Lifestyle Magazine - November 2015

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

THE WILEMAN HOME

A FRUITFUL BOUNTY

ARTSCAPES HOME TOUR

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ARTSCAPES HOME TOUR

24 HOME TOUR

THE WILEMAN HOME Exeter History Restored

Fine Art Amid Visalia’s Drought-tolerant Gardens

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Some of the area’s most prominent artists showcase their work in Visalia gardens.

10 Wordplay 12 History: The Downfall of

CULINARY

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8 Letter from the Executive Editor

St. Charles Saloon

A FRUITFUL BOUNTY

20 Soirée: Champagne Jubilee –

Stuffed Roasted Duck

22 Charity: Wine, Cheese & Jazz – The

A nontraditional twist on Thanksgiving dinner.

35th Annual Christmas Tree Auction

Creative Center in Action 46 Community: Seek and Taste – A Celebration of Local South Valley Artisans 48 Business Profile: SS Shirts – The Driving Force Behind Success

TRAVEL

A TRIP TO CUBA

52 Happenings

Experiencing a Land Less Traveled

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Exeter native Hayley Tashjian and her mom experience the vibrant culture of Cuba.

COVER: The centerpiece of the Wileman’s kitchen is the stove they had shipped from France.

TOP: The Wilemans added the brick deck to the back of the house as another area to entertain guests.

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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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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 2,000 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

When entering the Wileman’s home, guests are greeted by the grand staircase.

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FR O M TH E

EDITOR

T

here are so many posts going around on social media about Thanksgiving, and all the reasons we have to be thankful on a daily basis. When I see these messages from my friends, I start to feel a little guilty that I don’t make enough time to express my own thankfulness. It’s not that I don’t recognize all of the blessings in my life; it’s simply just a matter of taking the time. My daily schedule can

is something to be very proud of.

Beyond what this museum will do for our local youth, it has already begun inspiring people of all ages to use the facility as a community center.

With Thanksgiving and the colder months ahead, I’m thankful for the many organizations getting ready to help feed, clothe, and provide assistance to thousands in our community who need extra help, especially this time of year. For most

For most of us, it doesn’t take much to make a difference in the life of an individual or family in need.

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

change in the blink of an eye, and truth be known, I’m very thankful for that.

As a community, we have a lot to celebrate and be thankful for this year. So many people have been affected by the drought and countless others have prayed for and hoped for rain. Although it’s early in the season, we’ve already begun to see some rain, and even snow on the mountains. This is a good sign that we’ll have a real winter this year.

After almost 11 years of planning, the new ImagineU Children’s Museum recently opened its doors to morethan-expected attendance. The fact that the visionaries, donors, and the museum’s board of directors could make this happen for our community

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of us, it doesn’t take much to make a difference in the life of an individual or family in need.

As this letter is being written today, it is my son’s 25th birthday.

For my friends and family who knew this boy as a rambunctious child without a healthy attitude of fear, you must know how thankful I am to celebrate another birthday with him.

He also recently purchased his own car, with his own money for the down payment, and without the need for a co-signer. I can’t be the only parent thankful for this milestone.

Last but never least, the DMI Agency and Lifestyle Magazine staff are very thankful for all of you. We hope each of you has a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday.

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

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his time of year, our thoughts often turn to food. There is always a plethora of cookbooks, but there are also books that treat food and recipes in unusual ways.

Kitchens of the Great Midwest (Pamela Dorman Books, July 2015), the debut novel of J. Ryan Stradal, centers on the importance of food on our emotional and social life and on the sensitive and explosive palate of Eva Thorvald. Her dad, Lars, suffered in his youth from the lingering odor of his family’s lutefisk business. Eva put her chocolate habaneros and other hot pepper talents to unusual uses. From Jordy Snelling’s venison to Pat Prager’s peanut butter bars, it all adds up to a Babette’s Feast on the South Dakota prairie.

And speaking of the earlier story, Babette’s Feast (Modern Classics: Babette’s Feast and Other Stories, Penguin Classic , April 2015), by Isak Dinesen, is another example of how food can change the lives of people.

Two elderly sisters, in a dreary Norwegian village dominated by a Puritanical fear of pleasure, take in a refugee from Paris to be their maid and cook. Grossly underestimating her skills, they try to instruct her. But a financial windfall gives Babette the opportunity to repay their kindness with an extraordinary feast for the body and soul.

Then, of course, there is Chocolat (Penguin, 2000), by Joanne Harris, the story of how a stranger with a gift of irresistible chocolate changes the spirit of a small French town.

VALLEY WRITERS Fowler native Juan Felipe Herrera, the poet laureate of the United States, continues to stir up the poetry world as he sprints into his current mode of expressing his multi-faceted talents. At his inaugural reading in Washington, D.C., he repeated his story of how his 10 L I F E S T Y L E | N OV E M B E R 2 0 1 5

teacher, Mrs. Sampson, turned his life around in third grade when she told him he had a beautiful voice. Then, in a poetic moment, he introduced 94-year-old Mrs. Layla Sampson, sitting in the front row in the audience. As not only a poet, but a performing artist, he entertained his audience throughout the evening with humor and pathos.

Jane Porter’s book five of the Taming of the Sheenans series comes out this month. A Christmas Miracle for Daisy revolves around media mogul

Davis scholarships for the Seaside Writers’ Conference will be accepted until Jan. 10. The scholarship includes full tuition plus a housing discount.

Details, including scholar obligations, at: seasidewritersconference.weebly.com.

WRITING CONTESTS The Colorado Prize for Poetry contest will accept manuscripts of book-length collections of poems through Jan. 14. The winning collection will be published by the Center for Literary Publishing and the author will receive a $2,000 honorarium.

The online entry fee and one-year subscription to Colorado Review is $28. Details at: coloradoreview. colostate.edu/colorado-prize-forpoetry.

The Literal Latte K. Margaret Grossman Fiction Awards offer a $1,000 first prize. Stories of 8,000 words maximum in any subject or style are eligible. Deadline is Jan. 15. The reading fee is $10 for one story or $15 for two. All entries will be considered for publication.

Details at: literal-latte.com/ contests/fiction-award.

TIME MOVES ON

Cormac Sheenan and his two-yearold goddaughter, Daisy. When Daisy is orphaned, the work-oriented bachelor adopts her and moves back to Montana.

There, a meddling Santa promises Daisy a mommy for Christmas.

WRITERS’ CONFERENCES Registration for the 2016 Creative Nonfiction Writers’ Conference opens on Dec. 15. The conference will take place in Pittsburgh, PA, over Memorial Day weekend, May 27-29. Attendees will spend three days with authors, editors, agents, and publishers. Details at: creativenonfiction.org.

Applications for the Daryl and Robert

For 42 years the Salt Institute for Documentary Studies in Portland, ME, trained students for writing, radio, photography, and news media. Many students went on to distinguished careers in these fields. However, students who had signed up for this fall semester were notified that the institute was closing its doors for good and they would have to seek other sources of training. School officials cited declining enrollment and inconsistent funding as the cause for the discontinuance.

THE LAST WORD “Eating is not merely a material pleasure. Eating well gives a spectacular joy to life and contributes immensely to goodwill and happy companionship. It is of great importance to the morale.” – Elsa Schiaparelli (1890-1973)

The First National Bank building shown here replaced the Cohn building at the intersection of Court and Main.

