Glow Back to School!
Home is more than a place to lay our heads. Here, memories are made, laughter lingers, and life unfolds. This issue celebrates the spaces that ground us and the stories behind them. From cozy corners to creative builds, it’s a reminder that the best part of any home is who and what you fill it with.
Features
Springville Home
Homeschool
Watercolor Interest
Ornamental Grasses Advertorial
Local Realtor Secrets
Financial Strategies Advertorial
Design Tips Advertorial
Tulare-Kings Resources For Life Advertorial 42
On the Cover: Photo by Dakota Jacobi-Stephenson. Story on Page 25.
Krebsbach Law, APC
Will and Trust Lawyer in Visalia and California Statewide
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A Word From The Editor
AsI write this, we’re smack dab in the middle of a family road trip to Eureka, California. We’ve officially jumped into trailer life with our very first Micro Minnie Winnebago. Because, of course, traveling with a 3.5-yearold, a 1-year-old, and two sleep-deprived parents crammed into a tiny trailer just sounded like the perfect adventure. What could go wrong with the baby who doesn’t sleep through the night and the toddler who wakes up several times a night, all in the same small space? It’s pure bliss.
By hour six of our drive, with all of us screaming, "Wheels on the Bus" for the fifth time, and endless traffic jams, my husband and I exchanged one of those “maybe we made a mistake” glances. But, as chaotic as it gets, every trip ends the same way—with memories and pictures that we’ll cherish forever. Sure, there are moments of pure mayhem, but somehow it all feels worth it when we finally get to the destination and reflect on how much we’ve gained from the experience.
Crammed into our tiny trailer, it really hit me: home is wherever the people you love are. For this trip, our little camper was our home. As summer comes to a close, this issue celebrates the true essence of home, in all its messy, joyful, chaotic glory. In a tiny trailer or a spacious living room, what makes a home is the love, laughter, and memories you create inside it. Hope you enjoy our Home issue this month!
STEPHANIE STEELMAN Co-founder | Root Creative Marketing Executive Editor | Lifestyle Magazine
Sam Justice CREATIVE EDITOR
Contributors
April August20252025
Sarah Gonzalez ACCOUNT MANAGER
Dakota JacobiStephenson HEAD OF SALES & EDITORIAL
Daniel Borgatto GRAPHIC DESIGNER
William Yamauti GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Alexis Cuevas CONTRIBUTOR
Josh Aleman GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Natalie Caudle CONTRIBUTOR
Marissa Carpenter CONTENT EDITOR
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Terry Ommen HISTORIAN
A LEAP OF FAITH AND A LOT OF
THE SUMMERHILL DAIRY STORY
Words by Lifestyle Staff
Photos by Dakota Jacobi-Stephenson
In the heart of California’s Central Valley, tucked between orchards and open skies, you’ll find Summerhill
Goat Dairy, a family-run farm built on a wild idea, a whole lot of grit, and a growing love for goats.
It all started in 1999, when Johnnie de Jong came home with an unexpected plan. He had found a small goat dairy for sale in Chino and was ready to buy it. His wife, Anneke, was surprised. “We don’t know anything about goats,” she remembers saying. But Johnnie had already made up his mind. “I didn’t have a plan. I just thought it looked like fun,” he says. “We had the savings, and I figured we’d figure it out.” With no experience and a newborn at home, they bought the goats and equipment, and suddenly, they were in the goat milk business.
What began as a hobby quickly turned serious. Their very first customer was Trader Joe’s, which was rapidly expanding with new stores each year. As Trader Joe’s grew, so did Summerhill, and before long, it was clear they had something special. By 2010, they moved their herd and their dreams to a new facility in Hanford. What had started with 168 goats in Southern California has now grown to over 3,000.
Summerhill Goat Dairy is a collaborative family business that is growing every day. Anneke is the hub of all things customer service, sales, and trade shows. Johnnie focuses on the goats and operations, with a talent for hiring the right people and letting them lead. “I like finding good people, giving them the tools they need,” he says. Their son Levi has stepped in to take on more of the hands-on care, feeding, and breeding of goats, and learning the business from the ground up.
Though neither Anneke nor Johnnie had a background in goats, both were raised on dairies. Anneke’s family emigrated from the Netherlands and started a dairy in Dinuba. Johnnie grew up on a Southern California cow dairy. “At the beginning, I didn’t have a clue what I was doing,” Johnnie admits. “But we asked questions, found the right people, and just kept at it.”
And they did. Today, Summerhill produces one thing: whole goat milk. And they do it well. Their milk is sold in Trader Joe’s, Sprouts, and natural food stores across the country, reaching customers from California to Florida. “People are always surprised to learn that goat milk is actually the most consumed milk in the world,” Anneke says.
At Summerhill, everything is done in-house, from raising baby goats to bottling the milk. The dairy is Certified Humane, a reflection of practices they have followed from the start. The goats have space to roam, clean environments, and a low-stress routine. Their herd includes a mix of Alpine, Nubian, Saanen, LaMancha, and Toggenburg breeds, all raised on a high-quality, non-GMO, vegetarian diet of alfalfa and grain.
The goats are gentle, curious, and full of personality. “They thrive in heat, hate getting wet, and they’re incredibly smart,” Anneke says. “They’re just happy animals.”
This dairy is my proudest accomplishment.
Looking back, Anneke and Johnnie are proud of how far they’ve come. “We can walk into a store in Maryland and see our milk on the shelf,” Anneke says. “That still amazes me.” Johnnie agrees. “This dairy is my proudest accomplishment,” he says. “We built this place ourselves. Every piece of equipment in that plant, I put in with my own hands. It’s clean, it works, and we’ve got a team here that’s been with us for decades. That means everything.”
