Photographers Wayne Hutchinson Design Carey Norton, Janessa Tyler, Juan Vega Contributing Artists Pat Hunter Reader inquiries Central Valley magazine 1626 E St., Fresno, CA 93786 www.centralvalley.com 559-441-6755 All content © The Fresno Bee To contribute, please contact Carey Norton at 559-441-6755 or cnorton@fresnobee.com FOR THE RECORD: The August edition of Central Valley incorrectly identified the owner of the Fresno Flyers Flight School. The owner is Morgan Aichele.
The Fresno Bee
For lovers of the arts, September brings the Sierra Art Trails to the Central Valley. The nonprofit arts organization will host the 2018 Yosemite Foothills Open Studio Tour from Friday, Oct. 5 to Sunday, Oct. 7 at homes, businesses, studios and galleries throughout Eastern Madera and Mariposa counties. It will feature more than 100 local artisans who work with a wide range of media including paint, wood, ceramics, metal and glass. They will showcase pottery, quilts, photographs, sculptures and jewelry. Admission costs $20 for two people. Visitors receive a full-color, spiral-bound catalog with a list of artists and examples of their work. Artists come from Oakhurst, Coarsegold, North Fork, Nipinnawasee and Yosemite Lakes in Madera County and Midpines and Ponderosa Basin in Mariposa County. The cover for 2018 is a watercolor, “Spring Runoff,” by Carolyn Hartling of Coarsegold. Starting on Saturday, Sept. 8 at Stellar Gallery, the
Sierra Art Trails Preview Exhibit will be open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Wednesday through Monday. The Gala Reception and Annual Presentation of Awards will be held from 4 to 9 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 15 at Stellar Gallery. In addition, the Sierra Art Trails offers workshops, demonstrations, lectures and exhibits for local artists to showcase their work to the community. It has raised more than $20,000 for the community since 2003. Stellar Gallery is part of the Yosemite Gateway Gallery Row in Oakhurst. Details: www.sierraarttrails.org
“Take the first step to a world without Alzheimer's disease” According to the Alzheimer’s Association, Alzheimer’s disease is an epidemic that affects more than 5 million men and women in the United States. The number is estimated to triple by 2050. To raise awareness and promote education about Alzheimer’s disease, the Alzheimer’s Association hosts a nationwide fundraiser in September. In 1989, the Walk to End Alzheimer’s was launched as the Memory Walk — raising $149,000 by 1,249 participants. It grew to raise $4.5 million within four years. Today, more than $75 million has been raised by thousands of teams. In the Central Valley, Fresno is among a handful of cities that host the Walk to End Alzheimer’s. The Fresno Walk to End Alzheimer’s is slated for Saturday, Sept. 22 at Fresno State. The goal is to raise $225,000. Proceeds will help to cover the costs of care, support and research conducted by the Alzheimer’s Association. Also: The Visalia Walk to End Alzheimer’s is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 13 at Mooney Grove Park, 27000 S. Mooney Blvd., Visalia. Alzheimer’s disease is the fifth leading cause of death in the United States. Symptoms — loss of memory, confusion, inability to solve problems and complete tasks, withdrawal from work or social activities and mood swings —
usually develop slowly, but worsen over time. Symptoms can also be as minor as misplacing keys and forgetting appointments. If possible, keep track of symptoms with a journal to determine if there are recurrences. Details: www.alz.org/walk
fresnobee.com 6 SEPTEMBER 2018 | Central Valley Magazine
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Sharing is karing
Spellbound
The Kare For Kidney Race, presented by the Fresno Nephrology Kidney Foundation, is returning to Woodward Park at 7:30 a.m., Saturday, Sept. 12. According to the National Kidney Foundation, kidney disease affects 30 million adults in the United States. Early detection can help prevent the progression of kidney disease. The co-founders of the Kare For Kidney Race are Sally Rogers and Janie Holland. Five years ago, Rogers donated a kidney as part of a swap; Holland received a kidney transplant in 2013. Today, the pair is an advocate of kidney disease — spreading the word about prevention and the benefits of donating a kidney. In 2013, shortly after their operations, Rogers and Holland formed Kare for Kidney Society. The name changed to the Fresno Nephrology
The lyrics from songs like “It Takes Two,” “Giants in the Sky” and “On The Steps Of The Palace” will fill your mind for days after seeing a production of “Into the Woods” — running now through Sunday, Sept. 16 — at Roger Rocka’s Dinner Theater in downtown Fresno. The musical intertwines the plots of several characters from fairy tales by Brothers Grimm and Charles Perrault including “Cinderella,” “Little Red Riding Hood,” “Jack and the Beanstalk” and “Rapunzel.” It explores the consequences of their wishes and quests. The 2014 Disney film adaption stars Meryl Streep as The Witch, Anna Kendrick as Cinderella, James Corden as The Baker, Emily Blunt as The Baker’s Wife, Chris Pine as Cinderella’s Prince and Johnny Depp as The Big Bad Wolf. Following “Into the Woods,” catch a showing of “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers” — playing Thursday, Sept. 20 through Sunday, Nov. 11. The musical film follows the story of seven brothers who decide to kidnap brides for themselves, but their plans get put on hold when an avalanche traps them in Echo Pass. Roger Rocka’s Dinner Theater is at 1226 N. Wishon Ave., Fresno. Details: www.rogerrockas.com
Kidney Foundation when they partnered with the Fresno Nephrology Medical Group, the largest medical group in the Central Valley to specialize in the treatment of kidney disease. Proceeds from the Kare For Kidney Race will benefit patients with kidney disease by providing education on donating a kidney, assistance with dialysis and living a healthy lifestyle. Details: www.kareforkidney.com
Labor of love
Hug a tree … for free! It’s time to unplug — treat yourself with a trip to a national park in the Central Valley. For example, you can visit Yosemite National Park, Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon National Park. National parks charge a fee for admission, which range from $3 to $30, but there are a handful of entry-fee-free days in 2018. Get free admission to more than 400 national parks on Saturday, Sept. 22 — known as National Public Lands Day — and Veterans Day, which falls on Sunday, Nov. 11. c entralvalley.com
If you don’t know where to start, here are a few highlights to help you choose: t Yosemite National Park is home to El Capitan, Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, Glacier Point and Tuolumne Meadows. t Sequoia National Park hosts Tunnel Log, Crescent Meadow and the General Sherman — the world’s tallest tree. t Kings Canyon National Park is known for housing Tehipite Valley and the General Grant Tree. Details: www.nps.gov.
Before you start thinking Labor Day isn’t more than an excuse for barbecues, discounts at retailers and poolside parties — think again. Considered as the “unofficial end of summer,” the public holiday honors the American labor movement — the contributions that workers have made to strengthen the economy in the United States. The first Labor Day was celebrated on Sept. 5, 1882, in New York City. It was officially established as a federal holiday by 1887. Today, Labor Day is celebrated on the first Monday in September. The Fresno County Democratic Party is hosting the 2018 Labor Day Pancake Breakfast and Festival from 8 a.m. to noon, Monday, Sept. 3 at the Fresno Fairgrounds. Enjoy a plate of pancakes, eggs, sausage and fruit for $10 (tickets can be purchased by calling Dillon Savory at (559) 289-8755.) Details: www.fresnocountydemocrats.org
Central Valley Magazine | SEPTEMBER 2018 7
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Pastimes
Protecting the legacy of famed architect Julia Morgan BY: Janice Stevens | ILLUSTRATIONS: Pat Hunter
T Janice Stevens is the author of multiple books on California history: Fresno’s Architectural Past, Vol. I and II, William Saroyan: Places in Time; Remembering the California Missions; and An Artist and a Writer Travel Highway 1 (North, Central and South), plus Breaking Bread with William Saroyan, collaborations with her business partner, watercolorist Pat Hunter, and two volumes of Stories of Service, compilations of Valley veterans’ military memoirs. Ask Janice a Fresno history question by emailing custom@ fresnobee.com or posting your question on the Central Valley magazine Facebook page, www.facebook. com/CentralValleyMag.
he YWCA Residence Hall located at 1660 M St. and San Joaquin Avenue in downtown Fresno, designed and constructed in 1922, is distinctive for its Julia Morgan architecture, a relationship it shares with Hearst Castle on the coast. Morgan was born in San Francisco in 1872. “She graduated from the College of Engineering at the University of California, Berkeley in 1894, then studied at the Hopkins School of Art Instruction. In 1896, encouraged by architect Bernard Maybeck, she traveled to Paris, becoming the first woman admitted to study architecture at the Ecole des Beaux-Arts, from which she graduated in 1902,” writes John Edward Powell in “A Guide to Historic Architecture in Fresno, California, Biographies of Architects, Designers, and Builders.”
FThe YWCA Residence Hall located at 1660 M St. and San Joaquin Avenue was designed by famed architect Julia Morgan.
8 SEPTEMBER 2018 | Central Valley Magazine
After graduation, the diminutive Morgan returned to California, passed the architectural examination and established an architectural career that spanned decades leaving her legacy throughout the nation. Fearless, Morgan was known to climb scaffolding to examine the construction of her designs. “Opening her own office in San Francisco, Miss Morgan designed more than 700 public buildings and private residences and was for many years the official architect of the Y.W.C.A in the West. She built residences in Honolulu, Pasadena, Long Beach, and Oakland, as well as Fresno,” writes an author in “Heritage Fresno Homes and People” by the American Association of University Women. Although one of her first projects was to rebuild the Fairmont Hotel after the destruction caused by the 1906 earthquake, perhaps her most significant accomplishment was through her relationship with newspaper mogul William Randolph Hearst. “For him, Morgan designed her major career achievement, ‘La Cuesta Encantada,’ a Beaux-Arts extravaganza built between 1919 and 1937 and popularly known as Hearst Castle,” writes Powell. A Fresno Bee article dated Oct. 16, 1988, quotes historian Sara Homes Boutelle, who wrote the first “critical biography of the most significant and successful female architect in the history of the profession.” Boutelle said, “Morgan delighted in the purposeful variation of scale. She used vaulted ceilings or left tresses open to extend the height of even small rooms, and favored open plans that created a feeling of expansiveness, while sometimes juxtaposing that openness with an enclosed recess to give a sense of shelter and privacy.” Morgan is noted for visiting the families of her clients, and sitting on the floor with the children to understand their personalities and needs. She then would design the building from “the inside out,” Boutelle said, with
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the interior of the building being of primary importance. The design of the YWCA Residence Hall certainly incorporates those ideals. The building features Spanish Revival style with Italian Renaissance detailing. In the early days of the 20th century, buildings didn’t have air conditioning and heating; consequently, the climate was a key factor in the design of the residence. The two-story building is H-shaped with a courtyard. The sleeping porches connect to the usable attic, and whereas they were once screened porches, they are now enclosed. “Deliberately adapted to Fresno’s climate, this harmoniously designed building had great care given to the function for which it was constructed. “The exterior might best be described as an adaptation of the Italian Villa style: low-pitched hip roof, smooth, stucco wall surfaces, and broad low-walled, unroofed front veranda. Windows are of two types, arched and rectangular, with the arches reflecting the Romanesque style. Shallow balconies, with simple wrought iron railings and supports, under the second floor windows are characteristic of the style. “The interior has a lounge for the residents, a small library, and a spacious recreation hall which has recently been redecorated so that it can be used by volunteer workers to provide lunches to large groups as an additional source of funds for the organization,” writes an author in “Heritage Fresno.” The YWCA building is representative of Morgan’s training in neoclassic Beaux Arts elegance, but, as Boutelle noted, also possessed a Craftsman emphasis on simplicity and utility.
