Enjoy Magazine: San Joaquin Valley Living — February 2020

SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY

F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 0

ISSUE 64

LOV E LETTERS Special wedding section inside

www.enjoysouthvalley.com

Enjoy the magazine It’s on the house

contents San Joaquin Valley Living

F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 0 // I S S U E 6 4

9

good finds

interest 12 | The Blossom Trail of the Central Valley

G R AB A PI NT Ciao Cow Creamery’s Handcrafted Gelato

locals

in Tulare

6 | The Love of Plants with Foliage in Old Town Clovis

wedding 17 | 2020 Wedding Trends 20 | Daughters of Simone Bohemian Bridal Lair 22 | DIY: Wedding Vow Booklet

in every issue 24 | Enjoy the View—Dakota Lynn 26 | What’s Cookin’—Almond Joy Silk Pie 28 | Calendar of Events 31 | Giving Back—Forming the Next Generation with the Sundale Gents

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editor’s note

on the cover

FEBRUARY 2020 IN TODAY’S WORLD of texting and social media posts, the art of the love letter has largely fallen by the wayside. This month, rather than sending the heart-eyes emoji, we encourage you to hand-write some words from the heart and send it off in the mail. It doesn’t have to be a romantic partner – your child, parent or best friend will be touched by the gesture.

In the spirit of sending couples off into their happily-ever-after in beautifully unique ways, we’ve compiled some wedding trends that help brides and grooms honor their individuality for their big day. Weaving timeless elements and personal touches into each celebration creates an unforgettable event. Brides may also wish to make time for a visit with the Castanos sisters, who have created a fun bridal fashion design business that’s drawn attention from around the world.

Finding that perfect gift for your special someone can be challenging, and we’ve got some fresh ideas to save the day. Foliage in Old Town Clovis offers a vast collection of houseplants, along with tips on how to ensure they thrive along with your love. Or give the gift of time – hop in the car take a Sunday drive along the Blossom Trail, a beautiful way to see the Central Valley’s spectacular blooms. If your loved one is into ice cream, cruise by Ciao Cow Creamery, a Tulare-based handcrafted gelato company which sources its milk right from the family dairy.

So here it is, a love letter from all of us to all of you – may your hearts be full this month. Enjoy!

Cover model: Noel Stevens

by Dakota Lynn Photography

Enjoy Magazine YVONNE MAZZOTTA publisher MICHELLE ADAMS publisher RONDA ALVEY editor in chief KERRI REGAN copy editor MONICA FATICA creative & managing editor EMILY MIRANDA marketing & sales assistant/ social media manager CATHERINE HUNT event calendar & website MICHELLE ADAMS contributing graphic designer CLAUDIA SPROLES AMANDA MORENO advertising sales representatives DANIELLE COLESBERRY AUSTIN REYNOLDS CAMERON FATICA KOBY REYNOLDS deliveries www.enjoysouthvalley.com Enjoy Magazine (559) 804-7411 • (530) 246-4687 Email General: infosouthvalley@enjoymagazine.net

Photo by Dakota Lynn Photography

Sales and Advertising information: infosouthvalley@enjoymagazine.net ©2020 by Enjoy Magazine. All rights reserved.

Reproductions without permission are strictly prohibited. Articles and advertisements in Enjoy Magazine do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the management, employees, or freelance writers.

Every effort is made to avoid errors, misspellings and omissions. If an error is found, please accept our sincere apologies and notify us of the mistake.

The businesses, locations and people mentioned in our articles are solely determined by the editorial staff and are not influenced by advertising.

Enjoy and Enjoy the Store are trademarks of Enjoy, Inc.

FEBRUARY 2020

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BY HANNAH LANIER

Photos courtesy of Foliage

LOCALS

beauty & simplicity T H E LOV E O F P L A N TS W I T H FO L I AG E I N O L D TOW N C LOV I S YASMEEN GONZALEZ is making her mark on the Central Valley in a unique and efficient way. With her green thumb, Gonzalez combined her love for plants with her knowledge of plant sustainability and created her houseplant shop and design studio, Foliage.

Located in rustic Old Town Clovis, Gonzalez embarked on her business journey in July 2017, initially starting Foliage as a pop-up shop attending local events such as Fresno’s ArtHop. “Foliage was born out of a desire to have a hands-on creative outlet and means of artistic accountability,” she says.

However, plants were never the main focus of Gonzalez’s career ambitions. “I was working at an interior design firm and felt like I needed an additional creative outlet, which was ironic because I was in a creative field,” Gonzalez says.

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It was when she began searching for her muse that she found beauty in the simplicity of plant life. “I am a hands-on doer and so I started volunteering at various places that caught my interest,” Gonzalez says.

“As I was volunteering, I saw myself continuing to go back to botanical gardens and farms. I was reminded of the beauty and simple joy that growing plants could bring to me. It was really the spark that I needed.”

While Gonzalez became immersed in the glory of plant life, she realized that the Central Valley lacked resources for people who enjoyed plants. She saw this as an opportunity to turn her interest into her mission. “I wanted to absorb all that I could about houseplants and learn from my own experiences to be able to share knowledge with others like me who wanted to learn,” Gonzalez says. “My mission was to help educate individuals on plant knowledge, grow the plant community

through encouragement and promote creativity through our plant designs.”

Foliage is more than a store that sells houseplants.

Gonzalez has made it a priority that each customer finds the best plant option for them, followed by information on how to best care for their plant.

“We offer two plant knowledge events: Spruce Up Sundays and Plant Rehabs,” she says. “Our Spruce Up Sundays are for clients who have plants that need a quick repotting, cleaning up or some extra love. We provide tools and supplies, give plant care guides, and hands-on help to spruce up your plant. Plant Rehabs are for plant lovers who have plants struggling to survive at home.”

