Spend an evening under the oaks at fundraiser event

The stars will shine bright and the sounds of nature will come alive Friday during an event held at Kaweah Oaks Preserve.

The second annual An Evening Under the Oaks kicks off at 5:30 p.m. with dinner and drinks from Visalia’s Vintage Press, followed by an awards ceremony honoring some land conservation heroes.

These heroes include, Bill Clark, recipient of the 2015 Alan George Conservation award, Hayley Tashjian and the Pescosolido family. Rich Rodriguez, news anchor with KMPH Fox 26, will emcee the event.

Last year, just over 100 people attended the event and organizers are hoping for another great turnout, especially since this event is a major fundraiser for Sequoia Riverlands Trust, the regional nonprofit land trust.

Diane Hayes, director of development, said the event is a way for the public to get to know the organization better and to hear about what restoration projects the organization is currently working on.

“It’s a way to let people see one of our properties and to see what we’re doing out here,” Hayes said. “At the same time, people just enjoy getting together and it’s a great chance for great conversations.”

Organizers are adding two new mini fundraisers to this year’s lineup. The first fundraiser will give the public the opportunity to purchase a shower bucket, also a way to help conserve water. The second fundraiser will give attendees the option to purchase an 8-foot tall Valley oak tree. Trees can either be taken home or left at the preserve for planting.

Shortly after dinner, awards will be handed out to some very instrumental people who have helped Sequoia Riverlands Trust in one way or another.

Clark was born in Hanford and lived on a ranch growing up. He graduated from Hanford High School in 1948. He entered the U.S. Navy where he served for nearly five years, his wife, Libby Clark, said.

Clark is known in the community for his work as a farmer, dairyman, business owner and founder of World Wild Sires. Clark also established a museum for Japanese art and culture more than 20 years ago.

Hayes said Clark was chosen as recipient through Alan George himself, the person responsible for Kaweah Oaks becoming a preserve.

To preserve farmland and other lands, Sequoia Riverlands Trust puts easements on farms in and around Tulare County, so that farmland can stay farmland. This was an idea Clark was on board with, another reason why he was chosen for the award, Hayes said.

“He’s a really great guy and well respected,” Hayes said about Clark. “He’s certainly a man of many talents. We certainly applaud him for all of his accomplishments.”

Tickets for the event are still available by calling 738-0211. Live entertainment will be provided by the Visalia Community Players.

HOW TO ATTEND

What: An Evening Under the Oaks

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

Where: Kaweah Oaks Preserve

Directions: Kaweah Oaks Preserve is located east of Visalia. Travel seven miles east of downtown Visalia via Highway 198. Drive north on Road 182 one-half mile. The parking lot is on the west side of the road. Walk past the gate to enter.

Tickets: $100

Information: 738-0211