November/December 2014 by DMI Agency

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COMMUNITY The Visalia Grinch – A Heart That’s Just The Right Size EAT Heartwarming Winter Drinks PARTY Unleash The Cookie Craftsmen

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

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EDITOR’S LETTER

arm cocoa, light displays, all the girls getting together to make Christmas cookies, picking up loved ones from the airport, and the smell of wood burning across the city during the long walk back to the car after the downtown parade. These are just a few of the things my family looks forward to each and every year. You see, if there is one thing I’ve learned about celebrating the holidays as a mother, it’s that traditions do matter. They are much more than simple, repetitive actions that lose their meaning over time. It’s about preserving special moments that can only be experienced once each season, holiday or celebration. That’s it. That’s the point. Days turn into weeks, weeks into months, months into years, and years into decades, but those special little things we do along the way, those little traditions that we partake in each and every year, will live on as warm memories for our children. And with any luck, they will pass those traditions on to their own children one day. What a precious thought! We would like to thank you for another fantastic year of Raise Magazine. It has been an honor and a pleasure to create our own little special traditions with you – traditions like the very special Holiday Edition you are reading now. We’ve quite literally packed this issue with fun holiday recipes, activities, crafts and more to make this holiday season extra special for you and your family. In addition, we have the privilege of sharing the story of a local Visalia man who has been taking the spirit of giving to a whole new level. His stories truly touched us and we hope that it does the same for you.

DEVI

We wish you all a very pleasant holiday season and a beautiful 2015 to come!

OR ON ATI M EA , OR Y ID INF R E O R T . co m MO AS mag e s i FO R U B M I T ra 47 S es@ 739 -17 TO 9 t o ri ) s 9 l 9 i 5 0 0 ema call (5 ) 738 or 559 ax ( or f

KATIE

DEVI MCDONALD, Executive Editor

KELLY

BRYCE

KACI

MARIA

KAREN RAISE MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

IN THIS

ISSUE 6

COMMUNITY The Visalia Grinch - A Heart That’s Just the Right Size

LIVE Ditch the Holiday Stomach Aches

PARTY Unleash the Cookie Craftsmen

EAT Heartwarming Winter Drinks

DO IT YOURSELF DIY on a Dime: Holiday Keepsakes

LOVE Annual Toy Drive

TRENDING Holiday Hot Spots

CREATE Scented Sandpaper Gingerbread Man Ornaments

KUDOS Character Counts

FAMILIES Meet Your Local Neighbors

14 16

GARDENING Let’s Grow Herbs for Fun & Holiday Gifts

LEARN When Do I Start Planning For College?

EVENTS Out-and-About in Tulare County

20 4

RAISE MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

RESOURCES

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PUBLISHED BY DMI Agency 801 W. Main St. Visalia, CA 93291

EDITORIAL Editor-in-Chief KAREN TELLALIAN Executive Editor DEVI MCDONALD Editorial Coordinator KATIE PRESSER Editorial Staff KELLY LAPADULA ART & PRODUCTION Art Director ROSS YUKAWA Graphic Designer KACI HANSEN Graphic Designer CHRIS BLY CONTRIBUTING WRITERS ANGELA DURAN ISAACS KELLEY PETTY MISSY YAVASILE SHANNON SMITH SUSAN SCHIEFERLE BUSINESS MANAGEMENT MALKASIAN ACCOUNTANCY LLP GARY MALKASIAN CPA JEFFREY MALKASIAN EA Operations Manager MARIA GASTON Marketing Manager KIM BATTY ADVERTISING SALES Account Executive BRYCE McDONALD 559.350.2477 bryce@raisemag.com SALES OFFICE 801 W. Main St. Visalia, CA 93291 559.739.1747 • Fax 559.738.0909 VIEW THE MAG ONLINE! www.raisemag.com issuu.com/raisemagazine Facebook.com/RaiseMagazine Pinterest.com/RaiseMagazine

ON THE COVER: Van Crawford, The Visalia Grinch. Photo by Taylor Johnson. Raise Magazine is distributed in Visalia, Exeter, Woodlake and Tulare. If you would like copies available at your business, call 559.739.1747 Raise Magazine is published six times a year and distributed at high-traffic locations in the South Valley area. For a list of locations, call the DMI Agency office. Views expressed in columns are those of the columnist and not necessarily those of DMI Agency or its advertisers. © 2014 DMI Agency

A child’s most precious gift is their smile iles since 1997! sm r ei th d an n re ild ch g tin ea tr We've been

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COMMUNITY

A HEART THAT’S JUST THE RIGHT SIZE Text by Devi McDonald

RAISE MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

Photo by Taylor Johnson

THE VISALIA GRINCH:

COMMUNITY

Photo provided by Van Crawford

pend five minutes discussing the spirit of Christmas or the importance of charitable giving with Visalia resident and printing company executive, Van Crawford, and you’ll certainly realize that he is in no way a “heel” and could hardly be described as a “bad banana.” To the contrary, his pleasant presence and genuine sense of love and compassion for those in need is nothing short of inspiring. Sure, he may look a little “hairy” and “green” at this time of year, and it may seem a little out of the ordinary to be seen barefoot - again, hair withstanding - outside, playing the guitar on a cold December night, but to tell the truth, we felt his story must be told. We all need a little reminder, a little heart transplant from time-to-time, to remember the true meaning of the season, and the Visalia Grinch does just that.

For the majority of Visalia residents, during the month of June, there are fewer things further from their minds than gearing up for Christmas. After all, triple digit weather and sunny skies don’t exactly scream winter wonderland. This simply isn’t the case for Van Crawford, also known as the Visalia Grinch, who is already hard at work creating new items for his breathtaking, interactive light display. The set-up uses 20 controllers, 320 outputs, over two miles of extension cords, spans three houses in the neighborhood, and includes light and music choreography. The programming alone takes about 12-20 hours for every minute of each of the 12 songs. The Visalia Grinch himself makes frequent appearances during each nightly show to hand out candy canes and interact with the many visitors who come to his home.

“(Last year) we received 91 barrels of food and $12,000 in donations, all of which was given to the Visalia Rescue Mission,” Crawford reported.

“I wanted to change things up,” Crawford recalled, “so being a musician, one night I strapped on my guitar as one of the Trans Siberian Orchestra rocking songs was playing and played like I was in concert in front of about 20 cars. After the song was over, there were horns honking and lights ﬂashing and a few lighters held up in the air. Then I kept getting requests for the Grinch to play his guitar.”

While all donations directly beneﬁt the VRM, Crawford claims that there are some personal rewards, notably seeing the hearts and generosity of visitors in action.

