Lifestyle Magazine - October 2016

STYLE, ART, CULTURE, + EVENTS OF THE SOUTH VALLEY OCTOBER 2016

HOME TOUR

EPICURE

TRAVEL

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HIDDEN GEM

HOME TOUR

LOW KEY LOS ANGELES

THE VANDERVEEN HOME

Hidden Gems of LA

Restoring a Farmhouse Dream

With a little bit of exploring, you’ll fi nd that there’s more to the City of Angels than meets the eye.

8 Letter from the Executive Editor 10 Wordplay

EPICURE

ELAINE’S TRÈS BIEN Sweet Autumn Splendor

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Pork tenderloin with thyme cream, couscous stuffed pumpkins, and a golden beet watercress salad make for a sweet and savory fall feast.

12 Reflections of Visalia: Visalia’s Challenging Path to Better Health Care 20 Community: Saucy September – A Tasteful Community Collaboration 46 Business Profile: Janeen’s Furniture Gallery – No Place Like Home 50 Literary Arts: Marilyn Meredith – Springville Author Challenges Readers with Murders in the Mountains and The Shore

TRAVELER’S TREK

IRELAND

54 Happenings

A Place of Tradition and Warmth

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Hayley Tashjian shows us both the popular destinations and the local gems of Northern Ireland and Galway.

COVER: The VanderVeen's backyard showcases the home’s restored farmhouse design.

ABOVE: The home’s welcoming exterior provides a glimpse into the VanderVeen household.

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Executive Editor Editorial Coordinator Editorial Staff Art Director Designer Designer Contributing Writers

Business Management

Operations Manager Advertising Sales

Sales Office

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DMI Agency 801 W. Main St. Visalia, CA 93291 Karen Tellalian Kelly Lapadula Malynda Parsons Ross Yukawa Chris Bly Kaci Hansen Diane Slocum Elaine Dakessian Hayley Tashjian Kate Bianco Sue Burns Terry L. Ommen Malkasian Accountancy LLP Gary Malkasian CPA Jeffrey Malkasian EA Maria Gaston Melissa Olson Melissa@DMIAgency.com 801 W. Main St. Visalia, CA 93291 559.739.1747 • Fax 559.738.0909 Lifestyle@DMIAgency.com www.VisaliaLifestyle.com Issuu.com/LifestyleMagazine Facebook.com/LifestyleMag Instagram: visalialifestyle

RACK LOCATIONS DMI Agency Evolutions Fitness Center, Tulare

Exeter Chamber of Commerce Tazzaria Coffee & Tea The Lifestyle Center

Visalia Chamber of Commerce Visalia Convention Center

COUNTERTOP LOCATIONS 210 Cafe Arts Consortium Arts Visalia Ashoori & Co. Jewelers Bravo Farms Smokehouse Chad Clark Hair Salon Café 225 Café Tommy Charcuterie Chelsea Street Boutique CreekSide Day Spa Skin & Laser Center Courtyard Aesthetics Downtown Visalia Alliance Ed Dena Auto Center, Visalia Exeter Chamber of Commerce For Such a Time Boutique

Franey's Design Center Fugazzis Glick's Old Fashion Meats & Deli ImagineU Children’s Museum Janeen’s Kaweah Delta Hospital Keller Williams Reality Max's Cookies Metropolis Day Spa Michaels Jewelry Monét’s, Exeter Pacific Treasures Renaissance Salon Sage Salon Salon 525 Sherman & Associates Smile Central Valley, Tulare

The Gardens at Cal Turf The Looking Glass V Medical Spa Valley Business Bank (Downtown) Velvet Sky Visalia Ceramic Tile Visalia First Assembly Visalia Fox Theatre Visalia Marriott Visalia Medical Clinic Watsons Wildflower Café, Exeter Williams, Brodersen & Pritchett, Attorneys at Law Windows Plus, Inc. Wyndham Hotel

Visalia Lifestyle Magazine is published monthly and is distributed via direct mail to nearly 13,000 homes in the upper-middle and high-income neighborhoods in Visalia and Exeter.

An additional 2,500 copies are distributed at various distribution points around both communities. Views expressed in columns are those of the columnist and not necessarily those of DMI Agency or its advertisers.

Circulation of this issue: 15,500 © 2016 DMI Agency

The VanderVeen home is the perfect setting for fall.

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ESTABLISHED 1946

FR O M TH E

EDITOR

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ctober 2016 is looking up; it’s the postseason and the SF Giants are still in the hunt. That’s particularly exciting this year as it took a do-or-die Wild Card game to clinch.

Whatever the path, they made it to the postseason, and for us, baseball season continues – at least into the immediate future.

For the last home stand of the regular season, it seemed only fitting that we take my new crush, grandson Elijah,

darling. With so much going on with our two major health care providers in the area, Tulare Regional Medical Center and Kaweah Delta Health Care District, you should find this month’s history article, “Visalia’s Challenging Path to Better Health Care” by Terry L. Ommen, enlightening. What struck me the most was how in 1935, Visalia’s population had grown to 8,000 and the community was concerned about how to provide suitable health care to all of those

What struck me the most was how in 1935, Visalia’s population had grown to 8,000 and the community was concerned about how to provide suitable health care to all of those people. Some 80 years and 125,000 people later, it’s a subject we are still trying to answer.

E X E C U T I V E

E D I T O R

K A R E N

T E L L A L I A N

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO SUBMIT A STORY IDEA, CONTACT ME AT KAREN@DMIAGENCY.COM

to his first Giant’s game. Admittedly, I’ll find just about any excuse to spend time with him, but taking him to his first Giants vs. Dodgers game was something we just couldn’t pass up.

Four adults, a nine-month-old, and two SUV’s later, we were on the road. His parents bundled him in all things Giants and he made it through a night game with only one short nap in the 8th. He was such a trooper, and as far as we’re concerned, he brought a little luck to his team as they swept the Dodgers.

We had so much fun with him, I’m not even sure I watched a full inning. We cannot wait to take him again next season. Hopefully, it will be to watch a four-time-in-eight-years World Series Championship team. We can hope.

We love hearing about our readers’ favorite articles, and no doubt Visalia’s history feature is always a Lifestyle

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people. Some 80 years and 125,000 people later, it’s a subject we are still trying to answer.

If you’re looking for a little adventure before the holidays, but have already taken all of your available vacation time, you will want to read our Hidden Gem feature on page 16, “Low Key Los Angeles,” by Kate Bianco. Kate was our intern for several months over the summer, and we’re proud that we are able to publish her work, even now that she’s back at Loyola Marymount.

We wish each of you a beautiful and healthy fall as we take advantage of cooler weather and blue skies. We love and appreciate our readers and community members so much, even the ones who are Dodger fans. May both teams play hard, play well, and represent California in a way that makes us all proud.

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WO R D PLAY News on writing, books + the world of publishing

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or the scariest books around, it is hard to beat those featuring true crime stories of serial killers.

BestMysteryBooks.com features a list of 25 of the best of the worst. They start with Zodiac by Robert Graysmith and continue through others such as The Good-Bye Door: The Incredible True Story of America’s First Female Serial Killer to Die in the Chair by Diana Britt Franklin, Green River, Running Red: The Real Story of the Green River Killer – America’s Deadliest Serial Murderer by Ann Rule and The Night Stalker by Philip Carlo.

For those who prefer their murder stories to be fictionalized, Wolf Road (Crown, July 2016)

by Beth Lewis tells the story of a foundling raised in the forest by a man she knew only as Trapper, until one day in town she sees a wanted poster with his face on it. Kreagar was wanted for multiple murders of women and boys. Elka then realizes one of his victims had been the woman she had rescued from the forest who she hoped would become her new mama. Totally repulsed, Elka takes off into the forest, knowing she may well become the next victim, armed only with her knife and the knowledge of the wild that Kraegar has shared with her.

For a more localized series of fictional murders, in a less dark vein, see the Literary Arts article about Marilyn Meredith on page 50 of this issue.

WRITING MURDER MYSTERIES For those looking for clues on how to write a murder mystery, abundant suggestions are only a google away.

A good list comes from Gary Rodgers on C.S. Larkin’s “Live Write Thrive” at livewritethrive.com titled “10 Tips on How to Write Believable Crime and Murder Scenes.” Rodgers was a homicide investigator, forensics coroner, and SWAT Team sniper. Now he writes crime fiction. His tips include admonishments 10 L I F E S T Y L E | O C TO B E R 2 0 1 6

to understand the mechanism and time of death, scene access, terminology, and more.

Sisters in Crime is an organization devoted to helping the advancement, recognition, and professional development of women crime writers.

The San Joaquin chapter meets in Fresno. Read more about it on the San Joaquin Sisters in Crime Facebook page or the national website at sistersincrime. org.

essay, “Liminal Scorpions,” appeared in The Colorado Review. Her essays have won her the Silver Addy Award for Best Magazine feature, received honorable mention in Writers Digest competition for feature articles, honorable mention in the Solas Awards, and more. She received a Pushcart Prize Special Mention and her book was the winner of the 2015 Dzanc Books nonfiction prize. Just before her book came out, The Paris Review selected it as a Staff Pick. “I am floored, shocked, and honored,” said Carole. She is touring to promote her book this fall.

