Visalia Lifestyle Magazine – December 2019 by Lifestyle Magazine

STYLE, ART, CULTURE, + EVENTS OF THE SOUTH VALLEY DECEMBER 2019

EPICURE

HOLIDAY HORS D'OEUVRES Page 26

HOME TOUR

THE MUXLOW CABIN Page 32 TRAVELERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S TREK

WARM WEATHER WINTER DESTINATIONS Page 54

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32 HOME TOUR

THE MUXLOW CABIN Gatherings take on a special meaning for Susie and Dave Muxlow when their family squeezes into their cozy log cabin in Kingsburg. While the structure took shape in just a few days, the grandparents of 13 are looking forward to decades of memories being made in the home on the Kings River.

WHAT'S INSIDE 8 From The Editor 10 Word Play 12 Sequoia Symphony

VISALIA ELECTRIC RAILROAD

THE HOLIDAY TABLE

HOLIDAY HORS D'OEUVRES

WARM WEATHER WINTER DESTINATIONS

REFLECTIONS OF VISALIA

HOLIDAY DECOR

18 Local Adventure: Winter Activities 24 Community: Shop Local 40 Art Now: Nick Potter 44 Sip: Holiday Cocktails 48 Humanitarian: Salt + Light Works 52 Literary Arts: Brynn Saito 58 Kudos: BGCS Social Swirl 60 Happenings

EPICURE

4 LIFEST YLE | DECEMBER 2019

TRAVELER'S TREK

PUBLISHED BY

DMI Agency 200 E. Center Ave., Suite A Visalia, CA 93291

Karen Tellalian

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

CREATIVE DIRECTOR ART DIRECTOR SENIOR DESIGNER WEB DESIGNER/DESIGNER TEXT EDITOR

Greg Bitney Marcie Vagnino Frank Miramontes Kaci Hansen Melinda Brown

ONTRIBUTING WRITERS C OPERATIONS MANAGER

Aaron Collins Corey Gendreau Diane Slocum Dixie Lobmeyer James Jessen Joshua Banda Lauren Westra Lisa McEwen Sabrina Sabbagh Sue Burns Terry L. Ommen

Sales@DMIAgency.com

ADVERTISING SALES

Maria Gaston

SALES OFFICE 200 E. Center Ave., Suite A Visalia, CA 93291 559.739.1747

E-MAIL Lifestyle@DMIAgency.com WEBSITE www.VisaliaLifestyle.com VIEW THE MAG ONLINE Issuu.com/LifestyleMagazine Facebook.com/LifestyleMag Instagram: visalialifestyle

RACK LOCATIONS DMI Agency Bistro di Bufala Evolutions Fitness Center, Tulare Exeter Chamber of Commerce

International Agri-Center The Lifestyle Center Tulare Chamber of Commerce Tulare County Library

Visalia Chamber of Commerce Visalia Convention Center

COUNTERTOP LOCATIONS 210 Cafe AMCC Armstrong Property Management Arts Visalia Ashoori & Co. Jewelers Anderson Real Estate Group Blend WIne Room Citizen's Bank Comfort Suites Downtown CreekSide Day Spa Skin & Laser Center Downtown Visalia Alliance Exeter Library Four Creeks Coffee Shop

Franey's Design Center Fugazzis (Downtown Visalia) Glick's and Co. Holvik Family Health Center ImagineU Children’s Museum Janeen’s Furniture Gallery Kaweah Delta Hospital Keller Williams Reality Marcela's Home Store Max's Cookies Michael's Custom Jewelry Monet’s, Exeter Pacific Treasures Premier Medical Clinic PRO-PT

Salon 525 Sequoia Dental Sunmed Health & Weight Management The Aesthetic Center The Planing Mill V Medical Spa Vintage Press Visalia Ceramic Tile Visalia Marriott Visalia Medical Clinic Watson's Veggie Garden Wildflower Café, Exeter Williams, Brodersen & Pritchett, Attorneys at Law

Visalia Lifestyle Magazine is published monthly and is distributed via direct mail to nearly 13,600 homes in the upper-middle and high-income neighborhoods in Visalia. An additional 2,000 copies are distributed at various distribution points around Visalia, Tulare, and Exeter. Views expressed in columns are those of the columnist and not necessarily those of DMI Agency or its advertisers. Circulation of this issue: 15,600 © 2019 DMI Agency

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F rom The

EDITOR

he holidays always seem to bring back memories of times — and loved ones — from our past. As the years go by, we often forget the less happy times and replace them with what we have chosen to hang on to. These memories help us to persist in our need to feel connected and also to navigate through whatever is happening in our lives today. If you, like me, struggle with how to make the holiday season memorable, remember that it is our connection with others that gives us purpose. In the future, I wish to be remembered more for what I did, instead of what I bought. There might not be a better example of a human who truly understands this than Adrianne Hillman. Her new venture, Salt + Light Works, modeled after a project in Austin, Texas, hopes to make a significant difference in reducing homelessness in our community. She subscribes to the belief that the greatest cause of homelessness is the “profound, catastrophic loss of family.” To read more about Adrianne’s efforts to create a village centered on community and removing our homeless from the streets, please turn to page 48. As the Lifestyle and DMI Agency staff takes a few moments to remember what is most important to us, we would like to share our holiday message: “Our wish this year is that all of us will take time to set aside the toy soldiers and remember the real ones serving here and abroad during the holiday season. To all of those who sacrifice so that we can live this life in peace, our heartfelt thanks at this time of year for protecting all that we hold dear. May every joy this season brings, with everything this season means, be in abundance to you and yours from here at home to distant shores.” Karen and staff

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

Hair by Christina Jordan, CA LOOKS Salon | Makeup by Orlando Molina Gonzales

8 LIFEST YLE | DECEMBER 2019

W O R D

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NEWS ON WRITING, BOOKS + THE WORLD OF PUBLISHING T E X T

ecember holidays are supposed to be a time of joy. For many, they are not. Here are some books offering ways to encourage joy in our lives.

are revealed as the story unfolds. The wife,

“The Book of Joy: Lasting Happiness in a Changing World” (Avery, 2016) by the Dalai Lama, Desmond Tutu and Douglas Carlton Abrams shows how the two world leaders have lived lives of joy despite — or even partly because of — all the potentially devastating hardships that they have survived. Abrams captured their time together celebrating the Dalai Lama’s 80th birthday as they shared how to be joyful even with inevitable suffering.

Lynch has been an editor on the Harvard

“The Art for Joy’s Sake Journal: Watercolor Discovery and Releasing Your Creative Spirit (Artisan Series)” (October 2019, Schiffer) by Kristy Rice encourages people at all levels of artistic talent to pick up a brush and paint for the sake of joy. “The Joy of Missing Out: Live More by Doing Less” (October 2019, Thomas Nelson) by Tonya Dalton, productivity expert and CEO of inkWELL Press Productivity Co., encourages women to be less busy and focus on what is important. “Joyful: The Surprising Power of Ordinary Things to Create Extraordinary Happiness” (Little, Brown Spark, 2018) by Ingrid Fetell Lee shows how to find joy in the simplest of things like sunsets and shaggy dogs, or simply a freshly painted room or a vase of flowers. She wondered how the physical aspects of the world around us could bring joy and began her research. VALLEY WRITERS College of the Sequoias English Professor Christina Lynch is the author of “The Italian Party” (St. Martin’s Press, 2018). The story is about American newlyweds who come to live in the Italian city of Siena in the 1950s and the secrets that 10 L I F E S T Y L E | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 9

Scottie, discovers dark truths about herself, her husband and her country. Her husband, Michael, begins to see himself as a pawn.

Lampoon and the Milan correspondent for W magazine and Women’s Wear Daily. She wrote for Unhappily Ever After, Encore, Encore, The Dead Zone and Wildfire. She is also the co-author of a two-book series using the pseudonym Magnus Flyte. The titles are “City of Dark Magic” and “City of Lost Dreams” (Thorndike Press). Fresno Pacific University Professor Lawrence Dunn began writing poetry after his son died. He didn’t intend the pieces to be poems, merely expressions of his grief. A presentation by former poet laureate Juan Felipe Herrera opened his mind to the idea that his expressions of emotions could be poems. He is working on a memoir of poetry. He is a professor

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of peacemaking and conflict studies and has published “Discovering Forgiveness: Pathways Through Injury, Apology, and Healing” (Cascadia Publishing, 2014). FOOD FOR FINES The Tulare County Library is offering the opportunity to pay fines with food. Through Dec. 20, up to $10 can be deducted from overdue fines by donating nonperishable food and health-care items at any branch. Donations will be delivered to local organizations for distribution. Call or visit your local branch for more information. VISALIA LIBRARY BRANCH EVENTS Funtastic Friday will be offered on Friday, Jan. 3, from 2 to 5:30 p.m. The STEM club will meet on Friday, Jan. 3, at 3 p.m. in the Blue Room. Tutoring will be offered most days at various times, including on Saturdays in January from 9 to 10 a.m., 10 a.m. to noon and noon to 1 p.m. Toddler Story Time will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. on Tuesdays. The First Tuesday Book Club will meet on Jan. 7 from 6:30 to 7:45 p.m. WRITING CONTEST The Chattahoochee Review is accepting submissions for the Lamar York Prizes. Unpublished stories and essays of up to 6,000 words will be accepted through Jan. 31. All entries will be considered for publication. The $18 entry fee includes a one-year subscription to the review. Winners in each category will receive $1,000 and publication. Judges include novelist Anthony Varallo and essayist Alice Bolin. Details at: chattahoocheereview.gsu.edu/lamaryork-prizes. THE LAST WORD “When it rains it pours. Maybe the art of life is to convert tough times to great experiences: we can choose to hate the rain or dance in it.” — Joan Marques L

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S E Q U O I A

S Y M P H O N Y

DONORS MAKE THE MUSIC POSSIBLE T E X T

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s we complete another year of bringing classical music to Tulare County, we want to thank you for your generosity over our 60-year history. Because of you, we have been able to bring new life into our vibrant community and have plans to enhance these experiences even further. Today, we are asking for your support — we need it now more than ever.

