This issue is a love letter to the little things in life—with family at the heart of it all. Here’s to the road trips with fries in between the seats, handwritten recipes passed down like treasures, late-night talks at the kitchen table, and the stories that make us who we are. Wherever you go, and whatever you cook or create, may it all be rooted in love.
Features
The Beauty of a Stitch
Family Guide to Yosemite
Magical Max
Navigating Social Media and Smartphones
Root Picks: Board Games
Interest
Family
On the Cover: Photo by Sam Justice. Story on Page 26.
Krebsbach Law, APC
Will and Trust Lawyer in Visalia and California Statewide
ESTATE PLANNING
We are honored to continue to support our clients with tailored Will and Trust packages to assist with wealth preservation, asset protection, and life transitions.
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A Word From The Editor
“What’s more important than family?” It’s a familiar question, and for me the answer has always been clear. It’s a belief imparted not by words, but by actions. We are all products of our upbringing. I see it now in my thirties when I hear my dad's sense of humor, the one I winced at as a teen, coming from my own mouth. The years I spent in my parents' home truly defined who I am, and becoming a father has put the brevity and impact of that time into sharp focus. The fleeting nature of childhood hit home recently when my five-year-old daughter told me with teary eyes, “I don’t want to grow up. I want to always be your daughter.” My wife and I shared a look, our own eyes welling up, as we comforted her, “You’ll always be our little girl.”
That moment was a powerful reminder of the legacy we carry and the one we build. I was blessed to come from a family where love was an action. My dad was more than present, my mom is truly the best (and I’m not the only one who says so), my brothers are still my best friends, and my grandparents set an enduring example of support and generosity. They taught me that family is our most important responsibility.
In this issue, we delve into that very theme: the families that raise us and the families we choose to build. Enjoy the read,
SAM JUSTICE
Co-founder | Root Creative Marketing
Creative Editor | Lifestyle Magazine
Contributors
April September20252025
Stehpanie Steelman EXECUTIVE EDITOR
Daniel Borgatto GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Sue Burns CONTRIBUTOR
Dakota Jacobi-Stephenson HEAD OF SALES & EDITORIAL
William Yamauti GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Marissa Carpenter CONTENT EDITOR
Sarah Gonzalez ACCOUNT MANAGER
Natalie Caudle CONTRIBUTOR
Terry Ommen HISTORIAN
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All in the All Organic,
It’s a warm, sunny June morning as we walk through the orchards of Burkart Organics, family owned and operated since 1965. During our tour with third-generation farmer Alyssa Burkart Gonzales, a gentle breeze whispers through trees loaded with stone fruits, persimmons, and pomegranates in varying stages of ripeness.
Words by Sue Burns
Photos by Dakota Jacobi-Stephenson
Endless trays of apriums (an apricot-plum combination) are drying in the sun, ready to be turned. September commemorates 60 years of providing the highest quality organic fresh (and unsulphured dried) fruits to the local community and farmers markets up and down the state. Today that translates to about 50 varieties of stone fruits, persimmons, blackberries and jujubes, grown with experience, intentionality, and love.
Bob and Irene Burkart founded Burkart Farms in 1965. Though they met in the Los Angeles metro, both were raised on farms—Irene in Munday, Texas, and Bob at a local Los Angeles dude ranch. It wasn’t long before they felt the pull of their country roots and purchased a farm in Dinuba, where Bob had family. They established a wholesale and U-pick farm on 20 acres, starting with Emperor grapes, peaches, and nectarines. Over the years, additional property purchases expanded the business to 100 acres. Through the ups and downs of life, much of the land was sold, but Irene retained the original 20 acres, adding another 40 when she purchased the property next to her home.
Their son, Richard, now Burkart’s owner and farmer, was hands-on from the moment the family arrived on the farm. Participating in agricultural programs and competitions at Dinuba High School sharpened his skills, and he had many responsibilities that kids today would not have—like driving a tractor at age 12. He is the center of the business today. “My dad is the brains behind our farming practices,” shares Alyssa. “He is the reason our fruit is so amazing…he taught himself how to farm and does it at the highest level.”