THE DOWNFALL OF THE

St. Charles Saloon B

y the 1860s Visalia was beginning to shed some of its crude and primitive appearance—it was taking on a more modern look. The telegraph had arrived, the Butterfield Overland Mail Company stage was making regular stops, and buildings were in various phases of construction.

By 1861, the decade old town had a population of nearly 600 and an impressive collection of businesses including general merchandise retailers, hotels, confectioners, jewelers, stables, and four saloons. However, on one summer day, it became clear to everyone that the growing pains of the new town were not

over. The newly completed St. Charles Saloon building, the pride of the community, had collapsed in a pile of rubble.

The story of the building and its collision course with disaster began with its construction on the southwest corner of Court and Main streets. J. Gosland of Stockton won the bid to construct this two-story building for about $12,000. Everyone watched as it took shape. In August 1860, the Visalia Weekly Delta excitedly announced that the “new building now being erected by [Isador] Cohn is already rented to Messers. Crane and Gill—the lower story to be occupied as a bar and T EXT

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billiard saloon and the upper story as a hall, ballroom, etc.”

When the new building was finished, it was a source of pride for the community and was called an “ornament.” In October, the St. Charles Bar & Billiard Saloon opened its doors. The Mariposa Gazette gave an endorsement calling it the finest saloon in the southern district, and Crane and Gill called it a first class saloon and promised to only serve the best wines, liquors, and cigars. They claimed three of the best marble bed billiard tables with phelan cushions found anywhere in the state. The establishment was

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popular as was the upstairs music hall. In November, the Reverend Dr. James Alonzo Webb gave the hall an exhilarating launch with a spiritual message, followed by rousing gospel music.

After the saloon was opened for a few months, Gill noticed that the building roof and walls appeared to be sagging.

According to recollections shared many years later, Gill hired a local builder to inspect the structure. On July 20, 1861 at about 10:30 a.m., the inspector climbed onto the roof. He noticed that the building had structural problems but

saloon business, but his injuries didn't seem to inhibit his future employment possibilities as he was elected Tulare County Sheriff three years later.

After the accident, the cause for the building failure was reported by the Delta, “It appears that from some cause the roof of the building was imperfectly put together and for some time…it was spreading out at the sides.”

Cohn decided to rebuild his destroyed structure, but his timing was bad. In November 1861 heavy rain soaked the unfinished St. Charles, and with a new roof not yet in place, again the building

Vucovich family. For a number of years, the southwest corner of Main and Court streets was known as the Vucovich corner.

As the years passed, the building began to show its age, and its shoddy appearance no longer favorably represented the important intersection in the center of town. By 1903 the parcel occupied by the old timer was being strongly considered for a new bank. The First National Bank of Visalia had owned the property since 1902 and in 1903 they began preparing for a new financial institution on the site. The old Cohn

he reported that none were pressing. As the inspector walked out of the building “the walls of the upper story fell” and bricks and debris crashed to the ground.

As Gill raced from the building, he was hit by falling brick and buried under the rubble. A man named Lyons, a doctor from Woodsville, was standing near Gill and had a close call when an upper story window casing fell and landed at his feet.

Fortunately, there were few other people close by when the building collapsed. Had it fallen during a busier time, many patrons and passersby could have been seriously hurt or killed. John Gill's injuries were major and he was taken for medical care. He survived, however, some of his injuries stayed with him for his entire life. Gill left the

was damaged. The Visalia Weekly Delta commented, “This seems to be an unfortunate building, though a well built one.” Construction continued and by February 1862 the St. Charles was back in business with Thomas Crane as the sole barkeeper.

The saloon stayed in business for several more years. Emil Harris operated the St. Charles between 1865-1867. He later left Visalia for Los Angeles, went to work for the Los Angeles Police Department, and was appointed the LA Chief of Police in 1877.

The building later became home to the Visalia Weekly Delta newspaper and printing office. The Vucovich brothers took over the building in 1892 and again it became home to a liquor establishment, this time owned by the

building that housed the St. Charles Saloon had to go. As the building was being demolished, pioneer resident S. C. Brown reminisced about its colorful past including the nearly fatal building collapse. In 1905 the contract for the new First National Bank of Visalia was awarded to C. J. Lindgren of Fresno for $40,000.

The St. Charles Saloon building disappeared from Visalia, but the memory of the ill-fated accident of 1861 is still with us.

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LEFT: The St. Charles Saloon building after it was reconstructed. Circa 1865.

RIGHT: The Cohn building on the southwest corner of Main and Court streets. The St. Charles Saloon building can be seen on the far left. Circa 1879.

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ART NOW

A R T S C A P E S

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T O U R

FINE ART AMID VISALIA’S NATIVE, DROUGHT-TOLERANT GARDENS T E X T

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TOP: Sherley Tucker restored her front yard by using her art to form the pathways.

BOTTOM: Mary Jo and Rick Eastes’ backyard served as one of the five yards to showcase art during the yard tour.

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or centuries, art has steadily crept off walls and other privileged confines of churches and aristocracy to appear in the public square and eventually the private homes for those of means. But in Visalia, original fine art has largely stayed out of its finer gardens – until now. Perhaps pink flamingoes and gnomes have had their chilling effect, leaving unanswered questions of good taste in proper outdoor alternatives.

But a more likely answer is obvious all around.

Save for Beverly Hills and a few other impervious zip codes, California’s epic 500year drought has homeowners ripping out thirsty plants and lawns en masse.

Tropical artifice and lavish greenery are so over. But what will supplant those earlier, unsustainable visions?

That resulting blank slate locally has triggered one notable Visalia resident to leap into action with a creative, collaborative solution that involves numerous Visalia homeowners and several of the city’s most prominent institutions.

In addition to drought-driven and smart-metering imperatives, an innovative fundraiser, ArtScapes, is helping to nudge the region’s three-dimensional art – sculpture, glass works, and the like – into the great outdoors and onto the vast spaces where lawns previously ruled.

“ArtScapes: New Garden Visions for a Water-wise Visalia” is the brainchild of local arts maven Mary Jo Eastes. “The importance to making the conversion

speaks for itself. We made the change to xeriscaping early this year, not only because we were so worried about the drought, but with the idea that we would have fruit bearing trees and plants that could survive our heat along with minimum care from us, the owners.”

(See “What Stays, What Goes,” Lifestyle Magazine, October 2015 issue.)

So out came the palm trees and redwoods, and in went citrus, succulents, cacti, and other fruit trees at the Eastes residence. “With that switch, our water bill has never gone

Some of the unique sculpture art by Antonio Evaristo Cuellar, one of the artists featured during the ArtScapes tour.

over budget, in fact, it is usually under,” said Mary Jo. So while local artists are featured at Mary Jo and husband Rick’s home as part of ArtScapes, they say they are still working on ultimately permanent art inclusions for their garden collection, given that their conversion is still new.

“So we are still looking for pieces to tie our drought-tolerant look and our love of art together. The looking and finding new things is a passion for us,” she said.

The five-home November garden tour was conceived as a fundraiser for Arts Visalia, where Mary Jo serves on the board, in collaboration with Sequoia Riverlands Trust (SRT), the regional conservation nonprofit whose mission is to “strengthen California’s heartland.”

Other participants included Cal Water, Master Gardeners, Natural Resources Conservation, City of Visalia, and a host of others.