We are thrilled to report that this year, in honor of our 60th anniversary, we have a generous supporting individual who has issued the following challenge: If we can raise $60,000 in donations by Jan. 31, 2020, this individual will contribute another $60,000 to the Sequoia Symphony. All gifts are welcome and will count towards this challenge, and gifts of $1,500 or higher will accelerate our efforts to meet the goal on or before the deadline. This is another exciting opportunity for us to raise the funds we need so that we can continue bringing programs to the community such as the Raiders of the Lost Ark film concert that opened up the season.

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GIVE TO OUR COMMUNITY. Music is the foundation upon which every great community is built. For 60 years, the Sequoia Symphony Orchestra has been a leader among arts organizations in Tulare County, employing more than 70 musicians who live and work in our area. Your gift brings together those musicians and music lovers. GIVE TO HONOR SOMEONE. A gift to the Sequoia Symphony will support important community outreach programs like Music Medicine. This program brings the harmony of the Sequoia Symphony to Kaweah Delta to help them experience the beauty and serenity of live music. Give in honor of someone you love — your gift will make a difference in the lives of so many. GIVE TO HELP CULTIVATE A LOVE OF MUSIC. Our annual Youth Concerts guide students in third through fifth grades through an interactive concert

We’re asking you to include the Sequoia Symphony Orchestra in your year-end giving plans and donate as much as you possibly can by sending your contribution today. Every dollar that you invest in the Sequoia Symphony helps us to continue the programs that you’ve seen recently, bringing music to your community, but we simply cannot do it without your support. WHY GIVE TO THE SEQUOIA SYMPHONY? GIVE TO HEAR THE MUSIC. As a nonprofit organization, the Sequoia Symphony Orchestra relies on the generosity of its donors. The symphony’s exciting and innovative programming brings a new dimension to the artistry of Tulare County, from Masterworks to Pops. Your gift enables the Sequoia Symphony to perform inspirational, original and groundbreaking concerts. 12 L I F E S T Y L E | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 9

UPCOMING CONCERT Jan. 25, 2020 American Inagurals Barber: Overture to the School for Scandal Fuchs: Concerto for Alto Sax and Orchestra "Rush" Jonathan Hulting-Cohen, alto sax Copland: "Billy the Kid" (complete ballet) Tickets and information: (559) 732-8600 sequoiasymphonyorchestra.com Facebook @SequoiaSymphony Instagram @SequoiaSymphonyOrchestra

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performance with the Sequoia Symphony. Your gift will bring music into the lives of children and inspire them to succeed in school and beyond. GIVE TO EXPRESS LOVE. The love of music, the love of one another, the love of the arts. Your gift enables the artistry of the Sequoia Symphony to be experienced throughout the region, bringing the highest quality music to our community. No matter your reason, it is only because of YOU that we can celebrate our 60th season. When you support the symphony, you are passing on the gift of music and changing lives. There are many ways to give — check, credit card, cash or stock transfer. You may give online at sequoiasymphonyorchestra.com (Visa or Mastercard) or call the symphony office at (559) 732-8600. Thank you for your generosity and best wishes for a happy holiday season.

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The Visalia Electric Railroad made special trips for special events. In 1919, the Sweet company used the railroad for an employee trip to Terminus Beach. Here, the train is parked in front of the Visalia depot at Oak and Church streets, with the Tulare County Jail in the background. Note the pantograph mounted on top of the car and the overhead lines.

VISALIA ELECTRIC RAILROAD

A SHAKY START TO AN ELECTRIFYING EXPERIENCE TEXT AND PHOTOS SUBMITTED BY TERRY L. OMMEN

isalia has had railroad service since 1874, when the residents, disappointed by being cut off from the newly created Southern Pacific line, built a connecting railroad between Goshen and Visalia and called it the Visalia Railroad Company. Other railroads followed, like the Visalia-Tulare Railroad, the Southern Pacific and another line that would become the Santa Fe.

And then there was one more railroad that came to town. It was the Visalia Electric Railroad (V.E.R.R.) — an advanced idea that became reality thanks to a small group of visionaries and entrepreneurs, some of whom had just started a hydroelectric business. The Mt. Whitney Power Company began on the Kaweah River and generated electricity — with plenty to spare for the electric line. 14 L I F E S T Y L E | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 9

The V.E.R.R. actually began in April 1903, when the Tulare County Board of Supervisors granted a railroad “franchise” to John Hayes Hammond and Harold Wheeler. Their new transportation company incorporated in 1904, but didn’t actually begin operation until March 1908. During the lag time, equipment was purchased, overhead lines were installed and real estate was acquired. When they made the “trial trip” on March 1, 1908, the results were “satisfactory in every way.” The Daily Visalia Delta wholeheartedly endorsed the venture, commenting that “the whir of the electric trolley sounds like music to the Visalia man who is interested in public progress.” In the years that followed, the enterprise provided passenger and freight services between Visalia and numerous communities to the east. The line at one time extended from Visalia to Strathmore on the south, to Elderwood on the north and Terminus Beach on the east. Existing Southern Pacific Railroad tracks were used when possible and existing depots when practical, including Visalia’s Southern Pacific Depot at Oak and Church streets. Although the little railroad was a success overall, like most other complex ventures, the operation had its share of problems. In fact, based on the numerous accidents and glitches, it’s surprising that the V.E.R.R. survived.

Shortly after service began, it became obvious that both the public and company employees were struggling to adjust to the new mode of transportation. Two days after the trial, the V.E.R.R. freight train, loaded with railroad officials and supporters, left the Visalia depot and immediately collided at Oak and Garden streets with a two-horse buggy driven by Mrs. J. W. Clark. She entered the intersection not seeing or hearing the silent-running train that had entered the intersection at the same time. She turned the buggy sharply to avoid the collision, but a buggy wheel became lodged in the train. The wheel was ripped off, but fortunately Clark, a young male passenger and her horses were unhurt. Responsibility for the accident was placed with the train operator, who failed to ring the train bell as the “motor glided along so noiselessly.” Then just two days later, there was another close call. The overhead electrical line near the Visalia depot snapped and left a high-voltage wire exposed on the street. Arthur Farley, a Southern Pacific Railroad mechanic, noticed the condition and notified Visalia nightwatchman W. H. Anderson, who guarded the potentially deadly hazard until Mt. Whitney power linemen made the repairs. Another potential crisis averted. A year later, an intoxicated man named

Leon Charilla boarded the train at the Visalia depot. As the car reached the eastern city limits, the conductor discovered that Charilla did not have a ticket. He was escorted from the train, but the young man was not happy about it. As the train continued on its journey, the evicted man reached into his back pocket and, after considerable fumbling, removed a pistol and fired several shots toward the train. No one was injured on the out-of-range train, but Charilla spent the next 15 days in the county jail for disturbing the peace. But incidents involving the electric train were not always injury-free. In August 1911, David M. Scott, who normally was a conductor on the V.E.R.R., was working as a brakeman near Lemon Cove. For some reason, he climbed onto the top of one of the cars while the train was moving. On certain cars, there was mounted on the roof a mechanism called a pantograph used to transfer electricity from the overhead lines to the train’s motor. As Scott was crawling through the pantograph, he touched a “hot” wire, which sent 3,300 volts of electricity through his body. The shock killed him instantly. Two years later, another employee named Harvey Long received a large dose of current when he mistakenly touched the fuse box in the railroad car. The motorman spent three months in the hospital, but the shock left him with a crippled right hand. The injured man sued his employer, but lost the suit after the jury found that he was “negligent in the operation of the car.…” On Aug. 12, 1916, at about 4:40 p.m., the V.E.R.R. was involved in another incident. Bloom Parr, her husband and daughter Esta were traveling eastbound in their Ford automobile at the railroad crossing on East Main Street in Visalia. They were traveling slowly as they prepared to cross what many people thought was “one of the most dangerous crossings in Tulare County.” Parked on a siding near the crossing were railroad cars unloading oil at the Mt. Whitney Power steam plant, partially blocking the view. As Parr eased over the tracks, V.E.R.R. car #411 operated by motorman Williams came through the crossing. He slammed into the Ford and the auto was tossed into the air. The three occupants were ejected. Williams stopped the train and immediately checked on the injured family. He found Bloom on the 16 L I F E S T Y L E | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 9

This was the official timetable for the railroad company effective March 1, 1915.

ground seriously injured, her husband hurt slightly and Esta had some broken bones. Bloom died from her injuries. For the next several years, routes were adjusted and diesel engines replaced electricity. But the changes were too late to affect the reality. Train passenger and freight service was beginning to decline. Automobile ownership was increasing rapidly, and railroads began to fall out of favor. All passenger service for the V.E.R.R. was discontinued as of Oct. 31, 1924, and all electric freight operation stopped on Nov. 13, 1944. Today, other than the memories of some old-timers, there is little left of the V.E.R.R. on the Tulare County landscape. L

The logo for the Visalia Electric Railroad.

