May 2012

HOME TOUR

THE NAGELS HOME

All The Necessities Of Life, Off-The-Grid CULINARY

FathER'S DAY FEAST COMMUNITY

Downtown VISALIANS'

Wine & Cheese Walk

ECRWSS RESIDENTIAL CUSTOMER LOCAL

May 2012

Presort Standard U.S. POSTAGE PAID Arcadia, Ca Permit No. 318 ECRWSS

3401-A Adams Avenue, San Diego, CA 92116

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20 HOME TOUR The Nagles Home

CULINARY

Father's Day Feast

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Letter from the Executive Editor

10 Business Cents 12 Word Play 14 Local Adventure: Fresno Chaffee Zoo 16 Arts: Arts Visalia 18 Spirits: IPA, Racer 5

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36 Community: Wine & Cheese Walk 48 Charity: TKRL LifeWalk

MUSIC

50 Fashion

Meeting at the Crossroads

54 Happenings

Irish Band Brings Street Performance to the Big Stage

52 Kudos

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40 NEXT GEN

Andrew Somawang

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ABOVE: Brian and Susan Nagels on the back porch of their Sanger property – their favorite place to hang out and relax.

MAY 2012 PUBLISHED BY DMI Agency 801 W. Main St. Visalia, CA 93291 EDITORIAL Executive Editor Karen Tellalian Assistant Editor TAYLOR VAUGHN Copy Editor DARA FISK-EKANGER Content Editor Kyndal Kennedy ART & PRODUCTION Art Director ROSS YUKAWA Senior Graphic Designer CHRIS BLY CONTRIBUTING WRITERS CRYSTAL R. R. EDWARDS Diane Slocum JORDAN VENEMA LISA MCEWEN KENNY HILDEBRAND KYNDAL KENNEDY Sharon Mosley BUSINESS MANAGEMENT Malkasian Accountancy LLP Gary Malkasian CPA JEFFREY Malkasian EA Operations Manager Maria Gaston ADVERTISING SALES Advertising Director Bridget Elmore

RACK LOCATIONS

DMI Agency Evolutions Fitness Center, Tulare Tazzaria Coffee & Tea Tulare County Library The Lifestyle Center Visalia Chamber of Commerce Visalia Convention Center COUNTERTOP LOCATIONS

210 Cafe Advanced Body & Laser Center Creekside Day Spa & Wellness Center Exeter Chamber of Commerce Exeter Golf Course Holiday Inn Kaweah Delta Hospital Red Carpet Car Wash Sequoia Laser Aesthetics Smiles by Sullivan Tiffany’s Luxury Medispa Tulare Chamber of Commerce V Medical Spa Velvet Sky Visalia Community Bank (Downtown) Visalia Eye Center Visalia Imaging & Open MRI Visalia Marriott Visalia Medical Clinic Wildflower Cafe-Exeter Dr. Keith Williams Williams, Jordan, Brodersen & Pritchett, Attorneys at Law Windows Plus, Inc.

SALES OFFICE 801 W. Main St. Visalia, CA 93291 559.739.1747 • Fax 559.738.0909 E-mail: lifestyle@dmiagency.com VIEW THE MAG ONLINE! issuu.com/lifestylemagazine

Facebook.com/LifestyleMag

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: 15,000 © 2012 DMI Agency

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LEFT: Out the back door of Brian and Susan Nagels' half-acre property in Sanger is an arbored walkway bright with plant life of all sorts.

Let’s face it, there’s nothing like the sparkle and shine of a brand new home!

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E EDITOR NOTE

Photo by Becca Chavez | Hair and Make-up provided by Velvet Sky

It was May 2009 when we first said, “Keep your chin up and your brand strong during tough economic downturns,” and hopefully everyone is feeling a little less shaky some three years later. Fear causes one of two possible reactions in people – they either flee or they fight. While either reaction could be the smart choice when facing personal endangerment, in business it is rarely a good idea to flee. It’s okay to be afraid, but short-term solutions based on fear can have a lasting effect on your brand.

Short-term decisions, like decreasing brand awareness in order to cope with a decrease in revenues, will have a more disastrous effect in the long run. On the other hand, maintaining marketing activity levels during periods of economic insecurity can create stronger relationships with your customers, and improve your position for growth once the market turns.

It’s really quite simple – keep your brand strong and your presence known so on the upswing you are in a stronger position than your competitors.

(Can I hear an “Amen”?)

We’ve been personal witnesses to this theory, as many of our advertisers have continued their top-of-mind awareness campaigns in our community.

It’s likely they’ve had to rethink some of their business strategies, but their commitments to their marketing plans have not faltered. We are grateful to them and the courage they’ve shown to fight the good fight. We appreciate them, and hope you do too.

We’re also excited to welcome summer back to the Valley. Summer means backyard barbeques, short sleeves, and maybe even … beer. Even if you’re more of a wine person, Kenny Hildebrand’s description of India Pale Ale on page 18 might be enough to get you to change your mind.

Kenny recommends drinking for quality, never quantity, and I fully support his philosophy.

Our Home Tour feature this month gets us outside, to the half-acre garden of the Nagels family, the “Garden of Weeden.” Contributing ADDY-winning writer, Jordan Venema walks us through the orchards, vegetable gardens and cacti exploring every nook of the fabulous, selfsustaining family Eden. With breathtaking photos by Lifestyle staff photographer and Assistant Editor, Taylor Vaughn, you might be tempted to grab a fishing pole and head over to the farm, or simply turn to page 20.

We hope everyone is looking forward to a great second half of 2012, as we remember to keep our chins up and our brands strong.

Karen Tellalian, EXECUTIVE EDITOR For more information or to submit a story idea email Karen@dmiagency.com or call (559) 739-1747 or fax (559) 738-0909.

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B BUSINESS CENTS

Is it time yet?

Text by Randy Tell alian, Broker, Tell alian Mortgage & Real Estate

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he #1 question asked of anybody who is in the real estate industry is, “Is it a good time to buy?” The past five years have made this question a very difficult one to answer, but recent indications show that it is becoming much easier to answer the question.

It’s also becoming a better time to sell than any time in the past five years, which means the trend is close to turning, if it hasn’t turned already. Look at just a few indicators that came out recently regarding the local (Tulare County) residential real estate market:

1. In July 2005 the average time single family inventory that

2.

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was in the Tulare County Multiple Listing Service was 1.75 months. The inventory backed up to 15 months worth in September 2007, but in March 2012 the inventory figure is back to 1.75 months.

In April 2008 the average number of days a single family house was on the market before selling was 155. As of April 2012, the average number of days is down to 55 before selling.

From early 2000 through April 2004, the average number of single family houses listed for sale was in the 600-750 range.

That number blew up to over 2,000 in July 2007 and as of April 2012, the number of listings was right around 700.

There are other measurements that should be considered to be sure, but these are good indicators that the local residential real estate market is getting back to some stability in both prices and activity. New listings of foreclosed properties (REOs) has slowed and new or improved loan programs have also helped slow the distressed market down, stretching it perhaps over a longer life span

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rather than the condensed version experienced in 2007-10.

Former homeowners who lost their homes early on to foreclosure or sold in a “Short Sale” (price was less than the amount owed, “shorting” the lender) are now at or nearing the magical fouryear waiting period that will allow them to be eligible for a new mortgage under FHA guidelines. This will bring an increasing amount of buyers to the table, creating some competition for the investors who have helped the market from becoming even further out of balance the past few years.

Recent enhancements to the HARP (Home Affordable Refinance Program) will enable many homeowners to remain in their houses with reduced monthly payments and not have to worry about being “upside down” (value is less than owed). The program does not create a limit for the Loan-To-Value although many mortgage lenders will cap the LTV on their own, adhering to stricter rules than HARP to ensure some additional measurement of security. This will reduce to some extent the number of houses for sale that may have come on to the market had there been no payment relief.

There are many other factors of course to be considered in answering the question of whether it’s a good time to buy or not and none are more important the individual factors of each buyer.

As the market improves for sellers, prices will start to creep up (stress the word “creep” as in real slow) – meaning the turn up from the bottom will be relatively flat for a long period of time.

While one may hesitate to say there is no rush, there may be a rush for some to enter or re-enter the market as some segments of the housing will become stronger, faster than others.

In past cycles, when we look back, it has always been a good/ bad relationship between buying and selling to some degree. The longer the bottom of the cycle becomes, the longer period of time the market will allow homeowners to come back to the table and not rush in fear of losing out on the great deals that abound today. Yes, it appears we’re at the bottom and will climb slowly out of it. A nice relaxed pace of activity will help the longer term outlook for residential real estate which wasn’t even a concern when there was no bottom even in sight. Interest rates low, buyers and sellers close to equilibrium, slowing of distressed properties hitting the market all help answer the question … yes, it appears to be a good time to buy before demand picks up and prices increase.

