Valley Voice Issue 3 (1 Aug., 2013)

Volume XXXIII No. 3 • 1 August, 2013

www.ourvalleyvoice.com

Bright Outlook for College of the Sequoias Accreditation

California State Prison, Corcoran. Photo courtesy: California Department of Corrections

Court Orders Release of 9,600 Inmates from California Prisons Tulare County officials are unsure of just how a federal court’s order for an early release of an additional 9,600 inmates from the state’s overcrowded prisons would affect Tulare County if it were carried out.

Hoping to block the court’s order to release the inmates, attorneys for Gov. Jerry Brown’s administration filed papers with the Supreme Court on Friday, July 19 asking the Court to delay the releases while it considers an appeal from the state.

Brown intends to ask the Supreme Court to reconsider its 2011 decision upholding the power of an appointed three-judge panel to order inmate releases as a means to reduce overcrowding and thus improve treatment for sick and mentally ill inmates.

Lacking evidence of any substantial improvements in the quality of health care that inmates are currently receiving, legal experts have given the state very little chance of prevailing in the Supreme Court thus paving the way for release of the 10,000 inmates by the Dec. 31 deadline mandated by the lower court.

This is only the latest move in what has been a long-running legal battle

208 W. Main St., Ste. E • Visalia, CA

DAVID MARSH between the state and the three federal judges on the panel. The panel was convened in 2007 especially to consider motions from inmate’s attorneys for the release of inmates from California’s grossly overcrowded prisons, some of which had been operating in excess of 200% of their designed capacity.

On Nov. 16, 2009, after lengthy testimony from a bevy of experts from both sides, the panel of federal judges issued an opinion which imposed a population cap of 137.5% of designed capacity, or approximately 110,000 inmates.

The state promptly appealed the ruling to the Supreme Court and lost in 2011 on a 5-4 vote with the deciding swing-vote provided by Justice Anthony Kennedy. Later that same year, AB 109, or “realignment,” was born and the state was able to shed an additional 25,000 inmates by sending lower level offenders to local jails to serve their sentences.

Since 2006, the state has reduced its prison population by about 46,000 inmates, and currently holds about 116,500 inmates in its 33 prisons and various fire camps.

The College of the Sequoias, at best, found itself marking the beginning of 2013 with a bang – but the wrong kind: it was informed that the college was on shaky ground with its accreditation; and, if left unimproved, could be forced to shut down. As the college readies itself for its second round of accreditation, the college’s outlook is promising.

Nine months after hiring a new superintendent and soon after finishing with its accreditation cycle, things looked good for the college – staff felt confident in the self-evaluation that they had sent to the state’s community college accreditor, the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges.

The President’s Office received notice on Feb. 13 that the ACCJC had placed the college on “Show Cause” sanctions: one step above the accreditor shutting the college down.

“I can honestly say this is the worst thing that would ever confront College of the Sequoias,” COS President/Super-

TONY MALDONADO intendent Stan Carrizosa said at the time.

Since then, the college’s administrative team assembled a cross-section of staff, students and administrators dubbed the Accreditation Response Task Force (RTF). The group met regularly throughout the spring semester to collectively analyze the accreditors’ recommendations and help steer the college’s actions, and will resume activity this month to finish its Show Cause report, required to be submitted to the state’s accreditor by October.

The college’s Academic Senate also organized two “accreditation summits,” in which a wider group of staff, students, administrators and community members met to work, collaborate and gather further data to be used for the college’s self-improvement and the Show Cause report. It also hired two outside consultants.

The report must outline the steps

Continued on p. 12 »

New Crop & Livestock Report Shows 2012 Best Year for Tulare County Ag

STEVE PASTIS

Continued on p. 15 »

Salinas Vies for City Council When I met with Vincent Salinas for this interview, he was full of information and ideas, and his love for the city of Visalia was apparent. Although a non-incumbent seeking a Visalia City Council seat, he is an old face to Visalia, proud to trace his family roots back to 1872 when his great-grandmother first settled in the city.

Salinas recalled his years at Redwood High School and the hardships he faced as a young teen when separated from his natural parents. Although hard times forced him into the foster care system, he persevered and excelled in high school, and was an active club and community leader, ultimately attending College of the Sequoias and San Jose State, where he majored in administration and criminal law. His education and career work experience as

ADINA ESCARSEGA

Vincent Salinas

a business consultant, stockbroker and financial advisor demonstrate his work ethic and determination to succeed.

Continued on p. 5 »

Tulare County Ag Commissioner Marilyn Kinoshita and Assistant Tulare County Ag Commissioner Tom Tucker before the July 23 Tulare County Board of Supervisors meeting.

“It’s the second year in a row that we had the highest-ever crop and livestock value,” Tulare County Agricultural Commissioner Marilyn Kinoshita told the Tulare County Board of Supervisors at its July 23 meeting. She was there to unveil and present The 2012 Tulare County Agricultural Crop and Livestock Report, which showed that last year was another strong year for most crops in the county, especially grapes, pistachios and almonds.

The dairy industry, while still the county’s dominant ag industry, didn’t fare as well, however. In 2011, the county had a value of more than $2 billion in milk and milk production. This decreased by about 10% to $1.8 billion last year.

“We’re very pleased with the report and happy to see the turnaround

in the last few years,” said Kinoshita after the meeting. “I think it’s great news for the local economy. We would have liked to see our dairy industry do better. We want to see the business maintain so that the side businesses do well.”

She referred to a study showed that for every four cows in the county, 200 jobs are created in such industries as ice cream, cheese and fertilizer.

The top ten ag products in Tulare County last year were (in order of value): milk, grapes, oranges (navel and valencia), cattle and calves, corn (grain and silage), alfalfa (hay and silage), pistachio nuts, almonds (meats and hulls), walnuts, and peaches (cling and freestone).

The 2012 Tulare County

Continued on p. 5 »

2 • Valley Voice

1 August, 2013 FROM THE PUBLISHER’S DESK

The View from the North Shore

The surrounding greenery a proscenium to this view, from my feet upward: tan, green, cobalt, grey, white, sky blue. A rippling, sun-dappled sea offering the sudden flash of a tiny breaker dashing spray upon jagged rock. The horizon, azure, flat as a razor beneath pale roiling cloud where, momentarily, the partial arc of a rainbow appears as if projected on a blank screen. Later, fiery orange sunlight limns the cumulus tops then surrenders to dusk, when the cloudbank becomes a dark, morphing Rorschach test before an ever-deepening violet backdrop. At last the moon descends, its misty smile a hint of promise for tomorrow.

And directly before me, perched on a telephone pole, a solar-powered tsunami warning siren bisects the view day and night. So much for Paradise. What do we do if it goes off?

People, that siren sounded with the report of George Zimmerman’s gun. And the warning is unrelated to his acquittal because it is not about race relations--which can appear differently to the different groups regarding them. But there is nothing less ambiguous than a handgun.

Alarmingly, this is about the Second Amendment: A well-regulated militia, being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed.

Forget, if you can, the whole range of mass shootings by unhinged lone wolves.

These tragic incidents have more to do with mental illness than anything else. They are senseless, and for this reason alone remain mysterious to us for years. The Second Amendment is a mystery, at least in terms of its interpretation, but the first part of that famous sentence is clear. Each state has a right to maintain its own militia.

But has this right, like trickle-down economics, somehow come to lodge itself with smaller entities? Such as homeowners associations? Is their militia a neighborhood watch?

It is immaterial whether George Zimmerman was an employee of a neighborhood organization or merely a volunteer. Is it similarly immaterial whether or not any neighborhood organization condoned or even knew of his being armed?

Of course not. That, to my mind, is the central question. Either he was authorized to carry a gun, or he was not. True, he may in his capacity as a private citizen been licensed to carry one. This certainly would have helped him to “stand his ground.”

Equally, there may even have been no real structure in place, and he may have been acting as a delusional neighborhood watch unto himself. I don’t know. Clearly, he saw himself as on duty. And it is as simple as this: because he was armed, a young man is dead. Do you think George Zimmerman was a lone wolf?

So the tsunami warning has sounded--hear it?--and people on both sides of the gun-control issue do exactly what all tidal zone residents would do--head for the high ground.

— Joseph Oldenbourg

The Valley Voice is your newspaper

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1 August, 2013

Republicans Chip Away at Democrats’ Supermajority How does a Republican, middle-aged white guy win an election in a majority Hispanic and Democratic district? Quite handily it seems. Andy Vidak won 52.2% of the vote in the 16th Senate District (SD16) Special Election on July 23rd.

With Vidak’s victory, Republicans are chipping away at the Democrat’s supermajority in both houses of California’s legislature. Democrats still hold a supermajority, but just one over the required 27 seats in the senate.

Anything could happen to the remaining Democratic senators, two of whom are under investigation. Or Republicans could win a seat or two next year. The question is, can Vidak defend his seat outside of the warped reality of a special election?

The only other time this seat has gone Republican was in 1993 when Jim Costa lost in a special election to

Phil Wyman; a name no one remembers because Wyman lost in a rematch the following year during a real election.

To say constituents weren’t sure who actually could vote in SD16 would be an understatement. Even Leticia Perez, the Democratic candidate, was given the wrong information when she filed her papers.

“People have been very confused.” said Rita Woodward, Tulare County Registrar of Voters. “While most of Lindsay is in the district, Strathmore is not. Plainville is in the district, but Porterville is not.”

Like all of California, SD16 has the feel of gerrymandering, but that is not the reason why Democrats lost. Vidak’s victory could be attributed to the fact that Republicans get off their ass to mail in ballots or go to the polls in special elections, and Democrats do not. Not

every Hispanic is a Democrat or supports Perez. But who do you think would have won this election if every Hispanic in the district took the effort to vote?

Whether or not Perez decides to run again in 2014, this senate seat will be hard for the Republican Party to hold.

Republican registration is only 28.6% and Democrats have been known on occasion to show up in a general election.

Both candidates beleaguered the issues on water, high-speed rail, and education. But let’s be real. The sheer importance of SD16 for both parties was not about issues. It was about control of the legislature and explains why money poured into this race. A total of about $5.4 million has been spent, which is beyond huge for a special election. Each candidate spent around $2.2 million, and $1 million was spent by outside groups.

As soon as Vidak is sworn in to of-

Valley Voice • 3

CATHERINE DOE fice, he will have to restart his campaign for the November 2014 election. He will not be running in the current 16th district but the newly created 14th Senate District. This new district is slightly more Republican, but that may not be enough for a Republican victory.

My prediction for who will win a rematch? Neither. Perez is too weak of a candidate and the Democrat Party will run someone stronger. As a moderate Republican, Vidak would be put on the endangered species list if he were a fish. Maybe he can find common ground with the Delta Smelt but he won’t find victory in the new Senate District 14, because moderate is not going to win this solidly Democratic district.

“Now its time to roll up our sleeves and get to work,” says Vidak – at least for the next 17 months.

Hands in the Community Connects People with Needed Resources A project summary board hanging on the wall in the small but orderly offices of Hands in the Community (HNC) serves as a reminder to the unusually dedicated group of office volunteers of the impact their efforts are making in the community. For a great many people throughout Tulare County who have never heard of this hardworking non-profit in the almost five years of its existence, the short, precise handwritten notes on the board would provide for even the most unenlightened among us a quick perspective on the rather unique role they are filling in the Tulare/Kings County area.

A total of five neat work stations equipped with telephones, computers and small file cabinets line the walls of the office – the basic tools of the trade for these folks, most of whom will never even meet the people they work so hard to help.

A great many of the citizens of Visalia

would be at a loss to explain to someone else just who Hands in the Community is and what they are about, in spite of the five years that HNC has steadily worked to expand the little niche among Tulare County’s 145 non-profits that the organization has carved out for itself in Visalia and the surrounding communities.

Though little more than brief notes, the summary board tells a story that’s not at all hard to follow. A fellow in Ivanhoe has a new wheelchair ramp, while a woman from Hanford received a ride to a clinic in San Francisco. Next is the name of a Porterville couple whose roof has been repaired.

A fence repair for a man in Woodlake, and a car repair for a Visalia woman. A yard clean-up for a Tulare couple, and a refrigerator that went to another Visalia resident. Dental work for a Dinuba woman, and a man in Farmersville

who received a bed, just to name a few.

The board, said Lester Moon, HNC’s energetic executive director and one of its three founding members, represents only completed projects for the current month and the list is erased at month’s end. “Each project,” Moon explained, “is done entirely with donated materials, labor or professional services. And in a nutshell, that’s essentially what we’re all about.”

Moon and the two other men created the concept of HNC to address what they saw as a growing, critical need in the area for someone to bridge the increasing gap between the haves and the have-nots, those with a need with those willing to share of whatever they have to give.

“In our volunteer files, we have many skilled tradesmen with valuable knowledge to share, businessmen who would donate materials for a project

DAVID MARSH and a great many people with time on their hands simply wanting to help out in order to make a positive difference in their communities,” he said.

“We never thought that we would see it grow as fast as it has, but the need in our area is tremendous,” Moon added.

“The worsening plight of the elderly has driven our growth, in part.” The elderly on fixed incomes and the disabled make up a large percentage of HNC’s clients.

Moon’s is working to extend HNC’s presence throughout Kings and Tulare counties, and the communities represented on the summary board would indicate that the tireless efforts of his volunteers are having an impact far from the tiny office in which they work. Past projects undertaken by HNC have included extensive roof repairs,

Continued on p. 12 »

4 • Valley Voice

1 August, 2013

Annual Buck Rock Open House Planned for September 1 The Buck Rock Foundation will be hosting its annual open house and barbeque Sunday, September 1, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Buck Rock Lookout in the Sequoia National Forest.

The event, held annually the first Sunday in September since 2000, is free to the public and will feature the annual Blessing of the Rock ceremony, a Raising of the Flag by the American Legion of Dinuba, music, a visit by Smokey Bear, free arts and crafts booths for children, a booth providing the history of fire lookouts and their roles both past and present, and tours of the completely refurbished fire lookout that sits atop Buck Rock. In addition, a barbeque meal will be offered for donation which includes barbeque, drinks and dessert.

The open house has grown from a beginning in 2000 when approximately 50 people showed up for lemonade and cookies, to last year’s 500-600 attendees who enjoyed a complete barbeque as well as the current slate of scheduled activities.

Over 6,000 people annually come to the Buck Rock Lookout from around the world to enjoy its breathtaking 360-degree view of the surrounding Sierra Nevada Mountains. The lookout was abandoned for about a decade starting in the 1970s and fell into disrepair.

But with the creation of the Buck Rock Foundation in 1999 and the formation of its partnership with the Forest Service, the lookout has since been staffed fulltime and now is a hub of activity for the area.

While Buck Rock Lookout with its commanding view allows lookouts to see over 150 miles in every direction on clear days, the lesser known lookouts at Delilah and Park Ridge are staffed part time and used primarily to look down westward with a watchful eye over the designated wildfire “Communities at Risk” which include Squaw Valley, Dunlap, Wonder Valley, Piedra, Hartland Miramonte/Pinehurst, Badger, Wilsonia and Hume Lake.

The lookouts are among a dwindling

number of surviving lookouts which at one time numbered over 600 in California alone, with over 8,000 scattered across the entire United States. Many of the old abandoned lookouts have fallen into disrepair, been vandalized or simply no longer exist while others have been restored and are now used as vacation rentals.

The Forest and Park Services once

now relies much less on lookouts than in times past, while the Forest Service, once much more vigilant in protecting forest tracts for eventual sale of the timber, has also grown less dependent upon early suppression of forest fires as the policy restricting timber sales has tightened.

The Hume Lake Ranger District for the Sequoia National Forest now has

relied heavily upon the lookouts as their primary means of spotting fires but satellite imagery, aerial reconnaissance and webcams have taken over much of that responsibility in recent times.

The Park Service, with its on-again off-again policy of allowing natural fires to burn themselves out in remote areas,

only the Buck Rock and Delilah lookouts to help watch over its 200,000 acres, but District Fire Management Officer Neil Metcalf still appreciates the value of the lookouts in making his job easier.

“Even though we don’t have as many lookouts as we did in the past, their purpose is still as important as it ever was,”

DAVID MARSH Metcalf said. “My two lookouts see 99 percent of the district including the south fork of the Kings (river) and up into the North Fork Kaweah River drainage.”

For Kathy Allison, the current fulltime lookout at Buck Rock who spends five days a week there throughout the fire season (generally from June – October), the job is like no other. “I never could have imagined sitting up here for 20 years,” Allison said, “but it has become my passion.”

That passion for the job and for the lookouts themselves led Allison to help found the Buck Rock Foundation in order to help preserve some of the remaining fire lookouts.

Last year, the foundation teamed with the Forest Service for a complete rehabilitation of the Buck Rock Lookout. The foundation used a $28,000 grant to restore the lookout to its original appearance from 1923. Thousands of hours of donated labor went into the project, including rebuilding the 172 stairs suspended from the side of the rock that take visitors to the lookout cabin perched above. Estimated total cost of the restoration project was around $60,000.

Read much more about the Buck Rock Lookout Rehabilitation Project and the Buck Rock Foundation, including how you can become a member, by visiting the foundation’s website at www.buckrock.org. A map for the journey to Buck Rock to attend the Open House can also be obtained from their website.

