Lifestyle Magazine February 2023

Inspiring Life In Our Community

Cover photo by Megan Welker. Story

Thoughts from the Editor

Iget

excited easily. Typically it’s about a new idea, a project, a “toy,” or an experience. It only takes a moment for my imagination to go into overdrive, and I start to geek out.

Through the years, my wife has gotten used to these “idea binges” and learned to help me temper my excitement with a little nudge or kind word. But, there are some moments when the excitement is warranted. And I think my most recent preoccupation is worth talking about.

Right now, I’m excited about sleep.

You might be thinking, “Boy, that guy is a little weird” or: “He sounds kinda lazy.” I’m not talking about the stereotypical teenage-weekend-sleep-binge kind of sleep, but a respectable seven-and-a-half hours of rejuvenating rest, each and every night. Sounds like a pretty middle-aged-dad kind of thing to be excited about.

Getting a quality night’s sleep is actually not a new infatuation for me. It started 10 years ago with my wife and I standing in front of the pillow wall in Macy’s trying to pick a “nicer” pillow. The hand-me-down, flat pancake, lumpy pile of fluff I was laying my head on each night was no longer cutting it. So that night we took home a beautiful pair of new Martha Stewart memory foam pillows that we got on sale. After that first night of quality sleep, I was sold.

I’m not ashamed to admit that I am now the kind of man that takes his pillow on vacation. That’s right, that kind of weirdo.

But I’m not alone. According to a recent Forbes article, “Globally, the ‘sleep economy,’ which includes everything from beds and pillows to medical devices, rings in at a whopping $432 billion a year*.” It sounds like the whole world is after a little bit of quality shut-eye.

There are now over 1.24 million published papers related to the effects of sleep and how it works. We know that quality sleep has tangible impacts on our mental performance, reaction time, sustained attention, insight, physical well being, metabolism, immunity, hormone production, creativity…I could go on.

Sleep is worth geeking out over a little bit, and I’ve done my fair share.

I now have an app on my phone that tells how well I slept last night, how much sleep debt I’ve accumulated over the last 14 nights, how long I’ll be groggy tomorrow morning, when I’ll be at my peak performance, when I might have a dip in my energy, when I should wind down for bed, and when my optimal melatonin window will be. (Between 9:50 and 10:50pm tonight, to be exact.) I actually just got a notification on my watch that it’s time for me to wind down.

I guess my point is that sleep is beautiful. And beauty rest is a worthwhile endeavor. Yet, even with all our scientific insights, the $432 billion invested, and my Martha Stewart pillow, there is still nothing that can replace the internal peace of a well-ordered soul, a good day of hard work, and tucking in next to the love of my life.

Cheers,

Eric Riley Executive Editor Lifestyle Magazine President / Owner Topograph

*Source: statista.com/statistics/1119471/size-of-the-sleep-economy-worldwide/

Contributors

February 2023

Scan here to read more about our monthly contributors, see a list of rack locations, or to sign up for a monthly subscription.

Tim Huitt CHEF/OWNER

Rossie Ballard INTEGRATIVE NUTRITION HEALTH COACH

Terry Ommen HISTORIAN

Katie Kalender WEDDING PLANNER

Mark Garcia

GRAPHIC DESIGNER/PHOTOGRAPHER

Joe Christianson PHOTOGRAPHER

Monica Fatica MANAGING EDITOR

Dakota Jacobi PHOTOGRAPHER

As we begin this new year, we want to continue learning and growing to better serve our communities. That's where you come in. We want to hear from you about what you enjoy, want more of, and would like to see changed.

Your opinion will help us shape future content and continue to celebrate what makes the South Valley an amazing place to live. Follow the QR Code to fill out this 2-minute survey.

Do Your Heart Good

Tips For a Healthy Heart

Words by Rossie Ballard

The heart is the most important part of the body, and works around the clock to keep us alive. Unfortunately, heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States and the No. 1 killer of women, causing 1 in every 3 deaths each year. Fortunately, lifestyle changes can be made that increase the chances of living a healthy life and reduce the risk for heart disease. Here are some tips:

MOVE MORE, SIT LESS!

Exercise is preventive medicine and can help lower blood pressure, improve your mood, and make you feel amazing! When you're stressed or anxious, it can cause high blood pressure by affecting the nervous system, which controls heart rate. But exercise (30 minutes three times a week) can help calm your mind and body through releasing feel-good chemicals (endorphins) into your brain.