W WORD PLAY

NEWS ON WRITING, BOOKS AND THE WORLD OF PUBLISHING Text by Diane Slocum

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ay is a month for flowers. You can find them in the landscape – or in the library.

Ava’s Poppy by Marcus Pfister tells the picturebook story of a little girl who cares for a beautiful, red poppy in her yard. It was published by NorthSouth (Feb. 2012), for ages three and up.

The latest publication of Edgar Wallace’s classic The Daffodil Mystery comes from Amazon’s CreateSpace (March 2012). This turn-of-the-twentieth-century mystery concerns an arrogant businessman rebuffed by his beautiful employee. When he is murdered, she becomes the prime suspect.

Yellow Crocus by Laila Ibrahim tells the story of Lisabeth Wainwright, an 1837 southern plantation child raised from her birth by Mattie, who was pulled from the slave quarters and her own infant son, to be Lisabeth’s wet nurse. As she grows, Lisabeth gradually drifts from her close kinship with Mattie and her son, Samuel, back into her white society, until she understands the true brutality of the slave-owning culture.

(Kindle version by Flaming Chalice Press, 2011).

Where Lilacs Still Bloom by Jane Kirkpatrick (WaterBrook Press, April 2012) is based on the life of Hulda Klager, a German immigrant with an eighth-grade education who began experimenting with plants so she could develop an apple that was easy to peel for her pies. Her story shows how generosity and beauty can triumph over tragedy.

Valley Writers Dinuba native Tim Z. Hernandez read from his latest project at a recent San Joaquin River Parkway event. His upcoming historical novel features Selma farmworker Bea Franco who inspired Jack Kerouac during his On the Road days. Hernandez’s book turned into a four-year project, including consultations with Valley historians, journalists and even a private investigator.

Hernandez has presented performances of his works at venues that include the Los Angeles Getty Center Museum, the Loft Literary Center in Minneapolis and the Jack Kerouac School of Disembodied Poetics. Hernandez held a workshop for writers at the Fresno County Library on the day after his Parkway presentation.

“Respite by the River” is a regular event at the River Parkway’s Coke Hallowell Center, featuring readings and performances each month that highlight Central California’s humorous, moving and thoughtful moments. For more information see www.riverparkway.org.

Valley Cowboy poet Bob Brown has followed up his 2011 collection Who Gets to Ride with this year’s opus, The Farther I Ride. Both books come from Brave New Genre and tell rhyming tales of cowboys, gunmen, prospectors and other denizens of the Old West, often ending with Brown’s signature twist of events that leaves readers with a smile or a tear.

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Writing Workshops and Conferences The 56th Wesleyan Writers Conference will be held June 14–17 in Middletown, Connecticut. The publishing panels for this year include “How to Sell Your Book” and “The Significance of the Short Story.” Faculty include Amy Bloom, Wells Tower and Kit Reed. Registration is limited. Details at www.wesleyan.edu/writing/conference.

“The Lost Art of Personal Writing” is the topic of a workshop led by Peter J. Blau in St. Paul, Minnesota, June 22–24, and in Grand Marais, Minnesota, Aug 18–19. Blau said his workshop intends to slow people down – no electronics – just pen and paper. Details at www.writecreatecommunicate.com/art.htm.

The Public Safety Writers Association Conference will be held July 12–15 at the Orleans Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas.

The conference is aimed especially at anyone writing crime and mystery fiction or non-fiction and public safety technical articles, but any writer may attend. Details at www.policewriter. com/Conference/conference.htm.

Writing Contests The Haiku Society of America sponsors the Annual Harold G. Henderson Awards for the Best Unpublished Haiku. Entrants may submit up to 10 unpublished haiku. Non-member fee is $2 per haiku. Awards begin with a $150 first prize. Deadline is August 31. Details at www.hsa-haiku.org/hsa-contests.htm.

Contest information at The Writer is open only to registered members, but registration is free. Multiple contests are announced each month. For example, the Northern Colorado Writers Personal Essay/Creative Nonfiction Contest ends on June 15. Entry fees start at $10 and top prize is $200. Maximum words: 5,000. Details at www. northerncoloradowritersconference.com/upcoming-eventsmainmenu-133/writing-contests.html.

Events The Fresno County Public Library will celebrate the 60th anniversary of Charlotte’s Web with The Spider Lady on June 2, 11 a.m.–noon at the Politi Branch. Judy Johnson will perform.

Registration required. Details at http://califa.evanced.info/ fresno/lib/eventsignup.asp.

See http://host4.evanced.info/tulare/evanced/eventcalendar. asp for events at the Tulare County Libraries.

The Last Word “Flowers ... are a proud assertion that a ray of beauty outvalues all the utilities of the world.”

— Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803-1882)

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L LOCAL ADVENTURE

Fresno Chaffee Zoo Lions, tigers, and bears, oh my! Follow the yellow brick road, or CA 99 North, to the Fresno Chaffee Zoo this summer and see all three, plus so much more! When was the last time you went to the zoo? If it's been over a year, it's time to go back.

You don't have to drive to San Diego to experience wildlife and beautiful natural settings; the Fresno Chaffee Zoo is home to approximately 125 species of animals with more always on the way. Eighteen of these species are part of the Species Survival Plan – a program created by Association of Zoos and Aquariumsmember zoos to systematically develop breeding management strategies to help protect some of the planet's rarest animals. May and June – before the weather gets too hot to be outside – is the perfect time to head over and enjoy one of childhood's fondest memories and traditions. The Chaffee Zoo, however, is open 364 days a year, so don't let a little rain or a cloudy day keep you from your zoo plans this year – no matter the month!

It's amazing how going to the zoo at age 8, 28, or 48 still has the ability to open your eyes wide and put a smile on your face.

Be entertained standing below the big orange orangutans, or reach up to feed a sleepy giraffe. As if being only a few feet away from a tiger or a bear isn't adventure enough, the zoo has plenty of other activities to take in. Enjoy Ross Laird's Winged Wonders Bird Show. This incredible free-flight bird show is designed to promote awareness of the natural behavior of birds, and gets audience members up close and personal as the birds fly overhead, examining you as much as you're examining them.

One of the best features of going to the zoo is making your own schedule. The zoo is yours to explore however you want, so long as you don't hop any barriers and find yourself staring straight into the face of "Simba." In addition to seeing the animals throughout, there are special habitats developed for specific species and settings like the Sea Lion Cove, Tropical Rain Forest, and the Sunda Forest. When you get hungry, if you didn’t pack a lunch to enjoy in the many grassy picnic areas, there are of course delicious cafes on site as well, including the Safari and Nosara cafes.

The Fresno Chaffee Zoo was originally formed in the early 1900s, but was officially recognized by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums in 1929 as the Roeding Park Zoo. There have been many changes and additions to the grounds since then, but one thing continues to stay the same: the Chaffee Zoo strengthens the bond between people and wildlife. It's an experience not to be missed and to be enjoyed time and again.

The zoo is open this summer from 9a-6p with ticket prices only $7/adults, $3.50/children ages 2-11 and seniors 62 and over, and FREE for children under two.

For more information and to plan your zoo adventure visit www. fresnochaffeezoo.org

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A ARTS

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Arts Visalia

Text by Lisa McEwen | Photo by Taylor Vaughn

e’ve all heard about the importance of supporting local art and artists, how encouraging a community’s creativity creates a dialogue of ideas, empowers expression and in many cases, helps the

local economy.

A red-brick building in Downtown Visalia is one such place to accomplish these tasks. Arts Visalia, housed in the former Golden Creamery building, has emerged since its opening in 2001 as a premiere visual arts facility that offers something for small children to senior citizens, and all those in between.

On leafy Oak Avenue, the gallery literally rumbles when a slowmoving train blows its way through town. On a warm summer day, its cool interior beckons with serenity and expertly displayed art.

Sandwiched between fellow arts enthusiasts – a dance studio, music studios and two restaurants that serve edible art – Arts Visalia is a nonprofit community arts center that boasts three galleries and serves as a hub for many of the area’s visual artists. On the first Friday of every month, Arts Visalia is hopping with patrons, gathered to celebrate an opening of its many diverse exhibitions.

During the course of a year, Arts Visalia plays host to lectures, workshops, juried exhibitions and a variety of other events that promote its mission: to nurture the visual arts. Doors are open 12-5 p.m., Wednesday-Saturday, and admission is always free.

