Lifestyle Magazine - December 2015

STYLE, ART, CULTURE, + EVENTS OF THE SOUTH VALLEY DECEMBER 2015

HOME TOUR

CULINARY

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THE CHRISTMAN HOME

HORS D’OEUVRES FOR THE HOLIDAYS

SARA JANSMA

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24 HOME TOUR

SARA JANSMA

THE CHRISTMAN HOME

Rooted in South Africa

Home for the Holidays

Visalia native Sara Jansma travels between Visalia and South Africa.

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8 Letter from the Executive Editor 10 Wordplay 12 History: The American Legion Memorial

CULINARY

HORS D’OEUVRES FOR THE HOLIDAYS No holiday party is complete without delicious hors d’oeuvres.

22 Music: Violinist Blake Pouliot 40 Sip: Classic Cocktails for the Holidays 50 Charity: An Evening in Paris 52 Hidden Gem: Columbia State Historic Park

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54 Happenings

TRAVEL

A NOSTALGIC CHRISTMAS JOURNEY Logan’s Candy Canes

46 4 LIFEST YLE | DECEMBER 2015

Take a trip down memory lane and visit an old-fashioned candy cane shop.

COVER: The Christman’s bedroom has a warm fireplace that leads into their bathroom.

TOP: The family room was added on to the back of the house after a major renovation.

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DMI Agency 801 W. Main St. Visalia, CA 93291 Karen Tellalian Kelly Lapadula Katie Presser Malynda Whitworth Ross Yukawa Chris Bly Kaci Hansen

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Suncrest Bank The Gardens at Cal Turf V Medical Spa Velvet Sky Visalia Airport Visalia Business Bank (Downtown) Visalia Ceramic Tile Visalia First Assembly Visalia Marriott Visalia Medical Clinic Watsons Wildflower Café, Exeter Williams, Brodersen & Pritchett, Attorneys at Law Windows Plus, Inc.

Visalia Lifestyle Magazine is published monthly and is distributed via direct mail to nearly 13,000 homes in the upper-middle and high-income neighborhoods in Visalia and Exeter. An additional 2,500 copies are distributed at various distribution points around both communities.

Views expressed in columns are those of the columnist and not necessarily those of DMI Agency or its advertisers.

Circulation of this issue: 15,500 © 2015 DMI Agency

A jolly Santa Clause is perched on a shelf, watching over the Christman's Christmas tree.

6 LIFEST YLE | DECEMBER 2015

FR O M TH E

EDITOR

D

ecember has just begun, and I am already expecting it to be a great month. Our office is always so busy this time of year, as Lifestyle releases a week earlier than usual. The early release, coupled with how fast and furious DMI Agency works all month to prepare our clients’ marketing plans for the first of the year, makes it somewhat crazy.

Professionally speaking, we love it, and thrive on the loosely managed chaos.

not the coveted recorder, but rather a Webster Dictionary. Not that a dictionary was a bad idea, but certainly not what I’d wished for.

Although I’m still not fond of surprises, we have one surprise coming this year that will be different.

Many of you know or recognize the photography work of my daughter, Taylor Johnson. She and her husband Tim are expecting their first child right around Christmas, and we are

Our wish at Lifestyle Magazine is that each of you has the opportunity to spend time with those you love, and you receive what it is on your list. Merry Christmas, everyone.

E X E C U T I V E

E D I T O R

K A R E N

T E L L A L I A N

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

Personally, I tend to dread this time of year because of all the hustle and bustle and the generally cranky mood many people exhibit during the holidays. It can make me want to hibernate until the decorations are taken down and properly stored away.

I’m also not a huge fan of surprises, and this year has had me thinking more about how that came to be.

The best I can come up with takes me back to seventh grade, when I wanted nothing more than a taperecorder for Christmas. Everyone in my family knew it, and listened to me talk about how much I wanted that recorder. I kept my eyes peeled on a rather small, but heavy for its size, box placed carefully under the tree with my name on it. I could barely wait for Christmas Eve. The brightlycolored paper practically tore itself off from that box, and when my eyes fixed on what was inside, I’m sure my parents saw the disappointment on my face when I realized it was 8 LIFEST YLE | DECEMBER 2015

over-the-moon excited about our first grandchild. We’ve already turned our spare bedroom into a nursery, but here’s where it gets hard for me – they don’t want to find out if they’re having a boy or a girl until delivery day. What? How does a new “mimi” shop for cute little baby outfits if she doesn’t know if it’s pink or blue? Good grief. Requests for the doctor to tell just me fell on deaf ears, so we’ll wait to find out shortly after they know.

Whether granddaughter or grandson, it really does not matter; this baby has no idea how much love is waiting for him or her here.

As I think about and prepare for our growing family, it reminds me that Christmas is often the one time of year that brings families together, if only for a day. Our wish at Lifestyle Magazine is that each of you has the opportunity to spend time with those you love, and you receive what it is on your list. Merry Christmas, everyone

JOHN K. SULLIVAN, DDS JOSEPH M. MARVIZI, DDS

T E X T

B Y

D I A N E

S L O C U M

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

P

ulitzer Prize winning author Oscar Hijuelos died suddenly in 2013 before he could finish his novel, Twain & Stanley Enter Paradise, but it has now been published (Grand Central Publishing, November 2015). The story deals with the 37-year friendship of Mark Twain and Welsh explorer, Sir Henry Morton Stanley (of “Dr. Livingstone, I presume” fame}, and his wife, artist Dorothy Tennant. Hijuelos spent more than 10 years on the project, which blends historical accuracy with fictionalized details.

Pursuing a fictional account of another famous pair, Karl Marx and Frederick Engels, Gavin McCrea penned his debut novel, Mrs. Engels, from the viewpoint of Lizzie Burns, Engels’ common law wife. Lizzie and her sister, Mary, are uneducated workers in the Engels’ textile mill when the son, Frederick, shows up and chooses Mary from all the swooning girls. Later, after Mary’s death, Lizzie takes on the role of Mrs. Engels. In McCrea’s interpretation of her, she becomes a strong woman with definite ideas and keen observations of her own.

eight authors, one of whom is Visalian, Jane Porter. Christmas at Copper Mountain is one of Porter’s novels about the Sheehan family. Widower Brock Sheehan hires young widow Harley Diekerhoff as a temporary housekeeper.

Harley enjoys working for her taciturn boss and the quiet and routine of his ranch as she tries to heal from the loss of her husband and children. That is, until his children show up and everything changes. Other stories in the limited

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WRITERS’ CONFERENCE The 32nd Annual San Diego State University Writers’ Conference will be held Jan. 22-24, at the Marriott Mission Valley Hotel. This conference offers 18 agents, including Betsy Amster and BJ Robbins. Among the 13 editors expected are Stacy Creamer, vice president and executive editor of Hachette Books, and Michelle Klayman, president/CEO, of Boroughs Publishing Group. Best-selling authors include Jennifer Ashley and Neal Griffin Conference.

Early bird registration fees of $449 and consultation and advance reading appointment registration fees of $50 each continue through Jan. 4. Details at: ces.sdsu.edu/wc WRITING CONTESTS

VALLEY WRITERS Valley native and Poet Laureate of the United States, Juan Felipe Herrera, will open the Split This Rock Poetry Festival: Poems of Provocation & Witness 2016 with a special event at the Library of Congress on Apr. 13. As the national spokesperson for poetry, Herrera will be one of the socially engaged poets participating in the festival, which attracts activists and dreamers as well. The event occurs in even years and includes four days of readings, workshops, discussions, youth voices, and activism. The festival will run Apr. 14-17, 2016, in Washington, D.C. A Montana Born Christmas (Tule Publishing, October, 2015), a boxed set available on Kindle, includes stories by

Mars and his struggle to survive. Brian A. Klems interviews Weir on how he came to write the book on “The Writer’s Dig” on the Writer’s Digest website.

edition collection include A Cowgirl’s Christmas by CJ Carmichael, Her Mistletoe Cowboy by Alissa Callen, Come Home for Christmas, Cowboy, by Megan Crane, and A Sweet Montana Christmas

by Roxanne Snopek.