Exercise ideas:

fitwithrossie.com

rossfitwarrior

EAT A HEART-HEALTHY DIET

A healthy diet can help you maintain a healthy weight, which can lower your blood pressure and reduce your risk of developing blood clots. High blood pressure increases your risk of heart attack and stroke, while high cholesterol and diabetes are major risk factors for developing heart disease. Foods to include in a healthy diet include:

• Vegetables including spinach and leafy greens;

• Fruits including apples or grapefruits;

• Whole grains including brown rice or whole-wheat bread; and

• Fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon or tuna.

MAINTAIN A HEALTHY WEIGHT

If you are overweight, losing weight (even just 10 pounds) can lower your blood pressure and cholesterol levels. It may also reduce stress on the heart and help prevent diabetes.

Below are some tips for losing weight:

• Set goals and new habits and find an accountability partner

• Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, protein, and healthy fats

• Plan/prep meals in advance

• Limit your fatty food intake (margarine, fried foods, candy, baked goods, ice cream)

• Downsize your serving portions

• Exercise regularly

• Drink plenty of water

• Track your progress

GET ENOUGH SLEEP

Sleep is vital to maintaining a healthy body. The CDC recommends adults get 7-8 hours of sleep every night.

The CDC advises people to:

• Maintain a consistent bedtime and wake-up time;

• Sleep in a dark, quiet place set at a comfortable temperature;

• Digital detox 2 hours before bedtime;

• Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and large meals before bed; and

• Exercise. Physical activity during the day makes it easier to fall asleep. If you are still having trouble sleeping, try taking a warm bath, drinking chamomile tea, meditating (try Calm, Abide, or Headspace apps), or the 20/20 rule: If you’re awake in bed for over 20 minutes, go do something else for 20 minutes and try again.

OTHER CONTRIBUTING FACTORS

Smoking: This is a hard habit to break but there are many nicotine replacement therapies (patches or gum) that can reduce cravings and dependency.

Stress: Chronic stress may lead to high blood pressure, which can increase risk for heart attack and stroke. Manage stress by practicing self care through exercise, nature walks, meditation, and regularly doing things that bring you joy.

“Take care of your body. It’s the only place you have to live.” – Jim Rohn

Self Care through skin care

by Lifestyle Staff

Whetheryou want a special glow or you simply need a daily skincare routine, choosing the right products and regimen that is best for your skin is a vital step to achieving your goals. CreekSide Day Spa has been beauty and skincare focused for the past 25 years. We asked them to share their history, expertise, and a few of their favorite products and services.

Q: Please share the services you specialize in, and how long you’ve been in operation.

A: We specialize in “self care.” From full body massages to all things skin health. CreekSide has been in operation since 1998, as one of the Valley’s first medispas!

Q: What is the importance of skin health and are there any misconceptions people have around it?

A: Your skin is your largest organ. It protects absolutely everything on the inside, so it’s very important to take care of it. Everybody’s skin is different, but right now social media is so popular that people will buy products that are “trending” or “viral” when it’s not always the best product for them. It’s really important to see a skincare specialist to find what’s right for you.

Q: Are there any new products or innovative tools in your industry that you’re excited about?

A: We LOVE ZO products! We can create a customized protocol for any skin type and concern. We recently brought in two brand-new HydraFacial Machines that include LightStim Technology. This 2-in-1 treatment can ensure you are glowing on any occasion!

Interview

takeaways:

Q: What tips would you give someone to help find their best skincare routine?

A: First, we recommend consulting with a skin care specialist since everybody’s skin is unique. We do offer complimentary consultations, where product and treatment recommendations are customized to your individual goals and needs. Ongoing care also ensures you are getting the best results.

Q: Are there any services, products or routines you would recommend to a bride and groom that would help them on their big day?

A: We recommend building skincare into your budget from the start and scheduling a consultation immediately. Skin concerns take time to correct and maintain. This also applies to facials, we recommend starting facials regularly to ensure you have the perfect treatment for your skin! You should never have a facial for the very first time the week of your wedding.

Another great stop is our Laser Center that offers a variety of treatments for face and body! Botox injections performed by one of our skilled nurses, trained by Dr. Stevens, are an excellent treatment to have done weeks prior to the big day to ensure you are picture perfect. We actually recommend starting treatments months prior to ensure the results are exactly what you want.