Gonzalez believes everyone has a green thumb as long as they are dedicated and willing to learn. The owner shares “three simple components you can practice to have a happy life: First, know what your plant needs – light, water, any special notes. Second, have the proper potting medium – potting mix for plants in pots and mix with sand for succulents. Third, have a proper pot with a drainage hole.

This is key to prevent root rot from overwatering.”

Foliage also hosts several local small businesses throughout the year. Each month includes pop-ups ranging from homemade jewelry to plant craftsmanship, such as DIY succulent planting.

Through the experience of Foliage, Gonzalez has discovered the simplistic value of plant life and plant care, once inspired through interior design only to return to the creative influence of her nostalgic childhood. “I grew up in Madera Ranchos on three acres where my parents had orchards of fruit trees,” says Gonzalez. “Growing up in the country, my brothers and I were always out in the yard with my parents helping them in the orchards or building something out of the scraps hidden throughout the property. My passion for design came from seeing the art that I could create from my hands. So finding that I could design and create art through plants was a natural fit for me.”

Foliage continues to thrive through love, nurture, inspiration, encouragement and optimism. “Our focus is helping our clients on their plant journey before, during and after,” Gonzalez says. “We want our guests to walk into the shop and feel inspired by the plants and beauty, and know that they too can achieve mastery of their plants. • Foliage • 453 Pollasky Ave., #102, Clovis (559) 797-1550 • www.foliageclovis.com Hours: 10am to 5pm Wednesday-Friday, 10am-2pm Saturday-Sunday Find them on Facebook and Instagram

Hannah Lanier is a freelance writer and news editor of The Rampage at Fresno City College. She plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in mass communication journalism from Fresno State University. Keep up with her on Instagram @newsviahannahlanier.

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BRADSHAW HONEY FARMS Local Love For Local Honey RAW • UNFILTERED • FRESH Family owned and operated since 1958 @bradshawhoney www.beebotanical.com

Honey Chocolate-Covered Strawberries 1. Wash strawberries (approx. 20) using cold water; dry and set aside.

2. Measure ¹� cup honey into a small bowl and ³ warm it by placing the bottom of the bowl in warm water. Do not microwave or overheat.

3. Use the same process to warm 1 cup coconut oil.

4. Mix warm honey, coconut oil, ¾ cup cocoa powder, 1 tsp. vanilla extract, ¼ tsp. chocolate extract and dash of sea salt in a bowl.

5. Individually dip strawberries in melted chocolate mixture and place on baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

6. Cover and place the baking sheet in the freezer for 20 minutes or until chocolate has hardened.

7. Remove from freezer and repeat dipping if necessary.

Visalia: Naturally Nuts, Naked Nut, Letter & Grain | Exeter: Mustard Seed Acres Lemon Cove: Main Squeeze Market Tulare: Rosa Brothers | Hanford: LT Sue Tea Room | Kingsburg: Our Farmers Table Reedley: Sweet Destination | Fresno: Sierra Nut House, The Revue, Ampersand Ice Cream

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GOOD FINDS

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BY MELISSA MENDONCA

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PHOTOS: KELLI AVILA

— grab a pint— C I A O C O W C R E A M E R Y ’ S H A N D C R A F T E D G E L ATO I N T U L A R E TESSA HALL’S CONNECTION to the Central Valley is solid. “I’m born and raised in Tulare,” she says.

“My family has had our dairy here for 106 years. My great grandparents have this great American Dream story. They came from northern Italy. It brings tears to my eyes whenever I read it.”

While she and her husband, Stuart, are proud to continue as the fourth generation shipping milk to Land O’ Lakes, they wanted to add a new component to the dairy. “My husband and I were missing that connection directly to the consumer,” she says.

Then her birthday came around.

“Stuart surprised me and got me a birthday present to learn how to make gelato from an Italian lady,” she says, her voice growing in enthusiasm. “She’s amazing. She had her own gelato shop in Seattle.” The class was in Southern California, and set the couple on the course for Ciao Cow Creamery, a Tulare-based handcrafted gelato company.

“With that I came home and said, ‘Let’s do this!’”

Ciao Cow sources its gelato milk directly from the family dairy. “It’s Jersey milk, the brown cows,” says Hall. “It’s known for having a higher

butterfat.” The distinction of using milk rather than cream is one element that sets gelato apart from ice cream. There is significantly less air in gelato, making it denser than its counterpart.

“If you hold a pint of gelato and a pint of regular ice cream, ours actually feels heavier because there’s much less air,” she says, noting that she has a standardized butterfat content of 8 percent, versus the industry standard of 10 percent butterfat for ice cream. “We’re choosing to use the traditional Italian methods and keep that lower fat content.”

That’s where tradition ends. Ciao Cow is located in the verdant Central Valley and Hall loves mixing in the flavors of her neighbors. “Our California Pistachio is very unique to what people are used to tasting in a pistachio,” she says. “There’s no almond flavoring at all.”

Hall isn’t afraid to experiment with flavors, noting that one of her most creative is called Movie Night. Milk for the gelato is soaked in buttered popcorn and then churned in with a plethora of movie candy, giving a salty, sweet, buttery, crunchy combination. “It is fun when people want to try something new,” she says.4

continued on page 10

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Wicked Harvest Distillery of Morro Bay uses valleygrown pecans in its bourbon and Hall has found it blends well in a new flavor. “We’re using their pecan bourbon in our Bourbon Pecan gelato,” she adds. Hall develops and standardizes all of the recipes herself.

