Penney Sick of Raymond James Financial Services was
Penney Sick of Raymond James
Penney Sick of Raymond James Financial Services was named on the 2024 Forbes Top Best-in-State Women Wealth Advisors List.
theandersonregroup.com
andersonregroup
A Word From
The
Editor
Everyone has traditions that bring back holiday nostalgia. For me, it’s baking with my mom—the annual holiday cookiemaking ritual that filled our kitchen with warmth and sweet aromas, creating memories I still cherish.
My parents immigrated to America from Switzerland over forty years ago, and naturally, our holiday traditions reflect that heritage. In our family, the Spitzbuben cookie has always been a staple—a Swiss classic with bright jam centers sandwiched between buttery layers. This recipe, which we’ve included in this issue, holds a special place in our family.
Traditions, no matter how big or small, have a way of grounding us, especially around the holidays. They’re the things we can count on year after year, rituals that bring a sense of comfort. In this issue, our “Gather” theme is all about honoring these traditions and sharing a few of our own. From holiday cookie recipes to decorating tips, we hope this issue inspires you to reconnect with what makes the season meaningful for you.
As I think about my own family and the holiday traditions we’re building, I’m grateful for the blend of old and new. I look forward to continuing a combination of my own traditions with my husband’s to create something unique for our kids—a mix of where we each came from.
So, whether you’re keeping old traditions alive, creating new ones, or blending both, may this season be filled with simple joys and moments that remind you of why this time of year is so special. From our team here at Lifestyle and Root, we wish you a holiday season filled with warmth, connection, and memories that will last a lifetime.
STEPHANIE STEELMAN Co-founder | Root Creative Marketing Executive Editor | Lifestyle Magazine
Contributors
December 2024
Dakota Jacobi PHOTOGRAPHER / SALES
Chelsea Cumiford CONTRIBUTOR
Josh Aleman GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Lauren Walters MANAGING EDITOR
Vicki DeFrancesco CONTRIBUTOR
Lili Mendez GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Dave Bazar CONTRIBUTOR
Daniel Borgatto GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Marissa Carpenter CONTENT EDITOR
Scan here to read more about our monthly contributors, see a list of rack locations, or to sign up for a monthly subscription.
Holiday Music A PLAYLIST CURATED BY THE ROOT TEAM
It’s that season—Root’s office has staff and visitors hearing those sleigh bells ringing…plus plenty more. The Root team has curated a holiday playlist that’s pure joy wrapped in funky beats and tied up with festive cheer. It’s filled with reinvented holiday classics, timeless jazz, and modern holiday jams to make even the Grinch tap his toes.
Swap out silent nights to keep spirits high and creativity sparkling as you tune in to Root’s favorite holiday sounds.
Scan here to stream the entire Root's Christmas Vibes playlist on Spotify
Words by Lifestyle & Root Creative Marketing Staff
Sponsored Content
Local Gifting
Check off your holiday gift list and discover local shops, eateries, and small town charm.
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Whether you need a hostess gift, holiday entertaining decor or statement pieces, we can help you add sparkle to your holiday season!
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Common Goods
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This vintage inspired lifestyles hop is filled with stylish decor and housewares, unique gifts, vintage, and locally made goods perfect for your holiday shopping needs!
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Just Dough With It
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Cookies | Custom Orders | Gift Cards
Enjoy the comfort of a gourmet homemade cookie without turning your oven on. Our cookies are big enough to share, but trust us-you won’t want to.
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Solvang Christmas Town
Words by Lifestyle Staff
Situated just inland from California’s South-Central Coast, Solvang is a charming village celebrated for its Danish-inspired architecture, cultural offerings, and welcoming atmosphere. Founded in 1911, its name, meaning “sunny field”, reflects the picturesque landscape. With thatched roofs, windmills, and red-timbered buildings, Solvang offers a European feel. At Christmas, downtown transforms into a festive wonderland with lights, Danish treats, and holiday events. Whether it’s your first time or a return visit, Solvang promises a memorable experience steeped in charm.
