February 2014

HOME TOUR

THE WALDRUM HOME Craftsman Style Built for Family and Function

TRAVEL

CAMBODIA

A Rich Historical Culture

CULINARY

A DINNER MINT TO BE SHARED

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PAGE

24 HOME TOUR The Waldrum Home

NEXT GEN

Going With the Flow Layne Rodrigues

8

Letter from the Executive Editor

10 Business Cents: Nine Easy Mistakes

Homeowners Make on Their Taxes 12 Word Play 14 Local Adventure: Blossoming into Spring 16 History: Hotel Johnson - Queen of the Valley

PAGE

20

46 Spirits: Hosting a Beer Tasting 50 Literary Arts: Stacy Brand

CULINARY

54 Service: A Legacy of Service

and Empowerment

A Dinner Mint to be Shared

58 Happenings

Cinnamon-Dusted Double-Rib Lamb Chops PAGE

34 T R AV E L

A Rich Historical Culture Cambodia COVER: With unique tile inlays, the fireplace in the living room emphasizes the home’s craftsman style.

PAGE

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PICTURED: The entrance to the Waldrum home showcases the intricately designed staircase and wide-plank Hickory floors.

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FEBRUARY 2014 PUBLISHED BY DMI Agency 801 W. Main St. Visalia, CA 93291 ART & PRODUCTION Art Director ROSS YUKAWA Graphic Designer CHRIS BLY EDITORIAL Executive Editor KAREN TELLALIAN Content Coordinator KATIE PRESSER Editorial Staff NIKKI GILMAN Copy Editor DARA FISK-EKANGER CONTRIBUTING WRITERS CHERYL LEVITAN DIANE SLOCUM ERIK ANDERSON JORDAN VENEMA LISA McEWEN MICAH WADDELL TERRY L. OMMEN BUSINESS MANAGEMENT MALKASIAN ACCOUNTANCY LLP GARY MALKASIAN CPA JEFFREY MALKASIAN EA Operations Manager MARIA GASTON ADVERTISING SALES KATHY LOOPER kathy@dmiagency.com BRYCE McDONALD bryce@dmiagency.com SALES OFFICE 801 W. Main St. Visalia, CA 93291 559.739.1747 • Fax 559.738.0909 E-mail: lifestyle@dmiagency.com

RACK LOCATIONS

DMI Agency Evolutions Fitness Center, Tulare Tazzaria Coffee & Tea Tulare County Library The Lifestyle Center Visalia Chamber of Commerce Visalia Convention Center COUNTERTOP LOCATIONS

210 Cafe Cafe 225 California Fitness Academy Creekside Day Spa & Wellness Center Courtyard Aesthetics Details Party Rentals Exeter Chamber of Commerce Exeter Golf Course Fast Frame Franey’s Design Center Frank’s Appliance Hobbs-Potts Associates Holiday Inn Pita Kabob Kaweah Delta Hospital Red Carpet Car Wash Smiles by Sullivan Tulare Chamber of Commerce V Medical Spa Valley Financial Group Velvet Sky Visalia Community Bank (Downtown) Visalia Eye Center Visalia Imaging & Open MRI Visalia Marriott Visalia Medical Clinic Wildflower Cafe-Exeter Dr. Keith Williams Williams, Jordan, Brodersen & Pritchett, Attorneys at Law Windows Plus, Inc.

VIEW THE MAG ONLINE! issuu.com/lifestylemagazine

Facebook.com/LifestyleMag

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 2,000 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: 15,000 © 2014 DMI Agency

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LEFT: Sam, the Waldrum’s Great Dane decided to make an appearance for us, such a beautiful dog!

E EDITOR NOTE

Photo by Becca Chavez | Hair and Make-up provided by Velvet Sky

If there’s any month that is all about love, it is most certainly February. Cupids and valentines aside, right now there’s nothing more loveable than a few drops of rain in the middle of a serious drought. You can thank me for that since I had my car washed and detailed just a few hours before the first raindrops fell. A willing and small sacrifice considering how desperately the Central Valley needs rain. Although we cannot make it rain at will, we can all take some steps to conserve what water we do have. If every single person made a concerted effort to reduce waste, it would have a significant impact on our water supply.

Please join me in making this a priority this year.

This month’s Home Tour feature is the perfect combination of design, décor and function. Bryan and Susan Waldrum built their craftsman style home in a way that skillfully blends each of the individual personalities of the people who live there.

Every detail was meticulously planned in advance, right down to customizing spaces to house some of their favorite collections and furniture pieces. It is obvious that there was a lot of love poured into making this home a comfortable and happy place to be. Story and photos start on page 24.

Have you enjoyed the travels of Cheryl Levitan as much as we have? For those of us scarcely able to squeeze in a weekend at the coast, we love following Cheryl around the world, if only from our easy chairs. Cheryl makes every trip a cultural experience, and this month’s trip to Cambodia, starting on page 40, is no exception. We think you’ll get a kick out of her “Tips for Traveling to the Area” as she cautions about the downside of fish foot massages.

February is also National Black History Month making it a good time to curl up next to the fireplace, listen to the rain, and read “The Wedding Gift,” a novel by Marlen Suyapa Bodden. Word Play contributor Diane Slocum always does an outstanding job with her monthly reading recommendations.

This month’s reading and writing news can be found on page 12.

The Lifestyle staff hopes the month of February is filled with love and appreciation for others, and for our environment. Every time you turn on a faucet please think about using only what you need, and save the rest.

KAREN TELLALIAN, EXECUTIVE EDITOR For more information or to submit a story idea email Karen@dmiagency.com or www.facebook.com/LifestyleMag call (559) 739-1747 or fax (559) 738-0909.

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B BUSINESS CENTS

Nine Easy Mistakes Homeowners Make on Their Taxes Text by Erik Anderson, Keller WIlliams Realty Tulare County

D

on’t rouse the IRS or pay more taxes than necessary – know the score on each home tax deduction and credit.

Sin #1: Deducting the wrong year for property

taxes You take a tax deduction for property taxes in the year you (or the holder of your escrow account) actually paid them. Some taxing authorities work a year behind – that is, you’re not billed for 2013 property taxes until 2014. But that’s irrelevant to the feds. Enter on your federal forms whatever amount you actually paid in 2013, no matter what the date is on your tax bill. Dave Hampton, CPA, tax manager at the Cincinnati accounting firm of Burke & Schindler, has seen home owners confuse payments for different years and claim the incorrect amount.

Sin #2: Confusing escrow amount for actual taxes paid If your lender escrows funds to pay your property taxes, don’t just deduct the amount escrowed, says Bob Meighan, CPA and vice president at TurboTax in San Diego. The regular amount you pay into your escrow account each month to cover property taxes is probably a little more or a little less than your property tax bill. Your lender will adjust the amount every year or so to realign the two.

For example, your tax bill might be $1,200, but your lender may have collected $1,100 or $1,300 in escrow over the year.

Deduct only $1,200. Your lender will send you an official statement listing the actual taxes paid. Use that. Don’t just add up 12 months of escrow property tax payments.

Sin #3: Deducting points paid to refinance Deduct points you paid your lender to secure your mortgage in full for the year you bought your home. However, when you refinance, says Meighan, you must deduct points over the life of your new loan. If you paid $2,000 in points to refinance into a 15-year mortgage, your tax deduction is $133 per year.

Sin #4: Misjudging the home office tax deduction The deduction is complicated, often doesn’t amount to much of a deduction, has to be recaptured if you turn a profit when you sell your home, and can pique the IRS interest in your return.

But there’s good news – there’s a new simplified home office deduction option if you don’t want to claim actual costs. If you’re eligible, you can instead claim $5 per square feet up to 300 feet, or $1,500.

Sin #5: Failing to repay the first-time home buyer tax credit If you used the original home buyer tax credit in 2008, you must repay 1/15th of the credit over 15 years. If you used the tax credit in 2009 or 2010 and then sold your house or stopped using it as your primary residence, within 36 months of the purchase date, you also have to pay back the credit. The IRS has a tool you can use to help figure out what you owe.

Sin #6: Failing to track home-related expenses If the IRS comes a-knockin’, don’t be scrambling to compile your records. Many people forget to track home office and home

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improvement expenses, says Meighan. File away documents as you go. For example, save each manufacturer’s certification statement for energy tax credits and lender or government statements to confirm property taxes paid.

Sin #7: Forgetting to keep track of capital gains If you sold your main home last year, don’t forget to pay capital gains taxes on any profit. You can exclude $250,000 (or $500,000 if you’re a married couple) of any profits from taxes.

So if your cost basis for your home is $100,000 (what you paid for it plus any improvements) and you sold it for $400,000, your capital gains are $300,000. If you’re single, you owe taxes on $50,000 of gains. However, there are minimum time limits for holding property to take advantage of the exclusions. Consult IRS Publication 523.

