Lifestyle Magazine - September 2018

STYLE, ART, CULTURE, + EVENTS OF THE SOUTH VALLEY SEPTEMBER 2018

Home Tour

THE RIDDLE RESIDENCE

Page 22 EPICURE

FALL MORNING FARE Page 32 TRAVELER’S TREK '

QUEBEC CITY Page 46

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REFLECTIONS OF VISALIA

HOME TOUR

A LOOK INSIDE OLD MT. WHITNEY POWER

THE RIDDLE RESIDENCE

A “plain Jane” building on Main Street downtown has an extraordinary history. When it was built 106 years ago for Mt. Whitney Power and Electric, it was considered one of the “handsomest business structures” in town.

Vicki Riddle’s home in downtown Exeter reflects new chapters in her life. Two years ago, the community leader began an extensive interior remodel of the 4,305-square-foot house, built in 1922. Close friend JoAnn Malony helped her transform the house into a place full of light and life, plus a place for her three adult sons to stay when they visit. “I tip my hat to Exeter in any way I can,” she says. “I love this town.”

EPICURE

FALL MORNING FARE

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Cozy up to a table brimming with comfort, including Chef David Vartanian’s Vegetable Omelet with Roasted Potatoes. Other recipes offered, accented with late summer and early fall produce, include Chicken Sausage with Polenta and Tomato Sauce, Stuffed French Toast, Classic Eggs Benedict and Cheese Blintzes.

TRAVELER'S TREK

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Letter from the Executive Editor

14 Business Profile 18 Fitness Challenge 30 Word Play 42 Lively Living 54 Fashion 56 Kudos 57 Happenings

' JEWEL OF QUEBEC

46 4 LIFEST YLE | SEPTEMBER 2018

Québec’s fertile lowlands, northern tundra, vast forests and lakes are a huge area to explore. But its small capital and namesake city best showcase the region’s rich culture and history. The sole province in which French is the official language, it’s the easiest way to experience Europe without crossing the Atlantic.

COVER IMAGE: The dining room features the home’s remaining south-facing, single-paned windows, which illuminate the room gently in the mornings. Included is an original built-in china cabinet.

TOP: The Riddle house anchors a corner of leafy E Street in downtown Exeter. The front yard features terraces built by a former owner.

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805.668.2424

Published By

DMI Agency 801 W. Main St. Visalia, CA 93291

Karen Tellalian

Executive Editor

Creative Director

Art Director

Senior Designer Web Designer/Designer

Assistant Editor

Text Editor

Greg Bitney Marcie Vagnino Frank Miramontes Kaci Hansen Sue Burns Melinda Brown

Contributing Writers

Cheryl Dieter David Vartanian Diane Slocum Justin Levine Lisa McEwen Major Rogers Sharon Mosley Sue Burns Terry L. Ommen

Business Management Malkasian Accountancy LLP

Gary Malkasian CPA

Jeffrey Malkasian EA

Operations Manager Maria Gaston

Advertising Sales

Sales Office

Sales@DMIAgency.com 801 W. Main St. Visalia, CA 93291 559.739.1747 • Fax 559.738.0909

E-Mail Lifestyle@DMIAgency.com

WEBSITE www.VisaliaLifestyle.com

View The Mag Online Issuu.com/LifestyleMagazine Facebook.com/LifestyleMag Instagram: visalialifestyle

RACK LOCATIONS DMI Agency Evolutions Fitness Center, Tulare

Exeter Chamber of Commerce Tazzaria Coffee & Tea The Lifestyle Center

Visalia Chamber of Commerce Visalia Convention Center

COUNTERTOP LOCATIONS 210 Cafe AMCC Ashoori & Co. Jewelers Blend WIne Room Chad Clark Hair Salon Charcuterie Chelsea Street Boutique Citizen's Bank Comfort Suites Downtown CreekSide Day Spa Skin & Laser Center Downtown Visalia Alliance Ed Dena Auto Center, Visalia Exeter Chamber of Commerce Exeter Library Franey's Design Center

Glick's and Co. Holvik Family Health Center ImagineU Children’s Museum Janeen’s Furniture Gallery Kaweah Delta Hospital Keller Williams Reality Max's Cookies Michael's Custom Jewelry Monét’s, Exeter Pacific Treasures Premier Medical Clinic PRO-PT Renaissance Salon Salon 525 Sherman & Associates

Sunmed Health & Weight Management The Aesthetic Center The Smoke House, Visalia Tulare County Library Visalia Ceramic Tile Visalia First Assembly Visalia Marriott Visalia Medical Clinic Watson's Wildflower Café, Exeter Williams, Brodersen & Pritchett, Attorneys at Law Windows Plus, Inc. Wyndham Hotel

Visalia Lifestyle Magazine is published monthly and is distributed via direct mail to nearly 13,600 homes in the upper-middle and high-income neighborhoods in Visalia. An additional 2,000 copies are distributed at various distribution points around Visalia, Tulare, and Exeter.

Views expressed in columns are those of the columnist and not necessarily those of DMI Agency or its advertisers.

Circulation of this issue: 15,600 © 2018 DMI Agency

6 LIFEST YLE | SEPTEMBER 2018

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FR O M TH E

EDITOR

“Delicious autumn! My very soul is wedded to it, and if I were a bird I would fly about the earth seeking the successive autumns.” – George Eliot

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s I write this morning, feeling – at last – a slight chill in the air, I’m sure that you’ll all join me in saying a resounding “Welcome” to fall!

Although we enjoy the long, hot days of summer, with pool time and a bounty of beautiful produce to enjoy, the change in season is a welcome one, with autumn’s harvest and all its activities to anticipate.

upon construction in 1906 to be one of the “handsomest business structures” in town.

Are you hungry? Chef David Vartanian has cooked up a decadent menu of French Toast, Cheese Blintzes and classic savory dishes perfect to tuck into on a lazy cool morning. On the other end of the spectrum, breezy crisp days bring an opportunity to kick your activity level up a notch. Lifestyle Magazine and Justin Levine of California Fitness Academy have teamed up with community personality, Amy Shuklian, for a four-

After summer’s quiet days, fall’s full activity schedule affords great opportunities for all of us to reconnect with friends and support our community through participation in civic events and fundraisers.

E X E C U T I V E

E D I T O R

K A R E N

T E L L A L I A N

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO SUBMIT A STORY IDEA, CONTACT ME AT KAREN@DMIAGENCY.COM

Our children are back in the groove of school, sports and clubs. Now that their wardrobes are situated, we can take a moment to pull out our own fall favorites and perhaps add some new pieces. You might be surprised at the colors taking center stage this year “In the Limelight”

by Sharon Mosley. If your mind wanders to adventure over style, though, Cheryl Levitan’s traveler’s tip and gorgeous photos of Québec City will have you wanting to trek there as soon as you can.

If it’s decorating inspiration you need, Exeter Woman’s Club President Vicki Riddle’s 1922 home has got you covered.

Her residence welcomes fall with vibrant colors in the front garden and a charming history all its own, including treasured Batchelder tiles and sconces on the fireplace. And speaking of history, Terry Ommen takes us back in time for a visit to old Mt. Whitney Power, considered

8 LIFEST YLE | SEPTEMBER 2018

month Fitness Challenge aimed at helping her create healthy habits without obsessing over the scale. To complement the new routine, Chef Erin Tyler has given us a tastily trimmed down recipe for Sausage Gravy over Biscuits that satisfies with less calories and fat. Follow along through the end of the year to share in Amy’s journey and get more flavorful and good-for-you recipes.

The calendar of community and charity events is filling up quickly, beginning with United Way of Tulare and Kings Counties’ Lifesaver Awards Breakfast. Of course, all of us at Lifestyle are looking forward to annual jaunts to the Vossler Farms Pumpkin Patch and Springville Apple Festival, along with myriad other choices you’ll find in Happenings. As we savor every moment of autumn, we hope you will, too!

Welcome Fall! Great Shopping for All! Our Gorgeous Gift Wrapping is Our Gift to You! Kitchen • Gourmet • BBQ Accessories • Gift Baskets • Gift Certificates • Garden • Gourmet Tea Wedding Registry • Baby Gifts • Baby Registry • Candles • Bath & Body • Pet Gifts • Great Gifts For All!

219 West Main Street • Visalia, CA 93291 • 559.733.0213 • www.PacificTreasuresVisalia.com In Beautiful Downtown Visalia Since 1991

AN ELECTRIFYING LOOK INSIDE

OLD MT. WHITNEY POWER T E X T

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here is a two-story building in downtown Visalia that can be easily overlooked, especially by those on the hunt for architectural splendor. But today what the building lacks in design glitz, it more than makes up for in extraordinary history.

It wasn’t always a “plain Jane.” In fact, when it was built 106 years ago, it was considered one of the “handsomest business structures” in town. The exterior façade and ground floor have changed a lot over the decades, however, many of the second-story interior elements remain in place.

Recently, I was able to visit the locked and abandoned upper floor and see some of the features of the stately building – many as they were during its glory days when it was the headquarters of the Mt. Whitney Power and Electric Company and later Southern California Edison.

But before I share a glimpse of my discoveries in this upstairs “time capsule,” let’s look at a little history of the building and the first company that occupied it.

In the 1890s, Tulare County in general and Visalia specifically were on the verge of a major technological

breakthrough. The Mt. Whitney Power Company, as it was first called, had installed the necessary infrastructure to begin supplying widespread electricity, all generated from the water of the Kaweah River. Ben M. Maddox, one of the company organizers and visionaries, who at the same time was publisher of the Visalia-based “Tulare County Times” newspaper, predicted that the work of the company would become a major milestone in the development of Tulare County. And he was right. But it’s doubtful that even Maddox knew completely how important the company’s work would be.

Mt. Whitney Power, incorporated in 1899, held its first stockholder meeting in Visalia in 1900, and William Hammond, A. G. Wishon, R. P. Hammond, and Visalians Ben M. Maddox and Susman Mitchell were elected as directors of the company. For the next decade, the company leased office space in the S. C. Brown Building on Court Street in Visalia. By 1911, the growing company needed more room, and it began making plans for a new building. The company contracted with Trewhitt & Shields, building contractors from Hanford, to

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Top left, the Mt. Whitney Power and Electric Company building as it appeared in 1920 on West Main Street in Visalia. Top right, the building as it appears today.

build a new structure on West Main Street, now in the 200 block. The contract price for the brick building was $21,400, however, when the Mt. Whitney company was finished with it, the cost totaled about $30,000.