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Today the YWCA building continues to provide moderate cost housing for women just as it has since its inception and is considered to be the last building designed by Morgan still in use for its original purpose. Although it reflects the ravages of time, the building maintains the integrity of Morgan’s architectural design and joins with other examples of her architecture in preserving her legacy. “Alterations to the building have been minor, and do not detract from the significance of the building. In the early 1940s the third-floor dormitories (sleeping porches) were partitioned into several smaller areas. Other than this minor change, the building retains its original integrity, “ notes Valerie D. Comegys on the building’s nomination to the National Register of Historic Places. Morgan is also credited for designing a small bungalow activities building in west Fresno and the recreation center on Tuolumne and L streets. “In 1933, the recreation center was closed due to local financial problems. From 1945 to 1960, it was occupied by the Pacific Bible Institute (now Fresno Pacific University). Sadly, the recreation center was remodeled beyond recognition in 1965. ....” notes Powell. Attesting to its historical significance, The YWCA Residence Hall is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the California Register of Historical Resources and the City of Fresno Local Official Register of Historic Resources. CV
AThe YWCA Residence Hall, built in 1922, incorporates Spanish Revival style with Italian Renaissance detailing.
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PeopleProfile
The chief executive officer of The Big Fresno Fair
John Alkire BY: Doug Hoagland | PHOTOGRAPHY: Wayne Hutchison, Getty Images, Bee Archive/John Walker, Carey Norton
ohn Alkire sleeps four hours a night during the run of The Big Fresno Fair. As the chief executive officer, he oversees pretty much everything — a big job, indeed. He manages the responsibility by remembering his No. 1 mission. “We’re in the business of making memories,” Alkire says. The 135th edition of The Big Fresno Fair runs for 12 days — Wednesday, Oct. 3 through Sunday, Oct. 14.
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1 Favorite food at The Big Fresno Fair: soft-rolled tacos. Loves Mexican food. 2 Favorite ride: the ponies. Enjoys watching his grandchildren and other children enjoy themselves. Their delighted faces delight him. 3 Gets choked up talking about the death of a trusted horse named Drake. “He was a good friend.”
10 SEPTEMBER 2018 | Central Valley Magazine
4 Coached (with his son) his grandson’s flag football team. The 10-to-12-year-old boys won state championships in 2014 and 2015. 5 Family and patriotism touchstones of his Bakersfield youth. “I remember a great deal of love and respect for one another.” 6 At age 10, started steam cleaning oil field equipment at his Uncle Bob’s business. Learned to drive forklifts, pickups and cars on the job. 7 Uncle Bob was his boyhood hero. Parents divorced, and his father was absent for a time. “My uncle took his place and was there for everything.”
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20 8 Bakersfield High School Class of 1966. Drove a two-tone 1957 Ford Ranchero; played basketball, football and tennis until a skiing accident at age 16. 9 Broke his pelvis, hip and leg (in six places) while skiing. Hospitalized for nine months; had to learn to walk again. 10 National livestock judging champion at Cal Poly. Learned to make a decision, stand by it and look people in the eye while explaining it. 11 Roots for the Raiders and has since the 1960s. Liked their swagger and confidence. Admires the current quarterback Derek Carr. 12 Favorite city: Visalia. He and his wife live there because their six grandchildren are in Tulare County. 13 Favorite book: the Bible. “There is no other book to me.”
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14 Best advice he ever received: “Be a good listener. He who speaks first always loses.” 15 Drives a 2004 Silverado with 408,000 miles. “I’ll run it until it drops.” 16 Likes movies based on real stories. “Rudy” a favorite. Never seen a “Star Wars” film. “Doesn’t interest me. Never has.”
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17 Led the California MidState Fair (Paso Robles), Tulare County Fair and Kings Fair before Fresno. He’s in the Western Fairs Association Hall of Fame. 18 Cried at the Mid-State Fair when headliner Alan Jackson sang to his estranged wife. She cried, too. Beautiful moment. 19 Under his leadership: The Big Fresno Fair has collected 840 tons of food and more than 80,000 pints of blood to benefit the community. Also helped the Poverello House feed the homeless. 20 The past matters. He’s the driving force behind two award-winning history museums at the fair. One devoted to the fair, the other to Fresno County. 21 First concert: Buck Owens in Bakersfield. “Buck is Bakersfield.” 22 Favorite vacation spot: Red Bluff. His brother has a ranch with ponds for fishing. “It’s where I like to hide out.” 23 Favorite TV show: “Blue Bloods.” New York cop drama. “I like the family atmosphere and how they work together even though they might fight.” 24 Fall is the best time of year. “We’re rock ’n’ rolling and getting ready for the fair. And football starts.” 25 Fair ritual: always buys something from a vendor in the Commerce Building who sells fingernail clippers and scissors.CV
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InTheSpotlight
Creative streak The Central Valley’s creativity knows no bounds BY: Cyndee Fontana-Ott | PHOTOGRAPHY: Bee Archive/Craig Kohlruss, Getty Images
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n the Central Valley, we create. From poems to paintings and music to mixed media and more, the product of our expression comes to life in many ways. Here, outdoor murals in places like Fresno and Exeter tell stories across an otherwise plain canvas. Artists of all types fill exhibit spaces. And signature events like ArtHop and First Fridays offer recurring opportunities to showcase the diversity of works. In part, that creative streak is cultivated by organizations like Arte Américas in Fresno, the Art Consortium in Visalia, the Madera County Arts Council and the Fresno Arts Council. For example, the nonprofit Arte Américas in Fresno’s Cultural Arts District presents a wide range of exhibits, concerts and events to ensure the continued voice and growth of Latino arts. The Fresno Arts Council enriches lives partly through twice-monthly ArtHop events featuring exhibits, music, poetry and more in dozens of venues. The ArtHop program dates back to 1993, according to Lilia Gonzáles Chávez, the council’s executive director. “It’s just a unique opportunity for the general public to be able to engage with the creative community of Fresno,” she says. “ArtHop has grown to be a positive example of the arts in Fresno.”
AVisitors look at art in the Peerless Building during the grand opening of ArtHop in downtown Fresno. The 30,000 square-foot mixed use commercial space will try to lure young business professionals to the downtown area. Above: the Warnors Theatre advertises ArtHop.
12 SEPTEMBER 2018 | Central Valley Magazine
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On any given first or third Thursday, that spark unfolds in galleries, work studios, retail outlets and public spaces. In early July, the exhibits included photographs, ceramics, live painting sessions, sculpture and live music. The urge to create also has a home in places like the Mennonite Quilt Center in Reedley. The hybrid fabric store and quilt gallery, rooted in the Mennonite faith, brings together volunteers who craft quilts and more to support world relief projects. Every Monday, for example, volunteers gather to quilt by hand or tie comforters. These dedicated quilters “have been doing this for years,” says Marci VanderGriend, the center manager. The second-floor museum displays finished quilts and other exhibits. In Tulare County, the Visalia-based Arts Consortium brings together area artists and also showcases their work. The aptly named “First Friday” is a monthly event that fans out in a variety of venues. Ampelio Mejia Perez, an artist and the consortium’s general manager, believes the regional art scene is growing in terms of numbers and the intensity of insight. “What draws people to the arts in the area is ‘by the people, for the people’ — that kind of attitude,” he says. One well-known Visalia artist is Toni Best, who creates baskets using 12 to 14-inch pine needles coiled on gourds. She wove her first basket in the eighth grade and has honed her approach and technique over several decades. Best’s striking pieces are full of movement largely dictated by the shape of gourds. She prepares the gourds partly by drying, hollowing out and cleaning them in her garage. Her work is inspired by Native American art and her own imagination; she says she hears music while weaving. “I love baskets,” Best says. “When people ask ‘what is this used for,’ I usually say it’s a piece of art.” She firmly believes that everyone wants to create something, and frequently teaches classes in her technique. “The love of art in Visalia — I have seen it grow,” Best says. In nearby Exeter, a large-form example of creativity is on perpetual public view. The city has gained visibility for showcasing 30 murals that explore the history and personality of the area. The Exeter Chamber of Commerce manages the murals; the first was painted in the mid-1990s. Sandy Blankenship, the executive director of the chamber, says the artwork reflects the town and the creative community. “The murals have been very well-received,” she says, adding that tours of the collection are popular.
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Artists from the area and well beyond have contributed to the public gallery. Tulare native and artist Colleen Mitchell-Veyna created that first mural, which spotlights the orange harvest. She has painted another half-dozen or so in Exeter since then and now works almost exclusively in murals. Mitchell-Veyna, who had never before painted in such a large scale, initially thought the project would be daunting. “But I realized I really liked working in that medium.” To the north, the Madera County Arts Council celebrates and supports the artists and artwork of its region. The county is known for its creative drive and associations like the venerable Yosemite Western Artists, which promotes the visual arts in the foothills and western Yosemite area. Annually, the council honors the intersection of agriculture and the arts through a competition and exhibit in September. The event marks its 25th anniversary this year. In Kings County, the Kings Arts Center fuels creativity with hands-on art education programs and exhibits. In Hanford, the work of creative expression also can spring from a set of handwritten notebooks. That’s where the process begins for indie novelist Garrett K. Jones, author of the fantasy series “The Archives of IcínqRégn.” Inspired by a lifelong love of writing and a nearly year-long stay in Japan, Jones populated the draft of his first book with characters that had lived for years in his head. However, he abandoned that first series of notebooks in dramatic fashion. “The story just wasn’t good,” he says. “I ended up setting them (the notebooks) on fire.” Jones was happier with subsequent drafts and so far has published three books. He has appeared at several local comic-con events. Currently, he’s working on a fourth book. Originally, Jones thought he would tell stories through comic books. In college, he frequently kept two notebooks — one for traditional work and the other to collect his compulsive doodles. Though he explored other paths along the way, Jones returned to writing as his creative path. “It took me a while to decide that this is what I wanted to do.” CV
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Contest
Is your cookie the best in the batch? Central Valley to host cookie-baking contest at The Big Fresno Fair
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Silpats help cookies bake evenly and slide right off the pan without using oils or parchment paper. Made of fiberglass mesh and the highest-quality silicone, the Siplat Perfect Cookie Baking Mat retails at $26.95. Details: www.silpat.com Participants are required to provide take entries to the Home Arts building at The Big Fresno fair by 11 a.m. Oct. 6. Judging will take place at noon. Additionally, participants must provide a typed copy of all ingredients and preparation method in order to be considered for final prizes. The winning recipes will be published in the December 2018 Central Valley magazine. To enter, submit an online entry form by Sept. 10, 2018. Go to www.fresnofair.com, click on the competitive exhibits tool. If you have questions, contact The Big Fresno Fair at (559) 453-6890 to help complete your entry form. *The contest is open to residents of Fresno County. Exact prize styles and colors may vary from what is shown.
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lose your eyes. Think about the crunch, the spice and the wonder of your favorite Christmas treat. Now, are you in the mood for cookies? We certainly hope so, because once again, Central Valley is hosting a holiday cookie contest at The Big Fresno Fair. We would like to invite you to search your recipe box and enter our contest. The first-place winner will win a Kitchen-Aid mixer and a $40 gift card to Save Mart. The second-place winner will receive at $20 gift card to Save Mart and a unique Grace Apron by Thread & Whisk. Made in Portland, the 100-percent linen apron is a combination of functionality and fashionable luxury. It offers a generous pocket for your phone and a superior fit, including adjustable cross-back straps. It retails for $125. Details: www.threadandwhisk.com The third-place winner will receive a $10 Save Mart gift card and a two Silpat Perfect Cookie Baking Mats. The mat features 13 evenly spaced indents, which make perfectly sized cookies of all kinds.