Although the Open House is free, visitors can expect to pay $20 at the Lodgepole or Grant’s Grove entrances to the park to gain access.

An Open House for Park Ridge Lookout is planned for August 3.

Visitors to this event will have to RSVP to 565-3676 in advance as special arrangements must be made.

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1 August, 2013

Salinas

Valley Voice • 5

Crop Report

Continued from p. 1

He described himself as a family man who preservers in the face of adversity. He believes he is qualified for the city council in light of his very diverse background.

Salinas’ concerns start with the issues of city planning and traffic congestion. “It’s just common sense that we embrace the progress of our whole city, not just overpopulated areas such as Mooney Boulevard, by providing a logical analysis of the traffic areas,” he explained.

He supports improving city planning to benefit the entire city, with ultimately a

Continued from p. 1

Agricultural Crop and Livestock Report puts the county at number two in the state with a crop and livestock value of a little over $6.21 billion. Fresno leads the state with $6.58 billion. Kern County has not placed its report on its supervisors’ agenda yet, but the county usually is third in the state in crop and livestock value.

“The report is always a great tool for us to use in our outreach,” said Tricia Stever Blattler, executive director of the Tulare County Farm Bureau, who noted that while the report reflects growth, productivity and crop value, it doesn’t include the costs faced by those in the ag industry.

Vincent Salinas is good “Livestock production has realfor the city. He is a lifely struggled with the feed cost and the long resident whose famregulatory overhead,” she said, adding ily, along with my family, that the profit margin was “significantly smaller” in 2012 than in previous years. helped mold this city. He “Grapes had a phenomenal year understands the precepts of with a $330 million increase over last the community and desires year’s value,” Kinoshita said. “Grapes only the best for Visalia and are usually in the third or fourth spot. its future.

The price of (grape) juice just happens to be very strong. There was good ta— Stan Simpson, Chairman Emeritus ble grape production. Raisin prices were very good. It was just a perfect year.” of Buckman Mitchell She estimated that table grape production was five tons higher per more concentrated effort to build up the acre in 2012 than in 2011, and that city’s north edge (Riggin Avenue). He tons per acre for raisins also increased envisions a Visalia with a balance of posover 2011. “We don’t necessarily hear itive growth through productive commercial development and new housing.

Salinas does not want Visalia to have the “sprawl” of Fresno or Bakersfield, with undeveloped lots between existing commercial buildings. He says council members such as Greg Collins, who is seeking re-election, would avoid building out if there is land in commercal areas that needs to be developed. Unfortunately, according to Salinas, a lot of this land is not for sale and is unlikely to be on the market anytime soon. He says that Collins would delay projects in hope of land within existing commercial areas coming up for sale. Salinas says that if empty lots within the city are not for sale, they must build outside and he does not consider that to be “leap frogging.”

Salinas’ visions for the city also include a proposal to gather all law enforcement administration toward the newly planned 911 center. “Bringing all the task forces together will not only save taxpayer monies, but will also improve communication between departments,” he explained. His other platforms include reducing flood insurance for homeowners, working with Visalia Rescue Mission to help with the issue of personal storage needs for the homeless, and employment opportunities as a result of proposed positive and balanced city planning.

Salinas has been on the Visalia Planning Commission for the past nine years and the Visalia General Plan Update Committee for three years. He believes himself to be up-to-date, involved and well informed. His experience also includes work in the city of Newark where he served on the city council for four years, representing Newark at the Association of Bay Area Government, and working with the board of supervisors of several counties. He is a member of the American G.I. Forum and was commander of his chapter and state treasurer.

Salinas believes he is a man with a vision for Visalia who comes with a resume worthy of candidacy. To learn more about this candidate, visit vincentbsalinas.com.

“

”

the reason why,” she said. “It’s probably not just one particular reason.”

“I was surprised that grapes had such a banner year,” said Stever. “I didn’t expect them to jump to number two, over citrus.”

W a l nut and grain values have remained constant for years and pistachios and almonds caught up, according to the report. “We have some dairymen who have diversified and planted pistachios and almonds,” Kinoshita explained.

“There has been a lot of advertising for the health benefits of nuts, especially almonds and walnuts. Corporate growers of pistachios, like Paramount Farming, have had very successful pistachio campaigns.”

Oranges were still the county’s main

fruit and nut export with more than 51% of foreign sales. Grapes were second with almost 24%. Tangelos and tangerines were a distant third with less than 5%.

“We are the leading exporter in the state,” said Kinoshita, noting that 34 million cartons of fruits and nuts were exported from Tulare County in 2012.

“We’re ground zero for citrus production and table grapes. A lot of fruit from other counties comes into Tulare County. Our (export) fees are less expensive than surrounding counties. We have 61 citrus packing sheds.”

For comparison, she noted that Fresno County has 19 and Kern County has 10. The report is available in PDF format at http://agcomm.co.tulare.ca.us.

6 • Valley Voice

Asian Citrus Psyllids Detected Near Porterville

The Tulare County Agricultural Commissioner’s office announced that six additional Asian citrus psyllids (ACP) were detected on three traps south of the city of Porterville in July.

These interceptions were confirmed by the California Department of Agriculture (CDFA), bringing the number of psyllids found in Tulare County to nine.

CDFA saturated the affected area with detection traps in order to determine the extent of any infestation.

The United States Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA-APHIS) and CDFA will work collaboratively to determine what steps are taken next.

“Thanks to the responsiveness and cooperation of our farmers and their

neighbors, we were able to do away with huanglongbing (HLB), also known as ACP restrictions in mid-June, so it is citrus greening. All citrus and closely revery disaplated species pointing to are suscephave new tible hosts detections for both the pop up so insect and q u i c k l y,” the disease. said Tulare There is no County cure once Agricultura tree beal Comcomes inmissioner fected. The Marilyn diseased Kinoshita. will Adult Asian citrus psyllid. Photo courtesy: USDA tree T h e Agricultural Research Service. decline in Asian citrus health, propsyllid is an invasive species of grave ducing bitter, misshaped fruit until concern because it can carry the disease it dies. To date, HLB has been detect-

1 August, 2013 STAFF REPORTS ed in the state on just one residential property in the city of Hacienda Heights in Los Angeles County.

Kinoshita points out that her staff will support the efforts of the local $750 million citrus industry, as well as residential citrus owners.

“I want to emphasize that citrus fruit is safe to eat and the disease is not harmful to human health,” she said. “The Asian citrus psyllid is another example of the many invasive species that enter our state every year.”

County residents who think they may have seen the pest are urged to call CDFA’s Pest Hotline at 1-800-491-1899 or the Tulare County Agricultural Commissioner. More information is available at http://agcomm.co.tulare.ca.us.

1 August, 2013

Valley Voice • 7

Kenya Dirt Road Ministry Finds Its Way to Visalia

The plan is to raise money to drill wells for clean water, build schools to educate and construct churches to provide guidance. The place is the dry lowlands of Kenya, home to the Maasai, a tribe that struggles to eat, find water and simply survive.

Julius Pulei, a minister and a member of the Maasai tribe who has killed seven lions, is currently far from his home and family in Kenya, living in Visalia where he works with Steven Hickerson, CFO of TraitWare, a software company, to create a nonprofit corporation that will help him with his plan.

Pulei started Christ Servants Ministries in 2004 to support and empower the nomadic Maasai people, a tribe of 500,000 living in the Great Rift Valley of Kenya. The ministry’s current project focuses on five villages of about 5,000 to 10,000 people each that have no water and have to rely on occasional rainwater.

The Maasai children have no access to education because there are no schools.

It costs an estimated $50,000 to $60,000 to drill one well in a Maasai community in Kenya. Building a school costs $20,000 and building a church costs $5,000.

“We are working with the people in the United States now to actualize the mission to change the next generation,” Pulei said. “That’s why we have to put down a good foundation, to make sure they survive – to save a generation.”

The Maasai lived a nomadic lifestyle in Kenya, said Pulei, providing a brief history lesson. During the hot season, the tribe lived in the highlands. In the rainy season, they lived in the lowlands.

“When the British came, they pushed them to the dry lowlands,” he said. “The British made a treaty with the Maasai to give their land to the white settlers. They agreed that when the British leave, they will return the land to the Maasai, but when they left (following Kenyan independence in 1963), they returned it to the government.” As a result, the Maasai had to live in the dry parts of the Valley, he added.

Pulei said his life was changed

by a Christian missionary who visited his village of Ngong, a small town in the Kajiado District.

“He saw the plight of our village and the suffering from being without water,” he said. “He built a dam, a church and a school. I may never have gone to school if it wasn’t for this missionary.”

Several months ago, Pulei left Kenya to visit Los Angeles because he had a Kenyan friend there who preaches to the homeless. From there, he was brought to Visalia.

“After our cousins Rick and Terri Galvin met him (in Los Angeles) at their small group from Gateway, Rick brought him to our Tuesday morning men’s Bible study I lead that is held each week at 210,” said Hickerson, who provides Pulei with space in his office. “The book we were studying is by Timothy Keller, the pastor of Redeemer Presbyterian Church in New York City. He is a very famous pastor and writer and the title of this book is Generous Justice, which teaches how to balance the spiritual help with the social help for those in need who are in our community and life so the whole

STEVE PASTIS person benefits for now and for eternity. been done for the first well, accord“We were about one third through ing to Pulei, adding that he is happy the book when Julius joined us and the with the two construction bids that section we were studying was about have been received. He said that it helping those who come into our lives doesn’t take a lot of time to drill a well. who have a need,” continued Hickerson.

“Once the equipment is on site, “So, we put our faith into practice and it takes three or four days to be done started helping him. First with his liv- and have water come up to the suring expenses, then those of his wife and face,” he said. “The next phase is buildthree young children who are in Ken- ing a tank to store up the water.” It ya, followed by helping set up a U.S.- takes two months to install the plumbbased entity to help him with a long ing a build a generator, he added. term means of support for his ministry.”

“We’re not just building this for them,” he explained about how the plan should improve things for those in his tribe. “We want them to stand up on their feet. We don’t want to create welfare. We want to create sustainability.”

As poor as Kenya is, refugees from Somalia, Ethiopia, Sudan, Rwanda and Burundi are Julius Pulei at home among the Maasai tribe in Kenya. putting more of a burden The entity is named Kenya Dirt on the country’s economy. The refRoad Ministry and Hickerson and Pu- ugee camps, which are among the lei filed for a 501(c)3 to receive tax world’s largest, are providing some deductible donations. Money has al- benefits for the Maasai, however. ready been donated to the ministry.

“The Maasai go to refugee camps “One local business, Western Mill- to get food,” Pulei said. “The refing, has stepped up to provide funding ugees live better than they do.” for the first well for Julius and his neIn addition to working on the glected people in Kenya,” said Hick- goals of his ministry while in Visalia, erson. “Our local church, Gateway Pulei preaches to the homeless here.

Church of Visalia, has set up a des“I just pray with them, going to ignated fund to receive donations on parks and church on Sunday,” he said, behalf of Julius while our nonprofit adding that he works with people is receiving approval from the IRS.” at the Warehouse Church connectThe geological survey has already ed with the Visalia Rescue Mission.

Proposed Fee Structure at Odds with Business Climate

CHERYL L. DUERKSEN, PH.D. AGENCY DIRECTOR, TULARE COUNTY HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES AGENCY

Sustained and thoughtful effort is given to public sector process changes that seek to meet mandates passed down through state of California regulations and to cover the necessary costs to get the work done. These changes are made with a focus on local residents, the economy and the changing requirements that must be met. However, even when modifications have been designed with the greatest of care, sometimes departments miss the broader context that makes changes understandable, useable and valuable to the citizens that hold governments accountable.

Recently, the Environmental Health Services Division (EHS) (which falls under the umbrella of the Tulare County Health & Human Services Agency) proposed a change in fee structure for permits that impacts temporary food fa-

cility vendors and organizers, swap meet food facility vendors with prepackaged foods, and certified farmers market organizers. Proposed modifications were based on observation, evaluation and inspections of food operations and were based on food safety risks by the EHS. The EHS believed these fee structure changes were more accurate in reflecting the types of inspections, inspection times and resources needed to perform inspections. Unfortunately, the proposed fee structure was simply at odds with our business climate here in Tulare County.

The Health & Human Services Agency (HHSA) realizes that some pivotal changes are needed so that permit fee structures will be reasonable and yield a better business climate in Tulare County. HHSA is offering stakeholder forums throughout the summer in each

supervisorial district to determine how EHS can better promote transparency, accountability, and good governance. The forums are for community leaders, temporary food facility vendors, mobile food truck owners, community event/swap meet organizers, and non-profit event coordinators. The dates, times and locations for these meetings have been released to local media, posted at the Board of Supervisors and in the EHS, posted in the “The HHSA Community” section under “Public Information & Services” on www.tchhsa.org, and posted on the TulareCountyHHSA Facebook page.

Questions or comments may be directed to Fee@tularehhsa.org and 624-7439.

We hope business and community leaders will bring their voices to the table as HHSA seeks to better understand the needs of the business community and present information on the California Health & Safety Code. HHSA would like to gain a more complete picture of what will work for business owners and event organizers so that a new proposal can be designed and brought to the Board of Supervisors in late August.

HHSA and the EHS look forward to working with the leaders of our community to further clarify and design a fee structure that ensures a more prosperous Tulare County.

THE VALLEY VOICE GOES BIWEEKLY STARTING IN SEPTEMBER

8 • Valley Voice

1 August, 2013

Proclamation Repealed, Protest Erupts at Porterville Council Meeting

College of the Sequoias professor Robin McGehee at the July 16 Porterville City Council meeting. Photo by: Jordon Dean

After an hour of public comment and over 30 minutes of debate among council members, the Porterville City Council voted Thursday, July 16, to create new guidelines for proclamations, strike down the LGBT Pride Month proclamation, and in the same vote replace it with a resolution declaring June 2013 as a “Month of Community Charity and Goodwill to all in the City of Porterville.”

All motions passed 3-2, with Councilmembers Greg Shelton, Brian Ward, and Cameron Hamilton for, Mayor Virginia Gurrola and Vice-Mayor Pete McCracken against.

The proclamation’s rescinsion and replacement, after being separated at the last meeting, were rolled into one motion and voted on together.

The move effectively put an end to a month and a half of vigorous public debate in Porterville over the proclamation.

New guidelines passed at the meeting require a majority of the members on the council to approve each proclamation. In the past – and in the case of the LGBT proclamation – only the mayor needed to approve a proclamation for it to be adopted by the city.

“It’s going to take a lot longer to get proclamations now, but that’s what we’ve got to do,” said Shelton, during a contentious council debate.

After the vote, Councilmember Cameron Hamilton, with Shelton

seconding, moved to consolidate the votes on the replacement resolution and the proclamation repeal into one vote. Hamilton previously moved to separate the two at the last meeting.

The possibility of merging the resolution and the controversial

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LGBT proclamation was brought up by Shelton during the debate on the repeal/replacement motion.

“I’m asking if it’s something you would consider, in the spirit of compromise,” Shelton asked Gurrola. “Do you want to draw two lines in the

TONY MALDONADO sand here, or do you want to bring people together? I’m just asking if it’s something you would explore.”

“And you’re willing to put the LGBT community in there?” Gurrola asked Councilmember Ward, author of the replacement resolution.

Ward responded that he was not.

“No. My question is, why does the LGBT community get special treatment?” Ward said. “Why isn’t it charity to everyone?”

“Don’t say that I’m not interested.

Don’t say that I want to draw the line.

That is not my intent.” Gurrola said, referring to the inability to merge the two. “You can say it as much as you want. I know who I am. I feel good, and I can stand in front of God right now.”

Immediately following the vote, a pro-resolution protest erupted in the chambers. Four protesters with pro-LGBT signs jumped up and began chanting “shame on you” to the councilmembers.

Protesters Jennifer McGuire, Robin McGehee and Mehmet McMillan were taken into police custody following the outburst. The council meeting was put to recess for 15 minutes before continuing.

Watch the contentious meeting and protest Read and watch past Porterville council meetings at ourvalleyvoice.com

McGehee is led out of the Porterville City Council meeting. Photo by: Jordon Dean

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1 August, 2013

CASA Launches New Program to Help Kids Connect

Children in the foster care system due to abuse or neglect can lose contact with extended family, friends and neighbors.

They feel isolated and lost when their world, as they know it, seems to disappear.

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Tulare County is launching a new program to train volunteers to help children remain connected with their history, in partnership with Tulare County Child Welfare Services and funded through a planning grant from First 5 Tulare County.

The Family Search and Engagement program will train CASA volunteers to search for people – relatives, teachers,

neighbors, coaches – who can provide consistency and stability in a child’s life.

“Every child has an average of 40 connections that can be found in a couple of hours,” said Marilyn Barr, executive director of CASA of Tulare County. “This isn’t about placement of the child. It’s about creating a space where they feel they belong, because of people who are consistently in their lives.

With this new training, our volunteers can help children in a whole new way.”

Beth Wilshire, program manager for CASA, provided an example of a child who spent many years in foster care homes and, after “aging out” of foster care at 18,

learned that he had, at one time, lived just blocks away from his grandparents.

