Enjoy Magazine South Valley Living—December 2017

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South Valley Living

December 2017

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South Valley Living

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the perfect treat at sweet destination

Photo by Kelli Avila

Cr a f ting

40 DIY: Minimal Christmas Wreath

Good finds 31 More Than Treats at Sweet Destination in Reedley

Good ti m es 7 The Italian Heritage of Enzo Olive Oil and Enzo’s Table

holiday

show ti m e

21 Celebrating Cultural Holidays 34 Homemade Christmas Gift Ideas

26 Cirque Dreams Holidaze in Fresno

19 Holiday Shopping Guide

loca l s 10

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The Many Options of Neni’s Soap Shop Lori Rice Takes Craft Beer to a Whole New Level

on the m a p 16 A Labor of Love at Tulare Historical Museum

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specia l section in ev ery issu e 36 Enjoy the View— Joshua Cates 38 What’s Cookin’— Christmas Tree and Holiday Ornament Pinwheels 42 Calendar of Events 46 Giving Back—College of the Sequoias Giant Pantry

Enjoy magazine is not affiliated with JOY magazine or Bauer German Premium GmbH.

editor’s note

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DECEMBER 2017

GIVING. We’ve all heard the saying, “It’s better to give than receive.” And we couldn’t agree more! Sure, it’s fun to be on the receiving end yourself every once in a while, but how rewarding it is to give a gift to someone who truly treasures the time and thought you put into selecting that special something or to see the delight in a child’s eyes when you give them a toy they’ve had on their Christmas list for months.

When we take the time to look around, we can see the gifts we’ve been given in this area we call home. The lakes, the mountains, the rivers, the trails. If you’re looking for recreation, we’ve got options aplenty! Then there’s the people – amazing people – working diligently to build a better tomorrow, collaborating to help those who can’t help themselves, seeking solutions that lend a hand up. People working to bring arts, entertainment and creativity. They are working to bring new opportunities, new jobs, new hope to our communities.

And each and every month, the Enjoy team works tirelessly to bring a gift to this area that we hope you love and enjoy. (And by tirelessly, just ask Ronda Alvey, editorin-chief, how late she sometimes works on each issue before go-to-print.) We take the ideas we hear about from our communities, put our top writers on them and have them craft stories to draw you in. Our dedicated photographers work to capture just the right images to bring the story to life. And our team of talented designers bring all their creative juices to the table to weave it all together, bringing a beautiful gift to the table for you to enjoy.

We hope that each month, not just in December, you can delight in the present we bring to you within these pages. It’s our gift to you. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

SOUTH VALLEY Living

Yvonne Mazzotta publisher Michelle Adams publisher Ronda Ball-Alvey editor-in-chief Kerri Regan copy editor kendra kaiserman marketing & sales assistant LJ Lara MICHELLE ADAMS contributing graphic designers monica fatica consultant VALERI BARNES advertising sales representative Ed Boling advertising sales representative Miguel PUjol advertising sales representative Alex Pujol Danielle Colesberry Austin Reynolds Dadrien Keene deliveries www.enjoysouthvalley.com

on the cover Ari Avila

Photo by Kelli Avila Photography Cover Location: Hillcrest Tree Farms in Reedley

Enjoy Magazine 115 N. West Street Visalia, 93291 (559) 804-7411 Email General: infosouthvalley@enjoymagazine.net Sales and Advertising information: infosouthvalley@enjoymagazine.net © 2017 by Enjoy Magazine. All rights reserved.

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DECEMBER 2017 www.EnjoySouthValley.com

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Vincenzo Ricchiuti first set foot on U.S. soil in 1914 after emigrating from his native Italy. He began planting figs and grapes, and years later, when his son Pat returned from World War II, they starting P-R Farms, planting stone fruit and almonds.

“Almonds, tree fruit, grapes and all kinds of stuff,” explains Vincent Ricchiuti, Vincenzo’s great-grandson. Then in 2008, “our family made a decision to transition away from stone fruit and grow our almond business, but it was my crazy idea to start the olive oil company,” says Ricchiuti.

For the Clovis native, the move to growing olives made sense. It wasn’t just the Italian heritage or his admitted love for cooking, but it was also a smart business move.

“At the time,” says Ricchiuti, “98 percent of olive oil consumed in the U.S. was imported. We said we’d be happy with a piece of that.”

They did better than just a piece, though. In 2008, Ricchiuti planted their first olive trees and started Enzo Olive Oil. “My great grandfather, Vincenzo, is who we named the olive oil company after – to bookend my grandfather and myself, since that’s who I’m named after.

“We had our first harvest in November 2011, and since then we’ve won more than 185 awards for taste and quality all over the world. We pride ourselves on making the best product,” adds Ricchiuti.

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BY JORDAN VENEMA

Photos provided by Enzo’s Olive Oil

GOOD TIMES

the italia n heritag e o f E n z o O live O il a n d E n zo ’ s Ta b le It’s no accident that Enzo’s tagline is “Italian heritage, California soil.”

Though Ricchiuti is a second-generation Clovis resident, both his sets of grandparents emigrated from Italy, and from an area known for olives.

“Puglia, where my dad’s family is from, is the number-one producing olive oil region in Italy. That’s where all the olive trees are.”

And while olive oil at least figuratively runs in his family’s blood, Ricchiuti made sure it was more than just his Italian tradition that is pressing the olives. In 2010, he traveled throughout Italy “and we ended up buying an Italian mill from Puglia, a town 30 minutes south from my father’s family’s hometown.”

Enzo Olive Oil offers a delicate, medium and bold version of extra virgin olive oil, produced from the Arbequina, Arbosana and Koroneiki olives. In addition to their three varietals, they also offer three infused olive oils: Meyer lemon, basil and garlic.

“We actually take the essential oils of those ingredients and add them into the olive oil before bottling,” explains Ricchiuti.

“We also have three co-crushed olive oils: clementine, fresh basil and Fresno chili. We take the raw ingredients and crush them with the olives, so while we’re making the oil, we add these ingredients.”

“Plus, all the olives that go into every single one of our bottles is 100 percent organic and estate grown by our family – for better or worse,” adds Ricchiuti, laughing. 4

continued on page 8 DECEMBER 2017 www.EnjoySouthValley.com

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In addition to producing quality olive oils, Enzo Olive Oil also has a Clovis-based brick and mortar, Enzo’s Table, that sells local and California grown goods.

“The thought process behind Enzo’s Table,” explains Ricchiuti, “is that everything we sell in the store is something you’d find on our family’s table, from fruit, olive oil and vinegar, to pastas, all of our nuts, almonds and pistachios in every flavor imaginable, and really delicious pickled products. We have our own garden and fruit trees that we’re constantly picking throughout the year and bringing into the store.”

The store also carries Bloody Mary mix, two different pasta brands, granolas and three local coffees. They also have a partnership with Fresno State to sell ice cream, milk and butter, “and we’re the only store other than their farm where you can get their sweet corn,” adds Ricchiuti.

With the hospitality of a real family table, Enzo’s Table also hosts a food truck event every Saturday and Sunday between 11 am and 2:30 pm.

“We have like 10 food trucks that show up in our parking lot for lunch so people can come and get out on our patio, buy some fresh produce in our store, hang out, walk their dog or ride their bike there. It’s become a nice community hub.

“It’s almost like Epcot out there, which is really cool.

Every truck is from a different part of the world,” says Ricchiuti. Food trucks include Peruvian, Korean, Mexican and Indian cuisine. “You can bring your whole family, and everybody can get what they want.” • Enzo Olive Oil, Enzo’s Table 1959 N. Willow Ave., Clovis • (559) 298-8290 Monday-Saturday 8:30am-6pm, Sunday 9am-5pm www.enzooliveoil.com • www.enzostable.com Find them on Facebook & Instagram

Jordan Venema is a freelance writer and California native.

