Lifestyle Magazine - December 2016 by Lifestyle Magazine

STYLE, ART, CULTURE, + EVENTS OF THE SOUTH VALLEY DECEMBER 2016

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SCIACCA HOME

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EPICURE

HOME TOUR

A CLASSIC CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION

THE SCIACCA HOME Designing Christmas from the Heart

The Vintage Press

The chefs at The Vintage Press present a comforting classic feast for the holidays.

8 Letter from the Executive Editor 10 Wordplay

SIP

A TOAST TO THE HOLIDAYS Craft Cocktails from Jack & Charlie’s

Tate Darwin of Jack & Charlie’s mixes up the perfect cocktails for your holiday celebrations.

12 Refl ections of Visalia: The Boys of Company D Head to the Border 16 Party: An Intimate Holiday – 10 Tips for Hosting the Perfect Dinner Party 18 Charity: Breaking Bread Gala A Night in San Francisco 22 Culture Quest: Christmas Culture Shock – A Ukrainian’s Holiday in Visalia

TRAVELER’S TREK

AN UNEXPECTED HOLIDAY DESTINATION

50 Literary Arts: Porterville Pediatrician Shares Stories of Health and Love 54 Happenings

Long Beach

44 4 LIFEST YLE | DECEMBER 201 6

Travel writer Cheryl Levitan takes us on a Christmas journey just a few hours south in Long Beach, CA.

COVER: Every year the Sciacca’s decorate their entire home with a Christmas tree in every room. ABOVE: Several festive nutcrackers stand between beautifully decorated Christmas trees on the Sciacca’s patio.

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DMI Agency 801 W. Main St. Visalia, CA 93291 Karen Tellalian Kelly Lapadula Malynda Parsons Chris Bly Kaci Hansen Cheryl Levitan David Vartanian Diane Slocum Kim Rico Lisa McEwen Olena Tschannen Terry L. Ommen Malkasian Accountancy LLP Gary Malkasian CPA Jeffrey Malkasian EA Maria Gaston Melissa Olson Melissa@DMIAgency.com 801 W. Main St. Visalia, CA 93291 559.739.1747 • Fax 559.738.0909 Lifestyle@DMIAgency.com www.VisaliaLifestyle.com Issuu.com/LifestyleMagazine Facebook.com/LifestyleMag Instagram: visalialifestyle

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Visalia Lifestyle Magazine is published monthly and is distributed via direct mail to nearly 13,000 homes in the upper-middle and high-income neighborhoods in Visalia and Exeter. An additional 2,500 copies are distributed at various distribution points around both communities. Views expressed in columns are those of the columnist and not necessarily those of DMI Agency or its advertisers. Circulation of this issue: 15,500 © 2016 DMI Agency

A ceiling-height Christmas tree overlooks the beautifully decorated family room. 6 LIFEST YLE | DECEMBER 201 6

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FR O M TH E

EDITOR

s I am writing the last Editor’s Letter of the year, there’s a “yard sale” with free lawn chairs happening right outside our ofﬁce and continuing all the way down Main Street. In reality, the streets are lined with folding chairs and blankets spread in order to save the best viewing spots for Visalia’s Candy Cane Lane Parade. Always the Monday following Thanksgiving, the parade draws thousands of excited children and adults

Main Street year after year. If you missed the parade, there is still plenty of time to make special memories this year. Although I distinctly remember that talking Mickey, what I remember more is the way it made me feel. Special memories are made of experiences, more than things. This month’s Christmas Home Tour is an example of how one family has carried forward memories of years gone past. Sam and Marlene Sciacca have lived in the same

It does not take much to make someone feel special or cared about, and our hope is that we all get to experience something extraordinary this year. E X E C U T I V E

E D I T O R

K A R E N

T E L L A L I A N

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO SUBMIT A STORY IDEA, CONTACT ME AT KAREN@DMIAGENCY.COM

alike, each looking forward to the ofﬁcial kickoff of the Christmas season. As I was driving around downtown, the words “I love a parade” sounded in my head as I recalled a talking Mickey Mouse doll I had as a child. The doll was equipped with a string hanging from its back, which when pulled, released a high-pitched voice saying those words. I pulled that string over and over again until I most likely drove my mother a little nuts. That talking toy was the advanced technology of its day. Some ﬁfty plus years later, I cannot even think of a parade without hearing that squeaky phrase. I wonder if the disposable technology our kids know today will have the same, lifelong memory effect years from now. Either way, we love the fact that Visalia turns out by the thousands for our own little Christmas parade, and we’re sure many wonderful memories are created on

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house for more than 33 years. When a ﬂood pushed them to renovate, they wanted to preserve the home’s original footprint where it has been a memory creator to their children, friends, and now to grandchildren. Even with the updated interior and new décor, Marlene relates how one special gift from Sam more than 33 years ago remains; not because it is grand, but because of how it made Marlene feel when Sam brought it home. You can ﬁnd out what that gift was in “Designing Christmas from the heart,” starting on page 24. For the rest of us, we can still create lasting impressions with our families, friends, or even a stranger. It does not take much to make someone feel special or cared about, and our hope is that we all get to experience something extraordinary this year. May you all have a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

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WO R D PLAY News on writing, books + the world of publishing

ast minute shoppers might want to consider some good books from any of the seven authors who were short-listed for the 2016 First Novel Prize from The Center for Fiction. The Castle Cross the Magnet Carter by Kia Corthron follows two sets of brothers from World War II through the civil rights movement. One set begins as small-town Alabama teenagers, one brilliant, the older deaf and uneducated. The other pair, six and 12 when we meet them, are the gifted and artistic sons of a Pullman Porter in Maryland. The Girls by Emma Cline picks up later in the turbulent sixties when teenage Evie gets drawn into the intrigue of a Manson-like cult. In Here Comes the Sun by Nicole Dennis-Benn, two sisters face the challenges that come with a new hotel that will change their small village in Jamaica and impact the girls’ lives. The older sister, Margot, forced into prostitution to survive, works desperately to save her little sister from the same fate. Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi concerns two half-sisters in 18th century Ghana and their descendants. Unknown to each other, one sister, Effia, marries an Englishman and lives in a castle. The other, Esi, is captured, imprisoned in the castle dungeon, and shipped to America. Effia’s children become Gold Coast political leaders, while Esi’s descendants travel the course of American history from slavery through the 20th century. In How I Became a North Korean by Krys Lee, three young people meet at the North Korean border with China. Danny, an American of Korean descent, goes to meet his missionary mother after being humiliated at school. Yongiu, from a prominent North Korean family, escapes to avoid prosecution. Jangmi, an impoverished smuggler, flees to protect 10 L I F E S T Y L E | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 6

her unborn child. In We Love you, Charlie Freeman by Kaitlyn Greenidge, the Freeman family is recruited to live an experiment that requires them to move to a small rural community and treat Charlie, a chimpanzee, as a member of their family. But all is not as it seems. Teenage Charlotte discovers the questionable past of the institute as her family suffers from its odd composition and racial isolation. What Belongs to You by Garth

Whitney. Mike’s books are popular for their informative content as well as their fun adventures. He also often speaks at schools on a variety of topics. Jaye C. Blakemore of Visalia has published a mystery/romance novel, Double Identity, involving identical twins and secret lives. The twins are separated at the age of three, following their parents’ divorce. Gillian is raised in the U.S. by her billionaire art collector father, Julianne, with her vintner mother in France. Jaye C., an avid traveler who has visited every U.S. state, began writing the novel in hotel rooms during her travels. Having been bitten by the writing bug, she is now working on two more books. Bill DeCarteret has a book out on his years as a High Sierra packer. Mountains, Mules, and Memories is about Bill’s 25 years as the owner and operator of Mineral King Pack Station. His association with the Sierra and packing reaches back even farther. In 1945 he began packing near Huntington Lake for another outﬁt. Bill’s stories of caring for mules, horses, and people on mountain trails unfold with humor and insight.

Greenwell, follows an American teacher in Bulgaria who becomes sexually involved with a young hustler in a relationship that becomes predatory on both sides. He grows to recognize the similarities between his own life and the griefs of the country he is in.

SUBMIT YOUR STORIES

VALLEY WRITERS Mike Graf’s book, Secrets of the Sequoias, about the adventures of his peripatetic Parker family in Sequoia and Kings Canyon, was released in November. Besides the giant trees, twins Morgan and James encounter bears, waterfalls, granite domes, caves, and Mt.

