Lifestyle Magazine August 2026

Inspiring Life In Our Community

August 2026

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What’s Inside

The

Family Issue

Shifting from summer to the school year brings on a fresh, full season for families today. Whether you're finding ways to engage your little ones or managing a family business, read on for local stories of families just like you.

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42

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In Every Issue

Features

Editor’s Note

7

Superior Dairy

14

Contributors

8

Back to Routine, But Better

20

History

46

Home Feature

24

Calendar of Events

48

Kids Craft

28

From The Team

50

Loving Littles

31

Wellness: Pilates

36

Easy School Lunches

40

Interest Good News: ImagineU

10

Recipe: Family Dinner

42

Family HealthCare Network

22

Farmer's Market

44

Tulare-Kings Resources for Life

38

On the Cover: Photo by Carly Vagim. Story on Page 10.

You can write the ending or let others fight about it.

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The Family Issue

A Word From The Editor E

very month, we choose a theme that we hope resonates with our community, but this month’s focus on "Family" hits incredibly close to home for me.

Recently, my wife and I took our kids to the beach. The goal was simple; disconnect from the noise of daily life and connect with each other. The reality, as any parent of young children knows, was a bit different. We built sand castles, our eightmonth-old tried to eat fistfuls of sand, and our daughters played nonstop in the waves, collecting every tiny fragment of a shell they could find. I tried to sneak in a nap, which was entirely unsuccessful. However, my baby boy fell asleep in my arms to the sound of the crashing waves. And as my wife and I sat together under the umbrella, watching the endless play, we realized beach days aren’t as relaxing as they used to be. In fact, with a young family, it takes real work to relax. It requires an intentional effort to stop everything else, put down the distractions, and just enjoy the moment. But looking at my kids, it hit me that we will never get this specific time back. Building a family takes concentrated effort and deliberate time. But in the grand scheme of things, is there anything else more worth building?

This lesson of intentionality is something I learned from the very best. Recently, our family lost our matriarch, my grandmother, Laura. She was called home to heaven, leaving behind a legacy that we will now replicate with our own children.

Laura was the absolute glue of our large family. She didn't just hold us together; she showed us what unconditional support looks like. She was a constant source of love and an incredible example to me, my wife, and our kids. She was also one of this magazine’s biggest fans. She was always championing our work, cheering me on, and always letting me know how much she loved reading these pages.

Losing her has been a profound reminder of what truly matters. The structures we build in our careers or our hobbies are fine, but the legacy we leave in the people we love is what endures.

As you flip through the pages of this issue, I encourage you to think about the "glue" in your own life. Take the time, make the effort, and embrace the beautiful lives of the people who love you.

Thank you for reading, and here’s to family.

Warmly,

SAM JUSTICE Co-founder | Root Creative Marketing Creative Editor | Lifestyle Magazine

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8

Contributors

Contributors August 2026 Sam Justice CO-OWNER CREATIVE EDITOR

Kelsey Ormonde CO-OWNER

Stephanie Steelman CO-OWNER EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Daniel Borgatto GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Josh Ormonde CO-OWNER

Danielle Nederend CONTENT EDITOR

William Yamauti Chelsi Stark

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING COORDINATOR

Sue Burns CONTRIBUTOR

Alexis Cuevas CONTRIBUTOR

Carly Vagim PHOTOGRAPHER

Terry Ommen HISTORIAN

Danielle Panuco CONTRIBUTOR

Ellie Koleen PHOTOGRAPHER

Chris Dorado PHOTOGRAPHER

Alyssa Justice CONTRIBUTOR

Stephanie Kinser CONTRIBUTOR

M E E T G AT E WAY FA M I LY W E A LT H With deep roots in the Central Valley, Gateway Family Wealth is proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Best-in-State Wealth Management Team.

This distinction reflects our commitment to thoughtful guidance, enduring relationships, and helping families preserve what matters most while navigating what’s next.

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Donald DeJonge Financial Advisor & Founding Partner

Investment advisory products and services are made available through Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC, a registered investment adviser.

Securities offered by Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. Member FINRA and SIPC. © 2025 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved.

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Visalia's Good News: Top ImagineU Desserts

Beyond the Screen:

How ImagineU Is Reconnecting Families Through the Power of Play Words by Stephanie Kinser Photos by Carly Vagim

W

hen was the last time you watched a child completely disappear into their imagination?

One minute they are painting a masterpiece. The next, they are racing to an emergency as a firefighter, caring for a patient in a hospital, or building a towering structure that reaches the clouds. Give a child a little time and a little space, and they will create entire worlds powered by one incredible thing: imagination.

At ImagineU Children's Museum, we get to witness this magic every day.

In a world where screens seem to follow us everywhere, we have made a different choice. ImagineU is proud to be a screen-free environment where creativity, curiosity, and imagination are encouraged, practiced, and celebrated. A place where children can imagine, explore, and learn through hands-on experiences that spark discovery and wonder.

The Family Issue

Play is far more than entertainment. It is one of the most powerful tools children have for learning about themselves and the world around them. Through play, children develop creativity, confidence, communication skills, empathy, and problem-solving abilities. They learn how to collaborate, navigate challenges, and think critically. Most importantly, they learn by doing.

What may look like simple fun is actually meaningful learning in action. When children build a structure, they are experimenting with engineering concepts and critical thinking. When they run a pretend grocery store or café, they are practicing communication, cooperation, and decision-making. When they step into the role of a doctor, veterinarian, firefighter, or farmer, they begin seeing the world through someone else's perspective.

Play also gives children the freedom to take risks in a safe environment. They learn that mistakes are not failures but opportunities to try again. They discover how to adapt, persevere, and find solutions when things do not go as planned.

Play gives children permission to dream before the world tells them what is possible. Behind every game of pretend is a child developing resilience, creativity, communication skills, confidence, and emotional awareness. Through play, children discover who they are and who they might become.

As parents, grandparents, caregivers, and neighbors, we have an incredible opportunity to nurture curiosity in the children around us. Put down the phone. Step into their world. Build the fort. Ask the silly questions. Join the tea party. Follow their imagination wherever it leads.

Whether you are visiting ImagineU Children's Museum or creating adventures in your own backyard, the greatest gift you can give a child is your time, your attention, and your willingness to play alongside them.

Because play is not just how children have fun. It is how they learn, grow, connect, and thrive.

Perhaps most importantly, play nurtures curiosity. It encourages children to ask questions, test ideas, and explore new possibilities. Those moments of discovery build confidence and create a foundation for a lifelong love of learning.

So let us play more. Let us imagine more. Let us explore more.

The memories created through play will last long after the toys are put away, and the lessons learned through imagination, discovery, and connection will stay with children for a lifetime.

Research continues to support what parents and educators have long observed: children learn best through interaction and connection. Studies from the University of California, Santa Barbara suggest that emotional intelligence develops through experiences, relationships, and everyday engagement with the people around us. Children build these skills when they talk, listen, share, cooperate, and engage in meaningful interactions with caring adults. Technology certainly has its place in our lives.

Phones, tablets, and computers can be valuable tools for learning, communication, and connection. The goal is not to eliminate screens, but to create balance. In a busy world filled with digital distractions, children still need opportunities to imagine, explore and learn face-to-face. That is where the power of play shines.