He’s a fan of wild stories, impetuous traveling, live music, and all the food. But mostly, he’s a fan of his seven-year-old son, Cassian. He can be contacted by email at jordan.venema@gmail.com.

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www.EnjoySouthValley.com DECEMBER 2017

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it keepin’ clean the m a n y o p tio n s o f Ne n i ’ s soa p sho p Marleny Angulo admits that she’s not a DIY kind of person, and she’s never really gotten into hobbies.

“I’ve never been crafty,” she says. “Just basic stuff like Play-Doh and finger painting with kids, but a hobby?

No. I’ve tried several things: scrapbooking, gardening, but nothing clicked until I made my first batch of soap. I just became obsessed. Every container I saw was a potential soap bowl.”

Angulo, a mother of five, made her first batches of soap out of necessity. Her two youngest children were sensitive to commercial soaps.

“Even when they were babies, water would irritate them, so I started buying a bunch of products for sensitive skin, especially for babies, and none of them worked,” says Angulo. “So I started buying a brand called

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www.EnjoySouthValley.com DECEMBER 2017

California Baby, and that really helped.”

Inspired by California Baby, Angulo learned the product had begun in the founder’s home. It was a light bulb moment. “I thought, huh, that’s interesting. I never thought about anyone making soap in their kitchen. So I started researching, reading books, watching YouTube videos, and finally worked up the nerve to make my own small batch.”

She instantly fell in love with the process.

“When you pour the lye into the oils and it starts to combine – the word is saponify, to make soap – it sounds kind of lame, but it was magical.”

For anybody who has seen the soap-making process, it’s easy to see why. As the lye mixes with the oils, its colors swirl and look almost like taffy.

Angulo became an addict, making so much soap that she was giving it away “pretty much to anyone that would try it.” She jokes that some people even thought she was losing her mind. “A little bit, yeah. My older brother made fun of me all the time. He said I was turning into a hippie.”

It was a slippery slope, or slippery soap, so to say. The hobby took over, first her time, and then the closet.

“Within a week, I had bought oils online and made another batch, and another, and another until I had a closet full of soap. My husband was like, where are we going to keep our clothes?”

So Angulo’s husband recommended she start a business. In 2014, she officially launched Neni’s Soaps.

“Neni is something my younger brother used to call me because he couldn’t spell my name. He passed away almost 11 years ago, so I named my company Neni’s, kind of like in memory of him.”

In addition to making soaps out of her Hanford home, Angulo also makes bath bombs and scrubs with body butters. Angulo’s husband may have hoped to get his closet back, but business only increased. They would even buy a home with a room dedicated to Angulo’s craft. With so much soap in the

As for Angulo’s favorite scents, she says it’s hard to choose.

“Currently I’m in love with Pink Grapefruit, but other times my favorite is the Rose Quartz or Milk and Honey, but sometimes I can have up to six different bars in my shower,” she says.

home, the Angulos could even consider encouraging their kids to get dirty.

“Seriously,” Angulo says with a laugh. “Go play in the mud.”

But her products aren’t just about cleaning the body. They’re also a treat, and especially the bath bombs, which currently have between 15 and 18 different fragrances.

“They’re my best sellers, and I always say I’ll narrow the options down, but…” Angulo trails off.

People can be overwhelmed by choices, but Angulo does love to experiment. “I’m always buying new fragrances, much to my husband’s annoyance,” she says.

Vanilla and Lavender Chamomile are popular scents, says Angulo, as well as Shave and a Haircut, whose scent she describes like walking into a barbershop.

There is also Charcoal and Tea Tree – “yeah, there’s a lot of them,” she says.

Of those scents, Charcoal and Shave and a Haircut are proving that specialty soaps aren’t gender specific.

“I am thinking of introducing a few scents for men,” muses Angulo, “and I am probably going to do a little soap and bath bomb and lotion set that’s specifically for men over the holidays.”

Neni’s Soaps bath bombs range from 3.5 ounces to 6.5 ounces in size, and cost $4 to $6. She charges $7.50 for most bars of soap, which can be purchased online through her Etsy shop.

As for her husband, “he pretty much gets whatever is there.” Although, Angulo adds with a laugh, “I add glitter to a few soaps and some days he’ll grab it and go sparkly to work.

I’m sure he gets made fun of occasionally.”

One thing is for sure – nobody in the Angulo home is getting made fun of for the way they smell. • Neni’s Soap www.etsy.com/shop/NenisSoapShop Find them on Facebook and Instagram

Jordan Venema is a freelance writer and California native. He’s a fan of wild stories, impetuous traveling, live music, and all the food. But mostly, he’s a fan of his seven-year-old son, Cassian. He can be contacted by email at jordan.venema@ gmail.com.

DECEMBER 2017 www.EnjoySouthValley.com

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at our table.

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There’s a place for you There’s a There’s a place for you at our table.

The NFRW is one of the largest grassroots organizations in the country with 1000s of active members in local clubs at our table. place for you across the nation promoting the principles, objectives and policies of the Republican Party. Become a member to stay informed on legislative and election news and other key issues. Visit any one of these Tulare County Clubs: at our table.

The Visalia Republican Women Federated club meets the 2nd Thursday for lunch at the Visalia Country Club. Find us on Facebook or at visaliarwf.org.

Exeter Republican Women Federated meets the first Thursday of the month for a lite dinner and speaker, 6 p.m., at Exeter Courthouse Gallery, 125 S. B Street. See us on Facebook

Join us Thursday December 7 for a special holiday meeting at the Vintage Press when we celebrate the Installation of Officers for 2018-19. Details may be found on Facebook. RSVPs are strongly encouraged.

Exeter Republican Women will not be meeting in December. We will meet next on January 4th, when we will have our Installation of Officers for next year. We welcome new members and visitors!

Happy Holidays!

1/14/2016 10:10:49 PM

Thank You for Staying With Us in 2017!

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1/14/2016 10:10:49 PM

1/14/2016 10:10:49 PM

Happy Holidays!

1/14/2016 10:10:49 PM

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BY JORDAN VENEMA

lori ri c e ta k es Cra f t Beer to a w hole n e w level

Photos courtesy of Lori Rice

Before Lori Rice and her husband moved to Visalia nearly three years ago, they had already lived in the Bay Area, Kentucky, even Brazil – and that’s not counting their travels throughout Europe and in other countries.

Sometimes it was business, other times pleasure, but needless to say, the couple enjoys traveling. Oh, and beer, too.

“Together we’ve visited over 100 breweries across the country,” says Rice, who says their move to California introduced them to even more craft beers and breweries.

“Moving to California? Definitely,” Rice says, “but my passion and interest in beer started when my husband and I traveled to Austria, right after we got married in 2006ish.”

For some people, putting their passion into words can be difficult, but Rice literally wrote the book on hers. Last summer she started writing “Food on Tap: Cooking with Craft Beer,” which was published earlier this year, though the idea for the book “had been on the back burner for more than two years before the opportunity came about.”

“It’s a celebration of all the rapid growth and change in the craft beer industry, and marrying that with food in a way that wine and spirits have done for a very long time,” explains Rice.

No, not pairing beer with food to enhance the flavor of each, she explains, but “all the recipes do have beer in them. There are a lot of chemical things going on with hops and bitterness that can be played around with to bring out the quality of the food.”

For those familiar with the gravitational pull beer can have on the belly, it might come as a surprise that Rice attended the University of Kentucky, where she studied nutritional sciences and wellness in sports nutrition, though her studies later would evolve “into more of a fascination with cultural foods.”