14 SEPTEMBER 2018 | Central Valley Magazine
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September 2018
September is Poetic sounds synonymous with the Presented by start of football River Parkway Trust, listen to the sounds of Barry Shultz and Megan season and, of Bohigian during the September course, the first day session of Respite by the River. Peter Everwine will share his of autumn. Fall in poetry, which has appeared in love with poetry, The Paris Review, Antaeus and American Poetry Review, from his acrobatics and collections like “From the Meapistachios while dow: Selected and New Poems,” Girl power! “Listening Long and Late” and staying cool in the “Keeping the Night.” Details: www.riverparkway.org The Central Central Valley
Between heaven and Earth
09.12
09.20
“Get carried away with life” is the tagline for Cirque Du Soleil: Corteo, which means cortège in Italian. The show will dazzle the audience with comedy, illusions and out-of-this-world acrobatics for four days at the Save Mart Center. Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic of Corteo! Details: www.savemartcenter.com
09.25
High on haggis
09.15
For more complete calendar listings, go to calendar.fresnobee.com
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The Fresno Scottish Society presents the Fresno Highland Gathering and Games at Kearney Park. While listening to Seven Nations, watch men and women test their strength during the Highland games — a way to celebrate Scottish and Celtic culture. Details: www.fresnoscottishsociety.org
California Women’s Conference returns to the Fresno Convention and Entertainment Center. The theme is “Be the Difference.” It will feature Maria Shriver. The author and journalist is the former First Lady of California. After her father was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, she founded The Women’s Alzheimer’s Movement. Details: www.ccwc-fresno.org
The seed of success
09.28
Sponsored by the American Pistachio Growers, Old Town Clovis invites you to celebrate the harvest of pistachios in the Central Valley. The Pistachio Party will feature an abundance of treats featuring the seed. Recipes will be prepared by the Institute of Technology Culinary Academy in Clovis. Details: www.oldtownclovis.org
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LuxuryHomes
Wilson Homes celebrates a long history of home building in Fresno
16 SEPTEMBER 2018 | Central Valley Magazine
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BY: Doug Hoagland | PHOTOGRAPHY: Gary Kazanjian
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eo Wilson — one of the top homebuilders in Fresno and Clovis — was raised in a small white house where he shared a bedroom with his brother. Their sister “hogged” the one bathroom 90 percent of the time, Wilson says. “I swore if I ever got a house myself, I’d have at least two bathrooms,” he adds with a chuckle. That memory is part of Wilson’s story — a story that spans more than 50 years in shaping some of the most prestigious neighborhoods in the metropolitan area. Please see next page
In 2017 and the first six months of 2018, according to the Building Industry Association of Fresno-Madera Counties, Wilson Homes was No. 2 in Fresno County in number of houses sold.
Central Valley Magazine | SEPTEMBER 2018 17
ALeo Wilson with his oldest son, Todd, at the Windsor Estate Series in Clovis. For the last two decades, Wilson Homes has built hundreds of houses.
FA kitchen area with an island for dining created by Leo Wilson and his oldest son, Todd.
Over the decades, he has pioneered new design concepts and won community and statewide recognition. He says his goal remains simple: “I just want to build a good house and have people enjoy it.” Wilson Homes has built a number of firsts in Fresno. t First gated and all-custom-home community — Lake Van Ness in northwest Fresno. t First man-made lake and lakefront community — Lake View near Woodward Park. t First master-planned community — The Dominio near Woodward Park. In addition, for the last two decades, Wilson Homes has built hundreds of houses in Clovis to meet demand in the hot market. In both 2017 and the first six months of 2018, the company was No. 2 in Fresno County in number of houses sold, according to the Building Industry Association of Fresno-Madera Counties. Lennar, a national company, was No. 1. “Wilson Homes obviously builds where and what people want,” says Michael Prandini, the president and chief executive officer of the BIA. Wilson — who has served four times as
18 SEPTEMBER 2018 | Central Valley Magazine
the BIA’s chairman of the board — shows no signs of slowing down. He regularly goes to construction sites to check on workmanship. “I don’t wait until the houses are finished,” he says. “You have to make damn sure everything is done right ... And if I’ve ever done anything wrong, I took care of it.” Wilson developed a strong work ethic and sense of responsibility growing up in Porterville. He was in seventh grade when he asked a theater owner for a job.
centralvalley.com
DThe Windsor Estate Series, built by Leo Wilson and his oldest son, Todd, of Wilson Homes, is located at Temperance and Shepherd avenues in Clovis.
He didn’t get the position, but that didn’t deter him. “If you don’t have rejection, you’re not going to have any success,” he says. “When someone tells you ‘no,’ you’re going to show them it should be ‘yes.’ ” A few years later, Wilson not only had a job at that theater but was working at several other theaters, too. As a teenager, he also worked at a men’s clothing store
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and at a tomato packing house. “Our family didn’t have a lot of money,” he says. “If I wanted anything, I had to buy it. So I learned if you didn’t do it yourself, it wasn’t going to get done.” Wilson put that just-do-it principle into action after Please see next page
Specializing in Custom Floral Arrangements and Restoration
(559) 549-6700 2047 W. Bullard Ave Fresno, 93711 Visit us at: judesdecor.com Central Valley Magazine | SEPTEMBER 2018 19
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F Wilson Homes offers custom home luxury like this at the waters edge of Lake Van Ness, the first eco-designed lakefront community of all custom homes in Fresno.
he graduated from Fresno State in 1957 with a degree in business. (In 2014, Fresno State’s Craig School of Business honored him with the Outstanding Alumni Award.) Following graduation, he worked for a homebuilding company owned by the father of a fraternity brother. But in 1961, the firm went out of business one Friday afternoon. The next morning, Wilson says, he was looking for customers for his new homebuilding business. “Away we went,” he says. “I wanted to eat and feed my family. I had to do it.” In the early years, building custom homes became a niche for Wilson Homes. “We were doing 20 to 30 at a time,” he
says. “You try managing that. Very difficult. My customers wanted perfection, but it was good training.” Overtime, Wilson saved his money (“that’s why we’re still in business 50 years later”) and began to buy acreage to build on. When he was ready to implement his vision for The Dominion, Wilson had 600-plus acres to work with. Wilson Homes’ website describes that master- planned community this way: “lush green belts, gentle hills and sweeping boulevards” with multiple custom-home neighborhoods, planned unit developments, rental condominiums and apartments, parks and commercial development.
JAMES HENDRICKS AND ASSOCIATES, INC. COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE BROKERAGE & PROPERTY MANAGEMENT FIRM KENNETH R. HENDRICKS CEO | CPM BRE# 01162863 (559) 243-1000
JOHN SUZUKI Senior Investment Advisor BRE# 01330264 (559) 351-5757
MIKE HAYS Senior Investment Advisor BRE# 014594434 (559) 273-5556
NW Corner Bullard & West 2054 W Bullard Ave Contact our office at (559) 243-1000 | jameshendricksandassociates.com 20 SEPTEMBER 2018 | Central Valley Magazine
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Many streets in The Dominion take curving routes. Wilson says he had to fight to deviate from Fresno’s grid street system in which straight roadways intersect at 90 degree angles. Fees from homeowners associations maintain the neighborhood parks as well as streets and other infrastructure. “It looks as good as the day we finished it, and even better because all the trees have grown up,” Wilson says of The Dominion. Building homes now reaches into a second generation of the family. Wilson’s older son, Todd, is the vice president of Wilson Homes, and younger son, Mark, builds custom homes with his own business. “Everybody in the family builds,” Leo Wilson says. “It’s just in our veins.” Leo and his wife, Laura, also have a daughter, Cindy DeFendis, who worked in the family business for many years. The Wilsons have seven grandchildren. Todd got his start with Wilson Homes in third grade. He earned $1 an hour sweeping houses his father was building. In college, he worked part time framing houses and cleaning up construction sites, joining the company fulltime 30 years ago. “It’s a different challenge every day,” his son says, and it’s crucial “to adapt to whatever the market brings
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us. The market is ever evolving.” Today, younger first-time buyers and retirees dominate the market, he adds. Wilson Homes currently has five developments in Clovis designed to meet those varying needs. The developments range from Elev8ions, with models averaging about 1,400 square feet and starting in the mid-$200,000s, to Windsor Estates, where models average about 3,000 square feet and start in the upper $400,000s. Wilson says he strives to make his smaller tract houses “just as desirable” as the bigger ones: “We build so they all look like they were built as custom homes.” His work has brought recognition. In 1995, Wilson was inducted into the California Homebuilders Hall of Fame, an honor he values because it came from peers in his industry. “You’re not easily accepted,” he says. “You have to show everybody what you can do.” The job is Wilson’s passion. He’s belonged to San Joaquin Country Club for close to 40 years but never played a round of golf. Still, he says, “One of these days, yes, I’ll retire.” In the meantime, it’s satisfying that third and fourth generations of families continue to buy his homes. “That’s what we want,” Wilson says.CV
AThe Windsor Estate Series features spacious areas created by Wilson Homes, a company with more than 55 years of building in the Valley.
Central Valley Magazine | SEPTEMBER 2018 21
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2018 FRESNO FIVE STAR AWARD WINNERS Featured winners from our Five Star Professional section FS-5
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FIVE STAR PROFESSIONAL FRESNO REAL ESTATE AGENTS | MORTGAGE PROFESSIONALS | HOME / AUTO INSURANCE PROFESSIONALS Five Star Professional partnered with Central Valley Magazine to identify real estate, mortgage and insurance professionals in the Fresno area who deliver outstanding service and client satisfaction. The Five Star Professional research team contacted thousands of recent homebuyers, as well as other consumers. Clients may also submit evaluations online. Phone and online respondents rated their service professional on criteria such as overall satisfaction and whether they would recommend the provider to a friend. The research methodology allows no more than 7 percent of professionals in each category to receive the award.
RISING STAR AWARD WINNERS Meet the next wave of outstanding real estate agents in the Fresno area! Five Star Professional’s research team contacted branch managers, established real estate veterans and consumers to identify up-and-coming real estate agents in the industry. Rising Star award winners are held in high regard by their peers and mentors and have received a qualifying nomination for the award. Evaluators were asked to identify an agent who has been in the industry for five years or less and embodies professional excellence, exhibits superior customer service and shows great potential to excel in their profession. All Rising Star award winners must be actively licensed, satisfy minimum production criteria and have a favorable regulatory history to be eligible for award consideration.
Research — How Our Winners Are Chosen • The 2018 Five Star Real Estate Agents, Mortgage Professionals and Home/Auto Insurance Professionals do not pay a fee to be included in the research or the final lists. • Each professional is screened against state-governing bodies to verify that licenses are current and no disciplinary actions are pending. • The inclusion of a real estate agent, mortgage professional or insurance professional on the final list should not be construed as an endorsement by Five Star Professional or Central Valley Magazine.
Determination of Award Winners Professionals who satisfied each of the following objective criteria were named a 2018 Fresno Five Star Real Estate Agent, Five Star Mortgage Professional or Five Star Home/Auto Insurance Professional: Evaluation Criteria: 1. Qualifying rating Eligibility Criteria: 2. Holds an active license and employed in their field for a minimum of three years
3. Favorable regulatory and complaint history review 4. Satisfies minimum production on a one-year and three-year basis 5. Successful completion of a Blue Ribbon Panel review Real estate agents, mortgage professionals and home/auto insurance professionals are pooled only with other candidates from their profession. To see the full list of winners, visit www.fivestarprofessional.com.
