Lifestyle Magazine June 2024

Where Craft Meets Craft

Thoughts from the Editor

Growing up in the 80s came with the benefit of empty land and old orchards, and a childhood that was built ripe for adventure. My friends and I, armed with our Haro BMX bikes and boundless imagination, were the kings of our neighborhood. Well, actually, the older junior high boys around the corner were the kings; we just made sure to stay out of their way.

Those days were filled with the thrill of dirt-clod wars, the tension of hide-and-seek in a walnut orchard where No Trespassing signs were prominently posted and the ingenuity of building forts from scraps of plywood left behind by housing construction crews. It was a time when every tree was a potential lookout post, every ditch a battleground, and every patch of dirt a blank slate for our grand plans.

As 11-year-olds, the world was vast and full of possibilities. We’d pedal furiously, our bikes kicking up dust as we raced each other through fields, our laughter echoing in the open air. The fortresses we constructed were composed of childhood ingenuity, pieced together with dreams and the thrill of getting away with something just a bit dangerous.

Now, looking back on my childhood and seeing what my kids and their friends play, I can’t help but feel saddened.

In Jonathan Haidt’s “The Anxious Generation,” he outlines how modern childhood is dominated by screens and a pervasive sense of anxiety. Haidt’s research paints a sobering picture: our children are spending more time indoors, glued to screens, and less time engaging in the kind of free play that fosters independence and resilience. The allure of the digital world, with its endless streams of information and entertainment, is robbing them of the critical life lessons that come from exploring the world on their own terms.

ERIC RILEY Executive Editor | Lifestyle Magazine CEO | Topograph

My friends and I didn’t have smartphones or tablets to occupy our time. We had the great outdoors and each other. We learned to navigate conflicts during wiffle ball tournaments. We had space and freedom to test our limits and to trust our instincts. Sneaking around walnut groves taught us the art and thrill of adventure. Dirt-clod wars were our first lessons in strategy, teamwork, and not using rocks because those can end a game early with a split lip. These experiences were more than just fun; they were foundational in shaping who we became.

Unfortunately, in today’s screen-based childhood, far too many kids are missing out on these formative experiences. The lessons learned from a scraped knee or a hastily constructed fort are irreplaceable. They teach resilience, creativity, and problem-solving in ways that a video game or social media never could. Moreover, appropriate danger—like climbing trees or riding bikes fast down a hill—helps children understand risk and develop a healthy sense of caution.

Haidt’s book underscores a critical point: by shielding children from every potential harm and allowing them to be immersed in a digital world, we are inadvertently depriving them of the very experiences that build character and confidence. The anxiety prevalent in today’s youth can be traced back to a lack of real-world interaction and the overprotective environments that prevent them from exploring and learning on their own.

Looking back, my childhood was a series of adventures that prepared me for many of life’s challenges. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best thing we can do for our kids is to encourage them to put down the screens, hop on their bikes, and find their own walnut groves or empty lots to explore. The world is still full of wonders, waiting to be discovered by those willing to venture beyond their front doors.

Dakota Jacobi PHOTOGRAPHER / SALES

Contributors

June 2024

Rylie Fox

GRAPHIC DESIGN / PHOTOGRAPHER

Monica Fatica MANAGING EDITOR

Terry Ommen HISTORIAN

Mark Garcia

GRAPHIC DESIGN / PHOTOGRAPHER

JJ Fry

WEB / DESIGN / PHOTO

Lea Veiss

MARKETING INTERN

Marissa Carpenter CONTENT EDITOR

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HOMEOWNERSHIP

National Homeownership Month, celebrated each June, honors the American dream of homeownership. It underscores its role in community building, economic stability, and generational wealth. This observance also promotes awareness of homeownership benefits and initiatives supporting individuals and families in reaching this milestone.

With 40 years of combined experience, Erik and Karol Anderson, brokers and owners of Anderson Real Estate Group, stand as a beacon of expertise and reliability, helping individuals and families achieve their homeownership dreams. Below, they share some important things to consider when embarking on the homeownership journey.

THE RIGHT REPRESENTATION

Finding the right real estate professional requires diligent research. Are they full-time professionals with authentic reviews and experience in both buying and selling? Investing time to find seasoned, well-networked experts who provide personalized, top-notch service tailored to each client's unique needs is well worth the effort.