New CASA volunteers will receive the training, and Barr is encouraging former advocates to volunteer again, in order to “really dive in and find connections.”

Nearly 1,600 children are in dependency court in Tulare County but fewer than 200 people are trained to serve as their advocates. CASA volunteers advocate for the child throughout the court process, providing an additional layer of support and guidance. The advocate gets to know the child, meets with caregivers, teachers and therapists and develops a case plan, identifying the child’s priority issues. The

First 5: Funding Foundations for Success During the 2011-2012 fiscal year, First 5 Tulare County funded programs that served nearly 31,000 children and their adult caregivers.

The new Annual Report details the programs that help young children improve social, cognitive and motor skills so they can enter school healthy and prepared to learn. Parents learned techniques for discipline, new moms received help and support for breastfeeding, over 9,000 children received oral health screenings and 281 young children and their parents received early childhood mental health services.

Thanks to the people who deliver these and other important services, the lives of children in Tulare County are enriched and their futures are brighter. When their futures are brighter, the entire community benefits.

Each program selected to receive Proposition 10 (cigarette tax) funds through First 5 must reflect one of the four key areas of endeavor: • Health • School readiness • Strong families • Systems integration/improvement.

The Tulare City School District, for example, offers a school readiness program that takes a comprehensive approach to preparing children for kindergarten success. The program includes traditional preschool and preschool for

special needs children. Gross motor skill development activities are provided because these skills are closely tied to future reading ability. Students received an array of services and had access to an occupational therapist, psychologist, social worker and speech therapist. Addressing the needs of the whole child forms the foundation for success in school.

Another program strengthened families and helped parents raise children without violence. The Gang Awareness Parenting Project, a partnership with the Tulare County Sheriff’s Department, provided parenting classes to inmates and in-home visits to their families. Families learned about child development; risk factors for violence and its consequences; and skills for effective parenting.

One year after the program, 53 percent of inmates had not been re-arrested – a great improvement over the typical rate of 34 percent who are not re-arrested.

The Lindsay Family Resource Center offers a comprehensive approach to identifying and meeting the needs of the entire family. With First 5 funding, the center helps homeless families find shelter and meet basic needs, enrolls children in preschool, provides screenings for developmental delay, provides parent education and home visitation and helps families access services to ensure that children are healthy and ready to learn.

The success story of Alicia, a mother of three, illustrates this case man-

Did You Know?

THAT the former French Colony of Mali gave Francois Hollande, the President of France, a baby camel?

The young dromedary had been gifted to the French President in February as a “sign of gratitude” after France’s recent military action in the West African country. French troops were successful in repelling an al Qaeda-linked jihadist insurgency in the northern territory.

The French President’s defense minister joked that he could use the camel in Paris to get around traffic jams. Instead of taking the dromedary back to Europe for safe keeping at a French zoo, Hollande left the camel behind with a local farm family in Timbuktu. But something was lost in translation and the baby camel was cut up into bite size pieces and slow cooked into a tagine, a traditional Moroccan stew. The family was quoted as saying it was very tender.

The French President’s gift was “quickly replaced with a bigger and better-look-

ing camel,” said an official in Timbuktu.

This time, it was shipped directly to Paris.

THAT the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists concluded that the time had come for birth-control pills to be sold over the counter and not by prescription? The birth-control pill poses fewer dangers than many other medicines sold in the pharmacy. “Nonsteroidal medicines kill far more people than birth-control pills,” said one of the authors of the position paper. For most women the absolute risk of taking the pill is far less than the risks incurred in pregnancy.”

THAT Somalia is the most dangerous place to be a child? 133,000 children under the age of five died out of an estimated 6.5 million people in south-central Somalia. That compares to 65,000 deaths of children under five years old in all of the industrialized countries combined, with a population of 990 million.

agement approach. When the staff met Alicia, she shared that she had been the victim of domestic violence at the hands of her drug-abusing husband. Alicia was frightened and withdrawn, but she accepted the staff’s offer of support, which included help with a restraining order, food vouchers and utility assistance.

Alicia then completed a parenting class and she has secured work in farm labor.

Today, she is a leader in the center’s programs. Thanks to the education, support and a home free of domestic violence, her meek demeanor is gone and she is increasingly independent. Alicia’s family is stronger because she is stronger.

The new Annual Report details these and other programs, along with the number of children and parents served and data on the programs’ successes. The report is available on the First 5 web site, First5tc.org, or by calling 622-8650.

I am proud to serve as one of five appointed commissioners for First 5 Tulare County. In our role we review applications for funding, oversee administration and work with staff to meet the strict requirements for fiscal reporting. Within this structure, First 5 Tulare County has flexibility to create programs that reflect the unique needs of our children and families.

Any family can be faced with the challenges of a special needs child.

Any family can experience domestic

Valley Voice • 9

STAFF REPORTS advocate participates in team meetings to monitor and guide progress toward family reunification or other placement plans.

CASA volunteers serve as the voice of the children, ensuring their safety and, with the new program, helping to keep them connected to their own history.

“This is an exciting addition to what CASA volunteers are able to do for children,” Barr added. “By returning special people to their lives, we will help children realize their whole world hasn’t gone away. Children have a right to remain connected to their history.”

For information about upcoming training sessions, call 625-4007.

CHRISTINE NELSON, MD

violence or child abuse. Hunger and homelessness lead to missed school and missed opportunities. First 5 Tulare County’s programs are diverse in order to meet the needs of a wide spectrum of families – with our special focus on the youngest and most vulnerable.

Early investment is known to be dramatically more effective than intervention later in a child’s life. For the past 15 years, First 5 Tulare County has partnered with people and agencies countywide to deliver that early intervention. As our partners impact lives, we have the privilege of changing futures.

(Christine Nelson, MD, is a pediatric hospitalist and a member of Sequoia Pediatric Group, Inc., in Visalia.)

10 • Valley Voice

Child Protective Services’ Mission Often Misunderstood

TULARE COUNTY CHILD CARE WELFARE SERVICES When we hear the words “Child ered abuse, call the hotline to find out.

Protective Services,” negative associ- What happens when I call to report a ations often come to mind. Not just child who I think is being abused? because this agency operates in a field The hotline is staffed 24 hours a involving such difficult subject matter day by social workers who are trained but also because of its perceived actions. to gather information regarding the cirMany assume this agency’s sole respon- cumstances being reported and to detersibility is to remove abused children mine the proper intervention. Not every from their homes; they also believe its referral reported to the hotline will result actions are arbitrary and unrestricted. in an investigation by CWS. A referral These beliefs reflect the lack of awareness has to meet certain criteria in order to that some individuals have regarding warrant that a case be opened and an Child Welfare Services and its role and investigation conducted. No action will limitations when fulfilling its duty to be taken if a situation does not meet the ensure children are safe in their homes. criteria for abuse. If a case is opened for a Numerous changes have occurred child, a social worker will then meet with over the past decade or two in the realm the family and other appropriate parties, of child protection that some may not assess the risk, and determine the best be aware of. Importantly, its name was course of action for the child and family. changed from Child Protective Services When will the social worker do an to Child Welfare Services (CWS) sever- investigation after abuse is reported? al years ago. This change reflects a shift When a child’s situation meets in philosophy regarding protecting chil- the criteria for CWS to open a case, dren who are at risk of abuse or neglect. the mandated response times depend The mission of this agency is no longer on the severity of the alleged abuse. If simply to protect but to ensure that the the child is considered to be in imoverall welfare of children is the primary mediate danger, a social worker will consideration at all times. Unfortunate- respond to the family’s home or the ly, the general lack of knowledge about child’s school within two hours. In casCWS and its protocols could prevent es where the alleged abuse is not imsomeone from reporting child abuse, minent or severe, a social worker will largely due to being unsure of what conduct an assessment within ten days. will occur once a report is made. Some If I call the Child Abuse Hotline, will common questions regarding CWS Child Welfare Services take the child and child abuse are discussed below. from his or her home?

When does Child Welfare Services Only in corroborated reports of become involved with a family? abuse or neglect where removal is the In order for CWS to become involved only safe choice to protect children from with a family, a report of suspected child serious injury or harm will the police abuse must be made. Contrary to pop- or a social worker remove a child from ular belief, when an individual makes a the custody of parents or a caretaker. child abuse report, it does not automatiWhat happens if a reported abuse is cally mean that CWS will intervene and confirmed (also referred to as “subtake the child away. CWS has process- stantiated”), and the child is removed es in place to determine whether or not from the home? their response is warranted and whether If a child is removed from home, a intervention is necessary. Each situa- meeting is held to determine the best tion is assessed on an individual basis. possible option for temporary placeWhat constitutes child abuse, and ment. If one of the child’s relatives is who should report it? eligible and willing to take care of the It is important to note that child child, the child will be placed with that maltreatment includes more than physi- relative. If there are no relatives able to cal abuse. A child can be abused psycho- take the child, the child will be placed logically or sexually, or be neglected (not in a foster home until a more suitable having basic needs met). These forms of or permanent placement can be found. abuse are often more harmful than physIf a reported abuse is substantiated, ical abuse. When it comes to reporting will CWS separate the family and child abuse, anyone who suspects that prevent them from reuniting again? a child is being abused should report it No. The mission of CWS is to preby calling the Child Abuse Reporting serve families whenever possible, as long Hotline at 1-800-331-1585. There are as it is safe to do so. There are three units certain individuals whose jobs obligate within CWS dedicated to reuniting and/ them to report suspected abuse; they are or supporting families: Voluntary Family defined as “mandated reporters.” Man- Maintenance, Family Maintenance and dated reporters include teachers, nurses, Family Reunification. Each unit provides doctors, police officers, clergy members, participants with a range of services to therapists and coaches. However, anyone improve family functioning and reduce who suspects that a child is in immedi- the risks to the child. From the very ate danger should call 911. If you do not beginning, families are involved in the believe that a child is in a critical situ- process of determining the services they ation but that he or she is still experi- will receive. The goal of providing these encing harm (or is at risk of experiencing services is to ensure the safety of the chilharm) as the result of a parent or guard- dren while supporting and strengthening ian’s actions or inaction, it is important the family. It has been proven that chilto report it to CWS. CWS will be able dren generally thrive when they are with to assess the situation and determine their families, and as long as it is safe for what steps to take in order to protect them, CWS strives to make that possible. the child. If you are unsure whether or not what you have observed is consid-

DEADLINE FOR NEXT ISSUE: AUGUST 29, 2013

1 August, 2013

Council Member Gubler, Police Chief Mestas to Host ‘Donuts and Discussion’ Visalia City Council Member Warren Gubler and Police Chief Colleen Mestas will host “Donuts and Discussion” from 7 to 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, August 24 at Panera Bread, 4103 S. Mooney Blvd. in Visalia.

This informal gathering will allow citizens to address their concerns and ask questions one-on-one with Council Member Gubler or Police Chief Mestas.

Drop-ins are welcome at any time.

Council Member Gubler also can be reached at 713-4400, ext. 3313, or at wgubler@ci.visalia.ca.us.

A License to Care

Tulare County Health & Human Services Agency Children of all ages throughout Tulare County need a safe place as they go through a difficult time in their lives.

Are you ready to be their shelter in a storm?

Tulare County Foster Care Licensing offers: • Ongoing training • Support and mentors • Networking

Attend our orientation July 18 Call 623-0581 to RSVP

We will hold your big hands as you connect with little ones.

Call us today. Change a child’s tomorrow.

tchhsa.org

623-0581

1 August, 2013

New Principals in Visalia Unified School District In a district the size of Visalia Unified, it is not unusual to have school administrators, teachers and classified staff make decisions to retire, relocate or change positions. This year is no different and when school opens in August, there will be new faces at some schools. We have concluded a busy recruitment and hiring season, and Visalia Unified welcomes four brand new principals to its ranks for the start of the 2013-14 school year. In addition, one principal will take on the challenge of a different school this next year.

Julie Berk has served as the principal of Hurley Elementary for many years and will now shift to Linwood Elementary for the upcoming school year.

New to the principalship, Stephanie Gendron will be the next principal for Hurley Elementary. Gendron has taught at Hurley for the last six years, and this will be her first administrative assignment. Additionally, she taught 4th and 5th grades at Union Elementary prior to joining the Hurley staff. Previously, she spent four years teaching at Alexander Hamilton Elementary in Pasadena, a California Distinguished School.

Also new, Jessica Alvarado will take the helm at Goshen Elementary after serving as an intervention teacher at Highland School. Previously, Alvarado taught 6th grade for seven years in the Lemoore Union Elementary School District. While at Lemoore, she

Valley Voice • 11

CRAIG WHEATON, ED.D., VUSD SUPERINTENDENT served as the administrative designee Silvia Duvall has been appointed to as well as the summer school principal. be the next principal for Mineral King Another new principal, Cristin Elementary School. Silvia completed her Ochoa, will take the lead at Cotton- eighth year as principal for Joseph M. wood Creek Elementary. Most recently, Simas Elementary in Hanford, a high she served the district as the assistant performing school that has continually principal for Highland Elementary, a made growth during her tenure. Prior to position she held for two years. Previ- that position, Duvall held the positions of ously, Ochoa was the learning direc- principal, learning director and assistant tor for Curriculum and Instruction at principal for Hanford Elementary DisWashington Elementary in Lindsay Uni- trict at other elementary sites after havfied. She began her teaching career in ing taught for the district for five years.

Visalia Unified as a social science teachA change in the principal ofer for both Divisadero Middle School fers an exciting opportunity for stuand Golden West High School. Ochoa dents, staff and members of each then served as the assistant principal for school community; and we welcome Curriculum and Instruction at Green each of these new faces to our schools!

Acres Middle School for two years.

Visalia Imaging’s 3T MRI Uses Radio Waves to Generate Images

STAFF REPORTS

The ability to visualize inside the body has improved dramatically since Dr. Wilhelm Roentgen discovered the x-ray in 1895. Although a revolutionary concept at that time, soon after that discovery, doctors began specializing in using x-rays to diagnose disease. Since then, numerous discoveries resulting in more sophisticated techniques have improved the examination process.

Visalia is the home of the latest in this technology, the 3.0 Tesla Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machine, which sets a new standard by producing a high quality image. This technology provides a valuable service to the county with critical diagnostic studies now done locally, saving patients travel time and effort.

MRI helps doctors determine if a patient needs surgery, and is so, what kind of surgery. An MRI is often the final factor for moving treatment forward and it offers other benefits to the patient. There is no ionizing radiation exposure to the patient, and the faster scanning time, enlarged bore (opening) and cushioned table provide for a more comfortable experience.

MRI uses radio waves and a very powerful magnetic field to selectively excite slices of tissue within the body.

As the tissue releases this energy as radio waves, a computer generates images.

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“This magnet is similar in strength to the one they use to pick up cars at the junkyard,” said Glade Roper, MD, who completed a fellowship in musculoskeletal radiology at the Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale, AZ. “The more powerful the magnet, the higher the quality the image will be.”

Due to the exceptional anatomic detail, Roper noted the increased image clarity is particularly beneficial for medical conditions involving the brain, spine and musculoskeletal systems. Additionally, the greater contrast better differentiates between ligaments and tendons.

“It’s like watching baseball on an HD TV versus a traditional TV,” explained Roper. “On a regular TV, you can see the baseball leave the pitcher’s hand. In HD, you can see the stitches on the ball.”

“I am able to more accurately report pathologic conditions such as symptomatic herniated discs and potentially lead to earlier detection of disease processes affecting many people here in the Valley with diagnoses such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Disease,” said Dr. Aaron Berkey, a UCSD fellow trained in neuroradiology.

The 3T MRI is located at Visalia Imaging, 1700 S. Court St., Visalia. For more information, call 7345674 or visit www.visaliaopenmri.com.

12 • Valley Voice

How To Run for School Board

To understand how our board members are elected, you need to know a little about Visalia Unified School District history. VUSD was unified in 1965, pulling together Visalia City Schools and outlying small schools. The district reaches from Goshen to Ivanhoe. Until the 2011 election, there were seven board members representing five districts.

With a population of over 130,000 and a student enrollment of 27,000, Visalia outgrew the original board election structure and it made much more sense to establish seven trustee areas. The school board took action in 2011 to change

how school board members were elected.

In the November 2011 election, the change affected three of the seven board members by moving from five trustee areas to seven trustee areas and shifting to what is called “by-trustee” area elections. This simply means that the district is divided into seven areas and trustees must live in and be elected by voters in that area. This November, the remaining four trustees will be elected from the new “by-trustee” areas.

Generally, the trustee areas represent elementary school attendance boundaries. The new system makes it easy to

1 August, 2013 CRAIG WHEATON, ED.D., VUSD SUPERINTENDENT know which area you would represent if In order to run for office, candiyou are interested in running for school dates must file with the County Elecboard. All you need to know is which ele- tions Office between July 15, 2013, mentary school attendance your home is and August 9, 2013. Election Day in, and you can figure out the trustee area. is on Tuesday, November 5, 2013.