“Yeah, but hey, if you want to get into the benefits of beer, we can talk about that too,” she laughs. Anyway, the book isn’t just about indulging in brew, but also about exploring craft beer culture.

“I took the approach with the book to use it as a way to explore your craft breweries and to find out what they have on tap and what you can get in growlers or bottles, and how to bring that to your food,” says Rice. “It’s more

about exploration.”4 continued on page 14

DECEMBER 2017 www.EnjoySouthValley.com

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And the Central Valley affords plenty of craft culture to explore, with breweries like BarrelHouse Brewing Co., Tioga Sequoia, Brewbakers and Three Rivers Brewing Co. Rice’s new favorite is Full Circle in Fresno. “They’re producing really great, juicy style IPAs,” she says.

“BarrelHouse Stout is good for a lot of the stout recipes I have.”

As for beers used in the book, says Rice, “I include multiple styles of beers – saisons, chile beers, lambics, some stout and porter, but the goal was to expand on those staples. I also use brown ale several times in the book.”

With 60 recipes in the book that cover brunch, starters, meals, sides and desserts, there are plenty beers to explore and discover, but Rice makes sure to establish a foundation for those readers who are new to cooking with – or even drinking – beer.

“The starting point is a description of different types of beers that are used in the book, and what flavors in those beers help complement foods,” she says.

As for the recipes, Rice, who is also a food blogger, writer and photographer, came up with them herself, adapting some from what she calls her staple recipes.

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“For example, I make scones all the time, so I turned my go-to recipe for scones into a recipe for peanut butter stout chocolate scones.”

One of her favorite recipes in the book is a pumpkin ale cheddar and white bean dip, or the holiday ale cutout cookies, which she admits “is a little labor intensive but totally worth it. Just reduce a 12-ounce holiday type beer into a one ½-ounce reduction, then put it into the cookie dough.”

Other crowd favorite recipes include the baked brown ale potato cheddar enchiladas and the slow-cooked, five-spice stout shredded chicken.

One of the best perks of the book is that most recipes’ prep time is shorter than it would take you to finish a beer. Which raises maybe the only problem with “Food on Tap”: the temptation to indulge in the main ingredient, and drink all the beer. • www.loririce.com • www.fakefoodfree.com Find her on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter

Jordan Venema is a freelance writer and California native. He’s a fan of wild stories, impetuous traveling, live music, and all the food. But mostly, he’s a fan of his seven-year-old son, Cassian. He can be contacted by email at jordan.venema@gmail.com.

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ON THE MAP

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BY Melissa Mendonca | Photos: Michelle smee

a la b or o f love at T ulare H istori c al Museu m The ties to the Tulare Historical Museum go all the way back to high school for Executive Director/Curator Chris Harrell. “I’ve always been a big Olympic buff,” says the now 40 year old.

What started as volunteerism for an Olympic reunion of Tulare natives Bob Mathias and Sim Iness to raise funds for a youth recreation facility parlayed into support for the Olympic history section of the museum. Time spent there transitioned to deeper involvement, whereby Harrell is now surrounded by the local ties to many of his passions: military and law enforcement history, dedications to local founders and the memorabilia of everyday life of the people of Tulare going back to its first people, the Yukuts.

“It’s been a labor of love for the citizens ever since we started,” says Harrell. “This really is the people of Tulare County. It’s their museum.

They’re the ones who started it and sustain it.”

A project of the Tulare Historical Society, which was founded in 1980, the museum opened its doors in 1985. The museum was built from the ground up on the west side, so while it enjoys a historical surrounding, it also benefits from being developed specifically for museum display and archival purposes. “The block that we’re on was the site of Tulare’s first public schoolhouse, which was built in 1884,” adds Harrell. Yet, as a newer building, he says, “I think that’s one of the reasons why our museum stands out.”

Visitors are often fooled by the exterior, discovering that the museum is much larger once inside. In fact, the response from the community to the call for items of historical significance was so great that the museum was expanded in 1991.

In addition to an archival wing, the museum sports two main wings and a heritage art gallery that hosts three large annual shows.

“There’s so many great things,” says Harrell, hedging an answer to the

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question of his favorite area. Then he adds, “For what it means to the city and its residents, the military history wing.” Exhibits start with the Revolutionary War and continue to modern times. “It serves as a very powerful way of learning and remembering and paying honor,” says Harrell, himself a veteran of the Security Forces of the U.S. Air Force. “We had an older woman from Germany who was visiting. When she saw the SS officer’s uniform, she wept.

“In our display in our history of law enforcement, we highlight three police officers who were killed in the line of duty over the years,” Harrell adds. Perhaps most profound, he says, is the personal effects of these officers.

While tribute to military and law enforcement heroes is a powerful piece of the museum experience, there is also celebration. Museum staff and volunteers are gearing up for a large exhibit in March called Tulare Big Band Blast that will pay homage to the great school bands over the years. In 1954, the Tulare Union High School band played at President Eisenhower’s second inauguration.

Tulare school bands have played Carnegie Hall and the Rose Parade. All of these will be celebrated in a large exhibit combined with concerts and reunions.

For people doing their own research, whether personal, journalistic or academic, the Tom Hennion Archives Center provides access to thousands of historical documents and photographs. Locals and visitors can call ahead to schedule time in the archives, and staff will support the requests of people living far away.

Tulare County artists also share a spotlight in the Heritage Art Gallery wing. Art shows rotate every five or six weeks, with annual shows such those featuring the Tulare Art Club and work by Tulare county students being eagerly anticipated. The show Tulare County Impressions challenges artists of all mediums to use the community as inspiration for their works.

For area third graders, the Tulare Historical Museum is where lessons come alive. Local history is an integral part of the third grade curriculum, so the museum spends much of its time arranging field trips for the youngsters.

Says Harrell, “It takes almost the entire year to get all of the classes in.”

When he passes by the the gold medals of his Olympic hero Bob Mathias, or ponders the personal effects of fallen Tulare County soldiers and law enforcement officers, Harrell is clear on the good fortune to have landed where he did. “What I do is ensure that the high level of excellence that they set in 1985 stands and gets raised for years to come.” • Tulare Historical Museum • 444 West Tulare Ave. (559) 686-2074 • www.tularehistoricalmuseum.org Thursday-Saturday 10am-4pm Melissa Mendonca is a graduate of San Francisco State and Tulane universities. She’s a lover of airports and road trips and believes in mentoring and service to create communities everyone can enjoy. Her favorite words are rebar, wanderlust and change.

DECEMBER 2017 www.EnjoySouthValley.com

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DECEMBER 2017 www.EnjoySouthValley.com

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BY kimberly bonéy

a

Wonderful World

Cele b rati n g Cultural H olidays Christ m as

In this culturally diverse melting pot that is the United States, the warmth of the holiday season radiates from an array of celebrations that, although different in their structure, rituals and history, are connected through the common thread of love, faith, family and goodwill. Take a journey with us as we get to know a few of the cultural traditions celebrated in America during the month of December.

Christians worldwide acknowledge this day, Dec. 25, as the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. The religious holiday includes the tradition of gift giving, symbolizing the gifts brought by the Three Wise Men to Baby Jesus in the manger.

The manger scene is still central to many Christmas celebrations throughout the world. Over the years, many worldwide traditions have combined to bring about Christmas as we know it here in the United States, with beautifully decorated Christmas trees, stockings “hung by the chimney with care,” sipping eggnog by the fire, caroling, charitable donations to those in need, Santa Claus, warm wishes sent to friends and family through greeting cards, the baking of cookies and pies, and quality time spent with loved ones.