PERSONALIZED GUIDANCE

The journey to homeownership is deeply personal for most, with each milestone presenting its own set of challenges and opportunities. Whether you are a first-time buyer or a seasoned seller, finding a real estate partner to guide you every step of the way will pay off. From saving now and building a solid credit history to offering advice on staying out of debt and avoiding risky financial decisions like cosigning for others, being empowered with the knowledge and tools needed to make informed decisions about the future is vital.

MAXIMIZING YOUR INVESTMENT

Preparation and representation are key when it comes time to buy or sell a home. Consulting with an experienced professional well in advance is essential. At Anderson Real Estate Group, they use their expertise to assess clients' needs, develop a strategic plan, and provide invaluable insights to maximize the value of your investment. Whether you're looking to enhance your curb appeal with small yet impactful improvements or considering a seller pre-listing inspection to address potential issues upfront, there are a range of options to help you achieve your goals.

Interested in getting started? Contact Anderson Real Estate Group to take the first step toward achieving your real estate goals!

Brought to you by Anderson Real Estate Group

The Results Are In!

Lifestyle Readers voted for their favorite local businesses, now it’s time to see who won!

(559) 303-4897

@loveletteredbymaria loveletteredbymaria@gmail.com 733 N Ben Maddox Way, Visalia (559) 802-5888 @mamaks_diner

707 W Murray Ave, Visalia (559) 746-1852 @1852brewco 1852brewco.com 505 W Center, Visalia (559) 740-7914 @joshua_tree_visalia

Cocktail Lounge

Elderwood

210 N Court St, Visalia (559) 713-2114

@elderwoodvisalia elderwoodvisalia.com

Event Venue

Advanced Body & Laser Center

Medical Spa 115 N Akers, Visalia Day Spa 805 W Acequia, Ste 2C, Visalia (559) 636-0808 | ablcvisalia.com

@advancedbodyandlaser

@advancedbody_dayspa

4211 W Goshen Ave, Visalia (559) 372-9822

@thewoodlandsvisalia reveleventsco.com

3362 S Fairway St, Visalia (559) 258-4298

@blueprint_bxng blueprint-boxing.com

Photographer Sweet Treat

Thank You!

Once again, Lifestyle Readers showed strong support for small businesses with over 10,000 votes cast. Congratulations to all of the finalists who made it hard for voters to choose! Together, we are celebrating all that is great in the South Valley.

Scan to see the finalists and to learn more about the winners.

One of the unique features of the great American landscape is the amount of land preserved as National Parks. According to the National Park Service (NPS) website, there are 428 national park sites strewn across the United States, comprising more than 84 million acres. Just 63 of these landmarks have the official “National Park” title in their name.

Come summer, millions across the U.S. explore these places. Be it a leisure-filled day trip or long days traversing the unknown, our park system offers a budget-friendly alternative for summertime travelers. Other than affordability, the beauty of the National Park system is that each one offers something different. According to the NPS, the top five most-visited National Parks in 2023 were: The Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Grand Canyon National Park, Zion National Park, Yellowstone National Park, and Rocky Mountain National Park.

Words and Photos Provided by Tyler Baxley

SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK

It’s not a far journey to get your fill of outdoor recreation. Less than one hour from Visalia—in our own backyard—lies Sequoia National Park. Ranked #24 on the list of most visited National Parks in 2024 with 1.2 million visitors, Sequoia National Park boasts an extensive trail system, picturesque vistas, and the largest tree in the world. Moro Rock, Tokopah Falls, Congress Trail, The General Sherman Tree, Pear Lake, Marble Falls…you get it. There is one oft-overlooked (and arguably the most underrated) trail that offers a little bit of everything, including the fact that it can be completed in a day trip. It’s a popular trail for day-hikers, cross-country skiers, trail runners, and backpackers. For the animal enthusiasts, be mindful that dogs are not allowed on the trail.