The region’s artists themselves were warm to having their art seen in unusual settings, Mary Jo said. “The artists that were involved were just great. They loved the idea of a different format to showcase their artwork and everyone we approached had great ideas of how they would present their work and were on board without any arm-twisting. The ideas flowed and artists were eager to see the location they were assigned and put their creative hat on to make each home and their work flow together and enhance each other.”

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Notable area artists featured on the tour included ceramicists Antonio Evaristo Cuellar, Sherley Tucker, and Mark Ahlstrand; glass guru Joe Morel; sculptors Mike Perez and Richard Arenas among many others – nearly all of whom have exhibited extensively within the more familiar white cube setting of area galleries.

“I chose work for display to reflect and engage nature. Depending on the various kiln-fired qualities, the pieces either lend themselves to a more natural Asian garden theme or an eccentric, brighter European garden theme,” said Antonio. Longtime Lifestyle readers

and other culturally aware San Joaquin Valley residents should give greater consideration to outdoor art. “Readers can make the demand of more threedimensional art to be present in Visalia.

Visalia is so archaic when it comes to public art. We should have been celebrating our amazing local 3-D artists a long time ago. Look what the ‘The End of the Trail’ did for the community.

Didn't we put that up in the early 1900s?

If we had kept at it, we would have been at the forefront.”

Cuellar points out that “There are a number of cities that have established an amazing public artworks presence and they have been benefiting the

looking yards is the texture and color of the landscape, Slinde feels, adding that “What made this tour unique was that the texture and color came, not only in the form of the beautiful droughttolerant plant material, but also in the visual interest of the art and the artistic themes.”

In design terms, the concept of an estate’s singular, large expanse of manicured and verdant turf was a visually simple solution, but ultimately unsustainable. In more mythological terms, the underlying wish to survey one’s vast kingdom beyond enormous green expanses has simply played out.

While Art and any of its pretenses may

may recall his contemporary, large-scale take on Etruscan vessels, among other subjects he’ll present.

Cuellar’s advice for homeowners wanting to add original fine art to their gardens? “I would [first] consider taste and style. This will help identify a theme or add cohesiveness to your vision. Then go with what makes you feel good,” he said. One advantage to our region, he points out, is that “Our seasons are pretty temperate; we don't have to worry about effects of the environment like you would in Tahoe or someplace like that where there is snow or harsh seasonal temperature fluctuations,” he said.

About the prevailing ethos that might have limited awareness or enjoyment of sculpture in the past, Cuellar feels strongly that Visalians

fabric of their small businesses and communities at large. It's time we celebrate and progress the creative culture here before our artists leave for more favorable, progressive areas,” he said.

SRT’s Dry Creek Nursery director, Todd Slinde, was enthusiastic about the event from its inception. “We were excited about partnering with Arts Visalia on this event from the original conceptual conversations because we saw such a valuable and unique educational opportunity for the community,” said Todd. “There were unique inspirational ideas galore, and I believe that made this tour extra special and showed the community that waterwise landscaping could be both practical and beautiful.”

A common theme in many great-

not have taken root much in Visalia’s outdoor spaces, the symbols and signifiers of the landed gentry took root subconsciously in American mythology, as expressed in landscape design from culs-de-sac to gated enclaves, where the green standard has died hard, until now.

El Niño may momentarily temper the move to native plants and drought resistance, but the writing is on the walls, even for aguaholic 90210 addresses perched comfortably atop Los Angeles’ long ago semi-arid hills.

ART NOW

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LEFT: Sculpture work by Richard Arenas.

CENTER: Joe Morel’s glass art displayed in one of the home’s yards.

RIGHT: A succulent and pottery piece by Mark Ahlstrand.

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Champagne Jubilee 3 5 T H A N N U A L

CHRISTMAS TREE AUCTION A

s one of America’s most celebrated novels, The Great Gatsby successfully introduced the world to the glamour and glitz of “high society” New York in the roaring 20s. For decades, people all over the globe have aimed to recreate that sophistication by throwing “Gatsby” themed affairs.

On Dec. 11, Visalia will get a small taste of West Egg, as this year’s Christmas Tree Auction presents its “Champagne Jubilee” theme.

To celebrate Visalia’s 35th annual Christmas Tree Auction, the Visalia Chamber of Commerce decided to step it up a notch, or six. At what is already considered the social event of the season, guests can expect one of the most elaborate Chamber events to date, and there’s a good chance VIP tickets will sell out for the second year in a row.

The Chamber is raising the bar yet again by working with a new professional sound and lighting team, Freestyle Events, who use high-end technology and robotic lighting.

They’ve also redesigned the entire set up for the VIP section, and will implement perhaps the flashiest, yet most sophisticated, décor in Visalia’s Christmas Tree Auction history. “The decorating style will be in golds and silvers, so when you think about a sparkly, over-the-top event, that’s really what we’re going for,” said Gail Zurek, president and CEO of Visalia Chamber of Commerce.

Another new addition to the event

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that is sure to draw some attention is the Christmas Spirit Tree. This tree, made by a local craftsman, will be filled with more than 90 bottles of wine. For $20, guests can enter their name into the raffle to win wine from the tree. Every half-hour throughout the night, a winner will be drawn to select several bottles of wine to take home.

“Because we’re drawing every half hour, there’s a lot of opportunities to win and because of the price point, more folks have the opportunity to participate,” said Gail.

One aspect of the Christmas Tree Auction that Gail really enjoys seeing is the creativity and loose interpretation of what a “Christmas tree” should look like. This year, one of the silent auction trees will be made of ladders, and there’s even rumors of someone designing a 12ft. tall Eiffel Tower as part of a live auction tree.

“I think it’s great to allow our nonprofits to get a little creative and competitive in order to highlight themselves in a way that they’re going to get the best bidders,” said Gail. “People can do some pretty creative, off-the-wall designs, and we’re all for people being as creative as possible.”

If you’re not able to attend the Christmas Tree Auction, there will be several trees displayed in businesses throughout Visalia in the weeks leading up to the event. One location will be at St. Paul’s School. For $20,

parents and community members can purchase a raffle ticket and be entered into a drawing to take home the tree. This is a great alternative to participate for those who aren’t able to attend the event or purchase a live auction tree.

Even with the Christmas Tree Auction’s extravagant new features, the Chamber has worked hard to keep both VIP and general admission ticket costs at the same amount – $65 for general admission and $135, for VIP, which includes a filet and shrimp dinner.

“We’ve held tight to the ticket prices, which is exciting,” said Gail.

“We do have some new sponsorship levels available that play off our ‘Champagne Jubilee’ theme. We have a sponsorship that will include champagne at the table, as well as premier logo display beyond the typical promotions.”

A unique aspect of Visalia’s Christmas Tree Auction is that even though the event may be elaborate, there are plenty of opportunities for anyone in the community to participate and give back to Visalia’s nonprofits.

“We’re excited to have more people who are part of the event participate in fundraising and giving back to charities in a variety of different components,” said Gail. “As the Chamber, anything that we can do to promote our members, be it nonprofit or for for-profit members, we love to be able to facilitate that.”

W

hile attending a fundraiser or charity event, it’s rare to be directly exposed to the organization’s mission in a tangible and thought-provoking way.

You may see moving presentations or videos about their work, but there’s still nothing quite like getting an in-person perspective to inspire support from the community.