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Realty Concepts Left to right: Simon Degruchy; Five-year winner Joetta Winter,Realtor – Realty Concepts 575 East Alluvial Avenue, Suite 101 • Fresno, CA 93720 Phone: 559-287-8224 • Simon: simon@rccommercial.net Joetta: joetta@realtyconcepts.com FS-3
I am honored to receive the Five Star Real Estate Agent award for the fifth consecutive year! This award is personal as it is the result of you, my clients and friends, responding with your honest opinion about your experience working with me not only as your real estate agent, but as your friend and advocate in one of the biggest financial decisions of your life. My husband Simon and I have been actively selling commercial and residential real estate for over 26 years in the Central Valley. Our experience and expertise in art, design and renovations have been of great benefit to our clients and friends! We would be honored to assist in all your real estate needs.
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
Universal Lending & Real Estate Left to right: Maria Barajas; Nine-year winner Ann M.Lee,Realtor; Nathan Snider 1522 Shaw Avenue • Clovis, CA 93611 Phone: 559-298-0198 ann@universalrealty.org • www.fresnorealtyservice.com
My goal is to take the pressure off of my clients and to go above and beyond to reach the final goal of turning over the keys. Whether it is giving the keys to a new home or the key to your new future, it is very satisfying. I believe earning your trust is far more important than simply getting your business. I extend my gratitude to my wonderful clients! My clients are the reason I do what I do, and I am blessed to have so many amazing people in my life. I look forward to continuing my association with past clients and colleagues, as well as to meeting and helping new clients and friends. FS-4
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loanDepot Left to right: Nine-year winnerTerry Coleman,Loan Consultant, NMLS 257645; Haley Chavez,Loan Specialist,NMLS 957825 1111 East Herndon Avenue, Suite 111 • Fresno, CA 93720 Cell: 559-355-4300 • Office: 559-256-9829 TColeman@loandepot.com • www.loanDepot.com/tcoleman FS-5
I am honored to be a recipient of this award for nine straight years. My team and I strive to meet the needs of our borrowers, Realtors and professional partners. Getting a home loan today can be stressful whether it is your first loan or you have procured several loans. With the support of loanDepot and the technology available to our borrowers, we provide a more seamless process. I am appreciative of the honor and look forward to being your continued lender of choice.
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REAL ESTATE AGENTS
Tami Serpa CalBRE 1221900 Tami has the distinction of being a Five Star Real Estate Agent award recipient for seven consecutive years. She responded to winning this distinguished award by stating, “If one is going to be truly successful in real estate, as well as in any business, it’s critical they are consistent year after year.“Tami, in order to serve her clients better, has continued her real estate education and has earned her CRS and ABR® credentials. “In our area, there are several excellent real estate agents, so I know you have many agents to choose from. It’s important for me to provide you with honest advice and great customer service so I can earn your confidence and trust. In my opinion, the only true measurement of being successful in this area is by the referrals one receives from current and past clients. My business is driven by referrals, which I deem the best compliment I can receive. This is one of the main reasons my business has remained consistent over the years. The values of the real estate company one works for are a reflection of the agent. I’m proud to be a part of the professional agents and compassionate owners at Realty Concepts. Their mottos and mission statements are for everyone to see and witness when they visit our office: people before profits, work hard and be nice to people, quality before quantity, service before sales and you before us. When the time comes for you to make the decision of what real estate company and agent you want to be represented by, I hope you allow me and my office the opportunity to work with you.” — Tami Serpa
HIGHLIGHTS Diamond award winner and multimilliondollar producer
Over 20 years of real estate sales and customer service
Expertise in family residential sales and marketing
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YEAR WINNER Over 10 years of new home sales for local builders with nearly 1,000 sales for Granville Homes alone Seven-year winner Tami Serpa
C O N TA C T 575 East Alluvial Avenue, Suite 101 • Fresno, CA 93720 Direct: 559-288-7067 • Office: 559-490-1500 tamiserpa.realtor@gmail.com • tamiserpa.com Real Estate Agent Award Winner
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REAL ESTATE AGENTS
Deanna P. Spellman Broker Associate, CRS, STAGENT®, ABR®, CSA, SFR®, CalBRE 01729604 My self-motivated, conscientious approach to real estate, coupled with my strong work ethic and underlying service-first philosophy, means that my clients’ needs are paramount. I work diligently to understand each client’s goals and to always exemplify trust, transparency and integrity. Working closely with buyers and sellers allows me to educate and inform them at every step of a transaction while keeping in mind both their immediate and long-term goals. As a Five Star Real Estate Agent award winner from 2010 – 2018, my reputation for honest communication and active listening has made me a trusted adviser for the people with whom I represent. I am a dedicated, personable and approachable real estate agent; I give clients highly personalized attention and work around their schedules.
HIGHLIGHTS Thank you to my clients for selecting me for this award for nine consecutive years
I have the best clients — most of my business is by referral
Community Housing Council Volunteer of the Year, 2008 (Community Center of Fresno)
Rookie of the Year 2006 (Realty Concepts)
Over a decade of experience as a full-time Realtor
9 YEAR WINNER
Ranked in the top 10 percent of area agents (Fresno MLS)
2014 President’s Club member and 2015 President’s Club award recipient (Realty Concepts)
Nine-year winner Deanna P. Spellman
C O N TA C T
575 East Alluvial Avenue • Fresno, CA 93720 Phone: 559-790-6964 deannaspellman@realtyconcepts.com www.deannaspellman.com
FOLLOW
@DeannaPerrinSpellman
Real Estate Agent Award Winner
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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
REAL ESTATE AGENTS
Alison Uremovic Realtor, Lic. 1246060
Over 20 Years of Experience to Guide You Home! We are two generations of Realtors here to serve you! We can honestly say we love our job. Working with buyers and sellers to attain their dream of homeownership is an extremely fulfilling career, which brings the added bonus of deep and lasting friendships. The ever-changing real estate and lending industries require full-time, committed professionals to help clients navigate the tightly bound process of finding the right home and securing the right financing. As agents, we take pride in our communication skills, quick response time and knowledge of the local markets. Our goal is to be the friends and professionals you can count on when you have a real estate need or question. Most of our business comes from past clients and referrals. We promise you will be treated with a level of care you can share with your friends — this level of care will remain constant. We look forward to working with you soon.
Serving the needs of the Fresno real estate market
10 YEAR
WINNER
C O N TA C T Ten-year winner Alison Uremovic; Michael Uremovic
575 East Alluvial Avenue, Suite 101 • Fresno, CA 93720 Phone: 559-281-0887 • alison@realtyconcepts.com • Alison.realtyconcepts.com Real Estate Agent Award Winner
Bob Wiginton Broker Associate, Lic. 00554557
10 YEAR WINNER
Ten-year winner Bob Wiginton
The Wiginton Tradition … Our Family Serving Yours for Generations Successful career credited to an unwavering dedication to customer service
With over 40 years of continuous experience in residential and commercial real estate, Bob Wiginton’s clients reap the benefits of his vast expertise and resources. Bob started his real estate career while attending Fresno State University. His parents were brokers in Anaheim and he worked for them during the summer. Bob and his wife, Colleen, opened a Fresno branch of Wiginton Real Estate in November of 1977. “Looking back, I think my parents were crazy for letting their 22-year-old son and his wife run an office for them,” says Bob. In 1993, Bob’s parents semi-retired, moved to Fresno and worked part time for the newly formed Wiginton Properties, Inc. Bob still loves the only career he’s ever had, and his three grown children — or their spouses — are all following in his footsteps in real estate businesses.
Consistently achieves high production and client satisfaction levels
Giving personal,quality service to all clients,from first-time homebuyers to seasoned investors
C O N TA C T 575 East Alluvial Avenue, Suite 101 • Fresno, CA 93720 Cell: 559-284-5104 • Office: 559-490-1533 • bob.wiginton@realtyconcepts.com Real Estate Agent Award Winner
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REAL ESTATE AGENTS
Jared Kim Realtor, Lic. 01748940
Lion Real Estate Realtor • Advisor • Friend Whether you’re buying a home or gearing up to sell one, you have a lot of tools at your disposal, but having a trusted agent to spearhead the process is key to the success of your overall experience. Jared Kim has worked as a Realtor in the Fresno/Clovis, California market since 2006 and specializes in working with young and established families. “As an agent, I guide the process from start to finish to ensure a smooth ride, and I work diligently to ensure all transactions are orchestrated with precision. My goal is to best position my clients for strategic negotiation and to make a deal that works in their favor. Above all, I care about the client experience and will go above and beyond to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.” — Jared Kim Whether you’re buying, selling, or both, Jared is the choice Realtor for families in the Fresno/Clovis area.
HIGHLIGHTS Specializing in the Fresno/Clovis, California residential market
8 YEAR WINNER
Over 80 percent of his business comes from referrals of satisfied clients 7945 North Blackstone Avenue • Fresno, CA 93720 Office: 559-325-4399 • jaredkimrealtor@gmail.com • jaredkimrealtor.com
Eight-year winner Jared Kim
Real Estate Agent Award Winner
Sheila Urbanek
Sandy Duncan
CalBRE 01445569
CalBRE 01052860
Realty Concepts
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575 East Alluvial Avenue, Suite 101 Fresno, CA 93720 Cell: 559-259-9225 Office: 559-490-1564 sheila@realtyconcepts.com www.sheilaurbanek.com
YEAR WINNER
11 YEAR WINNER
Forging a Unique Path in the Ever-Evolving Real Estate Industry • Serving the communities in and around Fresno • Handling residential and agricultural properties Many thanks to my clients for your trust and confidence. I take pride in listening to your needs and believe that a focus on commitment and integrity is key to a business relationship that lasts. My goal is to provide clients with exceptional service based on honesty, dependability and integrity. I will assist you every step of the way to make it a positive experience. You’re not just buying or selling a property; you’re investing in your future. For all your real estate needs, allow me to help you find that special property. Real Estate Agent Award Winner
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3 River Park Plaza East Fresno, CA 93720 Phone: 559-906-7549 sandy@guarantee.com sandysellsfresnohomes.com
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Your Realtor for Life
Received the Five Star Real Estate Agent award for 11 years Top-producing agent at Woodward Park office, 2017 One of the top-producing agents in the Central Valley for over 30 years Highly recommended by past clients High energy and integrity
Sandy represents her clients with enthusiastic support and expert knowledge to attain their goals. She maintains high standards of professionalism and expertise to ensure that any real estate transaction is efficient and successful. “I love my job and I am very grateful for my clients,” says Sandy. “Thank you for allowing me to represent you.” Real Estate Agent Award Winner
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
REAL ESTATE AGENTS
Jan Lubisich
Susan Gates
Realtor, CalBRE 00936113
Realtor, CRS, ABR®, SFR®, CLHMS, Lic. 824365
Lion Real Estate Villaggio Shopping Center 7945 North Blackstone Avenue Fresno, CA 93720 Phone: 559-360-9400 SGates4RE@gmail.com
575 East Alluvial Avenue, Suite 101 Fresno, CA 93720 Phone: 559-260-5700 jan.lubisich@realtyconcepts.com
Forging a Unique Path
2 9 YEAR WINNER
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11-Year Winner
YEAR WINNER
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Fresno native Over 30 years of real estate experience Multimillion-dollar producer National Association of Realtors member
Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist® (CLHMS) Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR®) Short Sales and Foreclosure Resource certified (SFR®)
My years of experience, coupled with the energy I have put into continuing my real estate education and expanding my designations, have given me the drive to constantly achieve success for my clients with their financial and emotional needs in their investment of a new home. My ability to build relationships with my clients has resulted in long-term commitments from clients, resulting in a fabulous base of repeat customers and referrals.