UNDERRATED ALTA PEAK TRAIL

Depending on which trail you follow, Alta Peak is a roughly 14-mile out-andback hike that, on average, can be completed in eight hours for the casual day-hiker. Considered one of the more “challenging” trails in the Sequoias, the Alta Peak trail begins at the Alta trailhead. Sequoia National Park does charge a fee for entry and that can be paid upon arrival. Please check the National Park website (nps.gov) for more information regarding road closures, trail conditions, traffic congestion, and any other trip-planning information. Summer is the busy season for the National Parks; the parking lots fill up quickly—so plan on arriving early, before 7:30am. The Alta Peak trailhead is connected to the Lodgepole parking lot in Wolverton. The trail begins at 7,280 ft. and the summit tops out at 11,204 ft., equating to a 4,000 ft. elevation gain. Be prepared to bring adequate hydration (including a water filter just in case), nutrition, and appropriate footwear.

THE JOURNEY BEGINS

The first couple of miles weave through the forest and are moderately flat. After this section, the trail opens up and the climb officially begins. Have your camera ready for jaw-dropping views of the Sierra Nevadas on your right-hand side. There are signs along the way signaling which trail to take and the remaining distance between you and your destination. The climb extends for a couple of miles, then veers left to a couple switch-backs (zigzag portions of a trail up a steep hill).

THE REWARD: STUNNING VIEWS

At this point, the summit comes into sight. The air feels noticeably thinner and heart rates climb steadily. Take a break if needed, as the final climb is a steep push to the summit. This final section is above the treeline and the trail transitions from smooth to technical, or rocky. Don’t rush. Be mindful of footing in this portion as the combination of fatigue, the effects of elevation, and mounting excitement to reach the summit can affect one’s judgment in a split second. Next: the final summit. Once you’ve climbed the final ascent to Alta Peak, be ready for stunning, 360-degree views. On a clear day, you will be able to see otherworldly boulders, lush valleys below, the Great Western Divide, and even Mt. Whitney. This spot is even more picturesque because everyone atop Alta Peak has earned their way there. Take plenty of photos, and savor the moment.

ECHOES OF HERITAGE

HONORING THE LEGACY OF A THREE RIVERS HOMESTEADER-BOTANIST

In the heart of Three Rivers, where the whispers of ancient trees mingle with the song of mountain streams, lies a group of cabins that bear testament to a rich legacy of craftsmanship and connection to the land. At Sequoia Stays, the spirit of the original homesteader, botanist, and builder, Sam Pusateri, continues to resonate through the generations.

In the spring of 1946, Sam and his wife Juanita, left the hustle and bustle of New York and headed west to Three Rivers. They found the original 1930s homestead cabin, now called Red Bud Studio, nestled on 6 acres of woodland, secluded and peaceful, with a gentle creek meandering through. They had a dream to create a haven where they could learn and prosper while studying nature and living simply.

Words by Lifestyle Staff | Photos by Topograph

Kelly and John in front of Sam's 1940's sanctuary and laboratory, the Botanist Cabin.

Armed with a pioneer's spirit and an unwavering love for the land, Sam set about constructing a separate structure, today called The Botanist Cabin, amidst the towering sequoias that would come to define his legacy. He led the Botany Department in Sequoia National Park in the 1940s-1970s, and the cabin served as both a sanctuary and a laboratory for his botany studies. He wrote several books, and a few are in the cabin today for guests to enjoy. Sam, his wife, and their children lived in harmony with the land, learning from it and thriving alongside it. Many of their photos and homesteading literature were left behind and discovered in an old suitcase.

Just like Sam and his wife, current owners Kelly and John McCullough, an artist and a boat captain, were also seeking a simpler way of life in nature. With their two young children, Isla and John John, they left behind their fast-paced world in southern California and journeyed to the peaceful property in the foothills of Three Rivers. Here, they envisioned a life centered around family, where the quality of their days mattered more than the rush of time.

"IN EVERY WALK WITH NATURE, ONE RECEIVES FAR MORE THAN HE SEEKS."

– John Muir

Sam's lily pond where he planted three species of redwoods around it.

