Valley Voice Issue 142 (6 June, 2019)

Valley Voice

Sierra View continues upward trend in patient safety

Tulare homeless issue discussed at special meeting MARTIN VELASCO-RAMOS martin@ourvalleyvoice.com

STAFF REPORTS Sierra View Medical Center (SVMC) was given a third consecutive ‘B’ from the Leapfrog Group’s Hospital Safety Grade.

The designation recognizes SVMC’s continued efforts in protecting patients from harm and meeting the highest safety standards in the United States.

“Patient safety is always a top priority for us and we’ve consistently been working towards gaining the utmost trust from our community,” said Melissa Fuentes, Administrative Director of Quality and Care.

“This score of a ‘B’ would not be possible without everyone’s continued support and commitment to patient safety. Together, everyone at SVMC has made huge strides towards our goal of an ‘A’ and I believe that we will achieve it in the near future.”

The Leapfrog Group is a national organization committed to improving health care quality and safety for consumers.

The Safety Grade assigns a letter grade to hospitals across the country based on their performance in preventing medical errors, injuries, accidents, and infections.

Developed under the guidance of a National Expert Panel, the Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade uses 28 measures of publicly available hospital safety data to assign grades to more than 2,600 U.S. hospitals twice per year.

The Hospital Safety Grade’s methodology is peer-reviewed and fully transparent, and the results are free to

SIERRA VIEW continued on 4 »

Volume XXXIX No. 11 6 June, 2019 ourvalleyvoice.com

Known as Jerry during his 30 years at the cemetery, Ramos wants the Tulare Public Cemetery District Board to investigate four issues concerning his termination and final paycheck in September of 2017.

First, he wants to know why his last check did not include his overtime, vacation and holiday pay. Ramos was particularly concerned about overtime pay because according to his time cards he regularly worked nine to ten hours a day. He had an hour lunch but was often interrupted by staff or needed to attend to the public.

“My last paycheck was pennies. It was ridiculous,” he said.

Second, he wants to know why he was terminated.

Third, he wants the board to investigate why cemetery board member Vicki Gilson took all of the employee personnel records out of the district

On May 23rd, a Tulare City Council ad hoc committee met to discuss a multifaceted plan developed to alleviate homelessness in Tulare. Guest speaker and director of Kings-Tulare Homeless Alliance, Machael Smith, discussed potential funding.

The biggest chunk of funding will come from the state with a potential $250 million up for grabs for the local bi-county area of Tulare and Kings Counties. However, thanks to current regulations set by Sacramento, it’s not guaranteed that Tulare County will receive it’s fair share of funding.

As it stands, “The Big 13” (larger cities like Los Angeles, San Diego, Sacramento) will get a slice of funding simply for being large metropolitan areas. Other smaller cities and rural areas will only get half of the funding available, and will be forced to compete amongst each other for the rest of the grant by meeting “performance measures” on the homeless issue.

In other words, cities like Tulare and Visalia must demonstrate that they deserve the full grant, while cities like San Francisco automatically get the full grant simply for existing year after year.

This creates instability for organizations like C-Set, which relies on grants to stay running.

“The problem is,” Smith continued. “That program only lasts for a year. That’s all the grant funding is for and then it goes away. Then we have to apply again, and we may not get it. So they lose it. They let go of all the staff.

And the program goes away.”

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HOMELESS continued on 13 »

Gerardo Ramos at the Tulare Public Cemetery. Catherine Doe/Valley Voice

Former Tulare Cemetery employee questions final check

CATHERINE DOE

catherine@ourvalleyvoice.com

Gerardo Ramos, former assistant groundskeeper for the Tulare Public Cemetery, is requesting an investigation into his lack of compensation for vacation, sick, and overtime pay.

But when Ramos and his legal counsel, Luis Lopez, showed up to the regular May 22 district meeting, with copies of his presentation in hand to distribute and ready to make his case, the office manager, Leonor Castaneda, informed him that the meeting had been canceled a week previously and changed to May 29.

At the beginning of May, Ramos requested to be put on the agenda. After some negotiation, he and Board Chairperson Xavier Avila agreed he would first present his case during public comment.

After his comments the board would decide how to pursue Ramos’ concerns, said Avila.

Ramos’ case

Tulare County supes put the brakes on industrial hemp JOHN DILLON

john@ourvalleyvoice.com

Selling and growing recreational cannabis may be legal in California, but counties all over the state are struggling with new laws regarding the cultivation of industrial hemp.