Thank you! I am proud and honored to be one of very few to earn the Five Star Real Estate Agent award for 11 consecutive years. I am grateful to be acknowledged for my professionalism and commitment to my clients. Representing my clients’ best interests and achieving customer satisfaction are of the utmost importance to me. I currently serve all of the Central Valley, and with over 25 years’ experience and several designations/certifications, I am exceptionally equipped to assist with any real estate endeavor. Thank you again to my loyal clients who have made my profession so fulfilling.
Real Estate Agent Award Winner
Real Estate Agent Award Winner
Cash Thomas
Jan Wright
Realtor, Lic. 1922037
Real Estate Agent, CalBRE 1707133
CMT Properties 575 East Alluvial Avenue, Suite 101 Fresno, CA 93720 Cell: 559-288-6893 janwright@realtyconcepts.com www.realtyconcepts.com
6017 North Palm Avenue Fresno, CA 93704 Phone: 559-349-8589 cash.cmtproperties@gmail.com www.cmtproperties.realtor.com
2 YEAR WINNER
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Reliable. Resourceful. Dedicated.
Buyer’s agent Listing agent Residential and agriculture properties Vacation homes
Cash Thomas epitomizes integrity, energy, hard work and creative service in every transaction. Cash has been surrounded by real estate since 2004 when his mother began working as an agent for CENTURY 21. Cash continued his mother’s work and opened his own brokerage in 2017. He is dedicated to serving his clients with the utmost honesty and reliability. Cash has worked in every aspect of the industry representing sellers, buyers and investors in both the residential and agriculture market. Real Estate Agent Award Winner
6 YEAR WINNER
Changing Lives by Unlocking Doors the “Wright”Way!
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Much appreciation to my clients for their unending support Kudos to Realty Concepts and my brokers, John and JP Shamshoian Special recognition to Lennar Homes Central Valley Many thanks to my family and grandchildren for enduring my unruly schedule • Special indebtedness to all my NHCs and on-sites At the end of the day, my reward is meeting the real estate needs of my clients, which is why my biggest thank-you for this recognition goes to you! My persistence and diligence is supported by my team: Liz, Loren and Barbara; together, we are able to attain your goals. As a Realtor, I understand the decisions clients make today affect their lives for years to come. Real Estate Agent Award Winner
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REAL ESTATE AGENTS
Deb Tillis
Marie V. Theurich
Realtor, GRI, SRES®
Realtor, License 1154914
3 River Park Place East Fresno, CA 93720 Cell: 559-269-9249 Office: 559-434-1600 therealestatelady@guarantee.com thefresnorealestatelady.com
8050 North Palm Avenue, Suite 300 Fresno, CA 93711 Phone: 559-917-1915 deb@cfcorealty.com www.debtillis.realtor
2018 Five Star Real Estate Agent
• Buy with confidence, sell with success! If you are considering selling or buying a property in the Central Valley and hope to belong to not only the Fresno Multiple Listing Service but also the Central Valley Multiple Listing Service to advertise or search for your specific real estate needs, I believe you’ve found one of the best-qualified real estate agents in the business and a company that is celebrated for its ingenuity, reputation and customer satisfaction. Whatever your specific needs may be, whether it’s selling a home or other property, building asset values by investing or finding the home of your dreams, I will give you one-on-one service, making you my top priority.
8 YEAR WINNER
Changing People’s Lives Through Real Estate and Scholarships
• California Association of Realtors • Fresno Association of Realtors • Executive director,Miss Fresno County and OutstandingTeen program since 2005 I’m honored to have received the Five Star Real Estate Agent award for the eighth consecutive year while helping clients just like you. My experience and success rate for over a quarter of a century help me make my clients’ home dreams come true. What I hear again and again, from the referrals that make up the bulk of my business, is that my enthusiasm and positive attitude make the homebuying or selling process a pleasure, not a chore. Want to buy or sell a home? Call the real estate lady!
Real Estate Agent Award Winner
Real Estate Agent Award Winner
Laurie Salvano
Catherine Sawatsky
Realtor
Realtor, Lic. 1722428
575 East Alluvial Avenue, Suite 101 Fresno, CA 93720 Cell: 559-999-7987 Office: 559-490-1500 lauriesalvano@realtyconcepts.com www.lauriesalvano.com
3 YEAR WINNER
Live in the Home You Love, Love the Home You Live In
7 YEAR WINNER
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• Personable • Knowledgeable • Professional It is imperative for me to pay close attention to the wishes and desires of each individual person, whether you are buying a home, selling a home or both. I consider myself honored to have demonstrated to my clients that their needs come first and foremost as we move through the nuances of real estate and meet their goal of homeownership. It is very humbling to know my name was submitted for this prestigious honor. Thank you! Real Estate Agent Award Winner
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7520 North Palm Avenue, Suite 102 Fresno, CA 93711 Cell: 559-307-6564 Office: 559-800-5181 catherine@fresnohomes.us www.gofresnohomes.com
Confidence In Every Move You Make!
Integrity, loyalty, energy and enthusiasm Multimillion-dollar producer GRI — Graduate, Realtor Institute CRS — Certified Residential Specialist
Real estate is more than a business — it is a passion. I sincerely love what I do! I help make the process of buying and selling your home an experience that is both fun and exciting. I aim to help ease your stress and sweat the details so you don’t need to. My goal each day is to deliver world-class service to everybody I come into contact with, clients and associates alike. As a Fresno native and seasoned professional in business here for 40 years, I have an in-depth understanding of the Fresno market. Real Estate Agent Award Winner
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
REAL ESTATE AGENTS
Bruce Janzen
Laura Magdaleno Parvanian
CalDRE 00914926
Realtor, CalBRE 01316810
1275 North Willow Avenue Clovis, CA 93619 Direct: 559-288-6150 bruce@brucejanzen.com www.brucejanzen.com
11 YEAR WINNER
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Honesty • Integrity Service • Experience
Received Five Star Real Estate Agent award past 11 years Associated with a leading real estate broker in the Central Valley A Fresno/Clovis-area, top-producing Realtor since 1986 Consistent sales achievement awards for Guarantee Real Estate Extensive education with B.A. in business and marketing
Bruce wants to thank all his clients for the honor of this special recognition. As a proven real estate professional for more than 32 years, Bruce’s key to success has been his dedication to exceeding his clients’ expectations. In today’s complex and rapidly changing market, selecting the right Realtor to guide you through what’s usually your largest financial investment is crucial. Many satisfied clients have chosen Bruce for his professional integrity, honesty, service and experience.
6 YEAR WINNER
Left to right: Six-year winner Laura Magdaleno Parvanian, Realtor; Sarah Oliveira, Broker
Excellent Service Exceptional Results For nearly two decades, Laura has given individuals and families peace of mind by making their selling or homebuying experience easy and convenient. She works hard to meet each customer’s unique needs by offering just the right set of skills, from her primary skill of proactively listing homes to coordinating simultaneous purchases and sales for her clients. Laura wants to make sure each client is taken care of, and her hard work and help go beyond the close of escrow. 1312 Hanson Avenue • Clovis, CA 93619 • Phone: 559-903-4323 WathenHomes@gmail.com • www.wathenhomes.com
Real Estate Agent Award Winner
Real Estate Agent Award Winner
W. Harvey Boganwright
Leslie Ann Bridges
Realtor, CalBRE 01469848
Realtor, CalDRE 02023840
Guarantee Real Estate 677 West Palmdon Drive, Suite 202 Fresno, CA 93704 Cell: 559-999-2401 whbogie@sbcglobal.net
9 YEAR
180 West Bullard Avenue Clovis, CA 93612 Phone: 559-593-1112 lbridges@guarantee.com www.guarantee.com/lesliebridges
Five Star Real Estate Agent Equals Five-Star Results
Serving Central California
WINNER
• Specializing in seller representation • Serving the Fresno and Clovis communities • Expert in prestigious Quail Lake
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Serving Fresno, Madera,Tulare and Kings counties Office originally opened in 1919 Ongoing education and training Advanced marketing techniques
I am deeply honored to be selected for the Five Star Real Estate Agent award for the ninth year. My great joy is helping people with all their real estate needs as well as experiencing clients becoming friends! Please accept my heartfelt gratitude for your business and support.
When you plan to sell a home or purchase real estate, choose the Realtor who delivers exceptional results to the residents of Fresno, Madera, Tulare and Kings counties! Guarantee Real Estate’s well-trained real estate agents specialize in selling singlefamily homes, condos, PUDs, vacation homes, cabins, lots, land and income-producing investment properties. Guarantee Real Estate agents also have the specialized training required to help you buy or sell foreclosures and short sale homes.
Real Estate Agent Award Winner
Rising Star Real Estate Agent Award Winner
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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
REAL ESTATE AGENTS
Kristen McIntosh
Alicia Arakelian
Broker, Owner, CalBRE 01423023
Realtor, CalBRE 02003138
Keller Williams Fresno 3 YEAR WINNER
7625 North Palm Avenue, Suite 106 Fresno, CA 93711 Phone: 559-549-4903 aarakelian@kw.com aarakelian.kwrealty.com
• Respected for her negotiation tactics • Friendly and professional approach to client interactions • Utilizes modern marketing practices to gain the best exposure for her sellers Whether buying or selling, a first-time buyer or retiree — I’ve got you covered. By exceeding my clients’ expectations with regards to time, purchase prices and terms, I earn their respect, referrals and repeat business. I would like to thank my clients for their positive feedback. 5588 North Palm Avenue, Suite P1 • Fresno, CA 93704 • Cell: 559-761-9171 • Office: 559-419-0333 kristenmcintosh2@gmail.com • www.kristenmcintosh.com
2018 Rising Star Real Estate Agent
Real Estate Agent Award Winner
Colleen Meehan Real Estate Agent
• Specializing in residential sales • Serving the Fresno and Clovis areas • Community familiarity to help you find the best fit for your needs I am adept at handling stressful and emotional situations. Having patience and listening are skills that easily transferred to helping my real estate clients after my career shift from the veterinary field. Buying and selling your home is one of the biggest emotional and financial decisions you will make. As your agent, I will be dependable, honest and put your needs first. My goal is to make the buying or selling of your home as smooth and pleasant of an experience as possible.
• Never give up on your dream of homeownership • Four decades of real estate expertise to guide you home 7 YEAR WINNER
575 East Alluvial Avenue • Fresno, CA 93720 • Phone: 559-270-5535 colleen@realtyconcepts.com • cmeehan.realtyconcepts.com/contact
Rising Star Real Estate Agent Award Winner
2 YEAR WINNER
Real Estate Agent Award Winner
Merle Vaughn
Anthony Gamber
Broker Associate
CRS, Broker Associate
• Certified Residential Specialist • Graduate, Realtor Institute • Residential, commercial and multiunit properties I have worked in the Fresno area for over 40 years. I love working with buyers and sellers to help them through the complicated and emotional process of real estate. Please contact me today so we can begin finding a solution to your real estate needs!
• Experience, patience and proven results • Certified Residential Specialist • 2004 Realtor of the Year – Fresno Association of Realtors 11 YEAR WINNER
Anthony is one of only 10 Realtors who has received this prestigious Five Star Real Estate Agent award for each consecutive year since its inception in Fresno. Anthony would like to thank all of his past and current clients and referrals that he has been serving in the Fresno area for over 39 years … one house at a time!