Glimmer Train calls itself “one of the most writer-friendly publications in print.” This includes first-time authors. Their statistics show that 63 percent of their first-place winning stories over the last two years were the authors’ first print publications. Go to: glimmertrainpressinc.submittable.com/ submit. THE LAST WORD “Every gift that is given, even though it be small, is in reality great, if it is given with affection.” – Pindar (552 BC – 433 BC)

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Company D soldiers in formation on Church Street adjacent to Courthouse Square prior to being shipped out. The Pacific House, a building that still stands today on the northwest corner of Oak and Church streets, can be seen on the far right. [Photo courtesy of the Annie R. Mitchell History Room, Tulare County Library]

THE BOYS OF COMPANY D

HEAD TO THE BORDER

n the early 1900s, Mexico was suffering under dictatorial rule and a difﬁcult economy. By 1910 the situation had become dire and the resulting uprising marked the beginning of what became known as the Mexican Revolution. For the next several years, hostilities became increasingly worse within the country and in the border region with the United States. Relations between the two countries became strained and even more tension developed when in March 1916, a Mexican revolutionary named Francisco “Pancho” Villa and hundreds of his ﬁghters crossed over the border. They raided Columbus, New Mexico, killing many and destroying much of the town, and the incident clearly got America’s

attention. American troops were already at the border, but following the attack more military units were mobilizing, including Visalia’s Company D Second Infantry Regiment of the National Guard of California. In June 1916, even though no departure orders had been received, the local unit and the community were getting matters in order in preparation for the inevitable trip to the border. At about 11:30 p.m. on June 22, 1916, the much-expected call came. Captain Alex M. Simons, commander of the Visalia guard unit, who also happened to be the principal of Visalia High School, received orders that his unit was scheduled to leave by train at 9 a.m. the T EXT

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next morning. It was short notice for the nearly 100 men, but they were ready. At 7 a.m. all the town whistles sounded as a prearranged signal to alert the entire community about the departure of the guardsmen. The soldiers and well-wishers gathered on Center Street between Court and Church for a brief farewell ceremony. Short patriotic speeches were given by Ben Maddox and P. M. Longan, and the send-off program ended with a prayer by Reverend A. O. Raber. “There were few dry eyes” in the crowd, witnesses reported. Captain Simons allowed the soldiers a few minutes to say their goodbyes to loved ones, then the company formed

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in ranks and he marched them to the Southern Paciﬁc Depot, where two special train cars were waiting, along with several thousand well wishers. The troops boarded the train, and shortly after 9 a.m. they left to thunderous cheers of the crowd. From Visalia they headed north to Sacramento to join other mobilized National Guard units, and then after a few days, the troops headed south for Nogales, Arizona. When they arrived at the border, they set up camp and settled in to a soldier’s life. After a short time, rumors began to circulate back home in Visalia that there was a scarcity of food for the Visalia boys. The ladies of the Guard of Honor went to work. In one campaign they asked the community for 110 live chickens. The response was amazing and they received many more. After the live chickens arrived in camp, Sergeant Arthur M. Becker, wrote in a letter back home, “The big shipment of chickens… was just delivered at the head of Company D’s street and the boys went wild. The boys as a unit are superlatively grateful to the dear people at home both for the spirit and the gifts.” He later wrote, “Chickens all killed and picked and are being dressed,” but added, despite what the people of Visalia had heard, “We have had plenty to eat.” And the community sent another gift from home, a small black bear cub that had been found at Giant Forest. The furry little guy was crated and shipped, and quickly became the company mascot. They named him “Phil Bear” and the entire regiment enjoyed his company. Needless to say, he left a lasting impression on all the soldiers.

LIFEST YLE | DECEMBER 201 6

In September 1916, more rumors began to circulate in Visalia. This time word spread that Company D was coming home soon. Other unsubstantiated reports followed. One was that the troops were “enroute home” and still another was that Company D was going into Mexico. And yet another rumor was that the unit was stranded on a railroad siding

somewhere, trying to get back to Visalia. By November, clarity began to surface. Visalia’s Company D was in fact coming home, and units from Alabama were replacing them. The ladies of the Guard of Honor again went to work, this time preparing for a homecoming celebration. The National

Guard club room in the newly built auditorium was decorated with American flags and plans for a big parade, banquet, and dance were put in place. Organizers wanted the returning troops to have a huge welcome, so arrangements were made to have the fire department whistle give nine short blasts when the troop train was 20 minutes out. That would give Visalians enough time to gather at the Santa Fe Depot at Main and Santa Fe streets. The troop train arrived at about 10 a.m. on Thursday, Nov. 16, 1916. After four months of service and no fighting, the troops were welcomed by a crowd of 10,000 people. As they filed off of the train, they were escorted down Main Street by city and county officials and war veterans. That evening a delicious turkey dinner was served by the ladies and the home cooking tasted so much better than the hard tack and beans the soldiers were used to. All of the work by the ladies of the Guard of Honor did not go unnoticed. One soldier gave a tribute to them in an open letter to the Visalia Morning Delta. He wrote about their “untiring spirit” and thanked them for all that they had done. He added that “Company D…will always remember these good women.” The next year marked the official end of the Mexican Revolution, although fighting continued in the country for several more years.

TOP: The scene at the Southern Pacific Railroad Depot as the troops boarded the train in Visalia in 1916. INSET: Private Marvin Heberling with Phil Bear while on the border at Nogales, Arizona. [Photo courtesy of Laura Heberling]

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PARTY

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PHOTO COURTESY OF THINKSTOCK IMAGES

an intimate holiday

10 TIPS FOR HOSTING THE PERFECT DINNER PARTY

he holidays are here, and whether you’ve prepared for them or not, your calendar will inevitably start to ﬁll up with parties and events to attend. If you’re playing host this year, we hope that these tips will help prepare you to have a stress-free and delightful event.

Create the guest list and be conﬁdent in your choices. Don’t let the pressure of trying to invite everyone weigh you down. A dinner party is meant to be intimate, and there will be other opportunities to invite “that one guest” to your next gathering.

perhaps the focus can be on great candle lighting at the table. If you want to create a fun atmosphere, consider setting up a bar cart near the entrance so guests can have a signature drink in their hand upon arrival.

table. Another great rearranging tip is to be mindful of the weather outside. For example, if it’s cold outside, create a space for your guests to set their coats and purses. Perhaps even light your ﬁreplace or outdoor ﬁre pit and set some seating near this area to keep guests warm after coming in from being outside.

Prepare all your food and beverages before your guests arrive. Be sure to leave sufﬁcient time to prepare all the food prior to your guests' arrival to ensure that you are fully present when it comes to greeting and hosting guests. Do not scramble to assign tasks to them; they should be enjoying themselves, and so should you!

Prepare your music in advance. A Bluetooth speaker is a great item to have on hand if you have multiple rooms in use, but be sure to prepare your music player in advance. Right before your

Design an invitation and send it out to your guests. Your guests will enjoy receiving a physical invitation as opposed to an e-vite. Make sure to include an RSVP date, an address, and a start time. Several great sources for printable invitations are Etsy and Minted, or you can hire a local calligrapher artist to create a unique design just for your event.

Set out real china and put the disposables away. Pull out your ﬁne china and table linen that you reserve for special occasions, and be sure to set your table with a full table setting, which includes both water and wine glassware for your guests. I recommend using real table linen. Be sure to iron them, and yes, this includes ironing the cloth napkins as well.

Create the dinner menu before hand. My suggestion is to choose some easier appetizers and dessert options that don’t require a lot of prep time in the kitchen. Also, choose familiar items you feel conﬁdent making. A great appetizer is often a charcuterie board, which includes a variety of cheeses, fruits, nuts, jams, and meat options to choose from. This is a great conversation starter and will encourage your guests to get a little creative as they pair together their favorites.

A dinner party is a great excuse to rearrange furniture. Always ensure there is enough seating for everyone at the dinner table and prepare one “extra” setting just in case someone unexpected arrives. Since this is a dinner party, it’s important that the dinner table is the focus. Make sure your guests have space to move in between the beverage and food area and a place to converse with one another prior to sitting at the dinner T E X T

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Plan your table décor and remember that simplicity goes a long way. A great and easy way to make sure your guests feel special is to make personalized place cards for the dinner table. Hiring a calligraphy artist to create the place cards will make them feel like a gift to the recipient. Always ensure to have a center focal point at your table, but be sure that all décor in the center of the table is kept low so it doesn’t block any guests from seeing each other. Taper candles go a long way to create a warm and elegant setting. Choose a table runner that coordinates with the napkins and extends the entire length of the table, as opposed to just the center.

guests arrive, start streaming the playlist you’ve created or select an appropriate Pandora or Spotify music station that ﬁts the atmosphere.

Focus on how you want your guests to feel and create an atmosphere that embodies that. When it comes to decor, put the Pinterest application down. Ask yourself how you want your guests to feel before creating a Pinterest board ﬁlled with hundreds of ideas for just one dinner table. For example, if you want your guests to feel welcomed and have a great time,

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Fresh flowers are a must! Head to your local floral shop or wholesaler, such as Fresh Cut, and place some floral arrangements at the entrance, on your dinner table, and perhaps near the beverages and appetizers.