Visit ImagineU Children's Museum and Follow on Instagram:

At ImagineU, we see families reconnect every day. Parents stop scrolling and start exploring. Grandparents become customers at the pretend café. Siblings become teammates on imaginary adventures. Children lead the way while adults join in the fun.

We see young builders carefully constructing towers, future veterinarians caring for animals, and aspiring artists proudly displaying their latest creations. We watch children solve problems together, encourage one another, and celebrate accomplishments big and small. These moments may seem simple, but they are building skills and memories that last far beyond childhood. We also see friendships form, confidence grow, and children discover talents and interests they never knew they had.

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@imagineu_museum www.imagineumuseum.org 210 N. Tipton Street, Visalia, CA 93292 MUSEUM HOURS: Monday & Friday 9AM - 1PM Saturday & Sunday 9AM - 5PM

“Give a child a little time and a little space, and they will create entire worlds powered by one incredible thing: imagination.

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The Family Issue

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Superior Dairy

Passing the Scoop:

THE ZONNEVELD FAMILY REIMAGINES HANFORD’S ICONIC SUPERIOR DAIRY Words by Lifestyle Staff

The Family Issue

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FROM FARM TO FOUNTAIN The Zonneveld family has a four-generation legacy in Central Valley agriculture, running their family dairy farm just down the road in Laton. When the opportunity arose to step in as the next owners of Superior Dairy Products Co., it felt like a natural extension of everything they love. Eight cousins—John, Josh, Jacob, Andy, Case, Jarett, Corey, and Piet—joined forces to purchase the business and property, turning a historic preservation project into a true family affair.

F

or generations of Central Valley families, a trip to Superior Dairy in downtown Hanford was more than just getting a sweet treat. It was a local rite of passage. Whether for Sunday lunch after church, rewarding a little league team, or gathering a group of brave friends to conquer the legendary Superior Oversize Sundae (SOS), the parlor was the undisputed heartbeat of the community.

When the historic 97-year-old landmark closed its doors for transition, many wondered what would become of the beloved neighborhood anchor. The answer lies in a beautiful story of local stewardship, multi-generational roots, and a deep-seated passion for the dairy industry.

"Our family has always been interested in the hospitality industry, food, and the joy that it brings people," shares Jacob Zonneveld, who leads the group's coordination efforts. "As dairy farmers, we have a unique passion to showcase what dairy can be and how it can be enjoyed. Our plan is to continue to develop new and creative flavors and products where people can appreciate the fun, deliciousness, and nutrition that only dairy can provide."

This venture is a full-family operation. While the cousins meet regularly as a family board to handle operations, marketing, and community outreach, many of their wives are actively managing event coordination, donations, social media, and merchandise. Even the next generation is getting their hands dirty; three of the Zonneveld children—Jackson, Jaden, and Presley—are already serving ice cream to eager customers from the family's temporary pink trailer parked across the street while the main building undergoes its transformation.

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Superior Dairy

“Superior Dairy was more than just getting a sweet treat.

It was a local rite of passage."

HONORING THE BONES OF 1929 Taking on a 7,703-square-foot brick building with nearly a century of history comes with its share of challenges. To execute a thorough, safe revitalization that ensures the structure stands strong for the next 100 years, the Zonnevelds partnered with Visalia-based design firm dlb design and contractor Kyle Glen of Square 1 Development.

For Glen, the project is a labor of love mixed with intricate engineering. "The building is a cool old barrel vault truss structure with a ton of character, but its age creates some challenges," Glen explains. "The existing trusses and roof framing were not designed to carry the larger mechanical loads required by the new restaurant and creamery. We must essentially build a new steel structure inside of the existing building to support the much larger mechanical system and kitchen equipment while trying to minimize the visual impact of these new elements."

Despite the massive structural updates hiding behind the drywall—including entirely new mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems—the team is fiercely protective of the parlor's original soul. The iconic pink booths, the vintage tin ceilings, and classic lighting fixtures are all being meticulously preserved.

The construction process has even yielded a few historical treasures of its own.

While opening up the walls, the family uncovered 1950s newspaper articles used as insulation, while old production and inventory records from the days when Superior processed its own buttermilk, cottage cheese, and chocolate milk were found in old storage. Every piece of history found has been carefully saved for future display.

The Family Issue

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NEW SPACES, NEW TRADITIONS While keeping the nostalgic dine-in experience intact is priority number one, the Zonnevelds are expanding the building’s footprint to serve the modern Hanford community even better. The building will now feature a full kitchen, supplementing Superior’s classic cold sandwiches (like fan-favorites egg salad, tuna, and liverwurst) with hot items like fresh cheeseburgers, fries, salads, and steak sandwiches.

The physical space is also opening up to the outdoors.

Beautiful bi-folding glass doors will seamlessly connect the indoor dining area to brand-new outdoor seating along 9th Street. Inside, moveable glass paneled walls will create a flexible community room, giving local families a private space to host meetings or birthday parties while still feeling connected to the energy of the parlor.

"Downtown Hanford offers a great starting point for a business like Superior Dairy, and Superior is a cornerstone of the community," says contractor Kyle Glen. "We believe when this project is done, the community will benefit from what Superior Dairy has to offer—whether dine-in or takeout to enjoy in Civic Center Park across the street."

A MESSAGE TO HANFORD Though the dust is still flying, the Zonneveld family wants the community to know that every ounce of effort is being poured out of love for Hanford. "We are members of the community that love Superior Dairy dearly," says Jacob Zonneveld. "Our goal is to create an amazing experience for our community that everyone will be excited to share with others. We are longingly awaiting the day that the doors open and folks, including us, can once again enjoy the nostalgic dining experience."

dary n e g e L lbs!

3.5 THE S.O.S.

(Superior Oversize Sundae) The Foundation: 7 giant scoops of house-made ice cream, vibrant sherbet, and refreshing strawberry freeze.

The Toppings: Generous drizzles of hot fudge, sweet strawberry, and marshmallow toppings.

The Crown: Piles of whipped cream, chopped nuts, bananas, and a cherry on top.

The Finishing Touch: A vibrant mini paper umbrella, served in a 3 ½ pound goblet.

Until the keys are officially handed over and the first legendary SOS sundae is served in the restored space, you can still grab a taste of your childhood at the family's pink trailer right across the road. The next era of the beloved ice cream parlor will continue to build on a foundation of family, local pride, and superior dairy products– it’s safe to say the future looks incredibly sweet.

To follow along and count down the days to the grand reopening, make sure to follow Superior Dairy on Instagram!

325 N Douty St, Hanford, CA 93230 (559) 582-0481 @superior_dairy_products_co

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20

Back to Routine, But Better

SO LET'S TALK ROUTINE, BUT BETTER Words by Lifestyle Staff

August is the perfect time to reflect on our summer habits, and decide if our current routine is serving our best selves or setting us up for chaos.

Whether you're a Type-A parent or a Type-B teen - or somewhere in between - we all live by some semblance of a routine.

As we wind down from long, sun-drenched days of swimming and trips to Mooney Grove or the Sequoias, the reality of the school year approaches. The overnight shift from summer freedom to rigid schedules is a recipe for family burnout. This year, skip the hyper-detailed, minute-by-minute schedules. Real life is too unpredictable for perfection. Instead, focus on staple routines.