5210 North Palm Avenue • Fresno, CA 93704 • Phone: 569-269-3895 mvaughn@guarantee.com • www.merlevaughn.com
575 East Alluvial Avenue • Fresno, CA 93720 • Phone: 559-307-4646 anthony@anthonygamber.com • www.anthonygamber.com
Real Estate Agent Award Winner
Real Estate Agent Award Winner
Sylvia Tang
Tawnya Stevens
Realtor, CalBRE 01924361
President, Real Estate Broker, Lic. 01202124
• Serving with honesty, integrity and dependability I am honored and humbled to be recognized for the Five Star Real Estate Agent award. Thank you to my clients who have allowed me to serve them with their real estate needs. I sincerely appreciate your business and referrals. I will continue to work diligently to help my clients achieve their goals. Over the past five years, I’ve been lucky to meet many wonderful people and develop great friendships. I look forward to working with them again and having new client relationships.
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My commitment is to always put my clients’ needs first. I have 40 years of experience, extensive market knowledge, exceptional customer service, a strong work ethic and an impeccable reputation. I am a relocation expert and a consistent top-producing agent with proven results. I am honored and thank all of my clients in the Central Valley and on the central coast for this award.
7 YEAR WINNER
• Graduate, Realtor Institute • Over 26 years of expertise • Get results! Tawnya Stevens has worked hard to build a trustworthy reputation and dependable staff. All of Mid State Realty’s agents know the importance of going the extra mile to help you! To better serve the community, Mid State Realty also features a full-time bilingual receptionist.
3 River Park Plaza East • Fresno, CA 93720 • Phone: 559-392-2423 stang@guarantee.com • www.guarantee.com/sylviatang
395 East Elm Avenue • Coalinga, CA 93210 • Cell: 559-647-2682 • Office: 559-935-5123 tawnyastevens@sbcglobal.net • www.coalingamidstaterealty.com
Real Estate Agent Award Winner
Real Estate Agent Award Winner
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
MORTGAGE PROFESSIONALS
Joni Davis Loan Officer, NMLS 339506
Valued clients, colleagues and friends: I’d like to take this opportunity to announce I’ve joined California Home Loans, Fresno! I’ll enjoy increased flexibility and independence at California Home Loans, affording me the opportunity to better serve you. All the while maintaining the low — and often times, even lower — interest rates and fees you expect and deserve. I’ve been blessed, because of you, to have developed a reputation for providing the utmost quality in customer service. Thank you for the honor of being chosen as a Five Star Mortgage Professional for the ninth consecutive year! I am humbled by the loyalty you have shown throughout my career and look forward to many more years of the privilege of serving you.
HIGHLIGHTS Over three decades of mortgage expertise
Dedicated to service — driven by results
Specializing in FHA, VA, and conventional loans
9 YEAR WINNER
Nine-year winner Joni Davis
6715 North Palm Avenue, Suite 216 • Fresno, CA 93704 Phone: 559-438-2111 • Cell: 559-906-5664 joni@chlfresno.com CalDRE 01318876; Company, NMLS 247957; CalBRE 01180739. Mortgage Professional Award Winner
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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
0003774467-05
MORTGAGE PROFESSIONALS
Mortgage Professional Award Winner
FS-15
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
MORTGAGE PROFESSIONALS
Brandon Humrick and Wendy Parlavecchio L.O.A.N. Services, Inc.
9 YEAR WINNER
Left to right: Nine-year winner Brandon Humrick, BRE 01280213, NMLS 333337, and Three-year winner Wendy Parlavecchio, BRE 01485918, NMLS 465154
L.O.A.N. Services, Inc.
HIGHLIGHTS
Brandon has been serving the lending needs of Californians since 1994 and is the CEO of L.O.A.N. Services, Inc., an A+ rated BBB Accredited Business. A known problem-solver, Brandon’s attention to detail makes complex transactions seem effortless. Brandon is an expert on underwriting guiedlines and all aspects of mortgage lending, with a special emphasis on complex tax returns and VA lending. Brandon is a graduate of Fresno Pacific University and a 23-year retired Air Force veteran. He resides in Fresno with his wife and two children. In his free time, he enjoys boating, skiing, off-roading and is always up for a new adventure. Wendy recently joined L.O.A.N. Services, Inc. as a senior loan officer, having worked in the mortgage industry since 1999. In fact, Wendy came to know L.O.A.N. Services, Inc. as a customer, prior to joining the team in 2017. She has extensive experience in construction to permanent financing, jumbo and first-time homebuyer loan programs. Wendy is an excellent communicator; her charisma and dedication to service make it a breeze to buy, build or refinance your home. Wendy is a graduate of Fresno State University and resides in Fresno with her husband and two boys. In her free time, she enjoys spending time at the coast with her family and being involved at her children’s elementary school.
Financial stewardship
Commitment to communication
Smooth and complete loan processes
Competitive rate and fee combination
Closed-on-time guarantee
C O N TA C T 7067 North Mariposa Street, Suite 105 • Fresno, CA 93720 Brandon: 559-709-1180 • Wendy: 559-349-6155 • Office: 559-228-6750 Brandon: bhumrick@loanservices.com • Wendy: wparlavecchio@loanservices.com • www.loanservices.com Mortgage Professional Award Winner
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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
MORTGAGE PROFESSIONALS
Michelle Glass Senior Loan Officer/Operations Manager
Promises Made. Promises Kept. My name is Michelle Glass. I began my career in Sacramento working in a support staff position for a local mortgage company. I now have over 25 years of experience in mortgage lending which includes being a loan processor for over 15 of those years in the Fresno and Clovis areas. Having processing experience has helped me become a very detailed, proactive loan officer. I am committed to providing the utmost service for first-time homebuyers, seasoned purchasers and those who are looking to refinance. I appreciate the honor of being named a Five Star Mortgage Professional and wish to extend my heartfelt appreciation to my business partners and clients. Sierra Pacific Mortgage provides quality mortgage lending services throughout the United States. Incorporated in 1986, we are a privately held company and have originated and funded nearly $100 billion in residential loans. Sierra Pacific Mortgage, Inc. is committed to delivering consistent, competitive pricing and to exceeding the needs of our customers and clients. This promise, combined with our commitment to the company’s future, is why our customers choose Sierra Pacific Mortgage, Inc. as their trusted lender.
5 YEAR WINNER
Five-year winner Michelle Glass, NMLS 307279, CalBRE 01711019
1080 West Shaw Avenue, Suite 101 • Fresno, CA 93711 Phone: 559-779-8057 • Office: 559-490-0470 • michelle.glass@spmc.com Sierra Pacific Mortgage Company, Inc. NMLS 1788. Licensed in California by the Department of Business Oversight under the Residential Mortgage Lending Act 417-0015. (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org) Not all borrowers will qualify. This is not a commitment to lend. Equal Housing Lender. Mortgage Professional Award Winner
Lisa Sasaki Branch Manager, NMLS 250114
Committed to Customer Satisfaction I would like to take this opportunity to thank my valued clients, devoted real estate agents and incredible operations team for helping me achieve this special honor. I believe in doing things well. As a mortgage professional for more than 17 years, my greatest privilege is helping clients realize their dreams through careful planning and working strategically to fit their individual lifestyles and expectations. Specialized service and wellthought-out solutions are what I offer for all, from first-time homebuyers to experienced real estate investors. My main focus is to educate, assist in understanding and make the homebuying process as stress-free as possible. I am determined to be the single-best source of home financing for all my clients’ needs.
7
Dedicated to meeting your goals
Tirelessly working on your behalf
Local market knowledge and experience
Exceptional customer service and attention to detail
YEAR WINNER
Seven-year winner Lisa Sasaki
7485 North Palm Avenue, Suite 105 • Fresno, CA 93711 Office: 559-389-5828, Ext. 102 • Cell: 559-246-3828 lisa.sasaki@academymortgage.com • academymortgage.com/lisasasaki Mortgage Real Estate Professional Agent Award Award Winner Winner
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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
MORTGAGE PROFESSIONALS
Paul Salazar Mortgage Professional
Allow Me and My Team to Help You Succeed My name is Paul Salazar. I was born and raised in Fresno, California and have over 20 years of mortgage experience. My knowledge of both the Central Valley and the ever-changing mortgage industry uniquely qualifies me to help individuals obtain the best loan for their particular situation and needs. Whether a first-time homebuyer, a moveup purchaser or someone needing to refinance, I can help. I pride myself on always being available to clients and agents, making sure all are informed and understand every step of the loan process. In addition, because of my work ethic and knowledge , I have been regularly featured on KFSN, channel 30 as a mortgage expert for their news programs. At Sierra Pacific Mortgage, I work with a team of respected individuals with over 106 years of combined knowledge of real estate and mortgage experience. Our goal is to do the best job we can for our clients. Sierra Pacific Mortgage is a national leader, and a direct lender, dealing with Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and Ginnie Mae. With FHA, VA and conventional financing, we offer low, competitive interest rates and fees, faster underwriting and funding times, as well the ability to broker loans. What does that mean? It means we have the resources to find the perfect loan for our clients to achieve their objective.
4
YEAR WINNER
1080 West Shaw Avenue, Suite 101 • Fresno, CA 93711 Phone: 559-360-2763 • Office: 559-490-0470 • paul.salazar@spmc.com
Four-year winner Paul Salazar, NMLS 349562, CalBRE 01314440
Sierra Pacific Mortgage Company, Inc. NMLS 1788. CalBRE 01314440 Licensed in California by the Department of Business Oversight under the Residential Mortgage Lending Act 417-0015. (www.nmlsconcumeraccess.org). Not all borrowers will qualify. This is not a commitment to lender. Equal Housing Lender. Mortgage Professional Award Winner
Pablo Estrada Mortgage Loan Officer, NMLS 448103
Country Club Mortgage Excellence Is My Goal! My name is Pablo Estrada, and I was born and raised in the South American country of Colombia. I moved to the United States when I was 11-years old. Growing up, I had a very close relationship with my family and friends, so always being around other people taught me how to be mindful of others’ needs. The way I was raised and my culture have been key to the success in my mortgage career. I’ve been in the mortgage business since late 2005. It was right in the middle of the mortgage boom when I entered this field as an assistant to a loan officer. I quickly became aware of the great career opportunity that the mortgage business provided. I learned the trade and got licensed; in less than two years, I was already a mortgage loan officer myself. I’ve seen this market collapse after the mortgage boom and re-establish itself. I’ve been involved in different sides of the industry by working initially with a few different broker-lending institutions for three years and then working for big banks for around five years. I currently work for a correspondent lender named Country Club Mortgage. I have been with this great company since 2013, where I’ve had the amazing opportunity to continue growing as an individual and as a team leader. Right now, I have a full team that consists of two junior loan officers, four amazing loan assistants and a very knowledgeable loan processor.