WRITING CONTESTS

VALLEY WRITERS Visalia writer Carole Firstman has published her memoir, Origins of the Universe and What It All Means. The book was released by Dzanc Books on Aug. 9.

It explores her strained relationship with her estranged father, a biology professor whose work with scorpions contributed to evolutionary theory. Much more than a simple remembering, the book includes travel narrative, cultural commentary, insight into parent-child relationships, and even the evolution of life on earth.

Many of her essays in the book have appeared in other publications including Best American Essays collections. Her

The 2016 Edgar Award Winners include Best Novel, Let Me Die in His Footsteps

by Lori Roy; Best First Novel by an American Author, The Sympathizer by Viet Thanh Nguye; Best Fact Crime, Whipping Boy: The Forty-Year Search for My Twelve-Year-Old Bully by Allen Kurzweil.

The deadline for St. Martin’s Minotaur/Mystery Writers of America, the First Crime Novel Competition, is Dec. 12.

Contestants are encouraged to submit early. The contest is open to writers who have never published a novel. Entries must be more than 60,000 words and written in English. The winner will be published by Minotaur Books and receive a $10,000 advance. For details: mysterywriters.org/about-mwa/stmartins.

National Punctuation Day was Sept.

24, but you have until Oct. 31 to enter the contest. Write a thank-you note of up to 250 words to a favorite teacher who taught you the basics of writing. Details at: nationalpunctuationday.com.

THE LAST WORD “Mysteries abound where most we seek for answers.” – Ray Bradbury (1920-2012)

V I S A L I A’ S C H A L L E N G I N G PAT H TO

BETTER HEALTH CARE I

n the early years, small western towns like Visalia struggled with delivering quality health care. Doctors were scarce and the few that did exist were oftentimes poorly trained, and lacked the tools and medicine needed to mend an ailing people. There were also few hospitals, and the ones that did exist were often ill-equipped, poorly run, and lacked necessary sanitation.

The Tulare County Hospital, for example, located in a room above the Methodist Church near Acequia and Church streets in Visalia was one such hospital. In 1864 a reporter for the Visalia Weekly Delta visited this county care facility for the poor and reported

his grim findings in the paper. He wrote that the floor was dirty and the broken windows were “nicely fringed” with spider webs.

In most cases, physicians provided care at the patient’s home or in the doctor’s office, but sometimes paying customers with serious medical ailments could get a room at a private hospital.

In Visalia, one such hospital was called the Fenwick Sanitarium located on E. Mineral King Avenue. Nurse Dorothy “Dollie” V. Fenwick had opened the facility in about 1910. She offered a quiet retreat with “advanced and scientific treatment,” and unlike the county hospital, she allowed resident patients T EXT

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to have their own doctors treat them there. At the same time, doctors C. M. White of Visalia and Blodgett of Tulare operated another hospital known as Visalia General Hospital at 702 N. Court.

This facility seemed to be the hospital of choice for treatment of burns, broken bones, and diseases. But it also appears that the hospital served as the private domain of the two doctors.

In September 1920, a group of eight physicians–I. M. Lipson, Gilbert Furness, I. H. Betts, C. M. White (of Visalia General Hospital), A. W. Preston, Thomas McSwain, and doctors Maupin, Sr. and Trowbridge of Fresno–formed the Kaweah Hospital. The doctors

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Visalia Municipal Hospital, circa 1920.

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purchased the Joseph Garcia home at 415 W. School Street, remodeled and expanded it to accommodate 24 patients. It opened its doors in December 1920.

By 1935, Visalia’s population had grown to about 8,000 and the community was questioning the suitability of the Kaweah Hospital to keep up with the needs of the growing town. The group of doctors was unable or unwilling to build a larger facility, so the Visalia City Council began exploring other options. President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s “New Deal” program was in place, which encouraged public works projects so people could be put to work constructing public buildings. Visalia applied for hospital funding through the federal Public Works Administration (PWA).

construction scheduled to take 180 working days to complete. The plan called for a single story building laid out with wings that would accommodate a total of 32 beds. Included in the plan was a rotunda in the center, two operating rooms, a delivery room, a 7-bed nursery, and a kitchen in the basement.

With an address of 310 S. Floral, it opened in October with a price tag of about $87,000. Visalia now had one of only three city-owned hospitals in the state.

For the next 33 years the hospital served the community. Modifications and additions were made over the years, and by 1956, the enlarged hospital was valued at more than $300,000.

Obviously proud, the city boasted that “patient fees have paid for operating expenses and allowed a profit

the decision was made to build a new hospital on the site of the old one.

After several failed attempts to get voter approval, in December 1965, the electorate gave the district the go ahead for construction.

Building began with a plan created

by Visalia architect James P. Lockett.

His novel design attracted considerable attention. According to a Visalia TimesDelta article, the design “was based on a repetition of equilateral triangles around a central column…with construction composed of thin shell sandwich type floor slabs.” Not only was his design economical, it allowed for relatively easy future expansion. According to the Delta reporter, Miles Shuper, the design would likely become a “prototype for future hospitals.”

In June 1969, the $6.5 million dollar

One of the requirements for receiving federal money was that local governments provide matching funds.

So when the PWA approved the funds, the council explored ways to pay the city’s share. An election for a special tax was held, but it failed to get the necessary two-thirds majority needed.

Other options were considered and through available financial maneuvers, the city was able to find its share.

The city bought a parcel of land on Mineral King Avenue near Floral Street and hospital plans were prepared by Ernest Kump, a well-known Fresno architect. The R. W. Brown Construction Co. of Madera was awarded the construction contract.

In early 1936, ground was broken for the Visalia Municipal Hospital with the

each year.”

In the late 1950s, the Kaweah Delta Hospital Foundation was established.

By 1961 a newly formed Kaweah Delta Hospital District was in place and it took over the hospital operation. Ernest G. Casassa, the man who had been the Visalia Municipal Hospital administrator, continued to lead under the new arrangement.

The 1960s also brought a push for a new hospital, however there were different opinions on how to proceed.

Some wanted to just keep enlarging the existing building and others wanted a private company to build it rather than the district. There were some who wanted a new hospital built out of town, and yet others wanted a joint city/ county hospital. After much discussion,

hospital was finished and ready for occupancy. The large structure towered over the adjacent old Visalia Municipal Hospital, which continued to operate during construction. In June the physical move began from the old 68-bed hospital to the new four-story facility— one designed for 237 beds. In July the old hospital was demolished.

Kaweah Delta Hospital has served the community for 47 years, and like the old one before it, the building has undergone many changes, expansions, and upgrades. And it is safe to say, more changes are on the way.

LEFT: Visalia Municipal Hospital circa 1945.

RIGHT: Kaweah Delta District Hospital circa 1972.

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Rose Hill Foundation Garden Court at The Huntington Library. Photo by Tim Street-Porter.

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ow key Los Angeles – is there such a thing? When visitors first think of LA, they often have visions of Hollywood actors and star-studded red carpets. However, there is a whole other side to the City of Angles that might not be obviously marked on a tourist’s map. Next time you take a journey to the south side of the grapevine, stop in at these local gems, hidden amongst Los Angeles’s more popular sights.

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G & B Coffee at Grand Central Market. Photo by Andrea Alonso.

THE HUNTINGTON: LIBRARY, ART COLLECTIONS, & BOTANICAL GARDENS Founded in 1919 by Henry E. Huntington, the 120 plus acre grounds in San Marino features a Tropical Conservatory, Children’s Garden, Chinese Garden, four art galleries, an English Tea Garden, and a library filled with a collection of rare books. The Huntington Library and Gardens is the perfect way to take in the rays that sunny California is known for. Pack a picnic and sprawl out on the garden lawns, or stroll through all of the book collections and art galleries that The Huntington has to offer.

bookstore will have you drooling over two floors of new and used books, thousands of vinyl records, the Gather Yarn Shop, and Spring Arts Collective Gallery shop. What makes this bookstore so unique is the labyrinth, made from arches of stacked books, that runs from the railing to the ceiling.

Whether you're looking for a new read, or you just love to browse the book covers, this bookstore is a must-see for any book-lover.

THE LAST BOOKSTORE Located at 5th and Spring in the Spring Arts Tower, this 22,000 sq. ft.

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While it may not be such a "hidden gem" anymore, Grand Central Market is the heart of Los Angeles cuisine and culture. When it comes to food, this historic downtown landmark showcases the best of what Los Angeles has to offer. This 99-year-old food court features 30,000 sq. ft. of vendors with everything from baked goods to Mexican cuisine and seafood. GCM even offers entertainment as diverse as the food, with events such as live Gypsy music, jazz concerts, and Trivia Tuesdays. A visit to Grand Central Market is a must – just make sure to bring an empty stomach and an

OLVERA STREET Often called "the birthplace of Los Angeles," Olvera Street, founded in 1781, is a brick-lined Mexican Marketplace just across the street from Union Station. With a mission to "preserve and present the customs and trades of early California," many of the vendors that line the street are descendants of the original merchants of Olvera Street.