READ THE BOOK The movie, “The Martian,” released this fall starring Matt Damon, is based on a book by the same name by Andy Weir. Weir initially published his book on his website, then moved up to a selfpublished Kindle version on Amazon. He never expected it to take off as it did. It is the story of an astronaut left behind on

Books of literary fiction may be submitted by the author or publisher to The Balcones Center for Creative Writing at Austin Community College until Jan. 31.

Books must have been published in 2015. Prize is $1,500. Entry fee: $30. Details at: austincc.edu/ crw/html/balconescenter.html.

The Virginia Commonwealth University Cabell First Novelist Award is open until Jan. 14, for books published from July through Dec. this year. Works may be submitted by author, publicist, or editor. No self-published or e-formatonly novels or novels primarily for youth.

The author must attend the award event in Nov. Details at: firstnovelist.vcu.edu/ submit.

THE LAST WORD “Be true to yourself. Make each day a masterpiece. Help others. Drink deeply from good books. Make friendship a fine art. Build a shelter against a rainy day.” – John Wooden (1910 – 2010)

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THE AMERICAN LEGION MEMORIAL

Moved But Not Shaken W hen the Great War ended in 1918, those who had served came home to a grateful nation. They had fought bravely under difficult circumstances and through it all, their patriotism and the camaraderie that had developed was strong. So it was understandable that after military service, their love of country and their fellow soldiers was solid. In 1919, an organization called the American Legion was formed and fortunately, it satisfied the continuing needs of the returning soldiers. Membership was open to any former member of the U.S. military regardless of branch of service.

In the same year, the American Legion Auxiliary was created with membership open to veterans’ mothers, wives, daughters, and granddaughters who felt a love of country and an unselfish willingness to support the veterans.

Visalia veterans didn’t waste any time in joining the American Legion movement. C. L. Bradley led the effort by holding meetings to rally support for the creation of a local American Legion post. He was the right man for the job. He had been a First Lieutenant in the Army and had been “gassed” in France. He was a practicing attorney in the Visalia family law firm of Bradley T EXT

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LIFEST YLE | DECEMBER 2015

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& Bradley, and he was by far the best known of all the soldiers serving in the war from Tulare County. Under his guidance, an application was submitted to form a local chapter, and in 1919 Visalia American Legion Post No. 18 was born.

In the years that followed, membership in the Visalia post was popular. So was membership in the local auxiliary. The legion members regularly attended and participated in public and patriotic events. The auxiliary members were visible too, staying busy raising money for veteran and community projects. Proceeds

O MME N

The American Legion Memorial stands on the northwest corner of Hall and Main streets in the Ralph Moore Garden.

from activities like tag sales, cookbook sales, and the sale of Flanders Poppies were used to help veterans in need and to help many charitable community causes as well.

Clearly, one of the high points in the history of the local American Legion post and the auxiliary happened in 1929 when the ladies took charge of planning Memorial Day activities. In the past, the holiday events included a Main Street parade and cemetery ceremony, but in 1929 the auxiliary had a special surprise for Visalia.

The ladies had approached city officials and received permission to build a veteran's tribute marker on

Auditorium on Acequia and Garden streets. Spanish-American War veterans, National Guard soldiers, Grand Army of the Republic members, fraternal groups, Boy Scouts, the Visalia Band, and others took part in the parade procession.

The parade route followed Main Street and ended at the “Y” park where a crowd had gathered. Rose Avery, president of the Auxiliary, gave a short speech with Mineola Harris, the group's chaplain leading the crowd in prayer.

James Burke, prominent Visalia attorney, made a few remarks and closed by saying, “In dedicating this monument, we not only express our faith in those men and women who served in the

dangers that human nature dreads to face, and did so with a cheerful heart.

We must never forget them.”

For years the obelisk landmark stood at Visalia's west entrance as a tribute to those who served the nation in war. In 1933 an oak tree was planted in the little “Y” park, and in about 1944 Herschell Williams, city gardener, took over the job of maintaining the special area.

His job included watering, mowing, trimming, and repairing damage from automobiles that jumped the curb and struck the shrubbery. Williams did it for 14 years, but he was not the only caretaker. The local mortuaries, using flowers from the funerals of veterans,

the small triangular plot of land called the “Y” at the west entrance to town at the intersection of Main Street and the Visalia-Tulare Highway, now called Mooney Blvd. It is not clear who was commissioned to do the actual design and construction of the 9½ ft. tall tapered obelisk, but it is clear that when it was finished, the workmanship was first rate. As a special acknowledgment, on one side of the four-sided marker, a bronze plaque was mounted containing the words “In Memory of the World War Veterans, May 30, 1929.” To spruce up the little piece of land, the city agreed to landscape it and plant a giant sequoia tree at each of the three corners. By Memorial Day, all the work had been completed at the site.

The holiday events began at 9:30 a.m. with the parade starting at the Municipal

Great War, but also in the coming generations that may be called upon to defend the institutions of our country.”

The marker was unveiled.

After Burke's remarks, Avery symbolically turned over the monument to B. J. Pardee, Visalia city manager.

At the end of the ceremony, Chaplain Harris gave the closing benediction and the entire group sang the Star-Spangled Banner. After that the parade members reassembled and marched to the cemetery for the traditional concluding ceremony.

The Visalia Times-Delta published a closing final tribute to the veterans on Memorial Day, 1929 when they wrote, “The men of all our wars deserve all the honor that we can give them…they bore the burdens that the rest of us laid on them and they bore them well. They met

provided a steady supply of beautiful arrangements for display at the base of the monument.

Over the years as Visalia grew, there was a need for changes in road patterns.

Eventually, attention turned to the busy intersection of Main and Mooney. Traffic planners made a decision to widen roads and the little “Y” park had to go. The obelisk marker was moved east to the corner of Hall and Main streets where it stands today. But the new location was not the only change to it. Over the years, bronze tribute plaques have been added to the other three sides of the marker honoring World War II, Korean, and Vietnam War veterans.

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LIFEST YLE | DECEMBER 2015

RIGHT: Emblem for the American Legion Auxiliary.

LEFT: A Visalia American Legion parade float in an unknown year in front of the Visalia Municipal Auditorium.

S A R A

J A N S M A

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H

ave you ever considered what it means to be “rooted?” When it comes to our place in the world,

we often neglect to think about the importance of being wholeheartedly committed to something, whether it’s a community, a church, an organization, or a cause. Few understand the impact of being “rooted” better than Visalia native, Sara Jansma, who has spent the last year dedicated to both a mission in South Africa and to her church right here in Visalia.

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Sara always knew she wanted to travel and serve the people of the world, wherever that may be. When she graduated from Vanguard in 2012 with a degree in religious studies, she wasn’t entirely sure what that would look like, but slowly things began to fall into place.

Sara’s first long-term international experience came six months after college, when through her church, Visalia First, she learned about a teaching opportunity in the Philippines.

She spent five months experiencing the

culture in the Philippines, and came back to Visalia with a thirst for more.

“I had always wanted to teach oversees for some reason, even though I had no teaching training at all,” said Sara. “The experience as a whole left me hungry for more. Just being right out of college, I was in ‘exploratory mode.’ I felt like I didn’t have my life figured out yet, so it definitely left a hunger in me to do something similar, I just didn’t know what yet.”

Coming back to Visalia after the

Sara Jansma “gallivanting” through the hills of South Africa.

Philippines, Sara figured she would be home for a few months and then back out to serve in another corner of the world, “but it was because I was home for a time that I was able to eventually go to South Africa,” said Sara.

