Issuu

Inspiring Life In Our Community

September 2026

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What’s Inside

The

Home Issue

As summer shifts into the rhythms of fall, home becomes the cozy place to land. Join us to explore thoughtfully designed spaces, artisan recipes, and inspiring stories from local families - helping you create a place where comfort and community thrive.

In Every Issue

Features

Editor’s Note

Hardware Guide

Contributors

Home Organization Tips

History

The Home Were Peace Lives

Calendar of Events

Witschi Construction

From The Team

Sanctuaire Project

Good Ground: Homegrown Organic Farms

Recipe: Sourdough with Baker Squared

Interest Good News: Living Water World Missions

Gameday Sandwich

Terra Collections

Iconic Neighborhoods

On the Cover: Photo by Carly Vagim. Story on Page 20.

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The Home Issue

A Word From The Editor S

eptember always feels like a sweet return. The long days of summer begin to soften, routines settle back into place, and life finds a familiar rhythm again. As much as I love a season of travel and adventure, there is something deeply

comforting about coming home to the people, places, and routines that ground us. This year, that feeling resonates more than ever. As I write this, our family is adjusting to life with a new baby. The season looks different than it did a year ago, and our home has taken on an entirely new rhythm. The days are fuller, the nights are shorter, and somehow the ordinary moments have become the ones I cherish most. Morning coffee before the house wakes up, a backyard dinner with family, watching older brothers ooh and ahh over every little facial expression their new brother makes. The simple beauty of everyday life unfolding within the walls of home. As an interior designer, people often ask what makes a home feel special. Is it the architecture? The furnishings? The details? While those things certainly matter, and I obsess over those amazing details every day, I've also come to believe that the most memorable homes are the ones designed to support real life. The homes that welcome muddy shoes after a neighborhood walk. The kitchens that become gathering places on game days. The primary en-suites where we bathe our babies so we can get those few extra minutes with them, while also hitting our own skin care routines. This month's issue celebrates all the ways we shape our homes to serve us better. From thoughtful design and organization to neighborhood charm and outdoor living, we're exploring the spaces that influence how we gather, connect, and create memories. There is something so inspiring about strolling tree-lined streets, admiring timeless architecture, and seeing the unique character that makes a place feel like home. Our local neighborhoods and communities remind us that home extends beyond our own front door. It's found in the places we walk, the local businesses we support, and the connections we build with those around us. As the morning air begins to crisp and we step into a new season, my hope is that this issue inspires you to look at your home with fresh eyes. Maybe it's finally organizing the space that's been bothering you. Maybe it's planning a gathering you've been putting off. Maybe it's simply slowing down long enough to appreciate the beautiful life happening right there in front of you. Because at the end of the day, home isn't just where we live. It's where our stories are written. Warmly,

KELSEY ORMONDE Co-owner | Lifestyle Magazine

Contributors

Contributors September 2026 Sam Justice CO-OWNER CREATIVE EDITOR

Kelsey Ormonde CO-OWNER

Stephanie Steelman CO-OWNER EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Daniel Borgatto GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Josh Ormonde CO-OWNER

Danielle Nederend CONTENT EDITOR

William Yamauti Chelsi Stark

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING COORDINATOR

Sue Burns CONTRIBUTOR

Megan Velo CONTRIBUTOR

Carly Vagim PHOTOGRAPHER

Terry Ommen HISTORIAN

Ashley Denny PHOTOGRAPHER

Kori Bartel CONTRIBUTOR

Chris Dorado PHOTOGRAPHER

Hope Baker CONTRIBUTOR

Gorette Baker CONTRIBUTOR

SHAWN SEBERT JOINS GATEWAY FAMILY WEALTH Two respected names, now one dedicated team We are proud to announce that Shawn Sebert and his clients are joining our practice. Shawn brings valuable experience and a strong commitment to helping clients achieve their financial goals. We are excited to welcome him to our team and look forward to the enhanced service, personalized guidance, and expanded resources this addition will bring. As our practice continues to grow, we remain dedicated to delivering the exceptional care and trusted financial advice our clients have come to expect.

Call 559.471.0970 | Gateway Family Wealth | 108 W Center Ave | Visalia, CA 93291

Gateway Family Wealth is a private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. NOT FDIC OR NCUA INSURED | No Financial Institution Guarantee | May Lose Value Investment advisory products and services are made available through Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC, a registered investment adviser. Securities offered by Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. Member FINRA and SIPC. © 2025 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved.

Visalia's Living Water Top Desserts World Missions

LIVING WATER WORLD MISSIONS THE ANNUAL APPRECIATION BANQUET Words by Living Water Team

n under-resourced regions of Guatemala, contaminated water is a constant burden: threatening family health, limiting children’s futures, and straining entire communities. At the surface, Living Water World Missions (LWWM) responds to this critical survival issue with a tangible, practical solution through sustainable purification systems. Guatemala faces a striking paradox: despite abundant freshwater, over 90% of its surface water is contaminated, leaving nearly half of all households without safe drinking water. For rural and Indigenous families, waterborne illness is a daily reality, driving Central America’s highest under-five mortality rate. Yet where need is greatest, openness grows. Meeting this physical necessity opens the door to genuine relationships where dignity can be restored and the Gospel can be shared authentically. By reaching out with both hands—one offering clean physical water and the other offering the Living Water of Jesus Christ—LWWM equips local church partners to bring sustainable, life-changing transformation to their communities.

The Home Issue

The Spiritual Translation At LWWM, the connection between physical service and spiritual hope is deeply intentional. When a community receives safe water, daily health improves and school attendance rises. As trust deepens, local church partners share the message of Jesus Christ relationally. Scripture frequently uses water as a symbol of life and renewal; experiencing clean water firsthand creates a natural connection to Christ as the source of eternal life, demonstrating in word and deed that these communities are seen, valued, and loved.

The Standard of the Craft Long before installation begins, local ministry partners identify sites, secure community buy-in, and construct dedicated facilities. When international teams join local volunteers under expert Guatemalan guidance, installation unfolds as a hands-on collaboration. Together, they assemble filtration, ozone, and ultraviolet systems built to precise standards. Shared labor breaks down language barriers and builds mutual respect, producing not only clean water infrastructure, but a durable, locally owned resource sustained by trained local operators.

Self-Sustainability and Impact The work extends far beyond installation. True sustainability happens when local leaders embrace full ownership and stewardship of each system. Through practical workshops in system operation, maintenance, and financial management, local partners gain the skills needed for long-term governance. By replacing dependency with dignity, this approach builds local capacity and ensures clean water continues to flow while the local church serves as a lasting hub for hope and ministry.

