Summer in the Central Valley is pure magic—warm evenings at the ballpark, the first bite of a sun-kissed cherry, and the sticky sweetness of melted ice cream on a hot afternoon. It’s a time to slow down, soak it in, and enjoy the simple pleasures that make this place home.
the Cover: Photo by Dakota Jacobi-Stephenson. Story on Page 13.
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A Word From
The Editor
Summer in the Central Valley always feels like pure magic, doesn't it? As a dad to two young girls, I know firsthand it’s a season packed with everything from cannonballs and camping trips to sticky popsicles and the thrilling boom of fireworks. It's a time when the days stretch out, inviting me to slow down and really soak in the moments that make up some of life’s best memories.
Recently, my family embarked on a full-day adventure to Disneyland – no small feat with a five and two-year-old, plus a pregnant wife! While I grew up in a household with three brothers, far removed from tea parties and princess dress-ups, watching my girls experience the fairytale magic was truly something special. From meeting Minnie to the late-night fireworks over the castle, their wide-eyed wonder was infectious. Despite being surrounded by summer crowds, the real magic for me was seeing my daughter meet "real" Princess Aurora and Cinderella, and then watching those famous fireworks light up their faces. My wife and I couldn’t help but wear the most genuine, happy smiles.
It was a reminder for me that summer is a time to see the world through a lens of awe and joy. This July issue is designed to help you discover those moments right here in our community. We dive into the sweet heart of the season with "A Season of Sweetness," where we learn about one farmer's generational love for cherries and even get a recipe for a perfect cherry pie – a simple, delicious joy. And what’s summer without a trip to the ballpark? Join us for "The Magic of a Rawhide Night," where we celebrate warm evenings, classic ballpark snacks, and the hum of nostalgia and laughter that fills the air.
Our feature "Let the Wild In" also takes us into the breathtaking beauty of Kings Canyon, reminding us to embrace the outdoors and make memories with our loved ones, much like witnessing the awe-inspiring nature crafted by God's own hands in those towering waterfalls. For me, summer has always been fun; it’s a time to explore, to see new things, and enjoy the people we hold dearest. My daughter’s sense of awe has challenged me to shift my perspective, to actually see the amazing things already happening all around me that can fill me with that same sense of wonder.
This season, I encourage you to seek out those moments of awe, embrace the simple joys, and create memories that will last long after the last lazy Saturday fades. From our family to yours, we wish you a summer filled with joy, connection, and countless inspiring moments.
SAM JUSTICE Co-founder | Root Creative Marketing
Creative Editor | Lifestyle Magazine
Stehpanie Steelman EXECUTIVE EDITOR
Contributors
April 2025 July 2025
Sarah Gonzalez ACCOUNT MANAGER
Dakota JacobiStephenson HEAD OF SALES & EDITORIAL
Daniel Borgatto GRAPHIC DESIGNER
William Yamauti GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Lauren Walters CONTRIBUTOR
JJ Fry PHOTOGRAPHER
Saegan Moran ILLUSTRATOR
Marissa Carpenter CONTENT EDITOR
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Terry Ommen HISTORIAN
Sponsored Content
HIGH ABOVE THE VALLEY
HOW
ONE WOMAN IS MAKING AVIATION MORE ACCESSIBLE— ONE FLIGHT AT A TIME
Words by Dakota Jacobi-Stephenson
When I first met Tricia Crinklaw (formerly Pierce) owner of Pierce Aircraft Sales, I was expecting to interview a seasoned pilot about her career in aviation and her mission to encourage more women to take to the skies. What I didn’t expect was to walk away from our meeting seriously considering getting my pilot’s license.
That’s the Tricia effect.
It all started when she invited me to experience an introductory flight— something she offers to women of all ages, not just as a thrill, but as a window into a career most have never even considered. As we approached the plane, Tricia guided me through every single step. And I mean every step—including how to gracefully scrabble into the small aircraft, which is trickier than you’d think.
Once inside, headset on, she immediately put me at ease. “There’s no such thing as a dumb question,” she told me, inviting me to ask away. I did. She answered everything—mechanics, controls, gauges, even how to stay calm when you're thousands of feet above the ground.
And somewhere between the pre-flight checklist and the moment the wheels left the ground, I felt something I didn’t expect: completely comfortable and totally exhilarated. That’s why Tricia does what she does.
FROM AIRSHOW DREAMER TO AVIATION LEADER
Tricia’s love of flight began in the most relatable way—watching planes from the ground as a little girl at weekend airshows with her family. “I remember thinking, ‘I wish I could marry a pilot so he could take me flying,’” she said. “It never crossed my mind that I could be the pilot.”