Discover the charming holiday magic of Solvang's winter season
Solvang Julefest
This annual holiday celebration features festive lights, parades, a Christmas market, and a variety of family-friendly events throughout December.
Solvang Festival Theater
Check out a number of special events happening at this charming outdoor theater, including seasonal shows during the month of December.
A Village Stroll
The entire village is adorned with lights and decorations. Take a walk through the streets, enjoy the architecture, and soak in the festive atmosphere.
Indulge in traditional Danish pastries like æbleskiver (puffed pancakes) and kringle. Many bakeries offer treats made just for the holidays. Local Bakeries
Wine Tasting
Many local wineries offer special tastings and holiday-themed events. Enjoy sampling wines and learning about the region's viticulture.
Elverhøj Museum
Learn about Danish-American culture and heritage at this local museum, which often hosts special events and exhibits during the season.
Discover more Solvang events!
Words by Lifestyle Staff
The holidays are here, and that means family trips filled with laughter, adventure, and yes, some travel chaos! But fear not: Whether you're hopping on a plane, hitting the highway, or taking the scenic route, we've got the tips and tricks you need to make your holiday travels easier (and way more fun).
Stress Less on Your Adventure
Be Flexible | If possible, adjust your travel dates to avoid peak times, like the day after a holiday, which is notoriously busy. Take advantage of early boarding and special family lanes at airports to reduce stress and avoid long lines.
Pack Smart for Kids | Overpack for the little ones, but underpack for yourself. Make sure you have plenty of snacks, extra clothes, and activities for your kids. This way, you're prepared if your travel is delayed.
Prepare to be Entertained | Whether you're traveling by car, train, or plane, ensure that you have enough entertainment for your kids, such as toys, sticker books, audiobooks, or electronic devices preloaded with their favorite shows and games.
Create a Travel Playlist | Compile all your family's favorite songs or download some fun and educational podcasts. Having an audio plan can keep everyone entertained instead of asking, “Are we there yet?”
Tablet with Downloaded Content | Tablets are ideal for long trips, especially when pre-loaded with educational content, games, and shows. Be sure to choose one with a kid-proof case for durability.
Gear Up for a Smooth Journey
Portable Snack Bags | Use sleek, reusable silicone snack bags to keep snacks organized, healthy, and eco-friendly.
Noise-Canceling Headphones | These are a game-changer for travel, especially on flights or long road trips. They help drown out distractions, allowing kids to sleep or enjoy their favorite shows in peace.
Smart Travel Bottles | New travel bottles with UV sterilizers ensure clean, safe water while reducing disposable plastic use and keeping you hydrated.
Smart Luggage | Look for suitcases with built-in chargers, GPS tracking, or Bluetooth connectivity to help you stay connected and organized, while making it easier to locate your kids' belongings.
Interactive Travel Journals | For kids, modern interactive travel journals now come with prompts to record experiences, spaces to draw, and even stickers to add. Children can stay engaged and create lasting memories.
By planning ahead and embracing a little flexibility, you'll help ensure that your holiday travel is as stressfree as possible, leaving more time for family fun and celebration!
Words by Dave Bazar
Everyone has a list of favorite smells. Perhaps yours includes freshly baked cookies or puppy breath. But a fragrance near the top of my own list comes from an abundant crop in our community: citrus. That beautiful scent as you peel a December Navel orange, the bright note as oils burst from the peel, or the heady perfume that fills the air in late April as citrus orchards burst into bloom—these are the fragrances that make us stop and breathe deeply. Beyond its vibrant spring scent, citrus is an economic powerhouse in Tulare County.
Consider this: California is the top producer of fresh citrus in the United States, providing over 90% of the nation’s supply. (Not Florida—they primarily produce juice.) What county in California has the largest citrus acreage? Our very own Tulare County, where over 40% of all California citrus grows. According to the office of the Tulare County Ag Commissioner, citrus gross agricultural production is valued close to $1.5 billion. We should all take pride in our community’s role in feeding the country.