Growing up, Alyssa helped with assembling wooden packing boxes, pruning, and fruit-drying processes, especially during summers. She vividly remembers washing raisins, pruning trees, and going with her mother to the San Francisco farmers market. She attended college, worked as an insurance agent in Monterey, and started a business there, but she felt the same tug to return to her roots as Grandma Irene had. She packed up her belongings, and with her husband Christopher, returned to Dinuba in 2013 to work on the farm. Their son, Asher, and daughter, Isabella, now participate in farm activities. You’ll find the family at weekly farmers markets in Clovis, Exeter, Hanford, and Visalia; Alyssa’s brother Chadwick delivers to several farmers markets in Southern California each week.
Both traditional and updated flavors grow abundantly on the farm. The orchard’s oldest trees, navel oranges planted in 1969, are still producing today. New crops (think donut peaches, apriums, pluots, and more) are added based on growing seasons through the year, stretching the availability of favorite fruits to meet growing consumer demand.
Alyssa’s favorite days of the week involve farmers markets, where she interacts with shoppers. “Everything we do is centered around getting the fruit to our customers…there’s nothing like being in-person with people that are buying and tasting and loving your products.”
Growing a successful produce business over 60 years comes with challenges. Mother Nature can force weather-related cancellations of farmers markets and, on a more daily basis, affect fruit’s perishability. Drying fruit reduces waste and makes favorite fruits accessible year-round.
Maintaining organic certification is also an intense process. As one of the first certified organic farms in Tulare County, Burkart Organics has kept their commitment to grow fruits naturally without the use of pesticides, caring for both the environment and their customers. Updating their name to Burkart Organics in the early 2000s ensured their image and marketing reflected these priorities.
Plans for the future include more ways to be active in the community, with two farm tours already given to international agricultural students. Alyssa appreciates the opportunity to talk with people from other family farms, while encouraging them to stay in the business. She hopes to offer farm tours to local schools and community organizations soon, and would love to open a farm stand on the property to serve the public.
Reflecting on how the farm shaped the narrative of her childhood years, Alyssa relates how living and working on the farm with her own children is now writing her “seasons as a mom.” She’s confident that Irene would share her joy in how Burkart Organics is growing and evolving with the times: “I’d like to think she would be very happy knowing I am continuing her legacy. It’s important to me that my kids know this is there for them in the future.”
For information on in-season fruits and farmers market locations and dates, visit: burkart-organics.com Instagram @burkartorganics
Handwritten, well-loved, never forgotten
A collection of treasured recipes passed down through local families, each one filled with the warmth of those who made them first.
Cenci alla Fiorentina
Served by Grams, after school, these bow ties or “lover's knots” are delicate, crisp, golden bites tied with love and tradition.
Ingredients
2 cups flour
2 whole eggs
2 egg yolks
1/8 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon grated lemon peel
2 tablespoons vanilla extract
2 tablespoons cherry wine or rum
Vegetable oil, for frying
Granulated sugar, for sprinkling
Instructions
1. In a large bowl or food processor, combine flour, eggs, egg yolks, salt, sugar, lemon peel, vanilla, and cherry wine (or rum).
2. Mix until the dough comes together. If using a bowl, knead for about 5 minutes until smooth.
3. Let the dough rest for 30 minutes.
4. Roll out dough very thin and cut into 1-inch strips.
5. Make a 1-inch slit about 2 inches from one end of each strip. Pull the opposite end through the slit to form a “bow tie.”
6. Deep fry in vegetable oil for about 1 minute or until golden brown.
7. Drain on paper towels and sprinkle with granulated sugar.
8. Store in a covered container or enjoy immediately!
Chocolate Fudge Cake
Cake Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1½ cups sugar
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 teaspoons baking powder
1½ teaspoons baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup milk
3/4 cup mayonnaise
2 eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup cold coffee
Ganache Ingredients
1 cup milk chocolate chips
3/4 cup heavy cream
Crostata (Italian Jam Tart)
Ingredients
3¼ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
7 oz cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
4 egg yolks
1½ cups jam of your choice (apricot, berry, or fig recommended)
Tip
Choose a jam with a bit of tartness to balance sweetness.
Instructions
Grandma Faye’s Chocolate Mayonnaise Bundt Cake with Ganache. Rich, moist, and surprisingly simple, this cake is a family favorite.
1. Preheat oven to 350F (175C). Grease and flour a 12-cup bundt pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, combine milk, mayonnaise, eggs, and vanilla; mix until smooth.
4. Pour wet ingredients into dry, add cold coffee, and stir gently until combined (batter will be thin).
5. Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake 30-40 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
6. Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack to cool completely.