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COOL ACTIVITIES ADD UP TO WINTER FUN T E X T

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he warm weather has retreated just in time to welcome winter, and outdoor activities await. Amid the shopping, cooking, baking and merrymaking, close-to-home opportunities will ensure that everyone has a chance to enjoy the crisp air during the holidays. Ice Skate Visalia, presented by the city

of Visalia’s Parks & Recreation Department, is back. The rink opens for the season on Saturday, Dec. 7, from 2-9 p.m. at the Garden Street Plaza downtown. Skating outdoors, surrounded by the festive Main Street decorations and accompanied by holiday music, is sure to get you into the holiday spirit. Admission is $10 per person and includes skate rental. For more information and the full public skating schedule visit iceskatevisalia.com. Skating will be held during the Light Up Downtown Holiday Open Houses on Dec. 12 and 19, and Downtown Visalians will be sponsoring “free” skate nights on these dates. For the price of a stuffed teddy bear, to be donated to first responders and local agencies for children in need, Downtown Visalians will provide four free tickets. Bring teddy bear donations to the office at 120 S. Church St. (Tickets are limited; for more information: downtownvisalia.com.) Third annual Visalia PAL Resolution 5K and Kids Fun Run “Resolve” to start 2020 off on New Year’s Day with a healthy run/walk that also supports our community’s children. The Visalia Police Athletic League will use funds raised through the run to offer camperships for next summer’s PAL Honor Camp. About 50 students from grades four through 12 will attend the weeklong camp staffed by Visalia police officers in the Sequoia National Forest. The family friendly event begins with a Kids 1/4 Fun Run (in view of parents). Kids will receive a special finisher medal. The route for the 5K is a loop run/walk in downtown Visalia. Following the start of the kids’ run, the 5K will take place. All 5K participants will receive a medal and race T-shirt and enjoy snacks at the finish 18 L I F E S T Y L E | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 9

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line. There will also be an expo, which will include activities and some surprises. There is also a “Virtual Race” for those who are not able to be there. Those participants can run the race when and where it’s convenient, even if on a home treadmill. People unable to run can also register for the virtual race. All participants will receive the finisher’s medal and race T-shirt via mail (which accounts for the extra $5 registration cost). For more information and to register, visit runsignup.com/Race/Events/CA/ Visalia/VisaliaPALResolution5K. 20th annual Polar Bear Dip, Gateway Restaurant and Lodge, Three Rivers If you’re looking for a more adventurous and invigorating start to the year, consider joining 80 to 100 others in a dip into the icy waters of the Kaweah River at noon New Year’s Day. A friend of Gateway owner Glenn McIntyre suggested the event

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in 2000 after hearing about polar bear swims around the country and figured that the water would be plenty cold here. The event took off and has grown every year over two decades, with several participants, including a large contingent of locals, returning each year. In addition to the brave souls who participate by actually taking the dip (water temperatures generally register in the mid-30s to low 40s), many spectators are anticipated as well. Swimmers must sign a release to participate; water levels are at their lowest, but first responders trained in swift-water rescue are on-site. After dunking themselves in the freezing or rejuvenating (a matter of opinion) water, polar bear wannabes can warm up and feel human again with hot cocoa, coffee and soup when they emerge from the river. For more information and to register, visit gateway-sequoia.com/event/ annual-polar-bear-dip/. L

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The Holiday Table T E X T, P H OTO S A N D TA B L E D E S I G N S BY L AU R E N W E S T R A

f there is one material thing that I love most about the holiday season, it's decorating in preparation for hosting parties. The thrill of finding the perfect palette to set the mood, the hunt for detail items that make the gathering feel intimate and cozy, and the desire to create foods that complement the feel are the most rewarding of challenges for me this time of year. It only takes a few good, honest friendships to remind me that this isn't true of all holiday party hosts. If you feel

like planning the vibe and decor causes stress and self-doubt, or is too timeconsuming and burdensome, let me help this year. Lifestyle magazine asked me to put together a few inspirational tables to help you set the mood, and I'm excited to share them with you. While I aimed to choose outside-of-thebox color schemes to stretch your holiday imagination, feel free to apply these tips to your own colors and design. Learn how to add depth and richness to your table, how to lighten the mood and

keep things casual, start viewing your menu as potential decor, or surprise everyone with a playful feminine twist on the holidays. Any way you go, I hope that you're able to pull some helpful tips from these four tables so that you can set your table with confidence this season and enjoy your guests without the stress of aesthetics. Although the table design is my favorite material part of the season, the people around it are the better reason to celebrate.

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Feminine

Sometimes it's fun to go off the beaten path. If you're a family full of girls or just like to explore the softer side of Christmas, this feminine color palette is sure to bring joy this season. Playful, colorful tones are softened by a quilt tablecloth â&#x20AC;&#x201D; that's right, a quilt! Blankets can make beautiful table coverings that feel both luxurious and soft. And here I accented with mini bottlebrush trees and matte white ornaments. Colored glassware is sure to delight, and ivy cuttings from the garden bring life to this design.

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Blood Orange

Perhaps as important as the Christmas dinner table is the Christmas breakfast table. For either meal's setup, remember that the food can be the bulk of your dĂŠcor. In this design, breakfast pastries add all the texture and interest to the center of the table, while fruit accents the plates. Consider your menu this holiday season, and focus on displaying the prettiest parts on your table.

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Pistachio

For a rich winter feel, pair a muted bluegrey with a deep maroon or burgundy. In this design, the palette is brightened by a natural wood table, but would also be beautifully accented on a dark wood table. Texture plays an important role in table design: Smooth tabletop and plates are layered with greens and pinecones, softened by pampas grass accents and made "earthy" with pistachios. If you have a lighter dining table but prefer the richer look of the flat lay photos, add a deep maroon or burgundy tablecloth or blanket (pictured here is a chenille blanket).

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Pomegranate

For a more casual approach, skip setting the table. Instead, stack the table with the dining ware you'll need. You can do this any time the week before your holiday meals and enjoy the view much longer than your dinner party will last. Stacks of dishes, serving trays, pitchers and produce (accented by greens, always!) are a beautifully undone design, and this works especially well if you plan to do a buffet for your meal. In this table layout, I draped a tablecloth diagonally across the table before stacking the dining ware. Layers are the key ingredient in this game: Add cranberries or greenery to your spritzers, and use trays to give your glasses a home. Dinner plates can stack on chargers, and layers of pomegranates add even more depth.

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SHOP UNIQUE, SHOP FUN, SHOP LOCAL T E X T

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is the season to shop ’til we drop! From Black Friday to Cyber Monday and right on through the holidays, we’re making our lists and checking them twice as we get online and click on everything we need. True, online shopping is quiet and convenient, but something is definitely missing from the online shopping experience … music, merriment, the fun of being out and about in gaily decorated shops and streets — in short, everything that makes the holidays hectic and fun. One of the best things about the holidays is bundling up and sharing the experience of shopping at local stores with the rest of our community. At the holidays and all year, shopping local goes beyond fun. On its website, AMIBA (the American Independent Business Alliance) outlines reasons for local shopping. Building and shaping a community’s character, strengthening the local economy — local sales taxes generate critical revenue for the maintenance of streets, schools, parks and public services, and consumer satisfaction — top the list. Shopping local is even better for the environment as independent community stores use less land, carry more local products and offer closer access to residents, resulting in less traffic and air pollution.

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It’s well-known that Visalians and residents of nearby cities take pride in community spirit and generous support to local shops and agencies. This is amplified in December as holiday shopping events keep the economy healthy and spirits bright. Crowds gathered to shop, eat, skate and share the season create warmth unmatched by any winter coat. VISALIA Downtown Visalia’s Holiday Open House evenings will take place Dec. 12 and 19 from 5-8 p.m. Plan on shopping at the fine stores along Main Street, and enjoy carriage and train rides and photos with Santa. You’ll work up an appetite, so plan on dinner out while you’re shopping, too. During the evening, Downtown Visalians will collect teddy bears to be donated to the Fire Department and children’s services. As a thank you, donors will receive four free skate-night tickets. Find out more by calling (559) 732-7737. EXETER Exeter’s 28th annual Christmas Open House will also take place on Dec. 12 and 19 from 5–9 p.m. Cheerful downtown shop owners are looking forward to welcoming shoppers to their stores with holiday refreshments and special offers. Carolers will fill the streets with song as shoppers peruse unique boutiques

where one-of-a-kind gifts and treasures await. Free horse-drawn carriage and old-fashioned firetruck rides will add to the merriment, and Santa will be waiting with everyone as well. For more information, contact the Exeter Chamber of Commerce at (559) 592-2919, email chamber@exeterchamber.com or visit ExeterChamber.com. TULARE In Tulare, there are no set holiday events, however, residents have begun spending more time in the newly updated 100 block of South K Street. John Hartman, director of the Tulare Downtown Association and Foundation, and the Tower Square Property Owners Association said that “we’ve seen a resurgence in our own downtown as residents have started ‘bringing it home.’ The 100 block of South K Street is a prime example of what happens when people start shopping locally. We have three or four boutiques, a specialty gym and escape rooms that have opened all in the last 18 months. We have a restaurant under construction, a couple of long-vacant buildings being reactivated and, in general, a positive attitude that our local economy is improving. A portion of this is due to people realizing the power of their dollar in their own community.” For information on upcoming events, visit tularedowntown.com/ L

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Holiday Hors d'oeuvres R E C I P E S

JA M E S

J E S S E N ,

Decorating and cleaning and cooking, oh my! Not sure how youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll manage to get everything done in time for your holiday party? Don't fret! This month chef James Jessen shares a selection of hors dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;oeuvres that can be prepped the day before, and finished in the oven or arranged on a plate on party day so that you can serve your guests with a little less stress! APRICOT BAKED BRIE WITH HONEY PEPPER GLAZE INGREDIENTS 8 ounces round brie 1/3 cup apricot preserves 4 ounces chopped pistachios 1/4 cup honey 1/4 cup apricot preserves 1/4 cup whole fresh cranberries 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes Cayenne to taste DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 400F. Place cheese in a small baking pan. Spread the top of cheese with preserves and sprinkle with pistachios. Bake about 10-12 minutes or until cheese begins to melt and lose shape. For glaze, heat honey, apricot preserves, cranberries, cayenne and red pepper over low heat. Drizzle immediately over warm brie from the oven.