Tulare County is just the latest in a slew of local governments to put a temporary moratorium on the growing of hemp. A 45-day moratorium was initially passed March 26 on the recommendation of outgoing Tulare County Ag Commissioner Marilyn Wright. The moratorium was extended at the April 30 Tulare County Board of Supervisor (TCBOS) meeting for another 22 months and 15 days.

During the March 26 meeting, Wright said that the crop could breach one of the top 10 of the county’s most valuable crops within a year, if it were regulated, but she added that neither the U.S. Department of Agriculture nor the California Department of Agriculture has issued regulations on the

crop, making it a gamble for counties to move forward.

Only San Luis Obispo and Imperial have approved the crop, while 15 counties have issued temporary moratoriums because of the lack of regulations said Wright.

Background

The 2014 Farm Bill defined industrial hemp as plants containing less than three-tenths of a percent of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) the chemical in marijuana that produces psychoactive effects . The low concentration of THC makes hemp unsuitable for marijuana production, which remains federally illegal.

The 2014 bill let states cultivate industrial hemp for research purposes.

This bill allowed for the research of industrial hemp but did not legalize commercial production of hemp The 2018 Farm bill included the Hemp Farming Act of 2018, which passed with bipartisan support. This

act makes hemp legal on a federal level. States may now choose how to move forward in regulating the industry.

California, along with all states, has to submit a plan to the Secretary of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) on how it intends to license and regulate the production of hemp. The USDA must then approve California’s plan. Neither of those steps have been taken, complicating the issue of separate counties allowing the commercial production of hemp.

According to Food and Agriculture Code 81006 (b), “Clandestine cultivation of industrial hemp is prohibited.

All plots shall have adequate signage indicating they are industrial hemp.”

New Commissioner agrees with Wright

Newly appointed Tulare County Ag Commissioner Tom Tucker advised the BOS at its April 30 meeting to adopt the extension of the moratorium of hemp production.

Pest control and anxiety that farmers will abuse the lack of regulations are the main reasons for hesitation to move forward with production. Tucker expressed concern over zoning, disease-carrying insects, and the concealing of illegal cannabis in industrial hemp fields.

According to Tucker, “Due to the fact that Industrial Hemp and cannabis are derivatives of the same plant, Cannabis sativa L., the physical appearance of Industrial Hemp and cannabis are virtually indistinguishable. Absent a laboratory-performed chemical analysis of the THC content, the two plants cannot be readily distinguished.”

Though recreational cannabis is allowed in Tulare County, the supervisors are not alone in their trepidation.

The Ag Advisory Committee spoke in favor of the moratorium and several other counties have adopted similar policies.

In a 2018 Hemp Industry Daily report, Shasta and San Joaquin counties

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6 June, 2019 Valley Voice

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STAR PARTY! FREE for kids When?

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An “Alternative Fireworks” Show for the Weekend after the 4th of July!

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- CAELUM PEYRON 2018 PC Graduate

In the previous issue of the Valley Voice, the special section Where to Have Your Baby contained an error regarding Kaweah Delta Medical Center’s maternity triage unit.

The feature on the hospital claims that Kaweah Delta will be having an August 20th open house of its maternity triage unit; however, the event referenced occurred in 2013 and will not occur this year.

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To apply, visit www.portervillecollege.edu For more information, call (559) 791-2200

Meddling is Unnecessary

I wrote the following column six years ago to the day of the date of this very edition you’re holding:

A Noose Around the News

Mainstream media, reduced at least to the level of local newspapers, has placed a noose around the neck of our news. Rather than opening a vast panorama of choice, in the same vein as the Internet, local newspapers often constrict our news horizon. Consider the national web of smaller, corporate-owned papers: apart from sports, many lift news stories, and often truncate them, from either the wire or a company home office source. Your hometown paper, in other words, might be entirely from someplace else.

Recently, for example, the 105-yearold Porterville Recorder was sold to the privately owned Rhode Island Suburban Newspapers, Inc. for an undisclosed sum. The previous owner, Santa Anabased Freedom Communications, also purchased Arizona’s Yuma Sun. Even more so than McClatchy’s 30 dailies and Gannett’s combination of at least 1,090 weekly and daily newspapers, these smaller transactions should bring into sharper focus the question not only of who owns the hometown paper, but how its reporting is conducted, and under what editorial slant. How do you get the local angle on any story if you cannot first trust that your newspaper is locally owned?