Summerhill is still growing. There are new barns in the works, including a space just for baby goats. The de Jongs are committed to staying grounded and focusing on family, integrity, and the goats that started it all—no matter how large the operation becomes.
The story of Summerhill is all about leaping before you’re ready, learning as you go, and building something that lasts.
Tropical Sea Moss Smoothie
Recipe by Watson’s
Ingredients
2/3 cup tropical fruit
1/3 cup Summerhill Goat Milk
1/3 cup orange juice
1/3 cup ice
1 scoop (20-30 grams) grass-fed whey protein
1 tablespoon sea moss (freeze in cubes for optimal freshness)
Instructions
1. Step 1: Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until completely smooth.
2. Step 2: Pour into a glass, sip, and enjoy.
Serving size is between 6- 10oz.
Our glow smoothie is high protein, mineral-rich sea moss, and vitamin C to support glowing skin.
Watson’s Organic Market & Cafe 617 W Main St., Visalia @watsonsvisalia
How i use Ornamental Grasse S
Layered Thinking: in Landscape Design
By
Devon Brown, Charter Oak Landscape Development
Whenapproaching a design, my mind strategically thinks in layers. The first question I ask is: How does the client want to use the space? (If you want to get technical, we call these “programs” in the industry.) I typically—messily—sketch these ideas out. As the layout starts to take shape, I’m left with a balance of mass and void. This is done intentionally, with thoughtful composition.
The masses are hardscape elements that serve programmed functions—patios, pools, walkways, dining areas, focal points, sitting nooks, and so on. The voids, on the other hand, are softscapes—planting areas, lawn, or open spaces with gravel or decomposed granite (DG). These voids aren’t “empty” per se; they provide contrast, breathing room, and visual relief.
The ratio of mass to void shifts depending on the client’s goals, how they want to use their property, and—of course—their budget. When real-world constraints kick in, softscape areas can cost as little as $2 per square foot, while something like a cobblestone patio might run upwards of $25 per square foot.
Once the overall layout is established, you're typically left with a significant amount of softscape. So what do you do with it?
You plant it. Generally, I aim for about 50% to 75% planting density, depending on how full or sparse the desired look is and how much vegetation the space calls for.
Although I studied landscape architecture (and people often assume I’m a “plant person”), I’ll be honest—plant design is one of the last steps in my process. Part of it is that it comes naturally to me. But more importantly, I use plants to reinforce the design aesthetic. I’m less concerned with the plant as an individual specimen and more focused on the ambiance it creates.
Because I want each design to feel individual and rooted in its environment, I focus on texture and color in plant selection. One of my favorite elements to incorporate into a plant palette is ornamental grasses. They provide a wide range of benefits. I lean on them for the textural contrast they offer against the broadleaf plants we commonly see in residential landscapes. Some varieties also bring brighter leaf tones or plumes that help illuminate darker corners of a garden.
And yes, I love them personally. But even more so, I appreciate how they elevate the plants around them. Their movement, subtle hues, and seasonal dynamics give life and rhythm to a landscape.
Charter Oak Landscape Development charteroaklandscape.com @charteroaklandscape
The Bay Leaf
I call this one The Bay Leaf. Why? Are there bay trees in it? Maybe. We’re not totally sure. But just like the bay leaf in any recipe, the grasses in this combination are the quiet heroes. You might not notice they’re there—but you’d definitely notice if they were gone.
This planting features masses of clumping, evergreen ornamental grasses that act as a frame for a bold specimen plant—typically an Agave variety. The rich green grasses gracefully cascade around the base, allowing the architectural form of the Agave to truly shine.
The Autumn
I’m a big believer in letting the seasons take center stage. Several varieties of ornamental grasses produce big, beautiful plumes in the fall. And if you let them, those plumes fade into muted tones that carry gracefully through winter.
Find select spots where these can grow without dominating the foreground. A couple of the varieties, such as Muhly grass or Karl Foerster feather reed grass, can take up some space. I enjoy placing a cluster of several Muhly grasses in front of two Karl Foersters. In the fall, the Karl Foersters grow impressive, wheat-like stalks—about five feet tall and very vertical. The Muhly grasses, by contrast, have a more rounded form and produce airy pink or white plumes, depending on the variety. Combined, they make a beautiful fall statement.
I personally love Rye Puffs as a lower-growing option to add in the foreground. It delivers all the fall color and texture you could hope for. Even as winter takes hold and frost crystallizes on the plumes in the morning, it adds another layer of dynamism to the landscape.
Bonus: These grasses create a habitat for beneficial insects to overwinter. Ladybugs, for example, often take up residence and help control aphids naturally in the spring—an ecosystem right in your own backyard.
The Demure
Not every design needs to be wild or loose.
Sometimes the goal is order and calm— honoring the architectural style of the home, the interior design, and, ultimately, the client’s personal taste.
There are a few go-to ornamental grasses I lean on when working in a more formal realm. If I’m giving a California twist to the traditional boxwood hedge, I might swap in Lomandra ‘Breeze’ or ‘Blonde Ambition’ grama grass for clients looking for a little more excitement.
For a partially shaded afternoon spot, Blue Fescue can be a perfect fit. However, it’s important to note that fescue is a cool-season grass—it doesn’t love the heat of our summers and may yellow during peak heat.
Another calming option for these design schemes is to create a meadow effect. It conjures up a Hamptons-inspired aesthetic in my mind. By bringing in various varieties of Carex—a California native bunchgrass— and planting them in bold masses, you can create a naturalized green space without the maintenance or water demand of a traditional lawn.