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WILD RICE CHILE RELLENOS WITH POMEGRANATE REDUCTION INGREDIENTS 6 poblano peppers 1 1/2 cup wild rice 6 tablespoons dried cranberries 4 sliced green onions 1 cup sliced wild mushrooms Minced cilantro 12 slices mozzarella 9 tablespoons chevre goat cheese

Fire roast the pepper on a grill until charred. Place in a bowl and cover with plastic wrap to allow peppers to sweat. Slide skin off of the peppers and make a long slice on one side of the peppers. Remove seeds and lay flat with the inside opened up.

POMEGRANATE REDUCTION INGREDIENTS 1 pint pomegranate juice 1/2 cup sugar 1 tablespoon dry sherry or white wine Skin from an apple — the pectin from this is a flavorful thickening agent

DIRECTIONS Cook wild rice according to directions.

Place a slice of mozzarella, 1 1/2 tablespoons goat cheese and fill with the rice mixture, and top with a slice of mozzarella.

DIRECTIONS Over very low heat, simmer all the ingredients until reduced by half.

Sautée wild mushrooms in olive oil or butter with pinch of salt.

Fold the sides of the pepper up so it resembles its original shape, only stuffed.

Strain, chill and drizzle your relleno once out of the oven.

Cool rice and mix with sautéed mushrooms, cranberries and green onions.

Bake at 350F until cheese is melted and peppers are heated through.

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GRILLED BACON-WRAPPED PRAWNS

INGREDIENTS 2 pounds 13/15 raw shrimp 1 can water chestnuts, sliced 1 package thinly sliced bacon Your favorite barbecue sauce to finish Zest of one lemon DIRECTIONS Clean shrimp and make a slit through the middle. Stuff with a thick slice of water chestnut. Wrap the shrimp with half a piece of bacon and secure with a toothpick. Grill the shrimp over medium heat until the bacon gets crispy and shrimp is no longer opaque. Remove from heat and brush with barbecue sauce. Grill about 1 minute to get a lovely glaze from the barbecue sauce. Sprinkle with the zest of lemon and serve.

PROSCIUTTO-WRAPPED DATES

INGREDIENTS 1 package of pitted Medjool dates 4 ounces cream cheese 4 ounces blue cheese Whole almonds, roasted Thinly sliced prosciutto DIRECTIONS Mix the cream cheese and blue cheese together until creamy. Take the dates and slice in half. Stuff with the cheese mixture and wrap tightly with prosciutto. Slice in half and stuff one roasted almond in the top.

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CHOCOLATE POTS DE CRÈME

INGREDIENTS 1 1/2 cups whole milk 1 cup heavy cream 6 large egg yolks 6 tablespoons granulated sugar Pinch of salt 8 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped 1/2 cup cream 1 tablespoon confectioner’s sugar

DIRECTIONS Whisk milk, cream, egg yolks, sugar and salt in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring constantly until mixture is almost boiling. Do NOT let it boil; it should take 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and pour the mixture over the chocolate in a separate bowl and whisk by hand until the chocolate is melted and the texture is smooth. Divide chocolate mixture among cups and chill until set, 2 hours at least. When ready to serve, whip the cream and confectioner’s sugar with a mixer or in a blender until soft peaks form. Top the pots de crème.

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LOG CABIN LOVE TEXT BY LISA MCEWEN | PHOTOS BY FRANK MIRAMONTES, DMI AGENCY

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QUIET GETAWAYS NEAR THE KINGS RIVER AND GRANDCHILDREN

or Susie and Dave Muxlow, there’s nothing better than surrounding themselves with grandchildren all year long. But at Christmas, gatherings take on a special meaning for the couple when their large family squeezes into their cozy log cabin on the Kings River.

While the structure took shape in just a few days, the grandparents of 13 are looking forward to decades of memories being made in the home surrounded by mature pine trees and, in winter, a gently flowing river. The home’s western red cedar logs were hewn by Pioneer Log Homes in British Columbia to the exact specifications requested by the Muxlows almost 11 years ago. Although they live in the Shadow Hills area of Los Angeles full-time, they spend many weeks each year in Kingsburg visiting family and attending all the activities that come with having 13 grandchildren, from football games to weddings (there have been five weddings in the past two years!). Having a quiet spot to rest as well as spend time with their growing family was the main purpose of building the 2,000-square-foot, two-story cabin on the property of their son and daughterin-law, Becky and Andy Muxlow. Dave, a contractor, fell in love with the design and craftsmanship of the structure after visiting a Pioneer Log Homes distributor in Southern California. “We thought we could build a small cabin here, and we realize now that it really has turned into a wonderful thing for our family,” said Susie, whose smile is relentless. It is an apt location for their family gatherings as Susie spent many summer months as a child camping and skiing along the Kings River with her relatives and church family from Los Angeles. After she and Dave married in 1967, the tradition continued and they brought their three children — Davy, Tiffany and Andy — to the river for church, recreation

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Your Home. Your Look.

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and fellowship. They became close friends with members of the Jackson family of Kingsburg.

forest, Dave and Susie watched as the logs were placed on diesel semi-trucks and transported to Kingsburg.

“We like to say our son, Andy, married the farmer’s daughter,” Susie said, referring to daughter-in-law Becky. “We were known as the ‘L.A. People’ to so many.”

A giant crane unloaded the logs on the property as members of the family gathered to watch the spectacle. “All of those memories are really fun for us,” Susie said.

Now several generations of the Muxlow and Jackson families live near each other along the riverbanks, making for joyful gatherings and celebrations.

Dave, very familiar with construction sites, casually asked the foreman how long the project would take.

BUILDING AND BONDING After traveling to beautiful British Columbia to choose their logs and basically see their cabin built in the

“Well, you sound like every other contractor,” Dave quipped. “But we started on Monday morning, and we were done Tuesday at lunch. Each log

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“A few days,” was the reply.

went right into place with no problems. We just loved watching it all fit together.” Then came the rest of the project, including adding a roof, plumbing, and central heating and air. “This cabin was the most fun thing I have ever built,” Dave said. Now that the cabin is complete, part of the fun of visiting regularly is checking the progress of the cabin’s compression. Since it was built, the cabin has settled about 8 inches. One massive central log supports the weight of the upstairs floor, and two others support the roof. Huge threaded rods inside the logs must be tightened equally, usually 5/8” to 3/4”,

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"This cabin was the most fun thing I have ever built." to ensure that the cabin continues to compress in a balanced manner. “The fit on these logs is just amazing,” Dave said, explaining that cabins typically use chinking, a type of sealant used on the joints. “You can’t even get a credit card in any of the cracks. As a mechanical person, I appreciate the whole thing.” Since its construction, the cabin has not only served as a respite from their commute from Los Angeles, it has also served as a meeting place for a homeschool, housed newlyweds (including Kristin and Ty Muxlow, whose farmhouse was featured in the June 2019 issue of Lifestyle Magazine) and visitors from around the world who are in Kingsburg to learn about tree fruit farming. 38 L I F E S T Y L E | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 9

COZY AND WARM Inside, honoring the natural beauty of the logs, some of which are 160 years old, is paramount. The stain on the logs lends a warmth to each room no matter the size. Adding just the right amount of Christmas decor, including lit trees and Nativity scenes, creates tangible holiday magic and reverence. Because their grandchildren are the main reason for the cabin being built, the interior reflects their sizes and needs, and will soon accommodate greatgrandchildren, as well. For example, barstools are slightly lower and feature saddles used years ago by their children. There is another with a tractor seat. A tiny sink sits at toddler height next to a conventional sink, with an old tarnished ladle hanging nearby for a quick drink of water for those little ones who yearn to be independent.