To make the ganache:
1. Place chocolate chips in a heat-safe bowl.
2. Heat heavy cream until it just begins to simmer (do not boil).
3. Pour cream over chocolate; let sit 2-3 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.
4. Drizzle over the cooled cake.
Tips
Substitute dark chocolate for a richer ganache.
Use gluten-free flour for a GF version.
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, mix flour and sugar.
2. Rub in cold butter with fingers or a pastry cutter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add egg yolks and mix until dough just forms. Knead gently until smooth.
4. Shape into a disk, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 30 minutes.
5. While dough chills, preheat oven to 350F. Butter and flour a 9.5- to 10-inch tart pan.
Nona’s Classic. Buttery shortcrust pastry filled with your favorite jam, finished with a traditional lattice top.
6. Roll out 2/3 of the dough to fit the pan. Press dough evenly into the base and sides.
7. Spread jam evenly over the base.
8. Roll out remaining dough, cut into 1–1.5 inch strips, and arrange in a lattice pattern on top. Press edges to seal.
9. Bake 35-40 minutes until crust is golden and jam bubbles.
10. Cool completely before removing from pan to allow jam to set.
THE BEAUTY OF A STITCH
Inside the World of Langley Threads
Words by Lifestyle Staff
Photos by Dakota Jacobi-Stephenson
“TEACHING
PEOPLE TO SEW RECONNECTS THEM TO THE VALUE BEHIND WHAT THEY WEAR.”
alk through the doors of Langley Threads in downtown Visalia, and you immediately feel it. There’s a calm energy in the air, the hum of a sewing machine in the background, and the warmth of a studio that feels more like a creative retreat than a classroom. Beyond sewing lessons, this space also encourages students to slow down, reconnect, and create something meaningful with their own two hands. Langley Threads was born in 2021, when founder Hannah Rice began rethinking her role in fashion. She had spent time learning about the impact of fast fashion and the often unseen labor behind the clothes we wear every day. Long hours, unsafe conditions, and unfair wages are a harsh reality for many garment workers around the world. Hannah wanted to offer an alternative.
She began by designing and making her own clothing, with a focus on quality and care. But as the cost of materials rose, her mission evolved. Instead of making clothes for others, she started teaching people how to make their own. The result is Langley Threads, a studio built on the belief that sewing can be a powerful tool for creativity, self-reliance, and community.
“Teaching people to sew reconnects them to the value behind what they wear,” Hannah says. “Once you know how long it takes to make something, you start to look at all clothes differently. You see the labor, the skill, and the story.”
Her passion for heirloom sewing is especially evident. In a world where clothing is often treated as disposable, she teaches students how to create pieces that are meant to last, garments that can be handed down and remembered. Every stitch carries intention, every project tells a story.
But the philosophy behind Langley Threads is more than theoretical: It’s a hands-on experience designed for everyone, from curious beginners to seasoned hobbyists. The studio offers classes for kids and adults, weekend workshops, and private lessons. Students can learn everything, from how to hem a pair of pants to how to sew a garment from scratch. Every class is built around the idea that sewing is for everyone, no matter your age or background.
Hannah has watched friendships form across cutting tables and sewing machines. She has seen the quiet confidence that comes from learning something new. One of her favorite moments came during a beginner class where six first-time students arrived, unsure if they could even thread a needle. Two hours later, each person walked out having hemmed their own pants. “You could see how proud they were,” she says. “It wasn’t just about sewing. It was about doing something they didn’t think they could do.
Her studio was intentionally designed to feel soft and welcoming, with open space and natural light pouring through the windows. “I know it takes courage to step into something unfamiliar,” she says. “I want people to feel comfortable, supported, and seen the moment they walk in.”
And it shows. From the thoughtfully organized materials to the way Hannah greets each student by name, Langley Threads is a place that makes you want to stay a while.
In addition to group classes, Langley Threads recently launched a semester-long Sewing Club for kids. The program focuses on skill-building and culminates in a student-led fashion show. For adults, offerings include basics like Sewing 101, alteration classes, and creative projects. The studio is also planning to expand its lineup of adult classes in the coming months.
If you have ever been curious about sewing, this might be your sign to try it. Hannah recommends bringing a friend and jumping in together. “You’ll be surprised by how much you enjoy it,” she says. “There’s something really special about making something from start to finish with your own hands.”
To explore classes or sign up, visit langleythreads.com. Step inside
Hannah Rice
204 E Oak Ave Suite 5A, Visalia @langleythreads langleythreads.com
Langley Threads
MOVES for the whole family
In collaboration with Valley Strong Credit Union
Words by Lifestyle Staff
“With the right support and a few practical tools, families can take control of their finances, reduce stress, and build a stronger future together.”