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CHARITY

B R E A K I N G

B R E A D

G A L A

A NIGHT IN SAN FRANCISCO

ome of the most iconic landmarks, sports teams, and neighborhoods of the “City by the Bay” came to the Visalia Country Club last month during their 4th annual Breaking Bread Gala, an elegant evening beneﬁtting The Bethlehem Center. With colorful hanging paper lanterns evoking Chinatown and images of the Golden Gate Bridge and trolley cars, the Visalia Country Club dining room was transformed into a visual tour of San Francisco. With more than 250 people in attendance, the four-hour event raised nearly $200,000 for the center on Saturday, Nov. 12. Proceeds from the gala, expertly organized by fundraiser veterans Kathleen Remillard and Maureen Fisher, represent a stabilizing factor in the center’s operating budget. The Bethlehem Center, which is a mission project of Good Shepherd Catholic Parish, cares for the city’s homeless, poor, and underserved 365 days a year. Last year alone, the center served more than 89,000 hot meals and provided more than 10,700 pantry food boxes to needy families — and those numbers continue to increase due to the nation’s struggling economy. T E X T

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The Bethlehem Center is the only location in Visalia where local residents who are struggling to feed and clothe their families can receive three hot meals a day. The center also offers warm coats, shoes, mental health counseling, and more importantly, hope in an atmosphere of dignity and respect. The center’s efforts even caught the notice of the Visalia Chamber of Commerce, which named it the 2016 Non-Proﬁt of the Year. It’s no surprise that the Breaking Bread Gala is sold-out every year, and this year was no exception. The mission of The Bethlehem Center is close to the hearts of many guests. “Everything is for a good cause,” said Donna LoBue, a long-time Bethlehem Center supporter who attended with her husband, Fred. Their family business, LoBue Citrus, was an event sponsor. “Everyone seems to love each other here.” As members of the parish, the couple said it is important to support its projects. “The Bethlehem Center is fantastic,” said Fred LoBue. “I’m very proud to be supporting it.” Rick Wescott of Visalia said the live auction items are outstanding, and the bidding wars are always fun to watch. M C E W E N

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For example, a dinner for eight at The Vintage Press with the parish priests is always a competitive item, and this year, two of the dinners were sold for $4,000 each. “There are a lot of very generous people at this event, which is really top-notch,” he said. Wescott and his wife, Kim, were guests of Steve and Linda Lansdowne, whose company J.C. Lansdowne Inc. was a major sponsor. Other major sponsors included Provident-Salierno Family Foundation and California Water Service. The dinner portion of the evening began with a prayer offered by Reverend Eric Swearingen, who is pastor of Good Shepherd Catholic Parish. The parish includes St. Mary’s, Holy Family, and St. Charles Borromeo churches in Visalia, and St. Thomas the Apostle in Goshen. Swearingen, a Visalia native, thanked everyone for their compassion in remembering the poor, lonely, and forgotten members of society who often live in the shadows. Feeding the hungry and clothing the naked are a few of what Catholics and other Christian denominations refer to as “Works of Mercy.” In what Pope

M I C H E L L E

P O R T E R

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CHARITY

Francis has declared as a Year of Mercy, these spiritual and corporal acts take on special signiﬁcance and urgency. Though the Bethlehem Center is run by the Catholic Church, more than 2,000 people of many faiths work as volunteers to care for the less fortunate in Visalia. Sponsor Co-Chair Mary T. Hill gave a short speech during, which she thanked various community groups, businesses, and civic groups for their generosity, including the Raider Nation Boosters Club. “This is Christ’s work. All of you are examples of what this is about,” she said, before yelling, “Go Raiders!” which elicited much laughter from the crowd. In a later interview, she praised the center’s ecumenical qualities. For example, Visalia First is leading the #GIVEFIVE campaign. The movement aims to use the gospel of Christ to affect change in every aspect of life — from 20 L I F E S T Y L E | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 6

the workplace to families and beyond. Through daily prayer, weekly giving, and monthly serving, Visalia First is helping spread the word about The Bethlehem Center’s work. “It is a very ecumenical project, and this is what really makes the center tick. I say that without reservation,” she explained. “I love the fact that people are not asked about their religious preferences. If you’re hungry, we feed you. If you’re cold, we give you warm clothes. The bottom line is, the gala must continue because the needs of the people are not going away.” Event co-chair Kathleen Remillard said she, along with Maureen Fisher, pour hundreds of hours into the function for a simple reason. “It is the heart that we have for the people the center serves,” she said. “It is part of our faith and commitment to do Works of Mercy for others.” As the evening came to a close

following a gracious speech by the center’s Executive Director Benny Rodriguez, live entertainment by Jamie Hitchcock, and a spirited live auction which garnered more than $40,000, guests were reminded to share the news of The Bethlehem Center’s new store, the Urban Revival Upscale Resale Thrift Store. The store will help offset the expense of feeding and clothing the growing number of people seeking help and is located at 219 N. Court St. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Since the Breaking Bread Gala’s inception, the evening’s theme has revolved around a city. Guests have toured Rome, Paris, New York, and the “City by the Bay.” Next up? A trip across the pond to London, England on Nov. 18, 2017. Co-chair Maureen Fisher told the crowd at the end of the evening, “If you thought this was fun, wait until you meet the Queen!”

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All procedures and follow-ups are performed personally by Dr. Lechtman. LIFEST YLE | DECEMBER 201 6

C H R I S T M A S

C U L T U R E

S H O C K

A UKRAINIAN’S HOLIDAY IN VISALIA CULTURE QUEST

xperiencing life in a new country where things are vastly different from back home can feel strange, though not necessarily good or bad; just different. That is exactly how I felt four years ago during my first Christmas Eve in Visalia. In the daytime, I enjoyed the bucolic preChristmas ambience of a charmingly decorated neighborhood. In search of nighttime events, my daughter and I headed to downtown Visalia. At 6 p.m., we were shocked to find ourselves the only living beings in the streets. In the years since, I have rooted myself into the Valley’s soil and spirit, and I can proudly state that I am an ally of two wonderful cultures – American and Ukrainian. Nevertheless, my first moment of culture shock hit me on Christmas Eve night. Born and raised in Ukraine, I would celebrate winter holidays in all their copious festivities. Considering that celebrations in Ukraine last an entire month, – from Dec. 19 through Jan. 19 – one of the main questions of the holiday season was how to survive it. Christmas season in Ukraine is a blend of secular events and religious holidays, pagan traditions and Christian beliefs, official days off and unofficial parties. Not only do the customs in Western and Eastern Ukraine differ, but the holidays are celebrated in accordance with two different calendar styles: the old one, Julian, which is still kept by The Orthodox Church, and the new calendar, Gregorian, which is used in the modern world. The time gap between them is 13 calendar days, which is why Catholics celebrate Christmas on Dec. 25, while The Orthodox Church celebrates on Jan. 7. This is also the reason why New Years Day is the main winter holiday

in Ukraine. Ukrainians don’t have Santa Claus, but they have three substitutes in place of him. The first one is St. Nicolas, who comes on Dec. 19. That day children get sweets and gifts under their pillows. But the real keepers of winter holidays are Father Frost and his helpmate, Snow Maiden. The transportation they use is not reindeer, but three white horses instead. Dec. 19 through 26 is a time of galas and parties for most businesses. Then, New Years Eve comes on the customary date, Dec. 31. Families and friends get together around 8 p.m. to exchange their gifts, and then the “belly feast” begins. The food is lavish and abundant. The first course usually comprises a huge variety of cold cuts with smoked meat, salted fish, pickles, cheeses, marinated mushrooms, along with an array of multilayered winter salads. Those “light appetizers” are then followed by heavier artillery: a whole roasted suckling pig, Christmas goose, grilled pheasant, stuffed fish, and anything else you might imagine. When it gets closer to midnight, some people gather in front of the television to listen to a traditional presidential speech. Many others go outdoors to open bottles of champagne, watch the fireworks, and set off their own firecrackers. Christmas Eve on Jan. 6 brings the whole family together at a Holy Supper. Additional place settings are set for the spirits of family members who have passed away. There are 12 dishes in the Supper, each representing one of Christ's Apostles. It is a quiet and peaceful evening. Everything becomes much more lively on Christmas Day. There

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are street festivals in folk style everywhere. People walk with “Stars of Bethlehem,” greeting each other saying, “Christ is born.” Street food vendors sell pastries – typically huge donuts stuffed with cherries, apples, or chocolate – and they offer hot red wine or warm cocktails with honey. Old New Year comes on the night of Jan. 13. Holiday dinners are served again. Champagne is poured into glasses nonstop, and toasts to a happy, healthy, and wealthy New Year sound at midnight once again. This holiday is also celebrated with some old pagan traditions. Young people often wear traditional folk masquerade costumes and walk from door-to-door, playing pranks and singing Christmas carols. One of the songs they sing is "Carol of the Bells.” Few people know that this song was written by Ukrainian composer, Mykola Leontovych, and became popular in America after its ﬁrst performance at Carnegie Hall in 1921. Originally, it was a spring song about a swallow. Epiphany, or Jordan, is the grand ﬁnale of winter holidays. Jan. 19 is the day when Jesus Christ was baptized in the waters of the Jordan River. Ice holes in the shape of the cross are made in nearby rivers and lakes, and the boldest of celebrants take a freezing bath. There is an Orthodox belief that all the waters on the Earth become blessed and holy on that day. Last Jan. 19 happened to be a rainy day in Visalia, so I gathered water from both the rain and from under the tap. I have kept it at room temperature in plastic bottles, and still to this day, the water is clean and clear. Is it a Christmas miracle that lasts forever? You can try it yourselves this upcoming season!