Never has this been writ quite so large as the brothers Charles and David Koch, billionaire industrialists and famous Libertarians, new interest in purchasing the Tribune Company’s eight regional newspapers, including The Los Angeles Times, The Chicago Tribune, The Baltimore Sun, The Orlando Sentinel and The Hartford Courant. The papers, valued at approximately $623 million, would be pocket change for Koch Industries, a private company with annual revenues of roughly $115 billion.

Politically speaking, these newspapers

could serve to broaden the voice of the Kochs’ laissez-faire ideology. The Los Angeles Times is the fourth-largest paper in the country, Chicago’s Tribune is the ninth, and others are in battleground states. Included in the deal is Fort Lauderdale’s Sun Sentinel, which, with the Orlando daily, are two of Florida’s largest newspapers. In the past few election cycles Florida has been perhaps the most fought-over battleground state. Further, the Kochs’ purchase could include Hoy, the second-largest Spanish-language daily that is influential among the key Hispanic demographic.

Charles and David Koch’s lifelong ambition is to diminish the size of government; their private company, Koch Industries, is dedicated to the proposition that all Libertarian causes are created equally. Think of the financing of policy think tanks such as the Cato Institute in Washington, and the creation of Americans for Prosperity, a political action group that helped ignite the Tea Party.

Koch Industries has denied any direct tie to the Tea Party. But this isn’t about any particular people or their party affiliations: this is about hometown news being taken out of hometown hands.

In politically liberal Los Angeles, at least, this could be a hard sell. Should Angelenos have to contend with what might amount to a foreign newspaper?

What begins to emerge is not so much a newspaper fitting its community, which might be reduced to the serendipitous, but the spread of ideology as background noise in key places and demographics all over the country. This is how, in cities and small towns, influence is sown so as to make the grass root seem homegrown. This is how, beholden to outside interests, local news finds its neck in a noose.

I am proud to say that the Valley Voice will grind no axe other than the factual, and that it will use this tool to sever the noose. Both my wife and I own this newspaper. She was born in Tulare County. We have raised children here.

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Valley Voice

The Valley Voice is your newspaper, published by The Valley Voice, LLC.

The Voice strives for accuracy in reporting.

Commentary or corrections regarding errors of fact in our printed, online, or social media content can be sent to the email and mailing address listed below.

The first five copies of this newspaper are free. Subsequent copies are 25 cents per copy without prior arrangement. Please contact us for more information.

Use your voice: send letters, concerns, or corrections to editor@ourvalleyvoice.com PO Box 325, Ivanhoe, CA 93235

Publisher/Editor:

Joseph Oldenbourg

joseph@ourvalleyvoice.com — 559-731-8687

Sales/Writing: Catherine Doe

catherine@ourvalleyvoice.com — 559-972-7778

Reporters: John Dillon

john@ourvalleyvoice.com

Dave Adalian

dave@ourvalleyvoice.com

Martin Velasco-Ramos martin@ourvalleyvoice.com

Production/Website: Tony Maldonado

tony@ourvalleyvoice.com — 559-799-4100

Valley Voice 6 June, 2019

POLITICAL FIX Turning Back the Blue Wave

Republicans have set their sights on winning back the seven California congressional seats they lost in 2018 and sending President Donald Trump back to Washington in 2020.

Congressional District 21, formerly held by David Valadao, is a primary target. Congress Member TJ Cox won the district by only 1000 votes and GOP leaders are going all out to try to show that all the Democratic wins were one-off aberrations that won’t be repeated in 2020.

They aren’t making it too easy on themselves though.

A popular strategy political parties use to get their voters to the polls is to identify a wedge issue and get it on the ballot.

Proposition 8, an anti-same sex marriage ballot measure in 2008, was one of those wedge issues. The proposition ended up winning shocking both the state and nation, but it wasn’t enticing enough for Republicans to stop California from voting for President Barrack Obama.

Proposition 6, the gas tax repeal on the 2018 ballot, was a Republican strategy to suppress the Blue Wave.

The proposition lost by 10 points and Republicans lost all seven seats targeted by the Democrats, but it was a yeoman’s try.

For the current election one of the most powerful wedge issues has literally landed in the Democrats’ laps with no effort on their part. In a very consequential 2020 election on the horizon Republicans have put abortion on every state’s ballot.