That is what makes fundraising events put on by The Creative Center Foundation so unique; guests see The Creative Center’s work right then and there. At this year’s Wine, Cheese, & Jazz fundraiser on Oct. 22, a number of talented clients from The Creative Center opened up the night, showcasing the skills they learn every day. From a rock band performance to a square dance, the performers showed the crowd exactly what donations go toward.

roots throughout the San Joaquin Valley. They started the evening with Jazz tunes, and eventually surprised the audience by bringing up one of The Creative Center performers, Robert Johnston, to perform “La Bamba” with them.

“Carlos and the band are great to work with and they truly believe in our mission,” said Richard. “I know a few of our instructors perform with the band in their spare time, so it is really like friends helping out...especially when one of our clients, Robert, was invited to play with Mezcal; that was the talk of the evening.”

Guests also enjoyed a variety of cheeses and appetizers provided

by Café 225, root beer floats from A&W, and wine donated

by Cacciatore Winery. With the evening’s raffle prizes, more than

One of the delicious hors d’oeuvres donated to Wine, Cheese, & Jazz.

CHARITY

WINE, CHEESE, & JAZZ

THE CREATIVE CENTER IN ACTION As the only performing and visual arts center for people with developmental disabilities in the Central Valley, The Creative Center is a dream come true for many of its clients. These performers get the opportunity to express themselves fully through acting, art, music, dance, and the list goes on. The Creative Center Foundation exists to make sure the center can continue on for years to come.

“You will hear this all the time from The Creative Center staff and foundation members, but art is the ultimate form of communication,” said Richard De Ocio, executive director of The Creative Center Foundation. “There are no barriers when creating or expressing yourself through any artistic medium. When you see clients reach their potential, it is a beautiful thing. It is a reflection of the support provided by the community.”

For the second year in a row, the main entertainment for the night was Mezcal, a local Latin band with 22 L I F E S T Y L E | N OV E M B E R 2 0 1 5

$3,000 was raised to help support The Creative Center Foundation projects.

The Creative Center Foundation board members were encouraged by the new faces they saw at this year’s Wine, Cheese & Jazz fundraiser, and they look forward to the support that will come from the events leading into the New Year.

“We are seeing a lot of new faces at our events, and that is a good thing,” said Richard. “That means our volunteers are out in the community sharing the mission, and the community is responding with support. I feel this event set the stage for an exciting fall and winter.”

In November, The Creative Center will host Soup, Sip, and Shop, which allows the community to come out and purchase artwork created by clients. In December the clients will host their annual winter performance at the Ice House Theater, and then their annual Super Bowl Sprint is right around the corner on Feb. 7.

Robert Johnston and Melissa Taylor getting ready for their square dance performance.

Cacciatore Wines served a variety of their special wines.

A number of The Creative Center clients performed a square dance, a rock band, and several skits.

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

WILEMAN HOME TOUR

The Wilemans incorporated both vintage and modern furniture into their home dÊcor to complement the home’s natural design.

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EXETER HISTORY

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ut in Exeter, tucked between the groves, is a nearly 100-yearold home that Sandy and Bruce Wileman had admired for years. Little did they know that several years down the road, they would become the home’s inhabitants, adding their own history to those four walls.

Originally known as the A.C. Dungan home, the two-story house was built in 1916. Andrew Clifford Dungan, his wife Ellen, and son John, took up residence in that home in 1917. Behind each lath 26 L I F E S T Y L E | N OV E M B E R 2 0 1 5

and plaster wall and above the 49,000 bricks, a long line of history remains, and stories from earlier generations are now told.

The home is surrounded by rich history and superior agricultural land.

The Dungans were involved with the early California citrus industry and grew table grapes, using the nearby railroad to ship and export. Today, the railroad tracks and grape packinghouse exist only in murals found around Downtown Exeter. If you look close enough, you’ll

even spot a painted mural of A.C. Dungan and Son original grape label.

John and his father worked together and farmed citrus before John enlisted in the military in 1941. After being stationed in New Jersey for a few years, John returned home to Exeter with a new family in tow. Bettina Dungan Paige, John’s daughter, formed some of her fondest memories there as a child while visiting her grandparents.

Bettina remembers learning to swim with other Exeter locals in her

To expand the kitchen area, the Wilemans took out the maid’s quarters and John Dungan’s original office space.

grandparent’s swimming pool built in the 1930s. “When I was growing up, it was great for those hot, hot days in Exeter. I remember swimming with my cousins. It was the place to gather in the summertime,” said Bettina.

Just as it was the place to gather in the summertime, it was the place to throw a party. Bettina explained that the whole basement was built for dancing and played host to many gatherings. During the 1950s when Bettina was 13 years old, her family moved into the house and carried on that lively tradition. “My parents and their whole generation were big on having parties,” explained Bettina.

The new owners of the home, Sandy and Bruce Wileman, have already proved they will carry on that same custom that kept the home vibrant for so many years.

Shortly after moving in this past spring, the Wileman’s celebrated Sandy’s 60th birthday with a large party, and they plan to host many, many more affairs.

To better accommodate more guests, the Wilemans made some renovations to the home, but were very careful to not compromise its original style and design. To name a few of the changes, they strategically opened up the kitchen for a more open concept, added a Jack and Jill bathroom upstairs, turned the “butlers pantry” into a full bar, and have added a beautiful, large brick deck out back.

How did such a historical home in the Exeter community land into the hands of the Wilemans? It certainly wasn’t a plan of theirs, but sometimes the greatest adventures are the ones unplanned.

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Drive, they always wondered what it looked like inside. It was a mystery to them, and something they figured would always remain unknown.

“That was probably my biggest intrigue when I first saw the home.

I said ‘Bruce, that house has tennis courts, it’s got a pool; that’s club med,’” said Sandy. “We laughed and laughed, but we never intended on living here.”

Sandy retired on June 1st of 2012, and on June 5th, Bruce called her with the news that the house she “wanted to buy” was for sale. Sandy wasn’t sure which house he was referring to, especially since they had just finished the remodel of their current home they planned on retiring in.

Sandy told Bruce, “We’re not buying an old house; you know how much work they are, we aren’t buying the house.”

She agreed to just look at the house, though, because of how stunning and bold it was. “And that was that,” said Sandy.

“When I walked in I thought ‘wow.’

I always wanted to be inside this house. It is almost surreal to be sitting here now, because I was that person that always wanted to just see what it was like inside,” said Sandy.

After seeing the whole house, Sandy thought it was absolutely beautiful, but knew it would be a lot of work. Bruce told Sandy, “You know, it could be the bed and breakfast you always wanted.”

When Sandy went home that night, she research how to run a bed and breakfast and “…all of a sudden, I go, I don’t want a bed and breakfast, I don’t want to do that, I just retired, no way.” Bed and breakfast idea aside, one month later, they signed the final papers and things were finalized in October.

LEFT: Sandy and Bruce added a wine bar to the butler’s pantry.

RIGHT: The dining room still has its original crown molding, and Sandy even preserved and restored the chandelier.

HOME TOUR

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HOME TOUR

TOP: Sandy researched popular interior paint colors from the early 1900s, and designed each room to mimic that era.

BOTTOM: The Wilemans restored the home’s claw foot tub and have it in their Jack and Jill bathroom.

For about two years, the Wilemans and their team renovated the home from top to bottom. “The woman from [the show] ‘Rehab Addict,’ she doesn’t even know how good of friends we are,” said Sandy. “I was in that ‘yes mentality’ where I felt I could repurpose anything, and it got wild.”