Sara took what she thought would be a temporary position at Visalia First. “It was just a very homey place to be, but I had every intention of going somewhere come January,” said Sara. Her world was turned slightly upside down when Jason LeFaive came on as the local and global outreach pastor at Visalia First. Sara was soon hired as his assistant, which ultimately led her to becoming the liaison between Visalia First and their new global

people until they ask us why.”

After the initial short group visit, it was decided that Sara would be the Visalia First liaison, to set the grounds for the partnership. Four months later, she set out for South Africa for five months, and the experience has forever “rooted” her in that community.

Sara had somewhat of an administrative role with Crossroads, but she also spent several months trekking through the rural hills and countryside of Durban, visiting Orphan and Vulnerable Children (OVC) in their homes. “We ‘gallivanted’ through the hills, finding the guardians of these kids to meet with them, do a home assessment, and find out basic information so we had up to

Sara walked alongside teenage lions in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Just being right out of college, I was in ‘exploratory mode.’ I felt like I didn’t have my life figured out yet, so it definitely left a hunger in me to do something similar, I just didn’t know what yet.

S A R A

partner, Crossroads in Durban, South Africa.

In September of 2014, Sara, Jason, and three others from Visalia First headed out to South Africa for two weeks to visit Crossroads, learn about what they do, and explore the idea of a partnership. “We went for two weeks and thought ‘yep, this is going to work.’ This was something we wanted to explore to be a long-term relationship between our church and their organization,” said Sara.

Crossroads is a faith-based organization that partners with schools and parents from all backgrounds to care for children in rural communities throughout South Africa. Mahendra, the director of Crossroads, summed up their philosophy as “loving 18 L I F E S T Y L E | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5

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date files on the kids – that was a large part of what I did there.”

While Sara lived in South Africa, she interacted with three very different worlds on a daily basis.

She started her day at her home in the Indian community of Phoenix, a suburb of Durban, where she was the only caucasian person for miles. From there she would drive 15 minutes to the Crossroads office in one of the nicest suburbs of Durban, and from there her team would go into the rural countryside to do their work.

“When I pictured Africa in my head, that is what I pictured,” said Sara. “It’s a completely different world.”

Sara also had the chance to travel through parts of South Africa and experience the different cultures that touch the

Sara working with Orphan and Vulnerable Children.

Lewazo, a Crossroads staff member, was Sara’s greatest influence.

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A group of children Sara interacted with in rural Durban, South Africa.

Sara traveled throughout South Africa during her five-month stay.

It definitely instilled in me a value of being planted, and I think right now that translates for me into me being with this Visalia First – Crossroads relationship as long as I can be.

S A R A

diverse country. In Johannesburg, she had an “unreal” experience walking right alongside teenage lions; in Cape Town she met Desmond Tutu, a friend of Nelson Mandela, who had a significant role in the South African Apartheid; her last trip was to Lesotho, a country within South Africa that has remained practically untouched by Western Civilization. “I almost felt like I was on another planet,” said Sara. “It’s so untouched by the outside world. We got to ride horses into the country and there were shepherds covered in cloth.”

But what was most significant about her travels in South Africa were the people she met. “I met people outside of my network, people who don’t necessarily believe the same things that I do,” said Sara. “It just reminded me that most people are searching, and I just had very interesting conversations with people. When you travel, a lot of travelers are searching for something.

They’re exploring the world, yes, but I think it’s internal as well.”

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Over the course of her time in South Africa, Sara’s entire worldview and perspective on poverty changed. “I used to have this glamorous idea of traveling – I thought ‘I’m going to go across the world to serve people and do all of this great stuff,’ and then you get there and you’re like ‘I have so much to learn.’”

Because Sara was in South Africa for several months, as opposed to a few short weeks, she was able to see the world through the eyes of a South African. So often, well-meaning Americans drop in on these countries and communities for a short time with an “outsider looking in” mentality. Sara got a chance to be a part of it, to make an impact, and be impacted in a longterm, life-altering way.

Of everyone she met in South Africa, a woman named Lewazo had the most significant impact on her.

Lewazo is a full-time staff member at Crossroads, who lives at the Crossroads Hope Center and is considered the

on-the-grounds hands and feet of the organization.

“Those five months really showed me the value of being planted somewhere,” said Sara. “I’ve had many experiences of going here and going there, but then I met Lewazo, who is committed to this community for the rest of her life,” said Sara. “The impact she is able to make because she is planted and because she has roots somewhere is huge.”

For the first time, Sara realized that she doesn’t need to travel all around the world to experience adventure and make an impact. She wants to see what can happen, the changes that can be made, when she is rooted.

“It definitely instilled in me a value of being planted, and I think right now that translates into me being with this Visalia First – Crossroads relationship as long as I can be,” said Sara.

Sara and a group of Visalia First members went back to South Africa again in September of this year, and she plans to return soon. Sara is rooted.

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MUSIC

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VIOLINIST

BLAKE POULIOT

M

usic at the Main’s unique position in the world of classical music has brought some remarkable young talent to our area, and few of them hold as much promise as Canadian violinist Blake Pouliot, who performed at the Main Street Theater in Visalia on Sunday, November 14.

Already at age 21, Mr. Pouliot has a signature style that can best be described as bright and clean yet packed with a full range of expressive emotion.

In the opening composition, Mozart’s Violin Sonata No. 24 in F Major, Mr. Pouliot, like the trained actor he is, found the place of child-like whimsy, exuberance, and mischief in himself and let his violin – an astonishing instrument in its own right, a 1729 Guarneri del Gesu – do the talking. A master of phrasing, Pouliot sculpted an emotional arc out of Mozart’s writing and let it tell its own story.

It’s tempting to say the violin was the star of the next piece, Ravel’s Violin Sonata No. 2 in G Major. But no violin, however great, will sound good without the supple touch of a violinist’s bow and precise fingering on the strings for pitch and vibrato. Here, Mr.

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Pouliot confidently drove the violin as if it were a Ferrari on a racetrack, alternating between rich straightaway lyrical passages and passages that were twisting, dark, angular, brooding, and in my view, are better expressed on a Guarneri than a Stradivarius. Guarneri violins are famous for their dark, smoky, robust quality of sound and for the immense power they project, even on notes played pianissimo. In Ravel’s movement Blues: Moderato (inspired by American Blues), Pouliot and Guarneri teamed up for some of the silkiest and broadest slides and bends never heard on a guitar.

The highlight of the afternoon was Pouliot’s gorgeous rendering of Bach’s immortal Partita No. 3 in E Major. With near perfect phrasing and intonation, and with vibrato a bit more open than usually heard, the piece seemed to achieve a life of its own. It was hard to tell if Mr. Pouliot was playing the violin or if the violin was playing him, the union of the two was that complete and organic.

Blake Pouliot is a violinist to keep an eye on. He is going far and it will be a pleasure to watch him ascend.

THE CHRISTMAN HOME

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HO

HO

ME for the P H O T O S

B Y

T A Y L O R

J O H N S O N

P H O T O G R A P H Y

LIDAYS

The Christmans’ brightly decorated living room is where their family gathers on Christmas Eve. LIFEST YLE | DECEMBER 2015

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PICTURED: The dining room was added on to the home during a major renovation.

INSET: The white Christmas trees scattered throughout the Christman home are some of their most treasured decorations.

HOME TOUR HOME TOUR

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t the end of the cul-de-sac sits the Christman home, strung with white lights and topped with a big red bow, eagerly awaiting the arrival of family to reminisce about old holiday traditions and make new Christmas customs. Decorated with a designer’s touch, the Christman home gives a warm welcome year-round, and will soon play host to more than 20 family members and friends this Christmas.

“This is the first time in a long time, that we will have all five kids under the same roof for Christmas,” said Cheryl Christman. “One of our sons has been stationed halfway across the country, either in Iraq or Afghanistan, and Brian moved a few years ago to London.”