Years later, while attending college in San Jose and working parttime as a receptionist booking flights at a flight school, she was required to take a lesson as part of her job. She was hooked. Despite early doubts about being able to actually become a pilot, Tricia kept going. She went on to earn her instructor, commercial, and airline transport ratings—an impressive feat in any industry, but especially in one where only about 10% of pilots are women.
BUILDING AN INSPIRING BUSINESS WITH INTEGRITY
After deciding that airline life wasn’t for her, Tricia found her niche in aircraft brokerage. When a longtime local broker and mentor retired, she took over the business and launched Pierce Aircraft Sales in 2000. Today, the company helps clients buy and sell aircraft, and also offers aerial photography, certified ash scattering, and yes— those inspiring introductory flights.
Her background as a highly-rated pilot and instructor adds unique value. “A lot of brokers don’t have the flying experience I do,” she explained. “When a client hires me, I’m at the inspections. I’m under the tail, talking to mechanics. I’ve been through enough pre-purchase inspections to know what to look for.”
But what struck me most was how she runs her business—with integrity and trust. “My mentor told me, ‘Never get greedy,’” she said. “I treat every client fairly, whether they’re buying a little airplane or a jet.”
HER MISSION: BREAKING THE AVIATION MOLD
What Tricia is most passionate about, though, is helping women experience the power of flight firsthand. “When I soloed for the first time, I thought, ‘No one is here to help me right now. I’m doing this alone.’ It was terrifying—and incredibly empowering. I want more women to feel that.”
She’s helped women from all walks of life—an 80-year-old who’d never been in a small plane, a dental hygienist who decided to pursue their license after just one flight, and even a 55-year-old divorce attorney who now flies her own aircraft.
She’s now working on a scholarship-based program that will offer free intro flights to women, funded by local businesses and supporters. “I already have the knowledge, the skills, and the airplane,” she told me. “Now I just need help covering the fuel, insurance, and other costs to make it accessible.”
BEYOND FEAR AND THE UNKNOWN
One of the biggest obstacles women face in exploring aviation, Tricia says, is the fear of the unknown. “When people see the gauges and switches, they assume they could never understand it. I felt the same way. But it’s baby steps. Instructors teach you everything. Before you know it, you’re landing the plane.”
She also emphasizes the safety of flying, especially compared to driving. “Planes are subject to rigorous checks and maintenance. It’s not dangerous—it’s incredibly regulated.”
A PERSONAL TAKEOFF
By the time we landed, I completely understood what she meant. My mind was racing, but in the best way. I wasn’t just impressed—I was inspired. There’s something contagious about Tricia’s energy. It sticks with you, long after the wheels hit the ground.
And I’m not the only one.
“My goal is to show women what’s possible,” she said. “Even if they just fly once and go home saying, ‘Hey, I flew an airplane today,’ that’s something. But if it turns into a career? Even better.”
She still carries a newspaper clipping from the day of her first solo cross-country flight. Her horoscope read:
“There are no limitations except the ones you set for yourself.”
It’s a message she lives by—and now, thanks to her, it’s a message I carry with me too..
Tricia Crinklaw President of Pierce Aircraft Sales
9521 Airport Drive, Visalia, CA 93277 www.pierceaircraftsales.com | tricia@pierceaircraftsales.com
One Farmer's Love For Cherries Grows Deeper Every Year
In California’s Central Valley, cherry season arrives like a burst of sunshine: short, sweet, and full of promise. For Betta Roberts, it’s more than just a busy time of year. It’s a reminder of her roots, her family’s legacy, and the crop that captured her heart from the very beginning.
Words by Lifestyle Staff
Photos by Dakota Jacobi-Stephenson
From Field Days to Full-Time Farming
Betta was just 10 years old when she helped plant her family’s first cherry trees. “It was a super early morning,” she recalls. “We met up with the crew, and I helped as best I could to get the trees into the ground.” That moment marked the start of a lifelong connection to the orchards, especially to cherries. As the trees matured, she began helping during harvest, tracking fruit totals, and spending long days in the field. “When school let out for the summer, I was so excited because that meant cherry season,” she says. “It was without a doubt my favorite season, and still is.”
Her family has farmed in the Central Valley for more than 50 years, growing a wide range of crops including citrus and stone fruit. Cherries were added about a decade ago, and today they grow six varieties across 50 acres: Coral, Brook, Tulare, Arvin Glen, Early Glen, and Jon Red. Betta’s role has evolved steadily over time, learning to operate tractors, move bins, and eventually manage field logistics. What started as stepping in as summer help has grown into full-time involvement and leadership.
When school let out for the summer, it meant one thing: cherry season.