“One of my favorites is the chocolate hazelnut and the reason it’s my favorite is that it takes me back to Italy every time I taste it,” she says, noting that she spent a year in Turin during undergraduate studies at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo and maintains relationships with relatives still in Italy. “They’re distant cousins now but we’re all still connected,” she says.

Family and connection are the threads running through Ciao Cow Creamery. Tessa and Stuart, a veterinarian, have three children aged 3-8, and navigate the challenges of ambitiously growing Ciao Cow and maintaining duties of the dairy while focusing on their family and community.

Grounding its community commitment, Ciao Cow opened on October 1, 2018 with a fundraising event for Sweet Nectar Society, a nonprofit near and dear to the family’s heart. Ciao Cow maintains a cart for catering events much like a traditional ice cream seller and is available for weddings, fundraisers and other gatherings.

“It’s a growing trend for people to buy local,” says Tess.

Ciao Cow Creamery is the Hall family’s offering to the valley. “It completes the cycle. We’re confident in how we use our land and raise our animals. And we’re very confident in our product. It’s all about sharing what we do and it’s all locally handcrafted.” • Ciao Cow Creamery • www.ciaocowcreamery.com Find them on Facebook and Instagram

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.

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INTEREST

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BY KIMBERLY HORG

in full bloom

T H E B L O S S O M T R A I L O F T H E C E N T R A L VA L L E Y

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“W here flowers bloom so does hope.”

– Lady Bird Johnson

DURING THE LATE 19th century, settlers drained marshes in the Central Valley for agriculture. The Kaweah, Kern, Kings and Tule rivers were dammed upstream in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, which transformed their headwaters into a system of reservoirs.

In the San Joaquin Valley, canals were built to deliver water and divert the remaining flows for agricultural irrigation and municipal uses. There was also the construction of Pine Flat Dam on the Kings River in Fresno County. The lake bed: a shallow basin of fertile soil, within the Central Valley, and the most productive agricultural region of the United States.

It is not a secret that locals in the Central Valley have been spoiled with fresh fruit and vegetables, but some may not be aware that before the produce is picked, when it is still sitting on the vine in full blossom, a natural, beautiful event takes place annually. People have the opportunity to marvel at the beauty of the blooms of the fruit while driving on The Blossom Trail.

The Blossom Trail season runs from late February through March. Visitors and locals alike take pleasure in viewing the state flower, the California Poppy, winding its way throughout the trail. The shiny, golden-orange flowers with bluish-green leaves set off other flowers, including the Baby Blue Eyes, which display in contrast bright blue flowers with succulent stems. But the true beauty lies within the fruit blossoms.

“It’s unique to visit the blossom trail, not only for the beauty, but to take in how fruit is grown,” says Simonian Farms Operations Manager Stacey Grote. “Different types of fruit have different sizes and colors of blossoms, and some people never realize that. Nor do they realize that the fruit is actually at the center of that blossom. It’s always nice to see how your food is grown, where it comes from and who grows it.”

Simonian Farms, southeast of Fresno, is a thirdgeneration working farm and the official start of the Blossom Trail. Simonian Farms has been around since the start of the Trail in the 1900s and has vowed not to lose the down-home country charm. Visitors can take a step back into the past of balloon tire bicycles, pedal cars and nonreproduction antiques. They can also pick up souvenirs or choose from a large collection of dried fruit and nuts. For more information, visit www.simonianfarms.com.

Many stone fruits have white petals, including plum blossoms. At least two varieties will be planted in an orchard for cross pollination and more than 200 varieties are grown commercially. Apple blossoms have white

petals, as well, and up to six varieties are grown commercially in Fresno County. Citrus blossoms are also white with an aromatic fragrance, including navel and Valencia oranges, mandarins and lemons. Almond blossoms have white petals as well, and two or more varieties may be planted in the same orchard for cross pollination by bees. Much of the beauty people see is due to the bees in the orchards.

Then there are the pretty pink apricot blossoms. Fewer than 12 varieties are grown commercially. Peach and nectarine blossoms have pink to red petals, with more than 100 varieties grown here commercially.

“We have been a part of the blossom trail since inception. We are either the beginning or the end, depending on which way you take the route,” Grote says.

The trail stretches through various towns, including Sanger, once home to the longest flume in the world; Reedley, named after wheat baron Thomas Law Reed; Selma, known as the “Raisin Capital of the World”; Fowler, also home to raisins, including Champion Raisins; Clovis, which features Old West architecture; and Kingsburg, which hosts a Swedish atmosphere. Each town has a unique history to offers visitors.

Orange Cove and Kings River are where the trail boasts beautiful, aromatic blossoms this time of year. The mighty Kings River begins in the high Sierra and winds down to the valley floor, offering white water rafting, great fishing or a canoe trip along the Blossom Trail. Near the Kings River is Orange Cove, home to the scenic Orange Blossom Trail – one of the most fragrant sections of the trail, as well as one of the most visually appealing sections to drive along. “The Blossom Trail is truly a beautiful drive and hidden gem of the San Joaquin Valley,” Grote says.

In the summer, visitors can make another trip to taste the delicious fresh fruit. The Blossom Trail Committee in conjunction with the Big Fresno Fair holds an annual Blossom Trail Art Contest. Each year the winner has his or her work displayed on the Blossom Trail poster. • www.gofresnocounty.com/BlossomTrail

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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Family Is Always Welcome...