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THE SCIACCA HOME

D E S I G N I N G

CHRIS F R

Marlene Sciacca is an artist when it comes to decorating her home for Christmas, as the decorations complement the homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s style and colors.

LIFEST YLE | DECEMBER 201 6

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HOME TOUR

ucked in a nondescript Visalia neighborhood, surrounded by a family grove of walnut trees, stands a home that has nurtured four children into adulthood, hosted elegant holiday gatherings, and nourished generations of family members all year long. For more than 33 years, the home of Sam and Marlene Sciacca has served many purposes, from a place for teens to hang out and play baseball in the backyard diamond to welcoming new babies into the family. As their family grew and changed over the years, the Sciaccas, like many empty nest couples, felt a need to refresh and update their home for this new stage of life. They got the push a little sooner than anticipated, though, thanks to a waterbed that sprang a leak and ﬂooded a portion of the home. Without changing the footprint of the 3,200 sq. 26 L I F E S T Y L E | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 6

ft. house, the Sciaccas embarked on a major overhaul of their cherished home, which sits on land that has been in the family for more than 100 years. And this Christmas, they have allowed Lifestyle across the threshold for a deeper look at, not only the renovation, but also Marlene’s elaborate and detailed Christmas décor. Entering the front door, not only is one enveloped in rich, warm hues of brown and stunning wooden accents, the spirit of Christmas is evident throughout the entire home. It is only ﬁtting that year-round, a focal point of the home’s entrance is a print depicting “The Last Supper.” The family heirloom was brought from Sicily and this season, is framed by the deep green boughs of an artfully decorated Christmas tree. It is indeed one of the home’s most treasured heirlooms, and blends magniﬁcently with the updated interior.

Marlene Sciacca, who operates two downtown Visalia clothing boutiques, said the home was built with a strong foundation of love and family tradition more than 30 years ago. It seems appropriate that in the expansive remodel, the footprint of the home did not change, which is testament to its original design and the couple residing in it. CREATIVITY ABOUNDS Decorating the home for Christmas is a chance for Marlene to use her creativity and express her joy for the season. With Christmas trees in every room decorated in colors that complement the home’s year-round décor, Marlene’s timeless eye for design is displayed in every corner. Beginning the decorating process in October, it’s clear that Marlene puts a lot of heart into her Christmas routine to make it special

The large dining room table is set with Marlene’s fine china and collectible Avon Cape Cod ruby dishes.

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already done, she was able to for both family and friends. supply a direct feed to a Keurig At a stately dining room table set machine, making coffee available for 10 with golden chargers, china, at a moment’s notice. On a shelf and her collectible Avon Cape Cod just above the machine is a sign ruby glasses, Marlene shows she is that reads: “Nothing Makes Sense ready for her growing family, which Before Coffee.” includes eight grandchildren, to Marlene’s personal favorite visit for the holidays. room in the house is her study. It “My mother had a small collection is the spot where she can tend to of these dishes,” said Marlene. bookwork or relax in the evenings. “When I found them at an antique A small electric fireplace adjacent store, it made me think of her.” to a cozy loveseat makes for a quiet Marlene expanded upon her spot for reading the Bible or a new mother’s collection, and now the book. Animal prints dominate the eye-catching dishes fill a recessed furniture and rug, and in the corner, hutch that she is proud to exhibit. Marlene’s love for fashion is on The dark-stained built-in gives her display — a dress-frame mannequin additional space to accommodate with a sleeveless leopard-print guests, and is flanked with corbels bust has been transformed into a that were intended for a fireplace. fashionable Christmas tree dress. Throughout a tour of the home, Taking branches from an old tree, Marlene gives credit to Mike she and her employees at Chelsea Fistolera of Fistolera Construction Street Boutique designed an and its subcontractors who exquisite and fitting complement patiently worked with her to bring for the room. her visions to reality. Drawers The study is also a favorite for a on the hutch feature soft-close more sentimental reason. It features hardware and are neatly filled with the only original light fixture silver place settings. Topped from the home’s previous days, with granite that matches the HOME as well as a Casablanca fan that kitchen counters, the piece TOUR was a gift from her husband elevates the elegance of the that formerly hung in the dining room, while an east-facing room. picture window brings in dappled “He surprised me with this fan afternoon sunlight that makes the when we moved in to the home,” chandelier sparkle. she explained with a heart-warming Anyone with a large family smile, pointing out its mahogany knows that the kitchen is the hub blades and collectible status. of activity, and the Sciacca home Sam, her husband of 38 years, had is no exception. With a double originally told her the item was too refrigerator, a gorgeous copper expensive to put in the home. farmhouse sink, large graniteSam is a well-known real topped island, six-burner stove, estate developer, entrepreneur, and warming drawers, Marlene is and farmer in Tulare County. He prepared to feed the large crowd recently acquired Moody Hydrator she is expecting on Christmas Eve. in Farmersville, and on the day “Even though we’re of Italian of this interview, was knee-deep and Portuguese descent, we enjoy in the walnut harvest. Appearing Mexican food on Christmas Eve,” momentarily, he shared the she said with a laugh. Enchiladas, significance of keeping his father’s rice, and beans with all the delicious legacy alive by continuing to side dishes are on the menu, this farm the original 20-acre block year and every year. of walnuts where the home is COFFEE, FIRST situated. He also was sure to point It’s safe to say Marlene loves out that the couple’s two Great coffee. In the remodel, she decided Danes – Hartley and Chandler – are to eliminate a wet bar that was named after the variety of walnuts rarely used to make room for a planted on the property. While Sam built-in coffee nook. With plumbing spoke of the home’s rich history, 28 L I F E S T Y L E | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 6

Marlene’s study showcases a dress-frame mannequin with a Christmas tree dress, which she designed herself.

The master bedroom is ready for the holidays with a cozy fireplace and a Christmas tree in the corner.

Even the Sciaccaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s guesthouse, where their grandchildren love to play, is decorated for Christmas.

LIFEST YLE | DECEMBER 201 6

it became clear how important the property’s legacy is to both him and his family. NOOKS AND CRANNIES Overnight guests often sleep in two rooms that are illuminated by the rising sun each morning. The ﬁrst guest room is ﬁlled with family heirlooms, wedding photographs, and plenty of photos of the Sciacca’s grandchildren. An antique bed with soft, plump linens awaits guests and beside it, an antique Prohibition chest that is one of Marlene’s favorite pieces in the home. In the grandchildren’s bedroom, plenty of play space and toys are available to keep little hands and minds

busy. When the Sciacca’s children were growing up, Marlene began a tradition of placing a Christmas tree in their bedrooms, decorated with ornaments that showed their interests. That tradition remains today, as an adorable Mickey Mouse-themed Christmas tree illuminates the room and reminds all that Christmas is a magical time for children. Moving down the hallway, which is lined with family photographs, Marlene shares that ﬁxtures in the home came from a variety of sources – online retailers, local antique shops and furniture stores, as well as high-end retailers such as Restoration Hardware. Her creativity shines through in the presentation of so many different

styles as each room of the home flows effortlessly into the next. But one room stands quietly behind an unassuming door – the master closet. Remember Marlene’s love of fashion? Clothes, belts, jewelry, shoes, and scarves are on display in a completely organized room of racks, hooks, and pull-out drawers measured to fit exactly three to four pairs of shoes each, depending on their size and arrangement. In fact, when new guests come over, they’ve often heard of the closet and ask for a tour of this room first. Don’t worry, Sam is allowed in the closet, too, though his two small racks of blue work shirts hardly interfere with the more fashionable pieces on display.

The patio connecting the Sciacca’s home and guesthouse features an outdoor bar for entertaining guests.

The Sciacca’s transformed their childrens' former bedrooms into guestrooms filled with photos of family members and grandchildren.

