Lifestyle Magazine February 2025 by Lifestyle Magazine

Let Us Cater!

Penney

A Word From

The

Editor

Planning a wedding has a funny way of bringing out the best and worst in you. I’ve been reliving my own wedding (which happened seven years ago, but who’s counting?) as I help my little sister prepare for hers. Between planning her bridal shower and bachelorette party, I’ve discovered that my DIY enthusiasm hasn’t aged well.

Take last night, for example. We were assembling her wedding invitations—an ambitious project that involved ribbon, dried baby’s breath, and a lot of patience. Somewhere between tying bow number fifty-seven and delicately placing the flowers, I found myself laughing at the chaos of it all….and slightly regretting her decision to invite over 250 people. There’s something about those moments though—sitting there, sorting through the mess—that makes it all worthwhile. It’s not about perfect ribbons, it’s about spending time together with the people you love.

Looking back on my own wedding, the memories that stick with me aren’t just from the big day itself but from the moments leading up to it—the late-night crafting, the shared laughs, and the inevitable chaos. That’s the timeless magic of weddings: it’s not just about the day you say “I do,” but the journey to get there and the time spent with family and friends, making something beautiful together.

This month’s Timeless Issue is filled with stunning weddings that celebrate the big day in all its glory. But what you won’t see are those tiny, meaningful moments behind the scenes—the ones that make the chaos worth it and leave an even bigger mark on your heart.

Here’s to the big days—and the little moments that make them truly unforgettable.

STEPHANIE STEELMAN Co-founder | Root Creative Marketing Executive Editor | Lifestyle Magazine

Contributors

February 2025

Daniel Borgatto GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Sue Burns CONTRIBUTOR

Josh Aleman GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Terry Ommen HISTORIAN

Scan here to read more about our monthly contributors, see a list of rack locations, or to sign up for a monthly subscription.

Marissa Carpenter CONTENT EDITOR

ILLUSTRATOR

Rachel Ruiz

Dakota Jacobi PHOTOGRAPHER / SALES

Sam Justice CREATIVE EDITOR

Lauren Walters MANAGING EDITOR

Nominations Opening Soon. February 15-March 14: Nominations for Best of South Valley Readers Choice Awards are open. March 15-April 15: Finalist Voting will open. May 1: Winners announced! SCAN FOR SURVEY AND NOMINATIONS (SURVEY ENDS FEBRUARY 14) visalialifestyle.com/best-of-2025

L O S E W E I G H T W I T H A V I R T U A L D I E T I T I A N welnourished com welnourished

Classic Attire

Think refined silhouettes—a flowing wedding gown and a sharp, tailored tuxedo for an everlasting style statement.

WEDDING MOODBOARD

Words by Lifestyle Staff

Planning a wedding that feels timeless ensures your special day remains elegant and memorable for years to come. By focusing on classic elements that never go out of style, you can create a celebration that truly stands the test of time.

Traditional Cake

A tiered cake with minimal, refined decorations serves as a beautiful and classic centerpiece.

Historic estates, romantic ballrooms, or charming churches set the perfect backdrop for a timeless celebration.

Color Palette

Neutral tones like whites, creams, and blush exude elegance and create a soft, ageless atmosphere.

A string quartet or live band playing classic tunes adds sophistication and warmth to your wedding day.

Elegant Venues

Live Music

GOOD GROUND

WORDS BY LIFESTYLE STAFF

The International Agri-Center knows how to make a difference— big time. As the proud host of the annual World Ag Expo, they’re not just about showing off the coolest new tractors or groundbreaking irrigation tech (though, yes, that’s pretty amazing). They’re about digging deep to give back, planting seeds of change, and growing something truly special in the Central Valley and beyond.