Upon the building’s completion in March 1912, the company hosted a “warming up” party for employees and special guests. The gala event included tours, a banquet catered by the Palace Hotel and a dance. It was a fitting beginning for an important building.

The new home of the Mt. Whitney Power and Electric Company was well-received by employees and the community. The “Visalia Morning Delta” newspaper quoted experts who claimed it “to be the best building structure of its class in the entire San Joaquin Valley,” and the newspaper added that the “handsome exterior … is perhaps [only] surpassed by the effective arrangement of the interior.” The building was truly a showcase.

Many of the features remain, so now let’s take a look at some that are still present in the second story. As one might expect in an electric company building, each office was wired for

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Clockwise, starting upper left, the control panel for an office heater, a chandelier ceiling light, electrical circuit switches for heaters mounted in a wooden cabinet, a built-in fireplace and some of the second-floor office space.

telephones and dictographs so, obviously, electrical wiring and lights were installed throughout the building.

It had an “indirect lighting system” with added ceiling lights. Each office had an electric heater with an individual control panel mounted in a lath-and-plaster wall.

The common area upstairs had two dark wood electrical cabinets containing circuit-breaking levers.

One of the front Main Street-facing offices had a built-in fireplace. It had a rather small and narrow fire box, so I doubt that wood was used. However, there was an electrical outlet mounted inside the box, so there might have been an electric heater placed inside.

There is also strong evidence that the building had an elevator, although I can find no mention of one in my research.

The area where it was located is boarded up now, and the upstairs landing is also covered.

The offices had generous amounts of

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beautiful wood trim. Although all the doors are missing, the trim around the openings and windows was nicely done.

Beautiful wainscoting remains on some walls, and wide, rich-looking baseboards are present throughout. After I toured the upper floor, it was clear that the building was the pride of the company.

From here, widespread electricity was provided by the Mt. Whitney Power and Electric Company until 1920, and numerous companies, including Visalia Gas, Light & Heat; Porterville Light & Power; Tulare Gas & Light; Globe Light & Power, and Tulare County Power, were purchased.

In 1920, Southern California Edison bought the Mt. Whitney company and continued to own and occupy the building until 1955. Edison then built a much larger building at 701 W. Main St., contracting with Trewhitt, Shields & Fisher, a successor to the same contractor that built the 1912 structure.

Edison eventually sold the 1912 building, and the new owner remodeled the façade and the first floor, converting it into at least three retail spaces.

The second story was abandoned and boarded up, staying that way for many years.

Today, this often-forgotten landmark building in downtown Visalia is a great example of how the town, tired of classic building architectural elegance, stripped off façade design features and moved to a more modern design. With the passage of time, these building changes have become historical features in their own right.

By the way, Paul Heidenreich, owner of Quality Jewelers at 213 W. Main, a ground-floor business in the old Mt. Whitney building, has some wonderful photographs on display of the building before 1955. He’d love to have you come by and take a look.

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ACROSS GENERATIONS

BUSINESS LITER ARY PROFILE ARTS

PROVIDING PROTECTION AND PEACE OF MIND

CENTRAL VALLEY INSURANCE SERVICES T E X T

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ver the last several years as wildfires have ravaged communities throughout California, we’ve all been horrified at the loss of lives and property, and empathized with those who have been affected. At the same time, we acknowledge that life and loved ones are the most important things to emerge following such a disaster. Many also wonder how they would bounce back from such a devastating circumstance as losing their home and everything in it.

Even everyday occurrences can be very stressful. Unexpected medical issues, business challenges and automobile fender benders, among other things, certainly throw a wrench into our life plans and can become costly if we don’t have insurance coverage that fits our specific needs. That’s where Central Valley Insurance Agency (CVIA) comes in.

Central Valley Insurance Agency — which also houses Central Sequoia Insurance and Financial Services LLC — offers more than 25 types of insurance, including auto, home, flood, business, commercial, workers’ compensation and life. The goal is always to ensure that clients have the best coverage at a price that works for them.

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In addition to providing support for its clients, the agency supports several charities in the community. Most notably, partner Scott Bosler has served on the board of the Visalia Rescue Mission.

The firm also conducts a quarterly raffle for people who have made referrals; the winner receives a cash award, and a donation is made to the charity of their choice. Dozens of charities in the community have received financial support through this program.

Informational articles highlighting local charities are also periodically included in the monthly newsletter.

Founded in the fall 2008, CVIA started as a franchise agency for Capital Insurance Group (a regional insurance agency in Monterey). Within two years, it had opened Central Sequoia Insurance and Financial Services, an independent insurance agency. The two agencies still

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share the same office and staff, which currently stands at eight agents and financial planners, and three administrative employees.

Partners Phil Oliver, Scott Bosler and Mark Jennings bring their individual experiences and expertise to the agencies, ensuring a well-rounded wealth of information for their clients and staff.

As the managing partner with more than 40 years in the insurance business, Oliver manages the firm’s finances, strategic planning, training, hiring, marketing and digital marketing. When asked what sets the agency apart from everyone else, he states simply, “We are focused on proper protection.”

Jennings brings his 31 years in the industry to the table as the agency’s financial planner. In addition, he sells insurance and investments, and services

“We take our clients’ protection personally; we want them to have the best coverage because we know what’s at stake where they may not.” - Scott Bosler

“A 2nd Opinion is Usually a Great Strategy”

“Not only do we need home, auto and umbrella insurance, we wanted the right level of coverage. Placing our insurance needs with Scott made perfect sense for our family. We have known him for decades and we trust him to do the right thing for us. We have in place what we need and want to be able to rest confidently. If the worst occurs, we know we are going to be okay. Perhaps you should consider what he can do for you as well!”

John and Julie Anderson

Scott Bosler (559) 429-8294

Lic #’s 0G30675 & 0H38050

“We Take Your Insurance Protection Personally” 4142 S Demaree St, Visalia, CA • www.centralvalleyins.com

those clients, and is responsible for marketing BUSINESS PROFILE to CVIA’s referral partners in real estate, mortgage and other industries for property and casualty insurance.

Jennings is also president of the San Joaquin Valley Association of Professional Mortgage Women (which welcomes men as members, too) and one of two national vice presidents of the organization. He joined the team at Central Valley Insurance about nine years ago after working with Oliver for 20 years.

With 10 years experience, Bosler’s primary role is as an insurance adviser on the property and casualty side for clients and potential clients (and sometimes staff members). The newest to the field, he originally served as a pastor in several locations for virtually all of his adult life. After tragically losing his 17-year-old son in a drowning accident, he was looking for a career with a little less stress. Oliver, a friend of Bosler’s for many years, encouraged him to join the Central Valley Insurance team. Bosler is committed to finding the best products for his clients, sharing that “we don’t offer inferior insurance protection – all the carriers we represent have excellent ratings with AM Best and offer exceptional products.”

Purchasing insurance of any kind can be an intimidating task. With myriad plans and so many details in the fine print and legalese, it’s challenging for a layperson to choose the right coverage at the right price. Oliver said people tend to purchase insurance based on price and don’t always know whether everything they need to be covered is.

Using the recent fires as an example, he explained that when large areas are affected and numerous claims are filed, building costs increase because of the law of supply and demand (versus a single house fire or accident where it’s the only one on the block that needs to be replaced). There are only a certain number of contractors and a certain amount of building supplies in a given area, thus prices for reconstruction can be drastically higher than the replacement cost in a homeowner policy.

Certain policies provide double the amount of replacement costs because of the surge in pricing and on labor and materials, which does increase the 16 L I F E S T Y L E | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 8

premium but — in Oliver’s opinion — at a reasonable cost. After the fact, people realize that paying a slightly higher premium would have been more than worth it to replace their home rather than finding out their coverage isn’t enough for the rebuild. In such cases, the insurance companies pay an actual cash value to reflect the coverage, and the clients must build smaller home or pay the difference out of pocket, many times while still paying the mortgage on their home. Many lawsuits against insurance companies from recent fires are pending because of this.

Central Valley Insurance is committed to helping its clients avoid situations where they are underinsured. Agents take time to assess their exposures and needs, and provide yearly reviews to update coverage when necessary. Oliver says they see some people who have millions in assets but limited liability coverage to protect them — in other words, “they are woefully underinsured.… It’s like wearing gym socks with a tuxedo.” He normally recommends that clients purchase elite-level policies, which offer the best protection, with usually a very negligible price increase for the additional coverage.

Although it’s perfectly reasonable for people to be most concerned with cost,

From left, Scott Bosler, Mark Jennings and Phil Oliver

CVIA’s agents make sure that their clients see the bigger picture and are able to weigh the costs against their coverage needs.

When potential clients are asked when they last sat with their agent to assess coverage, the answer is almost always “never.” That’s why annual reviews are standard at CVIA, and this in-depth service is offered for all clients.

“Adequate protection for a fair price with great resources and reviews – that’s our responsibility,” Oliver said. Scott echoed that “we take our clients’ protection personally; we want them to have the best coverage because we know what’s at stake where they may not.”

Oliver shared what he was told by a wily veteran agent when he started as a young State Farm agent many years ago: “Quality is remembered long after price is forgotten.”

Especially in this business, where the proof is in the pudding (in other words, how the claim is handled stays with the insured long after the premium is paid).

And so it is at Central Valley Insurance Agency; its commitment to providing top-notch protection and service has resulted in hundreds of testimonials like this one from clients: “Because of your products and services, we can sleep at night.” L

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Gilbert Sunio, MD Medical Director

FITNESS CHALLENGE

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A JOURNEY FULL OF UPS AND DOWNS T E X T

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alifornia Fitness Academy and Lifestyle Magazine begin a fitness journey with a great human being, Amy Shuklian. I am sure that you know her. Former mayor and now a Tulare County supervisor, you can see Amy at many local events supporting our community. You do not find a more genuine and happy-go-lucky person.

I’m Justin Levine, and I have owned and operated California Fitness Academy for more than 12 years. Fitness is my passion, and my life is centered on guiding others to living a healthy lifestyle. We train everyone from people looking to shed weight, athletes aspiring to compete at the next level, and individuals who want to improve upon their overall healthy lifestyle.

California Fitness Academy and Lifestyle have come together to highlight Amy and her fitness journey over the next four months.

“This is not a straight line toward your goals,” I said to Amy during our first meeting. “This will be a journey full of ups and downs, and if you see it with a long-term mind-set and persevere, you can gain tremendous results.”

“Sometimes I want results overnight,” Amy said with a chuckle.