The trustee areas that are Being a school board trustee carries a open for election this fall are: tremendous amount of responsibility, but • Area 1 (Veva Blunt, Willow it is also very rewarding when you know Glen, and Manuel F. Hernandez) that you are contributing to the families • Area 2 (Elbow Creek, Four Creeks, of our community. It takes a great deal Golden Oak, and Ivanhoe) of time, energy, and commitment--it • Area 3 (Annie R. Mitchell, isn’t for everybody. Visalia is a wonderMineral King, and Pinkham) ful community, and we need committed • Area 4 (Goshen, Hurley, Oak individuals to step forward and serve on Grove, and Shannon Ranch) the Visalia Unified Board of Trustees!

Are You Visalia’s Next City Council Member?

Anyone interested in running for the Visalia City Council or the Visalia Unified School District Board can file papers until August 9. In the event that an incumbent does not file by 5 p.m. on August 9, the filing period is extended to August 14. As far as the city council is concerned, all three incumbents have expressed their intent to defend their seat and have started the filing process.

Candidates can pick up and file a Declaration of Candidacy in the Election Office at 5951 S. Mooney Blvd., Visalia. Office hours are 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 8 a.m. to noon on Friday. According to the Tulare County Registrar of Voters website, 57 people have filed papers as of July 30th for the 108 contests.

The Visalia City Council has three

Accreditation Continued from p. 1

the college took to meet the accreditors’ seven recommendations and bring itself in line with four eligibility requirements.

The college must also submit with its Show Cause report a closure report, outlining how the college will dissolve itself should its changes not satisfy the accreditor.

With all the work put in by the RTF, the Academic Senate, other groups around campus and the administration, the college would be roughly 80% done, Carrizosa said, if there were a progress bar on its accreditation work.

In response to the recommendations, Carrizosa said, the college has: • hired a Director of Research, Planning, and Institutional Effectiveness, responding to the accreditors’ recommendation that the college increase its research department, previously one person large; • purchased “IntelliResponse,” a web-based software system that will provide “a more friendly website and a ‘onestop shop’ for students and prospective students, thereby improving a better online experience with us,” Carrizosa said; • purchased and implemented “TracDat” software for tracking Student Learning Outcomes, one of the areas in which the College was found to be most deficient; • created “Governance and Decision-Making” and “Integrated Planning” manuals to address recommen-

seats up for election: those currently held

by Warren Gubler, Steve Nelsen and Greg Collins. Gubler and Nelsen declared their intention to file a month ago. Collins took a few more weeks to make his final decision. The time and energy needed to manage a successful campaign left Collins thinking twice about running.

But, in the end, serving his community is what Collins loves to do.

Four other candidates have started the filing process for Visalia City Council: Vincent Salinas, who has been on the Visalia Planning Commission for that past nine years; Michael Brown, a local lawyer; Todd Housley, a local business owner; and Kevin Wayne

Long, who did not list a profession.

The Visalia Unified School Board is elected by district. Those trustees whose terms are up are: Tim Chaney, area 1; Jim L. Qualls, area 2; Rodney Elder, area 3; and Charles Ulmschneider, area 4. The districts were redrawn last year, so each incumbent’s area may have been changed.

Qualls has filed, and word on the street is that Ulmshneider is considering. (Ulmshneider has not responded to our phone messages.) Neither Elder nor Chaney will be running as both will be moving out of their districts. Juan Guerrero has declared his candidacy and has already procured endorsements from

CATHERINE DOE Elder and Qualls. Guerrero was a VUSD trustee between 2001 and 2009. His primary concern for running is maintaining the institutional knowledge of the board with so many incumbents leaving. He will be running in area 2. Three other non-incumbents have started the filing process to run for VUSD, one of whom will run against Ulmshneider.

Tulare County Supervisors do not hold their elections on odd years. Supervisors Pete Vander Poel and Steve Worthley are up for reelection in November 2014.

Exeter, Farmersville and Woodlake unified school districts have also changed from odd-year to even-year elections to coincide with state and federal elections. This not only saves money but produces a much higher voter turnout.

Election day is November 5.

Accreditation Recommendations dations relating to each.

Recommendations “Really, what we’re looking forward to now is implementing all of • Planning (Repeats 2006 Recomthe things that we’ve planned and mendation 2) put together for the fall -- fall is go• Campus Dialog (Repeats 2006 ing to be implementation,” said JenRecommendation 1) nifer Vega La Serna, vice president • Research Capacity of Academic Services at the college.

• Student Learning Outcomes (Re“This summer, we’re going to peats 2006 Recommendation 3) start the [Show Cause report] writing • Student Support Services (Reprocess,” La Serna said. “Most of July peats 2006 Recommendation 4) for several of us will be spending time • Human Resource Processes writing the document, August will be • Evaluation of Processes editing it, September will be going through the governance structures. It will head to the board by the October board meeting for final approval, and ly impossible for the commission to do then it will be sent to the ACCJC.” so, given the amount of work that the Carrizosa and La Serna are both college is required to do in order to fulconfident ly complete cycles that the renecessary to show port and full improvement the college’s to the commission. changes will “The best we satisfy the can realistically hope ACCJC; the for is being placed only remainon ‘probation’,” ing quesCarrizosa said, “or tion is what having our Show response Cause extended.” the college Those outwill receive. comes – which While would prolong the the accredCOS Superintendent/President Stan Carrizosa. amount of work iting comfor the college’s mission can administration and staff – are far choose to fully reaffirm a college’s acpreferable to the alternative: a decicreditation after being placed on Show sion to revoke the college’s accreditaCause sanctions, both La Serna and Cartion force the college to shut down at rizosa have said that it would be nearthe end of the Spring 2014 semester.

Eligibility Requirements • • • •

Student Learning and Achievement Faculty Institution Planning and Evaluation Integrity in Relations with the Accrediting Commission

Read the full report and learn more about College of the Sequoias’ accreditation at ourvalleyvoice.com.

Hands

Continued from p. 3

complete home painting and complete yard makeovers, just to name a few.

The wide ranging list of HNC’s many benefactors is also an indicator that Moon’s vision for HNC is gaining traction; from Lowe’s, Home Depot, Frank’s Appliances, Visalia Lumber and Franey’s Carpets, to businesses as diverse as Financial Credit Network, Keller Williams Realty and the Glen Wells Construction Co. who have donated the office space for HNC. Hands in the Community offers its services to anyone with a legitimate need who lives below the poverty line. For more information, to donate to HNC or to volunteer with HNC, call 625-3822.

HNC is currently seeking donations for an entire roof replacement for a Porterville couple. Estimated cost of the project is $7,000.

1 August, 2013

News in Brief...

Valley Voice • 13

Family HealthCare Network Receives Grant from Consulate of Mexico

Tom Tucker Named Tulare County Assistant Ag Commissioner/Sealer

Local Low Power FM Stations Available

University Preparatory High School Accepting Applications

Family HealthCare Network (FHCN) received a $75,000 grant from the Consulate of Mexico for the Ventanilla de Salud Program on July 22. The Ventanilla de Salud Program is a unique collaborative partnership between the Consulate of Mexico in Fresno and FHCN, a federally qualified health center. FHCN and the Mexican Consulate have collaborated on the program since August 2008.

The program includes a resource center located in the Consulate of Mexico in Fresno, where FHCN community health representatives offer health care information, referrals and education to individuals on affordable health care services, screenings such as blood pressure checks and educational opportunities on prevention and general wellness health topics relevant to the Mexican immigrant population. In addition, the Ventanilla de Salud program offers mini health fairs monthly at the Consulate office that brings together community agency and resources.

The program has been supported by the Consulate of Mexico and also partially funded by The California Wellness Foundation.

Tom Tucker has been appointed to the position of Assistant Agricultural Commissioner/Sealer, announced Tulare County Agricultural Commissioner/ Sealer Marilyn Kinoshita on July 16.

Tucker served as Interim Assistant Agricultural Commissioner for the past seven months.

“In a relatively short time, Tom has proven himself to be extremely capable,” Kinoshita said. “Tulare County will benefit from his attention to detail as we remain vigilant in our efforts to protect the individuals, businesses and agricultural community of Tulare County. We congratulate Tom and are confident that he will serve our ag industry and the public with dedication and the highest level of professional competency.”

Tucker graduated from California State University, Fresno with a degree in Agricultural Sciences. Prior to working for Tulare County, Tucker was a full-time farmer on his ranch just north of Dinuba, where he still farms a small block of citrus and alfalfa on the weekends.

During his career with Tulare County, Tucker served as an Ag & Standards Inspector in the Weights and Measures Division for four years. In this position, he was able to make contact with a variety of industries and individuals as he enforced the laws and regulations of California. He has worked with cattleman and stockyards, large and small farmers, retail stores and directly with consumers.

Tucker has experience with Tulare County’s farming community having been born in Visalia and raised in the Dinuba/Reedley area.

The Federal Communications Commission announced the last filing period for new Low Power FM (LPFM) stations. From October 15 through 29, groups nationwide may apply for permission to build a 100-watt FM broadcast station in their communities.

More than 800 legal low power stations already on the air are run by nonprofits, colleges, churches, and emergency responders. Low power stations are an accessible outlet for nonprofit organizations to engage their communities, costing as little as $12,000 to launch.

The FCC reminds non-commercial educational organizations, tribes and local governments to electronically file Form 318. Applications that are incomplete or inconsistent with its regulations will be dismissed. An individual cannot apply for an LPFM license.

Many LPFM frequencies are available locally: four in Three Rivers, one in Exeter, two in Tulare, one in Dinuba, one in Porterville, and seven in Hanford.

The closest current LPFM stations are in Visalia at 94.1 and 101.5 FM, and 98.1 in Tulare.

Bill Balsley, general manager of KVLP Visalia Local Power, is willing to answer questions and discuss this opportunity with qualified groups who want to learn more. He can be reached at 6975857 or KVLP@radio.fm.

University Preparatory High School (UPHS) is accepting applications for students entering grades 9-12 for fall 2013.

A joint project of the Tulare County Office of Education and the College of the Sequoias (COS), UPHS is a free public high school in the early college model.

UPHS students attend COS college classes and accumulate a significant number of college units while they are still in high school. They learn to navigate the complexities of higher education, develop college readiness and experience challenging high school and college curriculum over the course of their high school experience.

In June, UPHS completed a very successful year – graduating a senior class of 36 students – each one advancing on to a state university, a private university or a community college. Highlights from the 2012-2013 school year include winning the top $5,000 grant prize for a service learning project on teen pregnancy prevention in the Step Up Youth Challenge; finishing first among Tulare County high schools at the state Science Olympiad competition; performing a successful production of “Alice in Wonderland”; and hosting a 5K benefit race at Mooney Grove Park. For the last three years, UPHS has earned the second highest Academic Performance Index score (842) among Tulare County high schools UPHS has the highest accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, as well as approval from the University of California for A-G academic classes. At UPHS, students can participate in ASB student activities, college/university visits, theater arts, sports, music, fine arts, dance, journalism and service learning opportunities. For more information, visit www.tcoe.org, or to apply for enrollment, call Principal John Kelly at 679-2580.

‘Pillars of Fame’ Nominations Sought

Valley Commerce Bancorp Reports Strong Second Quarter Earnings Valley Commerce Bancorp, a bank holding company and the parent company of Valley Business Bank, announced second quarter 2013 net income of $1.6 million or $0.58 per diluted share. This compared to earnings of $892 thousand, or $0.32 per diluted share, for the second quarter of 2012. For the six months ended June 30, 2013, the company reported net income of $2.4 million, or $0.84 per diluted share.

“As we’ve stated before, our focus is on producing steady, sustainable earnings,” said Allan W. Stone, president and CEO. “I am pleased to report that high quality loan growth is reflected in this earnings release. I am also pleased to report we are maintaining a favorable net interest margin and have controlled costs while making the investments needed to provide state-of-the-art service to our customers.”

Shop or Dine to Benefit the SPCA There are two opportunities in August to shop or dine in Visalia and have some of the money you spend benefit the Valley Oak SPCA, which provides educational resources and vital services to local humans and their pets.

On Tuesday, August 13, from 4-9 p.m., those with a special flyer who dine at Applebee’s at 3400 S. Mooney Blvd. will have 20% of their bill donated to the Valley Oak SPCA. Call 651-1111 for more information.

On Saturday, August 24, Macy’s Shop for a Cause will give shoppers at the Macy’s in Visalia Mall an opportunity to purchase a $5 shopping pass for exclusive savings and an opportunity to win a $500 Macy’s Gift Card. Valley Oak SPCA will receive 100% from the purchase of these Shopping Passes.

For more information, call 713-4688 or 713-4694.

Residential Refuse Service Changes Announced Friday residential refuse service for Visalia residents who live south of Highway 198 will change to Wednesday, effective August 7. This change applies for both split can and yard waste service. No other changes are being made other than the day of the week for service.

This change is being made to provide better customer service. Currently, changes in the schedule due to holidays causes service delivery days to be pushed forward and a high number of calls for missed pickups. This change makes holiday service scheduling easier for customers with service days in the latter half of the week, allowing for trash service days to get pushed back and not forward to avoid missed pickups.

Letters were sent out at the end of May advising affected residences of the change in service. In addition, cans were tagged in the affected areas in July. Information on the change also is available at www.ourvisalia.com, and on the city’s Facebook page.

Beginning the first week in August, containers previously serviced on Fridays need to be put out no sooner than Tuesday nights after 7 p.m. and no later than 6 a.m. on Wednesdays to be serviced on Wednesdays.

For more information, call 7134500.

Sales of Businesses Increase in Valley While sales of businesses in the state were down 14.2% in June, compared to June 2012, Valley counties reported an increase in sales, according to BizBen, which describes itself as the leading online California small business marketplace and networking website.

The BizBen Index reported that 20 businesses changed hands in Tulare County in June, compared to 14 the prior month and nine in June 2012.

This compares to 27 businesses changing hands in Fresno County in June, up from 21 in June of last year. No business sales were reported in Kings County in June.

Fresno had the most business sales among Valley cities with 18. In Tulare County, Visalia had nine sales, Woodlake four, Three Rivers three and Lindsay one.

BizBen considers business sales an indicator of economic growth because they show that banks are making loans and buyers are gaining confidence in investment opportunities.

Elks Celebrate 100 Years On the evening of July 27, Visalia Elks Lodge No. 1298 held its 100-year anniversary celebration. Organized in 1913, the Visalia Elks began when a core group of men decided Visalia needed an Elks Lodge. Maurice E. Power was named the group’s first Exalted Ruler.

Over the years, the members have met at various places. In 1962, a new $350,000 lodge was built at 3100 W. Main where they are still located today.

For the last 100 years, the lodge has not only served its members but it has generously supported the community on many projects.

To continue to honor local athletes for their contributions to the community and their outstanding sports achievements, the City of Visalia Parks & Recreation Department is currently accepting nominations for selection to the Heritage Court Pillars of Fame at Riverway Sports Park.

To be considered for the selection to the Heritage Court Pillars of Fame, athletes must meet have completed 10 years of education in a Visalia school and meet one of the following criteria: • Member of a professional sports team playing at the highest level of the sport for a minimum of one year.

• Selected as a member of an Olympic team.

• Received recognition for outstanding athletic achievement at a national or world level.

• Retired from a competition for a minimum of five years.

• Exemplifies positive moral character and personal integrity of a high degree.

Deadline for nominations is 5 p.m. on August 26. For more information and nomination forms, visit www.liveandplayvisalia.com or call 713-4384.

14 • Valley Voice

1 August, 2013

Fresno Company Patents New Water Pollution Test Fresno-based Turner Designs Hydrocarbon Instruments, Inc. (TDHI), a leader in the innovation and production of oil-in-water monitors and analyzers for the offshore oil production industry, has innovated a new system and method for the determination of water pollutants in water without the need to prepare a test sample. Known as “No-Solvent Oil-in-Water Analysis,” TDHI now makes it possible to perform oil-in-water analyses by making measurements directly on the produced water sample, including frac water and flowback water. No organic solvents are required.

Conventionally, most oil-in-water analysis methods for produced water require the oil to be extracted into an organic solvent prior to measurement.

Many of the organic solvents used for extraction are either extremely flammable, hazardous to human health or both.

The chlorinated hydrocarbons are very expensive and must be either recycled or disposed of as hazardous waste. Volatile

hydrocarbon solvents such as pentane and hexane are extremely flammable and present a serious fire and explosion risk. All major airlines and many helicopter services consider the risk so serious that they will not transport these solvents.

The team of engineers at TDHI innovated their method based upon the addition of a detergent surfactant to a produced water sample.

The surfactant converts the dispersed oil in the sample into an optically clear microemulsion that is ideal for direct fluorescence measurements using TDHI’s 500D Oil-in-Water Analyzer.

Black Tie

ALEX

Larry was asked his opinion of Congress.

The surfactant is safe to handle with a minimum of personal protective equipment and is only slightly flammable even under a direct flame.

The U.S. Department of Transportation does not consider it to be a hazardous material. It can be shipped without hazardous identification labels and can be carried on commercial airlines and helicopters without declaration.

Gary Bartman, President of TDHI, is quite proud of his company’s home-grown innovation. “Our team of Fresno-based engineers on a daily basis solve the type of complex problems that would otherwise evade the minds of most of the

Provost & Pritchard among “Best Firms to Work For”

Civil Engineering News (CE News) honored Provost & Pritchard Consulting Group with a Top Ten in the national “2013 Best Civil Engineering Firms to Work For” program. The firm was ranked tenth overall of small, medium and large firms.