Sin #8: Filing incorrectly for energy tax credits If you made any eligible improvements in 2013, such as installing energy-efficient windows and doors, you may be able to take a 10 percent tax credit (up to $500; with some systems your cap is even lower than $500). But keep in mind, it’s a lifetime credit. If you claimed the credit in any recent years, you’re done. Fill out Form 5695. The first part of the form, which covers systems eligible for a larger tax credit through 2016, such as geothermal heat pumps, can be complex and involves cross checking with half a dozen other IRS forms. Read the instructions carefully.

Sin #9: Claiming too much for the mortgage interest tax deduction Taxpayers are allowed to deduct mortgage interest on home acquisition debt up to $1 million, they can also deduct up to $100,000 in home equity debt.

This article provides general information about tax laws and consequences, but shouldn’t be relied upon as tax or legal advice applicable to particular transactions or circumstances. Consult a tax professional for such advice.

Erik graduated from the University of Utah with majors in Mass Communication and Film/Media Studies. He began his career in Real Estate in 2008 in his hometown, Visalia. Erik is a REALTOR and real estate trainer at Keller Williams Tulare County.

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W WORD PLAY

NEWS ON WRITING, BOOKS AND THE WORLD OF PUBLISHING Text by Diane Slocum

A

mong its many other celebrations, February is National Black History Month, a good time to read a debut novel by Marlen Suyapa Bodden. The Wedding Gift is the story of Sarah, a gifted and independent-minded young woman who is a slave on a southern plantation. While she has some privileges from being the best friend and maid of the owners’ daughter, her greatest desire is to be free.

The movie, “Long Walk to Freedom,” is based on the autobiography of the same name by Nelson Mandela. Mandela wrote much of the book secretly during the 27 years he was imprisoned. His book has been praised almost as highly as the man himself.

Open City is the debut novel of Teju Cole, published in 2011.

It is a stream of consciousness novel about a young Nigerian psychiatry resident studying in New York City. During most of the book, he wanders the city sharing his encounters and thoughts.

Top 500 Poems For a list of the 500 top rated poems visit PoemHunter.com.

The list starts with “Phenomenal Woman” by Maya Angelou, “Pretty women wonder where my secret lies. I’m not cute or built to suit a fashion model’s size…”. The second spot is held by Robert Frost and his classic, “The Road Not Taken,” “Two roads diverged in a yellow wood, And sorry I could not travel both…”.

“If You Forget Me” by Pablo Neruda, “Still I Rise” by Maya Angelou and “Dreams” by Langston Hughes occupy the next three positions.

The Central Valley is represented by Fresno poet Gary Soto with his “A Red Palm” coming in at number 277 and “Saturday at the Canal” at number 340. Short term valley resident Jack Kerouac penned “Haiku (Birds singing…)” which is number 350 and “Haiku (The taste…)” at number 407. Surprisingly, Fresno State professor and former national poet laureate Phil Levine is not on the list.

Valley Writers And – speaking of Gary Soto – he has a cute Lego video of his poem “Oranges” that can be found on YouTube.

John Dofflemeyer continues to add ranch life poems and photos to his drycrikjournal.com. Three recent titles are “Bare Dirt,” “Rain Dance” and “Miracles.” All of these contain thoughts that have been on the mind of anyone in this valley connected to agriculture, with 2013 turning out to be the driest year on record and no rain in sight at the beginning of the new year.

Clovis native Chris Colfer’s second book, for ages eight through 12, came out in August. It continues The Land of Stories series.

The first installment was The Wishing Spell, a tale of 12 yearold twins who fall into a fairy tale world and have to go on a scavenger hunt to wish their way home. The latest book is The Enchantress Returns. In this episode, the twins, Conner and Alex, face the evil enchantress who cursed Sleeping Beauty and now has

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kidnapped their mother. Colfer is best known for his role on television’s “Glee.”

First line of…?

What novel opens with this line: “124 was spiteful” (see below).* What Was New One hundred years ago, James Joyce’s unfinished autobiographical novel, A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man, began serialization in The Egoist, a new London literary magazine. It ran from February 1914 to September 1915.

American poet Ezra Pound pressured the magazine to accept the installments.

Writing Contests For a really different writing experience, for resolute writers only, look into the Margery Davis Boyden Wilderness Writing Residency for 2016. It sounds like a long ways off, but this experience requires advance planning and the deadline for application is March 1. A writer or pair of writers will be granted the opportunity to emulate Thoreau and live in wilderness solitude for seven months. The residence is in a remote region of Oregon along the Rogue River. Only one hour of caretaker work is required per day and the residency includes a $5,000 stipend.

Read the detailed description of the living conditions and the application process at www.johndaniel-author.net/mdb-res.php.

Writers Conferences The Bread Loaf Writers Conference proclaims itself the oldest writing conference in the country. It has convened each year since 1926 in the Green Mountain National Forest in Ripton, VT. This is another experience not intended for casual participants.

Tuition, room and board is $2,935, but several scholarships are available. Admission is based on the strength and promise of the writing sample submitted during application. Applicants may be published or not. The deadline for application is March 1. The conference is held August 13 – 23 at Middlebury College. Details at www.middlebury.edu/blwc/admissions.

The Last Word “If you want to make peace with your enemy, you have to work with your enemy. Then he becomes your partner.” – Nelson Mandela (1918-2013) *First line from Beloved by Toni Morrison (1987).

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L LOCAL ADVENTURE

BLOSSOMING INTO SPRING Fresno County Blossom Trail

A

lthough the weather might not encourage most of us to take a stroll outside, the transition from winter to spring gives us motivation to get outdoors and take in the natural beauty that surrounds us right here in the Central Valley.

Stretching from Fresno through Sanger, out to Orange Cove, and eventually making its way back to Kingsburg, you’ll notice the breathtaking views of blossoming fruit and nut trees throughout the Fresno County Blossom Trail. The 62-mile self-guided tour is great for low cost adventures with the family, or an afternoon spent in the countryside with your loved one.

Driving in your car is only one of many options for taking in the sights and smells. Grab your bikes or motorcycles and take in the fresh air as you tour this scenic route. You won’t find many pit stops, but pull off on the side of the road, grab your cameras and take in the aromas of the fresh flowers.

From mid-February through early March, cast your eyes on the beautiful blossoms as the Sierra Nevadas set the perfect backdrop.

As you make your way along the Blossom Trail, here are a few of the different types of trees and blossoms to look out for.

In late February, feast your eyes on the white blooms from the almond, apple and plum trees along the trail. In the early weeks of March, you’ll begin to see the pink petals of the apricot, peach and nectarine orchards.

Citrus trees will begin to blossom later into the season and offer the most aromatic fragrance. Navel and Valencia oranges and

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lemons are the most common citrus grown locally.

Be sure to keep a lookout for flowers in other forms. Wildflowers such as California Poppies and Baby Blue Eyes are also commonly spotted along the Blossom Trail.

Points of interest along the trail include several family-owned farm stands – Simonian Farms is a 3rd generation farm and serves as the official start of the Blossom Trail. Stop in at several wineries along the trail to get a taste of our area’s other agricultural specialties. Local wineries including Cedar View Winery, Ramos Tores Winery and Tivy Mountain Vinters offer wine tasting and other special events.

This self-guided tour is organized by the Fresno County Blossom Trail Committee, a partnership between the County of Fresno and the Chambers of Commerce in Sanger, Kingsburg, Reedley, Orange Cove, Selma and Fowler to celebrate the beauty of the Central Valley’s agriculture. For more information about the trail and events, visit www.gofresnocounty.com.

UPCOMING EVENTS ON THE BLOSSOM TRAIL: 25th Annual Kings River Blossom Bike Ride - March 1, Reedley, CA 26th Annual Blossom Days Festival - March 1, Sanger, CA 17th Annual Blossom Trail 10K Run - March 1, Sanger, CA Blossom Trail Wine Weekend - March 1 & 2, Sanger, Kingsburg and Tivy Valley, CA Orange Cove Blossom Festival - April 2, Orange Cove, CA

H HISTORY

Reflections H OT EL J O H N S O N – Q U EEN O F T H E VA L L E Y

Text by Terry L. Ommen

W

OF MAIN STREET

hen I moved to Visalia 42 years ago, I remember hearing of a 5-story hotel that had once stood downtown. It was a large building surrounded by shops, theaters and banks, located on the northeast corner of Main and Church streets. People said its dominant and stately appearance gave the town a metropolitan flair. Many shared fond memories of the old lodging house, and hoped it would be replaced. As time went on I learned more about the gone but-not-

forgotten Hotel Johnson, a place called the “Queen Hotel of the Valley.”

The story of the Hotel Johnson can be traced to Langston Andrew Johnson, a Missouri native who came to Visalia in 1876.