During the holidays, such as Los Tres Reyes, Cinco de Mayo, and the Día de los Muertos, the merchants partake in authentic celebrations, complete with traditional foods and dancing, as they parade down the street. While you're there, make sure to visit El Paseo Inn Restaurant at the center of Olvera Street for delicious, authentic Mexican food.

GRAND CENTRAL MARKET

open mind.

THE CHARLIE HOTEL If you're looking for a unique place to enjoy your stay in LA, look no further than The Charlie Hotel. Located in heart of West Hollywood, this cluster of English-style cottages and gardens

BLUE RIBBON GARDEN Need an escape from the concrete jungle of Downtown Los Angeles? Stop by the Blue Ribbon Garden, located on the rooftop of the Disney Concert Hall.

While the easiest access is at Grand Avenue, near Second Street, visitors will find it fun to travel through stairs hidden among the curved metallic walls along the sidewalk to find their way to the top. There, visitors will find a shaded garden and water features perfect for an afternoon picnic with friends, catching up on some reading, or just enjoying the peace and quiet.

was once believed to be home to stars such as Charlie Chaplin and Marilyn Monroe. These vintage bungalows make a wonderful "home away from home," as each cottage is equipped with its own living room, kitchen, and view looking out to the gardens. While centrally located in West Hollywood, the secluded hotel makes for the perfect retreat at the end of a day spent in the bustling city.

With rates ranging from $200 to $700, this gorgeous vintage hotel is perfect for any couple’s getaway at a number of price points.

INSET: The Last Bookstore’s book labyrinth. Photo by James Martinez.

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A TASTEFUL COMMUNITY COLLABORATION C ongregation B’nai David in Visalia hosted a full house of more than 300 guests and volunteers for an al fresco dinner at its eighth annual Saucy September Evening, a pasta sauce competition and dinner benefiting both the congregation and FoodLink for Tulare County. Chefs from eight local restaurants donated specially created sauces for the event, vying for the rotating trophy that is awarded to the restaurant whose sauce receives the most votes from guests.

Traditionally, the event has been a fundraiser for the temple, but this year, proceeds will also support Foodlink for Tulare County. “Our congregation is active with Foodlink through donations and volunteerism all year, so when we decided to extend our support from this event into the community, it was a natural fit,” said event Co-Chair Norm Goldstrom. September brings a monthlong national focus on hunger action, childhood obesity, and food literacy, so the event provided “an excellent opportunity to raise awareness toward hunger in our community.”

FoodLink Executive Director Dr. Sarah Ramirez spoke of her appreciation for the temple’s support: “What’s great about working with the

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Congregation B’nai David members is their non-judgmental commitment to the community. Hunger education and hunger and poverty relief are intrinsic to their religious beliefs and mission, and they want to be part of the solution in any way they can. This means they are open to addressing these issues through both immediate relief as well as innovative ways to make systemic changes for a long-term impact. This makes them stand apart from other organizations that may only be interested in supporting more conventional, short-term solutions.”

When planning Saucy September, Goldstrom, Co-Chairs Kathryn Hall and Andi Sigmond, and committee members from FoodLink and the congregation set a goal to reach out to the greater

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community to expand attendance and support, increasing exposure for both organizations and for the local restaurants supporting the two worthy causes. The collaboration continued through the evening of the event with a cadre of more than 30 volunteers from the congregation and FoodLink, ensuring that all ran smoothly, from greeting guests and selling tickets to setting and clearing tables and serving pasta.

In the tasting room, four stations were set with eight numbered sauces to guarantee a blind taste test. It immediately became clear that voting for only one sauce would be a challenge; the eight talented chefs made sure each was delicious in its own unique way. Guests enthusiastically compared and contrasted the tastes of Thick and Smokey Sauce from Ol' Buckaroo’s TJ; Potato Vodka Herbed Rosé Sauce from Glick's & Co.’s James Jessen; Marinara Sauce from Pita Kabob’s Randy Moreno; Northern Italian Veggie Puttanesca from Tazzaria’s Ryan Lucas; Marinara Sauce from Little Italy’s Mario; White Potato Sauce from Sequoia Brewing Co.’s Julio Monroy; Roasted Duck Marinara from Monet's' Mike Razo; and White Cream Sauce from Cafe 225’s Karl Mertain.

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INSET: Guests sampled and voted on their favorite of eight sauces from local restaurants.

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Silent auction and opportunity drawings provided additional fundraising potential. The enticing variety of items on display included sporting and event tickets, kitchen and home goods, specialty foods, personal products, handmade quilts, and art and themed baskets. Opportunity drawing tickets were in high demand as everyone wanted a chance to win getaway trips to Catalina Island and the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, a private dinner at home courtesy of Monet’s, a family four-pack of Disneyland Park Hopper Tickets, and “Dessert of the Month” club items, to be made by temple volunteers.

After the tasting, guests returned to the stations of their choice for helpings of favorite sauces served over plates of rotini pasta. They dined at festive tables under café lights on the patio and in the main building of temple, where green salad and bread were served family style. Convivial chatter floated in the air throughout the meal, enhanced by an eclectic mix of music from the Golden West Quartet and solo guitarist Kathrynne Wills. Miniature brownies, apricot bars, and baklava, were handmade by caterer and temple member, Jackie Lichaa, providing the perfect bite of sweetness for dessert.

Emcees Alex Lechtman from B’nai David and FoodLink’s Geena

Saenz kept the evening’s festivities lively, announcing the winners of the opportunity drawings and this year’s sauce victor: Roasted Duck Marinara from Monet’s Chef Mike. “This was a great win for me, having just moved back to the valley from San Francisco a few months ago. More importantly, it was a great event for a great cause.

I’m glad everyone enjoyed my food.”

Be sure to stop in at Monet’s, where

the trophy will be on display until next year’s Saucy September Evening.

The success of the evening was evident, and not just in the numbers, which were still being finalized at the time of publication. There’s no doubt the proceeds will enable Congregation B’nai David and FoodLink to make purposeful strides toward their goals.

The congregation’s board will decide which of several possibilities would best benefit from their funds. FoodLink is

currently focused on food distribution for the upcoming holiday season, thus some funds may be used to help augment normal allocations with pancake mix, apples, additional canned soups, stuffing, dairy products, and other items.

The lasting impact of raised awareness and new community connections is undoubtedly the greatest success of Saucy September.

“It was really great to see the Jewish community mixed so well with local community folks,” said Goldstrom. “It would be great to continue to expand that influence.” FoodLink’s Ramirez was also delighted with the outcomes of the joint venture: “Partnering with the congregation on the Saucy September Evening was a great experience for FoodLink as we worked together from start to finish to outline expectations and a game plan that would ensure the success of the event for both organizations. I would love to build more connections like this with other community groups that would allow FoodLink to expand our platform to educate the public about the critical impact it makes for so many people in need.”

Learn more about Congregation B’nai David at congregationbnaidavid.com and about FoodLink for Tulare County at foodlinktc.org.

COMMUNITY

INSET: Young volunteers served guests at Saucy September Evening.

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BOTTOM: The setting at Congregation B’nai David provided the perfect atmosphere for a night of tasting.

YOUR

HEALTH IS THE HEART OF OUR CALLING

Drs. Leheb Araim and Sergio Caminha have one goal: to provide superb patient care.

They are on call 24 hours a day to be there when you need them. Kaweah Delta Medical Center’s heart bypass surgery program is ranked High Performing – a reflection of better outcomes and fewer complications.

Leheb Araim, MD, FACS • Top-rated heart surgeon for excellent survival rates* • Board certified in general and cardiothoracic surgery • Fellowship trained

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Living to see her next birthday At 86, Dona was walking over a mile a day. But one day, chest pain that felt like “someone sitting on my chest” hit. She was hospitalized and diagnosed

with four severely blocked arteries and a malfunctioning valve. When she asked what would happen without surgery, she learned she likely wouldn’t live to see her next birthday.

She wasn’t ready to give up. Today, thanks to Drs. Araim and Caminha, Dona is back to walking a mile a day and enjoying being 87.

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RESTORING A

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The living room showcases the home's original character and charm.

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HOME TOUR

The VanderVeens transformed a small sitting room into their formal dining room with magnificent views of the front yard.

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very child envisions their future dream home, whether it’s a house they made up in their imagination, a home they caught a glimpse of while gazing out of the back seat window, or even a mystery farmhouse just down the road from home. As a child, it seems if we wish hard enough, those dreams will become a reality. The VanderVeen family, however, knows that it takes a lot more than a wish to get the home of your dreams; for them, it took years of sacrifice, a lot of hard work, and even more prayer.

As a young girl, Kristin VanderVeen spent countless days at her grandfather’s dairy in Hanford, just up the road from a country farmhouse she always admired. Little did she know that she and her family would someday call it their home.