The Christman’s five children, and two new grandchildren, will soon be greeted with a subtle hint of pine as they step into the whimsically decorated home, covered in sparkling golds, silvers, and bright reds. A few happy elves dressed in red and green welcome guests from their shelves and nooks throughout the home. One thing about the Christman house during the holidays is for sure 26 L I F E S T Y L E | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5

it’s a dwelling place for joy.

Accumulated over time, the Christman’s decor is a mix of classically cheerful characters, warm and bright colors, and sentimental pieces that tell meaningful stories. A gold angel that sparkles on top of the mantle has been with Cheryl for 30 years, and a jolly old

Santa Claus sits perched on his shelf, keeping watch over the Christmas tree.

“Being in the decorating business and previously owning a shop called Holiday Illusions, I would go to market for specialty decorations, and that is where I found many have-to-have pieces,” said Cheryl.

As everyone pulls out their decorations for the holidays, there are often a few special pieces that evoke memories of friends and family from holidays past; for the Christmans, it is always their white glass trees, which sparkle exquisitely throughout their home.

“We spotted the white trees at a place down south, and our dear friend and neighbor who passed away gave us one.

Then Art’s parents gave us another tree and that kind of started our collection,” explained Cheryl. “Previously, there were just a few that looked really pretty grouped on the piano, but as the collection grew over the years, we started spreading them out.”

The Christmans also have a number of special ornaments that hang on their mesmerizing tree, each with its own unique story. The jolly, long-legged Santas have served close to 10 years on the Christman’s tree, laughing along with the family each year. Other meaningful ornaments include a bride and groom to commemorate their first year of marriage, a silver heart, Mr. and Mrs.

Claus, a deck of cards, and a golf bag (both to signify Art’s hobbies, of course). Toward the bottom of the tree, baby booties and a stork make their debut for the first time this year to honor the Christman’s newest grandchildren.

“I use to do a decorator type of tree where everything matched perfectly and it was different each year, but for the past four years, we now incorporate our best and most loved ornaments,” said Cheryl.

Though Cheryl keeps quite busy as executive director for the ImagineU Children’s Museum in Visalia and acts as co-owner of their company, Christman Enterprises Inc.,

kids’ ornaments. “This year, we are going to have our kids find their ornaments so they can take them home,” said Cheryl. “There is one particular ornament we thought we had lost that my daughter made in the second grade. It’s a walnut painted like a strawberry along with her Strawberry Shortcake ornament, and I can’t wait to see her reaction when she sees it.”

Like every holiday, there are many anticipated traditions to look forward to with family.

This is especially true for the Christmans this year. Both Art and Cheryl have brought traditions from their childhood and incorporated them with

her love for holiday giving and decorating never ceases to come alive during this time of year.

“Cheryl has decorated several trees for the annual Christmas Tree Auction,” said Art. Cheryl went on to describe her favorite tree that had won the judges’ award. “We donated a fun elf and candy themed tree that had a lot of pink and was finished with two large elves that sat at the bottom of the tree. If we had it here, the girls would absolutely love it this year,” said Cheryl.

Even better, Cheryl has decorated a small white “snowman” tree in the family room, topped with a black hat and decorated with their

their family as well.

A tradition from Art’s side of the family is enjoying an old holiday treat they call Shoofly Pie, made with brown sugar, molasses, and Karo syrup. “Just about the time we have coffee and pie, everyone gathers around the tree, and we each read a verse from the Christmas story,” said Cheryl. When Cheryl was young, she did the same with her family. As her own kids were growing up, she wrote the passages out herself, decorating each card before passing them out to her family members.

“The last few years, we’ve done something fun where everyone wears a Santa hat.

That started when my mom

28 L I F E S T Y L E | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5

LEFT: Several white Christmas trees sit on an entry-way table, inviting guests into the home RIGHT: The Christman’s updated their kitchen, adding in new cabinetry, countertops, and lighting fixtures.

HOME TOUR HOME TOUR

LIFEST YLE | DECEMBER 2015

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HOME TOUR

30 L I F E S T Y L E | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5

and I were decorating the tree one year and it was a really fun touch at another Christmas party I attended,” said Cheryl. “This year, since everyone will be here, we can all wear a hat on Christmas Eve, and Art and I are giving everyone Christmas pajamas so we can take a ‘jammie’ shot.”

The Christmans also incorporate a

gift exchange on Christmas Eve, but before each person can open their gift, they have to sing a song. “We do a gift exchange where everyone has to karaoke for presents,” said Cheryl. “Once you get them started, they really get into it. One year, after we did our usual karaoke for presents, we had so much fun that

During parties at the Christman home, guests always gather around the full bar.

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LIFEST YLE | DECEMBER 2015

LEFT: The Christman’s remodeled their backyard several years ago for Art’s 50th birthday, and have hosted several weddings under the gazebo.

RIGHT: The twinkling reindeer add a holiday element to the Christman’s inviting backyard.

we actually went caroling in the neighborhood.”

What might seem to some like an overwhelming number of guests this holiday will be no big task for Art and Cheryl, who aren’t strangers to hosting parties in their home. From the large kitchen and full bar, where many people naturally congregate, to an inviting, open living room, to the dining room that leads to the back yard, there is space for all to mingle and gather comfortably.

To make their space more open and inviting, the Christmans embarked on two remodeling projects over the last 17 years. They’ve added the bar, an extra bedroom and bathroom, and a family room

are also some vintage pieces, antiques, and contemporary art.

Art described Cheryl’s style by saying, “you walk through that door and it always feels welcoming, and no matter how much it changes, people always feel welcome and comfortable.

It’s not too country or homey or uncomfortable. She really puts thought and heart into decorating it.”

When it comes to the art in their home, Cheryl has a keen eye for picking out pieces that she can develop her décor around. “She found an interesting tapestry and knew it would work perfectly in our home,” said Art. “That’s how she works, she takes one piece and works all the colors around

and dining area. The remodel of the backyard was started as a project to surprise Art for his 50th birthday.

No matter how many transitions, Cheryl believes there is no real end to updating a home. “A good house is never done. There is always something to do whether it’s an update or a change,” said Cheryl.

Eleven months out of the year, the home is decorated and furnished with a mix of modern furniture and décor, but has the warmth of a more traditional design. Cheryl sticks with classic and timeless pieces, as opposed to an overly trendy look that, while being beautiful, could go out of style in a few years. She always prefers to buy quality that lasts. While the Christmans incorporate many classic furniture pieces, there

it. It’s what made us change the color of the room, the fireplace, and a lot of things about the house.”

Whether it’s a piece of art, the warm décor, or the Christmas decorations, the Christman home is always a great place for friends and family to gather. This year, the Christmans are sure to form special memories as they will have Cheryl’s mother, Carol, and all their children and grandchildren gathered around the tree.

“I think all of the kids enjoy being here for Christmas and go out of their way to be here,” explained Art. “I think now that they are forming their own families, they appreciate the value of what we have created as a family, and will always want to be together.”

LIFEST YLE | DECEMBER 2015

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R E C I P E S

B Y

E L A I N E

D A K E S S I A N ,

T R É S

B I E N

T A I L O R E D

HORS D’OE

HOLI

FOR THE

A

Christmas or New Year's Eve party is never complete without a beautiful assortment of hors d’oeuvres and appetizers. This year, don’t worry about preparing a sit-down meal with an elaborate spread; these elegant bite-sized treats are sure to fill up your guests while they gather around the Christmas tree.

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C U I S I N E

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P H O T O S

B Y

T A Y L O R

J O H N S O N

P H O T O G R A P H Y

UVRES

DAYS

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EMPANADAS FILLED WITH GRUYÈRE, BACON, AND CARAMELIZED ONIONS Makes 24 INGREDIENTS 3 large sheets puff pastry, thawed (10 x 15 in.)