The Transformation The real impact of this work is reflected in the testimonies of local leaders. Following a July 2026 installation, Pastor Rony Montepeque shared this letter:

Hola Buen Dia, This is Rony Montepeque, I am the pastor in "Morada del Cordero", (Dwelling of the Lamb), in the Cuyuta village, where your team installed the new filter system this week. Hello Sir, we want to say thank you so much for everything. All the people in the church and the community are really happy and very impressed about your service, your love and effort in our community, in particular all the kids in different levels, primary and secondary school, all the teachers told us about this is the first time we have a missionary team sharing the gospel with love and sharing gifts to everybody. Today we had another's widows visiting our church and that's good for us. Other people like youth, and other kids, that's not common, but is very good. Thank you for influencing and inspiring us to serve the Lord. I am really impressed that many people in my church were involved in serving the Lord. Thank you so much, God bless you. Serving together in His name, Rony Montepeque, Pastor

The Atmosphere Living Water World Missions’ Annual Appreciation Banquet is more than an evening of celebration: it is an invitation into the story of what God is doing through LWWM. Through stories, photos, and media from recent trips, guests will get a firsthand look at the lives transformed by safe water, alongside special insights from Guatemalan ministry leaders Cesia Morales (In-Country Administrator) and Jhoselyn Barrios (National Director of Education & Evangelism). Rooted in gratitude, inspiration, and shared purpose, the evening reminds us that God uses ordinary people working together to accomplish extraordinary things. Attendees walk away deeply connected to the mission, knowing their prayers, generosity, and partnership directly empower local leaders, restore health to families, and share the message of Christ with communities thousands of miles away.

Event Details Join us for a special evening at the Living Water World Missions Annual Appreciation Banquet on November 6, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. The event will feature a Tri-tip, Chicken & Ribs Dinner, a Dessert Auction, and guest speakers from Guatemala.

Location: Gateway Church, 1100 S. Sowell, Visalia, CA 93277. Tickets: $65 each, or $500 for a table of 8. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.livingwaterworldmissions.org or email klanting @livingwaterworldmissions.org.

Hardware Guide

CABINET HARDWARE Small Details, Big Impact Words by Kelsey Ormonde, Sanctuaire Interiors Photography by Dakota Jacobi Stephenson & Ellie Koleen

“Cabinet hardware is the jewelry of a space. It's often one of the smallest details, yet it has the greatest ability to elevate cabinetry from builder-grade to beautifully custom.”

abinet hardware is often considered the finishing touch, but in reality, it has the power to transform cabinetry from standard to custom. Thoughtfully selected hardware adds personality, introduces texture, and reinforces the overall design of a space. Just like jewelry completes an outfit, hardware completes a kitchen, bathroom, or built-in. The key to a custom look isn't choosing one style, it's creating a layered combination that feels intentional.

The Home Issue

Tips from Sanctuaire Mix hardware styles Don't feel limited to using the same hardware throughout an entire room. A thoughtfully curated mix of knobs, pulls, cup pulls, and latches creates depth and gives cabinetry a collected, custom feel. Knobs are ideal for upper cabinets, smaller doors, and furniture-inspired pieces, while pulls offer a clean, functional solution for drawers and larger cabinet fronts. Cup pulls add timeless character, making them a natural choice for traditional, farmhouse, or transitional kitchens, and latches introduce an architectural element that works beautifully on pantries, appliance garages, or specialty cabinetry. The key is to mix hardware with intention, creating a balanced composition that feels layered and cohesive rather than perfectly matched.

Mix metal finishes with intension Mixing metal finishes adds depth and character when done intentionally. Choose one dominant finish and one accent finish, then repeat each throughout the space in your hardware, plumbing, lighting, or accessories to create a layered look that feels cohesive rather than overly matched.

Play with scale Varying hardware sizes is one of the easiest ways to create a custom look. Use longer pulls on wide drawers and panel-ready appliances to emphasize scale, or double up with two pulls or knobs on oversized drawers for added balance, function, and visual impact.

www.sanctuaireinteriors.com @sanctuaireinteriors 139 N. E Street, Exeter

Home Organization Tips

The Serenity of an

organized life Words by By Kori Bartel, Founder of K+K Design

rder brings peace. Any mother can tell you what clutter does to a nervous system. A house where nothing can be found is a house where everyone is a little more brittle. But when a home has a rhythm, the people in it have more patience for each other. That’s the power of an organized space. I don’t think of organizing as cleaning. Cleaning is something you do to a space; organizing is something you build into it so the area keeps working when you’re tired, when school starts, or when a new baby arrives. My goal with every client is to create a room that is functional and quiet, rather than a space that merely photographs well for a week.

Growing up with four kids and two full-time working parents in a house that was loving and loud, I learned early that while I couldn’t control the noise, I could control whether we found the shoes. Later, working in high-end hospitality and home décor taught me how a beautiful room feels and how to capture that feeling on a budget. Once I had my own children and the toys arrived, organization became closer to a spiritual necessity. Friends began asking for help during new seasons of life, and K+K Design grew naturally from there, one pantry or closet at a time.

Top Tips & Tricks Declutter First: Be merciless. Pull everything out and keep only what you actually use. Expired baking powder, duplicate spatulas, and broken appliances need to go. Nothing else works until this is done. Group in Likes: Sort what’s left by type, size, and shape. You’re not arranging yet; you’re giving the space a logic your family can follow without being told. Find Every Group a Home: Store things where they’re used, like coffee by the maker or lunch supplies at kid height. If something doesn’t have a designated spot, it will become clutter again. Contain Last: Only now do you know what storage you actually need. Measure, then buy. Remember that most pantries are half air, so claim that vertical space with risers, stacking bins, and door hooks. Maintain the Routine: A one-time cleanout is a haircut; it grows back. What holds is a routine, and clear labeling helps everyone in the family participate. That's the difference between a beautiful pantry in September and a calm house in March. Connect with Kori on Instagram @KplusK_Design or visit KplusKdesign.com.

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The Home Where Peace Lives

Peace Lives THE

HOME WHERE

Words by Megan Velo

ewind the clock to early 2016. I was just beginning my career as a therapist, working in a local school district, and enjoying my fiancé era. Our evenings and weekends were filled with planning a fall wedding, but one of the most exciting parts was creating our registry. We dreamed about the home we would build together, the colors we'd paint the walls, the dishes we'd use to host family and friends, and the little details that would make our house feel like ours. As we carefully selected each item, it felt like we were setting the tone for the life we hoped to create together. On October 17, 2016, we were married at Sunnyside Country Club in Fresno, and our next chapter officially began. Fast forward a few years, one apartment and one home later, we found ourselves celebrating another life-changing milestone. Three years into marriage, we learned we were expecting our first child. In August 2019, our daughter, Lucca, was born, and in an instant we experienced a kind of love we had never known, as well as a level of exhaustion we never could have imagined.