A hardworking entrepreneur, Johnson invested heavily in farmland and city real estate, and eventually purchased the Visalia House, a pioneer hotel built in 1859. After his father’s death, John Sublitt Johnson, who was known as J. Sub Johnson, inherited the PICTURED: Hotel Johnson-circa 1925.

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H HISTORY Visalia House located on the northeast corner of Main and Church streets. In 1915 the old timer was showing its age and a large chunk of the building gave away, so Johnson began planning for a new hotel on the site.

In 1916, the old lodging house was torn down and Johnson hired Trewitt and Shields, contractors from Fresno, to build the new 5-story hotel using the family name. Construction began in the latter part of the year and early press releases promised one of the finest hotels in the San Joaquin Valley. According to newspaper accounts it would “be modern in every particular, first class B construction, contain 125 living rooms, steam heat, hot and cold water, elevators, telephone, ice water facilities…and private baths.”

The planned structure was so large that engineers were called in to examine the suitability of the soil on the construction site. The concern was that the sandy nature of the ground might render the foundation unstable especially considering a portion of the building would span Mill Creek. The engineers tested the ground and found it very capable of supporting a solid foundation.

Once the foundation was laid, the brick building began its 5-story ascension. The community anxiously watched as it took shape. For almost a year work on the building progressed, and in October 1917, with the hotel nearly finished, Johnson announced that he had signed a 10-year lease for the operation of the hotel with W. L. Fisher & C. W. Berry.

The people of Visalia were excited about the building, but the excitement spread beyond the valley. San Francisco took note of the elegant new hotel and on October 13, 1917, The San Francisco Chronicle honored the new building with an article and a photograph calling it “modern in every respect.” They even captured a quote from a smiling J. Sub Johnson as he proudly looked over his new hotel and said, “Some house boy, some house.”

At 6:00pm on November 6th the hotel opened and the reviews were amazing. The Visalia Morning Delta called it more elegant than anyone could have expected and declared it to be one of the finest structures in the San Joaquin Valley.

For the decades that followed, the hotel was a popular destination. Thousands of people stayed there and ate in the restaurants including many well-known personalities. Stephen T.

Mather, the first director of the National Park Service, along with his tour party, visited the hotel as part of his 1919 National Park tour. In 1934 sitting California Governor James Rolph spoke and had dinner there, and movie producer, Walt Disney, stayed at the hotel in 1946 during his filming of “So Dear to My Heart,” a film shot throughout Tulare County.

But the years for the grand hotel weren’t always so glamorous.

Hotel operators would come and go and maintenance problems began to accumulate. From time to time the hotel would undergo remodeling. For example, in 1939 the hotel operator did a major facelift throughout, and another in 1950. In 1963 the hotel shut down again for yet another upgrade and this time it stayed empty for a year and a half. City business and government leaders began eyeing the Main and Church hotel site for other uses including a convention center and shopping area. Redevelopment was on the minds of city officials and the dated hotel did not seem to fit in the city’s future plans.

But the nearly 50-year old building survived the calls for its removal. By July 1964, it reopened again and it was “practically brand spanking new inside,” including new electrical wiring, fireproofing and painting. But the struggling hotel had other challenges ahead.

On Friday evening, May 3, 1968, the building caught fire. Smoke and flames bellowed out of the windows and the fire department ordered a complete evacuation. While the fire was being fought, firefighters discovered the body of Ezar David Epps, a victim of smoke inhalation.

The damage to the building was extensive, however a huge section of it remained standing. After examination, the internal framework was found badly compromised, so the section still standing needed to come down. Demolition began and thirteen days after the fire, the demolition crew discovered another victim of the fire. Thedral E. Micham had been the occupant of room 217 and became the second fire related death. The remains of the building were eventually cleared, leaving a huge open gap in the downtown Visalia landscape.

For the next 8 years, the big vacant lot was a regular reminder to many that the hotel needed to be replaced. Finally in 1976 construction began there, but rather than a hotel it was the new downtown branch of the Bank of America.

Talk of a new downtown hotel continued but obviously the attention shifted from the Hotel Johnson site.

On June 14, 1989, ground was broken at Court and Willow for a new hotel, and a year and a half later, November 4, 1990, the Radisson Hotel opened its doors.

PICTURED: Hotel Johnson during demolition in 1968.

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N NEXT GEN

Text by Lisa McEwen | Photos by Taylor Johnson

LAYNE RODRIGUES BALANCES PASSION FOR PILATES AND DANCE AT NEW STUDIO

L

ayne Rodrigues has experienced big city life in Los Angeles, where she earned a dance degree from Loyola Marymount University, and felt the rush of a successful dance career.

The intensity of the profession also lead her to another love: Pilates and its rehabilitative effects. After several years in the harried entertainment capital, the self-proclaimed valley girl is back to share her newfound love at her studio in downtown Visalia.

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Pilates is the exercise regimen started by German-born Joseph Pilates in the early 1920s, and is known for its ability to connect one’s mind, body and spirit while lengthening and streamlining figures through a series of floor and resistance exercises. Rodrigues used these same exercises to help her heal after a devastating injury that could have ended her dance career and sidelined her participation in the university’s elite dance program.

Rodrigues, a Hanford native, opened Flow Studios on Court Street in October to share the same healing properties of Pilates with the community. So far, the response has been overwhelming.

“I knew what I wanted to do,” she said during an interview while sitting atop one of three Reformers, a table-like apparatus used during class. “I was nervous, though. As soon as I saw downtown Visalia, had lunch here, I knew this was where I wanted to open a studio. It’s small enough to be a close community but large enough that there is always something to do.”

Rodrigues said Pilates is a natural extension of her dance background, which she started at age two. As a senior in high school, she signed with Movement Talent Agency (MTA), a commercial and dance agency in Los Angeles. Soon, she was balancing work, auditions, and college courses. While in Loyola Marymount’s rigorous dance program, Rodrigues sustained several injuries, including a severe ankle injury. It was in the university’s tiny Pilates studio that she first became aware of the varied benefits of Pilates.

“My injury was severe, it looked like surgery was the only answer, which I didn’t want,” she explained. Soon, I was healing and I also just enjoyed the peace of mind it brought me. I found I was better able to balance things physically and mentally, plus it was a great workout.”

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Rodrigues was so impressed by Pilates that she decided to become a certified instructor. Along with graduating summa cum laude with a bachelors degree, she attended the elite BASI (Body Arts and Science International), incorporating her training into her senior thesis.

Working as an instructor at a variety of gyms and clubs in the Los Angeles area, Rodrigues soon realized she felt more satisfied after leading a Pilates class than after an audition.

“Even though I love the rush of a gig, in the entertainment industry, you have to be focused on yourself all the time,” she explained. “When I teach a class, I feel like I am making a difference. I wanted to figure out how I could do this for the rest of my life.”

Ready for a change of pace, Rodrigues moved back to the Central Valley, and this is where the seed for Flow Studios began to grow.

A supportive, compassionate environment greets clients and is a mainstay of each class, whether it is a private Pilates mat session, a three-person Reformer class or the trendy, cardio-based Booty Barre class that is growing in popularity each week.

Using the barre found in ballet classes, clients get a whole-body workout in an hour — even with no previous dance experience.

“It is so fun to see my clients’ progress. It’s a big deal for people to take an hour out of their day for themselves, and the fact that they want to spend it here is uplifting to me. This is something I love waking up to.”

Though Rodrigues devotes her days to teaching, she makes time for her hobby: dance. She is still signed with MTA, is available for choreography and private instruction, and is a member of Altered Modalities, a Hanford-based dance company.

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H HOME TOUR

THE WALDRUM HOME

PICTURED: The open space from the kitchen into the family room gives the Waldrums the functionality they always wanted. With an assorted mix of prints and colors, Susan’s own personal flair for design shines through.

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TSMAN STYLE Built for Family and Function Text by Jordan Venema | Photos by Taylor Johnson

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ryan and Susan Waldrum describe themselves as a mixed family - he has three kids and she has two - and for many years they lived in different parts of the state. They married eight years ago, and Susan moved to Visalia from her lifelong home in San Clemente. It is no surprise that there were adjustments for Susan, who had spent more than 40 years in San Clemente. It was a huge change, she said, and sometimes she did not feel like she belonged. Sometimes it just takes a while for things to fall into place.

Her girlfriends had told her as much, that it would take about five years for her new home to feel like, well, home. It also happened that about five years after moving to Visalia, Bryan and Susan decided to build their own home. If anything could make things fall into place, it would be building a home together.

