Curated Interiors,Timeless Design
SPECIALIZING IN LUXURY INTERIORS, LARGE-SCALE REMODELS, AND CUSTOM HOMES
A Word From
The Editor
Travel has always been a part of my soul. Growing up, my family had the opportunity to travel to a lot of different places, and that sense of adventure stuck with me. As I neared the end of high school, I knew there was one trip I needed to make—my graduation trip.
The plan was simple: a high school graduation trip to Europe with my best friends. I took the reins on planning—flights, hostels, train schedules, museums to visit—it was all mapped out, and I held a meeting with my friends and their parents, pitching this trip as the ultimate graduation celebration. Of course, we had to ask our parents because some of us weren’t even 18 yet—it just felt natural to ask for permission when we were still in the “teenager phase” of life. I even had this fancy binder full of everything they’d need to know, with color-coded tabs for their convenience (not joking). I remember our faces when they said yes. Looking back, I’m still amazed at how trusting our parents were. I suppose, at that point, they realized that pretty soon, we'd all be heading off to college, and as a parent, you have to let your kids go and trust they’ll be okay. But I still very much felt like a kid—not an adult. Yes, let’s add “relying on your barely-formed decision-making skills” to the list of essential life experiences.
The moment we landed in Switzerland, it was game on. We rented a car, hit the road, and suddenly I was overwhelmed with the thought—how in the world are we going to get anywhere? We were mostly relying on paper maps, hoping to make sense of our surroundings. But we had no fear. We were young, full of life, and ready for whatever came our way.
Over the course of four weeks, we visited 8 countries—filling our trip with the beauty and chaos of Europe. We saw The Mona Lisa (much smaller than I imagined), rode on the back of vespas through the streets of Rome, ran with the bulls in Pamplona, and experienced Amsterdam in all its glory. We had a few questionable moments along the way, some wild decisions, but that’s what made it so unforgettable. We were fearless.
If you’re reading this, and you’re far removed from those carefree high school days, I hope you can look back at your own journeys and remember what it felt like to step into the world with nothing but excitement and curiosity. Whether you’re reminiscing about your first big adventure or dreaming of your next one, remember that the kind of freedom we once felt is always within reach.
STEPHANIE STEELMAN Co-founder | Root Creative Marketing Executive Editor | Lifestyle Magazine
Contributors
April 2025 June 2025
Sam Justice CREATIVE EDITOR
Daniel Borgatto GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Marissa Carpenter CONTENT EDITOR
Lauren Walters MANAGING EDITOR
Josh Aleman GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Natalie Caudle CONTRIBUTOR
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Dakota Jacobi-Stephenson PHOTOGRAPHER / SALES
Ricky Dorame PHOTOGRAPHER
Terry Ommen HISTORIAN
A FAMILY LEGACY, A Future of Opportunity
THE PERRY FAMILY LEGACY
A Commitment to Education
In 1977, Robert and Shirley Perry founded San Joaquin Valley College (SJVC) with a clear vision: to provide career-focused education that empowers students and strengthens communities. What started as a small, family-run institution with Central Valley roots has grown into a community resource and network of campuses across California and beyond, helping thousands of students gain workforce-ready skills. Despite its expansion, SJVC has remained true to its core values of integrity, excellence, and student success, all while keeping deep ties to the Central Valley.
Expanding the Mission
As SJVC looked to broaden its impact, Carrington College stood out as a natural fit. In 2018, the Perrys and San Joaquin Valley College, Inc. (SJVCi) acquired Carrington College, expanding their family-run educational enterprise across multiple states and more than doubling the number of students pursuing careers in nursing and allied health. The partnership was a natural fit—both colleges shared a deep commitment to student success, handson training, and career-oriented education. The acquisition wasn’t about changing direction—it was about widening the road, ensuring more students could access high-quality training in the fields that need them most.
