As an actor in Hollywood, Brian has portrayed a murderous wife killer as part of his body of work that includes Six Feet Under, 3 seasons with CSI Miami, and Criminal Minds to name a few. But Brian traded in that life for his most satisfying role to date: that of co-founder and Executive Director of the Source LGBQ + Center in Visalia. Today, he is focused on development of an LGBQ outreach center to meet the growing needs in the community. So, what does a person who is used to the Hollywood lifestyle do with famous, and not so famous, local citizens? We asked him what restaurants and attractions play a starring role in his current life here in Visalia.
We chatted with Brian about a few of his favorite things to see and do in Visalia after working in fast-paced Hollywood.
Q: You grew up in the area but moved away to pursue your acting career. What do you love about being back?
I love Main Street. It has always been my favorite part of Visalia. The shops and local food options are amazing. When I lived in LA, I gravitated toward smaller communities that reminded me of home... now I am home.
Q: The "PRIDE Visalia" event has really grown over the past few years. How does that event get organized and happen?
PRIDE Visalia is a community-driven effort and takes over 6 months to plan. It is host to over 3,000 attendees and is a wonderful way to celebrate acceptance, diversity, and inclusivity for everyone. The partnerships and community support help to create a community where LGBT people and their allies are safe and included.
Q: Do you have advice for those attending the event? And is it family friendly? How so?
PRIDE Visalia is a day-long community festival held on Memorial Day weekend. We kick off LGBT Pride month that begins in June with over 70 community organizations, music, food, and drag performances. Our festival is super family-friendly with face painting, a Kids Zone hosted by LGBT affirming churches, and lots of fun booths and activities for everyone. We value that atmosphere. People travel from all over California to attend and enjoy the fun and friendly vibe of PRIDE Visalia, often preferring it to other larger Pride festivals.
Q: What other local events do you enjoy attending?
I love going to Oktoberfest, Tastemakers Music Festival, and Vossler's Farms Pumpkin Patch every year. Family Service's Purple Party is a lot of fun, as well as Pride Night at Rawhide Baseball. Mooney's Grove Park is a favorite too. I have wonderful childhood memories there.
Q: Your office is located on Main Street. What is a great lunch spot you like to frequent?
There are so many choices. Quesadilla Gorilla for the Evan Boling, Pita Kabob for the Shwarma Fries, and Cellar Door for the Breakfast Burrito. I could go on and on.
Q: Are you a coffee person? If so, what is your go-to place?
I am a huge coffee person. My go-to's are Component Coffee Lab for the atmosphere and vibe. So good.
Q: If you had your cast mates from one of your shows here to visit, where would you take them?
I would take them Downtown to The Source, then the Elderwood Bar on the rooftop of the newly opened Darling Hotel, then Pita Kabob for lunch, then grab some coffees and head to Three Rivers for some Reimer's Ice Cream. That would be a perfect day!