H a n u k k ah Hanukkah, Hebrew for “dedication,” is often referred to as the Festival of Lights.

This year’s celebration takes place from sundown Dec. 12 through sundown Dec. 20. The eight-day Jewish celebration represents the miracle that took place during the rededication of the Jewish Temple. According to the Jewish faith, there was only enough oil to light the lamp for a single day, but miraculously, it managed to remain lit for eight days. The menorah, the candelabra that has nine candles – one which lights the other eight – is often prominently displayed in the window to honor the miracle. One candle is lit each night after sundown as blessings are recited. The tradition includes sharing foods fried in olive oil and baked goods, potato latkes and sufganiyot (jam-filled doughnuts) among the most popular.

One gift is given to each member of the family for every night of the celebration.

Children often enjoy the gift of chocolate coins called “gelt.” Dreidel, a gambling game that was a secret way of acknowledging the miracle of Hanukkah during a time of oppression, is still common in some celebrations.4

continued on page 22 DECEMBER 2017 www.EnjoySouthValley.com

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K wa n z aa This African-American spiritual holiday, Swahili for “first fruits,” was developed in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga as a way to honor the African culture which serves to build and reinforce the African-American community. The non-religious celebration takes place from Dec. 26 through Jan. 1. The seven principles upon which the concept was built, collectively known as Nguzo Saba, are Unity (Umoja), Self-Determination (Kujichagulia), Collective Work and Responsibility (Ujima), Cooperative Economics (Ujamaa), Purpose (Nia), Creativity (Kuumba) and Faith (Imani). The celebration lasts seven nights, with celebrants lighting one candle per night on the Kinara, the seven-pronged candelabra. Each lit candle honors a different principle and that night’s discussion centers on it. Kwanzaa includes story-telling, poetry-reading and a large traditional meal. Gift exchanging isn’t customary, but if gifts are exchanged, they are traditionally handmade.

Children are a big part of the celebration, and are often the ones learning and reciting the principles, showcasing the importance of providing a solid foundation for young people. Black, red and green are the primary colors associated with Kwanzaa - the black representative of the people, the red acknowledging their struggle and the green symbolizing hope for the future.

E id Milad U n Na b i This holiday, whose name means “birth of a prophet” in Arabic, is celebrated in some Muslim communities worldwide, commemorating the birthday of the prophet Muhammad. This year’s celebration takes place November 30 - December 1, although dates vary from year to year.

During Eid Milad Un Nabi, some Muslims fast as a way to honor their faith. Celebrants gather for night-long prayer, listen to stories and poetry about the deeds and teachings of Muhammad and enjoy communal meals together. Participation in the communal meals is often extended to non-Muslims as a way to promote understanding of the Islamic faith for those who are not Muslim, while warmly welcoming friends and neighbors to the birthday celebration. Homes and mosques are festively decorated, birthday cake may be served and the streets are filled with people parading in jubilation. Eid Milad Un Nabi is also known as a time of charitable works to those in need.

L as Posadas A Mexican tradition that means “The Inns” or “The Lodgings” symbolizes the journey of Mary and Joseph to the manger on the night Jesus was born. The nine-day celebration begins Dec. 16 and culminates on Christmas Eve, also referred to as “Buena Noche” or Holy Night. Celebrants travel from house to house until they reach the home where Las Posadas will be celebrated. Children participate in pageants, in which they dress as Mary, Joseph or the Three Wise Men. Songs and prayers open up the celebration, as Mary and Joseph are finally acknowledged, opening up the way for a jubilee complete with Christmas music, dancing, piñata bashing, sweet edibles and, sometimes, fireworks. Variations on the tradition are celebrated in the Philippines, Puerto Rico and Central America. In northern Mexico, and particularly in Mexican-American communities in the southwestern United States, festivities may include a visit from Santa Claus, a gift exchange and a Christmas tree. •

Kimberly N. Bonéy, proud wife and mom, is a freelance writer, designer, up-cycler and owner of Herstory Vintage. When she’s not working, she is joyfully wielding jewelry-making tools and paintbrushes in her studio.

Antique shops, vintage boutiques, craft stores and bead shops are her happy place.

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www.EnjoySouthValley.com www.EnjoySouthValley.com DECEMBER DECEMBER2017 2017

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BY kimberly horg

Photos courtesy of Cirque Dreams

showtime

Cir q ue D rea m s H olida z e i n f res n o Flipping gingerbread men, spinning penguins, caroling puppets, snowmen, icemen and reindeer flying above – this might be a dream come true for Christmas enthusiasts.

On Dec.19 and 20, residents can witness for the first time in the Central Valley the Broadway Cirque Dreams Holidaze in Fresno’s Saroyan Theatre. The circusthemed holiday stage spectacular features ornaments, costumes and acrobatics that celebrate holiday traditions. It spotlights more than 300 costumes, 20 acts and 30 artists from around the world.

Beyond the flipping gingerbread, toy soldiers march on thin wires while the snowmen balance. The audience can also partake in the spectacle of icemen sculpting as well as caroling puppets, while familiar Christmas music warms the heart.

Cirque Dreams Holidaze is a critically acclaimed holiday extravaganza. The Washington Post says not to miss the international sensation that “Dazzled… at The Kennedy Center.” “Charm, sparkle and talent by the sleighload,” says the New York Daily News. It is “so full of energy it could end our dependence on oil,” according to the New York Daily News and “stuffed with so much holiday cheer and audacious acts, Scrooge would exit with a big ol’ smile on his face,” proclaims the Erie Times News.

Director Neil Goldberg hired an international cast of more than 30 multitalented artists. The unique costumes help bring the characters to life while they perform astonishing feats.

The show has an original music score with seasonal favorites, and the set includes enormous holiday gifts, colossal-size candy canes and 30-foot towering soldiers set high above the audience to capture the magnitude of the holidays.

One might imagine that it takes the staff a long time to set the stage for an event like this, but Amy Jennings, marketing manager for Fresno Convention & Entertainment Center/SMG says otherwise. “The show moves rapidly along with backdrops and scene changes, just like a Broadway show.”

People of all ages can explore the magic of the season in the circus-like holiday stage spectacular. The show is two hours long and refreshments in the lobby include popcorn and a full bar. •

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Cirque Dreams Holidaze r or Tickets are available at Ticketmaste no at Selland Arena, 700 M St. in Fres ay Frid ugh thro Monday 10 am to 6 pm. www.broadwayinfresno.com/shows/ cirque-dreams-holidaze

Kimberly Horg earned her Bachelor of Arts in journalism from Humboldt State University. She is pursuing her Master of Fine Arts in creative writing at Fresno State University. Kimberly has had hundreds of articles published throughout the country. To read more of her work, visit www.kimberlyhorg.com.

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GOOD FINDS

|

BY JORDAN VENEMA | PHOTOS: KELLI AVILA

Oh So Sweet m ore tha n treats at S w eet D esti n atio n i n reedl E y The last thing a teacher wants is a classroom full of students on sugar, which is probably why former Dinuba High School teacher Shelly Henderson waited until she retired to open Sweet Destination, a candy and toy shop in downtown Reedley.

The teacher-turned-candy-slinger laughs, but makes a good point: “Well, you know, a candy shop is for all ages.”

A year after retiring, Henderson opened Sweet Destination in October last year, though she and her husband had long been planning to open the shop.

“About 10 or 11 years ago we bought our very first fixtures and stored them,” explains Henderson. They purchased an M&M dispenser and jelly bean dispenser from a Reedley business, Coffee and Candy, after it had closed.

“It was a popular store,” says Henderson. “Now their legacy lives on here.”

Not only does candy appeal to all ages, but Henderson also describes the shop as “good old-fashioned family fun.”