Channel your pride in local citrus into knowledge‒and impress your cousin from Ohio at the Christmas dinner table.
The Start of Citrus
“Citrus” is an all-encompassing term covering a wide range of varieties: oranges, lemons, grapefruits, pomelos, mandarins, blood oranges, pink lemons, seedless lemons, tangelos, and so many more, each with distinct flavors and appearances. Unlike peaches, plums, and apples, whose flavors vary subtly, citrus offers a bolder spectrum. Originating in the foothills of the Himalayas in Asia, citrus made its way to California via the Spanish Missions. The first commercial orchards began in Los Angeles County around 1840 but moved north to the San
Joaquin Valley as urban development made it more profitable to sell houses than oranges. Another major milestone for California citrus came in the 1870s with the arrival of navel orange cuttings from Brazil. The large, sweet, seedless fruit saw instant demand. Before the navel’s arrival, oranges were grown from seeds, resulting in inconsistency, sometimes small-seeded and lacking sweetness. Today, all citrus grown is from specific varieties grafted onto special rootstocks that enhance fruit quality and provide disease and pest resistance. Navel oranges, with varieties like Atwoods, Washington, and Cara Cara, still dominate the citrus industry. Recently, however, mandarins have challenged this dominance. Most of us recognize mandarins by names like Cuties or Halos, but behind those brands lie multiple varieties, explaining the slight flavor differences you might notice throughout the season. Still, the goal is consistent: sweet, seedless, and easy-topeel fruit. And if you’ve noticed some orchards covered in nets during bloom time, that’s to prevent bee pollination, which can cause some mandarin varieties to produce seeds.
The Right Conditions
What does it take to grow citrus? Perhaps the most limiting factor is cold. Once temperatures drop below freezing, growers start to worry. The riper the fruit, the more sugar it contains, and the more resistant it becomes to damage. Some varieties are more coldhardy, while others, like lemons, are sensitive enough to face possible tree death from hard freezes. This is one reason lemon acreage is greater in Ventura County, though Tulare is still second in the state. Interestingly, it takes cooler winter temperatures to color the fruit. In places like South America, oranges stay green even when ripe.
Most of Tulare County's citrus acreage sits on the east side to avoid freezing conditions. During cold spells, an inversion layer—a weather condition where warmer air sits above cooler air—often traps the cooler air near the ground. As cold air, being heavier, settles into the lowest areas, the east-side orchards are kept warmer. Wind machines help mix warm air from higher up with the colder air below, helping raise the average temperature around the trees and prevent frost damage.
Besides a moderate climate, good soil and water are essential for citrus. Citrus water demands fall in the low to middle range, using approximately 2.5 acre-feet of water per acre, compared to almond crops, which require closer to 4 acre-feet per acre. Tulare’s climate is ideal, with typical foggy nights keeping temperatures not too cold or hot, allowing fruit to hold longer on the tree for a more extended market period. Bloom typically begins in late April—you’ll know it by the scent—and harvest generally starts in mid-October with Satsumas, winding down around May with late navels, although Valencias can hold fruit over a year.
Tree to Table
Once harvested, the fruit goes to packing sheds to be washed, graded, packed, and marketed. These sheds vary from small independents to large cooperatives like Sunkist.
So, who grows the fruit? It’s our neighbors—like my old classmate Allan Lombardi, a third-generation farmer with deep roots stretching from Woodville to Porterville, whose family orchards thrive in Exeter and Lindsay. Having grown up among the trees, Allan has raised his family with the same dedication to citrus. Alongside him are giants like Paramount Citrus and every grower in between. From family farms to large-scale operations, hard-working people at every level come together each day to produce this vital food and fragrant gift to the world. The next time you savor a local orange or catch the perfume of spring citrus blossoms, remember: you’re taking in the heart of Tulare County, one sweet scent at a time.