A busy summer In June, just as school bells emit their final ring for the year, Arts Visalia is ready for the hundreds of children who stream in for much-needed art instruction. In fact, its art education program is something that Gallery Director Kevin Bowman is most proud of.

“Our educational offerings have seen the most dramatic improvement,” said Bowman, who joined Arts Visalia in 2006.

“The number of classes we offer for kids and adults has grown and I think that’s really important.”

Providing accessibility to the arts in a rural area such as Tulare County is a goal of Arts Visalia. “We are always seeking financial support for our classes,” Bowman said, noting that 37 percent of the students who participate in the summer classes are on scholarship, for either financial reasons or other personal hardships.

“These students are referred to us and the help is meant to be there regardless of whether there is a child who may have never taken an art class or they have an interest in art and just might need a boost.”

This summer, Arts Visalia will offer six weeks of classes for children ages five to teens, in ceramics, drawing and papier-mâché, to name a few. To honor their hard work, a special child-friendly reception is held each year the first Friday in August, heralding the end of summer and the start of a new school year. This year’s Young at Art reception will be August 3.

Partnerships pay off Bowman also pointed out other partnerships with local organizations that further the gallery’s reach. For example, a partnership with the Parenting Network resulted in several children attending art classes throughout the year. “We can add 16

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value to what they’re doing, and provide a service that otherwise would not be available to their clients,” Bowman said. Arts Visalia has also worked with CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) and the Owens Valley Career Development Center.

Another partnership resulted in April’s impressive exhibit, Baskets and Gourds: Containers of Our Culture 2012, produced in conjunction with local Tulare-Sequoia Gourd Patch. The Gourd Patch played host to an April conference in Visalia that lured people from all over the country with its classes led by renowned gourd artists and basket makers. Working synergistically, those instructors supplied the pieces for the exhibit, and the exhibit also brought the conference attendees to Downtown Visalia.

“That’s another part of what we’re here for,” Bowman said. “As a contributor to the arts in the community, we are building the culture and vibrancy of Downtown. We can play a role in that by creating things to do.”

Honoring fellow artists, supporters More than 150 people are expected to gather for this year’s PatriArtic Awards, to be held June 11 at a private home with spectacular gardens. (The grounds are so impressive that doors are opening early for garden tours). These awards were established in 1998 as a way to honor artists, educators, patrons, volunteers and organizations who have played an important role in fostering the arts in the region. According to Arts Visalia board member Mary Jo Eastes, this year’s honorees are Joy Harvey, a Chinese brush painter from Springville who has taught at Arts Visalia since the doors opened; Donna Coleman, a diligent docent and artist; and board member Agnes Heaney, a tireless supporter of Arts Visalia.

“We could use 100 more of her,” Eastes said with a laugh.

Looking ahead Bowman said as the population in Visalia and Tulare County slowly grows, so will Arts Visalia. Included in that are expanded educational and outreach programs, such as traveling exhibits and multi-generational family art activities. (Envision grandparents creating ceramic sculptures with their children and grandchildren).

“I would like to see people not just viewing art, but participating in art,” he said.

In the next 10 to 20 years, Bowman said Arts Visalia could need additional classroom and exhibition space. “At a certain point we’ll be able to envision the next growth in facilities and staffing so we can bring more to the community and provide more opportunity for local artists,” he said. “Wouldn’t it be nice if we could host two exhibitions at any given time? We could have local and traveling exhibitions from other parts of the state or the country. We could have that mixture of supporting local talent but also infusing the local conversation with voices from outside the community.”

A tall order for the red-brick building on Oak Avenue, but considering what’s already been accomplished, not impossible.

To visit Arts Visalia, stop by 214 E. Oak Ave., or call (559) 739-0905. To view upcoming exhibits and the summer art class schedule, go to www.artsvisalia.org.

ARTS A

lures community to view, create art

PICTURED: Arts Visalia Gallery Director, Kevin Bowman.

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S SPIRITS

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spirits S

IPA (India Pale Ale) Text by Kenny Hildebrand | Photos by Taylor Vaughn

A

s we climb out of the winter months and into a late spring, the huge hops profile and slightly higher alcohol content (though welcomed all year long) is just a little more special this time of year. New varieties of hops mainly grown in the Northwest have been crossed pollinated to create notes in today’s beers like orange citrus, pineapple, grapefruit, pine, lemon, passion fruit and many more! Hops are natural antibacterial agents that help inhibit Lactobacillus.

Lactobacillus will create sourness in your aging beer. Hops production has increased immensely since the development of these new styles and have been available to the craft brewers of today.

In the late 18th century the British had military stationed in India. The troops were homesick for the “pale ale” they knew and loved from home. It was sour by the time it reached them from England. India, while self-sufficient in most things, found beer to be one of the few British commodities they needed. The valuable shipments of silks and spices returning from India would more than cover the expenses of importing the beer, however, the warm tropical waters were a perfect breeding ground for Lactobacillus.

The solution to the sour ale came from George Hodgson, master brewer at the Bow Brewery. Hodgson took his pale ale recipe, increased the hops content considerably, and raised the starting gravity by the addition of extra grain and sugar. Extremely high attenuation resulted in strong ales with high alcohol content, both proving to make the beer ward off bacteria. And, the India Pale Ale was born!

Today, the United States has its own style of the IPA. The East Coast breweries tend to have a more copper color and a malty taste while the West Coast ones tend to focus on all colors and hops –

enough hops to ship it from the Central Valley to India and back!

Hops gives life to the beer, it gives the bitterness to offset the sweet malts, it gives flavors such as juicy fruit bubble gum, grapefruit, passion fruit, lemon, even pepper or spicy. If a beer tastes good but you can’t smell it then it needs more hops. Hops can be placed into the beer while fermenting. This is called dry hopping. Dry hopping will give you a very pleasant aroma often described as oranges, tangerine, tropical fruit, floral and pine to name a few.

In Healdsburg, California, sits a brewery named Bear Republic.

It has won many awards and medals for its fine ales. And its IPA is one of them! With a name like “Racer 5” how can you go wrong?

Racer 5 pours a golden orange color with a slight cloudiness to it and a nice half-inch creamy head. The aroma is strong with the floral scent of hops; citrus tends to be strong with a hint of pine and tropical fruit. While tasting, up front there is a good amount of bready malt with a hint of honey. The sweetness lingers for a few moments, blending with the grapefruit, tangerine, and orange zest very nicely. Some light hops and spicy notes combine with a small dose of pine hops to create a nice finish. With this many hops in the beer you get a lightly bitter aftertaste. This beer is very drinkable and is a great kick start into the spring here in the Central Valley!

Remember: Enjoy a craft beer that is made in small batches and drink for quality not quantity! Cheers!

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H HOME TOUR

THE NAGELS HOME

all the necessities of life,

OFF-THE-GRID Text by Jordan Venema | Photos by Taylor Vaughn

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HOME TOUR H

PICTURED: “I've gone fishin'” has a new meaning at the Nagels' home. It's just a few steps out the front door to their own personal pond – the centerpiece of a half-acre garden – where they catch bluegill and catfish for dinner.

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H HOME TOUR

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or many families, purchasing a home for the first time is especially significant: it’s a commitment to a community, an investment for the future, and a planting of roots, as the phrase goes. But when Brian and Susan Nagels purchased their first home just east of Sanger, they took to planting roots literally. Well, Iris bulbs, technically – about one hundred different varieties.

The Nagels wouldn’t admit they live off-the-grid. “We just like fresh vegetables, fresh herbs, fresh fruit,” Brian insisted. Still, their property has more in common with Little House on the Prairie than it does with any home in a suburb. A blooming half-acre garden with a pond, two modest homes (one for Brian’s parents), and a red Quonset shed are bundled together and wrapped like a package in the middle of seven acres of pomegranate trees. Beyond their property lie orchards, country roads and eastward, from the deck of their back porch, an uninterrupted view of the foothills.

Sure, they may be close enough to town to hear the ice cream truck relentlessly play its tune, but then that tune just so happens to be "Home on the Range." And that has never kept away the occasional mountain lion or bobcat from wandering through their back yard.

Brian admitted he hasn’t any fondness for the city. But judging from the work they’ve done outside their home, and from the way they spend their free time, you’d think he hasn’t any fondness for being indoors, either. Woodworking, electrical work, kayaking,

biking and gardening are just some of his hobbies. And Brian, putting these skills to use, has built or assembled just about every standing structure on the property excepting their three-bedroom home: patio furniture, a trellised deck alongside the garden’s pond (which he also dug out), potting benches, a 60’ x 16’ deck in the backyard and the Quonset shed – all 4,000 bolts of it and the size of a small barn – where the Nagels store their kayaks, bikes and tools.