Our tip: Plan your day in four predictable blocks of time.

While the details might change from family to family, or day to day - having a blueprint can help develop habits for a smoother school year.

The Family Issue

1

THE MORNING TASKS

Eliminate morning frenzy with a "First This, Then That" rule. For example: first get dressed, brush teeth, and pack the backpack; then have breakfast, and unlock screen time or play. Delegating age-appropriate tasks can help kids start their day with a can-do mindset and helps you with the morning rush!

Pro-Tip: Create a visual checklist can help kids feel more involved in their own routine!

2

THE AFTER-SCHOOL BASH

Kids hold their emotions and energy together all day at school. When they come home, they need a safe space to unload. Protect a mandatory 30-minute decompression window. Avoid asking about homework, test scores, or chores immediately. Instead, provide a high-protein snack, hydration, and unstructured downtime to let their brains reset.

3

THE GAMEPLAN HOUR

Spend a few minutes after dinner looking at tomorrow's schedule. Check the family calendar, review who needs to be dropped off at sports practices or club meetings, empty folders for permission slips or loose papers, and check on homework. Prepping tomorrow's backpacks and laying out outfits (down to the socks and shoes) the night before eliminates early morning decision fatigue.

4

THE BEDTIME ROUTINE

A successful morning starts the night before. Establish a hard stop for screen time at least 45 minutes before lights out. Swap tablets and TVs for family reading, audiobooks, or a warm bath. This signals to the brain that the day is over, ensuring the deep, restorative sleep needed for a busy school day.

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"REAL LIFE IS TOO UNPREDICTABLE FOR PERFECTION. INSTEAD, FOCUS ON STAPLE ROUTINES." Ease into the school year with a 3-week countdown Don’t shock your family’s system on the first day of school. Use this phased rollout throughout August for a seamless transition.

WEEK 1: THE SLEEP RESET

Rebuild those circadian rhythms. Shift bedtimes and morning alarms backward by 15 minutes every two to three days until you reach school-year reality.

Stop doing tasks your kids can WEEK 2: do themselves. Spend this week THE teaching them how to pack INDEPENDENCE their own water bottles, clear their breakfast plates, and BUILD choose their own clothes.

WEEK 3: THE FUN DRY RUN

A few days before the first bell, do a mock morning. Wake up on time, get dressed, and practice the commute to school. Turn this stressful run into a fun Visalia tradition: after practicing the drive, reward the family with a morning treat at a local favorite like Connect Coffee or Scotty’s Donuts. It builds a positive, exciting association with the new morning routine!

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CENTRAL VALLEY Words by Lifestyle Staff In collaboration with Family HealthCare Network

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Today, Family HealthCare Network offers comprehensive, patient-centered care for every stage of life. From newborns taking their first steps to seniors managing chronic conditions, patients have access to a full continuum of healthcare.

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From annual wellness exams and school immunizations to preventive dental care, vision screenings, chronic disease management, behavioral health counseling, and treatment for unexpected illnesses, patients have access to experienced providers who deliver exceptional care using state-of-the-art technology and evidence-based medicine.

This coordinated approach allows providers to work together across specialties, ensuring patients receive seamless care that supports their overall health - not just individual conditions.

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Modern state-of-the-art Health Centers: (Reedley South) photo

The Family Issue

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Expanding Access to Care

Looking Beyond the Walls of the Health Center

For many families, receiving healthcare means overcoming barriers

Improving health means addressing more than medical conditions.

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24

Home Feature

Words by Lifestyle Staff Photos by Ellie Koleen

CONTINUING THE LEGACY A Generational Transformation on the Dykstra Family Dairy

The Family Issue

F

or Johnny Dykstra, the sweeping views of the family dairy aren’t just a beautiful

backdrop; they are the landscape of his childhood. As a fourth-generation dairy farmer, Johnny grew up right next door to his grandparents, who built their forever home in 2000. "I spent so much time here growing up," Johnny recalls. "Some of my favorite memories are the simplest ones. We’d sit on the back patio drinking fresh lemonade made from the same lemon tree that’s still standing in our backyard today. My grandparents loved having family over, and that patio became the gathering place.

Morning coffee wasn’t just coffee, it was where family stopped by, caught up on life, and simply enjoyed being together."

When his grandparents relocated to Sierra Village, Johnny and his wife, Kirby, faced a pivotal choice: build a brand-new home elsewhere, or plant deeper roots on the land they loved.

"For us, it was never just about the house, it was about everything surrounding it," they explain.

"We could have built a home, but it never would have had the memories, the stories, or the connection this one already carried."

With four young, active boys in tow, they decided to take on the challenge of a lifetime. To bridge the gap between the property’s rich history and the needs of a growing family of six, they partnered with Derrick and Sarah Brinkman of dlb design. Together, they set out to preserve the "soul" of the home while completely reimagining it for a new generation.

"Working with Johnny and Kirby was an incredible experience," notes Derrick. "They weren’t afraid to push the boundaries of design, embrace creativity, and invest in truly exclusive pieces. They gave me the freedom to explore ideas, and together we built a collaborative relationship that allowed the design to evolve in exciting ways."

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Home Feature

"I SPENT SO MUCH TIME HERE GROWING UP. SOME OF MY FAVORITE MEMORIES ARE THE SIMPLEST ONES." DESIGNING FOR SIX: BALANCING HERITAGE AND MODERN FUNCTION

HOME THAT GROWS IN PHASES

The original house was structurally pristine and beautifully

To make a project of this scale manageable, the Dykstras and dlb

maintained, but its layout reflected a very different season of life.

design approached the transformation in phases. After updating

Built for Johnny’s grandparents in their 70s, the massive footprint

the main living areas to create open-concept gathering spaces,

held only two bedrooms.

the current phase focuses on expansion.

"Honestly, my first thought was, “How are we going to make this

•

The Boys' Wing: dlb design crafted a new suite of bedrooms

work with four boys?”" Kirby laughs. "We needed spaces that could

designed specifically for this season of the boys' lives, giving

handle backpacks, baseball bags, homework, muddy shoes, friends,

them their own functional spaces while maintaining the

family gatherings, and everything that comes with raising four active

architectural integrity of the original home.

boys.”

•

Seamless Architecture: The design goal for the additions is

"Our goal was never to erase the home’s story. Instead, we wanted to

complete cohesion. "Our goal has always been for someone

honor what it had been, while allowing it to become a home that

to walk through the home and never feel like they can tell

reflected who we are today." — Kirby Dykstra

where the original house ends and the addition begins," Kirby notes.

To marry Kirby's modern, contemporary aesthetic with the traditional structure of the home, dlb design worked closely with the

•

The Backyard Ballfield: True to their vision of keeping family

family. Derrick and Sarah Brinkman focused on creating spaces that

close, the Dykstras even added a home baseball field, a

felt warm, timeless, and, above all, durable enough to withstand the

vibrant, fun addition where the boys and their friends can

energetic lifestyle of four young boys.

make lifelong memories.

Rather than erasing the past, dlb design helped the Dykstras preserve

"Creating spaces where our boys could gather and grow up

the home's purpose: family connection. While walls were moved and

spending time together has been the most important to me. My

finishes updated, the spirit of the layout remained. Original

ultimate goal is no matter where you are on our property, I want

landmarks around the property were lovingly kept intact, including

the ability to be able to sit down and make memories and have

the iconic backyard lemon tree, a historic large windmill brought

conversations. I keep thinking about the boys getting older and

down from Chino, and a small bird feeder that still hangs in the trees.

every space I create has them in mind," Kirby says.