The idea to build a home actually grew out of necessity - the need to find a place to store their RV. When they could not find a home with the right sized lot, Susan, a trained interior designer, began drawing up her own plans. “I started the plans with the garage,” said Susan, but soon she was designing the entire home: the floor plan, the interior and the exterior, the “whole enchilada,” as Bryan put it. All she needed was to bring the plan to code, and to have somebody build it. The Waldrums had the help of their friend Randy Merrill, of Merrill Construction.

“He made this very easy,” said Susan. “He was a mentor in many ways, and we couldn’t have done it without him.”

LEFT: With pops of black and red, Susan’s design studio serves as inspiration and is one of her favorite rooms in the home.

RIGHT: The original plans for the home, drawn up by the Waldrums themselves.

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TOP: The kitchen is a highlight of the Waldrum home. The craftsman style meets modern with stainless steel appliances and a minimalist feel. The wood and iron crafted island was designed by Susan herself, and is truly a work of art.

LEFT: Susan refers to this colorful room as “the morning room� which features bold wallpaper, repurposed furniture and original artwork by her mother.

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RIGHT: Fully equipped with a pool table, the Waldrum kids’ favorite hangout spot is in the family’s game room.

Even with help building the home, the design was left to Susan. “I didn’t want to build a house like everybody else’s,” she explained, and from the entryway to the closets, it is evident that she didn’t.

Each room is distinct, painted a different color and decorated with an eclectic mix of furniture, old and new, wooden antiques and contemporary pieces. Vibrant colors explode against softer tones, like an orange chair and the lime-green tiles of the hearth that juxtapose against the “oolong tea” paint on the family room’s walls.

While the décor of the home was obviously important, Susan was mostly concerned with building a functional home, something “a little cleaner with a little less fuss,” a home that offered privacy while reflecting the style of each family member. As an interior designer, that is one of Susan’s goals - to listen to the needs of those who live in the home, and to allow the home to reflect its family.

For Susan, the ability to build such a home comes from experience - “from life experience,” she specified. “I think we know what makes us relax and what doesn’t.” Still, when they set out to design their home, Susan had a very particular style in mind that would help her to design a home that offered both a low stress environment while reflecting their personal style: Arts and Crafts.

The American Arts and Crafts movement, or the American Craftsman Style has its roots in the British Arts and Crafts movement, which was founded by William Morris as a reaction to the British Industrial Revolution. In the wake of a world with ever increasing mass-production and less-skilled labor, the movement stressed simplicity of form and style and the work of individuals - craftsmen. With its roots as a reaction to the Industrial Revolution, American Craftsman Style isn’t just an architectural and interior design, it is also a philosophical lifestyle - one that says a lot about the nature of the individual, and specifically, the nature of the individuals in their home.

The Waldrums incorporated subtle elements of craftsman style into their plan: exposed and overhanging eaves, hip roofs, and front portico for the exterior; accent tiles, wide-plank Hickory floors (which Bryan laid himself), a custom craftsman style stairway and fireplace for the interior. Other elements of the craftsman style include the stained glass of the front door, an original design with green leaves and blooming flowers. Susan also designed the iron railing of the stairway and the island in the kitchen, both of which used movement that was inspired by designer Charles Rennie Mackintosh. “See, nobody would know that overlaps,” said Susan about the design of the iron work of the stairway and the island in the kitchen, “but you can feel it.”

But more than building a home that incorporated the hallmark elements of craftsman style

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Susan designed in the spirit of that style, by emphasizing the individual - by reflecting their own style, their own history throughout the home.

In the Waldrum home, everything has found its place, despite the diversity of origins. Most of the furniture pieces are heirlooms, some from Susan’s family and others from Bryan’s. As such, building this home was almost a way of unifying their family, bringing together whatever things had been theirs as individuals and then revitalizing those things in a new space. And everything has its place because everything has its purpose, whether the function is aesthetic, practical, or sentimental. Ultimately the function, the purpose of the home is to reflect those who live in it. “A design isn’t any good if it doesn’t reflect everybody that it’s for,” said Susan. “I deliberately thought of that, reflecting each child, reflecting both of us,” she explained. That meant finding a place even for the Heineken glasses that Bryan brought back from Europe when he was 18. Bryan laughed, “They were my prize,” he said, the only thing he cared to bring back from the trip. Susan knew how important those were to him, so they incorporated them into their new home.

When it came to each piece of furniture, painting, or knickknack - even down to those Heineken glasses, “We knew exactly where it was going,” said Bryan. “I had it all laid out,” added Susan, “that’s the beauty of building your own house - building spaces for specific things.” They built a space specifically for a dining room set, table, and buffet that were once Susan’s parents. They also built a room

for their pool table. But even the smaller items, they knew exactly where they would go. Susan’s mother, Sherley, an accomplished oil painter, has many paintings hanging throughout the house - a scene of Spanish windmills, elephants stampeding, the profile of a Native American, even a painting done in pointillism. Sherley’s paintings somehow exist like a metaphor for the entire home. Every painting is different in subject and style, and it would be difficult to know that they were painted by the same artist. Still, each painting is unified by the same artist, though they hang in a different room and tell a different story; it is much the same with every bedroom in the Waldrum home, painted in different, uniquely named hues Pussy Toes, Duck Down, Oolong Tea, Turbo, Hush - every room is distinct and different from the other, and yet it is part of the whole.

Each room is unique because of its function, which is to reflect some part of their family - like Bryan’s office. They designed a room where Bryan not only could work, but also enjoy himself.

The office is sparsely decorated with a desk, leather chair, and shelf, and built with a ventilation system to allow Bryan to smoke cigars indoors. There’s also a small terrarium that houses Hank the Turtle, an African Horned turtle that can grow up to 24 inches. Susan laughed, “When we’re too old to walk around we’ll just sit on him.”

The shelf displays “a little bit of what I do,” said Bryan. There’s a black belt and books from his college years, knick-knacks that reflect his career: a large half of a broken sprocket, a cutaway of a bearing, an old slide ruler, a titanium sponge.

PICTURED: The master bedroom’s modern design is accented with clean lines while pops of color and natural light give the room an inviting feel.

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“Probably some of the most pleasing aspects,” said Susan, referring to decorating their home, “were the things that we reused, rather than getting something new.” The Waldrums both used the word revitalized. That meant repainting furniture, or using it in new ways. In the pool room is an old trunk that was made by Bryan’s grandfather when he was six; his grandfather’s table is now in the family room. Much like the dining set that was her parents, or the paintings by her mother, the house is full of “things that bring our history to the house.” And by bringing together all the pieces of furniture that have diverse histories, by revitalizing them and reusing them, and by putting each in its new space, “it became ours,” said Bryan.

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aspects of a home is its function. Of course, function includes style, and one that is particular to those who live in the home. So for the Waldrums, to say the home is built for function is as much to say that the home is built for family. Susan asks herself the question, “did you take the risk and let the house reflect you? I want to see a house that has the character of somebody who lives in it.” That is why even their children had a role designing their rooms, choosing its colors. Because if the home does not reflect the people who live in it, then no matter how “functional” the home, it will be missing something. “You can have all the function and everything around you that you like, but you also have to be happy in it.” It is not the home, or the furniture or the décor that makes a house happy, said Susan, “We bring that in, we bring to the home what it is.”

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PICTURED: The backyard of the Waldrum home is the perfect place for the couple to spend quality time with their five children.

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A DINNER Text by Micah Waddell, Bravo Farms | Photos by Taylor Johnson

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TO BE SHARED

F

ebruary is a month that is usually spent showing your loved ones that they hold a special place in your heart. And what better way to show them you care than with a home-cooked meal?

Fire up the grill (or pan) and serve your special someone this unique dinner featuring lamb chops, risotto and bold flavors including cinnamon and mint.

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Cinnamon-Dusted Double-Rib Lamb Chops

Pan-Seared Method: Preheat your oven to 450°F. Allow the chops to rest at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes before cooking.

Season both sides of the lamb chops with a pinch of salt, pepper and ground cinnamon.

Place an oven-safe frying pan on your cooktop and coat with a small amount of high-heat cooking oil. Heat the pan over high-heat until the oil begins to ripple.

Carefully add the lamb chops to the hot oil and sear on one side until well browned – about 2 minutes. Flip the chops and sear the other side until well browned.

Transfer the entire pan, with the lamb chops inside, into the preheated oven. Roast the lamb chops until they reach your desired level of doneness – 125° F for rare, 130° F for medium rare, 140 °F for medium or 155° F for medium well when measured with your meat thermometer. Cooking times will vary depending on your desired level of doneness

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(I recommend medium rare). Medium rare double-thick lamb rib chops should take about 5 to 6 minutes to finish in the oven.

Remove the chops from the oven onto plates or a platter and let rest for 3 to 5 minutes before serving.

Grilled Method: Allow the chops to rest at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes before cooking.

Set up and preheat your grill for high-heat direct grilling. Scrape the grill grate clean using a wire grill brush. Grill the chops, flipping frequently, for 8 to 12 minutes until cooked to your desired level of doneness.