When the Nagels bought their property 10 years ago, it was the first home they had ever owned. They had previously lived in a furnished home on a ranch that Brian managed for Del Rey Farms.

When an opportunity for early retirement presented itself, the Nagels purchased their current home from Brian’s parents, but not for sentimental reasons. No, they bought the home for its views.

The Nagels’ greatest view might be found just outside their front door: a half-acre garden that has little in common with the manicured hedges of an English rose bed. There’s a beauty and cultivated wildness about their yard, the hint of a field of wildflowers, which is why Susan playfully (or realistically) named her yard the "Garden of Weeden." Like Eden, the garden provides some of their necessities: vegetables, fruit, herbs, fish and wood for fuel. Brian gave what sounded like a grocery list: almonds, cherries, avocado, blueberries, rhubarb, sage, rosemary, chives – the list went on.

The garden’s practical plants are overshadowed by more impractical plants, which give the garden its peculiar beauty.

ABOVE: Built by Brian, the 60' x 16' back deck of the Nagels' property hosts beautiful views of the old Kings River riverbed.

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HOME TOUR H

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H HOME TOUR

Flowers and shrubs, aesthetic trees, and 30 varieties of cacti grow on what looks like an oversized pitcher’s mound.

The garden is covered in orange poppies, mondo grass, hawthorn, mulberry, valley oak, dwarf yarrow, snow bushes, and so many blooms of different colors and sizes that even the Nagels sometimes can’t keep track of what’s growing.

“What the heck is that?” asked Susan, as she attempted to identify one flower. “I can’t even remember. Honestly, we just plant stuff and it might live, it might die.”

There is one species of flower in the garden the Nagels have no problem identifying: the Iris. They have planted over one hundred varieties of Iris that bloom throughout their garden and rise above it like fireworks captured at the height of their arc.

Neither Brian nor Susan thinks of the garden as work.

“I’m the hod carrier … You know, I do all the grunt work.

He’s more of a planter and I’m more of a weeder,” Susan humorously declared. That matrimonial division of labor also extends to fishing, an activity that Susan enjoys more than her husband, but with a caveat. “Well, I love to fish that pond where I know I can catch ’em.”

That Pond, another of the Nagels’ projects, is a 65’ x 35’ pond that is the centerpiece of the garden and – for the sake of fishing anyway – is conveniently filled with bluegill and catfish. Along the pond’s edge Brian built a small, covered deck from which hang at the ready his-and-hers fishing poles – “mostly hers,” Susan corrected. Brian admitted he prefers cooking fish to catching them, but he is responsible for baiting the hook and cleaning the fish, since even talking about the subject is enough to make Susan squirm. They enjoy sitting by the pond “sometimes every night” once summer arrives.

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The back deck is where the Nagels take in the panoramic views and host family get-togethers. Brian built the 60’ x 16’ deck that meets a grass knoll that descends into the old riverbed of the Kings River (long dried out after the Pine Flat Dam was built in 1954).

Steps built from discarded railway ties create a path to the old riverbank.

Eucalyptus trees grow down by the old riverbed, and Brian chops them for fuel to heat their home, which is heated entirely by woodstove. There is one uprooted tree that Brian doesn’t use for fuel, but for food. Brian farms his own oyster mushrooms by replanting the spores of wild mushrooms in holes bored into the bark of the trunk. So long as there’s a steady rain, the Nagels are ensured a fresh supply of mushrooms that are as easy to gather as picking ripe tomatoes.

While the majority of the renovations to the property have happened outside the walls of their house, Brian has also done work inside their modest three-bedroom home. Before moving into their property in 2008, he began by tearing out and replacing the kitchen cabinets and countertops and adding new light fixtures.

He also retiled their bathroom, replacing the tub with a Jacuzzi tub. Susan has one room dedicated entirely to one of her hobbies,

sewing. Fabrics are stacked and color-coordinated along one wall of the bedroom, looking like neatly folded pocket-handkerchiefs.

There are many places around the Nagels’ property to recline and enjoy a good view, whether it’s by the pond in the evening or in a hammock under the shade of a large mulberry tree. “My theory is you always need a place to sit,” Susan said. “You can never have enough.” But just because the Nagels appreciate a cozy place to sit doesn’t mean they aren’t active. If they aren’t planting in their garden or building a new project, it’s likely the Nagels are walking to a favorite restaurant for lunch or biking to Pine Flat Lake, a 32-mile round-trip excursion. “I don’t see us settling down and becoming old too soon, you know?” said Susan.

Unlikely the Nagels will “become old” anytime soon. They are currently planning a two-week, 700-mile biking trip through Minnesota. They expect to average around 50 miles a day on their tadpole trikes (a low-riding, three-wheel bicycle), taking a route along the shore of Lake Superior, across Iron Mountain Range and through the Paul Bunyan Trail, camping as they go.

Do the Nagels have more projects in store for the future? “No,” said Brian. “We’re pretty much done.”

ABOVE: The view of the old Kings River riverbed – and beyond – from the Nagels' back porch.

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PICTURED: Plant life abounds at the property of Brian and Susan Nagels. Here, their half-acre untamed garden might just be the perfect place for a nap under the shade tree.

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Susan, sitting next to her husband, smiled mischievously. “Well, I’ve always got things going … there’s always stuff on my list.” In fact, she is already dreaming up their next trip – a biking trip that would begin in Oregon and cut through Glacier National Park in Montana and, “Well,” Susan pondered, “maybe we’ll just keep going east.” If so, they might want to find somebody to water their yard.

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A FATHER'S

DAY

FEAST Recipes by Allison Milner, Sierra Subs & Salads | Photos by Taylor Vaughn

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Aphrodite Serves 4

Burger Ingredients 1 lb. ground lamb 1 lb. ground beef, 80/20 1 tsp. garlic powder 1 tsp. dried oregano salt and pepper 1 C crumbled feta cheese Directions Combine all the ingredients, except the feta, together and form into four patties. Grill the burgers on the barbeque until done to your liking or a meat thermometer inserted in the middle reads 165 degrees. Take the burgers off the grill and immediately top with feta cheese, let sit three minutes.

Sauce Ingredients 1/2 C Greek yogurt 1/2 C sour cream 2 T each fresh mint, parsley and dill, chopped 2 cloves garlic, crushed salt and pepper to taste Directions Combine all the ingredients in a bowl and store in the refrigerator until ready to use, will keep for up to one week.

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Relish Ingredients 1 English or hothouse cucumber, diced 1/2 red onion, diced 2 T fresh dill, chopped 2 T fresh parsley, chopped 1 T lemon juice salt and pepper to taste Directions Combine all the ingredients in a bowl, set aside.

Building the Burger Ingredients 1 tomato, sliced 4 leaves of green leaf lettuce Balsamic vinegar 4 hamburger buns or round buns of your choice Directions Lightly toast the burger buns and spread both sides with a generous helping of the yogurt sauce.

Mound the cucumber relish on the bottom bun, top with the burger and feta cheese and arrange slices of tomato and shredded lettuce.

Drizzle with the balsamic vinegar and close with the top bun.

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the Dino Serves 4

Dressing Ingredients 1 green bell pepper 1/4 red onion 3 cloves garlic 1/2 C red wine vinegar 3 T Italian seasoning 1 T Dijon 1/2 C water 1/2 C Canola oil 1/2 C Olive oil Salt and pepper Directions Place all ingredients in a blender, except for the oils, and blend until smooth. With the blender running at medium speed, slowly drizzle in the oils until incorporated. This will keep in the refrigerator for one week.

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Meats and Toppings Ingredients 1/2 lb. Genoa Salami, sliced 1/2 lb. Italian Mortadella, sliced 1/2 lb. Italian Capicola or Coppa, sliced 8 slices mozzarella cheese 1 jar marinated artichoke hearts, quartered 1/2 C pepperoncini 1 tomato, sliced 1 red onion, sliced shredded lettuce mayonnaise 4 servings of Pugliese bread, ciabatta roll or any other good, chewy Italian bread Directions Lightly toast both halves of the bread and spread the bottoms with mayonnaise. Working from the bottom up, layer the meats, cheese, artichoke hearts, pepperoncini, tomato, red onion and shredded lettuce.

Generously pour the Italian dressing over the lettuce, making sure to have enough to moisten the sandwich.

Top with the bread and enjoy!