If there is one issue California Republicans precisely do not want to talk about or have on the ballot, it’s abortion.

The prospect of repealing Roe Vs Wade may draw out the Republicans in Alabama, but the GOP can forget about flipping back those lost congressional districts in California and may even lose a few more.

When interviewing candidates such as former State Assembly Member Connie Conway or Congress Member Devin Nunes, the subject of same sex marriage or abortion was never broached.

Once the subject came up in casual conversation Ms. Conway said there is no need for candidates to discuss abortion or marriage equality because it was settled law in California.

Not anymore.

The Blue Wave brought out hundreds of thousands of Democrats to the polls in 2018 who normally sit on their duffs. What do Republicans think is going to happen with Roe Vs Wade on the chopping block?

How passionate are these voters?

Imagine if a man had to carry his molester’s baby to term or live in poverty because he was forced to give birth multiple times. Abortion would be available on demand and free.

Now pretend that right being taken away from men and you will have a good idea how the Blue Wave, as Mr. Trump likes to say, “just got ten feet taller.”

Access to abortion is not literally on the ballot, but every Democrat will vote in 2020 to make sure Mr. Trump can’t appoint one more Su-

preme Court Justice. And while filling out their ballot, they aren’t likely to vote for a Republican to fill their congressional seat.

And that brings us to Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi and the subject of Impeachment.

Impeach Mr. Trump? That guy is gold to have on the ballot for the Democrats and Ms. Pelosi, along with a handful of Democrats, get it.

A botched impeachment attempt could cost them not only the House majority, but also the White House.

A successful impeachment would mean the Democrat’s largest lightening rod in history is off the ballot.

Because Mr. Trump’s 2016 victory was so shocking no one wants to predict he will lose in 2020. But we need to remember that he lost the popular vote by 3 million and won the Electoral College by a mere 70,000 combined votes in Wisconsin, Pennsylvania and Michigan in a country of 330,000,000.

I don’t think even Russia will be able to help him this time.

Slapp Happy Part II

The April 4th Political Fix concerned four legal cases involving a little known or understood California law, anti-SLAPP. I thought it was mildly interesting because the law was in play in three rural towns situated along Highway 198.

The towns were Hanford, Lemoore, and Coalinga, and each case was unique but similar in the way the government tried to quiet their critics. At the end of Political Fix in the comment section, coincidently, or not, all the commenters were from Coalinga.

Granted, a majority of the 163 comments were written by four social media obsessed Coalinga residents, but still, the number was a record for Political Fix. One commenter, not part of the gang of four, was Dave M, who had been blocked from some of my acquaintances’ websites and came close in years past to being blocked from ours.

In the spirit of free speech we messaged him with the request to chill out. He kind of did and we didn’t block him.

So to have Dave M be the sound of reason and inject a little comic relief into the thread of comments says something about the lack of civility going on in Coalinga.

I normally refrain from commenting on any social media or websites but the dialogue was so ridiculous I felt it harmless to pepper the conversation with a few clever quips-- that were immediately ignored so the good residents of Coalinga could continue tearing each other apart.

Stranger still, the former editor of the Coalinga Recorder, who normally maintains a position of restraint, wrote lengthy, unhinged, hard-to-follow manifestos. The comments eventually got so rancorous and petty we shut them down.

For those who might have forgotten, a SLAPP suit is a Strategic Lawsuit against Public Participation and the governments of Hanford, Lemoore and Coalinga had brought

3 a column by CATHERINE DOE — catherine@ourvalleyvoice.com these suits against their own residents in the form of Temporary Restraining Orders (TRO). The suspected purpose of the TROs was to keep their critics quiet.

California passed legislation to protect these citizens who have been SLAPPed. Here is an update on those residents who fought back by filing an anti-SLAPP suit.

The Lemoore anti-SLAPP suit first reported in February was settled on April 25th and was a complete victory for Lemoore City Council Member Holly Blair. Ms. Blair had been censured by her fellow city council and the city filed a TRO to stop her from criticizing the police, administration, and council.

Not only did the city have to rescind Ms. Blair’s censure and drop the restraining order, but the City of Lemoore was ordered to pay $38,000 for Ms. Blair’s legal fees.

Ouch.