Sandy did a lot of research in order to bring the house back to the early 1900s era. She made sure her contractor knew it would be a restoration, not a remodel.

Before the crew started, Sandy spent a year researching and discovered a lot of things along the way, like the home’s original central vac system, and the interior paint colors that were popular at that time. “The whole house was pretty much all beige, which is my go to, but luckily, Debbie Santucci said don’t do beige,” said Sandy.

In some rooms, almost everything is original or restored to be brought back to its original form. The dining room is a great example; the molding, door handles, hardwood floors, the chandelier Sandy had re-wired in Santa Barbara, and the windows were all restored.

The only thing they replaced were the light switches, and even those are push buttons to better fit the decade in which the home was built. “I polished the original brass pieces, including 30 L I F E S T Y L E | N OV E M B E R 2 0 1 5

the handles for the windows, until my fingers bled. And I mean all of it,” said Sandy.

The kitchen, on the other hand, went through the most drastic change. Sandy

opened up what used to be a tiny kitchen and utilized the space that was at one time the maid’s quarters. They also added a standing bar because in

this day and age, everyone ends up in the kitchen.

But like many aspects in the house, Sandy made sure to repurpose things.

A glass door that had been used for John Dungan’s study was repurposed and used upstairs. “I had a fabulous contractor who was on board with me all the way through in re-purposing things.

There was also a pocket door that went into the kitchen, but after opening the kitchen up, we took it out and repurposed it as well,” said Sandy.

Sandy’s stove was one of the few new additions, and it quickly became a focal point of the kitchen. While it remains one of the most beautiful pieces throughout the home, Sandy underestimated its practicality.

“I had it brought in from France, but I didn’t look into the size,” said Sandy. “I outsmarted myself because I thought a stove is a stove, and an oven is an oven.

I had it for a year and a half before I opened it up.” Because of the unusually small size of the oven, Sandy told Bruce she wasn’t sure it would work for them.

He told her, “I don’t care, you’re cooking in it and you’re sleeping in it.”

The true test was whether not a turkey could fit. “Thank goodness it does,” said Sandy. “We don’t have to have Cornish game hen for Thanksgiving, we get to

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have a real turkey.”

After three years of hard work and planning, the home has been beautifully restored to its original 1900s style, with a few new touches that made it a better fit for the Wilemans and their family. There may have been a few shortcuts to modernize along the way, but Sandy was adamant about keeping as much of the original house to preserve nearly 100 years of memories.

“It’s been a fun, fun journey,” said Sandy. “What I want to do now is frame old family photos, and we have other plans like adding concrete for the driveway. The story will continue, and there will never be a dull moment.”

Bettina shares her appreciation of how the Wilemans could not have been more of a perfect fit for the house. “My memories of the

house were more about when my mom and dad renovated in the 50s, so it is very interesting to see it brought back to how it looked when it was first built,” said Bettina. “We realized that the house would be a lot of work and are very grateful that Sandy was so interested in the house and that she did not want to completely modernize it. It will have a whole new life now.”

While Sandy and Bruce never imagined they would be on this journey, they’re glad life decided to throw this curve ball. “We will be married 40 years as of next June, and even though we decided that our previous house was where we would spend the last days of our lives, three years later, here we are,” said Sandy.

HOME TOUR

LEFT: The Wilemans added the brick deck to the back of the house, overlooking the tennis court and billowing trees.

RIGHT: To update the exterior of the home, the Wilemans added fresh paint and did some landscaping.

CHRISTMAS HOME TOUR The Wileman home is one of four residences to be featured on the 2015 Christmas Home Tour on Friday, Dec. 11, from 4:30 - 8 p.m.; hosted by the Exeter Woman's Club. Enjoy touring four local Exeter homes, including three historical and one modern house, live music, hot chocolate, and tasty treats. Tickets are $20 and are available at Exeter Chamber of Commerce, By the Water Tower Antiques, Franey Carpet One and Design Center, or by asking a Woman's Club member.

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WILD RICE RISOTTO INGREDIENTS 2 C wild rice 6 C chicken stock 1 1/2 C cream 1 C Parmesan, grated 1 bunch sage 1 lbs. of butter (about 4 sticks) 1 butternut squash, cubed 2 C cremini mushrooms, sliced DIRECTIONS Bring stock to a boil in a saucepan and add the wild rice (roughly 30 minute cooking time). In another saucepan, add cooked rice, 1/2 lbs. butter, and the sage, cook until rice starts to brown. Add cream and simmer to reduce the cream and slightly thicken. Cut the butternut squash in half, peel, and scoop out seeds, cutting into half-inch cubes. Then combine in bowl with the olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread mixture on sheet pan and roast on 425˚F for 10 minutes.

Check rice and strain when tender. Combine squash and mushrooms in large sauté pan with other 1/2 lbs. of butter, lightly sauté, and add rice and sage cream. Add the Parmesan to hold the rice together, stir and marry the ingredients together. Season to taste, top with Parmesan.

Serves 6-8.

CRANBERRY CHUTNEY INGREDIENTS 1/2 lbs. cranberry 1 pear 1 apple 1 orange

GOAT CHEESE STUFFED BRUSSELS SPROUTS INGREDIENTS 10 Brussels sprouts, large 1/4 C goat cheese 10 pieces pancetta, sliced

DIRECTIONS Score top of Brussels sprouts with an X, boil for 1 1/2 minutes. When taking Brussels sprouts out, immediately place into an ice bath. Once cooled, remove and let dry. Take the goat cheese and fill the opened part of the Brussels sprout where you scored with an X. Wrap in a thin layer of pancetta from top to bottom. Roast at 425˚F for 10 minutes on a sheet pan. Tip: roasting works best when using a mini muffin pan to help cook pancetta evenly.

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DIRECTIONS Blend or use a food processor to marry ingredients together, season to taste. Best when made one day before serving.

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STUFFED ROASTED DUCK INGREDIENTS FOR BRINE 1 gal. water 7 oz salt Coriander seeds Mustard seed Sugar Bay leaf Star anise

FARRO SALAD INGREDIENTS FOR DUCK 1 whole duck 2 apples 2 oranges 2 pears 3 sprigs of sage 2 tsp. paprika 2 tsp. ground coriander 2 tsp. granulated garlic 2 tsp. ground ginger 1 tsp. salt 1 tsp. pepper

DIRECTIONS Submerge duck in brine for 24 hours before preparing. Remove duck from brine and place on sheet pan. Stuff duck with quartered apples, oranges, pears, and add sage.

Combine all additional seasonings together. Drizzle a light layer of olive oil on duck, and then add a light, even layer of the seasoning mix on top. Preheat oven to 425ËšF, and use a pan where the edges are at least 2 inches tall. During cooking, continue spooning the duck fat and juice over the top of the duck. It will need to reach a temperature of at 170ËšF, depending on size of duck, about 1.5 hours in the oven. Serves 6-8.

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INGREDIENTS 1 C farro 3 C chicken stock 2 celery stalks, diced 1 C dried cranberry 1 1/2 C walnuts 1/2 C sunflower seed 5 sprigs parsley, chopped 2 oranges, segmented DIRECTIONS Toast farro until it gives off a nutty aroma, tossing occasionally to prevent burning. Add chicken stock and farro to sauce pan, bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for 25 minutes. Let sit for 5 minutes, and spread out on sheet pan to cool.

