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CULTURE, COMMERCE, AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE — T h e H e a r t O f T h e S o u t h V a l l e y
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CULTURE, COMMERCE, AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE — T h e H e a r t O f T h e S o u t h V a l l e y
INSIDE FEBRuary 2011 PUB LI S HE D BY
DMI Agency 801 W. Main St. Visalia, CA 93291 BUS INE S S M ANAG E M E NT
Malkasian Accountancy LLP Gary Malkasian CPA JeffREy Malkasian EA Bookkeeper Marilyn Harris AD MIN I ST RAT I ON & E DI TO RI AL
Executive Editor Karen Tellalian Assistant Editor TAYLOR VAUGHN Marketing Specialist KATIE DESROCHERS Office Administrator MARIA GASTON CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
C. S. WYATT CRYSTAL R. R. EDWARDS CRAIG WHEATON WARREN GUBLER andy Salazar Irene Morse David WattE Chef Tony Garcia
6 Three Cups
of Tea
An evening with Greg Mortensen
Advertising Sales DARLENE MAYFIELD 559.739.1747 SA LES O FF I C E
801 W. Main St. Visalia, CA 93291 559.739.1747 • fax 559.738.0909 email: direct@dmiagency.com
Direct Magazine is published twelve times a year and is distributed via direct mail to nearly 49,000 homes between Visalia and Tulare. An additional 1,500 magazines are circulated at distribution points around Visalia and Tulare. Views expressed in columns are those expressed by the columnist and not necessarily those of Direct Magazine. We are dedicated to serving the community. Please call us for questions, comments, article suggestions or for information about local events at 739-1747. Fax us at 738-0909 or email us: direct@dmiagency.com. Online Issue at: www.issuu.com/dmiagency ©2011 DMI Agency
Circulation of this Issue: 51,500
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16 Culinary 20 Focus on Fitness 35 VUSD 34 Education
38 Goings-On
12 Virtual Valley Science at Home: DIY Labs and More
40 Direct from Warren
14 Well, THAT Was Fun Why Do You Want This Job? 18 From Out of the Tules Tagus Ranch
32 Chinese New Year 2011: Year of the Rabbit
ADVE RT I S I NG SA LE S
Advertising Director Bridget Elmore 559.739.1747
10 Pet of the Month
CULTURE, COMMERCE, AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE — T h e H e a r t O f T h e S o u t h V a l l e y
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CULTURE, COMMERCE, AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE — T h e H e a r t O f T h e S o u t h V a l l e y
Three Cups of Tea Tex t by Irene Morse
An evening with greg mortensen A bove : Humanitarian Greg Mortenson makes a difference around the globe with inspiration, kindness and education for all. O pp osite L ef t : Soren Grinsfelder (at Mortenson’s left) an elementary student from Eleanor Roosevelt Charter School in Visalia was motivated to help children across the world get an education; Soren and his cl assmates presented Mortenson with a $211.78 check for his “Pennies for Peace” service-learning program. O pp osite R ight : Pro-Youth/HEART presents Mortenson with a checks to benefit his programs, signed: “Love from Tul are Count y.”
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Greg Mortenson is a mountain of a man – in every sense of the word. An average sized woman, I found the top of my head barely clearing an area somewhere south of his shoulder. When he reached to shake my hand, as he does that of everyone whose path he crosses, mine quickly disappeared into his bear-pawsized and surprisingly supple one. He looked directly into my eyes and softly asked my name. I felt not so much greeted as enveloped. Mortenson is the author of the book Three Cups of Tea. In the book, he chronicles his near-death experience trying to climb the treacherous mountain K-2. Lost and physically spent, Mortenson was trying to retrace his steps back down the mountain when he stumbled upon the small village of Korphe in Pakistan. The people of the village, living barely subsistence lives themselves, gave him the spot of honor beside the open hearth, food and healing tea. Mortenson was not only physically sick but his soul was troubled as well. He had planned to climb K-2 as an homage to his sister who had died recently, and he had failed to summit
CULTURE, COMMERCE, AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE — T h e H e a r t O f T h e S o u t h V a l l e y
the mountain. As he slowly regained his health, he came to realize that failure sometimes brings the greatest awareness and he often quotes the Persian Proverb, “When it is dark enough, you can see the stars.” Many recuperative hours were spent with the village elder, Haji Ali, speaking in a combination of languages and gestures. Haji Ali told Mortenson that the tea he was given was not only nurturing but symbolic as well, “Here we drink three cups of tea to do business; the first you are a stranger, the second you become a friend, and the third, you join our family, and for our family we are prepared to do anything – even die.” As he regained his strength, Mortenson, a trauma nurse by profession, began to help heal the sick villagers. He also began to realize how near death he had been and how desperate the circumstances of the villagers were. He wondered how he would ever discharge the debt he owed these generous people. One day, while discussing how he could repay them, Haji Ali admonished Mortenson to, “Listen to the wind.”
With eyes closed, he listened and heard the voices of the children, carried upon the wind, reciting their lessons. Although the village could only afford to pay a teacher to come three days a week, the children studied their lessons every day, sitting outside on the frosty ground. Mortenson put his hands on Haji Ali’s shoulders and spoke the words that would forever change his life, “I’m going to build you a school.” In Three Cups of Tea, Mortenson recounts the years and Herculean effort it took to keep that promise. His second book, Stones Into Schools, begins where the previous one ended in 2003 and further describes projects in both Pakistan and Afghanistan. From that fateful day in September 1993 until now, Mortenson has built more than 145 schools, most of them for girls. He has also built vocational centers, water projects, training programs for teachers, midwives and others; filled school libraries and furnished his new school grounds with play equipment. He has learned how to accomplish all this even in Taliban-controlled regions. DIRECT MAGAZINE
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CULTURE, COMMERCE, AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE — T h e H e a r t O f T h e S o u t h V a l l e y
Top : Pro-Youth/HEART CEO L aurie Isham expresses joy and gratitude to Mortenson for coming to speak, and touching so many lives Visalia. C enter : Pennies for Peace donation box. B ot tom : Mortenson greets young fan, Soren Grinsfelder.
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A 501(c)(3) organization, Central Asia Institute or CAI, was formed to accept donations to assist Mortenson in his mission of “Promoting peace with books, not bombs.” The CAI operates as the administrative center for Mortenson’s work. While he makes personal appearances around the world on behalf of the projects, Mortenson’s indefatigable manager, Sarfraz Khan, travels the remote regions of Pakistan and Afghanistan leading armies of villagers in building schools and educating girls – and boys. Greg Mortenson was in Visalia as the guest presenter for the 2010 HEART Encore Event. These annual events help fund Pro-Youth/ HEART’s after-school programs which provide a safe, enriching environment for the children of the community. At the urging of Mortenson’s own children, a Pennies for Peace program was founded; a single US penny can buy a pencil for a child in Pakistan. CAI does no marketing for this program; it is all “kid-driven.” Children love to help and most are delighted to learn that even their small contributions are so valuable for less fortunate children in far-away lands. On the run-up to Mortenson’s appearance in Visalia, more than 40 schools and 25 area businesses participated in the Pennies for Peace program. The local Read for Life chapter organized the campaign along with Pro-Youth/HEART. The program raised nearly $7,000 to split equally between CAI and our Read for Life chapter. Mortenson loves to sit and talk with children. In spite of his size, or maybe because of it, they seem drawn to him; he listens carefully when they speak. He often asks groups of children how many of them have interacted with their elders, their parents or grandparents, for at least ten hours in a week. Not surprisingly, American children rarely have consequential conversations with their parents or grandparents, but the children of Pakistan and Afghanistan do so nearly every day. Mortenson believes that it is a national tragedy that American children do not have a tradition of consistent communication with their elders. He believes children can learn how best to “be” in the world from their parents and grandparents. He states, “There’s nothing we face today that our elders haven’t overcome.” Mortenson has an impressive list of awards and honors given in tribute to his work. Among them is the Sitara-i-Pakistan, the Star of Pakistan. The Star is the highest civilian award in Pakistan and has been given to only three foreigners. In addition, his work has won prizes here in the U.S. and praise from such national leaders as President Bill Clinton and First Lady Laura Bush. The Pentagon has made Three Cups of Tea mandatory reading for all senior officers and Special Forces in Afghanistan. Mortenson and his Afghan and Pakistan staff hold regular strategic meetings with General Petraeus and other high-ranking military personnel in the region. The sub-title of Mortenson’s book is, “One Man’s Mission to Promote Peace …One School at a Time.” Pro-Youth/HEART is going to have a very difficult time finding another guest presenter for their annual Encore Event who more perfectly epitomizes the value of every child and the importance of education.
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CULTURE, COMMERCE, AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE — T h e H e a r t O f T h e S o u t h V a l l e y
PET OF THE MONTH
A Special Dog with Special Needs Looking for a
Forever Home
A D O P T A B L E P E T O F T H E MO N T H MEET RAINE Raine first came into the shelter when she was eight weeks old on December 26, 2009 and was adopted shortly afterwards. Her owners returned her to the shelter on July 29, 2010, because they were expecting a baby and felt it was too much to have a new baby and care for Raine. Raine went into a foster home on August 2, 2010. Raine is your typical puppy: energetic, very playful and full of life! She loves going on walks and playing in mud, but one of her all-time favorite things to do is just play with other dogs. She walks well on a leash, loves car rides, and knows the signs to sit, stay, shake, and good girl. Raine is deaf so she will require a lot of time and patience but she’s worth it! She’s a very smart pup and catches on very quickly. She still has a lot of puppy in her so she can be rambunctious at times and would probably do best in a home with no kids under the age of six. When Nicole, Raine’s foster mom, first started fostering Raine she realized they would need to work on basic manners right away. Raine needed to understand that jumping on people and mouthing people’s hands and feet weren’t allowed. The first month or two, Nicole concentrated on those two things. Then Nicole began working on her being less jumpy and getting used to being touched when she wasn’t looking. She’s very smart and catches on extremely quickly. Kennel card number #14143. Visit Raine and all her friends at Valley Oak SPCA shelter or online at www.vospca.org If you’re interested in meeting Raine, please call (559) 713-4688 or email kstevens@vospca.org.
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VALLEY OAK SPCA 29016 HIGHWAY 99 VISALIA, CA 93277 Phone: (559) 651-1111 Web: www.vospca.org
CULTURE, COMMERCE, AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE — T h e H e a r t O f T h e S o u t h V a l l e y
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CULTURE, COMMERCE, AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE — T h e H e a r t O f T h e S o u t h V a l l e y
VIRTUAL VALLEY
Science at Home: DIY Labs and More Model rockets, a microscope, a telescope, motorized kits and various computers enabled my explorations of science and technology while growing up in the 1970s and ’80s. During the 1990s, the popular television shows “Beakman’s World” and “Bill Nye the Science Guy” built on the tradition of “Mr. Wizard.” These programs showed young people they didn’t have to wait for school science fairs to do something fantastic. The science projects were decidedly low-tech, using items like cardboard tubes and plastic soda bottles. Today’s amateur scientists can assemble a do-it-yourself lab rivaling any television show, a lab more like “C.S.I.” than the simple lab table of Mr. Wizard. And, as with any hobby, there are online communities dedicated to home science labs. Many of the participants in these groups are active in the homeschooling movement. Also, many of the people involved work in science, engineering and related fields. I recommend visiting the websites GeekMom.com and GeekDad.com, both sponsored by Wired online magazine. GeekMom writers include Kari Byron of “MythBusters” fame. Many of the articles posted explain at-home experiments ranging from low-tech to high-tech. Being a home scientist is not cheap. A lab for an elementary student might cost $1,000, while a high school or college-level lab can cost $3,000 or more. A high-tech home science lab also requires plenty of space for the equipment. The first thing you need for a serious home lab is a good computer. Most of the scientific instruments have USB ports, so you will want one or more good USB “hubs” that convert a single USB port on your computer to several more. The hub should be powered and meet the USB 2.0 or 3.0 standard. I suggest seven or more USB ports for the home scientist. Most home science labs begin with an affordable USB microscope. These microscopes combine optics with precise digital cameras. The USB connection allows a microscope to display images on a computer screen. One popular model among homeschoolers is the Digital Blue QX5, which sells for under $100. For under $500, some great USB microscopes can be found online. The popular Motic DM52 attaches to a Mac or PC, allowing you to capture images magnified from 10 to 400 times. Serious hobbyists suggest the Swift Digital M10L. 12
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Considered affordable at $1,300, the M10L features a 5-megapixel camera, a small screen, and a secure digital (SD) memory card slot. The microscope functions like most digital cameras, storing still images or full-motion video to SD cards. If you’ve watched “C.S.I.” you likely have seen them “scan” clothing or household items. The device used is the “visual presenter,” which is designed to photograph items that cannot be scanned or photographed easily. A presenter looks like an old-style photograph enlarger. It features a high-quality digital camera with a macro lens for extreme close-ups. The camera is mounted on an arm, which rises from a lit table. The presenter can be used to photograph mounted leaves, insects or delicate documents. The optical perfection of a presenter isn’t cheap. The popular AVerMedia presenters range in price from $700 to $1,500, with the more expensive models featuring the highest resolutions and greatest magnifications. Maybe scanning flowers or bugs isn’t your idea of fun. Most people are interested in the weather, and amateur scientists are no exception. The home scientist can set up a complete weather station that sends data to a computer. This allows the user to study historical trends and compare microclimate data to regional weather reports. The popular home weather stations are from Davis Instruments and RainWise, Inc. The kits from each company are modular, allowing you to add everything from wind speed anemometers to tipping rain gauges. These models are mounted outside, of course, and transmit data a short distance via radio signals to a receiver attached to your computer’s USB port. A basic weather station costs $400. Complete systems equivalent to National Weather Service automated stations are available for $1,500. These are complex systems, calibrated to federal standards. Not everyone needs to track temperatures to the nearest tenth of a degree, but you can with some of the sensors available. Another popular home science subject is astronomy. Programmable telescopes that locate and point to selected objects are popular. One popular model among home scientists is the Meade ETX-80. The “AutoStar” keypad can be detached and connected to a computer to update the locations
CULTURE, COMMERCE, AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE — T h e H e a r t O f T h e S o u t h V a l l e y
Tex t by C. S. Wyat t
of known celestial objects. The ETX is $300, making it a good starter telescope. Most amateur scientist websites suggest spending $600 to $1,000 for a Celestron or Meade computerprogrammable telescope. Many telescopes in the $1,000 class also support digital cameras, via adapters. If an expensive, programmable telescope is too much, why not start with what you can see? The Celestron SkyScout is $250. You point the SkyScout to any celestial object and the device attempts to identify that object and any related objects. A USB port allows you to update the SkyScout database. An SD card can be used to load audio tours downloaded from the Web. The SkyScout also has GPS capabilities, allowing it to tailor information to your exact location. There are also various planetariums for home computers. These devices project images of stars onto walls and ceilings. You can purchase basic, low-tech planetariums for $50 to $100, while the computer-controlled projectors cost $150 to $300. There are also numerous free software applications that display the night sky on your computer screen. Popular
free planetariums are Stellarium and Celestia. Both free applications work on Windows, OS X, and the Linux operating systems. Retailers specializing in science equipment:
• Edmund Scientific, www.scientificsonline.com, offers kits and equipment designed for students of all ages. Supplies for all major scientific fields are featured. • Home Science Tools (HST), www.hometrainingtools.com, targets the homeschooling market, offering everything from state-approved curriculum guides to the supplies needed for experiments. • ThinkGeek, www.thinkgeek.com, offers “gadgets” and DIY kits for everything from simple computers to retro “Pong” video games. Assembly is the point. • Microscope World, www.microscopeworld.com. • Weather Shack, www.weathershack.com.
Valley native Scott Wyatt has a doctorate in scientific and technical communication, focusing on issues of education, literacy and technology. Contact Scott at cswyatt@tameri.com with questions or comments.
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CULTURE, COMMERCE, AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE — T h e H e a r t O f T h e S o u t h V a l l e y
WELL, THAT WAS FUN Why Do You Want I made only one New Year’s resolution this year: take risks. Readers of my column know that risks are something I’m lousy at and that even saying the word elevates my heart rate and causes me to need a nap. Last week, I received a call from a friend and fellow contractor who had recently been hired by a large company to develop a new revenue stream. “Crystal,” he chirped into the phone, “We’re losing our copywriter and I want you to come work for us! You’ll love it here!” I sent him a copy of my resume and portfolio, along with a requested writing sample on a technical topic, and figured that was that. This is actually a commonplace occurrence with contractors. We’re shameless networkers and we’re always trying to plug people we know into available jobs we discover. It doesn’t usually lead to a solid job offer, but we do it anyway as a method of learning humility. Imagine my surprise when at the end of the week the marketing manager, Jaye, called me. “I’m so excited to talk with you!” she said. She explained a bit about the position, then asked if I could spend a few minutes having a phone interview. A phone interview right then. I looked over my shoulder at the three children milling about and decided my only New Year’s resolution was being tested. A phone interview with kids in the house is a risk. I chose to do it. So far that afternoon my three children were being quiet and well-behaved. Surely I could pull off a 15-minute phoner. Jaye leapt right in. “I see you have experience with fast turn-around. We sometimes run workshops where we help our franchisees write letters to their customers. The letters often need a bit of help. If I emailed you such a letter right now, how soon could I expect to have it returned to me?” I opened my mouth to answer when I saw Birdie Sue approaching out of the corner of my eye. She was waving a piece of paper and drawing her finger across her throat. I put on my glasses to read the paper while I answered. “As a rule,” I started, “it depends on the length of the letter. A boost like that takes an average of 10 minutes.” Just then 14
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This Job?
I caught the date of the paper Birdie Sue had handed me to sign. It was a permission slip that was due the previous Friday. I scribbled my name at the bottom and handed it back to her, mouthing the word “Sorry.” She shook her head. I was obviously the only mother in the history of motherhood to miss signing a permission slip that hadn’t been presented to me until five days after it was due. Tapper’s remote-control car zoomed into the room, slammed against two walls and my foot, then zoomed back out. I turned around backward on the couch to look at him. I swear, the boy had a halo over his head. He pointed at Birdie Sue. “Stop. It.” I whispered with my hand over the mouthpiece of the phone. He laughed as I listened to the next question. “We have a monthly four-page newsletter, and also a weekly email of about 250 words we like to send. I have the sample you wrote here for that email. How long did it take you to write it?” Jaye asked. Hedgehog came tearing into the room and skidded to a stop right in front of me. Her eyes were as wide as saucers. “It was a highly technical topic and I had to refresh my knowledge of the latest processes,” I said. Hedgehog pointed at her Disney Princess watch and then at the TV. “Research took about 20 minutes.” Hedgehog began dancing in place. “Writing it took perhaps 20, but I wasn’t really watching the clock.” Hedgehog collapsed on the floor. That’s when I realized I hadn’t yet shown her how to navigate the new entertainment system we put upstairs in the family room and she’d just missed the start of a show about talking unicorns, bunnies in highwater pants, and a puppy named Poobsie. “Excellent,” said Jaye. “Are you comfortable translating high-level technical topics into layman’s terms?” Birdie Sue reappeared, carrying her math homework and frowning. Saints preserve me, it was long division. There’s a reason I’m now a writer. “I’m quite comfortable with it,” I said. I scribbled a solution down on the back of Birdie Sue’s worksheet. She shook her head and began drawing
CULTURE, COMMERCE, AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE — T h e H e a r t O f T h e S o u t h V a l l e y
Tex t by Crystal R. R. Edwards
something that looked like the caffeine molecule. “I have a background in artificial intelligence and programming. I know how to take high-level concepts and turn them into digestible bites for businesses and consumers alike.” Birdie Sue’s calculations gave her the incorrect answer for the math problem. I wrote, “What in heck is that?” on the bottom of the paper. She wrote back, “Showing my work.” “Never did it that way before,” I wrote. When I handed it back, I said into the phone. “And it’s wrong.” Birdie Sue’s eyes bugged out of her head. “Excuse me?” said Jaye. “I, uh ... Pardon me, I got ahead of myself. I meant that it is short-sighted of technology companies to assume their clients all understand these concepts. People don’t trust what they don’t understand. My aim is to make them trust us by writing informative articles they can easily understand. I take great pride in my ability to do so.” Birdie Sue gave me the thumbs-up and wrote, “Awesome!” at the bottom of our combined scribbles. She walked away with the wrong solution to her problem, tripping over the remote-control car and going down in a heap. She opened her mouth to holler at her brother but stopped short after a quick glance at me. My face was an iron mask of You Will Be SO Grounded If You Make Noise. She got the message. She closed her mouth with a pop and picked up Tapper’s car and shoved it into her backpack. “I completely agree,” said Jaye. “That leads me to the final question: you have been a successful contractor for several years. Why do you want this job?” I looked at Hegehog still lying on the floor. I looked at Birdie Sue and her piles of homework. I looked at Tapper poking the cat with the antenna from his remote-control car. I heard the zippers and buttons of the load of laundry upstairs clack-clacking and smelled supper in the oven. Two baskets of unfolded laundry were at my feet, and three stacks of already-folded pieces were on the couch next to me. My laptop with my three unfinished books was nearby, and the cursor was flashing on the page of an unfinished article. The floor was littered with Lego pieces and cat hair. “I don’t have enough to do,” I answered.
Broker/Owner NMLS #252789 Broker/Owner NMLS #252789
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CULTURE, COMMERCE, AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE — T h e H e a r t O f T h e S o u t h V a l l e y
CULINARY Recipe by Chef Tony Garcia of Visalia Country Club
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CULTURE, COMMERCE, AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE — T h e H e a r t O f T h e S o u t h V a l l e y
Preparation:
Ingredients
4 3” x 3” puff pastry sheets plus butter Lemon Sabayon filling 1 large egg 1 large egg yolk 1/2 C sugar 1/4 C freshly squeezed lemon juice 2 oz butter, softened
Pre-heat oven to 325˚F. Drape individual puff pastry sheets over separate 1” oven-proof ramekins. Brush with butter and bake in oven 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown. Preparation – Lemon Sabayon filling
Fill small pan with 1” of water, bring to slow boil. In small bowl (preferably stainless) that will fit snugly over pan, mix eggs and sugar. Place bowl over pan of water (make sure that bowl does not touch water!) and begin slowly whisking. Eggs will begin to foam on the edges after about three minutes. Add 1/2 portion of lemon juice and continue whisking until mixture thickens (about another three minutes). Add remainder of lemon juice and continue to whip until mixture has thickened again (about another three minutes). Turn off flame and slowly add butter while whisking without removing from pan. When butter is mixed in, remove from heat and let cool for 15 minutes at room temperature. Be careful to whisk the sabayon continually until it sets – without the continual whisking the eggs will cook and ruin the sabayon. Pour sabayon into pastry shells and garnish with candied lemon zest.
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We invite you to get to know us and learn a little more about our team. Request more information and I will get back to you right away. Imagine a life of perfect balance.
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CULTURE, COMMERCE, AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE — T h e H e a r t O f T h e S o u t h V a l l e y
Text by David Watte
Tagus Ranch
A large sign bearing the name “Tagus Ranch” still marks the site just north of Tulare on highway 99, and many people remember the restaurant and country theater from the ruined building that remains. But not nearly as many folks remember the actual working ranch. Tagus Ranch founder and owner Hulett Clinton Merritt was born in 1872 near Duluth, Minnesota. Considered a child genius, Merritt enrolled at Iowa State College at age 13. His higher education lasted only one year, however. Tormented by the other students for his youth and high marks, Merritt moved back home to Duluth to work with his father. Father and son formed a partnership and were both millionaires within a few years, thanks to fortunate dealings in real estate, iron and railroads. At the age of 19, Merritt married Rosaline Ollivier. After a few years together, the family moved to California in 1901 where Merritt purchased a large interest in the United Electric, Gas and Power Company. Within a few years, he cleverly sold out to Southern California Edison for a large profit. But Merritt’s Tulare county history does not begin until 1912 18
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when he purchased 3,000 acres of grain and pasture land just north of Tulare city. Merritt christened his new operation Tagus Ranch – a name he took from a local railway switch. Merritt’s son, Huelett, Jr., became manager of the ranch in 1918 and changed operations from wheat and sugar beets to fruit and cotton. Meanwhile, land acquisitions eventually brought the Ranch’s property total to 7,200 acres. Initially, the main crops planted were peaches, apricots, prunes and grapes, with nectarines and boysenberries to follow later. At the time, Tagus Ranch was the largest peach growing and drying operation in the nation. The Ranch also boasted one of the largest underground water systems in the state, with approximately 60 deep wells that allowed for 87 million gallons of water per day. Also planted were 900 acres of cotton, all picked and harvested by hand. Many hands were needed to bring in all these crops, and the Ranch employed about 300 full-time employees, as well as several thousand annual seasonal workers in its operational heyday. Roughly 2,000 workers were housed in cabins located in 11 separate camps. The housing on Tagus Ranch was
CULTURE, COMMERCE, AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE — T h e H e a r t O f T h e S o u t h V a l l e y
O pp osite Page : During its heyday in the early 20 th century, Tagus Ranch was one of the l argest growing and drying operations in the nation
A bove : The world of Tagus Ranch once boasted its own general store, grammar school, post office, and even minted its own currency ( top right )
considered as fine as any in similar operations throughout the state. Cabins ranged in size from one to five rooms and featured limited electricity and no plumbing. In its prime, Tagus Ranch functioned almost as its own private nation. Apart from on-site lodging, the Ranch boasted its own general store, grammar school, post office, and printed its own Tagus Scrip. And like any nation, the Ranch has had a colorful history of changes, economic challenges, and even prisoners of war. One of the more memorable and tense situations in Ranch history was the strike of 1933. Tagus Ranch’s fruit pickers went on strike for 10 days and succeeded in securing a pay raise to 25 cents per hour, up from 15 cents. And during WWII, the Ranch had several dozen German POWs working within its boundaries. In later years, a restaurant, a motel, two service stations and a fruit stand were built alongside highway 99. The restaurant was destroyed by fire in 1953, and immediately rebuilt, only to be gutted again by fire in the 1990s. That ruined building still stands today – the most visible remaining relic of a once-bustling emporium. According to interviews with local individuals born and raised at Tagus Ranch, most of the workers felt positively
toward the owner and management. One of the common themes found in talking to Tagus Ranch “graduates” was that although different cultures and backgrounds lived in close proximity to each other, the Ranch was a peaceful place to live and work. Few people (if any) normally locked their doors, and squabbles and personal disagreements were rare. Many had fond recollections of Mr. Merritt during the holidays, when he would playfully throw dimes for the Ranch’s children out of his windows. Hulett Merritt’s wife, Rosaline, died in Pasadena in 1954, and Merritt himself passed away shortly thereafter at his Santa Barbara mansion in 1956. As we look back at Tagus Ranch and its heyday that spanned from the roaring ’20s to World War II, the general picture is that of an oasis of agricultural culture. During some of the toughest economic times that our country has faced, Tagus Ranch managed to remain a place where hard work provided a reliable living for many people. It also helped create some of the fine citizens that continue to make Tulare County what it is today. And although it is no longer the operational giant it once was, Tagus Ranch remains a fascinating example of California’s rich agricultural history. DIRECT MAGAZINE
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CULTURE, COMMERCE, AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE — T h e H e a r t O f T h e S o u t h V a l l e y
FOCUS ON FITNESS Text by Andy & Eryn Salazar of Empower Fitness Training
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Resistance Training is for Everyone Most of us are intimidated by a weight training routine because we don’t know where to begin. We are much more comfortable with hopping on a piece of cardio equipment or taking an aerobics class than we are pumping iron. Don’t fear the weight room; the benefits are well worth the effort to learn about proper resistance training and program design. There are several myths associated with lifting weights that hold people back, but we will debunk them. Resistance training is exercising that increases your muscular strength and muscular endurance by lifting weights repetitively with free weights, weight machines or bands. Here are a few reasons why you should weight train, and why you are missing out if you don’t: • • • • • • • • • •
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It helps to improve your physique Makes you physically stronger Improves your posture Lowers your blood pressure Increases your metabolism Increases your bone density Helps with your balance Improves body fat Decreases your risk of injury Helps your body work more efficiently.
DIRECT MAGAZINE
You may still wonder why more people don’t use it in their fitness plans or to lose weight. There are many myths and mysteries surrounding resistance training that hold people back from incorporating it into their daily exercise plan. Below are two myths and the truths that debunk them: Myth #1: (Women) “I will get big and bulky.” Truth #1: A major factor in massive muscle growth is testosterone. Naturally, women do not have as much testosterone as men to produce bulky muscles. Myth #2: “I don’t want to build muscle because if I stop it will turn to fat.” Truth #2: Muscle and fat are two different types of tissue, so muscle cannot turn to fat. Other reasons that people do not do resistance training are because they do not know how, they are afraid of getting injured, or they are intimidated. These are all valid fears; whenever you are thinking about incorporating resistance training into your routine, seek out the help of a fitness professional. Plain and simple weight training gets results. You will lose body fat, gain lean muscle mass, and improve your posture. Remember the benefits of resistance training are worth the long walk from the cardio equipment into unfamiliar territory at the gym.
See Great Ideas Bloom at the OVER 350 EXHIBITS WITH THE BEST IN OUTDOOR LIVING, LANDSCAPING & REMODELING
For $2 off discount ticket or information about the show go to: www.VisaliaHomeShows.com.
INSIDE
Inside the Landscaping Tent Landscaping for Curb Appeal Floor Plan Cooking Demonstrations Gardening Seminars Product Demonstrations Technology/Computer Workshops Valentine’s Gift Giveaways List of Exhibitors
Big Island Plants debuts at Springfest in the Landscaping Tent.
2011 SHOW PROGRAM P R O D U C E D
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www.VisaliaHomeShows.com
Gardening Ideas Bloom inside the Landscaping Tent
Now that spring is (almost) upon us, it’s finally time to head back out into the garden and begin repairing the havoc the cold winter has spent months wreaking on our plants and lawns. If you, like so many others, don’t know where to begin, perhaps a visit with Big Island Plants – one of the many new Springfest exhibitors - may help you add the tropical touch you need for your yard. This year, be sure to stop by the Landscaping Tent to get advice and inspiration from local green-thumb experts on how to create that dream garden, how to repair and revitalize the lawn and shrubbery around your home, how to reduce skyrocketing water bills, or how to help the kids start a vegetable patch.
Buttonwillow
DAILY GIVEAWAYS
Nursery & Landscape Buttonwillow Nursery offers a wide variety of trees and shrubs, water features, pottery, and statuary for your home and garden. Our gift shop offers a beautiful selection of interior décor, houseplants, and gifts. Buttonwillow Landscaping Services can also help with any outdoor project - from renovation to new installation - as we now offer complete landscape design and installation services. With 13 years of experience, just let our knowledgeable staff assist you with your home and garden needs. For specific information about the types of plants, outdoor accessories or landscaping services that are available, call the nursery at 559-638-5774 or stop by their booth in the Landscaping Tent.
Big Island Plants
Each day of the show, the first 50 visitors to the Buttonwillow Nursery booth (on the Plaza Courtyard) will receive the following giveaways:
FRIDAY: $5 Gift Certificate
SATURDAY: Jumbo 6-Pack Annuals from Fancher Creek
SUNDAY: Potted Flower and Packet of Seeds
Aloha!
Big Island Plants is excited to be participating in the 2011 Visalia Springfest this February. We are a family-owned business that was started 65 years ago by our grandmother at the World’s Fair with Good Luck Hawaiian TI Logs. We’ve grown since then, and now specialize in the beautiful, fragrant plumeria. We travel all over the country participating in the major home and garden expositions, and can now be seen at many of the fairs and shows all over California, as well as on the QVC Home Shopping network. Be sure to swing by the Landscaping Tent to meet Debbie, who will be handing out plumeria flowers and giving demos on all of our beautiful Hawaiian plants. We feature various plumerias, tuberose, gloriosa and starfire lillies, and you can also see other exotic plants like the authurium growing in lava rocks! All of our plants, cuttings and bulbs come with instructions and pots to get them started. You can purchase a kit including everything to get you started, and our Amazing Hawaiian Flower Magic fertilizer for only $20.00. If you purchase two kits for $40.00, we will also throw in a free Good Luck Hawaiian TI Log, just like grandma started with over 65 years ago. Follow your nose to our booth and check out our beautiful selection of flowers and other hard-to-find, easy-to-grow landscaping options from Big Island Plants.
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Come visit the
Master Gardeners at their
booth and ask them your home gardening questions. We specialize in “Gardening Central Valley Style.” Get answers on what flowers, trees and shrubs to plant in your home landscape. We specialize in solving pest problems for the do-it-yourself home gardener. Pick up a list of our “Pest Notes” – a guide of pests specific to California that is available free online – and try out our interactive Pest Kiosk. We have local gardening information for you, such as our newly revised Vegetable Planting Guide for the San Joaquin Valley. Master Gardeners will host a unique selection of seminars on all three days of the show. Please visit the event website at: www.VisaliaHomeShows.com/Springfest/ visitor/seminars-by-the-experts for specific information about seminar times and dates.
Landscaping For Curb Appeal
There was a time when hardscape—that perfect complement to grass and flowers—seemed to be a luxury reserved for Hearst Castle-type homes and businesses. The idea of a stone walkway, a beautiful retaining wall, an outdoor fireplace, or a built-in barbecue was simply lavish. But today, those lavish ideas have turned into common requests for hardscape experts like Pacific Supply of Visalia. Part of the popularity is due to increased affordability and availability of natural and veneer stones and masonry. Now is a good time to plan and complete that outdoor kitchen, courtyard or patio, so you can sit back and enjoy your new outdoor living space with family and friends. Our showroom is one-of-a-kind, and is a recommended destination for those considering hardscapes like pavers, stones, bricks, or for anyone who simply wants to dream about having the perfect patio! Even more exciting for homeowners and business owners is the Pacific Supply Outdoor Living Showroom, now open to the public. The showroom offers full-size displays of products, similar to vignettes of outdoor living spaces. People can come in with their contractors, designers, or by themselves to see and feel the materials. On display are fountains, retaining walls, a fireplace, and a built-in barbecue that will make anyone hungry for the perfect grilled meal. To visit our showroom, take 99 north to Betty Drive, go west on Betty Drive to Road 68, and then go
NEWW SHODUCT PRO
South to 30158 Road 68. Contact us at (559) 6512185, or visit us on the web at www.pacsup.com. In addition to hardscape products, Pacific Supply is also a key supplier of roofing, drywall, and stucco products. Stop by our Springfest Booth and don’t forget to bring this coupon…
Visit us in Exhibit Hall-West (Booth#s: 316 & 318)
EXPIRES March 31, 2011
Introducing “PostUp” an American Innovation
Over time, any wooden fence begins to deteriorate from wind, water damage, and rotting fence posts. The end result is collapsed and unsightly fences. Rotted fence post repair is expensive and time-consuming, often requiring skilled labor. PostUp provides an easy, inexpensive and durable alternative to fence replacement. PostUp is durably constructed of heavy-gauge steel, allowing it to be driven into the ground and bolted to the existing post. The tools required are usually found in the average homeowner’s garage, and the project can be installed in 5 simple steps. Stop by our booth in the Landscaping Tent to see how you can save time, money and quickly repair fences with minimal damage to existing plants and landscaping. Compare it for yourself!
Central Valley Overhead Door (CLSB#558563)
Central Valley Overhead Door—your local residential overhead door company since 1989—returns to the Visalia Springfest. We currently install garage door openers and use a variety of manufacturers to provide you with top quality doors and openers. Stop by our booth in the middle of 4th Avenue in Exhibit Hall-West (#324) to discuss how we can improve the efficiency of your existing door(s) and enhance the look of your home. Located in Visalia, we cover Bakersfield to Selma and Porterville to Coalinga, and you may contact us at (559) 738-1136. 2011
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visalia springfest program
Friday 12:00 p.m. – 7 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. Sunday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. OVER 350 EXHIBITS WITH THE BEST IN OUTDOOR LIVING, LANDSCAPING & REMODELING
F or infor m atio n , d i r ecti o n s a n d to o b ta i n a $2 of f d iscount ticket, visit VisaliaHomeShows.com
Valley Oak SCPA
Outdoor Exhibits
(Handstamp Reentry)
LANDSCAPE TENT ?
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(400s)
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LANDSCAPE EXHIBIT (100s)
LOBBY - WEST (100s)
Outdoor Exhibits
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SEMINAR AREA
Outdoor Exhibits
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KID’S LOBBY - EAST (100s) Clinic
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(500s)
Outdoor Exhibits
Romantic Dining Cooking Demonstrations
1st Avenue 2nd Avenue
5 GREAT REASONS TO ATTEND: 1 Attend gardening & landscaping seminars 2 Enjoy a culinary concert with Chef Brian Hill 3 Find that perfect Valetine’s Day gift for him or her 4 Receive one of the daily giveaways or enter to win gift baskets, playhouses, and more... 5 Compare prices, test new products & save money at over 350 exhibits
3rd Avenue
(100s)
(200’s & 300s) 4th Avenue
FOOD COURT
5th Avenue
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6th Avenue
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= Lucky ‘7” Secret Letter Location = Enter to Win Location
Celebrity Chef Cooking Demonstrations Chef Brian Hill Conducts a Culinary Concert at Springfest As Valentine’s Day approaches, the Home & Patio Springfest is the perfect place to find great ideas on how to create the very best in fun, romantic and intimate dining experiences. This year, charismatic celebrity Chef Brian Hill – who stars on Food Network’s The Private Chefs of Beverly Hills – will bring his delicious dishes and infectious enthusiasm for food to an exclusive Saturday appearance at Springfest. Known for his love of good times and culinary innovation, Chef Brian will surround your senses with much more than an ordinary cooking demonstration. “I want to create amazement throughout,” says Chef Brian of his upcoming demonstration. “I want people to wonder how I came up with this dish, and why. This will be a culinary concert. I love what I do so much, it just bleeds out of me.” Instead of black truffles and caviar, most of the items Chef Brian uses can be found at the average grocery store. He wants people to see his ingredients and say, “I get it! I’ve seen this before, but now I know what to do with it!” Chef Brian loves nothing more than creating food that brings people together. Rising from an impoverished childhood in Washington, DC, Chef Brian’s talent, winning personality, and love of good food has rocketed him from the hotel and catering jobs of his youth to one of the most sought-after chefs in Hollywood. Chef Brian got his start on the first season of Bravo’s hit series Top Chef, and can be seen these days as one of the stars on the Food Network. As a personal chef, his client list has included such luminaries as
Eddie Murphy, Mariah Carey and Mary J. Blige, and he has also recently launched Chef Brian’s Comfort Truck; which brings the L.A. area a creativity with street food that hasn’t been seen in some time With Chef Brian’s 20 years of culinary experience and natural talent for maximizing flavor, Springfest attendees can look forward to having their taste buds blown away, and their hearts warmed by a true love of people coming together to share good food. Says Chef Brian, “I’m just a guy who loves what he does, and I want to give people what I love.” Cooking demonstrations are free to all Springfest visitors, so join Chef Brian on Saturday, February 12, at either noon or 3 p.m. as he delights show goers with his unique culinary concert.
Chef Shelly Wade There is no better way to finish off a romantic
meal than with the perfect, tempting dessert, and local pastry Chef Shelly Wade knows this better than most. Exhibiting a natural understanding of to-die-for desserts and the people who crave them, Chef Shelly has been delighting south valley residents with her amazing artisan wedding cakes, desserts, and sweet treats of all types for the last 18 years. And this Valentine’s Day weekend, you can get a taste of Chef Shelly’s take on romantic dining at her Springfest cooking demonstration. “For Valentine’s Day, it’s always chocolate,” says Chef Shelly, who lists indulgences like double chocolate-dipped strawberries, chocolate truffle ganache tortes, edible gold, and chocolate raspberry cream as the sort of things that are her favorite picks for Valentine’s day treats. With her natural gift for bringing out the artistry and romance of a good dessert, Springfest attendees are in for a truly fabulous treat. Cooking demonstrations are free to Springfest visitors, so be sure to come by on Saturday, February 12 at 1:30 and 4:30 to watch Chef Shelly work her magic as you get inspired to create your very own incredible desserts.
Celebrity Chef Cooking Demonstrations Sponsored by: 2011
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Gardening Seminars & How-To Workshops Friday, February 11
Saturday, February 12
2:00 p.m. O n The Outside Looking Out – Creating Outdoor Rooms In The Garden, Cecile Garrison,
11:00 a.m. D esigning and Starting Your Garden: Central Valley Style, Peyton Ellas, UC Master Gardener
UC Master Gardener
We all love a green healthy lawn! It’s cooling and restful to the eye, but it is the biggest water user in the landscape, and most of the time we just stare at it. Learn how to make one or more outdoor rooms and increase your living space. Cecile will describe the methods she uses to remove excess lawn, add curving walkways, a bench or two, some annuals and perennials, arbors with flowering vines, trees and shrubs to create many outdoor rooms in the garden.
3:00 p.m. Keep Your Water, Your Money, and Your Landscape Green, John Pape, Host of
Art of Gardening
We will talk about sprinklers, drip irrigation, controllers, weather stations, and sensors that can help people save water and money without sacrificing their landscapes. These tips also help property owners avoid problems from state and city regulations.
4:00 p.m. Grass Seed vs. Sod, Experts at The Home Depot
Receive instructions from the experts on how to plant both grass seed and sod. Learn the best techniques to battle weeds, and which fertilizers to use for different seasons
5:00 p.m. Container Gardening, Experts at The Home Depot Learn how to plant beautiful container gardens. Get information on different arrangements and the best plants and fertilizer for containers.
6:00 p.m. Landscape Lighting, Experts at The Home Depot Learn how to plan and install low-voltage landscape lighting around your yard.
Learn how to create a garden that works with our Central Valley climate to save water, reduce the need for pesticides and fertilizers, and reduce maintenance needs. This workshop will define the five basic principles of gardening “Central Valley Style,” and demonstrate how any garden can be started or renovated to work with – not in spite of – our unique climate.
12:00 p.m. Bonsai and Tree Pruning, Ruben Perez (bilingual),
Buttonwillow Nursery & Landscaping
1:00 p.m. Keep Your Water, Your Money, and Your Landscape Green, John Pape, Host of
Art of Gardening
We will talk about sprinklers, drip irrigation, controllers, weather stations, and sensors that can help people save water and money without sacrificing their landscapes. These tips also help property owners avoid problems from state and city regulations.
2:00 p.m. Art of Bathing, Jamie Mello, Showroom Manager,
Ferguson Bath Kitchen & Lighting Gallery
Homeowners who are either remodeling their bathroom or considering buying a bathtub will want to attend this presentation. Although years ago choices were few, today there are many options in different sizes and colors. Join Jamie as she discusses the types of tubs available that will turn you bathroom into a place where you can experience pleasurable, relaxing and enjoyable bathing.
3:00 p.m. Going Solar, Experts at The Home Depot & SolarCity
The Home Depot and Solar City have teamed up to offer you solar at an affordable price. Come hear about the multiple financing options that are available so you can save while going green.
4:00 p.m. N-Hance Your Kitchen, Experts at The Home Depot
Experts from the Home Depot explain a new service that allows you to enhance your existing kitchen at much less than the cost of a full remodel.
5:00 p.m. Ponds and Fountains, Experts at The Home Depot
Get step-by-step instructions on how to assemble ponds and fountains. In addition, learn what plants thrive best with ponds and fountains.
6:00 p.m. Landscape Lighting, Experts at The Home Depot
Learn how to plan and install low-voltage landscape lighting around your yard.
The Home Depot’s Kids Clinics Come plant the seeds to start your own vegetable garden! The Home Depot is providing the seeds, soil, and containers for your child to start their own vegetable garden. In addition to learning how to plant seeds, kids will also get basic knowledge on how to properly care for their plants. Clinic Session Hours: 10am- 2 pm on Saturday and Sunday
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Gardening Seminars & How-To Workshops continued Sunday, February 13 11:00 a.m. Weeds, Weeds, Weeds: Learn How To Avoid and Fix A Weedy Disaster!,
Michelle Le Strange, UC Master Gardener Advisor
A big mistake that many new gardeners make is to be in a rush to plant! Take the time to learn about invasive and troublesome weeds, and prepare for weeds in advance of planting. You’ll be glad you did. What? You’ve already planted and you have a weedy mess? Learn what weeds you can live with and which ones you can’t. Get those troublesome weeds out of your yard!
3:00 p.m. Grass Seed vs. Sod, Experts at The Home Depot
Receive instructions from the experts on how to plant both grass seed and sod, and learn the best techniques to battle weeds, and which fertilizers to use for different seasons
4:00 p.m. Ponds and Fountains, Experts at The Home Depot
Get step-by-step instructions on how to assemble ponds and fountains. In addition, learn what plants thrive best with ponds and fountains.
12:00 p.m. Potting Plant Arrangements, Buttonwillow
Nursery & Landscaping 1:00 p.m. Landscape Lighting, Experts at The Home Depot Learn how to plan and install low-voltage landscape lighting around your yard.
2:00 p.m. “ The Professional Kitchen – Thermador, An American Icon, Janet Tafoya-Gilchrist, Sales
Consultant, Ferguson Bath Kitchen & Lighting Gallery
This seminar is for people who love to cook, and who want a professional experience in the comfort of their own kitchen. How do you decide which appliances will be best suited to your lifestyle? Is stainless steel still a popular choice? What are the latest trends in cooking? All of this and more will be the among the topics at this casual setting.
Habitat for Humanity of Tulare County (HfHTC) will partner with Showcase Events at the 2011 Visalia Home & Patio Springfest. HfHTC is thrilled to be able to offer the opportunity for Springfest attendees to purchase tickets to win a special “Kids Crooked House. ” This unique playhouse will be on display the entire weekend, and the drawing will take place at Habitat for Humanity’s Birdhouse Auction on Friday, May 13th at the Tulare County Fairgrounds. The money raised from the ticket sales will be used for HfHTC’s “A Brush With Kindness” home repair program. Through this program, we repair houses for low-income homeowners challenged by age, disability, or circumstance.
“We believe that everyone deserves a happy, healthy, safe, and quality home in which to live and grow - especially kids,” says Amanda Pike, Chief Design Consultant for Kids Crooked House. “So to that end, we are happy to support the mission and fundraising efforts of HfHTC.” Habitat for Humanity is a non-profit, ecumenical, Christian housing ministry that seeks to eliminate poverty housing and make decent shelter a matter of conscience and action. During the past two years, HfHTC has gone from just building new homes, to purchasing and renovating foreclosed homes, and repairing older properties. These programs have given HfHTC the opportunity to serve even more people in Tulare and Kings Counties. Please stop by their booth at the end of First Avenue in Exhibit Hall-West or contact Deanna at 734-4040 for tickets or more information.
2011
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Innovative Residential WIND POWER arrives in South Valley
Get Technical Answers from Attitude Online
Marlin Alvis, the founder and CEO of Synergy Corp, has a vision of how to help home owners and businesses save energy. Over 10 years ago, Marlin established Alvis Projects, a home construction company that uses revolutionary ideas to build energy efficient homes unlike anything else on the market. Marlin’s extensive experience with energy efficient building products led him to establish Synergy Corp with a focus on supplying others with these revolutionary products. Synergy Corp. quickly evolved into an energy efficiency company that researches, promotes, and markets products that are cutting edge. Synergy has an exclusive right to market two brand new products in NEWW the Central Valley that are sure to SHODUCT turn heads. One is the very effective, PRO five-ton air conditioning system by Speakman Industries that reduces electrical usage by up to 80%. With its incredible cooling efficiency, this AC technology is sure to become the standard in California. The second innovation is the very first effective, low and turbulent wind electric generators by DyoCore. These wind generators work in winds as low as 4 mph, are very quiet and are perfect to mount on homes, commercial buildings and many other structures. These small turbines are rated at 1,600 watts each and multiple units can be used in a system that is up to 100% FREE after utility rebate. Synergy will exhibit and promote both of these new products on the Plaza Courtyard at the 2011 Visalia Springfest. Be sure to stop by our booth, see a demonstration, and find out about all of the homeowner rebates and tax relief that is available when you invest. The time for wind-power electricity has arrived!
As well as hosting their very popular hourly Computer Workshops, Attitude Online will also be promoting high-quality personal and business Internet access solutions including dialup access, personal and basic business DSL access, business class bonded DSL access, spam filtering, web hosting, and T1 connections. Attitude Online is locally owned and operated and has been serving the Central Valley for over 10 years, with all technical support provided right here in the U.S. While visiting the show, come by our booth located at the end of 5th Avenue in Exhibit Hall-West and get helpful advice and information on any number of computer, Internet, and digital camera topics. Be sure to bring that camera, iPod or PDA to the seminars and get your questions answered to ensure that your new electronic investments don’t sit around collecting dust! Computer Seminar Schedule Friday, February 11th
1:00 p.m. Digital Cameras/Emailing Photos/Storage Devices 2:00 p.m. How to Maintain Computer Performance & Prevent Viruses/Spyware 4:00 p.m. Online Backup 5:00 p.m. Windows 7 6:00 p.m. Office 2010 Saturday, February 12th
11:00 a.m. Windows Vista 12:00 p.m. Windows 7 2:00 p.m. Digital Cameras/Emailing Photos/Storage Devices 3:00 p.m. How to Maintain Computer Performance & Prevent Viruses/Spyware 4:00 p.m. Online Backup 5:00 p.m. Windows 7 6:00 p.m. Office 2010 Sunday, February 14th
11:00 a.m. Digital Cameras/Emailing Photos/Storage Devices 12:00 p.m. Online Backup 2:00 p.m. Windows 7 3:00 p.m. How to Maintain Computer Performance & Prevent Viruses/Spyware 4:00 p.m. Office 2010
Springfest Welcomes the Valley’s Newest Sports Team Professional football is coming to the Valley this spring: The Valley Vipers, a new, minor league football club, will play its home games in Visalia starting in 2011. The public is invited to come and meet team owners and players at the 2011 Visalia Home & Patio Springfest. The team is owned by Valley residents Clint Miller and Jeremy Gill. Miller, a Porterville native and former semi-pro football player, is a correctional officer. Gill, who moved to the Valley four years ago, is also a former football player and owned a Florida Minor league team called the Jacksonville Wolfpack before coming to Visalia. “We’ve had a lot of interest, both from players and potential sponsors,” said Gill this week. “We think we can get anywhere from 3,000 to 5,000 people in the stands every game. Football is big in this area. There will be a lot of entertainment value for the fans, so we’re hoping to get a lot of support from the community.” Vi s a l i a s p r i n g f e s t Pr o g r a m
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The Vipers’ head coach is George Watson, a former Exeter High football standout and well known, longtime area coach. Watson is still in the process of building his roster, which will be limited to 40 players, and is holding open tryouts for prospective players. Team uniforms will be black, white, and blue. Helmets will feature the team’s viper logo. The team is currently practicing three days a week at Church of Nazarene on Caldwell. The Vipers will be part of the CVFL (Central Valley Football League) and will play a 10-game season (plus playoffs) against other teams around Central California. The pre-season opener is scheduled for February 19, with kickoff at 1:05pm. Come and learn more about how you can root for your local team at their booth which is located and the end of Second Avenue in Exhibit Hall-West.
Great Valentine Gift Ideas Abound at Springfest Miche Bag is a simple yet unique concept. It allows women to change the look of their handbag in a matter of seconds, without removing its contents. The first product of its kind, Miche Bag uses magnetic interchangeable outer shells which attach seamlessly to the base bag. This allows women the versatility to change the look and feel of their purse to match any outfit. Miche Bag has made being fashionable dramatically more convenient and affordable. Miche Bag was also listed as one of the top products in LazyManandMoney.com’s annual Lazy Man’s Gift Guide, as an item that can save you time, money, and space. This makes a great gift for any man who wants to surprise the lady in his life with something special. Stop by and visit with local owners Patrick and Julie Darnell in the Lobby-West (Booth #126) and see all of the latest styles that Miche Bag has to offer.
Schlossadler International Wines has been providing unique wines, great value and outstanding quality since 1979 by constantly searching for rare vintages from family-owned wineries around the globe. This year, consider becoming a member of “The Club” and save 10-20% on all of your favorite wines. To sample their wines, visit the Schlossadler booth located at the end of Second Avenue in Exhibit Hall-West (Booths#235-236). And don’t forget to enter to win one of the daily giveaways for a bottle of Chardonnay/Chenin Blanc Extra Brut from Familia Cassone – a spectacular sparkler from Argentina which is the perfect assemblage of a delicate pertage, peach overtones, and refined effervescence (you must be 21 years old to enter)
Custom Blinds and Shutters priced well below Costco, Lowe’s and Home Depot…
2011
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visalia springfest program
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FREE
(the low chlorine alternative)
While at Springfest, join in the fun and find one of the seven “lucky” letters displayed throughout the show to be eligible to win one of the many Show Giveaways. This year Springfest will offer a daily Valentines Giveaways Packages including these great Valentine treats from the following participating merchants: • Earrings from MaryGold Jewelry (Exhibit Hall-East) • Chocolates from the Debrito Factory (Lobby-East) • Personal Massage at Tiffany’s Luxury MediSpa (5th Avenue, Exhibit Hall-West) • Aroma Crystals from For Those Special Moments (Lobby-West) Win “His & Her” Prizes from Visalia Mall For Valentine’s Day, if love is where the heart is, then Visalia Mall is where the shopping is! Come visit the Visalia Mall booth located at the Show Entrance in the East Lobby Area to find great gift ideas for the loved one in your life, or that special treat just for you. Receive a free shopping bag and find coupons for discounts, samples and much, much more. Join in the fun finding seven (7) “Lucky Letters” displayed throughout the show- to be eligible to win the $500 Visalia Mall Shopping Spree Gift Card. While at the booth, register to win the “His” or “Hers” Valentine’s Day Gift Baskets filled with wonderful items from many of the mall stores as well as a $150 Visalia Mall Gift Card. Be sure to ask about sponsorship and advertising opportunities available to you at the Visalia Mall as well as information on upcoming events.
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visalia springfest program
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List of Participating Merchants and Associations Visalia Convention Center February 11, 12 & 13, 2011 Exhibit Category
Show Area
Booth #
Associations/Non-Profit Organizations Habitat for Humanity of Tulare County Exhibit Hall-West N.A.R.I. of Central California Exhibit Hall-West Visalia Veterans Committee Exhibit Hall-West World Link Student Exchange Lobby Area-East
240 222 223 158
Closets/Garage Cabinets/Shelving Valet Organizers & Cabinetry Lobby Area-West
124
Consumer Education/Media/Government VIEW Partnership Exhibit Hall-West Visalia Times-Delta Lobby Area-West
376 117
Contractors/Builders Corky McMillin Companies GJ Gardner Homes
Exhibit Hall-West Exhibit Hall-West
355 251
Crafts/Gifts/Health Products Asian Crafts & Home Decor Classy Ladies Accessories Debi’s Deliciously Scented Candles Electro-Massager.com Emerald Art Gallery For Those Special Moments Funn Bags It’s a Girlz Thing JDH Unlimited Lipsense by SeneGence Mary Kay Cosmetics MaryGold Jewelry Miche Bag of Central California Scentsy Shows Chiropractic, Inc. The Bone Store Wellness Unleashed
San Joaquin Exhibit Hall-East San Joaquin Exhibit Hall-East Exhibit Hall-East Lobby Area-West San Joaquin Lobby Area-East Lobby Area-East Exhibit Hall-East Lobby Area-East Exhibit Hall-East Lobby Area-West Lobby Area-West Exhibit Hall-East Exhibit Hall-West Lobby Area-West
414, 415 505 406 534 502 127 412, 413 153 157 501 151 514, 515 126 119 500 335 109
Curbs/Concrete/Decking Stone Tech
Exhibit Hall-East
529
Financial/Insurance/Real Estate Banker’s Life Prudential Seacoast Equities Inc TriCounties Bank Tucoemas Federal Credit Union Union Bank of California US Mortgage Center
Exhibit Hall-East Exhibit Hall-West Exhibit Hall-West Exhibit Hall-East Exhibit Hall-West Exhibit Hall-West Exhibit Hall-West
536 216 310 527 356 323 254
Flooring/Carpets/Hardwood Coulter’s Flooring America Troutt’s Carpet Plus Color Tile
Exhibit Hall-West Lobby Area-West
280, 281 131
Garages/Sheds/Fencing Central Valley Overhead Door Design Technologies Postup Quality Fence Tuff Shed
Exhibit Hall-West 324 Courtyard-Eucalyptus EC01 Landscaping Tent T12 Exhibit Hall-East 508 Exhibit Hall-West 238
Gardening/Landscaping Big Island Plants Landscaping Tent Buttonwillow Nursery & Landscaping Landscaping Tent Creative Landscape Designs Courtyard-Eucalyptus Ed’s Self-Haul Concrete Courtyard-Plaza HomeTeam Pest Defense Exhibit Hall-West Landscaping Connection Exhibit Hall-West Master Gardeners Program (UC) Landscaping Tent New Creation Landscape Terminix Exhibit Hall-West Weed Man Turf Doctor Exhibit Hall-West Work of Art Landscape Exhibit Hall-West
T09, T10 T01-T03 EC16 PC16 311 219, 221 T05 T13 289 247 227, 228
Exhibit Category
PRODUCED
BY
www.visaliahomeshows.com
Show Area
Booth #
Gourmet/Concession Foods DeBrito Chocolate Factory Glory Jeanne Honey Good Time Kettle Korn J Dogs Jerky Hut of California Nan’s Gourmet Foods Primo’s Gourmet Food Co Sadie Mae’s Catering Schlossadler Inc The Lunch Box Vera’s Tamale Express
Lobby Area-East San Joaquin Courtyard-Plaza Concession Area Exhibit Hall-West Lobby Area-East Lobby Area-East Concession Area Exhibit Hall-West Concession Area Concession Area
159 405 PC05 106 137 152 154 103 235, 236 104 105
Granite/Marble/Tile/Stone CW Tile Company Hanford Granite Precision Plastics Inc South Valley Tile
Lobby Area-West Exhibit Hall-West Exhibit Hall-West Exhibit Hall-West
111 275 362 249
Heating/AC/Solar/Plumbing/Insulation Alt Sys Solar Inc. Exhibit Hall-West Broken Drum Insulation Exhibit Hall-West California Solar Exhibit Hall-West Central Valley Solar Electric (Petersen Dean) Exhibit Hall-West Pacific Solar Exhibit Hall-West Real Goods Solar Lobby Area-West REC Solar Exhibit Hall-West Sacramento Building Products Exhibit Hall-West Sol-Tek Industries Exhibit Hall-West SolarCity Lobby Area-West Superior Air Lobby Area-West Synergy Corp Courtyard-Plaza
296 327 273 212 380 136 245 352 201 123 112 PC14, PC15
Home Exterior/Roofing/Painting/Siding ANK Quality Exteriors Exhibit Hall-East Charles Daniels & Sons Painting Lobby Area-West M&M Roofing Lobby Area-West Mid-State Construction Exhibit Hall-West Quality First Home Improvements Exhibit Hall-West Visalia Roofing Exhibit Hall-West WDF Shotcrete Exhibit Hall-East
510 113 115 215 272 301 508
Home Furnishing/Home Decor Christian’s Mattress Xpress Direct Buy of Fresno Furniture Trends West/Dimension Oak Select Comfort
256, 257 253 519, 520 207, 208
Exhibit Hall-West Exhibit Hall-West Exhibit Hall-West Exhibit Hall-West
Housewares/Cleaning Products & Services Better Ceramic Tile Cleaning & Sealing Courtyard-Eucalyptus Blom Inc Exhibit Hall-West Cook’s Warehouse Exhibit Hall-West Cutco Cutlery Exhibit Hall-East IV-7 Alternate Germ Defense Lobby Area-West Kitchen Craft Various Show Areas Paul’s Products Various Show Areas Quick ‘N Brite Exhibit Hall-West River City Distributing Inc Lobby Area-East Sunshine Kitchen Products Various Show Areas The Healthy Gourmet Exhibit Hall-West Touch of Oranges (Iivus Marketing) Lobby Area-West Touch of Purple Exhibit Hall-West West Coast Innovations Various Show Areas
EC18 217 307 530 108 277, 516-517 129, 135, 150, 155, 232, 284, 293, 294, 364, 381, 411 378 161 237, 523, 535 338 118 258 210, 504
Interior Design/Lighting/Window Covering Blinds Etc Exhibit Hall-West Budget Blinds Exhibit Hall-West Danmer Custom Shutters Exhibit Hall-West Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery Exhibit Hall-West Mimi’s Window Coverings Exhibit Hall-West
290 248
Kitchen/Bath/Appliances Elements Design Center Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery NCD Cabinets & Construction ReBath Seamless Shower Walls The Cabinet Depot
Exhibit Hall-West
203
Exhibit Hall-West Exhibit Hall-East Exhibit Hall-West Exhibit Hall-West Exhibit Hall-West
290 532 286 305 225
298 332 288
Exhibit Category
Show Area
Outside Products & Services California Redwood Signs Custom Fog Design DB Chairs Pot Farm Shelly’s Swings And Stuff Synthetic Grass Solutions Tru-Turf Scapes
Courtyard-Plaza PC18 Plaza Lobby PC07 Exhibit Hall-West 231 Courtyard-Plaza PC08, PC09 Courtyard-Eucalyptus EC10 Courtyard-Eucalyptus EC11, EC12 Exhibit Hall-West 343, 344 Landscaping Tent T07, T08
Pet Supplies & Services Doglicious Goodies Nature’s Select Delivery Express Pawier Valley Oak SPCA
San Joaquin Exhibit Hall-East Lobby Area-East Courtyard-Plaza
Pools/Spas/Stoves/BBQs/Fireplaces Aqua Pool & Spa Lobby Area-West Baby Guard Pool Fence Exhibit Hall-East Full Spectrum International Exhibit Hall-West Genesis Pools Exhibit Hall-West Guardian Pool Fence Systems Exhibit Hall-West Homecrafters Spas & BBQ Exhibit Hall-West Ideal Softub Spas Lobby Area-West New Image Pool Interiors Exhibit Hall-East Northern California Grills Exhibit Hall-West Pacific Coast Pool Plastering Exhibit Hall-West Paradise Aquatech Pools Courtyard-Eucalyptus Premium Spas (Jacuzzi) Exhibit Hall-West Tahiti Pools Exhibit Hall-West Wildwood Aquatech Pools Inc Exhibit Hall-West Screens/Sunrooms/Patio/Awnings Clear View of the Central Valley Exhibit Hall-West RFM Construction & The Patio Kings Exhibit Hall-West Sunsaver Retractable Awnings Courtyard-Plaza & Shades Sunshine Sunroom & Patio Co Exhibit Hall-West Valley Aluminum Products Exhibit Hall-West
Booth #
404 511 156 PC20 114 526 314 270 283 260-268, PC03 125 531 331 312 EC17 365-372 296 133 346 205 PC01, PC02 359 274
Security/Home Theater/Internet/Wireless Attitude Online/Computer Care Exhibit Hall-West Central Valley Entertainment Systems Exhibit Hall-West Comcast Exhibit Hall-West G Comm (Clear) Exhibit Hall-West Matson Alarm Exhibit Hall-West Next Step Communication Exhibit Hall-West Protection One Exhibit Hall-West
229, 230 322, 350 244 233 306 300 255
Specialty Product & Services California Party Rentals Don Plumb Signs Press-A-Print Send Out Cards Speaking Roses Tiffany’s Luxury MediSpa Valley Vipers Football Team Visalia Mall
Lobby Area-West Lobby Area-West Exhibit Hall-West Exhibit Hall-East Lobby Area-West Exhibit Hall-West Exhibit Hall-West Lobby Area-East
116 110 309 525 130 357 234 167, 168
Travel Services/Timeshares The Cruise Experts
Exhibit Hall-East
512
Water/Sewing/Vacuum Culligan Water ECO Water Systems Kirby Vacuums LifeSource Water Systems Rainbow Vacuum
Exhibit Hall-West Exhibit Hall-West Exhibit Hall-West Exhibit Hall-West Exhibit Hall-West
326 353 209 252 271
Windows/Doors/Building Supplies A Plus Windows Exhibit Hall-West 333 Conn Doors Exhibit Hall-West 328, 329 Northwest Exteriors Lobby Area-West 134 Pacific Supply Exhibit Hall-West 316, 318 Premier Windows Exhibit Hall-East 538 Reedley Window Center Exhibit Hall-West 347 The Glass Shop Exhibit Hall-West 279, 303 The Home Depot Various Show Areas 162-164, 402 403, 416-417, EC13-EC14 We Do Windows Exhibit Hall-West 246
2011
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visalia springfest program
CULTURE, COMMERCE, AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE — T h e H e a r t O f T h e S o u t h V a l l e y
CHINESE NEW YEAR v
2011: Year of the Rabbit February in China marks the time when millions gear up to welcome in the new year. Chinese New Year is the most important celebration in the Chinese Lunar Calendar, not unlike Christmas and other winter festivals of the west. The origin of Chinese New Year is centuries old, and takes its significance from many ancient myths and traditions. According to Chinese mythology, the beginning of Chinese New Year started with a fight against a mythical beast called the Nien. The Nien would come on the first day of the New Year to devour livestock, crops, and even village children. To protect themselves, the villagers would put food in front of their doors at the beginning of every year, as it was believed that if the Nien was fed, it would leave the village alone. As legend has it, the villagers also noticed that the Nien was scared away by a little child wearing red, and so families would hang red lanterns and red spring scrolls on windows and doors, and light firecrackers to frighten away the beast. From then on, the Nien never came to the village again, and the celebration of Chinese New Year was born. Like most popular festivals, celebrations for Chinese New Year center around visiting with family, sharing food, and exchanging gifts and tokens of good will. Similar to our own winter holiday season, Chinese New Year finds people sparing no expense on presents, decorations, food and clothing. It is also the tradition that every family thoroughly cleans the house to sweep away any ill fortune, and to make way for incoming good luck. As in the time of the Nien, windows and doors are decorated with red lanterns, paper cutouts, and other decorations bearing the seasonal themes of happiness, wealth and longevity. Perhaps the most important part of Chinese New Year is its eve, when families gather together for a feast. Such is the significance of this dinner, that migrant workers in China as well as overseas Chinese around the 32
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world all travel home to have reunion dinners with their families, resulting in the largest human migration on earth. This period of mass travel in and to China is called chunyun. Food for this all-important feast usually includes such items as pigs, ducks, chicken and sweet delicacies, and families will traditionally end the night with firecrackers. Early the next morning (much like on Christmas morning), children greet their parents by wishing them a healthy and happy new year, and receive gifts of money in red paper envelopes. One of the most interesting elements of Chinese New Year is the way each year is signified by one of the creatures in the 12-year animal zodiac. 2011 marks the beginning of the year of the rabbit. According to Chinese tradition, years ruled by the rabbit are said to be more placid times, where diplomacy and compromise can easily take root. As rabbit years always follow years ruled by the tiger in the 12-year animal cycle, years of the rabbit are believed to offer a welcome opportunity for quiet reflection and refinement after the ferocious persuasion of the tiger. Get involved locally: The Center for Integrated Medicine in Visalia will be hosting a Chinese New Year event on Saturday, February 19. The event will feature many cultural attractions, including: Chinese folk songs, cultural dancers, Chinese New Year foods, martial arts demonstrations, raffles, and much more. The event will be held from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at building 210, on the corner of Locust and Center in downtown Visalia.
CULTURE, COMMERCE, AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE — T h e H e a r t O f T h e S o u t h V a l l e y
Visalia First Assembly “A Church for the Community”
Visalia Christian Preschool Enriching the Lives of Children Since its doors opened in 1981, Visalia Christian Preschool (VCP) has been the choice of many parents for their children’s preschool education. VCP provides a loving Christian environment, incorporating prayer and Bible stories into their daily curriculum, as well as assuring each child they are loved not only by the staff, but by God. Just like a good foundation is needed to construct a house, the same principle is true when it comes to raising your family. Visalia Christian Preschool works alongside the family to build positive influences that will help children grow emotionally and socially, while teaching them to make good choices. At VCP, these principles are developed in each child through love, education and activities. The curriculum includes art, math, science and music to help each child prepare for school and develop their small and large motor and social skills. Dramatic play, language arts and activities are also incorporated to make learning a fun and rewarding experience for each child. VCP also has specialized pre-kindergarten classes to prepare children for essential kindergarten readiness skills. Safety is a big concern, and parents need to feel confident that their children are in a safe environment. VCP strives to provide a loving, patient and safe environment that is imperative for every child.
Consider Visalia Christian Preschool for your child and give them a great foundation in life. This top-notch preschool is a ministry of Visalia First Assembly located at the Walnut Campus: 3737 W. Walnut Avenue, Visalia Monday – Friday 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. For more information about Visalia First Assembly visit V1AG.com. VCP offers half days or full days of outstanding care to children 2.5 years of age to Pre-Kindergarten. For more information regarding tuition and other questions, please call the preschool office at (559) 733-3988 or email us at LisaL@ v1ag.com. Weekend Worship Experiences: Akers Campus Saturday at 5 p.m. Sunday at 8, 9:45, 11:30 a.m. Walnut Campus Spanish Service, Sunday at 12:30 p.m. V1AG.com or (559) 733-9070
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CULTURE, COMMERCE, AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE — T h e H e a r t O f T h e S o u t h V a l l e y
San Joaquin Valley College
Dental Hygiene program
provides no-cost dental care to public SJVC’s Dental Hygiene program provides students with the academic and clinical education and training necessary to secure licensure and enjoy a lucrative future in this professional arena. Classroom studies include: • Oral biology and radiology • Head and neck anatomy • Dental health education • Pharmacology • Pathology and periodontology • Dental practice management
As Dental Hygiene Program Director at San Joaquin Valley College in Visalia, Brenda Serpa knows that the best way her students will learn to be top-notch dental hygienists is by experiencing first-hand the theories they learn in the classroom. The Dental Hygiene program curriculum is designed so that once students have mastered techniques practiced on models of teeth and student partners, they advance to treating patients from the local community who have discovered this wonderful dental health care resource. Under the direct supervision of a dentist and dental hygienists, students perform preliminary dental exams, x-rays, sealants and cleanings for free in the program’s pristine operatories. “Our students get the practice they need and the community receives much needed dental hygiene services at no charge,” said Serpa. The 16-month Dental Hygiene program uses high-end equipment and technologies such as radiography and intraoral photography for initial exams, and computerized office and clinical management software for appointment scheduling and record-keeping. “We pride ourselves in meeting the needs of the dental community, and strive to teach our students within the professional environment of our state-of-the-art clinic,” said Serpa.
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Graduates earn an Associates of Science degree and are eligible to take the National Board written exam and a State and/or Regional Board exam for licensure as a Registered Dental Hygienist. San Joaquin Valley College’s Dental Hygiene program attracts applicants from great distances who have heard about the merits and high standards of this program. Jillian Landers, a Dental Hygiene student from New Mexico who will graduate in May, said, “The teachers really care about you and your education. They are behind you 100 percent and want you to succeed. You are not just a number, you are their next RDH (Registered Dental Hygiene) graduate.” “Our greatest asset is our experienced and devoted faculty,” said Serpa. “They truly care about the future of our students and our profession, and make certain that our students are ready for a smooth transition from school to the work force when they graduate.” March 15, 2011, is the application deadline for the next Dental Hygiene class, which begins on Monday, June 6. E-mail questions may be directed to Debbie Felix at DebbieF@sjvc.edu, or call the toll-free phone number below. If you are interested in SJVC’s Dental Hygiene program, or any other SJVC medical, business or technical program, please call (866) 391-3804 for more information or to arrange a tour of the Visalia campus, located on Mineral King.
CULTURE, COMMERCE, AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE — T h e H e a r t O f T h e S o u t h V a l l e y
VUSD CAHSEE: Must Pass to Graduate! Text by Craig Wheaton, Ed.D. Superintendent
A long time ago a high school student could pass all of their classes, complete all graduation requirements, and receive a diploma. Well, not anymore. Starting in 2005, all California students must pass the California High School Exit Exam (CAHSEE) and all their required classes to get a diploma. The good news for the community is that the CAHSEE provides confidence that students have learned at least up to about 9th grade level in English and mathematics. Most students take this test very seriously – at least those who want to graduate do. In fact, 96 percent of our regular high school students do pass both sections of the test by their graduation year. The CAHSEE is given to all 10th grade students during the first week of February. Students have only one chance to take the exam in 10th grade, twice during the 11th grade, and five times during the 12th grade year. Over the last five years, the number of students passing the CAHSEE on the first try has increased from 69 percent (2005) to 83 percent (2010). This is a result of a lot of hard work on everyone’s part. Having students pass the exam the first time is a very
high priority for everyone: students, parents, teachers and administrators. Students who do not pass in 10th grade are required to attend summer school and/or take CAHSEE preparation classes rather than elective classes beginning in the 11th grade. Not passing the CAHSEE can greatly affect a student’s schedule and will, as many students say, “take me out of all the fun classes.” At the end of the winter break, I stopped by the “Winter Academy,” one of VUSD’s unique programs designed to help students pass the CAHSEE. Over 300 students from all over Visalia were invited to attend a special eight-day preparation session for four hours each day. Two-hundred twenty students accepted our offer and gave up their last week of winter break. These students also attend three Saturdays prior to the February test date. During this time of the year, you will find a variety of programs in addition to the students’ regular classes to help them pass this very important test. So, next time you see a high school sophomore, have a little empathy for what they are going through, ask about the CASHEE, and encourage them to do their very best!
CARPET CLEANING BASICS
Everyone knows that it is regular vacuuming and quick attention to the expected spots and stains that keep a carpet looking its best. But even with the most diligent attention to regular carpet care, all carpets will need a deep extraction cleaning every once in awhile to remove stubborn and embedded soil. These deep cleaning methods will keep carpets looking, feeling and smelling fresh and new. • A clean carpet will last much longer than a dirty one. Soil is abrasive and the longer it is on your carpet the more it will abrade your fibers. Get rid of it as soon as possible and save your carpet. • Carpet is a giant air filter and traps contaminants from the air. You must clean this filter on a regular basis to keep it working well. So clean your carpets often and enjoy relief from allergies. Clean carpets keeps your home smelling and looking fresh.
Call Manzanita Carpet Cleaners today!
Call One of our Professionals today! “If the Stain comes back… so do we” ** **(may not apply to all stains)
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CULTURE, COMMERCE, AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE — T h e H e a r t O f T h e S o u t h V a l l e y
Call now to schedule your complimentary consultation. And Dr. Yoho gives away free Botox! For new patients for a limited time Dr. Yoho does not charge an injection fee. You pay only his cost of the Botox. This results in about a 50 percent savings! 36
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CULTURE, COMMERCE, AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE — T h e H e a r t O f T h e S o u t h V a l l e y
Just a footnote from my last article - I asked my wife Margie if she had any automotive questions. She said “Yes, when are you going to fix my car?” Well I am glad to say it is now fixed. I installed a new heater core and the glove box is back where it is supposed to be. Out of fun I asked her, “Well any automotive questions Marg?” and she said, “Yes, when are you going to remove the license plate frame and install the dog barrier that I asked you to do two years ago?” Ouch! Believe me, I was not ready for that this morning but it is on my short list. Just a few things mistakes we tend to see. 1. Putting power steering fluid into a brake cylinder2. Hooking or jumping a battery backwards 3. Changing spark plug wires and crossing them causing a misfire 4. Not bleeding the brakes properly 5. Installing drive belts that are not top quality and then having a noise problem 6. Installing a radio and hooking up the ground to the park lights, thus blowing out the tail light fuse. 7. Running their car near empty which shortens the life of a fuel pump 8. Not keeping their fluids and filters changed 9. Going from shop to shop to try to save money 10. Not changing their cooling hoses every 6 years, thus blowing a hose and possibly losing an engine at a cost of $4000 If you have a question please e-mail me at jim@misfiregone. com and I will get back to you Now back to my wife’s Volvo - gonna remove that front plate and install the dog barrier …. Oh well, this is what makes life fun!
We are looking for :Customers who want personal service Does your repair shop warranty your repairs for 12 months or 12,000 miles nation wide? We do -- get your Napa Peace of Mind Warranty Here!
Take Care, Jim
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CULTURE, COMMERCE, AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE — T h e H e a r t O f T h e S o u t h V a l l e y
GOINGS-ON Betsy Wolfe at the Fox
The Enchanted Playhouse Presents: Cinderella
Visalia’s very own Betsy Wolfe returns to the Fox Theater this month to wow hometown fans with her incredible voice. Ms. Wolfe has performed in numerous Broadway productions across the U.S. and internationally, and is headed to San Francisco this summer to star in the world premier of the new musical Tales of the City. Tickets: general – $25, VIP – $30, students – $15. When: Saturday, January 31, 7:30p Where: Fox Theater, 300 W. Main St., Visalia Contact: 739-4600 or visit www.foxvisalia.com
It’s a delightful collision of fairy-tale favorites when the Fairy Godmother must enlist the help of none other than Alice in Wonderland’s White Rabbit to help Cinderella and her prince. When: Friday, February 4, 7p Where: Main Street Theater, 301 E. Main St., Visalia Contact: 625-1369 or visit www.enchantedplayhouse.org Chookasian Armenian Concert Ensemble
The Armenian Cultural Visionaries present a unique evening of traditional Armenian music and dances. Come and enjoy this beautiful performance by these Armenian National Gold Medal Award Recipients, and 2010 Armenian Grammy winners. When: Friday, February 4, 7:30p Where: Bullard High School Theater, 5445 N. Palm, Fresno Contact: John Chookasian, 213-1909 1st Saturday in Three Rivers
Sofa Art and the Trolley Tour
Sofa Art returns in its 16th annual exhibition at Arts Visalia, where artists and non-artists alike come together to share all their fun-loving creativity in this community, toungue-incheek art event. When: Exhibition – February 2-25. Reception – February 4, 6-8p. Trolley Tour – February 12, 12-3p Where: Arts Visalia, 214 East Oak Ave., Visalia Contact: 739-0905 or visit www.artsvisalia.org
Celebrate art, music, dance, storytelling, food and drink as you browse the art galleries, studios and gift shops of downtown Three Rivers. For discounts and participants visit website. When: Saturday, February 5, 10a-5p Where: Maps at Anne Lang’s Emporium, 41651 Sierra Dr. (CA 198), Three Rivers Contact: Nadi Spencer, 561-4373 or visit www.1stSaturdayTR.com 18th Annual Visalia Springfest Home and Patio Show
This annual exposition of everything new for your home and garden features over 350 exhibits with the best in outdoor living, landscaping and remodeling. Come enjoy gardening seminars, unique Valentine’s Day gifts, plenty of discounts,
Complete Restorative Dentistry | Implant Dentistry | Cosmetic Dentistry | Family Dentistry | Oral Surgery | Endodontics
Vaalleennttiinnees Haappppyy V H s
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We now do Implants.
3445 S. Demaree St., Visalia 559.733.4478 38
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CULTURE, COMMERCE, AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE — T h e H e a r t O f T h e S o u t h V a l l e y
prizes and giveaways, and much more! Tickets: Friday – $5. Saturday and Sunday – $7. Senior discounts available. Kids aged 12 or under attend free. When: February 11, 12 & 13 Where: Visalia Convention Center, 303 E. Acequia Ave, Visalia Contact: 713-4000 Lonely Planet
Told with remarkable humor, this is the story of an unlikely relationship between two very different men. Straight-laced Jody owns a map store, while Carl tells outrageous lies about himself and will not explain the chairs he inexplicably deposits in Jody’s tiny shop – a nod from playwright Steven Dietz to Eugene Ionesco’s absurdist farce, The Chairs. When: February 12, 13, 19 & 20 at 7:30p; February 11 & 18 at 2p Where: Ice House Theatre, Race and Sante Fe, Visalia Contact: Reservations 734-3900 Mario Kiran at COS Art Gallery
A family-friendly art exhibition featuring pieces by printmaker Mario Kiran. Admission is free. When: February 7-25, 11a-3p Where: COS Art Gallery, 915 S. Mooney Blvd., Visalia Contact: 737-4861 Music at the Main – Jung Trio
This trio of musical sisters brings the sound that won them the grand prize at the Yellow Springs Chamber Music Competition to Visalia’s Main Street Theater. Pianist Jennie Jung, violinist Ellen Jung, and cellist Julie Jung will perform their beautiful rendition of Dvorak’s Trio in F minor. When: Friday, February 26, 7p Where: Main Street Theater, 307 W. Main St., Visalia Contact: 635-1761
Acrylic Painting
Arts Visalia offers a variety of art classes for adults where you can enjoy a creative outlet and familiarize yourself with new techniques. Artist Rey Ruiz instructs participants of all skill levels in some common techniques for this medium. When: Wednesdays, 6:30-8:30p Where: Arts Visalia, 214 East Oak Ave., Visalia Contact: Arts Visalia, 739-0905 Chinese Brush Painting & Calligraphy Class
Arts Visalia offers a variety of art classes for adults where you can enjoy a creative outlet and familiarize yourself with new techniques. Artist Joy Harvey instructs participants in this ancient and elegant art. When: Thursdays, 6:30-8:30p Where: Arts Visalia, 214 East Oak Ave., Visalia Contact: Joy Harvey, 539-6123. Visalia Farmers’ Market - Harvest of the Valley Weekly event open to the public featuring free live music, kids’ activities, cooking demonstrations and local, fresh produce available for purchase. When: Saturdays, 8a-11:30a, Sequoia Mall, Sears parking lot Where: Sears parking lot at Mooney and Caldwell, Visalia Contact: 967-6722 or www.visaliafarmersmarket.com Tulare County Library Children’s Storytime
Baby/Toddler Time (Tues. 10a), Preschool Storytime (Wed. 10a). When: Call or visit website to confirm times. Where: Tulare County Library, 200 W. Oak Ave., Visalia Contact: Children’s desk at 733-6954 ext. 209 or www. tularecountylibrary.org.
If you would like to have your event considered for a free listing in our “Goings-On” section, please email your submission to direct@dmiagency.com or fax to 738-0909, Attention Goings-On. Please note, we do not guarantee listing of any submission. Submissions must be received six (6) weeks prior to publication.
We Offer: • • • • • • •
Purchase & Refinance FHA Conventional VA FHA 203k PERS First-Time Home Buyer Programs
NMLS #284902
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CULTURE, COMMERCE, AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE — T h e H e a r t O f T h e S o u t h V a l l e y
DIRECT FROM WARREN Text by Warren Gubler, Visalia City Councilmember
The Train to Prosperity In mid-December, Visalia Mayor Bob Link, assistant city manager Mike Olmos, and I met with Hanford’s mayor and vice-mayor, along with members of the High Speed Rail Authority. Our main objective was to begin coordinating efforts between our community leaders to get ready to help implement the new Kings/Tulare high speed rail station which will be built between our two cities, near the corner of Highways 198 and 43. The Rail Authority announced recently that the first phase of California’s high speed rail line will be built from Fresno on the north, south through Kings and Tulare Counties, and ending approximately at Bakersfield. The only two stations announced to date are the Fresno station and the Kings/Tulare station. When adding up the bond money previously approved by California voters, matching federal ARRA funds, and the additional ARRA funds which were re-directed to California after Wisconsin and Ohio declined them, approximately $5.5 billion dollars will be available for the first 100+ miles of track. At this meeting, we learned that this section was chosen to be built first, because construction and land acquisition costs in the Central Valley are anticipated to be less than elsewhere in the state, and thus more can be built with less. It is estimated that for every billion dollars spent on this high speed rail line, 20,000 jobs will be generated. This is the first time that such massive funding has been appropriated to the Central Valley by the state and federal government. I believe that this infusion of cash will jump-start our local economy in a big way. Construction must commence no later than September 2012 so that these funds are not forfeited. The track will continue to be extended northward as well as southward, as additional funds become available on a yearly basis. We learned at the meeting that it will still be a few years before high speed trains will actually run on these tracks, as the electrical power source needed to propel them will be added later. Ultimately, passengers will be able to travel on these bullet trains at a speed of 220 miles per hour between San Francisco and Los Angeles, as well as elsewhere throughout the state. At one time, there was a question as to whether our area would get a high speed rail station at all, and there were discussions that our local communities would have to pay for such a station if and when it was built. However, due to the location selected for this first phase, our station has now become indispensable as part of the initial game plan, and full funding 40
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thereof is anticipated from federal and state monies. With the work already progressing to add two additional lanes to Highway 198 between Visalia and Hanford, Visalians will have easy access to the new rail station. There is excitement in the air as we anticipate this new project, and what it will mean for local jobs, for boosting the local economy, and for the future. This is the train to prosperity! I myself have ridden the Shinkansen in Japan and the Eurostar in Europe, and can attest that high speed rail is truly a superior form of transportation. Speaking of mass transit, the Visalia City Council has agreed to participate in a program with COS to initiate a COS student pass, commencing winter semester 2011. All students at COS will be charged $5.00 per semester, with COS contributing another $.40 per student per semester. In return, all enrolled students will receive a transit pass good on most fixed-route systems in the county. This pilot program has the goal of providing our students with an affordable option for transportation, while hopefully cutting down on some of the parking problems at COS, and giving students a taste for the benefits of public transit. Finally, kudos to city staff and personnel for their prompt and efficient response to the recent rain storms that hit our area. While many citizens were just coming to terms with the 4+ inches of precipitation, city staff had opened up an emergency operations center in the basement of the downtown police department, where our city manager, Steve Salomon, and other personnel directed the city’s emergency response. Many of our city staffers stayed up throughout the first night directing workers at various ponding basins to make sure that pumps were in place and working, and that waters were being discharged through local ditches and creeks to prevent flooding. On Sunday, December 19, I drove around the community with my youngest daughter, and we observed our fire fighters and other city staff manning the pumps and hoses at these ditches and basins. Water damage was limited. Hats off to our city personnel for their quick and effective response. If you have questions or topics regarding the city which you would like to have addressed in future articles, please email Warren at wgubler@ci.visalia.ca.us, or call (559) 713-4400 x 3313. Warren Gubler Visalia City Council Member