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the

Pink Melon Serves 4

Pork Ingredients 2 lb. center cut pork loin 2 T each garlic powder, cumin, oregano, brown sugar, pepper and salt

Mayo Ingredients 1/2 C mayonnaise 1 T cumin 2 cloves garlic, minced

Directions Combine all of the spices and rub into the pork until it is covered on all sides; wrap and refrigerate overnight or at least one hour. Roast the pork in a 400 degrees Fahrenheit oven until a meat thermometer inserted in the center reads 140 degrees. Remove from the oven and let sit, the pork will continue to cook and will reach 145 degrees while resting. Refrigerate the pork until completely cooled and you are able to cut into thin slices.

Directions Combine all ingredients together and refrigerate until ready to use.

Watermelon Pico de Gallo Ingredients 2 C seedless watermelon, diced 1/2 C white onion, diced 1/4 C cilantro 1 jalapeno, finely diced 2 T lime juice salt and pepper Directions Mix everything in a bowl and refrigerate until ready to use.

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Building the Pink Melon Ingredients 4 buns of your choice, Kaiser rolls work well shredded lettuce salt and pepper Directions Lightly toast the buns and spread both sides with the mayo. Divide the sliced pork among the four bottom buns and top with the pico de gallo.

Mound with shredded lettuce and a sprinkle of salt and pepper and finish with the top bun.

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Wine & Cheese Wal k

A celebration of California wine and cheese in Downtown Visalia Text by Kyndal Kennedy | Photos by Taylor Vaughn

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he streets of Downtown Visalia were alive with happy people chattering about the perfect weather, tasty finger foods, and their favorite reds and whites, during the premier Wine & Cheese Walk on April 5. In one word, it was lovely, just as an event celebrating California’s wine & cheese, local businesses and artists should be. The Walk delivered flavors of local artisan cheese, wine, hors d’oeuvres and a glimpse at local artists’ works for participants who also got an up-close-andpersonal experience with Downtown businesses.

Hosted by Downtown Visalians, this event did more than bring together the community for just a night on the town. “The business development committee was working to come up with a new event and the original purpose [of the event] was to bring more people into the businesses and to educate the public on what the businesses have,” explained Carol Bott, chairperson of the walk. “The event really served the purpose of getting people inside the shops. Five hundred tickets were sold, so five hundred people entered every business.”

The fun began after guests got their passports, wristbands and wine sampling glasses at the Marriott Hotel. Twenty-one Downtown businesses – ranging from furniture stores, clothing boutiques to realtors and hair salons – participated in the Walk.

A local band, Borrowed Time, played outside of the Picnic Shop, treating Walk participants, and anyone simply enjoying the spring air, to live music.

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Many store owners in the smaller Downtown shops are thankful that this event was created, as it brought consumers to their storefronts who would not have otherwise known they existed.

Nicci Robaina, owner of Trendz Boutique on Main Street, said she is “always happy to be involved in Downtown Visalians’ events,” as they better connect her to the community. Unlike the Taste of Downtown event, which primarily consists of restaurants, the Wine & Cheese Walk’s focus on Downtown businesses created a sense of community and support of local businesses and momand-pop shops, bringing awareness to what Visalia’s bustling Downtown offers beyond its great restaurants.

Eight out of the 19 wineries on the walk (two locations served an assortment of wines, not vineyard specific) hailed from the Paso Robles area – an area ideal for wineries due to its climate. The second largest group of wineries came from the Madera/Fresno area. Both hot spots are well within a reasonable drive, making it easy to partake and enjoy the fruits of these wineries’ labor – the fruit, turn fermented juice, turn alcoholic beverage to be exact.

A few of the wines offered for sampling on the Walk are available at local retailers like Save Mart Supermarkets and Costco, including Fresno’s Englemann Cellars’ Ashley’s Vineyard – a delightful cabernet sauvignon. Others can be found on menus around town like Madera’s CRŪ Wine Company, which is offered at The Vintage Press and Jack & Charlie’s.

Wild Coyote Winery, featured at Brown’s Shoe Fit Co., debuted

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its very first white wine, bottled just a couple days prior to the event – a special treat for Visalians and a way to get honest, immediate feedback from the diverse group of participants. Larry Hyde and Sons at Sage Salon Suites allowed tasters to determine their favorite between their Pinot Noir 2009 and Pinot Noir 2010. Split reviews meant the winery just plainly does it right, each year.

The winemakers were quick to point out their best, what to pair it with, as well as how to enjoy it – helpful for the novice wine enthusiast. With ease, they also fielded questions thrown at them from local sommeliers and apparent oenology majors.

Not to be overshadowed by the wine, gourmet cheeses were offered throughout the businesses, provided by a handful of Artisanal and Farmstead California cheese companies. Local

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favorite, Bravo Farms set up a tempting display at Janeen’s Furniture Gallery, which went along perfectly with the three wines Stacked Stone Cellars from Paso Robles provided for sampling.

It seemed the line never shortened as participants made a sort of revolving circle around the hors d’oeuvres and wine there.

The amount of wine that flowed down Main Street in the happy stained lips, teeth and bellies of the tasters accompanied by their smiling faces seemed to award the night a stamp of approval. The celebration of California wine and cheese combined with the atmosphere of Main Street at dusk and the warming spring air that we in the Central Valley know so well, epitomized just how lovely it is to live in California, in the Central Valley, in Visalia.

COMMUNITY C

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Irish Band Brings Street Performance to the Big Stage Text by Jordan Venema | Photos by Taylor Vaughn

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t may have been the night before Easter, but the mood was rather like a Saint Patrick’s Day celebration. In fact, the arranged seating might have been the only thing that prevented the audience from bursting into an Irish jig.

On Saturday evening, April 7, the Fox Theatre hosted – for the second time in as many years – musical group Celtic Crossroads.

The band, originally from Galway, Ireland, put on a unique show blending traditional Irish music and dance with contemporary and culturally diverse sounds. This, in part, is why the band chose the name Celtic Crossroads: an allusion to Ireland’s musical export.

Thus Celtic Crossroads’ repertoire includes not only traditional Irish folk, such as jigs, reels and brush dances, but also genres that have grown out of the Irish tradition – Appalachian folk, gypsy waltzes, and even the band’s own compositions.

The band’s Musical Director and fiddler, Michael McClintock, performed one piece that sounded similar to the famous and extremely difficult composition “Zigeunerweisen” by Spanish composer Pablo de Sarasate. The band even performed its own rendition of “Orphan Girl,” an original song by American folk artist Gillian Welch. But peppered among these non-traditional Irish songs were more familiar Irish ballads, songs like “Young Ned of the Hill” and “Crooked Jack,” and the familiar buzzing pipes, twanging banjos and foot-tapping beats found in an Irish Jig. The six musicians and three dancers – and as many instruments between them all – never stopped moving once the show had begun. One song seamlessly transformed into the next as band 42

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members exchanged a harp for a banjo or a bodhran (a traditional Irish drum) for an acoustic guitar, and a four-count tempo gave way to a waltz. Dancers skipped on stage and kicked, tapped and danced lightly while their arms hung heavily at their sides.

Between songs, band members gave histories about the songs and instruments – such as the bodhran, the Irish harp and the Uilleann pipes – but the lessons never grew dull. Celtic Crossroads related to the audience with a familiarity and humor as though they were performing on a pedestrian crossroads and not upon a stage in a theater – fitting, since the band got its start selling CDs to tourists while performing on the streets of Galway, Ireland.

In 2005 Kevin Crosby, now the band’s producer, began assembling the band in Galway, mostly from college students. “I’ve got a really cool way of finding musicians and that’s to go to a pub, order a coffee, sit down in the back, and, well, people in Ireland they come along and bring an instrument.” Once the band was formed, it wasn’t long before they were “bringing the city center to a standstill” with performances “pretty much like the show you see here,” said Crosby referring to their Visalia performance.

By its nature, a street performance is a casual, fun, crowdpleasing event – unscripted and spontaneous. And because a street performance has no designated stage, the proximity between the musicians and audience creates an unusually energetic atmosphere.

As Celtic Crossroad’s guitarist James Riley said to the audience between songs, “Irish music works 50 percent from the musicians and 50 percent from the audience.” So while Celtic Crossroads’

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talent and genius lies in its award-winning musicians (many of their members have won national and international competitions), chalk the band’s success to its street smarts. No surprise that the band played as comfortably on the Fox Theatre stage as though it were a corner in a cozy Irish pub, playing for their own pleasure, for the fun of it – pure, simple and contagious fun.

Justin Stie of Visalia attended the April 7 performance and described the band as “obviously really talented but with a streetedge.” While the band no longer performs on street corners (in exchange for large stages across Europe and North America), its members are still as approachable and down-to-earth as when they began in Galway.