This is the 11th year Provost & Pritchard, which has an office in Visalia, has been on the “Top Firms” list.

“We know satisfied employees contribute to the satisfaction of our clients, and valuing our employees is a top priority at Provost & Pritchard. That high level of client service, through our employees, is the foundation of our business,” said Dale Melville, Provost & Pritchard’s president. “Being recognized by CE News as a great place to work is an honor that reflects why Provost & Pritchard is able to recruit and retain quality staff who can successfully work with our valued clients.”

Provost & Pritchard’s tenth place ranking was determined largely by the results of a confidential Employee Satisfaction Survey of staff. Questions were based on a variety of topics including culture, management style, benefits, staff recognition, compensation, professional development, recruiting and retention.

Provost & Pritchard specializes in civil and agricultural engineering, environmental and land use planning, hydrogeology and geology, surveying and construction management services in the areas of water resources, municipal infrastructure, agriculture, site development, and environmental.

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HELLER SCOTT engineers in our industry that are located elsewhere in the world. I look forward to seeing more innovation like this from both TDHI and other companies in the San Joaquin Valley.”

Bartman credits his local legal counsel, Richard M. Aaron of San Joaquin Valley-based Dowling Aaron Incorporated, for the high-technology approach he provided to TDHI. Bartman also credits Silicon Valley-based patent counsel, Brian Bathurst, of Menlo Park law firm Carr & Ferrell LLP. Bathurst, who maintains an active connection to the San Joaquin Valley, counseled and provided the in-person support for TDHI to seek patent protection for its new technologies. According to Bartman, “protecting our investment in innovation by seeking patent protection is essential for our continued growth, including the funding of future innovations. It’s also how our economy grows.”

For more information about TDHI, visit www.oilinwatermonitors.com.

1 August, 2013

Prisoner Release

Valley Voice • 15

Continued from p. 1

Brown angered the judges earlier this out the Golden State have rallied behind number would be significant. We have Court’s order, Myer stated that “These year when he lifted a special proclama- Brown’s efforts to block enforcement of absolutely no more room to hold any people were always going to come out. tion which had allowed the state to shift the Court’s order citing certain danger to more; our jails are completely full.” Al- They are just going to come out a bit inmates to private prisons in other states. the public should almost 10,000 more though the county has received a prom- sooner.” Myer said that she, too, sees When the state’s contracts with the pri- inmates be released early to the streets. ise of $60 million from the state to help a distinct shift among Californians vate prisons expired, Brown elected not In Sacramento, there is bipartisan build a new away from the to renew the contracts and instead will support for the governor and Republi- jail facility in tough-onbring the almost 9,000 prisoners back to cans are once again clamoring for fund- the Porterville crime apCalifornia’s already overcrowded prisons. ing to build more prisons, a call that is area, no monp r o a c h .

In its strongly worded June order likely to gain little traction among the ey has yet been “Change calling for the release of an additional state’s voters. In fact, there are signs that received from can be wonder9,600 inmates by Dec. 31, the federal California voters are becoming some- the state and ful,” Myer said, court cited California’s “defiance,” “in- what immune to the governor’s repeated actual con“if it’s slow transigence” and “deliberate failure” to predictions of public danger and rising struction is a and steady.” provide inmates with adequate care. The crime rates that have accompanied each long way off, G o v . judges threatened to hold the Demo- step that the state has been forced to Wittman said.

Brown’s slim cratic governor take under the “ Y o u chances of in contempt watchful eye of know,” Witprevailing in if its order is the court to re- tman added, his appeal to not carried duce the num- “I’m an old the Supreme out on time. ber of inmates time sheriff.

Court may If the state in the prisons. You do the once again can find no In a recent crime, you do rest in the other remedy poll of 1,500 the time. But I hands of JusTulare County Sheriff Bill Wittman to the probregistered Cal- guess after all, tice Anthony lem, the judge’s ifornia voters, that there are Kennedy. Kenorder requires 63% of those limits…” nedy handles all “petitions for stay” that the state polled said Tulare County’s chief proba- originating from the jurisdiction of modify its they favor the tion officer, Christie Myer, acknowl- the Ninth U.S. Circuit Court of Ap“good time” release of low edges that Brown’s chances with the peals which encompasses California. credits policy level, nonvio- Supreme Court are “probably limKennedy will be the first judge on and give every lent offenders ited,” but she welcomes the opportu- the Court to decide on the application minimum cusfrom prisons nity to usher in much needed changes. for stay. If he denies the application, tody inmate in order to “It (the realignment process) has California still has the option of taking two days off resolve the been a challenge,” Myer said “however, it to another justice on the Court who California Governor Jerry Brown long-running one of the for each one could decide served withissue of over- positive outto issue the out trouble and to apply the new poli- crowding. The poll, by the USC Dorn- comes has stay. The state cy retroactively. If this were the case, an sife College of Letters, Arts and Scienc- been to bring could theoadditional 5,385 inmates would quali- es and the Los Angeles Times, supports e v e r y b o d y retically confy for release by the end of December, the growing perception of an ongoing t o g e t h e r , tinue to apaccording to the order. Currently Cal- shift of the state’s voters away from the seeking efpeal to each ifornia grants one additional day off decades-long, tough-on-crime approach fective ways justice until for each day served without trouble. that led to the overcrowding problem. of dealing a majority of In addition, the order calls for the Despite a slight uptick in crime with the issue the Court has state to send more inmates to fire camps throughout the state over the past year, of low-levdenied the and parole more sick and elderly in- 72% of those polled voiced support for el offendapplication. mates while seeking to lease county jail reducing sentences for minor crimes if it ers, many of In practice, cells where they could house some of the would help to resolve the overcrowding whom need a petition excess inmates. The order also recom- issue. The federal court has suggested t r e a t m e n t that has been mends that the state slow the return to such a step by the state may be necessary. that they just turned down California of the out-of-state prisoners. Fifty-three percent of the respondents, weren’t getby any justice In the event that the numbers of in- a much smaller percentage than in past ting in the and then remates released through all of these means years, backed the idea of building more state’s prisnewed to anstill falls short of the 9,600 ordered by prisons in order to ease overcrowding. ons.” other justice U.S. Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy the Court, the judges ordered the state to The telephone survey, conducted be“There is generally compile a list of inmates least likely to re- tween May 27 and June 2, has a margin is not a referred to offend; what it called the Low-Risk List. of error of plus or minus 2.9 percentage family in the full Court The remainder of inmates to make up points. The poll was jointly conducted by this county who has not been affect- in order to avoid the lengthy process of the 9,600 would be taken from this list. a Democratic research firm, Greenberg ed one way or another by the issue of appealing from one justice to another.

The judges left Brown very little Quinlan Rosner Research, and a Repub- addiction to substance abuse,” Myer Attorneys for the inmates expect the wiggle room stating “We are willing to lican company, American Viewpoint. added, in referring to the issue most Supreme Court to respond on the state’s defer to their choice for how to comply In Tulare County, with his depart- prevalent among low-level offenders. request for a stay within the next three with our order, not whether to comply ment’s resources stretched and strained As for the inmates who could be re- weeks, although the Court could conceivwith it. Defendants have consistent- by the challenges of dealing with sever- leased early if Brown fails to block the ably sit on the request for much longer. ly sought to frustrate every attempt by al hundred additional this court to achieve a resolution to the “realignment” inmates overcrowding problem,” the order states. arriving in the local Inmate’s attorney Donald Spec- jails over the past two ter, director of the Berkeley-based years, Sheriff Bill Wittnon-profit Prison Law Office, filed a man watches and waits, 73-page challenge asking the Supreme while alluding that 1. There must be a “reasonable probability” that four Justices will grant certiorati, or agree to review the merits of the case; Court to reject the state’s request for a even his attitude might stay. “Brown,” said Specter, “is an inch be changing just a bit. 2. There must be a “fair prospect” that a majority of the Court will conclude upon away from contempt. He must make “We are very conreview that the decision on the merits was erroneous; every effort to comply immediately.” cerned,” Wittman said. 3. There must be irreperable harm that will result from the denial of the stay; Attorneys for the inmates stress that “We’ve been watching 4. In a close case, the Circuit Justice may find it appropriate to balance the equities by all of the inmates being considered for it very closely. We have exploring the relative harms to the applicant and respondent, as well as the interests early release would have been paroled no idea of how many of of the public at large. in the next 12 months in any case. those would return to Predictably, elected officials through- Tulare County, but the

Requirements for Emergency Action Requests

16 • Valley Voice

1 August, 2013

Grammy Award-Winner Chris Botti to Headline Visalia Fox

STAFF REPORTS

Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee Jim Brown

Football Legend Jim Brown to Speak at Visalia Fox

STAFF REPORTS The Tulare County Office of Education’s CHOICES Prevention Program will welcome Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee and star Cleveland Browns running back Jim Brown to the Visalia Fox Theatre on Friday, August 16. Brown will speak at an event scheduled from 9 a.m. until noon, delivering a special message for Central Valley adults helping at-risk young people.

For the past 25 years, Brown has worked with youth in urban settings and in prison through his Amer-I-Can program. Founded in 1988, the Amer-I-Can program is used extensively with gang-involved youth in inner city Los Angeles and Cleveland. The program has been successful in improving the quality of its participants’ lives through a self-management skills system which focuses on academics, behavior and self-determination.

“Having the great Jim Brown share his Amer-I-Can program here in Visalia is an extraordinary opportunity for Central Valley educators,” said Adam Valencia, program director for the Tulare County Office of

Education’s Choices Prevention Programs.

“Together, school districts, public agencies and faith-based partners throughout the region have the opportunity to learn from his successes and build ways to work together and focus on developing the ‘whole’ child.”

The CHOICES Prevention Program leads the Region VII K-8 Student Mental Health Initiative (SMHI) for the counties of Tulare, Fresno, Kings, Madera, Mariposa and Merced. SMHI is a statewide framework of prevention and early intervention strategies for student mental health. One of the initiative’s priorities is to identify programs effective in promoting healthy student mental health and to share them throughout the region.

Tickets may be purchased at the Visalia Fox Theatre for $20 per person. Tickets for groups of 10 are available for only $100.

For tickets, visit www.foxvisalia.org or call 625-1369. For additional information, call Adam Valencia at Choices Prevention Programs at 651-0155.

The Visalia Fox Theatre will present “An Evening with Chris Botti and His Band,” featuring jazz, pop and classical music, at 7:30 p.m. on August 21. The Grammy Award-winning trumpeter will bring with him R&B, soul and jazz singer Sy Smith and renowned violinist Serena McKinney.

“I’ve had the pleasure of seeing Chris Botti perform many times and he is truly one of the most gifted musicians on the planet,” said promoter Don Sharp. “His music covers many genres and should appeal to any person who enjoys beautiful music of any type. I am so excited to see Chris and his band perform for the first time ever in Visalia and at the acoustically wonderful Fox!” The concert will benefit Finish the Fox, the arm of the nonprofit Friends of the Fox that works to maintain and improve the historic theater.

Botti, raised in Portland, Oregon, and educated musically at Indiana University, has studied with such notables as David Baker, Bill Adam, jazz trumpeter Woody Shaw and jazz saxophonist George Coleman. Botti has said that he committed to the trumpet after hearing Miles Davis’ brooding and melancholy interpretation of “My Funny Valentine.”

“At that moment, I thought, ‘I want to be a trumpet player for the rest of my life,’” he said.

He moved to New York to begin his career, playing sometimes on the streets

Chris Botti

and subways, and has ended up traveling the world pursing his love of the trumpet and genre-defying musical expressions.

Today, he is the top-selling jazz artist in the world, has been nominated for several Grammy awards and has sold more than three million albums worldwide.

“Impressions,” Botti’s latest album, earned him a 2013 Grammy for Best Pop Instrumental. He has earned legions of fans around the world for his charm and appeal and just plain fun on stage, as well as the respect of numerous musical artists with whom he has worked.

Tickets are $39, $49, $59 and $83, and include a $4 restoration fee that goes to the Fox. Tickets are available at foxvisalia.org, at the theater box office at 308 W. Main St., Visalia, or by calling 625-1369.

‘Glass Menagerie’ Opens at Ice House on August 16 Tennessee Williams’ classic drama “The Glass Menagerie” will open at the Ice House Theater in Visalia on August 16.

Williams’ original version of the play was titled “The Gentleman Caller.” In 1944, discouraged by his lack of success, Williams reworked “The Gentleman Caller,” personalizing it into “The Glass Menagerie.” The character of Amanda was patterned after his mother, Edwina; he was the brother Tom; and Laura was his sister Rose. Apparently, personalization did the trick, “The Glass Menagerie” was a sensation on Broadway, launched Williams’ career, and became an American theatre classic.

Still in early rehearsals (at the time of this writing), the talented actors selected by director Richard Morrill are starting to refine their characters. Elizabeth LaMar is excited about portraying

NANCY HOLLEY Amanda. “Glass Menagerie is one of my favorite plays of all time,” she said.

“Many years ago, I played Laura, and now I’m getting my shot at Amanda.”

LaMar describes Amanda as “loving her children very much and having high expectations for them. She doesn’t understand why they can’t be the people she wants them to be.”

“Laura is a side of me that remains hidden as Chatty Cathy takes over the frightened me,“ notes Brooke Rogers.

“I’ve been wanting to explore this side of me for a long time. Portraying Laura is giving me that opportunity.”

Rogers describes her relationship with Amanda as complicated. On the one hand, she wants to please her mother, but on the other she would rather remain in her own world of fantasies.

Continued on p. 23 »

Kids’ self-portraits featured at the children’s exhibition at Arts Visalia.

Arts Visalia Presents ‘Young at Art 2013’ Exhibition

KEVIN BOWMAN, DIRECTOR OF ARTS VISALIA Every August, Arts Visalia presents 100 students who participated in the “Young at Art,” an exhibition of artworks six weeks of classes. Students were able by students who participated in the sum- to choose from classes in drawing and mer arts classes at Arts Visalia. Each year, painting, ceramics and paper maché these programs have grown, with more sculpture, each taught by highly talyoung people taking classes. This sum- ented instructors from the community. mer’s program was no exception and, in Making art engages kids in hands-on fact, was our largest summer program activities where the final product is a reyet. Arts Visalia’s galleries are literally sult of their own effort. This experience packed with the students’ art. helps to develop hand-eye coordination, Visitors to the exhibition will be critical thinking as well as a sense of able to view the creative efforts of over Continued on p. 24»

18 • Valley Voice

1 August, 2013

Trace Adkins to Headline Eagle Mountain Casino

Cast and crew of “Complete Works” are Katlyn Husted, Corey Jones, Wendy Plaisted, John Kay, Anahy Tetielo, Denise Everhart, Charles Hickinbotham, Ernest Medina and Danielle Holt.

The Complete Works of William Shakespeare’ to be Performed in Lindsay (in 90 Minutes!)

The Lindsay Community Theater’s seventh annual Shakespeare in the Plaza presentation takes a turn to the funny side this summer with an encore performance of the Barn Theater’s immensely successful show “The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) [Revised].”

“Complete Works” is a parody of the 37 plays written by William Shakespeare, with all of them being performed (in shortened form) in about 90 minutes by only three actors. The show, presented at Sweet Brier Plaza in downtown Lindsay, begins at dusk (about 8 p.m.) on August 1, 3, 8 and 10. Admission is free, but donations are accepted.

Ernest Medina is the only sane member of the group, despite taking on 22 different characters in the course of the show. Corey Barnes has the uncanny ability to switch between personalities and identities in an instant. John Kay is a versatile actor who plays most of the female roles in the show due to his delicate 200+ pound physique.

Improvisation plays an important role in the play, and it is normal for the actors to deviate from the script and have spontaneous conversations about the material with each other or the audience. As a result, each performance can be vastly different, even with the same cast.

“Complete Works” has become one of the world’s most popular shows, playing frequently in a variety of languages. It is notable for holding the world record for the shortest-ever performance of “Hamlet,” clocking in at 43 seconds, as well as the fastest performance of “Hamlet” backwards, at

42 seconds.

The three actors first introduce themselves to the audience and begin with a parody of “Romeo and Juliet.” Next, they do a parody of “Titus Andronicus,” portraying it as a cooking show. Following it is “Othello,” which is done as a rap song.

The rest of the first act demonstrates most of the other plays, with all of the comedies being combined into one convoluted reading (the justification being that they all recycle the same plot devices anyway). All of the histories are acted out as an American football game with the British Crown as the football.

At the end of the act, the characters are about to finish when they realize that they forgot to perform “Coriolanus” and “Hamlet,” Shakespeare’s greatest work. Two of the actors run off and the final actor is left to perform “Coriolanus” by himself, which he does by telling jokes and calling for the intermission.

After the intermission, the two actors who left return, saving their partner from having to cover the sonnets by writing them down on a 3x5 card and passing it around the audience. The entire second act is the performance of “Hamlet.” The audience gets involved during this segment when one audience member is asked to portray Ophelia for “the Nunnery Scene.” After the portrayal of “Hamlet,” the actors play it out several times increasing their speed of delivery. They finish by performing it backwards.