There are a total of three cabins on the property, and the owners have reimagined their design around the healing and simple pleasures of Wabi-sabi, a concept that appreciates beauty in imperfection and incompleteness in nature. Just across a wooden bridge, sits The Botanist Cabin with the best view facing east, surrounded by towering redwood trees in a microforest that Sam planted over 80 years ago. The cabin itself is an open and inviting studio, with windows all around, and designed for a maximum of two guests. Standing at the kitchen sink, guests can enjoy a serene view of the foothills where wild horses Sorrely and Sadie come to visit. It was the owner's goal for the cabin to serve guests as a sanctuary and refuge from the chaos of the outside world, where one can immerse themselves in the quiet beauty of the forest and commune with nature, just as Sam did.

The land is unlike any other in the area where a microclimate is enjoyed due to being tucked away and shaded by a canopy of lush plant life. Sam constructed a lily pond and planted three species of redwoods around it–the Giant Sequoia, Coast Redwood, and Dawn Redwood, which was thought to be extinct for 20 million years until 1944 when a Chinese botanist found some living specimens in central China. Adjacent to all three cabins sits a mid-century pool originally constructed by Sam, where he would teach the neighborhood kids how to swim. Neglected for decades, the pool was brought back to life under John's lead. Now, it serves guests as a water garden, utilizing a combination of plants, beneficial bacteria, and natural filtration systems to maintain clean and balanced water.

Inspired by Sam's vision and guided by his principles of stewardship and sustainability, the new owners have taken up the mantle, crafting an experience for travelers that honors the natural beauty and heritage of the land. Today, Sequoia Stays stands as a testament to Sam's enduring legacy, a community where the past and present converge in perfect harmony. Though he may have long since passed into legend, his spirit lives on in every rustling leaf and towering tree, reminding us of the enduring power of passion, perseverance, and the timeless beauty of nature.

sequoia-stays.com airbnb.com/h/botanistcabin airbnb.com/h/redbudstudio @theartistoasis_

The Erythronium pusaterii (a.k.a Kaweah Lakes fawn lily and Hocket Lakes fawn lily) was named in honor of local Botanist, Sam J. Pusateri, of College of Sequoias, who collected the original type material. This species is native and endemic to Tulare County, and is known from only about ten sites in the Sierra Nevada.

The original 1930's cabin, Red Bud Studio.

Photo by John Game.

EMBRACE THE SUN

It's time to soak up the joys of summer. But don’t forget to keep your skin safe during outdoor adventures and beach escapades. Get your Vitamin D, but try to avoid sunburn and premature aging. Keep your summer glow protected with tips from local skincare gurus, Advanced Body & Laser Center.

PROTECT & TREAT

SUNSCREEN, YOUR DAILY ARMOR

Tip: Sunscreen isn't just for beach days. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day, and reapply every two hours, especially if you're sweating or swimming. Don't forget your ears, neck, and the tops of your feet.

What to try: We have you covered with several SPF options and Matte, Clear or Tinted finishes. A crowd favorite: ZO’s SPF Powder which is easily applied every two hours.

HYDRATE INSIDE AND OUT

Tip: Summer heat can leave your skin feeling parched. Stay hydrated by drinking water throughout the day. Lightweight, hydrating skincare products like serums and gel-based moisturizers replenish your skin's moisture barrier without feeling heavy.

What to try: Keep your skin plump and hydrated all summer long with our SkinMedica HA5, Revision Hydrating Serum, or Elastiderm Facial Serum. For extra hydration beyond serums, call to schedule a hydrating facial (the Diamond Glow or Hydrafacial).

EXFOLIATE GENTLY

Tip: Regular exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells, allowing better absorption of skincare products for smoothness and radiance. But be gentler in the summer when your skin may be more sensitive from sun exposure.

What to try: Choose chemical exfoliants like AHAs or BHAs rather than harsh physical scrubs. Our ZO pads and ABLC exfoliating pads gently exfoliate during hot months.

DON’T FORGET THE LIP TREATMENTS

Tip: Your lips need some TLC too. Choose a lip balm with SPF that protects against environmental factors. Shield your lips from the sun's harmful rays.

What to try: Balms with moisturizing ingredients like shea butter or coconut oil keep your lips soft and supple. Our go-to lip balm is Revisions Youthful Lip Replenisher.

COOL DOWN WITH AFTER-SUN CARE

Tip: If you do end up with a sunburn, avoid harsh skincare products that can further irritate your skin and prolong the healing process.