The Family Issue

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THE TRUE VALUE OF LEGACY Remodeling a generational home comes with its own unique set of challenges. "I think people assume remodeling is easier because you’re starting with something already built," Kirby reflects. "In reality, it can actually be much more challenging. You’re constantly working within existing walls, rooflines, and structural limitations while trying to create something that feels completely new.”

Derrick adds, "Throughout the project, we encountered plenty of ‘creative opportunities’ that challenged us to think outside the box. Transforming a traditional home into one with a modern feel isn’t easy. There are architectural elements that deserve to be respected, and finding the balance between honoring the home’s character and introducing a fresh perspective is what makes a project like this so rewarding."

But the emotional weight of the project makes every hurdle worth it.

"Looking back, though, we wouldn’t change our decision. You simply can’t build history," Kirby says.

Today, the Dykstra boys pick lemons from the very same tree their father did. They play in the same yard and sit on the same patio where family has gathered for morning coffee decades ago.

"This home represents legacy," Johnny and Kirby share. "We often say that while the house has changed, its purpose hasn’t. It was built for family then, and it’s built for family now. We hope one day our boys look back on this home the same way Johnny does: with gratitude for the memories made here and an appreciation for the generations who came before them."

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Kids Craft

Words by Lifestyle Staff Rock art by Alexis Cuevas Photos by Chris Dorado

The Family Issue

B

efore you turn over the soil for your cool-season crops, take the opportunity to plant a love of gardening in your children. Painting garden rocks to resemble classic autumn produce is the perfect pre-planting ritual. It builds anticipation for the real harvest ahead while filling your backyard plots with vibrant, permanent pops of color. This creative craft strikes a perfect balance for families: simple enough to feel relaxing, yet produces beautiful, functional markers that tell you exactly where your radish, carrots, and corn are destined to grow.

While toddlers love making messy abstract shapes, this project is custom-tailored for 3rd through 6th graders (around ages 8 to 12). Children at this stage have developed the fine motor control required to paint recognizable vegetable details, such as the textured ribs of an acorn squash or the delicate leafy tops of a radish. They have the patience to let paint layers dry before adding details, and they genuinely enjoy the logical planning involved in organizing a physical garden plot.

SUPPLIES • • • • •

Rocks (to be collected) Acrylic paints - outdoor-safe Paintbrushes Paint pens (optional) Clear weather-resistant UV seal

Gather your supplies, lay down some old newspapers, and follow these simple steps to bring your rock harvest to life.

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STEP 1: SELECT AND PREP YOUR CANVAS Peruse your yard or local parks to collect smooth, flat river stones.

Look for shapes that already mimic vegetables: oblong rocks make excellent butternut squash or carrots, while round, stout stones are perfect for pumpkins and beets. Wash off any dirt and let them dry completely in the sun.

STEP 2: APPLY THE BASE COAT Use acrylic paints to coat each rock in its signature color, vibrant orange for pumpkins, deep purple for eggplants, soft white for parsnips, and earthy greens for cabbage. Let this base coat dry fully.

STEP 3: ADD DEPTH AND DETAIL This is where your middle-graders shine! Have them use fine-tipped brushes or paint pens to add character. Draw vertical lines down the pumpkins, paint a yellow-and-green checkerboard pattern for ears of corn, or sketch fine white root lines on the bottom of radishes.

STEP 4: SEAL FOR THE ELEMENTS Once the paint is completely dry, have an adult spray or brush on the UV sealer. This protects their hard work from rain and sun fading, ensuring the markers stay vibrant all season long. Once dry, head out to the garden together. Let your kids place their painted treasures directly into the soil where each corresponding vegetable seed will soon be planted. It's a colorful promise of the autumn harvest to come!

sanctuaireinteriors.com | @sanctuaireinteriors

Sanctuaire Interiors creates spaces designed to be lived in, loved, and never taken for granted.

The Family Issue

Words by Danielle Panuco Photos by Carly Vagim

SCHOOL THE HEART OF

READINESS A

few years ago, a little boy walked through our preschool doors whose story left an impact on my heart. At three years old, he spoke very few words. His parents began to wonder if there might be something wrong or if he was falling behind. They weren’t sure what this meant for him and his future and wanted some guidance on how to help. While many of his peers were singing songs, sharing stories, counting and playing with one another, he hadn’t found his voice yet. I reassured his parents that it would be okay, that we would work as a team to help him develop at his pace. If we didn’t see any progress within a couple of months, we could help recommend services and professionals that could observe him and assist him with his needs. To begin though, I wanted to see him for who he truly was, to give him space to feel welcome and comfortable in an environment that could help him grow in these developmental skills.

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Loving Littles

Over the next month, we worked with him closely. We celebrated the small wins when he would point to colors rather than say them, or play and laugh with friends without conversation. As we gave him space, supporting his emotional and developmental needs, he engaged in our learning curriculum daily, soaking it all in before he was ready to use it.

While I understand all of the statistics and science behind developmental milestones and the importance of progressing through them, I am here to encourage you that it is okay if your child may seem a little behind or if you don’t feel they are ready for school. I recommend that you avoid comparison and that you simply focus on your child.

Over time, he slowly began to grow his vocabulary. He started to engage with friends more, using 1-2 word phrases to communicate his wants and needs. Eventually, his speech began to grow into longer phrases. After a few months, his mom shared something with me that I will never forget. “Last night, he told me ‘I love you’ for the very first time.” That’s when it all clicked for me.

What are __________’s

What is ___________

needs?

great at?

What can __________

How can I help ___________

Education, child growth and development, independence, and school readiness are not only about checking the academic and developmental boxes. While these different steps are important to progress in, this moment was impactful. It showed me that meeting a child where they are and giving them space to build comfort, confidence, and love amongst those around them is one of the biggest impacts I can truly make in a child’s life. Once they feel this way, the academics and love for learning will flow naturally.

still improve in?

improve in these areas?

To me, telling his parents “I love you” was much more important than knowing letters and numbers at that time. From then on, he rapidly caught up to all of his missed milestones. Today he is excelling in school, sports, and relationships with those around him. That moment in his development didn’t mean that academics weren’t important, because they absolutely are.

Academics taught through a strong curriculum are what gave him tools to continue learning and growing before he was ready to reveal his knowledge. It reminded me that curriculum and learning are best absorbed and retained when a child feels safe enough to receive it, which is why both aspects are what help a child to feel truly ready and confident for a school environment.

As a parent, I hope you can take a step back and remember what it’s all about. Although at times parenting can feel like a blur of chaos, simply learning to survive one day at a time, it is truly beautiful that you are learning through this process too. I encourage you to breathe, reset and take a moment for yourself when needed, and pray for wisdom, guidance, and discernment in this beautiful and messy life of parenting.

As Jesus said in Luke 18:16 “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.” Jesus did not compare each child to another. Rather, He saw the beauty in the differences of each individual person, as He intentionally created us all to be distinctly ourselves.Where some children may be behind or have challenges in some areas, they may also be ahead or gifted in others.