Remove the chops from the grill onto plates or platter and allow them to rest for 3 to 5 minutes before serving.

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Tropics by design

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

Call 559.734.4920 to see what we can do for your interior.

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Risotto Style Bulgar with Portobello Mushrooms 2 T butter ½ white onion, chopped 4 garlic cloves, minced 1 C Bulgar ½ C flat leaf parsley leaves, chopped finely 1 QT chicken stock ⅓ C white wine 1 C portobello mushrooms gills removed, cut into ½ inch cubes ½ C Parmesan cheese (about 1½ oz, freshly grated if possible) ¼ C 2% low-fat milk Salt and pepper to taste To remove the gills from the under side of the mushroom, remove stem, take a spoon and scrape from the center to the edge, repeating until clean. Melt the butter in large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté until tender, about 5 minutes.

Mix in Bulgar and cook until opaque, add wine and cook until absorbed, stirring constantly. Add ½ cup stock, simmering after each addition and stirring often until liquid is almost absorbed.

Mix in mushrooms. Continue adding stock ½ cup at a time until Bulgar is just tender and mixture is creamy, simmering after each addition and stirring often until stock is absorbed, about 20 minutes.

Stir in the Parmesan, milk, and parsley.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

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Mint-Walnut Pesto 2 garlic cloves, chopped 1 ½ C fresh mint leaves, chopped 1 C flat-leaf parsley leaves, chopped 1 C extra-virgin olive oil ½ C grated Parmesan ¼ C walnut halves, lightly toasted, chopped Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

To toast walnuts, heat a pan on medium high heat, add walnut pieces and toss until the nuts are lightly toasted and begin to smell like popcorn, about 3-4 minutes.

Add garlic, mint, parsley, walnuts, oil and Parmesan to blender or food processor and blend until slightly chunky. Add salt and pepper to taste.

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CAMBODIA: A RICH HISTORICAL CULTURE Text by Cheryl Levitan

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Text by Marsha Roberts

S

o, where was your last trip? That’s a question I’m asked all the time. My latest journey normally sparks lively conversation. Occasionally it elicits a face “scrunch” and questions regarding safety, food or even bathrooms. But Cambodia? That country is a conversation stopper. Rather than serving as a sequel into discussion, Cambodia draws blank faces, maybe a subject change or worse yet, silence. No friend to silence, I invariably find myself launching into an odd sort of sales pitch about a country that, in truth, still mystifies me. Cambodia is an enigma, a place of great beauty as well as great tragedy, and with enough strangeness thrown in to make it fascinating.

Angkor, the ancient capital of the Khmer Empire, is the beauty of Cambodia. Just outside Siem Reap, these 9th to 15th century

ruins are what travelers come to see. Unrest in the country limited exploration and preservation until 2006. With the aid of laserscanning technology, researchers now know the scattered visible temple ruins are only a fraction of what was once there. The entire area was an inter-dependent series of cities with a religious and residential network larger than anything discovered in the ancient and pre-industrial world. At its peak, Angkor had more than 1 million inhabitants over an area of 400 square miles, an area larger than the five boroughs of New York City. Even Tikal, the largest Mayan city fully surveyed, covers only 58 square miles - tiny in comparison. An elaborate and sophisticated irrigation system of lakes and canals allowed the Khmer to harvest several crops of rice annually, the surplus creating great wealth through trade.

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T TRAVEL Completely abandoned in the 15th century, the remaining population resettled close to present day capital Phnom Penh.

Researchers speculate that continuous planting, deforestation and overpopulation led to erosion, flooding and enough sediment to make their irrigation system impossible to maintain.

The site of theses ruins alone is worth the trip. Adorned with intricately carved reliefs of Cambodian legend and life, it’s hard to believe they are real. With no mortar and built completely of stone, they look more like scenes from a movie. And in fact, many of these magnificent structures were used as the chief locations for the 2001 film, “Laura Croft: Tomb Raider.” With so many different sites, visitors are wise to focus and appreciate just a few.

Bayon Temple is a highlight with its enormous smiling faces adorning all four sides of its 54 towers. The steps to those towers are filled with people attempting to find the perfect angle in order to get a photo “rubbing noses” with one of the faces.

Although relatively small, Ta Prohm is absolutely not to be missed. Completely abandoned and neglected after the fall of the Khmer Empire, enormous tree roots have grown between the stones in a surreal embrace. But of all the structures, the most famed and largest is Angkor Wat. Covering 154 square miles, its revered silhouette appears on the nation’s flag. Families picnic on the grass alongside its vast moat and its long stone walkway is always crowded with visitors attempting to capture its huge facade in one photo. With magnificent towers, walkways and courtyards, Angkor Wat may be best known for it’s many carved reliefs, especially those of the Apsaras.

Apsaras are dancing female spirits common in Hindu and Buddhist art throughout much of the world. As Cambodia’s dominant genre of dance theater, Apsara dance tells stories through slow stylized gestures, poses and elaborate clothing.

Hyperextension exercises begin in infancy in order to master the gestures, and dancers possess balance that would be the pride of any Pilates instructor. The accompanying “music” is largely percussion with the melody (such as it is) provided by zylophones and oboe-like instruments. These Pin Peat orchestras are similar to ones found elsewhere in Southeast Asia with one large difference. In Cambodia the musicians are frequently land mine victims. Often playing near attractions, tourist’s visceral reactions promote awareness along with donations. Sadly, Cambodia remains one of the most heavily mined countries despite ongoing removal efforts. This constant threat of taking one wrong step is just one tragedy endured by a people who were once the most powerful empire in Southeast Asia.

For much of its existence, Cambodia has had a strife-torn story. It’s been occupied, bombed, fought over and ruled by diverse countries and military groups. Centuries of upheaval and turmoil have left their mark. The greatest destabilizing blow was dealt by the Khmer Rouge and their leader Pol Pot. After numerous thwarted attempts at control, this insurgency seized rule from 1975 to 1979. In an effort to obliterate the old society, Pol Pot sent the entire urban population into the countryside to work as farmers after ordering mass killings of the educated and skilled. An estimated 1.5 to 3 million Cambodians were executed or died of starvation and disease as a result. With free and fair elections first held in 1993, this young government strives to improve the country’s economic outlook while foreign aid and non-profit groups are still heavily relied upon for routine services.

Despite this, the Cambodians have survived smiling all the way. Their frequent smiling is often completely inappropriate to the situation and it leaves foreigners feeling confused and frustrated. We experienced this when anxiously attempting LEFT: Located about 1 mile away from Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm is known for the tree roots that embrace and grow between its stones. Largely abandoned, it has only recenly begun restoration.

RIGHT: Utilizing slow and stylized gestures, Apsara dancers tell stories about Cambodian culture and folklore.

Photo by Cheryl Levitan

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Photo by Cheryl Levitan

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ATTENTION TULARE COUNTY PHOTOGRAPHERS Raise Magazine is looking for cover photo submissions

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L I FE S T Y L E | FE B R UA RY 2014

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to catch a flight. Unable to find the departure gates, it became apparent that our “guide” (sent to help us) had never set foot in an airport. Unable to help, his smile made him appear to be amused.

I learned later that Cambodians smile rather than burden others with their own problems, fostering peace and harmony in a country that has had so little of both. Our guide’s smile was brought on by his distress that he couldn’t help us, but his “calming” gesture caused more distress. A little wisdom learned a little late!

This country has two temperatures (hot and hotter) and two seasons (dry and rainy). In the dry season the heat and humidity make you feel wet. During rainy season you are wet, but still hot. What that rain does accomplish, however, is something quite remarkable. It creates the only river in the world to change direction and not just once, but twice a year. Normally flowing south, heavy rains cause the river to back up and flow north, replenishing the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia.

Visiting in the dry season, the Tonle Sap Lake was completely unappealing and the genius of the system wasn’t apparent. We saw muddy water surrounded by randomly placed houses balanced 15-20’ above the dirt on rickety poles. But those same homes are at water level when the river flows into the lake. When the rains end and the river changes direction again, water 44

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(full of fish) flows past and residents simply drop nets which quickly fill.

The fish caught are eaten, traded for rice, rendered into soap and made into fertilizer for crops. Unfortunately for visitors, they are also fermented to create Cambodia’s favorite condiment, Prahok.

The smell is awful no doubt, helped along by the lack of a sewage system.

Leaving the dock did not improve our plight since it quickly became apparent that the rear propellers of passing boats, only partially submerged due to shallow water, sprayed brown water everywhere.

Attempts to avoid getting hit were futile and probably hilarious to watch as we squealed and hopped from side to side. Remembering that some of the best experiences are the least likely (and knowing a hot shower awaited), I chose to embrace the day as well as the python at a floating village we visited. I even received the best $1 shoulder massage from a young boy working on the boat. I did, however, pass up the fish at dinner.