It is not uncommon for the bride and groom to be nervous on their big day. And nerves often means sweat. A great treatment for this is underarm (axilla) Botox! Botox is FDA-approved to treat excessive sweating, which means one less thing to worry about on the big day.

And don’t forget about the honeymoon! Laser hair removal is a great option to ensure smooth skin for both your wedding day and all honeymoon long. It is important to start laser hair removal as soon as possible to ensure the best results—it takes multiple treatments for removal.

Q: Is there anything else you'd like to share with us?

A: It is always important to remember everyone is different, and skin health is a lifestyle change! Our top three takeaways: the sooner you start, the better; consistency is key; and give yourself grace. Don’t wait until you have concerns you want to correct. Start with prevention and maintenance. Great skincare is important for anyone—any age, any skin type.

Our top three

the sooner you start, the better; consistency is key; and give yourself grace.

Planning for Forever

Whether your wedding will be small and minimalistic or large and elaborate, you’ll still need to set a budget, gather inspiration, make a guest list, and find a location (among other details). Focusing on one thing at a time and outsourcing help with a planner will help you get to the aisle with a little less stress. Local wedding planner Katie Kalender shares some tips and ideas for organizing your big day.

Venue vs Backyard Wedding

Once engaged, most couples start to think about their wedding date, color schemes, and bridal party, shares Katie. But one of the biggest decisions is whether to rent a venue or have a backyard wedding. Have your budget in mind and get your notepad ready.

Venue Rental

QUESTIONS TO ASK:

What is the average cost of a wedding here? † How long is my venue rental and what are the fees if we go over our contracted number of hours? † What time do you require the reception to end, and when is everyone required to be off venue property? † Are outside rentals allowed? If so, when can they be dropped off and when do they need to be picked up? † What is your max capacity? What is your max capacity for vehicles? † Do you have a preferred vendor list and/or a closed vendor list that I need to be aware of? † Is there a bridal suite or space where the bride and bridesmaids can get ready?

†

For an outdoor wedding venue, what are the rain backup plan options?

ribbonandleaf ribbonandleafevents.com

Backyard Set Up

EVERYTHING YOU NEED:

Wedding planner/coordinator. Have someone handle the details on your behalf for your special day.

Power source vendor. They’ll make sure you can plug in your lights, DJ equipment, catering equipment, restroom trailer and coffee pots without tripping a breaker mid-reception.

Lighting vendor. Walk around the backyard at the time of year you plan to have the wedding at night, to ensure there’s plenty of lighting to keep guests comfortable and safe on the property.

Restroom trailer. Be sure there is a water and power source available.

Layout and property diagram. Indicate power sources, sprinklers/water lines, parking areas and the layout for everything else.

Caterer. They should have their own cooking equipment and work well in a backyard setting. You’ll likely need to build out a kitchen and prep area for them. Provide a small, well-lit tent for covering, too.

Quality rental company. Bring in everything, from the tent to the salt and pepper shakers.

Tent. Unless you have a covered structure that could be used in a case of a plan B, having extra room in the budget for a tent is critical.

Parking and lighting for the parking area.

Bottom line: Because it’s being built from the ground up, a backyard wedding might cost you more in the long run.

Words by Katie Kalender | Photo by Kelli Avila

spend where you want, save where you must!

Splurge

• Wedding planner/coordinator.

• Photographer.

• Videographer. Too pricey? Ask for the smallest package and add on your raw footage.

• Upgraded chairs. It’s worth the splurge if design aesthetic is important to you—chairs show up in most photos.

• Floor-length table linens.

• Florals and live plants. Their freshness and texture can completely transform an entire space. If full centerpieces aren’t in the budget, splurge on some statement pieces, adding minimal greens and candles or plants from a local nursery elsewhere that you can later enjoy in your new home.

Save

• Opt for a later wedding start time to offer guests desserts and coffee instead of a full sit-down meal.

• Choose buffet-style dinner service vs. plated or family-style dinner service. Try a burger bar instead of chicken or steak.

• Skip the Save the Dates and send your invitation earlier.

• Offer beer, wine, and a signature cocktail instead of an open bar.

• Skip the champagne toast.

Only you know your limits for your budget, your time, and your energy. Planning ahead now means a smoother event later!