“When we drove up to the house to see it for the first time, I said to Daryl, ‘this is the house!’ When I was little we would pass by it driving home from my grandpa’s dairy and I used to think how cool it would be to live there,” said Kristin. “I never dreamed in a million 26 L I F E S T Y L E | O C TO B E R 2 0 1 6

years it would happen. But it didn’t come without hard work, that’s for sure.”

More than ten years ago, when Kristin and her husband Daryl were looking for a larger home for their growing family of five, they couldn’t have predicted the seemingly rough road ahead that would eventually lead them to their country home. For three years, doors were literally shut in their face, making the search exhausting and discouraging.

Until one day, a door finally opened.

“We made offers on several places where we just weren’t 100 percent convinced that it would work, and every single time, doors would be shut,” said Daryl.

Right as Daryl and Kristin came to terms with staying put, they heard that a certain country property was about to become available. Daryl made a call to the owners, set up an appointment to see the house, and they bought it before it could even go on the market.

“As soon as we walked in the front door and saw the wood floor and a little bit of the character, we were like ‘sold,’” said Daryl. “We just loved the character,

and I’ve always loved old houses.” Kristin added, “None of the other properties we looked at really felt right like this one did. And here, door after door opened for us; it could not have been easier or smoother.”

Originally built in the 1920s by the Aydelott family, who owned the Hanford Ice Company, the home still had some of its original character and charm when the VanderVeens purchased it. But as the property’s fifth owners, aspects of the home had inevitably changed over the years, including the addition of a two-story wing, built sometime in the ‘80s. Because the two-story wing was not consistent with the rest of the home’s architecture, Kristin and Daryl decided their first project would be to restore the home and make it period authentic.

Daryl and Kristin did not waste any time with the renovation. The same day escrow closed, they gutted the downstairs bathroom. Within two weeks, walls were knocked down, carpet was ripped up, and every bathroom was gutted. Just six months later, the

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VanderVeens were all moved in to their restored farmhouse.

“If we wanted to stay true to the 1920s, we had to make the house look period authentic,” said Daryl. “The biggest issue was the vaulted ceiling in the family room. You would walk into the family room and the vaulted ceiling made it look like a completely different house.”

The VanderVeens accomplished the craftsman era look in the family room by adding a lower ceiling with custom molding, flaring out the staircase, removing the garage door, and adding builtin shelves.

While many unexpected challenges arose during

the wall. It was a total Godsend because there was a horrible electrical issue in that wall that would have been disastrous down the line.”

Another unexpected challenge they faced was one that affected families across the country. Not long after the VanderVeens finished the remodel and moved into their home, the housing market crashed, making it nearly impossible to sell their previous home. With two mortgages to pay and expenses adding up from the renovation, the VanderVeens really felt the economy’s effects. Any work they had to do on the house, they would try do themselves.

Fall décor can be found around every corner.

the renovation, it seemed a solution always came at the right time. For example, when making a split second decision to tear down a wall downstairs, the family discovered a serious electrical problem that would require a partial rewire of the house. As an electrician by trade, Daryl recognized the seriousness of the issue and was thankful they decided to remove the wall, saving them issues down the road.

“There were constantly moments in this remodel where you just saw God’s hand in it,” said Kristin. “We were stuck with the decision making, but the right thing happened at the right time. Even when we were in doubt, like with taking out 28 L I F E S T Y L E | O C TO B E R 2 0 1 6

“It was hard work, but it was good for us because we became a family unit,” said Kristin. “It was the five of us working on the house and whatever help we could afford, which wasn’t much. Things were tight, but at the time, I don’t think the kids thought of it as hard work; it was fun and exciting to come and work on the house.”

While the kids were learning the value of hard work, Kristin and Daryl were learning that sometimes, things are out of your control. Eventually selling their previous home for $100,000 less than it would have gone for before the crash, they learned to live on the bare minimum for several years by

The Master bathroom was updated with modern features, yet still has a 1920s aesthetic.

HOME TOUR

Originally a galley kitchen, the VanderVeens updated the whole kitchen by adding a bay window, installing Knotty Alder wood cabinets, subway tiles, a farm sink, and modern appliances.

The family room’s period authentic makeover included a new flared staircase design, lowered ceiling with custom woodwork, and an updated fireplace.

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HOME TOUR

ABOVE: Daryl added the built-in cabinets and bench seating to the home office, where both he and Kristin run their businesses.

INSET: Kristin enjoys her bay window, which looks out upon her backyard.

going without air conditioning and heat, leaving several rooms unfurnished, and doing as much work themselves as they could.

“Nobody truly empathizes unless they go through it,” said Kristin. “I look at things very differently now. I always had the attitude of, ‘things are tough, so work harder.’ Sometimes that doesn’t do it. Nobody could have worked harder than we did, but we couldn’t control the economy. God was faithful, though; He didn’t take it away, he just made sure we knew he was in control.”

Even now, eight years later, the VanderVeen family continues to work hard on improving aspects of their home, inside and out. Little by little they have been updating the front and back yards by removing trees and stumps, adding cement and grass, building a barn, and most recently, creating a beautiful brick patio area in the backyard.

“For five years we lived with dirt in the backyard,” said Daryl. “The inside of the house was so beautiful, but if we had anyone over, we didn’t want to take them into the backyard. It was so rewarding to finally figure out the design 30 L I F E S T Y L E | O C TO B E R 2 0 1 6

and get that segment done. The fun part has been that so many of these ideas have come over time, and they have a neat story behind them.”

Like many of Daryl’s projects, the brick patio had a special story behind it as the bricks were sourced from multiple old buildings around the Central Valley.

Many of the bricks even have markings on them, indicating where they were fired years ago. Similarly, when Daryl built the barn, he repurposed wood that he saved from the home’s remodel, as well as wood from an old barn that was torn down around the corner.

Now that the VanderVeens have added their own touch to the farmhouse,

in a way they feel like they have become a part of Hanford history.

The guesthouse especially stands as a constant reminder of their property’s historical contribution to the community.

“It’s amazing the amount of people we’ve run into that have lived in that guesthouse for a short time,” said Daryl. “Even some friends of ours said their mom lived here when she first got married years ago. As far as the community goes, people were always well aware of who lived in this house.”

As an ode to the home’s near centuryold status, the VanderVeens preserved several original features, like the living room fire place, the heating registers, and the old thermostat. Though they no longer serve a function, Daryl thought they would be valuable to preserve as evidence of the home’s mature age.

“The fireplace in living room is original and sometimes I just think, man, if that thing could talk,” said Kristin.

The VanderVeen’s home may be a beautiful piece of Hanford history, but make no mistake; Daryl, Kristin, and their three children have made sure to break it in over the years. Between the teenagers’ adventures with friends,

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The VanderVeens removed an Oak tree and recently laid cement in their backyard, creating a more inviting atmosphere for guests.

Kristin’s Arbonne business, and Daryl’s projects, the home is well lived in.

“The house is pretty, but it’s not a shrine,” said Kristin.

“It gets used. I don’t want people to walk in and think they can’t touch anything. I want people to walk in, kick their shoes off, sit down, watch a game. I just want people to feel welcome.”

As an Arbonne executive, Kristin is regularly hosting people in her home for team meetings, open house events, and workshops. Because of her business, the home’s functionality was one of the main selling points of the house as it allows her to close off part of the home as to not disturb her family, and vice versa. In fact, when their daughter got married this summer, the home’s set up allowed the girls to get ready upstairs while the men stayed downstairs, far out of sight of the bride.

While the VanderVeen home has served as a great location for large gatherings and family functions, it’s the everyday moments that they will look back on years from now. With two growing teenagers still in the house and two-acres of property to explore, the best memories have been the ones made outside with activities like mud-pit soccer, a giant slip and slide, and hide

and seek in the orchards.

No matter what’s going on, there’s always something exciting happening at the VanderVeen home.

“Everyone loves coming to the VanderVeen house, but they know not to come in good clothes because you will get filthy,” said Kristin.

“But I really love being a house that kids actually want to come to.”

At the end of the day, both Daryl and Kristin are grateful and humbled by the circumstances that brought them to their dream home. It wasn’t an easy road, but it was worth the hard work and years of sacrifice. Kristin never imagined her own childhood dream would someday become her family’s reality.

“This is the home where the kids will have memories of growing up,” said Daryl. “It’s been really special for all of us.”

TOP: Originally white and yellow, the exterior of the home was painted all white with black accents.

PICTURED: Daryl says the best view of the house is from the back and hopes to someday have the driveway lead to the back of the home.

HOME TOUR

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PORK TENDERLOIN WITH THYME CREAM & PEARS Serves 4 INGREDIENTS 2 pork tenderloins, approximately ¾ lbs. each 6 T unsalted butter 4 bosc pears, peeled, cored and sliced into 8 slices per pear DIRECTIONS

2 shallots, minced ½ C pear nectar 1½ C chicken broth ¾ C heavy cream 1 T fresh thyme leaves, chopped Salt and pepper

Cut the tenderloins crosswise into two-inch thick slices. Reserve the end pieces for another use. Flatten the pork slices between two sheets of parchment or wax paper with a mallet or heavy bottomed pan to about half-inch thickness. Repeat with each piece. Heat three tablespoons butter in a sauté pan over medium-high heat until it begins to foam. Brown the medallions in batches, about two minutes on each side.