DRIVING HOPE FORWARD

What’s better than winning a shiny new Toyota Tundra? Knowing your ticket helped families right here in the Valley. Since 2015, the Toyota Tundra Giveaway has been a heartwarming highlight of the Expo, raising critical funds for Valley Children’s Healthcare. It’s a winwin—supporting local kids and dreaming big about your next road trip. “The program is truly fulfilling—it’s one of the highlights of what we do,” shares Jerry Sinift, CEO of the International Agri-Center

FEEDING LOCAL IMPACT

Let’s talk about Expo eats! Every food booth you see is run by a local non-profit, which means your tri tip sandwich, taco, or ice cream doesn’t just taste good—it does good. That money goes straight back to these organizations, fueling their missions and making your snack break all the more satisfying

INVESTING IN FUTURE GENERATIONS

What’s more timeless than investing in the future? For 18 years, the “We Believe in Growing” scholarship, created with E.M. Tharp, has helped high school seniors pursue their ag dreams. These scholarships are like golden tickets for young leaders who want to shape the future of farming. And trust us, the future looks bright.

GOOD GROUND

ROOTED IN GENEROSITY

Through

A VALENTINE TO THE

Words by Sue Burns

In her book, “Time Began in a Garden,” author Emilie Barnes wrote, “Garden time is a time that involves itself in the moment… that focuses on the soaring stateliness of trees and the minute scale of the tiniest blossom and insect…garden time requires daily attention but does not require that everything be done in a day.” There’s no question about it—gardening is work! But you’ll find when talking with most gardeners, while they readily admit that fact, they’ll immediately add how much they love it, the satisfaction and sense of accomplishment they get from it, and how it positively impacts their health in so many ways.

GROWING A SENSE OF DELIGHT

Growing our own flowers, vegetables, and fruits brings a special satisfaction to decorating, cooking, dining, and preserving. We are fortunate to live in the nation’s “breadbasket,” cradled in a climate that gives us access to an unending variety of produce at local stands and farmers markets year-round. But there is an almost indescribable feeling of delight as we watch seeds and starters we nurture with our own hands mature in our own gardens. Seeing color peeking from underneath and between green leaves (even in the cold of winter), tiny buds and blooms turning into crops awaiting harvest, and a basket filled with herbs and seasonal gems on our kitchen counter fills us with a sense of accomplishment and spurs us to create dishes that are healthy in the most delicious way. We know no pesticides have been used, and the harvest coming from the garden straight to the kitchen to the table couldn’t be any fresher.

GARDENING FOR THE MIND AND BODY

Research has shown that time in the garden helps to lessen stress, depression, and anxiety, a good thing in and of itself. Reducing these symptoms seems to be especially helpful for those with memory loss, and for seniors in general, by improving levels of certain growth factors in the brain that facilitate memory and cognitive function. Gardening with friends or family at home and in community plots multiplies the fun factor while providing important social connections that alleviate feelings of isolation.

Gardening is considered moderate-intensity exercise, of which the CDC recommends 150 minutes per week. Digging, planting, weeding, hoeing, transplanting and moving dirt as we harvest or cut our carefully chosen produce and flowers keeps us moving, stretching, and increasing our strength, all while burning calories. Spending time in fresh air and sunlight with our hands in the dirt (and compost and mulch) viscerally connects us with the earth and sky while we absorb vitamin D for better health, strengthened immunity, and even lower blood pressure.

Creating beautiful arrangements of cut flowers and greens to grace our homes and offices or to share with family and friends lifts our spirits as we enjoy the color they add and see joy on the faces of those who receive our homegrown gifts.

GROW WITH THE FLOW

Our gardens teach us how to go with the seasonal flow, planting and harvesting what will grow in our particular climate. As we plan and select what to grow, we can research different methods of doing so. Do we want a row of plants in each plot, raised bed and container, or will we follow the French Intensive way of planting many things close together, with companion planting as a guide in the process? Some of us will simply scatter seeds and see what happens. All choices are valid, as we learn to tune in to changing seasons and expect new adventures, constantly learning and gaining more experience to guide our future endeavors.

PREP TO PLANT

Show your garden some love as you prepare for spring planting, and it will love you back in spades:

• Winter-into-spring weather can be cold, warm, rainy, sunny, foggy, or all of these within the same few days! Take the opportunity on those warm mornings or afternoons to pull any cool weather plants that are done, as well as weeds, to clear space for the new starters and seedlings you want to bring in.