“Yes, I know,” I said. “We all do. But getting long-term fitness results and building a sustainable healthy lifestyle take time.”

These will be our main focal points with Amy: • Focus on the process, getting to the gym and being active. Our goal is to complete 60 workout routines between now and the end of the year. That’s an average of 3.3 workouts per week.

• Nutritionally, the first step is to take in less calories. This is key when the main goal is weight loss. As she will be adding in workouts and more activity, by simply taking in fewer calories, we should be able to see a weight loss over the next few weeks.

• Nothing beats consistency. So I want Amy to focus on staying consistent throughout the program.

We will update you with Amy’s progress each month in Lifestyle.

If you see Amy around town, offer her encouragement and positive thoughts.

We begin this journey with hope, optimism and aspiration.

We’ll talk to you next time!

– Justin Levine See reduced calorie recipes by Chef Erin on page 20.

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TURKEY SAUSAGE GRAVY AND HOMEMADE BISCUITS B Y

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TURKEY SAUSAGE GRAVY INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS

1 15-ounce ground turkey sausage (Jenni-O brand used in this recipe) 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1 cup 1% milk 2 teaspoons each salt and pepper 2 teaspoons dried or 4 teaspoons fresh chopped thyme and/or sage (use both for bolder herb flavor)

In a deep skillet over medium-high heat, break up the sausage and cook, stirring, until no pink remains.

Add the flour and stir into sausage, allowing any fat to be absorbed into the flour; cook 3 to 4 minutes.

Slowly add the milk, stirring constantly until a creamy consistency is reached, then lower heat to a simmer.

Stir in the herb(s), salt and pepper and continue to cook an additional 6 to 8 minutes.

Serve immediately over warm biscuits.

Makes 4-6 1/2-cup servings | 164 calories, 6.7g fat, 8g carbohydrates. Regular sausage gravy: 1/2 cup = 344 calories, 29.9g fat, 16.9g carbohydrates.

FITNESS CHALLENGE

HOMEMADE BISCUITS INGREDIENTS 2 cups whole wheat flour 4 teaspoons baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce 1 cup 1% milk DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 450 degrees.

In medium-sized bowl combine the dry ingredients, mixing well.

Using a fork and knife, cut the 1/4 cup applesauce into dry ingredients until the mixture resembles dry course crumbles.

Add milk to the dry crumbled mixture; combine with your hands until it becomes doughy.

Knead the dough 8 to 10 times in the bowl, then remove dough and place on floured surface.

Roll or pat dough out to 3/4-inch thickness, making sure to dust with flour.

Cut out biscuits using biscuit or cookie cutter. Press the cutter straight down and lift out; do not twist or the biscuits won’t rise. (In a pinch, you can use a cup or glass, making sure to flour so the dough won't stick.)

Place biscuits on an ungreased baking sheet. (You can brush the tops with an egg wash if you like before placing in oven.)

Bake 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.

Makes 8-10 | 1 biscuit = 79 calories, 0.7g fat, 16.3g carbohydrates. Regular biscuit: 1 biscuit = 191 calories, 10.9g fat, 20.2g carbohydrates.

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Meet Merritt Wiseman Dedicated Community Leader • Vice President of the Las Madrinas Guild for Valley Children’s Hospital • Board of Directors for the Visalia Fox Theatre • Active Volunteer at St. Paul’s School and the Bethlehem Center • Wife & Mother – Married to Dr. Mark Wiseman.

They are blessed with 4 children.

• Valley Values – Graduate of Fresno State.

Hard worker. Committed. Genuine.

CITY COUNCIL

• Success Oriented – Former developer and business owner, and top producer in the pharmaceutical sales industry prior to transitioning to full-time mom.

Public Safety

Merritt on the Issues: Quality of Life

“Protecting the safety of our families will be my number one priority.

We must make sure that residents feel safe in our neighborhoods, parks and Downtown.

Homelessness

“I’m dedicated to preserving Visalia’s small town character.

City leaders must plan wisely to prevent traffic congestion, protect our Ag lands and conserve our vital water resources.”

“I promise to collaborate with agencies and non-profit organizations to get homeless individuals off our streets and into effective work or treatment programs."

Accountability

Strong Economy

“I support strict financial safeguards to protect taxpayers and prevent wasteful spending.

Residents deserve the highest level of transparency and respect at City Hall.”

“District 3 is home to the Visalia Industrial Park – our city’s economic engine. I will help local businesses grow so they can provide more jobs and opportunities for our families.”

For more information visit www.MerrittForVisalia.com • 5211 W. Goshen Ave. #121 • Visalia, CA 93291 • 559.797.1759 5211 W. Goshen Ave. #121 • Visalia, CA 93291 • 559.797.1759

Paid for and Authorized by Merritt Wiseman for Visalia City Council 2018 • FPPC #1408575 Paid for and Authorized by Merritt Wiseman for Visalia City Council 2018 • FPPC#1408575

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THE RIDDLE RESIDENCE T E X T

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P H O T O S

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HOME TOUR

K L O R M A N

LIFEST YLE | SEPTEMBER 2018

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FROM THE COUNTRY INTO TOWN: EXTENSIVE REMODEL REVEALS CITY HISTORY, CLOSE CONNECTIONS

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home and its interior design most often reflect the phase of life of its owner — from child-rearing to empty nest and all the stages in between.

For Vicki Riddle, her downtown Exeter home speaks volumes about new chapters beginning in her life as a community leader, neighbor and mother.

Anchoring a corner of leafy E Street, where sycamores and magnolia trees are just beginning to show the first signs of cooler fall temperatures, Riddle’s home is stately and inviting, evocative of being built in 1922.

After an extensive interior remodel, this 4,305-square-foot house is finally beginning to feel like a home for this mother of three adult sons.

Unlike recently featured homes, where residents fled city life for the country, Riddle left the pastoral scenes of Mehrten Valley, located east of Exeter, and is establishing new roots in downtown Exeter.

As a parent, being surrounded by hills, wildlife and endless views was ideal while raising her family. Saying goodbye to a home that held so many memories was not easy and, in fact, Riddle said it was the hardest decision of her life.

The wheels of change began at the urging of friends and family, who encouraged Riddle to make the jump to Exeter’s quaint downtown, where she is closer to conveniences and those same friends who are now her neighbors. As a bonus, she is within walking distance of several key locations for her many volunteer commitments.

With the help of close friend and designer JoAnn Malony, owner of Upstaged, Riddle has slowly transformed a 96-year-old house into her forever home, full of light, life, and the laughter of friends and colleagues.

“After two years, it is finally the home that I envisioned in my mind,” Riddle said while seated for an interview at the elegantly decorated dining room table. “But there is still a lot of finish work to do.”

Riddle is intimately involved in community organizations and their events, specifically the Exeter Woman’s Club, where she serves as president, and the Exeter Republican Women Federated, which she co-founded. She volunteers twice a week at the Exeter Pink Ladies Thrift Store, where proceeds from sales go to deserving seniors at Exeter Union High School.

She also established the Young Republicans Club at the high school and, earlier this year, Riddle was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award from the California Federation of Republican Women.

“I tip my hat to Exeter in any way I can,” she said. “I love this town.”

In fact, one of her favorite ways to help entertain guests, whether in her home or at the clubhouse, is to hire the Exeter Union High School Jazz Band. The student musicians always impress, she said.

Playing host to recent community events provided good motivation for Riddle and Malony to make final decisions on furniture, decorating and staging. The home was featured on the Exeter Chamber of Commerce’s Garden Tour in May, was a stop on a progressive dinner held this summer for the Exeter Republican Women Federated and, in December, will be featured on the Exeter Woman’s Club Christmas Home Tour.

“The pressure was on JoAnn,” Riddle said. “She is in tune with what I like.”

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Plenty of plants and a large porch mark the front of Vicki Riddle’s home in downtown Exeter. A large mat welcomes visitors to the 4,305-squre-foot house, which was built in 1922.

HOME TOUR

Your Home. Your Look.

559.625.8884 220 W. Main St., Visalia www.janeensfurniture.com

HOME TOUR

FROM WARM TO COOL TONES When Riddle took possession of the home, the layout was compartmentalized, with each room blocked from the other.

Also, the kitchen was vintage 1960s and immediately came out. Dark-stained wood and earth tones dominated the home. Together, Riddle and Malony came up with a plan to open the interior — ideal not only for large gatherings but also general flow through the home.

Now with walls painted cool white and muted grey, the home is open, airy and feels clean, all the while appearing very comfortable and cozy, thanks to Malony’s expert staging.

An impressive feature that guests will notice as soon as they walk through the single front door is an exposed bridge beam, a truss-like structure spanning the width of the room. It is stained to match the mostly original wood floors of the home.

Considering that the home was almost 100 years old, Riddle knew that there would be historical and architectural features she would want to preserve.

The dining room features the home’s remaining original single-paned windows, which are south-facing and illuminate the room gently in the mornings, inviting guests to linger longer over breakfast. An original built-in china cabinet is artfully arranged and adds permanence to the room, a steadfast 26 L I F E S T Y L E | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 8

The two-year remodeling project resulted in a more open interior, including the kitchen and dining area, top and below, and a sitting area in front of a fireplace featuring Batchelder tiles and sconces, above and top middle. Top right, the upstairs bathroom features original tilework.

HOME TOUR

feature that often is no longer seen in newly built homes.

Across the room, Riddle’s fireplace contains prized Batchelder tiles and sconces. They were made by Ernest Batchelder (1876-1957), an American artist who lived in Southern California.

He was a leader in the Arts and Crafts Movement of the early 20th century. His distinctive work drew on nature themes, including California oaks, vines, birds and geometric shapes. Riddle’s tiles feature peacocks and Giant Sequoia trees.

“I knew when I saw the fireplace that these were special,” she said.

Although the tiles are now painted white, Riddle is considering a chemical treatment to bring the tiles’ glaze back to their original hue.

Upstairs, the bathroom also features original tilework, which she said her contractor refused to dismantle. Riddle said she is glad that she listened to his advice. The sheer white backsplash with delicate blue highlights keeps the room bright and clean, and coordinates beautifully with the gray- and bluepatterned tile floor. Malony’s modern stylings bring the room into the 21st century with ease.

With four bedrooms in the home, Riddle decided to dedicate one room to each of her sons so they have a place of their own to relax when they visit.

Of particular note is an upstairs bedroom that also features an anteroom, which was used as a military aircraft observatory during the first half of the 20th century.

THE HUMAN TOUCH Tackling this project was no small feat.