Now, during the holiday season, the Visalia Grinch entertains the crowds every night, playing his guitar and putting on a show that delights children and puts a smile on their parent’s faces.

One such story is the time a white suburban was parked outside when the Grinch approached it to give out candy canes.

“I go 25 days straight with no breaks. The good thing is that I lose about 7-10 pounds each year,” joked Crawford. Crawford will begin setting up his 2014 display as early as late October, meticulously hanging each light, carefully placing each prop, and strategically running each of his 320 extension cords to ensure a smooth operation. Once the show begins, around December 1, Crawford, as the Grinch, will make appearances beginning at 6:00 p.m., every 20 minutes, 4-5 hours per night, seven days per week to entertain the throngs of people that come to his house on foot and in cars. So, what is the pay off? How does Crawford beneﬁt from all his hard work?

Each year, not only do people ﬂock to the Grinch House to be entertained and to see an amazing Christmas light display, but they’re given an opportunity to drop-off canned goods and monetary donations that go directly to the Visalia Rescue Mission (VRM) to help those in need. “The Visalia Rescue Mission does an awesome job getting people back on track through Jesus Christ. This is the main reason we ended up with this wonderful organization to sponsor,” explained Crawford.

“I have so many stories from children and families who have given their all,” Crawford shared. “I’ve been choked up numerous times. These children bring the Grinch drawings, cookies, notes, crafts and some of their prize possessions.”

“The driver said, ‘my son has something very precious to him that he wants to give you.’ They rolled down the back window and the little boy, who was maybe four or ﬁve, looked at me and said, ‘Mr. Grinch, I want you to give this to the Mission.’ He placed this small white rock in my hand and said, ‘It’s my diamond and I want the Mission to have it.’ The hair on my arms raised because this child truly believed it was a diamond, and, to him, it was. He gave it up to try and help someone else.” There was also the time that a 4-year-old girl named Talitha, who happened to be born on Christmas day, visited the Grinch and after returning home, decided she wanted to give her entire savings, totaling $13, so that “others would not have to be in the dark and would have a place to live.”

RAISE MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

Photo provided by Van Crawford

COMMUNITY

The stories go on and on, including a very touching moment when three children, KyLeigh, Logan and Landin, whose family had lost everything in a ﬁre the previous year, gave everything in their possession. They stated that it wasn’t very much, but to them it was like a million dollars as it was everything they had. “These children had lost everything, but were thankful to be alive and to have their family, which is priceless,” Crawford said. One of Crawford’s favorite experiences that “really got the Grinch going,” was the night that friends, “Batman” and “Joker” came over to help with the show. The three entertained the crowd, each in full character. “There were over 200 people in the front of the Grinch house that night when my neighbor, Marvin, who helped me every night with the donations, came to me and said that there was a girl with autism who wanted to see the Grinch. I went over to the girl, whose name was Jess, and she looked up at me smiled, wrapped her arms very tightly around the Grinch’s neck, and said, ‘I LOVE YOU GRINCH!’ We held each other for what felt like an hour. We were both crying happy tears. I looked over and Batman and the Joker were also crying. It was one of the most priceless moments of my life,” Crawford said with certainty. “She drew this amazing picture of her and the Grinch. I mean amazing, like a professional cartoonist. I will never forget Jess, and I will always keep that picture. My eyes are sweating now.” In the midst of a season full of gifts, parties and tons of delicious food, the question of what is the true meaning of Christmas can be challenging for some, but for Crawford, the answer is simple. “Giving to others and celebrating Christ’s birth. My wife and I have not bought each other presents since 2006 when we started this. We decided that it was far more important to bring back the spirit of Christmas and try to get the message out that it’s not what you get, but rather what you give that makes a difference,” Crawford articulated.

RAISE MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

As for what we can expect this year, “I’m adding ﬁve singing Christmas trees that will have 500 lights on each of them. They were hand-made and will take 40 additional channels to control,” said Crawford. It appears the Grinch is really making a difference in Visalia, for those who come to see him each year and those who beneﬁt from the giving of others. Crawford, however, is quick to point out that he couldn’t do it alone — not without people like Gary Castro of KRC Safety and his support of the Visalia Rescue Mission and Visalia Grinch, or the four girls from Central Valley Christian School who gave the Grinch a new bag to hold the candy canes he hands out, and others. Last year, the Grinch even received a special green guitar to play during his performances, for which he is extremely grateful. “I feel very blessed that the Lord has given me this channel to help others,” Crawford concluded. “I thank our Lord for giving me this talent and place for everyone to come together to help support those in need. I love this community!”

Photo provided by Van Crawford

“I don’t know of many 4-year-olds who would give their money up like that,” Crawford said with great joy.

LIVE

DITCH THE HOLIDAY

STOMACH ACHES Text by Angela Duran Isaacs, RD, CLC, Registered Dietitian and Certified Lactation Counselor of Family HealthCare Network

fter each holiday season comes to a close, many of us are left recovering from our “food comas,” courtesy of the holiday feeding frenzy, and are left wondering, “How did I eat so much?” Between Thanksgiving and Christmas, our stomachs get pushed to the limit with what seems like an endless variety of food that the holidays have to offer.

So why do we suffer more during the holidays? After all, it’s just food, right? While that is true, it’s best to recognize how the holidays contribute to uncomfortable digestive issues so that this year, you can make better decisions on holiday eating habits for yourself and your family. The following are a few of the causes that lead to that “not-so-comfortable” feeling after indulging in the holiday feast.

A CULINARY COMBINATION Foods that are associated with the holidays are generally high in both sugar and fat. Both are a major contributor to weight gain and tend to slow down the digestive process. It also doesn’t help that most of the foods served during the holidays lack ﬁber to help the digestive processes. According to the Center of Disease Control, empty calories from added sugars and solid fats contribute to 40 percent of daily calories for children and adolescents ages 2–18 years, affecting the overall quality of their diets. A poor diet can lead to energy imbalance and can increase a child’s risk of becoming overweight or obese.

So what can you do to keep your family healthy this holiday season? Here are a few tips that will help you enjoy a tasty and fulfilling holiday - without all the regret, come January: •

DO IT YOURSELF. Bring your own tasty, low-calorie dish to your next holiday gathering. Preparing a dish with your children provides a fun and educational opportunity, while also giving you a healthy alternative if all the other offerings at the party are too rich or fatty.

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KEEP MOVING. Help your children stay active during the holiday season. The American Heart Association recommends that all children ages two and older should participate in at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day. Exercise not only keeps the metabolism going and helps you digest and burn off calories, but can also stabilize your mood – something the whole family can use during the holidays.