• Be aware that pollinators and beneficial insects still need sources of food and shelter. If you have vegetable plants that have bolted and are flowering, it’s nice to leave those in the garden.

• Refresh your soil and compost, giving them a little time to acclimate in the garden before planting.

• Prune roses by Valentine’s Day for better shape, to remove dead or diseased canes, and to invigorate new growth for larger blooms.

• Consider including succulents and native plants in your plans. They’ll bring beauty and unique shapes and textures to garden and yard spaces, and their tolerance for heat and drought means they’re more likely to thrive (or at least survive) during our extreme summer weather.

• Take time to consider what you want to plant and when for optimal growing conditions and harvests. You can find researchbased guidance on fruit and vegetable planting; flowers and roses; succulents; gardening California style; integrated pest management, and more on the Tulare-Kings Counties Master Gardener website.

Host the Sweetest

Galentine's Party

Words by Lifestyle Staff

Celebrating your friendships is so important—life gets busy, but making time for your favorite people reminds you how much they mean to you. A Galentine’s party is the perfect way to laugh, connect, and create new memories together.

Pick a Theme

A fun theme makes the party extra special:

• Pajama Party: Cozy PJs and comfort food

• Spa Day: DIY facials and mani-pedis

• Retro Night: Dress from your favorite decade

Set The Mood

Create an inviting atmosphere that matches your theme:

• Decorations: Candles, flowers, or retro accents

• Music: Playlists with soothing tunes or nostalgic hits

• Lighting: Twinkle lights or candles for a warm glow

Plan Delicious Food and Drinks

Keep the menu simple but memorable:

• Appetizers: Cheese boards or bagel bars

• Desserts: Heart-shaped cookies or chocolate-covered strawberries

• Drinks: Cocktails, mocktails, or infused waters

Add Fun Activities

A few activities will keep the laughter going:

• Trivia or lighthearted games

• DIY crafts like flower arranging

• Gift Exchange: Themed gifts or White Elephant gift cards

If nothing else, grab your best friends, get dressed up, and head to your favorite restaurant! Whether big or small, the celebration is about cherishing the people who make life so much better.

Wedding Lookbook

Words by Lifestyle Staff

Weddings are a celebration of love that never goes out of style. While trends may come and go, the timeless beauty of a couple’s commitment to one another remains constant. We’re peeking into some of the most memorable weddings, where personal touches, unforgettable moments, and timeless elegance took center stage. These celebrations are a reminder that no matter how much time passes, love continues to shine in the most meaningful ways. Each story is unique, yet they all share one thing in common: the promise of forever.

Talia & Niko

From the Wedding Planner

Talia and Niko’s love story culminated in an unforgettable celebration in Northern California’s wine country. With the help of Talia’s Fresnobased wedding planner and designer, Susan Vang-Xiong (Circle of Events), the couple chose Napa as the perfect destination for their vows—a nod to their shared love of travel and their desire for a breathtaking backdrop.

Talia and Niko exchanged heartfelt vows surrounded by their closest family and friends at the historic Grace Episcopal Church. The couple’s celebration continued at the iconic Silverado Resort, where the ballroom was transformed, blending elegance with timeless functionality. The space was adorned from floor to ceiling, including elegant tablescapes of lush flowers and glowing candles, creating an experience for their guests that was both personal and unforgettable, a true reflection of their love.

For Talia and Niko, their Napa wedding wasn’t just an event—it told their story, shared their style, and highlighted the unbreakable bond they share.