More seriously, Tonle Sap is one of the world’s most productive inland fisheries, supplying 60 percent of the country’s protein and a home to 4.2 million people. The proliferation of hydroelectric dams north in Laos and Thailand threaten the flow of water. Inadequate sewage and increased use of fertilizers also place this ecosystem in danger.

Without intervention, Cambodia faces a possible environmental crisis not unlike the ancient Khmer, but with nowhere left to move.

TIPS FOR TRAVELING TO THE AREA Use a guide to appreciate the ruins.

Guided tour buses and vans are available from hotels to major sites. Excellent guide books are available inexpensively at the ruins, often sold by children who earn money to attend school half-day.

Traveling by Tuk Tuk (a open-air seat attached to a motorbike) is okay in the city. Opt for an air conditioned bus or taxi for the ruins, otherwise the heat and dust in dry season will spoil the experience.

The best Apsara performances are dinner theater formats found in upscale hotels like Sofitel Angkor, Raffles, and Angkor Village. Your backless “chair” is often level with the floor as your legs dangle below into an area below the table. Watching people get out of that table “gracefully” afterwards is part of the show!

Beware of fish “foot massages” on the streets of Siem Reap. Small fish nibbling on your submerged toes makes feet tender at best. At worst, you come home with an infection.

Peak tourist season is December through February when it is dry and less humid.

Mosquitoes are prevalent only from April through October during the rains.

TOP: Tonle Sap Lake is half its size during the dry season but is always muddy from the silt that is washed in and out. It is home to a wide variety of fish, birds, nearly extinct Siamese Crocodiles, and the world’s largest population of freshwater snakes.

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S SPIRITS

HOSTING A BEER TASTING [NO RED PLASTIC CUPS ALLOWED]

Text by Bryce McDonald

I

t is easy to forget, or simply overlook, the fact that craft beer is a product created by creative people with intention and purpose. In other words, each beer is not only conceptualized with the end result in mind, but designed to create a very specific experience for those who consume it. It naturally follows that in order to truly experience craft beer the way the brewer intended you to, you must consume the product the way they intended you to consume it. While there is certainly nothing wrong with an ice cold beer, straight out of the bottle after a long day of yard work, many have found that once they began experimenting with beer styles, pairings, and tasting technique, they developed a new appreciation and deeper understanding of beer, leading to a more enjoyable and fulfilling experience.

Hosting a beer tasting can be a wonderful way to grow your understanding and appreciation of craft beer, along with friends and family in a comfortable and fun environment. This sort of setting eliminates any pressure to sound knowledgeable or make the perfect pairing decisions and allows you to relax, have a good time, and learn with friends. One could even make the argument that the best aspect of beer tasting is its ability to bring people together for great discussions, a point that shouldn’t be too hard to swallow–pun fully intended.

In order to help you begin your journey into the exciting, interesting and frothy world of craft beer, we’ve compiled a list of “best beer practices” that are sure to get you off on the right foot.

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S SPIRITS CHOOSE A THEME While we certainly aren’t suggesting a “Puppies and Pints Night,” or a “Harry Porter Marathon,” creating a theme can be beneficial. Certain beers will flow together more naturally while others, even after a palate refresher, may contrast in an unpleasant way.

Creating a theme based on some unifying quality, such as color, strength, or malt versus hop may help to ensure a better combination.

MAKE A CHECKLIST Besides the obvious assortment of beers, there are a few more items that you will want to have on hand for your tasting event: Bucket full of ice – This is a must for a couple of reasons. For starters, you want to make sure that you serve the beer at the appropriate temperature for its style—lagers around 40-45 degrees, ales around 50 degrees, and stronger beers can be served at cellar temperature.

Keeping an ice bucket handy will allow you to optimize the temperature for each beer.

French bread pieces or unsalted crackers – Between tastings, you will want to cleanse your palate by snacking on some bread or crackers.

This will allow you to taste each style accurately.

Glasses – Don’t be too concerned with using the proper glassware for each style right away. Wine glasses or snifters are perfect for tasting any style. Make sure that the glasses are clean and rinsed with plenty of hot water.

Pitcher or bucket of water – After you and your guests taste a beer, you will want to rinse out your glasses before pouring the next. This will ensure that you are not skewing the beer’s flavor with residue from the last pour.

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POUR THE BEER While college days may have trained you to pour the beer at extreme angles in order to ensure no foam on the top, beer is intended to have a head and this is bad technique. The head of a beer improves appearance, aroma and flavor and is an enjoyable aspect of the beer tasting experience.

Begin by pouring the beer at a 45 degree angle and once the glass is half-full, turn it upright and pour the remaining beer right down the center. It takes a little practice to create the perfect pour, so take some time experimenting and improving technique.

TASTE Now comes the best part.

Taste the beer!

Hold the glass up and take note of the head, color and appearance.

Is the beer cloudy or clear? Does it seem heavily carbonated with lots of bubbles or is it thick and inactive?

Swirl the glass to agitate it and break up some of the carbonation.

Does it stick to the sides of the glass? Does the head thicken up nicely with agitation? Note the movement.

Smell the beer by placing your entire nose in the glass and taking two quick sniffs. Then try breathing it in with your mouth open and then finally, only through your mouth. Admire and discuss the aroma of the beer. Is it hoppy? Pinelike? Fruity?

Next, take a sip of the beer, and refrain from immediately swallowing. Allow the beer to completely cover your taste buds and use this time to note the warmth, creaminess and flavor of the beer. Once you swallow, you will examine the dryness and finish of it. Discuss what you perceive with others at the tasting. While experience is somewhat subjective, you may be able to identify flavors that others picked up on. Discuss your experience, enjoy time spent with each other and remember that craft beer is about growing and trying new things. Enjoy!

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L LITERARY ARTS

TOUGH TEACHERS BRING OUT THE BEST Text by Diane Slocum

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tacy Brand spent her early years in a single-wide trailer in rural Cabot, AR. Mostly, it was just her and her dad. Her parents split up early on – her Filipino mom leaving Stacy to deal with the racial problems of living in a very white area. The couple had met in Seattle, when he was stationed there.

They transferred to San Diego where Stacy was born, and moved to Arkansas before she was two.

Dad was a sports nut. One activity of father and daughter was hunting deer. He was proud of his only child. Spoiled her rotten.

She had a good, solid childhood. Without her mom, she depended on her dad for everything.

Then came the change. His alcoholism spiraled out of control.

She told him something she had always known, something he couldn’t handle. She was about 15 when she came out to him that she was a lesbian. It put a huge distance between the two who had always been so close.

Stacy moved out of the house for her last two years of high school. A friend’s family took her in. College was not something she saw in her future. But her teachers did. They made her apply for scholarships.

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L LITERARY ARTS She was accepted to the University of Arkansas and studied English. While there, she was excited about taking a class from David Slaven “Skip” Hays, the director of the Programs in Creative Writing, who is best known for his novel The Dixie Association. However, the teacher turned out to be a formidablelooking visiting writer accompanied by a little service dog.

This was Enid Shomer, whose debut novel The Twelve Rooms of the Nile, became a popular hit in 2012. Before that, Shomer published six books of poetry and short stories. Her work appears in more than fifty anthologies. She has been awarded well over a dozen prizes and fellowships for her work. Shomer knew what good writing was. When Brand read her story in class, Shomer didn’t mind telling her that wasn’t it.

“She said the plot was great but you’re killing me with your sentences,” Brand said. “Go work on your writing.”

Brand retreated to lick her wounds, and after mentally lambasting Miss Shomer, she decided to read her story out loud in private.

“It was bad,” she said. “I went to her office and told her I realized it was bad.”

From then on, the two became friends. Shomer was one of Brand’s greatest mentors. Her letters of recommendation gave Brand an important boost.

Brand received her bachelor’s degree in English, but was too nervous to go on to graduate school. The woman she was dating at the time, a fellow English major, had more determination and settled on Florida State.

“I let her be my guinea pig for a year,” Brand said. “Then I got brave and went.”

While at Florida State, Brand felt too self-conscious to write poetry, so she concentrated on fiction.

“But then my fiction was much too autobiographical to be fiction,” she said.

She discovered there was something called creative non-fiction.

The course was taught by Bob Shacochis, the National Book Award winning author of Swimming in the Volcano and The Woman Who Lost Her Soul. Thanks to his intimidating reputation, it wasn’t until her final year that Brand psyched herself up to take his class. She and Shacochis hit it off well and though it was late in her schooling, creative non-fiction became the genre she pursued for her master’s.