Mike Young Financial Advisor
Deck the Mantel
The holiday mantel is more than just a spot to hang stockings; it’s a symbol of family togetherness and holiday traditions. For centuries, the fireplace mantel has been a natural gathering place—drawing people around the light and warmth to share stories and gifts.
Though mantels historically served to protect the area around the fireplace and provide a shelf for essentials, its purpose shifted as central heating evolved. Today’s mantels are more decorative focal points for warm, seasonal displays—perfect for Christmas décor.
This year, we’re sharing three different decorating styles to inspire you to showcase your home’s personality and add to your family’s unique holiday traditions. Whether you prefer the cozy charm of traditional décor, the elegance of vintage ornaments, or the simplicity of modern design, the mantel is your space to bring a little Christmas magic to life.
Words by Lifestyle Staff
Photos by Dakota Jacobi
Cozy Farmhouse-Modern 1
For a cozy, farmhouse-modern look, go for a clean, understated mantel that exudes warmth and charm. Start with a neutral palette—soft whites, warm grays, and touches of vintage-inspired decor. Large, aged brass bells anchor the look for a rustic focal point, and a pair of white antique candlesticks adds a timeless touch. Drape a simple garland of eucalyptus or pine for a natural, organic feel. Keep the arrangement balanced but relaxed, letting each piece shine without overcrowding. The result: A warm and welcoming display that brings an elegant, farmhouse feel to the holiday season.
Decor sourced from Sanctuaire Interiors in Exeter.
Whimsical Wonderland 2
Create a magical Christmas mantel filled with whimsy and sparkle. Mix Christmas trees in various shapes, colors, and glittery finishes alongside twirled candle sticks for a playful touch. Hang plush fur stockings and fuzzy trees to add pleasant texture, while velvet bows and classic garland bring an aura of richness. This mantel captures holiday wonder with its vibrant, enchanting display, perfectly adding festive cheer.
Traditional Christmas Charm 3
Celebrate the classics with a traditional mantel that brings comfort and nostalgia to the holiday season. Start with a lush evergreen garland adorned with pops of red berries, then hang a traditional wreath as a timeless focal point. Add tall candle sticks and vintage Christmas bells for an elegant touch, and include a vintage nutcracker for a hint of old-fashioned charm. Pops of red throughout, enhance the homey, festive feel, creating an inviting space filled with the spirit of Christmas past.
DecorSourcedfromTarget &Janeen’sFurnitureGallery in Visalia.
L O S E W E I G H T W I T H A V I R T U A L D I E T I T I A N welnourished com welnourished
Heartwarming Ho L iday Cookies
TIllustrations by Katie Carmichael-Reynolds
he holiday season presents the perfect excuse to bake, share, and indulge in festive treats. Bring joy to any holiday table with these four irresistible cookie recipes celebrating classic flavors—from buttery snowballs to fruity, jam-filled Spitzbuebe.
Cherry ALmond Cookie
Recipe provided by Chelsea Cumiford
Yields: 18 cookies
INGREDIENTS
1-12 oz jar maraschino cherries, juice reserved
1/2 cup salted butter, melted
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon pure almond extract
2 teaspoons maraschino cherry juice
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1¾ cups all-purpose flour
DIRECTIONS
1. Prepare the maraschino cherries by dicing and drying them on paper towels.
2. Preheat oven to 350F and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
3. To a large bowl, add melted butter, and whisk in sugars until combined.
4. Add egg, almond extract, and cherry juice. Mix until smooth.
5. Stir in baking soda, and flour until just combined, then fold in cherries.
6. Scoop 2 tablespoons of dough per cookie onto prepared baking sheets, spacing 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are set. Let cool on the pan for 2 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
SnowbaLL Cookie
Recipe provided by Vicki DeFrancesco Yields: Approximately 24 cookies
INGREDIENTS
2 cups butter, softened
3/4 cup powdered sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
4 cups flour
2 cups pecans, chopped
DIRECTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 350F.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and powdered sugar until smooth. Add vanilla, then gradually mix in flour. Fold in pecans.
3. Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on a parchment lined cookie sheet. Bake in preheated oven for 15 minutes, until the bottoms are lightly golden.
4. Let cookies cool for 10 minutes, then roll in powdered sugar while still warm. Roll again in powdered sugar after cooling, if desired.
GLuten-Free HoLiday Sugar Cookies
Recipe provided by Lifestyle Staff
Yields: 12 to 24 cookies, depending on size
INGREDIENTS
FOR THE COOKIES:
2 cups all-purpose gluten-free flour
3/4 teaspoon xanthan gum
3/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 cup granulated sugar
3 tablespoons powdered sugar
8 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 egg
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Optional: Holiday food coloring
FOR THE FROSTING:
10 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup whole milk
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
4 cups powdered sugar
Optional: Holiday toppings (e.g., sprinkles, cinnamon, pumpkin spice)
COOKIE DIRECTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 350F.
2. Mix all dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, mix wet ingredients.
3. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until combined.
4. Roll dough into 1- to 2-in. balls and place on a cookie sheet.
5. Bake for 6 minutes, rotate baking sheet, and bake another 6 minutes.
6. Let cool, add frosting (directions below), and sprinkle with holiday toppings, if desired.
7. Optional: Make sandwich cookies with frosting between two cookies and coat the sides with toppings.
FROSTING DIRECTIONS
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter on medium speed until it becomes smooth and creamy (about 1-2 minutes).
2. Slowly add the milk, vanilla extract, and salt to the butter. Continue beating on low speed until everything is well mixed.
3. Gradually add the confectioners' sugar, 1 cup at a time, mixing on low speed. After each addition, scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula to ensure an even mix.
4. Once all the sugar is incorporated, increase the speed to medium-high and beat for about 3 minutes. If the frosting is too thick, add a little more milk, 1 teaspoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached. If too thin, add more sugar.
Spitzbuebe
Recipe provided by Lifestyle Staff
Yields: 35-40 cookies
INGREDIENTS
FOR THE DOUGH:
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoons vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
1 eggwhite
Powdered sugar for dusting
FOR THE FILLING:
1/2 cup red currant jelly or raspberry jam
DIRECTIONS
1. Add butter and sugar together in a stand mixer. Mix on low speed for two minutes. Add the flour, vanilla extract, salt, and eggwhite into the mixture. Mix on low speed until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Knead briefly by hand, shape into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for an hour.
2. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Divide chilled dough in half. Roll out one half on a lightly floured surface to about ¼-inch thick. If you have a Spitzbuebe cookie cutter (available online), you can use that; otherwise, you can cut out 35-40 circles with a circle cookie cutter and use a smaller cutter to create a hole in the center of each. Repeat until one half of the dough is cut into cookie tops.
3. Bake the cookie tops for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden. While the tops are baking, roll out the other half of the chilled dough and cut the bottoms while the tops bake. Bake the bottoms for 12 minutes.
Nutcracker Magic
The Timeless Ballet That Dances Through Generations
Words by Lifestyle Staff
As the holiday season approaches, the lively, enchanting melodies of “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy” and “Waltz of the Flowers” fill the air, inviting families to partake in a cherished tradition of music and dance that began over a century ago. The beloved Nutcracker ballet has become a symbol of Christmas magic, captivating audiences around the world and cultivating a spirit of togetherness and joy.
The origins of The Nutcracker can be traced back to 1892, when it premiered at the Imperial Mariinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg, Russia. The ballet was based on E.T.A. Hoffmann's story “The Nutcracker and the Mouse King” which tells the tale of a nutcracker and a battle against mice. It featured choreography by Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov, blending classical styles with festive themes. The captivating music, composed by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, has now become synonymous with the holiday season. Initially, the ballet did not achieve great success, but its mesmerizing score and whimsical storyline eventually captured the hearts of audiences.