At Loving Littles Preschool, we believe children should be welcomed exactly as they are. Every child comes through our doors with unique strengths, personalities, needs, challenges, and gifts. Our job is not to compare children to one another, but to help each child grow into the person God created them to be.

We work with children and parents in all areas to promote school readiness. Our academic curriculum is designed to be differentiated for each individual child.

Just like developmental milestones, there is no “one box checks all” for learning and academics. We do not only teach about basic subjects such as math and English but we also teach students about the world around them through a weekly theme, we implement social emotional learning concepts, we teach them about Jesus and we intentionally include fine and gross motor skill development. If our learning environment, teacher ratio, or educational certifications or expertise cannot help your child with the stages they are at, we can always help to encourage parents in finding programs or services that can benefit them and their needs. We love to work together with families and be a part of that village that every parent needs.

I encourage you to look for a school where you know what your child is being taught, that you are aware of the curriculum to further the instruction at home if you’d like, and where you feel like the teachers and parents are on the same team, working together for each child’s best interest.

After more than 12 years in education, I’ve learned that there are many facets to school readiness. Social emotional awareness, physical development and skills, academics, and communication all play a huge factor in school readiness and independence.

Having tools or knowledge for some things in each of these categories can help your little one to feel confident in a school environment.

The Family Issue

“To be in your children’s memories tomorrow, you have to be in their lives today.”

Helping your child progress

•

• • •

Following directions Sharing with others Taking turns with peers Trying new things and being open minded Developing resilience and perseverance when things feel challenging Communicating wants and needs Calming their bodies and regulating their emotions Knowing how to show empathy and kindness

• Opening their own lunch box and snacks • Fastening zippers or buttons independently • Wiping, pulling up pants, and washing their hands thoroughly and independently

early learning

• • • •

independence

Social & Emotional

Below are some important points that you can help your child to progress in, in order to prepare them for this next step in their educational journey.

• Holding a marker or pencil and cutting with scissors • Counting as well as color, number and shape recognition • Letter identification and letter sounds • Tracing independently • Writing their name and other letters/ words independently is a bonus :)

You may be thinking, “Well my child needs help in all of these areas.” I want to assure you that teaching these skills does not have to look like a thoroughly thought out lesson plan. One of the best ways to teach your littles is simply through being present and teaching by example. I love this quote by Barbara Johnson, “To be in your children’s memories tomorrow, you have to be in their lives today.”

Children learn through examples and hands-on practice by observing and being involved in everyday life and activities with those they look up to most. For example, a child can naturally pick up “developing resilience and perseverance when things feel challenging” if they see their parents continue to work at things that are challenging for them. Or, maybe they see their parents show empathy and kindness to an elder at a grocery store by getting something off of the shelf for them that they cannot reach. Learning letters might look like a fun scavenger hunt of finding letters around the house and practicing to identify them together. Being present in their everyday lives, including them in your activities, and displaying the types of behaviors and character that you would want them to portray to others will cover almost all of these readiness skills. Children don’t need perfect parents. They need parents who acknowledge them, love them, and are willing to learn and grow alongside them in this beautiful journey of life.

Danielle Panuco is the owner and director of Loving Littles Preschool in Visalia, California. As a credentialed teacher, former college professor, published children’s author, and educator with more than 12 years of experience, she is passionate about helping children develop a strong foundation for both school and life. Through a balance of academics, play, and faith, Danielle partners with families to nurture confident, curious learners who know they are deeply loved. @lovinglittlespreschool www. lovinglittlespreschool.com

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Wellness: Pilates

"The greatest gift we can give our families is a healthy version of ourselves."

FINDING CONNECTION THROUGH

FAMILY FITNESS Words and photos by Journey Souza

F

it Together Studio is more than just a place to work out. It’s a female focused studio and a safe place for women, especially mothers, to belong.

Women are created for connection. We crave spaces where we feel seen, supported, and accepted exactly as we are. And while every season of life brings its own challenges, few seasons can feel quite as isolating as becoming a parent.

The Family Issue

Motherhood has a beautiful way of changing everything.

Your days become centered around tiny people who need you constantly, and somewhere along the way, taking care of yourself can become the easiest thing to put aside.

Exercise, friendships, and personal time often become things we hope to get back to “someday.” I know because I lived it.

Eight weeks after having my second daughter, I was living in Santa Cruz and navigating a brand-new season of life. I was grateful, overwhelmed, and honestly a little unsure of where I belonged. Becoming a mom of two was a huge adjustment, and something as simple as leaving the house suddenly felt like a much bigger task. Then I found Fit Together Studio.

When I first heard about this women-focused Pilates studio, I was immediately drawn to the community the owner, Chelsea, was creating. But the question I had as a new mom was simple: What do I do with my baby? Her answer changed everything: “Bring her with you.”

Not a daycare. Not someone else watching my child in another room. Just me, my baby, and my mat. And zero judgment whatsoever.

For the first time in a long time, I walked into a room and didn't feel like motherhood was something I had to work around. I didn't have to apologize for bringing my baby. I didn't have to wait until I looked or felt “ready.” I was welcomed exactly where I was. And what I found inside that room was something I didn't know I needed.

Women from all walks of life were moving together. Some were new moms. Some were experienced athletes. Some were simply looking for a way to prioritize their health. But everyone shared something in common: they were there to support one another.

There were no perfect workout outfits, no perfect bodies, and definitely no perfectly behaved babies. There was just a group of women choosing to show up.

That experience changed my perspective on fitness.

Family-friendly fitness is about so much more than exercise.

It’s about creating healthy habits, building confidence, and showing our children that taking care of ourselves is a valuable part of taking care of our families.

Children learn by watching us. They see when we prioritize our health, when we make time for movement, and when we surround ourselves with positive community. Those small moments create a foundation that can impact them for years to come.

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And family fitness doesn't have to look perfect. It can be taking a walk after dinner, dancing together in the kitchen, stretching on the living room floor, or finding a fitness space where your children are welcomed instead of seen as an obstacle.

When my family moved to Visalia, I couldn't stop thinking about the community I had found in Santa Cruz and how many families here might be searching for that same feeling.

A place where parents don't have to choose between caring for their families and caring for themselves. A place where women can build strength, friendships, and confidence together.

That is what inspired me to bring Fit Together Studio to Visalia. My hope is that it becomes more than just a fitness studio. I hope it becomes a place where people walk in feeling unsure and walk out feeling stronger—not only physically, but emotionally too—just as I did when I joined Fit Together Studio in Santa Cruz.

Because at the end of the day, the greatest gift we can give our families is a healthy version of ourselves. And sometimes, the first step toward a healthier family is simply finding a place where you belong.

This is more than just mommy-and-me classes. This is about creating a movement where mothers no longer feel like they have to choose between caring for their children and caring for themselves. It’s about creating a space where children are not seen as an obstacle, but as a beautiful part of the journey.

Where they are welcomed, included, and surrounded by a community that supports their mothers.

The impact of this goes far beyond the hour spent in the studio. When we teach mothers that their health matters, we are changing the way the next generation views wellness, strength, and self-care. The connections built, the habits created, and the example we set will ripple far beyond us. This is about building healthier families, stronger communities, and a legacy that lasts for generations.

We hope to meet you, and your little ones, on the mat one day. Although we do not have a permanent spot in Visalia yet, we host pop-ups at local businesses for women to begin their fitness journey before our doors even open. Follow our Instagram to stay updated on our process of finding our home space here in Visalia and for more details on how to get a ticket for our pop-ups.

We can’t wait to meet you.

—Journey Souza and Chelsea Reese @fittogetherstudio.visalia

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Tulare-Kings Resources for Life

To amplify this year’s mission, TKRL is welcoming three nationally recognized figures to Visalia. This offers attendees an opportunity to hear diverse perspectives on family, leadership, and public discourse.

Words By Lifestyle Staff

ADVANCING THE MISSION:

A NIGHT OF UNITY FOR LOCAL FAMILIES F

or over 40 years, Tulare-Kings Resources for Life (TKRL) has quietly and consistently served the Central Valley, anchoring its work in a foundational belief: appreciating and enhancing all life.

What began decades ago as a modest, close-knit gathering has blossomed into a regional cornerstone. On Thursday, September 3, 2026, TKRL will host its 31st Annual Fundraising Event, "Advancing the Mission," at Visalia First.

The event has more than doubled in size over the years, now operating less like a traditional gala and more as an impactful educational conference. This grassroots initiative calls the local community to unite across denominations, cultures, nationalities, and backgrounds. The primary objective is straightforward: to fully fund TKRL’s extensive, year-round neighborhood programming.

Beyond this annual event, TKRL works behind the scenes daily through three primary branches: 1.

2.

3.

Education: Operates pre-school programs, providing specialized classroom curriculum to supplement local school health standards, and offering natural FertilityCare classes that have happily helped local families welcome five new babies this past year alone.

Restoration: Offers dedicated support programs, local retreats, and peer studies for individuals navigating the heavy emotional toll of miscarriage, abortion, or sexual trauma.

Defense of Life: Provides visual educational models to public spaces, youth groups, and health fairs while partnering with local community organizations to seamlessly connect individuals with fostering, adoption, and parenting resources.

RILEY GAINES A former NCAA Division I swimmer and 12-time All-American at the University of Kentucky, Riley Gaines rose to prominence advocating for fairness in women's sports.

Now an author and host of the Gaines for Girls podcast, she will share her journey as an elite athlete, highlighting the courage it takes to courageously stand up for one's convictions.

OFFICER TATUM A former Tucson police officer turned media commentator, Brandon Tatum interacts with millions weekly online. As a husband, father, and entrepreneur, his presentation will draw from his years in law enforcement to emphasize civic responsibility, the value of family leadership, and community stability.

SETH GRUBER A prominent author and the founder of The White Rose Resistance, Seth Gruber focuses on the historical, moral, and philosophical roots surrounding the cultural conversation of human dignity. His presentation aims to equip younger generations to think critically, clearly, and constructively on the value of life.

SECURE YOUR SEAT Last year’s event completely sold out weeks in advance. Tickets are available at TKRL.org. Exclusive VIP packages are also available - including an intimate meal and photo opportunity with the guest speakers. For local sponsorship opportunities or ticket inquiries, call the TKRL office directly at 559-732-5000.

Organization Directory: • Website: TKRL.org • Mailing Address: P.O. Box 3531, Visalia, CA 93278 • Phone Number: 559-732-5000 • Instagram: @tkrlresources

The Family Issue

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40

Easy School Lunches

THE MIX-AND-MATCH LUNCHBOX:

ONE SUNDAY PREP, THREE HEALTHY MEALS Words by Lifestyle Staff Photos by Chris Dorado

COMPONENT

1

GRAPE & CHICKEN WRAP

2

A

ugust mornings in the Valley are notoriously hot. Start up the school year, and they’re exceptionally busy. The secret to stress-free weekdays isn't waking up earlier; it’s changing how you prep. Stay cool and get ahead of the game with easy, healthy, packable lunches.

Instead of making full meals ahead of time (which leads to soggy sandwiches), the strategy is component prepping. By spending just an extra hour on Sunday prepping a few versatile base ingredients, you can effortlessly mix and match entirely different, fresh lunches all week long.

To inspire your weekend prep, we cooked up three simple meals with just a handful of ingredients.

While these meals are geared toward kid-friendly school lunches, component prepping is great for work lunches and quick weekday dinners too.

SUMMER HARVEST PLATTER

3

FIESTA CHICKEN SALAD

PROTEIN

Shredded chicken (tossed with dressing)

Rotisserie chicken strips

Shredded chicken

PRODUCE

Sliced grapes & diced mini bell peppers

Sliced mini bell peppers & cucumbers

Drained sweet corn, black beans, & diced peppers

BASE / GRAIN

Wrapped tightly in a tortilla

Whole-grain crackers on the side

Served over the corn and bean salad base

SIDE & DIP

Extra grapes & cucumber slices

Hummus or ranch for dipping

Local grape clusters & tortilla chips

THE SUNDAY PREP LIST: • Protein: Bake or buy one rotisserie chicken; shred and cut strips from the breast meat.

• Produce: Wash and slice a bag of mini bell peppers and cucumbers; wash a large bowl of Central Valley table grapes.

• Pantry: Grab a can of black beans, a can of sweet corn, and a package of tortillas. Option, but extra tasty: Roast the sweet corn in the oven.

The Family Issue

HOW THEY COME TOGETHER VALLEY GRAPE & CHICKEN WRAP Toss a handful of your prepped shredded chicken with halved grapes, diced mini bell peppers, and a splash of ranch or dressing. Add extra veggies and spices of choice. Roll it tightly into a tortilla and serve with extra grapes and cucumber slices. It's hydrating, cool, and perfect for hot August days.

SUMMER HARVEST DIPPING PLATTER No cooking required! Arrange a colorful, tactile snack platter using the prepped chicken strips, sliced mini bell peppers, and cucumber coins.

Serve with crackers and a generous scoop of hummus or your child's favorite dip.

It’s ideal for kids who love to graze.

FIESTA CORN & CHICKEN SALAD Toss the drained sweet corn and black beans together with the remaining shredded chicken and diced mini bell peppers. Drizzle with a little olive oil and a squeeze of lime juice. Serve with tortilla chips for scooping and a side of grapes.

This vibrant salad won’t get soggy sitting in a backpack.

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Recipe: Family Dinner

ONE PAN, NO PANIC:

THE ULTIMATE WEEKNIGHT DINNER SAVIOR Words by Lifestyle Staff Photos & Recipe by Alyssa Justice

F

inding a dinner that satisfies the whole family, requires minimal cleanup, and doesn’t take hours of prep can feel like a nightly puzzle. Enter the sheet-pan meal. By cooking your protein, starch, and veggies all on a single tray, you unlock deep, roasted flavors while keeping your sink blissfully empty.

This recipe pairs juicy, garlic-and-onion infused beef meatballs with crispy cubed yams and tender roasted green beans. It’s hearty, wholesome, and comes together in under an hour.

WHY THIS RECIPE WORKS •

•

•

Effortless Prep: Grating the red onion directly into the meatball mix keeps them incredibly moist without needing heavy creams or sauces.

Smart Timing: By staggering when the ingredients hit the pan, you ensure the yams get perfectly crispy without overcooking the green beans or drying out the meatballs.

One Pan to Wash: Less time scrubbing dishes means more time relaxing after dinner.