She had read about Fresno State University professor Lillian Faderman, a historian and author of books on lesbian relationships and historical romantic friendships. Her books include I Begin My Life All Over and To Believe in Women. Her latest is My Mother’s Wars, published last year. This is the story of Faderman’s mother’s emigration to the United States from Latvia.

She failed in her intent to bring the rest of her family over to join her before they became victims of the holocaust. Her guilt over this colored the rest of her life.

With her master’s completed, Brand contacted Faderman thinking she might be able to have her for a mentor while 52

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studying for a Master of Fine Arts at Fresno State. Faderman said to come on.

“It seemed insane to come to California,” Brand said. “I knew no one.”

Brand was ready to get out of the south and it seemed a nowor-never opportunity. When she got here, she was in shock. Not only did she feel she was in the western version of the dust bowl, but she had naively expected to have a stipend and no charge for tuition in the program at Fresno State as had been the case in Florida. She almost left after the first semester, but someone, incredibly, paid her tuition. A friend told her that applications to teach at College of the Sequoias were due that day.

“I had an MA, so I said ‘why not?’” she said.

She got the job and has taught at COS for seven years now. It wasn’t easy at first. She moved to Visalia and commuted to school in Fresno. For a self-professed undisciplined person, she had to become rigidly disciplined. School work, commuting, teaching, all had their part in the day.

Her thesis for her MFA in creative non-fiction was “Boy Pants: A Memoir.”

“It’s a coming of age story with themes of gender and sexuality as well as fatherdaughter relationships,” she wrote.

She and her father had reconciled in later years, but they were seldom together.

He managed to be gracious to Brand’s girlfriends that he met.

“I visited about once a year,” she said. “We were never close again.”

It’s this project she wants to return to now. When her father died about four years ago, she had to set it aside.

“My father plays a huge role in the first half of the book,” she wrote. “I think I’ve finally got enough distance from his passing and from the first draft that I can see a new direction for it that may lead to a full-length book.”

Even with her position at COS, Brand was not happy here. She planned to stay about three years, then teach creative writing at a university. The economic collapse prevented her from pursuing this route, but then she decided her job at COS really is pretty great. Not only that, but she met fellow writer Landon Spencer who is now her wife. The couple bought a house in Three Rivers, settled in and are getting ready to start a family. They participate in a small writing group that includes James Espinoza, also of COS. After years of mentorship by some powerful writers and personalities, Brand now has the experience of being the teacher who can influence her students, for good or for not. Based on reviews, most of her students vote for the former. Most say she is not easy.

“I have the reputation of not handing out many A’s,” she said.

But those who want to learn appreciate that. It isn’t the easy teachers, most of the time, who inspire a student to do his best.

Brand’s experiences can attest to that.

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S SERVICE

A Legacy of Service and Empowerment SOROPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL OF VISALIA HONORS WOMEN MAKING A DIFFERENCE Text by Nikki Gilman

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or Soroptimist International of Visalia, improving the lives of women and girls in the local community is in their very nature. Derived from two Latin words meaning “the best for women,” Soroptimist is a term that captures the heart of this organization.

For 75 years, their impact has been seen throughout the local community; some contributions are tangible while others play out in the lives of women, girls and families.

Each year Soroptimist pauses to recognize not only women and girls who have influenced our community through service but also to reward and empower those who have overcome difficult challenges to improve their lives.

On January 30th Soroptimist of Visalia recognized ten women and girls and one organization at their annual awards banquet at the Visalia Convention Center. “It is probably one of the most special things we do,” Soroptimist of Visalia president Mary Ontiveros said during her opening remarks. “It is so important to recognize the women in our community who uphold our mission and are making a difference.”

With more than 80,000 members worldwide, Soroptimist International is the world’s largest classified service organization for women. Soroptimist International of Visalia was charted in 1939 with 18 members who met in the historic Hotel Johnson.

Now numbering more than 65 members, the Visalia group spans several generations, from members in their twenties to the eldest member, Leota Burton, who will turn 101 this year. “Our members come from all walks of life,” commented Ontiveros. “Everyone has something unique to contribute and together we can touch lives in our community.”

This year, Soroptimist honored two women from within their organization for their outstanding contributions.

Mary Line (in memoriam) and Dianne Sharples were recognized for their service and dedication to the Soroptimist Club and its mission.

TOP: Martha Angelica Valencia surrounded by friends and family at the Soroptimist awards banquet where she received the Women of Opportunity Award.

MIDDLE: Zahra Chekabab Ayala (middle) is photographed enjoying time with family and Soroptimist member Laurie Hart (right) before receiving the Women of Opportunity Award.

BOTTOM: Violet Richardson Award winner Karah Gong (right) photographed with her family at the Soroptimist awards banquet.

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S SERVICE

Local nonprofit, ACT for Women and Girls received the “Making a Difference in the Community Award” for their work in providing leadership opportunities for women and girls to promote social and personal change. Others recognized included “Ruby Award” recipients Merrilyn Brady, Erin Garner Ford and Frances Levy whose work has had an impact and made extraordinary differences in the lives of local women and girls.

Soroptimist also encourages younger generations to become advocates for change by recognizing girls between ages 14 to 17 with the “Violet Richardson Award.” High school students Jessica Bonnar and Kara Gong were honored for their leadership and volunteer work in the community.

Perhaps the most inspiring awards Soroptimist gives each year are the “Women’s Opportunity Awards.” These awards are presented to women who, despite challenging circumstances, have returned to school or training in an effort to improve their lives and support their families.

“Our vision is that women and girls will have all the resources and opportunities they need to reach their full potential and to live their dreams,” said Jody Gilman, chairwoman for the award. “One of the signature ways we do that is through our Women’s Opportunity Awards.”

Opportunity Award recipients included Zahara Chekabab Ayala, Esmeralda Sandoval and Martha Angelica Valencia. The three women presented with the scholarships this year came from different backgrounds and walks of life, but each have overcome obstacles to pursue a bright future.

Soroptimist’s efforts reach far beyond the awards presented on this evening. Over the past 75 years, members have been a driving force for social and economic empowerment for women

in Tulare County.

Early on, service projects included filling utility bags for the Red Cross and furnishing a bomber base during World War II. Throughout the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s projects included adopting an arbor at Mooney Grove Park, and in 1963, along with the City of Visalia, the organization established Soroptimist Neighborhood Park which is now located in northwest Visalia.

As the group has grown and developed, Soroptimist of Visalia has placed a more defined focus on projects that support and empower women and girls. Public awareness issues such as homelessness, education and human trafficking are central to the organization’s mission. Recently, local soroptimists refurbished rooms and landscaping for the Visalia Rescue Mission’s Women and Children’s facility. The group also regularly contributes to a number of local nonprofits including CASA, Visalia Emergency Aid, Pro-Youth HEART and Family Services of Tulare County.

The Visalia Soroptimists have dedicated much of their efforts towards the local battered women’s shelter, known as Karen’s House. Shepherding a large number of projects to support the shelter, the group continues to hold workshops for the women, collects items needed for the shelter, and has refurbished various rooms in the shelter including landscaping the backyard and providing playground equipment.

Through fundraising efforts, Soroptimist of Visalia has invested more than 1 million dollars into local and international projects. Given the reach of their service, fundraising is a central focus of the club. In 2010 the club initiated the largely successful “Spring Fling,” an annual fundraiser which includes a luncheon, fashion show and raffle prizes. This year’s Spring Fling is slated for Saturday, March 29th.

ABOVE: Soroptimist of Visalia members in 1964 and 1965 pictured during their installation ceremonies.

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H HAPPENINGS

SOFA ART XIX Sofa Art returns for its 19th consecutive year. With this year’s theme “Sofa Art Reads a Good Book,” think of the classics of literature, the Homeric epics, or perhaps a bit of lighter reading. Maybe a children’s book can serve as your inspiration! Come and see which piece of literature inspired all artists. The free and open to the public reception will be held on Feb. 7 from 6-8p.

When: Feb. 5- Feb. 28 Where: Arts Visalia, 214 E. Oak Ave., Visalia Contact: 739-0905

THEATRE & PERFORMANCES

FEB 16

BRIAN REGAN

Brian Regan has distinguished himself as one of the premier comedians in the country. The perfect balance of sophisticated writing and physicality, Brian fills theaters nationwide with fervent fans that span generations. An American stand-up comedian, Brian uses observational, sarcastic and selfdeprecating humor to leave his audience laughing all night long.

When: Feb. 16, 7:30p Where: Visalia Fox Theatre, 300 Main St., Visalia Contact: 625-1369

SLEEPING BEAUTY

King Philip and Queen Eleanor grieve because they have no child. Hearing of their situation, three good fairies combine their powers, and the following spring a little princess is born. The celebration of the birth is ruined, however, when evil Belladonna arrives and places a curse on the baby princess. It will take 100 years and a prince to put everything right. For times and tickets, visit www.enchantedplayhouse.org When: Feb. 16, 21 and 22.