D A K O T A LY N N PHOTOGRAPHY

DA KOTA LY NNPHOTOGRA PH Y @ G M A IL. C O m W W W. DA KOTA LY NNPHOTO. C OM

We’re Pet Friendly

WEDDINGS

love is in the air

Photo courtesy of Kelli Avila Photography

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WEDDINGS

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BY KIMBERLY BONÉY

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PHOTOS: DAKOTA LYNN PHOTOGRAPHY

IN WITH THE NEW 2020 WEDDING TRENDS IN 2020, wedding trends seem to center on one singular notion: Couples are passing on tradition and reaching, instead, for their own sense of individuality. While there will inevitably be some timeless elements woven into each celebration, what will reign supreme are the big and small touches that reflect the personal styles, tastes, passions and perspectives of the happy couple. And, frankly, shouldn’t this have always been the case?

beyond traditional :

The traditional white or ivory wedding gown will always have its place. But the 2020 bride might be ready to take a chance on something new and exciting where her ensemble is concerned. She may crave a gown with bold sleeves, a vibrant hue, a floral pattern or decadent appliques.

She may even opt to bypass the dress altogether in lieu of a two-piece ensemble or a pantsuit, even if only for the reception. And we are all for letting the lady have her day to shine however she sees fit.

unexpected groom:

The 2020 groom may just trade in his classic black tuxedo and dress shoes for a look that seems to turn tradition on its ear. Bold footwear options, tuxedo jackets in vibrant colors and unexpected materials or a willingness to bypass a tux or suit altogether will give him a chance to step off the beaten path and onto the road less traveled.

interactive moments: Long gone are the days of

stiff and boring wedding receptions. In 2020, couples have made their guests’ experience a top priority. From an Insta-worthy photo backdrop to an ice-sculpture-turned-self-serve bar to an adult-only bouncy house, this year’s primary wedding theme is fun. Couples are hiring sketch artists, magicians and the like and allowing guests to customize their own meals to ensure each moment of the celebration is memorable. And while the number of guests in attendance at weddings in 2020 is on the decline, we’re certain that couples are making a concerted effort to choose quality over quantity.

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bold yet sustainable:

beyond the reception: Tablescapes

are focused on unique décor elements that create an exciting vibe rather than those that adhere to a restrictive two-color palate.

Vibrant, monochromatic backdrops are being created with lighting, reclaimed fabric or spray-painted silk flowers. Customized neon signage makes a bold statement, and hanging centerpieces engage guests from the ceiling to the dance floor. Perhaps the best thing about these unique décor elements is that they can be incorporated into the couple’s love nest once the nuptials are complete.

Photo by Jen Peterson Photography

Subtlety is so overrated. Sustainability, however, isn’t. In 2020, there is a way to honor your sense of style while considering the carbon footprint you create in the process. Uniformed chairs and matchy-matchy table displays are passé. Instead, couples are choosing bold, mismatched vintage and antique chairs, loveseats and sofas, and, whenever possible, are reincorporating the seating into cool lounge areas at the reception. Bonus cool points will be awarded to any friends and family members who are willing to loan you theirs for your big day.

unplugged: Our world is so inundated

with technology. It’s not only a distraction at a wedding – it can be downright intrusive. This might be the primary push for the unplugged experience. Aside from the logistics of paid photographers and videographers having to navigate around snap-happy guests insistent on getting the perfect shot, couples may simply want to be the first to break the happy news to the world. Perhaps they just want their guests to enjoy the moment without having to cave to the incessant urge to connect on social media. It’s all about enjoying the here and now.

This notion transcends even to the honeymoon, where some couples are seizing the opportunity to truly connect with their partners – sans smartphones, tablets and laptops. Social media will be there, but the couple will only get one shot at their wedding day and their honeymoon.

If a couple has called for an unplugged wedding, kindly honor their request without complaint. You’ll be surprised how much human connection there is to be found when you ignore your phone for a while. •

Kimberly N. Bonéy is a freelance writer, jewelry designer and owner of HerStory Vintage and herstoryvintage.com. When she’s not writing stories or joyfully creating new jewelry in her home studio, she’s enjoying time with her family, traveling or perusing flea markets, vintage and antique shops and estate sales for new inspiration.

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the gardens venue in Tulare

KELLI

AVILA PHOTOGRAPHY

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WEDDING

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BY MELISSA MENDONCA

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PHOTOS: DAKOTA LYNN PHOTOGRAPHY

elegant

entrepreneurs DA U G H T E R S O F S I M O N E B O H E M I A N B R I DA L L A I R FOR ANY LITTLE GIRL who pores over the pictures of her parents’ wedding day, dreams can take root for the possibilities of her own future wedding. Images of dresses and bridesmaids, flowers and cake take hold in the imagination alongside the picture of an idealized spouse planting the perfect kiss.

For Brittany and Ashley Castanos, those images also inspired a bridal fashion design business that resonates with brides across the globe and more than 90,000 Instagram followers.

“We both have always been inspired by our parents’ wedding, and I think have fantasized about having something similar for our own,” says Brittany. “Their 1970s wedding took place in our grandparents’ backyard.

Our mom wore a boho off-the-shoulder dress with a large, floppy, white-lace hat. Her long, blonde hair fell down at her shoulders. This is all I had ever envisioned a bride to look like, including myself.”

That look inspired a business eight years ago that brought the sisters from the doldrums of a down-turned economy, when Brittany began reconfiguring vintage dresses for resale as a creative outlet and side hustle to finance life in San Francisco, into intrepid entrepreneurs set on turning the bridal business on its head. It’s a tip of the hat to vintage styles of the 1970s with a modern philosophy of freedom and expression.

“It’s been nice to see a shift where women can dress in a way that really represents their personal fashion tastes rather than what they think they should look like,” says Brittany.

While the sisters inherited a free-wielding sense of creativity and exploration from their mother, an abstract artist, their incarnation as Daughters of Simone is inspired

by French writer and feminist theorist Simone de Beauvoir, who once opined, “I wish that every human life might be pure, transparent freedom.”