Out back, the guesthouse is decorated with multiple Christmas trees, poinsettias, and rustic holiday pieces.

HOME TOUR

30 L I F E S T Y L E | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 6

BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT BY THE END OF THE YEAR FOR A SPECIAL YEAR END TREATMENT!

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The Sciaccaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s renovated kitchen features a copper farmhouse sink, granite countertops, and a built-in coffee nook.

In the backyard, Marlene and Sam are ready to host their employees at their annual Christmas party.

As Christmas Day draws nearer, the couple is preparing to host a catered holiday party for their employees, and they are pulling out all the stops, including a place setting of China for each guest. The party spills out onto an expansive covered patio, where guests sit family-style or at round tables placed by the pool, warmed by heaters and delicious food and drink. Parting gifts are homemade walnut pies and Kahlua-Amaretto liqueur.Â REST AND GRATITUDE After hosting their children and their families on Christmas Eve, the couple enjoys a quiet Christmas day together. They begin the day at Mass to celebrate the birth of Christ, and

LIFEST YLE | DECEMBER 201 6

HOME TOUR

then prepare a small, traditional lunch of a roasted turkey. And with their children in their own homes or visiting other relatives, Sam and Marlene have begun a new tradition of their very own: a day at the movies, sometimes seeing two or three of the season’s blockbusters in a row at a local movie theater. With the decorating, visiting, and wrapping of gifts drawing to a close,

The guest bathroom’s updated look showcases Marlene’s impeccable eye for design.

an afternoon of rest and relaxation is in order. It is also a time of gratitude, spending time together to reﬂect on the blessings of another year ﬁlled with an extended family that returns to a home built on a strong foundation of love and family tradition. LIFEST YLE | DECEMBER 201 6

HOME TOUR

C L A S S I C

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celebr

t seems there are few occasions these days that bring everyone together around the dining room table. While most family dinners and holiday gatherings have moved to more casual venues, Christmas is one holiday that can always ďŹ nd its place around a thoughtfully decorated table. This year, break out the ďŹ ne china and celebrate Christmas the classic way with these traditional holiday recipes from The Vintage Press.

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OVEN ROASTED BRUSSELS SPROUTS INGREDIENTS 1½ lbs Brussels sprouts 3 T olive oil ¾ tsp kosher salt ¼ tsp black pepper ¼ tsp crushed red chili 1 T Parmesan cheese DIRECTIONS Trim Brussels sprouts and cut in half. Mix in bowl with olive oil, salt, pepper, and crushed red chili. Place on sheet pan and roast for 3540 minutes until crisp on outside and tender inside. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

DUNGENESS CRAB CAKES WITH CRÉOLE MAYONNAISE Serves 4-6 INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS

1 lb crabmeat, picked over to remove any shell and cartilage ¼ C celery, finely chopped ¼ C green bell pepper, finely chopped ¼ C scallions, finely chopped 1 tsp thyme leaves ¼ tsp cayenne pepper 2 large eggs, beaten ¼ C heavy cream ¾ C seasoned breadcrumbs Salt Fresh ground black pepper 2 T unsalted butter

Combine the ﬁrst six ingredients thoroughly. Add the eggs and the heavy cream in a large bowl and stir until well mixed. Fold in the breadcrumbs and season to taste with salt and pepper. Form the crab mixture by hand into small balls. Flatten the balls into cakes and place on wax or parchment paper. Melt the butter in a large skillet and cook the crab cakes over medium heat until golden brown and heated through, about 4-6 minutes per side. Serve immediately with créole mayonnaise (recipe below).

CRÉOLE MAYONNAISE INGREDIENTS 2 T scallions, finely chopped 2 tsp garlic, finely chopped ½ tsp garlic, finely chopped 1 small lime, squeezed 1 tsp Tabasco sauce ¼ C creole mustard ¾ C mayonnaise DIRECTIONS In a stainless steel bowl, combine all of the ingredients and blend thoroughly with a whisk. Cover and chill the dressing before serving.

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BUTTERNUT SQUASH SOUP Serves 6 INGREDIENTS 2 butternut squash, cut in half 2 T vegetable oil 1 onion, sliced 1 granny smith apple, peeled & diced 2 tsp fresh ginger, minced 1 garlic clove, chopped 5 C vegetable stock 6 T sour cream Salt & pepper to taste DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 375°F. Place squash cut side down on oiled baking sheet. Bake until squash is very soft, about 45 minutes. Let cool and remove peel from squash. Cut up squash. Heat oil in a large pan. Add onion and sauté until soft. Add apple, ginger, and garlic. Add squash and vegetable stock. Simmer for 20 minutes. Puree mixture in blender or food processor. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with sour cream.

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559-513-8221

Margaret Vassilev, M.D. CALL TODAY FOR A 164 4 S. Cour t S treet, Visalia FREE CONSULTATION w w w. s i e r r a fi n i s h c a r p e n t r y. c o m 559.739.1042 Gift Cards Available All medical procedures and consultations are performed by a physician

w w w.vmedspavis.com

CHOCOLATE NAPOLEON Serves 6-8

CHOCOLATE MOUSSE FOR NAPOLEON

Serves 6

INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS

2 C milk ½ vanilla bean 6 egg yolks 2/3 C sugar 4 T Flour 3-4 in. x 10 in. pieces of baked puff pastry Vanilla pastry cream 1½ C heavy cream, whipped and lightly sweetened with sugar 1 C toasted, sliced almonds Powdered sugar for dusting

5½ oz bittersweet chocolate 6½ T butter 3 egg yolks 6 egg whites 5 tsp sugar

1 lb puff pastry, rolled out 12" x 15" 4 lbs center cut beef tenderloin Salt & fresh ground pepper 1 T peanut oil 6 oz duck pate 1 C mushroom duxelles (recipe below) 1 tsp chopped, fresh tarragon 1 egg yolk, beaten

Season the beef tenderloin with salt and pepper. Heat the oil in a heavy pan and quickly sear the tenderloin on all sides. Refrigerate until well chilled. Place the chilled tenderloin in the center of the puff pastry. Slice the pate into thin slices and place in along the top of the tenderloin. Spread the mushroom duxelles onto the pate. Sprinkle with the chopped tarragon. Fold the ends of the pastry in and then fold in the sides so the meat is covered with the pastry. Seal the ends with the beaten egg yolk. Refrigerate until well chilled. Place the wellington on a baking sheet and brush the pastry with the remaining egg yolk. Place it in a pre-heated 375° F oven for approximately 30 minutes for medium-rare. Remove the wellington from the oven and let it rest for ten minutes before slicing. Slice the wellington into six slices. Place on warm plates and serve with the cabernet sauce.

DIRECTIONS Heat the milk with the vanilla bean and bring to a boil. Beat the sugar and egg yolks together with a wire whisk until the mixture forms a ribbon, then stir the ﬂour into the egg mixture. Take out the vanilla bean and pour the hot milk into the egg and sugar mixture. Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and cook for about one minute stirring constantly. Remove from heat and let cool. To assemble, place one piece of puff pastry on a clean surface. Spread a layer of pastry cream evenly onto the pastry. Spread a layer of chocolate mousse (recipe below) on top of the pastry cream. Sprinkle with toasted almonds. Place a second layer of pastry on top of the mousse. Spread another layer of chocolate mousse onto the pastry and then a layer of whipped cream. Sprinkle again with toasted almonds. Top with the third layer of puff pastry. Dust the top with powdered sugar. Using a serrated knife cut the napoleon into slices. 38 L I F E S T Y L E | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 6

DIRECTIONS Melt the chocolate in a double boiler. Remove from heat and add the butter. Allow the mixture to cool. Whisk in the egg yolks. Beat the egg whites until very stiff. Add the sugar to the whites half way through. Fold the chocolate mixture into the beaten egg whites. Chill.

BEEF WELLINGTON WITH CABERNET SAUCE

CABERNET SAUCE INGREDIENTS 2 C cabernet 1 oz unsalted butter 2 shallots, minced Salt 1 clove garlic Fresh ground pepper 1 sprig tarragon 2 C veal stock

DIRECTIONS In a saucepan combine the Cabernet, shallots, garlic, and tarragon. Reduce by half over medium heat. Add the veal stock and bring to a boil. Reduce again by onehalf, until the sauce thickens slightly. Season the sauce with salt and pepper. Whisk in the unsalted butter. Discard the garlic clove and tarragon sprig. Serve the sauce over the meat or on the side.

MUSHROOM DUXELLES INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS

1 lbs mushrooms, minced 1 small onion, minced 3 oz unsalted butter Pinch of salt Freshly ground black pepper

Sauté the mushrooms and onion in the butter until all the liquid evaporates and the mushrooms are very well cooked. Season with salt and pepper. Let cool.