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PACK SNACKS. Taking a road trip this holiday season? Avoid stopping at fast-food restaurants by packing healthy snacks for your family, like trail mix, whole-grain crackers, or peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.

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PORTION CONTROL. Don’t skip out on your favorites like stufﬁng and pumpkin pie all together. Enjoy the festive holiday fare that you can’t get any other time of year in moderation. This is a great opportunity to teach your kids about portion control.

QUANTITY ISN’T QUALITY It’s kind of like shopping at a grocery store when you’re hungry. With all of the delicious varieties of side dishes that are presented to you, it’s hard to say “no” when you’re standing there with an empty plate and all your stomach is saying is, “YES!”; especially when you have waited all year long for grandma’s sweet potato and marshmallow casserole. Your digestive system will eventually pay the price when you consume too much food because the more food you force into your stomach, the harder it is on your stomach to keep the digested food down, causing constipation, stomach aches and even heart burn.

RAISE MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

Lastly, remember to relax and have some fun - the holidays are about spending time with family and friends. When you know your family is receiving the proper nutrition they need for optimal growth and development, you can take a deep breath, smile and connect.

PARTY

UNLEASH THE COOKIE CRAFTSMEN AT THIS

HOLIDAY PARTY Text by Shannon Smith

he holiday season is quickly approaching, so it’s time to get ready for ugly sweater parties, holiday work parties, gift exchanges and others. There’s just something about the holidays that makes us all want to get together with friends and family to reminisce about the year. So, what better way to kick-off the holiday season with your kids than to gather up a handful of youngsters, ply them with sugar and then ask them to carefully apply frosting to small cookies without getting any on grandma’s lace tablecloth? What could possibly go wrong?

SUGAR COOKIES INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS

2 C all-purpose ﬂour

Preheat oven to 350°F. Combine flour, salt and baking powder, stir and set aside. Place butter and sugar in a large bowl and beat with a mixer at high-speed until light and fluffy. Add egg and beat until well blended. Add in vanilla and reduce mixer speed to low. Slowly add in flour mixture and beat until combined.

1/2 tsp salt 1/4 tsp baking powder 3/4 C butter, room temperature 2/3 C granulated sugar 1 large egg 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Shape dough into a 4-inch round, and cover with plastic wrap. Chill for one hour. Roll dough to 1/4-inch thickness on a lightly ﬂoured surface. Cut out 40 cookies using holiday cookie cutters, rerolling scraps as necessary. Place cookies 1-inch apart on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 350°F for 9 minutes or until lightly browned on bottoms. Cool on a wire rack.

RAISE MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

GINGERBREAD COOKIES To make the gingerbread cookie variation, just add the following ingredients to the sugar cookie ﬂour mixture:

INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS

1/2 C all-purpose ﬂour (additional) 1 T ground ginger 1 tsp ground cinnamon 1/2 tsp ground cloves 1/4 tsp ground allspice 1/4 C molasses

Add 1/4 cup molasses to dough when vanilla is added. Follow baking instructions for sugar cookie.

FROSTING INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS

1/2 C butter, room temperature

In a mixer, beat butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, half-and-half and vanilla. Beat until smooth. Add food coloring until desired color is achieved. Recipe makes two cups of food coloring, or roughly 30 cookies.

1 lbs. powdered sugar 3 tsp half-and-half 2 tsp vanilla extract Food coloring

PARTY

KID-PROOFING THE TABLE

BALANCING OUT THE SUGAR

After you’ve laid out a plastic tablecloth or butcher paper across the table, set up stations for each kid with their own supplies. Here’s what to include at each station:

With all that sugar ﬂying around, make sure you provide some salty and healthy snacks for the party. Try a fruit and cheese spread in the shape of a Christmas tree, mini sandwiches cut into the same shapes as your cookies, snowman string cheese, or wrap juice boxes up like presents. If you’re feeling especially festive, the drink recipes on page 14 are sure to be a hit with both the kids and adults attending your party.

Placemat – pieces of wrapping paper work great One cookie to start – let them pick their own Variety of sprinkles in holiday cupcake wrappers – no more than four per station

AND, HERE’S WHAT TO PUT IN THE MIDDLE OF THE TABLE FOR EVERYONE TO SHARE: •

Plate with additional cookies

•

Frosting squeeze bottles – this is easier than using individual piping bags, and is a lot less messy. You can pick-up these bottles (the ones with the red tips) at any craft store. Have more than one bottle for each color of frosting to avoid any potential “Susie stole my red frosting and won’t share” meltdowns.

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Extra sprinkles

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Other cookie décor items such as eyeballs (for reindeer, of course), candies, mini marshmallows, and anything else your kiddos might want for their cookies.

•

Have plenty of paper towels, baby wipes and wash cloths handy to clean up messes as you go.

Lastly, make sure you give the kids something cute to take their treats home in. Paper bags decorated with ribbon, plastic pastry bags from craft stores tied with baker’s twine, or baker’s boxes from a local bakery are all great options that can be personalized for each kid.

Giveaway! To help you get started with your own cookie decorating party, we’re going to be giving away a fun gift basket from Paciﬁc Treasurers. To enter to win this gift basket, visit us at www.RaiseMag.com or www.facebook.com/RaiseMag.

RAISE MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

EAT

HEARTWARMING

WINTER DRINKS

PEPPERMINT HOT CHOCOLATE Makes 3 cups INGREDIENTS: 3 C milk 3 (heaping) T semi-sweet chocolate chips 3 T white sugar 2 candy canes (regular size) 1 C whipping cream 2 T confectioners sugar

DIRECTIONS: Place milk in a medium saucepan and warm over medium heat. Once milk is warm, add in sugar and chocolate chips. Whisk as chocolate melts. Once chocolate and sugar have melted and dissolved, about 4 minutes, remove from heat and add the candy canes. Stir candy canes in hot chocolate for about 1 minute, then remove. Place whipping cream and confectioners sugar in mixing bowl and beat with mixer until stiff peaks form. Pour into mugs, add whipped cream and crushed candy canes to the top.

RAISE MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

s the chilly nights sweep in and evenings become a time to gather around the fireplace reading stories, watching your favorite holiday movies and spending time with those you love, there is nothing that enhances these special times like a nice, warm, festive drink. Raise Magazine would like to present three familyfriendly holiday beverages that will not only warm your tummies, but will limit the amount of sugar and calories typically associated with store-bought products. Enjoy!

