Lifestyle Magazine May 2023

from the Editor

My wife is the resident “green thumb” in our household. We have plants all over our house, in nearly every window and corner. I seem to knock one over each time I try to open the kitchen window. So, naturally, during our days at home in 2020, we built a garden and planted a small orchard in our backyard. My job in this process was to dig the holes and put the plants in some dark and rich soil. After that, Lori assumed her role as grower and caretaker.

We are now the happy owners of an “orchard” of 12 unique fruit trees that are the source of a lot of sticky hands and smiles during the summer months.

For anyone new to tending and growing fruit, there’s a lot of care that goes into beautiful and delicious fruit. I was, and still am, pretty unaware of the effort that goes into the cultivation of a plentiful harvest. What I do know is that for fruit to flourish, the tree can’t be left on autopilot. It needs timely attention.

Last week on an evening walk around a nearby ponding basin, my wife began to share that she had thinned the crop on our yellow nectarine tree. If you’ve never owned a nectarine tree, one of the ways to take care of the tree is to remove, or “thin,” the small fruit from the tree. As she told me about her seemingly counterintuitive efforts and shared her observations, the process started to sink in with deeper significance—there was more to it than delicious fruit.

You see, a healthy tree’s natural instinct is to produce fruit. A lot of fruit. Too much for its own good. So the process of thinning excess fruit helps the tree put energy and nutrients towards the remaining fruit. This allows the fruit left on the tree to mature and ripen into the tasty treats my kids snack on, in between cannonballing into or laying out around our pool.

By removing fruit, the tree is able to focus on quality over quantity. If all of the fruit remained on the tree, we would have a series of issues to deal with—least of which would be some small and unsatisfying nectarines. But when there’s less fruit on the tree, the focused effort creates sweeter, larger, and healthier fruit; fruit that you can’t wait to eat and enjoy.

As we walked and Lori continued to elaborate on all of the benefits of removing fruit, she illustrated some of the things she was learning, and I began to understand the importance of thinning in my own life.

Similar to a fully-loaded tree limb, my life can often get weighed down by an excess amount of things. Good things. Coaching, speaking, volunteering, writing, helping people, beginning a new home project, the list goes on. These are all beautiful and legitimate investments that I want to make. The problem is my natural inclination to try and do it all right now. In my impatience, I overload my life and sap the energy required to give my best to my family.

The lesson of the tree is slowly starting to sink in for me. Having and doing it all right now doesn’t necessarily yield a rich life. Sometimes less can actually produce sweeter results.

Eric Riley Executive Editor Lifestyle Magazine President / Owner Topograph

Contributors

May 2023

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

Rylie Fox GRAPHIC DESIGNER / PHOTOGRAPHER

Terry Ommen HISTORIAN

JJ Fry GRAPHIC DESIGNER / WEB / PHOTO

Natalie Caudle WRITER

Lili Mendez GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Sue Burns WRITER

Mark Garcia GRAPHIC DESIGNER / PHOTOGRAPHER

Krista Feagans WRITER

HISTORY OF Memorial Day

Many Americans celebrate the holiday weekend with barbecues or road trips, but Memorial Day means so much more than extra time off. The intent behind observing the special day is to remember and honor those who sacrificed their lives for our freedom.

For some, honoring those who gave their lives can be in the form of marching bands, inspirational words, and other commemorations. No matter how we choose to spend the holiday, taking the time to pause for a few moments on Memorial Day to reflect on what it means and why it was instituted will help honor those who died serving our country. Let us never forget those who paid the ultimate price for our freedom—far beyond what we could ever repay.

Words by Lifestyle Staff

DID YOU KNOW?

1. Memorial Day originated after the Civil War and was first called Decoration Day.

2. A red poppy serves as the remembrance symbol.

3. Memorial Day is one of the few days flags are ordered to fly at half-staff rather than full-staff.

4. Memorial Day and Veterans Day are not the same. Memorial Day only honors those who have died while serving, while Veterans Day celebrates everyone who has ever served.

5. It is believed that Memorial Day is in May because flowers are in bloom all across the country, making them readily available to decorate fallen soldiers' graves.

6. Around 25 cities have claimed to have started Memorial Day, but Waterloo, NY has been named the official birthplace of Memorial Day.

WAYS TO HONOR:

Fly the American flag

Watch a parade in person or online: The National Memorial Day Parade | americanveteranscenter.org

Volunteer your time to help decorate the graves of fallen soldiers, or pay respect by leaving flowers at their gravesites.