Transfer the pork to a platter and keep in a warm oven (200°F). Do not wash the pan. Add remaining three tablespoons of butter to the pan and brown the pears

to golden brown in batches. Transfer the pears to a platter and keep warm. In the same pan, add the thyme and pear nectar. Deglaze the pan, scraping up the brown bits and boiling the liquid, stirring occasionally until reduced to four tablespoons. Add the broth and boil the mixture until liquid is reduced by half. Add the cream and the pork with any juices that have accumulated on the platter. Bring to a boil while turning the pork to cook through along with thickening the sauce. Transfer the pork to each plate, top with pear slices, and drizzle with the sauce. Garnish with additional fresh thyme.

to go). Remove from oven. Using a small paring knife, cut the top off as you would a jack-o-lantern. Scoop out the pulp and set aside. Prepare the couscous according to the package directions (use chicken broth instead of water to add more depth of flavor).

Using one-tablespoon of oil, sauté the

mushrooms to release the liquid and get a little color. Add the sage and sauté one-minute more. When the couscous is done, add the mushroom mixture and fill each pumpkin. Top with shaved or grated Parmesan. Bake in a 350°F oven to melt the cheese, five to seven minutes. Drizzle with oil.

COUSCOUS-STUFFED PUMPKINS Serves 4 INGREDIENTS 4 small sugar pumpkins 1 package Israeli couscous Chicken broth (substituted for water) 12 oz. assorted mushrooms 1 small sage leaf, finely chopped 1 T wild mushroom-sage oil (any quality oil will work) Parmesan for garnish

DIRECTIONS Place the pumpkins in a baking dish, drizzle with oil, cover tightly with foil, and bake in a 350°F oven for about 35-45 minutes (this depends on the size of the pumpkin). Check if it is done with a skewer (if it moves through the pumpkin effortlessly, you are good

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GOLDEN BEET AND WATERCRESS SALAD Serves 4 INGREDIENTS 4 golden beets 2 bunches fresh watercress Goat cheese, crumbled Glazed emerald walnuts Olive oil DIRECTIONS Wash watercress and set aside to drain. Wash beets, wrap in foil, drizzle with olive oil, and bake in a 350°F oven for about 45-minutes to an hour, depending on the size of the beets. Remove beets from oven and let cool slightly. They should peel easily after baking.

Trim and slice into quarters.

SHERRY VINAIGRETTE 3 T sherry vinegar ½ T red wine vinegar ¼ C extra virgin olive oil ¼ C canola oil Salt and pepper DIRECTIONS Add the vinegars to a small bowl and slowly whisk in the olive oils, salt, and pepper.

Transfer to a jar to shake before using. Toss the watercress with the amount of dressing you prefer. Place on a plate and top with sliced beets, crumbled goat cheese, and glazed walnuts.

PEAR FRANGIPANE TART Pair your autumn meal with a fantastic fall dessert, like a sweet frangipane tart made with pears and almonds. This warm treat will bring out the flavors and scents that make fall such a special time of year.

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The Cliffs of Moher.

IRELAND A PLACE O F TRADITION AND WA R M T H

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f you’ve ever heard the popular American folk song “Galway Girl,” you may recognize the line, “Round the Salthill Prom with a Galway Girl.” The Salthill Promenade is an oceanfront walkway in the quaint neighborhood of Salthill, located about two-miles from Galway’s city centre. Famous for their incredible oysters and professional ocean yacht races, this area is also a popular swimming hole for the locals and a major tourist destination for those traveling around the Emerald Isle.

Salthill was my home for six months while attending college at National University of Ireland, Galway (NUIG).

A few weeks before classes began, I was fortunate enough to take a road trip with family to explore Ireland, and then throughout the semester I welcomed several special visitors. The first stop on our trip was the famous Cliffs of Moher, which is utterly breathtaking. We then headed across the border to Northern Ireland, which split from Ireland in 1921 and is currently under British Rule. Almost 100 years later, the split is still a very sore and hurtful subject, as political billboards and ads continue to haunt the streets of Northern Ireland.

While touring Ireland, we visited Giant’s Causeway, which is one of the most mesmerizing and perplexing sights I have ever beheld.

Made up of 40,000 black basalt column-like rock formations, Giant’s Causeway was formed by volcanic activity more than 60 million years

T E X T PHOTO COURTESY OF THINKSTOCK IMAGES

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ago. In true Irish folklore fashion, these spectacular formations were created by the mythical hunter and warrior, Finn McCool. McCool was traveling to Ireland on the Causeway to protect his native Ireland when a Scottish giant, Benandonner, appeared. McCool’s wife disguised him as a baby lying in a cradle.

When the terrifying giant saw him, he assumed that his father would be many times bigger and he would not be able to go against him. This sent Benandonner running back to Scotland, destroying the Causeway as he went. Whether or not one believes these historic myths, it is still important in the process of preserving this deep-rooted culture.

Within a few miles of Giant’s Causeway hung the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. This bridge connects the northern coast to the very small island of Carrick Island. On a clear day, the island of Scotland can be seen from this location. Almost resembling a chillier version of the Mediterranean, the trail down to the bridge was spectacular with clear, bluish tinted waters surrounding the path to the bridge. It was definitely the most narrow and delicate bridge I have ever been forced to cross, and seemed as if only two to three people should cross single file at one time.

As we spent some time exploring the tiny island, a torrential rain began and everyone fled toward the feeble bridge. With more than 50 panicked people attempting to cross the bridge at once, I was amazed it didn’t

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The Adare Manor.

Along the Salthill Promenade in Galway, Ireland.

Shop Street in Galway, Ireland.

I have traveled to a handful of countries in my 28 years, and Ireland has by far been the most warm, loving, and openarmed. The people have a true gentle spirit and are highly dedicated to their families and their country.

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come crashing down. We all looked like wet dogs when we made it back to the car. It made for a good laugh and a great memory.

While in Northern Ireland, we visited Derry, the last remaining walled city on the whole island, dating back to 1613. Before crossing the border back into Ireland, we visited Belfast and Downpatrick, the supposed burial site of St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. Once back, we toured many cities, counties, and attractions such as Dublin, Cork, Kilkenny, Blarney (site of Blarney Stone and Castle), Adare, and Connemara (Kylemore Abbey).

We covered hundreds of miles of countryside, spotting Irish fairy trees along the way. An Irish fairy tree is a hawthorn tree covered in battered ribbons tied on by locals to represent their prayers and wishes. It is a deep cultural belief that cutting down a fairy tree is bad luck, so they are not often discussed because of such fear.

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One of the unanticipated highlights on our journey was the Blarney Woolen Mills, which were so magical that we ended up spending hours exploring the handmade products. Another unexpected highlight was visiting the town of Cobh (pronounced as ‘cove’).

Located in Cork Harbor on the southern sea border of the country, Cobh is currently Ireland’s only cruise ship terminal and is historically famous for being the last port stop that the Titanic made before heading out to sea in April of 1912. The original pier where passengers boarded the ship is still standing, along with a museum housed in the original office building. Aside from Cobh’s historic ties to the famous voyage, it is a quaint sea town with colorful homes lined up along the banks of the harbor, which legend says was the docking point for one of Ireland’s first original colonists. Like any typical Irish town, St. Colman’s Cathedral is the prominent landmark standing tall above

the town. It is one of the most beautiful villages I have ever seen, and one that we happened to stumble upon, which always makes for a good surprise.

When it was time to start fall classes back in Galway, my family left and I ventured into my new life, adjusting to school and the city I was to call home.

I was surrounded by so much culture, which was an absolute dream for me.

Of course studies were important, but exploring my surroundings may have become top priority. I spent a lot of time in the city centre and on Shop Street.

Here, every business, restaurant, and pub is brightly illuminated with vibrant colors, “Trad” (traditional) music can be heard in every pub, and a flickering fireplace is always in sight. The locals really only drank Irish Whiskey, Murphy’s, Guinness, or Bulmer’s Irish Cider, so it was easy to settle on a good drink. The local cheese shop was also a favorite hangout of mine – we could always count on the owner, Seamus, to serve

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up some amazing Irish cheeses along with quintessential Irish hospitality. Between good company, music, food, and Guinness, those nights were always destined to end up in mighty craic, which is an Irish term loosely translating into a “good time.”