The turning point for The Nutcracker in the United States came in 1944 when the San Francisco Ballet presented the first American version, introducing the ballet to a wider audience. It continues to be performed today by the San Francisco Ballet at the War Memorial Opera House. This decade-long performance laid the groundwork for The Nutcracker to become a staple of holiday celebrations in the country. However, it was George Balanchine’s production for the New York City Ballet in 1954 that truly established the ballet as an American Christmas tradition. Balanchine’s version featured a lavish production with stunning choreography and impressive sets, captivating audiences with its charm and festive spirit.
Today, The Nutcracker is performed by ballet companies across the nation, from major metropolitan areas to smaller local theaters. These performances are often a part of families' holiday traditions. The ballet's rich visuals and delightful story connects with audiences of all ages, transporting them into a fantastical world where toys come to life and holiday cheer reigns supreme.
Why does The Nutcracker hold such a prominent place in holiday traditions? It evokes nostalgia and creates lasting memories. Many families attend a performance annually, passing down the experience from one generation to the next. The ballet serves as a perfectly enchanting introduction to the arts for children, sparking their imaginations and instilling an appreciation for dance. The Nutcracker also embodies the holiday spirit of giving and joy. The themes of family, friendship, and wonder resonate deeply during a time when communities come together to celebrate. Local productions often include community members (dancers and children), creating a sense of inclusivity and familiar pride. This timeless masterpiece continues to weave its magic in the hearts of those who experience it, ensuring its legacy for generations to come.
For
those looking to immerse themselves in
the spirit
and magic of Christmas, here are some options to attend a performance of The Nutcracker:
Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet Visalia Fox Theatre December 15 foxvisalia.org
Central California Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” Saroyan Theatre, Fresno December 14, 15, 21 fresno-theater.com
World Ballet Company’s “Nutcracker” Fresno Convention Center December 21 fresnoconventioncenter.com
The Nutcracker Dolby Theatre, Los Angeles December 19-28 dolbytheatre.com
The Nutcracker War Memorial Opera House, San Francisco December 6-29 sfballet.org
A TOAST TO NEW BEGINNINGS
Host the Perfect New Year's Eve Celebration
As we celebrate the close of 2024 and welcome the promise of 2025, let this New Year's Eve be a time of reflection, connection, and anticipation. Elegant appetizers, curated cocktails, and a sparkling ambiance help honor the moments that brought us together while looking forward to new beginnings. This celebration is more than a party—it’s a toast to growth, possibility, and the future.
Words by Lifestyle Staff
Photo by Dakota Jacobi
A Theme to Remember, Darling
Hosting a memorable New Year’s Eve party begins with selecting a theme that sets the tone for the evening. Whether it’s a glamorous black-tie affair, a playful masquerade, or a cozy night in, a cohesive theme weaves together décor, drinks, and bites for a festive atmosphere.
Grazing, But Make it Elegant
Easy-to-eat, visually stunning bites encourage mingling while adding elegance to the menu. Curate beautiful charcuterie boards that showcase a variety of gourmet cheeses, cured meats, and seasonal fruits. Include modernized party classics like deviled eggs with avocado and sriracha or a shrimp cocktail with mango salsa.
Get Crafty with Cocktails
Craft your own refined cocktails using a selection of spirits, artisanal mixers and colorful garnishes, allowing guests to tailor their drinks to their individual palates. For an extra layer of fun, add some friendly competition with a cocktail contest amongst your guests! And, of course, no NYE party is complete without a little champagne!
Throw Some Glitter on It
As you select your décor, ensure it aligns seamlessly with the chosen theme and the overall atmosphere you want to create. Incorporate elements that complement your menu and cocktails, such as chic table settings, coordinating color palettes, and thematic centerpieces. Consider bringing in sparkling accents like sequin table runners or twinkling lights to heighten the celebratory mood.
Gathering with the ones you love most is at the heart of every great celebration. So, raise your glasses and toast to all that 2024 has given us and the adventures that await in 2025!