Give to a local military charity.

Observe the National Moment of Remembrance: At 3pm on Memorial Day, observe one minute of silence.

Buy a “Buddy”® Poppy. These fabric poppies are assembled by disabled and needy veterans. Funds go towards compensating them for their work and maintaining veterans’ programs. | vfw.org

zTake time to thank a veteran—whether writing a letter or making a care package.

A “Good Mother”

Making Mom Time

Words by Krista Feagans

comes in many forms, whether you’ve given birth, adopted a child, or fill a motherly role for a family member or friend. The hope of most mothers (biological or otherwise) is to raise their child to be a self-sufficient and responsible adult—an enormous undertaking that usually (okay, always) involves a lot of personal sacrifice. A mother’s love is the driving force that allows her to push through overwhelm, exhaustion, and frustration, often sacrificing her own needs and wants for those of her child. Through it all, being a mother is one of life’s greatest and most rewarding gifts.

Motherhood

One might describe motherhood with these words: protector, role model, cheerleader, and unselfish. In fact, describing a mother as “selfless” is one of the greatest compliments that can be given to a mother. Although meant as a compliment, it also conveys the expectation that a “good mother” shouldn’t put her needs above her child’s. Obviously, no mother would think twice about caring for her children above anything else, but what about caring for herself?

Sample Some Self Care

Connection - Motherhood is an individual journey with both unique and shared experiences. These experiences are part of what connects us as mothers. Sharing the joys and trials with someone that truly understands is one form of self care. It could be a phone call or meeting for coffee. Or get crazy and plan a girls’ trip!

Time - A mother is always in demand. Perhaps less so as children get older, but still, in demand. Take some time, even 30 minutes, to take a hot shower, sip (hot) tea, go for a run, read a book, or watch an episode of your favorite show. What makes you feel like YOU?

Care For Yourself, Too

Self care is a trending phrase, and for good reason. It’s important for everyone, especially for mothers. For the person upon whose shoulders often falls the responsibility of maintaining the house, buying groceries, preparing meals, shuttling kids, helping with homework, comforting crying babies…the list is endless. All this while also being a spouse, perhaps, and/or pursuing a career. While being a friend, a daughter, a sister. There are fathers who play this primary caretaker role, as well. There are very supportive fathers who share those responsibilities and support their partner in every way. Self care is essential for both. Only with self care can we be our best selves for our children.

Sleep - For mothers with young kids this may seem impossible, but they will sleep eventually, and so should you. Prioritize your sleep. The dishes and laundry can wait. Watching one extra episode on Netflix isn’t worth it (every night). Sleep is essential for healthy hormones, metabolism, energy and mood. Try a white noise app, use blackout curtains, and limit caffeine after 12pm. Your body will thank you, and so will your children.

A mother’s journey doesn’t end when her children are grown. The relationship often evolves into a deep friendship that is an important part of both lives. And sharing the wisdom gained over years of parenting ups and downs is a gift in itself.

A Mother's Day GIFT GUIDE

Most moms will tell you they have what they need and want nothing. Knowing how to show her you care can be a challenge. This month, we gathered some gift ideas for one of the most important women in your life.

1. Smart heated self-warming mug

2. Make her botanical shortbread cookies

3. Capri Blue candles @pacifictreasures*

4. Self-watering planter and propagation station

5. Vintage jewelry @maven_vintage *

6. Wine chilling coasters

7. Homemade brunch for Mom

8. Tickets to a musical or experience

9. Spa day @creeksidedayspa*

10. Interior design consult

11. Pottery @madeceramic.com*

12. Calming lavender heat pillow

Sweet Memories Flowers

109 S. Church St. Visalia

Tues-Fri 10am-3pm

sweetmemoriesfloral.com

559-625-5242

Grab-and-go bouquets and gifts available daily, while supplies last.

Place your order today for Mother’s Day!

sweetmemoriesflowers

Fugazzis

127 W. Main St. Visalia Mon-Thu 11am-9pm

Fri-Sat 11am-10pm

fugazzisbistro.com

559-625-0496

Treat mom to mimosas on us this Mother’s Day! Now taking reservations.

Sunday, May 14th hours: 11am-8pm

fugazzis

Downtown Visalia

Shop | Eat | Explore

Downtown Visalians

Make all of “Mom’s” wishes come true in Downtown Visalia! Downtown gift checks can be used at the businesses within the district.

120 S. Church St. | 559-732-7737 | Mon-Thurs 8am-4pm, Fri 8am-3pm downtownvisalia.com | @downtown_visalians

Wine Buff

114 S. Locust St. Visalia

Mon 6pm-9pm | Thu 4pm-9pm Fri-Sat 4pm-9:30pm Sun 11am-3pm 559-409-2196

Great Wine | Live Music

A newly opened wine bar with good vibes and a great wine selection.

Table reservations available.

winebuffvisalia

Maven Skin & Beauty

118 N. Willis St. Visalia

Tue-Fri 9am-5:30pm Sat 10am-2pm

mavenskinandbeauty.com

559-747-2270

Skin Care | Makeup | Gifts

A natural beauty studio and shop. Facials are our specialty.

Gift mom self-care this year! Maven's "Mom" Facial gift certificate available.

mavenskinandbeauty

Sponsored

Photo by Kreatve Content

The Strength and Spirit of a Mother

Words by Sue Burns | Photos provided by Nancy Bellin

Nancy Bellin shares about her mother’s love, strength, and courage of conviction that saw the family through the Japanese internment years and how her mother left indelible imprints on her spirit.

Nancy in her garden.

Thebonds between mother and child stay with us throughout our lives. Everyone’s experiences are different, and shape us in myriad ways, defining how we live and shape the lives of others.

Nancy Bellin describes her mother, Asaye Miyake Hanada, as “...a classical beauty, faithful wife, loyal friend and can-do woman, no matter the circumstance.” At four feet, eleven inches, Asaye’s small frame housed her huge intellect, creativity, and strength. Nancy’s innumerable stories of her mother’s courage, resilience, and love—especially during harrowing times—illustrate how her own approach to life has been molded by her mother’s gentle touch.

Asaye grew up in Atwater, where she excelled academically, submitting poems to a Japanese-American newspaper. Kazumi Hanada, a writer from Dinuba who submitted poetry of his own, admired Asaye’s writings and began corresponding with her. They met and began dating, marrying in 1933. Known then as Amy and Kay, they moved to a house with a small farm in Cutler, where Nancy was born and still lives today.

Daily life on an unproductive farm miles from her family took grit for the young wife and mother of two, who was occasionally greeted in town with hostility as the war years progressed. But she never stopped trusting that people were good, encouraging her daughters to do the same. She prioritized family time together, invented games with resources she found around the house and farm, created learning activities, and read to them every night. From Asaye’s resourcefulness, they learned how seemingly insignificant objects could become tools for learning and play.

Asaye couldn’t have guessed the immense challenges her family would face during World War II after Executive Order 9066 was signed by President Roosevelt. Nancy and Marian were 6 and 9 when the family was informed they were required to report to the Tulare Assembly Center. They were given only days to pack their necessities and make arrangements for someone to care for their home and pet cat. They had no idea where they were going, nor for how long. In this state of uncertainty, Asaye did her best to

Nancy's mother, Asaye.

manage preparations and keep their emotions upbeat. She acted as if they were simply going away on a trip and would be back, emphasizing their good luck in being allowed to stay together as a family, while many others were not. From her outlook, the sisters learned that though they could not control the situation, they could choose their attitude about it.

No toys were allowed in the internment camp in Poston, Arizona, but Asaye packed as many books as she could. She continued reading to the girls every night. When their flashlights were taken away, she resolved to teach Nancy to overcome her fear of the dark by showing her that when one sense is diminished others grow stronger. “You can hear and smell farther than you can see,” she said.

When Nancy became ill, Asaye broke the camp rules to obtain one egg, which she scrambled on the lid from a gallon-size can over a Sterno burner with a precious bit of butter. When Nancy and Marian asked life lesson questions in the dim light of a single bulb in the barrack shared with three other families, they talked things over, always emphasizing trust in the good, and hope in the face of adversity.

When Asaye became a teacher in the camp, she encouraged her students not to be angry about their situation. “Make something out of nothing” and “roll with the punches” were two of her favorite sayings to share as she worked to create a safe, warm learning environment. As they saw how their mother’s actions softened the edges of the harsh camp landscape, they learned the importance of helping wherever they could, as best they could.

When the family returned home three years later, greeted by the sight of their belongings from the attic burning in their yard, Asaye quelled their sadness by reminding them that these were “just things” and they would start again. And they did, with Asaye teaching herself to sew, becoming a wonderful cook, and continuing to instill in her daughters a love of books, gardening, and her solid standards of what was important and right. From her resilience, they learned resilience. The gifts of their mother’s love, strength, and courage of conviction that saw the family through the internment years and the ups and downs of life beyond it, left indelible imprints on her daughters’ spirits. As part of an extremely close-knit family, Nancy and Marian went on to raise their own children and help in their communities. A recently retired educator herself, Nancy thinks gratefully of Asaye at this time, especially, knowing her mother would say living a life reflective of the qualities learned from her is the greatest Mother’s Day gift of all.

Nancy and her mother, Asaye.

Nancy's parents.

Nancy and her sister at the encampment.

Modern Metals

Beneath the modern farmhouse façade, a structural skeleton of steel shapes a distinctively built house that marries energy, efficiency, and beauty.

Words by Natalie Caudle | Photos by Topograph

Third-generation

construction manager Kevin Fistolera and architect and designer Julia Kroonenberg jumped at the opportunity—and outside of the traditional box—when envisioning the components of this 5,500-square-foot home.

Owner Matt Delph yearned for a unique home that represented his style and interests. Kevin, a quick problem solver with construction expertise, was eager to attempt a new type of home building and knew Julia was the perfect choice for a modern-thinking architect. And so the dream team was established.

Springing from the idea of a barndominium, an energy-efficient metal building with affordable living spaces, Kevin saw the benefit of an all-metal structure and endeavored to move the product from industrial-only use to architectural. The result is a one-of-a-kind home.

Unlike traditional wood structures, this house lacks load-bearing columns and walls. Instead, the ceilings are suspended from wires attached to steel beams above the modular construction, allowing for easy future remodeling.

Julia's steel entryway design nods to the industrial elements of the house and beckons guests into a colorful and open space. "I like trying new things," remarks Julia, who seeks to cultivate an agreeable balance of function and design. "My style is my client's. I take it personally that they feel at home and comfortable."

Architect and Interior Designer: Julia Kroonenberg Contractor: Kevin Fistolera

Kevin saw the benefit of an all-metal structure. The result is a one-of-a-kind home.

FRONT ELEVATION

Original house plans by Julia Kroonenberg

Form + Function

The kitchen boasts two large islands, commercial-grade appliances, and a five-foot range. With Cambria quartz waterfall countertops and a matching backsplash, the white and black marbling pairs well with the soft-close, dove white kitchen cabinets. Abounding with storage, the butler’s pantry tucks away a built-in coffee maker and sous vide. The kitchen is the core of the public space within the house, serving as a hub for entertaining or an escape for dabbling with a new recipe.

Matt's personality is evident throughout the home, with bright modern murals and creative fixtures. The color changing options of the Lutron Creston light system aid the mood and fun atmosphere. When adding decor, Julia chose shoe art and photographs of golf courses as a hint to Matt's hobbies.

Two walk-in closets, a fireplace, steam shower, and heated flooring transform the primary bedroom into a private wing. Built with convenience, the main closet opens to a laundry room with dry cleaning capabilities.

Each bedroom, brightly colored and bold in design, hosts a full bath. And every shower contains a custom-designed geometric tile pattern: hexagon, triangle, and honeycomb shapes mesh ideally within each space, adding bits of texture.

In keeping with the unique structure, Matt desired a high-tech home. "My goal for whatever I design is to improve my client's life," says Julia. Matt can control everything from his phone: music, lights, and window coverings. A tech closet stores the connections and wire, ensuring a clean and minimal look.

"My style is my client's. I take it personally that they feel at home and comfortable."

Julia Kroonenberg

Lively + Refined

Technically built as a shop, the fifth garage takes the concept of a man cave to a new level. Equipped with a golf simulator, flat-screen TV, bar, and workout equipment, the Golf Room is the envy of many. Morning sun filters through the floor-toceiling rolling door, while honeycomb lighting and Tetris-patterned carpet squares bring warmth and fun to the industrial space.

With the extra square footage of a double lot, multiple gathering spots are nestled within the backyard, from the oversized fire pit to the pavilion with a fully equipped kitchen and entertainment area. Each element of the yard was thoughtfully designed, adding useful, outdoor space to the property.

In building this home, energy efficiency was at the heart of the dream team's vision. With solar panels, a steel structure, and a no-gap construction, the house requires little heating and cooling. As a result, a room can hold a temperature for days, keeping energy costs low.

Matt gives all of the credit to Kevin and Julia: "They came up with the design, and it's working out very well. I wanted something that was eco-friendly that I could have fun with, and that's what it turned out to be."

KINGSBURG

Story by Lifestyle Staff

Photos by Topograph

Welcome to You

don’t have to travel far to experience a little Scandinavian-European flair. Kingsburg has been known as “little Sweden” since 1921, when 94% of its population was Swedish-American. Today, it’s referenced as the Valley’s Swedish Village, featuring Swedish architecture, Dala horses, Swedish flags, and bay trees throughout the town. This month, we’re sharing our day-trip discoveries from our visit to one of our Central Valley small towns.

History

The history of Kingsburg began in the early 1870s, with the construction of the Central Pacific Railroad, when it was first named “Kings River Switch.” The town was a flag stop at the historic train depot and is where many Swedish natives settled. In 1894, after going through a series of name changes that included Wheatville, Kingsbury, and Kingsburgh, it was given its final and current name. Twelve years later, in 1908, it was officially incorporated as a town.

A notable town landmark is the 122-foot water tower shaped like an antique Swedish coffee pot. It was built in 1911, modified in 1985, and is now lit up at night, so it can be seen all hours of the day and night.

Jailhouse Museum

With its share of saloons and bandits, Kingsburg was considered one of the "toughest" towns to live in during its early years. A 50-square-foot jail was built in 1924 and operated until the early 1970s. It was later given to the historical society in 2008 for restoration and functions now as a walk-through diorama that gives visitors a sense of what it was like to serve time in jail during the 20th century.

Kingsburg Historical Park & Museum

The historical museum park has 17 exhibits and is operated by the Kingsburg Historical Society. It is open to the public for self-guided tours on specific days of the week. They also host public events such as The Holiday Lights and offer venue rental for private events.

Murals

Kingsburg has many murals throughout the downtown district, depicting life in the small town. Lifelong resident and late artist Maxine Olson designed many of the murals. Notably, her work has been exhibited throughout the United States and abroad at places including the San Juan Bautista Gallery, the Palazzo Casali in Venice, Italy, the Forum Gallery in New York City, the Chait Galleries in Iowa City, the University of Calgary, the Artes Americas Museum, and the Smithsonian.

Swedish Festival

The town’s most notable annual event is the Swedish Festival, which draws people from all over the country. It’s held during the third weekend in May and features a Swedish pancake breakfast, a parade, and the coronation of the Swedish Festival Queen. Many booths and activities are set up all along the main downtown street, offering crafts and food from classic Swedish culture.

Notable People

Rafer Lewis Johnson, a Kingsburg native, was the USA team’s flagbearer and decathlon gold medalist in the 1960 Olympic games; he also won silver in 1956. Notably in 1968, he along with a few others, tackled Sirhan Sirhan to the ground after he shot Robert F. Kennedy. After retirement, Johnson was an actor and sportscaster and was instrumental in helping create the Special Olympics. His brother, James Earl Johnson, played professional football for the San Francisco 49ers from 1961-1976.

Monte Dale Clark was born and raised in Kingsburg, and after graduating high school, he attended college at University of California with a football scholarship. He went on to play in the NFL with the San Francisco 49ers, Dallas Cowboys, and Cleveland Browns. He later served as head coach for the San Francisco 49ers from 1976-1977 and the Detroit Lions from 1978-1984.

Discover Kingsburg

Downtown Kingsburg offers many specialty gift shops and eateries. Bring the Swedish Village home with you—whether with a dala horse or a tasty treat.

Svensk Butik

1465 Draper St. Kingsburg

Mon-Sat 9am-5pm

sbswedishgifts.com

559-897-5119

Swedish Goods | Unique Gifts | Year-round Christmas Gifts

Svensk Butik, is a destination for locals and travelers alike. They carry local items like Kingsburg Honey, unique accessories and home goods, year-round Christmas decor, and of course, many Swedish-themed items. The owner, June, has been operating the shop for over 30 years and wears traditional Swedish attire.

1515 Smith St. Kingsburg

Tue-Sat 11pm-9pm

Open most Sundays 10am-2pm 559-897-5433

roadhousekingsburg.com

Friendly service, flavorful food, and cocktails made using the freshest ingredients. A great date night spot in Kingsburg.

roadhousekingsburg

Roadhouse Heritage Co. Boutique

1369 Draper St. Kingsburg | Mon-Sat 9am-5pm shopheritageco.com | 559-419-3288

Clothing | Accessories | Gifts

Voted Best Boutique and Best Place to Buy a Gift in Central California.

Fun and fashionable clothing for women of all ages and sizes. Follow us on social media for new releases.

shopheritageco

svensk_butik

GRILLED STREET CORN DIP

INGREDIENTS

8 ears of corn

2 cups McCormick mayonnaise with lime

1 cup grated cotija cheese

1/3 cup chopped cilantro

1 jalapeño, deveined and chopped

2 tablespoons Tajin

1 tablespoon paprika

1 tablespoon granulated garlic

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1/2 teaspoon pepper

Juice of 1 lime

DIRECTIONS

1. On medium heat, roast corn on a grill, rotating frequently until charred all the way around. Remove and set aside until cool.

2. After corn has cooled, cut kernels off of the cobs and add to a mixing bowl.

3. Add the rest of the ingredients and mix until combined.

4. Let rest in fridge for 30 mins before serving.

5. Stir dip one last time before garnishing with extra cilantro.

TIPS

Homemade tortilla chips (we like La Tapatia brand) pair well with this dip! Sprinkle cotija cheese before serving. Also: we like the dip chilled, but it can be served warm by heating on the grill.

roadhousekingsburg.com

@roadhousekingsburg

Recipe by owner Adrian Perez of Roadhouse | Photos by Topograph

Experiences at westwood Barns

About 10 years ago, an East Coast city girl got engaged to a local Valley farmer boy. But when Lauren and Daniel Westra went on the hunt for the perfect wedding location, their search came up short. So they took matters into their own hands and created a dream venue—Westwood Barns. They brought life back into the 1940s barn and added all the details necessary to create the wedding they’d envisioned. A near-decade later, they’ve hosted many weddings and special events at the Barn with the same ambience that captivated them years before. After traveling to bigger cities and participating in unique events and workshops, the Westras were inspired to create more experiential events at Westwood Barns—events that will also celebrate our area’s artisanal talents and the rich agriculture of the Valley.

About the Events

Lauren began by offering floral workshops at the beginning of each season. Now they plan to host immersive seasonal dinners that are field-to-table experiences. Their spring dinner, hosted by Braised Kitchen, was held in the venue’s garden and included a menu inspired by seasonal blooms. The upcoming summer dinner focuses on preparing and grilled red meats, with the setting near the cow pastures—for a true field-to-table experience. Another event in the works includes an almond orchard setting for a menu abundant with almonds. The idea is to engage both palate and presence at once: focusing on the beauty of the land and the flavors that come from it.

What to Expect

In April, they hosted Sur Le Terrain. The meal was prepared by Braised Kitchen featuring cocktails made by Holy Spirits. They have a Mother’s Day event planned for May alongside Lauren Westra Photography, with more events planned for each month. Upcoming events may include workshops and classes hosted by experts in the field—for photography, landscape design, or art. At Westwood Barns, they seek to celebrate local community talents through providing a venue and experience in which they can share their gifts.

How to Connect

You can follow Westwood Barns on social media to stay up to date on all their upcoming events. Spreading the word by sharing the events allows them to continue to grow, and bring more offerings to the community.

Story by Lifestyle Staff | Photos provided by Westwood Barns

"The staff are genuine, know residents by name and attend to their every need. This is the place to go!"

~ Connor C., Park Visalia resident

Making Life a Bit Sweeter

sweeter side can show through after they visit local bakery The Frosted Muffin. Visalia native, owner, and pastry chef Susana Gabriela “Gabby” Guerrero tells us about how she whipped up something special in her own life.

Anyone's

Q. Please tell us when The Frosted Muffin was founded and how it came to be.

A. I was fortunate that Kaity Draper and Tamara Doyal hired me a little over seven years ago as a pastry chef who specialized in custom cakes. After a year and a half, they asked me if I was interested in purchasing the business from them. It was a dream come true for a 40-something mom who was beginning her second act. Today, I run The Frosted Muffin with the help of our pastry chef Stephanie Medina and professional baker Melissa McDaniel. All three of us are originally from Visalia!

Q. Can you share a little about yourself and your background?

A. I was born and raised in Visalia, a Mt. Whitney and COS graduate. I earned a full ride softball scholarship to Cal State Fullerton as a pitcher and completed my Bachelor’s Degree in Kinesiology. Then, after college in 1997, I was drafted to the Women’s Professional Fastpitch softball team Virginia Roadsters, and continued to compete all over the U.S. and internationally. I have been a professional softball instructor for 23 years, coaching at Mt Whitney, Cypress College, and COS.

In 2004, I decided to pursue another passion of mine and enrolled in Scottsdale Culinary Institute in Arizona to become a Certified Le Cordon Bleu Pastry Chef. After graduating, I worked as a cake artist in Mesa and Phoenix, then returned to California with the hopes of starting my own bakery. I became a mom in 2010 to my son Máximo, and in 2017, I was blessed by the Draper and Doyal families to take over The Frosted Muffin.

Q&A with The Frosted Muffin | Photos by Topograph

Q. What types of items do you make on a regular basis and what's your favorite or most unique thing to offer patrons (and why)?

A. We offer 12 different flavors of gourmet cupcakes daily, oversized chocolate chip cookies, buttercream-frosted sugar cookies, Cupshakes, and, twice a week, we offer cream puffs. Our favorite thing to make is our creative custom cupcakes and cakes. We make a cupcake look like an apple for Teacher Appreciation Week, create edible ghosts and turkey cupcake toppers for autumn holidays, and our chocolate buttercream reindeer cupcakes with antlers are a hit at Christmas! We also love creating character birthday cakes and wedding cakes. We are artists, and it’s so fun to let our creative juices flow!

Q. Where do you draw inspiration from?

A. We make ALL of our cupcakes, cakes, cookies, and cream puffs from scratch. We enjoy all types of desserts and foods from various bakeries and restaurants, which has helped us create our own versions of old and new flavors. We are inspired by fruity flavors, bright colors, and the scent of spices. The boss is a self-proclaimed “chocoholic” who loves to add pecans and walnuts, too, so there will always be something chocolate to offer!

Q. What do you hope people experience with you?

A. We hope our patrons experience nostalgia for classic flavors and satisfaction in new creations, such as our Cupshakes. We love making our customers' day a bit sweeter and hope to satisfy their sweet tooth with a smile!

Q. Anything on the horizon for The Frosted Muffin or anything else you’d like to share?

A. We are eager to add to our pastry menu; we introduced cream puffs last year, and they’re a hit! Classic items with fruity flavors for the summer will be coming soon!

Sponsored Content

@thefrostedmuffin

Thefrostedmuffin.com

Melissa McDaniel, owner Gabby Guerrero, & Stephanie Medina.

Hogwallows—Ground as Mysterious as the Name

Asmall

parcel of land in Tulare County has never been farmed or had its soil turned by plow or disc. It lies on the Valley floor between Exeter and Woodlake about 10 miles east of Visalia. It’s surrounded on all sides by citrus groves—in some of the richest agricultural land in California, and probably the world. But even though the plot is virgin land, the ground is not barren. Today it grows weeds, mostly invasive, with a few native plants rooted here and there.

So why has this 10-acre parcel never been farmed? The answer is simple. A one-time owner, Dr. Philip Buckman, wanted it that way. He cared enough to sacrifice financial gain and left it in its natural state, giving us all a glimpse of what much of Tulare County ground looked like before it was turned into irrigated agricultural land. Thanks to him and his family, today this ancient ground serves as an outdoor exhibit.

The numerous and random asymmetrical mounds on the site look strange and almost eerie as they rise up above the ground. Their peculiar appearance is made more unusual with the wellmaintained citrus groves standing all around them. These mounds are not unique to Tulare County—similar ones appear elsewhere in the world. They are sometimes called mima mounds or pimple mounds, but here in Tulare County, we call them hogwallows. That name has been attached to them since at least 1887, when the

Visalia Weekly Delta reported on “a belt of uneven land, of varying width, which skirts the foothills of the Sierras in various parts of the county.” The article called these bumps “hog-wallows.”

No one has been able to explain exactly why or how they formed, but many theories abound including pressure from ground water pushing soil upward, and burrowing rodents and insects. Volcanic vent action has generally been ruled out, as has the theory that the mounds were Native American graves. William L. Preston, a Tulare County native and Cal Poly San Luis Obispo professor, wrote in his book Vanishing Landscapes, “Mima mounds appear to be a periglacial phenomenon formed under pluvial conditions in the late Pleistocene”—meaning they could date back millions of years. After visiting Buckman’s hogwallows, University of California soil scientist Dr. Rodney Arkley wrote, “It is clear that the pocket gopher is responsible for the mounds.”