“Money, money, money” is fun to sing along to in Mamma Mia, but not quite as easy to manage in real life. Between work, school, and the daily juggle, it’s no surprise that saving often slips down the priority list. The good news? With the right support and a few practical tools, families can take control of their finances, reduce stress, and build a stronger future together.
At Valley Strong Credit Union, supporting local families means offering real guidance that fits into everyday life. They’re here to make progress feel possible and approachable.
Start small. Dream big.
Saving doesn’t have to start with a big number. Opening a dedicated savings account is a great first step, and small habits—like weekly no-spend days—can really add up. One of the most popular strategies for families is the 50-30-20 method: spend 50 percent on needs, 30 percent on wants, and save 20 percent whenever possible.
For more specific goals, Valley Strong offers tools like multiple savings accounts, Club Accounts for school or holiday expenses, and even high-yield options for families ready to level up. If you're planning for milestones like college or retirement, their team can help you map out your next move with IRAs and long-term planning solutions.
Support that grows with you.
Valley Strong is here for the long haul. Their Certified Financial Counselors are available for one-on-one conversations, and members can explore financial literacy through the Zogo app, in-person workshops, or school programs at the Valley Strong Financial Literacy Center.
Wherever you’re starting from, Valley Strong is ready to help you move forward. With resources built for real life and support you can count on, they’re proud to help Central Valley families grow stronger together.
Visit valleystrong.com to explore tools, find the nearest branch, schedule an appointment, or school programs through Valley Strong’s online Financial Literacy Center.
Financial wellness that fits your life.
Life is busy, but managing money doesn’t have to be complicated. Valley Strong encourages quick weekly or monthly check-ins so families can stay on track. Through their mobile app, members can monitor balances, set savings goals, and even freeze a card instantly—all with a tap.
Automatic transfers are another way to save without thinking twice. Even five dollars at a time builds momentum. With tools that align with your payday schedule, Valley Strong makes saving simple and stress-free.
Raising money-smart kids.
One of the best ways to build financial confidence is to start early. With Youth Savings Accounts and tools like Greenlight, Valley Strong helps parents give kids hands-on experience in a way that’s age-appropriate and fun. From budgeting birthday gifts to earning allowance, everyday moments become real learning opportunities.
Visit valleystrong.com or branches located in Visalia, Tulare, Dinuba, Porterville and Hanford for more info.
WITH THE FAMILY:
A Place to Explore, Connect, and Be Amazed.
Words by Lifestyle Staff
Towering granite cliffs, ancient sequoia groves, crystal-clear rivers, star-filled skies. Yosemite National Park has a way of pulling you in, and making you pause in wonder. For families, this destination is an experience to be shared, sparking curiosity, deepening connection, and creating memories that last long after the trip ends.
Whether taking a drive from the Central Valley or flying in from across the world, Yosemite and its nearby towns offer the perfect blend of awe-inspiring nature, hands-on adventure, and cozy comfort.
Eats and Treats
Refuel with local eats that hit the spot after a day on the trails. These favorites offer delicious meals and sweet treats, perfect for everyone in the family:
• Pizza Deck – Curry Village
Hand-tossed pies served with views of Glacier Point— simple, satisfying, and right inside the park. travelyosemite.com
• South Gate Brewing Company – Oakhurst
Enjoy craft bites and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for parents and kids alike. southgatebrewco.com
• Reimer’s Candies & Gifts – Oakhurst
Old-fashioned candy, homemade chocolates, and hand-scooped ice cream make this a must-stop. reimerscandies.com
Flavorful, family-style Mexican food with generous portions and a friendly local vibe. plazuelasmexicanrestaurant.twupro.com
Adventurous Accommodations
The magic of Yosemite doesn’t have to end when you go back to your lodgings. Here are four great family-friendly places to stay that combine comfort with adventure:
• Rush Creek Lodge at Yosemite
Just minutes from the Big Oak Flat Entrance, Rush Creek offers a true lodge experience with modern amenities. Families love the pool, zip line, game room, and nature-inspired playgrounds. rushcreeklodge.com
• AutoCamp Yosemite
Perfect for families who want to sleep under the stars without giving up creature comforts. Enjoy luxe Airstreams and canvas tents, gather around fire pits, and unplug together. autocamp.com/location/yosemite
• Tenaya at Yosemite
A full-service resort just outside the South Gate. Tenaya offers indoor and outdoor pools, a spa, multiple restaurants, and seasonal activities for kids, making this a cozy base camp with a touch of luxury. visittenaya.com
• Sierra Sky Ranch
Nestled in Oakhurst, this historic ranch-style hotel offers rustic charm and quiet serenity. Its relaxed vibe and wide-open spaces are perfect for unwinding after a day in the park. sierraskyranch.com
Trails for Every Explorer
From toddlers to teens, Yosemite has a trail for everyone:
• Carlon Falls
A rewarding hike near Big Oak Flat with a stunning waterfall.
