Community oriented and vivacious in personality, Marina has become a standout on Main Street, just like the icon she works for. Though Marketing and Development Manager of the 90 year old Grand Dame of Downtown Visalia, the Fox Theater, she can be found do ing whatever she can to help Visalia take center stage. Take some cues from Marina on what she recommends visitors see and do when they visit Visalia.
Q: How long have you lived in Visalia? Where are you from?
I was born in Pomona, in Southern California, and moved here with my family when I was six. Although I live in nearby Tulare, I love Visalia and feel like I can call it home since I work.
Q: The Fox Theater is an icon in downtown and has been host to entertainment acts for nearly a century. Famous performers such as BB King, Kelly Clarkson, the Beach Boys, Tony Bennett, Broadway star (and Visalia native) Betsy Wolfe, and many more have taken the stage at the Fox. The Sequoia Symphony Orchestra also calls it home. What other venues also provide great entertainment?
Barrelhouse Brewing Co has become a great place to see live, local entertainment! The Cellar Door is a fantastic place to see indie artists. Their partnership with Sound and Vision through the years have made Cellar Door a beacon for the arts and music scene.
Q: What do you like most about working on Main Street in Downtown Visalia?
I'm a big fan of the show Gilmore Girls and Main Street has big "Stars Hollow" vibes. Everyone is so friendly, there's great shops to visit, delicious food options, entertainment, and more. And at night, seeing the trees lit adds a warm, magical feeling when strolling Main Street.
Q: What is a must-do activity when you have visitors from out of town?
Visit The Fox Theatre ;) The fact that we have a beautiful, 90 year old theatre in the heart of Downtown Visalia makes it an absolute must to see! The beautiful and opulent interior is worth the visit with its pagoda, elephants and twinkling star ceiling. I really enjoy live entertainment, so if there is show happening, that's where I will take visitors. Big show, small acts. Live theater is great.
Q: Do you have a favorite place for coffee or a nightcap?
Component Coffee Lab is my favorite spot. The Sweet Latte with oat milk is my go-to. This is my favorite place for a meeting or just unplugging and enjoying a tea in their outdoor area. The staff is fantastic, the drinks and food options are exceptional. You can tell a lot of love goes into what they do and it makes the experience even better.
Q: What is your favorite type of food and the best place to get it here?
Lately Thai food has been a go-to of mine. And there are two favorite spots I frequent, Davorn's and Bangkok Noy.
Q: Any hidden gems you’d like to share?
Bangkok Noy on Court Street, is a delicious hidden gem! A friend introduced me to the cash-only spot, that is in the back of a small market. Get the Green Curry with some Pad Thai, you won't regret it! That is the beauty of Visalia - there are lot's of great places to explore.