What to try: Soothe your skin with after-sun products containing ingredients like aloe vera, cucumber, or chamomile, such as our Phyto Corrective Masque by Skinceuticals or Revisions’ CMT Post Care Cream.

TAKE NOTE

STAY CONSISTENT WITH YOUR ROUTINE

Consistency is key for skincare. Stick to your morning and evening skincare routines, even on vacation. Prioritize cleansing, moisturizing, and protecting your skin no matter where your summer adventures take you (and don't forget your Vitamin C and monthly facials)!

SEEK SHADE DURING PEAK HOURS

The sun's rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Try to limit your time outdoors during these peak hours. When outside, seek shade or wear wide-brimmed hats and lightweight clothing that covers your skin. Sun rays destroy collagen and elastin.

Enjoy the sunny days ahead while keeping your skin healthy and radiant. A little extra care and protection go a long way to keep your skin's youthfulness and vitality for years to come. So lather on sunscreen, hydrate, and embrace the beauty of summer with glowing confidence!

A NEW CHAPTER

GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH’S NEW HOME

Words by Lifestyle Staff | Photos by Kreatve Content

After years of meticulous planning and dedicated construction, Grace Community Church in Visalia unveiled its new building this past January. Designed and built to provide a modern and welcoming space, this state-of-the-art facility is a testament to the church’s vision and commitment to serving the community. “This new ministry facility took five years from planning to completion, but was a work in progress and prayer for over 25 years”, shares the church’s construction supervisor, Larry Pruitt. The journey included the sale of their former property to Visalia Unified School District. This acquisition enabled the District to consolidate its independent study program into one campus. During the interim, Grace Community Church held services at Divisadero Middle School until their new building was completed. The sale of their previous facilities played a crucial role in funding their impressive new location, ensuring the church's vision could become a reality.

Walking through the open-air foyer, visitors are greeted by arched entryways, large olive trees, and polished concrete floors, a design masterfully brought to life by expert minds. The atrium, which features a functional cafe, seamlessly connects to the worship area, fostering a sense of community and connection. Intricately designed carpets in each classroom add to the welcoming atmosphere, although aligning the carpets was a detailed and time-consuming task. Many local businesses played a crucial role in bringing this vision to life through their expertise and dedication, ensuring that every element of the church was crafted to perfection. The construction management partner for the project was local design and build company, 4Creeks, Inc. Larry shares, “The incredible result was greatly due to our partnership with 4Creeks. Almost daily, I worked alongside job superintendent, Eric Beedle. Eric kept the contractors accountable and, on occasion, he would roll up his sleeves and do some of the work himself. Our team can’t say enough about what a blessing Eric was for coordinating the ministry center construction to the very end. Also, teaming with local subcontractors was the right decision. These relationships allowed for more dynamic working conditions and a higher quality of workmanship.”

One of the standout features of the new building is the sanctuary, which boasts individual LED screens that took several months to program, and a lighting system that enhances the experience. The acoustic wall panels, also arched to match the design theme, ensure pristine audio quality for services and events.

For the younger members of the congregation, the church has created specialized spaces that cater to their needs. The high school rooms are particularly noteworthy, with raised ceilings that have been vaulted from the original 10 feet to allow for louder, uninhibited worship. Rehearsal rooms equipped with stages provide an excellent venue for youth activities and performances.

The attention to detail extends to practical aspects as well. The beautifully tiled bathroom walls and floors were designed by dlb Designs with the intent for easy maintenance. While the quiet air conditioning system ensures a comfortable environment without disrupting the serene atmosphere of the space.

This new building not only serves as a place of worship, but also as a hub for the community to gather, connect, and grow together. “Our church family is ecstatic with how it has turned out. We couldn’t be more thrilled.” states Larry. The journey to this new home has been long and at times challenging, but the results are truly spectacular and well worth the wait.

Design + Build Team

Construction Management: 4Creeks, Inc.

Architecture: SKW Architects

Interior Design: dlb Designs

Carpet: Franey’s Carpet One Floor & Home

Polished Floors and Painting: WM. B. Saleh Co.

Tile: Creative Vision

Lighting & Sound: NTM Productions

Earth Works & Asphalt: Galante Bros. Enterprises, Inc.