The band spent their day off before the show enjoying Downtown Visalia and its local businesses. Stie, who was also Downtown that Friday evening, began a conversation with members of the band when he noticed their accent. Not five minutes later, Lisa Canny, singer, banjoist and harpist for Celtic Crossroads, invited Stie to come to the show as their guest.

Stie, who had never really listened to Celtic music prior to their concert, said, “the sound was very familiar, but I couldn’t quite pinpoint where I’d heard it.”

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For Stie, the show was a “cultural experience, something that shared more than just music. What they did was almost like a history lesson.” Stie admits he can’t quite figure out why he wants “to see them again and again,” but he appreciated most that “they were themselves … on and off the stage, they were just having a lot of fun.”

When Celtic Crossroads’ guitarist James Riley announced they’d be performing the final song of the evening, the audience collectively groaned. “But,” he added, as if to assuage the audience, “we will be outside. Don’t be a stranger, come up, say hello.” And many from the audience did, taking the opportunity to take pictures with the dancers or personally thank the musicians. It is more likely for a touring band to retreat to its bus than to mingle with its audience, but perhaps this was Celtic Crossroads’ way of saying thank you to the audience for its 50 percent contribution.

One image from the evening that captured the 50-50 dynamic between the band and the audience followed the final song. As the band hit its final note and the audience began its applause, a gentleman in the center front row leapt to his feet, leaned towards the stage and gave Lisa Canny an enthusiastic fist bump, which she gladly returned with a smile. It was like there had been no stage at all.

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NEXT GEN N

NextGen:

Andrew Somawang Text by by Crystal R. R. Edwards | Photo by Taylor Vaughn

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he phone connection crackled, then recovered.

Andrew Somawang’s voice was temporarily clear.

“I’m in the mountains,” he said when the connection stabilized. “I’m coming back down now.” The crackling began again as he answered the questions, but the connection held.

It seems connection is a theme running throughout Andrew’s life. The 27-year-old Visalia native attended College of the Sequoias after his graduation from Golden West High School, and then he left for Venice Beach. During his year there, he befriended Jim Fishman, who introduced him to woodcraft.

“He’s been doing it his whole life,” said Andrew. “I worked with him a little bit in his shop. I was inspired by his work.” Andrew then returned to Visalia and began California Fruit Woods, a specialty woodworking shop.

Andrew is no ordinary young craftsman. You see, instead of working with traditionally grown and harvested lumber, Andrew acquires his own from amongst the thousands of downed and wind-fallen trees throughout the region. This, apparently, leads him up to the tops of mountains where cell phone connections drop. It also leads him to the fallen redwood trees in the rainshrouded hills of Oregon and koa wood on Hawaii’s volcanic mountains.

“It’s kind of difficult,” he said. “Only about a quarter of the time will the landowner want me to come [onto his land] and do the work. But I have good relationships with a few tree trimmers in our area. I harvest the fallen trees, or trees that are hazards, but over 75 percent of my trees are bought from arborists.”

Arborists would otherwise cut the trees up for firewood, said Andrew. “That’s a shame for me,” he laughed.

His dedication to personally discovering and using reclaimed wood keeps him connected to his passion. “I’ve always been artistic. There’s something about creating something from nothing. I’ll start by finding the trees as I drive around. Then there’s cutting it into lumber, then crafting something beautiful

out of the lumber. I just absolutely love doing this.”

Andrew creates art pieces, guitar components for luthiers, and furniture. What does he view as his best work? “Natural-edge tables,” he said, his voice tinged with pride. “They are definitely top of the line.” His wood carving so far has mainly been animal forms, including a recent request for a rhino head.

Carving, he said, is his biggest challenge. “Mentally, it’s very hard, trying to visualize chunks of wood and turning them into pieces of art.” He has also started carving Easter Island figurines, called moas, which have become very popular in his shop. “I’ve learned how to visualize in three dimensions, and how to make things symmetrical. I really love carving right now. I can’t get enough of it."

His wife, Angela, a school psychologist, stops by his shop now and then. “She’s not really into the woodworking, but a lot of my customers are women and her view helps a lot when discussing the designs.”

A walk through Andrews’ 4,000-square-foot shop reveals drying kilns and lumber saws outside, and a small display area inside that features cutting boards, checker boards, and his art carvings. Further in, one discovers stacks upon stacks of redwood slabs, maple burls, an assortment of turning woods, walnut slabs, buckeye burls, and exotic woods such as padouk. There’s also a separate work area for his father, who visits the shop to work on his own projects.

Connection. From personally discovering and harvesting the wood, to cutting it into lumber, to creating beautiful furniture and art pieces, to sharing his creative space with his family.

Andrew is deeply, passionately connected to his work.

“It’s one thing to read about my work, but it’s a whole other thing to physically come and see it, to feel it.” He invites the public to visit his shop Monday through Friday, and he accommodates weekend visits for those who cannot make the time during the week.

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LifeWalk Text by Kyndal Kennedy

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ulare-Kings Right to Life estimates around 350 walkers joined in on the celebration of the sanctity of human life for its annual LifeWALK, formerly known as Walk For Life. That number of attendees is far from its humble beginnings 17 years ago, said Kelly Quinn-Mauro, executive administrative assistant at TKRL, when “the walk had 84 participants and raised just over $10,000.” She estimates this year’s turn out will lead to fundraising of closer to $50,000.

This year’s walk included games, tricky-tray raffle, bounce house, food, music, dancers, a K-9 demonstration, Sparkle Mugs, and free chair massages for the walkers – providing fun for children and adults alike. Getting children involved in the walk early is a great way to educate them about hot topics like abortion and stem cell research, explained Sue Jackson. This was Sue and her family’s third or fourth time participating in the walk and this year she brought along three of her children, ranging from ages 10 to 17. She and her family have been supporters of TKRL for close to 15 years and are happy to be involved in increasing public awareness of the mission of the organization.

“It’s so great to participate in something that lets the public know there is a Right to Life organization,” she said. Having a Right to Life organization in our community provides options for those expectant mothers who otherwise may not know where to turn for help.

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Kathy Andes, a 15-year veteran of the Walk also adds why TKRL is significant to not only her life and her beliefs but for the community as well. “Tulare-Kings does an amazing job putting pro-life messages out in the community. One of the things they do, which is pretty powerful, is the booths they have at fairs. They have models of babies in the womb at these booths and people who come by and pick them up and hold them in their hands are amazed,” she said.

Tulare-Kings Right to Life promotes respect for the sanctity of human life, at all stages, from conception until natural death.

Their outreach programs in our community aim to reach all ages, from Latinos4Life teaching youth and adults in our community about purity and fetal development, to healing souls wounded by abortion through The IRMA Network. The IRMA (I Regret My Abortion) Network is a post-abortion outreach program of TKRL, co-founded by April Kesterson, executive director, and Carrie Guy, former director for IRMA. Funds raised from the Walk will go straight into these outreach programs in numerous channels. One of the main components of TKRL is education and providing knowledge to those women experiencing an unexpected pregnancy. These materials are often

reading materials and as mentioned before, models, which cost money to distribute and display. A large portion of funding goes directly into being able to provide so much of this to our community.

More than just the money raised at this year’s event, the Walk is one way that community members can be involved in the work of TKRL. “Personally, I feel like doing a Walk is the least I can do to help babies before they are born,” explained Andes.

In addition to the LifeWalk, there are many more opportunities for community members to get involved. “We have lots of opportunities to get involved, from volunteering at one of our fundraising events, to working an information booth at a local fair, to stuffing envelopes in our office. There’s something for everyone!” said Quinn-Mauro.

In addition to the LifeWalk, TKRL will have its annual Golf for Life event, coming up on June 11 as well as the annual Making a Difference for Life banquet on September 6 this year. It is events like these and LifeWalk that allow TKLR to continue to be such a valuable resource to those in need. Donations and pledges are gratefully received by TKRL and help them be the hands and feet of the Lord in serving our community.

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LIFESTYLE | APRIL 2012

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THE

Kate Effect

Text by Sharon Mosley

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hink back a year ago …. Little did we know that walking down the royal aisle in Westminster Abbey was a British style maker who would quickly become a fashion icon, admired the world over for her easy elegance.

Indeed it seems that whatever Kate Middleton wears is an immediate hit in retail – Zara’s tangerine jeans, a green Diane Von Furstenberg wrap dress, a Burberry trench coat, Adidas sneakers – they’re all snatched up by followers of the chic Duchess of Cambridge.