“There isn’t a person I know that doesn’t like some form of candy,” she continues. “We have some customers in their 90s who make a special trip to come here through the transit system to get their candy and their chocolate, and most of them just love to share it with other people.

“We have one customer who’s 97, Ivan, who comes in regularly and gets his half-pound of chocolate. He entertains our customers by yodeling and reciting poetry. So really, they all feel like a kid in a candy shop.”

So in addition to appealing to all ages, the shop has a way of bringing out the kid in us all.

“Society causes kids to grow up so fast,” adds Henderson.

“Whether it’s phones or the Internet, we’re distracted. This shop takes children back to a simpler time where they can just feel the wonder of candy and toys.”

That’s why many of the toys Henderson carries do not require batteries. 4 continued on page 32 DECEMBER 2017 www.EnjoySouthValley.com

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“We have an entire retro section of toys,” says Henderson, many of which are made in America and England, like jacks, pick-up sticks and kaleidoscopes. “It’s just a whole different world for them – hands-on play, where they use their imagination and creativity.”

And while Sweet Destination is a place where anybody can feel young, it also gives a dose of nostalgia.

We have one customer who’s 97, Ivan, who comes in regularly and gets his half-pound of chocolate. He entertains our customers by yodeling and reciting poetry. So really, they all feel like a kid in a candy shop.

“We had 10 years of acquiring some amazing vintage, collectible props. We have an old chicken coop, a 1940s superior stove, a 1950s repurposed refrigerator, which still works.” The store, says Henderson, “has a very vintage, old fashioned kind of feel.”

They’ve used the wood from an old barn and milk crates for decoration, as well.

From old movie reels to typewriters and a turn-of-the-century bean counter, many children visiting the shop ask Henderson about the items, which gives her an opportunity to talk and play with the kids.

“It’s fun to interact with the kids,” she agrees.

“I play with them, I talk about the old days and simpler times, even to the high school kids.”

As for the goods, Sweet Destination offers 10 varieties of cupcakes and six different cookies, cherry empanadas, orange scones and other goodies backed by Martha Macias, the Dinuba High School home economics teacher.

“I taught with Martha for a number years and invited her to be a part of the shop,” says Henderson. “Every morning she gets up at 4:30 am and bakes. She preps in the evening, bakes in the morning and teaches in between.”

In addition to baked goods, Sweet Destination offers a bulk section with more traditional cadies like taffy, chocolate rocks, 32

www.EnjoySouthValley.com DECEMBER 2017

Reese’s Pieces “and anything sour,” says Henderson. “Gummy worms, gummy bears, Sour Patch Kids, and Toxic Waste. Kids will come in here and have contests to see who can make the least sour face when they eat them.”

Sweet Destination even makes its own chocolate, and is known for its signature “Smurtle,” a combination of a s’more and turtle.

Though it’s not all a sugar high at Sweet Destination.

“We do have a whole section of healthy nuts, trail mixes, granolas,” says Henderson, in addition to sugar-free candies, flax seed vegetable chips, and dried fruits.

Though its atmosphere is old fashioned, Sweet Destination only celebrated its one-year anniversary this past Halloween, and is still building new traditions. They’ve become an official adoption center for Elf on the Shelf, and Henderson says, “This December we’re going to have three Saturday evenings to let children come in their pajamas and bring pillows. We’ll turn all the lights out except Christmas lights and we’ll have a professional storyteller and musician come in and read two stories.”

Henderson is calling it One Special Night, and there will be a total of six gatherings on December 2, 9, and 16. Tickets are $5 and space is limited. For more information, call Sweet Destination or visit them on Facebook. • Sweet Destination • 1115 G Street, Reedley (559) 977-6600 • www.sweetdestination.com Monday-Friday 9am-5:30pm, Saturday 9am-4pm Find them on Facebook and Instagram

Jordan Venema is a freelance writer and California native. He’s a fan of wild stories, impetuous traveling, live music, and all the food. But mostly, he’s a fan of his seven-year-old son, Cassian. He can be contacted by email at jordan.venema@ gmail.com.

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HOLIDAY

|

BY KENDRA KAISERMAN

Made with Love

ho m e m ade c hrist m as g i f t ideas We all have those people in our lives that seem impossible to shop for. Instead of shopping for a gift, try making a personalized gift for your loved ones. Here are some easy gift ideas that you can make at home, using items that you can find around the house or that are easily accessible at your local grocery store, craft store or value store.

Food Salsa and chips, jerky, peppermint bark, cookies, candies or any type of sweets are all delectable choices to give as gifts. To package your food items, Mason jars can be filled with pretty much anything from dry ingredients to make cookies to hot cocoa mix. Other ideas include pancake mix, jams, chai tea mix, chocolate sauce, muffin mix, caramel corn, chocolate-dipped pretzels or brownie mix.

For a more savory option, try a ranch dressing mix, a dry rub for meat, barbecue sauce or a pasta fagioli soup mix. Attach a tablespoon or teaspoon to the jar with a ribbon.

Other creative ways to package your food items could be stacked on coasters, wrapped in individual serving dishes such as ramekins, mugs or old-fashioned glasses, wrapped like candy with the ends tied or placed in an egg carton lined with cupcake wrappers. Use cellophane and lots of ribbon.

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Household Mason jar lid coasters: For once, the Mason jar isn’t the star of the DIY hack—it’s the lid we are focused on, instead. Place four lids upside down on top of an adhesive cork shelf liner. Trace around the lids with a pen, then cut out the circles. Stamp an image into the center of each cork circle, using solvent-based ink, which won’t smear when wet. Let the ink dry at least one minute, then peel the backing off the cork circles and affix within the lids.

Bent spoon recipe box: All you need is a small box, which you can find at a craft store for a few dollars, or pick up a recipe box from Enjoy the Store for $20, an old spoon and some Glass, Metal & More glue. You can paint or stain your box or leave as-is. Bend your spoon at a 90-degree angle. Lightly sand the widest point of the handle’s back side.

Apply Glass, Metal & More glue along the sanded area. Center the spoon atop the box, press and hold for one minute, then let set overnight. For extra flourish, include a set of recipe cards in your recipe box.

Bookmarks: Cut velvet ribbon into nine-inch lengths. Purchase ribbon clamps the same width as your ribbon, then use flat-nose jewelry pliers to affix clamps to both ends of each ribbon. Finish by attaching charms, trinkets or vintage earrings to the clamps with jump rings.

Jewelry magnets: You can turn any piece of jewelry into a refrigerator magnet by using a pair of needle-nose pliers to remove the pin hardware from the back of each piece of jewelry, then affix a strong magnet with a small bead of instant glue. Let dry overnight.

Candles: Scour your pantry, flea markets and antique shops for items that would make containers for candles, such as teacups, sugar bowls or jelly jars. Choose pieces solid enough to withstand hot wax. To make your candle, you will need wax, wicks, putty, a pencil and a candy thermometer, all of which can be found at a craft store. Use soy or beeswax to make your candle. Most waxes adhere well to porcelain, ceramic and glass containers. To make clear candles, use gel wax in glass. Wax is sold in blocks, sheets and shavings that can be melted on a stove or in a microwave.

Personalized pillows: We used a freezer paper stencil method for these pillows. Print out your design and cut it out. Tape freezer paper onto your print out, shiny side down. After you cut out the freezer paper onto your print out, iron it onto the material for your pillow. Then use acrylic paint to paint on your design to your pillow.

After the paint dries, peel the freezer paper off.

Art Photo album or photo book: Gather old photos or print out new ones to make your own photo album or photo book. You can grab an album or book from your local craft store or department store.