Once cooled combine farro, herbs, vegetables, and fruit. Serves 6-8.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF THINKSTOCK IMAGES

A TRIP TO CUBA

EXPERIENCING A LAND LESS TRAVELED

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been exposed to general negative media awareness early in her life. She was not alone in this when it came to the population of travelers within our group. I turned out to be the youngest at age 27, and the oldest was Don at 89, with everyone else in between. One traveler, Brandy, was there to seek out her ancestral line, while Don, the inspiring, spunky 89-year-old, had a lifelong dream to tour Cuba, and only now, with his special lady friend, could he do so. Though the thought of a tour

n average of two to three buildings crumble to the ground in Cuba every day. This is one of the many shocking realities that might not come to mind right away when we envision the romanticized, preserved Cuba portrayed in photographs. Sure, Havana’s streets are overrun with almendrones, the charming vintage cars we see covered in the mass media. In some ways, Cuba is much more amazing than we can mentally piece together from these short news segments, but in other ways, it is much less romantic. The U.S. embargo has been in place for 53 years, which has led to the recent appeal to travel to Cuba, but has also caused many of the issues that the Cuban people struggle with daily; crumbling buildings, minimal monthly income, and other realities we wouldn’t necessarily expect.

Since my birth in the late 1980s, Cuban travel from the U.S. has been nearly non-existent. As soon as travel restrictions were lifted, I became very interested in traveling to Cuba. My mother and I decided that now was the time to go, before too much U.S. influence inundated the island and changed its primitive ways forever. Our travel agent, Donna Cardenas at Altour Travel, set up a People-to-People Program Tour through a Canadian based company, Globus, and three months later, we were jetting to the forgotten island, just 90 miles off the Florida coastline.

I went into this trip with a completely blank slate, whereas my mom had T E X T

Jose Fuster’s Studio in Cuba.

sounded dreadful to me in the early stages of planning, the wide array of people on this 20-person tour definitely made for an interesting time, and I can’t imagine experiencing it in a different way.

Since travel to Cuba is not yet allowed on one’s own, a People-to-People Program incorporates education with face-to-face interactions with Cuban people from all walks of life. We met and interacted with local dancers, &

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artists, baseball players, farmers, and cowboys, and learned about their skills and day-to-day lives. From our initial touch down onto Cuban soil, I was blown away by the kindness and warmth of the people. This carried on throughout the 9-day tour, and my admiration for them, considering all of the hardships they have faced, far exceeded my expectations.

Upon arrival, the group met our Cuban national tour guide, Jorge Jorge (yes, his first and last names were the same). He was an unbelievably kind, middle-aged man who spoke four different languages and knew everything there was to know about Cuban history.

We flew into Camaguey airport, a small rural airport in the heartland of Cuba, and exchanged our U.S. dollars for Convertible Cuban Pesos (CUCs). CUCs are the equivalent to a U.S. dollar, only used by non-Cuban tourists, and are worth 25 times the Cuban Peso, used only by Cuban Nationals. Because the government owns the majority of travel-related businesses (restaurants, hotels, etc.), the government makes an astonishing level of income that would never be seen by a regular Cuban citizen. Cash is the only way to make purchases as a U.S. citizen in Cuba – most major credit cards are not yet accepted, and if you do come across a place where they are, the Internet connection most likely will not work. So if you travel here within the near future, bring cash to be safe.

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We wasted no time jumping straight into our adventures as we headed to the town of Camaguey to take a pedicab tour and make out our first stop at Cuban artist Martha Jiminez’s studio. The group spent two nights in Camaguey and experienced a contemporary dance company performance, which was absolutely stunning. We were also invited to a second-generation pottery studio, where I was given the opportunity to spin my own pottery. I realized within these first couple of days that there were endless amounts of amazing talent hidden within the Cuban culture.

In the days ahead, we traveled to Cienfuegos and Trinidad. We made stops at King Ranch, which was once owned by the King Ranch in Texas

then continued on to an absolutely gorgeous, untouched Caribbean Sea beach. Our small group leisurely walked around the historic town of Trinidad, toured Chez's Tour, met a local Santarian minister, and then hit the road to make our way to Cienfuegos.

Cienfuegos turned out to be the hometown of our Cuban National tour guide, Jorge Jorge, which made it extra special for us. Here we were lucky enough to tour a cigar factory, which is not common unless organized by Cuban officials. One interesting observation here, aside from the thousands of Cuban cigar brands being rolled primarily by women, was the ongoing audio recordings within the factory. Come to find out, in the early years of cigar factories, entire books would be

Hayley and her mom in Trinidad standing in front of Chez’s Tour.

I realized within these first couple of days that there were endless amounts of amazing talent hidden within the Cuban culture.

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Old town Havana.

until it was expropriated after the revolution. We spent a day touring the grounds, meeting the caretakers, and learning of its modern use. A group of cowboys who work at the ranch demonstrated a rodeo, and we ended the day with a traditional lunch of roasted pork, beans and rice, mojitos, Bucanero, and Cristal (Cuban beer). The Cuban drinks were out of this world, but the one element that disappointed me was the food. It was a combination of the native people attempting to cater to Americans, pandering to an audience that may not appreciate true authentic cuisines to a lack of flavor that one experiences at U.S.-Cuban restaurants.

We headed from King Ranch, outside of Camaguey, to Trinidad.

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read through the loud speaker to keep the workers entertained. Two of the first books used for this were Romeo and Juliet and The Count of Montecristo, which are now two of the most famed Cuban cigar brands. We were encouraged to smell, touch, and fully examine the cigars in the making. Later on, we visited a small cigar store where most of us purchased cigars to take home; I bought some Cohiba and Montecristo cigars, and some Havana Club Cuban Rum. Here in Cienfuegos, some of us spent an afternoon at a local baseball game to watch the Cienfuegos Elefantes. It was the final game of a three-game series against the Havana Industriales, which the Elefantes won. Being an avid baseball fan in the U.S., I found this experience to be much different than our traditional

A vintage car on the streets of Cuba.

CANDIES

An old building reads Viva Cuba.

A view of Trinidad.

Old town Havana.

The Caribbean Sea.

I spent my last night there drinking rum, smoking a Cohiba with a Cuban friend, and I even received a marriage proposal from a man more desperate to come to the states than he was for love.

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MLB experience. The stadium is how I imagine a stadium would be when baseball first got started – very plain, and there were no sponsorship banners or loud beer ads. No alcohol is served, and anything along the lines of snacks are bagged in clear plastic bags, making them look homemade.

Next we moved on to Havana, which was completely different than our first few days in Cuba. The hotel was very modern with many updated amenities, including Internet. We stayed near Malecón, the sea wall that is famously known for late night gatherings among lovers and friends, where the sea breeze is the best form of air-conditioning for the hot, humid nights. I spent my last night there drinking rum, smoking a Cohiba with a Cuban friend, and I even received a marriage proposal from a man more desperate to come to the states than he was for love. I was flattered, nonetheless.