Plants have a way of quietly anchoring a design, especially when they’re used with intention. Ornamental grasses, in particular, offer a surprising amount of nuance, texture, and resilience. I love how they support the overall aesthetic without stealing the show—unless, of course, you want them to.
FR TH FR TH
LOCAL REALTOR SECRETS
for a seamless home search
Buying a home is one of the most meaningful decisions a person or family can make, but it’s also one of the most complex. That’s why we partnered with the Tulare County Association of REALTORS® to bring you expert insight from some of the region’s trusted agents.
In collaboration with the Tulare County Association of REALTORS®
Words by Lifestyle Staff
If you’re a first-time buyer or seasoned mover, their tips offer clarity, encouragement, and a whole lot of practical wisdom to get you moved into your dream home.
Chris Barbeau, Realtor
What’s one thing you wish every homebuyer knew before starting their search?
“I wish every buyer took a little more time to think about how they want to live, not just what kind of house they want. Once we have a clear picture of your daily life and future plans, the actual house-hunting becomes much more intentional—and a lot less stressful.”
Dena Clark, Realtor
What’s one thing you wish buyers knew early on?
“There are many steps that are negotiable and not automatic. The advice buyers get from friends may not always be accurate for today’s market.”
Brittney Shull, Realtor
What’s one myth that buyers still believe?
“That you have to put 20% down. That’s just not true. There are great loan programs that allow 0–3.5% down, and many incentives for first-time buyers.”
How important is getting pre-approved?
“Pre-approval is more than just a number; it's your foundation. It shows sellers that you’re serious and ready to go. You won’t waste time looking at homes that don’t fit your budget.”
How important is pre-approval?
“Pre-approval buyers understand not just what they qualify for, but what they’re comfortable spending. That’s why the partnership between a lender and agent is so critical.”
Top tip for first-time buyers?
“Make sure the buyer is fully aware of what the process consists of. Getting pre-approved before even looking at homes gives confidence and clarity.”
Advice for a fast-moving market?
“In a competitive market, success comes from strategy, not speed alone. Preparation, clarity, and a good agent make all the difference.”
A myth that buyers still believe?
“That lenders always require certain inspections. A VA loan requires a termite inspection—but for others, it depends on the contract, not the loan type.”
How to navigate a competitive market?
“Preparation, speed, and confidence are key.”
When you’re house-hunting, the best thing you can bring, besides your budget, is the right mindset and a Realtor who’s truly in your corner. Thanks to these members of the Tulare County Association of REALTORS® for reminding us that the process doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right preparation and a trusted guide, it can actually be exciting.
To learn more: tularecountyrealtors.com
BUILT TO TELL A STORY
Words by Natalie Caudle
Nestled in the foothills of the Sierras is the unique home of Kathy and Michael Mahoney. Designed by Eric and Kasee Lytle, this striking custom build is both a residence and a reflection of the Mahoneys' souls, layered with history, warmth, and wonder. Every inch of this home tells a story of travel, artistry, nature, and the deep connection between two people who know exactly what makes a space feel alive.
Springville has changed since Kathy’s childhood days. Her roots are deep here, as the Gill family’s ties to ranching go back for generations. “I'm really surprised I came back up here. I never expected I would. I never planned to. The Central Valley kind of does that to you—pulls you back in eventually.”
Bringing a Dream to Life
Their designers, Eric and Kasee, understood that vision perfectly. “Ultimately, what matters most is that when you walk through your finished home, you feel at ease. It becomes a place where you can truly unwind, where every detail feels thoughtfully in tune with you, and each room subtly reflects your personality,” says Kasee. “For me, that’s the real success—not just creating a beautiful space, but crafting a home that brings you joy and feels effortlessly, unmistakably yours.”
Eric and Kasee thoughtfully designed each room, but the centerpiece of the home is the staircase. “The stairs are like a work of art,” Michael says. “You have to study it to see that it’s just hanging there. There’s a visceral reaction to it.”
Photos by Dakota Jacobi-Stephenson
"I feel like I' m just in my own little oasis."
– Kathy Mahoney
Built with Purpose
For builder Chad Howell of Howell & Co., this Springville build was anything but typical. “A project has to have special qualities and be unique for me to be interested—this project definitely checked all the boxes,” Chad says. “The Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF) foundation, walk-out basement, hidden steel substructure, I was hooked. The architecture also spoke to me, with a tasteful blend of styles and open spaces both inside and out, the spacious layout speaks volumes to the forethought put into the design.”
Working alongside the Mahoneys and the Lytles, Chad helped bring complex ideas to life with craftsmanship and care. “Working with the clients’ sources for custom-cut and milled timber, we were able to integrate some amazing features with unique species that you wouldn’t otherwise find in a custom home of this caliber.” Some of the timber includes the red gum eucalyptus stair treads and the urban-sourced redwood planking on multiple ceilings throughout the structure. “The massive metal beams that suspend the two staircases in the middle of the home provide a welcome centerpiece to the entrance of the home,” says Chad.
“
The
whole point was to be one with the stars.”
–
Michael Mahoney
Designed for the Stars
One of the boldest features of the home is its architectural elevation. At first glance, it appears to be a two-story build. But tucked below street level is a private, quiet basement suite—a retreat within a retreat.
And then there’s the rooftop deck.
Affectionately dubbed the “moon deck,” it was the driving force behind the home’s design. “The whole point was to be one with the stars,” says Michael.
The Music of Home
At the heart of the home is a cozy corner where Michael plays his guitar most evenings, long after the house has gone quiet.