Rough-edge granite countertops can withstand the countless meals, Christmas cookies and crafts created in the kitchen. In the master bedroom, a toddler toilet sits just inches off the floor, perfect for those potty-training months. “The cabin is really livable,” Susie said. “It’s so durable, you can’t wreck it!” Upstairs, a large loft-style room called the Bunkhouse houses four twin beds with coordinating bedding. Sleeping bags are stashed in the closets when all the cousins want to have a sleepover with grandma and grandpa and, pretty soon, there’s no space left on the floor, a thought that brings a big smile to the faces of these enthusiastic grandparents, who are called Papa Dave and Grandma Sue Sue. The cornerstone of the cabin, which speaks to the Muxlows’ strong Christian

faith, is Psalm 127, which is etched into the beam of the master bedroom. It’s divided into five verses. The Muxlows have dedicated their cabin to the third verse: “Lo, children are a heritage of the Lord; and the fruit of the womb is his reward.” “Our cabin is for our children and grandchildren, and we are grateful for what the Lord provides,” Susie said. “Children are a gift from God.” Fittingly, also etched in a beam in the comfortable and open living room are the names of their grandchildren: Davis, Dayton, Samantha, Ty, Drew, Molly, Pearl, Cal, Macy, Emily, Oaks, David, and Jonathan. “Our hobby is our grandchildren,” Susie said, as Dave stood beside her, nodding in agreement. “This cabin is for them, and it will be here long after us.” L

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NICK POTTER’S CONSTRUCTED UTOPIAS QUESTION MODERNISM’S ALLURE T E X T

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ooking at Fresno-based Nick Potter’s mildly dystopian paintings on view in his first one-person show at the Fresno Art Museum in November, one might recall that this milestone was the setting for Ridley Scott’s futuristic Bladerunner (1982). But unlike in the acclaimed Philip K. Dick-inspired film, U.K.-born Potter has rendered a world not in sci-fi tropes with flying cars and plagued with technological missteps and incessant climate-induced acid rain, but an even more deflating present-day Modernist noir, rooted less in fantasy than in convincing realism. Utopia wasn’t so great after all. Potter’s vision is replete with unfulfilled longings like those found in Edward Hopper’s pre-war trademark works, with their yearnings and isolation. Noted Hong Kong-based photographer Michael Wolf’s engulfing, overbearing modernism comes to mind, sharing a culprit in common with their towering structures obliterating sun and sky. But Potter makes a vaguely guilty pleasure of his Miesian fetish. He echoes Hopper’s pre-war emotional stance, but extends it beyond into postWWII ennui, questioning Modern architecture’s role in our contemporary malaise, questioning how well Modernism’s gambit panned out. The works in Nick Potter: Constructed Utopias function in a similarly dislocating if more subtle way as Scott’s unsettling cinematic masterpiece, with its (thensomewhat atypical for sci-fi) agglomerated historical styles and accumulated grit. Comparatively, Potter’s world is more pristine and closer to home, even as it reflects our times in which we are seemingly on the verge of one disaster or another. Modernism may have flourished in the present age, enjoying a resurgence in the oughts with its bright pristine Instagrammable surfaces, whose 20th-century predecessors may have aged well enough (if not its various theoretical certitudes). However, in Potter’s slightly foreboding canvases, it is an architecture that has seemingly 40 L I F E S T Y L E | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 9

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alienated — not enlivened — its intended occupants. Structures are plucked from context and placed on plinths like specimens in works like Differing Fading Systems (2016) with its provocative reflection, and Order and Progress (2019), both which invite viewers to examine them in isolation as if quarantined, pathogens at risk of infecting their surroundings. Potter’s works function like cinematic sets in their own right, akin to the ’80s psychodramas of David Salle and Eric Fischl (whose work Potter often teaches about as an art professor at California State University Fresno). While Potter clearly has love for the Modernist style, his oil paintings are often devoid of human presence and, to some extent, narrative — leaving one to ponder whether these venues’ disappointments were perhaps rooted in human folly, earnest but ultimately failed attempts that have been found unworthy, not uninhabited momentarily but perhaps permanently. Their simmering unease is palpable, but the causes are wisely left to the viewer’s instincts. Here in Potter World, ambiguity reigns. Some of Potter’s works directly recall David Hockney’s ’60s-era good life Southern California paintings, with their swimming pools and view properties rendered as optimistically as any art of the period (“advertisements for California,” the younger Brit says). Hockney is an acknowledged influence on Potter. But while Hockney’s stance can be seen as a deliberately cheery contradiction to that era’s social unrest, Potter’s nocturnal settings bear the tensions of the present, albeit obliquely. Like Hockney, he courts the same voyeuristic quality, that of peering into a privileged world. If Hockney revels as the quintessential bon vivant, Potter portrays a sober, grimmer outlook in synch with our own particularly grim times. “I looked at (Hockney’s) work a lot when I was at college, and although my work was far from anything similar to his in those days, I found his portraiture really interesting, ranging from his working-

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class parents to those living in luxury, like Mr. and Mrs. Clark and Percy, which feels like a modern day version of Gainsborough,” Potter said. “But one thing that stuck with me more than anything regarding his work over the years were the California swimming pool and art collector portrait paintings. Hockney's California work feels like an advertisement for the American Dream, for modernist architecture. It seemed so alien to me when at college in Cheltenham and particularly at grad school in very gray Birmingham, with its hideous Bullring Center, now gone, which was the ugliest of Brutalism from the late ’60s and ’70s.” By grad school, Potter had decided to make work about how architecture affects us. In contrast to the heroic status of Mies van der Rohe and Le Corbusier, he knew firsthand how their derivatives — often banal verging on soulless — made one feel. He was raised in a West London estate tower (housing project) by his mother, while his music producer father resided in much tonier London climes across town in Hampstead’s utopian Temple House. “My building wasn't anywhere near as bad as some of the others in the estate, but it was ugly, dark and dangerous. My parents separated when I was very young. My father’s building has been written about as being an excellent example of town planning, a mild attempt to create a Utopia for those who could afford to live in the area,” he said.

In England as with most places, class and architecture are inextricably connected. These formative experiences directly inform his current art-making strategies. One of the more provocative paintings in the FAM show, The Former Home of the Architect, is perhaps its most emblematic work, best summing up the wistfulness and regret that threads through all of his work. The great Oscar Niemeyer, architect of Brasilia and so many other Brazilian masterworks, was handed perhaps one of the most prized tabula rasa opportunities in architectural history to build his Utopia when he was awarded a contract for creation of Brazil’s new capital. Sadly, however, the home he designed for himself outside Rio has fallen into some disrepair. Potter lovingly depicts it as it is consumed by the surrounding jungle. As with most of Potter’s works, here optimism and pessimism, beauty and decay are held in tension, refusing to settle into either emotional space. “I was fortunate to spend some time in Niemeyer’s house, with just one person showing me around. They let me photograph every square inch. I was

taken by how much the house was part of the tropical landscape. That was his desire. But now the house is not well-maintained in terms of mold, crumbling walls here and there, paint peeling, etc. It’s very hard to maintain in the humidity. For me, (the residence) had a hint of how the world may look as post-apocalyptic.” It was Potter subject matter ready-made. The site’s statuary functions as vestiges, as reminders than even recent Modernism is a remnant, a paradise lost. Like with Hockney’s pools, Niemeyer’s is alluring and still full, if a little green. But while Niemeyer’s genius is evident, the piece is mostly elegiac. Here the Hockneyesque hedonist’s dream appears over. “Mainly though, I think it has a sadness for Niemeyer being gone, his country being in a very difficult place right now,” Potter said. “And his ideas about helping to create a fair, equal, Utopian society are unrealized. Brazil is beautiful and quite tragic at the same time,” he says, a statement that could easily pertain to the world in general as it currently is and, thus, as the artist paints. L

Potter moved between these two worlds most weeks. “I was aware at a young age that these different worlds existed. No police, no violence, parks, a variety of lovely shops, tennis courts,” he said of his father’s realm. As a result, through his art, he has been consistently digging through the many layers of how architecture is connected to class, race and society, of how certain people are fairly unlikely to move up or down in terms of class or architectural experience. From a young age, he believed that he had an unusual experience, spending time “at the homes of my music producer Dad's musician friends, in their mansions in the country. Even though I was very young, I knew most of my school friends were not expected to get out of the government housing they lived in, we were all quite likely to see the short end of the stick.” 42 L I F E S T Y L E | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 9

Nick Potter: Constructed Utopias runs until Jan. 5, 2020, at the Fresno Art Museum, curated by FAM Chief Curator and Executive Director Michele Ellis Pracy. FAM is located at 2233 N. First St., next to Radio Park. For more information, visit fresnoartmuseum.org. Photos courtesy of the artist. ©️Nick Potter; all rights reserved

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MIX AND MINGLE:

A HOLIDAY COCKTAIL MENU D R I N K S

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The holiday season has arrived and with it comes a calendar full of get-togethers â&#x20AC;&#x201D; including yours. Whether big or small, a memorable party is in the details. No doubt you'll have the fridge stocked with favorite beers (a good idea) and pop open some bottles of vino (also a good idea). But if you really want to add some festive oomph to your gathering, try some of these crafted cocktails on for size. Your guests will thank you (and Corey). What are you waiting for? Grab your glass and let's par-tay!

Carmeltini Combine 1 3/4 ounces vanilla vodka, 1/2 ounce kahlua, 3/4 ounce Godiva white chocolate liqueur and 1 ounce half & half in a mixing glass, add ice and stir. Strain combined ingredients into a carmel-lined martini glass. Garnish with a pinch of cinnamon and enjoy.