GROWTH IN SERVICE
Strength in Alignment
Today, SJVC and Carrington College operate with one shared mission: to prepare students for meaningful, in-demand careers while strengthening the communities they serve. Starting in spring 2025, each college will specialize in its area of expertise— Carrington will focus on nursing and allied health programs, while SJVC will dedicate itself to trades, technical, and business education. This alignment allows each institution to do what it does best, improving outcomes for students and responding more precisely to workforce needs. Together, they’re helping more than 12,300 students—many of them first-generation— pursue brighter futures. In 2024 alone, they awarded more than $4.7 million in financial assistance including scholarships and private funding, and participated in over 160 community events across the western U.S.
LOOKING AHEAD
The Future of SJVC and Carrington College
The journey doesn’t stop here. With hundreds of thousands of graduates and a broad workforce presence across multiple states, the impact of SJVC and Carrington College is both wide and deeply personal. As both SJVC and Carrington College prepare to celebrate milestone anniversaries in 2027—50 years for SJVC and 60 years for Carrington—both institutions continue to champion accessible, high-quality education grounded in their shared commitment to community and career readiness. Their legacy is built on opportunity—and the next chapter is only just beginning.
Words by Lifestyle Staff | Photos provided by SJVC & Carrington College
CARRINGTON COLLEGE
The Evolution of a Legacy
1977
1987 1994 2004 2018 2027
Robert and Shirley Perry establish SJVC in Visalia with a vision for career-focused education.
SJVC expands beyond Visalia, opening its first branch campus in Bakersfield. Carrington College expands its healthcare programs.
SJVC reaches a milestone with 10 campuses across California.
SJVC’s parent company acquires Carrington College, expanding its healthcare training across 7 Western U.S. states.
SJVC will celebrate 50 years; Carrington will celebrate 60— together continuing a legacy of education and community impact.
Olivaia’s
RooteD in history
Words and photos by Lifestyle staff
Century-Old Trees Redefine
Olive Oil
J
ust outside Lindsay, California, rows of gnarled olive trees stretch across a quiet grove, their roots digging deep into the soil of the San Joaquin Valley. These trees, many planted over a century ago, are at the heart of Olivaia’s OLA, a boutique olive oil company run by husband-and-wife team Giulio Zavolta and Dr. Rachelle Bross. But this is about far more than olive oil. It’s a story of history, resilience, and a deep commitment to preserving the land’s agricultural legacy.
California History, Growing Strong
When Giulio and Rachelle first took over the abandoned orchard, they didn’t realize the treasure they had found. “When we came here, we didn't realize the age of the trees—we believe a majority of them are between 100-125 years old... For us this is California history.” Giulio explained. “And in a part of the world where our history is rather short, we should not be pulling this out of the ground.”
Instead of clearing the land or planting something new, they made a bold choice: to restore, reimagine, and protect what was already there.
an orchard of hidden surprises
As they began nurturing the grove, the couple noticed something unusual. Some trees bore multiple types of olives, a result of rootstock shoots that had been left to grow after years of neglect. Because the ranch had been abandoned for so long, some of those rootstock suckers
“We became very committed to repurposing the trees. There’s not only value in them because of their history, but they can do something special for us.”
- Giulio
had matured into full trunks and started producing olives distinct from the original grafted trees.
This discovery led them to UC Davis, where scientists confirmed what Giulio and Rachelle suspected: the grove contained eight unique olive cultivars, entirely undocumented in existing databases. These heirloom olives are now the foundation of Olivaia’s small-batch, award-winning oils.
Unlike most growers who cut back these shoots, Giulio and Rachelle inspect each one to determine its potential. If it appears to be growing from the rootstock, they may allow it to develop, knowing it could be another one of their rare, unidentified cultivars. This hands-on, tree-by-tree approach has opened the door to preserving and propagating genetic varieties that might otherwise disappear.
From Field to Flavor
Producing oil at this quality level is a labor of love and precision. Olives are hand-picked early each day, stored in refrigerated containers, and often trucked the same day to a mill in Paso Robles. The milling process is just as critical as the harvest, as even high-quality olives can lose their potential if not handled properly.