A New Generation at the Helm
In the past few years, Betta has stepped into a more public-facing role on the farm, helping to shape its next chapter. This season marked a new milestone: bringing the family’s cherries directly to consumers through the Exeter Farmers Market and partnering with local restaurants like Monet’s in Exeter. “Our operation evolved the most this past year,” she says. “Taking our fruit straight to consumers was something new for us, and it created a more personal connection with the community.” While most of their harvest is still packed and sold through partners like Warmerdam and Rivermaid Packing, her involvement at the market reflects a modern approach to building relationships and sharing the farm’s story.
Another distinguishing part of the operation is the crew. In addition to farming, the family runs an ag labor company, which means they work with the same harvesting crews year after year. That consistency builds trust, efficiency, and a shared sense of purpose each season. Harvest days begin early. Betta is up by 4:30am and in the field by 5:30am to greet the team, distribute lunch cards, and keep the day on track before the summer heat sets in.
“Our Valley is so perfectly suited to grow all these vital commodities that feed and clothe not only our state, but our world.”
Farming with Heart and Heritage
Betta credits her father with fostering her love of agriculture. She’s proud of the legacy they’ve built and deeply committed to honoring it, learning every step of the way. “He always made sure I was involved in our operation, and as I grew older, he encouraged me to branch out and expand our business for future generations," shares Betta. That encouragement helped shape her forward-thinking vision and keeps her motivated, even through difficult seasons.
She also holds a deep appreciation for the place her family has called home for generations. “Our Valley is so perfectly suited to grow all these vital commodities that feed and clothe not only our state, but our world,” she says. Despite a lighter cherry crop this year, she remains grateful for the hardworking crew, the loyal community, and every sweet, red harvest. The Roberts family’s favorite way to enjoy cherries is still the simplest: straight from the tree, during walks through the orchard that blend reflection, conversation, and a deep connection to the land.
The Farmer’s Daughter Fruit Stand @thefarmersdaughter_fruitstand
Find her at the Exeter Farmer’s Market every Wednesday from 5-8pm
As Betta Roberts looks ahead, she does so with a deep respect for the past and a clear vision for the future: rooted in family, fueled by passion, and inspired by the sweet promise of every new season.
Recipe by Sophia Mauck, Monet’s
Ingredients
For the crust (makes a bottom crust and top for lattice):
2½ cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup cold butter, cubed
Roughly 3/4 cup ice water
Instructions
For the filling:
4½ cups pitted and quartered fresh cherries
2/3 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup cornstarch
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon almond extract
Pinch of salt
1 egg, lightly beaten, for egg wash
1. Make the crust: Combine the flour, sugar, and salt in a medium mixing bowl.
2. Cut in the cold butter with a pastry blender, 2 forks, or your hands until the butter is coated in the flour and forms small pea sized clumps. Slowly incorporate ½ cup of the ice water, adding more as needed, 1 TBSP at a time until the dough just comes together.
3. Form into a ball, cut into 2 equal pieces, and form each piece into a flat disk shape. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and chill for about 2 hours.
4. Make the filling: Combine the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and extracts in a large bowl, mix well making sure to coat the cherries evenly, and refrigerate.
5. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk into a large 12-inch circle to make the bottom crust. Carefully transfer to a 9-inch pie pan and using a slotted spoon, place the cherries into the pan, reserving juices.
6. In a small pan, add reserved juices and reduce over medium heat until thickened, 3-5 minutes, and let cool slightly before pouring back over the cherries.
7. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
8. Roll out the other disk of dough and cut into 12 strips, about 1 inch wide.
9. Create a lattice pattern by laying 6 strips on the pie evenly spaced. Then with the remaining strips, weave them over and under the original strips. To seal the strips, press the edges where the lattice meets the bottom crust, then trim off any excess pie dough. Crimp the edges as desired and then brush the dough lightly with the egg wash.
10. Bake at 400 degrees for 20 minutes, then reduce the heat to 375 degrees and bake another 30-40 minutes. Use a pie crust shield or aluminum foil around the outer edge to avoid overbaking the crust.
11. Let cool completely before slicing and enjoy as is, or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Cover and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Exeter Coffee Co.
123 N E St, Ste 101, Exeter
Mon-Sat 7am-1pm exetercoffeeco.com
A cozy, community-focused café brewing bold, locally roasted coffee with heart. Whether you're grabbing a latte to-go or settling in for a chat, Exeter Coffee Co is your go-to spot for handcrafted drinks, friendly faces, and small-town charm.
exetercoffeeco
Just Dough With It
112 S E St, Exeter
Tue-Fri 11am-7:30pm Sat 10am-3pm justdoughwithitcookies.com
Giant cookies and sweet treats made fresh every day! This woman-owned dessert shop in Downtown Exeter is all about creative flavors and feel-good indulgence — perfect for parties, gifts, or just because.