4 YEAR WINNER
Four-year winner Pablo Estrada
6795 North Palm Avenue, Suite 101 • Fresno, CA 93704 • Office: 559-475-0057 • Cell: 559-287-1387 Pablo@ccmloans.com • www.countryclubmortgage.com/pablo Mortgage Professional Award Winner
FS-18
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
MORTGAGE PROFESSIONALS
Linda F. East
Sue Mettee
President, NMLS 327415, CalBRE 01065261
Senior Loan Officer, NMLS 289742
9
Fairway Independent Mortgage
6535 North Palm Avenue, Suite 104 Fresno, CA 93704 Office: 559-435-5593 Cell: 559-259-9499 linda@eastfinancial.com www.eastfinancial.com
6215 North Fresno Street, Suite 109 Fresno, CA 93710 Cell: 559-307-4503 sue.mettee@fairwaymc.com www.fairwayindependentmc.com/Sue-Mettee
Celebrating Nearly 30 Years
YEAR WINNER
• • • •
East Financial Services
9
Guiding You Through Every Step
YEAR WINNER
• FHA, VA, USDA financing • Originating loans since 1999
FHA, VA, conventional and jumbo loans Portfolio loan products Purchase and refinance loans Competitive rates and fees
• Experience with down payment assistance programs
Celebrating nearly 30 years of providing mortgage lending services. Having the right lender makes the difference in getting your offer accepted, closed on time and as promised. Thank you to our clients and Realtors who have contributed to our continuing success.
Whether you’re looking to buy, build or refinance your home, our experienced mortgage professionals are here to help. We offer a variety of loan options that can help you achieve homeownership with the speed and service you deserve. Plus, our mortgage professionals are dedicated to finding the right loan with great rates, terms and costs to meet your specific needs. “Thank you to all of my clients for recognizing me as a Five Star Mortgage Professional for the ninth year in a row.” — Sue Mettee
Mortgage Professional Award Winner
Mortgage Professional Award Winner
Steve Morgan Loan Officer, NMLS 242762
Royal Charter Mortgage 6440 North Maroa Avenue Fresno, CA 93704 Phone: 559-349-4480 smorgan@royalcharter.com
9
Integrity, Service, Communication
YEAR WINNER
• • • •
Fixed rate mortgages Adjustable loans Providing unsurpassed service Over a decade of mortgage experience
My philosophy is to provide a high level of customer service, clear and constant communication and up-to-the-minute knowledge of the industry. I pride myself on guiding my clients through the home loan process, keeping them informed every step of the way. Mortgage Professional Award Winner
FS-19
“Clients don’t care how much you know ”
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
REAL ESTATE AGENTS
MORTGAGE PROFESSIONALS
HOME/AUTO INSURANCE PROFESSIONALS
Ronald Wells Insurance and Financial Services Agent
Over 30 Years of Insurance Experience We have been helping the people and businesses of the CentralValley with their insurance needs for over 30 years. We strive to provide the best possible customer experience by helping our clients understand what their insurance needs are and helping them achieve their financial and insurance goals. We have thousands of satisfied clients in the Central Valley; we appreciate their support, and we thank you!
HIGHLIGHTS Offering home, auto, renters, condo, landlord, boat and motorcycle insurance Life insurance as well as variable products through Farmers Financial Solutions
C O N TA C T 5151 North Palm Avenue, Suite 960 • Fresno, CA 93704 • Phone: 559-438-1818 Fax: 559-438-1866• wells1@farmersagent.com
Left to right: Nine-year winner Ronald Wells; Hortensia Martinez; Mik’l Johnson
Home/Auto Insurance Professional Award Winner
Five Star Professional surveyed residents in the Fresno area who purchased or sold a home within the past five years in order to identify real estate, mortgage and home/auto insurance professionals. Evaluations were collected via targeted email/digital campaigns and on www.fivestarprofessional.com/homesurvey. The final list of 2018 Fresno Five Star award winners is a select group, representing less than 1 percent of real estate agents, 1 percent of mortgage professionals and 1 percent of home/auto insurance professionals in the area.
To see the full list of winners, visit www.fivestarprofessional.com.
Real Estate Agents
Malinda McGurk ∙ Realty Concepts
All Areas
Brenda McReynolds ∙ CENTURY 21
Mientjie Angouw ∙ Guarantee Real Estate
Colleen Meehan ∙ Realty Concepts Page 13
W. Harvey Boganwright ∙ Movoto Real Estate Page 12
Barbara Pierpont ∙ WCP Realty Group
Linda Coelho ∙ B & B Realty Rachel Engle ∙ Keller Williams Realty Susan Gates ∙ Lion Real Estate Page 10 Mark Glenn ∙ Vida Glenn & Son Real Estate
Lou Wiebe ∙ Action Real Estate & Construction
Annie Foreman ∙ Guarantee Real Estate
Catherine Sawatsky ∙ CENTURY 21 C. Watson Page 11
Joetta Winter ∙ Realty Concepts Page 3
Anthony Gamber ∙ Realty Concepts Page 13
Naglaa Sultan ∙ RE/MAX
Jan W. Wright ∙ Realty Concepts Page 10
Daniel Peter Jelladian ∙ The California Company
Lynne Rapada ∙ Keller Williams Realty
Clovis
Ann M. Lee ∙ Universal Lending & Real Estate Page 4
Laurie Salvano ∙ Realty Concepts Page 11
Jared Kim ∙ Lion Real Estate Page 9
Dolores Leon ∙ Guarantee Real Estate
Coalinga
Jan Lubisich ∙ Realty Concepts Page 10
Tawnya Stevens ∙ Mid State Realty Page 13
Portia Luttrell ∙ Reality Concept
Alison Uremovic ∙ Realty Concepts Page 8
Fresno
Sherry Montemagni ∙ Guarantee Real Estate
Bob Wiginton ∙ Realty Concepts Page 8
Madera
Alex Charest ∙ Guarantee Real Estate
Debra Piccolo-Myers ∙ Guarantee Real Estate
Sandy Duncan ∙ Guarantee Real Estate Page 9
Sharon Pretzer ∙ Guarantee Real Estate
Tami Serpa ∙ Realty Concepts Page 6 Deanna Spellman ∙ Realty Concepts Page 7
Brandon Gonzales ∙ Iron Key Real Estate
Sylvia Tang ∙ Guarantee Real Estate Page 13
Bruce Janzen ∙ Guarantee Real Estate Page 12
Cash Thomas ∙ CMT Properties Page 10
Laura Magdaleno Parvanian ∙ Wathen Group Real Estate Page 12
Merle Vaughn ∙ Guarantee Real Estate Page 13
Karen Avenell ∙ Coldwell Banker
Marie V. Theurich ∙ Guarantee Real Estate Page 11 Deb Tillis ∙ Cathy Freeman & Company Page 11 Sharon Tuck ∙ Guarantee Real Estate Sheila Urbanek ∙ Realty Concepts Page 9
Kristen McIntosh ∙ Realty 559 Page 13 Nada NMN Stijovic ∙ Pro Z Realty
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DesignRecipes
How to get your home photo-ready before you sell BY: Cathy Hobbs/Tribune News Service
W
hen it comes time to sell your home, photos may make all the difference. The reality is many potential buyers spend a lot of time perusing photos online before even deciding if they wish to see a property in person. This is where the power of photography comes into play. These days, with the advent of lower-priced high quality cameras and even cellphones, it is possible for homeowners to take good quality photographs. Still, others may choose to leave the job to a professional. Regardless, there are some photography tips to keep in mind to make sure your property is ready for its close-up.
stager, or style a space yourself, telling a story through the use of similar colors, finishes or complementary decor will help ensure a space is cohesive.
DON’T t Forget areas such as kitchens and bathrooms. t Overcrowd a space. A photograph can make a space feel smaller or larger than it actually is in person. When in doubt, edit. t Forget curb appeal. Many potential buyers will judge a book by its cover. When it comes time for photography, you will want to make sure your home is appealing both inside and out. t Use a flash. Unless you are a professional, using a flash may create unwanted shadows. t Forget to use greenery. Whether blooms, succulents or florals, greenery can help make a space look finished and fresh. — Cathy Hobbs, based in New York City, is an Emmy Awardwinning television host and a nationally known interior design and home staging expert. Contact her at info@cathyhobbs.com or visit her website at www.cathyhobbs.com.
DO t Take photos either in late morning or early afternoon. This is typically when you have optimal light. Never take photos at night. t Make sure all lamps and overhead lighting is turned on. t Add bursts of color to a space through colorful toss pillows, throws or accents. These types of touches will really help to make your photos pop. t Tell a story. Whether you choose to hire a professional
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
REAL ESTATE AGENTS
MORTGAGE PROFESSIONALS
HOME/AUTO INSURANCE PROFESSIONALS
To see the full list of winners, visit www.fivestarprofessional.com.
Sanger Janice F. Rodriguez ∙ Connect Realty
Rising Star Real Estate Agents
Mortgage Professionals Greg Benafield ∙ Wells Fargo Home Mortgage Page 15
All Areas
Bobby Campos ∙ Benchmark Mortgage
Alicia Arakelian ∙ Keller Williams Fresno Page 13
Terry Coleman ∙ loanDepot Page 5
Fresno
Joni Davis ∙ California Home Loans Page 14
Leslie Ann Bridges ∙ Guarantee Real Estate Page 12 Cecly Danielle Tumoine-Beas ∙ Cecly & Associates
Linda F. East ∙ East Financial Services Page 19 Pablo Estrada ∙ Country Club Mortgage Page 18
Michelle Glass ∙ Sierra Pacific Mortgage Page 17
Paul Salazar ∙ Sierra Pacific Mortgage Page 18
Additional Real Estate Agents
Tony Gonsalves ∙ Country Club Mortgage
Lisa Sasaki ∙ Academy Mortgage Page 17
Doreen Ann Ekmalian ∙ Wilson Homes
Linda Holman ∙ New American Funding
Brian Werner ∙ Omni Fund
Brandon Humrick ∙ L.O.A.N. Services Page 16 Sue Mettee ∙ Fairway Independent Mortgage Page 19 Steve Morgan ∙ Royal Charter Mortgage Page 19 Wendy Parlavecchio ∙ L.O.A.N. Services Page 16
Kaylee Wood ∙ Kings Mortgage Services
Home/Auto Insurance Professionals Vince Prince ∙ AAA Ronald Wells ∙ Farmers Insurance Page 20
Cathy Lynn Freeman ∙ Cathy Freeman & Company Andrea Mead ∙ Guarantee Real Estate Ken Neufeld ∙ London Properties
Additional Mortgage Professionals Monica Reyes-Aguilar ∙ Integrity First Financial Group
FS-21
42 SEPTEMBER 2018 | Central Valley Magazine
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2280 Dockery Ave., Selma, CA 93662 • 559-896-4900 • 559-896-2452
www.BethelLutheranHome.
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LuxuryHomes
Old Town Clovis gets two new stores offering stylish décor for your home BY: Janessa Tyler | PHOTOGRAPHY: Gary Kazanjian
W
hen you think about a vacation, where does your mind take you? If you’re like us, a vacation is a retreat from the stresses of life. And while we can’t be on a vacation as much as we would like to, we can incorporate pieces of paradise into the four walls Start by getting the feel of your home. What’s your style? Modern? Contemporary? Traditional? Eclectic? And then pick a color scheme that evokes a feeling of bliss. What makes you happy? Please see next page
44 SEPTEMBER 2018 | Central Valley Magazine
centralvalley.com
ntralvalley.com
SDWhether your project is small or big, The Foundry Home, below, and Revival 23, left, can help steer you in the right direction with advice and/or hands-on assistance.
Central Valley Magazine | SEPTEMBER 2018 45
continued ...
FIncorporate houseplants and succulents in your home, says Karen Chisum, the owner of The Foundry Home.
ARevival 23 sells candles by Voluspa and ILLUME, as well as signature pieces of furniture, vintage items, light fixtures, vases and bowls, cookbooks, artificial floral stems and gadgets for your kitchen.