Mariah & Mason

Full Planning, Design & Coordination: Ribbon and Leaf | Photographer: Lauren Westra

Photography | Videographer: Lauren Westra Photography | Wedding Caterer: A Thumb's

From the Florist

This wedding was the perfect mix of timeless style and personal flair. Katie Kalendar, owner of Ribbon and Leaf, worked her magic to turn the family’s hay barn into an elegant reception space that felt straight out of a fairytale. The florals, designed by Sweet Memories Flowers, were vibrant and romantic, featuring soft blush, peach, blue, and lavender tones that paired perfectly with the vintage-inspired blue and white china. After saying “I do” at Visalia Christian Reformed Church, the bride, looking stunning in her lace gown, and her groom made the coolest reception entrance—flying in on an airplane. The bridesmaids’ pastel blue dresses and gardeninspired bouquets added to the dreamy, modern vibe, and Lauren Westra’s photos captured every beautiful detail and joyful moment.

Lauren & Derek

From the Couple

We really wanted our wedding to be timeless and elegant. Our goal was to create a more traditional setting for our ceremony and cocktail hour which is why we decided to have a string trio playing. The simple white florals and wedding photos of our parents and grandparents were some of our favorite decor, along with the chandeliers we had at the altar and throughout our reception tent. We wanted to make our outdoor venue have the feeling of being both indoor and outdoor, so we placed sitting areas and lighting under the trees, used outdoor shelving, and had plenty of romantic candlelight. Thanks to our vendors and loved ones, our special day turned out to be even more beautiful than we expected. It was a day full of happy memories that we will never forget.

From the Photographer

High school sweethearts who waited for the perfect day finally said "I do" in the Central Valley heat of July. Surrounded by loved ones, they exchanged vows in front of a rustic wood barn, elevated by an A+ vendor team. Professionals from across California came together to create a warm, comfortable, yet luxurious hometown celebration for the new Mr. and Mrs.

The vintage Tap Truck and frozen margaritas, a fun nod to the 7/11 wedding, kept guests cool. After a floral-lined ceremony, dinner under a custom wooden pergola draped with lights by Bella Vista Events set the stage for a golden sunset. The lawn by waving wheat fields added to the magic of the evening.

Dancing followed in the beautifully styled barn, enhanced by Avenue Twelve Events, as guests enjoyed Field-to-Table eats. The night ended perfectly as the newlyweds departed in a vintage car borrowed from the bride’s family.

Kelsey & John

( 5 5 9 ) 9 7 0 - 9 4 6 0

WEDDING PLANNING CHECKLIST:

MONTH-BY-MONTH

Words by Lifestyle Staff

Planning a wedding can feel overwhelming, but we’ve got you covered with a streamlined month-by-month checklist to keep you on track. From booking your dream venue to tying up last-minute details, this guide is your ultimate companion. Save this list to ensure every milestone is met—and enjoy the journey to your big day!

12+ MONTHS BEFORE THE WEDDING

Set a wedding date and create a budget.

Book your venue(s) for the ceremony and reception.

Create a guest list and gather addresses.

Hire key vendors: wedding planner, photographer, and caterer.

Choose your wedding party.

6-9 MONTHS BEFORE THE WEDDING

Finalize your guest list and send save-the-dates.

Book florist, hair/makeup artist, and transportation.

Plan your honeymoon and book travel/accommodations.

Begin DIY projects (if applicable).

1-3 MONTHS BEFORE THE WEDDING

Send out invitations.

Finalize your day-of timeline with vendors.

Purchase wedding party gifts and accessories.

Confirm RSVPs and finalize seating chart.

Obtain marriage license.

9-12 MONTHS BEFORE THE WEDDING

Shop for wedding attire (dress, suit, etc.).

Book entertainment: band or DJ.

Reserve hotel blocks for out-of-town guests.

Plan engagement photos and schedule your session.

Start brainstorming your wedding theme and decor.

3-6 MONTHS BEFORE THE WEDDING

Order invitations and any other stationery.

Schedule dress fittings and alterations.

Confirm rentals (tables, chairs, linens, etc.).

Plan and book rehearsal dinner.

Finalize your menu with the caterer.

FINAL

WEEK BEFORE THE WEDDING

Pack for honeymoon.

Confirm arrival times with all vendors.

Prep a wedding day emergency kit (sewing kit,

Do a final walk-through of the venue.

Get pampered: haircuts, facials, or massages. safety pins, etc.).