• Lookout Point
Begin at Hetch Hetchy and take in sweeping views.
• Tuolumne Grove & Merced Grove
Gentle trails through towering sequoias.
• Sentinel Dome–Taft Point Loop
Amazing vistas with just enough challenge.
• Valley Loop Trail
Choose a shorter 3-7 mile section through Yosemite Valley.
• Mirror Lake Loop
A peaceful walk with views of Half Dome.
• Tenaya Lake Loop & Pothole Dome
High-country favorites with wide-open skies.
Core MakingMemory
The real magic of Yosemite is in the experiences you share. Here are some unforgettable family-friendly activities:
• Ride the Sugar Pine Railroad
Hop aboard a vintage steam engine and glide through the forest. (Then try your hand at gold panning like a pioneer.)
• Picnic by the Merced River Cathedral and Sentinel Beach offer plenty of space to relax, snack, and skip stones.
• Scavenger Hunt on the Trails
Make a list of flowers, rocks, and animal tracks to keep little hikers engaged.
• Horseback Ride from Wawona Stable Saddle up with a real Yosemite cowboy for a scenic trail ride.
• Art Classes at Happy Isles Art & Nature Center Weekday mornings until October 24, drop in for nature-inspired art projects the whole family will enjoy.
• Fly Fishing with a Local Guide
Tailored trips for all ages and skill levels make this a peaceful, memorable way to enjoy Yosemite’s rivers.
The KindBest of Wild
Yosemite can help you connect meaningfully with each other. Pack the snacks, load up the car, and get ready for a trip that fills your hearts (and your camera rolls) with wonder.
SOIRÉE SUMMER
A midsummer night’s dream
In collaboration with Salt + Light
Words by Lifestyle Staff
Webelieve everyone deserves a seat at the table. Whether you’ve been walking with Salt + Light for years or you’re just getting to know us, we’d love for you to pull up a chair.
Join us for the fifth annual Summer Soirée— dinner, storytelling, and a dash of magic. The Summer Soirée is a fundraiser and a front-row seat to the movement.
This four-course evening fuels the future of The Village. Changing the story starts with showing up. Come to A Midsummer Night’s Dream: An inspired evening of purpose, beauty, and belonging.
"We
Salt + Light began with a simple but bold idea: What if the best way to help people out of poverty and homelessness was to build life in community with them, not just from a distance? That vision has grown into The Neighborhood Village, a permanent supportive community embracing holistic healing where neighbors are rebuilding their lives with dignity, stability, and hope.
We believe no one should face poverty or homelessness alone. We show up each day to create a consistent and meaningful community with our neighbors through housing, meals, job support, community activities, emotional, mental, and physical support, and the kind of relationships that help people heal and rebuild.
Be our guest, as we tell the tales that embody the heart of our work and the roads we're paving toward a more just, dignified, and hope-filled future.
This fall, you’re invited to sit at the table and join that story.
Doors open at 5:30 pm
Mystery Boxes | Live Auction Semi-Formal Attire Encouraged September 2025 20
Tulare Veterans Memorial Building
Pardini’s Dinner
MAGICAL MAX MEET
Words by Lifestyle Staff
Tulare County’s Master of Wonder
If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to have your jaw drop and your mind race with “Wait… how did he do that?!” Magical Max is the performer to see. Based in Tulare County, this young professional magician has already made waves in the world of magic, earning membership in elite organizations like the Academy of Magical Arts in Hollywood (home to the legendary Magic Castle), the Society of American Magicians, and the Fresno Magic Club.
Known for razor-sharp sleight of hand, a mischievous sense of humor, and a performance style that’s as mysterious as it is interactive, Max can turn any gathering into an unforgettable experience.