Landscape: Quality Landscaping

Joyful Brews

From Gridiron to Grounds, the Inspiration Behind Kuppa Joy

Kuppa Joy isn’t just about serving great coffee; it's about fostering a sense of community and spreading joy. At the heart of this mission is a strong spiritual foundation with a passion to serve a message of hope throughout the valley and beyond.

Zack Follett, the founder of Kuppa Joy, has a story that’s as inspiring as the coffee shop he created. Before embarking on his entrepreneurial journey, Zack played football for Fresno State and went on to join the Detroit Lions in the NFL. However, his career took a significant turn when he suffered a helmet-to-helmet hit during a game. He was momentarily paralyzed, and after undergoing rehab, it was determined to be a careerending injury. At 24 years old, most of his identity was tied to being a football player, and he found himself searching for meaning and purpose beyond the gridiron.

Embracing his faith more fully, it was at a coffee shop during a trip abroad that Zack felt called to create a space where people could experience joy and connection through something as simple as a cup of coffee. Fired with passion, his vision materialized into Kuppa Joy, with its first location opening in Clovis in 2012. Kuppa Joy now has eight locations throughout the valley with the most recent opening in Visalia as a joy-thru.

Each cafe and drive-thru are designed to be a welcoming and uplifting experience, encouraging meaningful interactions and a sense of belonging. Baristas and staff aren’t just trained to serve coffee, but to serve people with kindness and respect, embodying the spirit of love and community. A testament to this mission was evident when Zack encountered a struggling man on the streets. He took the time to share a cup of coffee with him, listen to his story, and offer encouragement. That simple act of kindness profoundly impacted the man's life, inspiring him to overcome addiction, pursue education, and turn his life around. This experience is a testament to how a compassionate gesture like a kuppa coffee can transform lives and underscores the power of human connection in fostering positive change.

With all of these efforts and more, Kuppa Joy has become more than just a coffee shop. Through compassion, a friendly smile or supportive conversation, each location aims to make a spiritual impact, reminding everyone that joy can be found and shared, one cup at a time.

kuppajoy.com | @kuppajoycoffee

Joy-Thru: 108 S Akers St, Visalia | Mon-Sat 6am-7pm

Cafe: 1375 Draper St, Kingsburg | Mon-Sat 7am-6pm

Words by Lifestyle Staff | Photos Provided by Kuppa Joy

Recipe by Lifestyle Staff

Photos by Topograph

Ingredients

1-1½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved

2-3 peaches, sliced

1-1½ cups cherries, pitted and halved

1/4 cup olive oil

1/8 cup balsamic vinegar

1 teaspoon honey

Salt and pepper, to taste

1/4 cup pea sprouts

2 4-ounce pieces burrata cheese

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves

3 ounces prosciutto

Sliced bread, to serve

Directions

Pumpkin seeds

Fresh oregano leaves

Fresh thyme leaves

Fresh dill

Lemon zest

Olive oil

Balsamic vinegar reduction

1. Slice the cherry tomatoes, peaches, and cherries, and add them to a mixing bowl.

2. Drizzle olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and honey over the fruit. Toss gently to coat, and adjust to taste.

3. Arrange sprouts evenly on a serving platter, creating a bed for the fruit and burrata.

4. Add prepared fruit to platter, leaving two open spaces for the burrata.

5. Place burrata pieces into the open spaces on the platter. Using a spoon, gently press down on each piece to open and spread out.

6. Tear or chop fresh basil leaves and tuck them evenly in between the fruit and burrata.

7. Tear or slice prosciutto and tuck the pieces into the spaces around the fruit and burrata.

8. Garnish with herbs, pumpkin seeds, and lemon zest across the platter.

9. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar reduction.

10. Toast or grill sliced bread, and serve with assembled salad.

For Garnish Tip

Prep your fruit an hour in advance and refrigerate to allow the flavors to set in.

Brush bread slices with olive oil before toasting or grilling to create a crunchy outside and soft inside. An air fryer is a good option.