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domestic violence. We interacted with the kids in the classroom and were able to distribute much needed school supplies. On the agenda that day was also to visit Ernest Hemingway’s home. His family donated the home to the Cuban government after his death, along with his famed boat, Pilar. The home is now a museum, which is unable to be entered, but can be examined from the open windows and doors. You are also encouraged to have one of Hemingway’s favorite beverages, which consists of freshly made sugar cane juice (pressed right in front of you), pineapple juice, and Rum. We ended the day touring sculptor Jose Fuster’s former home and studio, which was a spectacle in itself. There was not one square foot untouched with colorful mosaic; it was truly a sight to behold.

We were also given a special tour of Havana’s Old Town with a local architect working to restore the historic buildings. This was our first exposure to seeing how the lack of economic stability has impacted the living conditions. Gorgeous, large buildings,

originally built for single families during Cuba’s wealthy days, are now occupied by 20 families or more. Also, these families are creating areas called “barbecues,” where they add a floor above the window for more sleeping.

All of this is causing structural damage, and there is a lot of effort to keep this from progressing.

Christopher Columbus documented that Cuba was the “fairest island human eyes have yet beheld.” My experience here amongst the beautiful surroundings, thriving art scene, and most importantly, the kind and passionate Cuban people, truly exceeded my expectations. Cuba has a long way to go before it is able to catch up to the year 2015, but it is on the right track. The Cuban people are ecstatic of the fact that Americans are now slowly trickling into their country to visit, spend money, and appreciate their unique culture. History is in the making, and I am thrilled I was able to experience a piece of it at this important time.

COMMUNITY

SEEK AND TASTE

A CELEBRATION OF LOCAL SOUTH VALLEY ARTISANS

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rt is alive and well in the Central Valley, as demonstrated by the sixth annual Taste the Arts festival held on Oct. 17 in Downtown Visalia. The festival was met with a warm fall embrace from enthusiastic South San Joaquin Valley residents. The Arts Consortium, which organized and sponsored the event, showcased many local artistic flavors into this full packed day.

The six-hour event included 70 plus artists, live entertainment, live mural paintings, and family friendly activities, led by Pro Youth Heart, Tulare County Library, and Grace Note Music Studio.

As festivalgoers roamed the artists’ booths up and down Garden Street, they got a taste of the vast array of artistic expression present in the South Valley. From expressionist painter Betty Berk, who displayed her colorful interpretations of local valley landscapes, to the score of graffiti style artists creating large murals on the walls

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of the old Visalia Lumber Yard, there was plenty for the eye to see.

Also present were several artisans like Mark Leonard from Machine Brothers, a custom metal workroom specializing in one-of-a-kind artistic sculptures and decorative furniture. Mike Wood, a custom woodworker, presented a splendid range of beautifully handcrafted storage and decorative wood boxes, each piece a master artwork of precision and beauty.

Brent Mosley of Sleek Illumination showed off his sharp and humorous eye for repurposing industrial and household items, like colanders, phones, and kitchen equipment, into new and clever lightening designs.

Another local artist, Shirley A. Blair Keller of Spirit Hill in Three Rivers, displayed an exquisité and colorful style with her artwork. One such piece was a highly stylized Ford hubcap in which the entire surface was repainted

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and decorated with flowers, dots, lines, and diamonds. Her work illustrated the ever-present dialogue between modern consumer culture and more traditional artistic expressions, as found in works by both the Hopi and Acoma people of the Southwestern United States.

Taste the Arts was indeed full of excitement and appreciation for art, but also a wonderful platform for working artists and art programs in our community, an area that is as artistically diverse as the agriculture that grows here.

It’s an exciting time in the local arts community, as residents continue to seek and taste the arts of our wonderful South Valley.

The Arts Consortium advocates, promotes, and provides opportunity for the celebration of arts in Tulare County.

For further information, please visit www.artsconsortium.org or call 559-802-3266.

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SS SHIRTS

THE DRIVING FORCE BEHIND SUCCESS W

hen we look back on our life and think about what led us on the road to our current occupation, spouse, home, or status, we begin to see how it all connects; one unexpected turn in life led to another, which led to another, which led to now. Nothing ever seems to go quite as planned, but according to business owner Steve Shahan of SS Shirts, that’s a darn good thing.

Today, Steve Shahan might be known in Tulare County for his family business, SS Shirts, but many still know him for his involvement in the world of high performance racing. HL and Shirley Shahan, also known as Drag-On-Lady, is still recognized worldwide as the first woman to ever win an NHRA event in the 1960s, so it was only natural for

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Steve to have racing fever in his blood.

So how does a high performance racer end up owning one of Tulare County’s most recognized T-shirt printing businesses? Hard work certainly has something to do with it, but Steve’s racing past played a significant role as well.

More than 25 years ago while Steve was running Shahan’s High Performance Center in Tulare, his dad happened upon a piece of embroidery equipment and started a small business with it in Oakhurst. When his dad decided to move the business back down to Tulare, Steve started helping out in the evenings while his wife Kim and mother-in-law Erma Turner ran the business by day.

They say some of the most successful

companies in the world were started in garages (Google, Apple, Amazon, Nike…you get the point), and a garage was how Steve got his start. As the embroidery business continued to expand, Steve purchased a screenprinting machine and went to work right away in his garage.

“We got it all started and running in the garage, and because of my past with the high performance racing, my parents knew everybody, so our race stuff just started taking off,” said Steve.

Among some of his first clients were Gary Scelzi, a three-time world drag racing champion, and top fuel racer’s Blaine Johnson and Steve Faria. After more than ten years of working closely with his racing clients, Steve began to

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realize he didn’t have as much of a tie with the local business community in Tulare.

“I was so focused on the race car deal, that I kind of forgot about the local stuff, and so about 12 years ago, I started focusing on schools and other local companies,” said Steve. “So I’m not as involved in the race car scene any more, though we still do quite a few…we do most of the car shows in the Valley.”

From the start, one of SS Shirt’s largest clients has been the World Ag Expo in Tulare.

Thousands of people from around the country come to the farm show each year, so it’s fun for Steve to come up with a new design and watch it fly off the shelves.

“What’s nice is we’re local,” said Steve. “If we were out of town and the farm show needed 1,500 more shirts the next day, you’re done. But I call my guys and I say I need 500 shirts and 200 jackets, so they’re here working and the next morning, boom, we get that delivery.”

Because of SS Shirt’s in-house design, their shirts can be picked out in a crowd anywhere. Steve is constantly hearing people say “you can tell that’s an SS

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shirt right off the bat.” Steve and his team will spend hours working with their clients to create the perfect design, and they will never use clip art. While their work is recognizable in the community, no two designs are ever alike.

As SS Shirts continues to grow and build relationships with more schools and local businesses, more people

are wearing their shirts and they may not even realize it. Just about every elementary student in Tulare County has worn an SS shirt if they’ve been to Scicon up in Springville, and thousands of babies born at Kaweah Delta Hospital in Visalia leave wearing an SS shirt with two little foot prints. They have even started to work with several local restaurants like Fugazzis and Amigos.

Steve credits much of his success and growth to the team that has stuck with

him for so long. His operations manager Marlene has worked for SS Shirts for 22 years, his “main guy” Henry has been there for 19, and his embroider Stephanie has been reliable since the day she started. “It makes a difference when my clients call and Marlene is familiar with their past orders. Clients know my staff can help them out with anything. We’ve been very fortunate to have good help for so many years.”

As a result of their recent success, Steve has hired on two new artists and added several new printers. While he continues to grow, his company remains a small, familyowned business, where you’ll be treated as such.

“We’ve never been busier,” said Steve.