Riddle knew that she was going to need help and enlisted the expertise of a construction crew that came with excellent references from a Bay Area friend. Fortunately, the property also includes a duplex that bumps up total living space to 5,900 square feet. Riddle explained that the crew lived in the duplex for four months while working on the home. When it was nearly complete, they moved into the home and worked on the duplex.

Her advice to anyone considering a large renovation project of a historic home? “Make sure you get sound references,” she said.

Once the construction crew departed, much finish work remained, including landscaping.

“In Exeter, word of mouth is everything,” she said. And thus began another chapter of city history.

The home was built by the owners of the Exeter Brick Yard, a brick-making facility and thus the reason why brick is the primary building material in the home. The owners’ daughter inherited

the home and sold it to Burrell Allison in 1964.

Allison lived in the house with his young family while he worked as a shop teacher at Exeter Union High School. For nearly 30 years, he taught building and mechanical skills to hundreds of students, and some would say he is an institution in Exeter. He retired in 1993.

All those years of teaching produced talented individuals who in return began their own construction-related businesses.

And six of them helped complete the finish work on Riddle’s home.

On the morning of this reporter’s visit, all six sat on the porch, immersed in conversation with Allison, whose tenure started in 1964. Riddle had invited them to view the finished product and gather for a reunion of sorts, taking photographs and eating a dozen donuts while reminiscing.

Now widowed and living north of town, Allison explained various projects he had undertaken while owner of the home — many of which Riddle left untouched, considering their sentimental value.

For example, the first rod of the stair banister begins with a Ford drive shaft embellished with wrought-iron scrollwork taken from old desks at Lincoln Elementary School in Exeter. “I’m a scrounger,” Allison said while walking through the home. Proud to complete his own home improvements, Allison also L I F E S T Y L E | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 8 27

HOME TOUR

Three of the home’s bedrooms are dedicated to each of her grown sons so they have a place to relax when they visit. The fourth is Riddle’s own domain. At right, the property features a pool. Riddle’s brother tends to the landscaping duties.

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“I DON’T KNOW WHEN THEY’LL BE HOME, BUT EVERY MOM THAT’S AN EMPTY NESTER FEELS A TINGLE OF HAPPINESS IN HER HEART AT THE THOUGHT OF HEARING HER ADULT CHILDREN’S VOICES COMING THROUGH THE DOOR." — VICKI RIDDLE

HOME TOUR

installed central heating and. “That’s what I liked about this big ol’ thing,” he said.

“All this space, I had a lot of work to do!”

Little by little, he worked on the home after school ended for the day.

An outdoor swing he made for his children still rests in the backyard and, not surprisingly, is also constructed of drive shafts and brake drums.

In the front yard, a boulder that he hauled from Venice Hill is still part of the landscaping. Allison also terraced the front yard, and those terraces remain.

Today, Riddle’s brother, Eric Miglorin, lives in the adjacent duplex and lovingly tends to the gardening tasks many hours each day, Riddle said. He is retired after working for 36 years as the personal

landscape gardener of Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Bechtel Jr. and Barbara Bechtel Davies in Oakland.

WELCOME HOME Despite opening her home to many community functions, Riddle is finding her way around, getting comfortable with solitude, city sounds, proximity of neighbors and a new way of living. She loves to start each day enjoying a cup of coffee in the north courtyard. “The first thing I love to do is go outside in the morning,” she said.

Sons Jonathan, Brandan and Justin are grown and leading their own lives: Jonathan is in medical school, Brandan is a first officer for American Airlines and

Justin is working for CAL FIRE as a firefighter. Even though they have hectic schedules, she always looks forward to their return.

Etched in the cement of the back patio are these words: “Riddle Boys Are Coming.”

“When I look at these words, I feel happy,” she said. “I don’t know when they’ll be home, but every mom that’s an empty nester feels a tingle of happiness in her heart at the thought of hearing her adult children’s voices coming through the door. That’s what that sentence means to me: I sense a sparkle of anticipation every time I read that cement epitaph!”

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WO R D PLAY News on writing, books + the world of publishing

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randparents Day is celebrated in the U.S. in September, but really, if you are or have grandparents, any time is a good time to celebrate.

“Tigers and Tea with Toppy” (Scholastic Press, Sept. 25) by Barbara Kerley, Rhoda Knight Kalt and Matte Stephens tells the illustrated story of Rhoda and Toppy, her grandfather and world-famous wildlife artist Charles R. Knight. The book includes Stephens’ illustrations and prints of Knight’s paintings. The book shares the gentle elder-child relationship between Toppy and Rhoda as they rove through adventures in zoos and museums, enchanted by scientific inquiries.

“Ba-chan the Ninja Grandma: An Adventure with Little Kunoichi the Ninja Girl” (Little Bigfoot, Sept. 18) by Sanae Ishida is a new story in the Little Kunoichi series. Kunoichi is bored when all her friends are away during the summer, so she asks her parents for new things.

Instead, they send her to visit her grandmother on an island she made herself, where Kunoichi learns to appreciate things that money can’t buy.

“Me and My Family Tree” (Knopf Books for Young Readers, new edition Sept. 18) by Joan Sweeney and illustrated by Emma Trithart helps young children understand how their family members are related by presenting the family tree from a child’s point of view.

NEW E-BOOK SERVICE The Tulare County Library recently launched a new e-book service called Enki, named after the Sumerian god of mischief, intelligence and creativity.

A nonprofit library cooperative, Califa, and Contra Costa County developed the program. It has more than 50,000 books, including popular e-books, modern nonfiction, independent authors and unpublished works from best-selling authors. Among the 50 or more publishers represented are Kensington,

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Workman, McGraw-Hill, Smashwords, Akashic, Independent Publishers Group, F+W Media and Britannica.

Enki provides a free, open-source e-book platform and discount access to a statewide collection of e-books. Books are available in PDF and EPUB formats.

You can find Enki at www. tularecountylibrary.org/elibrary or learn about the project at califa.org.

VALLEY WRITERS Through CreateSpace, Julie P. Appelbaum of Visalia has self-published a book of poems called “Poems of Light, Hope and Joy: Words to Help and Heal Moments of Your Days.” It is available through Amazon.com.

Members of the Fresno State master of fine arts (MFA) program have posted recordings of the Fresno Poets’ Association reading series. Nearly 80 old-style recordings were digitized by Horn Photo through funding from the College of Arts and Humanities. The list is a Who’s Who of Fresno area poets — Ernesto Trejo, Robert Vasquez, Omar Salinas, Larry Levis, Juan Felipe Herrera, Jon Veinberg and more. Find them at https://fresnostatemfa.wordpress.com/ fresno-poets-archives.

WRITING CENTERS While many author’s biographies list

where they received their MFAs, many other writers are finding that they can get the help they need to become published through a writing center.

Some of these centers include the Attic Institute of Arts and Letters in Portland, Sackett Street in Brooklyn and the University of Arizona Poetry Center in Tucson. You can find a discussion on another center, GrubStreet, on Literary Hub at https://lithub.com/ the-rise-of-the-writing-centergrubstreet. According to Eve Bridburg, the founder of GrubStreet, these centers give opportunities to writers who can’t commit the time or money required for graduate study.

Some students even come to the centers after they have their MFAs. NOTABLE BIRTHDAYS Thomas Stearns (T.S.) Eliot was born on Sept. 26, 1888, in St. Louis. “The Waste Land,” “The Hollow Men” (“This is the way the world ends, Not with a bang, but a whimper”) and “The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock" are three of his best-known poems. He received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1948. He also received three Tony Awards – one for “The Cocktail Party” and two for his poems used in the musical “Cats.”

Richard Nathaniel Wright was born 110 years ago on Sept. 4, 1908. Many of his novels, short stories, poems and nonfiction works focused on racial themes, especially related to discrimination in the American South.

Three of his more popular books are “Uncle Tom’s Children,” “Black Boy” and “Native Son.” Another of his stories, “Rite of Passage,” was published posthumously in 1996.

THE LAST WORD “Nobody can do for little children what grandparents do. Grandparents sort of sprinkle stardust over the lives of little children.” – Alex Haley (1921-1992) L

Your

Visalia Public Cemetery Avenue of Flags

The Avenue of Flags, our best attended event, currently has nearly 2,200 casket flags that fly each Memorial Day. Our local Avenue of Flags committee is dedicated to the preservation and storage of these special flags. Each flag bears the name of the Veteran whose casket was covered by it at burial and is given a number which corresponds with its place in the Avenue of Flags.

to learn more visit www.visaliacem.org 559-734-6181 1300 W. Goshen Ave. Visalia, CA 93291

EPICURE

FALL MORNING FARE

R E C I P E S

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V A R T A N I A N ,

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ool mornings are calling! Cozy up to a table brimming with comfort: Chef David Vartanian’s Stuffed French Toast, Classic Eggs Benedict, Vegetable Omelet with Roasted Potatoes, and Chicken Sausage with Polenta and Tomato Sauce, accented with late summer and early fall produce, will warm you from head to toe. Don’t forget the Cheese Blintzes for dessert!

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FRENCH TOAST WITH PEACHES AND BLUEBERRIES INGREDIENTS 1 1/2 cups milk 4 eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon sugar 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 1 pinch salt 2 tablespoons butter 6 2-inch-thick slices of brioche bread 6 ounces mascarpone 12 tablespoons maple syrup 3 cups sliced peaches 1 cup blueberries 1/4 cup sugar 1 cup sweetened whipped cream Powdered sugar for dusting DIRECTIONS Whisk together the milk, eggs, vanilla, sugar and cinnamon in a bowl.

Cut a slit into each slice of brioche and stuff with 1 ounce of mascarpone.

Heat the butter in a heavy skillet.

Dip each slice of brioche in the egg mixture, then cook in the hot butter until golden on each side.

Place each slice on a warm plate and top with maple syrup.

Combine peaches, blueberries and sugar in a bowl and toss.

Top each French toast with fruit.

Garnish with whipped cream and powdered sugar.

Did you make these tasty treats?

Share your photos with us on Facebook and Instagram.

We look forward to seeing you online!

/LifestyleMag @visalialifestyle

#LifestyleVisaliaEpicure

LIFEST YLE | SEPTEMBER 2018

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CHEESE BLINTZES WITH ORANGE AND HONEY

EPICURE

BATTER INGREDIENTS

FILLING INGREDIENTS

3/4 cup all-purpose flour 3 tablespoons granulated sugar 1/4 teaspoon salt 2 eggs 1 1/4 cups milk 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons melted butter 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

3/4 cup ricotta cheese 3/4 cup mascarpone or cream cheese 2 tablespoons honey Zest of one orange 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract Powdered sugar 1/4 cup each of two varieties of jam Mix the ricotta, mascarpone or cream cheese, vanilla, honey and orange zest together.