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Photo courtesy of Daughters of Simone

The roots of Daughters of Simone sprouted in San Francisco, where the sisters once lived, but took root in their hometown of Fresno. In autumn 2019 they opened their flagship store in the Tower District, a renovated 1922 home now known as the Daughters of Simone Bohemian Bridal Lair. A partnership with Fig & Honey allows brides to try on dresses as an experience similar to a bridal shower, with friends, family, champagne and small bites as well as an extended fitting time. Open hours allow brides to come in without an appointment, and more intimate private fittings can be arranged.

The space is so impeccably appointed it’s been referred to as “an Instagrammer’s dream” and is available for event rental and photo shoots.

The company now has five bridal collections, including its latest, Come Hell or High Water.

The brand is truly international, with retail outlets in 15 states and as far away as New Zealand and Japan. Having home base in their hometown of Fresno, though, makes all the difference. “My sister and I grew up seeing our father, uncles and many male cousins running their own business in Fresno,” says Brittany. “So, even while we’ve lived in a multitude of different cities across the country, keeping our company in Fresno and eventually opening up our own flagship here was particularly meaningful for us.” She says they look forward to being an example of female entrepreneurship to their children.

The sisters describe themselves as hard-scrabble entrepreneurs who have taken turns supporting various aspects of the business, each taking part at various times in design, customer relations and development and marketing. They’ve both set flower arrangements and poured champagne for customers while dreaming up new designs and retail opportunities.

While the Daughters of Simone website and Instagram features models and customers wearing dresses in exotic beach and desert locales, the heart of the company is right here in the Central Valley.

“We’re happy to rep our hometown,” says Brittany. • Daughters of Simone Bohemian Bridal Lair 844 N. Van Ness, Fresno • (559) 343-3332 www.daughtersofsimone.com Find them on Facebook and Instagram

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.

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CRAFTING

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BY KAYLA VAN GROUW | PHOTOS: KELLI AVILA

Words of Honor D I Y: W E D D I N G VOW B O O K L E T

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SUPPLIES • 5x7-inch card stock (8 sheets) • Velvet ribbon • Calligraphy pen (black or gold) • Vellum 8.5x11-inch paper (2 sheets) • Deckled edge textured paper (2 sheets) • Carpenters square ruler • Printed “His Vows”, “Her Vows” in font of choice • Scissors

1. Fold the eight sheets of card stock in half, folding on the long side and bringing the short sides together to create a booklet.

2. Create the cover of the booklet.

Measure around the card stock booklet about ¼ inch on all four sides, to ensure the cover will wrap all the way around the card stock. Fold all four sides to mark the measurement.

3. Using the carpenter ruler, tear the sides on the folded lines to recreate the rough deckled edge.

(If you like a cleaner look, use scissors to cut the cover.)

4. Repeat step two and three, this time with the vellum paper.

5. Take the vellum paper and find where the center of the front of your booklet will be. Lay the center of the paper over top of your paper with the printed text so that it will be centered on your booklet when finished.

Trace the words using the calligraphy pen.

6. Put your booklet together, card stock in the center, next the deckled paper, then lastly the vellum paper with your text on the very top. Staple the crease of your book. (You may sew the center together in lieu of staples for a cleaner look.)

7. Depending on the size of your ribbon, cut it so that it is about ½ inch in width.

8. Wrap the ribbon around the center of your booklet to cover the staples and tie in a knot, leaving the ends of the tie about 3 or 4 inches and cut to your desired length. Repeat steps for the second book. Write your vows inside, and enjoy!

FEBRUARY 2020

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ENJOY THE VIEW | BY DAKOTA LYNN PHOTOGRAPHY

NYEL & KELLSEY AT TAFT POINT IN YOSEMITE

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www.EnjoySouthValley.com FEBRUARY 2020

DAKOTA JACOBI has been capturing love stories for three years, photographing families, seniors, and couples.

She aims to document the candid, organic, and “unposed” moments of life. Her mission is to not just take great pictures, but to build relationships and create experiences for her clients. When she’s not adventuring around California or editing in her favorite coffee shop, she spends her days at home with her two kids Harper & Harrison. www.dakotalynnphoto.com

FEBRUARY 2020

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WHAT’S COOKIN’ | BY LANA GRANFORS | PHOTOS: KARA STEWART

ALMOND JOY SILK PIE

DO YOU HAVE A RECIPE YOU’D LIKE LANA TO MAKE? Please submit it to lana@enjoymagazine.net

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www.EnjoySouthValley.com FEBRUARY 2020

F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 0 R E C I P E

This pie tastes like something you’d find at your favorite restaurant, but it’s easy to make at home. Why not treat your love with this delicious and decadent pie? Enjoy

CRUST DIRECTIONS: STEP 1: Preheat oven to 350.

CRUST INGREDIENTS:

STEP 2: Pulse coconut, almonds and butter in a

food processor until the almonds are chopped

4 cups sweetened

coconut flakes

and the almonds, coconut and butter are

combined. Prepare a spring form pan (10-inch

2 cups whole unsalted

almonds

diameter, 3 inches deep) with parchment paper

and nonstick spray. Press coconut/almond/

4 oz. melted butter

butter mixture into the pan evenly and up the FILING INGREDIENTS:

side about an inch and a half. Toast in the oven

for 10 - 15 minutes or until golden brown.

2 12 oz. packages of

chocolate chips

4 eggs

FILLING DIRECTIONS:

3 cup evaporated milk

STEP 1: Place evaporated milk and eggs in

1 tsp. vanilla

a heavy pot and whisk over medium heat until thickened, about 20 - 25 minutes. Once thickened, add vanilla and chocolate chips and stir until melted and smooth, about 2 minutes.

STEP 2: Pour filling into the prepared crust and let chill overnight, or at least 6 hours.