In addition to a lively city centre, the town is surrounded by many historic sites such as Lynch’s Castle on Shop Street, Menlo Castle on the bank of the River Corrib, and the Spanish arch, which is the entrance to the famous “Long Walk.” Galway is also the birthplace of the Claddagh ring, where the

While in school, I did take time to venture off the Galway coast to see the Aran Islands. The Island of Inis Mór is the largest of the three islands and home to Dun Aonghasa. The main site to see consists of a set of 300-foot cliffs and a large prehistoric stone fort, now a World Heritage Site. Once you reach the island by ferry, the only way to see these cliffs is by bicycle, on foot, or pony. The island has a very rich popular history, which includes the Aran sweater, a traditionally knitted jumper, originally worn by fisherman.

Condé Nast Traveler recently named Galway City one of the top 10

Kylemore Abbey near Galway, Ireland.

Between good company, music, food, and Guinness, those nights were always destined to end up in mighty craic, which is an Irish term loosely translating into a good time.

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Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland.

original jewelry shop still stands and operates since it opened in 1750.

Once a week, it was tradition for a group of us students to meet at a local pub for storytelling night.

The storyteller was a local man named Rab. This has become one of my most treasured memories from my time there. He was an amazing storyteller of Irish myths and legends, as well as writer of his own creative stories. It seems like such a simple pleasure, but it is something that has been lost amongst our culture here in the U.S.

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friendliest cities in the world. Personally, I would extend this title to the entire country. I have traveled to a handful of countries in my 28 years, and Ireland has by far been the most warm, loving, and open-armed. The people have a true gentle spirit and are highly dedicated to their families and their country. Their culture is at the forefront of everyday life and the preservation of it is also apparent. As Irish author William B. Yeats stated, “There are no strangers here; only friends you haven’t yet met.”

The Cliffs of Moher.

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BUSINESS PROFILE

LEFT: Janeen Robbins, owner of Janeen’s Furniture Gallery, and her son Tanner Roselius.

PICTURED: Janeen’s Furniture Gallery is on the corner of Main and Encina Streets.

J A N E E N ’ S

F U R N I T U R E

G A L L E R Y

NO PLACE LIKE HOME T

here are few things in life more personal than our homes. Home is often a reflection of who we are as individuals, a sanctuary of comfort, and a place where family and friends build memories. Janeen’s Furniture Gallery, Inc. in downtown Visalia has been helping families create and refine the spaces they live in for 15 years, and they look forward to many, many more.

Thirty years ago, if you told Janeen Robbins she would own and operate a furniture store of her own, she wouldn’t have believed it. Back then, the Hanford native was the cosmetic manager at Longs Drugstore when she was asked to come and work for a local furniture store. It was there that Janeen soon realized she had a natural gift for the

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furniture business and interior design.

In 2001, she took a leap of faith and opened her own furniture gallery in downtown Visalia on Floral and Main streets.

“I do believe I have a gift in this business, but I didn’t know that I had it for years,” said Janeen. “People are always saying, ‘Oh, I bet you were redecorating your home all the time.’

Well no, not really. But right away, from the moment I started in this business, it was such a natural thing for me.”

Janeen’s store itself is evidence of her and her staff’s talent, from the beautifully arranged window displays to the carefully designed showrooms and elaborately decorated table arrangements. Her ability to take an

empty room and make it into an HGTVworthy living space is undeniable, and her customers’ continued support is proof that she can deliver.

Janeen’s son, Tanner Roselius, who has helped her run the business since it opened 15 years ago, has seen customers come back time and time again. “We have a pretty good following. We have some customers that come in every month because they are continually changing things, and we have some people we might not see for a few years and all of a sudden they show up and they’re ready to update a room.”

That kind of support has even been passed down through the generations.

Grandparents and parents are referring

their children to Janeen’s, claiming it’s the only place to go for furniture.

To Janeen, helping the grandchild of a regular customer is the ultimate compliment. “For me to help them and know that they have enough confidence in me to refer family here is huge.”

While running a furniture business is a natural fit for Janeen, it hasn’t always been easy. In fact, when Janeen first opened the doors to her store on Floral and Main, it was just two weeks after 9/11, and the economy was seeing the effects. And again, shortly after opening her current location on Encina and Main streets in 2008, the housing market collapsed, making it a tough economy for many furniture businesses. But through the difficult times, Janeen says her faith in God carried them through.

“We just had to have that blind faith,” said Janeen. “God did it all, not us. To go through two things like that and persevere and to keep going, especially being a small business – There’s no doubt that without him being the one leading the way, I don’t know that we would have been as successful, or if we would have had to close the doors.”

Despite the rough economy, the community was very receptive to Janeen’s expansion at its new location on Encina and Main streets. With more than double the amount of floor space to showcase merchandise, clients can see and experience more furniture

before they make a purchase.

“Our store was very small over on Floral, and a lot of people like to touch, feel, sit, that kind of thing,” said Janeen.

“We do a lot of special order business, I always have, but now, we are able to have so much more here that people can actually sit on, look at, and see what we do. It’s been a fantastic showcase for us.”

But even if customers don’t see exactly what they’re looking for, Janeen and her staff work with the client to customize the furniture and help them figure out what it is they want. Janeen even does in-home consultations to help them envision what will work in their home.

“I think a lot of stores want to sell what you see just to sell something to you,” said Tanner. “We want to make you happy and make your home look good with a quality product at a good price.”

Janeen’s Furniture Gallery is known up and down the valley for its unique selection, which is why over the years they have grown their inventory and carry a wide variety of styles including contemporary, traditional, mid-century modern, rustic, Tuscan, and more. But no matter what they carry, it has to be a quality product.

“There’s a lot of stuff out there that is not what we want to carry,” said Janeen.

“A lot of the furniture lines we carry

have been around for many decades and some for more than 100 years, so they are well-established, good quality, and that’s what we want. I don’t want to sell disposable furniture.”

Janeen clearly values quality, which is also evidenced by her commitment to helping downtown Visalia maintain its vibrancy and success. As a board member for the Downtown Visalians Business Association, she is often meeting with other business owners and merchants who similarly care for the success of Visalia’s Main Street.

“I’m proud to say that the people in this community are very involved in this downtown,” said Janeen. “We have a great mixture of different businesses and a lot of people that want Main Street to succeed. I don’t know how far you have to go, but you’ve got to go far to get a downtown like this anywhere else.”

With 30 years of experience in the furniture business, Janeen has learned that it’s all about getting to know her customers, asking the right questions, and showing genuine care to make sure they are happy with their home environment.

“We care about our service and we care about helping people, because the home is a very personal place,” said Janeen. “So we invite people to come in and share, and we hope it will be a good experience.”

BUSINESS PROFILE

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MARILYN MEREDITH SPRINGVILLE AUTHOR CHALLENGES READERS WITH MURDERS IN THE MOUNTAINS AND THE SHORE

M

Campfire Girls, and other groups arilyn Meredith’s greatwriting newsletters and the like – great-grandfather John until she was a grandmother. She Crabtree received the wrote a book based on her family first land grant to settle in what is genealogy while babysitting her now Springville in the late 1800s. grandkids. She could sit at the This information originally drew table and write while the children Marilyn and her sister to this played around her. This book was community. They camped at the published in 1982. old KOA and explored the sites of In describing her book, she their family history – a history that said, “It’s about strong women. included a great-grandmother The women in my family at that named Tempe Crabtree. time, it seems they always ended Years later, Marilyn’s husband, up being widows Arnold, said or something, he no longer having to enjoyed living support in Oxnard, their themselves, home of 20 which was years, because unusual at the the area had time. I called it become too Indian Paintbrush crowded. When because there she asked where was something he wanted to go, about the Indian he said anywhere paintbrush that wasn’t flower in almost crowded. every section of “And I said, the story.” then let’s go to Her New York Springville,” she publisher called it Trail to Glory, said. “We came up here in 1981.” a title she never understood.

Though she had been writing Once she regained the rights, she most of her life, it was in re-published it as an e-book with Springville where Marilyn began her original title. Though much of her career as a published author. the book is true, she fictionalized Marilyn had attempted to get some parts. published while still a child, but Three strong Springville her story about fairies wound women – actually four – inspired up getting a very nice rejection Marilyn’s most prolific series of letter. She made another attempt novels. Linda Peterson was a after she was married, but that, Native American who told her too, ended in rejection. about growing up on the Tule Setting aside the idea of LITERARY River Reservation. The second selling her work, she offered ARTS was the female deputy she her services to the P.T.A., T E X T

50

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B Y

D I A N E

S L O C U M

interviewed for an article in the Tule River Times.

“She told me how difficult it was to be the only woman in a predominantly male occupation,” said Marilyn. “They really weren’t very nice to her. Well, I wrote what she told me and then I called her and told her I think you need to read this because I’m afraid you’re going to get fired. She read it and said it’s all true. It did get in the paper and she did get fired. I felt really bad, but she got a better job after that.”

The third woman was another officer with the Porterville police department.

Marilyn did a ride-along with her and after 2 a.m. when the bars closed, nothing was happening, so the officer described her difficulties as the only woman officer and being a single mother with a son who worried about her safety.

“I took those three women and made them into my one character,” she said.

And where does the fourth woman fit in? The part-Indian woman deputy in a small town similar to Springville is named Tempe Crabtree, after Marilyn’s great-grandmother.