Eat with the Season

SUMMER PRODUCE

Cantaloupe

Melon

Bell Peppers

Tomatoes

Sweet Corn

Peaches

Plums

Cilantro

Basil Dill

Fennel

Parsley

FRUIT HERBS LEAFY GREENS

FLOWER VEGGIES

Fennel

ROOT VEGGIES

Bulb Onions

Garlic

Nectarines

Apricots

Pluots

Strawberries

Boysenberries

Olallieberries

Lemons

Valencia Oranges

Blueberries

Loquats

Chili Peppers

Tomatillos

Bok Choy

Lettuce

Collard Greens Microgreens

Beets

Carrots

Potatoes

Sweet Potatoes

Radishes

VEGGIES

Cucumbers

Eggplant

String Beans

Fava Beans

Lima Beans

Summer Squash

NUTS & SEEDS

Almonds

Walnuts

Pistachios

Pecans

VISALIA FARMERS MARKET

YEAR-ROUND MARKET

Every Saturday 8:00am-11:30am

Tulare County Court House Parking Lot

2231 W. Main Street, Visalia

Over 70 Local Merchants

KAWEAH HEALTH FARMERS MARKET

SEASONAL MARKET

May-August 2024

Every Wednesday 8:00am-11:30am

110 S. Akers Street, Visalia

Bank of Italy—A Building for the Ages

Words and Photos Provided by Terry Ommen

Visalia is filled with hidden treasures, many of us drive past amazing pieces of history on our way to work, without stopping to think about all of the detail that has been put into these treasures.

One such hidden treasure is the Bank of Italy building, nestled on the northwest corner of Church and Main streets. This corner has been home to banking for 150 years, and this building continues to stand as a historic treasure. It started with the Bank of Visalia in 1874, when the company bought the Gem Saloon on the corner and remodeled and expanded the structure. The building, complete with a high clock tower, dominated the corner for many years while going through several name changes. In the early 1920s, the building was sold to the Bank of Italy company, founded by A.P. Giannini, and in 1921, it officially became the Visalia branch of the Bank of Italy. The new bank operated in the old building for a short time, and then the company decided to upgrade.

The old Bank of Visalia building was demolished, temporary banking quarters were found, and on March 23, 1923, construction began on the new five-story Bank of Italy building. The contracting firm of R.F. Felchlin Co. of Fresno was the lead contractor. One of their steps: driving 186 piles into the ground to stabilize the foundation for the massive building. Twenty-five subcontractors from all over the state worked on the project. On Saturday, September 1, 1923, the new building was dedicated, and three days later, the Bank of Italy opened for business there.

The building was, and still is beautiful. It was called the “Valley’s finest banking home.” The 101-year-old classical revival style structure continues to charm today and has even been granted a listing on the prestigious National Register of Historic Places. Recently, Darlene Searcy, the self-appointed liaison for the building owners, invited me to tour and explore this elegant landmark. I’d been in it many times before, but she offered access to areas that I’d never explored. I was able to explore the building from top to bottom with my guides, Darlene and Loree Dupree, the property manager with Total Property Management. The experience did not disappoint, and this Visalia treasure will continue to stand as a lasting legacy.

The Bank of Italy building was finished in 1923. From left to right Darlene and Loree were my tour guides.

Starting with the normally inaccessible rooftop, we took in the views that were spectacular in all directions. Beyond these views, the roof contains the normal ducting, plumbing and a number of antennas. There is also a small room with a metal galvanized water tank perched on the very top. The room is for elevator equipment, and the 4,700 gallon reservoir supplies water to the 47 tenants. The old tank was recently replaced with a new water tank made and installed by Robinson's Welding and Art of Plumbing.

The roof revealed another interesting feature: A long wooden pole that once held the American flag. The pole’s wooden base is still attached to the rooftop structure. At one time, the roof was reportedly used by employees and tenants as a break space for relaxing.

Basements are a rare sighting in Visalia, but this building houses a large basement space, which is still being used. The subterranean space is used to store spare fixtures, room and safe doors, door knob sets, and trim pieces. The large underground area has plenty of room to keep everything organized. One wall in the basement is decorated with graffiti, providing a small glimpse into what life was like back in the day. Handwritten notes, names and addresses are recorded. One interesting note says, “Started work here September 14, 1928, R. G. McGinnis.” There is also a rumor that at one time the name Amadeo Peter Giannini, the bank founder, was written on the wall, but we could not find it during our tour.