THE
Max’s story began on a middle school choir trip to Disneyland. While his classmates were lining up for rides, Max was captivated by the Main Street Magic Shop. Hours slipped by as he watched trick after trick, and something clicked; he wanted to give people the same joy and amazement he was feeling in that moment.
Since then, every performance he creates is tailored to his audience, his venue, and the mood of the event. One of his most memorable shows? A 3 A.M. performance for middle schoolers at an all-night lock-in at Visalia First Church, proving that his magic keeps people wide-eyed no matter the hour.
Though young, Max takes his craft seriously. Under the mentorship of magician Rob Zabrecky, known for his brilliantly quirky stage persona, Max continues to refine his skills. As a member of the Magic Castle Junior Society, he’s gained access to exclusive workshops, lectures, and one of the largest magic libraries on the West Coast.
His training extends far beyond California. For two summers, he attended the prestigious Tannen’s Magic Camp in Pennsylvania, learning from world-class magicians like Danny Garcia, Paul Vigil, Michael Carbonaro, Asi Wind, and Teller of Penn & Teller fame. He’s also been part of Magifest in Ohio and Magic Live in Las Vegas, rubbing elbows with legends such as Justin Willman, David Copperfield, David Blaine, and Penn & Teller.
The media has taken notice of this rising star. Max has been featured in The Sun Gazette and Redwood Gigantea, and has performed live on KSEE 24, with another TV spot lined up for KCAL in Los Angeles.
If you want to see the magic for yourself, you can catch him next at the Fox Theater before a free showing of Hotel Transylvania.
“RUBBING ELBOWS WITH LEGENDS SUCH AS JUSTIN WILLMAN, DAVID COPPERFIELD, DAVID BLAINE, AND PENN & TELLER.”
BOOK THE MAGIC
A crowd of hundreds or a private living-room audience, Magical Max delivers a performance you’ll be talking about long after the final trick. To bring a little mystery, laughter, and amazement to your next event, follow him on Instagram @magicalmaxmagic or visit magicalmax.com.
Words by Lifestyle Staff
Navigating Social Media and Smartphones with Preteens
A Parent’s Guide
Today’s preteens are digital natives, growing up with technology embedded in almost every aspect of their day. For parents, this creates a new challenge: How do you balance your child’s well-being with room to explore, connect, and grow in a connected world?
Here are some tips to confidently navigate the world of smartphones and social media with your preteen, without losing your sanity (or your Wi-Fi password).
Start the Conversation Early
Before your child ever downloads their first app, talk about what it means to be a responsible digital citizen. Set expectations around privacy, kindness, screen time, and what’s appropriate to post or share. Kids may not realize how permanent the internet is or how quickly content can spread.
Tip: Use real-life examples to guide the conversation naturally.
Set Clear (and Evolving) Boundaries
Boundaries aren’t about punishment; they’re about protecting your child’s time, attention, and self-worth. Decide what platforms they’re allowed to use and for how long each day. As they grow and mature, revisit these boundaries together. Encourage balance: time outside, face-to-face friendships, and hobbies away from screens are just as important.
Consider: A family tech contract outlining screen-free zones (like the dinner table or bedrooms) and consequences for misuse.
You don’t need to become a TikTok influencer or Snapchat expert, but having a basic understanding of the platforms your child wants to use will go a long way. Look into privacy settings, how messaging works, and what kind of content is common. Some apps have “disappearing” features that make parental monitoring harder.
Tip: Follow or friend your child online (with their knowledge) and explore their apps together. It opens the door to communication and shows you’re engaged, not just policing.
Kids mirror what they see. If you’re constantly scrolling, checking emails at the dinner table, or posting every moment, they notice. Model mindful social media habits: take breaks, unplug regularly, and talk openly about why certain content makes you feel good, or not so good.
Social media can boost creativity and connection, but it can also fuel anxiety, FOMO, and unhealthy comparisons. Help your preteen understand that what they see online is often curated and not always real life. Regularly check in about how certain platforms or posts make them feel.
The best parenting tool isn’t a control app; it’s trust. Let your child know they can come to you with anything. Lead with support and not punishment. As technology continues to evolve, so will the challenges. Just stay present, ask questions, and walk the journey together.
Bark
Offers robust screen time management, location tracking, app blocking, and detailed reports of online activity.
Best for: All-in-one monitoring with strong controls
02
Monitors texts, emails, YouTube, and 30+ apps for signs of cyberbullying, depression, online predators, and more. Sends alerts, not transcripts—so kids still get some privacy.