SERVES: 12

Portion into 12 pieces.

PREP TIME: 10 - 15 minutes COOK TIME: 10 - 15 minutes TOTAL TIME: 20 - 30 minutes CHILL TIME: 6 hours - overnight

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

FEBRUARY 2020

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calendar F E B R UA RY 2 02 0

FROM FOOD TO FUN, SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE TO ENJOY

bakersfield

February 1 • Craft and Vendor Show, The Villas, 4015 Scenic River Lane., 10am-3pm, www.visitbakersfield.com February 6 • Songwriter Series: Bobby Tomberlin, Bakersfield Music Hall of Fame, 2230 Q St., 7pm, www.visitbakersfield.com February 8 • Mayor’s Ball, CityServe, 3201 F St., 6:30-11pm, www.visitbakersfield.com February 8, 9 • Stories on the Sidewalk, The Arts Council of Kern, 1330 Truxtun Ave., 11am-1:30pm, www.kernarts.org February 9 • Craft and Vendor Show, The Clubhouse at Riverlakes Golf Course, 5201 Riverlakes Drive, 11am-3pm, www.visitbakersfield.com February 12 • An Evening with Cindy McCain, Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 South P St., 5:30-8:30pm, www.visitbakersfield.com February 14 • Harmik Tribute to Tom Jones, Bakersfield Music Hall of Fame, 2230 Q St., 7pm, www.visitbakersfield.com February 27 • Rhythm and Roots, Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace, 2800 Buck Owens Blvd, 6-9pm, www.visitbakersfield.com

clovis

February 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 • Year-Round Farmers Market, Pollasky Avenue between 5th Street and Bullard Avenue, 9-11:30am, www.visitclovis.com

fresno

February 1-29 • Art Exhibit: Del Samatar “Monster Portraits,” Fresno Pacific University, 1717 South Chestnut Ave., 9am-5pm, www.visitfresnocounty.org • University Student Art Exhibit, Fresno Pacific University, 1717 South Chestnut Ave., 9am-5pm, www.visitfresnocounty.org • Art Exhibit: Andrew Shinn Photographs, Fresno Pacific University, 1717 South Chestnut Ave., 9am-5pm, www.visitfresnocounty.org

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February 1, 4, 8, 11, 15, 18, 22, 25, 29 • Cherry Avenue Auction Swap Meet, 4640 S. Cherry Ave., 6:30am-3:30pm, www.cherryavenueauction.com • River Park Farmers Market, 220 Paseo del Centro, 5-9pm Tuesdays, 10am-2pm Saturdays, www.riverparkfm.com February 1, 5, 8, 12, 15, 19, 22, 26, 29 • Vineyard Farmers Market, 100 West Shaw Ave., 3pm-6pm Wednesday, 7am-noon Saturdays, www.vineyardfarmersmarket.com February 3 • The Toaster and Monster Plug with Special Guest King Sugar, Fulton 55, 875 Divisadero St., 7:30pm, www.downtownfresno.org February 4 • The Classic Crime West Coast 2020 Tour, Fulton 55, 875 Divisadero St., 7pm, www.downtownfresno.org February 6 • Artists Reception, K-Jewel Art Gallery, 1415 Fulton St., 5-9pm, www.riverparkway.org February 6, 20 • ArtHop, downtown Fresno, 5-8pm, www.fresnoartscouncil.org/arthop February 6, 13, 20, 27 • CArtHop, Mariposa Plaza, 1060 Fulton St., 11am-2pm, www.downtownfresno.org February 7 • The Emo Night Tour, Fulton 55, 875 Divisadero St., 8pm, www.downtownfresno.org February 8 • Stealing Nicks, Fulton 55, 875 Divisadero St., 7:30pm, www.downtownfresno.org February 15 • River Buddies Weekend Explorers: Bird Buddies, River Center, 11605 Old Friend Road, 9-11am, www.riverparkway.org • Weekend Youth Naturalist: Lost Lake, River Center, 11605 Old Friend Road, 12:30-3pm, www.riverparkway.org • Stars, Science and a Birthday Party for Galileo, Downing Planetarium, Fresno State, 5320 North Maple Ave., 5pm, www.riverparkway.org February 16 • Ingested & More, Full Circle Brewing, 620 F St., 4-11:30pm, www.downtownfresno.org • Maoli With Special Guests, Fulton 55, 875 Divisadero St., 7pm, www.downtownfresno.org

www.EnjoySouthValley.com FEBRUARY 2020

February 18 • Community Art Night, Common Space, 1252 Fulton St., 6:30-9pm, www.downtownfresno.org February 21 • Savage Incorporated CD Release, Fulton 55, 875 Divisadero St., 8:30pm-12:30am, www.downtownfresno.org February 28 • 2nd Annual Dog Days at Airways Golf Tournament and Family Fun Day, Airways Golf Course, 5440 East Airways Boulevard, 8am-3pm, www.visitfresnocounty.org February 29 • Journey Tribute Faithfully Live, Fulton 55, 875 Divisadero St., 8:45-11:45pm, www.downtownfresno.org • Pacific Artist Series Concert: Nicola Mazzani on Piccolo and Natasha Kislenko on Piano, Fresno Pacific University, 1717 South Chestnut Ave., 2pm, www.visitfresnocounty.org

porterville

February 2 • Nathan Young in Concert, Full Gospel Country Salvation Church, 384 Lowery St., 6pm, www.facebook.com/ events/2766797673358806

selma

February 28 • Annual Chamber Crab Feed, St. Joseph’s Church Hall, 2441 Dockery Ave., 6pm, www.selma-chamber.com

springville

February 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 • Farmers Market, Downtown Springville, 9am-1pm, www.springville.ca.us