That care has paid off. Olivaia’s oils have earned top honors at prestigious competitions, including multiple Best of Show awards. Their signature “Super Blend,” crafted from three oils in
carefully calibrated ratios, is a standout. Yet beyond the accolades and awards, Giulio and Rachelle remain focused on honoring the orchard’s legacy, believing these historic trees still hold value for what they continue to offer today.
A New Chapter for California Olives
At a time when olive acreage in California is shrinking, dropping from 45,000 acres to just 12,000, Olivaia’s OLA stands as a hopeful exception. The couple is proving that with care, creativity, and commitment, even an abandoned orchard can thrive again.
They also hope to educate others on the true value of olive oil—more than flavor, it’s a meaningful part of a healthy lifestyle. “Olive oil is one of those things where it's a complete win-win,” said Rachelle. “It tastes great, and it’s really healthy! You can put it on just about anything, and you’re adding real nutritional value.”
Every bottle of Olivaia olive oil is a love letter to California’s past and a bold vision for what sustainable, nutritious farming can look like in the future.
Olivaia's OLA Olivaia Olives www.olivaiaolive.com @olivaiaola | @olivaiaolive
Whipped Ricotta with Olive Oil
Recipe Provided by Recipe by Olivaia’s OLA
Bright, creamy, and effortlessly elegant—this whipped ricotta dish is the perfect appetizer.
Finish with a splash of high-quality olive oil for a velvety finish and serve with grilled bread.
INGREDIENTS
1 container (12 oz) whole milk ricotta, drained
1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
1 tsp lemon zest
3–4 Tbsp OLA Estate Sevillano or OLA Super Blend extra virgin olive oil
Optional Toppings:
Chopped pistachios
Honey
Fresh herbs
Sea salt
DIRECTIONS
1. Whip the ricotta. In a mixing bowl, use a hand or stand mixer with a whisk attachment to whip ricotta for 2 minutes until smooth and fluffy.
2. Add mascarpone and lemon zest. Whip for another minute until fully combined.
3. Spoon whipped ricotta into a shallow bowl or plate and drizzle generously with extra virgin olive oil.
4. Top with pistachios, a drizzle of honey, fresh herbs, or a pinch of sea salt.
5. Serve with grilled baguette slices or fresh bread.
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Cocktail Lounge
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Bread Savage
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Tacos San Marcos
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Sweet Memories Flowers
109 S Church St, Visalia @sweetmemoriesflowers sweetmemoriesfloral.com
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Advanced Body & Laser Center
115 N Akers St, Visalia (559) 636-0808
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Videographer Photographer
Beth Visuals
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307 E Main St, Visalia (559) 619-6486
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Services
House of Paws
435 N Burke St, Visalia (559) 608-1584 @houseofpawsvet | houseofpawsvet.com
California Thrift
1104 N Ben Maddox Way, Visalia (559) 368-8304 @californiathriftshop
Once again, Lifestyle Readers showed strong support for small businesses with over 10,000 votes cast. Congratulations to all of the finalists who made it hard for voters to choose! Together, we are celebrating all that is great in the South Valley.
Scan to see the finalists and to learn more about the winners
LIFE WELL PLANNED.
WINNING.
Women Wealth Advisors Best-In-State 2024, developed by Shook Research, is based on the period from 9/30/22 to 9/30/23 and was released on 02/08/2024. 44,028 nominations were received and approximately 1991 women won.
nor any of its advisors pay a fee in exchange for this award. More: (Insert RJ Link) Forbes Link: https://www.forbes.com/lists/best-in-state-women-advisors/. The Forbes America's Top Women Wealth Advisors Best-In-State 2023,
Penney Sick of Raymond James Financial Services
“Everything I asked to have done was thoroughly explained to me. My documents were completed in a timely manner. Nickie is friendly and caring. She provided everything I needed.”
- W. W.
“Nickie is very knowledgeable and goes into detail. I rarely had any questions because she was so thorough. She was also caring and understanding of our di cult family dynamics.”
- S. A.