For additional information, visit lindsaycommunitytheater.com.

Trace Adkins will perform his number one hits such as “(This Ain’t) No Thinkin’ Thing,” “Ladies Love Country Boys” and “You’re Gonna Miss This,” when he takes the stage at Eagle Mountain Casino in Porterville on Friday, August 30.

Adkins’ trademark baritone has powered countless hits to the top of the charts and turned albums into platinum plaques, selling over 10 million albums, cumulatively. The Grammy-nominated member of the Grand Ole Opry is a television personality, actor, author, spokesman for the Wounded Warrior Program and the American Red Cross, and has performed seven USO Tours.

In his 2007 autobiography, A Personal Stand: Observations and Opinions from a Freethinking Roughneck, the 6’6″ oil-rigger recounted his rise to fame, brushes with death and battles with personal demons. He also explains just how the world’s biggest alpha-male handles fatherhood with five daughters. In 2008, Adkins’ integrity and wry humor served him well as a finalist on NBC’s “The Celebrity Apprentice” and prepared him for his return – on behalf of the American Red Cross – to NBC’s “All-Star Celebrity Apprentice.”

Adkins played a tough-as-nails biker in “The Lincoln Lawyer” (starring Matthew McConaughey), developed and hosted GAC’s “Great American Heroes” honoring every-day Americans doing great things, and hosted the American Country Awards on FOX for three consecutive years.

Trace Adkins

His 11th studio album, “Love Will…” features collaborations with two-time Grammy Award winning singer/songwriter Colbie Caillat, the esteemed Harlem Gospel Choir and rock/ country veterans Exile. Like any labor of love, the album benefits from relationships built over time with an impressive list of producers like Tony Brown, Mark Wright, Frank Rogers, Kenny Beard and Mickey Cones.

Doors open at 7:30 p.m. and the show begins at 8:30 p.m. This show is for those 18 years of age and older. Tickets start at $30. For more information, visit www.eaglemtncasino.com.

Roger Craig to be Keynote Speaker www.ibaseballchannel.com will host a Meet & Greet Luncheon with legendary San Francisco Giants Manager Roger Craig at Crawdaddy’s, 333 E. Main St., Visalia, on Saturday, August 17, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

The event will feature a keynote where Craig will reflect on his championship seasons with the Detroit Tigers and San Francisco Giants. Tickets are $100 and include having your photograph taken with Craig. For reservations or more information, Former SF Giants Manager Roger Craig call 280-1119.

Have a meeting? Need a room?

Why not come to the Courthouse Gallery and Exeter Historical Museum, where there is a meeting room for most types of events?

With room for nearly 100 people, the conference room upstairs has kitchen facilities and a panoramic view. Need more room? Expand into the patio downstairs.

Located in the old Mt. Whitney Light and Power building, the Courthouse Gallery & Museum now showcases the best artists of the area. Come visit the gallery and museum and stay a while in historic Exeter, Tulare County’s Mural City.

The Courthouse Gallery & Museum 125 South “B” Street Exeter, California 93221

(559) 592-5900

www.exeterhistoricalmuseum.com Saturdays & Sundays, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

1 August, 2013

Valley Voice • 19

Bad Weather California, Bad Suns, Cockamamie Jamie to Headline Cellar Door The Sound N. Vision Foundation continues to present a busy schedule of summer concerts at The Cellar Door in downtown Visalia.

On Friday, August 2, Jamie Nelson (aka Cockamamie Jamie) of The Argyle Pimps will be at it again – this time with a wild new comedic-rapped record titled

Cockamamie Jamie

“Survivor Series.”

“Nelson’ work with The Argyle Pimps has always shown his knack for making more smiles in the crowd than most any entertainer I’ve ever seen,” said Aaron Gomes of the Sound N Vision Foundation. “His self-deprecating and often non-politically correct humor is his strong point. His contagious charisma, rehearsed body language and character sets him apart from others in the rap game. What’s more, Jamie has rounded up a stellar live band to back his rhymes with real musicality, bound to keep all music fans locked in while he delivers his floodgate of entertainment skills.

His humor flies right over some, but if you’re on the level and willing to take the ride, Jamie will have you in stitches.”

On Saturday, August 3, Los Angeles-based dark pop-rock band Bad Suns, who have recently charged onto the Los Angeles music scene, will take the stage. In the first month following the band’s 2012 birth, a demo of their song “Transpose” landed at KROQ 106.7-FM. Much to the band’s surprise, the song reigned in the top five of the show for nearly three months – reaching number one on three separate occasions.

The band was quickly snatched up by

management and a booking agent and now has a new single, “Cardiac Arrest,” leading the path for its debut album.

Opening the night will be Fres-

group is a mix of young males and females that claim they are “reverb-soaked noise pop, born from toxic sludge leaked from the Beach Boys’ amps.”

Bad Weather California

no’s Light Thieves. The band’s kaleidoscope-of-sound leans heavy on psychrock experimentation.

Denver quartet Bad Weather California will headline on Thursday, August 22, blending summery psych rock, soul and funk. The group organized this three-band summer tour, dubbed “The 2K13 Cream Cone Tour” with a good time party vibe in mind.

Burger Records artist and Denver residents Sauna play the middle slot. The

Oklahoma City’s Skating Polly will play first. They are a punk/rock/ pop duo made up of stepsisters Kelli Mayo and Peyton Bighorse. The girls say they sound like Babes in Toyland, Bikini Kill, Beat Happening, Regina Spektor, Kimya Dawson and Nirvana.

All shows are 21+. For tickets, visit Ticketweb.com. For more information, including links to music videos, visit snvfoundation.org.

The Henningsens

The Henningsens to Perform in Exeter

Coppola Exhibit to Open at Provost & Pritchard The Sphere,” John Coppola’s art exhibit at the offices of Provost & Pritchard Consulting Group, 130 N. Garden St., Visalia, will open with a reception from 5:30-8 p.m. on Friday, August 2. Coppola’s artwork is surrealistic, abstract, anamorphic and representational, with the use of dark values and theatrical lighting that result in a variety of dramatic effects. The reception is free and open to the public.

The Henningsens will perform a free concert at Exeter City Park at 7 p.m. on August 9 as part of the KJUG Concert Series. The park is located off Chestnut between D and E Streets in Exeter.

The group is Brian Henningsen (bass, guitar, vocals) – family patriarch and father of 10, including eldest son Aaron (guitar, vocals) and daughter Clara (lead vocals, guitar).

The Henningsens’ hit debut single is “American Beautiful,” an American spirit story wrapped up in a love song. In lyrics like “we’re a little unusual, we are American beautiful,” there’s a window into the unlikely story of a group whose musical journey has been anything but typical.

On their Arista Nashville debut, The Henningsens showcase a sound that is fresh, vibrant and uniquely their own, with Clara’s expressive and inviting vocals center stage, together with gorgeous family harmonies and vivid storytelling, offering lyrics that paint sometimes traditional themes in non-traditional ways.

“We try to be very lyrically descriptive,” Brian says. “We always say it when we write, ‘We’re trying to make a little movie play in your mind.’”

On their self-titled debut EP, all four songs were written by The Henningsens,

collaborating with some of Music City’s top tunesmiths, including Brett Beavers, Lisa Carver, Don Poythress and Jimmy Yeary.

From the dynamic energy and lyrical imagery of “American Beautiful” to the gently longing emotional beauty of “I Miss You,” The Henningsens’ EP offers a snapshot of the diversity and depth of the trio’s talents.

“We’re all the way from very country to bluegrass to something you can’t quite put your finger on,” Brian says of the band’s music, rooted in very melodic, harmony-driven sounds and crossing generations of musical influences. While Brian cites such acts as Pure Prairie League, The Marshall Tucker Band and The Eagles, Aaron notes influences like Johnny Cash, James Taylor and Brad Paisley, and Clara is quick to mention Dixie Chicks, Alison Krauss and Nickel Creek.

There’s a heartland theme that runs throughout the music of The Henningsens, which seems only natural for a family from rural Atwood, Illinois, where their 1700-acre farm has offered home and livelihood – and, at times, school, playground and even birthplace – across seven generations.

Tulare Kings Mensa – the South Valley’s High IQ Society – will meet at Panera Bread, 4103 S. Mooney Blvd. in Visalia, at 5:30 p.m. for sandwiches, soup, salad and conversation. Prospective members are encouraged to attend.

For more information, call 280-9774.

Aug. 9 — Intro to the Internet — 8:30 a.m.

A computer class, Intro to the Internet, will be held at the Tulare Public Library, 475 North M Street. For information, visit tularepubliclibrary.org.

music

August

Aug. 1 (Every Thursday) – The Carlos Rodriguez Band - 7-10 p.m.

Every Thursday, The Carlos Rodriguez Band plays classic rock and Latin favorites at Crawdaddy’s Visalia. The music continues with DJs in the 2nd Floor night club from 10 p.m.-2 a.m. Call (559) 625-5300 or visit crawdaddysvisalia.com for information.

Aug. 1 – Kris Korsgaden & the Beef Wellingtons – 8 p.m.

Kris Korsgaden & the Beef Wellingtons (featuring former Mars Volta member Adrian Terrazas-Gonzalez) will headline this 21+ show at the Cellar Door in downtown Visalia. Not Perfect Humans will also perform. For more information, visit www.snvfoundation.org.

Aug. 2 (Every Friday & Saturday) - Friday & Saturday Nights with The Crawdads - 7 p.m.

The Crawdads play all the standards and classics live every Friday and Saturday nights.

Afterwards, dance ‘til you drop with DJs on the first and second floors at Crawdaddy’s in downtown Visalia from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. Call (559) 625-5300 or visit crawdaddysvisalia.com for information.

Aug. 2 – Cockamamie Jamie – 9:30 p.m.

Cockamamie Jaime of the Argyle Pimps, Tyrannosaurus Zebra and Dirty Limbs will perform at this 21+ show at the Cellar Door in downtown Visalia. For more information, visit www.snvfoundation.org.

Aug. 3 – Bad Suns – 8 p.m.

Bad Suns will headline this 21+ show at the Cellar Door in downtown Visalia. Light Thieves will also perform. For more information, visit www.snvfoundation.org.

Aug. 4 (Every Sunday) — Cody and the Crawdads — 7-10 p.m.

Cody Torrez and the Crawdads are on the bill at Crawdaddy’s Visalia on Sundays from 7 until 10 p.m. Call (559) 625-5300 or visit crawdaddysvisalia.com for information.

Aug. 10 – Celebrant Singers – 7 p.m.

Jon Stemkoski’s Celebrant Singers, an internationally known Christian music ministry, will present their 36th Annual Homecoming Concert at L.J. Williams Theater, 1001 W. Main St., in Visalia. For information, call 740-4000, or visit www.celebrants.org.

Aug. 10 – This Charming Band – 8-10 p.m.

The Smiths and Morrissey tribute band, This Charming Band, will perform at the Cellar Door in downtown Visalia. Must be 21 or older to attend. For more information, visit www.snvfoundation.org.

Aug. 16 – Black Aesop – 9:30 p.m.

Black Aesop of the Living Legends, and special guests, will perform at the Cellar Door in downtown Visalia. Cover $10. Must be 21 or older to attend. For more information, visit www.snvfoundation.org.

Aug. 21 – Chris Botti — 7:30 p.m.

Since the release of his 2004 critically acclaimed CD “When I Fall in Love,” trumpeter Chris Botti has become the largest selling American jazz instrumental artist. His success has crossed over to audiences usually reserved for pop music and his ongoing association with PBS has led to four No. 1 jazz albums, as well as four Grammy nominations. For more information, call 625-1369 or visit www. foxvisalia.org.

Aug. 22 – Bad Weather California – 9:30 p.m.

Bad Weather California, Sauna, and Skating Polly will perform at the Cellar Door in downtown Visalia. Must be 21 or older to attend.

For more information, visit www.snvfoundation.org.

Aug. 30 – Trace Adkins — 9 p.m.

Country star Trace Adkins perform his number one hits “(This Ain’t) No Thinkin’ Thing,” “Ladies Love Country Boys,” “You’re Gonna Miss This” and many more at Eagle Mountain Casino. For more information, visit www. eaglemtncasino.com.

September

Aug. 6 (Every Tuesday) — Three’s A Crowd Band — 7 p.m.

Every Tuesday Three’s A Crowd Band plays pop tunes from 70s to current hits at Crawdaddy’s in Downtown Visalia. Join DJ Jr Perez from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. for Phat Tuesdays. Call (559) 625-5300 or visit crawdaddysvisalia.com for information.

Sept. 6 – Mezcal – 9:30 p.m.

Mezcal will bring its Latin groove to the Cellar Door in downtown Visalia. Cover $10. Must be 21 or older to attend. For more information, visit www.snvfoundation.org.

Aug. 7 (Every Wednesday) — KJUG Country with Dave Laswell and the Rounders — 7-10 p.m.

Every Wednesday is KJUG Country Night at Crawdaddy’s, 333 E. Main Street, Visalia.

Dave Laswell and the Rounders take over the 1st floor stage from 7-10 pm. Call (559) 625-5300 or visit crawdaddysvisalia.com for information.

Sept. 7 – Pops in the Park – 8 p.m.

Close out the summer with the Tulare County Symphony Orchestra’s annual outdoor concert at Zumwalt Park, at Tulare Avenue and M Street. The concert features Broadway and film soundtracks as well as traditional Americana.

Gates open at 5 p.m. and the concert starts at 8 p.m. For more information, visit tcsymphonyleague.org.

Aug. 9 – The Lovely Bad Things – 9:30 p.m.

The Lovely Bad Things will headline this 21+ show at the Cellar Door in downtown Visalia.

Evelyn will also perform. For more information, visit www.snvfoundation.org.

Sept. 8 – Toto – 7:30 p.m.

Toto will perform at The Visalia Fox Theater, 300 W. Main Street, Visalia. Toto was founded amidst the punk period in 1977 by some of the most sought after session musicians of

the era. The band enjoyed great commercial success in the late 1970s and 1980s, is best known for its hit songs, “Roseanna” and “Africa.” Tickets $35-$65. For information, visit foxvisalia.org.

Sept. 18 – Islands – 9:30 p.m.

Islands will headline this 21+ show at the Cellar Door in downtown Visalia. Special guests will be featured. For more information, visit www.snvfoundation.org.

Sept. 21 – Blues and Roots Festival – 6-9 p.m.

Hanford’s Annual Hanford Blues and Roots Festival will be held from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. under the stars in beautiful Hanford Civic Park. Bring your dancing shoes, blankets and lawn chairs for this evening of Blues in downtown Hanford. Gates open at 5:30 p.m. and the music kicks off at 6 p.m. There will be the traditional beer and wine garden sponsored

by Budweiser, BBQ and other food vendors.

Admission is free. For information, visit mainstreethanford.com/blues.htm.

Sept. 27 – In My Life – A Musical Theatre Tribute to the Beatles - 8 p.m. Tickets are $20 - $45. For more information, call 625-1369 or visit www.foxvisalia.org.

October Oct. 10 – Pure Bathing Culture – 9:30 p.m.

Pure Bathing Culture will headline this 21+ show at the Cellar Door in downtown Visalia.

Brother Luke & the Comrades will also perform. For more information, visit www. snvfoundation.org.

Oct. 18 – Miner – 9:30 p.m.

Miner will headline this 21+ show at the Cellar Door in downtown Visalia. Joel Adam Russell Band will also perform. A free Taste the Arts after party is slated. For more information, visit www.snvfoundation.org.

Oct. 19 – Triumphant Tchaikovsky! – 7:30 p.m.

Tulare County Symphony Orchestra kicks off its 2013-14 season at the Visalia Fox with a musical visit to Vegas, complete with rhinestones and furs. The concerto includes a stop along Route 66 and a bubbly carbonation of Tschaikovsky’s 4th Symphony. For more information, visit tcsymphonyleague.org.

November Nov. 1 – Vince Gill – 7:30 p.m.

Visalia Fox Theater and KJUG will present Country music star Vince Gill at The Visalia Fox Theater, 300 W. Main Street, Visalia. The singer, songwriter, producer and multi-instrumentalist has recorded more than 17 studio albums, sold more than 26 million copies and won 20 Grammys and 18 CMA Awards. Tickets $40-$100. For information, visit foxvisalia. org.

Nov. 9 – Joni Morris – 8 p.m.

Joni Morris performs “Legendary Ladies” at the Hanford Fox Theatre, 326 N. Irwin Street, Hanford. Morris performs the songs of such legends as Patsy Cline, Connie Francis, Loretta Lynn, Tammy Wynette, Dolly Parton, Emmy Lou Harris, and other favorites. For information, visit foxhanford.com.

events

August

Aug. 1 – September 7 – There’s Gold at That Thar Porterville Historical Museum – 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Pan for gold at the Porterville Museum and tour the exhibits at the Porterville Historical Museum, 257 North D Street, Porterville. The Museum is closed on Sundays. Admission is $1, panning is $5 and up. For more information, call (559) 784-2053 or visit portervillemuseum.org.

Aug. 1 - Thursday Farmers Market - 5-8 p.m.

Downtown Visalia, Church and Main Streets.