The property is abundant with spaces that invite deeper connection. Quiet corners and outdoor designs created to feel like they belong to just one moment, or one person. Kathy finds peace outdoors in the labyrinth and downstairs in the suite. “I feel like I'm just in my own little oasis. It's almost not even connected to the rest of the house."
A House That Tells a Story
Every space in the Mahoney home feels like a chapter of a book. “The ultimate goal was to create a home where each space speaks to you—of art, of travel, or a moment in time,” says Eric. “As you move through the house, every turn reveals a new story, with each room unfolding its own narrative. This rhythm carries on throughout the entire home.” No sharp points or corners, intentional colors and design; simply an asymmetrical, eclectic weaving together.
That storytelling is present in every detail. A guest suite perched above the garden is lovingly called “the bird bath,” with organic tiles and treetop views. The master shower features a striking Indonesian tub and a lush garden window that creates peaceful moments from everyday routines. And throughout the home, materials and objects collected during the Mahoneys’ travels bring warmth, memory, and meaning.
A True Reflection
When asked to describe the home, Kasee puts it this way: “It’s a warm, spirited haven that mirrors their adventures, artistry, and love of life—a vibrant, inviting sanctuary that blends their stories, curiosities, and treasures into a space that feels wholly their own. Every space is designed around how they truly live and what brings them joy, so the home isn’t just beautiful, it’s a genuine reflection of who they are and the life they love.”
Kathy and Michael created a home where their fascinations and memories live side by side, telling the story of nature, art, and lives well-worn.
“Through the house, every turn reveals a new story.”
– Eric Lytle, Designer
Twelve Years at the Kitchen Table A Gentle Path:
Words by Alexandria Smith
There is a hush that settles each dawn before little footsteps thud downstairs. I have lived inside that hush for twelve years, holding the same love for home educating while sunlight stains our walls gold and books await. From toddler scribbles to ninth grade algebra, our days are woven of ordinary threads—oatmeal, nature walks, times tables recited over laundry piles—yet the finished cloth is anything but ordinary.
Homeschooling, for me, has never been about duplicating the classroom at home; it’s about cultivating wonder and connection from the front porch steps. We read aloud until eyes grow heavy, paint flower studies on a blanket by the creek, measure baking soda volcanoes that inevitably overflow onto bare feet. I have learned that curiosity is contagious: when one child gasps at a hawk’s shadow, the others look up too. Wonder spreads like wild mint.
The real lesson is love measured out in ordinary minutes.
If you are just peeking through the doorway, unsure whether to step inside, know this: homeschooling is not a velvet-roped exhibit for a chosen few. It is simply another room in the grand house of parenting—one you may visit for a season or for a lifetime. And whether you choose to come in or not, we are all, in the end, doing the holy work of loving our children well.
Fourteen years ago when I left my teaching job at Buchanan High School, I hoped and prayed even then, that the little baby I had just given birth to would one day sit beside me at the kitchen table as we recited poetry over tea and studied the classics from home. But I had my reservations—would I be enough for her? Would I be able to introduce her to everything good and beautiful that would stir wonder and joy in her heart? And then one day I heard her telling our fifth baby about Narnia, and I realized that yes, everything she needed was here, that God would make our path straight, and that home education had become part of our family’s story.
They have learned not just how to read, or write, or or recall math facts, but they have learned to live slower. To pay attention. They have learned to sit with the wonder around them and the gratitude and joy that lives there too. They have learned how not to be distracted by shiny things in the name of entertainment, but instead to allow the innate desires of curiosity to take root in their hearts. Even as I write this out, my 11-year-old son came in to bring me a flower he found on our hillside, something tiny but new, something he noticed and wanted to share.
But for every beautiful week, there have been cracked-open days too—curriculum that flopped, tears over long division, my own doubts thrumming at midnight. Yet every struggle has whispered a reminder: perfection is not the assignment, faithfulness is. Hearts grow best in the soil of patient consistency and quick forgiveness.
Each child is unique and should be honored in such a way. Comparison has no place at the homeschool table. Children, when given the opportunity, will flourish in their right time, and step into who they were made to be when not bogged down with standardized expectations but lifted up with individualized potential; with home educating, progress is the measuring stick. It is a faith-filled process, built on the truth that within your child are precious seeds just waiting to bloom.
Handful of First-Year Helps
1
2 3 4 5
Start small, stay flexible. Choose a core of reading, writing, math, science and history. Then start adding in composer and artist studies, recitations, and more.
Guard delight. When interest sparks, follow it—even if it detours your plan for a week. Joy teaches more than worksheets ever could.
Build anchors, not clocks. Tie lessons to daily rituals—breakfast poetry, afternoon nature walks—so learning rides the rhythm of family life.
Keep a parent’s notebook. Jot victories, funny quotes, and worries. On weary days you’ll see tangible evidence of growth.
Find community. Whether a co-op, online forum, or two friends at the park, share stories; borrowed courage is still courage.
Take heart, friend. Whether your schoolroom is a kitchen table or elsewhere, the real lesson is love measured out in ordinary minutes. May your home—whatever its schooling style—be a place where curiosity is welcome, mistakes are compost, and every child knows they are wonderfully, endlessly worth the effort.
There’s something quietly magical about a kitchen table transformed into a makeshift studio: the coffee mug pushed aside, watercolor paper taped down, and the soft clink of a paintbrush against a glass of water. In a world that often asks us to move faster, do more, and stay plugged in, watercoloring offers an antidote: a gentle, unrushed return to play.
Words by Lifestyle Staff
Photos by Dakota Jacobi-Stephenson
This month, as we reflect on the theme of home, it’s worth celebrating our spaces, both for what they provide and the creative potential they house. You don’t need a sun-drenched studio or expensive supplies to enjoy watercoloring. All you need is a small patch of table, a few basic materials, and the willingness to make a mess.