Almost overnight, our home transformed. The carefully chosen registry items that once felt so important faded into the background. Decorative accents were pushed aside by burp cloths. Bottles covered the countertops. The living room became home to swings, play mats, and baskets overflowing with toys. Our once tidy home no longer looked like the picture I had imagined while scanning registry aisles years before. I was beyond thankful for our daughter and the chance to live out my dream of being a mom, but so much of my life changed in those early days of motherhood. Most of it, I welcomed gladly, but there was a part of me that quietly grieved something I had lost. I missed the predictability of our home. I missed walking into a room that felt calm instead of chaotic. I missed feeling like I had control over my environment. Then began the constant battle to regain a sense of peace in my home.

The Home Issue

"Without realizing it, I had begun to equate peace with order." Without realizing it, I had begun to equate peace with order. I believed that if I could just keep the house cleaner, the counters clearer, or the toys put away, I would finally feel settled again. Yet I never felt like I could catch up. There was always more to do, more to put back together. In April 2022, we welcomed our son, Decker, into our family. My heart grew, but so did the pressure I placed on myself to keep everything together. As a second-time mom, I knew I would probably never feel "ahead" again. I resigned myself to the idea that while I deeply loved my children, maybe peace simply wasn't a part of this season of life. Then life reminded me that some things cannot be organized, planned, or controlled. In the summer of 2024, we found out we were expecting our third baby, and we were overjoyed. In September, we learned that our precious baby's heart had stopped beating. Less than a year later, in August 2025, we experienced another miscarriage. Once again, our world was shaken. Those losses began a nearly two-year infertility journey that we are still walking today. Looking back, I think about the version of myself in 2016, the young woman carefully choosing towels and decorative pillows, convinced that creating a beautiful home would somehow create a peaceful life. I've lived so much life since then. During our fertility journey, I poured my energy into projects I could control. I painted our laundry room not once, but twice, searching for the perfect shade of green. My husband built raised garden beds, and I threw myself into growing fruits and vegetables because it felt easier than facing the heartbreak of not being able to grow another baby. I organized, decluttered, and reorganized every closet in the house. I convinced myself that if I could just improve my surroundings enough, maybe my heart would finally find the peace that had been ripped away. But peace was never waiting for me inside a perfectly organized pantry or folded linen closet. It wasn't hiding behind a fresh coat of paint or growing in my garden. It was never in those 2016 wedding gifts. It took months, countless therapy sessions, and a great deal of honest soul-searching to realize something that changed my lens completely. Peace isn't something we create by controlling our homes. Peace isn't some reward we earn for finally getting caught up or making our homes look picture-perfect.

Peace is learning to be present in a life that will always contain both beauty and brokenness. It's accepting that our homes can hold laughter and grief, toys and laundry, answered prayers and unanswered ones, all at the same time. The peace I had been chasing wasn't found in a spotless, Instagram-worthy house. It came when I stopped expecting my home to carry the weight of every hope, every heartbreak, and every unanswered question while still looking completely untouched. A peaceful home is not one where nothing hard happens. It is not a home free from grief, uncertainty, or messy seasons. A peaceful home is one where there is room for the whole story—the joy, the heartbreak, the waiting, and the healing. It is a place where we stop striving for perfection, look around, and take a deep breath, even with a pile of laundry in front of us. Peace is found when we embrace that our homes do not have to be perfect to be peaceful. They simply have to be places where love lives, grace comes first, and where we are reminded that even in the middle of life's twists and turns, our home's walls are there, giving us a refuge to rest.

Megan Velo is a licensed marriage and family therapist, maternal mental health specialist, author, speaker, wife, and mom of two. She is passionate about helping mothers navigate the emotional realities of postpartum and motherhood, while also walking alongside women experiencing miscarriage and infertility with compassion and hope. Megan created the Mama Therapy House brand to extend support beyond the therapy office, providing practical tools, education, and encouragement that empowers moms around the world to feel seen, supported, and less alone. www.mamatherapyhouse.com @mamatherapyhouse

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Words by Lifestyle Staff Photos provided by Witschi Construction Headshots by Carly Vagim

A COMMITMENT TO

QUALITY Inside the craftsmanship and client-first philosophy behind Witschi Construction

The Home Issue

o build a custom home is to engage in a rare creative alchemy. It is a collaborative journey that translates blueprints into living architecture—spaces curated for slow mornings and generations of family life. For Witschi Construction, this philosophy took root over three decades ago when founder Rudy Witschi brought his unyielding Swiss standards of craftsmanship to California. Today, the company enters an elevated second chapter under the stewardship of Rudy’s sons, Nate and Josh Witschi. By combining old-world precision with modern sensibilities, the brothers have refined the custom build experience into an art form as rewarding as the finished residence itself.

A Generational Legacy Built on Integrity

The Art of the Process: A Multi-Step Journey

Long before they were shaping custom estates, the Witschi brothers were absorbing the trade from the ground up. For Nate Witschi, the beauty of custom home building was forged high in the Sierra Nevada mountains.

Witschi Construction guides homeowners through a deliberate multi-step journey to protect both the creative vision and the client’s peace of mind. It begins with the Pre-Construction Phase, where the team harmonizes design aspirations with real-world budgeting. During construction, Guided Milestone Walks ensure homeowners understand every detail before walls are closed. Finally, Post-Construction Care provides maintenance packages and warranties, ensuring the home performs flawlessly for years to come.

“Some of my earliest memories are when I would go up to Silver City, a small mountain community up in Mineral King,” recalls Nate. “I remember watching my dad and how excited he was to tackle all the different challenges with building up in the mountains. We are fortunate enough to be able to have this built from nothing by our Dad, and build upon that. Catching hold of the legacy aspect and pushing to better it is when I knew I was all in.” The leadership transition from father to sons unfolded gracefully over years of shared work and mutual respect. Nate, who joined fifteen years ago, naturally gravitated toward client relationships, architectural collaboration, and long-term vision. Josh joined in 2019 after working with a design-build firm in the Bay Area, bringing immaculate operational structure, system organization, and project execution. “None of it was planned on a whiteboard. Each of us found the part of this we were built for, and the business took its shape around that,” Nate says. “The foundational philosophy our dad handed down is integrity, and a stubborn pursuit of quality in every part of what we do... But the thing we respect most about him through all of it is that he was always open and willing to listen.”

For the Witschis, a home is built around a family’s story. “A custom home starts with how a family actually lives,” Nate explains. “Where they gather, where the sun hits the kitchen in the morning, and how the porch catches the sunset. Those aren’t just upgrades; they are the starting point of the entire design.”

Witschi Construction

Where Craft Meets Design Detail This commitment extends to the home’s ‘invisible’ details, such as energy-efficient envelopes and air purity. “A well-detailed envelope shows up in the utility bill and the health of the family for the next fifty years,” Nate notes. “This means the home is more energy efficient, more comfortable from room to room, and healthier to live in,” says Nate. “None of that shows up in a photo. It shows up in the utility bill, in the fact that the back bedroom is the same temperature as the living room... When a budget is getting reviewed line by line, insulation details and air sealing are invisible compared to a countertop or a light fixture... We don't treat them as optional, we see them as essential.” That standard of perfection is made possible through Witschi’s decades-long relationships with regional master artisans and trade partners. By treating subcontractors as true creative partners, Witschi ensures every craftsman on site approaches the home with genuine pride of authorship.