Biscuit cutter, 3 to 4 in. in diameter 2 eggs 2 T milk 12 slices applewood smoked bacon, thick cut ½ pound of gruyère cheese 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced 2-3 T olive oil

DIRECTIONS Heat olive oil in sauté pan. Place onion into the pan and caramelize, taking your time so that the onion is browned and sweet. In a separate pan, cook the bacon until crisp; drain on paper towels and blot. Cut into ½ inch pieces. In a small bowl toss the bacon, onion, and cheese. To prepare the puff pastry, whisk together the eggs and milk. Set aside. Cut out puff pastry rounds.

Place 1 tablespoon of the bacon mixture in the center, brush the edges with the egg wash, fold over, and press the edges to seal. Using the fork tines, press the tines in the pastry to make indentations around the edges of the pastry. Continue with all the empanadas. Place empanadas on a baking sheet covered with parchment paper. Using a pastry brush, cover each empanada with the egg wash. Place in a 425°F oven for 15 minutes or until golden brown.

WINTER CRUDITÉ PLATTER Serves 12 INGREDIENTS 3 cucumbers, peeled, cut in half, and then quartered to make wedges 1 stalk celery, leaves on, cleaned, and cut in half and then into sticks Endive, cut off end and pull apart Cauliflower, quartered, then sliced

French green beans, blanched 1 minute and then shocked in ice water Zucchini, cut in half and then quartered into wedges Thin asparagus, blanched 1 minute and then shocked in ice water Dip of your choice (ranch or bleu cheese work well)

* The key is to choose vegetables that are pale in color or almost white. You can get a little creative with your display by using vases in your collection.

MARINATED PRAWNS WITH ARUGULA AIOLI INGREDIENTS 2 dozen prawns, peeled with tails on ½ C Sambucca liqueur 1 C olive oil 2 sprigs rosemary, chopped Orange zest 1 C quality mayo Lemon zest 1 T lemon juice 2 handfuls baby arugula

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DIRECTIONS For the prawn marinade, mix Sambucca, olive oil, rosemary, and orange zest in a bowl. Add peeled shrimp to mixture and marinate 4 to 5 hours. One hour will do if you are pressed for time. For the aioli, place the mayo and arugula in a food processor.

Add lemon zest and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice.

Process until arugula is mixed completely. Grill the shrimp one minute on each side, but use caution because they can flame up because of the alcohol.

The alternative is to place two tablespoons of olive oil in a sauté or grill pan. When it starts to smoke, add the shrimp and cook on each side for no more than 1 or 2 minutes. Remove from pan and place on a serving platter with a bowl of arugula aioli in the center for dipping.

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ARANCINI: RISOTTO BALLS WITH ARRABBIATA SAUCE

BLEU CHEESE STUFFED BACON WRAPPED DATES

Makes 24 INGREDIENTS ¾ C Arborio rice 1 shallot, finely diced ¾ C dry white wine 6 C chicken stock 4 T butter 1 C Parmesan, grated 24 small mozzarella balls, cut into pieces 2 C panko 2 T parsley, chopped 1 C flour, seasoned with salt and pepper 4 eggs, whisked Peanut oil for frying Basil for garnish

DIRECTIONS Warm the chicken stock on a back burner. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in separate sauté pan. Add the shallots and sauté until translucent. Add the Arborio rice and toast for 2-3 minutes.

Add the wine and reduce until practically gone. Slowly add the chicken stock, reducing almost completely. Continue this process until stock is gone. Remove from heat, add the remaining 2 tablespoons butter, then add ½ cup of the grated parmesan. Refrigerate risotto over night. Scoop out a small ball of risotto, make an indent with your finger, and place a piece of the fresh mozzarella in the center. Close up the ball so the mozzarella is stuffed inside. Season panko with the parsley and ½ cup of grated Parmesan. First roll the balls in flour, then place in the egg mixture and roll around, then roll in the panko.

Continue until all the balls are made. To fry the balls, use a heavy-bottomed pan or deep sauté pan so the balls can be fully immersed in the oil. Heat the oil to about 360°F, placing balls in oil. Once golden brown, take out and place on paper towels. When guests arrive, heat them in the oven to warm through. Serve with your favorite heated pasta sauce and garnish with grated Parmesan and chopped basil.

AHI TUNA AVOCADO STACKS WITH SESAME AIOLI Makes 12 INGREDIENTS 2 lbs Ahi tuna (sashimi grade), finely diced 1-2 tsp Wasabi (optional) 2 T soy sauce 3 T sesame oil 1 T chives, thinly chopped 4 large avocados, diced 1 large lemon, squeezed 1-2 jalapeños, seeded and finely diced Salt ½ C quality mayo ½ C pine nuts 38 L I F E S T Y L E | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5

Serves 12 INGREDIENTS 36 dates, pitted 18 slices Applewood smoked bacon 8 oz crumbled bleu cheese Balsamic glaze DIRECTIONS Place bacon on baking sheet and lightly bake in a 350°F oven for about 12 minutes, checking frequently (bacon will cook again later). When done, place on paper towels to drain.

Cut each piece in half. Cut a small opening in the date where it has already been pitted. Fill each date with the crumbled blue cheese. Wrap with the half piece of bacon and secure with a toothpick. Continue with all the dates. Place dates on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F. Pull out of the oven when the bacon is finished cooking and the blue cheese in the center has melted. Place on a serving dish and garnish with the balsamic glaze.

DIRECTIONS Add soy sauce, 2 tablespoon sesame oil, and chives to the tuna. Add 1 to 2 teaspoons wasabi, if using. Set aside in small bowl. In a separate bowl, toss avocados, lemon juice, jalapeños, and salt. Cover avocado mixture with a paper towel and squeeze additional lemon juice on top to keep from browning. In a small bowl, mix together mayo and 1 tablespoon sesame oil with a whisk. Place a mold (use a 2-3 inch biscuit or cookie cutter) on each appetizer size plate. First scoop 1 oz avocado mixture in the bottom of each and press to compact it. Fill each mold with 1 oz tuna, also pressing to compact the mixture. Garnish with sesame aioli, 3 to 4 pine nuts, and fresh chives.

SIP

C L A S S I C

COCKTAILS for the HOLIDAYS

R E C I P E S

BY

J E S S I C A

P H O T O S

BY

R O D R I G U E Z ,

TAY L O R

T H E

J O H N S O N

D E P O T

R E S TAU R A N T

P H O T O G R A P H Y

S

ince when did things get so complicated?

No, we’re not referring to your relationships or family drama; we’re talking about your cocktails. It’s time to return to simplicity. These classic cocktail recipes use pure ingredients and simple steps to keep you and your guests warm this winter.

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LIFEST YLE | DECEMBER 2015

PEPPERMINT MOCHA COCKTAIL INGREDIENTS 1 oz Kahlua 1 oz peppermint schnapps 1 oz vodka Candy cane DIRECTIONS Combine ingredients together in a martini glass. Garnish with a candy cane.

SIP

ALPINE RABBIT INGREDIENTS 1 ½ oz bourbon (Larceny) ¾ oz carrot juice ½ oz lemon juice ½ oz walnut liqueur ½ oz simple syrup Pinch of sea salt Zest of orange or lemon Slice of ginger DIRECTIONS Combine first six ingredients together in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain over ice in a rocks glass. Garnish with lemon, orange, olive or ginger.

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LIFEST YLE | DECEMBER 2015

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SIP

STOCKHOLM ROYALE

KIR ROYALE

INGREDIENTS 1 oz vodka 1 oz lemon juice 1 T spoon powdered sugar or simple syrup Chambord (raspberry liquor) Champagne

INGREDIENTS 1 oz Crème de Cassis 5 oz champagne Cranberries or raspberries

DIRECTIONS In a cocktail shaker with ice, add vodka, lemon juice, and powdered sugar. Shake well and strain into a sugar-rimmed martini glass.

Top with champagne and float the Chambord down the side of a glass (using the back of a spoon will help it sink to the bottom).

HOT TODDY INGREDIENTS 1 oz brandy 1 oz lemon juice ½ oz simple syrup 4 oz hot water 1 lemon or orange slice 2 cloves 1 star anise 1 cinnamon stick Fresh mint

DIRECTIONS Using a brandy snifter, steam glass. Add brandy, lemon juice, and simple syrup together in the glass and top with hot water.