DIRECTIONS In a large mixing bowl, sift together the dry ingredients and set aside.

In a medium bowl, combine the eggs, milk, 1/4 cup butter and vanilla.

Whisk the egg mixture into the dry ingredients until smooth.

Heat a crepe pan over medium heat and brush the pan with part of the remaining butter.

Pour in 1 1/2 ounces of the batter.

Tip the pan slightly to evenly distribute the batter and brown the crepe on one side.

Flip the crepe and cook until done, then remove from the pan.

Repeat the process until all the batter is used.

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TO ASSEMBLE THE CREPES In the center of each crepe, place a heaping tablespoon of the filling.

Fold the edges in on each side, then fold the top and bottom sides of the crepe over to form a rectangle.

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and brush with melted butter.

Place the filled crepes in the pan and cook for approximately 30 seconds on each side.

Place the crepes on warm plates, dust with powdered sugar and garnish with the jam.

100,000 Reasons to Vote for Craig Wheaton Because all kids are not the same!

Hired by Jim Vidak as Deputy Superintendent, Dr. Wheaton’s experience includes positions as high school counselor, community college instructor, high school coach, teacher, student adviser, assistant principal, elementary school principal, district curriculum director, and superintendent. He has been with Tulare County Office of Education since February 2016 serving as Deputy Superintendent.

Just a few of our community leaders and educators who endorse Craig Wheaton for Superintendent of Schools: Barry Sommer, Education Psychologist, Director of Advancement LUSD

Ralph Porras, 2016 President, Association of California School Administrators

Don & Shelly Groppetti

Dave Humerickhouse, Charter Board Member

Eric Shannon Pete Sherwood

Todd Oto, Superintendent VUSD

Don & Linda Sharp

Bob Aquilar, Principal

Donna Martin, Past Board Member VUSD

“I believe in and insist on accountability. I support strict school safety measures and high standards of financial integrity to make sure our tax dollars are spent in the classroom.”

— Craig Wheaton

Marie Pinto, Administrator Cindy Jacobsen

Go to www.WheatonForSuperintendent.com • Craig@WheatonForSuperintendent.com PAID FOR AND AUTHORIZED BY WHEATON FOR SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS 2018. FPPC NUMBER: 1401451

EPICURE

CHICKEN SAUSAGE WITH LIGHT TOMATO SAUCE AND POLENTA INGREDIENTS 24 ounces boneless chicken leg and thigh meat cut into small pieces 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped 1/2 teaspoon crushed red chilies 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon pepper 1/4 cup sliced fresh basil 2 shallots, minced Natural sausage casings DIRECTIONS Combine all ingredients, except the casings, in a bowl and mix well.

Cook a small amount so that you can taste it prior to stuffing the casing; adjust the seasonings as necessary.

Use a sausage stuffing attachment on your mixer to fill the sausage casings.

Blanch the sausage in boiling salted water for 8-10 minutes.

Grill or pan-sear the sausage in a heavy pan.

Slice the sausage and plate it alongside the polenta.

Place a poached egg on top of the polenta.

Top with the hollandaise sauce and serve the tomato sauce on the side.

LIGHT TOMATO SAUCE INGREDIENTS 3 tablespoons olive oil 1/2 small onion, diced 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 pounds ripe tomatoes, cored and quartered Salt and fresh ground pepper DIRECTIONS In a large sauté pan, heat the oil.

Over medium heat, sauté the onions and garlic until translucent.

Stir in the tomatoes and cook until soft.

Purée tomatoes in a food processor until smooth.

Return the sauce to the sauté pan and season with salt and pepper.

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SOFT POLENTA

HOLLANDAISE SAUCE

INGREDIENTS

INGREDIENTS

7 cups water 1 tablespoon salt 2 cups polenta 1 jalapeño, pureed 1 ounce unsalted butter 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese 1/4 cup basil, cilantro or chives

4 egg yolks 1 tablespoon cold water A pinch of salt and pepper 8 ounces melted clarified butter 1 tablespoon lemon juice A pinch of pepper 8 ounces melted clarified butter 1 tablespoon lemon juice

DIRECTIONS Bring the water to a boil in a deep pot.

Add the salt, then add the polenta in a slow steady stream, stirring constantly until all of the polenta is absorbed.

Continue to stir constantly until the polenta pulls away from the side of the pan.

Stir in the butter, Parmesan cheese and 1/2 teaspoon of the jalapeno puree. Stir in the basil or chives just before serving.

DIRECTIONS In a metal or glass bowl, combine the egg yolks and cold water, and whisk until creamy.

Set the bowl over a pot of simmering water and whisk the clarified butter, 1 tablespoon at a time, into the egg-yolk mixture. (The side of the saucepan should never be too hot to be comfortably touched by the palm of your hand.)

FUELING FOR THE GREATER GOOD.

559-651-1760 | 8601 W. RO OSEVELT AVE., VISALIA CA 932 91

CLASSIC EGGS BENEDICT

ROASTED BREAKFAST POTATOES

SERVES 4 - 8

INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS

3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, diced 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 medium onion, diced 1 red bell pepper, diced 1/4 cup olive oil 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Preheat oven to 425 degrees.

Toss all ingredients together.

Place in a roasting pan and roast in oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden and tender. Stir the potatoes every 10 minutes until done.

INGREDIENTS 8 slices good quality Canadian bacon 1 1/2 tablespoons butter 4 English muffins, split, toasted and buttered 8 eggs, poached 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon white vinegar Hollandaise sauce DIRECTIONS SautĂŠ the ham slices in the butter for a minute or two.

Place the ham on the toasted English muffin.

In a saucepan, simmer water with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1 tablespoon vinegar.

Poach the eggs in the simmering, salted water, two eggs at a time.

Once they are set, remove with a slotted spoon.

Place eggs on top of ham, spoon hollandaise sauce over eggs and serve.

(See Chicken Sausage with Light Tomato Sauce and Polenta on page 36 for hollandaise sauce recipe)

POACHED EGGS INGREDIENTS 8 large eggs 6 cups water 1 tablespoon white vinegar 1 tablespoon salt DIRECTIONS Place the water, salt and vinegar in a large frying pan.

For each egg, crack the shell and place yolk and white in a separate small bowl or custard cup.

When water comes to a boil, reduce the heat so the water just barely simmers.

Take each small bowl, one at a time, and carefully pour the egg into the hot water.

Cook until white is done and center is soft; remove cooked egg with a slotted spoon and place on top of the polenta.

EPICURE

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Welcome Dr. Christiansen!

VMC is pleased to add family medicine physician Christopher Christiansen, MD, to our family of providers.

216 N WILLIS STREET • VISALIA RESERVATIONS: 559.733.3033 thevintagepress.com

Dr. Christiansen completed medical school at Loma Linda University and his postgraduate training through the Kaweah Delta Health Care Christopher Christiansen, MD District Graduate Medical Education Program.

Now accepting new patients!

Jason Mihalcin, DO

Be Well

www.vmchealth.com

Visalia 5400 W. Hillsdale Ave., Visalia • 559-739-2000

Medical Clinic

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@windowsplusconstruction L I F E S T Y L E | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 8 39

OMELET WITH SMOKED BACON AND FONTINA CHEESE

EPICURE

INGREDIENTS 3 large eggs 2 tablespoons cream Pinch of salt and pepper 1 teaspoon cut chives 1 tablespoon melted butter 3 strips crisp bacon 1/4 cup cooked crimini mushrooms, sliced 1/4 cup roasted red pepper strips 1/4 cup grated fontina cheese 1/2 avocado, sliced DIRECTIONS Crack the eggs in a bowl. Add the cream, chives, salt and pepper. Whisk together.

Heat the butter in a 7-inch nonstick skillet.

Add the eggs and scramble slightly.

Using a spatula, distribute the eggs evenly in the pan.

Add the bacon, mushrooms, peppers and cheese to one end of the eggs. Fold the omelet over and let rest in the pan for a minute.

Place on warm plate and garnish with the sliced avocado.

40 L I F E S T Y L E | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 8

MAKING REAL ESTATE A REALITY FOR YOU

VACATION RENTALS

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

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

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RAINMAKER PRODUCTIONS T E X T

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ig game hunting. That’s what I would equate the work of Michael Cavale and Ryan Stillwater with at Rainmaker Productions.

Ever drive by the Fox Theatre and see a Grammy-winning name up there? It happens, and it happens more in a town of our size than in most places — which translates to a better quality of life for all of us, on multiple levels.

Michael has a passion for music— good-quality, highly entertaining music — and productions. But there was a time in his life when it was forbidden. A strictly religious stepfather and mother would not allow exploration into rock and roll in the ’70s, “when music was going crazy,” he says. The only music that Michael was permitted to partake in was choral opportunities with the family church. The musical oppression came to a head when he was kicked out of his San Jose home at age 17. He came to Visalia to live with his more openminded father. Here, Michael auditioned in 1970 and was picked up on a national touring rock musical production called “The Late Great Planet Earth.”

After his return from the tour, he went to work for his father at Cavale Collection Service. Michael’s passion for his faith and music had not been stifled from his experiences growing up. In 42 L I F E S T Y L E | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 8

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1979, he found himself married to wife Stephanie. Soon after, they moved to Tulsa, Okla., where they enrolled in school and joined a church.

While there, Michael witnessed an a cappella group who performed during the service. After the show, he had one question: “How do you get your gigs?”

The group didn’t have a clear answer, and Michael began his promotions journey as he created his own booking agency, specializing in contemporary Christian artists, creating one of the first booking agent genres of its kind. He had early and quick success working with names like Dan Peek, from the ’70s super group America, or Paul McCartney and Wings drummer Joe English. These artists chose to work with Michael when they explored outside-the-group projects. His client list began to grow and this made other production companies take note, so much that one, First Artists Management, bought Michael out.

Michael continued to work for his company for a couple of years, however, the couple made their way back to Visalia in the early ’80s. Michael continued as a booking agent, as well as picking up a position as an insurance agent, something he just retired from this past year. Along the way, in 1993, he

F O R R E S T

C A V A L E

decided to take his passion to the next level, beginning work as a promoter. The reason he wanted to do that was about his children and, in a way, it was about us, the residents of Visalia. “There was a lot of bad music out there,” Michael says of what was being offered in Visalia at the time. “I wanted my kids to see good, positive bands – quality music in message and performance.”