Watercoloring isn’t about perfection. In fact, it resists control—paint blooms unexpectedly, colors blend unpredictably, and no two brushstrokes behave quite the same. That’s the fun of it. Whether you’re painting soft-edged tulips, abstract swirls, or tiny houses with crooked windows, the process invites curiosity over precision.
For beginners, start simple. A basic set of watercolors, a brush or two, and thick paper are enough to get going. Add a jar of water, a paper towel, and perhaps some painter’s tape if you want tidy borders. You can find free tutorials online, but don’t be afraid to skip the structure and let your hand wander. The goal isn’t to create a masterpiece—it’s to enjoy the act of creating.
Watercoloring is also one of the most forgiving crafts to bring into a busy household. It doesn’t require a lot of space or cleanup. The supplies are portable, making it easy to move from the dining room to the patio. Kids can join in, too—there’s joy in painting side by side, no matter the age gap. Even 10 minutes of color on paper can shift the tone of a day.
Want to take it further? Make a weekly watercolor hour part of your home rhythm. Create greeting cards, paint bookmarks, or start a visual journal of daily moods and moments. Use it as a meditative practice, a family tradition, or a quiet hobby that’s just yours.
In a culture that often measures time in productivity, watercoloring is a quiet rebellion. It’s a way of saying: “This moment is mine, and I choose to fill it with color.”
So this month, pull out the paints. Settle into your favorite chair. Let the colors run wild.
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BUSINESSDIMENSIONS
IN THIS I SS U E Setting your team up for success in retirement
Succession planning: Do's and Don'ts
Setting your team up for success in retirement
IRAS
Exit inter views: Uncover opportunities for organizational improvement
an attractive retirement plan to employees can give you a competitive edge in the employment landscape. In fact, according to a US Bureau of Labor Statistics report, only 57% of private-sector firms with retirement plan in 2023.
RETIREMENT PLAN OPTIONS
Each retirement plan benefits your business options to determine which is the best fit.
In addition to attracting and retaining plan may provide your business with tax advantages. There are a few plans you can consider, so consult with your advisor to see which plan accomplishes your goals – for both your business and its employees.
A Simplified Employee Pension (SEP) IRA and Savings Incentive Match Plan for Employees (SIMPLE) IRA are among the lowest-cost options for retirement plans. The advantages of these IRA s are that they’re easy to set up and plan administration is relatively simple.
two employer-sponsored IRA s: A SEP IRA is funded solely by employer contributions, while a SIMPLE IRA is funded through both employer and employee pretax contributions. SIMPLE IRA s give employees the opportunity to contribute a portion of their salar y to their own retirement account in addition to the employer ’s contribution. Businesses may benefit from tax credits to
deduct employer contributions to SIMPLE IRAs on federal tax returns. (However, if you have more than 100 employees, your business is not eligible to the SIMPLE IRA option.)
401(K)
While 401(k)s are available to small businesses, they have administrative requirements other plans may not share.ibility in plan design and higher contribution limits for employees. It allows employees to defer a portion of their wages to the plan on
Setting your team up for success in retirement (cont.)
sharing contribution as well A 401(k) plan can also have a Roth 401(k)
and they’re even an option for a sole proprietorship. Employers may employer contributions on federal income tax returns.
DEFINED BENEFIT PLAN
specific benefit at retirement. Annual employer contributions to the plan are mandator y, regardless of a business’s profitability, so businesses with an uneven or unpredictable cash flow should use caution when selecting a defined benefit plan.
These plans are designed to provide income at retirement that is based on a predetermined formula In some cases, the employee may have the option to choose either a stream of income or a lump-sum payment at retirement The employer is responsible for ensuring the plan is funded to provide the benefit defined by the terms of the plan as calculated by the plan actuar y While this type of plan typically large annual tax-deductible contribution for the employer.
Discuss the benefits and drawbacks of these plans with your advisor, who can help you determine which route is best for your business and employees.
CONSIDER THIS
Answering a few questions can help guide your decision about which plan is best for your business:
• How many employees do you have?
• Are you willing to pay for plan administration?
• Do you want to allow your employees to save as much as possible?
• Do you want to allow your employees to contribute to the plan?
• Would you rather make regular contributions on behalf of your employees consistently or only
The foregoing information has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but we do not guarantee that it is accurate or complete, it is not a statement of all available data necessary for making an investment decision, and it does not constitute a recommendation While we are familiar with the tax provisions of the issues presented herein, as financial advisors of Raymond James, we are not qualified to render advice on tax or legal matters. You should discuss tax or legal matters with the appropriate professional. 401(k) plans are long-term retirement savings vehicles Withdrawal of pre-tax contributions and/or earnings will be subject to ordinary income tax and, if taken prior to age 59 1/2, may be subject to a 10% federal tax penalty Roth 401(k) plans are long-term retirement savings vehicles. Employee participant contributions to a Roth 401(k) are never tax deductible, but if certain conditions are met, distributions will be completely income tax free Unlike Roth IRAs, Roth 401(k) employee participants are subject to required minimum distributions at age 72 (70 ½ if you reach 70 ½ before January 1, 2020)
Succession planning: Dos and Don'ts
Ever y entrepreneur should have a succession plan, regardless of the stage of the business. Even early-stage founders should be prepared for an unplanned exit. Here are some dos and don’ts of succession planning in this phase.
DO:
• Seek a professional for life insurance, estate planning and trusts
• Create an early-stage exit plan
• Talk to an attorney to make sure your business operations are protected
DON'T:
• Leave succession an unplanned question
• Rely on life insurance and estate planning to take care of loved ones and protect the operation of your business
• the future
Being prepared is always better than leaving something unprotected, especially if it’s an asset you’re relying on to provide for you and your family. Your advisor can help you put those safeguards in place.
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FROM VISION TO REALITY
From dreams to dwelling design— go behind the scenes of Sanctuaire Interiors' process with us.
At Sanctuaire Interiors, we believe home is more than a place—it’s a feeling. It’s where your daily rituals unfold, your family gathers, and your personal story takes shape. Designing spaces that reflect those meaningful moments drives everything we do.
For those watching from the outside, interior design can seem mysterious. How do we turn an empty or dated room into a beautifully finished space that truly feels like home? The reality is that each project results from countless detailed decisions, months of thoughtful planning, and an ongoing dialogue between our team and our clients.
Let's pull back the curtain and share exactly how we bring your vision to life—from our first conversation to the final finishing touches.
The Consultation:
Listening Comes First
Every project begins with a conversation. Whether it's around your dining table, at a home under construction, or over coffee in our Exeter studio, our first priority is listening. We pay close attention—not only to what you want (such as “a more functional kitchen” or “a serene living space”)—but also to how you live, what matters to you, and the atmosphere you envision.
We’ll walk through the space together, take initial measurements, and assess the layout, lighting, and architectural details. More importantly, we ask insightful questions that uncover the essence of your home. Do you entertain often? Do you require ample storage for children’s belongings? Are you early risers craving morning sunlight, or night owls seeking a cozy retreat?
Getting this foundation right streamlines the rest of the design process.
The Creative Core: Building the Vision
Inspiration rarely stems solely from Pinterest boards. Often, it begins with something deeply personal—a photograph from a memorable trip, an heirloom pottery piece, or even a beloved wardrobe color. We use these unique elements to craft mood boards and establish a cohesive design direction— be it earthy and natural, elegantly European, boldly sculptural, or softly tonal.
We carefully consider textures as much as colors, defining precisely how each space should feel: warm and inviting, or fresh and airy. This stage is about capturing the soul of your home and ensuring complete alignment with your personal vision, laying a thoughtful and intentional foundation for your design.
Client Presentations: Vision Takes Shape
Once your design concept is refined, we bring the vision to life through a detailed, tangible presentation. Imagine finish samples you can feel, fabric swatches catching the perfect light, detailed renderings, and carefully curated selections of furnishings and fixtures. Every choice is intentional, every element part of a harmonious story.
This tactile, immersive experience allows you to engage firsthand with your future home’s materials and aesthetics. Practicality and beauty meet here—sometimes requiring adjustments for functionality or budget. It’s about perfecting the nuances, selecting a chair with the ideal sculptural silhouette, or choosing tiles that add just the right amount of visual depth.
Above all, this phase is highly collaborative. It’s where your space becomes not only beautiful but also personally meaningful, reflecting your tastes, lifestyle, and story.
Design Development:
Strategy Meets Style
With a clear vision established, we transition into practical solutions. Here, detailed floor plans, layout studies, and initial design concepts come to life. We source materials and finishes, carefully consider architectural details, and align everything with your budget and project scope.
This phase is both creative and technical, turning abstract ideas into precise plans using CAD drawings, 2D elevations, 3D renderings, and detailed construction documents. These valuable resources clearly communicate the design intent, allowing contractors and tradespeople to execute your project accurately and efficiently, whether for new builds or remodels. The numerous behind-the-scenes decisions made here ensure everything seamlessly aligns.
Whether it involves structural changes or furnishings, these documents offer clarity, instilling confidence and understanding in clients and professionals alike.
Project Management: Your Advocate Through Every Detail
As construction or remodeling begins, our role evolves into proactive project management. Working closely with contractors and tradespeople, we serve as your advocate and primary contact throughout the entire build. We navigate complexities, address on-site questions, swiftly resolve unforeseen challenges, and consistently ensure adherence to the original design vision.
Our goal is to provide clear communication, efficient problem-solving, and flawless execution, giving you peace of mind from start to finish.
Procurement & Installation: Bringing It All Together
With construction well underway or nearing completion, we shift our attention to procurement and logistics. Orders are placed, shipments tracked, and timelines carefully managed. We coordinate closely with suppliers and tradespeople to ensure every detail is perfectly timed for installation.
Installation day marks the culmination of months of meticulous planning. Furniture arrives, artwork is positioned, and every accessory styled to perfection. Candles are lit, drapes steamed, and pillows fluffed, crafting a space you can experience with all five senses.
The Reveal: A Moment to Remember
Nothing compares to seeing our clients’ reactions when they first enter their completed space. Sometimes it’s quiet relief, other times joyful tears—but always deeply personal. This moment is the true reward of our process: creating more than just a beautiful room—a home that genuinely reflects you.
Sponsored Content
Advancing the Mission:
Celebrating a Legacy of Hope and Community
Words by Lifestyle Staff
This September, Tulare-King’s Resources for Life invites you to join a special fundraising event to support its ongoing commitment to serving Central Valley families with compassion, dignity, and unwavering support. Advancing the Mission is an opportunity to reflect on the impact the organization has made and to look ahead with renewed purpose.
Formerly known as Tulare-Kings Right to Life, the organization recently adopted a new name to better reflect the scope of its work. “We’re offering so much more than we were a decade ago,” says Executive Director Ann Marie Paden. “From
preschool programs to classroom curriculum, fertility awareness education, and community symposia, our name needed to represent the full range of resources we provide.”
The new name, Tulare-Kings Resources for Life, was officially adopted by the board in late 2024, keeping the familiar TKRL acronym while redefining its meaning for a new generation.