Locally grown produce and handmade products. Live Music by Ol’ 55. For more information, visit visaliafarmersmarket.com Aug. 1 - Thursday Night Market Place 5:30-9 p.m.

Fresh valley produce, a beer garden, live band, D.J., local vendors and activities for the kids are featured at Irwin and Seventh Street in downtown Hanford. Tonight’s theme is Health and Wellness.

Aug. 2 - Friday Night Dance – 7-10 p.m.

Dances featuring concert-style entertainment with live bands are held weekly at the Tulare Senior Center. The entrance fee is $7.

Aug. 2 - John Coppola Art Show - 5:30 - 8 p.m.

A reception for artist John Coppola will be hosted by Provost & Pritchard Consulting Group, 130 N. Garden Street, Visalia. An artwork collection of “The Sphere” by Coppola will be on exhibit.

Aug. 3 - Visalia Farmers Market – 8-11:30 a.m.

Sears Parking Lot at the corner of Mooney Boulevard and Caldwell Avenue. Locally grown produce and handmade products. Live Music by Ted Nunes. For more information, visit visaliafarmersmarket.com.

Aug. 3 — Friends of the Library Book Sale — 9 a.m.

Every Saturday, Friends of the Tulare Public Library holds its book sale at 475 North M Street, Tulare. For information, call (559) 685-4517.

Aug. 3 - Fun-In-The-Sun Dog Wash and Silent Auction - 1-5 p.m.

A benefit to support Kings SPCA will be held at 9071 16-1/2 Avenue, on the corner of Grangeville Boulevard and 16-1/2 Avenue, in Lemoore. Tickets are $10 and include a doggie bath, brush and towel dry. Tickets are available at the shelter. The Kings SPCA is also accepting donations of items that can put in the silent auction. Call (559) 925-1630 to donate or to volunteer.

Aug. 3-4 - Upper Tule Association 28th Annual Mountain Festival – 10 a.m.

The Upper Tule Association 2-day festival at Camp Nelson Meadow in the Sequoia National Forest, at the corner of Nelson and Smith Drives. Entertainment features children games and crafts, bounce house, Fire Depart-

ment and Ambulance equipment displays, live music, Forest Service log sawing, Smokey the Bear, bed races and a bird show. Admission is free. For more information, call Michelle Ray at (559) 542-2551.

Aug. 3 - 1st Saturday in Three Rivers – 11 a.m.- 5 p.m.

This event will feature music, wood carvings, metal art, painting, watercolor class, plein air painting, open artist studios and galleries, restaurants, clothing, leather work, jewelry, ceramics and more. Pick up a map at Anne Lang’s Emporium to find your way. If you want to show your art, call 561-3463. For more information, visit www.1stsaturdayTR. com.

Aug. 3 - Silent Movie Night at the Hanford Fox – 7:30 p.m.

Silent movie comedies featuring Buster Keaton, Laurel & Hardy and other favorites - plus a genuine melodrama from the early days of the movies - will be accompanied by Dean Mora at the Mighty Wurlitzer theatre pipe organ at the Hanford Fox Theatre, 326 N. Irwin, Hanford. Admission is a $10 donation.

Seniors and students $5. Children 12 and younger free with an adult. For more information, call 584-7423.

Aug. 4 (Every Sunday) – Sarah Mooney Museum – 12-3 p.m.

The Sarah Mooney Museum, located at 542 West D Street in Lemoore, is open every Sunday afternoon for free docent-led tours.

Demonstrations, games or activities are featured during tour hours. For more information about the Museum, visit sarahamooneymuseum.com Aug. 6 - Tuesday Tulare Farmers Market 5-8 p.m.

Tulare Outlets, 1407 Retherford Street, Tulare. Locally grown produce and handmade products. Fresh Kitchen Demonstration. Live Music by Jess Ferrell. For more information, visit visaliafarmersmarket.com Aug. 7 - Tulare Public Library Knitting Club - 5:30 p.m.

The Knitting Club meets at 5:30 p.m. every other Wednesday at Tulare Public Library, 475 North M Street. For information, visit tularepubliclibrary.org.

Aug. 8 - Thursday Farmers Market - 5-8 p.m.

Downtown Visalia, Church and Main Streets.

Locally grown produce and handmade products. Fresh Kitchen Demonstration features dishes created from local goods. For more information, visit visaliafarmersmarket.com Aug. 8 - Thursday Night Market Place 5:30-9 p.m.

Thursday Night Market Place features a farmers market, food vendors and live entertainment in downtown Hanford, Irwin and Seventh Street. Tonight’s them is Happy 122nd Birthday Hanford. For information, visit mainstreethanford.com.

Aug. 8 – Tulare Kings Mensa - 5:30 p.m.

Aug. 9 - Young at Art Reception - 6 - 8 p.m.

Arts Visalia presents Young at Art, an exhibition of artworks by students who participated in the summer arts classes at Arts Visalia from Aug. 7-30. An opening reception will be held at Arts Visalia, 214 East Oak Avenue in downtown Visalia. The reception is free and open to the public. For information call, 739-0905 or visit artsvisalia.org.

Aug. 9 – Wildest Weather in the Solar System – 7 p.m.

Join us on a spectacular journey to witness the most beautiful, powerful, and mysterious weather phenomena in the solar system. From a storm the size of a 100-megaton hydrogen bomb to a 400-year-old hurricane to a dust tempest that could engulf entire planets, you’ll be glad you live on Earth! This presentation will be at Pena Planetarium, located in the Educational Enrichment Center on the southwest corner of West Main Street and Woodland Drive in Visalia. For information, call 737-6334 or visit www.tcoe.org/planetarium.

Aug. 9 - Friday Night Dance – 7-10 p.m.

Dances featuring concert-style entertainment with live bands are held weekly at the Tulare Senior Center. The entrance fee is $7 per person.

Aug. 9 – The 25th Annual Tommy Elliott Memorial Golf Classic – 10 a.m. registration This event features a full day of golf and food.

Win prizes and gift certificates at the holes.

Shotgun start at noon. Enjoy lunch, an awards ceremony, silent auction and the opportunity for networking. To participate as a player or a sponsor, call Kaweah Delta Hospital Foundation at 624-2359 or email dvolosin@kdhcd. org.

Aug. 10 — Create a Flyer Using Publisher — 9 a.m.

A computer class, Create a Flyer Using Publisher, will be held at Tulare Public Library, 475 North M Street. For information, visit tularepubliclibrary.org.

Aug. 10 – Tulare Kings Writers Reorganizational Meeting – 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Tulare Kings Writers will have a “reorganizational meeting” in the Blue Room of the Tulare County Library, 200 W. Oak Avenue, Visalia. This meeting is open to all writers. For more information, call 280-9774.

Aug. 10 — Second Saturday Book Club — 11 a.m.

The Second Saturday Book Club will meet to discuss “The Round House” at Tulare Public Library. For information, visit tularepubliclibrary.org.

Aug. 10, 24 — The Graphic Novel Club — 3 p.m.

The Graphic Novel Book Club will meet at Tulare Public Library, 475 North M Street.

For information, visit tularepubliclibrary.org.

Aug. 10 - Celebrant Singer Homecoming Concert – 7 p.m.

After a summer of ministry and travel around the United States, Portugal and Central America, Celebrant Singers return to Visalia for their 36th Anniversary Grand Homecoming Concert. Hear testimonies and listen to inspiring music at the L.J. Williams Theater, 1001 W. Main St, Visalia. All seats are free and a love offering will be taken. More information, 740-4000 or www.celebrants.org.

Continued on p. 22 »

community August

Aug. 3-4 – Pint for Pint Blood Drive All donors who give at any Central California Blood Center location in Fresno and Visalia, or at Sierra Vista Mall in Clovis, will receive a voucher for a pint of Baskin-Robbins Ice Cream and a free commemorative T-shirt.

Photo ID and Social Security Number required. For information, contact the Central California Blood Center, (559) 288-6319.

Aug. 6 – Four Creeks Blood Drive – 5–8 p.m.

Four Creeks Apartments, 2800 East Douglas Ave., Visalia, will hold a Blood Drive. Donors will receive a Free Pint of Baskin Robbins Ice Cream and Fresno Grizzlies game discounts.

Also, discounts from Valley businesses for dining, recreation, services and entertainment will be given. Photo ID and Social Security Number required. For information, contact the Central California Blood Center, (559) 288-6319.

Aug. 6, 8, 13, 15, 20, 22, 27 and 29 – Zumba – 6:30-7:30 p.m Porterville College Community will offer a non-credit course in the campus Fitness Center. Cost is $20 per person. This course is designed to get moving with Zumba and get fit while having fun. For more information on Community Education Classes call 791-2492 or visit portervillecollege.edu/community_ed.

Aug. 20 - Compassion Fatigue Workshop 6-7 p.m.

Quail Park Retirement Village will host a free community workshop to help everyone, including professional caregivers and caregivers by choice, who may be suffering from compassion fatigue. Compassion Fatigue is the natural consequence of stress resulting from caring and helping traumatized or suffering people.

When a caregiver focuses on others without practicing self-care, destructive behaviors can surface. Quail Park Retirement Village is located at 4520 W. Cypress Ave., Visalia. For additional information or to RSVP contact the community relations office at 624-3503.

Aug. 26 - Dec. 12 Exercise for the Community - 7 - 8 a.m. or 8-9 a.m.

Porterville College Community will offer a non-credit course Exercise for the Community on Mondays-Thursdays from 7-8 a.m. and

8-9 a.m. in the campus Fitness Center. Cost is $80 per person. For more information on Community Education Classes call 791-2492 or visit portervillecollege.edu/community_ed.

Aug. 26 - Sept. 19 - Fat Burning 101 - 4:20 p.m.-5:20 p.m.

Porterville College Community will offer a non-credit course Mondays-Thursdays in the campus Fitness Center. Cost is $40 per person. This course is designed to teach members of the community to signal their body to burn fat; lose fat without losing muscle weight; do burst training exercise that melts fat off like butter; eat their way out of excess fat; achieve and maintain their healthiest body for life; analyze their ultrasound body composition; lower their risk for heart diseases, stroke and diabetes; and to prepare simple snacks, drinks and meals for a healthy family. For more information on Community Education Classes, call 791-2492 or visit portervillecollege.edu/ community_ed.

September Sept. 12 - Healthy Feet Versus Unhealthy Feet – 6 p.m.

Paul R. Mayo, D.P.M., will be the speaker as part of The Lifestyle Center’s free monthly wellness series at 5105 W. Cypress Ave. For more information, call 624-3400.

Sept. 23-Oct. 17 – Fat Burning 101 – 4:20 p.m.-5:20 p.m.

See Aug. 26 - Sept. 19 description.

October Oct. 10 - Exercise Prescription and Overthe-Counter Medicine – 6 p.m.

John C. Booker, M.D., will be the speaker as part of The Lifestyle Center’s free monthly wellness series at 5105 W. Cypress Ave. For more information, call 624-3400.

Oct. 21 - Nov. 14 - Fat Burning 101 - 4:20 p.m.-5:20 p.m.

See Aug. 26 - Sept. 19 description.

kids Aug. 1 - Dave the Horn Guy – 11 a.m. & 3 p.m.

This educational music performance for children will be held in the Children’s wing of the Tulare County Library in Visalia. For more information, call the Children’s Department at 713-2731 or visit http://tularecountylibrary. org/summerreading2013.html Aug. 2 – “Madagascar 3” – 8:15 p.m.

The Tulare Parks and Recreation Department is hosting Movies in the Park, a family event at Zumwalt Park. Admission is free. For more information, call 684-4310.

Aug. 5-9 - Robot Invasion - 11-4 p.m.

The Clay Café Kidz Kamp, themed “Robot Invasion,” is open to children ages 6-13.

Children paint bisque, mold clay, create crafts, play games and more each day. Snacks and lunch are included. Clay Café in located in downtown Visalia, between Fattie Alberts and Bothofs on Main Street. For information, call (559) 733-2022 or visit claycafevisalia.com.

Aug. 17 - Kids Day Event The City of Tulare Parks, Recreation and Library will host this event, featuring bounce houses, pony rides, reptile show, information booths, face painting, at Zumwalt Park. Cost is $3 per wristband (pre-sale) or $5 the day of event. For more information, contact Ray Baradat at 684-4313.

Aug. 20 — Tutoring Assistance Program — 4-7 p.m.

Tutors will be in the Tulare Public Library Learning Center ready to assist students in grades K - 12 with homework. The program operates Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4 to 7 p.m. and Saturdays from 1 to 4 p.m. Register at the Learning Center. For information, call (559) 685-4519.

Aug. 24 - Movies for Teens – 2-4:30 p.m.

The movie “Pitch Perfect” will be shown in the Upstairs Reading Room of the Tulare County Library in Visalia. (No one under the age of 13 admitted.) For more information, call Faythe at 713-2706.

22 • Valley Voice

1 Aug., 2013

‘Colonel Baker’s Field’ Features Visalia, Tulare County History

STAFF REPORTS Colonel Baker’s Field: An American Pioneer Story, a new book written by Judy Salamacha, Sandy Mittelsteadt and Chris Brewer, tells the story of Colonel Thomas Baker, the founder of Bakersfield and includes his years in Visalia.

The book also describes Brewer’s efforts to learn about his great-great-grandfather, Col. Baker.

Colonel Baker’s Field chronicles Baker’s life from his birth in Zanesville, Ohio, in 1810 to his death in Bakersfield in 1872. Along the way, he moves to the southern part of the Wisconsin Territory, which would soon become Iowa.

There he serves as a member of the Iowa Territorial Legislative Assembly and is elected to the first state legislature when Iowa achieves statehood in 1846. Baker is chosen by his fellow legislators to become the first president of the Iowa State Senate, in effect, ex-officio the first lieutenant governor of Iowa. Baker is also appointed a colonel in the Iowa Territorial Militia, a title that would stay with him for the rest of his life.

Baker, who also designed Iowa’s capital city of Des Moines, moves to Tulare County in the early 1850s where he is credited with laying out the town of Visalia for its founder, Nathaniel Vise. In

theater Aug. 1, 3, 8 and 10 – The Complete Works of William Shakespeare – 8 p.m.

The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) (Revised) presents all 37 of Shakespeare’s plays, in extremely shortened versions, in a 90-minute play.

Admission is free. Donations welcomed. For more information, visit lindsaycommunitytheater.com.

Aug. 16-18 – The Glass Menagerie The Visalia Players will present The Glass Menagerie, a Tennessee Williams’ classic of shattered youth and dreams. The show opens Aug. 16 and runs for three weekends at The Ice House Theatre, located at the corner of Race and Santa Fe in Visalia.

Evening performances are at 7:30 p.m. on Aug. 16-17 and a matinee will be at 2 p.m. on Aug. 18. For information, visit visaliaplayers.org.

Aug. 23-25 – The Glass Menagerie See Aug. 16-18 description.

Aug. 30-31 and Sept. 1 – The Glass Menagerie See Aug. 16-18 description.

Sept. 26-29 – How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying Dave Burley presents this musical satire at the Tulare Encore Theatre, 324 South N Street, Tulare, Sept. 26-29 and October 4-6 and October 10-12. Advance tickets available. For more information, visit www. tulareencoretheatre.org.

October 4-6 – How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying See Sept. 26-29 description.

October 4-6 – The Gin Game The Gin Game, a Pulitzer Prize winning tragicomedy, opens October 4 and runs for three weekends at The Ice House Theatre, located at the corner of Race and Santa Fe in Visalia. Evening performances are at 7:30 p.m on October 4-5 and a matinee will be at 2 p.m on October 6. For information, visit visaliaplayers.org.

1855, Baker is elected as state assemblyman for Tulare and Fresno counties, and six years later, he is elected to represent Tulare and Fresno counties in the California State Senate.

Baker moves to Kern Island in 1863 after purchasing 160 acres there. The area would later become the city of Bakersfield – named in his honor.

Colonel Baker’s Field is told in a “creative nonfiction” style, which incorporates dialog to enable Baker to “tell his own story.” The conversations are based on personal letters, family diaries and newspaper accounts.

In addition to telling Baker’s story, the book provides the reader with an understanding of what life was like for the pioneers in both Iowa and California’s Central Valley.

“The Iowa years include how the early settlers lived, their cabins, their interaction with Indians and the border wars with Missouri,” said Brewer. “The California chapters describe the first Anglo settlers in the Central and South Valley, and the beginnings of Bakersfield and Visalia. Col. Baker was the receiver at the federal land office in Visalia, before arriving at the early settlement in what is now Bakersfield.”

October 10-12 – How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying See Sept. 26-29 description.

October 11-13 – The Gin Game See Oct. 4-6 description.

October 11, 18 – Rocky Horror Show – Midnight.

Loosely based on the Frankenstein tale, Rocky Horror Show is about a lonely, transvestite space alien who creates his very own love slave, Rocky. It just goes downhill from there. Admission is free. Donations welcomed. The show will also be presented at 7:30 p.m. on October 12 and 19. The Lindsay Community Theater is located at 190 N. Elmwood, Lindsay. For information, visit lindsaycommunitytheater.com.

October 12, 19 – Rocky Horror Show – 7:30 p.m.

See Oct. 11-18 description.