Best for: Social media and mental health alerts
Helps manage and monitor online activity, block inappropriate content, and track search terms.
Best for: General web supervision
Allows parents to set daily screen time limits, block or allow apps, and schedule screen-free time (like during school or dinner).
Best for: Families with younger preteens
Free and easy-to-use, lets parents manage app downloads, view activity, set screen limits, and track device location.
Best for: Overall monitoring
A STORY OF LOVE, TRAGEDY, & SURVIVAL
Words by Terry Ommen
It’sbeen said that the family is the cornerstone of society. Whether it’s nuclear, extended, or any combination of people who share an emotional bond, the family relationship plays an important part in people’s lives. And this special connection isn’t a modern phenomenon—its history goes way back.
One amazing Visalia story showcases how tragedy within a family changed everything, and how the community came to the rescue of an orphaned little girl.
Edward Farris Storey was born in Jackson County, Georgia on July 1, 1828. In 1844, the teenager left his native state with his parents and settled near Gonzales, Texas. By 1849, the adventurous young man was a member of the Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, and had already been a Texas Ranger and a veteran of the Mexican-American War. The same year, he married Adella Johnson and the couple had a daughter they named Julia Ann Adella. Tragically, Julia’s mother passed away, leaving the 2-year old toddler for her father to raise.
In 1853, Edward Storey organized a group of Texans to go to California. On horseback, he carried his daughter across Texas and Mexico, arriving in Mazatlan on the west coast. From there they went by ship to Monterey, California.
From Monterey, Storey and his daughter moved to San Juan Bautista, where he raised cattle and horses. He also reportedly helped organize a Masonic lodge while living there.
He heard of good cattle grazing land in Tulare County, so in 1856, Storey and his daughter arrived in Visalia. Presumably, he continued to raise cattle while also organizing a Masonic lodge in his new home. On May 14, 1859, his effort led to the issuance of a charter for the new lodge, and he became its first “Worshipful Master.”
Storey was active in community and lodge affairs, and in 1859 he ran for the office of Sheriff of Tulare County, ultimately losing the election to John C. Reid. Lodge activities—like being a featured speaker for St. John’s Day festivities, celebrated on December 27th— kept him busy.
In 1860 when his term as Master ended, Storey got a case of wanderlust. The silver ore discovery in Nevada, then part of the Western Utah Territory, had many fortune seekers excited, and the rush was on. He caught the bug and left for the Comstock Lode, leaving his 11-year old daughter with a member of the Visalia Methodist Church.
EDWARD FARRIS STOREY
THIS BRONZE PLAQUE, PLACED BY THE MASONS, IS MOUNTED ON ONE OF THE FACES OF THE MARKER.
When he arrived in the boomtown of Virginia City, Nevada, he joined a militia group called the “Virginia City Rifles”—a unit created to protect and defend the town. He was elected captain. At about that time, a conflict with the local Paiute Indians was brewing at nearby Pyramid Lake, so the armed paramilitary group left to confront the Native people. On June 2, 1860, the 32-year old captain was killed in battle, a casualty of what would be called the Paiute War.
His body was taken by wagon back to Virginia City, and on June 10th, the town gathered for his funeral. A procession made up of Masons, citizens, and a hearse passed quietly through town to the cemetery.
At the grave members of the Virginia City Rifles who fought with Storey gathered. (Storey County, Nevada in which Virginia City is the county seat, is named for Edward Farris Storey.) The Visalia Weekly Delta described the somber scene: “There came around the grave another band of brethren—his comrades in arms. Men, rough in appearance but bearing in their breasts, resolute though sorrowful hearts, as they performed the last sad offices for their former chieftain.”
When the Visalia Masons heard of Storey’s death, “The Lodge immediately met…and passed a resolution authorizing the Master to see that Brother Storey’s orphaned daughter was provided for, and authorizing him to apply to the court for appointment as her guardian. Joseph N. Thomas, the second Master of the Lodge, immediately filed a petition for the appointment of himself as guardian.” The court immediately approved his request.
Soon after, a man from San Francisco, said to be Julia’s father’s cousin, claimed guardianship. The lodge challenged his claim and said, “…that they would fight the matter through the courts and if that did not result in a decision that was acceptable to them, they would fight it out with pistols.” The San Francisco man dropped his claim.