As an aside, my curiosity was piqued by the McGinnis name, so after the tour I checked my files and discovered that Ralph G. McGinnis was the elevator operator in the building. If his wall notation is correct, the man worked as an elevator operator there for more than a dozen years.

Another story about the basement involves a special bank teller station. A tunnel was allegedly connected between Chinatown and the basement of the bank. To avoid discrimination, Chinese residents would use the tunnel to do bank business, all out of public view, below ground level. The special teller station or signs of a tunnel could not be found—perhaps just another of many Visalia tunnel stories.

Certainly the outside appearance of the reinforced concrete edifice with its sandstone façade, all set on a granite base, captures much attention. But its lesser-known inside features and accoutrements are equally impressive.

Using the elevator, we visited the upper office floors that are rented by a variety of businesses. We toured the public ground floor space used by the Bank of the Sierra. The grandeur of the bank’s interior design cannot be overstated. The ornate six columns, classical moldings and bas relief designs give one the feeling of being in a Greek temple.

The gorgeous and ornate clock with Roman numerals on its face is a feature I hadn’t noticed before. Built into the north wall, but partially hidden behind massive chandeliers, the elegant clock deserves more attention than it gets. So on your next visit, walk toward the back of the bank, look up and you’ll be rewarded with a timepiece unique to Visalia.

This century-old bank building is like no other in Visalia. It gives the town a feeling of glamor and an air of sophistication. The next time you visit or take a stroll downtown, take a few minutes to look around. You will see something new each time. Thanks to Darlene, Loree, and the building owners for allowing me a chance to explore and share a Visalia treasure. So, next time you drive by on your way to work, stop to appreciate the detail and work that has been put into making this treasure in Visalia.

This clock is mounted on the north wall of the Bank of the Sierra.

Spectacular views can be seen from the roof.

This is a mounted elevator floor indicator.

A wall in the basement contains various names.

Thuong Nguyen, MD

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559-738-7593

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June Agenda

Start out summer by enjoying

JUNE 7

Opening Reception at Arts Visalia

When: 5:30pm-7:30pm

Where: Arts Visalia

Hosted by: Arts Visalia artsvisalia.org

JUNE 8-9

4th Annual Three Rivers Ice Cream Run

When: June 8 at 5:30am-June 9 at 6:30pm

Where: Reimer's Candies & Gifts | 42375 Sierra Dr

Hosted by: American Crusaders and Jesus Alvarez

JUNE 15

Miss California Competition Finals

When: 5:00pm

Where: Visalia Convention Center

Hosted by: Miss California misscalifornia.org

JUNE

8

Walk with a Doc

When: 8:00am

Where: Blain Park

Hosted by: Kaweah Health (559) 624-2416

JUNE

15

80's Neon Pub Crawl

When: 4:30pm-9:30pm

Where: Check-in Stacked Bar & Grill

Hosted by: Do the Crawl dothecrawl.com/visalia/neon

JUNE

29

One Night in Memphis

When: 8:00pm

Where: Visalia Fox Theatre

Hosted by: Visalia Fox Theatre foxvisalia.org

Penney Sick of Raymond James

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.

Looking Forward

The Summer Issue

Before we dive into the next issue, we're taking a moment to plan ways to explore our community and embrace its abundance. Let's be inspired to venture beyond our comfort zones—whether it's experiencing a hiking trail, taking up a new class, volunteering, or simply enjoying a picnic. Let's seize every opportunity to connect, learn, and grow together.

Published by Topograph LLC, 324 S. Santa Fe Street Visalia, CA 93292

Executive Editor Eric Riley

Managing Editor Monica Fatica

Operations Manager Maria Gaston

Sales Representative Dakota Jacobi

Content Editor Marissa Carpenter

Designers Mark Garcia, JJ Fry, Rylie Fox, Lili Mendez

Advertising and General Inquiries dakota@tpgrph.com

Sales

Visalia’s Lifestyle Magazine is published monthly and is distributed via direct mail to homes in 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 Lifestyle Magazine or Topograph. Every effort is made to avoid errors, misspellings, and omissions. If an error is found, please accept our sincere apologies and notify us of the mistake.

© 2024 Topograph LLC

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