H

ello, Lifestyle reader, it’s an honor to take the helm as Publisher and Executive Editor of Lifestyle Magazine.
As I take the baton, it’s very apparent to me that I have some large shoes to fill. For the last 16 years, Karen Tellalian has generously served our community as the editor and publisher of Lifestyle Magazine. She has given light and a voice to many of the wonderful people, businesses and facets of life in our region. Karen’s vision and contributions have shaped Lifestyle into a beloved and long-standing publication that has become an important piece of our community fabric. On page 14, Karen shares some personal memories and thoughts about her time with the publication.
I feel incredibly grateful for the opportunity to carry on the legacy of serving our community through this publication.
Speaking of transition, this time of year always tends to fake me out. It should be fall, but here in the valley, it doesn’t always feel like it. College football, the advent of pumpkin-flavored everything, cooler mornings and shorter days all signal the changing season. Yet somehow I’m still surprised each year as we predictably end up with lingering heat popping up in October. I’m the guy who on Halloween has my son dressed up in a Chewbacca costume in 96-degree weather. I’m praying that this October brings us a reprieve from the long-lasting heat of this summer and, more importantly, offers up some rain.
In the “Land of Giants” article, Lifestyle’s own JJ Fry pays tribute to the beauty of our Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, honoring those who work to save them as I write. This photojournalistic tour includes the most recent photos of wildland firefighters and National Park and Forest employees risking their lives for these treasured landmarks. Our need for rain goes well beyond my silly complaints about the October heat, and our thoughts and prayers are with those directly affected. A QR code is included at the end of his article, highlighting ways that you could contribute to the needs in our community and the conservation efforts.
This month, we also meet the Hickey family and are welcomed into their beautiful, custom-built home. “Home at Last” follows Josh and Jamie’s journey up and down the state to finding their perfect home in an idyllic neighborhood. Jamie’s happy space is in her pantry, but the backyard is seriously special — complete with a view onto an orange grove from the hot tub or pool with full-length swim lanes. You will definitely want to take a peek at all the unique and beautiful features of the Hickeys’ home starting on page 24.
Thank you for allowing Lifestyle Magazine into your lives and homes over the past 18 years. We look forward to the future of the publication as we continue to serve you — our readers, advertisers and community.
Cheers,