justdoughwithit_
Sanctuaire Interiors
139 N. E St. Exeter Tues-Fri 9am-4pm Sat 9am-3pm shoppesanctuaire.com
Blending old-world charm with California ease, this full-service design studio and shoppe transforms houses into soulful sanctuaries—offering custom interiors, curated goods, and thoughtful guidance from concept to completion.
shoppesanctuaire
Common Goods+Vintage
158 E. Pine St. Exeter Wed-Fri 11am-5pm | Sat 10am-2pm
A cozy, creative haven blending timeless vintage finds with fresh, contemporary style. Perfect for those seeking one-of-akind pieces that add charm and character to everyday living.
commongoodsvintage
Monet's Wine Bistro
120 S E St, Exeter Tues-Thurs 4:30pm-8pm Fri-Sat 4:30pm-8:30pm monetswinebistro.com
A charming French-inspired bistro offering fine wines, seasonal cuisine, and an intimate ambiance. From leisurely lunches to curated wine dinners, every detail celebrates artistry, hospitality, and the joy of gathering.
monetswinebistro
The Exeter Cheese Shop
109 N E St. Exeter, CA Tues-Sat 10am-6pm exetercheese.com
Serving artisan cheeses, charcuterie, and specialty goods in a warm, welcoming space. Explore bold flavors, local pairings, and old-world craftsmanship—thoughtfully curated for everyday enjoyment or your next celebration.
exetercheeseco
Photographer
Videographer
Tucked along Exeter’s historic E Street, a new shop is bringing bold flavor and big heart to this small town. Exeter Cheese Co., now open at 132 North E Street, is more than a place to buy cheese—it’s a passion project brought to life by Chris O’Connor and Sophia Mauck, a duo driven by craftsmanship, community, and curiosity.
Chris, a dairy science graduate, developed a deep appreciation for the cheesemaking process early in his career. “Each breed contributes a unique profile of milk components,” he explains. “The transition from milk to cheese is both exciting and unique—something I’m deeply passionate about.”
Sophia, a culinary school graduate, grew up surrounded by good food and creativity. “Both my parents are wonderful cooks and really fostered my interest from a young age,” she says. “I have lots of memories of playing ‘cooking competition shows’ with my siblings.” Her love for cheese deepened during a culinary school semester focused on cheesemaking— an experience that would come full circle years later.
Words by Lifestyle Staff
Photos by Dakota Jacobi-Stephenson
Drawn in by small-town charm, Chris and Sophia knew Exeter was the right place to bring their dream to life. “The first time I came to Exeter, I knew it was a special hidden gem,” Chris says. “When the opportunity came to take on a downtown building and remodel it, we knew we had to go for it.”
Inside the beautifully restored space, guests will find a curated selection of hard-aged and semi-firm cheeses from West Coast creameries, alongside standout international favorites. First-time visitors are encouraged to try the Essex Comté—“a French cheese with aromas of hazelnut, fried onions, and spring berries.”
You’ll also find fresh paninis, charcuterie offerings, and shelves lined with local products like honey, flavored nuts, and wine. “When people walk into Exeter Cheese Co., we want them to feel welcomed and excited to explore our cheese and pairing options,” says Sophia.
Future plans include wine club nights featuring local vineyards and curated pairings, as well as a line of house-branded cheeses and in-house baked goods.
Though renovating the historic space brought its share of surprises, Chris says it’s been worth every challenge. “Seeing the cheese shop come together with the wine room, commercial kitchen, and retail space was rewarding after all the months of hard work.”
Whether you’re a devoted cheese lover or just browsing for something new, Exeter Cheese Co. is a must-visit. Warm, welcoming, and proudly local—it’s a place to gather, explore, and taste something truly special.
Exeter Cheese Co. | 132 N E Street, Exeter
Tues-Sat 10am-6pm exetercheese.com
Follow: @exetercheeseco
Krebsbach Law, APC
Will and Trust Lawyer in Visalia and California Statewide
ESTATE PLANNING
We are honored to continue to support our clients with tailored Will and Trust packages to assist with wealth preservation, asset protection, and life transitions.
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Let the Wild In
A Tribute to the Beauty of Kings Canyon
Words by Lifestyle Staff
Photos by JJ Fry
There’s nothing quite like summer in the Sierra Nevada—bright days, cool water, and fresh mountain air that seems to breathe new life into everyone. It’s a season made for adventure, big and small. Whether you’re skipping rocks, splashing in a stream, or standing in awe beneath towering cliffs, the outdoors has a way of bringing families together.
It doesn’t take much to make a memory out here. Just a little time, a pair of good shoes, and the willingness to follow the sound of rushing water or the curve of a canyon trail. One moment, you’re walking along a shady path. And the next, you're watching a waterfall tumble over ancient rocks while the kids laugh in the mist.