Picture frames: You can find frames at the dollar store or a craft store, print your pictures at home and use any kind of paint or craft items to decorate the frame. You can also use words or quotes to decorate the frame.

Frame your child’s artwork: Grandparents love to receive masterpieces from their grandchildren.

Souvenir boxes: Have you gone on a family vacation or a trip with friends recently? Keep those memories forever by making a souvenir box. Cut your destination out of a map and use a glue stick to paste it onto the box’s lid. Affix a label on the lid and write in the location and dates of your journey.

Clothing Capes are easy to make and can be enjoyed by kids of all ages. Make them using whatever color or pattern you want. You can even put a superhero logo on the back.

Aprons are the perfect gift for those special chefs in your life. Personalize them for an added touch.

Sweater sleeves can go on wine bottles and make for great host/hostess gifts. You will need an old or thrifted sweater, scissors, a sewing machine and thread, ribbon and a pen or marker. Cut 12 inches of the sleeve off. Then, using a marker, outline the bottom of a wine bottle (adding a bit for seam allowance) and cut a circle out of the sweater. Turn the sleeve inside out so the wrong side is facing outward. Match the circle to the cut edge of the sleeve and sew together around the circle. If your sweater sleeve is larger than your circle, you might have to make a small dart for the extra. Turn right side out and add a bottle of wine and a ribbon.

Quilts: A standard quilt or a T-shirt quilt is always a winner. It may be too late in the game to make a quilt, but you can always start to think about making one for next year’s holiday gifts. • Kendra Kaiserman is a recent graduate of Simpson University, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in communication with an emphasis in journalism. Originally from Manteca, she enjoys trips to Santa Cruz, writing, reading and playing soccer.

DECEMBER 2017 www.EnjoySouthValley.com

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enjoy the view

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photo:Joshua Cates

snowy pines, shaver lake: Joshua Cates is an avid backpacker and hiker who spends his free time photographing the Central Sierras. He and his wife own and operate the Historic Shaver Lake Village Hotel and he sits on the Shaver Lake Visitor Bureau board as vice president. His passion for nature and landscape photography are expressed through his work and his goal to bring more attention to the beauty of the Central Sierras.

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DECEMBER 2017 www.EnjoySouthValley.com

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WHAT’S COOKIN’

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BY LANA GRANFORS

recipe DECEMBER 2017

Christmas Tree and holiday ornament Pinwheels Serves: 24-36, depending on tortilla size

There’s nothing like great appetizers to get your Christmas party started! You and your guests will enjoy these creamy appetizers – you, because they are ridiculously easy, and your guests, well, because they are delicious. These recipes use both green and red wraps: green for the Tree Pinwheels and red for the Ornament Pinwheels.

Best things in life are shared, so share these with family and friends. It’s pretty much the only appetizer you will need this holiday season! Merry Christmas!

Christmas Tree Pinwheel INGREDIENTS

1 8 oz. package cream cheese, softened

1 cup oil-packed sundried tomatoes, drained and diced 1⁄4 cup chopped ripe olives 1⁄4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves 1⁄4 cup grated mozzarella cheese 1⁄4 cup shredded parmesan cheese

4 green flour tortillas (8-10 inches in diameter) 2 4 – 36 small green olives with pimentos Holiday Ornament Pinwheel INGREDIENTS

1 8 oz. package cream cheese, softened

1 cup dried sweet cranberries, roughly chopped

1 cup feta cheese, crumbled

1⁄3 cup chopped green onion

1 tsp. minced fresh garlic

1⁄2 tsp. black pepper

4 red flour tortillas (8-10 inches in diameter)

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Christmas Tree Pinwheel directions STEP 1: In medium bowl, mix the cream cheese by hand or with a hand mixer until light and fluffy. Add the sundried tomatoes, chopped olives, basil and cheeses and mix until smooth and blended. Divide this mixture among tortillas, spreading to edges of tortillas. Roll up tightly. Leave round in shape if preferred, or for this presentation, press each tortilla roll into a triangle shape.

Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate at least 2 hours, but no more than 24 hours.

STEP 2: When ready to serve, cut about 1⁄2-1 inch off each end, and the remainder into 1⁄2-inch slices. Place one of the green olives at the bottom of a triangle and add toothpick to secure. Use green and red toothpicks, if you can find them, for a more festive presentation.

prep time: 20 minutes Refrigerate: 2 hours Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes

Holiday Ornament Pinwheel directions STEP 1: In medium bowl, mix the cream cheese by hand or with a hand mixer until light and fluffy. Add the cranberries, feta, green onion, garlic and pepper and mix until smooth and blended. Divide this mixture among tortillas, spreading to edges of tortillas. Roll up tightly.

Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate at least 2 hours, but no more than 24 hours.

STEP 2: When ready to serve, cut about 1⁄2-1 inch off each end, and the remainder into 1⁄2-inch slices. Use toothpicks to secure them. And if you can find them, use green or red, as they make for a more festive presentation.

Lana Granfors enjoys traveling, gardening, cooking and spending time with her friends and family– especially her grandchildren, Jillian and Garet.

Photo by Kara Stewart

DECEMBER 2017 www.EnjoySouthValley.com

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CRAFTING

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By kayla stock

|

PHOTOS: Kelli Avila

Let there be Joy! D I Y: Mi n i m al Christ m as Wreath

1. Spray paint hula hoop in the metallic color of your choice.

2. Spray paint letters in the metallic color of your choice.

4. Cut eucalyptus stems and tie stems around the edge of the hoop to create the wreath.

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supplies • Hula hoop • Spray paint (gold or silver) • Wood letters ( J, O, Y) • Twine • Scissors • Fresh or faux eucalyptus

TIP: Use letters to spell a different word of your choice or use a different spray paint color.

3. Tie twine in a knot around the hula hoop and start wrapping twine over the hoop in X patterns.

5. Hang letters to spell “JOY” (add additional tape to back of letters to keep them from moving around).

6. Hang and enjoy!

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CALENDAR

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DECEMBER 2017

calendar D E C E MB E R 2 0 1 7

From Food to fun, something for everyone to enjoy

bakersfield

December 1 • Artwalk at First Friday, 19th and Eye Streets, 5-9 pm, www.visitbakersfield.com December 1-2, 8-9, 15-16, 22-23, 29-30 • The World Famous Buckaroos, Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace, 2800 Buck Owens Blvd., 7:30 pm, www.visitbakersfield.com December 1-January 6 • VIP Christmas Parties, California Living Museum, 10500 Alfred Harrell Highway, (661) 399-2273, www.visitbakersfield.com December 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 • Valley Farmers Market, 1725 Golden State Ave., 8 am-noon, www.visitbakersfield.com • Brimhall Farmers Market, 9500 Brimhall Rd., 9 am-1 pm, www.visitbakersfield.com December 2, 23 • Family Day, Buena Vista Museum of Natural History, 2018 Chester Ave., www.visitbakersfield.com December 3, 10, 17 • Haggin Oaks Farmers Market, Kaiser Permanente parking lot, 8800 Ming Ave., 9 am-2 pm, www.visitbakersfield.com December 5, 12, 19, 26 • The Bakersfield Jazz Workshop, The Mark Restaurant, 1623 19th St., 6:30-10 pm, www.visitbakersfield.com December 5-7, 12-14, 19-21, 26-28 • Live music and dancing, Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace, 2800 Buck Owens Blvd., 7:30 pm, www.visitbakersfield.com December 6 • First Wednesday at the Bakersfield Museum of Art, 1930 R St., 9:30-11 am, www.visitbakersfield.com December 9 • Walk to Cure Arthritis, The Park at River Walk, 11298 Stockdale Highway, 8 am-noon, www.visitbakersfield.com

clovis

December 2 • Children’s Electric Christmas Parade, Old Town Clovis, 6:30 pm, (559) 270-0929, www.visitclovis.com/events December 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 • Farmers Market, corner of Pollasky and Bullard Avenues, 8-11:30 am, www.visitclovis.com/events 42

www.EnjoySouthValley.com DECEMBER 2017

December 4 • City of Clovis Christmas Tree Lighting, Clovis City Hall, 1033 Fifth St., 6:30 pm, (559) 324-2780, www.visitclovis.com/events