October 18-20 – The Gin Game See Oct. 4-6 description.

October 26 – Murder at the Pocono Royale Casino – 6 p.m.

The Porterville Museum will present a murder mystery dinner, “Dealt a Deadly Hand: Murder at the Pocono Royal Casino,” at the Porterville Elks Lodge, 386 N. Main Street.

Dirty dealing, double dealing, cheating and murder featured. For more information, call (559) 784-2053 or visit portervillemuseum. org.

November 10 – Moscow Ballet Great Russian Nutcracker – 8 p.m.

The Moscow Ballet will be returning to the Hanford Fox this November. For information, visit foxhanford.com.

November 15, 16, 22 and 23 – A Change of Mind – 7:30 p.m.

This special theater event is written and directed by George Pearce about a man stranded in the desert who finds salvation from a stranger named Mike. Admission is free. Donations welcomed. The Lindsay Community Theater is located at 190 N. Elmwood, Lindsay. For information, visit lindsaycommunitytheater.com.

See the full calendar at ourvalleyvoice.com

Salamacha, a Bakersfield native who writes the “By the Bay” column for the San Luis Obispo Tribune and provides a weekly community report on KVEC, made the decision to add Brewer’s story to the book, which includes him leaving Paul Anka’s band to pursue his interest in history.

“When I left Bakersfield, I knew I had unfinished business,” she explained.

“I now know telling the story of Col. Thomas Baker and the quest by his greatgreat-grandson to discover Col. Baker’s legacy is the business I was destined to finish for Bakersfield.”

Brewer is the publisher at Bear State Books in Exeter, and director and curator of the Exeter Historical Museum. Brewer, whose archive of area history rivals that of public libraries, has researched and authored many books about the history of California’s south Central Valley.

Mittelsteadt, the president of Zayn Consulting, which specializes in connecting business with education, was attracted to the project because of her love of history and for the city of Bakersfield.

“Bakersfield is such a friendly and hospitable city because it is simply following in the footsteps of its founder, Col. Baker,” she said.

events Continued from p. 20-21 Aug. 10 - Visalia Farmers Market 8-11:30 a.m.

Sears Parking Lot at the corner of Mooney Boulevard and Caldwell Avenue. Locally grown produce and handmade products.

For more information, visit visaliafarmersmarket.com Aug. 10 – Small Town Cruizers Cruise Night – 5 p.m.

Small Town Cruizers will host this event, with drawings and raffles, at Richard’s Lunch Box on L Street in Tulare. For more information, call 686-6850 or visit www. smalltowncruizers.com.

Aug. 13 - Dining to Donate - 4-9 p.m.

Dine at Applebees and 20% of your bill will be donated to the Valley Oak SPCA. Flyer, available at vospca.org, must be presented to server to be counted for the fundraiser.

Aug. 13-14, and 28 - YU-GI-OH Tournament - 5-7 p.m.

Young adults ages 10-19, are invited to sharpen their YU-GI-OH strategy skills from 5-6 p.m. Aug. 13-14 at Tulare Public Library, 475 North M Street. Then play in the tournament Aug. 28 that begins at 5 p.m. For information, visit tularepubliclibrary.org.

Aug. 13 - Celebrant Singers 36th Anniversary Banquet – 7 p.m.

The 36th Anniversary WorldTouch Partner’s Banquet, featuring a delicious dinner while hearing testimonies and inspiring music from the summer teams, will be held at the Visalia Convention Center. Purchase atable or attend as an individual. Call the Celebrant office at 740-4000 for reservations.

Aug. 15 - Thursday Night Market Place 5:30-9 p.m.

Fresh valley produce, a beer garden, live band, D.J., local vendors, and activities for the kids are featured in downtown Hanford, Irwin and Seventh Street. Tonight’s them is Hot Aug. Nights. For information, visit mainstreethanford.com.

Aug. 15 – Ladies Night – 6 - 10 p.m.

The Clay Café will hold its Ladies Night

Colonel Thomas Baker, the founder of Bakersfield and a Tulare County pioneer.

Graphic artist Jody Salamacha-Hollier provided the colorful artwork for the book.

Colonel Baker’s Field is available at Book Garden in Exeter and at www. bearstatebooks.com.

as they do every third Thursday night of each month. Women get together, paint, visit and relax. Dinner, drink and dessert are complimentary. Clay Café is located in downtown Visalia, between Fatte Alberts and Bothofs on Main Street. For information, call (559) 733-2022.

Aug. 16 – NFL Great Jim Brown – 9 a.m.

Hall of Famer Jim Brown will be featured as part of Tulare County Office of Education’s Choices Prevention Program at Visalia Fox Theater, 300 W. Main Street, Visalia.

Tickets may be purchased at the Visalia Fox Theatre for $20 per person. To reach the Fox, visit www.foxvisalia.org, or call (559) 625-1369. For additional information, call Adam Valencia at 651-0155.

Aug. 17 - SF Giants General Manager Roger Craig - 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

“The Humm Baby” meet and greet luncheon features legendary San Francisco Giants Manager Roger Craig at Crawdaddy’s in Visalia. During the luncheon, presented by ibaseballchannel.com, Craig will reflect on his championship seasons with the Detroit Tigers and San Francisco Giants. Call (559) 280-1119 for reservations. Seating is limited. Tickets $100, includes lunch, beverage and photo taken with Craig.

Aug. 17 – Good Taste at a Higher Elevation Silver City Mountain Resort will host this annual Guest Chef Event with the theme “Valley Farms Know Best,” featuring a five-course meal. Early-bird first sitting is at 5:30 p.m., and Southern-European-style second sitting is at 8:30 p.m. For reservations, email reservations@silvercityresort. com or call 561-3223.

Aug. 21 - Tulare Public Library Knitting Club - 5:30 p.m.

The Knitting Club meets at 5:30 p.m. every other Wednesday at Tulare Public Library, 475 North M Street. For information, visit tularepubliclibrary.org.

Aug. 22 – Thursday Night Market Place – 5:30-9 p.m.

Thursday Night Market Place features a farmers market, food vendors and live entertainment in downtown Hanford, Irwin and Seventh Street. Tonight’s them is NASL Appreciation Night. For information, visit mainstreethanford.com.

1 August, 2013

‘Fifty Shades’ Trilogy Not Shocking - Just Old and Gray

Fifty Shades of Grey, Fifty Shades Darker and Fifty Shades Freed are a relatively new trilogy written by author E.L. James. These novels have risen to the tops of best-seller lists, have lined supermarket bookshelves and are a series that many have read and many will not admit to having read. The books are supposed to be thrilling, shocking and fresh.

Yet what James has to say in these novels is not new, and is certainly not shocking, except in that the perpetuation of primitive value systems is shocking to those who have progressed beyond them.

E. L. James has written a book about gender roles. She sets up a dichotomy between the protagonist Anastasia Steele and her despotic seducer (later turned spouse), Christian Grey, posing them against one another to compare and contrast the perpetuated separation of female and male. The comparisons are endless: virgin/whore, dominant/submissive and seducer/seduced, to name a few. Ana herself lists pairings directly in the text, saying about herself to Christian, “I’m all deer/headlights, moth/flame, bird/ snake.” Ana’s naiveté is the perfect antithesis to Christian’s endless experience, her gauche to his worldliness, her feminine being seen with his masculine gaze.

James pairs female and male together, and not only as a means of highlighting her ideas of fundamental and societal differences. In the Fifty Shades novels, James argues that men and women need one another. Christian and Ana, once they have found each other, are lost without each other, incomplete; and when they are together, they are of similar mind, sharing ideas as well as their bodies, while maintaining their specific roles and characteristics. James is arguing that male/female gender roles are both innate and necessary. If men and women need one another, it must be that men and women offer different specialties, values and roles that must be

shared with their dichotomous partner.

The fact that the pair (spoiler alert!) procreates very soon after marriage seems to be both a thinly redesigned variation of the Twilight series and a restating of the strict Mormon virtues that undergirded the plot of this fanfic’s inspiration.

However, James does crack the façade of strict dichotomy at certain points of the trilogy. In the first novel, we learn that Christian’s list of rules for his submissives includes a list of prescribed foods that are okay for his subs to eat – these and nothing else. Anastasia, in her one moment of firm conviction that runs parallel to Christian’s desires, refuses to follow this list; in fact, forcing her to follow the list would be a deal breaker (the only deal breaker she mentions until the third novel). Christian’s obsession with food is a thin metaphor for his obsession with control, the body and, ultimately, love. Anastasia’s refusal to allow him to control what she eats is a way of taking charge over the love she wants and thinks she deserves and needs – the one point she is not willing to cede to this dominant man. In this way, James allows Ana to be an autonomous person, albeit again in contrast (and thus pairing) with the masculine. However, throughout the rest of the novel, along with the other two books, Ana yields to Christian when he insists on when she

Nick Nino as Jim, the gentleman caller, and Brooke Rogers as Laura

Glass Menagerie Continued from p. 17

Laura’s brother Tom (David Payne), though younger in years, is Laura’s protector. Payne depicts Tom as a frustrated writer.

“Tom feels trapped,” Payne explained. “He is the breadwinner, working in a warehouse to support his mother and sister, and sees no way out. He’s told his mother that he wants to be a writer, but she ignores everything he says.”

Amanda’s desire for Laura to have a gentleman caller is fulfilled when Tom brings Jim (Nick Nino) to dinner. Nino describes Jim as “an all American football player. He was the most popular guy in school. He expected bigger and better things, but that didn’t work out for him.”

When considering his relationship with Laura, Nino believes that Jim wants the best for her “to instill confidence in her but doesn’t realize how much he means

to her, doesn’t see what not fulfilling her dreams might do.”

All cast members and the director refer to the beauty of the language and the reality of the play. Nino noted, “It is an opportunity to escape from mindless action movies and perhaps learn something about human nature you hadn’t realized.”

“It is not a feel good play,” said Morrill but he emphasized that “it is a great story. People need to experience this piece of life.”

“The Glass Menagerie” runs for three weekends at the Ice House Theater at Race and Santa Fe in Visalia. Evening performances are at 7:30 p.m. on August 16, 17, 23, 24, 30 and 31, and matinees are at 2 p.m. on August 18, 25 and September 1. To purchase tickets, visit www. visaliaplayers.org or Visalia Community Players’ Facebook page, or call 7343900.

eats, allows him to choose foods for her, and often iterates that Christian’s choices were the right ones. In this, James maintains the control that Christian has over Ana, along with the notion that that control is what is best for the couple.

James isn’t a beautiful writer. She peppers the dialogue with senior-year vocabulary on occasion, attempting to prove that Ana is an intelligent, well-educated woman and that Christian is a “man of the world,” but her writing is basic, and the jolts of elevated vocabulary feel out of place and forced surrounded by otherwise bland language.

Ana’s internal dialogue often reads like a stream-of-conscious measure in a psyche that isn’t interesting enough to make these thoughts worthwhile. Ana narrates mundane activities, like driving and choosing music, and though mundane scenes could be lovely in the hands of a skilled writer, and from the mind of one who has something to say, James is not that writer.

But that is not the point of these novels – James makes an argument about gender, and enforces archaic value systems, but all while really writing about sex. If the themes were different, if the characters were more or even less fleshed out, if the plots didn’t involve stiff passages like a car chase, bank heist, kidnapping or blackmail, most people who read

Valley Voice • 23

HANNAH GREEN Fifty Shades would still read Fifty Shades.

Even James’ attempt to flesh out Christian Grey into an unhappy, psychologically struggling character doesn’t lend as much to the novels’ development as one would hope. James’ revelation about Christian – his abuse as a child, his subsequent molestation as a teenager and the continuation of his relationship with his molester for six years – doesn’t change how Ana and Christian interact, either as characters or as symbols. Christian is still in charge, is still the dominant, and the fact that his only years as a submissive put him in a feminine role in which Ana is now only reinforces the idea that the male and female are separate and disparate; Christian managed to rise above his feminine placement into a firmly masculine role, while Ana maintains her feminine role throughout the novels.

James doesn’t need something to say; she simply needs scenes that are taboo enough to titillate and just realistic enough that readers can sink their teeth in. The titillation is also supported by Christian’s many accomplishments and social advantages; without his exceedingly good looks, extreme amounts of money and elitist taste in everything from art to music to wine, the sex scenes wouldn’t be nearly as palatable. Who wants to read about a controlling, emotionally stunted man seducing a boring, uninformed woman when the man is ugly and broke?

James’ novels, though littered with value statements on virtue, gender roles, control and love, don’t have a real purpose outside of giving an outlet to her readers’ preexisting fantasies and providing fodder to spawn new daydreams.

Fifty Shades, in its most basic, bare bones form, is erotica, sustained by a tired, antiquated belief system.

Stars:1.5/5

24 • Valley Voice

1 August, 2013

Local Wedding Photographer Offers Free Healthy Marriage Workshop

A recent survey conducted by TheKnot.com revealed that on average newlyweds and their families invest $27,800 on their wedding day. Professional services are usually secured such as wedding planners, caterers, photographers, entertainers/disc jockeys, cake designers and decorators, to make sure the special day flows perfectly and without major crisis.

In contrast, many couples become so occupied with wedding day plans that they neglect planning for the days

that will follow. CJ Hopper Photography, a Visalia wedding photographer serving Central California, has decided to reinvest in those happy couples who have recently tied the knot with a free, two-day Newlywed Workshop.

Jason and Christina Hopper, owners of CJ Hopper Photography, are trained Marriage Mentors through the Healthy Marriage Coalition, growyourmarrige.com, capable of providing private pre-marital counseling services. On Au-

gust 23 and 24, the Hoppers will open their downtown studio, PhotoMenage, to newlyweds and soon-to-be-weds for a complimentary marriage workshop.

Six different sessions will discuss common marital tensions and strategies in the areas of communication, male/female thinking, bedroom behavior and conflict, prompting group discussion and Q&A. The workshop is open to any couple who has married in the last three years or who will be married in the year to come.

Christina Hopper wants the entire community to know about the workshop. “We really encourage newlywed and engaged couples to take advantage of this workshop,” she said. “Since it’s free, the only real investment that is required is your time, but we know that it will be the smartest investment you will make.”

She added, “The material is fresh and fun, and really applies to every married couple. My husband, Jason, and I still learn from it after 13 years of marriage. Then again, had we known some of this when we first married it would have saved us a lot of trouble, and saved Jason from many nights on the couch.”

Any interested couple can sign

What’s Happening at Ballpark?

Gloves For Troops August 3rd Help the Rawhide give back to our service men and women by donating a baseball glove on august 3rd. Donations will be sent to troops overseas, giving them a taste of home.

In Exchange, we’ll give you a FREE ticket to the game that day!

Mustache Appreciation Night!

August 22nd

Don a real OR fake mustache on this night and we will give you a free ticket to the game. The

person with the best mustache is going to go home with some prizes from the Rawhide! Don’t miss this prickly, fun promotion!

“LIKE” us on Facebook - facebook.com/TheRawhide

up for the free workshop by contacting Christina or Jason at CJ Hopper Photography at 595-9691 or christina@cjhopper.com. Space is limited and early registration is appreciated.

Celebrant Singers Return to Visalia for Homecoming Concert After an exciting summer of ministry and travel around the United States, Portugal and Central America, Jon Stemkoski’s Celebrant Singers return to Visalia for their 36th Annual Grand Homecoming Concert on Saturday, August 10, beginning at 7 p.m. at L.J. Williams Theater, 1001 W. Main St., Visalia. All seats are free and a love offering will be taken.

The concert will include contemporary Christian music, praise and worship, personal testimony and ministry, and feature three teams and a 30-piece orchestra.

“Celebrants is not ‘just another music group,’” said founder Jon Stemkoski. “Our objective is to share the love of Christ. It’s a powerful ministry and it will touch your heart.”

In their 36-year history, Celebrants have ministered in all 50 states, all across Canada, and in more than 97 nations around the world. They have sung to more than six million people in live concerts and countless others via broadcast media.

Celebrants are ecumenical in nature. Teams are comprised of dedicated and talented young adults representing several states, Canadian provinces and several additional nations.

Celebrant Singers is an outreach of Stone Ministries, Inc., a non-profit Christian corporation ministering to the needs of people through music and the arts. To see a ministry video from a recent outreach to Haiti, visit www.celebrants.org.

For more information, call 740-4000.

Young At Art Continued from p. 17

delayed gratification. One need only see the joy and excitement on a child’s face when they stand in front of their artworks on display in our gallery to know the benefits of making art in their lives.

The educational programs at Arts Visalia have been generously supported by grants from Southern California Edison and the City of Visalia. Funding from these grants, as well as donations by individual supporters of Arts Visalia, ensures that every young person who has a special interest in art is able to participate in the classes offered.

“Young at Art 2013” will be on display at Arts Visalia from August 7 through August 30. An opening reception will be held Friday, August 9 from 6 to 8 p.m. Admission is free and open to the public. Arts Visalia is located at 214 East Oak Avenue in downtown Visalia and may be reached by phone at 7390905 or by visiting www.artsvisalia.org.

Arts Visalia art classes for children and youth will resume in September with after-school and weekend classes for kids aged five and up. For more information on all of our programs, call us at 739-0905 or visit at artsvisalia.org.