Kings River near Muir Rock
Kings Canyon from HWY 180
Boyden Cavern
Grizzly Falls
These simple moments stick with us. They’re made of sunshine, laughter, and discovery. There’s wonder to be found in every corner: behind a bend in the river, inside a hidden cavern, or balanced atop a favorite rock. Let this be the summer your family gets a little dirty, a little tired, and a whole lot closer.
Step outside and see where the day takes you. The mountains are calling, and they’ve got plenty of room for the whole crew.
Instagram: @jjfryfry
Move with intention this summer at a local pilates or yoga studio
111 S. Court St. Ste. 208, Visalia Mon-Sat 5:30am-7:30pm 559-904-3912 flowstudiospilates.com
Flow Studios is a boutique Pilates studio blending tradition with fresh, focused flow. We couple an intimate approach and solid technical foundation for those seeking to personalize their wellness journey and deepen their practice. Specializing in equipment-based Pilates, we offer private, semiprivate, and group classes for all levels, including Prenatal/Postnatal. Over 12 years strong. @flowstudios
120 N M St, Tulare
Classes Mon-Thu 5:30pm, 7pm Sat 8am, 9:30am sunflowerstudiotulare.com
@sunflowerstudio.tulare
A boutique yoga, barre, and wellness studio in the heart of Tulare. Sunflower Studio offers a variety of classes—including Flow Yoga, Restorative Yoga, Barre, and Sculpt Yoga—to support your journey toward strength, balance, and mindfulness. All levels welcome. New clients can enjoy two classes for the price of one.
Merging the incredible benefits of the Pilates method with the health benefits of strength training, our goal is to focus on biomechanics through proper form and movements while challenging our minds and bodies to develop functional strength. Burn offers group classes and private sessions designed to help you move better, feel stronger, and thrive.
100 W 7th, Hanford
216 W Main St, Visalia Mon-Fri 6am-7pm brnpilates.com
@brnpilates
525 East Acequia Ave, Visalia 559.366.2916 thespacevisalia.com
@thespacevisalia
The Space Yoga Studio offers 30 weekly classes including Hot Yoga, Pilates, Barre, HIIT, Aerial, and Yoga Teacher Training. Together we co-create an inclusive space, on and off the mat.
Words by Lifestyle Staff
Make your summer unforgettable with a refined collection of local favorites—from artisanal goods to market finds and the neighborhood spots you won’t want to miss.
You blink, and suddenly—it’s summer.You’ve RSVP’d to one too many pool parties, your skin’s still catching up from winter, and your grocery list is full of TikTok recipes you never quite got to. But this summer, let’s do it differently. Let’s romanticize the little things: the taste of a fresh, juicy peach at the farmers market, a chilled glass of local wine on the porch, the thrill of finding a candle that actually smells like summer.
This is your guide to slowing down, shopping with intention, and curating a season that feels easy, vibrant, and rooted in the things that matter. Because the best products? They don’t come from two-day shipping—they come from down the street.
Tip: Ask the vendor what’s best that day. You’ll leave with a better haul and probably a great recipe too.
Visalia Farmers Market
2231 W. Main Street, Visalia Saturdays 8:00am-11:30am
Kaweah Health
Farmers Market
Corner of Akers & Tulare, Visalia Wednesdays from May to August, 8:00am-11:30am
• Downtown Visalia Certified Farmers Market Church Street, Downtown Visalia Thursdays at 5:30pm
• Exeter Farmers Market
Pine Street, Downtown Exeter Fridays, spring through fall, 4:00pm-7:00pm
Component Coffee Lab
513 E Center Ave, Visalia 1106 Leland Ave, Tulare
A modern café offering small-batch roasted coffee and seasonal drinks. They serve a full breakfast menu and in-house pastries made in house.
The Well Coffee Bar
126 S N St, Tulare
A cozy café nestled in an alleyway, known for its inviting atmosphere and variety of coffee and tea beverages.
Rosa Brothers Milk Company
2400 S K St, Tulare
A family-owned dairy farm and creamery offering a range of dairy products, including milk, flavored milk, coffee creamer, and ice cream.
Tip: Keep a cooler in your trunk— you’ll always be ready for any event or spontaneous stop, stocked with a cold, refreshing drink or snack.
Salty Walrus Brewing Co.
2415 E Valley Oaks Dr, Visalia
An up-and-coming brewery in the Central Valley, offering a variety of craft beers inspired by local agriculture and surf culture.
1852 Brew Co.
707 W Murray Ave, Visalia
A brewery known for its Mexican lager and other craft beers, providing a space for the communityto gather and enjoy locally brewed beverages.