CARAMEL APPLE CIDER

WARM SPICED MILK

EAT

Makes 3 cups

Makes 3 cups INGREDIENTS: 3 1/4 C apple cider 2 cinnamon sticks 6 whole cloves 2 T caramel syrup 1 C whipping cream 2 T confectioners sugar

INGREDIENTS:

DIRECTIONS:

3 C milk 3/4 tsp cinnamon 1/2 tsp ginger 2 whole cloves 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg 1 tsp vanilla extract 1 1/2 T white sugar

Combine milk, cinnamon, ginger, cloves and nutmeg in medium saucepan over medium heat. Allow milk to warm, then remove from heat. Remove cloves, stir in vanilla extract and serve immediately.

Cute Alert! DIRECTIONS: Place cider, cinnamon sticks and cloves in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil and simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until hot and bubbly. Remove cinnamon sticks and cloves and ﬁll mugs with cider. Place whipping cream and confectioners sugar in mixing bowl and beat with mixer until stiff peaks form. Top cider with whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel syrup.

Nothing makes a better holiday drink topper than a sweet, ﬂuffy marshmallow! Here’s a quick tip to make these wonderful puffs of joy look as good as they taste: Use edible food-writing markers to draw some of your favorite holiday images. You can ﬁnd them at your local craft store in the cake/candy decorating aisles. Just give them a few seconds to dry and they’re ready to drop right in!

RAISE MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

DO IT YOURSELF

he holidays are a magical time for family traditions, festive gatherings and making memories with those you hold dearest. Your children are only going to be young once, and as all of us parents know, that time slips away before you can even say “snowflake!” One way to preserve each year’s unique holiday experience and really “shake things up,” is to capture it in a simple, fun, easy-to-make snow globe. MATERIALS: • A small jar (mason jar, baby food jar, etc.)

HOLIDAY KEEPSAKES

WORTH KEEPING

• Super glue • Styrofoam

• Small toys, ornament or • Scrapbooking paper other objects (or white paper) • Glycerin (or • Mod Podge®

• Glitter • Crayons

corn syrup) • Water

Have your child draw a picture of their favorite holiday scene or object on a piece of scrapbooking paper (or white paper) that has been cut to ﬁt around the back of your jar. Using a paintbrush, apply a thin layer of Mod Podge® to the back of your jar and place on your child’s drawing, facing inward, to create the background of your snow globe. Apply another thin layer of Mod Podge® all over the back of the picture and the edges and allow it to dry. Meanwhile, cut a piece of styrofoam to ﬁt the (inside) of your jar lid. The styrofoam will create a cute, snowy hill effect in the snow globe! Attach the styrofoam to the inside of the jar lid using the super glue. Attach your desired toy (or toys) to the top of the styrofoam using the super glue and allow it to dry.

Tip: choose contents that truly represent that year for your family and you’ll never be without a fond memory to reﬂect on.

RAISE MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

Sprinkle desired amount of glitter into your jar and ﬁll almost to the top with water. Add in a couple of shakes of glycerin or corn syrup (this will help your snow fall a little slower!) and, carefully, screw lid on tightly. Use a sharpie to write your child’s name and age on the bottom of the jar lid to help you remember this holiday.

LOVE

ANNUAL

TOY DRIVE

A License to Care

Text by Tulare County Health & Human Services Agency Child Welfare Services

The community has the power to make a difference in a child’s life this holiday season. On October 6, Child Welfare Services kicked-off its annual Toy Drive, which will continue through December 5. Every year, Child Welfare Services and Friends of Tulare County partner with the community to gather toys for children in the child welfare system. The goal of this Toy Drive is to provide at least one gift to every child. Although foster care providers receive funds for providing basic necessities, such as clothing and food, it is difﬁcult to stretch that allowance to include anything special during the holiday season. With the help of the community, approximately 1,500 children and youth in the Tulare County Child Welfare System will have a brighter holiday season this year. The community has had a huge part in the past success of this Toy Drive. This year’s toy drive has already gotten off to a great start with over 40 locations throughout Tulare County volunteering to participate by placing donation boxes at their businesses. “The kindness and generosity of our community during this annual drive is amazing,” says Juliet Webb, director of human services at Tulare County Health & Human Services Agency. “I continue to be moved by the support and compassion of Tulare County residents who help make the holidays brighter for children who have been abused or neglected.” Partaking in this event is truly magical and being able to provide abused and neglected children with gifts during the holidays is a heartwarming experience. “Due to the gracious giving of the community, the adoption unit holds a holiday party where they distribute the gifts to the children,” says Kalisha Grandison, Child Welfare Social Worker in the CWS Adoption Unit. “This party provides an opportunity for the whole family to celebrate the holiday season. Through the Toy Drive, we reach not only the adopted children, but the whole family.” In order to make sure all the children are remembered this season, their requests are featured online at www.FriendsOfTulareCounty.org. You can contribute to this effort in a variety of ways: you can sponsor a speciﬁc request or donate new and unwrapped toys to one of the various drop-off locations throughout Tulare County, listed on the website. Your commitment to this Toy Drive makes it meaningful and its success depends entirely on the dedication and kindness of Tulare County residents. We welcome and encourage community members to participate in this event, and thank each individual who supports this effort. Sharing the spirit of the holiday season with a child in need is a generous thing indeed.

Tulare County Health & Human Services Agency

We heard you!

We are now offering one-on-one orientations for people interested in becoming a foster parent. Please call Foster Care Licensing, 623-0581, to schedule an orientation AT YOUR CONVENIENCE. Foster care homes are needed throughout Tulare County. We especially need foster parents ready to take in siblings or teenagers, and to respond to emergency placements. Foster Care Licensing will provide: • Ongoing training • Support and mentors • Networking with other foster parents

Children in foster care are going through a scary time in their lives. Are you ready to be their shelter in the storm?

tchhsa.org

623-0581

RAISE MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

TRENDING

HOLIDAY

HOT SPOTS

re you looking for some time out of the house while basking in the holiday cheer? Check out these holiday hot spots that are great for every family! CHRISTMAS IN TOYLAND CANDY CANE LANE PARADE

Every year for the past 69 years, downtown Visalia has celebrated the cheer of the holiday season with their annual Candy Cane Lane Parade! This year, “Christmas in Toyland” will be making its debut. So grab a chair and a blanket to mark your spot early! Bring your family, a cup of hot chocolate and enjoy a parade full of characters and cheer.