The Home Issue

"The finished residence is only part of the experience—the journey matters just as much."

The Next Era As Josh and Nate look toward the future in the Central Valley, their success is measured not by volume, but by legacy.

Stories Carved in Stone While the structural envelope is engineered to the highest standards of energy efficiency and indoor air purity, what truly captures the imagination in a Witschi home is the level of artistic finish. From expansive Tuscan courtyards and groin barrel ceilings to exposed solid cedar timber framing and custom wood finishes, every surface reflects deliberate artistry. Looking back over thirty years of custom work across California, founder Rudy Witschi reflects fondly on the artistic challenges that defined his career—including subterranean wine cellars carved 12 feet deep into solid rock hillsides and complex architectural restorations. “Strictly from a builder’s perspective, my favorite project is a large Tuscan-style home I built about 10 years ago,” shares Rudy. “The home features wide hallways with barrel ceilings, massive cedar beams, stone columns, and a spacious courtyard that can be accessed from multiple rooms throughout the house... What made this project especially meaningful from a builder’s standpoint was the relationship with the clients. They truly welcomed my ideas, creativity, and imagination throughout the process.” For Rudy, the true spirit of building also lives in his ongoing mission trips to Mexico, constructing simple 20x16-foot homes for families transitioning out of plastic shelters—a grounding reminder of gratitude that remains a cornerstone of the Witschi family identity.

“When we hand over the keys, our hope is that every family feels a sense of belonging,” Josh reflects. “A home is more than its finishes; it’s where memories are created and generations gather. We aren't just building structures; we’re providing a place where a family’s story will continue to unfold.”

Our passion is being able to create! Custom homes & Renovations www.witschiconstruction.com @witschiconstruction

REMODELING. REDEFINED. QUALITY, PERFORMANCE, AND CLEAR COMMUNICATION.

559-280-4066 @PAYTONCONSTRUCTION_INC

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3316 S MOONEY BLVD, VISALIA 559-625-5600 WWW.JENKINSFLOORCOVERING.COM

The Home Issue

BEYOND BLUEPRINT

THE

Transforming a Spec Home into a Custom Retreat

Words by Lifestyle Staff Photos by Dakota Jacobi-Stephenson Interior Design - Sanctuaire Interiors Construction - Payton Construction

Sanctuaire Project

A CUSTOM APPROACH TO EVERYDAY LIVING

SANCTUAIRE PROJECT

very builder-grade home holds the potential to become something extraordinary. In a recent collaboration between Sanctuaire Interiors and Payton Construction, a standard spec home was transformed into a residence with custom character, timeless craftsmanship, and intentional design. Through architectural enhancements, elevated finishes, and carefully curated interiors, this home showcases how strategic design decisions can turn a builder-grade house into a home that feels truly one-of-a-kind.

The Home Issue

The transformation begins in the heart of the home: the kitchen. Prefabricated cabinets were replaced with custom floor-to-ceiling white oak cabinetry, introducing warmth, character, and ample storage. An alcove plaster range hood with integrated marble niches creates a striking architectural focal point, while a curved island wrapped in custom reeded toe kick detailing adds sculptural form and interest. Because the kitchen and living spaces share an open-concept layout, replacing tile and carpet with continuous hardwood created a cohesive foundation that visually connected the entire home. While many production-built homes feature standard orange peel wall texture that can feel cold and impersonal, a soft cream limewash was introduced throughout the space to bring depth, movement, and organic texture. Creating a truly functional home often requires looking beyond the existing floor plan. With repeated track-home layouts, overlooked areas can become opportunities for thoughtful design. A poorly designed kitchen alcove was reimagined into a highly functional walk-in pantry and dedicated home bar, transforming underutilized space into features that better supported the family's lifestyle and entertaining needs. The pantry was completed with a black iron door featuring reeded glass, creating a beautiful design moment that softly conceals the everyday essentials.

Sanctuaire Project

CUSTOM CABINETRY MEETS EVERYDAY FUNCTION Millwork and cabinetry details are among the most impactful ways to elevate a home, transforming everyday spaces into meaningful designed features. For this project, Sanctuaire Interiors designed floor-to-ceiling built-ins with tongue-and-groove detailing, creating a clean, modern backdrop that still feels warm and inviting. The custom cabinetry was finished in a two-tone combination of natural white oak and a rich black stain, allowing the beauty and texture of the wood grain to remain visible while adding depth and contrast to the space. Designed with family living in mind, the built-ins provide the perfect balance of function and style, offering storage for everyday essentials while creating intentional spaces to display books, photographs, and collected décor. Every shelf, niche, and detail was carefully considered to ensure the cabinetry felt as purposeful as it was beautiful. Even the smallest spaces were purposefully reimagined to create a more elevated and intentional feel. In spaces with repeated builder selections, it’s the smaller design details that create the greatest impact. Lighting became an opportunity to introduce personality, with decorative drop pendants in the powder room and unique sconces in the additional bathrooms adding dimension and visual interest. When working with repeated materials throughout a residence, the goal is to introduce them in fresh and unexpected ways. Subtle details such as the curve of a backsplash, the edge profile of a countertop, the detailing of a vanity cabinet front, or the repetition of metal finishes through hardware and plumbing create a sense of cohesion while allowing each space to feel thoughtfully designed.

IT’S THE INTENTIONAL DETAILS AND THOUGHTFUL DESIGN MOMENTS THAT TRANSFORM A SPACE FROM ORDINARY TO EXTRAORDINARY.” Kelsey Ormonde Founder & Principal Designer of Sanctuaire Interiors www.sanctuaireinteriors.com @sanctuaireinteriors

The Home Issue

FROM FUNCTIONAL TO REFINED: REDEFINING THE PRIMARY RETREAT The primary bathroom became the final expression of the home’s transformation from builder-grade to thoughtfully designed. Taking timeless materials and a neutral color palette, Sanctuaire Interiors created a serene retreat through layers of texture, pattern, and unexpected details. A marble fluted backsplash adds subtle sculptural movement, while zellige tile introduces artisanal warmth through its handcrafted variation and organic feel. Thoughtfully selected tile layouts, natural stone, and refined fixtures bring depth and dimension, proving that even familiar materials can feel distinctive when used in intentional ways.

Polished nickel plumbing adds a soft reflective touch, while carefully repeated elements from throughout the residence create a cohesive connection between spaces. Through the balance of timeless design choices and personalized details, the primary bathroom reflects the overall vision of the project: transforming a standard builder home into a space that feels elevated, collected, and uniquely tailored to the family.