WEDDING DAY/NIGHT BEFORE

Set out attire and accessories.

Eat a healthy meal and stay hydrated.

Hand off your timeline and details to a trusted person.

Spend time with your partner or loved ones.

Relax and enjoy your day—everything is ready!

Wedding Guest Dress Codes Decoded

,

Words by Lifestyle Staff | Illustrations by Rachel Ruiz

Cracking the wedding dress code is all about nailing the perfect look while honoring the couple’s vibe. Let’s break down the most common options!

Black-Tie

Black-tie events are formal and typically held in the evening. Women should opt for floor-length gowns, though sophisticated cocktail dresses may be acceptable. Men should wear a tuxedo.

Formal or Black-Tie Optional

This dress code is slightly less formal than black-tie. Women can choose between a floor-length gown, a fancy cocktail dress, or a dressy pantsuit. Men have the option of wearing a tuxedo or a formal dark suit with a tie.

Cocktail

Cocktail attire strikes a balance between formal and casual. Women should wear knee-length dresses or dressy separates. Men are advised to wear a suit and tie.

Semi-Formal or Dressy Casual

This dress code is less formal than cocktail attire. Women might wear a dress or a skirt and top, while men can opt for a suit or dress pants with a collared shirt and tie.

Tropical or Destination

For weddings in tropical locations, lightweight fabrics and bright colors are appropriate. Women might wear a sundress, and men could opt for linen pants with a light shirt.

Casual

Casual dress codes are the most relaxed. Women can wear sundresses or skirts with a nice top, and men might choose dress pants or khakis with a polo or button-down shirt.

Concept Style or Themed

Some weddings feature a theme, and guests are encouraged to dress accordingly. For instance, a “Cowboy Chic” wedding might suggest Western-inspired elegance, like dresses with boots or tailored shirts with bolo ties.

Tips for Wedding Guests

• Always follow the couple’s instructions: The invitation or wedding website often includes details about the dress code.

• Avoid white unless instructed: White is traditionally reserved for the bride.

• Consider the venue and time: Indoor evening events tend to be more formal, while outdoor or daytime weddings lean toward casual.

• Accessorize appropriately: Shoes, jewelry, and other accessories should align with the dress code.

DIAMOND ChooseYour

Words by Lifestyle Staff

The perfect diamond is a blend of brilliance and charm, where cut, clarity, color, and carat dance in harmony. It’s not just a gem—it’s a legacy, sparkling with timeless elegance. Choose wisely, and you’ll have a radiant keepsake that dazzles with every glance, adding a touch of whimsy to forever.

The 4 Cs of Diamonds:

Cut: Sparkle & brilliance

Color: Pure & bright

Clarity: Flawless beauty

Carat: Weight & size

Picture Perfect: studiOh Brings Wedding Memories to Life

Words by Lifestyle Staff

Weddings are moments of celebration, joy, and memories that last a lifetime. And for couples looking to capture these memories in a unique way, studiOh offers something truly different. By blending professional-grade photography and innovative technology, this company has reimagined what it means to document special events.

Founded in 2022, studiOh is based in Central California and was the brainchild of a former wedding photographer who saw an opportunity to do something different. Drawing from years of experience behind the camera, studiOh’s founder set out to elevate event photography beyond the typical photo booth setup. The result: high-end studio techniques paired with innovative, interactive experiences tailored for modern celebrations.

studiOh is perhaps best known for its tagline: “Not your average photo booth.” The company offers two standout services: studiOh Set and studiOh 360, both of which bring a fresh approach to traditional event photography.

studiOh Set is a studio-grade photo experience that brings the elegance of high-end portraiture to your wedding or event. With professional lighting and advanced photography equipment, guests are treated to black-and-white portraits that feel timeless and frame-worthy. These aren’t the disposable photo strips you’d expect from a typical booth—they’re keepsakes that wouldn’t look out of place in a gallery.

For a more dynamic option, studiOh 360 delivers an experience guests won’t soon forget. Up to five people can step onto an elevated platform while a rotating camera captures their energy, fashion, and personality in a captivating video. The results are sleek, shareable clips that bring a modern edge to event documentation.