WHEN: DECEMBER 1, 7 P.M. WHERE: DOWNTOWN VISALIA

HILLCREST TREE FARM Located in Reedley, the Hillcrest Tree Farm is full of fun and activities for the whole family to enjoy. And the best part? They’re having a Pajama Christmas. Everyone gets to don their favorite jammies and begin a fun night of family traditions. Enjoy hot chocolate, cookies, and bonﬁres, along with live music and caroling! Take a ride on their train to get a glimpse of the surprise light displays along the railroad. Be sure to purchase your tickets in advance! In addition to the pajama party and Christmas extravaganza, they also allow you to cut down your very own Monterey Pine Tree or choose from a selection of pre-cut trees.

WHERE: 6943 S. REED, REEDLEY, CA 93654 CHRISTMAS TREE SEASON: NOVEMBER 29-DECEMBER 21, 10 A.M.-5 P.M. PAJAMA CHRISTMAS: DECEMBER 5-6, 12-13, 19-20, 6-9 P.M.

DOWNTOWN FRESNO ICE RINK Located in Mariposa Plaza in downtown Fresno, the Ice Rink is a great place to get in the holiday spirit. All you need to bring are your family and friends, warm clothing and a great attitude. Skates are available to rent and are included in the cost of admission. Make a ton of great, holiday memories this year with days or nights spent at the rink. The rink opens daily at 11:00 a.m. and closes at 9:00 p.m. Sunday-Thursday, 11:00 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Prices are as follows: adults $10, child $8, Monday – Friday; adults $12, child $10, Saturday and Sunday.

QuickCare • Onsite imaging and lab • Results quickly provided to your physician • Physician available Non-VMC patients welcome!

Visalia Medical Clinic

WHERE: FULTON MALL & MARIPOSA ST., DOWNTOWN FRESNO

VMChealth.com 738-7555

RAISE MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

Akers

WHEN: NOVEMBER 13-JANUARY 19

N Hillsdale

5400 W. Hillsdale • Open 7 days a week Hwy. 198

CREATE

Scented

GING

FAM IL LEAR Y FU N & NING TOO !

Wed-Fri 10am-4pm / Sat 12pm-4pm

Admission $5 per person / Annual Family Memberships $100

Available for Private Parties!!! 700 E. Main St., Visalia â&#x20AC;˘ 559-733-5975

visit: imagineUmuseum.org for details imagineUmuseum@scbglobal.net

RAISE MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

CREATE

Sandpaper

NGERBREAD MANOrnaments Text by ImagineU Interactive Children’s Museum

WHAT YOU WILL NEED:

• Fine-grit Sandpaper

s we make our way past Halloween and pumpkin scented candles, it’s time to introduce the warm, spicy gingerbread scents. Making these scented sandpaper gingerbread man ornaments is a wonderful sensory experience, a fine motor activity for your child and a creative craft session all rolled into one.

• Glue • Gingerbread man cookie cutter • Brown construction paper (or a brown paper bag) • Cinnamon stick • Whole nutmeg • Pencil

DIRECTIONS:

• Scissors

Start by gluing the brown construction paper to the back of the sandpaper. Then, place a book on top to ﬂatten and let dry.

• Hole punch

Once the glue is dry, trace around the cookie cutter on the other side of the sand paper. Next, carefully use the scissors to cut out your gingerbread man.

• White puffy paint (optional)

• Ribbon • Googly eyes or buttons

After you have your gingerbread man, rub the cinnamon stick and nutmeg on the sand paper. Now, the fun part! Decorate with ribbon or yarn, and use buttons or googly eyes. If you have white puffy paint, use it to “ice” your gingerbread man for extra decoration. Be sure to leave space for a hole at the top. After the decorating is done, punch a hole in the top and thread the ribbon or yarn through the hole. Tie it in a bow and hang your gingerbread man on your Christmas tree. Make multiple gingerbread men and give them out as gifts to teachers, family and friends for their trees!

RAISE MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

KUDOS

STUDENT ACHIEVEMENTS

CHARACTER COUNTS Text by Kelley Petty, CHARACTER COUNTS! Coordinator, Tulare County Office of Education

Leadership

JALYSSA ARGUELLES Lindsay High School has definitely benefitted from the leadership skills of senior Jalyssa Arguelles. Jalyssa has once again earned her peer’s votes to be president of her senior class, just as she has the previous three years. Through her diligent time management skills, Jalyssa takes on leading roles in many clubs and motivates others to join her, all while maintaining a 3.89 grade point average. Jalyssa credits much of her confidence and ability stay focused to her 15-year commitment to the art of dance. With her parent’s support, Jalyssa learned the value of committing to a group and accomplishing her goals. Senior class advisor and teacher Mr. Lopez shares, “Jalyssa is an excellent example of a humble leader who does not mandate others to participate. In fact, many learners in her class want to help her because of the example she sets and her work ethic.” Over the years, Jalyssa has appreciated Mr. Lopez for his influence as an understanding teacher who doesn’t judge others too swiftly and offers support to students and their busy schedules. After receiving her college degree, Jalyssa plans to be a math teacher who will provide high school students with that similar support, understanding and guidance, just as she has received during her time at Lindsay High School.

Agriculture

ALYSSA O’BRIEN Five years ago, Alyssa O’Brien made a promise with her best friend to become two of the most involved students during their high school years. As a senior at Exeter Union High School, Alyssa has kept her promise. Her most recognizable contribution to Exeter has been with the Future Farmers of America (FFA) Program. As a freshman and knowing very little about animals and agriculture, Alyssa found herself signing up for her ﬁrst FFA project — raising a lamb. By her sophomore year, Alyssa took over duties as assistant herdsman for the high school farm and then head herdsman for the last two years. Focused on student, chapter and community development, the Exeter FFA Program has recently earned the highest ranking in the National Chapter Award Program. FFA teacher Shelly Lyons states, “Students like Alyssa who serve others live up to our National FFA motto: ‘Learning to Do, Doing to Learn, Earning to Live, Living to Serve.’ Alyssa is a true charismatic leader in our program and we look forward to her great agricultural accomplishments in the future.” She enjoys working with herds and breeding projects and has her mind set to attend the veterinary program at University of California, Davis. With her excellent academic record and strong family support structure, Alyssa is sure to once again keep her promise.