DEVAN + KRISTEN

From the Couple

If you create a clear vision of what you want your marriage to look like, and let that help create the vision for your wedding day, everything else will fall into place. Soak in the little details and make those parts of your planning a priority with your partner. Plan a date night around setting your guest list, go on a walk and talk about what you both envision for your day, or do a pizza night to talk about your honeymoon plans. Things will not turn out perfect (nothing is) but that is okay. Remember you’re marrying your best friend, and you get a chance to share that with all your favorite people. Cherish every single moment leading up to your big day, and more importantly: Enjoy this day that you’ve been looking forward to for so long.

Planner: Kristen Liles (Bride) | Venue: Tivoli Italian Villa | Photographer: Dakota Lynn Photography | Florist: By Design Florals Stationery: Zazzle | Bride’s Attire: Made with Love | Groom’s Attire: Men’s Wearhouse | Make-up & Hair: Glow with the Duo Catering: Tivoli Italian Villa | Cake/Dessert: Elizabeth Oliver | DJ/Musician: Complete Weddings | Seating Chart & Signage: Zazzle, House of Rounds | Furniture Rentals: Tivoli Italian Villa

From the Couple

Hiring a planner was one of the best decisions I made. We only had six months to plan our destination wedding, and our planner helped alleviate unforeseen stress and issues that arose. I also had a Mehndi party, which is a traditional Pakistani pre-wedding ceremony, and the whole weekend came together beautifully as an extended celebration with our family and friends. Planning during the pandemic also taught me to let go of expectations and be flexible when things didn’t go as planned. Having this mindset allowed me to slow down and be present; to take in as many special moments as possible.

From the Couple

Wade and I both went to college out of state, so we invited our out-of-town guests to come to our rehearsal dinner, and it was a great opportunity to spend extra time with them and a sweet way to kick off the wedding weekend. On the day of the wedding, if you can, take a couple of minutes during the morning and walk around the ceremony and reception areas with your groom. It’s a great grounding moment with your partner, helps alleviate some wedding day nerves, and it's fun to see all of your tiny decisions come to life before the whirlwind of the day begins. Most importantly, it’s your wedding day and you are marrying your best friend. Have fun!

Planner: Ribbon & Leaf Events | Venue: Private Residence | Photographer: Kelli Avila Photo | Videographer: Iron & Fern Film Co. | Florist: Sweet Memories Flowers | Stationery: Willemina Typography | Bride’s Attire: What's Up Europe! | Groom’s Attire: Men’s Wearhouse | Make-up & Hair: Beauty by Emily Barton | Catering: Fugazzis | Bartending: Fugazzis | Cake/Dessert: All About the Cake | DJ/Musician: GTE Event Group & DJ Smooth | Seating Chart & Signage: Willemina Typography | Furniture Rentals: Standard Event Rentals & Found Rental Co. | Plant Rentals: Tropics by Design | Drapery: The Linen Shoppe & KSB Company

From the Couple

Hire a planner, hire a planner, hire a planner! Choosing a planner that you trust and vibe with will make everything so much easier— they’ll know the area and best vendors to work with. Save yourself the headache (and possibly money, since a good planner will help you stay on budget, too). I'm a sucker for a good photobooth moment, and I'm so glad we decided to add one at the last minute; our guests loved it. Follow your heart on certain design or day elements that you really, really want. One of our favorite postwedding purchases was an electronic picture frame that cycles through all of our favorite wedding photos. I highly recommend it!

GREG + AMANDA

Planner: Vanessa Noel Events | Venue: Villa Loriana SLO | Photographer & Videographer: Ellie Koleen Photography | Florist: Noonan’s Designs | Stationery: Paper Culture | Bride’s Gown: Leanne Marshall | Groom’s Suit: J Hilburn; Reception Tux: The Black Tux Make-up & Hair: The Queen Bees | Catering: Field to Table | Bartending: Copper & Crystal Cake/Dessert: Lilac Patisserie + Noonan's Designs floral arrangement on cake

DJ/Musician: Strings: Mariposa Strings; DJ: Party Proper | Seating Chart & Signage: Fête and Quill | Furniture Rentals: All About Events, Avenue 12, La Tavola

Capturing the Moment

Words & Photos by Dakota Jacobi

You’ve

put a lot of hard work into planning your special day, from color palettes to the menu to the guest list. And finding the right photographer is just as important. In fact, it’s key to capturing the mood in your memories. The photographer also puts in significant work before, during, and after your special day. Since every photographer has their own brand, be sure their style aligns with your vision. Here are some extra tips and things to consider when hiring the photographer who will be the right fit for you.