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Classic Bourbon Sour Combine 2 ounces bourbon, 3/4 ounce simple syrup, 3/4 ounce lemon juice and 1/2 egg white into a shaker and dry-shake (no ice). Add ice and shake again until well-chilled. Strain into a chilled coupe. Top with 3-5 drops of Angostura bitters.

Spicy Cucumber Margarita Muddle 2 fresh slices of cucumber in a mixing glass and add 2 ounces tequila, 3/4 ounce Cointreau, 1/2 ounce fresh jalapeĂąo juiced, squeeze 1/2 of lime; add ice and shake. Strain ingredients over fresh ice into a Tajin-rimmed rocks glass. Garnish with a slice of cucumber with Tajin.

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BLUEBERRY SIDECAR Muddle fresh blueberries in a mixing glass and combine with 2 ounces Basil Haydenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Reserve Rye, 1/2 ounce Cointreau and half squeeze of fresh lemon juice; add ice and shake. Double strain into a coupe glass and garnish with a spike full of blueberries.

Cinnamon Old Fashioned Drop a sugar cube in a mixing glass, add 7 dashes of Angostura bitters; muddle the sugar cube and add a splash of water until you have a nice consistency. Add ice and 2 ounces bourbon. Stir with a cinnamon stick and strain over a large ice cube. Garnish with an orange peel and a cherry. Add a pinch of cinnamon on the cherry.

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H U M A N I T A R I A N

From left: Scott and Adrianne Hillman; Alan Graham of Community First! Village; Jesse Stedman, chief strategy officer of Salt + Light Works, and wife Kelle at the launch party. Photo by Greg Mattis

NOT A TINY HOME VILLAGE, BUT A COMMUNITY T E X T

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esus used the illustration of salt and light in the Sermon on the Mount, one of His main teachings on morality and discipleship (Matthew 5:13-16).

Salt + Light Works founder and CEO. "It feels like the purpose of this is to serve the homeless. Yet to me, the real purpose is to show people a way to love others the way that Jesus did. That’s the real gold here. People will be witnessing us truly loving our neighbors."

Salt, once the only resource to preserve food, has been replaced by refrigeration. And today, light is available to us at all times with the flick of a switch. With the inundation of 20th-century technologies, we often miss Jesus’ main point about salt and light. His metaphors addressed the impact that one’s faithfulness to God should have in the world. It should illuminate and preserve. Like both salt and light, our relationship with God should positively impact everyone with whom contact is made.

Adrianne — life coach, speaker, writer, mother, wife and lifelong Tulare County resident and community leader — felt the call to serve while in the front row at Neighborhood Church in Visalia. Late Pastor Steve Harms was giving a sermon on loving people the way that we are called to in Christ. This sparked the flame in Adrianne’s heart to serve the homeless community.

"'Salt and light' spoke to the project in the way that it is gritty and caustic, yet seasoned with goodness, light and love of community," says Adrianne Hillman,

"I pushed the thought away, immediately thinking this is not the direction I’ve been going," she said. A few weeks later, she was asked to serve on the Lighthouse

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Rescue Mission board and accepted as a way to answer this new calling. Fast forward a few years, she was still serving on the Lighthouse Rescue Mission board and Tulare’s Homeless Ad Hoc Committee when she learned of the Community First! Village in Austin, Texas, from a podcast in which founder Alan Graham was promoting his book, "Welcome Homeless." Eager to learn more, she dove deep into the project’s specifics, Graham’s book and his successful efforts to serve the chronically homeless. After attending a symposium at the Austin village, learning the essentials behind the inner workings of the movement and how individuals can bring this purposeful model to their own cities, Adrianne knew that her life would not be the same. "I felt ill-equipped and daunted by the

challenge. I am not a developer nor did I know anything about running a nonprofit," Adrianne admitted. "I knew this was my call. After a year of praying and asking God for guidance, I accepted the challenge in its entirety. I formed the nonprofit, developed the plan and officially launched Oct. 12 of this year." Unveiled at a kick-off party, themed "In My Backyard" — a play on the common characterization of opposition used when a homeless resource center or shelter is proposed in a city — Graham shared his theory on homelessness and Adrianne’s vision for Salt + Light Works to hundreds of Tulare County dignitaries and community leaders gathered in her backyard. Graham believes that the single greatest cause of homelessness is "a profound, catastrophic loss of family." He first answered the call to "love your neighbor" in 1998 through his mobile meal service, Mobile Loaves and Fishes. With the

help of others, he formed the idea of Community First! in 2007 and, after much "not in my backyard" pushback, broke ground in 2014. Today, the 51-acre master-planned community will serve more than 200 formerly homeless men and women at full capacity. "It’s a new, old way of living," Adrianne said. "It goes back to the tribal community atmosphere where no one was left behind. The one human need we all share is to be fully seen, fully known and understood, and to connect with other human beings." Salt + Light Works will closely follow the Community First! model with some exceptions. Funded through grants and private donations, there is a three-step approach to radically shift the trajectory of homelessness in California. Engagement is the first phase, with the primary focus on educational and relational growth to better understand who our homeless neighbors are. Phase Two is building the

Adrienne Hillman watches her launch party unfold. Photo by Greg Mattis

long-term and sustainable community village. Once that occurs, Phase Three will be to multiply those efforts statewide. The community village will be made up of three components — homes, microenterprises and healing. Starting with a proposed 20 acres, the community will house more than 200 once-homeless neighbors in tiny homes with community kitchens, laundry, weekly dinners and events. Micro-enterprises will provide the opportunity for residents to utilize their talents, develop new skills and earn a dignified income. Opportunities on-site will include a coffeehouse and bakery, workshop and art house, outdoor movie theater, community garden and farm, plus others led by staff leaders who will attend weekly job fairs to present what is offered at the micro-enterprise. The third component will incorporate both mental and physical healing resources on-site. There will be many points of care,

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including medical and mental health clinics, monthly mobile dental clinics, support groups (i.e., Narcotics Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous), Bible study, yoga and wellness classes. One key component that will differ from the Austin model will be a memorial garden and columbarium. "One fear shared among the homeless community is dying alone, being buried in a pauper’s grave and having no one to celebrate their lives," Adrianne said. "The columbarium is our way of showing our residents and neighbors that we will love them all the way through their lives and that they will never be alone."

Unfortunately, we won’t be able to serve all of the need at first, due to lack of funding. Eventually, that is our goal to grow and serve everyone in need." Community First! in Austin operates under the same rules and regulations, along with a three-strike system for residents. Salt + Light Works plans to incorporate those along with other safety efforts enforced in Austin to keep the community secure. Surprisingly, since the development of Community First!, there have been seven crimes, all

of which were committed against those living within the village by outsiders. "If they can do it in Austin, I know we can do it here," Adrianne added. "The best way people can help is by leading us to people that can help develop this master-planned community. Whether you know someone who knows someone or you may be that someone, help us speed up the process and construct this community from the ground up." To learn more or to get involved, visit SaltAndLightWorks.org. L

Unlike the Community First! Village, Salt + Light Works will not have RVs on-site. Permanent homes will be available for both those who were once homeless and those who volunteer to downscale from their current living conditions and live in the community — including Adrianne and her husband, Scott. Those living within the community must follow three basic guidelines: pay rent, obey civil law and obey community rules, which mimic those commonly found within homeowner associations, such as keeping your dog on a leash. Contrary to most rehabilitation programs or housing for the homeless, those residing within the community will not be required to participate in faith-based resources such as Bible study or church services. "We are not interested in churching people," Adrianne said. "These folks are so fragile and traumatized. These services will be openly and freely offered for everyone who are willing to participate." Another key element that sets Salt + Light Works apart from other programs is the lack of a requirement to be alcohol- and drug-free in order to be welcomed into the community and receive help. "We believe in the power of community to help people settle and heal because we know the origination of addiction comes from loneliness and trauma," Adrianne said. "We can’t expect people to overcome those internal battles without offering them the help that they need." "We will not take in sexual predators; that is the only eliminator," she said. "We will partner with local agencies that track the local homeless with the HMIS system to determine who has the most need. 50 L I F E S T Y L E | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 9

Top: Outdoor amphitheater for community cinema at Community First! Village, Austin, Texas. Below left: Alan Graham, founder of Community First! Village. Below right: Adrienne with Paul, a homeless man at street outreach, Giving Dignity.

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L I T E R A R Y

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BRYNN SAITO: CAPTURING THE VALLEY T E X T

B Y

D I A N E

S L O C U M

IN VERSE AND VOICE

rynn Saito is an accomplished poet, with three books to her credit and numerous other published poems, but she isn’t interested only in telling her own stories of family, farm towns and Japanese internment. She is instrumental in drawing out others’ experiences whether by voicing the narrative of a PBS documentary or by starting projects to open opportunities for expression.

One of these is the Yonsei Memory Project, which she and Nikiko Masumoto began in 2017. Masumoto is a Del Rey farmer, artist, writer and performer, and daughter of David Mas Masumoto, also a farmer and writer. Nikiko and Brynn were childhood friends who reunited around 2017. “At the time, there was a Muslim travel ban happening and some different political things going on that spurred us to get together and do some memory work around our community’s history,” Saito said. “There were real connections we were seeing between what had happened to them during World War II and what was going on now.” With grants from the California State Library, they were able to create ways for Japanese Americans to share their experiences and talk about the internment camps. Going beyond just talk, they use art and creativity to tap into those stories. The project is described on the website as “awakening the archives of Japanese American history through arts and storytelling, memory-mapping and intergenerational dialogue.”