RAISE MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

Leadership

JOSE GUTIERREZ Jose Gutierrez may come across as an average Lindsay High School senior who enjoys playing soccer and participating in student activities. His unassuming demeanor hides the fact that he is a leader on and off the soccer field. When Jose is not on the soccer field, you will find him maintaining a 3.33 grade point average and sticking to his goal to be a first-generation college student who will attend a four-year university. His personal goals do not prevent him from making time for others, whether it is with school projects or additional conditioning time with his teammates. Soccer Coach Doumbia knows firsthand Jose’s strong athletic talents and character saying, “Jose has a serious and dedicated personality. As a leader, he has taken on the role of organizing pre-season workouts for all soccer players at our school. He sets daily schedules for running and conditioning in order to be prepared for the regular season.” His peers will tell you that Jose constantly looks out for others and strives for what is best for his school and peers, not just himself. Jose is quick to credit his mother for showing him how to be humble, respectful to others and grateful for what he has. With these serving qualities, Jose plans to earn a degree in counseling to provide support to students and their futures.

KUDOS

RAISE MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

FAMILIES

REAL FAMILIES n o i t i d E y a d i l o H OF TULARE COUNTY THE GRIMMIUS FAMILY

We care for them in all respects . to n lear to ily fam a work hard as as ther ano one ect resp and love onal well as develop our own pers way One . Lord The with relationship that we have been privileged to do tral is to send our children to Cen , year Last ool. Sch n istia Chr Valley ren child rent we juggled seven diffe Ezekiah Hasten (8). between ﬁve different schools, I all THE BEGINNINGS: Randall and and I am so happy to have them . girls al ogic biol g four doin and with off now star ted under the same roof When the oldest was about ten, e. well ther ugh we met Maria and Lizette thro FAVORITE FAMILY HOLIDAY Due the tragic loss of their father. t TRADITION: One of our mos Maria to particular circumstances, is when we s day holi ed rish che ico chose to go to college in Mex dall ’s spend Thanksgiving with Ran as did and Lizette moved in with us, and ng eati ily, fam the of side school. Isis, Maria’s friend from high for. sharing what we are thankful and io Ezik , year that of y ruar In Feb es, gam of full is day the The rest of ght his brother Ezekia were brou match to see ling bow a ding inclu into our lives , as was Erica. A phy ” who will bring home the “tro now former drug addict, Erica has and k) ban y pigg er burg (a ham many become a source of hope for s’s. ham buns at Grandma Grimmiu ney. jour her through e hom our at nt spe is Christmas Day open We ily. fam the PARENTING PHILOSOPHY: We of side my with to enjoy have become spiritual parents stockings at 8 a.m . and then and all our non-biological kids

ily THE FAMILY UNIT: We are a fam s, of 12; Randall and Beth Grimmiu eros Cisn ia Mar , (25) z Erica Mar tine erine Kath , (21) nte Pue Isis , (21) Ruiz s Grimmius (18), Jessica Grimmiu , (15) iz -Ru eros Cisn tte (16), Lize Hasten Nicole Grimmius (13), Ezikio and (11), s miu (11), Rebecca Grim

THE FAMILY UNIT: Greg, Diana, Eric (23), Ariana (14), Johnny (10), Frankie (9) and Alissa, our niece (4). Greg installs tile for Romanoff Renovations and is also a musician for the band Jailbreak. Diana attends C.O.S. and works for Salon 525. THE BEGINNINGS: I grew up in Visalia and Greg is from Apple Valley. We met through mutual friends at an event in Los Banos and we were married three years later. We will be celebrating our anniversary on November 3. PARENTING PHILOSOPHY: My relationship with God is important and I hope to teach my children how to have a personal relationship with Him. Greg and I have an unstructured home life,

but it is full of love, freedom and creativity. Greg grew up with a great work ethic and demonstrates that everyday as our provider and hopes to instill that in his children . I maintain the household responsibilities , which include a family dinner almost every night, kid driving, yard care, grocery shopping and laundry that is never ending. FAVORITE FAMILY HOLIDAY TRADITION: Christmas is our favorite time of year. Grandma makes homemade tamales , we sip on abuelita chocolate and the family gets together to decorate the tree a few weeks before Christmas. The celebration ends with the youngest setting the star atop the tree.

RAISE MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

a. a wonderful breakfast on Chin with lled ﬁ is day The rest if our ll fellowship, the annual basketba ut game, lunch and a movie abo for the Jesus since He is the reason season. BE IN WHERE WILL YOUR FAMILY 10 10 YEARS? When I look ahead ng, stro res, futu years, I see bright men capable, competent, radiant and and women who love, serve ld. make a difference in this wor ity abil the with d ippe equ are y The of ple exam an to bring hope and be . them nd arou e love to thos

WHERE WILL YOUR FAMILY BE IN 10 YEARS? Greg would like to have his own tile company, and I hope to be working with youth for a nonproﬁt organization. Eric wants to be a professional skateboarder, Ariana wants to complete college and pursue her interest in music, Frankie hopes to become a child psychologist while Johnny has interest in being a movie and game critic. Alissa hopes to work with camels, someday.

THE KOSOBUD FAMILY

FAMILIES

THE FAMILY UNIT: Stephen, Kristin, Brayden (8), Kaylee (5), and Hunter( 1). Stephen is a Water Mitigation Manager for a local restoration company and Kristin is a Chiropractic Assistant. THE BEGINNINGS: Stephen and I grew up in Porterville and attended Pioneer Middle School and Monache High School together. However, we did not actually meet until 2007 at a mutual friend’s house. It was pretty much love at ﬁrst sight for us, and we have been together ever since. We are a bit of a blended family since my oldest son Brayden is from a previous relationship, but Stephen loves him as if he were his own. PARENTING PHILOSOPHY: Family ﬁrst. We all lead such busy lives with work, school,

sports and dance, so spending time together isn’t always easy. Whether it’s snuggling on the couch, watching Disney movies or just doing yard work on a Saturday morning, we love to do things together. Shortly after his 1st birthday, Hunter was diagnosed with testicular cancer. The tumor was removed in June, and he is now cancer free. We know our time together is precious and tomorrow is never promised. God is so, so good. FAVORITE FAMILY HOLIDAY TRADITION: We love driving around our town at Christmas time, “oohing” and “aahing” at all the pretty lights. It’s something we look forward to every year. WHERE WILL YOUR FAMILY BE IN 10 YEARS?: Brayden will be getting ready to head to college, Kaylee will be getting ready to

drive (oh, my!), Hunter will be a pre-teen and Stephen and I will have completely lost our minds (Just kidding. Kind of.) Life will be much different than it is now, but as long as our children continue to be compassionate, conﬁdent, healthy and happy, life will be wonder ful.

THE ZEBOSKEY FAMILY

TULARE COUNTY HEALTH CARE CENTERS · Pediatrics · Laboratory · Teeth Health · Family Medicine · Obstetrics & Gynecology · Diabetes Management & Health Education · We accept Medi-Cal, Medicare and have programs for people without insurance.