Since last year’s Advancing the Mission event with actor Jim Caviezel, TKRL has grown rapidly. Their once-quiet office is now a hub of positive energy, with a team of passionate advocates, skilled volunteers, and new programs that reach across the lifespan.
Kyle Savage, representative from Senator Shannon Grove’s office, presented an award on her behalf in recognition of TKRL’s efforts to bring vital resources to the community.
As pictured: Tania (Program Coordinator), Andrew (Education Specialist), Ann Marie (Executive Director), Rebecca (Admin/Financial Specialist), Kyle Savage, Melissa (Event Planner), Michael (Media Manager).
Among the new resources now offered:
• NaPro Introductory Sessions: Held monthly by Kaitlin Pyron, RN/FCPI, these sessions teach the Creighton Model System—an evidence-based, holistic approach to fertility that offers alternatives to IVF and real solutions for reproductive health challenges.
• TKRL Preschool Classes: Designed by longtime educator and board member Bonnie, these free three-session classes emphasize the value of life and appreciation of babies. Families have traveled from as far as Bakersfield to attend.
• Classroom Curriculum: TKRL has entered local public and private schools, offering a medically informed, developmentally appropriate supplement to life science classes. Lessons include fetal development education using infant models, Live Action’s short film Baby Olivia, and engaging classroom materials.
• Symposia for All Ages: Two new events—the Senior Symposium and the Adoption Symposium—have broadened TKRL’s outreach to key demographics, providing valuable community resources on aging, adoption, and foster care in partnership with agencies like CASA Kings County and Koinonia.
Coming soon is perhaps their most ambitious educational offering yet: a high school curriculum developed in-house by their Education Specialist. This five-day course will include modules on body literacy, cycle health, STI prevention, fetal development, and life-affirming alternatives, all taught by medical professionals and tailored for youth.
“It’s all about education,” says Paden. “It’s at the heart of everything we do.”
This year’s Advancing the Mission event, taking place on September 2 from 6:30 to 8:30 PM at Visalia First, will kick off a campaign to raise $1 million for virtual reality technology and programming, enhancing the educational curriculum for students across the Central Valley. “We needed a nationally known speaker because we believe this project will be adopted nationwide,” says Executive Director Ann Marie Paden.
“This isn’t just about one night,” says Paden. “It’s about investing in the future. We’re building a culture of life through education—one classroom, one student, one family at a time.”
Join TKRL on September 2, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Visalia First (3737 S Akers St, Visalia, CA) for an evening of celebration, connection, and vision. Group rates and student discounts are available. Reserve your tickets at tkrl.org.
While Advancing the Mission is a fundraising event, its broader goal is to connect the community with resources, tools, and conversations that support health, education, and family well-being.
Advancing the Mission
Tuesday, September 2
Doors open at 5:30 pm
Program begins at 6:30 pm
Purchase tickets at tkrl.org Questions? Call 559-732-5000
Here’s what a new Advocate has to say about TKRL:
“It’s amazing to see all denominations supporting one another in the cause for life. I am most impressed that TKRL encourages all people of faith—and even those who are not believers—to get involved. There is a place for you at TKRL to participate.”
— Betty Mendoza, Visalia
Scan to get your tickets
VISALIA’S ANSWER TO THE HOUSING SHORTAGE
Words by Terry Ommen
Even before World War I, the United States had a shortage of homes. But after the war ended in 1918, the country’s housing problem became even worse. The returning soldiers needed places to live, and that demand put an even more serious strain on the inventory. The high cost of materials and labor led to fewer homes being built, which drove up rental prices on existing inventory. Additionally, those who actually found a home to purchase needed a down payment of nearly 50% of the home cost.
California, too, was feeling the housing pinch. In 1922, the California Real Estate Association estimated that the state needed 250,000 new homes to meet the demand. That March, California Governor William Stephens made an appeal to “build more homes” and called on Californians to “own your own home.”
Visalia was also in a tough spot. Three years prior to Governor Stephens’ appeal, J. Sub Johnson, a well-respected Visalia businessman and fervent town booster, commented on Visalia’s housing situation in 1919, observing that “fifteen to twenty families are lost to this city each month…on account of the lack of accommodations.” He added that with an improved housing environment “we can change this situation so that the town will have a population of 20-25 thousand within a few years.” Not only did Johnson have an insightful observation, he had a plan to help relieve the “present housing shortage.”
His idea was welcomed, and on the evening of November 26, 1919, a meeting was held to put the plan in place. The gathering was held in the council chambers of city hall with Johnson leading the discussion. A board of directors was chosen made up of Johnson, Ben M. Maddox, James M. Burke, L.C. Hyde, A.D. Sweet and A.R. Cutler—a group that became the leaders of the newly created Visalia Home Builders Association. The organization was officially incorporated on December 17, 1919.
The general idea behind the plan was to acquire land, develop it, build homes, and offer the homes for sale with flexible and easy terms. Outside investment in the venture was welcomed at $1,000 per share.
The housing parcel the association picked for development was a section of land bounded by Conyer and Watson, and Myrtle and
Noble. Earlier it had been earmarked for a community baseball field, but the idea never took off, so the plan was abandoned. Instead the land was sectioned off into 106 lots. The parcel chosen was ideal as it was close to the town’s center.
The association surveyed, graded, and developed the land into a subdivision using “modern development methods.” Cement sidewalks were poured and streetlights were installed. It was reported, “Public utilities are run down the alleys, not along the streets. There are and will be no unsightly telephone or electric light poles along the streets. Nor will there be any tearing up of the streets for sewer, water or gas connections.” The group proudly
JAMES M. BURKE WAS AN ORIGINAL ASSOCIATION BOARD MEMBER. HE ALSO WAS THEIR LEGAL COUNSEL.
boasted that it would be the only tract in the city where these advanced steps were taken.