Michael backed up his desires to share positive music with his family and town.

He brought in contemporary Christian acts such as world-known Amy Grant and Michael W. Smith. He brought in Christian pop bands, such as the News Boys and Mercy Me. A popular group by the name DC Talk sold out the Convention Center. Mike contacted the manager and proposed that a matinee be added. The manager agreed to the request and the second show was also sold out.

In 2004, something big happened, a shift in Michael’s focus, again based on a move to honor his family. The collections company that Michael’s father, Frank, founded was turning 50; the company president told him that she wanted to do something special to mark the occasion and honor the memory of Frank Cavale.

Michael knew what he wanted to do, even though those he proposed his idea

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L I F E S T Y L E | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 8 43

LIVELY LIVING

Foreigner

to didn’t think that he had a shot. He wanted to book his first-ever secular performer by bringing Tony Bennett, his father’s favorite performer, to Visalia.

Here is where you can get a better idea of what a promoter does. At its most basic function, the position requires the promoter to put up a guaranteed sum to back the performer’s appearance. Bennett asked for a $100,000-plus figure. Michael went ahead and pulled the trigger. “I was scared, but it took off immediately and sold out within a couple weeks.” The success of that show was not only celebrated by promotions, or the attendees, but something else Michael feels strongly about, charity. “Every show I do, I tie a charity into it.” That night, the nonprofit Fox Theatre, as well as the local YMCA, benefited heavily from Michael’s gamble From that point, Michael included a

Boz Scaggs

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multitude of performers, not only from mainstream music, but also comedians who routinely sell out the Fox. He began bringing so many acts to Visalia that typically would have passed by that a local newspaper reporter dubbed him a “rainmaker,” and thus the name of his promotions company became Rainmaker Productions. Acts such as Chicago, Heart, Vince Gill, the Doobie Brothers and the B-52s, to name a few, have performed in Visalia.

To help with the continued success of things and a growing demand for the product, Michael teamed with Ryan Stillwater in 2013. At the time, Ryan was hustling to make things work at the Fox Theatre as a buyer and manager. “There were artists he could bring to the area I didn’t know about,” Michael says, creating a perfect fit for the production company. Ryan says his time with Rainmaker has “been a fantastic

Leann Rimes

B.B. King

experience working with a partner like Mike,” citing a “complementary skill set” that allows them to work off one another while performing as a team. The highlights since joining Rainmaker: “Bringing in Morrissey in August 2015 was a memorable day.” The iconic show at the Fox was actually covered by “Rolling Stone” magazine. “We were also proud to have presented Foreigners’ 40th anniversary tour stop and Jethro Tull’s 50th anniversary tour.”

To make a community work, we need people in the trenches, in all professions.

Oftentimes, the end result of most jobs go unsung, even when ultimately they bring others a better life. Michael Cavale is a man who never lost his faith or passions. He understands that serving a greater good through connections to charity benefits the community, not just those who purchase a ticket to the show.

Make it rain, Mike. L

Nancy Wilson of Heart

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559-651-6689 L I F E S T Y L E | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 8 45

' QUEBEC CITY '

THE JEWEL OF QUEBEC PROVINCE T E X T

A N D

P H O T O S

TRAVELER’ S

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s Canada’s largest province (four times the size of California), Québec’s fertile lowlands, northern tundra, vast forests and innumerable lakes are a huge area to explore. But it’s this province’s small capital and namesake city that best showcase the region’s rich culture and history. And as the sole Canadian province in which French is the official language, it’s the easiest (and friendliest) way to experience Europe without crossing the Atlantic.

With just 500,000 residents, Québec City is as vibrant as any large municipality, yet compact enough to be a walker’s dream – as long as that dream includes cobblestones, hills

and stairs. French explorer Samuel de Champlain founded that country’s first permanent New World settlement, built on a steep bluff where the St. Lawrence River narrows, in 1608. As one of the oldest cities in North America and the only one with complete ramparts (city walls), Québec is a living history lesson.

But old-world charm alone isn’t what attracts 5 million visitors annually; it’s the perfect balance between old and new that makes this city so inviting.

World-class dining, contemporary shops and modern conveniences – Québec has them in abundance. But here they’re surrounded by magnificent 17th-century spires, 18th-century mansard-roofed stone buildings and trompe l’oeil murals.

Historic Québec City lies within the rampart walls and is divided into two distinct sections: the Upper (Haute-Ville) and Lower (Basse-Ville) towns. Upper Old Town is the original governmental, religious and administrative center built on the steep bluffs of the promontory.

Lower Old Town was the site for merchants and trade at the foot of that same promontory. Travel between these adjacent city centers was laborious until a funicular connected them in 1879. This dual-car system’s steep, 45-degree angle gives passengers quite a view as it descends into the lower terminal (which was once the home of explorer and fur trader Louis Jolliet).

LIFEST YLE | SEPTEMBER 2018

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treK UPPER OLD TOWN HIGHLIGHTS: • Chateau Frontenac – Built as one of the Canadian Pacific Railways’ resorts, its opulent architecture is part medieval castle and part French Renaissance châteaux. The crown jewel sitting atop the city, the Frontenac holds the Guinness World Record for the most photographed hotel in the world.

Despite its age (opened in 1893), this beauty has all the modern amenities that one could want. It sports a long list of distinguished visitors, including Winston Churchill and Franklin Roosevelt, who met there to discuss World War II. • Dufferin Terrace - A scenic outlook next to the Frontenac, its wide wooden boardwalk provides magnificent views of the lower city, river and surrounding landscape. Spaced along the terrace are glass-topped stations to view the archeological remains of the original Saint-Louise fort. The bronze statue of Samuel de Champlain faces the former military parade grounds, which the first governor built as a public square in 1640.

• Citadel - On a steep slope 350 feet above the St. Lawrence River, the 37-acre, star-shaped Citadel walls extend for 3 miles. The largest and most significant British fortress in North America, it was built in 1850 to defend against American invasion and local uprisings. The Royal 22nd Regiment performs a daily, 35-minute Changing of the Guard ceremony, a tradition since 1938. Soldiers wear red ceremonial coats and black bearskin hats inspired by the attire of Buckingham Palace’s guards.

We were unaware that a cannon was also fired at noon and so felt quite fortunate to be so close as a soldier marched toward us, appearing to light a cannon. We assumed that it was for show. No, it was for blow! Feeling the blast more than hearing it, I jumped and let out a yell (at least I think I did since I couldn’t hear) and afterward felt as if I had walked into a wall. Many towns have chimes or bells to mark the hour; my hometown had the fire station’s whistle sound daily (no doubt jarring to unsuspecting passersby). Hearing that blast again on a subsequent visit (now from a distance!), we shared a smile.

Clearly being “blasted” is a rite of passage in Québec best appreciated with time.

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TRAVELER’ S

treK • Basilica Cathedral Notre-Dame Rebuilt many times because of fire, this is the most famous of Québec’s 150 churches. Occupying the same site since 1647, it has one of only eight Holy Doors in the world (a designation bestowed by the pope) and the only one in North America. Visitors can take a tour of the ornate interior and see the impressive golden-sculpted baldachin (canopy) in the sanctuary.

LOWER OLD TOWN HIGHLIGHTS: Ride the funicular or walk down the Breakneck Stairs to the lower town. Built in 1635 as the first staircase between upper and lower Québec, they’ve been renovated since and aren’t the death trap that their name implies. Steep, but with handrails, the landings along the way have shops, restaurants and pictureperfect views. Highlights include: • Place Royale – This is the original market square of this fur-trading village (known as Petit Champlain); restoration has filled the old merchant’s quarters with unique boutiques and bistros. It’s one of the most popular areas of the city; visitors are drawn by these quaint 17th- to 18th-century plastered stone buildings with their dormer windows, gabled roofs, large chimneys and shared exterior walls (called party walls), which extend above the rooftop to serve as firewalls. Notre-Dame des Victoires, the oldest stone church in North America, is also located here.

• Fresque des Québécois - Québec’s first and largest trompe l’oeil mural is located just outside the square. More than 4,500 square feet in size, it looks more like an extension of the street than a painting on the side of a five-story building. Tourists often take pictures in front of it as if they are chatting or posing with the wall’s characters (all pivotal in Québec’s history) or as they pretend to walk into the painting.

• Rue du Petit-Champlain - The oldest commercial thoroughfare in North America, it was voted Canada’s most beautiful street. The Petit Quebec Champlain mural, on a building at the western end of the road (near the funicular), portrays scenes of daily life and events in Petit Champlain. It was painted as if portions of the exterior wall have been removed; passersby become voyeurs as they watch, unseen by the painted figures within.

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TRAVELER’ S

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Basilica Cathedral Notre-Dame

Place Royale Fresque des Quebecois

Rue du Petit-Champlain

Rue de Tresor

Hotel du Parliament

• Rue du Tresor - A narrow street that has become an open-air gallery for local artists.

• Rue St. Jean - Filled with any and every shop and dining venue, this street is always busy. Stop by tiny Le Paingrüel bakery for amazing croissants and spiral orange pastries, and make sure to note the rampart gate, the oldest of the five large gates that were the city’s protected entrances. In summer, the street closes to traffic and becomes a festive pedestrian walkway.

Battlefields Park

passersby with its 43 water jets and sculpted figures, the fountain is stunning when lit at night.

• Battlefields Park - The 1759 Battle of the Plains of Abraham was the defining confrontation between the French and British empires for control of Québec.

Now the grassy expanse of this national park is a recreational paradise, with the surviving Martello Towers (rounded to deflect artillery fire) and educational Discovery Pavillion there to mark the conflict. The fine arts museum here is a bit like a mullet; it’s business-like neoclassical front and funky plantcovered and sky-lighted building in back merit a visit if only for the architecture.

• Grande Allée – This is next to Battlefields Park. This was where the wealthy and well-connected built homes in the early 1900s; now it’s filled with sidewalk restaurants and nightlife.

HIGHLIGHTS JUST OUTSIDE OLD TOWN: • Hotel du Parliament - Not a hotel, this is the province’s legislature, a design inspired by the Louvre Museum in Paris and completed in 1866. The lavish Fountain de Tourny in front was created for the 1855 Paris World Fair and presented to Québec on its 400th birthday. Inevitably drawing the gaze of

Montmorency Falls

• The Port - A promenade of art galleries, antiques and cafes, Québec’s port is a frequent stop for New England and Maritime Island cruises. To admire the city from the river without packing your bags, the Québec City-Lévis ferry departs every 20 minutes for the 15- to 20-minute trip each way.