Your Health and Well Being Is Our Commitment Tulare County Health & Human Services Agency Visalia Health Care Center 2611 N. Dinuba, Visalia 559) 623-0700

Farmersville Health Care Center 660 E. Visalia Road, Farmersville (559) 713-2890

Tulare Pediatric Health Care Center 1008 N. Cherry Street, Tulare (559) 688-5437

Anthem Blue Cross is the trade name of Blue Cross of California. Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross Association.

RAISE MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

GARDENING

Wood Industries will provide a FREE gallon bag of garden soil to any child who stops in to start a garden project! 7715 Ave. 296, Visalia, (559) 625-9426

RAISE MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

Let’s Grow

HERBS

GARDENING

FOR FUN & HOLIDAY GIFTS Text by Susan Schieferle, Master Gardener, University of California Cooperative Extension

all is the perfect time to plant herbs; inside, that is! We are going to learn how to make a mini-greenhouse to cover a pot; then we will plant herb seeds or a seedling inside.

What is an herb? Well, ﬁrst of all, it is pronounced ‘erb.’ The “h” is silent. Herbs are plants with leaves that can be eaten. You see, it is the leaves of herbs that people use to season certain foods. Do you love pizza? Pizza would not be the same without seasonings like oregano, basil and chives. Why grow herbs? Herbs are easy to grow, make your garden smell better, take up a smaller amount of space than many vegetables and make your food taste great. Since most herbs grow better in warmer weather, we are going to plant herb seeds or plants indoors in their own mini-greenhouses. Not only will you be able to watch them grow, you will be able to give them away as holiday gifts! And then the herbs can be planted outdoors next spring.

LET’S GET STARTED WHAT YOU WILL NEED:

DIRECTIONS:

• Empty 2-liter bottle (the kind that soda comes in)

1. Scrub the label off of the 2-liter bottle. Cut the bottle close to the bottleneck with scissors. Throw away the bottleneck. Poke a few holes in the bottom of the bottle with the scissors.

• A small pot, less than 4-inches in diameter • Potting soil • Herb seeds or a small herb seedling (My favorite herbs to grow for children include basil, chives, cilantro, rosemary and thyme).

2. Make sure your 4-inch pot has a drainage hole(s) in the bottle. Make some for your child. 3. Fill the pot with container soil. Use a pencil to make a hole in the center of the soil, about 1/2-inch deep. Put 3 seeds in the hole. Cover up gently. 4. Water very carefully so as not to over soak the soil and seeds. 5. Cover the pot with your greenhouse plastic bottle.

Check the soil daily. If you stick your ﬁnger in the soil and it feels dry, add some water. With the greenhouse lid, the soil should stay moist for several days at a time. Be patient. It usually takes 7-14 days for your seeds to germinate. If more than one seed germinates, carefully pull out the weakest seedling, leaving the strongest one to grow into your beautiful herb plant. As soon as your seedling has many leaves, use scissors to cut leaves for seasoning. Be careful not to cut all the leaves off at once! If you decide to give your mini greenhouse as a gift, simply tie a bow around the pot. The herb plant can be planted outdoors next spring.

6. Set the greenhouse in a sunny window. NOVEMBER/DECEMBER GARDENING TIP: This is the time to rake up fallen leaves. Instead of throwing them away in your green can, keep them to use as mulch on the soil around shrubs and plants. This will keep the moisture in and help keep the weeds out!

Have fun!

RAISE MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

LEARN

WHEN DO I START PLANNING FOR

COLLEGE? Text by Missy Yavasile, Independent College Consultant, SOAR College Planning and Consulting

he question of when to start planning for college is a complex one. For parents, the hope is that you have been able to save since the birth of your child. However, we know that that is only true for a small percentage of families. For students, when should they begin to prepare for college? It seems obvious that students should begin to focus on grades when they get to high school since these are the grades that will count on their applications. But let’s get even more specific.

Students should begin thinking about college during their sophomore year. This is a good time to begin preparing for the ACT/SAT tests. As a sophomore, students can take the PSAT to get a glimpse of how they might do on an actual SAT test and which academic areas they need to work on. During their junior year, students should begin thinking about potential majors or careers and take the SAT and/or ACT no later than the spring, giving them time to retake if needed. Parents need to remember that the base year for calculating their financial aid begins in January of the junior year and ends in December of the senior year. This is the time, if possible, to make financial adjustments to improve your potential financial aid. By the end of junior year, students should have a rough list of colleges they would like to attend. This gives them time during summer to research and visit schools. Don’t be afraid to research “no name” schools, as they are often a better fit for students than the well-known schools. Research the social aspects, costs and academic profile of each college when making the list. It is important for the student to find a college that fits them. Finally, seniors should begin working on their personal statement for the colleges on their list during the summer before their senior year. Many applications are available August 1 and it is best for seniors to get as much done as possible before school starts. College applications take many hours, so waiting until October or November to begin can be overwhelming. High school students should remember to start thinking about college now. Good grades, great test scores, plenty of involvement in school and the community will all equate to more choices, more admissions, and potentially more money to help pay for college.

RAISE MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

EVENTS

OUT-AND-ABOUT IN TULARE COUNTY FRIDAY NIGHT FUN

RACE AGAINST HUNGER KIDS RACE

WALKING WITH DINOSAURS

A fun-ﬁlled night of climbing, games and indoor swimming! Open to children ages 5-12. Fee for guests: $15 in advance, $20 on event day. When: Nov. 7 & Dec. 5, 5:30-8p

Visalia Emergency Aid Council believes that kids are the future, and that this is a great way for kids to get involved while providing health, ﬁtness and fun. There will be various distances for kids to choose from in this non-timed event. When: Nov. 27, 7a

Dinosaurs once again roam the earth in this spectacular theatrical arena show. Watch them walk and hear them roar, and you will believe that the dinosaurs are back! Tickets $28-$60. When: Dec. 3–7, times vary

Where: The Lifestyle Center, 5105 W. Cypress Ave., Visalia Contact: 624-3416

Where: Downtown Visalia, Corner of Main St. and Garden St.