STYLE & BRAND

First, look at their editing style. Do you like the tones they use and the overall feel of their edits? What colors do they tend to gravitate towards, and does their style appeal to you? Find examples of other wedding parties and see if the final product aligns with what you have in mind.

ARE WE A FIT?

Once you're completely convinced you love their style, make sure you can vibe with them! Schedule a phone call or plan to meet for coffee. Your photographer will be with you throughout the entire wedding planning process, so make sure you are on the same page.

THE MEET UP

Here are some things to discuss during your sit down:

1. What's their career history like? How long have they been a photographer? Have they always photographed weddings?

2. Ask to see a full gallery from a wedding they've shot in the past year. This will give you an idea of what kind of shots they prioritize!

3. Let them know of any expectations you have for your wedding day up front. Talk about how you'd like to feel and whether you want the "perfect shot" no matter what, or if you'd prefer them to keep a low profile.

4. What is their favorite part of being a wedding photographer? If you don't like their answer, they probably aren't a good fit.

THE BIG DAY

Once you decide on a photographer and commit to hiring them, trust them! There is nothing better than a photographer who is trusted by their clients. Trust equals creative freedom, and the more creative freedom a photographer has, the more likely they are to deliver a beautiful, creative, and diverse wedding gallery.

RIGATONI PASTA

with Cracked Red Pepper

Recipes by Tim Huitt, Valley Eatery, Visalia, CA Photos by Topograph

INGREDIENTS

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

1 medium red onion, chopped small (approx. 2 cups)

1 - 1 1/2 tablespoons garlic, minced

2 tablespoons crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

1 tablespoon fresh oregano, minced (to substitute dried, use 1 teaspoon)

1 cup vodka (we used Grey Goose Vodka)

2- 28 oz cans San Marzano whole tomatoes (we used Cento brand)

2 teaspoons salt, plus more to taste

1 lb rigatoni

1 cup heavy cream

DIRECTIONS

1. Heat olive oil in a deep saute pan. Add onions, cook until translucent (5 mins). Stir frequently to prevent burning. Add garlic and stir until fragrant (1 min).

2. Add optional red pepper flakes and fresh oregano. Cook for 1 minute. Carefully add the vodka to the saute pan and simmer for 5 minutes, allowing to reduce by half.

3. In a separate bowl, add 2 cans of whole tomatoes and crush them with your hands. When done, carefully add to the pan. Add 2 teaspoons salt. When the sauce starts to bubble, turn heat down to a simmer and cook for 60-90 min. Stir frequently to avoid scorching. Sauce will reduce and thicken. Turn off the heat and let cool.

4. In a stock pot, add 4 quarts of water and season it with salt. Bring to a boil over high heat. Add rigatoni and cook according to package directions.

5. In a blender, or with an immersion blender, blend the sauce in batches until smooth. Return to pan when blended.

6. Reheat the sauce over medium heat. Whisk in cream. Taste and adjust salt if necessary. Simmer sauce for 8-10 minutes until fully heated. Toss sauce with cooked pasta and serve.

valleyeatery

CHOCOLATE RICOTTA CAKE with

Rosé Soaked Strawberries

INGREDIENTS

3 eggs

1 cup granulated sugar

1 1/2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese … 6 oz semisweet chocolate (1-½ 4oz bars) … 1 1/2 cups flour … pinch of salt … 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat the oven to 350 F.

1 teaspoon vanilla extract … 2 tablespoons milk

powdered sugar to garnish … 1 pound strawberries, quartered or diced … 1/4 - 1/2 cup rosé (optional; we used Cupcake Vineyards Rosé)*

1-2 tablespoons granulated sugar

2. To make the rosé strawberries: Hull and dice or quarter fresh strawberries and place in a bowl. Cover with 1-2 tablespoons sugar and rosé. The rosé should just cover the strawberries. We don’t want them swimming in the wine. Use a spoon to toss the strawberries. Cover with plastic wrap and place in the fridge to macerate.

3. Prepare an 8-inch cake tin. Butter or spray (with nonstick cooking spray) the tin then coat in flour all around.

4. In a stand mixer or with a handheld mixer, beat the eggs and sugar together until thick and creamy. Mixture will be pale yellow. Add in the ricotta in 2-3 batches to make sure it mixes into your eggs and sugar.