A TOAST TO THE

very time you raise a glass this holiday season, make sure the drink in your hand is worthy of a toast. Whether you delight in the warmth of coffee or the tingle of champagne, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re sure to ďŹ nd a cocktail that will be the perfect companion for every holiday celebration. So, cheers to you and to a happy and prosperous season!

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SIP

UNDERNEATH THE MISTLETOE INGREDIENTS 2 basil leaves 2 cucumber slices 1½ oz Tanqueray gin 1 oz lemon juice 1 oz simple syrup Cranberries, for garnish DIRECTIONS Muddle basil and cucumber together with ice. Add Tanqueray, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Shake ingredients together and pour into an old-fashioned glass ﬁlled with ice. Garnish with basil and fresh cranberries.

DECKED OUT HALLS

A TOAST WITH HEMINGWAY

INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS

3 raspberries 1 ½ oz Bacardi ½ oz lime juice 3.4 oz Orgeat syrup 1 oz heavy cream

¼ oz. Herbsaint ¼ oz St. Germain 6 oz dry champagne Pomegranate seeds

Build in a champagne ﬂute. Combine Herbsaint, St. Germain, and champagne. Top with pomegranate seeds.

DIRECTIONS Muddle raspberries with ice. Add Bacardi, lime juice, and Orgeat. Shake ingredients and strain into a chilled martini glass. Float lightly whipped heavy cream over the back of a spoon and garnish with a raspberry and mint leaf.

ROASTING CHESTNUTS INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS

1 oz Frangelico liquor 1 oz Crème de Noyaux 5 oz hot coffee 1 oz heavy cream Nutmeg

Combine ﬁrst three ingredients in a brandy glass. Float a layer of lightly whipped heavy cream over the top of the coffee mixture by pouring gently over the back of a spoon. Sprinkle with fresh nutmeg.

NEW OLD FASHIONED WAY

LIFEST YLE | DECEMBER 201 6

INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS

1½ oz Sailor Jerry’s Spiced Rum 1 lemon wedge, squeezed 1 orange wedge, squeezed ¾ oz simple syrup 1½ oz hot water 2 star anise petals 1 rosemary sprig

Build cocktail in a heated brandy snifter. Combine rum, simple syrup, and the juice of the lemon and orange. Add hot water and star anise. Garnish with lemon peel and a sprig of rosemary.

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Happy Holidays 2017 1 2 1 4 E M A I N S T. , V I S A L I A | 7 3 3 - 9 6 0 0 | W W W. E D D E N A S V I S A L I A . C O M

You gotta go to Ed's!

TRAVELER'S

TREK

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A past ice sculpture display shows penguins made of ice leading the way through castle.

UNEXPECTED

H O L I DAY

D E S T I N AT I O N :

LONG BEACH I

f you considered a list of places to visit during the holiday season, Long Beach might not come to mind. As one of the world’s largest shipping ports, you might envision leaving from there on a festive cruise, but to stay? Probably not. Yet, its year-round mild temperatures and sunny days are the perfect environment to thoroughly enjoy some novel holiday activities. Better yet, the area is small enough to usually get around by foot. When not, a bicycle, free city passport circulator shuttle, or low cost water taxis* are readily available. Since I mentioned cruising, let’s talk ﬁrst about the Queen Mary. Retired from Cunard Line after many years of service, Long Beach has been this vessel’s permanent home since 1967. With its maiden voyage in 1916, this year marks the 80th anniversary for this ship, which was considered the height of luxury and forward-thinking technology in its time. While the ship is open yearround as a hotel and historic marvel to tour, from now until Jan. 8 it transforms into an over-the-top holiday experience entitled “Chill.” With a backdrop of smokestacks awash in twinkling lights, visitors can skate under the stars on a 6,000 sq. ft. ice rink, sit atop a sparkling oversized rocking horse, ride the swings (originals from Michael Jackson’s Neverland Ranch), decorate gingerbread cookies, play Prancer’s Paintball, or tube down 24-ft. high ice slides. The last four years also featured magniﬁcent ice sculptures created by artists from Harbin, China, which is home to the world’s largest ice and snow festival. Designed by a local company, it

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would take the Chinese team four to ﬁve weeks to carve thousands of both clear and colored ice blocks to bring them to life. The near-arctic cold of Harbin keeps their larger-than-lifesized sculptures frozen well past February. In balmy Long Beach, a 13,000 sq. ft. igloo kept at a frigid nine degrees did the trick. One year’s display boasted a 25 ft. tall replica of the Queen Mary with ice stairs for guests to climb before sliding down one of four ice chutes. Adults and children alike (me included!) went back down the shoots time and time again. Despite my long johns, layers of clothing, gloves, and a hat, an additional parka provided at the igloo entrance allowed the bone-chilling temperatures to be only painfully cold. Those carved scenes and characters were well worth every drippy nose-icicle and warmed everyone’s hearts, if not their feet! This year, the event staff chose a different route for their centerpiece achievement. The display will showcase lighted silk lanterns, created once again by Chinese artists well-versed in this once ancient practice, to bring to life a “winterized” version of the classic Lewis Carroll story, Alice in Winterland. With RIFD chip technology embedded throughout the 14,000 sq. ft. dome, the experience is a completely interactive and digitally immersive tale. Giant book pages tell the story, surrounded with oversized silk lantern characters and sets. Visitors can choose their own adventure by entering the Hedge Maze, Hall of Doors, White Rabbit’s Kitchen, Mad Hatter’s B Y

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Gondola Getaway rentals in Long Beach across from Naples Island.

Art Deco decorative building tiles in downtown Long Beach.

A skyline view of Long Beach.

As one of the world’s largest shipping ports, you might envision leaving from there on a festive cruise, but to stay? Probably not. Yet, its year-round mild temperatures and sunny days are the perfect environment to thoroughly enjoy some novel holiday activities. C H E R Y L L E V I T A N workshop, or a tea party in any order and at their own pace. Throw in the Caterpillar and Queen appearing throughout the tale, and it promises a wondrous experience no matter your age. More information can be found online at queenmary.com, where you can view the many videos and pictures of the ship’s history. “Chill” tickets and packages with lodging and/or special tours, including a display of Princess Dianna’s dresses and personal items, are offered. Although audio guides as well as guided tours can be booked, the ship is also open for “Chill” ticket holders to walk back in time and explore the vessel, take in the deck’s stunning Long Beach skyline, and perhaps have a meal 46 L I F E S T Y L E | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 6

or drink in one of three restaurants and Observation Bar. If the “Chill” event isn’t enticing enough, consider the “Hollywood Comes to Life” movie themed New Year’s Eve event. Revelers have access to threeand-a-half acres of decks and salons to rotate between. Themes will have guests gambling and swing dancing in a “Godfather” inspired area, line dancing in “Urban Cowboy” style, enjoying top 40 hits with strolling magicians, tarot card readers to mimic the “Now You See Me” ﬁlm, learning salsa and watching dance shows inspired by “Mambo Kings,” dancing and neon face painting in a black light “Avatar” inspired area, channeling their inner George Clooney in the “Ocean’s Eleven” themed lounge

and casino, and rounding it off with dancing in a “Matrix” style. Long Beach has much more to offer than the Queen Mary, however. The town’s easily accessible downtown is a treasure trove of restaurants, shops, early 20th century architecture, and Art Deco tiled elements. Bike rentals, city bikes, and trails abound as well. My favorite is the 3.1-mile Shoreline Bike Path located close to downtown hotels and must-see attractions. Beginning at the lighthouse in Shoreline Aquatic Park, the route juts out and around the Aquarium of the Paciﬁc – with more than 11,000 regional ﬁsh, sea animals, penguins, and a huge Lorikeet aviary – and then through the Rainbow Lagoon Park, which offers

Our Happy Kitchen Public Workshops

Michael Jackson’s Neverland Ranch swing ride sit next to sparkling smokestacks.

The view from the Sky Room restaurant of the Performing Arts Center in the Convention and Entertainment Complex in Long Beach.