AT HOME WITH THE
Bawks Family
Words by Natalie Caudle
Photos by Dakota Jacobi-Stephenson
A Spanish-Inspired Dream Home
Katelyn and Matt Bawks traveled the world for years, dreaming of their someday home. Inspired by Spanish architecture, a form that reflects her heart and childhood, Katelyn pulled from a decade's worth of notes to incorporate the signature style of Central American design into their forever home.
Influenced by the warm, inviting homes of Costa Rica and Guatemala, Katelyn reminisced about her childhood summers in the mission field, envisioning a home that captured the magic of those memories.: “I wanted a house that echoed those feelings. I had visions of eating tamales with host families in Costa Rica, listening to a guitar playing, and the sounds of little kids’ laughter echoing through the hallways.” The home’s overall design is rooted in natural light and openness, with indoor-outdoor living a key priority.
Designed with Intention
Every inch of the house was purposefully designed. The U-shaped layout, full-length back patio, and split floor plan maximize flow and functionality. “So many homes have wasted space that can't be used on a daily basis,” Katelyn explains. “If there was a small alcove or corner, I gave it a lot of thought, and it has a purpose.”
The must-haves were clear: white stucco walls, a tiled roof, wooden beams, and clay-colored porcelain floors—a durable dupe for traditional Saltillo tile. Not only did Katelyn bring a keen design eye to the process, but a necessary practicality for their family home. The bedrooms, mudroom, and easy-garage-access pantry were all designed to meet her family's current and future needs.
Katelyn describes the design process as an adventure, having traveled all over California and once to Mexico to find the perfect pieces that would complete her dream home and match its style. “I spent countless hours online and reading magazines," says Katelyn. "I would find myself in a market in Mexico, with a basket or rug in my hand, and I could picture exactly where it would fit in the house.” In the past, Katelyn had decorated on a small scale, but hadn't yet undertaken something this grand.
Knowing that custom-built projects can easily exceed initial budgets, Katelyn was diligent in the details. She took the total dollar allowance and square foot price, and personally went to the vendors her builder recommended. “This method helped streamline the process,” she shares. “The best part was that I found it is possible to do without sacrificing quality and the look you want.”
Katelyn's favorite room? The surprisingly modest main bedroom. Rather than overbuild, she opted for cozy simplicity: a fireplace, an en suite with a sauna, and just enough space to truly relax.
“I wanted a house that echoed those feelings. I had visions of eating tamales with host families in Costa Rica, listening to a guitar playing, and the sounds of little kids’ laughter echoing through the hallways.”
A Legacy of Love and Light
Other thoughtful touches within the home include zoned HVAC to reduce energy use when the nest eventually empties, and a fully wheelchair-accessible, stair-free layout. The back patio cleverly features retractable screens to expand entertaining space.
Designing and building weren't without their challenges. With so many decisions made months before construction, flexibility was imperative. Katelyn advises anyone building a home to live by a simple rule: “Pivot. Give yourself grace, or you'll go crazy.” Katelyn's aunt, a seasoned interior designer, Katie Mansfield, provided guidance when things got tough.
Working alongside talented local professionals helped bring the vision to life: from custom furniture by David Trobough to elk antlers mounted by taxidermist John Cotta. Builder Tristen Kreider of Sierra View Construction and architect Aaron Zerlang turned Katelyn's vision into open-concept dreams.
Looking back, Katelyn wouldn't change a thing. “It was the most enjoyable, exciting process. I have no regrets. That feels impossible, but it's true.”
Now, Katelyn is passing her passion on to others, working as a design consultant with Sierra View Construction. “My husband reminds me this doesn't come easily to everyone. I really enjoy it—and as long as it works with my family, I hope to keep doing it.”
Far more than a house, this project is a story, a reflection of travels, traditions, and the faithfulness of God—it's the Bawks' forever home.
Sponsored Content
A Spotlight on Local Performing Arts
Local Stages Taking You on a Journey You Won’t Forget
410 E Race Ave, Visalia Box Office opens 1 hour before showtime visaliaicehouse.com
@visaliaicehouse
A community driven theater bringing unforgettable stories to life. Audition or come to a show! The Producers closing June 15; Misfit: A Broadway Cabaret July 18-20.
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Come learn and grow in a studio that promotes positivity and teamwork in a non competitive space. Learn technique in ballet, tap, jazz, and hip hop. Summer session June 23-27, fall classes begin August 18. Whether you’re trying dance for the first time or leveling up for the stage, there’s room for you on our dance floor!
Kids Edition provides a supportive, welcoming environment where dancers build confidence, skills, and friendships. Our performance teams are open to all levels. Summer camps are June 16-20 and June 23-27. Fall classes begin August 11.
Come join us!
242 E. Oak Ave. (559) 733-9414 dancearts@att.net | danceartsvisalia.com
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REOPENS
A HIDDEN WORLD BENEATH THE SEQUOIAS
Most who wander through Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks spend their time looking up at the towering trees. But now, visitors have the chance to see what's down below. After a four-year closure due to wildfires and storm damage, Crystal Cave is reopening to the public—and it's just as magical as you remember.
Words by Lifestyle Staff | Photos by Sequoia Parks Conservancy
This subterranean gem is key to the Sequoia Parks Conservancy, whose mission is to connect people with the natural wonders of the park in meaningful and lasting ways.
WHAT IS CRYSTAL CAVE, ANYWAY?
Tucked into the foothills of Sequoia National Park, Crystal Cave is a marble cavern filled with dramatic stalactites, stalagmites, and intricate formations that seem straight out of a fantasy novel. Crystal Cave is one of over 270 known caves within Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks—and the only one developed for public access, as most are remote, delicate, and home to unique species.
Discovered in 1918 by two park trail crew workers, Crystal Cave was named for its sparkling white calcite formations and has been open to the public since 1940. It remains a fan favorite for its otherworldly beauty and constant, cool temperature of 50 degrees. A short drive and brief hike lead to the entrance, making it ideal for both outdoor enthusiasts and families with curious kids.
MORE THAN JUST A CAVE TOUR
Crystal Cave tours have been operated by Sequoia Parks Conservancy since 1982, making it a centerpiece of their Field Institute programming, led by Director Daniel Huecker. But the Conservancy’s impact stretches far beyond the cave.
In addition to offering immersive education experiences, they also
manage park retail stores and fund initiatives like giant sequoia conservation, Junior Ranger programs, and Ranger in the Classroom, helping preserve the park while inspiring future generations.
Following the 2021 KNP Complex Fire and severe storms in 2022 and 2023, the Conservancy worked with the National Park Service to safely reopen the cave. Restoration efforts included removing hazard trees, repairing roads, and restoring solar power to the cave’s lighting system. Repairs and improvements will be ongoing as the cave welcomes visitors once again.
PLAN YOUR VISIT
Whether you're itching to revisit a beloved landmark or eager to show your kids something unforgettable, Crystal Cave is back and ready to impress. Tours are expected to fill up quickly, so visit their website for tickets and more info. Sequoia Parks Conservancy is the official nonprofit partner of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, so every cave tour ticket, bookstore purchase, or donation helps support vital work within the parks.
This season, go beneath the surface—and rediscover the magic that’s been waiting all along.
Crystal Caves
Sequoia Parks Conservacy
For tickets: sequoiaparksconservancy.org/crystal-cave
Take a WithoutJourneyLeaving Town
Words by Lifestyle Staff
You don’t have to travel far to be transported. A good book can take you across oceans, through time, or into the heart of someone else’s story, without ever leaving your favorite chair. It’s one of the simplest, most meaningful ways to explore the world: through words.
Reading allows us to step outside of our day-to-day lives and experience something new. It can be a mental escape, an emotional deep-dive, or a spark of inspiration just when we need it most. Whether you're craving a lighthearted summer read, a soulstirring memoir, or an edge-of-your-seat mystery, the right story has the power to shift your perspective and stay with you long after the final page.
This summer, consider adding a few books to your travel plans—even if you're staying close to home. Reading is the ultimate staycation: no traffic, no packing, just pure imagination.
If you're craving that kind of quiet adventure—a chance to slow down, get lost in a good story, and come back changed—start close to home.
Downtown Visalia’s The Book Nook is the kind of place where stories find you. Conveniently located in the heart of Main Street, it invites you to wander the shelves, follow your curiosity, and discover something unexpected.
Whether you're picking up a classic you’ve always meant to read, finding the perfect gift, or letting your child fall in love with books for the first time, it's a space designed for connection—between reader and writer, imagination and experience.
BOOK NOOK: READING
Books can remind us who we are. They can stretch the limits of where we’ve been and open doors to places we never imagined. And sometimes, they help us stay rooted by giving us new ways to see the world we already live in.
So if your summer plans keep you close to home, let a good story take you far.
The Book-Nook Staff Picks
Let your next adventure begin with one of these staff-loved stories.
Weyward
by
Emilia Hart
A spellbinding cottagecore tale where three women, bound by nature and history, reclaim power, identity, and independence across generations.
Spy
X Family by
Tatsuya Endo
Spy X Family is a witty spy thriller about a fake family— spy, assassin, and telepath— trying to stop a war and stumbling into real bonds.
Britt-Marie Was Here
by
John Scalzi
In this heartwarming spin-off, a prim divorcée starts over in a small town, slowly finding connection, purpose, and unexpected friendship— rat included.
When the Moon Hits Your Eye
by
John Scalzi
A hilarious and surreal story where the moon becomes cheese, turning everyday life into a mix of chaos, charm, and unexpected depth.
Escape to AutoCamp Sequoia
A Luxe Weekend Getaway Close to Home
Nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, just outside Sequoia National Park, AutoCamp Sequoia is the newest addition to the brand’s collection of luxury outdoor retreats. Blending modern design with the beauty of nature, this destination offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation—without straying far from home.
Words by Lifestyle Staff
Photos by Dakota Jacobi-Stephenson & Matt Kisiday
Photo by Dakota Jacobi-Stephenson
Why Sequoia?
AutoCamp carefully selects some of the most breathtaking outdoor destinations for its properties, and Sequoia was a natural fit. “The Sequoia region offers a stunning outdoor setting, just 15 minutes from Sequoia National Park and an hour-and-a-half from Kings Canyon National Park, surrounded by some of the most impressive landscapes in the country,” says Bryan Terzi, Chief Marketing Officer at AutoCamp.
“From the world’s largest trees to the views of the Sierra Nevada, this location embodies a blend of adventure and tranquility. It was the perfect location for AutoCamp’s next property, aligning with the brand ethos of offering guests a chance to immerse themselves in nature without compromising comfort or design.”
From Classic Campground to Elevated Escape
Situated on the former site of Sequoia Campground, AutoCamp Sequoia has been thoughtfully transformed into a boutique glamping experience that pairs stylish accommodations with upscale amenities. The design-forward retreat offers a variety of lodging options, including AutoCamp’s signature Airstreams, cozy cabins, and spacious bunk rooms—the largest in the brand’s portfolio—designed specifically for families and groups. Construction management was led by local firm 4Creeks, helping bring the vision to life.
What to Expect
AutoCamp Sequoia combines the charm of camping with the ease and elegance of a curated stay. Each accommodation is designed for comfort, featuring plush beds, spa-inspired bathrooms, and private outdoor spaces perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure. Guests can gather at the Clubhouse, the heart of the property, which offers a midcentury modern aesthetic, a cozy lounge, firepits, and plenty of gathering space.
“The property features a variety of indoor and outdoor event spaces, including the private Ponderosa Lawn with stunning river views, and the versatile Cedar Room and Pine Rooms within the Clubhouse, perfect for intimate gatherings or larger events,” says Terzi. With its unique blend of design and nature, AutoCamp Sequoia is an ideal setting for weddings, corporate retreats, and special celebrations.