Terra Collections

CUSTOM LANDSCAPES, SIMPLIFIED: Sponsored Content

The Story Behind Terra Words by Devon Brown, Owner of Charter Oak Landscaping

he most meaningful conversations I have with clients don't start with plants or patios. They start with a season of life. A new house, a growing family, a backyard that's been dirt for two summers and a nagging sense that time is passing while the yard waits. Over 13 years of custom design work at Charter Oak Landscape Development, I've watched the same longing surface again and again. People want a place where memory-making, hospitality, activity, and quiet moments of pause can all live together. What usually stands between them and that space isn't desire, and it isn't even budget — it's the sheer number of decisions. That's the gap Terra Landscape Collections was created to close.

Terra is a new extension of Charter Oak. I designed the collections myself, drawing on what I've learned inside the personal spaces and dreams of custom clients across the Central Valley. I know which plants hold up through a Tulare County July and which quietly give up in year two. I know how a family moves through a backyard — where the grill sits so the cook isn't stranded, how much lawn a kid needs to feel free, why a fire pit placed six feet the wrong direction never gets used. Before landscape architecture, I briefly considered going into psychology. Those early classes have come in handy more than I expected. A design meeting often means sitting between two people with excellent instincts that happen to point different directions — he's picturing a sport court, she's picturing the view from the kitchen window — and finding the version of the yard where nobody had to lose. I love that work. But not every family wants to begin with a blank page and a season of negotiations.

The Home Issue

There are three collections, each shaped around a way of living rather than a style category. •

The Willow is for the playful — the families who want open space, room to run, a yard that says yes to some outdoor games on a Tuesday evening.

•

The Olive is for the host — built around gathering, the long table, the birthday that turns a simple gathering to lingering conversation.

•

The Agave is for the minimalist — restrained, water-wise, and calm, proving that a beautiful yard doesn't have to be a busy one.

“PEOPLE WANT A PLACE WHERE MEMORY-MAKING, HOSPITALITY, ACTIVITY, AND QUIET MOMENTS OF PAUSE CAN ALL LIVE TOGETHER.”

Each is fully designed and ready to build, with the plant palette, layout, proportions, and materials resolved by a designer rather than assembled piece by piece under pressure. Scale is something I care about deeply: arbors, walls, and gathering spaces that feel right against the house instead of fighting it. That discipline is built into every Terra plan. Getting started is refreshingly simple. At terralandscapecollection.com you can explore all three collections, design your yard right on the site, and get on our installation calendar. No blank page, no season of decisions before anything happens. Thirteen years of Charter Oak craftsmanship stands behind every install, whether you're finishing a new build or reimagining a yard that's waited long enough.

Visit terralandscapecollection.com or call 559-802-4609. Your backyard doesn't have to stay a someday project.

Homegrown Organic Farms

N W O R G E M HO

s c i n a g r o Interview by Lifestyle staff Photos by Rylie Fox and Jonna Dodge

"Our mission is to grow and share fresh, flavorful organic fruit in a way that honors the land, supports our growers, and nourishes families."

The Home Issue

s autumn sets in and life moves back indoors, the kitchen counter becomes the heart of the home. This September, we’re bringing you a unique angle on the meaning of “Home”. We connected with Homegrown Organic Farms, an employee-owned company that has been leading the organic produce movement for nearly three decades. From seasonal fall grapes and fresh figs to their bite-sized Little Pranksters® kiwi berries (perfect for back-to-school lunches) discover how HGO brings fresh, earth-honoring flavor straight from the orchard to your family's table. Homegrown Organics has built a strong legacy around stewardship and supporting local grower families. For readers who might be encountering HGO in their local grocery aisle for the first time, what is the core mission behind the fruit you grow?

Our mission is to grow and share fresh, flavorful organic fruit in a way that honors the land, supports our growers, and nourishes families. Our story began in 1989 with a family farmer who transitioned to organic farming practices. Today, as an employee-owned company, we are proud to carry that legacy forward by offering organic fruit for every season.

These seasonal fruits offer so many ways to gather, share, and celebrate. Fresh figs, grapes, pomegranates, and blueberries bring beautiful color and flavor to charcuterie boards, salads, holiday dishes, and simple desserts. As citrus season begins to ramp up, bright, fragrant citrus adds a fresh touch to baked goods, dressings, cocktails, and festive meals. From everyday snacking to special gatherings, fall fruit makes it easy to celebrate the season and create meaningful moments around the table. More families than ever are focusing on creating clean, non-toxic, and health-focused homes. Why is choosing certified organic produce such a meaningful step in elevating a household’s daily routine? Choosing certified organic produce gives families confidence that their food has been grown according to clear, independently verified standards. Organic certification provides transparency around how crops are produced and emphasizes farming practices that support soil health, biodiversity, and responsible resource use.

From spring berries and summer stone fruit to fall pomegranates and winter citrus, our fruit is grown with care by family farmers who share our commitment to integrity and stewardship. For nearly 30 years, Homegrown Organic Farms has helped lead the way in organic produce, connecting families with fruit they can feel good about bringing home.

For Homegrown Organic Farms, organic is more than a certification. It reflects a long-term commitment to caring for the soil, supporting biodiversity, protecting natural resources, and creating resilient growing environments. Choosing organic fruit is a simple, everyday way for families to bring fresh, flavorful food into their homes while supporting farming practices rooted in stewardship.

Our September issue is all about the home. How does HGO view the connection between the work your growers do out in the orchards and what ends up on a family's kitchen counter?

As families gather inside more as the weather cools, do you have a favorite simple way to use fresh fall fruit for easy home entertaining or cozy weekend breakfasts?

We see a direct connection between the care that happens in the orchard and the fruit families bring into their homes. Every decision our growers make, from building healthy soil and caring for natural resources to harvesting fruit at the right time, contributes to the freshness, flavor and quality people experience.

One of our favorite ways to welcome cooler weather is with a simple fall fruit board featuring grapes, fresh figs, persimmons, and blueberries alongside cheese, nuts, and a drizzle of honey. It takes very little preparation, but the mix of seasonal colors and flavors makes it feel special enough for entertaining.

When our fruit is packed into a school lunch, served at breakfast or shared around the table, the work of our growers becomes part of a family’s everyday life. That connection from the orchard to the home is what makes our work so meaningful.

For a cozy weekend morning, fresh fruit is a natural addition to warm oatmeal, yogurt, pancakes, or baked breakfast dishes. We also love serving hot spiced cider with slices of fresh citrus for a bright, fragrant touch. Fall fruit does not need much to shine. Whether shared over breakfast or gathered with friends, it brings warmth, color, and seasonal flavor to the table.

September is a beautiful transition month for fruit. What autumn varieties are peaking right now, and what makes this seasonal fruit so special for fall home meal planning or school lunches? September brings together the final flavors of summer and the first signs of fall. Families can enjoy late-season plums and pluots, crisp table grapes, and fresh figs. The month also marks the much-anticipated arrival of Little Pranksters® kiwi berries. Their season is short but sweet, offering a fun, bite-sized snack that is perfect for school lunches and busy days on the go. Naturally rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, they make it easy to add something fresh and flavorful to the day.