Garnish with the remaining ingredients.

44 L I F E S T Y L E | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5

DIRECTIONS Chill a champagne flute in the freezer for 15 minutes. Add Crème de Cassis to glass and a few raspberries or cranberries.

Fill flute to the top with champagne.

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LIFEST YLE | DECEMBER 2015

Rolling out the candy canes.

A NOSTALGIC CHRISTMAS JOURNEY

BY WAY OF A SWEET TREAT

O

h, the ubiquitous candy cane. Its appearance in stores announces the arrival of the holidays. So commonplace we often take them for granted, they are added to decorations only to be thrown out with the crumpled tissue paper and ribbons at season’s end. Although their uniform size, perfect stripes, and shrink-wrapping may evoke images of machinery rather than elves, the season just wouldn’t be the same without them.

I still remember the simple pleasure I felt as a child while savoring one of these treats; I would always start at the bottom, gently sectioning off the last inch or so with my teeth while twirling it in my mouth until all the red stripes were gone and only a thin white piece remained.

It became a game to see how long I could keep this up before the section finally became so thin it would snap off, be quickly devoured, and the task would begin anew. This process took time, concentration, and patience. It also turned my face, hands, and anything I wore or touched into a sticky mess, something my mother failed to appreciate. My excitement over a humble candy cane faded as I grew out of childhood. The process that delighted me as a child wasn’t acceptable any longer and the flavor and texture just never measured up to my memories.

I never thought about that fact very much, somehow assuming here was something in the memories created as a child that couldn’t be revisited as an adult. But I found that magic again, hidden away in the most unlikely spot – a little candy store in Ontario, California.

Located in the southwestern edge of San Bernardino County, Ontario is 35

T E X T

Shop owner Jerry Rowly and his wife.

miles east of downtown Los Angeles.

Best known for its large enclosed outlet mall, the oldest operating olive packinghouse, and a Christmas craft fair extravaganza down its main street in early December, the drive to Ontario is justified by a visit to Logan’s Candies.

Much more than a candy store, Logan’s takes you back to a time when things were proudly made by hand. Creating a wide range of confections, ribbon candy, and roasted nuts, it is the candy canes that reign supreme. Using the same recipe and process since 1933, these red

and white striped creations reduce the ones sold in stores to poor imitations.

With only 400 in each batch, they churn out a total of 85,000 to 90,000 candy canes each Christmas season, 98 percent of which are sold fresh daily in their shop. Even better, they share the astonishing process of making these tasty works of art by hosting live demonstrations throughout December.

Before the demonstration, children can buy a $1.50 ticket to receive a freshly cut stick warm off the slab, which they can then bend into any shape they desire.

Everyone watching gets to devour a lot of warm, bite-sized samples to savor.

Current owner Jerry Rowly began

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helping out at the store as a young teenager. Year after year he was drawn back there until he bought the business in 1982 while still in college. Even after 40 years, it’s clear that he still loves what he does as he shares it with others. With a twinkle in his eye, his wife at his side, and a microphone attached to his apron, he explains each step of the process to the adults and children clustered around the front window and crowded into the shop. Even after understanding the process, watching a sea of hot molten cane sugar turn into an huge amorphous red and white glob, which when rolled and cut becomes a series of candy canes with perfectly even red stripes, is nothing short of amazing. I would have stood mutely transfixed (like everyone else) had Jerry not insisted that I come behind the counter in order to take pictures for this story.

In such a tiny space I was constantly hopping from side to side, first to keep my backside out of the boiling pot of sugar and then to keep my head from hitting the large metal hook used to aerate and pull the cooling sugar crystals to turn them white. I did manage to escape a concussion, but my backside came out of the experience feeling like a welldone rump roast. And that recipe from 1933? It’s not the only original part of the process; the stove, pot, kettle, and cutting machine are all vintage. In fact, the entire store feels a lot more like Santa’s workshop than a candy shop.

Although many purport to know the origin and meaning of the candy cane, there really is little evidence to support any of the stories. Some believe the candy was a means by which persecuted European Christians furtively identified

L E V I T A N

LIFEST YLE | DECEMBER 2015

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Jerry pulling the mixture on a hook to cool and crystalize sugar crystals in order to turn the mixture white.

Children receiving their candy canes ready to shape.

I will never again look at that white and red confection with the jaded perspective of adulthood, but will look at it with the bright and wondrous eyes of the children watching that demonstration.

C H E R Y L

each other. But with earliest accounts of candy sticks occurring at a time when Europe was almost completely Christian, a need for a secret “signal” was unnecessary, at least for Christians.

Another widely held theory credits a 17th Century German choirmaster with introducing the candy as both a teaching tool and means to keep restless children content during long services. He had white candy sticks (signifying the purity of Christ) altered to include a curved end (like the shepherd’s staffs who visited the baby Jesus). Despite claiming church history as proof, the only documentation of this story is an anecdote from the mid-20th Century. Additionally, no references to candy canes and their association with Christmas occur until the late 1800s, 200 years later. The existence of confection sugar sticks with colored stripes goes back as far as 1844, but a “J” shaped, white with red stripe didn't appear until the early 20th Century as evidenced by Christmas cards showing plain white canes prior to the 1900s.

It’s possible that candy canes got their “crook” simply to make them easier to 48 L I F E S T Y L E | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5

L E V I T A N

hang on a tree since the origin of that shape appears to be the same region of Germany where many other food items (cookies, fruit, and candies) were used to decorate trees at Christmas. Giving this a little more credence is the fact that the first known candy cane in America came by way of a German immigrant, August Imgard, who used it to decorate his Christmas tree in Wooster, Ohio.

The identity of the person who invented striped candy canes may be a mystery, but the candy maker, Bob McCormack, is credited for popularizing it. By the late 1950s his company was one of the world’s largest peppermint candy cane producers, selling about half-a-million candy canes per day at its peak. They made a red stripe on a candy cane universal, as well as the flavor. Although no religious person may have “invented” the candy cane, there is a Catholic priest who played a key role in making it more widely available and affordable. Father Gregory Keller, brother-in-law to Bob McCormack, designed a machine that automatically put the crook on the end, saving the manual labor to bend each cane when

still warm off the assembly line. His invention saved 20 percent of canes from being lost to breakage, and the new uniform shaping facilitated packaging the product for sale.

Whatever its origins or meaning, I know where you can find a candy cane to warm your heart and make you believe in things you just can’t explain.

It’s in a small candy store in Ontario, California. I will never again look at that white and red confection with the jaded perspective of adulthood, but will look at it with the bright and wondrous eyes of the children watching that demonstration. It’s not hard to guess what I did when I left that shop. I placed the straight end of that still-warm candy cane into my mouth, gently sectioned off the last inch or so, twirled it around on my tongue until, snap! The texture, the taste was just as good or better than I remember, and the steering wheel of my car was happily sticky.

To find dates and times of demonstrations, go to loganscandies. com, follow Logan’s Candy on Facebook, or go to YouTube to watch a video of a demonstration.

Christmas Trees

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A café and flowers brought together the Parisian theme.

Rosalinda Verde entertained the guests.

CHARITY

Each table was decorated with Eiffel Towers.

Event Co-chair Kathleen Remillard with husband Rick.

Steve & Carmen Reid

Art and Cheryl Christman.

The Salierno family, one of the main event sponsors.

The Breaking Bread Gala

AN EVENING IN PARIS T

he Bethlehem Center continues to take the people of Visalia around the world with their annual themed Breaking Bread Gala. This year’s gala took on a complete Paris theme with Eiffel Towers, French poodles, and pink roses around every corner.

Three years ago, the Bethlehem Center decided to start this event as a fundraiser to support the growing need to provide services for more children and adults. This year the event proved especially necessary, as the drought and other circumstances have sent many new people to the Bethlehem Center.