5. Melt the chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl for 30 seconds, then stir. Repeat this process until the chocolate is completely melted. You can also do this over a double boiler, but be careful not to burn the chocolate. Remove from heat or the microwave and let cool.

6. Sift the flour, salt, and baking powder. Using a spatula, fold it into the egg mixture.

7. Add the cooled chocolate and vanilla extract to the batter. Mix. Add in the milk and mix again.

8. Pour the batter into your prepared 8-inch cake tin.

9. Bake for 30-40 minutes. At 30 minutes, check the cake by inserting a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, then the cake is ready. If not, leave it in the oven for the remainder of the time. When finished, let cool completely. Dust the cake with powdered sugar and serve with your rosé-soaked strawberries and a drizzle of leftover chocolate sauce.

*Note: Prep strawberries without rosé for minors.

Stay

iP kc Y o u r D a te

Words by Lifestyle Staff

Running on empty when it comes to romantic inspiration? Redeem yourself from the endless dinner-and-a-movie cycle with a few new creative activities to do together.

Go Eat

Learn a new card game. (Cribbage, Gin Rummy, War)

Book a staycation. (Darling Hotel, Three Rivers airbnb on the river, local farmstay)

Grab your favorite beverage to sip and stroll a downtown mural district.

Build something together that's not IKEA.

Attend a music show. (Visalia Fox Theatre or Cellar Door)

Go record shopping. (Velouria Records, Visalia Vintage and Antiques, etc.)

Have lunch with an ocean view in Cambria.

Make a gourmet meal at home together.

Do

Take kayaking lessons at sunset.

horseback riding on a trail.

Go

Take a boozy tour.

Go mini golfing at Adventure Park.

Set up a scavenger hunt. Find a hike in Sequoia National Park.

Eat a progressive meal out. (Drinks, meal, and dessert at different places).

Attend a workout class together.

Have a spa night with candles, music, and your favorite beverages.

Find a trivia night. The Beauty Issue 39

Go skating at Roller Towne.

Attend a recipe club dinner.

Set up a projector movie night outside.

Pack a picnic and head to a park or river.

Ski or snowboard at China Peak.

STARS IN THE SIERRAS: THE DRAMA OF THE SEQUOIAS

Words & Photos provided by Terry Ommen

The Sierra Nevada mountain range dominates California. When early Spanish explorers saw the series of snowy mountains, they named it Sierra, meaning “jagged mountain range,” and Nevada, meaning “snowy.” The impressive collection of granite peaks, alpine valleys, and crystal clear lakes stretches more than 400 miles long and spans 50 to 80 miles wide. Many consider it to be the longest unbroken mountain range in North America. It truly is a land of superlatives. It hosts Lake Tahoe, the largest alpine lake in North America; Mt. Whitney, the highest point in the contiguous United States; and General Sherman, which is, by volume, the largest tree in the world. John Muir was so moved by it he said, “Of all the mountain ranges I have climbed, I like the Sierra Nevada the best,” and christened it the “Range of Light.”

But despite its awe-inspiring beauty, this charmer is more than just a pretty face. It’s also been witness to considerable California history. It watched as the Miwok people hunted and gathered food there, and saw mountain men and trappers like Kit Carson explore its rivers and valleys. The Sierra offered a comfortable haven for those trying to escape hot summer heat, but it also became the last resting place for travelers like members of the doomed Donner Party, who found themselves trapped in treacherous blizzard snow. But its historic heyday happened when gold nuggets were found in its streambeds—a discovery that set off a massive migration that became the California Gold Rush.

This 1932 publicity photograph is believed to capture a scene from Ersa in Sequoia National Park.

Tulare County is fortunate to have a good portion of the Sierra within its boundaries, comprising about half of the county’s land area. The county saw its share of history including the silver rush to Mineral King, the preservation movement to save the giant Sequoia trees, and the creation of Sequoia National Park. Each played an important part in county history. Many other less dramatic, but interesting events occurred in the mountains as well.

One such event was a sylvan theater production called “Ersa of the Red Trees.” Written by Garnet Holme and Dan Totheroh, this open air theater pageant was performed many times within Sequoia National Park, often at the base of the General Sherman Tree and always with large crowds. The three-act mythical play had a strong big tree preservation theme, using music and dance. After it dazzled the audience in its first production in 1922, it was scheduled for a two-day run the following year, this time starring Garnet Holme, the playwright himself and Katharane (sometimes spelled Katherine) Edson, the well-known American dancer. Because of its popularity, “Ersa” became part of the 1925 dedication ceremony for the new 24-mile Generals Highway section connecting Three Rivers and Giant Forest. Again Garnet Holme starred and 12 of his actors performed at the General Sherman Tree with many dignitaries looking on, including National Park Service Director Stephen Mather.