The town’s easily accessible downtown is a treasure trove of restaurants, shops, early 20th century architecture, and Art Deco tiled elements. Bike rentals, city bikes, and trails abound as well. My favorite is the 3.1-mile Shoreline Bike Path located close to downtown hotels and ‘must see’ attractions. C H E R Y L

the best view of the world’s largest mural. As one of the 100 “whaling walls” painted by artist Robert Wyland, the large circular tank-like building convinces most visitors it’s part of the aquarium rather than a large arena within the Convention and Entertainment Complex. The bike path then turns back to the beach’s permanent volleyball nets, where Olympian Misty May Treanor and many world-class volleyball enthusiasts play, along with world-class wannabes and weekend warriors. Continuing past the Long Beach Museum of Art sitting high atop a bluff, the route continues into the neighborhood of Belmont Shore. The Belmont Brewing Company, located across from the Belmont Beach Pier, is right on the way and a great place to stop for a quick meal or drink while enjoying the ocean air. It’s also the perfect spot for people watching, especially when four to ﬁve person peddlepropelled surreys pass by. The Belmont Shore area of Long Beach sits directly across from Naples Island, a lovely little land mass ﬁlled with beach cottages (some more akin to mansions) 48 L I F E S T Y L E | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 6

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beautifully decorated for the season. The city does its part as well by installing underwater platforms to hold lighted Christmas trees, which appear to “ﬂoat” in the bay. You can reach the island by bicycle or foot after continuing along the oceanfront another .25 miles, turning left onto Bay Shore Avenue and a quick right onto East 2nd Avenue. Home to another “must-do” Long Beach activity, the Gondola Getaway* has authentic Venetian style boats complete with a gondolier to row through the cozy canals of Naples. And on Dec. 17, the 70th Annual Naples Island Boat Parade takes place at 6 p.m. Streets close at 5 p.m., so get there early and stake out a spot along the parks, bay frontage, or bridges to see larger boats, small Duffy electric vessels, and gondolas lit and decorated in crazy and creative ways. Everyone with a boat joins in, so you’ll ﬁnd none for rental that evening, but you can inexpensively tour around the island during the season on the 110 passenger Harbor Lights Christmas Cruise* leaving from Alamitos Bay Landing.

HERE’S MORE INFORMATION IN ORDER TO PLAN THE PERFECT VISIT: L’Opera Restaurant (lopera.com) has won numerous awards for its Northern Italian food and extensive wine cellar. Located on Pine Street in the historically handsome 1906 First National Bank building, the original moldings and mahogany floors were saved and restored when the restaurant opened 26 years ago. The Sky Room and Bar (theskyroom.com) has won numerous awards for its California-eclectic cuisine. Located atop the famed 1926 Breakers Hotel, it offers 360-degree ocean and downtown skyline views from its restored, pre-war Art Deco interior. The restaurant’s dance floor and live entertainment allows diners to work off their meal as well. When staying on the Queen Mary, reserve deluxe rooms and suites, which were the original first class rooms, and reserve your spot at the restaurants ahead of your stay. The passport package includes tours (which also can be booked by non-hotel guests) and is the best way to see the closed parts of the ship and hear stories that bring history to life. For Chill, consider purchasing the Elf pass to bypass lines at Alice in Winterland and the ice slide tubing. * Long Beach Transit: lbtransit.com * Gondola Getaway: gondolagetawayinc.com * Harbor Lights Christmas Cruise: reggaeboat.com

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LITERARY ARTS

Dr. Raghavendra Rao with his wife, Usha.

P O R T E R V I L L E

P E D I AT R I C I A N

S H A R E S

S T O R I E S

O F

HEALTH & LOVE I

f a book titled Bugs, Drugs and Hugs catches your eye, you might be curious to learn just what it is all about. Noticing the author’s identity would be a revealing clue. The author, Dr. Raghavendra Rao, is a Porterville pediatrician. His second book has a more self-evident title – Helping Your Child Be Well. It includes 101 true stories and vignettes about childhood diseases, prevention, health, and happiness. Besides his books, Dr. Rao has published 30 scientiﬁc papers and a stack of articles and ﬁctional stories. Most of the latter two have been released by the Siliconeer, a Bay Area magazine, and the Porterville Recorder. He has also had stories in Contemporary

Pediatrics and Reading Hour. His articles usually answer questions such as why green tea, ginger, or chocolate are good for you. Some cover developments in science. He posts some of his health-oriented stories on the walls of his examining room and parents read them while they wait and often ask for copies. His ﬁctional stories feature such things as romance, the keys to happiness, and the like. Dr. Rao grew up in a small village in India where he ran barefoot all the time and didn’t know anything about city life. His father, Srinivasa Rao, was a teacher and later became headmaster of the school. He was a storyteller, as was Dr. Rao’s grandmother. She told stories T E X T

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from the epic “Ramayana.” “After the stories, then only we will sleep,” he said. “And now the tradition is that my grandchildren want the stories.” Sometimes he also tells the story of Rama, an incarnation of the god, Vishnu. Rama is a beloved prince with a plotting stepmother. When his beautiful princess is abducted, Rama gathers an army of monkeys and bears and rescues her. “They love that,” he said. “Then I quiz them afterwards.” Dr. Rao’s ﬁrst attempt at publication was in high school when his teacher encouraged him to submit a poem for publication. It was rejected, but he tried again while he was an undergraduate in college in India. This time he wrote in the Telugu language and was published in

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many stories from the children he treats, the college literary journal. about 200 of which he has turned into “It was exciting to see my name in works of fiction or non-fiction. Some are print,” he said. “That was a different ball just vignettes rather than fully-formed game, really.” stories. In India, as a third-year medical He has been able to fit writing into his student, he published an article on busy schedule as a pediatrician because hematology (blood diseases) in an the stories are always circulating in his Indian science journal and this became mind. a field of special interest to him. After “Some nights I don’t get sleep,” he graduation, he tutored in Pathology and said. “My brain is churning and churning. Internal Medicine. How to produce things in the proper Dr. Rao and his wife, Usha, met when way and make it interesting.” their parents brought them together as potential marriage partners. She sat on a mat and seemed to be “studying it for a research project” as Dr. Rao wrote in one of his articles. Both were shy, but he was already entranced by her beauty, education, and musical ability. Despite their LITERARY ARTS differing backgrounds, their love has blossomed and grown for 48 years now. “The children laugh when I tell them how I met their mother and how I married first, and then fell in love,” he wrote. The couple arrived in America because of Dr. Rao’s interest in medical research. He had his medical education and post graduate training from Kumool Medical School, and came to intern in New York City, an extreme change from his village life. Usha, on the other hand, was a city girl. She felt right at home amidst the hustle and bustle of New York life. Dr. Rao completed his residency in pediatrics in Rhode Island before returning to New York as an instructor and physician. The couple’s two children, Geetha Rao and Veena Rao, were born in the U.S. Both are now doctors. He writes his stories on paper first, The Raos' came west in 1977 when then transfers them to the computer, a friend told him about an opening at where he modifies them. One of the what was then Porterville State Hospital. areas he works on is to simplify medical He welcomed moving back to a small jargon. The difficult part is often to town, but Porterville’s lack of size was decide what to leave in and what to a shock to his wife. It took her awhile to leave out. adapt, after always living in a city, but “Everything looks important to me,” now she does like living there. he said. “Some of the stories are so big, In Porterville, Dr. Rao practiced but the limits are there. Many of them, Pediatrics and Pediatric Hematology they want 400 words, 500 words.” and Oncology. Even at 76 years, Dr. Rao His fiction stories in Siliconeer are still enjoys his Pediatric practice and required to be under 1,000 words. working with children. He has gleaned 52 L I F E S T Y L E | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 6

Sometimes when he writes an article, the magazine edits it and what he wanted to say doesn’t come out completely. “I don’t blame them. The space is money for them,” he said. Over the years, he has learned the art of writing succinctly, but ﬁtting the signiﬁcance of a story into a small space can take more time than writing more loosely. “How many hours I spent working on a 400-word story, nobody knows,” he said. “Even my wife doesn’t know.” “When he’s at home,” Usha said lovingly, “he’s upstairs, writing all the time.” Dr. Rao also writes essays that offer inspiring lessons for the Porterville Recorder once every two or three weeks. One of these essays was titled “Who is a Hero.” In it, he tells about children who were concerned about a bug on its back on the sidewalk struggling to right itself, but they were afraid to touch it. When Dr. Rao picked it up and put it on a branch out of harm’s way, for a moment he was a hero in their eyes. Another of his stories was published in Contemporary Pediatrics. “Angels on Earth” tells of the efforts a mother makes to help her child learn to overcome disabilities. Dr. Rao is a member of the Porterville Writers group, which includes Shirley Hickman and Marilyn Meredith among others. The group of writers appreciate each other’s talents and offer suggestions for improvement. Marilyn praised Dr. Rao for getting “lots of darling short stories published.” When he retires, he would like to publish a collection of these stories in another book similar to Bugs, Drugs, and Hugs, which, it turns out, is a collection of true stories on illnesses, substance abuse, and love for the children from his practice. “I change the names of the parents and children in my stories for privacy reasons,” he said. “Occasionally, parents recognize that the story is about their child and they appreciate it and tell me this helps other parents who have a child with the same disease.”