“The drought has brought an increase in needy families seeking assistance with food and clothing for the family,” P H O T O S

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said Benny Rodriguez, executive director of the Bethlehem Center. “It is sad to see a family that is now homeless because there is no work to support the family.”

The Bethlehem Center currently serves more than 9,000 meals a month, which is a 40 percent increase this year alone. They also distributed thousands of items of clothing to both children and the homeless in the community.

This year, thanks to generous community members and organizations, the sold-out gala raised more than $160,000 thousand to go toward these necessary services. Several event sponsors include Provident–Salierno Family Foundation, California Water Services, Delta Nursing & Rehabilitation M I C H E L L E

P O R T E R

Center, and many more.

Throughout the evening at the Visalia Country Club, guests enjoyed hors d’oeuvres and a delicious meal of grilled filet mignon and prawns with a variety of French desserts.

Entertainment included French songs sung by Rosalinda Verde, accompanied

by Kris Korgasden on piano, and a lively auction with some fabulous trips and packages. The gala ended with a showing of Bonjour, Paris! from the movie “Funny Face.”

The decorative centerpiece of the room was a 10-ft. tall Eiffel Tower, which is now on display at the Vintage Press and will be auctioned off at the Visalia Christmas Tree Auction on Dec. 11 to benefit the Bethlehem Center.

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G O L D R U S H D AY S P R E S E R V E D

COLUMBIA STATE HISTORIC PARK HIDDEN GEM

T E X T

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P H O T O S

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T A Y L O R

J O H N S O N

Visitors can pan for gold at Columbia State Park.

A

fter the first piece of gold was discovered in 1848 by James W. Marshall in Coloma, California, thousands of men with a gold glimmer in their eye headed west in search of gold. We know this time in America's history as the California Gold Rush.

Miners themselves weren't the only ones eager to profit during these days; savvy businessmen took advantage of the influx of settlers by opening shops, saloons, and other types of commerce in mining areas, providing a variety of services to miners. The result: thriving towns during the Gold Rush.

In 1852, one such town was abuzz with more than 150 operating businesses just two years after John Walker discovered his portion of the shiny metal in Hildreth's Diggings, known today as Columbia, California.

Though there was much success digging in and near the town, raging fires burned through Columbia in 1854 and 1857, leaving little more than its brick buildings standing. The town

was rebuilt after both fires, but mining began to dwindle in the 1860s. In a final attempt to gather gold after the large pieces were gone, miners tore down many of the town's buildings in search of any last remaining gold. The buildings eventually deteriorated and were unusable.

Though the Gold Rush days of the mid-1800s are over, today, a replica of Columbia's historic mining town and merchant shops remains visible for all to see. The town became a state park in 1945; efforts were made to restore and preserve its 150-year-old buildings, saving it from becoming a ghost town, and making it a lively historic destination for visitors.

Columbia State Historic Park is nestled in the Sierra Nevada foothills, just north of Sonora, and contains the largest single collection of Gold Rush era buildings – and people. It won't take long to feel like you're on the set of a mid-19th century film. Almost every day of the year, 1850s-themed shops are

open for business. But the real fun is had during Columbia's Gold Rush Days on the second Saturday of each month, when docents in period attire offer hands-on activities and host programs that will entertain the whole family, especially the kids.

When you visit, make a day of it and pan for gold, ride the stagecoach, and take a walking tour of the town to see its two-story brick schoolhouse, shops, and museums. Learn the art of candlemaking, watch a real blacksmith at work, or enjoy a theatre performance at the Sierra Repertory Theatre. If you're hungry, grab lunch at one of the saloons or restaurants. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, try some hand-dipped chocolates at Nelson's Candy Kitchen, a Columbia-concocted sarsaparilla at Brown's Coffee House & Sweets Saloon, or ice cream at Fallon's Ice Cream Parlor.

For more information about Columbia, its attractions, and annual events, visit www.visitcolumbiacalifornia.com.

Columbia State Historic Park is nestled in the Sierra Nevada foothills, just north of Sonora, and contains the largest single collection of Gold Rush era buildings – and people. It won't take long to feel like you're on the set of a mid-19th century film.

T A Y L O R

J O H N S O N

Brown’s Coffee House and Sweets Saloon.

A blacksmith at work.

Columbia Kate’s Teahouse.

Restored buildings replicate Columbia’s historic mining town.

An old schoolhouse.

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HAPPENINGS

T H E AT R E & M U S I C

A MERRI-ACHI CHRISTMAS! This December, Mariachi Sol de Mexico, with the blazing sounds of its 13-piece ensemble, brings to life a festive, joyous holiday celebration. Enjoy a fusion of the traditional holiday spirit with the color and the traditions of Mexican and American Christmas songs and carols.

The traditions are brought to life by Sol de Mexico’s spectacular artistic execution. Experience this unique fiesta of favorite holiday tunes from both sides of the border. Tickets start at $9 for children 17 and under.

OVER THE RIVER & THRU THE WOODS The Ice House Theatre invites you to see Over The River and Thru The Woods, written by Joe DiPietro and directed by Donny Graham. Nick is a single, ItalianAmerican guy from New Jersey. His parents retired and moved to Florida, but he still has both sets of doting grandparents in his everyday life. When he is offered his dream job that would take him to Seattle, his family does their best to keep him where he belongs, and that includes bringing to dinner the lovely – and single – Caitlin O'Hare as bait…we won't give the ending away here. Tickets can be purchased online.

When: Dec. 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19, 7:30 p.m. & Dec. 6, 13, 20, 2 p.m.

Where: Ice House Theatre, 410 E. Race Avenue, Visalia Contact: VisaliaPlayers.org

THE CREATIVE CENTER’S ANNUAL CHRISTMAS TALENT SHOW You’re invited to The Creative Center’s annual Winter Performance hosted

by The Creative Center Players. For reservations and more information, call The Creative Center at the number below. Tickets are $8 at the door, in the office, or online.

When: Dec. 8, 12:30 p.m. & 7 p.m.; Dec 9–10, 7 p.m.; Dec. 11, 12:30 p.m.

Where: The Jon Ginsburg Gallery, 410 E. Race Ave., Visalia Contact: 733-9329

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When: Dec. 11, 7:30 p.m.

Where: Visalia Fox Theatre, 308 W. Main St., Visalia Contact: FoxVisalia.com

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ART EXHIBITS

THE BEACH BOYS AT THE FOX For the first time in more than 15 years, The Beach Boys are making their way to the Visalia Fox Theatre this winter. The beloved California band will perform with original lead singer and songwriter, Mike Love, and long-time band member Bruce Johnston. Tickets are currently on sale and cost between $59 and $99.

ARTS VISALIA HOLIDAY SHOW & SALE The Arts Visalia Visual Art Center presents their annual Holiday Show & Sale, featuring handcrafted gifts and art by local and regional artists. Come support local artists while fulfilling your Christmas gift-giving needs.

When: Jan. 29, 7:30 p.m.

Where: Visalia Fox Theatre, 308 W. Main St., Visalia Contact: FoxVisalia.org

CIRQUE ZIVA – GOLDEN DRAGON ACROBATS Cirque Ziva is currently performing Off-Broadway in New York City, but in just a few weeks, they'll be on stage at the Visalia Fox Theatre on a Saturday night. Their 2005 seven-week run at New York's New Victory Theater earned two prestigious New York Drama Desk Award nominations. This is a show for all ages with exquisite costumes, stupendous stunts, and acrobatic feats you never imagined possible. Tickets are between $12 and $17.

When: Jan. 30, 4 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.

Where: Visalia Fox Theatre, 308 W. Main St., Visalia Contact: FoxVisalia.org

When: Now–Dec. 19, Wed. – Sat., 6 – 8 p.m.