But you don’t have to be able to afford High Street prices to get the young royal’s high style. Yes, you, too, can get the Kate Middleton effect on a budget. Her look is easy to mimic with clean classics that never go out of fashion. Here’s a list of some of Kate’s favorite looks that retailers and designers have copied at all price points:

The sculpted dress. The British icon has single-handedly made the dress once again a wardrobe favorite. In simple, elegant silhouettes, she stands out in royal style, particularly in shapes that are fitted and sleek on top, belted and more flared on the bottom. The wrap dress is another one of Kate’s essentials – again highlighting the waist and showing off one of her best assets. Green is one of her go-to colors for dresses, but she also likes navy and even white.

The colored jeans. Making a casual statement is another one of Kate’s most photographed moments this spring with Great Britain’s hockey team in the tangerine Zara jeans complete with navy Pucci blazer and printed “Olympic” official scarf one moment and out on the playing field sans blazer and in a hoodie the next. Add some colorful sneakers to the mix and you’ve got a unique approach that we can all appreciate for function and versatility.

The trench coat. Of course, another British classic, the trench coat (hers was by Burberry, a British favorite since 1846), this ultimate symbol of style always seems cool and chic. And of course, a trench coat in rainy London is always a must-have. If you’re lucky enough to be going to the Olympics this summer, be sure to pack this essential.

The evening gown. Of course, all royals need a few glamorous gowns to round out their wardrobes. And if you’re planning on attending a ball yourself in the near future, then you’ll want to take some cues from Kate herself.

The all-over lace gown from Alice Temperley she wore to the War Horse movie premier was a stunning example of one of her finest moments last year, but you can’t go wrong with a black strapless number, either. And if you don’t want to spring for a high-priced designer gown, check out the great finds at renttherunway.com.

All the extras. Between nude pumps and cowboy hats, what’s not to like about this newest member of the British royal family? She loves Jimmy Choo stilettos, but she is just as at home in a pair of Adidas sneakers, too. She and her sister, Pippa, have also inspired us with their fascinating “fascinator” hats. And she loves her clutch handbags by Anya Hindmarch – another British designer. Then there’s the famous sapphire ring copied by jewelers everywhere, and we all know the story behind that ... don’t we, Diana?

The skirt suit. Tweeds are so, so British and oh, so Miss Marple, but Kate has managed to make the tweed suit look modern by wearing updated designs like the ones she’s worn from designer Rebecca Taylor that feature sexy slim pencil skirts and crisp sharp jackets with frayed seams.

The elegant coat. Fall may be a few months away, but a standout coat is always a good investment at any time of the year. Kate takes a streamlined approach to her outerwear – from fitted princess styles worn over dresses to sportier shorter jackets trimmed in fur and worn with jeans.

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K KUDOS

a tip of the hat to...

TOMS One Day Without Shoes

The name of the event seems basic enough, but it packs a big punch for supporters of TOMS Shoes and its mission of aiding children in developing countries. TOMS is a company that gives a pair of new shoes to a child in need each time a pair of their shoes is purchased.

One Day Without Shoes is a day to raise awareness of the impact a pair of shoes can have on a child’s life by going shoeless. Visalia's ODWS event had an estimated 150-200 walkers participated in the Walk around Visalia's Downtown complete with inspirational signs and chanting, bringing awareness to the community about the difference a pair of shoes can make.

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HARRY R. LIVELY, M.D., INC. 119 S. Locust, Ste. B Visalia, CA 93291 (559) 749-0223 harrylivelymd.com

Specializing in Cardiovascular Medicine Cardiac Catheterization Pacemaker & Defibrillator Implantation Cardiac Rhythm Disorders Congestive Heart Failure Management Lipid Disorders Hypertension Coronary Artery Disease Stress Testing - Holter Monitoring Preventative Cardiology 2D Echo Stress Echo Stress Testing Nuclear Stress Testing

Broker/Owner NMLS #252789

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Theater & Performances

Art Exhibits

Journey Thru the Sierra Two video programs narrated live by Lee Terkelsen.

Videos include: "Across the Range," which is journey across Sierra to experience Sequoia National Park and hiking High Sierra Trail to Mt. Whitney, and "The John Muir Trail," which is hike 222 miles from Mt. Whitney to valley of Yosemite. Proceeds benefit music, drama and arts programs in Visalia Unified School District. $10 for adults, $5 for students.

When: May 21, 7:30p Where: L.J. Williams Theatre, 1001 W. Main St., Visalia Contact: 735-8154

Place/Time: Installation Exhibition by Bachrun LoMele In this upcoming solo exhibition, Bachrun LoMele will transform the gallery spaces at Arts Visalia, literally bringing the walls of his Badger, California studio to the walls of Arts Visalia. LoMele will recreate the very walls of his own studio, making faux wood panels, doorways, windows and lumber – re-imagined.

When: May 2 – 26; Reception: May 4, 6-8p Where: Arts Visalia, 214 E. Oak Ave., Visalia Contact: 739-0905

Merle Haggard As a performer and a songwriter, Merle Haggard was the most important country artist to emerge in the 1960s. Haggard became one of the leading figures of the Bakersfield country scene in the '60s.

While his music remained hardcore country, he pushed the boundaries of the music quite far.

Definitely a show not to be missed! Tickets: $50-$80.

When: May 23, 7:30p Where: Fox Theatre, 300 W. Main St., Visalia Contact: 625-1369 KJUG JugFest 2012 KJUG's JugFest includes daytime performances until 6p when the gates will open for the evening concert featuring Clay Walker. Please visit www.kjug.com for ticket information and entrance fees.

When: Jun. 2, 12p Where: Tulare County Fair Grounds, 215 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave., Tulare Contact: 627-5584 Brian Regan at the Fox Brian Regan has distinguished himself as one of the premier comedians in the country. The perfect balance of sophisticated writing and physicality, Brian fills theaters nationwide with fervent fans that span generations.

When: Jun. 7, 7:30p Where: Fox Theatre, 300 W. Main St., Visalia Contact: 625-1369

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Spring Art Show by Tulare Palette Club Tulare Palette Club will hold their Spring Art Show featuring artists, husband and wife team Aurelia and Jim Saenz. Reception will be June 2 from 2p-4p.

Museum hours are Thursday through Saturday, 10a to 4p.

When: May 5 – Jun. 2 Where: Tulare Historical Museum, 444 W. Tulare Ave., Tulare Contact: 686-2074

JUN 1

JUN 2

First Fridays Art Tour An interactive, progressive art show organized by the Arts Council of Tulare County, this art infused event is fueled by local artists and venues and takes place the first Friday of each month. Art lovers and enthusiasts fill Downtown Visalia to meet and greet with the artists and enjoy the reception and music.

Restaurants, studios, galleries and other venues dawn their blue lanterns and open exhibitions to the public for this free event.

When: Jun. 1, 5:30-8:30p Where: Downtown Visalia Contact: downtown@artsTC.org 1st Saturday in Three Rivers Celebrate art, music, dance, storytelling, food and drink as you browse the art galleries, studios and gift shops of Downtown Three Rivers. For discounts and participants visit website.

When: Jun. 2 10a-5p Where: Maps at Anne Lang’s Emporium, 41651 Sierra Dr., Three Rivers Contact: Nadi Spencer, 561-4373 or visit www.1stSaturdayTR.com

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24th Annual Downtown Visalia Car Show Visalia Breakfast Lions will select Sleepy Lion Awards for outstanding: Paint, Interior, Engine, Modified Vehicle, and Original Appearing Vehicle. Registration will be held that morning near Willis and Main, 7-9a.

When: May 19 Where: Downtown Visalia Contact: 697-3762

Interpretations of the Portrait: Visalia Art League 2012 Members Exhibition As with each of the past two years, the exhibiting artists have been asked to make work on a common theme with this year's theme being "Interpretations of the Portrait.” The Visalia Art League is an educational and philanthropic organization open to amateur and professional artists, as well as non-artists who are lovers and patrons of the arts. The Art League hosts workshops and lectures by local and regional artists as well as regularly organizing chartered bus trips to major art museums.

When: May 30 – Jun. 29; Reception: Jun. 1, 6-8p Where: Arts Visalia, 214 E. Oak Ave., Visalia Contact: 739-0905

Diversions & Excursions

MAY 18

Downtown Expo There will be a lot to enjoy! Food, furniture, jewelry and photography demonstrations from 3p to 5p followed by a fashion show featuring the latest trends from downtown boutiques and salons. Later, everyone will be able to dance the night away to the live music of Run 4 Cover. Wine and beer and a good B-B-Q will finish the evening. A ticket to the event will give the purchaser a chance to win a portion of the more than $10,000 in merchandise and prizes. Admission to the Expo is free. $12 for the concert.