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December 8 • Woman’s Club Christmas Home Tour, 4-8 pm, www.exeterwomansclub.com December 31 • Exeter New Year’s Eve Doo-Dah Parade and Fireworks Show, downtown Exeter, 5-9 pm, (559) 679-8906, www.exeterchamber.com Through December 31 • “For the Love of Color” art exhibit featuring new works by Betty Berk, Exeter Courthouse Gallery, 125 S. B St.

fresno

This annual event is always an exciting evening full of merriment as Santa arrives by trolley, delighting children and families. He quickly becomes the center of attention as he and the mayor light the giant Christmas tree. The air will be full of holiday carols courtesy of the Clovis High School and Clark Intermediate School choirs. Refreshments will be served.

Enjoy the magic of this special time of year. Be sure to bring your camera for a picture of Santa.

exeter

December 1 • Exeter’s Christmas Parade, downtown Exeter on Pine Street, 6:30 pm, (559) 592-5262, www.exeterchamber.com December 2 • Kiwanis Spirit of the Holidays, Exeter Veterans Memorial Building, 324 N. Kaweah Ave., 5-8 pm, (559) 592-2919, www.exeterchamber.com December 7, 14, 21 • Exeter Christmas Open House, downtown Exeter on Pine Street, 5-9 pm, (559) 592-2919, www.exeterchamber.com

December 2 • Beginning birder and Christmas bird count hike, River Parkway Trust, 11605 Old Friant Road, 8:30 am, (559) 248-8480, www.riverparkway.org December 2, 5, 9, 12, 16, 19, 23, 26, 30 • Cherry Avenue Auction, 4640 S. Cherry Ave., 6:30 am-3:30 pm, (559) 266-9856, www.cherryavenueauction.com December 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 • Vineyard Farmers Market, 100 W. Shaw Ave., 7 am-noon, www.vineyardfarmersmarket.com December 4, 11, 18 • Carthop, Historic Fulton Mall, 11 am-2 pm, www.downtownfresno.org/events/carthop December 6 • Coffee and Commerce, Lanna Coffee, 617 Broadway St., 7-8:30 am, (559) 495-4807 December 6, 13, 20, 27 • Vineyard Farmers Market, 100 W. Shaw Ave., 3-6 pm, www.vineyardfarmersmarket.com December 7 • Art Hop, Tower District, E. Olive Avenue and N. Wishon, 5-8 pm, (559) 237-9734, www.fresnoartscouncil.org/arthop December 9 • Gardening Angels work day, 11605 Old Friant Road, 8:15 am-noon, (559) 248-8480, www.riverparkway.org December 31 • New Year’s Eve with the Eagles - Bald Eagle Hike, San Joaquin River Parkway and Conservation Trust, 1550 E. Shaw Ave., Ste. 114, 9 am-noon, (559) 248-8480, www.riverparkway.org

hanford

December 19 • Hanford’s Third Tuesday Takeover, 202 W. Lacey, 6-8 pm, (559) 772-2317

kingsburg

December 2 • Santa Lucia Celebration, downtown Kingsburg on Draper Street, 10 am-7 pm, www.kingsburgchamber.com/events

porterville

December 1 • First Friday Coffee, Galaxy 9 Theatre, 7-8:15 am, www.portervillechamber.org • Owens Valley Career Development Job Fair, 191 W Poplar Ave., 2-6 pm, (559) 791-9271, www.portervillechamber.org December 4, 11, 18 • Porterville High School Boosters Bingo, Porterville High School cafeteria, 4:30 pm, (559) 535-0408 December 16 • Coffee with a Cop, Stafford’s Chocolates, 114 N. Main St., 9 am, www.portervillechamber.org

reedley

December 1-2, 4-9, 11-16, 18-23 • “A Century of Yuletide Memories - 1840-1940,” Mennonite Quilt Center, 1010 G St., 9 am-3 pm, (559) 638-3560, www.mennonitequiltcenter.org December 7 • Reedley’s electrical farm equipment parade, downtown Reedley, 11th and G Streets, 5:30 pm, (559) 856-1222

three rivers

December 2 • First Saturday in Three Rivers, 11 am-5 pm, (559) 561-3463, www.1stsaturdaytr.com December 6, 13, 20, 27 • Story Time at the Library, 42052 Eggers Drive, 10:30-11:30 am, www.threerivers.com

visalia

December 1 • Annual Holiday Show and Sale Reception, 214 E. Oak Ave., 6-8 pm, (559) 739-0905, www.artsvisalia.org December 2 • Family Art Day, 214 E. Oak Ave., 1-3 pm, (559) 739-0905, www.artsvisalia.org

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Arts Consortium, Arts Visalia, Downtown Visalians and United Way of Tulare County are all participating in the next Family Art Day hosted at Arts Visalia. Events include the launch of a painted rock project, where a community group paints rocks and scatters them all over downtown Visalia for others to find and re-hide. Participants will paint hashtags on the bottom of the rocks so that when they are found, people can hashtag the picture on social media and tag the place they found it.

December 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 • Visalia Farmers Market, Sears Parking lot at Mooney Blvd./Caldwell, 8-11:30 am, www.visaliafarmersmarket.com December 4 • Enrollment express, Fresno Pacific University- Visalia Campus, 245 N. Plaza Drive, 1-7 pm, (559) 453-3690 December 6 • Date To Create Night, 214 E. Oak Ave., 6-8 pm, (559) 739-0905, www.artsvisalia.org • Festival concert celebrates its 10th anniversary musical, LJ Williams Theater, 1001 W. Main St., 7 pm, (559) 901-0734 Through December 8 • Fall Fundraiser, 214 E. Oak Ave., (559) 739-0905, www.artsvisalia.org December 10 • Winter Wonderland Shopping Bazaar, Visalia Veterans Building, Center Street, 3-7 pm December 16 • Christmas Craft Show, Visalia Unified School District, 5000 W. Cypress Ave., 9 am-2 pm, (559) 334-7460 Through December 16 • Annual Holiday Show and Sale, 214 E. Oak Ave., (559) 739-0905, www.artsvisalia.org

bakersfield fox theater

December 1-3, 8-10, 15-16 • “The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe”

1 Set in the land of Narnia, “The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe” faithfully recreates the magic and mystery of Aslan, the great lion, his struggle with the White Witch and the adventures of four children who inadvertently wander from an old wardrobe into the exciting, never-to-be-forgotten Narnia. The intense action features chases, duels and escapes as the witch is determined to keep Narnia in her possession and to end the reign of Aslan.