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HOLIDAY MADNESS WITH THE TULARE COUNTY SYMPHONY One of the Central Valley’s most popular holiday traditions, this concert features more than 300 performers and launches the season of celebration with a spirit of song. Come and share the joy—join the community in experiencing all our holiday favorites old and new! When: Dec. 10, 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Where: Visalia Fox Theatre, 308 W. Main St., Visalia Contact: 732-8600

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FAME: THE MUSICAL This musical relives the journey, struggles, fears, and triumphs of navigating the world of dance, music, and theatre. Conceived from the unforgettable Academy Award-winning ﬁlm and subsequent Emmy Awardwinning TV series, then transformed into this riveting musical theatre masterpiece. When: Jan. 10, 8 p.m. Where: Visalia Fox Theatre, 308 W. Main St., Visalia Contact: 625-1369

FIDDLING FUN WITH THE TULARE COUNTY SYMPHONY

Every year, Arts Visalia hosts their annual Holiday Gift Sale, where they expand their gift gallery with a wide selection of unique gift cards, wood works, ceramics, ﬁbers arts, paintings, prints, photographs, and other handcrafted items. Works are created by local and regional artists.

Two great composers showed how they were inspired by their distinct folk heritage, Thaikovsky’s Ukrainian inspired “Dance” symphony and Beethoven’s youthful ﬁrst symphony, with their infectious ﬁddle music. Tickets range between $30 and $39.50.

When: Now – Dec. 17 Where: Arts Visalia, 214 E. Oak Ave., Visalia Contact: 739-0905

When: Jan. 14, 7:30 p.m. Where: Visalia Fox Theatre, 308 W. Main St., Visalia Contact: 732-8600 or tularecountysymphony.com

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HAPPENINGS

CHRISTMAS VILLAGE AT TULARE COUNTY OFFICE OF EDUCATION

DIVERSIONS & EXCU R S I O N S GLOBAL WINTER WONDERLAND The Global Winter Wonderland is back at the Tulare County Fairgrounds for the second year. This holiday festival is a multi-cultural celebration featuring illuminated landscapes, live entertainment, a carnival, international cuisine, and shopping. When: Opens Now, 5-11 p.m. (times may vary) Where: Tulare County Fairgrounds, 620 S. K St., Tulare Contact: globalwinterwonderland.com

HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE IN DOWNTOWN VISALIA Enjoy exceptional shopping and dining while listening to your favorite holiday tunes from local high school bands. Take a ride on a horse drawn carriages for just $5 (up to four people), then stop by 209 W. Main Street for your $5 photo with Santa.

You are invited to visit a spectacular exhibition of hand-painted porcelain buildings, ﬁgures, plazas, and parks depicting a delightful holiday cityscape of the past. The exhibition, entitled A Holiday in the City, will be held in the lobby of TCOE’s new Administration Building and Conference Center. Dozens of illuminated homes, civic buildings, businesses, churches and restaurants will be featured in the 55-foot long display. When: Now–Dec. 29, weekdays, 8 a.m. -7 p.m. (dates and times may vary; call front desk to conﬁrm) Where: TCOE Administration and Conference Center, 6200 S. Mooney Blvd., Visalia Contact: 733-6300

When: Thursdays in December, 5-8 p.m. Where: Downtown Visalia Contact: downtownvisalia.com

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EXETER WOMAN’S CLUB HOLIDAY HOME TOUR There’s no time like the holidays, especially during the Exeter Woman’s Club Holiday Home Tour. Get in the Christmas spirit by walking through four beautifully decorated homes. Before the tour, start out at the “hospitality stop” for tickets, sweets, and savories. Tickets are $20 per person. Head to exeterwomansclub.com for more information. When: Dec. 9, 4-8 p.m. Where: Exeter Woman’s Clubhouse, 201 N. Kaweah Ave., Exeter Contact: Rosemary Hellwig, 799-3641

HAPPENINGS

“THE OLATE DOGS” SANTA PAWS HOLIDAY SHOW The Olate Dogs are the winning participants from season seven of “America's Got Talent,” scooping up the $1 million prize and headlining The Palazzo in Las Vegas. Now The Olate Dogs Santa Paws Holiday Show will appear in Visalia. This family-fun show features a high-energy, fast-paced canine theatrical act ﬁlled with amazing dog tricks, human acrobatics, and humor. When: Dec. 11, 2 p.m. Where: Visalia Convention Center, 303 E. Acequia Ave., Visalia Contact: visaliatix.com

TREK TO SEE THE NATION’S CHRISTMAS TREE Every year, the Sanger Chamber of Commerce hosts an annual “Trek to the Tree” to see the General Grant Tree. Since 1925, the Trek to the Tree has honored the men and women of the Armed Forces who have fought and died for their country. As usual, entrance to the parks is free to allow everyone to participate in this event. Buses run from Sanger and there will be a free shuttle from the Kings Canyon Visitor Center parking lot. When: Dec. 11, 2:30 p.m. Where: Kings Canyon Visitor Center Contact: visitsequoia.com

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HAPPENINGS

TULARE CHAMBER HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE Stop in at the Chamber building to meet the 2017 Chamber of Commerce Board and Chamber staff while networking with community business leaders. There will be refreshments, drinks, and prizes for attendees. When: Dec. 14, 5-7 p.m. Where: Tulare Chamber of Commerce, 220 E. Tulare Ave., Tulare Contact: 686-1547

COWBOY CHRISTMAS WITH SONS OF THE SAN JOAQUIN The local favorite country group, Sons of the San Joaquin, will perform Christmas music with a country twist. This family trio sings western music, which celebrate the life, work, and the geographical setting of the American Cowboy. Tickets are just $15-$30 per person.

MARDI GRAS NIGHT IN DOWNTOWN A great night of fun, food, and mixology! Start with hors d'oeuvres and drinks at Jack & Charlie's. Then cross the street to the Southern Paciﬁc Depot for a great four course dinner. $95 all inclusive. Join Almesa Winery and let the good times roll. RSVP by calling the number below. When: Feb 9, 6:30 p.m. Where: Jack & Charlie's and The Southern Paciﬁc Depot, Oak Street Contact: The Depot, 732-8611

When: Dec. 17, 3 p.m. Where: Visalia Fox Theatre, 308 W. Main St., Visalia Contact: 625-1369

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ServiceMaster by Hellstern

Ron Hellstern owner 559.738.8927 Serving the Visalia area | Locally owned and operated for over 25 years

Tropics by design STAGING

DESIGN AND INSTALLATION

559.583.1480 OR VISIT US AT

MyExpressPharmacy.net This pharmacy is independently owned and operated under a license from Health Mart Systems, Inc.

Interior plantscaping and some simple design elements can make your place of business or home more warm and inviting. Call 559.734.4920 to see what we can do for your interior.

LIVE PLANT RENTAL AND LEASING LIFEST YLE | DECEMBER 201 6

HAPPENINGS

TOYS FOR TOTS JINGLE BELL RUN

C H A R I TA B L E EVENTS 36TH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS TREE AUCTION The Christmas Tree Auction has become a legacy in Visalia as non-proﬁts use this black tie celebration to advance their mission through donations they receive and awareness they generate. Come dressed in your best to celebrate a “White Christmas” while you support local non-proﬁts. Tickets are $70 for general admission, $130 for the VIP dinner.

Support Toys for Tots by running or walking this two-mile course on Main Street. There will be awards in each age division. All participants will receive an event design sweatshirt and Jingle Bells. If you bring a new, unwrapped toy, you will receive a Santa hat. There is a $30 race fee. When: Dec. 11, 9 a.m. Where: Downtown Visalia, 308 W. Main St., Visalia Contact: runsignup.com/Race/CA/ Visalia/VisaliaJingleBellRun

When: Dec. 9, 5:30 p.m. Where: Visalia Convention Center, 303 E. Acequia Ave., Visalia Contact: visaliachamber.org

ON SALE NOW!

Ladysmith Black Mambazo

L adysmith Black Mambazo - Paul Simon's 1987 hit, GRACELAND topped Billboard charts thanks to Mambazo's unforgettable accompanyment. 308 West Main St.

Tue, January 24 @ 7:30 pm 559-625-1369 foxvisalia.org. TurnaroundArtists.org

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TULARE CHAMBER’S 133rd ANNUAL BANQUET Join the Tulare Chamber of Commerce for their annual banquet, where they will honor the 2016 award recipients. Event tickets are $60 each. Call the number below to inquire about sponsorship opportunities. When: Jan. 20, 6 p.m. Where: Heritage Complex at the International Agri-Center, 4500 S. Laspina St., Tulare Contact: 686-1547 or tularechamber.org

CANDIES

AFFORDABLE BREAST AUGMENTATION WITH NO BREAST SCARS, and LESS DOWNTIME.

model

5 5 9. 6 2 5 . 8 6 3 6 F ac ebook.c om / Mic h aelBS teven s MD

Know your surgeon, know your procedure. Dr. Stevens personally performs your entire surgical procedure.