IF YOU HAVE TIME TO VENTURE FURTHER, CONSIDER: • Montmorency Falls - This waterfall is only 20 minutes away and an aweinspiring 272 feet high, 90 feet higher than Niagara Falls. Visitors can walk over the falls on a suspension bridge (you will get wet), ride over in a cable car, “fly” past on a zip line, climb up the promontory stairs alongside or take it all in from the deck of elegant Manoir Montmorency Restaurant. Freezing in winter, the falls form an impressive cone of ice called a sugarloaf.

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TRAVELER’ S

treK • Gaspé Peninsula and Percé - A frequent cruise stop in the province, time and the sea have sculpted Percé Rock on Bonaventure Island into a must-see. Now designated a migratory bird sanctuary, it’s a frequent source of inspiration for writers and painters, and home to one of the largest colonies of northern gannets in the world.

No trip to Québec would be complete without trying poutine, a beloved Québec snack. Having suffered much joking and eye-rolling about my own comfort food from Maryland (where my taste buds matured), I’m always open to sampling destination specialties. Since my fondness for lumpy creamed-chip beef is probably due to the childhood memories it evokes more than its gastronomic fine points, I’m not always a fan of local treats. So while I won’t be craving another helping of Québec’s French fries covered in beef gravy and fresh, un-aged cheese curds, I will keep the eye rolling and jokes to myself. L

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"Old-world charm alone isn’t what attracts 5 million visitors annually; it’s the perfect balance between old and new that makes this city so inviting." - Cheryl Levitan

LIFEST YLE | SEPTEMBER 2018

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FASHION

IN THE LIMELIGHT–FALL FASHION COLOR TRENDS T E X T

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M O S L E Y

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ime green. Sky blue. Luscious lavender. Sound like the colors of a new autumn fashion season? Well, get ready to think outside the fall fashion crayon box.

According to the international color trend authority, Pantone Inc., we're in store for a few surprises for the upcoming year.

"There is a continued transition away from cyclical trends and instead a strong focus on self-expressive colors that evade antiquated seasonal structure," says Lea Eiseman, executive director of Pantone. "As a result, we are seeing some very notable non-traditional choices showing up in the fall/winter palette. These unexpected shades re-invent the seasonal color story and allow for the artistry and originality that moves fashion forward."

So, if you've still got that lavender denim jacket from last spring, don't stash it away just yet. Just mix it in with those autumnal favorites such as deep crimson red for a fresh new color pairing that will give your wardrobe a whole new vibe. In other words, feel free to wear any color you want, any time of year!

What a concept!

Here are Pantone's top 10 color picks for fall 2018: • Red Pear. This is a deep crimson shade of red with just a hint of brown.

Think Southwest desert tones. And if you really want to make a statement, wear this rich red color from head to toe ... complete with matching red suede boots.

• Valiant Poppy. Pump up the volume on that burnished “red pear” shade and you've got the brighter cousin of red in this vibrant hue. Mix both reds together and you've got the power color couple of the year. Actually, this red has long been a winner on the fashion scene.

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• Nebulas Blue. Had to look this one up ... a nebula is an interstellar cloud of dust, hydrogen, helium and other ionized gases.

Originally, nebula was a name for any diffuse astronomical object, including galaxies beyond the Milky Way. So this new blue for fall is a little darker than spring's baby blues and a little brighter. Pantone describes it as “reminiscent of twilight, a thoughtfulstarry-eyed blue.”

• Quetzal Green.

Another word search. The quetzal, a bird in the trogon family found from Mexico to Panama, is known for its colorful blue-green plumage.

The color is similar to a peacock bluegreen and is a stunner when combined with the starry aforementioned Nebulas Blue. In velvet, it's old-world sumptuous.

Watch for this color to be a favorite of interior designers, too.

• Ceylon Yellow. OK, the only way to describe this color is to think mustard yellow. Not one of my personal favorites, but in the right shade, it can be quite exotic. Brunettes and dark skin tones seem to pull this spicy color off the best.

• Limelight. A more pungent yellow-green, with almost a neon glow, this color is also for the brave fashion hearts. Wear it and expect to be the center of attention.

• Martini Olive. Another traditional fall favorite, the utilitarian military shade of olive has gotten a sophisticated upgrade from fashion designers who paraded it down the runways in everything from chic trench coats to camouflage suits.

• Russet Orange. Think of orange, a little deeper than pumpkin, and you've got the flavor of this earthy shade. As long as you don't look like you're celebrating Halloween in any kind of scary costume, then this orange can really reinvigorate your wardrobe.

Hint: Choose in small doses like accessories unless the thought of being compared to the Great Pumpkin gives you a particular thrill.

• Ultra Violet. Yes, this is THE color of the year, according to Pantone, which first declared it a top contender for the spring 2018 fashion season. The deeper violet now eases into fall and continues to inspire designers. Watch for the royal purple hue to be a big coat-seller for winter.

• Crocus Petal. A lavender color, this also seems to belong more in the spring season. But remember, we're starting to mix it all up now.

That's a more modern way to dress.

And while it may take some of us a little more time to get used to wearing Easter egg colors in the fall, expect to get used to seeing a more seasonless fashion palette in the coming years.

And who wants to pack away all those clothes every season anyway? Think outside the crayon box this fall and update your wardrobe with non-traditional autumn colors. L

Mike Moberly P.O. Box 7416, Visalia, Ca 93290 (559) 731-8975 Paid for and Authorized by Friends of Mike Moberly for School Board 2018, FPPC Number: 1409998

NEVER FAIL IN A GYM AGAIN. 6910 Pershing Ave. Visalia, CA 93291 • Phone: (559) 334-8990 L I F E S T Y L E | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 8 55

KUDOS

UNITED WAY HONORS COMMUNITY LIFESAVERS

U

nited Way of Tulare County celebrated Lifesavers in the Community at the annual Recognition Breakfast on Aug. 31. More than 350 people attended. Success stories from Nicole representing CASA and Adam from Visalia Rescue Mission attest to the work of United Way and how we all can live united. Although there are many outstanding individuals in Tulare County doing great work, the following were recognized: Advocate of the Year: Pete Vander Poel III Youth Advocate of the Year: Hope Reid Community Spirit Award: M.J. Eastes Community Investment Award: Quality Jewelers Spirit of Education: ABC 30 Thank you to Ruiz Foods, which was the presenting sponsor. L

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HAPPENINGS

Fee Free for Public Lands Day Head up to Sequoia National Park for free. Don't miss this opportunity to enjoy the beauty of nature and the giant sequoia trees.

When: Sept. 22, all day Where: Sequoia National Park Contact: www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/ fee-free-parks.htm AgriNation The ninth annual AgriNation invites you to taste its new fall product treats, venture through the Vossler Farm corn maze and take a pumpkin home for your own autumn fun. The Gold Mine Store will be on-site so make sure to bring your Cookie Dollars and Nut Bucks! $6-$25.

When: Sept. 22, 4-8 p.m.

Where: Vossler Farms, 26773 S. Mooney Blvd., Visalia Contact: (800) 490-8653, ext. 136, tboothe@girlscoutsccs.org Oktoberfest For nearly a decade, Oktoberfest has been one of the largest crowd-drawing events in the Central Valley. Samplings are offered from various restaurants, wine tastings, beer tastings from local breweries and live entertainment. The goal is to share the Central Valley’s best food, wine, beer and entertainment with the community. $40 in advance, $50 day of.

When: Sept. 28, 5:30-9:30 p.m.

Where: Vossler Farms Pumpkin Patch, 26773 S. Mooney Blvd., Visalia Contact: www.visaliachamber.org/ oktoberfest

Salsa Fiesta It's time to see who has some of the best salsa in Kern County. This is the first-ever salsa-making competition judged by local personalities. Prizes for first, second and third. Get ready for a fun day of salsa tasting, live music and a DJ! Event is 21+. $10.

When: Sept. 29, 1-5 p.m.

Where: Mercado Latino, 2105 Edison Highway, Bakersfield Contact: (661) 859-7503 Multi-Class Picnic for Visalia Union and Senior High School Come relax, eat, visit, enjoy, and spend a comfortable afternoon under the shade of the Mooney Grove oaks. There will be a vendor food truck and vendor ice cream truck. Beverages will be available from the vendors, however you may want to bring your own beverage.

When: Sept. 29, 11 a.m.

Where: Mooney Grove Park, 27000 S. Mooney Blvd, Visalia, Arbors 14, 15 and 16 Contact: (559) 627-3996 Fiestas en la Plaza Join us for a celebration of Visalia’s diversity honoring Latino culture. This event will entertain all who attend with traditional folklorico dance performers, mariachi music, dancing, children’s activities, community service booths and local Mexican cuisine.

When: Sept. 30, 12:30-4:30 p.m.; Oct. 28, 12:30-4:30 p.m.

Where: Garden Street Plaza, 300 E. Main St., Visalia Contact: (559) 713-4365 or recreation@visalia.city L I F E S T Y L E | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 8 57

Library Fundraiser Exeter’s Friends of the Library will hold its first Christmas Tree fundraiser, with a 7-foot fully decorated community holiday tree be awarded Dec. 4. Tickets go on sale Oct. 2 at $1 each, six for $5 and 15 for $10. Donate a new or gently used ornament through Nov. 30. An ornament crafting day for children is scheduled Oct. 13 during the Fall Festival.

When: Oct. 2 to Nov. 30 Where: Exeter Branch Library, 230 E. Chestnut Ave., Exeter Contact: (559) 592-5361

HAPPENI NGS

Breast Cancer Ride Take part in the Lost Girls Motorcycle Club’s annual breast cancer ride to benefit the club’s Mammogram Fund.

There is a “women’s only ride” and a men’s/couple’s ride. The cost is $25 per person, which includes lunch and a raffle ticket. The club was founded in 2006 as a nonprofit.

When: Oct. 2, registration 8 a.m., ride at 10 a.m.

Where: Starts at the Kaweah Delta Breast Imaging Center and ends at the 4-K Bar Ranch in Exeter for lunch.

Contact: lostgirlsmc.com or call Sunny at (559) 967-3974

Taste of Downtown Visalia If you know Downtown Visalia, you know we have the best food around. Come out and enjoy food from more than 30 amazing restaurants. We will have wine and beer tasting, too! There will be live music to enjoy while you walk the beautifully lit Downtown streets.