For food lovers, The Kitchen offers locally sourced meals throughout the day, crafted with ingredients from nearby farms and purveyors. The General Store is stocked with local snacks, signature grill kits, and a curated selection of beer and wine from regional producers, making it easy to enjoy a taste of the Central Valley.
Photo by Dakota Jacobi-Stephenson
Photo by Matt Kisiday
Photo by Matt Kisiday
Photo by Dakota Jacobi-Stephenson
Photo by Dakota Jacobi-Stephenson
Adventure Awaits
Whether you’re craving a peaceful retreat or an action-packed weekend, AutoCamp Sequoia delivers. With Sequoia National Park just a short drive away, guests can explore iconic sights like the General Sherman Tree and Mount Whitney, hike scenic trails, or enjoy fly fishing in the Kaweah River. Seasonal kayaking experiences are also available, adding another layer of adventure to the stay.
For those who prefer to stay close to camp, complimentary bikes provide a great way to explore the charming town of Three Rivers, while curated experiences—such as guided hikes, stargazing, and outdoor skills workshops—connect guests with the surrounding landscape. “AutoCamp Sequoia is designed to connect guests with the natural beauty and culture of the Three Rivers area and the Sierra Nevada region,” says Terzi, emphasizing the brand’s commitment to creating immersive outdoor experiences.
A Weekend Well Spent
Perhaps the most surprising aspect of AutoCamp Sequoia is how seamlessly it blends luxury and nature. “National park destinations are often associated with traditional lodges or rustic campgrounds, but AutoCamp Sequoia redefines the experience with modern architecture and elevated amenities,” says Terzi. Designed in collaboration with Waechter Architecture and HVS Design, the retreat’s clean lines, warm interiors, and natural elements create an inviting, boutique hotel feel—right in the heart of the wilderness.
Whether you’re sipping coffee on your Airstream’s private deck, swapping stories around the fire, or setting out for a day of exploration, AutoCamp Sequoia offers the ultimate close-to-home escape.
AutoCamp Sequoia
Sierra
Three Rivers
Photo by Dakota Jacobi-Stephenson
Photo by Matt Kisiday
Sponsored Content
YOUR CENTRAL VALLEY
Summer Bucket List Summer Bucket List
Watch the sunrise from atop Moro Rock in Sequoia National Park and the sunset into the Pacific Ocean in Morro Bay in one weekend
Explore the depths of Crystal Cave in Sequoia National Park
Taste test new olive oils, wine or honey from local farmers
Have a s’mores night in your own backyard
Visit a Best of the South Valley winner you’ve never tried before
Catch golden hour in Three Rivers with a snack and a view
Pack a picnic and stargaze in Sequoia National Park
Buy something handmade from a local summer market
Read a travel-themed novel from your local bookstore
Take the Majestic Mountain Loop and see all three of California's most spectacular National Parks: Sequoia, Kings Canyon and Yosemite.
Snap a photo in front of a mural or historic landmark
Follow a local Beer or Coffee Trail from the Visit Visalia website
Revisit a childhood stop from family road trips
Read about the history of the proposed Disney development in Mineral King (Disneyland on the Mountain by Greg Glasgow and Kathryn Mayer)
Here I lay me down to sleep, To wait the coming morrow. Perhaps success, perhaps defeat And everlasting sorrow.
Let come what will, I’ll try it on, My condition can’t be worse. And if there’s money in the box, Tis munny in my purse.
Black Bart
The Po8
On November 3, 1883, Black Bart stopped his last stage. Like the first holdup, it was the Sonora to Milton stagecoach, but this time he had a problem. The coach driver and a young boy hunting nearby surprised him, both firing several shots at him. Startled, but unhurt, Bart quickly ran from the scene, accidentally leaving a handkerchief with the laundry mark F.X.O.7 behind. It was the evidence lawmen needed. They traced the mark to a miner named Charles E. Boles living in San Francisco. His arrest was big news and was reported in several newspapers.