In the fall of 1861, a woman named Lockley claimed to be Julia’s aunt. She lived in Snelling, California and offered to let the young girl stay with her for a short time. Thomas agreed, but later received word that she was being abused. Immediately, Thomas left to rescue her. When he arrived, the aunt said that she would have Julia ready for him to pick up the next morning. But when he returned, Julia was gone. The aunt had asked a confederate to take the young girl away. Thomas pursued and caught up with the abductor, and returned her to Visalia.
For the next four years Julia stayed with Thomas, her guardian, and attended Father Daniel Dade’s Academy of the Nativity school. On June 24, 1865, 15-year old Julia married John W. Williams, a wellrespected man who was over twice her age. The ceremony was simple and took place in the home of Joseph Thomas.
For over 35 years, the couple was happily married and became an active part of Visalia’s social scene. In 1902, Julia’s husband, a long-term Visalia City Marshal, died. Again she was alone. Julia lived for another 27 years, passing away on January 21, 1929, at the age of 79. Her early family life had been a challenge, but through it all she persevered. Both Julia and her husband are interred in the Visalia Cemetery.
Special thanks to Dallas Pattee for her helpful research assistance.
JULIA’S GRAVE MARKER AT THE VISALIA CEMETERY.
THE “SHAFT” MARKS EDWARD STOREY’S GRAVE AT THE VIRGINIA CITY CEMETERY. VIRGINIA CITY IS IN THE BACKGROUND.
Favorite Board Games Our
There’s something timeless about gathering around the table for game night. Each turn has the potential to bring everyone a little closer or spark a competitive streak. At ROOT, we love games that mix strategy, laughter, and connection. These are the ones we find ourselves reaching for time and time again.
Settlers of Catan
Cards Against Humanity
Chutes & Ladders The
Rummikub Monopoly
Cranium
Scrabble
UNO
Yahtzee
September Agenda
SEPTEMBER 10-14
Tulare County Fair
When: Gates open at 8am
Where: 620 South K Street, Tulare
Hosted by: Tulare County Fair tcfair.org | @tularefair
SEPTEMBER 13-15
The Dark Sky Festival
When: All day
Where: Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park
Hosted by: Sequoia Parks Conservancy sequoiaparksconservancy.org @sequoiaparksconservancy
SEPTEMBER 19
Friday
OktoberFest
When: 5:30pm
Where: Vossler Farms
Hosted by: Visalia Chamber of Commerce visaliachamber.org | @visaliachamber
SEPTEMBER 20
Blues & Roots Festival
When: Doors: 5pm
Where: Hanford Civic Park
Hosted by: Main Street Hanford mainstreethanford.com | @mainstreethanford
SEPTEMBER 27
National Park Free Entrance Day
When: All Day
Where: Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks
Hosted by: National Park Service nps.gov | @nationalparkservice
SEPTEMBER
28
Sunday
3rd Annual Witches Picnic
When: 11pm
Where: Mooney Grove Park
Hosted by: McIntosh Fantasy Designs LLC @mcintoshfantasydesignsllc
TULARE
SEQUOIA KINGS CANYON
VISALIA
HANFORD
NATIONAL PARKS
VISALIA
Looking Forward
The cool air drifting in from your kitchen window, the buzz around the latest viral pumpkin spice craze, the crunch of leaves beneath your feet as you head to the pumpkin patch. Obviously, we are big fans of fall. So, grab your tea, cozy up by the fire, and get ready for our next issue, centered around all things Autumn.
Autumn Issue
Published by Root Creative Marketing, 6759 N Palm Ave, Fresno, CA 93704
Executive Editor Stephanie Steelman
Creative Editor Sam Justice
Account Manager Sarah Gonzalez
Head of Sales & Editorial Dakota Jacobi-Stephenson
Content Editor Marissa Carpenter
Designers Daniel Borgatto, William Yamauti
Advertising and General Inquiries lifestyle@root.marketing
Sales Office 111 W Main Street, Visalia CA 93291 559.702.1383 View this Issue Online visalialifestyle.com
Visalia’s Lifestyle Magazine is published monthly and is distributed via direct mail to homes in Visalia. Additional copies are distributed at various rack and countertop locations around Visalia, Tulare, Exeter, Three Rivers and Kingsburg. Distribution is subject to change. Views expressed in articles and on advertisements are those of the writer and advertiser and not necessarily those of Lifestyle Magazine or Root. Every effort is made to avoid errors, misspellings, and omissions. If an error is found, please accept our sincere apologies and notify us of the mistake.