MAKES 4S. SERVING E THE

OUBL EASY TO D ST USE 2 U J RECIPE OTH OVEN B D PANS AN RACKS

The Family Issue

INGREDIENTS FOR THE YAMS:

THE METHOD 1.

PREP AND ROAST THE YAMS: Oven at 400°F.

1 large yam Olive oil

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Cut the large yam

¼ tsp salt

into cubes roughly 1 inch thick. Toss them in

Fresh ground pepper

olive oil, ¼ tsp salt, and fresh ground pepper.

Spread them evenly across a large sheet pan

FOR THE MEATBALLS:

and roast for 15 minutes. When the timer goes off, flip the yams so they can get beautifully

1 lb lean ground beef

crispy on multiple sides.

1 cup bread crumbs 2 large eggs 2 garlic cloves, minced

2.

While yams roast.

¼ large red onion, grated Salt and fresh ground pepper

While the yams are getting their head start in the oven, combine the ground beef, bread

FOR THE GREEN BEANS:

crumbs, eggs, minced garlic, grated red onion, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix thoroughly with

1 (12 oz) bag of green beans,

your hands, then roll the mixture into 1.5-inch

ends cut off

meatballs.

Olive oil ¼ tsp salt Fresh ground pepper

MIX AND SHAPE THE MEATBALLS:

3.

ASSEMBLE THE PAN: Add meat and veggies.

Once the yams have finished their initial 15-minute roast, carefully add the shaped meatballs to the same sheet pan. In a separate bowl, toss your trimmed green beans with olive oil, ¼ tsp salt, and pepper, then nestle them onto the pan alongside the yams and meatballs.

4.

THE FINAL BAKE: 20 minutes.

Pop the fully loaded sheet pan back into the oven. Bake everything together for another 20 minutes until the meatballs are fully cooked through, the green beans are tender-crisp, and the yams are golden brown. Serve and enjoy!

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44

Farmer's Market Feature

THE CHARM OF CHANGE Words by Sue Burns

A

ugust is a magical time at the farmers market. “How can that be?” You might ask. While the height of summer doesn’t sound especially exciting, stay with us. As we make our way through sweltering temperatures, the kids return to school, and sports and our schedules start to pick up steam.

During this time, we also glimpse an ever so subtle shift in daylight, inhaling the briefest of cool moments in the early morning air. We can sense the slow but sure, steady approach of autumn. This is when we start to see the farmers market transition toward fall - reinforcing the fact that a (most welcome) cooler season is on its way.

ARTISANS

At the market booths, summer’s bounty of berries, cherries, stone fruits, melons, corn, artichokes, tomatoes, figs and asparagus begin to shift to apples, pears, persimmons, brussel sprouts, broccoli, lettuces, onions, potatoes, winter squashes and those quintessential symbols of fall: pumpkins. These market days are our opportunity to enjoy a last hurrah with favorite summer produce as we anticipate the flavors of the comfort food months. Inspiration abounds for foodies and shoppers, sparking early planning for autumn cooking and baking, and getting ahead on our holiday shopping lists at the artisan vendors’ booths, where fun and unique gifts await.

•

Summer into fall is a great time for kids to experience the market, seeing the seasons change through produce at local events. The National Farmers Market Event, slated for August 8th, will offer face painting and a passport on which kids can collect stamps from the vendors. The event will also include live music and dance performances and yoga with the Space Yoga Studio for all ages. September will offer customers a chance to spotlight their favorite market booths with the People’s Choice Awards.

ACTIVITIES/POP-UPS • •

•

•

•

August 8th: National Farmers Market Event August 8th: Book Exchange - second Saturday of every month. Bring a book, take a book! 8:00-11:30 am (Main Market: 2231 W. Main Street, Visalia, CA) August 26th: Last mid-week Shannon Ranch summer market. 8:00-11:30 am (Quail Park: 3440 W. Flagstaff Avenue, Visalia) August 29th: Clothing Exchange - last Saturday of every month, in collaboration with California Thrift Shop. Bring up to 10 gently used items of clothing and swap for something that’s new-to-you! 8:00-11:30 am ( Main Market: 2231 W. Main Street, Visalia, CA) September (date TBD): Farmers Market People’s Choice Awards

• • •

Lee’z Salsa: homemade, small batch artisanal salsa Lublu Bakery: traditional and special recipe sourdough breads, croissants, pastries and sweets Wesley’s Wheatless: wheatless and gluten-free breads and sweets, made in a cottage kitchen

CERTIFIED FARMERS •

• •

• • •

Cornett Farms: locally sourced and harvested honey and honey products Earth Garden Farms: local grass-fed lamb, pasture raised chicken, hand-spun fibers Grow Love Farm: organic fruits and vegetables grown using environmentally friendly practices Pure Harvest Orchards: delivering fresh produce grown year-round in green houses using sustainable methods Rancho Padre Farms: certified organic stone fruit and conventionally farmed citrus Sweet Thistle Farms: locally grown flowers, lovely seasonal arrangements Top of the Hill Jams: jams, jellies and marmalades made fresh on a home ranch near the Kings River

FOOD TRUCKS •

•

Cinnamon Roll Shack: extra large gourmet cinnamon rolls sure to satisfy your breakfast sweet tooth Quererte: from Mexico with love, comfort foods such as antojitos and tacos, with vegetarian options

As always, an important reminder is that Visalia Farmers Market offers WIC Fruits and Vegetable Vouchers and CalFresh EBT matches to provide everyone in the community with a connection to Valley agriculture and access to locally grown seasonal produce.

STAY TUNED! FOLLOW THE MARKET’S SOCIAL MEDIA PAGES AND CHECK THEIR WEBSITE FOR MORE DETAILS ON SCHEDULED AND UPCOMING EVENTS, MUSICAL PERFORMANCES, AND THE MOST UP-TO-DATE DETAILS ON VENDORS, PROGRAMS AND MARKET DAYS:

@visaliafarmersmrket @visaliafarmersmarkets visaliafarmersmarket.com 2231 W. Main Street, Visalia

STATE OF THE

CITY & COUNTY MAYOR Patrick Isherwood

ENHANCING QUALITY OF LIFE. STRENGTHENING OUR REGION.

COUNTY SUPERVISOR Pete Vander Poel III

We’ve Got It.

Join us as we share updates on progress, priorities, and our vision for a stronger City and County

STRONG COMMUNITIES

ECONOMIC GROWTH

AGRICULTURE & INDUSTRY

QUALITY OF LIFE

TICKETS:

MEMBERS: $55 BEFORE 8/8, $65 ON 8/9 NON-MEMBERS: $65 BEFORE 8/8, $75 ON 8/9 FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2026 • 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM INTERNATIONAL AGRI-CENTER - HERITAGE COMPLEX

FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS

Shutters | Blinds | Verticals | Honeycombs | Woven Woods

Free In-Home Consultation and Professional Installation • Guaranteed Lowest Price • Lifetime Warranties Lic. #810617 blindsforlessvisalia.com

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History

THE LEGEND OF THE LOST SCHIPE GOLD MINE Words and Photos by Terry Ommen

I have been a fan of Central California’s treasure stories for more than three decades. As a result, I have accumulated quite a collection. Some involve buried outlaw loot, while others are connected to forgotten family stashes. Most of them are about lost mines, mostly gold.