In the December 1948 issue of the Tulare County Historical Society newsletter, Editor Harold Schutt gave another explanation. In Yokuts lore, ancient people carrying rocks and soil in baskets emptied the contents, creating the mountains of the Sierra Nevada and the Coast Range. Once the mountains rose to the correct height, the workers were told to stop. They immediately dumped their baskets wherever they stood, creating the mounds that we call hogwallows.

Dr. Philip Buckman with his daughter Carol at the time of the dedication ceremony in 1979.

Words & Photos provided by Terry Ommen

In the 1940s, Dr. Buckman began searching for land to build a new family home. He purchased the 10 acres of hogwallows and other neighboring land, and hired Hugh Comstock, a well-known home designer and master builder. Comstock was credited for creating an architectural style sometimes called “fairytale” or “storybook”—a style featured in the quaint central California coastal town, Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Comstock was also known for a special adobe technique he used in his projects. The Buckmans wanted an adobe home, and hired Comstock to help them build it. With the hogwallows land rich in clay soil, they had access to abundant building material. He drew up plans for the Buckman home, and in about 1947, the two-story Buckman adobe home was built. During construction, Delora, one of Dr. Buckman’s young daughters, remembers her father digging a well on the hogwallows parcel and using the water from it to mix with the native clay. The mixture formed a slick, gooey material and Delora recalls running and sliding in the adobe mud, using it much like a “slip ‘n’ slide.” The adobe house still stands today, just east of the hogwallows parcel.

During the doctor’s ownership of this interesting ground, he ignored those who encouraged him to level the land and cultivate it, choosing instead to keep it in its natural state. In 1948, the Tulare County Historical Society expressed an interest in acquiring some hogwallows land. In the society newsletter of that year, the group made its intentions clear, commenting that they were “looking

toward securing a few acres of these mysterious mounds.” Apparently, Dr. Buckman heard of the society’s wish; in 1978, he and his daughter, Carol, decided to donate the 10 acres to the society, and began the legal process to make it happen.

On April 22, 1979, with the paperwork complete, a formal dedication ceremony of the Hogwallow Preserve took place on site. With the society as the new owner, a granite boulder with a brass historical marker was placed there by the society, and it remains there today. For the last 44 years, the Tulare County Historical Society has owned the preserve and serves as the curator of this outdoor museum.

If you haven’t been to the preserve, you really should visit. Admission is free, and visitors may walk around the grounds. This hidden gem is worth the trip. To visit, go east on Highway 198 from Visalia, turn north at Road 220, and turn west at Avenue 314. Travel about 1/8 of a mile to see the preserve, on the south side of the road.

A portion of the Hogwallow Preserve at the time it was gifted to the Tulare County Historical Society [Courtesy TCHS]

The brass plaque currently on display at the Hogwallow Preserve. [Courtesy TCHS]

“…In Yokuts lore, ancient people carrying rocks and soil in baskets emptied the contents, creating the mountains of the Sierra Nevada and the Coast Range.”

Upcoming Events

May Agenda

MAY 6

Exeter Lions Club

Brewfest

Where: Exeter Memorial Building

Hosted by: Exeter Lions Club exeterlions.org

MAY 13 -14

68th Woodlake

Lions Rodeo

Where: Woodlake Lions Rodeo

Grounds

Hosted by: Woodlake Lions Club woodlakelionsclub.com

MAY 20

Gateway to the Sequoias

Blues Fest

Where: 11am-5pm

Where: Lions Club Roping Arena

Hosted by: KTASC nabluesfest.com

MAY 6

Fiesta de Mayo

When: 3pm-9:30pm

Where: Zumwalt Park Tulare

Hosted by: Tulare Downtown tularedowntown.org

MAY 17-21

Porterville Fair

Where: Porterville Fairgrounds

Hosted by: Porterville Fair Heritage Association, portervillefair.com

MAY 20

Visalia Downtown Car Show

When: 9am-3pm

Where: Downtown Visalia

Hosted by: Downtown Visalians downtownvisalia.com

Pacific Treasures

Savor the Moment

The beauty of this spring season has all of us at Lifestyle Magazine aiming to savor each moment. After a long winter, it feels great to connect with our community and take in all the good things happening. Honoring others and spending time with those you love (especially Mom) can recharge your emotional battery and strengthen your sense of purpose. This month, we wish you an abundance of happiness, fulfillment, and plenty of moments to create memories with your loved ones!

“Just as a plant needs sunlight to flourish, our world needs us to flourish.”

-Dele Ola

Photo by Lauren Westra