Where: The Main Street Threatre, 307 E. Main St., Visalia Contact: 739-4600

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FEB 28

AUDRA MCDONALD

The American actress and singer will be performing in Visalia this February.

She has appeared on stage in both musicals and dramas while maintaining an active concert and recording career.

With a record-tying five Tony Awards, two Grammy Awards and a long list of accolades to her name, she is among today’s most highly regarded performers.

The concert is benefitting Hands in the Community.

When: Feb 28, 7:30p Where: LJ Williams Theatre, 1001 W. Main St., Visalia Contact: 627-6825

MAR 6

MERLE HAGGARD

MAR 13

KENNY ROGERS

Come see the American country and Western songwriter, singer, guitarist, fiddler and instrumentalist. Haggard and his band, The Strangers, helped create the Bakersfield sound, characterized by the unique twang of the Fender Telecaster and the mix with the traditional country steel guitars.

When: Mar. 6, 8p Where: Hanford Fox Theatre, 326 N. Irwin St., Hanford Contact: 584-7423 The American singer-songwriter, photographer, record producer, actor and entrepreneur is hitting the valley to perform a few of his greatest hits. Rogers was recently honored with the Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award, and has continued his amazing talents into the 21st century.

When: Mar. 13, 8p Where: Hanford Fox Theatre, 326 N. Irwin St., Hanford Contact: 584-7423

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THE MYSTERY OF EDWIN DROOD

Drood is a musical based on the unfinished Charles Dickens novel, The Mystery of Edwin Drood. Written by Rupert Holmes and presented by the College of the Sequoia’s theatre department, this will be a performance you don’t want to miss! $24 for general, and $20 for students and seniors.

When: Mar. 14-15, 20-22; 7:30p; Mar. 16 & 23; 2p Where: COS Theatre, 915 S. Mooney Blvd., Visalia Contact: 730-3907 or www.costheatre.org

LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS

Seymour Krelborn is a poor young man, an orphan living in an urban skid row.

He begins raising a Venus Flytrap, while working at a run-down flower shop owned and operated by Mr. Mushnik.

For more information about the play, visit www.visaliaplayers.org.

When: Mar. 14-15, 21-22; 7:30p; 16 & 23; 2p Where: Ice House Theatre, 410 E. Race Ave., Visalia Contact: 734-3375

“TURN UP THE MUSIC”

The Dance Department at El Diamante High School will be presenting their annual Spring Dance Production, “TURN UP THE MUSIC.” Tickets are $8 and will be available in advance at the El Diamante H.S. Finance Center and online at the EDHS Web Store. They can also be purchased at the door. Come enjoy a great show and help support the Dance Program.

When: Mar. 20 & 21; 7p Where: L.J. Williams Theatre, 100 W. Main St., Visalia Contact: 735-3522

ART EXHIBITS TREASURES OF THE SIERRA NEVADA

Stop by this exhibit Wednesday – Saturday, 12p-5:30p. Reception will be held Mar. 7, 6p-8p.

When: Mar. 5-28 Where: Arts Visalia, 214 E. Oak Ave., Visalia Contact: 739-0905

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H HAPPENINGS

VISALIA IRISH FEST 2014 Visalia Irish Fest is a St. Patrick’s Day beer festival celebrating craft beer and live music performed by High Grade Pats, an Irish Folk band. Proceeds from the event benefit the Visalia Breakfast Lions and other charitable organizations. Must be 21 or older to attend.

When: Mar. 15, 1p-5p Where: Visalia Rawhide Stadium, 300 N. Giddings St., Visalia Contact: 679-6373

EXCURSIONS & DIVERSIONS:

FEB 22

OVERNIGHT RIDE TO DEATH VALLEY Take a ride on your motorcycle with the Visalia Harley-Davidson shop.

When: Mar. 15-16 Where: Visalia Harley, 30681 CA HWY 99, Visalia Contact: 733-4647

11TH ANNUAL CHINESE NEW YEAR PARTY

Celebrating the year of the Horse, join the Center for Integrated Medicine and Asian Cultural Society on this day full of events.

Check out the lion dance and talent competition, participate in the chopstick picking-up bean contest, and learn about Chinese dining etiquette. With activities for all ages, this is a family event full of culture.

When: Feb. 22, 11:30a-4p Where: Visalia Boys & Girls Club, 215 W. Tulare Ave., Visalia Contact: 625-4246

MAR 1

FIRST SATURDAY

MAR 22

END OF THE TRAIL HALF MARATHON

91ST ANNUAL BANQUET

Exeter Chamber of Commerce will be honoring Exeter’s Man and Woman of the Year, along with Business of the Year and many other awards. Join them in celebrating the people and businesses in our community. Tickets are $40.

When: Feb. 22, 6p Where: Exeter Veterans Memorial Building, 324 N. Kaweah Ave., Exeter Contact: 592-2919

A NIGHT OF…WINE, CHEESE AND CHOCOLATE!

This annual event will showcase specialty California wines, an assortment of cheeses and a variety of chocolates.

Each guest will receive a commemorative Tulare Historical Museum wine glass.

Tickets $30.

When: Feb. 22; 6:30p-9p Where: Tulare Historical Museum, 444 W. Tulare Ave., Tulare Contact: 686-2074 or www.tularehistoricalmuseum.org

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Food, fun and fabulous art. Every first Saturday of the month, the artists, restaurants and merchants of Three Rivers open their doors and invite you to join in a town-wide celebration. You can pick up a map and schedule at Anne Lang’s Emporium or the Historical Museum – the flier shows all participating venues, art to see, locations and times for special events.

When: Mar. 1; 10a-5p Where: Anne Lang’s Emporium, 41651 Sierra Dr. (CA 198), Three Rivers Contact: Nadi Spencer, 561-4373 or www.1stSaturdayTR.com Come out and run, walk or cheer and support local participants for this annual half marathon. This course is a New York City Marathon qualifier and participants will receive a finisher’s medal, a race shirt and a hot breakfast. Registration is open until March 19.

When: March 22, 6:30a Where: Mooney Grove Park, Visalia Contact: www.visaliarunners.org

HAPPENINGS H

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H HAPPENINGS

DREAMBUILDERS’ BASH Join the ImagineU Children’s Interactive Museum at their masquerade themed event. Interactive entertainment, silent auction and live auction will be present, as well as a dinner with an assortment of Cajun specialties by The Vintage Press.

Come on out to this fabulous event, benefitting ImagineU in your best creative cocktail attire. Tickets $135.

When: Mar. 8, 5:30 Where: Visalia Convention Center, 303 E. Acequia Ave., Visalia Contact: 733-5975

VISALIA FARMER’S MARKET – HARVEST OF THE VALLEY

Weekly event open to the public featuring free live music, kids’ activities, cooking demonstrations and local, fresh produce available for purchase. The market also accepts EBT and WIC. When: Saturdays, 8-11:30a Where: Sears parking lot at Mooney and Caldwell, Visalia Contact: 967-6722 or www.visaliafarmersmarket.com

MAR 9

CHARITABLE EVENTS

FEB 25

MAR 8

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A NIGHT OUT

This 10th annual event, presented by the Visalia Elks Lodge will benefit the Elks Purple Pig charity. The night will consist of a gourmet food and wine tasting, a silent auction and the harmonious tunes of Frank Sinatra. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at the Visalia Elks Lodge.

When: Mar. 8, 6p Where: Visalia Elks Lodge, 3100 W. Main St., Visalia Contact: 734-6762

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This rain or shine motorcycle ride will be a day to remember. Cruise around and raise money for the John Paul Magao Memorial Scholarship Foundation, a nonprofit organization and a public charity.

Tickets are $25 and include a t-shirt and lunch.

When: March 9; registration 8:30a, ride 10a Where: Plaza Park; Visalia; Area 1 (next to tennis courts) Contact: 734-1953 or 972-2388

WRITERS & READERS

SPAY-GHETTI DINNER FUNDRAISER

Join the SPCA in their annual fundraiser to benefit their Spay Neuter Program at the Valley Oak shelter. Head over to Rosa’s Italian Restaurant with your $10 ticket, which includes a quart of spaghetti and garlic cheese bread.

When: Feb. 25, 4p-8p Where: Rosa’s Italian Restaurant, 314 S. Johnson St., Visalia Contact: 713-4694

6TH ANNUAL JOHN MAGAO MEMORIAL MOTORCYCLE RIDE

MAR 1

BOOK SALE

Come and find your favorite book or pick up a couple of new ones at this monthly event. Proceeds from this book sale will benefit the Friends of the Tulare Public Library, a nonprofit organization.

When: March 1, 9a Where: Tulare City Public Library, 475 N. M St., Tulare Contact: 685-4500 or www.tularepubliclibrary.org

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