Photo by Schoenwald Photography

intimate or painful, to a gathered audience. Saito and Masumoto both have personal interest in bringing out and preserving these stories. Their Japanese American grandparents were among those who were uprooted from their homes by Executive Order 9066 and sent to the Gila River internment facility in Arizona. “My dad’s parents were about 21 and 26 years old when they were incarcerated,” Saito said, “and they actually met in the camp. They got married and had a child. Nikiko’s grandparents, as well, were in the camp.”

“We thought we could bring these skills we have as facilitators, as writers and performers, to our community and give them the tools to tell these stories and remember these histories,” she said.

Saito’s grandparents passed away long before the Yonsei project started, but Masumoto’s grandmother has been able to attend some of the functions, although not as an active participant.

For storytelling fellowships, they recruited not only Japanese Americans, but also others with stories to share. During workshops, they helped the fellows write their stories, which culminated in “Storytelling for Change,” where each performer courageously read his or her story, however

In March, the two friends and their project were featured in an article in Vogue magazine. This came about through contact with Densho, an organization dedicated to preserving the incarceration story in order to deepen understanding of American history and inspire

52 L I F E S T Y L E | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 9

action for equity. When Vogue came to Densho looking for West Coast Japanese American activist women, Densho’s executive director recommended Saito and Masumoto as two who were outside the big cities, in the Central Valley. Saito sent the production manager several ideas of places where they could shoot her photos. “They sent out a Japanese photographer, Katsu Naito,” Saito said. “They ended up loving the idea of my dad’s garden. It was a quick, lovely morning.” Masumoto’s photos were taken on her family farm, one with her grandmother. Appearing in Vogue was particularly special for Saito because her Korean maternal grandmother loved that magazine. “She always gave us a subscription when we were growing up,” Saito said. “It’s pretty surreal to be in the magazine. I never thought I would ever be in Vogue. It was an honor, and prestigious, and also it opened doors for our Yonsei Project. It’s such a high-profile publication. It opened

up opportunities for folks to learn about the work, which is great.”

of racial communities and religion.”

Saito was born and raised in Fresno in the home where her parents still live. She remembers enjoying writing short story assignments and keeping handwritten journals.

Saito had not planned on moving back to the Central Valley, but when she learned that Fresno State was looking for more poets and writers to fill positions, she was drawn back by family and friends. The cost of living was also a draw.

“In high school, I had these sort of wild dreams of leaving the Valley and moving to the city and being a writer,” she said.

“Being a poet and educator in the Bay Area is becoming less and less possible,” she said.

As it turned out, she went to Berkeley, where she aimed toward pre-med studies and philosophy, getting her degree in the latter. She did follow her high school dream to New York City, as a six-month intern fact-checker at The Nation magazine.

Last fall, she began serving as an assistant professor in the English Department.

While there. she studied religion, receiving a master’s degree from New York University and thinking of continuing on for a Ph.D. in philosophy and religion. Instead, her next degree was a master of fine arts in creative writing from Sarah Lawrence College in Yonkers, N.Y. “I think moving to New York got me back in touch with a love for writing and art and poetry,” she said. “It was a winding path back to that original dream of wanting to be a writer.” When Saito’s partner secured a job in Ventura, they returned to California and Saito worked in publishing for about a year before she decided that she didn’t want to be in Southern California or with that partner anymore. She returned to the Bay Area, where she wrote and taught for nine years. While there, she activated her interest in religion through founding the Center for Spiritual Life, which reaches out to people who are spiritual but may not consider themselves religious. “I grew up in this very open-minded, ecumenical Buddhist and Christian household,” she said. “I was always fascinated by religious cultures and communities. And the intersection

Saito’s first book is “The Palace of Contemplating Departure,” published in 2013. Most of the poems in this book were written while she was studying for her MFA in New York. Many of the poems concern leaving, moving and traveling, with internal departures as well as external. The second book, “Power Made Us Swoon,” published in 2016, focuses more on family, the valley and the Japanese American incarceration. “There is a whole section of poems related to stories of the elders and my family,” she said. For her chapbook, “Bright Power, Dark Peace,” also published in 2016, she joined forces with Traci Brimhall. She calls it a “fun, imaginative project about a girl wandering through ruins.” She is currently working on a chapbook, funded by Densho, related to her time going through the internment facilities with her father. “It’s a chapbook that has also turned into the online archive of letters,” she said. “I started writing these letters to my father and other members of my community as a way to process that experience of being at Gila River. And people have written me back. And so there is an online archive of letters that goes along with this chapbook.” She expects the project to launch in February. L

"I think moving to New York got me back in touch with a love for writing and art and poetry. It was a winding path back to that original dream of wanting to be a writer."

Photo by Randy Shropshire, Getty Images for PEN America

T R A V E L E R ' S

T R E K

SHAKE OFF THE COLD:

WARM WEATHER WINTER DESTINATIONS T E X T

A N D

P H O T O S

Whitsundays, Australia

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B Y

S A B R I N A

S A B B A G H

iving in the Central Valley, we get off pretty easy when it comes to winter weather. You may feel the frost on the grass crunch under your feet in the morning, and if it’s been an extra cold night, there might even be some ice on your windshield just thick enough to require a scraper. But let’s face it, none of us are shoveling snow and dreading outdoor activities like the rest of the country with the misfortune of not calling California home. I feel their pain, but I don’t want to live it. In fact, I encourage you to do as I do and take it a step further and skip our mild winter altogether. Sure, it’s only really “cold” around here for a few weeks, but as a self-proclaimed sun worshiper and expert summer chaser, I say leave that ice scraper in the junk drawer and have yourself a sunny holiday season. I’ve had the pleasure of spending several winter holidays in tropical destinations, and if you’ve never seen a mall Santa at the beach in flip-flops, you’re truly missing out. I spent my first summer Christmas in Thailand back in 2014, and that’s when I fell in love with the idea of skipping winter. There is just something so satisfying about trading in eggnog and spiced wine for piña coladas and sangria.

crowd who want to party all night. SEMINYAK (HIGH END AND CHILL): Located just above Kuta, it’s less crowded and offers a more low-key beach experience with high-end shops, bars and restaurants. CANGGU (SURFING AND EXPATS): The up-and-coming surf spot is home to the majority of the island’s digital nomads, but also draws in families thanks to Splash Waterpark. NUSA DUA (FAMILY FRIENDLY AND ALL-INCLUSIVE): Known for its worldclass luxury resorts, the area offers every water sport that you can imagine. UBUD (ROMANTIC MOUNTAIN PARADISE): More than an hour from the beach, Ubud is still one of the most visited parts of Bali and caters mostly to couples. Pro tip: The size and stability of the boat always depends on the distance between islands, so waterproofing your luggage or downsizing to a backpack and leaving your valuables stored on the big island will make your trip much less stressful. Watching a slight framed man wading through chest-high ocean water with my laptop bag above his head is not an experience I would wish on anyone. Planning ahead is imperative!

Indonesia is high on my recommendation list because of how simple it is to island hop. From Bali, you can catch a boat to several other islands for a change of scenery. If you have time, I suggest checking out at least one of the following islands: NUSA LEMBONGAN (CLOSEST TO BALI): Only a 30-minute speedboat ride from the east coast of Bali, it’s a must-see known for snorkeling, diving and chill beach vibes. GILI TRAWANGAN (A STEP BACK IN TIME): After a few days in the city, escaping to an island where no mopeds or cars are allowed is just the way to decompress before heading back to the real world. Transportation is available via bicycle or horse-drawn carriage. Pro tip: Take plenty of local currency with you to the islands. Some of the smaller islands don’t have any ATMs and the ones that do often run out of money or lose power. Along with Indonesia, Thailand and the Philippines are great warm-weather tropical destinations that are suitable for every travel type, from luxury to budget and solo to group trips. Here are my recommendations for each:

Southeast Asia is for everyone The beauty of Southeast Asia is that it’s warm year-round, so even if you can’t make a late December or January trip happen, Thailand, Indonesia and the Philippines (to name some of my favorites) will be just as inviting come February and March. Southeast Asia is made up of 11 countries, and I’ve been fortunate enough to spend time in almost all of them over the last few years. Based on accessibility, cost and a wide-reaching appeal across all demographics, Indonesia remains my No. 1 recommendation for pressing pause on winter. Whether you’re planning to take a trip with friends, family, children or alone, the multiple islands that make up Indonesia have something for everyone. The most well-known and commonly visited is Bali, comprised of several sections catering to very diverse groups. BALI CITIES Kuta (the party zone): It’s centrally located and made up of resorts, bars and nightclubs targeting the 18- to 30-year-old

Boracay, Philippines

T R A V E L E R ' S

T R E K

Ko Panyi, Thailand

THAILAND Even though Bali is incredibly affordable, Thailand caters even more to budget travelers. Bangkok is a must for your first trip to Thailand, but if you have time to branch out, I recommend doing some island hopping. Unlike the easy boat travel in Indonesia, traveling between islands in Thailand usually requires additional short flights. PHUKET (FOR EXPLORERS): There are dozens of deserted beaches and islands accessible only by speedboat. KO SAMUI (LUXURY RAINFOREST): As one of the more expensive inter-island flights, Ko Samui caters to a high-end cosmopolitan crowd looking for a beach vacation with all of the comforts of home. KOH PHANGAN (FULL MOON PARTY): This is home of the infamous all-night Full Moon Party. If you want to avoid the party crowd, steer clear of Haad Rin. PHILIPPINES With dozens of islands to visit, it’s impossible for me to recommend just one, but you can’t go wrong with looking into Boracay, the party island; Cebu, known for the famous Kawason Waterfall, the bright turquoise water you see on Instagram, and Oslob, where swimming with whale sharks has grown in popularity. If long flights aren’t a deal breaker and you’re looking to do some adventuring, consider South Africa, Australia or New Zealand. Out of the three countries, 56 L I F E S T Y L E | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 9