Wine Buff
114 S Locust St, Visalia
A tasting room pouring a curated selection of fine wines and artisanal charcuterie boards in a relaxed atmosphere.
• Baron's Table Wine Bar & Venue
140 S K St, Tulare
Located on the second floor of a historic downtown building, this elegant wine bar offers premium wines by the glass and a curated bottle selection.
Tap Yard
151 S K St, Tulare
A family-friendly taproom in downtown Tulare, serving a variety of local craft beers in a welcoming environment.
Pacific Treasures
114 E Main St, Visalia
Unique gifts, handcrafted jewelry, home décor, and artisan products.
Maven Skin & Beauty
118 N. Willis St, Visalia
Personalized facials, waxing, skincare, eyebrow design, and makeup. mavenskinandbeauty.com
Volition Hair Co.
117 E. Pine St, Exeter
Modern salon offering hair coloring, extensions, and bridal styling.
The Mercantile 1513 Draper St, Kingsburg
A family-run boutique offering home décor, apparel, and gifts. themercantilekingsburg.com
• Sola Salons
3501 S Mooney Blvd, Visalia
Independent beauty professionals providing tanning, hair, skincare, and more. solasalonstudios.com
• Exeter Mural Gallery & Gift Shop
204 E. Pine St, Exeter
Showcases murals by local artists and handcrafted gifts.
• Arts Visalia Visual Art Center
214 E. Oak Ave, Visalia
Community arts center with exhibits, classes, and artisan gift shop. artsvisalia.org
There’s something magical about ballpark snacks. They’re a taste of summer, tradition, and team spirit. While stadium menus now include everything from sushi rolls to gourmet burgers, some classic treats still define the game-day experience. We’re shining a spotlight on four timeless favorites: Cracker Jacks, hot dogs, peanuts in the shell, and sunflower seeds. Each one has a story as rich as its flavor.
Words by Lifestyle Staff
1
Peanuts in the Shell
Peanuts bring both flavor and fun to the stands. Cracking shells as game tension builds and tossing them aside to keep your eye on the ball has been a game-day habit for more than a century. George Washington Carver helped popularize peanut farming in the early 20th century, making this salty snack even more widely available.
3 Cracker Jacks
First introduced at the 1893 World’s Fair, Cracker Jacks became a baseball favorite after the 1907 song “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” mentioned them by name. The caramel-coated popcorn and peanut combo is famous for the little prize inside. Early toys were tin trinkets and stickers. Today’s versions might be digital, but the nostalgia is still there.
2 Sunflower Seeds
Players love them, and fans do too. Sunflower seeds are crunchy, cheap, salty, and perfect for nervous energy during extra innings. Spitting shells might not fly in the stands like it does in the dugout, but it’s a baseball tradition through and through.
4
Hot Dogs
Hot dogs have been a staple at baseball games since the early 1900s. German immigrants brought sausages to America, and vendors quickly realized they were perfect for hungry fans. They're quick to eat, easy to hold, and endlessly customizable with toppings from ketchup and mustard to regional styles like chili or pickles.
America's favorite pastime wouldn't be the same without these classic snacks. After all, they've been enjoyed almost as long as the game's been played. Batter up and dig in!
• Lifet
v i s a l i a c h a m b e r . o r g / l e a d e r s h i p R E G I S T R A T I O N N O
The Magic of a Rawhide Night
Summer Nights at Valley Strong Ballpark
Words by Lifestyle Staff
Photos from Visalia Rawhide
Nothingsays summer better than a night spent in the baseball stands. As the sun fades behind the Sierra Nevada foothills and the scent of popcorn and hot dogs drifts through the warm air, Valley Strong Ballpark begins to glow. The energy builds with every crack of the bat, every cheer from the stands, and every moment shared between friends, families, and lifelong fans of the Visalia Rawhide.
A Legacy That Spans Generations
Baseball has been a part of Visalia’s fabric since 1946, when the team then known as the Visalia Cubs, played their first season. Over the decades, the team changed names and affiliations, becoming the Rawhide in 2009 and is currently an affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks. But through every evolution, one thing has stayed the same: the ballpark is a beloved gathering place, woven into the heart of the community.
Valley Strong Ballpark is one of the oldest stadiums in Minor League Baseball, and you can feel the history in the grandstands. This is the field where legends began—Hall of Famer Kirby Puckett played here, along with stars like Max Scherzer, Paul Goldschmidt, and Barry Zito. But for most of us, the real legends are the family and friends sitting next to us: grandparents who remember the bleachers before they had backrests, kids catching their first foul ball, and young players dreaming of wearing the Rawhide jersey themselves–hometown heroes in the making.