The Hanford case is still active and involves resident Mike Quinn and Carnegie Museum Director Patricia Dickerson. Ms. Dickerson was granted a restraining order in March against Mr. Quinn for several reasons, one of which was that he criticizes her and the museum at city council meetings. Mr. Quinn responded by filing an anti-SLAPP suit against Ms. Dickerson.

This case is a bit more complicated than Lemoore’s. Hanford subsidizes the museum, but that may or may not qualify the Carnegie as a government entity, and Ms. Dickerson may not be considered a public figure. The judge may interpret the case as a civil squabble.

The restraining order has been modified but upheld against Mr. Quinn and the case has been continued until July 1.

Coalinga had two anti-SLAPP suits working their way through the system and one has been closed.

Two TROs were filed by the City of Coalinga against resident Greg Cody last Christmas: one on behalf of City Council Member Adam Adkisson and the other on behalf of his friend, Robin Scott, who volunteers for the city in code enforcement.

Mr. Cody responded by filing two anti-SLAPP suits against Coalinga.

The city lost its case concerning Ms. Scott a few weeks ago. It had to lift the TRO against Mr. Cody and pay his legal fees.

According to the Memorandum of Costs filed by the Law Offices of Melo and Sarsfield and, the fees and costs added up to $2779.97.

Coalinga is paying much less than Lemoore because the Holly Blair case involved several days of mediation and a negotiated settlement agreement.

Mr. Cody’s lost his anti-SLAPP suit against Mr. Adkisson and the judge upheld the restraining order against him.

Mr. Sarsfield filed an appeal to the ruling on May 13. The appeal on Mr. Cody’s ant-SLAPP suit will be heard sometime next year.

The legal wrangling in Coalinga has reached beyond the courtroom.

In a possible act of retaliation against Mr. Cody’s filing his anti-SLAPP suits, Mr. Adkisson filed a resolution to censure Mr. Cody’s

friend, Coalinga Council Member Tanya Stolz.

Mr. Adkisson requested putting on the May 16 agenda “approving a Public Censure of Council Member Tanya Stolz.”

In wording very similar to Ms. Blair’s censure in Lemoore, the resolution stated that Ms. Stoltz, “Engaged in conduct unbecoming a City Council Member; and engaged in conduct which has brought embarrassment and discredit to the City Council.” Mr. Adkisson also claimed that Ms. Stoltz, “released information received during closed session.”

The censure, among other things, would have removed Ms. Stolz from all presently assigned committees and expelled her from all future closed session items on any agenda.

During the city council’s discussion of the resolution Ms. Stoltz defended herself from the dais. She said that Mr. Adkisson had a history of domestic violence and abuse of power and that he was flat out lying about her revealing information from closed session.

She said that Mr. Adkisson was taking a page out of what happened in Lemoore in censuring the only woman on the council. She then reminded the audience that Lemoore Mayor Ray Madrigal, who spearheaded Ms. Blair’s censure, was then resoundingly voted out of office in November.

In an anti-climactic end to these serious accusations on both sides, Coalinga Mayor Ron Lander asked for a motion for the resolution to censure Ms. Stoltz.

Mr. Adkisson moved to approve the resolution but then no one else on the council seconded the motion.

So the censure died without even going to a vote.

And Finally…..

On a final note concerning anti-SLAPP suits, readers might recall that Congress Member Devin Nunes filed a $150 million defamation lawsuit against McClatchy for an article about Alpha Omega Winery, a company that Mr. Nunes partly owns. He also filed a $250 million suit against Devin Nunes’ Cow, Twitter, and political consultant Liz Mair.

In his lawsuit he states, “In 2018, during his last re-election for the 22nd Congressional District, Nunes endured an orchestrated defamation campaign of stunning breadth and scope, one that no human being should ever have to bear and suffer in their whole life,” the lawsuit claimed. “Unlike prior elections, where Nunes won by sweeping majorities, Nunes won on November 6, 2018, by a much narrower margin, receiving 52.7 percent of the 222,379 votes. The malicious, false and defamatory statements and relentless attacks on Nunes’ reputation did not stop after he won the Congressional election in 2018. The defamation continues. It must be stopped.”

So why didn’t Mr. Nunes file his lawsuits in California, where he is from, and Twitter is based?

Because Virginia doesn’t have Anti-SLAPP laws and California does.

Though mightily thin-skinned, Mr. Nunes is still at the top of his game.