Periodically, he would venture to Visalia for supplies, hang out with friends, and of course drink. He loved his liquor, and was known for singing his favorite little tune: “I’ll eat when I’m hungry, I’ll drink when I’m dry. If a limb don’t fall on me, I’ll live ‘til I die.”

One of the most intriguing of all of the lost mine legends traces back to John Schipe. The story tells of a mountain man and his suspicious death while on a drinking binge in Visalia.

With a strong local history connection, the tale has plenty of twists, turns, and clues to follow for those wanting to solve the nearly 160-year old mystery. Over the years, there has been plenty written about Schipe, his mine, and his adventures.

Several years before settling in Dunlap, it was said that John Schipe’s mining partner was killed by Native people. As a result, Schipe was bitter toward them, and took revenge by killing many. He was so vicious that his attacks brought out the U.S. Army cavalry to attempt to control him.

Before beginning, a word of caution for those interested in deeper research. The actual correct spelling of his last name is unknown: both Shipe and Schippe circulate through history.

The Tulare County coroner’s inquest report spells it “Schipe”, which is how I will refer to him here. One more warning: As might be expected, some writers have embellished his story even fabricating details in an obvious attempt to make a fascinating story even more interesting.

On December 1st, 1868, he made one of his trips to Visalia, bearing good news. He had found a mine richly laced with gold, and he brought small ore samples with him to prove it.

Moving from saloon to saloon, drinking and gambling, he told the locals of his findings. The more he talked about his discovery, the more “friends” he made, all anxious to hear more details about his amazing find. Despite the cajoling, he never shared its location.

Now let’s begin the story of Schipe and his mine. John Schipe was born in Germany around 1836. He came to America in the early 1860s, starting out in Pennsylvania, and eventually settling in the Golden State.

Physically, he was a large man. In fact, some called him a giant, standing over 6 feet tall and weighing about 215 pounds with “not an ounce of superfluous flesh.” He had blue-gray eyes, sandy-colored curly hair, and a heavy drooping mustache. He was described as a kind, considerate, and generous man when sober. When intoxicated, he was called a “perfect demon.”

Schipe was a typical mountain man, living a mostly secluded life. He hunted, trapped, prospected and generally lived off the land. He was frequently well-armed with a rifle, two pistols and a long knife. Throughout the later 1860s, he lived with a Native American woman near what is today Dunlap, a small Fresno County community near Squaw Valley. This area was at one time known as Shipe’s Valley, for obvious reasons..

1863 : VISALIA’S MAIN STREET LOOKING EASTBOUND FROM COURT STREET. THE SHOOTING OF SCHIPE IS BELIEVED TO HAVE TAKEN PLACE ONE BLOCK EAST OF THIS INTERSECTION.

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More and more stories were told in print about Schipe and his mine. In 1910, the St. Louis Daily Globe Democrat newspaper published an article titled “The Lost Mine of Tulare.” Their highly fictionalized account grabbed the public’s attention, closing the story with, “It’s a vast country open for the lucky finder. Who will he be that lands on this lost bonanza?”

In 1915, Tulare County pioneer J. H. Mankins of Orosi was asked his opinion. He had known John Schipe personally and remarked, “Whatever may be said of Schipe, I will say this: His word was as good as gold.” Mankins added that he believed the mine was real, insisting, “Schipe did have a gold mine.”

For years, stories of the lost Schipe mine have teased the reader with the hope of striking it rich. Many have been lured in for the hunt. But was the lost mine real or a myth? The mystery still stands.

A PARTIAL CALIFORNIA TOPOGRAPHICAL 1873 MAP, SHOWS SHIPE’S VALLEY IN THE UPPER LEFT CENTER AREA.

That evening, Schipe, about 35 years old at the time, drank to severe intoxication, turning obnoxious, belligerent, and combative. Visalia Town Marshal John Williams and his deputy James McCrory were called. Both tried to calm him, but he was uncontrollable. Finding no alternative, the lawmen attempted to take him into custody. During the arrest, Schipe was fatally shot by the lawmen on Visalia’s Main Street.

The death of Schipe left the town uneasy. He had many friends; in fact, one of them confronted the deputy marshal about his involvement in the shooting. The lawman had to shoot his way out of the tense argument.

Almost immediately, the motive for the Schipe killing was tied to the mine he claimed to discover. The theory states that he was killed because he refused to disclose its location. News of the shooting and mine discovery traveled quickly, traveling far beyond Visalia. In 1872, men working for a San Francisco company were combing the mountain area northeast of town, hunting for the mine. They focused their search in the high country of the Kings River by Kearsarge Pass. Others searched in the Sampson’s Flat area, near an old hideout once used by train robbers Chris Evans and John Sontag. In fact, the two outlaws were said to have searched for the lost mine when they hid there in the 1890s.

AUGUST 31, 1897: ARTICLE HEADLINE FROM THE VISALIA DAILY TIMES ISSUE, ALMOST 30 YEARS AFTER SCHIPE WAS KILLED.

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Calendar of Events

August Agenda Kick off back to school season with local events!

AUGUST 1

AUGUST 15

Saturday

Saturday

6th Annual Back to School Drive

Edgar Allen Poe Speakeasy

When: 10am-2pm

When: 8-9:30pm

Where: Connect Coffee

Where: The Venue at Sombras

Hosted by: Apple Corial Real Estate Group

Hosted by: Awesome Events - USA

https://tinyurl.com/3akt8env

https://tinyurl.com/visaliapoe

VISALIA

TULARE

AUGUST 1

AUGUST 26

Saturday

Wednesday

Rusty Roots Show

Sit and Stitch

When: 8am-3pm

When: 3-5:30pm

Where: Tulare County Fairgrounds

Where: Kings County Library Hanford Branch

Hosted by: Rusty Roots

Hosted by: Kings County Library

rustyrootsshow.com | @rusty_roots_show

https://kingscountylibrary.org/events/2424 @kingscountylibrary

TULARE

HANFORD

AUGUST 7

AUGUST 29

Friday

Saturday

Fueling the Future Garden Bazaar

Market on Mooney

When: 6pm

Where: Vossler Farms Pumpkin Patch

Where: 611 2nd St, Exeter

Hosted by: Rusty Roots

Hosted by: Foodlink Tulare County

https://tinyurl.com/marketonmooney

https://tinyurl.com/yut55a5t | @foodlinktc

@rusty_roots_show

When: 8am-1pm

EXETER

VISALIA

Events subject to change.

Please check with host before attending.

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Looking Forward

This September, our Home Issue is packed with inspiration to help you live beautifully.

From local design visionaries to practical tips for transforming your favorite rooms, we’re bringing you an exclusive look at the art of living well at home!

UP NEXT:

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Published by LFSTYL Media LLC, 111 W Main Street, Visalia CA 93291 Co-Owner/Executive Editor Stephanie Steelman Co-Owner/Creative Editor Sam Justice Co-Owners Josh Ormonde, Kelsey Ormonde Editorial & Advertising Coordinator Chelsi Stark Content Editor Danielle Nederend Designers Daniel Borgatto, William Yamauti Advertising and General Inquiries hi@lifestylemagazine.media Sales Office 111 W Main Street, Visalia CA 93291 559.702.1383 View this Issue Online www.lifestylemagazine.media

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. © 2026 Root Creative Marketing

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