More Than Just a Ballgame
Today, the park blends that storied past with modern charm. Whether you're sitting behind home plate or meeting Tipper T. Bull for the first time, every game feels like a small-town summer memory in the making. Fireworks nights, theme games, and Friday cheers make it an unforgettable experience.
In a world that's always racing ahead, a night at Valley Strong slows things down. It's a place to be present—to clap along with the crowd, sip something cold, and stay just a little longer under the lights. You don’t have to be a die-hard baseball fan to fall in love with the experience. You just have to show up.
In Visalia, a night at the ballpark isn’t just a tradition. It’s a reminder of what makes this place truly feel like home.
Words by Lifestyle Staff
Illustrations by Saegan Moran
SWEET STOPS
Central Valley of the
Scoop, swirl, repeat! We’re rounding up iconic ice cream spots across the Valley. Whether you’re team cone or cup, there’s a flavor (or three) with your name on it!
Celebrate National Ice Cream Day (July 20) across the Valley!
Scoops On Main
215 W Main St Unit 102, Visalia Sun-Wed 12-9pm, Thu-Sat 12-10pm (559) 736-4211 scoopssince2018.com @scoopssince2018
How We Roll
104 S Church St, Visalia Mon-Thu 12-9pm, Fri 12-10pm, Sat-Sun 11am-10pm (559) 802-3277 @howwerollicecream
The Orange Works
209 W Main St Ste C, Visalia 22314 Ave 196, Strathmore Mon-Sat 11am-4pm (559) 624-1233 (559) 568-2658 theorangeworks.com @theorangeworks
Rosa Brothers
2400 S K St, Tulare Mon-Fri 9am-6pm, Sat 9am-3pm (559) 685-2500 rosabrothers.com @rosabrothers
500 W Main St, Visalia 1691 Retherford St, Tulare Mon-Sat 10am-9pm, Sun 10am-7pm (559) 372-8922 (559) 684-1600 bravofarms.com @bravo.visalia @bravofarms.tulare
Reimers Candies & Gifts
42375 Sierra Dr, Three Rivers Daily 10am-6pm (559) 561-4576 reimerscandies.com @reimerscandies
Cubs Baseball: Visalia’s Boys of Summer
Words by Terry Ommen
Exactlywhen the game of baseball began in the United States is open to debate, although most historians put its start sometime during the first half of the 1800s. It began as a crude game with loose rules, played with handmade gear. But as the years went by, the sport matured, formalized rules were created, and equipment improved. It became very popular and earned the title of “national pastime.”
When baseball came to Visalia is also a mystery, but clearly the game was being played in town as early as 1866 when the Visalia Weekly Delta on Saturday, November 24, 1866 invited “all lovers of base ball” to come and play at the west end of Main Street.
The first organized Visalia team was formed by Visalia businessman Thomas Fowler in 1879. He owned the Empire Store on Main Street and sponsored his Empire Club team. During the next decades, the game grew in popularity with schools, fraternal groups, and neighboring towns organizing teams. The earliest years of Visalia baseball recorded many teams with names like Nighthawks, Pirates, Colored Giants, Tigers, Mexican Athletic Club, Mexican Baseball Club and the Colts.
In the late 1800s, several half-hearted attempts were made to create a minor league professional baseball league in California. In 1941, the California Baseball League got its serious footing and began with eight teams—Anaheim, Bakersfield, Fresno, Riverside,
San Bernardino, Santa Barbara, Merced, and Stockton. However, as World War II escalated, many young men were drafted or enlisted into military service, which reduced the number of available players. As a result, the league shrank to four teams before ultimately suspending play altogether.
In 1945, the league was back, returning this time with additional teams, including one in Visalia. On October 30, 1945, the Visalia Times-Delta newspaper announced the good news with the incorporation of the Visalia Cubs, Inc. as the Chicago Cubs’ farm team entry in the state league.
With Visalia entering the California League, the town’s Recreation Park baseball field would need to be improved. The city council
Visalia’s first organized baseball team, the Empire Club, was created by Visalia businessman Thomas Fowler in 1879.
Shown here is a baseball camp for youngsters held at Recreation Park during the summer of 1950 or 1951 with Visalia Cubs pitcher Dom Contreras as instructor. Visalian Art Browning is the youngster on the far left.
agreed to go financially “part way” for the upgrade. They were willing to allot $2,000 for grandstand repairs, moving the fence, installing additional lights, and planting grass. J.I. “Pete” Shepherd, a Visalia baseball promoter and early spokesman for the Chamber of Commerce baseball committee, estimated an additional $5,000 would be needed for field repairs. He was confident the money could be raised by his committee because, according to Shepherd, the arrival of the Chicago Cubs farm team to town was “locally popular.”