From 1928 to 1932 at least, production of “Ersa” became an annual event. Many park visitors enjoyed its graceful dancing which sometimes included as many as 27 cast members. Holme died in 1928 having directed his play in the Giant Forest for four years. After his death, Visalian Floyd Byrnes took over as director, bringing in many Visalia theater performers as part of the cast. "Ersa" left its mark on those that saw it, leaving them with a powerful message of preservation for the giant trees.

Shortly after “Ersa of the Red Trees,” the mountains of Tulare County hosted another production. This time it was a Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer movie called Sequoia starring Jean Parker, the well-known film and stage actor. Released in 1934, the film was based on the book Malibu written by Vance Joseph Hoyt. The plot of the story centered around Toni Martin, played by Jean Parker, who lived with her father Matthew Martin, played by Samuel Hinds. While out walking in the Sequoia forest where they lived, Toni found a mountain lion that she named “Gato” and a young fawn she called “Malibu.” The story revolved around these two natural enemies, their relationship with each other, and their struggle to survive the dangers of the world. The movie was billed as a wildlife film packed with adventure. Zane Grey said it was “the greatest picture of the last decade,” and MGM called it “the most unusual romance ever filmed.”

For about two years, the crew filmed on location in Sequoia National Park, much of the time at Heather Lake. During the long filming, they were pleased with the help they received from park

employees. The MGM studio was so impressed that they named the film Sequoia rather than Malibu, as a tribute to the cooperation received from park officials.

But Sequoia National Park employees were not the only helpful ones. Visalia businesses also impressed the filming crew. From time to time, Director Chester M. Franklin needed supplies that were often difficult to find. Visalia businesses went out of their way to get what he needed. And Franklin was especially impressed with the help he received from the Visalia Chamber of Commerce. On one occasion, he needed logs to build a cabin. He checked with “every lumber yard in the area” without success. Finally, he went to the Visalia Chamber and they were able to find them in the Southern California Edison pole yard. Totally pleased, Franklin said, “Great Scott, I suppose if we asked for a black elephant, the Visalia Chamber of Commerce would have it,” and added, “We got cooperation far beyond that ordinarily experienced.”

Visalia was honored with the Northern California premier showing of Sequoia. Its three-day run began on Sunday, March 3, 1935, at the Visalia Fox Theatre. It was very popular in Tulare County, especially Visalia. Not only was it enjoyable, the Visalia Times-Delta noted, “The advertising value which this picture gives to Sequoia National Park cannot be overestimated, nor should we underestimate the reflected glory in which Visalia stands as the gateway to this great national paradise.”

Left: This is the cover of the 1932 fifth annual presentation of "Ersa".

Right: Shown here is the cover of the Sequoia Big Little Book, published in 1935 and features Jean Park with Malibu on the cover.

Upcoming Events February Fun

Make the most of the shortest month of the year. Find something fun to do this month!

Cen Cal Elite Bass Tournament

When: February 4 Where: Kaweah Lake Hosted by: Cen Cal Elite Bass, 559-597-2301

Visalia Home & Patio Springfest

When: February 3-5 Where: Visalia Convention Center Hosted by: Visalia Home Shows, visaliahomeshows.com

Color Run

When: February 4 Where: Mooney Grove Park Hosted by: Pro Youth, runsignup.com/Race/CA/Visalia/ ProYouth5kand2mileColorRun

Violin on Fire

When: February 4 Where: Visalia Marriott Ballroom Hosted by: The Rotary Club of Visalia

Restaurant Month

When: February 1-28 Where: Participating Restaurants in DT Visalia Hosted by: Downtown Visalians, downtownvisalia.com

World Ag Expo

When: February 14-16 Where: International Agri-Center Hosted by: International Agri-Center, worldagexpo.com

Have an Event?

Visit visalialifestyle.com/calendar for more local events or to submit your event to our online calendar.

Events subject to change. Please check with host before attending.

Beauty Captured

JoesHike

Photo by Joe Christianson

“Once you reach the summit of your own heart, you will see beauty is everywhere.”