The well-mannered, well-dressed suspect did not fit the image of a robber. He had a slight build, stood about 5'8" tall, had blue eyes and grey hair, and was in his late 50s. He was tried, convicted, and sentenced to six years in San Quentin State Prison. He began his time on November 21, 1883. While incarcerated, he was a model prisoner,
keeping to himself and obeying the rules. His good behavior earned him an early release, and on January 23, 1888, he walked out of prison a free man.
He stayed in San Francisco for a couple of weeks under the watchful eye of detective James Hume. The lawman was not convinced that Boles had given up his life of crime. Boles left San Francisco in early February 1888, and was surveilled to Modesto, then Merced, Madera, and finally to Visalia. Modesto, Merced, and Madera were logical stops for Boles as he appeared to be heading south on the main Southern Pacific railroad line. But Visalia was not on the main line. His stop in Visalia would require him to leave the train in Goshen, then walk, take a buggy, or take the Visalia Railroad spur line. So why was the stop in Visalia so important to him? It would have been simpler to bypass the town completely and continue south to Bakersfield and beyond, but he didn’t. Was he looking for the solitude or anonymity that he thought Visalia could provide? Was his plan to stay and live out his life in Tulare County? Did he have a plan to find legitimate work, or to continue robbing stages? No one knows!
On Thursday, February 23, 1888, Boles checked into the Visalia House under the alias M. Moore of San Francisco. He stayed four nights and left on Monday, February 27th. Upon leaving, he told the hotel keeper to hold his valise for him saying he “might call for it some time or ask to have it forwarded to him, or he might never call or send for it.” Why did he use an alias and why the strange luggage comments? Yet another mystery.
His intent might have been to enter town anonymously, but the locals quickly discovered they had a famous guest. His presence created quite a stir. On March 1st, both the Tulare County Times and the Visalia Weekly Delta newspapers reported on his visit, each identifying him as Black Bart. How did they recognize him?
There are so many questions about the mysterious ex-convict. Where did he spend the rest of his life, or did he just wander from place to place? How long did he live? Where is he buried? Could it be in Tulare County or even Visalia under an assumed name? Historians have long been on the hunt with these questions. But the search for answers always begins in Visalia, the last town in which Black Bart was seen before he disappeared.
The Visalia House located on the northeast corner of Main and Church Streets, where Black Bart stayed when he came to Visalia in 1888. Circa 1890
The news of Black Bart’s arrest appeared in the Wednesday, November 14, 1883 issue of the Daily San Francisco Examiner.
June Agenda
Kick off summer with community events this June!
JUNE
6
Arts Consortium’s First Friday
When: 5-8pm
Where: Downtown Visalia
Hosted by: Visalia Arts Constortium artsconsortium.org/events/firstfriday @artsconsortium
JUNE
8
JUNE
Friday Sunday Thursday Saturday
Spring Into Summer Indoors Makers Market
When: 10am-3pm
Where: Exeter Memorial Building
Hosted by: Brianna Cabrera
JUNE 16-21
Monday-Saturday
Miss California Competition Finals
When: Times vary per day
Where: Visalia Convention Center
Hosted by: The Miss California Organization misscalifornia.org | @missamericaca
19
National Park Free Entrance Day
When: All day
Where: Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks
Hosted by: National Park Service nps.gov | @nationalparkservice
NATIONAL PARKS
JUNE
21
Edgar Allan Poe Speakeasy
When: 4pm, 6pm, 8pm, & 10pm
Where: The Visalia Fox Theatre
Hosted by: The Visalia Fox Theatre visaliafox.org | @visaliafox
JUNE 28
Saturday
Clint Black Performance
When: 7pm
Where: Adventist Health Amphitheater, Tulare
Hosted by: Spade Entertainment spadeentertainment.com/concerts
From the Team
In our March issue, we misidentified longtime AAUW volunteer Susan Cunningham. We sincerely apologize for the oversight and want to take a moment to recognize Susan’s many years of dedication and service. Her commitment to the community and to AAUW’s mission does not go unnoticed. Thank you, Susan, for all that you do! Be sure to keep an eye out for the next AAUW Book Sale coming this September.
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