From our fields to your table, we’re dedicated to bringing you the freshest, most flavorful fruit—grown with care. www.hgofarms.com @hgofarms

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Recipe: Sourdough with Baker Squared

BAKER

SOURDOUGH RECIPES

Words and recipes by Hope and Gorette Baker Photos by Ashley Denny

Our story really started in the kitchen. Gorette learned to bake the way so many things are passed down in Azorean families: by watching, helping, and making food for the people she loves. Hope grew up alongside her in the kitchen. Over time, that shared love of baking turned into something we could create together.

elcome to Baker Squared, our mother and daughter sourdough bakery in Visalia, California. Inspired by our Portuguese Azorean roots and our love for slow, intentional bread.

Baker Squared is an extension of our kitchen and the traditions that inspired us. We make our sourdough slowly, bake everything with care, and believe good food is always meant to be shared. Our team also includes Lauren Labogin, our Marketing Manager, who brings her creativity to Baker Squared and helps us share our story, our bread, and everything we love about what we do with our community.

The Home Issue

INGREDIENTS

PRETZEL STYLE

450 g bread flour

1. Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil.

100 g starter

2. Slowly add baking soda (use about

280 g water

1/4 cup of baking soda for every 4

10 g salt

cups of water) Boil the Dough

DIRECTIONS

Take cold sourdough loaf straight from the refrigerator.

9:30 AM — Mix water + starter

Add 450 g flour + salt Mix until well combined.

simmering baking soda solution. 3.

(add inclusions here if desired)

Boil for 30–60 seconds on the top side, then gently flip and boil for

Cover for 1 hour 10:30 AM — Stretch & Fold #1

Carefully lower the cold loaf into the

another 30–60 seconds. 4.

Lift the loaf out using large slotted

11:00 AM — Stretch & Fold #2

spoons, letting excess water drip

11:30 AM — Stretch & Fold #3

off.

12:00 PM — Stretch & Fold #4

Salt and Score

12:00–2:30 PM — Bulk Fermentation

Transfer the boiled loaf onto

(this will depend on the temperature of your

parchment paper and into a

dough)

preheated Dutch oven.

Leave covered and undisturbed.

Look for the dough to become puffy and rise about 50–75%. 2:30 PM — Pre-shape

Generously sprinkle coarse sea salt or pretzel salt over the wet crust.

Bake

Place in your banneton.

HOT HONEY & SMOKED GOUDA

3:00 PM — Refrigerate

Add the following:

Rest 15–20 minutes. 2:50 PM — Final Shape (add inclusions here if desired)

Cold proof overnight. Tomorrow — Bake Preheat Dutch oven at 450°F for 45–55 minutes. Bake covered for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake for 10–15 more minutes. Cool completely before slicing.

You can follow along with us on Instagram @Bakersquaredbread, where we share our latest bakes, flavors, and updates. If you’re ready to try a loaf for yourself, you can find the link to order in our Instagram bio!

90g of hot honey when mixing dough ingredients 100-120 g of grated smoked gouda cheese during stretch & folds or when doing the laminating process

PUMPKIN SPICE Add when mixing dough ingredients: 200g of pumpkin puree 25g of maple syrup 5g pumpkin spice

Gameday Sandwich

well-appointed sandwich board is always appreciated at a gathering, especially on game day. Variations on the classic ingredients, including home-baked sourdough breads, are a fun and tasty way to elevate your sandwiches while savoring the season’s best flavors. Tour around our turkey sandwich board for suggestions on where to start. Add or substitute your favorite breads, meats, and toppings:

• Pretzel bread, for an elevated riff on regular sourdough • Hot Honey Gouda, with a milder take on the ever-popular jalapeno-cheddar

GAMEDAY SANDWIC BOARD

Gourmet Turkey Words and recipes by Sue Burns Photos by Ashley Denny

• Pumpkin Spice, a slightly-but-not-too-sweet option for a more brunch-like sandwich • Roasted turkey (or ham, roast beef) – purchase your preferred deli meats, or prepare your own in advance – this allows more control over salt and flavors • Mayonnaise – plain, or mixed with roasted peppers, garlic, herbs, or spices • Dijon Mustard – or whole grain, spicy or honey varieties • Cranberry jam (with hints of orange and crystallized ginger) – those looking for a quintessential taste of fall, will love a layer of spiced cranberry that gives a glimpse of Thanksgiving leftovers to come • Fig Chutney adds sweet and savory flavors with a touch of heat (also try other chutneys, pickled fruits or vegetables, or apple butter) • Brussels Sprouts Slaw with angel hair cabbage, shaved Brussels sprouts, apple, and maple-Dijon vinaigrette; the vinaigrette also matches well with arugula for crunch, color, and a peppery bite • Roasted chile peppers (Hatch, Poblano) for sweet heat; or use roasted bell peppers, caramelized onions, or sun-dried tomatoes • Cheddar and Havarti cheese slices – explore a world of fabulous flavors available, including brie, feta, artisan cheeses, smoked gouda, and more • Romaine & Tomato for the purists

Don’t forget the munchies on the side –

sweet potato chips, veggie chips, or one of the myriad choices of other crunchy accouterments!

Y CH

The Home Issue

Autumn Slaw with Maple Mustard Vinaigrette In a bowl combine and toss gently: 1 cup shaved Brussels sprouts 1 cup angel hair coleslaw 1 apple (Granny Smith recommended), thinly sliced horizontally, then sliced into thin matchsticks For the vinaigrette: In a small bowl, combine and whisk until smooth: 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons cider vinegar 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard Fine sea salt and fresh ground pepper, to taste 1. Drizzle over the slaw mixture and toss. 2. This can be made a day in advance so the flavors can meld. 3. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Cranberry Jam In a pot, combine: 1 – 16 oz. package cranberries (fresh or frozen) Zest of 2 oranges Juice of 2 oranges, plus water to measure 1 cup liquid 1 cup granulated sugar 2 teaspoons finely minced crystallized ginger (optional) 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Pinch of ground cloves 1. Over medium heat, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, stirring. 2. When the cranberries begin to soften and pop, use a potato masher or large spoon to mash the berries. 3. Continue to cook and stir until the mixture thickens and briefly holds a line when you draw a spoon through it. 4. Cool completely and store in the refrigerator.

FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS

Wellness & Urgent Care Services

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The Home Issue

Words by Brittney Baca

MORE THAN A PLACE TO LIVE

e're all painting our own life. Only we don't paint our lives with a paintbrush, as an artist would. We paint them with our choices, and the places we choose to live become the heart of that picture. One of the biggest choices we make is where we call home. So with that, when you’re setting out to find the perfect home, the bigger question is: what kind of life are you trying to paint?