When: May 18, 3-11p Where: Church and Main, Visalia Contact: 732-7737 Senior Day in the Park Free admission;, lunch and root beer floats free for seniors 60 years old or older. Come enjoy music and live entertainment. Elvis, a mariachi band and more will be offered at the 43rd annual Senior Day in the Park.

When: May 18, 9a-2p Where: Mooney Grove Park, 27000 S. Mooney Blvd., Visalia Contact: 800-321-2462

MAY 20 JUN 1

Reaminate Reanimate, a music-packed, event-filled day at Lions Stadium. Enjoy Christian music and a variety of food and vendor booths.

When: May 20 Where: Lions Stadium/Dobson Field, Exeter Contact: 313-9442 Discover Decadent Tastes Kick off your Foodie Fest (see below) Experience Friday night! Come to the “Tasting Party of the year” and meet Devin Alexander our Celebrity Chef! Devin is a Media Personality, Healthy Comfort Food Chef, Weight Loss Expert, and New York Times Bestselling Author. She is also the Host of “Healthy Decadence” on Fit TV. The Marriott Executive Chef is preparing a decadent tasting menu that will delight your taste buds! Mingle with friends, meet Devin and get an autograph! The night promises Foodie Fun and live entertainment!

When: Jun. 1, 6:30p Where: Marriott Hotel, 300 S. Court, Visalia Contact: 592-4074 Sequoia Foodie Fest Nibble and nosh on over 24 food, wine, craft beer and fine spirits samples, all offered exclusively to Gourmet Alley Passport holders! Gain access to the Gourmet Alley featuring local chef celebrities, samples of fare from area-award winning restaurant, wineries and craft beer. Meet the Star of Fit TV Devin Alexander. For passports and more information visit www.sequoiafoodiefest.com When: Jun. 2 & 3 Where: Exeter Memorial Building, 324 N. Kaweah Ave., Exeter Contact: 592-4074 Blues, Brews & BBQ Join in on live music from Brad Wilson Band, delicious barbeque and refreshing beverages at this fun downtown event.

When: Jun 1, 6-10p Where: Garden Street Plaza, Visalia Contact: 732-7737 or visit www.bluesbrewsandbbq.net

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Kingsburg Swedish Festival Valkommen! Experience and taste the rich culture of Sweden here in the San Joaquin Valley. This event is filled with entertainment, food and fun. It all begins on Friday night with a Swedish Smorgasbord. Start your Saturday morning with a traditional Svenska Pancake (Swedish Pancake) breakfast. You can also see more of the Swedish Culture in the Swedish Cultural Village on Draper Street and discover many food, craft booths and entertainment.

When: May 18-20 Where: Kingsburg Swedish Village, 1475 Draper St., Kingsburg Contact: The City of Kingsburg, 897-5821

JUN 8 JUN 9

JUN 13

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Wildest Weather in the Solar System Join a spectacular journey to witness the most beautiful, powerful, and mysterious weather phenomena in the solar system. From a storm the size of a 100-megaton hydrogen bomb, to a 400-year-old hurricane, to a dust tempest that could engulf entire planets, you'll be glad you live on Earth!

When: Jun. 8, 7p Where: Peña Planetarium, 2500 W. Burrel Ave., Visalia Contact: 737-6334

JUN 16

Kids Vi-Tri Jumpstart your summer by joining the Kids Triathlon!

Participants will swim at Golden West High School pool, bike along the scenic St. John’s River Trail and run on the track at the Groppetti Community Stadium. Family members can stay for the post event swimming pool party with music food and fun! Everyone receives a participation medal! Ages: 6-12. Fee: $35 per person until 5pm June 1/ $45 after June 1.

When: Jun. 9, 6:30a Transition Area opens; 7a Day of Registration opens; 8a Sprint Level Start Time; 8:10a Beginner Level Start Time Where: Golden West High School, 1717 N McAuliff St., Visalia Contact: www.liveandplayvisalia.com Earth, Moon and Sun How do the Earth, Moon and Sun work together as a system and what is the myth and science behind it? Why does the Sun rise and set? Why do we see different constellations during different seasons?

What is an eclipse? Learn about the Moon's phases and orbit. Explore past and future space travel to our moon and beyond.

When: Jun. 13, 2p & 3p Where: Peña Planetarium, 2500 W. Burrel Ave., Visalia Contact: 737-6334

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Father/Son Fun Run & Plunge Come out to run and swim with your son and compete in contests like ugly tie, creative hat, matching outfit and fastest duo. Participants will receive a t-shirt, commemorative photo, snacks and pool party after the race! Register at Anthony Community Center.

When: Jun. 16, 7a Packet Pick up/Day of Registation; 8a Start Time; Pool Party until 10:30a Where: Golden West High School & St. John's River Trail, 1717 N. McAuliff St., Visalia Contact: Parks and Recreation, 713-4365 Visalia Farmers’ Market – Harvest of the Valley Weekly event open to the public featuring free live music, kids’ activities, cooking demonstrations and local, fresh produce available for purchase.

When: Thursdays - Downtown Visalia, 5-8p/ Saturdays - Sequoia Mall, Sears parking lot 8-11:30a Where: Church & Main/ Sears parking lot at Mooney and Caldwell, Visalia Contact: 967-6722 or www.visaliafarmersmarket.com

Charitable Events

MAY 19

Exeter Relay for Life Celebrate, remember and fight back at this 24-hour non stop event to fight cancer. Even if you failed to register for the event, support is always welcome so head out anyway!

When: May 19 Where: Exeter Union High School, 820 San Juan Ave., Exeter Contact: 737-3083

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59th Small, Medium, Large, CFO & Agri-Business of the Year

Seating Limited Reserve your ticket now

Man & Woman of the Year

Tickets are $70 or $520 for a table of Eight

Thursday, June 28th 2012 6:00 - 9:30 p.m.

Visalia Convention Center

(559) 734-5876 • www.visaliachamber.org

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Central Valley Heroes 4th Annual Poker Run Proceeds from this year’s event will go towards a Fire Service Tribute Mural and to benefit MDA. The run will commence with a BBQ lunch, live music, chili cook-off, raffle prizes and vendor booths at the final stop. Registration cost is $35 for a single rider and $15 additional for a passenger. Registered riders and passengers will receive a commemorative t-shirt, ride pin and BBQ meal.

When: May 19, 9a Where: The Firkin & Hound parking lot, 4023 S. Mooney Blvd., Visalia Contact: Joyce, 901-0445 or cvhpokerrun@aol.com

MAY 21

MAY 25 JUN 1

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Visalia Sunset Rotary's 8th Annual Visalia Adventure Park FUNdraiser All are invited to this family-friendly FUNdraiser. The $20 ticket price includes miniature golf, family gocart track, bumper boats, batting cages, laser tag, and all-you-can-eat buffet dinner and soft drinks.b Proceeds from the event help fund Rotary projects benefiting local organizations such as CASA, Happy Trails Riding Academy, Pro Youth/HEART, the Boys and Girls Clubs and the YMCA. When: May 21, 5-9p Where: Visalia Adventure Park, 5600 W. Cypress Ave., Visalia Contact: Tickets available at Ashoori & Company Jewelers, 4212 S. Mooney Blvd., Bank of the Sierra, 128 E. Main St., or by calling Kristi Bryan, 972-8112 Sweet Dreams Sweet Dreams Arts Event is a one-of-a-kind community experience. This FREE, all-ages event will have interactive art stations for guests to participate in, sweets to eat, a raffle and a silent auction to benefit local non-profit organization Pro-Youth/HEART. There will also be a gallery of artwork submitted by students, and live musical performances throughout the night.

When: May 25, 6-9p Where: Cafe 210, 210 Center St., Visalia Contact: sweetdreams.jenmayphotography.com Happy Trails Riding Academy: “Night at the Races” Come have a great night with dinner catered by Sue Sa, horse racing, and some great prizes! Happy Trails Riding Academy provides equine facilitated therapy to children and adults with disabilities.

When: June 1, 6p Where: Visalia Convention Center, 303 E. Acequia St.,Visalia Contact: 688-8685 or email happytrailsridingacademy@yahoo.com

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Writers & Readers Tulare County Library First Tuesday Book Club (Jun. 5, 6:30p) Mystery Readers (Jun. 20, 6:30p) Where: Tulare County Library, 200 W. Oak Ave., Visalia Contact: 713-2700 or www.tularecountylibrary.org

Event Listings If you would like to have your event considered for a free listing in our “Happenings” section, please email your submission to lifestyle@dmiagency.com or fax to 738-0909, Attention Happenings. Please note, we do not guarantee listing of any submission.

Submissions are due six weeks prior to publication.

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