Gili Trawangan, Indonesia

I have a special love and appreciation for South Africa because I’ve spent the holidays there more than once and it’s just as incredible as the last, every time! SOUTH AFRICA SOUTH AFRICAN SAFARI. The No. 1 thing you absolutely have to do if you make it to South Africa is go on a safari. While the country’s cosmopolitan cities like Cape Town and Durban have a lot to offer, getting away from civilization and spending time in the bush is where the magic happens. Growing up learning about Africa from books and seeing big cats in captivity did not prepare me for the first time a massive lion casually strolled past me as I was sitting in the back of a Jeep with no windows or roof. Seeing wild animals in their natural habitat is the kind of experience that stays with you forever. South Africa offers several safari destinations, but the most famous for the big five (lion, leopard, black or white rhino, African elephant and Cape buffalo) is KRUGER NATIONAL PARK and its surrounding territory. From Johannesburg, it’s just a short connecting flight to Nelspruit, gateway to the southern sector of Kruger Park. I was so moved by my safari experiences that I began branching out to other nearby African countries to soak up as much wildlife as possible. While South Africa is the most popular safari destination,

I also had incredible excursions in Botswana, Zimbabwe and Zambia. Pro tip: Not all big game preserves and exotic animal sanctuaries are created equal. Do some research on the tour company to make sure that it has a good track record for human safety and animal treatment. This is especially important regarding elephant experiences. If lions and tigers aren’t your thing, don’t forget about Australia and New Zealand, where December and January are the warmest months of the year. Long flights not for you? No problem! For warm weather closer to home, Central and South America remain top of the list. Some of my favorite south-of-the-border warm weather spots are Panama and Costa Rica. Not only are they just a short flight away, they both offer a major bang for your buck when it comes to variety. Since both countries are long and narrow, you can easily spend time on the Pacific Ocean side and then drive across the country to experience the Caribbean side, which is a completely different vibe. Pro tip: Rent a car and explore on your own. Costa Rica and Panama are small enough to cover a lot of ground in just a few days if you map your own route. I traveled both places extensively on my own and never felt unsafe, even when I got lost and ended up in a tiny beach town that still isn’t on a map. Merry exploring!

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K U D O S

SOCIAL SWIRL 2019: BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF THE SEQUOIAS’ FUNDRAISING SUCCESS

uring the second week of November, the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Sequoias (BGCS) staff, board, sponsors and supporters congregated at the Visalia Country Club for the annual Social Swirl Gala & Golf Classic Fundraiser, which raised a net total of $120,000. Golfers gathered for the tournament the morning of Nov. 8 and, after a sunny day on the golf course, 10 closest-to-the-hole finalists were given the opportunity to shoot a hole in one for a prize — a beautiful boat sponsored by Chad Borba with MasterCraft. The next evening, golfers and guests reconvened at the beautifully renovated Country Club facility, where exquisite silent auction items filled the foyer and a customary “giving tree” (a tree decorated with paper slips indicating a need of the club) stood at the entrance of the dining room. Guests were presented with a video produced especially for the event — a short testimonial told by Levi, a 7-year-old Strathmore club member, and his loving parents. In the video, he says, “I think my parents are awesome for letting me

58 L I F E S T Y L E | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 9

come to this club.[...] It’s just like my second home.” For a moment, everyone was silent. Teary eyes could be spotted throughout the audience. BGCS Executive Director Galen Quenzer made his way onstage and expressed his gratitude for both the guests and his team, then handed the mic over to Basil Perch, an original BGCS board member. Perch, overwhelmed with emotion, addressed the audience, saying, “What they do for the kids — no other organization in Tulare County does what the Boys & Girls Clubs do.” BGCS would like to recognize Bill Adams, board president and chair for the Golf Classic, and Oriana Groppetti, chair for the gala. Groppetti is a dedicated BGCS board member and has organized the gala for 10 consecutive years. “The mission of the Social Swirl is to get a group of people together that are individually capable of doing a lot of good, but collectively come together to help thousands of children — the impact becomes exponential,” Groppetti said. “I’ve had a hand in organizing this event

for the last decade and I’m always amazed at the generosity of our Boys & Girls Club supporters. We’re very fortunate to live in a community where we can rally this level of support year after year.” L The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Sequoias is focused on helping all young people, especially those who need us most, to become responsible, caring and productive members of society. Boys & Girls Clubs were established in Tulare County in the 1990s when Exeter and Visalia community leaders responded to the need for a positive place for local youth to spend free time after school. Today, Boys & Girls Clubs of the Sequoias serves 1,000 kids per day at 14 clubs throughout Tulare County. Clubs provide a wide span of activities for local youth, varying from STEM to sports. Find BGCS online at bgcsequoias.org. Above left: Executive Director Galen Quenzer and board President Bill Adams pose with the prize boat. Above right: Golfers attempt to shoot a hole in one for a prize boat. Above lower left: Galen Quenzer, Basil Perch and Bill Adams take the stage. Lower right, from left: Elena Wilson, Laura Johnson, Chris Adams and Oriana Groppetti, chair of the event.

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H A P P E N I N G S

DECEMBER 7

Ice Skate Visalia When: Dec. 7 grand opening, 2-9 p.m.; weekends through Dec. 22 (times vary); Dec. 23-Jan. 12 (times vary)

Breakfast With Santa When: Dec. 14 and 21, 8-10 a.m. Where: Ice Skate Visalia, Garden Street Plaza, Visalia

Where: Garden Street Plaza, downtown Visalia

Contact: iceskatevisalia.com

Cost: $10 for breakfast and skating, $5 breakfast only

Cost: $10 (includes skate rental); free on Holiday Open House nights

120th annual Christmas Bird Count When: Dec. 14 and 17

28th annual Spirit of the Holidays Wine Tasting

When: Dec. 7, 5-8 p.m.

Where: Dec. 14, Springville CBC, Sequoia CBC and Kaweah CBC; Dec. 17, Pixley NWR CBC

Where: Exeter Veterans Memorial Building, 324 N. Kaweah Ave., Exeter

Contact: Springville, (559) 280-7840; Sequoia, (559) 565-4251; Kaweah, (559) 799-7181; Pixley, (559) 359-0517

Contact: Exeter Kiwanis Club, exeterkiwanis.org, (559) 592-2919

Cost: Free

Cost: $60

Exeter Courthouse Gallery and Historic Museum

5th annual Rockin’ Rudolph 5K Run, Kids Fun Run

When: Dec. 14, 21 and 28, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Dec. 15, 22 and 29, noon-4 p.m.

When: Dec. 8, 8:20 a.m. kids run, 8:30 a.m. 5K

Where: 125 South B St., Exeter

Where: 325 N. Douty St., Hanford

Contact: (559) 592-5900

Contact: RunHanford.com, (559) 537-0760 (Central Valley Health Foundation)

Cost: Free

Cost: $15 kids run, $30 5K run/walk

Holiday Home Tour When: Dec. 14, noon-5 p.m.

Sequoia Symphony Orchestra “Messiah’

When: Dec. 8, doors 2:30 p.m., show 3 p.m.

Where: Starts at Quail Park on Cypress, 4520 W. Cypress Ave., Visalia

Where: Visalia Fox Theatre, 308 W. Main St., Visalia

Contact: rhshhometour@gmail.com, Redwood High School Ranger Band and Color Guard

Contact: (559) 625-1369 Cost: $33-$45

Cost: $20 presale at White’s Music, Quail Park, Pet Envy, Pacific Treasures & Gourmet

Downtown Visalia’s Holiday Open House

It’s a Model Railroad Christmas

When: Dec. 12 and 19, 5-8 p.m.

When: Dec. 14, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Dec. 15, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Where: Downtown Visalia

Where: Sequoia Mall, 3303 S. Mooney Blvd., Visalia

Contact: (559) 732-7737

Contact: Visalia Electric Railroad Modelers and Historical Society, (559) 733-7742

Cost: Free

Cost: Free 28th annual Exeter Christmas Open House When: Dec. 12 and 19, 5-9 p.m.

Mariachi Los Camperos

Where: Downtown Exeter shops

When: Dec. 14, doors 6:30 p.m., show 7:30 p.m.

Contact: (559) 592-2919

Where: Visalia Fox Theatre, 308 W. Main St., Visalia

Cost: Free

Contact: (559) 625-1369

Cost: $21-$43

Mighty Oak Chorus Christmas Concert When: Dec. 13, 6-8 p.m. Where: The Fountain Christian Church, 1023 N. Chinowth St., Visalia Contact: (559) 280-5715, (559) 901-4615 Cost: $10 adults, free to children 12 and younger

Santa Visit When: Dec. 17, 3-6 p.m. Where: Visalia Transit Center, 425 E. Oak Ave., Visalia Contact: visaliatransit.com Cost: Free

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H A P P E N I N G S

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