ice house theatre - visalia www.visaliaplayers.org

December 8-10 • “Hope for the Holidays” 7:30 pm Friday-Saturday, 4 pm Sunday

lindsay community theater www.lindsaycommunitytheater.com

December 15 • Winter Talent Night, 7:30 pm December 16 • Community Christmas Praise Night, 7:30 pm

rabobank arena - bakersfield

www.thebakersfieldfox.com

December 1 • “Paterson,” 7:30 pm December 6 • An Irish Christmas, 7 pm December 9 • Felipe Esparza: Bad Decisions Tour, 8 pm December 10 • John Mueller’s “Winter Dance Party,” 6 pm December 14 • Acoustic Christmas, 6:30 pm December 16 • Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra presents “Home For The Holidays,” 7 pm December 17 • “I’m OKate” with Kate del Castillo, 6 pm December 19 • “Miranda Sings,” 7:30 pm December 20 • Moscow Ballet Great Russian Nutcracker, 7 pm

barn theater - porterville

www.barntheater.porterville.com

www.rabobankarena.com

December 1 • Condors vs. Stockton, 7 pm December 3 • Condors vs. San Jose, 5 pm December 21 • Condors vs. San Jose, 6:30 pm December 23 • Condors vs. Texas, 7 pm December 27 • Condors vs. Ontario, 6:30 pm December 29 • Condors vs. Tucson, 7 pm

river city theatre - reedley

www.reedleyrivercitytheatre.org

December 1-17 • “Miracle on 34th Street,” 7 pm Thursday, 8 pm Friday-Saturday, 2 pm Sunday

DECEMBER 2017 www.EnjoySouthValley.com

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December 26-27 • Shen Yun, 7:30 pm Tuesday, 2 pm Wednesday

save mart center - fresno www.savemartcenter.com

December 1 • Foo Fighters, 7:30 pm December 9 • UFC Fight Night, 3:30 pm December 29 • The Comedy Get Down Tour, 8 pm

tachi palace - lemoore

December 23 • Sons of the San Joaquin presents “A Traditional Christmas Celebration,” 3 pm

Event times and dates are subject to change without notice. Please check event phone number or website to verify dates and times. Enjoy Magazine is not responsible for any inconvenience due to event changes.

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www.tachipalace.com

By chance, Kris Kringle, an old man in a retirement home, gets a job working as Santa for Macy’s. Kris unleashes waves of good will.

An issue develops with Macy’s vocational counselor, who plots to have Kris placed in a psychiatric hospital. In a dramatic decision, the court must decide if Kris is the true Santa or not. Tickets range between $10-50.

roger rocka’s dinner theatre - fresno www.rogerrockas.com

Through January 14 • “Breaking Up is Hard to Do,” 5:30 pm Thursday-Saturday, 11 am Sunday, (559) 266-9494

saroyan theater - fresno

www.fresnoconventioncenter.com

December 9-10 • Lively Arts Foundation presents “The Nutcracker,” (877) 608-5883

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Central California Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” has been recognized in Dance Magazine for its resurrection of the character of the vengeful Mouse Queen from the original E.T.A. Hoffman “Nutcracker” fairy tale, which carries the story of battling magicians through both acts of the ballet. The whole family will enjoy the festive Party Scene, the Battle of the Nutcracker General and Mouse King, and the lovely Waltzing Flowers. Each year the production offers new choreography and professional guest artists. Ticket prices range between $30-62.

December 17 • An Irish Christmas, 2 pm December 19-20 • Cirque Dreams Holidaze, 7:30 pm 44

www.EnjoySouthValley.com DECEMBER 2017

December 14 • Wayne Brady, 7:30 pm

the tower theatre - fresno www.towertheatrefresno.com

December 1-2 • Shine Theatre presents Miracle on 34th Street, 7 pm December 3 • Sparkle 2017, 3 pm December 7 • Christopher Titus: Amerigeddon, 8 pm December 9 • Mariachi Sol De Mexico de Jose Hernandez, 7:30 pm December 15 • The Iron Maidens, 7:30 pm December 21 • Santa Paws Holiday Show with the Olate Dogs, 7 pm December 23 • Tidings of Jazz and Joy, 8 pm

visalia convention center

www.visalia.city/depts/convention_ center

December 8 • Visalia Chamber of Commerce 37th annual Christmas tree auction and masquerade ball, 7 pm, (559) 734-5876 December 10 • Holiday movie magic, 11:30 and 2:30 pm, (559) 713-4040

visalia fox theatre www.foxvisalia.org

December 1 • Fiesta Navidad, 8 pm December 2 • An Irish Christmas, 7 pm December 3 • The Robert Cray Band, 7:30 pm December 11 • “It’s a Wonderful Life” (1946), 6:30 pm December 9 • Winter Dance Party, 7:30 pm December 16 • Sequoia Symphony Orchestra presents Holiday Madness, 3 and 7:30 pm December 21 • “Scrooged” (1988), 6:30 pm

HOW TO GET YOUR EVENT ON THIS CALENDAR If you’d like your event to be listed in this section of Enjoy magazine, please post it on our website, www.enjoymagazine.net, by the 5th of the month—one month prior to the next magazine issue. For example, a January event will need to post by December 5. Thank you.

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by KENDRA KAISERMAN

Photo by Michelle Smee

GIVING BACK

Photos courtesy of COS Giant Pantry

FEED —T H E N E E D —

Colle g e o f the S e q uoias Gia n t Pa n try No one should go hungry. This is the aim and belief of the College of the Sequoias Giant Pantry.

“Nobody should ever worry about where their next meal might come from,” says Anna Caro, a College of the Sequoias sophomore and Visalia resident. “I want students to know nobody is going to look at them any differently if they went in to get some food. End of story.”

Caro is a student ambassador for the Giant Pantry who takes advantage of the service herself. She started at COS in January and got involved with the Giant Pantry a week or two after she started. “The Giant Pantry is there to help students overcome hunger. They’ve been instrumental for me as a single mom,” Caro says.

The pantry opened in October 2014 after a survey showed more than half of students experienced food insecurity, says college nurse Cynthia Norvall.

That’s when a food insecurity task force was formed, made up of deans, classified staff and members of the community.

The first partnership event was in March 2014 – free nutrition on the go, with fresh fruits and vegetables. Today, the event occurs the first Tuesday of each month on the COS Visalia campus. Peanut butter and jelly sack lunches are now available at the pantry, as well.

In October 2014, the COS Giant Pantry launched “Together we CANN,” a campus-based food drive. The first year, the drive acquired 600 pounds of food. That number jumped to 800 pounds the second year, and last year, the drive acquired 1,561 pounds of food. To add some friendly competition into the mix, the college has encouraged groups to form teams, and each donated bag or box of food earns points for that team.

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www.EnjoySouthValley.com DECEMBER 2017

This year, the COS Giant Pantry is participating in the Giving Tuesday campaign and they are creating an outreach video that will be launched on social media. “It’s all about exposure,” Norvall says. On Giving Tuesday, which is Nov. 28 this year, the Visalia, Hanford and Tulare campuses will serve pumpkin pancakes from 8-10 am for a suggested donation of $5.

“Our goal is to raise $10,000 for funding for the pantry,” says Norvall.

Nearly 2,000 students have benefited from the Giant Pantry since its inception. In addition, COS partnered with Fresno’s community food bank to create six snack stations, which gave out more than 1,300 snacks in September alone.

The COS Giant Pantry is part of the College and University Food Bank Alliance, established in 2012. Today, 543 campus-based food pantries are either operating or in the process of being formed across the country. “The vision of the alliance is to alleviate the barriers and challenges associated with food insecurity and hunger so college and university students can remain in school and ultimately earn their degrees,” Norvall says.

Norvall says the best way to help the COS Giant Pantry is to send dollars, but “cans are so beneficial as well.” And peanut butter and jelly are always popular necessities.

“The kids are amazing, the task is large, but we will persevere,” Norvall concludes. • College of the Sequoias Giant Pantry (559) 737-6241 • www.cos.com/foundation Pantry Hours: Monday-Thursday 9-11am and 2-4pm, Friday 9-11am Kendra Kaiserman is a recent graduate of Simpson University where she earned her bachelor’s degree in communication with an emphasis in journalism. Originally from Manteca, she enjoys trips to Santa Cruz, writing, reading and playing soccer.