Iconic Neighborhoods

MORE THAN A PLACE TO LIVE

NEIGHBO The Central Valley is full of neighborhoods, each telling a different story. Some have been growing for generations. Others are newer, with a modern, more simplistic feel. But there are those that are absolutely Iconic. If the picture you imagine includes quiet mornings under mature tree-lined streets with custom homes, then Green Acres might be for you. Where sunlight filters through canopies that have been growing for decades. Each home here carries its own architectural personality. It's the kind of neighborhood that couldn't be recreated overnight because so much of its beauty has been growing for decades.

Another iconic neighborhood to consider is Beverly Glen. This neighborhood has captured so many hearts. And reasonably so! Its established homes also sit beneath mature trees and have elaborate, beautiful landscaping. This is a neighborhood where evening walks are looked forward to and neighbors still love to stop and chat at the mailbox. It's the kind of neighborhood where front porches are used, children ride their bikes until the streetlights come on, and every season feels nostalgic. Luxury here isn't about making a statement. It's about finding comfort in a place that already feels like home the moment you drive into the neighborhood. Maybe you're imagining something more like Country Acres. A tucked away neighborhood where its wide streets invite a slower pace. Mornings begin on the back patio, where the only sound is the birds chirping from above before the rest of the city wakes up. RVs and boats have their own dedicated space, ready and waiting for the next adventure.

Or perhaps your version of a luxury life looks different. Maybe it's The Lakes, where you can watch the water change colors throughout the day. Where everyone knows their neighbors and waves on evening walks around the lake. The only gated community that revolves around the shoreline, pickleball matches, and a place to dock your boat. However, a quick drive to the exclusive Badger Hill Estates might change your mind about living in the city. A steaming cup of coffee, foothill views, and privacy are enough to make anyone say, “What a beautiful, peaceful life.” Watching a storm roll in over the Sierra will take your breath away. These large, beautiful, custom homes are rare to the market. And quick to be chosen.

The Home Issue

The foothills and the city might not be your choice. Everyone wants to paint a different picture. Yes to the small town charm and yes to waterfront views, but where? A 30 minute drive to the charming Swedish town of Kingsburg might be the move. Go ahead and wander down Draper Street and feel its Swedish heritage. Its luxury riverfront properties sit on the Kings River and hug the golf course. It's breathtaking on a fall evening. The joy of entertaining friends and family on the back patio, overlooking the river on a cool night. Lights strung, music drifting through. Space for everyone. Here, luxury isn't measured by what's inside the home nearly as much as what's waiting just beyond the front door. It's space to gather. Space to breathe. Space to recognize beauty and to move at its own pace.

ORHOODS But of course, some families imagine something a little more refined without giving up the sense of community. Without the maintenance of water or livestock or land. Tesori in Tulare offers exactly that. Grand homes, large magnificent lots and a neighborhood that feels polished without feeling distant.

"WE'RE ALL PAINTING OUR OWN LIFE."

No matter how grand or Iconic there are those here in the Central Valley who want to paint a little farther beyond the city and neighborhood limits. I would be remiss if I didn’t mention these wonderful pockets that don’t always have a name, but they’re known. They’re idolized by the artist patiently waiting until it's their turn to paint. You can find these homes by driving through the Valley's outskirts. The neighborhoods begin to disappear, replaced instead by sprawling country estates. Long driveways stretch beneath large oak trees. The smell of citrus trees in the spring air. Vineyards that catch the golden light just before sunset. Orchards sprawl on for days. They are the personality of the Valley. After all, we aren't just searching for a roof to put over our heads. We're searching for a place where our favorite memories will unfold. Every iconic neighborhood offers a different rhythm... a different way of living. Now we're back to the question that started it all: What kind of life are you hoping to paint?

WE’VE MOVED! NOW OPEN Visit our new store at

3930 S. Mooney Blvd.

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Never miss an issue!

History

DANGEROUS CURES AND MEDICAL MISSTEPS FROM THE PAST Words and Photos by Terry Ommen

ust like today, people centuries back got sick, caught diseases and were injured in accidents. They needed treatment for their medical conditions, but unfortunately, their options were few, far less effective, and oftentimes much more dangerous than today. Early Visalians faced the same problem. For some, a home remedy passed down from generations was the first choice for relief. After all, if it was good enough for grandma, it was good enough for them. Earaches, for example, were a common problem and there were plenty of family cures. One home remedy was a clove of garlic soaked in salad oil. After a few minutes, the saturated garlic was wrapped in a small piece of muslin or linen and inserted into the ear canal. According to family reports, once the garlic was reduced to a pulp, the earache was gone. Warning: Do not ever try this at home or anywhere.

Another home treatment, this time developed by a man who claimed to be a doctor, professed that it could cure highly contagious diphtheria. He published his detailed treatment in the Mariposa Free Press in 1864. In the article, he included the list of common ingredients and instructed patients to mix them to create what he called a “diphtheria wash.” The concoction was swabbed in the patient’s throat every few hours. The treatment worked, but he warned that even though the swabbing caused no pain, the patient would “gag and sometimes vomit.” He promised that if the patient followed his treatment process and applied it “in time” it would always work. Oftentimes patients would seek out other treatment medications—the type sold in drug stores or by mail order. These so-called remedies were referred to as “patent medicines.” Most were not patented at all, except maybe the name or the packaging. Rarely did the label instructions include a complete list of compounds. In many cases, the ‘medicine’ included high amounts of alcohol, laudanum (opium), or cocaine, so at least initially, the patient might have a feel-good sensation. These medicines often were accompanied by glowing testimonials, usually fake, about their effectiveness. Many had interesting names like Karl’s Clover Root. It claimed that it would flush the intestinal tract completely, and would eliminate “eruptions of the skin.” And it had a guarantee. Should it fail to cure, Karl would give you $50.00. The catch: All you had to do was find Karl!

VISALIA DRUG STORE WAS LOCATED ON THE CORNER OF CHURCH AND MAIN STREET. CIRCA 1865

Most of these medicines were available nationally by mail order, but many were also available locally from Visalia retail drug stores. Frank Baker, son of Dr. Martin Baker, owned the Pacific Drug Store. In 1882, he advertised that he gave “careful attention to physician’s prescriptions” and proudly announced that he was the sole agent for Dr. Harvey Blood Bitters and Barstow’s Celebrated Cough Cure.