EXETER’S CHILI COOK-OFF

Contact: www.visaliaturkeytrot.com

Bring the whole family out for this year’s chili cook-off and sample the various recipes while enjoying activities and entertainment. When: Nov. 8 Where: Exeter Contact: Lynn at 592-7177; Charlotte at 592-1648

MOVIE NIGHT ON THE FARM Bring your blankets and chairs and sprawl out for a night of fun. Pack a picnic dinner and eat before the movie, or purchase some goodies from the concessions before watching “How to Train Your Dragon 2.” This is a free event, but RSVP is required. When: Nov. 10, 5-8p Where: McKellar Family Farms at The Glass Barn, 32985 Rd. 164, Ivanhoe Contact: 798-0557 ext. 7013 KIDS NIGHT OUT A night of fun games, indoor swimming, a movie and dinner. Open to children ages 5-12. Fee for guests: $15 in advance, $20 on event day. When: Nov. 21, 5-8:30p Where: The Lifestyle Center, 5105 W. Cypress Ave., Visalia Contact: 624-3416

Where: Selland Arena, 700 M. St., Fresno Contact: 445-8100

ZOO LIGHTS Bring the friends and family to stroll the brilliantly lit pathways of Zoo Lights. The zoo is transformed into a magical holiday wonderland, adorned with miles of beautiful lights and ﬁlled with music. Take a photo with Santa, enjoy live entertainment and complimentary hot cocoa and cookies. When: Dec. 5–7, 12-14, 19-23, 26-30; 5p Where: Fresno Chaffee Zoo, 894 W. Belmont Ave., Fresno Contact: 498-5910

EXETER CHRISTMAS PARADE Join Exeter and the community as they celebrate the holiday spirit and charms of a city where the season is ﬁlled with good wishes. The parade includes marching bands, drill reams, and it is said that Santa will participate in the festivities as well. Dress warm and be prepared for joy. When: Dec. 5, 6:30p Where: Downtown Exeter, Pine St.

CANDY CANE LANE PARADE “Christmas in Toyland” with Grand Marshall Mrs. Marilyn Barr. Kick-off Christmas in Downtown Visalia with the 69th annual Candy Cane Lane Parade! The mile route heads down Main Street so grab your blankets, hot chocolate, and get a seat on the sidewalk!

Contact: 592-5262 or www.exeterchamber.com 3RD ANNUAL RESOLUTION RUN Bank of the Sierra’s 3rd annual Resolution Run is here to promote good health as well as giving back to the community. Register by December 12 to receive the early bird price. When: Jan. 1, 9:30a Where: Bank of the Sierra, 128 E. Main St., Visalia Contact: www.valleyresolutionrun.com

When: Dec. 1, 7p Where: Main Street, Visalia Contact: www. DowntownVisalia.com

R ION O RMAT O IL F A N EI T, EM MOR E V EN N FO R A m IT . co UBM emag TO S @ ra i s s 1747 t n 9 e ev 9) 73 5 5 ( l 9 09 l 38 - 0 or ca 59) 7 5 ( x o r fa

RAISE MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

RESOURCES

important numbers

Fire & Police • Tulare County Fire Department, (559) 747-8233 • Visalia Fire Department, (559) 713-4266 • Tulare Fire Department, (559) 684-4300 • Exeter Fire Department, (559) 592-3714 • Woodlake Fire Department, (559) 564-2181 • Tulare County Sheriff’s Department, (559) 636-4625; (559) 733-6218 • Visalia Police Department, (Non-Emergency) (559) 734-8116 • Visalia Police Department, Gang Suppression and Narcotics Unit, (anonymous tip hotline) (559) 713-4737 • Tulare County - End Gang Hotline, (888) 363-4264 • Tulare Police Department, (559) 684-4238; (559) 686-3454 • Exeter Police Department, (559) 592-3103 • Woodlake Police Department, (559) 564-3325 • Kings & Tulare County California Highway Patrol, (559) 441-5400

Medical • Family HealthCare Network, (877) 960-3426; www.fhcn.org • Kaweah Delta Medical Center, (559) 624-2000 • Emergency Room, (559) 624-2213 • Visalia Walk-In Medical Clinic, (559) 627-5555 • Tulare Regional Medical Center, (559) 688-0821 • Tulare County Health and Human Services Agency, (559) 624-8000 • Children’s Hospital Central California, (559) 353-3000 • Sierra View District Hospital, (559) 784-1110

Education • Tulare County Library, (559) 713-2700; www.tularecountylibrary.org • Tulare County Office of Education, (559) 733-6300; www.tcoe.org • Visalia Unified School District, (559) 730-7300; www.vusd.org • Tulare City School District, (559) 685-7200; www.tcsdk8.org • Exeter Union School District, (559) 592-9421; www.exeter.k12.ca.us • Woodlake Public Schools, (559) 564-8081; www.woodlakepublicschools.org

City Information • Tulare County website, www.co.tulare.ca.us • City of Visalia website, www.ci.visalia.ca.us • City of Tulare website, www.ci.tulare.ca.us • City of Exeter website, www.cityofexeter.com • City of Woodlake website, www.cityofwoodlake.com • Visalia Parks & Recreation, (559) 713-4365

Add your numbers below

RAISE MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

at a glance: Other Important Numbers County & City

• Tulare County Services - United Way, Dial 2-1-1; www.211ca.org • Delta Vector Control District, (559) 732-8606; www.deltavcd.com • Tulare & Kings Counties Suicide Prevention Task Force, (Non-crisis) (559) 624-7471; www.sptf.org • Child Abuse Prevention Council, (559) 735-0456; www.tularecountycapc.org • Child Abuse 24-hr Hotline, (800) 331-1585 • Domestic Violence/Shelters, (559) 732-5941; (559) 685-9515; www.fstc.net • Sexual Assault 24-hr Confidential Hotline, (559) 732-7273; www.fstc.net • Alcohol/Drug Programs, (559) 733-6123 • Parenting Network, (559) 625-0384; www.parentingnetwork.org • Tulare-Kings Right To Life, (559) 732-5000; www.tkrl.org • The IRMA Network, (559) 732-5000; www.theirmanetwork.org • Latinos4Life, (559) 732-5000; www.latinos4life.org • 5ive5ive9ine, (Teen Health) www.559teensmatter.org • Tulare County Animal Control, (559) 636-4050 • Visalia Animal Control, (559) 713-4957

Nationwide • American Association of Poison Control Centers, (800) 222-1222; www.aapcc.org • Center for Disease Control and Prevention, (800) 232-4636; www.cdc.gov • California Poison Control, (800) 222-1222; www.calpoison.org • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, (800) 273-8255; www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org • The Trevor Project, (LGBTQ) (866) 488-7386; www.thetrevorproject.com • Missing Child Hotline, (800) 843-5678 • Road Conditions, (800) 427-7623

Add your numbers below

RESOURCES

NOW BOOKING 2015 SENIOR PORTRAITS

RAISE MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014