For couples planning their wedding, studiOh offers a way to elevate the guest experience. The studiOh Set provides a touch of timeless elegance, while studiOh 360 introduces a playful and modern element to the day. Each service offers something distinct, ensuring your event feels personal and memorable.

studiOh’s offerings stand out in a world of cookie-cutter options, bringing innovation and artistry to event photography. For those seeking something different, studiOh is worth considering. Whether it’s a stunning portrait or a lively 360 video, this company ensures that your memories are captured with style

Website: studioh.events

Instagram: @studioh.events

LOCAL YOU’LLDESSERTSLOVE

From weddings and bridal showers to Galentine's and birthday parties, desserts can absolutely steal the show—your guests won't be able to stop talking about these treats from local pastry pros.

Vintage Kitchen Bakery (Kingsburg) - Salted Caramel Apple Pie Shooter, Red Velvet Cakesicles, Graham tarts with chocolate ganache and raspberry

Goodies Cookies & Cakes (Visalia) - custom heart cake with strawberry filling, chocolate dessert bars, berry dessert bars, custom heart cookie, sugar & snickerdoodle cookies

Max’s Bakery (Visalia) - cannoli, brownie, lemon bar

Stafford’s Chocolates (Porterville) - chocolate covered strawberries

When Love Was in the Air and in the Newspaper

Words by Terry Ommen

Today, advice and information about love and romance can be found everywhere. Books, magazines, movies, and the internet provide a huge repository for those needing help with their love life. Both experts and novices are more than happy to share their wisdom.

But historically, access to all things Cupid was much harder to find. In Visalia, for example, one of the main sources for commentary on the subject was the newspaper. The paper often quoted advice it gleaned from authorities who wrote books or made speeches. But from time to time, Visalia newspaper editors would share personal advice to their lovelorn readers. Alonzo Melville Doty of the Visalia Delta was one, and for 12 years this early “Dear Abby” didn’t hold back.

Doty came to Visalia in 1895 after working for the Los Angeles Times. He bought an ownership interest in the Visalia Delta newspaper from George W. Stewart, and for a dozen years Doty played a significant role with the Delta. Although Doty was light on formal education, he loved literature and words, especially those nicely put together to form “smooth sounding sentences.” As a young man, he even clipped his favorites from newspapers and often memorized them.

When Doty joined the Delta, the 36-year-old newspaper was a well-respected, four-page publication reporting on local, state, national, and international news with a countywide readership. The layout was in the standard column format, and one of the regular featured columns was “The Local Lyre.” Both Stewart and Doty were credited with the column’s content, but most believe the material found there was the work of Doty. The subject matter in the column covered a wide range of topics including local news, but much of it was devoted to observations and editorial thought about love and romance.

His style was unorthodox, typically made up of pithy poetic verse.

Critics called it doggerel. But criticism didn’t seem to bother him. His style was his calling card and he was proud of his rhythmic words and quick intellect. He wrote:

As

people drink our Lyre verse like rare wines, They think, each one, with Goldsmith in these lines: The wonder is, and still the wonder grows That one small head can carry all it knows.

This is a rare, although poor quality, portrait of Alonzo Melville Doty as he looked when he owned the Delta

Of all of the topics covered in the “Lyre,” love, romance, and marriage seemed to be his favorites. There is no evidence that Doty had any special knowledge or training on these subjects, but that didn’t seem to stop him from writing about them.

About the young ladies of Visalia he wrote under the heading Bells & Belles:

The Christmas bells have just one day To fill the world with cheer; The Visalia Belles – just think of it, Are with us all the year.

He followed with this verse that he called We’re Proud of ‘em:

Yes sir; they are the gentlest girls— The maidens of Visalia. In beauty they are out of sight, In love they never fail yo’.

Under Love in Visalia the poetic journalist wrote, Yes they’ll be married, Everyone knows it; She has a diamond And everywhere shows it.