three rivers

February 1 • First Saturday in Three Rivers, pick up map at Three Rivers Art Center, 41673 North Fork Drive, 11am-5pm, www.1stsaturdaytr.com

tulare

February 11-13 • World Ag Expo, International Agri-Center, 4500 South Laspina St., 9am-5pm Tuesday-Wednesday, 9am-4pm Thursday, www.worldagexpo.com

visalia

February 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 • Farmers Market, Sears Parking Lot on Caldwell and Mooney, 9am-12:30pm, www.visaliafarmersmarket.com February 2 • 8th Annual Super Bowl Sprint, Mooney Grove Park, 27000 South Mooney Blvd., 8-11am, www.visitvisalia.com February 5-28 • Broni Likomanov Exhibit, Arts Visalia Visual Arts Center, 214 East Oak Ave., noon-5:30pm Wednesday-Saturday, www.artsvisalia.org February 7 • First Friday Art Walk, Arts Consortium, 300 East Oak Ave. #5047, 5-8pm, www.artsconsortium.org • Broni Likomanov Exhibit Opening Reception, Arts Visalia Visual Arts Center, 214 East Oak Ave., 6-8pm, www.artsvisalia.org February 7-9 • 27th Annual Visalia Springfest Home and Patio Show, Visalia Convention Center, 303 East Acequia Ave., 11am, www.visaliahomeshows.com February 14 • Get a Heart On Pub Crawl, Downtown Visalia, 5:30-10pm, www.dothecrawl.com/visalia • Laurie Morvan Band, BarrelHouse Brewing Co., 521 East Main St., 7:30pm, www.lauriemorvan.com February 15 • Visalia Pride Lions Annual Valentine’s Dinner Dance, Wyndham Visalia, 9000 West Airport Drive, 6pm-midnight, www.visitvisalia.com February 18 • Empty Bowls, Visalia Rescue Mission Community Center, 741 North Santa Fe St., 6-7:30pm, www.visitvisalia.com February 27 • The Wallens, BarrelHouse Brewing Co., 521 East Main St., 7:30pm, www.visitvisalia. com February 28 • Night at the Museum, Imagine U Museum, 210 North Tipton St., 5:30-8:30pm, www.imagineumuseum.org • 2nd Annual Comedy Blast, Visalia First Assembly, 3737 South Akers St., 7-9pm, www.hnconline.org February 29 • Healthy Living Expo, Visalia Convention Center, 303 East Acequia Ave., 1-4pm, www.facebook.com/visaliahealthexpo

bakersfield fox theatre www.thebakersfieldfox.com

February 1 • Motivacion Y Diversion, 8pm February 3 • “Pride and Prejudice,” 7pm February 6 • Iration’s Heatseekers Winter Tour 2020, 7pm February 7 • La Caravana Del Amor, 7pm

February 8 • Bert Kreischer, 7pm February 12 • REO Speedwagon, 7pm February 14 • “Zulu Summer,” 7:30pm February 17 • “Roman Holiday,” 7pm February 21 • Travis Tritt, 8pm

February 22 • Juni Fisher, 7:30pm

hanford fox theatre

www.foxhanford.com

barn theater porterville

www.portervillebarntheater.com February 1-15 • “Drinking Habits 2,” 7pm Friday-Saturday, 2pm Sunday, February 9, 12:30pm Sunday Brunch

encore theatre

www.encoretulare.org

February 1 • “Sleeping Beauty,” 2pm February 8 • “Ghost,” 7pm February 22 • “Green Book,” 7pm February 29 • “Amazing Grace,” 7pm

icehouse theatre

www.visaliaplayers.org February 1, 2, 7-9, 14-16

• “Beehive,” 7:30pm Friday-Saturday, 2pm Sunday

February 7-9, 13-16, 20-23 • Meshuggah-Nuns!, 7:30pm Thursday-Saturday, 2pm Sunday

fresno city college

www.fresnocitycollege.edu

February 28, 29 • “The Humans,” FCC Theatre, 7:30pm

fresno state theatre

www.fresnostate.edu

mechanics bank arena

www.mechanicsbankarena.com February 14 • Los Yonics Y Los Caminantes, Theater, 8pm February 17 • Harlem Globetrotters, Arena, 2pm • The Bachelor Live on Stage, Theater, 7:30pm February 20 • Blake Shelton, Arena, 7pm

February 14-22 • Contemporary Dance Ensemble, John Wright Theatre, 7:30pm Tuesday-Saturday, 2pm Sunday

roger rocka’s dinner theater

fresno convention and entertainment center

February 17 • New Wrinkles Season Premiere, 6pm

www.fresnoconventioncenter.com

February 1-3 • Disney On Ice: Mickey’s Search Party, Selland Arena, 11am, 3pm, and 7pm Saturday, 11am and 3pm Sunday, 7pm Monday February 5-8 • Shen Yun, Saroyan Theatre, 7:30pm Wednesday-Friday, 2pm Saturday February 12 • San Joaquin Valley Town Hall Lecture with Rebecca Skloot, Saroyan Theatre, 10:30am-1pm February 15 • Valentine’s Freestyle Love Jam, Selland Arena, 7:30-9:30pm February 16 • Fresno Philharmonic Presents Daniel R. Martin Masterworks Series “Rachmaninoff and Shostakovich,” Saroyan Theatre, 3-5pm February 28-29 • “Sleeping Beauty,” Presented by The Valley Performing Arts Council, Saroyan Theatre, 6:30pm Friday, 8:30pm Saturday

lindsay community theater

www.lindsaycommunitytheater.com February 6, 7, 8, 13, 15, 16 • “A Shot in the Dark,” 7:30pm Friday and Saturday, 2pm Sunday

www.rogerrockas.com

save mart center fresno

www.savemartcenter.com

February 1 • Fresno State Men’s Basketball vs.