If you need inspiration, head to Old Town Clovis — home to two boutiques that sell a plethora of décor to add pizzazz to your home: The Foundry Home and Revival 23. Whether you’re living a life of luxury in a castle or sticking to the basic necessities in a townhouse, you need to furnish your home with décor that brings a smile to your face.
The Foundry Home Karen Chisum doesn’t shy away from staying busy. Chisum is the owner of The Foundry Home, as well as the co-founder of The Foundry Collective and The Old Town Flea Market. The Foundry Home opened four months ago on Fifth Street near Woodworth Avenue in Old Town Clovis. It filled the former spot of The Foundry Collective, which relocated to a storefront on Pollasky Avenue. The Foundry Collective has been a collaboration of three local vendors — Chisum, Amy Kelly from Amy Kelly Designs and Michelle Hernandez of Rhinestones N’ Rust — since 2015. But when customers started showing interest in the need for help with remodeling their home, Chisum knew what she had to do. And so, The Foundry Home was born. Whether your project is small or big, The Foundry Home can help steer you in the right direction with advice and/or hands-on assistance. Her husband, Jim, has more than three decades of expertise with building and installing cabinets. Chisum says he has customized cabinets for apartments, commercial properties and homes along 17-Mile Drive in Pebble Beach. “He has a wide variety of experience,” Chisum says of her husband. “We have a four lines of cabinets to choose from.” The Foundry Home showcases the work of local artisans like Graham Cracker, Katie Nisbett Design and HarperGrayce. You’ll also find accessories from Magnolia Home — the line founded by Joanna Gaines of HGTV’s “Fixer Upper.” If you don’t need or want to remodel your home, Chisum has eight tips to get you started on creating a look of luxury. t Match a color scheme to what makes you happy. Do you enjoy the beach? Chisum says incorporating shades of white, blue (navy and indigo) and gold in your decor is the way to go if you want to bring the beach to your home. t Lighten the color of your walls. Aim for a light color like white, cream or light gray, Chisum says. “So if you want the most bang for your buck, paint your walls a light color.”
46 SEPTEMBER 2018 | Central Valley Magazine
t Add a couple of pillows on your couches, drape a throw blanket over the side of a chair and place a rug under the coffee table. t Incorporate houseplants like mother-in-law’s tongue and succulents like string-of-pearls. Also, the fiddle-leaf fig tree is popular, Chisum says. t Add candles of various sizes or a garland to the fireplace mantel, which tends to be the focal point in your living room. t De-clutter the countertops — “only put what you use everyday,” Chisum says.
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ADDamon and Jestine Perez check out goods at Revival 23 which is a unique accent store that caters to customers looking for accessories to add pizzazz to their homes.
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t Replace the hardware on your kitchen and/or bathroom cabinets. “It makes a huge difference just changing the hardware,” Chisum says. t Install pedant lights or a chandelier over the kitchen island or table. Details: www.thefoundrycollective.com
When you enter Revival 23, your senses are delighted with a mixture of sweet scents like lavender and amber. Your eyes take you to signs that read “I have found the one whom my soul loves” and “FARMHOUSE,” which are displayed on the walls. Owned by Teresa Pries, Revival 23 opened four years ago in the Dewitt Building. It relocated to a 4,000-square-foot storefront on Pollasky Avenue near Fifth Street in May. Revival 23 sells women’s clothing and accessories, but also specializes in décor for your
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260•2326 sguluzian@sbcglobal.net www.seefresnohomes.com CalDRE#01209311
0003771537-01
Revival 23
Central Valley Magazine | SEPTEMBER 2018 47
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Fall With your Home
home. It sells candles by Voluspa and ILLUME, signature pieces of furniture, vintage items, light fixtures, vases, baskets and bowls, mirrors, cookbooks, artificial floral stems and gadgets for your kitchen. For quick, easy-to-do fixes to update your home, Pries gave us eight tips to follow: t Be bold with a color scheme. A color scheme that Pries favors is mustard and burgundy. Add mixed metals like copper and brass for a contrast of textures. t Place a tray or pile of books underneath picture frames for dimension. t Use chalkboards for writing messages — like “Happy Holidays!” — that coordinate with the season. t Put a vignette — a small group of accessories — on the counter in your kitchen. Accessories are important to add charm and character to your home. “If you’re following bloggers, you’re going to see that everything is styled as a vignette.” t Prop a cookbook on an easel on the counter in your kitchen. t Use linen napkins on your tablescape for a pop of color during the holidays. t Assemble a cheese and charcuterie board for guests to gather around for conversations (and snacking on treats!) when hosting a party during the holidays. t Decorate a two- or- three- tiered stand as a coffee or cocktail bar with mugs or glasses, straws and garnishes. Details: www.revival23.comCV
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EatDrinkBeMerry
Local chefs explore the vast world of barbecue
BY: Cyndee Fontana-Ott | PHOTOGRAPHY: Gary Kazanjian
W
e’ve probably enjoyed barbecue ever since someone figured out how to light a fire. Not much has changed about the basics. Flames, check. Meat (or vegetarian), check. But today, it’s all about the art of barbecue. So what is barbecue? Well, definitions differ — some say traditional grilling doesn’t technically fit because there’s more high and direct heat than low and slow smoking or cooking. But since we’re pretty relaxed on the subject, we’ll consider anything cooked on a grill and over an open heat source as barbecue. In our Central Valley, this technique has a year-round season. You’ll see as much barbecue in the winter as you do flip-flops and shorts — and that’s a lot. Let’s start at The Meat Market (locations in Fresno and Clovis), an icon since the 1970s. This family-owned business, which began as a meat distribution service, now is a meat
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At Maw n’ Paw BBQ near the Fresno Yosemite International Airport, slow-smoked, Kentucky-style barbecue is the draw.
Central Valley Magazine | SEPTEMBER 2018 51
AMark Aivazian of The Meat Market, which has been an icon in Fresno since the 1970s.
FThe Meat Market serves sandwiches (such as tri-tip, pork or chicken breast) and homemade sides ranging from signature rice pilaf to chili beans to potato salad.
market and continued ...specialty store that’s also been grilling since the 1990s. According to co-owner Mark Aivazian, it started with a pop-up tent, a barbecue and tri-tip. Back then, workers would haul out a large deli slicer to cut tri-tip for sandwiches. Today, the massive grilling and smoking equipment is a permanent feature. The “grill” menu includes sandwiches (such as tri-tip, pork or chicken breast) and homemade sides ranging from signature rice pilaf to chili beans to potato salad. Aivazian, who started working in the business around age 12, has nearly two decades of experience. “This is my life, my career path and my passion,” he says. The chefs use wood — usually grape, almond and pecan — to impart a smoky flavor to meats. They also make, use and sell a tasty all-purpose seasoning. To cook tri-tip on a gas grill at home, Aivazian suggests cranking up the heat and closing the lid to superheat the surface. First sear the tri-tip on the meat side and then flip it over to sear the fat side. “By the time it gets grill marks, it has a good crust,”
52 SEPTEMBER 2018 | Central Valley Magazine
he says. Then turn off one side of the grill and finish the process over indirect heat and with the lid closed. Keep an eye on the temperature of the grill and meat. “Patience is a good thing,” Aivazian says. “It’s always better to take your time.” That’s a virtue embraced by Rob Hyatt, who dishes up barbecue on the corner of Ashlan and Cedar avenues in Fresno. Hyatt’s heavy-duty smoker does the work outside while the business — Rob’s Bayside BBQ — sells the goods inside the gas station. Bayside? That’s a remnant of the formerly Central Coast catering operation (so don’t expect a water feature). What you will get is some delicious food expertly prepared by Hyatt and his wife, Samantha, and with the occasional assistance of their four children.
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DRob Wyatt of Rob’s Bayside BBQ knows that mouth-watering sandwiches start with learning about the right type of wood for each kind of meat.
Meats here are slow-smoked — and that’s the secret. The technique produces some lip-smacking tri-tip, chicken, pork ribs, pulled pork and more mainly served as sandwiches, combo plates, platters and tacos. The business also makes most of its sauces; the popular “sweet and sassy” is named for Samantha. For Rob Hyatt, barbecue is an art. This Central Valley boy learned from watching his father, grandfather and other relatives work the smoker. By the time he was age 8, Hyatt was minding the fire. “Every culture has its own way of barbecuing,” he says. Tending the smoker is therapeutic for Hyatt, who switched professions after a heart attack. He formerly ran a security business. For home smokers, Hyatt recommends learning about the right type of wood for each kind of meat and mastering the practice of cooking on indirect heat. The slow-smoked culture also is embraced by the slyly named Just the Tip (as in tri-tip) in downtown Fresno. This from-scratch restaurant won the people’s choice at the Grizzlies Tri-Tip Throwdown in 2017. Friends and business partners Eric Johnson and Maria Metzger serve up sandwiches named for famous Fresno streets (Van Ness Avenue and Divisadero Street, for example). In addition, you can order tri-tip in a salad or wrap; the menu also includes smoked turkey, pulled pork and housemade pastrami. The house specialty is tri-tip, and Johnson says they like to stay simple by using a dry rub, creating a slight crust and ensuring the meat is a juicy medium-rare. “We had thoughts of doing this, that and the other thing,” he says. “But in the end, why? If we can’t win it with our regular tri-tip, then why?”
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Johnson says home chefs should always plan ahead — know what you’re cooking, how long to cook it and the ideal temperature. He never cooks tri-tip above 300 degrees. Also, Johnson says, don’t expect to take a recipe for one style of grill and translate it directly to another (gas to charcoal, for example). Chances are it won’t work exactly the same. And don’t slide meat directly from the fridge to the grill — safely, cautiously let it warm up a bit so that it cooks evenly and as expected.
AMaria Metzger and Eric Johnson, the co-owners of Just The Tip, showcase the Southern Pulled Pork Sandwich — pulled pork, coleslaw, onion fig jam, wax peppers and barbecue sauce.
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Central Valley Magazine | SEPTEMBER 2018 53
FBennett and Bryan McCutchen are the co-owners of Maw n’ Paw BBQ near the Fresno Yosemite International Airport.
ARibs drizzled with barbecue sauce are a specialty at Maw n’ Paw BBQ in Clovis.
continued ... At Maw n’ Paw BBQ near the Fresno Yosemite International Airport, slow-smoked, Kentucky-style barbecue is the draw. Here, everything takes time and you choose whether to slather on homemade sauces that range from sweet to ridiculously hot (as in off-the-charts NuclearQ). The menu includes everything from tri-tip and pulled pork to chicken and hot links in sandwich and other forms, along with classic sides like homemade cole slaw and barbecued beans.
According to Bennett McCutchen (he’s “Paw”), the restaurant’s distinctive flavors are the main reason that customers keep coming back. He outlined some potential pitfalls for home chef. The biggest mistake, he says, is over-cooking meat. The second is failing to let it rest — allowing meat to relax and remain juicy — before slicing and serving. While McCutchen loves his Kentucky-style barbecue, he recognizes that there are other techniques. He adds: “There are as many ways to smoke and grill as there are people.” CV
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OutAndAbout
The California Food Expo On Thursday, July 26, the Fresno Food Expo returned — now as the Califorinia Food Expo — to celebrate the flavors of the state in addition to those of the Central Valley. The Fresno Convention & Entertainment Center was packed with the public and more than 150 of the finest food growers, manufacturers, chefs and restaurateurs at Expolicious.
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1 Sliders by Harris Ranch 2 Cassie Sandrini 3 Brianna Post and Cameron Cates 4 Chefs at Harris Ranch PHOTOGRAPHY: Janessa Tyler
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St. Jude patient Jaycee, brain cancer, and her mom, Misty