Finger Lime & BLood orange martini
Showcase Tulare County's vibrant citrus in your holiday celebrations with this Finger Lime & Blood Orange Martini. A splash of bold color and a fun pop of finger lime caviar will bring homegrown sophistication to your next holiday gathering.
Recipe by Lifestyle Staff
Photos by Dakota Jacobi
INGREDIENTS
2 finger limes
1 large blood orange
1 lemon
Prep time: 5 minutes
Yields: 1 serving
1½ oz high-quality gin (consider a citrus-forward or juniper-heavy gin such as Tanqueray London Dry Gin)
1/2 oz simple syrup (optional, for a sweeter drink)
A few dashes of orange bitters
Ice
DRINK RECIPE
DIRECTIONS
1. Carefully cut the finger limes in half lengthwise. Gently squeeze the caviar (the small, juicy pearls) into a cocktail shaker.
2. Juice the citrus: juice the blood orange and lemon. Strain to remove any seeds or pulp.
3. Combine ingredients: to the shaker, add the blood orange and lemon juice, gin, simple syrup (if using), and orange bitters.
4. Chill and shake: fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds.
5. Garnish: add a sugar rim and garnish with either a blood orange wheel or a halved finger lime sliced on the rim.
6. Strain and serve: strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe glass.
HOLIDAY HEROES
THE SPIRIT OF GIVING BACK WITH UNITED WAY OF TULARE COUNTY
Words by Lifestyle Staff
As the holiday season approaches, the spirit of giving is more important than ever. United Way Tulare County’s Holiday Heroes Program is stepping up to ensure that local families and foster teens can experience the joy and warmth of the holidays. This impactful initiative works to meet the essential needs of families and members of our community, providing a lifeline during a time that should be filled with celebration.
SPREADING THE JOY
The Holiday Heroes Program invites you to be a part of this heartwarming effort. You can contribute by making a general monetary donation, which will go directly towards fulfilling the needs of families and foster teens in our area. Alternatively, you may “adopt a family” to fulfill their holiday wishlist, or support a foster teen by donating towards gift cards specified by the program to help provide for their wishes. Your generosity ensures that each gift makes a real difference in someone’s life.
JOIN DOWNTOWN VISALIA AND UNITED WAY OF TULARE COUNTY
Getting involved is simple! You can reach out to United Way Tulare County directly or visit the Downtown Visalians office. Your participation, whether big or small, can bring joy and relief to those who need it most this season.
Let’s come together to spread kindness and compassion. This holiday season, be a Holiday Hero and help create brighter moments for local families—because every gesture of generosity helps make our community a better place.
Scan the QR code here or at participating Downtown Visalia businesses to make a direct contribution.
United Way of Tulare County, Anna Pulido 1601 E. Prosperity Avenue, Tulare (559) 685-1766, anna@unitedwaytc.org @unitedwaytulare | unitedwaytc.org
Downtown Visalians 120 S Church St, Visalia (559) 732-7737, lauren@downtownvisalia.com @downtown_visalians | downtownvisalia.com
December Agenda
Discover festive events and holiday activities happening throughout the community!
DEC
Thursday
5
Kenny G: The Miracles Holiday & Hits Tour
When: Doors: 7:00pm, Show: 8:00pm
Where: 308 W Main Street
Hosted by: The Visalia Fox Theatre foxvisalia.org
DEC 7
Saturday
Santa Lucia Celebration
When: 10:00am-5:30pm
Where: Downtown Kingsburg
Hosted by: Kingsburg Chamber of Commerce kingsburgchamber.com
DEC 5, 12, 19
Thursday
Christmas in Downtown Exeter
When: 10:00am-6:00pm
Where: Downtown Exeter
Hosted by: Exeter Chamber of Commerce exeterchamber.com
DEC
Saturday
7
Christmas at the Plaza
When: 112:00pm-3:00pm
Where: Garden St Plaza, 101 S. Garden St
Hosted by: Visalia Parks & Rec and Downtown Visalians downtownvisalia.com
DEC 12
Thursday
Winter Winederland Walk
When: 5:00pm-8:00pm
Where: Downtown Visalia
Hosted by: Downtown Visalians downtownvisalia.com
DEC 13, 14, 15
Friday-Sunday
Wonderland Light Walk
When: 5:30pm-9:00pm
Where: Tulare County Fairgrounds
Hosted by: Tulare County Sheriff's Youth Services Unit, PAL tcsoys.com
Events subject to change. Please check with host before attending.