When: Oct. 2, 5-8:30 p.m.

Where: Main Street, Visalia Contact: (559) 732-7737, info@downtownvisalia.com Woodworkers Exhibition, Reception Arts Visalia will present both the annual 3-Dimensional Form and Function Exhibition, entitled “The Woodworkers,” and 2-dimensional artist Mikayla Gutierrez in October. Free admission.

When: Exhibition runs Oct. 3-26. Gallery hours noon-5:30 p.m. WednesdaysSaturdays. Opening reception Oct. 5, 6-8 p.m.

Where: Arts Visalia Visual Art Center, 214 E. Oak Ave., Visalia Contact: (559) 739-0905, artsvisalia@sbcglobal.net Round Up Join Happy Trails Riding Academy and enjoy a cowboy picnic BBQ, music, wine buy, parade of horses and a silent auction. Tickets: $35, tables: $280 When: Oct. 5, 6-9 p.m.

Where: Happy Trails Riding Academy, 2773 E. Oakdale Ave., Tulare Contact: Leslie Gardner, (559) 688-8685 Valley Oak SPCA Annual Wine & Wags Gala, Auction You're invited to attend Valley Oak SPCA's ninth annual Wine & Wags Gala and Auction, where you will enjoy a delightful evening of wine and food tasting, live and silent auctions. Hors d'oeuvres and wine/beer tasting and a full cash bar are available. Proceeds support Valley Oak SPCA's no-kill animal rescue mission.

Must be at least 21 years of age.

When: Oct. 5, 6-10 p.m.

Where: Visalia Wyndham, 9000 W. Airport Drive, Visalia Contact: www.vospca.org

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Western Round-Up The Visalia Mighty Oak Chorus invites you to come out to its Western RoundUp for a tri-tip BBQ dinner, silent auction, country music band, and chorus and quartet singers. $20.

When: Oct. 6, 5 p.m.

Where: Ritchie Barn, 16338 Ave. 308, Visalia Contact: Rod Robinson, (559) 8022500, visaliamightyoakchorus.org Plowing Through Time The Tulare County Historical Society presents Plowing Through Time, celebrating 70 years. There will be refreshments and history talks, a barbecue featuring tri-tip, chicken and sides prepared by the Happy Cookers, and live music by the Fabulous Studio Band of Porterville High and more.

Tickets: $50. Proceeds benefit the preservation of historic farm equipment.

When: Oct. 7, 3:30-6 p.m.

Where: Tulare County Museum, Mooney Grove Park, 27000 S. Mooney Blvd., Visalia Contact: Peggy Bragg (559) 786-4972.

Tickets: Lari Ohmen, (559) 799-1164 Annual Exeter Car Show Join the fun at the 11th annual Exeter Chamber of Commerce Fall Festival Rick Mosley Memorial Car Show. There will be hot rods, bikes, classic cars and more.

Free admission.

When: Oct. 13, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Where: Downtown, North E Street, Exeter Contact: Exeter Chamber of Commerce, (559) 592-2919

HAPPENI NGS

Veterans Fundraiser A Combat Veteran's Hope, a Visaliabased organization for combat veterans of all generations, is holding a yard sale fundraiser. All items will be donated by members and the community, with proceeds to help the group continue its mission to empower combat veterans through engagement with each other and their community.

When: Oct. 13, 7 a.m.-noon Where: Veterans Memorial Building, 609 W. Center Ave., Visalia Contact: www.acombatveteranshope.org

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A Night to Remember Embrace culture through HAPPENI NGS the arts and reflect on the event's emphasis on entertainment from different cultures. There will be Native American dancers and drummers, Filipino dancers, solo harp music, country musician Patti Torrey and a full dinner. There will also be wine tasting, chocolate sampling and more!

Tickets $50.

When: Oct. 13, 5-11 p.m.

Where: Nuckols Ranch, 13144 Road 216, near Porterville Airport Contact: Linda Hinojosa, lin_hinnie@yahoo.com, (559) 544-7325 An Evening on the Red Carpet Join as we walk the red carpet with local and national celebrities during the Visalia Emergency Aid Food Pantry’s third annual “Evening on the Red Carpet.” The event includes silent and live auctions, fine food and dancing.

Proceeds benefit the food pantry.

Tickets $75 per person.

When: Oct. 13, 6-10 p.m.

Where: Giant Chevrolet Cadillac, 1001 S. Ben Maddox Way, Visalia Contact: veac.org

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Annual Legacy Dinner Join ProYouth in celebrating Pat Hillman at the sixth annual Legacy Dinner. Each year, ProYouth provides 16,000 children with after-school enrichment programs, all in a safe and innovative learning environment. To become a sponsor or purchase tickets, visit www.proyouthexpandedlearning.org.

When: Oct. 18, 5 p.m.

Where: Visalia Convention Center, 303 E. Acequia St., Visalia Contact: www. proyouthexpandedlearning.org Springville Apple Festival Come to the Springville Apple Festival.

This annual event is appealing to all age groups. Since 1980, the small event has grown to be an impressive and wellknown festival drawing thousands of people every year. There will be food, refreshments, entertainment, music and vendors. Free admission.

When: Oct. 20-21 Where: 35680 Highway 190, Springville Contact: springvilleapplefestival.com Annual Pink Tea Party Please join us as Kaweah Delta raises awareness and celebrate those whose lives have been touched by all types of cancer. Featuring guest speaker Karen Mills, an ovarian cancer survivor and comedian. Cost: $30.

When: Oct. 21, noon-3 p.m.

Where: Visalia Convention Center, 303 E. Acequia Ave., Visalia Contact: (559) 624-2098, www.kaweahdelta.org/pinktea

Annual Harvest of Handwovens Education, craft show, fashion show/ bridal, general, community event, for the family. Handweavers of the Valley present their 39th annual Harvest of Handwovens Show & Sale, featuring a fashion boutique and yarn shop as well as handwoven garments and household items for sale. There will also be used books and equipment available.

Enjoy a raffle, demonstrations of spinning, weaving, felting, bead weaving, color-blending and dyeing of fibers.

Specialty yarns for sale. Free admission and parking.

When: Oct. 27, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Where: Exeter Veterans Memorial Building, 324 N. Kaweah Ave., Exeter Contact: Nikki Crain, (559) 561-4048 or www.hwotv.org

HAPPENI NGS

A Tribute to Veterans The Redwood High School Class of ’67 invites you to the dedication of the replacement plaque to memorialize Redwood High School veterans killed in the Vietnam War. The plaque will be a gift of “Class of 1967.” All financial obligations are being met through our classmate’s donations. Free admission.

When: Nov. 9, doors: 5 p.m., 5:30 p.m.

Where: LJ Williams Auditorium, 1001 W. Main St., Visalia Contact: John Moorman, (916) 987-8555, mooravn@aol.com, Kate Maddox, (559) 734-4976 Social Swirl Gala, Golf Classic The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Sequoias has once again paired two of Tulare County's most revered and praised establishments: The Visalia Country Club and The Vintage Press Restaurant. Food will be catered

by Executive Chef David Vartanian and his Vintage Press team. This weekend is a great opportunity for corporate sponsors to network as well as wine-and-dine clients and guests while supporting the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Sequoias.

When: Nov. 9-10, Golf Classic, 11 a.m.

Nov. 9; Social Swirl Gala, 6 p.m. Nov. 10 Where: Visalia Country Club, 625 N. Ranch St., Visalia Contact: (559) 592-4047 Holiday Marketplace Boutique Join the Central Valley Women’s Network for the annual Holiday Marketplace Boutique, featuring more than 150 vendors and a food court. $5.

When: Nov. 10-11, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Where: Visalia Convention Center, 303 E. Acequia Ave., Visalia Contact: Central Valley Women’s Network, (559) 731-4863

Impact Annual Car Show, Craft Fair Join us for our second annual Car Show and Craft Fair. There will be cars from all different eras and vendors with all kinds of goods to offer. There will be food on-site, and inflatables for the kids’ entertainment! $15-$25. All proceeds support Impact Youth Ministry at Grace Free Will Baptist Church.

When: Nov. 3, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Where: 9533 McCall Ave., Selma Contact: impactgfwb@gmail.com, (559) 978-0543

Small Business Saturday Shop local and support local this holiday season in Downtown Visalia to score amazing deals and get all your holiday shopping covered. Your favorite downtown stores will be open all day to serve you with a sale and a smile. So celebrate our small businesses this holiday season and Shop Local in Downtown Visalia.

When: Nov. 24 Where: Downtown Visalia Contact: downtownvisalia.com, (559) 732-7737, info@downtownvisalia.com L I F E S T Y L E | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 8 61

Candy Cane Lane Parade Come join the fun at our 74th annual Candy Cane Lane Parade. This parade is filled with all the sights and sounds of Christmas. There will be dancing, music, characters and the man himself, Santa!

So come kick off the holiday season with us.

When: Nov. 26, 7-8:30 p.m.

Where: Main Street, Visalia Contact: www.downtownvisalia.com

Holiday Open House Come to the Holiday Open House to get into the holiday spirit. Shop, enjoy a hot meal on a cold winter’s night, bundle up, go for a stroll and see all the sights. There will be carriage rides, Santa pictures, shopping and more. We’ll deck the halls along the streets. Carriage rides: $10 for up to four people. Santa photos: $5 each photo.

When: Nov. 29, 5-8 p.m.

Where: Downtown Visalia Contact: www.downtownvisalia.com

Annual Christmas Tree Auction Join us as we celebrate the holiday spirit by promoting local nonprofit organizations and helping them to raise funds. There will be a live auction and two silent auctions, wine tastings, lots of food samples and dancing. This is a black-tie gala for ages 21 and over.

Tickets: $20-$80.

When: Dec. 7, 7-10 p.m.

Where: Visalia Convention Center, 303 E. Acequia St., Visalia Contact: Visalia Chamber of Commerce, www.visaliachamber.org

HAPPENI NGS

62 L I F E S T Y L E | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 8

SUMMER’S COOLING DOWN. YOU DON’T HAVE TO. AFFORDABLE BREAST AUGMENTATION WITH NO BREAST SCARS, and LESS DOWNTIME. Call us today to schedule your own complimentary consultation.

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Know your surgeon, know your procedure. Dr. Stevens personally performs your entire surgical procedure.

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DrLechtman.com 5530 AVENIDA DE LOS ROBLES VISALIA

559.738.7572

ALEX LECHTMAN,

MD, FACS Board-Certified Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon