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Direct Magazine is published twelve times a year and is distributed via direct mail to nearly 33,000 homes in Visalia. An additional 2,000 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 Š2011 DMI Agency
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LA SIERRA MILITARY ACADEMY
Failure is Not an Option “I am a La Sierra Cadet. I live with honor. I will not quit in the face of adversity. I do what is right just because it is right. I will develop character and use it for the good of those around me. I will help those less fortunate than myself, and become a positive influence in my community. The knowledge and discipline I gain today will make me a leader of tomorrow.” – Excerpt from Cadet Creed, La Sierra Military Academy The creed that La Sierra Military Academy (LSMA) cadets recite each week is the foundation of all instruction at the school. The creed is evident in the students’ service to organizations, such as the Visalia Rescue Mission, and it is present in the school’s “failure-is-not-an-option” attitude toward academics. 1!!!!-.%&!$(#$%$&'()!!!!
But perhaps the most public display of the creed is seen at the school’s graduation ceremony. Each year, seniors recall the ways the school helped build the character they need to face life’s challenges and to persevere toward their goals of college, career or military service. On June 8, 2011, La Sierra expects to graduate 33 seniors. This year, the school was home to nearly 190 middle and high school cadets who chose to make a commitment to the La Sierra program. “We’re a school of choice,” said Principal Anjelica Zermeño. “Students must choose to commit to this program that emphasizes respect and service to others, incorporates the development of leadership skills, and expects that all students will achieve success and transition to college, career schools or military service.” Maryellen Parlier graduated from La Sierra last year. Looking back on her four years at the school, the College of the Sequoias freshman said, “It’s so true that La Sierra is a school of choice, and the teachers and staff make it a place that you want to be. The caring teachers and Drill Sergeant will always have a special place in my heart for their dedication to each and every student who walks through the door.”
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LSMA was created in 2000 by the Tulare County Office of Education (TCOE) as a free, public high school open to all students in Tulare and surrounding counties. For four years, it operated as a traditional high school with an emphasis on career and technical education. In 2004, the school was converted to a military-style program. While the military philosophy serves as a basis for discipline, respect and decorum, the school is not affiliated with, nor recruiting for, the military. “We are proud of La Sierra’s record of providing graduates with self-discipline skills and respect for others,” said Tulare County Superintendent of Schools Jim Vidak. “We are also proud that this unique school offers parents an educational alternative that includes the benefits of rigorous physical training and small class sizes.” Student Life Each morning at LSMA, students in their uniforms scurry into formation in the parking lot of the campus in northeast Visalia. At 7:25 a.m. sharp, Drill Sergeant Dennis Sirkin calls the cadets to attention. As trumpets sound, the cadets take part in a traditional flag-raising ceremony, which is both impressive and heartwarming to watch. Following the morning ceremony, cadets participate in one hour of fitness training. The demanding fitness program is designed to develop lifelong discipline and improve student well-being. Mrs. Zermeño reports that while the California Department of Education is increasingly concerned with student obesity, La Sierra cadets exceed the state standards for physical training. In addition to the emphasis on physical health, La Sierra melds ethics training into every aspect of student life through the character development program CHARACTER COUNTS! Academics La Sierra is accredited with the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). Middle and high school cadets take all core subject courses required for graduation, plus electives that provide hands-on learning experiences. Currently, the school provides advanced
certification courses in building trades, graphic arts and printing. Through the coaching of Principal Zermeño and the leadership of past principal Mr. René Moncada, the school has made a remarkable 140-point gain on the state Academic Performance Index (API) in the past two years. Enrichment La Sierra’s after-school program is staffed by members of the TCOE Choices After-school team. These afterschool veterans support student achievement through individualized instruction and credit recovery, plus college and career planning and mentoring. Access to Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) curriculum is enhanced through an important partnership with the University of California, Los Angeles’ Center for Research on Evaluation, Standards and Student Testing (CRESST) program. The after-school program also features a new wrestling team, guitar class, art and sculpting, and sports programs. Students may also qualify for training and employment through TCOE’s SEE Youth Jobs Program. In addition, LSMA offers an Independent Studies Program and a program for teen parents.
ABOVE: Physical training is a key component of student life at LSMA. While teachers and administrators statewide are increasingly concerned with student obesity, La Sierra cadets exceed the California state standards for physical training. -.%&!$(#$%$&'()!!!!S
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LA SIERRA (cont.)
Community Partnerships Since she has been La Sierra’s principal, Zermeño has put considerable effort into building community partnerships. These partnerships provide opportunities for cadets to serve the community and – as the partnerships develop – the potential for real-world job experience. This spring, cadets worked in the warehouse at the Visalia Rescue Mission and previously have participated in Visalia’s Graffiti Abatement Program through the “Tag-Out Team.” The LSMA honor guard and drill team serve local parades and community organizations. Parent Involvement Staff works collaboratively with parents to advise and support the school’s vision and mission. Conversely, parents appreciate the military culture and the focus on discipline, respect and academics. “My son has done great things at La Sierra,” said parent Tim Rice, who also serves as the president of Parents Enhanced Student Teacher Organization (PESTO). “The teachers, staff and administration are the best around, and they will not put up with any baloney!”
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Prepared for the Future “If there’s one thing I hope students learn from their time here at La Sierra, it’s that they need to take responsibility for their future,” said Drill Sergeant Sirkin. The school is proud of the high rate of students who immediately transition to community college, university or military service. Sirkin reports that out of a graduation class of 30, approximately 14 will go on to college and seven will enter military service. Per capita, this is among the top college-going rates of all Tulare County high schools. An Invitation Zermeño invites parents of students in middle and high school to contact her to schedule a campus tour on June 7 or June 14. “Come see what we are all about. LSMA is a close-knit community that expects every student to achieve success no matter what it takes,” she said. “We know every student by name and every need; that’s what makes us unique.” Principal Zermeño can be reached at (559) 733-6963. ABOVE: Anjelica Zermeño became the LSMA principal in December 2010, and prior to that she was a TCOE mathematics instructional consultant for six years. She also worked directly with La Sierra for two years as the leader of a training team, providing coaching for teachers and students. Her contributions have been part of the school’s remarkable increase in academic performance.
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VIRTUAL VALLEY Reliving the Past: RETRO GAMING & VINTAGE COMPUTING The Commodore 64 is back. Known by its fans as the C64, this “keyboard is the computer” stands alongside the Atari 800 and Apple IIe as one of the most important computers of all time. Technically, the new C64 is a licensed recreation, offered by a new company named Commodore USA. According to the Guinness Book of World Records, more than 30 million units of the original C64 were sold during the 1980s. Commodore USA started accepting orders for the C64 in April. The first systems will arrive in June. According to several published interviews with Commodore USA founder Barry Altman, the C64 is going to be a genuine C64. When you turn on the new C64, you are asked if you want to run Microsoft Windows or Ubuntu Linux or the new Commodore OS. In “Commodore Mode” you can run software originally developed for the Commodore PET, Vic-20, C16, C64, C128 and Amiga systems. Let’s be honest: the real reason many of us love the old computers is the games. Like many who grew up during the start of the personal computer revolution, I learned to program on a long list of early systems. At first, I copied programs featured in popular magazines, typing in line after line of BASIC code. Later, I created my own simple games. I wonder if the complexity of today’s programming tools dissuades young people from discovering the excitement of coding? My old Commodore Vic-20 was ready for BASIC programming the moment you pushed the power button. The C64 recreates that instant satisfaction. If the Commodore 64 is successful, maybe we’ll see a “new” Apple IIe or Atari 800. I can already imagine playing Loderunner and programming in Atari BASIC XL. Remember that other instant pleasure, the cartridge-based video game system? Fond memories of the Atari 2600 have led me to purchase various re-releases of the games. If you search Amazon’s video game section, you can locate a “joystick” that includes 25 Atari 2600 games. They also sell an Atari system that resembles the Atari 5200 console and includes 100 built-in games.
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Forget high-definition, ultra-realistic graphics. These were the days of giant pixels. The typical classic game featured blobs, ghosts and strange alien invaders. Sports games starred stickfigure athletes, unrecognizable as human. The “soundtracks” were little more than monaural beeps. Blood and gore? Non-existent. You couldn’t even describe the action as cartoon violence – PacMan melted with a “pop” sound when touched by a ghost. Frogger turned into an “X” if you didn’t move quickly. The most violent game I owned was the Atari classic “Combat.” When struck by an opponent, your little tank would spin around dizzily. It didn’t even explode. Activision, Atari and Mattel classics are available for every major console, but it isn’t quite the same. I own a PlayStation and it takes several minutes for the Atari Classics to load. It never took me minutes to swap Combat for Stampede with my Atari 2600. Atari recently released an iPad version of Atari Classics. You can also purchase the “iCade” stand for your iPad. The iCade is designed to look like the original PacMan arcade unit. Yes, modern consoles are impressive, but they are too realistic for me. Many of the games are too complex, demanding hours to play. I’m a casual game player. Give me PacMan or Space Invaders for a few minutes. By the late 1980s, most of us were playing games on IBMcompatible computers. If you fondly recall the DOS classics, you can emulate DOS and relive those days. The free application DOSBox runs on every major operating system. I recently used DOSBox to revive my collection of old DOS games from Apogee, ID and other publishers. I have the original CDs for many games, and so far every game has worked with DOSBox. If you need more flexibility, the free VirtualBox (virtualbox. org) enables a mindboggling number of old operating systems on newer computers. I’ve used VirtualBox to install Windows 3.1 on a new computer so I could play my favorite pinball game. This leads me back to the idea of vintage computer programming. I recently installed TurboPascal and QuickBASIC via both DOSBox and VirtualBox. To my surprise, these programming languages worked beautifully. Now, I can program using my favorite tools from the 1980s on my MacBook Pro. Maybe I’ll develop a DOS game for fun.
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Tex t by C. S. Wyat t
Retro Hardware Websites: t Atari 2600 (www.atari2600.com): Shop for every console imaginable, most gently used but a few unused systems are also available for collectors. t Commodore USA (www.commodoreusa.net): Purchase customized C64, Vic-Slim and Amiga computer systems. t Think Geek, Retro Gaming (www.thinkgeek.com electronics/retro-gaming): Offers the iCade for iPad owners, along with other great hardware recreations. t Yobo FC Twin (www.fctwin.net): Purchase new Yobo FC Twin consoles, compatible with various classic Nintendo and Sega gaming consoles. Retro Gaming Information: t Atari Age (www.atariage.com): Discussion forums dedicated to Atari gaming consoles, from the Atari 2600 to the Lynx handheld device. t Byte Cellar, The Vintage Computing Weblog (www. bytecellar.com): One of the oldest and most complete blogs dedicated to classic personal computers. t Retro Gamer Magazine (www.retrogamer.net): Online edition of the leading magazine dedicated to classic gaming consoles. t Retro Gaming Times Monthly (www.retrogamingtimes. com): Another great online magazine for retro gamers. t Retro Thing (www.retrothing.com): A website dedicated to classic gaming hardware and some early personal computers. t Vintage Computing (www.vintage.org): A website announcing regional gatherings for those interested in classic computers and gaming consoles. New Editions of Classic Games: t 3D Realms (www.3drealms.com): Publisher of both the new and classic editions of titles like Duke Nukem and Raptor. 3D Realms also offers some classics for free. t Atari (www.atari.com): The classics from the Atari 2600 and Atari arcade games are available for almost every game console. Atari recently released a collection of every Atari-branded 2600 game for Apple iOS devices, including the iPad and iPhone. t VH1 Video Game Classics (www.vh1.com/mobile): The Mattel Intellivision lives on for the iOS courtesy of a licensing agreement with MTV Networks. Visit the VH1 website for more information.
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PET OF THE MONTH Don’t Delay… License Your Pet Today! Licensing your dog or cat is easy and gives your pet an inexpensive insurance policy for their safety and protection. Reasons to License: t Excellent identification to help reunite you and your pet in the event your dog or cat is ever lost t License renewals help you keep track of your dog’s rabies vaccinations and lets others know your pet has received proper vaccinations
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Provides proof your dog or cat legally belongs to you IT’S THE LAW. If you reside in the city limits of Visalia, Valley Oak SPCA is your licensing agency. Purchasing your license is simple. Visit www.vospca.org and purchase or renew your pet’s license online. Now until July 1, 2011, Valley Oak SPCA is offering a one-year free pet license for any new pet, never licensed with Valley Oak SPCA. Call our licensing department today at 651-1111 ext. 1 to learn more about this program.
A D O P TA B L E P E T O F T H E M O N T H MEET GRETCHEN AND HER PUPPIES Gretchen is probably one of the nicest and friendliest German Shepherds you’ll ever meet! Gretchen was found tied to a tree, abandoned, pregnant and starving. While at Valley Oak SPCA she gave birth to nine puppies. Shortly thereafter, we were able to get Gretchen and her brood into foster care, however, Gretchen was so dehydrated and depleted of nutrients, she had to be hospitalized (she weighed just 46 lbs after giving birth to her litter). Currently Gretchen and her surviving seven puppies are flourishing in foster care and Gretchen will be going to her new forever home as soon as the puppies are weaned and she is spayed. Her pups need to find their forever homes. These puppies are part of a “Puppy Starting” pilot program; during this socialization and training time they will have had two puppy vaccinations, learn to wear collars, have already been introduced to a leash, and know how to “sit.” They will have been socialized with men, women, children, other dogs and even cats. The adoption fees for these cuties will be slightly higher at $125, which still includes their spay/neuter surgery, wellness exam from a participating veterinarian, a rabies vaccine, and a microchip.
If you’re interested in these puppies, please call (559) 713-4688 or email kstevens@vospca.org. Valley Oak SPCA invites you to visit its Mall Adoption Center (MAC) at the corner of Mooney Blvd. and Beech St., Visalia. The Mall Adoption Center showcases wonderful adoptable dogs, cats, puppies and kittens from the Valley Oak SPCA Shelter. Hours are Wednesday-Friday, 12 p.m.-8 p.m., and Saturday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. For more information, call 733-7791.
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VALLEY OAK SPCA 29016 HIGHWAY 99 VISALIA, CA 93277 Phone: (559) 651-1111 Web: www.vospca.org
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FROM OUT OF THE TULES by Linda Ruminer, Archivist-Historian of Tulare Historical Museum
Flyin’ Bryan Allen
Bryan Allen became one of “Tulare’s heroes” on August 23, 1977, when he piloted a human-powered airplane around a prescribed course at the Shafter, California, airport. The Gossamer Condor was the first human-powered aircraft capable of sustained flight. It was designed by aeronautical engineer Paul MacCready in 1977 in an effort to win the 50,000 English pound ($86,000) prize offered by British industrialist Henry Kremer. To win, Allen had to complete a 1 1/4-mile figure-eight course, clearing a 10-foot high barrier at both the start and finish. The fragile aircraft had a wingspan of nearly 100 feet; weighed only 70 pounds; and was constructed of corrugated cardboard, balsa wood, wire, aluminum tubing, Mylar and lots of plastic tape. The only power was provided by the muscles in Allen’s legs as he pedaled furiously. Today, the Gossamer Condor hangs from the ceiling of the Smithsonian’s Air and Space Museum in Washington DC. Photos of Allen’s accomplishments were taken by Tularean Don LeBaron and were published in the London Daily Express, in the Paris edition of the New York Herald-Tribune, San Francisco Chronicle, Washington Post, New York Times, New York Daily News, Sacramento Bee, and others around the world. Two years later on June 11, 1979, Allen pedaled his new -0!!!!-.%&!$(#$%$&'()!!!!
and improved flying machine, the Gossamer Albatross, across the 22-mile wide English Channel. The craft was similar to the Condor in looks but much more sophisticated and enabled him to win an even bigger prize for MacCready – and more worldwide publicity. The 22-mile flight – the result of nearly a year of planning, testing and praying – qualified the Gossamer team for $192,000 (also offered by Kremer) for a channel crossing. Allen thus became the first person to make an extended flight in a manpowered airplane. The Gossamer Albatross was a 55-pound plane made of plastic sheeting and lightweight tubing. It had a wingspan of 96 feet (more than that of a DC-9 jetliner). With only the power of his legs turning the propeller, Allen, 26 at the time, made the crossing in less than three hours. But it wasn’t easy ... time after time, Allen had to wage a determined battle to keep his plane from dropping into the sea. Allen was quoted as saying, “My common sense told me to give up, I was dying … just slowly draining away. But I knew I had to go on. Still there were times when I thought it was all over. There were at least four times when I felt I was going into the sea. Two-thirds of the way through the trip, my legs suddenly turned to lead, I was seized with cramps and I didn’t know how I could carry on.” But, then out of the gray morning mist, Allen saw it – the tall Cap Gris Nez lighthouse. “I knew I could make it,” he said. “It was impossible to describe how I felt when I first saw it. It was as though you’d been crawling in the desert for days on end and suddenly you saw a bottle of water in front of you. From that point on, I knew there was no way I could fail. It was like a shot in the arm. I couldn’t pedal fast enough.” Allen is the son of Marvin Allen, a retired Tulare teacher (now deceased), and Beverly Allen, now residing in Coupeville, Washington. Bryan, a two-time record holder for flying pedal-powered aircraft, is a 1970 graduate of Tulare Union High School, where he excelled in cross country. On Tuesday, October 26, 2010, Allen came home to be a Keynote Speaker at Tulare Union High School’s Annual Career Day – 31 years after his victorious flight over the English Channel. For his achievement in aviation and space exploration, Allen was inducted into the Redskin Hall of Fame. He is one of only 19 to be inducted – and the youngest.
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VUSD Text by Craig Wheaton, Ed.D. Superintendent
State Crisis, Students Suffer I have not been one to use the word “crisis” lightly. In fact, I am usually the one who says, “Everything will work out.” Well, these last few months of state budget negotiations and non-action have been a real test of my optimistic nature. What I do know is that our community and school district will do the best with what we have. We also know students will walk through our classroom doors in August and our teachers will start the year with the same professionalism they have every year. The ongoing budget crisis is not our students’ fault and it is not our teachers’ fault. While politicians throw around numbers, we know that every billion cut translates into less programs and opportunities for our students. Student achievement in Visalia has increased every year for the last decade. Our district-wide API score has risen 135 points in the past eight years. We need to keep that trend going. Slashing education funding is a short-sighted savings. It might balance the state budget, but it will be a high price to pay in the long run. The data is clear; the best way to improve the future economic condition is to have an excellent education system. That isn’t possible without an adequate level of school funding. Over the last three years, here at VUSD we have done what many of you have had to do with your home budgets. We have “tightened our belt.” We have eliminated administrative positions, raised some class sizes, restricted
travel, and found ways to become more efficient. Some of our changes have been good and will continue to save funding even when budget years get better. We need to let our leaders know that education is a priority for our community. Together we can get through these difficult times and provide a foundation for a brighter future. Our students are the leaders of tomorrow; let’s make sure they have every opportunity to succeed!
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THRIVING UNDER THIRTY Text by Crystal R. R. Edwards I Photo by Daniel J. Murphy
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!!!"#$%"&'()# gear we need – everything was organized, ready to propose to Meet Josh Levine: a 27-year old filmmaker who someone. I went and proposed to my aunt and uncle, and the started his own production company at the age of next thing I know they were giving me a check for $10,000 to 20, building a successful career from very humble make the film. I’m very lucky and blessed to have an aunt and beginnings. uncle who believe in me. I probably put another $5,000 or “Don’t waste your talent on garbage that no one will $6,000 of my own money into it as well.” remember.” This opening line of the trailer for Breathe – the If starting from nothing seems to be a habit of Levine, so first short film by the Visalia native about a struggling artist does growth of character. “I learned nothing stresses me out trying to find his way – simultaneously inspires and chastises to the point where I want to quit something. I realized that the protagonist and, in many ways, Levine himself. I can turn any bad situation and make good of it somehow.” In the beginning, Levine didn’t own one piece of Roadblocks were constantly appearing, but he pressed on equipment. “I didn’t have a camera, a computer for editing,” and figured out how to turn all the he said. “I went to the city and filed “I didn’t have a camera, a negative situations into positive for my business license for video situations somehow. “That was a hard production as ‘Jay Matthews & computer for editing. I went thing to do, but I learned a lot of Company.’ I would get jobs and then to the city and filed for things about not just film-making, but have to find ways to get a camera, get also dealing with people and managing my business license for it edited.” From there, it grew. He now it all and trying to keep everyone owns cameras, editing equipment, and video production as happy, on the same page.” has a new understanding of the phrase ‘Jay Matthews & Company.’ I Along with this growth came “bootstrap enterprise.” a challenge: forgiveness. “When Levine was living and working in would get jobs and then have someone would screw up, promise downtown LA for the Fitness Channel, to find ways to get a camera, something, or if someone would back doing many different fitness shows, out of [a commitment], it was hard cooking shows, and talk shows, when get it edited.” for me to forgive them at first. And the message behind Breathe stirred then I realized that I have to [forgive] and move on. It’s not a new passion in him. “After 18 months I moved to Santa that serious. This and that, all these little details, I just have to Monica. I had an intern working for me who wrote scripts. I shake it off.” read one that had a different name then, and many messages. Throughout the journey of creating Breathe, Levine has I felt like I didn’t have the time to do it, but I read it again. learned much about himself, about staying positive when After the third reading, I was blown away. It resonated with things look dim, and about investing in things that really me and I felt like if it was talking to me, it would talk to matter. “There’s a lot of garbage out there. I want to try to others.” Rewrites of the script began at that point, but there inspire hope and life,” Levine said. “You can’t stop. You have were still additional challenges to overcome. to keep motivated.” As Levine moved forward, he never knew if the money Obviously, he did. were going to come in. “I was looking at the budget and we had a month left before we were going to begin shooting,” Breathe premieres June 4 at the Visalia Fox Theater. For tickets, he said. “I had a professional portfolio made of the film, call (559) 625-1369, or visit FoxVisalia.org. describing every shot, every location, all the actors, all the -.%&!$(#$%$&'()!!!!-S
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WELL, THAT WAS FUN
Mama Stands Down I was nearly finished with the dishes when my cell phone pinged with a new message. I wiped my hands on a towel and dove for the phone. I was expecting to hear from a client on an important issue, and all forward progress for my current project depended upon a simple “Yes” or “No” text from him. I flicked my finger across my phone’s screen and saw I’d received something from my 10-year-old daughter instead: “r u makin diner?” Birdie Sue had been up in her room, the last I knew. I was slightly annoyed. I couldn’t figure out why she felt a text was necessary, but I decided to play along and let my inner editor out to romp a bit: Me: I just finished dishes. I’ll be cooking in a moment. Why? Her: is chkn? Me: It’s not checking, no. Unless you meant chunking. And it’s not doing that either. It’s just lying there right now. Her: chicken Me: Oh. No. Pork. Her: sigh Me: You don’t like pork? What’s wrong with pork? It’s chops. You like chops. Her: sigh = chunking Me: I’m sorry the pork chops aren’t chunking. I’ll talk to them and see if we can come to an agreement. I don’t even know what chunking is. You kids confuse me. Her: frgt it Me: I’m not going to refrigerate it. I’m going to cook it. Are you okay? Did you break fingers? Her: SIGH By this time I was holed up in my bedroom’s walk-in closet, giggling hysterically. I eventually heard her stomp down the stairs, plug her phone in at the charging station in the kitchen (ktchn?), and stomp back up to her room. I have many friends with children around the same age as Birdie Sue. These friends will launch into a vent at any moment about the trials their children represent. The attitudes, the texting, the inability to follow through on things like cleaning the room or feeding the pets are all woven into a ->!!!!-.%&!$(#$%$&'()!!!!
single brilliant tirade over a glass of wine or meal out. I smile and nod. I don’t really know what else to do. I appreciate a good rant as well as the next disaffected woman, and I sympathize with their frustrations; however, I cannot really empathize. I don’t find it very frustrating yet. I’m amused, more than anything. It also gives me a lot of writing material. This isn’t to say we don’t have our differences. Rather, our similarities. What I mean is … this is confusing. We butt heads because she can be so very, very much like me when I’m not being The Mom. I couldn’t care less if the clothes are folded, so we’re clear on that sort of issue. What I do need is for her to put them in her drawers instead of slinging them across the second twin bed in her room and then burying them in running shoes, books and thousands of little foldedup notes from friends. So now and then a disagreement will start between us. I call her out for being excessively lazy or messy or kid-like (!!??), and she dresses me down for being a helicopter mom, overly particular, or snobby. I hate these moments. In my non-parenting life I am lazy and messy and just really pretty awful myself, and most certainly not any of those things. The flip side of this, of course, is that in her non-child-of-a-parent life, she is most certainly not lazy, messy or even kid-like. She’s a mature, intelligent, capable girl about to blossom into an amazing young woman. During these battles, I often must stop and ask myself: “Do I want to die on this hill?” The answer, of course, is no. No, I do not. Eventually she’ll figure out that the clothes need to be put away. Eventually she’ll figure out that texting shorthand will lead to confusing situations and messed-up communication. Eventually she’ll figure out that coming down the stairs to ask about supper takes 30 seconds, instead of wasting the five minutes we spent batting messages back and forth. Until then, I need to chillax. (I learned that word, a mash-up between “relax” and “chill,” last week in a text war about whether she was ready to meet a friend at the movie theater without my being present. The answer was still no, but my knowledge increased. Silver linings!) A few weeks ago we went shopping for some new clothes, just Birdie Sue and me. We don’t often get the chance to hang out one-on-one, and it had been some months since our last outing. Initially I was a bit nervous. I’m not the manicure
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!""#$"%&$'"()*+#(,Tex t by Crystal R. R. Edwards
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I need to chillax. (I learned that word, a mash-up between “relax” and “chill,” last week in a text war about whether she was ready to meet a friend at the movie theater without my being present. The answer was still no, but my knowledge increased. Silver linings!) buddy mom, nor am I the shopping mom, nor am I the sort of mom who can talk knowledgeably about the latest girl trends. I’m low-maintenance, bookish and an unrepentant tomboy. I can’t even relate on a basic level to the all-pink club. I was afraid she’d want to discuss frills, accessories or hair styles. I had no idea if the past four months or so had turned her into this kind of girl. I actually crammed by reading a copy of Seventeen Magazine just hours before. I shouldn’t have worried. My 10-year old apple followed this awkwardly shopping tree around, asking aloud questions such as, “Why do they sell shirts that make you look like a pink wedding cake?” and “Mom, do you think we could shop at the sports store instead?” We left the department store, kicking up a rooster tail of dust and discarded ideals of femininity behind us. At the sports store, we loaded up on Champion and Adidas clothing, then we stopped somewhere to grab a couple of ice teas and talk about books and the best way to set up a tent on a hillside in high wind. That evening the kids all trooped upstairs to watch a movie in the play room before bedtime and she took her phone up with her. Her cut-off for texting friends is 8:00 p.m., so there’s usually a last-minute flurry of activity on her phone after supper. I’d just sat down with my laptop to work on a project when my phone pinged. I groaned and grabbed for it, expecting to see my client’s name in the sender’s field and a long message involving changes it was almost too late to make before my deadline. It wasn’t his name at all.
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“u r awsm” I replied: “s r u <3” The Armageddon, the Ragnarok, the Final Battle Between Mother and Teen Daughter – this still looms. But until then, I’m chillaxin’. -.%&!$(#$%$&'()!!!!-T
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CULINARY Recipe by Elaine Dekassian of Tre Bien and Photo by Taylor Vaughn
Chipotle Pasta Salad Ingredients:
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“I’ve got two years of scheduled service on my new vehicle.” So that means maybe two or three oil changes. The fact is, independent repair shops still get most of the vehicle service and repair. Offering you two years of service is the dealerships way of keeping you in a dealership relationship rather than seeing you go to an independent shop. Not a bad marketing idea, but remember, you can have it serviced by anyone and it does not void your new car warranty.
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“I just had my transmission repaired and it did not cost me a dime because of my insurance plan, but the poor soul next to me had to pay $3,500!” Maybe so, but did you tell him you had to pay $3,500 for your insurance plan? So in reality both of you did pay. The aftermarket insurance companies are not in business to lose money. Be sure if you buy a plan that you know the deductible, what is covered and what is not.
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“If I use a code reader like on TV then the repair shop can’t rip me off. I’ll know exactly what’s wrong with my car.” You might have a code reader, but a code does not mean that part is bad. So you go in, ask for the part to be replaced, then you still have the same problem and you’re ticked at the shop. But the shop is not at fault because they just did what you requested to be done, which may or may not have been the actual problem. That’s like taking your own x-rays and telling your doctor what you need to have done! Wouldn’t it be better to let him (or the shop) figure out what’s wrong as they’re trained to do? ’Till next issue, take it easy. If you have a question, please email me jim@misfiregone.com and I will get back to you. Jim
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FOCUS ON FITNESS Text by Andy & Eryn Salazar of Empower Fitness Training
Nutrition and Your Physique
Ok, so you have the exercise thing down. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve seen some results, but you are still not where youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to be. Having an effective exercise program is only part of the equation to having the body and health you desire. Eating healthy and making the best food choices for your goals is the only way obtain optimal health, and your best body ever. Even if you had the most perfectly designed workouts in the world, if you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have the proper nutrition to support your goals, you wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t lose fat or gain any muscle. The only way to accelerate your results is to change your eating habits. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hard to believe, but nutrition is about 7580 percent responsible for how your body looks, feels and performs. Making just a few small changes to the way you eat will give you drastic results. I am not talking about an extreme diet, but a lifestyle of healthy choices. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t think that you are never going to eat anything bad again; instead, start off slowly by making choices that are a little bit better and more supportive than the day before. Look to cut one thing out of your nutritional habits that you know is bad for you, and the next week look to cut back or scale back on another item. Small changes will have a huge impact on your results. Before you know it, you will be beginning to make healthier choices without even having to think about it. Here are five keys to speeding up your metabolism and getting you the results you desire. Eat something that is supportive to your goals every 2.5-3 hours. This will keep your metabolism working
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throughout the day and keep your energy levels up all day. Make healthy foods choices. Eat lean meats, fruits and vegetables. Watch your carbohydrate intake (i.e., breads, pastas and sugars). Eliminate as many unnecessary sugars from your diet as possible, and eat only until you are satisfied ... not stuffed. Always eat breakfast. This is the most important meal of the day. Skipping breakfast will only send the message to your body that youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re starving because you havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t had food in over eight hours, and will slow your metabolism down. Try to eat within an hour of waking up. It can be as simple as a piece of peanut butter toast, or an egg and a banana. You must eat breakfast! Drink a lot of water. Drink at least 8-12 eight-ounce glasses of water throughout the day. Doing so will burn an extra 100 calories. Sometimes when you are feeling hungry you are really just thirsty, so try drinking a glass of water. If you are still hungry after a while, have a healthy snack. Follow the 90/10 Rule. We have a will power of about 6-7 days. If you can eat and make healthy choices 90 percent of the time, allowing for 10 percent leeway for cheat days, you are more likely to have long lasting results because you wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t feel like you are blowing it.
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Visalia First Assembly
"A Church for the Community"
JOURNEYMEN MINISTRY! Happy Fatherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day to the many men who serve as protectors, providers, counselors and friends to their families and others in the community. As Fathers are celebrated this month, Visalia First Assembly would like to share with them what VFA Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ministry has specifically for them. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Journeymen Ministries was created to help men be better fathers, sons, husbands, coaches, and friends,â&#x20AC;? said Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ministries Director, Pastor John Walker. â&#x20AC;&#x153;VFAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Journeymen Ministries is here to help men with their own journey.â&#x20AC;? The Ministry has Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bible study groups everyday of the week on the church campus and at local restaurants. Times vary to accommodate all schedules. A Bible study is just one of the Journeymen activities to help men get closer to Christ. View the full schedule at v1ag.com. VFAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Journeymen Ministries also has many events available to help men foster their faith and experience the wonderful benefits of fellowship. The next two events scheduled for Journeymen are: t July 23: Journeymen will host a menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s breakfast: 8:30a.m., Akers campus lobby.
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August 20: Journeymen will have a Discipleship Training called â&#x20AC;&#x153;Being a Godly Father": 8:30a.m. in Room 19 at the Akers campus.
Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a husband, father or son, making the decision to take part in VFAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ministries will be one of the greatest choices you will ever make. Having Christian support during the tough times in life is helpful in shaping healthy thoughts, emotions and actions. On the journey of life, finding out who we truly are starts when a man sets his course on becoming a passionate follower of Jesus Christ. Visalia First Assembly Weekend Experiences: Saturday at 5p.m., Sunday at 8a.m., 9:45, 11:30a.m. 3737 S. Akers Ave Spanish Service, Sunday at 12:30p.m., 3737 W. Walnut Ave. 7 "( DPN t
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YOUTH FOR CHRIST CAMPUS LIFE Text by Kyndal Kennedy I Photos by Becca Chavez
Chaplains Guide the Way Every day on the campuses of our local high schools, students are struggling with problems including school stress, drug addiction and gangs. Parents do what they can to help their children choose the right path, however, there is little they can do once the kids arrive at school. Fortunately, with the help of volunteer chaplains from Youth for Christ’s Campus Life program, there is someone on, and off, campus to help guide their way. Since 1968, Tulare-Kings Counties Youth for Christ has been a chartered chapter of YFC USA, and has been communicating the life-changing message of Jesus Christ to young people. Following in the steps of the first director, Jim Gift (who started YFC at Fresno high schools), Executive Director of Tulare and Kings Counties Bruce Smith has led the Campus Life program .0!!!!-.%&!$(#$%$&'()!!!!
now for 12 years. Smith leads a group of 28 volunteer chaplains and six staff members, based out of a donated classroom at First United Methodist Church. Campus Life chaplains are serving on five high school campuses in Visalia, two in Hanford, Lemoore High, five schools in the Dinuba/Orosi area, and at Farmersville High. Once chaplains are cleared at the district level, they work with the individual principals at each school, who are happy to have their presence on campus. Their job is simply to be a resource and friend to students in difficult situations. How do they know which kids to help? “You can pretty much tell,” Smith said. Smith relates a story of how he and another chaplain helped one particular student. They saw a girl sitting alone, crying one day, and after introducing themselves and sharing with her
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that they were there to help, the girl confided that she was very unhappy and was cutting herself. They explained to her their roles as mandated reporters and that they must refer her to the school’s psychologist. “Anytime a student is being hurt, hurting themselves, or others, we are required by law to report it.” The girl was appreciative of their role in helping her and is now actively involved in Campus Life events and still maintains a relationship with both chaplains. “There is a myth that kids don’t want to talk, especially high schoolers, but the truth is, kids are open to talking,” he said. And that’s what makes Campus Life so successful. After first meeting the students, chaplains continue to build relationships by listening and caring for the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of these students. Many students seek the chaplains for help in starting student-run, on-campus Christian clubs. They currently help lead six campus clubs with a combined attendance of 183 students per week. Chaplains are not only present on campus, but they also care for these kids by visiting them in their neighborhoods and homes, and encouraging them in their educational goals by taking them to visit colleges. Campus Life also orchestrates many other events throughout the year for students to attend.
It is for these reasons – and many other needs Campus Life has touched – that the community is coming out to support the organization. March 26, 2011, marked the 18th Annual Auction and Dinner to support YFC and Campus Life. Approximately 280 people attended the event at Central Valley Christian, and the silent and live auctions raised $26,000.
The monies raised will be used to purchase new Bibles for students, to provide pizza at lunchtime meetings (Smith says they average about 30 pizzas per week!), transportation costs, fees, etc. Funds from the dinner and auction will also go toward the plans Campus Life has for the future. “Our goal is to be at the junior high schools – we need to be there,” said Smith. When asked what else community members could do to support this goal, Smith replied with “volunteer.” Smith estimates that if volunteers donated just one hour per week they would be able to reach even more kids who need assistance and get to those schools they are not yet involved with. Volunteers are generally recruited by word of mouth. However, “See the Story” luncheons are held each month at 210 in Downtown Visalia where an hour is spent eating and hearing about all the great things going on in the program and the need for volunteers. “These lunches are meant to give information to those who are thinking about volunteering and for people to come hear the stories,” explained Smith. Also on the agenda is to reach even more communities. When asked which communities he would like to be present in, Smith replied matter-of-factly, “Every community. That’s my goal.” If you would like more information about Tulare-Kings Counties Youth for Christ and Campus Life, please call (559) 732-5677, or visit www.tkyfc.com. PREVIOUS PAGE: YFC Volunteers and Board Members. ABOVE LEFT: Executive Director of Campus Life Tulare-Kings Counties, Bruce Smith, with students Vanessa, Shakira and Lisa. ABOVE RIGHT: Bruce Smith and wife, Laurel. -.%&!$(#$%$&'()!!!!.Q
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CHILDREN'S SERVICES NETWORK OF TULA Text by Tulare County Health & Human Services
Doing it for Them
He is a river of a man, calm on the surface with deep undercurrents. He is burly, yet soft-spoken, and walks with a slight limp. He is a thoughtful man who often ponders the events that led to his current situation. A single father of three, Servando once struggled with a learning disability as a child, but with support, he eventually graduated from high school. While a teenager, he became enmeshed with drugs. This struggle continued to plague him into adulthood and eventually landed him in Drug Court. “Everything changed when I went to Drug Court,” Servando said. “I still had the option to use drugs; it was my choice, but I was tired of seeing friends die or go to prison. I didn’t want .1!!!!-.%&!$(#$%$&'()!!!!
that life.” Despite – or perhaps because of – the adversities of his early life, Servando now feels intensely committed to providing a stable home for his young children. When his relationship with their mother dissolved about a year ago, he won custody of his three children. Nonetheless, he continues to encourage his children to visit their mother and stay in close communication with her. The youngest child often wakes up agitated; Servando found the best way to soothe his son is to call his son’s mother so that they can talk. Over time, Servando discovered the challenges and demands of being a single father were occasionally beyond
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ARE COUNTY his means, so he took a bold step and reached out to Tulare County’s Child Welfare Services, where he was linked with Luis, a case manager at the Parenting Network. Although somewhat nervous, Servando welcomed Luis into his home to survey the children’s environment, knowing he was doing the best thing for their well-being. “I’m so thankful for Luis. He’s taught me a lot these last few months. He’s been through what I’m going through and gives great advice,” Servando said. At the Parenting Network, Servando and his children received assessments to identify their needs and the appropriate support to address them. Servando engaged in the SafeCARE program, which educates parents in providing a safe environment for kids. Since completing the program, Servando has been applying his acquired skills to benefit his children. He has crafted a morning ritual that includes eating breakfast burritos together before heading to school. He states with pride that the morning routine has made them a stronger, closer family. Servando’s three children have also benefited from services in other ways. Zanida, an endearing six-year-old who is reserved like her father, is an avid Justin Bieber fan. She enjoys flipping through magazines with the star’s pictures. She struggles in school and was recently linked with support services through Central Valley Regional Center. Jacob is a rambunctious four-year-old who loves fire trucks. And though Jacob hasn’t even started school yet, Servando hopes he will find a future through education. This summer, Servando plans to model this by spending time with his family at the Literacy Center in Visalia. Antonio, an attentive seven-year-old, has recently been in trouble at school but is working to overcome his challenges. All three children are engaged in family counseling services at Visalia Youth Services. Life as a single father isn’t easy under even the best of circumstances, but knowing that he has resources such as the Parenting Network and other Tulare County programs, Servando has faith that he can meet its challenges. Reflecting on the barriers he’s confronted over the last year, Servando sits back, folds his hands, and after a long pause, said, “I know I may have a hard, challenging life ahead of me, but I’ve got three beautiful kids. We’ll have our ups, and we’ll have our downs, but that’s all right – because we’re going to get through it together.” -.%&!$(#$%$&'()!!!!.S
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SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY COLLEGE
Corrections Officer Training is Smart Career Move – and Fun The “Criminal Justice – Corrections” program at San Joaquin Valley College (SJVC) in Fresno, Visalia and Hanford provides top-notch education and training – as well as enjoyable ways to learn, according to the Visalia CJC Program Director, Mitchell Villegas. “We have fun in the classroom,” said Villegas. “Whether it is a spirited debate, a mock cell extraction (removal of inmate who refuses to comply with an order), or vigorous physical training exercises, it is uncommon to complete a class without some laughter,” he said. But SJVC’s Correction program has its serious sides, as well. “Our program places a lot of emphasis on ethics,” said Villegas. “It is the cornerstone of the law enforcement industry, and we want our students to know that they have a vital responsibility to demonstrate appropriate ethical behavior at all times.” “Our Criminal Justice program graduates are head and shoulders above other candidates applying for positions with the Department of Corrections, Police or Sheriff’s Department,” said Villegas. “Our emphasis on scholastic achievement and physical conditioning makes them job-ready for positions at detention facilities.” Robert Knox has been a student in the Criminal Justice program for seven months and is excelling in his studies and training. Robert especially enjoys the program’s field trips, which include visits to both county and state lock-up facilities. “We get to see firsthand what we’re getting into and get a better feel for how our training will be used,” he said. And, the hands-on training is extensive. “We train with SWAT teams and put in time at the gun range,” said Knox. “Not everyone in the CJ program has even shot a gun, so we get a feel for how to hold and fire a weapon.” “Prison hiring freezes have relaxed somewhat, and as prison guards retire, relocate or move into other areas of responsibility, positions are opening up,” said Villegas. “But they are only taking the cream of the crop – which means applicants with either a military background or an Associate’s degree will have the advantage. Our graduates will have a definite edge.” With corrections and detention facilities springing up at an astounding pace and crime on the rise, well-trained detention and corrections officers and other security personnel are in serious demand. San Joaquin Valley College in Fresno, Visalia and Hanford is meeting that demand with an accelerated Criminal Justice program designed to make graduates job-ready in just 14 months. During training, students are certified with PC 832 (Penal Code), which is required for peace officer status and CDC-R (California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation) correctional officer Core academy. Program graduates are finding that they are well-positioned to compete in this hot job market. Job security isn’t the only reason so many are making Criminal Justice – Corrections their career move. A national increase in .>!!!!-.%&!$(#$%$&'()!!!!
crime rates translates into mobility for those well-trained in the criminal justice field. Most cities, nationwide, have corrections, detention and security positions to fill, which makes job transfers or relocations much easier. Those well-trained in this field can find work in cities across the nation. Career ladder advancements and promotions are more attainable when a field, such as corrections, experiences so much growth. This expansion also results in stronger compensation and benefits packages. Corrections students are frequently making contacts with program guest speakers and other prominent people within their industry, from both private and state facilities, who might one day employ them. SJVC’s Career Services Departments on each of the campuses also work with students to prepare them for their eventual job search by assisting with resume preparation, job interview techniques, and job referrals and placement. “I see changes occurring in our students’ confidence – some from the first day,” said Villegas. “Our program builds on that confidence and provides students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed,” he said. “During our field trips to detention facilities, students begin to picture themselves working in that environment and realize they made a solid career choice.” San Joaquin Valley College’s Criminal Justice program goes beyond the minimum training required by law with coursework that includes criminal law, evidence collection and preservation, report-writing and criminal procedures. A balance of classroom instruction and hands-on experience gives students the greatest opportunity for successful learning. Learn: t Arrest/Control Techniques t Firearms Use t CPR/First Aid t Weaponless Defense Tactics Graduates of SJVC’s Criminal Justice program can enter the law enforcement and correctional fields in such capacities as Corrections Officer, Detention Officer, Jail Transport Officer, Detention Specialist or Deputy Corrections Officer. With additional education or training those positions could continue on to roles such as Corrections Sergeant, Administrative Supervisor, Parole Officer, Warden or Deputy Sheriff. The Criminal Justice program is offered evenings, Monday through Thursday. Graduates earn an Associate of Science degree and are prepared to step into a position within the criminal justice or detention arena with the confidence gained through their quality training and education. For more information about San Joaquin Valley College’s Criminal Justice program or other business, medical or technical career training program, please call toll free (866) 391-3804.
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GOINGS-ON Blues, Brews & BBQ Join in on live music, delicious barbecue and refreshing beverages at this fun Downtown event. When: June 3, 6-10p Where: Garden St. Plaza, Visalia Contact: 732-7737 or visit www.bluesbrewsandbbq.net Happy Trails Riding Academy Presents: Night at the Races Come have a great night with dinner, horse racing and great prizes! Happy Trails Riding Academy provides equine-facilitated therapy to children and adults with disabilities. When: June 3, 6p Where: Visalia Convention Center, 303 E. Acequia St., Visalia Contact: 688-8685 or email happytrailsridingacademy@yahoo.com “Breathe” A short film produced and directed by Visalia native Josh Levine. The film stars Jaz Martin, who recently just booked a pilot (with Mark Wahlberg as Executive Producer) called Home Game, and Lucy Walsh, daughter of rock legend Joe Walsh from The Eagles. Together, the two embark on a journey to find the source of inspiration. Tickets: $5. When: June 4, 7p Where: Visalia Fox Theatre, 308 W. Main St., Visalia Contact: Box Office, 625-1369
this is a three-dimensional tour of the Saturnian system. When: June 10, 7p Where: Educational Enrichment Center, 2500 W. Burrel Avenue, Visalia Contact: 737-6334 for ticket information. Edwin McCain With special guest David Ryan Harris (rhythm guitarist for John Mayer). McCain, an alternative rock singer-songwriter, lights up the stage with his hits. Tickets: $20-25. When: June 11, 7:30p Where: Visalia Fox Theatre, 308 W. Main St., Visalia Contact: Box Office, 625-1369 Summer Night Lights All youth and teens are invited Saturday nights this summer for FREE food, activities and entertainment! Bring a few friends and enjoy movies, music, games, sports and more! When/Where: June 11, 8-11:30p Manuel F. Hernandez Community Center, 247 W. Ferguson Ave., Visalia June 18, 8-11:30p @ Wittman Village Community Center, 315 W. Pearl St., Visalia June 25, 8-11:30p @ Boys & Girls Club, 215 W. Tulare Ave., Visalia Contact: Visalia Parks and Recreation, 713-4365
Tommy Emmanuel Grammy-nominated Australian guitarist Emmanuel is best known for his complex finger-picking style, energetic performances and the use of percussive effects on the guitar. Tickets: $30-75 (VIP). When: June 9, 7:30p Where: Visalia Fox Theatre, 308 W. Main St., Visalia Contact: Box Office, 625-1369
Kids Vi-Tri Jump start your kid’s summer with the inaugural Kids Triathlon. Each child will swim, bike and run a distance according to age in a closed course event. When: June 11, 6:30-7:30a (day of registration check-in & pick-up); 8:30a start time Where: Golden West High School, 1717 N. McAuliff, Visalia Contact: 713-4365 or visit www.liveandplayvisalia.com
Peña Planetarium-Saturn: Jewel of the Heavens Once a planet of great mystery, now we know more than ever before about Saturn’s amazing system of rings, moons and storms, thanks to modern robotic space pioneers. From its bizarre moons with mysterious features to the millions of icy particles that compose the enigmatic rings,
Porterville Airfaire This year’s event includes aircraft displays, hot air balloons, a kids’ area, pilot participation events, air drags, classic car displays, local vendors and, of course, incredible aerobatics! There will be something for the whole family!
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When: June 11, 6a Where: Porterville Municipal Airport Contact: Porterville Chamber of Commerce, 784-7502 9th Annual Golf for Life Tulare-Kings Right to Life invites you to participate in this year’s Golf for Life event. Registration for the four-person shot-gun scramble begins at 10:30a, with tee off at 12:00 noon. Entry fee is $150, which entitles participants to 18 holes of golf on one of California’s finest courses, lunch, practice balls, course beverages, dinner and the opportunity to win a wide array of awards, prizes and a “hole-in-one car”! When: June 13, 10:30a-8p Where: Visalia Country Club, 625 N. Ranch St., Visalia Contact: April, 732-5000 Peña Planetarium: Earth, Moon and Sun How do the Earth, Moon and Sun work together as a system and what is the myth and science behind it? Why does the Sun rise and set? Why do we see different constellations during different seasons? What is an eclipse? This program is an interesting look at the Moon’s phases and orbit, as well as past and future space travel to our moon and beyond. When: June 15, 2p Where: Educational Enrichment Center, 2500 W. Burrel Ave., Visalia Contact: 737-6334 for ticket information. Movies in the Park Join in the fun on Friday nights at Riverway Sports Park for a FREE family movie night! Gather the family, grab a blanket or lawn chairs, and head out to the park for a night under the stars. When: June 17, Legends of the Guardians (PG); 8:30p June 24, Nanny McPhee Returns (PG); 8:30p Where: Riverway Sports Park, 3611 North Dinuba Blvd., Visalia Contact: Visalia Parks and Recreation, 713-4365 A Taffeta Wedding Return to the music of a simpler time. You’ll hear tunes from the ’50s and ’60s in this laugh-filled sequel to The Taffetas. Performed by the Visalia Community Players. By Rick Lewis. Directed by Leeni Mitchell.
Call for ticket information. When: June 17-19, 24-26; July 1-3, Fri.-Sat. evening 7:30p; Sun. matinee 2p Where: Ice House Theatre, 410 E. Race Ave., Visalia Contact: 734-3900 Art Workshop: Painterly Printmaking—Monotype Often considered the most spontaneous form of printmaking, monotype is a fun and experimental form of expression. It is closely related to painting and is accessible to new and experienced artists alike. We will be using water based Akua Inks which can be printed without a press and clean up is easy with safe, non-toxic clean-up methods. Call for more information including registration fees. When: June 25 & 26, 10a-4p Location: St. Anthony Retreat, 43816 Sierra Drive, Three Rivers Contact: 561-4671 Sound N Vision Foundation: Summer Youth Music & Art Exploration 2011 Do your kids want to get a taste for the Arts this summer? SNV Foundation’s Summer Youth Music & Art Exploration gives kids a chance to participate in the following classes for free: Beginner’s Art, Ceramics, Drawing and Painting, Rockin’ Guitar for Beginners, Intro to Afro-Cuban Conga Drumming, and Piano Presto. For more information, visit www.snvfoundation.org/media/Sound_N_Vision_ Foundation_2011_Summer_Classes.pdf When: Dates vary; visit link above Where: Boys & Girls Club, 215 W. Tulare Ave., Visalia Contact: Stephanie Gomes via email stephaniemgomes@gmail.com
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.
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DIRECT FROM WARREN Text by Warren Gubler, Visalia City Councilmember
The Deliberation Process at Visalia City Hall Many people are curious to know how decisions are made at City Hall. The issues that are deliberated at city council meetings come from council members themselves, the general public, or are raised by the city manager or a department head. An agenda is prepared and staff reports are drafted on each agenda item. The staff reports are compiled into what usually turns out to be a rather thick binder and are given to the council members in advance to read and study. All agenda and staff reports are posted in advance, and may be viewed on the city’s website, www.ci.visalia.ca.us under “city government.” The city council usually meets on the first and third Mondays of every month. Depending on the press of business, additional council meetings are scheduled as necessary. The usual format is that Monday meetings begin with a work session commencing at 4 p.m. at City Hall. The work session usually lasts from 4-6 p.m. At the work session, opportunity is given for public comment, presentation of reports by city staff, and open discussion and deliberation by council members. At 6 p.m., we go into closed session. In closed session, only council members, invited staff and the city attorney participate. This meeting is not open to the public, and what is discussed is limited by the California Brown Act (Government Code §§ 54950, et seq.) generally to personnel/labor, real property, and litigation issues. Thereafter, the formal city council meeting commences at 7 p.m. We have a consent calendar of items which for the most part do not require extensive discussion since they are considered routine, and often have been deliberated upon previously. Any member of the public or member of the council can ask that a consent item be pulled for further discussion and review. Otherwise, the consent calendar is enacted in one motion and approved by council vote. The city council then deliberates and votes upon the remaining agenda items. The meetings are usually concluded by 9 p.m., but have been known to last much later!
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Under the California Brown Act, which requires open and public deliberations, the five council members may not meet together unless it is done in a meeting open to the public, and with sufficient notice to the public. Outside of formal advertised meetings, no more than two council members may be present at the same time if city business is involved. Nor may a council member meet individually with each of the other council members in order to poll them or solicit their support on an issue. There are certainly more expeditious ways to conduct business, but these open meeting rules are designed to promote more transparency and to protect the public’s right to know. While many of the issues that come before the city council are straightforward, resulting in a unanimous vote, it only takes a majority of three of the five council members to agree in order for an item to be adopted. In attendance at council meetings, you will usually find the police chief, the fire chief, other public safety officials, department heads, those with business interests, college students who are there for class credit, and regular attendees who just want to monitor what is going on at city hall. We invite all citizens of Visalia to visit the city’s website to find out what issues are coming before the council, and also to attend council meetings. Word has it that The Habit burger grill has pulled its building permit, and construction should begin soon on the Merle’s remodel. Finally, in an attempt to move into the 21st century, I have created a blog of my past articles for Direct Magazine. If you missed any, feel free to read them at directfromwarren. blogspot.com. 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.
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