The Home Issue

Around 1859, the 43-year old Reverend-Doctor Webb moved to Visalia. In 1862, he advertised his practice in the local newspaper boasting he used only “curative medicines” and disregarded all drastic poisons of every kind. He proudly mentioned that none of his patients had died yet in Tulare County. But he only promised survival to those “that had been entirely under his care.” He warned “…half dead invalids who have been poisoned and maltreated by quacks in doctor’s names, I do not promise or expect to cure, but only to patch up their broken constitution, until death pays them for their folly in killing themselves with poisonous drugs.” Because of his impressive resume, he was quickly chosen by county officials to be the Tulare County physician. He set up the county hospital in Visalia on the second floor of the Methodist “brick” Church. In 1864, Henry Smallwood, a dissatisfied county hospital patient, wrote a scathing public letter, and it was published in the Visalia Delta. He complained in great detail about the treatment he received while at the hospital under the care of Dr. Webb. He listed all of his complaints: the inedible food, poor care, bad sanitary conditions and terrible medical treatment. Dr. Webb didn’t seem fazed. Unfortunately, medical care in early Visalia was primitive and oftentimes dangerous, but it wasn’t much different than care received elsewhere. Because of patent medicine, by 1900 many people in the country were addicts. The patent medicines frequently contained large amounts of habit forming drugs, so patients taking them were addicting themselves, without knowing it. EARLY MEDICINES LIKE THIS OIL OF CLOVES TYPICALLY CAME IN A GLASS BOTTLE WITH A CORK. THIS ONE CAME FROM MIXTER’S PHARMACY, VISALIA. Some cures advertised were not medicinal at all. A man using the name C.N. West, who claimed to be its inventor from San Francisco, created a device that he said would cure “all diseases without medicine.” In 1882, he placed an advertisement in the Visalia Weekly Delta offering to sell his “new electro-medical belt” for $5.00. He said that wearing it would fix anything that ailed you, including rheumatism, paralysis, kidney and back problems, indigestion, and any other disease or condition you had. Since the beginning of the town in 1852, Visalia had doctors available to care for its citizens. Most were well-meaning with limited training. One of the most interesting and memorable Visalia physicians was an English-born man named James Alonzo Webb. He immigrated to America and - according to himself - he “graduated at the Reformed Medical College in Georgia.” In his training he learned “the reformed or eclectic" method, using “curative medicines, whether mineral or vegetable.” Not only was he a doctor, he studied to be a minister in Virginia and was ordained in Georgia.

In 1906, President Theodore Roosevelt signed into law the Pure Food and Drug Act. Among other things, the new law led to the creation of the Food and Drug Administration, and required that any medicine that contained habit forming chemicals be labeled with an appropriate warning. Passage of the act basically ended the patent medicine business and the number of addictions was reduced dramatically.

HERE IS A LABEL FROM JOY’S CIGARETTES.

Calendar of Events

September Agenda As leaves start to change color, mark down these dates to venture out in the community to kick off the return of fall.

SEPTEMBER 12-13

SEPTEMBER 19

Saturday-Sunday

Saturday

Visalia Home EXPO

Kingsburg Crayfish Festival

When: Hours Vary

When: 5-10pm

Where: Visalia Convention Center

Where: Draper St

Hosted by: Visalia Home Shows

Hosted by: Kingsburg District Chamber of

https://tinyurl.com/visaliaexpo

Commerce https://tinyurl.com/kcrayfish

VISALIA

KINGSBURG

SEPTEMBER 19

SEPTEMBER 25

Saturday

Friday

Stewardship Day

Oktoberfest

When: 8-11am

When: 5:30-9:30pm

Where: Kaweah Oaks Preserve

Where: Mooney Grove Park

Hosted by: Sequoia Riverlands Trust

Hosted by: Visalia Chamber of Commerce

https://tinyurl.com/stewshipday

https://tinyurl.com/voktoberfest

@sequoiariverlandtrust EXETER

VISALIA

SEPTEMBER 19

SEPTEMBER 26

Saturday

Junk In Your Trunk

Vossler Farms Opening Day

When: 8am-2pm

When: Hours Vary

Where: 35601 Highway 190, Springville, CA

Where: Vossler Farms Pumpkin Patch

Hosted by: The Station

Hosted by: Vossler Farms

https://tinyurl.com/junkiyt

https://www.vosslerfarms.com/ @vossler_farms

SPRINGSVILLE

VISALIA

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

The Home Issue

Looking Forward

Fall in the Valley might look a little different than in the movies, but the heat won’t stop us from embracing all things cozy, seasonal, and pumpkin spice. Think DIY fall decor, apple picking, spooky brews, and more. Keep an eye out for our annual Fall issue this October.

UP NEXT:

The Fall Issue October 2026 If you'd like to be a part of the upcoming issue, please reach out to Root Creative Marketing at hi@lifestylemagazine.media We'd love to partner with you!

Published by LFSTYL Media LLC, 111 W Main Street, Visalia CA 93291 Co-Owner/Executive Editor Stephanie Steelman Co-Owner/Creative Editor Sam Justice Co-Owners Josh Ormonde, Kelsey Ormonde Editorial & Advertising Coordinator Chelsi Stark Content Editor Danielle Nederend Designers Daniel Borgatto, William Yamauti Advertising and General Inquiries hi@lifestylemagazine.media Sales Office 111 W Main Street, Visalia CA 93291 559.702.1383 View this Issue Online www.lifestylemagazine.media

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. © 2026 LFSTYL Media, LLC

Designed & Edited by

SEPTEMBER SS PP EE C C II A A LL

Celebrating Celebrating 23 23 Years Years

Twenty-three Twenty-threeyears yearsisismore morethan thanaa milestone—it milestone—itisisaareflection reflectionof ofthe thetrust, trust, loyalty, loyalty,and andunwavering unwaveringsupport supportof ofthe the clients clientsand andcommunity communitywe wehave havehad hadthe the privilege privilegeto toserve. serve.Because Becauseof ofyou, you, Advanced AdvancedBody Body&&Laser LaserCenter Centerhas has continued continuedto togrow, grow,innovate, innovate,and andremain remain committed committedto todelivering deliveringexceptional exceptional aesthetic aestheticand andwellness wellnesscare. care.Every Every appointment, appointment,every everyreferral, referral,and andevery every hasbeen beenpart partof ofour ourstory, story, familiar familiarface facehas and andfor forthat, that,we weare aresincerely sincerelygrateful. grateful.As As we wecelebrate celebrateour our23rd 23rdAnniversary, Anniversary,we weare are honored honoredto tothank thankyou youwith withour ouranniversary anniversary event. event.

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Throughout ThroughoutSeptember, September,enjoy enjoy30% 30%OFF OFF aesthetic aestheticservices servicesand andskincare skincareas asaatoken token of ofour ourappreciation appreciationfor forthe thesupport supportyou you have haveshown shownus usover overthe thepast past23 23years. years.Your Your confidence confidencein inour ourteam teamhas hasbeen beenour our greatest greatestachievement, achievement,and andwe welook lookforward forward to tocontinuing continuingto toserve servethis thiscommunity communitywith with the thesame samededication dedicationand andexcellence excellencefor for years yearsto tocome. come.With Withgratitude, gratitude,thank thankyou you withus. us. for forcelebrating celebrating23 23years yearswith

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