Where: Arts Visalia, 214 E. Oak Ave., Visalia Contact: artsvisalia.org

JOHNNY RIVERS ROCK & ROLL LEGEND The Rock ‘n’ Roll legend, Johnny Rivers, will be performing at the Visalia Fox Theatre in support of Hands in the Community. The singer/songwriter/ producer continues to perform before sellout crowds worldwide.

The “Secret Agent Man” has many other accomplishments and has made significant contributions to the history of Rock ‘n’ Roll. Come support a charitable cause in the community while listening to great music.

When: Feb 27, 8 p.m.

Where: Visalia Fox Theatre, 308 W. Main St., Visalia Contact: Lester Moon, 625-3822 or FoxVisalia.org

HAPPENINGS

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HOLIDAY ART MARKET The Visalia Arts Consortium presents the Holiday Art Market in Downtown Visalia. Shop for beautifully crafted gifts and goods while supporting local artists.

There are two dates left, so don’t miss your chance to shop local and get gifts for the Christmas season.

When: Dec. 17, 5 – 8 p.m.

Where: Insider Montgomery Square, 208 W. Main St., Visalia Contact: artsconsortium.org

Happy Holidays Join Robyn Graham & Associates in Celebrating the Season of Giving with the Visalia Grinch!

pilates reformer:

Bring your whole family and watch the fabulous light show presented by the Visalia Grinch. All canned food donations will benefit the Visalia Rescue Mission and our local community!

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EXETER MUSUEM & GALLERY EXHIBIT

EXETER WOMAN’S CLUB CHRISTMAS HOME TOUR

The Exeter Museum and Gallery will feature photos and art by Gene H. Price, paintings by Manuel Abad, and mixed media by Leslie Fry. The exhibit will run through December and is open Saturdays and Sundays.

Come tour four of Exeter’s most beautiful homes decorated for the holidays. The Clubhouse will be open throughout the evening and will have fresh baked goodies, warm drinks, snacks, and music to keep you going.

Support our high school scholarships plus our charming old building. Tickets are $20 each and can be purchased online.

When: Now – Dec. 31 Where: Exeter Museum and Gallery, 125 South B St., Exeter, Contact: 592-1143

SHANE GUFFOGG ART RECEPTION AND EXHIBIT World-renowned artist, Shane Guffogg, returns to his hometown of Lindsey to host an art exhibit featuring his work. Much of Shane’s work consists of oil paintings with 50-60 layers of translucent colors mixed with a glazing medium, causing the paintings to seem illuminated from within. He has presented many exhibits throughout California and around the world. The exhibit will remain up through Jan. 10.

When: Now - Jan. 10 Where: Lindsey Museum and Gallery, 165 N. Gale Hill, Lindsey Contact: 562.2684, ginny.wilson@gmail.com

HAPPENINGS

DIVERSIONS & EXCU R S I O N S GLOBAL WINTER WONDERLAND For the first time, Tulare is transformed into a wintry paradise during Global Winter Wonderland. The annual event stretches into January, ushering in featured entertainment, familyfriendly happenings, and meet-andgreets with Santa. Here, participants can 'travel the world in one night' as they walk through replicas of famed sites such as the Sydney Opera House, the Taj Mahal, and Big Ben. And, be sure not to miss the Circus of Light, which is an international circus performing two to three times each day, and is included with admission. Tickets are $16 for adults and $12 for children.

When: Now – Jan. 3, 3 – 11 p.m.

Where: Tulare County Fairgrounds, 620 South K St., Tulare Contact: GlobalWonderland.com

When: Dec. 11, 4:30 – 8 p.m.

Where: Exeter Clubhouse, 201 N. Kaweah Ave., Exeter Contact: ExeterWomansClub.com

DAS COOKIE JAR 4TH ANNUAL COOKIE PARTY Das Cookie Jar is hosting their 4th annual cookie party in Visalia. This year it is open to the public, so join them for holiday treats, Christmas carols, fun, and games. A cookie party is a good time for socializing, meeting new friends, and assembling a variety of cookies for your holiday gatherings. Participation is more fun if you bring three-dozen of your favorite holiday cookies, but they offer the alternative of a reservation fee of $10 and your cookies will be provided. You will get to take home three-dozen cookies whether you bring your own or purchase participation.

Space is limited, so reserve your spot today. Reservations can be made through paypal or personal check, by Dec. 15.

When: Dec. 19, 1 – 4 p.m.

Where: Das Cookie Jar (call for location details) Contact: dascookiejar@gmail.com or call 429-4674.

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Happy Holidays

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DICKENS BY DIAMANTE HOLIDAY MARKETPLACE & BOUTIQUE Come see, shop, and hear holiday delights. More than 40 combined artisans and marketplace vendors will share with you wonderful holiday gift items, services, and foods. Other events to enjoy: The El Diamante High School Orchestra performance, Character Bingo, Tricky Tray Raffle, and much more.

When: Nov. 21, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Where: Visalia Convention Center, 303 E. Acequia Ave., Visalia Contact: DickensByDiamante.net

GEMBOREE: EXETER ROCK AND GEM SHOW

C H A R I TA B L E EVENTS 35TH ANNUAL VISALIA CHRISTMAS TREE AUCTION The auction is “the formal event of the season” in Visalia, and this year takes it a step further with its “Champagne Jubilee” theme. There will be plenty of hors d’oeuvres, dessert, wine, beer, and dancing to keep guests entertained while they bid on beautifully decorated Christmas trees in the live auction, or on silent auction items. All proceeds benefit local charities and nonprofits in Tulare County.

When: Dec. 11, 5:30 p.m.

Where: The Visalia Convention Center Contact: visaliachamber.org

The Tule Gem and Mineral King Society presents their Exeter Rock and Gem show with demonstrations, door prizes, food, gifts, raffles, silent auction, and more. Admission and parking is free.

When: Jan. 16 – 17, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Where: Exeter Memorial Building, 324 N. Kaweah Ave., Visalia Contact: tulegem.com

HAPPENINGS

TINSEL TOY 5K RUN Hosted by Visalia Runners, the Tinsel Toy 5k run is a one-mile run and walk. The walk starts at 7:45 a.m. and the 5K run at 8:15 a.m. Participants are asked to bring unwrapped toy to donate to the Tulare Salvation Army Cross Country Programs.

First 200 to register receive event shirt.

Registration is $30. To register online or information visit visaliarunners.org When: Dec. 12, 7:45 a.m.

Where: Tulare Outlet Center, 1407 Retherford St., Tulare Contact: visaliarunners.org

BANK OF THE SIERRA’S ROCKIN’ RESOLUTION RUN Bank of the Sierra is pleased to announce its continued partnership with the Visalia Rescue Mission to help enhance the quality of life for Central Valley citizens in need. Runners and walkers are welcome for a 5k through Downtown Visalia. A 1-mile Kids Race will kick-off the festivities. Local bands will perform along the course to keep you motivated. If you show up in costume, the top three favorites will win a prize.

When: Jan. 1, 7:30 a.m.

Where: Downtown Visalia Contact: rockinresolutionrun.com

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SOUTH AFRICA

CULTURE & NATURE IN HARMONY

Join the Chamber for a slideshow presentation January 12th at 12:00 p.m. at the Chamber office

SEPTEMBER 22-OCTOBER 5, 2016 HIGHLIGHTS:

Highlights: Johannesburg, Soweto, Kruger National Park, Safari Game Drive, Knysna, Featherbed Nature Preserve, Ostrich Farm, Cape Town, Table Mountain.

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Cookies, Cakes, and Pies…

Oh my!

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p o T

200 Healthiest Banks

2015

by DepositAccounts.com

Growth is good.

Healthy growth is even better.

In 2014, Suncrest Bank was in the top 1.5% of fastest growing banks in the country*. We’re proud of that growth, but we’re even prouder of the way we’ve grown—staying strong through good times and bad.

In fact, for the second year in a row, Suncrest Bank was named one of the 200 Healthiest Banks in America

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www.suncrestbank.com *based on % growth in totals assets