When Marilyn wrote her first book about Deputy Crabtree, Deadly Omen, she didn’t know it was going to turn into a series.

“I kept wanting to find out what happened next,” she said. “And the only way to find out what was going to happen to her next was to write the next book.”

The series is now up to 15 books, plus a prequel, Deadly Trail. The newest installment is Seldom Traveled.

“Of course, there is a murder in there,” Marilyn said. “And as I was writing, it just seemed like a forest fire would work very well to increase the tension.”

Her blurb for the book is: “The tranquility of the mountain community of Bear Creek is disrupted by a runaway fugitive, a vicious murderer, and a raging forest fire. Deputy Crabtree is threatened by all three.”

Marilyn also writes the Rocky Bluff LITERARY ARTS

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P.D. series under the penname F.M. Meredith. There are now 12 books in this series and she is working on number 13.

Marilyn first became interested in writing about police officers and mysteries after visiting with her son-inlaw who was an officer.

“He worked the graveyard shift and when he’d come in in the morning, my daughter did not want to hear anything about what he did. So instead of going home, he’d come to my house for a cup

of coffee and he’d say ‘Well Mom, you want to hear what I did last night?’ The very first ride-along I went on was with him.”

This series takes place in a small coastal town. The first book is titled Final Respects and concerns the death of an officer. Once again, after the first book was published, Marilyn began to wonder what happens next to these characters and turned their adventures

into a series.

One of the differences between the two series is that while Tempe is the central character in all of her stories, various characters in the Rocky Bluff police department get to share center stage, with readers seeing the story unfold from different points of view.

Marilyn said she has no shortage of ideas for her series. Currently, while she is working on her next Rocky Bluff book, she has “a couple of little things kind of teasing my brain about what I want to do with a Tempe story.”

Marilyn also has a tight grip on how the mystery is going to play out. She knows the victim and the killer from the start. She adds in at least three more suspects who have a reason to do it.

“Although sometimes when I’m writing the story, I think ‘Oh, my, he wouldn’t have done it. It would have had to be someone else,’” she said.

“That hasn’t happened to me recently, but it has happened more than once.”

The clues are another aspect which she said have to be presented fairly. They can’t be too obvious, but they have to be there for the reader to go along with the sleuth.

“Right now, my main problem is I know who the killer is,” she said of her current manuscript. “I’m trying to make it not so obvious that he is the one.”

She worried about this in another recent book (we won’t say which one to avoid a spoiler), but she was glad to hear that everyone she heard from said they were surprised by who the killer was.

Marilyn teaches a class on mystery writing and speaks at many other events. Last month, one of her appearances was with the Tulare-Kings Writers at the Visalia Library. Her next event will be Nov. 4 and 5 at the Holiday Boutique at the Porterville Art Gallery.

It’s no mystery that Tempe and the Rocky Bluff officers will continue to be put to the test. The question is, who will be the next victim? And who did it?

OF THE SEQUOIAS

T H E AT R E & A R T S

RUSSIAN GRAND BALLET THEATRE PRESENTS “THE SLEEPING BEAUTY”

HAPPENINGS

TASTE THE ARTS FESTIVAL

Following Russian Grand Ballet’s successful U.S. debut performance at Visalia Fox Theatre during its 2015 North American Tour, the troupe is returning to invite ballet lovers to the world’s favorite fairy tale. Sleeping Beauty captivates the hearts and imagination of all generations of ballet enthusiasts. Tickets range from $39.50 to $77 and can be purchased at the website below.

Hosted by the Arts Consortium, "Taste the Arts" is a day of celebration of the arts, featuring activities for the whole community. Enjoy more than 70 regional visual artist and their paintings, sculptures, steel work, photographs, gourds, and jewelry, as well as the featured entertainment of musical acts, dance troupes, and cultural performers spread across two different stages. This event is free.

When: Oct. 15, 11 a.m.- 6 p.m.

Where: Downtown Visalia, Garden Street Plaza and the Old Lumber Yard Contact: artsconsortium.org/ tastethearts

TULARE COUNTY SYMPHONY – “BILLY THE KID” No composer better embodies the American Orchestral sound than Aaron Copland. The TCS highlights this composer with several selections as they also welcome the dynamic violinist Alexi Kenney to share a new American concerto by performer/ composer extraordinaire Edgar Meyer. Tickets are $30-$39.50 and can be purchased through the Tulare County Symphony.

When: Oct. 22, 8 p.m.

Where: Visalia Fox Theatre, 308 W. Main St., Visalia Contact: foxvisalia.org

When: Oct. 15, 7:30 p.m.

Where: Visalia Fox Theatre, 308 W. Main St., Visalia Contact: 732-8600

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The Sleeping Beauty Russian Grand Ballet

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performs Sleeping Beauty, the world’s favorite fairy tale! Last season’s Swan Lake was SOLD OUT! Stunning performances, exquisite costumes, superb dancing!

Principal dancers drawn from upper ranks of the great ballet companies and academies of Moscow, St. Petersburg & Kiev. Music by Tchaikovsky.

Sun, Dec 4, 2016 A Merry-Achi Christmas MARIACHI SOL DE MEXICO de Jose Hernandez Fifth generation Mariachi musician. Company of 16: USA’s premiere Mariachi Orchestra ~ This holiday show is a fiesta of favorite holiday tunes from both sides of the border. A dynamic ensemble of musician/vocalists who personify the spirit of Mexico. Hurry: Sold-Out last year! (also playing Tower Theatre Fresno, Nov. 27 towertheatrefresno.com or 559.485.9050)

Tues, Jan 10 FAME, National Tour!

National Tour of Broadway Musical. In spring 1980, over 4,000 young hopefuls auditioned for NY City’s High School of Performing Arts. Only 97 students admitted: Relive their journey: struggles, fears and triumphs thru worlds of dance, music & theatre. FAME’s Worldwide attendance exceeds 50 million! Seen in 25 countries.

Conceived from Academy Award- film & Emmy Award TV series, then into this musical masterpiece!

Tues, Jan 24, 2017 Ladysmith Black Mambazo Celebrating 50+ years of joyous traditional spiritual a cappella music, singing Isicathamiya Zulu tribal music. Multiple Grammy awards including Best World Music & Best Traditional Album. Collaborated on Paul Simon’s 1986 album, Graceland. Accompanied Nelson Mandela to Norway for 1993 Nobel Peace Prize. World-wide messengers for Peace, Love and Harmony.

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Fri, Feb 17, 2017 Legendary Singer: “One of the greatest singers of all time.”—Rolling ”—Rolling ”— Rolling Stone 28 years on LETTERMAN singing “Christmas “Christmas (Baby, Please Come Home).” .” Her singing Academy Award winning acceptance speech for 20 Steps to Stardom went viral! Inducted into Rock’n’Roll Hall of Fame in 2011.

2011 on tour with back-up band and singers.

Tickets: 559-625-1369

box office 308 West Main Street, Visalia: Tuesday–Friday 10am–4pm

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HAPPENINGS

ARTSCAPES GARDEN TOUR

YOUTH ORCHESTRA OF LOS ANGELES 10TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR Join the Youth Orchestra Los Angeles (YOLA) at the LJ Williams Theater for a celebration of the transformative power of music and community. This 45-minute program spotlights 80 musicians ages 12 to 18 performing works by Beethoven, Brahms, and Dvo ák, complemented by narrative and video components. Tickets are $20 for adults, and children under 12 are free with a paid adult.

When: Oct. 27, 7 p.m.

Where: L.J. Williams Theater, 1001 W. Main St., Visalia Contact: 732-8600

Arts Visalia and Sequoia Riverlands Trust are hosting a garden tour that emphasizes awareness of the changes homeowners are making as we all adapt to the need to reduce our usage of water. Through this tour, attendees will see a variety of creative visions as to how one may design their landscaping, with an emphasis on incorporating art as a defining element of our environment.

This tour will offer participants the opportunity to tour five Visalia homes with low-water use gardens, meet with landscape designers, water resource professionals, and the artists whose works will be on display. Tickets are $20.

DIVERSIONS & EXCU R S I O N S VOSSLER FARMS PUMPKIN PATCH AND CORN MAZE Come down to Vossler Farms for their annual pumpkin patch and corn maze.

This family-fun fall destination combines everything you love about the autumn season, so don’t miss your chance to pick out your pumpkins and get lost in the corn maze. There will event be a “field of screams,” a fun, Halloween thrill that will get your heart racing.

When: Now – Oct. 31 (check online for details) Where: Vossler Farms, 26773 S. Mooney Blvd., Visalia Contact: vosslerfarms.com

When: Nov. 12 Where: Contact Arts Visalia for more information Contact: artsvisalia.org or 739-0905

01841795

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HAPPENINGS

QUAKER OAKS FARM HARVEST FESTIVAL Bring the family and enjoy the fun at Quaker Oaks Farm’s 4th Annual Harvest Festival. There will be pony rides, pumpkin carving, live music, native demonstrations, farm animals, crafts, food, and more. This event is free and open to the public.