In February 1920, the developers met with Trewitt and Shields, the well-known Hanford contractors and architects, to discuss the building of the first six houses in the subdivision. Each would have a large living room, a sleeping porch and either five or six additional rooms, and each would have unique exteriors. That same month three lots were “staked out” showing the footprint of the house. Construction was scheduled to begin within a week. To maintain the quality of the neighborhood, no home in the tract would be built valued at under $3,000.
To achieve affordability, building costs were carefully considered. By contracting for six or more houses at a time savings could be realized. “Materials are ordered in carload lots…so that substantial reduction in costs are obtained,” the Visalia Morning Delta newspaper explained. As each house was finished, it was put up for sale, then construction began on the next group of homes. Most homes were built in the California Bungalow style.
A key element in the association’s plan was creative financing offering considerable flexibility. The Visalia Home Builders partnered with the Visalia Building & Loan Company. Without this partnership, home buyers were usually required to provide a substantial down payment. Under this new arrangement, potential buyers with a small down payment determined by their ability to pay, could borrow 40% of the home cost from the Home Builders and 60% from Visalia Building & Loan Company. This financing arrangement made it much easier for the home buyer to purchase a home with reasonable payments.
By March 1922, the Visalia Home Builders were feeling very confident. They reported that nine homes were completed in the subdivision, eight homes were under construction, and twelve more would be started within a few weeks. They proudly added that, “of course, every one of these property owners is a booster for the subdivision, anxious to see it built up, and happy to show their holdings, their new homes or their plans to friends and acquaintances.”
In January 1923, at the Visalia Home Builders Association annual meeting, the company reported success on what they called Subdivision 1, and began planning for Subdivision 2. The creative housing plan worked, and more homes in other areas of town were planned and eventually built.
J. Sub Johnson, referred to as “the instigator of the scheme,” and the leaders of the Visalia Home Builders Association took a gamble, and thanks to their creativity, Visalia’s housing picture was improving.
Subdivision 1 continues to thrive as a historic neighborhood today. For a number of years, historian Jane Nash and others from Visalia Heritage, Inc. lobbied to get the area recognized for its historic character. In 2012, the 90-year old Home Builders Subdivision 1 was added to the City of Visalia’s Historic District.
THE FIRST MEETING OF THE VISALIA HOME BUILDERS TOOK PLACE AT THE COUNCIL CHAMBERS IN THE VISALIA CITY HALL LOCATED ON THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF ACEQUIA AND CHURCH STREETS.
THE HIGHLIGHTED PORTION OF THIS MAP SHOWS SUBDIVISION 1 BOUNDED BY CONYER AND WATSON, AND NOBLE AND MYRTLE. (COURTESY CITY OF VISALIA)
J. SUB JOHNSON IS CREDITED WITH THE HOUSING PLAN THAT EVENTUALLY WAS USED BY THE VISALIA HOME BUILDERS ASSOCIATION.
August Agenda
AUGUST 4
National Park Free Entrance Day
When: All Day
Where: Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks
Hosted by: National Park Service nps.gov | @nationalparkservice
AUGUST 16
34th Annual Atascadero Lake Park Car Show
When: 10am-3pm
Where: Atascadero Lake Park
Hosted by: Mid-State Cruizers midstatecruizers.org | @midstatecruizer
AUGUST 5
2025 National Night Out
When: 6pm
Where: Centennial Park
Hosted by: Porterville Police Department ci.porterville.ca.us | @portervillepd
AUGUST 16
MANIA! A Beatles Concert Experience
When: Doors: 6pm | Show: 7pm
Where: The Visalia Fox Theatre
Hosted by: The Visalia Fox Theatre visaliafox.org | @visaliafox
AUGUST 9
Saturday
Summer Bash
When: 4:30pm
Where: Veterans Memorial Park
Hosted by: Rotary Club of Lemoore lemoorerotaryclub.org | @lemoorerotaryclub
AUGUST 30
Saturday Arriba Latin Festival
When: 3pm
Where: Adventist Health Amphitheater
Hosted by: Spade Entertainment spadeentertainment.com/concerts @spadeconcerts
Looking Forward
Family: We grow with them, laugh with them, and lean on them. Our next issue will tell real stories from our community—from lifelong love passed down through generations to the small, everyday moments that mean the most. Every tale is one of connection, care, and the ties that keep us strong. We hope you love it as much as we do!
Family Issue
Published by Root Creative Marketing, 6759 N Palm Ave, Fresno, CA 93704
Executive Editor Stephanie Steelman
Creative Editor Sam Justice
Account Manager Sarah Gonzalez
Head of Sales & Editorial Dakota Jacobi-Stephenson
Content Editor Marissa Carpenter
Designers Daniel Borgatto, William Yamauti, Josh Aleman
Additional Contributors Alexandria Smith
Advertising and General Inquiries lifestyle@root.marketing
Sales Office 111 W Main Street, Visalia CA 93291
View this Issue Online visalialifestyle.com
Visalia’s Lifestyle Magazine is published monthly and is distributed via direct mail to homes in Visalia. Additional copies are distributed at various rack and countertop locations around Visalia, Tulare, Exeter, Three Rivers and Kingsburg. Distribution is subject to change. Views expressed in articles and on advertisements are those of the writer and advertiser and not necessarily those of Lifestyle Magazine or Root. Every effort is made to avoid errors, misspellings, and omissions. If an error is found, please accept our sincere apologies and notify us of the mistake.
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