New Mexico, 2pm February 2 • Fresno State Wrestling vs. Air Force, noon • Fresno State Wrestling vs.

Bakersfield, 2pm February 4 • Fresno State Men’s Basketball vs. Colorado State, 6pm February 7 • Pitbull, 8pm February 8 • Fresno State Women’s Basketball vs. UNLV, 2pm February 9 • WWE Live Supershow, 7pm February 12 • Fresno State Women’s Basketball vs. San Jose State, 6pm February 14 • Toby Mac, 7pm February 15 • Fresno State Men’s Basketball vs. Utah State, 7pm February 16 • Leo Dan, King Clave & Shaila Durcal, 7pm

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February 19 • Fresno State Men’s Basketball vs. Air Force, 7pm February 21 • Blake Shelton, 7pm February 22 • Fresno State Women’s Basketball vs.

Nevada, 2pm February 27 • Miranda Lambert, 7pm February 29 • Fresno State Men’s Basketball vs. Wyoming, 4pm

stars theatre restaurant

February 22 • An Evening with Paula Poundstone, 7:30pm

visalia fox theatre

www.bmtstars.com

February 1, 6-8, 14, 15 • “Annie,” Stars Theatre Restaurant, 1931 Chester Ave., 6:30pm dinner, 7:30pm show Friday-Saturday, 1pm lunch, 2pm show Sunday

www.foxvisalia.org

tower theatre - fresno

www.towertheatrefresno.com February 13

• Barry “The Fish” Melton Band, 8pm February 16 • Take 6, Nnenna Freelon, Kirk Whalum & Clint Holmes Tribute to Ray Charles, 8pm

Gluten Free, Vegetarian, Vegan Options Also Available

February 5 • “Some Like it Hot,” 6:30pm February 13 • “Dirty Dancing,” 6:30pm February 14 • Felipe Esparza, 8pm February 22 • Sequoia Symphony Orchestra “Seasoned Savants,” 7:30pm February 28 • Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox, 7:30pm

HOW TO GET YOUR EVENT ON THIS CALENDAR

Give Your Loved Ones the Gift of Health.

Monday - Saturday 9am - 2:00 pm Just Sprouting Together Juice Bar and Healthy Cafe 114 North E Street, Exeter • (559) 936-7056

If you’d like your event to be listed in this section of Enjoy Magazine, please post it on our website www.enjoysouthvalley.com by the 1st of the month—one month prior to the next magazine issue. For example, a March event will need to be posted by February 1.

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www.EnjoySouthValley.com FEBRUARY 2020

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GIVING BACK

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BY RACHEL TRIGUEIRO

a true gentleman FORMING THE NEXT G E N E R AT I O N W I T H T H E S U N DA L E G E N TS CHIVALRY IS not dead. True gentlemen still exist, but they aren’t born, they are formed. Brandon Dodson of Tulare has made it his mission to keep chivalry alive by shaping the next generation of young men.

Born and raised in Tulare, football player and graduate of University of Montana, three-time America Ninja Warrior competitor, father and fourth-grade teacher at Sundale Union Elementary, Dodson had the desire to make a difference and start a boys’ club that made an impact.

Not entirely sure how he wanted to approach the group, Dodson was inspired by an article floating around Facebook about a counselor in South Carolina who started an at-risk youth gentleman’s club and Dodson says, “In good teacher fashion, I ran with the idea and made it my own.”

Dodson pitched the idea to his school administration and says, “They supported me 100 percent and funded my goal to provide suits and ties for each of the boys to wear every Monday for our school’s designated professional attire day. It’s a wonderful school to be a part.

“The boys are so proud of those suits. They take pride in their outfits, learning how to iron them and telling their parents they’re all laid out and ready for the morning,” Dodson says.

The Sundale Gents club was born last year with 13 fourth- and fifth-grade boys who meet every Monday in Dodson’s classroom during lunch. The group not only helps boys take pride and ownership in all they do, it’s solidifying relationships.

“Having guys around is just important. I wanted to give them a safe spot and be able to learn things that may get overlooked. The bond these boys are creating is incredible.

How much they open up to each other is truly amazing,

for them and myself,” Dodson says.

Each week, the group discusses different lessons and the kids often bring up the topics. “A couple weeks ago, one of the kids asked about table manners. This led to a twoweek lesson on proper table etiquette and the kids were filled with questions.”

He says it’s all about making little steps: Simple life lessons, like teaching them how to respect themselves and others, proper etiquette, discussing handshakes and how to introduce themselves.

The kids leave with a task each week and the boys have taken full responsibility. Some weeks it’s greeting two adults and students or giving genuine and sincere compliments to their peers and teachers.

Dodson has received multiple positive messages from teachers and administration, noticing how respectful and intentional the boys are with their tasks. His long-term hope for the group, as the kids graduate out of the program, is that they’ll come back and help mentor the younger kids, bringing it full circle.

Training and participating in America Ninja Warrior has given Dodson a unique perspective and angle with the kids.

“The more experiences you can expose kids to, opens their minds to see what’s possible for them. Even if what they want to do is different, it allows them to see they can achieve their dreams by working hard and never giving up.”

His goal in helping the next generation of gentlemen is to inspire them to never let failure get them down; never let one small thing keep them from accomplishing their goal. “Life is about doing better than what you did before,” one small step at a time. • Rachel Trigueiro, twin mom of four, loves adventuring with her family, especially near the beach. She holds a degree in business, but believes living in other countries and cultures offered her the greatest education. She dreamed of being a talk-show host; now, she enjoys story telling and drinking blonde coffee.

FEBRUARY 2020

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