“We’ve had these long-term customers for so many years and they just keep coming back, and we keep getting new customers. We’re growing with it and we’re buying new equipment to keep up with it. I’m trying to grow with these new customers while still remaining a mom and pop shop.”

Steve’s racing past may have helped jump-start his business, but his hard work and commitment to quality is what has kept his customers racing back to SS Shirts for these 25 years.

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HAPPENINGS

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

THE NUTCRACKER BY THE THEATER ARTS ALLIANCE It's been more than 10 years since Visalia has had a Nutcracker event locally, and the Theater Arts Alliance hopes to make this a new family tradition for the community. There are three shows planned for Thanksgiving weekend. TAA was established in the Central Valley to combine worldly expertise and passion for theater to help local artists move into the next level of professional work, while enriching the community with the art of theater. Tickets are $25.

JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT Presented by the Tulare County Theater Company, this family musical is about the trials and triumphs of Joseph, Israel’s favorite son, with music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice. Tickets can be purchased at the TCOE office or at the door.

When: Nov. 19 & 20, 7 p.m. & Nov. 21, 2 p.m. & 7 p.m.

Where: LJ Williams Theater, 1001 W. Main. St., Visalia Contact: 651-1482

TULARE COUNTY SYMPHONY PRESENTS FIRE AND ICE The Tulare County Symphony Orchestra is proud to present the music of Sibelius on the occasion of his centennial. Also on the program, TCSO continues their Beethoven series, with the brilliantly exciting 4th Symphony. Not to be missed, it is an old favorite for some and a new favorite for the newbies. Danielle Belen will return with her violin to play the 20th century’s best violin concerto.

Tickets range from $30 to $39.50 and can be purchased at FoxVisalia.org.

When: Nov. 21, 7:30 p.m.

Where: Visalia Fox Theater, 300 W. Main St., Visalia Contact: FoxVisalia.org

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When: Nov. 27, 7 p.m. & Nov. 28, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Where: LJ Williams Theater, 1001 W. Main St., Visalia, Contact: 800-838-3006 or www.theaterartsalliance.com.

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CHAMBER HOLIDAY FESTIVAL CONCERT Presented by American Legion Sierra Post 785, you’re invited to enjoy holiday music featuring the vocal talents from students at five of Visalia’s high schools, as well as COS students. Tickets are $8 each, and seniors and students get in for $5.

When: Dec. 1, 7 p.m.

Where: COS Theater, 915 S. Mooney Blvd., Visalia Contact: 901-0734

TULARE COUNTY SYMPHONY’S ANNUAL HOLIDAY CONCERT Don’t be a Scrooge! Enjoy the annual Tulare County Symphony Holiday Concert where they will showcase the best of Tulare County’s talent of all ages. Featuring new music and nearly 300 performers, these popular concerts are sure to put you in the brightest of spirits for the holiday season. Tickets are between $30 and $39 per person.

When: Dec. 5, 3 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.

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

HAPPENINGS

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ART EXHIBITS SHANE GUFFOGG ART RECEPTION AND EXHIBIT World-renowned artist, Shane Guffogg, returns to his hometown of Lindsay 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. A special reception will be held on Nov. 21 from 5–8 p.m., and the exhibit will remain up through Jan. 10.

When: Nov. 21 - Jan. 10 Where: Lindsay Museum and Gallery, 165 N. Gale Hill, Lindsay Contact: 562.2684, ginny.wilson@gmail.com

EXETER MUSEUM AND GALLERY EXHIBIT 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.

When: Nov. 30 – Dec. 31 Where: Exeter Museum and Gallery, 125 South B St., Exeter, Contact: 592-1143

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HAPPENINGS

DIVERSIONS & EXCU R S I O N S

DAS COOKIE JAR 4th ANNUAL COOKIE PARTY

A VINTAGE CHRISTMAS AT THE CANDY CANE LANE PARADE Visalia’s Candy Cane Lane Parade will celebrate its 70th year bringing holiday spirit to the streets of Downtown Visalia. The one and a half mile route proceeds West on Main St. from Santa Fe to Conyer, where it turns south to unload passengers at Conyer and Mineral King Parking Lot. Come down with your family and enjoy this year’s “Vintage Christmas” theme as you watch floats, school bands, and more go by.

When: Nov. 30, 7 p.m.

Where: Downtown Visalia, Main St. Contact: downtownvisalia.com

EXETER WOMAN’S CLUB CHRISTMAS HOME TOUR 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 high school scholarships plus their charming old building. Tickets are $20 each and can be purchased online.

When: Dec. 11, 4:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.

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

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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 Das offers 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 December 15.

When: Dec. 19, 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.

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

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GEMBOREE: EXETER ROCK AND GEM SHOW 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

C H A R I TA B L E E V E N T S EXPRESS EMPLOYMENT’S HIRING DRIVE BENEFITTING VISALIA RESCUE MISSION Give the gift of employment by joining Express Employment Professionals’ Pay It Forward Holiday Hiring Drive as they strive to place 100 job seekers in Tulare, Kings & Fresno Counties. Being out of work during the holidays can be particularly tough, and we would like to make sure as many people as possible earn a paycheck just in time for the holidays. For every new hire through this Hiring Drive, Express will donate $40 to VRM. When: Nov. 1- 30 Where: Express Employment Contact: 559-738-7822, nathan.jefferson@expresspros.com

A FESTIVAL OF TREES St. Anthony’s Retreat and Santa Teresita Youth Conference Center present A Festival of Trees on Thursday, Nov. 19 in Three Rivers. Enjoy hors d’oeuvres, wine tasting, a no host cocktail bar, a live auction of more than 20 decorated trees from local nonprofits, and a silent auction. There will also be a free preview showing of the trees from 3 – 5 p.m.

Tickets are $25 each, and can be purchased by calling the number below.

When: Nov. 19, 6 p.m.

Where: 43816 Sierra Dr., Three Rivers Contact: 561-4595

11th ANNUAL TURKEY TROT RACE AGAINST HUNGER There’s no better way to start off your Thanksgiving morning than with a 5K run or two-mile walk. As the largest race in the Central Valley, 5,000 participants race to help end hunger and support the Visalia Emergency Aid Council. The cost is $25 for adults and $15 for kids.

The "Race Against Hunger" provides a large portion of the annual funding for the VEAC food pantry and day-to-day operations required to assist over 800 families each month.

When: Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 26, 7:30 a.m.

Where: Downtown Visalia, corner of Main & Garden Contact: visaliaturkeytrot.com 58 L I F E S T Y L E | N OV E M B E R 2 0 1 5

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TINSEL TOY 5K RUN

35th ANNUAL VISALIA CHRISTMAS TREE AUCTION The annual Christmas Tree Auction is “the formal event of the season” in Visalia, and this year takes it a step further with it “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 non-profits in Tulare County. Tickets are $135 for VIP, $65 for general admission.

When: Dec. 11 Where: Visalia Convention Center, 303 W. Acequia Ave., Visalia Contact: www.visaliachamber.org

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Hosted by Visalia Runners, the Tinsel Tow 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 an unwrapped toy to donate to the Tulare Salvation Army Cross Country Programs. The first 200 to register receive an event shirt. Registration is $25 before Nov. 28 and $30 after. To register online or for information visit visaliarunners.org When: Dec. 12, 7:45 a.m.

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

HAPPENINGS

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: www.rockinresolutionrun.com

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