When: Oct. 15, 10-8 p.m.

Where: Quaker Oaks Farm, 17218 Ave. 296, Visalia Contact: info@quakeroaksfarm.org

37TH ANNUAL HARVEST OF HANDWOVENS The 37th annual “Harvest of Handwovens” by Handweavers of the Valley will take place on Oct. 22 this year. Demonstrations and exhibits by the Handweavers will begin at 9:30 a.m. and the sales floor will be opening starting at 10 a.m.

When: October 22, 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

Where: Exeter Veteran's Memorial Building, 324 N. Kaweah Ave., Exeter Contact: 561-4048 or hwotv.org

A MERRY-ACHI CHRISTMAS This December Mariachi Sol de Mexico, with the blazing sounds of its 13-piece ensemble, brings to life a festive, joyous holiday celebration. Enjoy a fusion of the traditional holiday spirit with the color, and the traditions, of Mexican and American Christmas songs and carols.

When: Dec. 4, 5 p.m.

Where: Visalia Fox Theatre, 300 W. Main St., Visalia Contact: foxvisalia.org

EXETER WOMAN’S CLUB HOLIDAY HOME TOUR There’s no time like the holidays, especially during the Exeter Woman’s Club Holiday Home Tour. Get in the Christmas spirit by walking through four beautifully decorated homes. Before the tour, start out at the “hospitality stop” for tickets, sweets, and savories.

Tickets are $20 per person. Head to exeterwomansclub.com for more information.

When: Dec. 4, 4-8 p.m.

Where: Exeter Woman’s Clubhouse, 201 N. Kaweah Ave., Exeter Contact: Rosemary Hellwig, 799-3641

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HAPPENINGS “THE OLATE DOGS” SANTA PAWS HOLIDAY SHOW

FOOD DAY WITH FOODLINK FOR TULARE COUNTY

The Olate Dogs are the winning participants from season seven of “America's Got Talent,” scooping up the $1 million prize and headlining The Palazzo in Las Vegas. Now The Olate Dogs Santa Paws Holiday Show will appear in Visalia. This family-fun show features a high-energy, fast-paced canine theatrical act filled with amazing dog tricks, human acrobatics, and humor.

Food Day is a national celebration with a united vision for healthy, affordable, and sustainable food that is produced with care for the environment, farm animals, and the people who grow, harvest, and serve it. There will be cooking demonstrations, workshops, and more.

When: Dec. 11, 2 p.m.

Where: Visalia Convention Center, 303 E. Acequia Ave., Visalia Contact: visaliatix.com

C H A R I TA B L E EVENTS "SHINE BRIGHT BEYOND TONIGHT" BANQUET Love in the Name of Christ invites you to celebrate their 25th anniversary of serving our neighbors in need in Tulare County. The 25th annual banquet, "Shine Bright Beyond Tonight" with comedian Nazareth will be held at the Wyndham Hotel in Visalia. For ticket information, please call the number below.

When: Oct. 20, 6 p.m.

Where: Wyndham Hotel, 9000 W. Airport Dr., Visalia Contact: 733-8870

When: Oct. 22, 10-1 p.m.

Where: FoodLink Warehouse, 611 2nd St., Exeter Contact: foodlinktc.org

FROMAGE FROLIC – “A TOAST TO TOASTED CHEESE” Join the Visalia Parks and Recreation Foundation for “A Toast to Toasted Cheese,” a grilled cheese and winepairing event. Relax to the musical stylings of Jamie Hitchcock while you sample and vote.

When: Oct. 29, 5–10 p.m.

Where: Garden Street Plaza, downtown Visalia Contact: Carol Hoppert Hays, 713-4599, carolhhays@gmail.com

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Interior plantscaping and some simple design elements can make your place of business or home more warm and inviting.

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BARK FOR LIFE IN EXETER The American Cancer Society presents Exeter’s 4th annual Bark For Life. Join ACS for a day of family fun as they celebrate the care-giving qualities of our canine friends. Owners and their dogs will go for a short walk around town with a few stops for water and talks with local trainers and vets. There will be vendors, a k9 demonstration, raffles, pictures with Santa, and more. There is no registration fee. All dogs must be leashed during the event.

When: Nov. 5, 9 a.m.–12 p.m.

Where: Exeter’s Bark Park Contact: Hayley Tashjian, 731-0757

A FESTIVAL OF TREES IN THREE RIVERS

HAPPENINGS

REDWOOD BAND AND COLOR GUARD HOLIDAY HOME TOUR Enjoy seasonal music and hospitality during this special holiday home tour, hosted by the Redwood Band and Color Guard. Listen to holiday music while touring beautifully decorated locations throughout Visalia. Tickets are available from Redwood Band and Color Guard students, White's Music, Quail Park, and Chelsea Street Boutique. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 on the day of event.

When: Dec. 3, 12-5 p.m.

Where: Quail Park, 4520 W. Cypress Ave., Visalia Contact: redwoodrangerband.org or 920-5950

St. Anthony’s Retreat and Santa Teresita Youth Conference Center is Hosting a Festival of Trees fundraising event to benefit many local Three Rivers nonprofits, schools, and churches in the Central Valley. There will be a silent auction, wine tasting, hors d’oeuvres, and a no-host cocktail bar.

When: Nov. 17, 5 p.m.

Where: St. Anthony’s Retreat, 43816 Sierra Dr., Three Rivers Contact: 561-4595

36TH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS TREE AUCTION The Christmas Tree Auction has become a legacy in Visalia as non-profits use this black tie celebration to advance their mission through donations they receive and awareness they generate.

Come dressed in your best to celebrate a “White Christmas” while you support local non-profits.

When: Dec. 9, 5:30 p.m.

Where: Visalia Convention Center, 303 E. Acequia Ave., Visalia Contact: visaliachamber.org

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COMMERCIAL CLEANING SERVICES

grand opening N OW H I R I N G E X C E P T I O N A L R E ALTO R S

Janitorial Service For dependable commercial cleaning service ServiceMaster Clean can help. daily, weekly, or monthly janitorial service Medical & professional office cleaning

Office system cleaning

Aggregate floor cleaning

Nearly any other cleaning you want

Tile & grout cleaning

Window washing

“ O U R AG E N T S F I N D T H E B E S T H O M E S F O R O U R C L I E N T S , S O W E B U I LT T H E B E S T H O M E F O R O U R AG E N T S .”

Carpet cleaning using various processes

ServiceMaster by Hellstern

Ron Hellstern owner 559.738.8927 Serving the Visalia area | Locally owned and operated for over 25 years

720 W. ACEQUIA AVE. VISALIA, CALIFORNIA 93291 +1 559 625 950 0 / BLOOMGROU PRE .COM

CHINA FEATURING BEIJING, SHANGHAI, SUZHOU & HANGZHOU

JOIN THE CHAMBER FOR A SLIDESHOW PRESENTATION

NOVEMBER 17 AT 5:30 P.M. AT THE WYNDHAM VISALIA FOR PRICING OR REGISTRATION DETAILS CALL THE VISALIA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

at 559-734-5876 or visit VisaliaChamber.org/travel

OCTOBER 6-14, 2017 HIGHLIGHTS

Tian An Men Square, Temple of Heaven, Palace Museum, Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Great Wall, Ming Tombs, National Embroidery Institute, Economic Development Zone, Lingyin Temple, Westlake, Yu Garden, Lingering Garden, Tiger Hill

CALL FOR PRICING 9 DAY PACKAGE INCLUDES AIRFARE, AIRPORT TRANSPORTATION, 4 AND 5-STAR HOTELS, ALL MEALS, ENGLISH SPEAKING GUIDES

VISALIA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 222 N. Garden St. Suite 300, Visalia

L I F E S T Y L E | O C TO B E R 2 0 1 6

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L O C A L

B U S I N E S S

S U P P O R T S

Yes on Measure N “To attract new businesses and allow them to thrive we must support first responders. The Visalia Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors is urging Visalia citizens to vote Yes on N.” STACY MORRIS

Visalia Chamber of Commerce Board Chair

“We urge voters of Visalia to vote “Yes on N. Funds generated by this measure will remain under local control and will be invested in Visalia’s first responders, our roads, and the maintenance of our neighborhood parks.”

MARLENE SCIACCA

Visalians Inc. (Downtown Visalians) Board Chair

“Comprised of more than 200 property owners in Downtown Visalia, Property Based Improvement District (PBID) encourages the citizens of Visalia to vote Yes on N, in order to maintain the high standards for fire, safety, roads and parks Visalians have come to expect.”

MIKE FISTOLERA PBID Board Chair

For more information go to www.VisaliaYesOnN.com

“Measure N is the right thing to do to protect the quality of life for the people of Visalia.

Measure N will help us attract new employers by keeping Visalia a safe community and by preserving our strong fire service rating.”

RICHARD FEDER

Board President Visalia Economic Development Corporation

www.facebook.com/visaliayesonn For a more complete list of Measure N supporters go to,

visaliayesonn.com/supporters