DEC 14
Saturday
Christmas with Santa at Reimer's
When: 3:00pm - 6:00pm
Where: Reimer’s Candies
Hosted by: Reimer’s Candies reimerscandies.com
THREE RIVERS
DEC 15
Sunday
Holiday Historic Home Tour
When: 1:00pm-4:00pm
Where: Beverly Glen Nighborhood Visalia
Hosted by: Visalia Heritage visaliaheritage.org
VISALIA
DEC 28
Saturday
1852: A Year to Remember
When: 2:00pm-10:00pm
Where: 1852 Visalia
Hosted by:1852 Visalia 1852visalia.com
VISALIA
Local Holiday Parades:
Celebrate Christmas Magic on Main Streets
DEC 2
Monday
78th Annual Candy Cane Lane Parade
When: 6:30pm
Where: Main St, Downtown Visalia Hosted by: Downtown Visalians downtownvisalia.com
VISALIA
DEC
Thursday
5
Tulare Christmas Parade
When: 6:30pm
Where: Downtown Tulare Hosted by: Tulare Downtown Foundation | tularedt.org
TULARE
DEC 5
Thursday
Children’s Christmas Parade
When: 7:00pm-9:00pm
Where: N. Main St Hosted by: Porterville Chamber portervillechamber.org See
Visit visalialifestyle.com/calendar for more local events or to submit your event to our online calendar.
PORTERVILLE
DEC 7
Saturday
Festival of Lights Parade
When: 5:30pm
Where: Downtown Kingsburg
Hosted by:Kingsburg Chamber of Commerce | kingsburgchamber.com
KINGSBURG
Looking Forward
As we wrap up the year with our December issue, we’re filled with excitement for what 2025 holds. It has been a privilege to share not one but two issues with you this year, and we can’t wait to bring you even more engaging stories, inspiring features, and community highlights in the coming months. From all of us at our heartfelt thanks to everyone who makes this magazine possible. Wishing you a joyous holiday season and a fantastic start to the new year. Here’s to a bright future and the many stories still to come!
UP NEXT:
The Winter Issue
Published by Root Creative Marketing, 6759 N Palm Ave, Fresno, CA 93704
Executive Editor Stephanie Steelman
Creative Editor Sam Justice
Managing Editor Lauren Walters
Sales Representative Dakota Jacobi
Content Editor Marissa Carpenter
Designers Daniel Borgatto, Josh Aleman, Lili Mendez
Advertising and General Inquiries lifestyle@root.marketing
Sales Office 111 W Main Street, Visalia CA 93291 559.702.1383
View this Issue Online visalialifestyle.com
Visalia’s Visalia. Additional copies are distributed at various rack and countertop locations around Visalia, Tulare, Exeter, Three Rivers and Kingsburg. Distribution is subject to change. Views expressed in articles and on advertisements are those of the writer and advertiser and not necessarily those of misspellings, and omissions. If an error is found, please accept our sincere apologies and notify us of the mistake.
© 2024 Root Creative Marketing
Designed & Edited by
Photo by Dakota Jacobi
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The Visalia Medical Clinic – Quick Care offers complete and compassionate bilingual care right here in the Central Valley. Whether you’re dealing with an allergic reaction, cold or flu, fever, a sprain or need advanced imaging, we’re here to treat you quickly. We are conveniently located directly off of the freeway and are open seven days a week. Because you were made to enjoy more time with family and friends.