As the season opener approached, the team and field were almost ready, but at least one problem needed to be addressed. With the end of World War II, soldiers were returning home, and Visalia was experiencing a serious housing shortage. So the newly arriving 19 Cub players were without a place to live. Housing had to be found, so Cubs’ management and city officials turned the ballpark clubhouse into player dormitories complete with city-owned beds. As a result, visiting ballplayers went without locker rooms, and used their hotel to get ready for the games. Despite this less than desirable arrangement, the 1946 season began.
On the evening of May 7, 1946, the Visalia High School band played as 2,000 fans filed into Recreation Park to watch Visalia’s first professional baseball home game. Mayor William R. Beckwith ceremoniously accepted the new $30,000 light system on behalf of the citizens. He then threw out the first pitch to open the first game of a 3-game series with the Bakersfield Indians, the Cleveland farm team.
Cubs player/manager Bobby Schang picked Ed Lotti to pitch the opening game, and he “gave a superior show” with perfect control. The Cubs won the nine-inning game 8-6.
The following night, the Bakersfield squad got revenge, beating the Cubs 15-6, thanks to the big bat of Edward “Mike” Garcia. Ironically, the former Visalia High School star had returned to his hometown, to play as a member of the opposing Bakersfield team.
The Visalia Cubs’ first year in the California League was far from spectacular. They finished in last place. But the following season, the hometown squad roared back and finished 2nd in the league. The fans responded to the good year, and broke an attendance record with over 104,000 for the season. But for the remainder of the 1940s, the Visalia team played mediocre to poor baseball.
The seasons in the early 1950s weren’t much better. In 1953, the local fans were surprised. The Chicago farm team left town, replaced by the Hollywood Stars of the Pacific Coast League. That one-year affiliation ended with the Visalia Stars finishing mid-way in the league. By 1954, the Cubs were back. For the next three seasons—1954, 1955, and 1956—the struggling team finished near or at the bottom of the league. The 1956 season was the last one as the Visalia Cubs.
From 1957 on, the Visalia farm club had an affiliation with many major league teams. The local squad took on names that included the Redlegs, Athletics, Mets, White Sox, Oaks, and Rawhide. Today, the Visalia Rawhide is affiliated with the Arizona Diamondbacks.
The local farm team wasn’t always in struggle mode. In 1971, the Visalia Mets won the town’s first California League championship. For almost 80 years, Visalia has had a farm team in the California Baseball League. Recreation Park has hosted some amazing players who went on to greatness in the major leagues, and has provided talented hometown athletics a chance to shine in front of the adoring eyes of proud family members and fans.
I owe a special thanks to Donny Baarns, the former radio voice of the Visalia Rawhide, who in 2011 wrote an excellent book called “Goshen & Giddings—65 Years of Visalia Professional Baseball”. His research was helpful to me and has contributed much to our understanding of Visalia’s rich baseball history.
Toad the Wet Sprocket with Sixpence None the Richer
When: 7pm
Where: Adventist Health Amphitheater, Tulare
Hosted by: Spade Entertainment spadeentertainment.com | @spadeconcerts
JULY
11
The Summer Night Lights
When: 7:30pm
Where: Zalud Park
Hosted by: Tulare County Board of Supervisors ci.porterville.ca.us | @cityofporterville_ca
JULY 12
Saturday
James (Sinatra) Hitchcock & The Joe Lenigan Big Band
When: Doors: 6pm | Show: 7pm
Where: The Visalia Fox Theatre
Hosted by: The Visalia Fox Theatre visaliafox.org | @visaliafox
JULY
Wild West Dinner & Show
When: 6:45pm
Where: Riata Ranch International, Inc.
Hosted by: Riata Ranch International, Inc. riataranchinternational.org | @riataranchcowboygirls
JULY
26
Saturday
Visalia Summer Festival
When: 10:30am-5pm
Where: Visalia Convention Center
Hosted by: INT EVENTS @itsaneighborhoodthing
Looking Forward
Next month, we’re opening the door to inspiration with stories that celebrate home in all its forms. From outdoor spaces brought to life by local real estate pros to lush landscaping ideas that turn any yard into a personal oasis, this issue is all about creativity, comfort, and the magic of making a place your own. This edition is a heartfelt invitation to explore what it means to truly belong. We can’t wait to welcome you in.
Home Issue
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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.
SJVC AND CARRINGTON COLLEGE. TWO NAMES, ONE POWERFUL NETWORK. DELIVERING A GREAT EDUCATION, NO MATTER WHAT PATH YOU’RE ON.
For your career. And your community.
Now, we’re aligning our programs to better serve your needs. With all trades and business courses being taught by SJVC while Carrington College focuses on allied healthcare programming. We’ve been helping students train for careers that make a difference in their communities for nearly half a century. And we’re looking forward to helping you, too.