Sometimes Doty gave his readers a clear hint of personal experience like in this verse under the heading The Press is Mighty:

I draw her gently to me, What happens you may guess. I held her hand until she felt The power of the press.

Doty included some humorous courting observations under the heading Course of True Love cautioning,

Maiden wait, Garden gate, Lover come; Yummy Yum: Father gun— Lover run.

And then there was this one under the title Femininity:

The girl whom all men covet Is not my girl to wed, As too much admiration Turns any maiden’s head.

Doty delta building 1888:

In about 1888, the Visalia Delta building was located near Court and Main streets. Doty is not pictured in this group, but George W. Stewart is second from the right.

Also, Doty wrote the following under the heading Twas Ever This:

Many times before their marriage They went riding in a carriage, But strange to say, since they’ve been wed, He leaves her home to bake the bread.

And Doty shared an observation about the institution of marriage under the heading Husbands Take Warning:

If she wants an Eastern bonnet, She will have it, sir, she will. Your part in the transaction Is just to pay the bill.

About Cupid he wrote under the heading of His Deadly Aim:

Now cupid is a marksman true, And seldom ever misses, So when he bends his bow, you’ll find Somewhere there is a Mrs.

In 1907, Doty sold his interest in the Visalia Delta. Upon the sale he said, “I have made more money than any man who has ever engaged in the newspaper business in Tulare County.”

Other California journalists commented on his departure from the newspaper scene. It was clear that his unusual poetic style had caught their attention. The San Francisco Call wrote, “By many Doty has been regarded as a freak in California journalism. His freakishness did not consist so much in doing absurd or foolish things as it did in doing things differently. The Delta was the ‘different’ paper in California.” The Bay Area newspaper added that some papers “poked fun at Doty” for his unusual style in using “couplets of rhyme.” The Call noted, “The stuff was rotten— absolutely rotten,” but Doty “did not appear to be jarred by his critics and kept right on grinding out verse or worse.”

Alonzo Melville Doty died in Colville, Washington in 1940 at the age of 79. The twice married and twice divorced journalist was a subscriber to the Visalia Delta right up to the end.

Doty’s words reflect a unique blend of humor and heart, preserving a slice of Visalia’s history that remains unforgettable today.

View is looking south on Church St from the top of the TC Courthouse. Note the Daily Morning Delta building on the far left. Circa 1910

Visit visalialifestyle.com/calendar for more local events or to submit your event to our online calendar.

Events subject to change. Please check with host before attending.

VISALIA

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EXETER

TULARE

Looking Forward

With the days growing longer and as spring begins to bloom, we’re excited to give you a glimpse into our March Bloom issue. Here at Lifestyle Magazine, we’re celebrating renewal, nature, and all the beauty the season has to offer. Inside, you’ll find a beautiful home feature, a tribute to the magic of wildflowers, and a section for book lovers. Plus, a seasonal recipe that will bring the flavors of spring right to your kitchen. We’re excited for you to explore a little springtime inspiration.

UP NEXT:

The Bloom Issue

Published by Root Creative Marketing, 6759 N Palm Ave, Fresno, CA 93704

Executive Editor Stephanie Steelman

Creative Editor Sam Justice

Managing Editor Lauren Walters

Sales Representative Dakota Jacobi

Content Editor Marissa Carpenter

Designers Daniel Borgatto, Josh Aleman

Advertising and General Inquiries lifestyle@root.marketing

Sales Office 111 W Main Street, Visalia CA 93291 559.702.1383 View this Issue Online visalialifestyle.com

Visalia’s Lifestyle Magazine is published monthly and is distributed via direct mail to homes in Visalia. Additional copies are distributed at various rack and countertop locations around Visalia, Tulare, Exeter, Three Rivers and Kingsburg. Distribution is subject to change. Views expressed in articles and on advertisements are those of the writer and advertiser and not necessarily those of Lifestyle Magazine or Root. Every effort is made to avoid errors, misspellings, and omissions. If an error is found, please accept our sincere apologies and notify us of the mistake.

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Photo by JJ Fry