6 June, 2019 Valley Voice

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Real Mooney Grove Project welcomed by Tulare Chamber STAFF REPORTS

The Tulare Chamber of Commerce welcomed new member The Real Mooney Grove Project, Inc. at a ribbon cutting ceremony on May 30.

Hosted by founder and President Mary Bryant and sponsored by Samuel H. Hernandez of H & H Enterprises in Ivanhoe, the ceremony took place on the Veteran’s Freedom Bridge.

“When we joined the Chamber and started planning our ceremony we had to decide a location,” stated Bryant. “2019 is my five-year anniversary starting and first incorporating the Real Mooney Grove Project back in 2014, the 110th anniversary of the park, and the 100th Anniversary of the park’s green arched pedestrian bridge.

Known as The Veteran’s Freedom Bridge, it was the obvious choice for our ceremony.

Our sponsor, Samuel Hernandez, reserved arbor #1 to gather for coffee and refreshments before the ceremony and a BBQ after. We hope to make the bridge, veterans memorial, concession, lily pond, concrete tables, fence around the park, lagoon and rowboats and Cutler Park future projects for us.

“I had just finished the papers and filed for Federal 501(c)(3) non-profit exemption status about the same time joined the Tulare Chamber, “said Bryant. ”Finally getting that done all myself, was a good reason for me to celebrate. Not an easy thing to do. The

ribbon cutting ceremony was planned a month away I knew there was not a chance we could celebrate official non-profit. Normally it can take anywhere from six months to a year, even longer to be approved,” Bryant said.

“If papers are not correct or something is questionable or needs clarification the papers are sent back which takes even longer to be approved. I was totally shocked when I received the papers approved 24 days after I filed . My first thought reading the papers was no way, I must be reading this wrong. To be approved in just 24 days, that’s like totally unheard of .”

Attending was Visalia Mayor Bob Link and City Councilman Brian Poochigian.

“To have the Mayor and Councilman attending our ceremony is an honor and shows support,” she said.

Also attending was Timothy Carothers from Assemblyman Devon Mathis office who presented a Recognition of Accomplishment certificate.

Bryant said she personally invited all five county supervisors and Director of County General Services John Hess.

None attended.

“It has always been our goal to work with the county to restore and repair Mooney Grove. And although no one from county attendied I believe we may now see hope we will be able to work together. We have started to see some cooperation and have a

Local dignitaries, including Visalia Mayor Bob Link and City Councilman Brian Poochigian, joined to celebrate The Real Mooney Grove Project joining the Tulare Chamber.

scheduled second meeting with General Services for June 13,” said Bryant.

“Our mission statement was written ‘organized to erect, maintain and restore historic Mooney Grove Park and all public park buildings, monuments

, works or acts.’”

For more information or contractors interested in bidding for projects may email trmgpinc@yahoo.com or phone corporate headquarters at 559-586-3985.

Visalia fireworks show is back on schedule Approval from the Visalia City Council has made it official – Raw-

hide Ballpark & Recreation Park will be the new home of the City of Visa-

lia fireworks show to celebrate Independence Day! This event is in partnership between the City of Visalia, KJUG 106.7, Hitz 104.9, My 97.5, Spirit 88.9, and the Visalia Rawhide Ballclub.

This will be a community celebration event on Wednesday, July 3rd in lieu of the Independence Day holiday the following day and will incorporate the entire block of land which is home to Rawhide Ballpark, Recreation Park, Providence Skate Park, and the Anthony Community Center.

The event will kick off at Noon with a free swim session at the Redwood High School swimming pool, presented by Spirit 88.9. Food vendors will be available as well.

As the pool area shuts down at 4pm, the gates to Recreation Park will open. Available activities will include live music, DJ, inflatable games, playground, basketball courts, a skateboarding competition, and food & drink vendors.

At 6pm, Rawhide Ballpark will open its gates to those who have a ticket to attend their game that night versus the San Jose Giants.

After the conclusion of the Rawhide game, a celebratory fireworks show will be displayed for all to see.

Tickets will be available soon.

There will be two tiers of tickets.

5000 free general admission tickets will be given out beforehand and VIP tickets available for $20 each.

Complimentary general admission tickets will soon be available at

partner location for pick-up.

VIP tickets will have access to their own private seating area, their own restrooms, inflatable games, cooling mister station & food & drink vendors.

Tickets will be available for purchase at www.RawhideBaseball.com, or anyone can listen to KJUG 106.7, Hitz 104.9, My 97.5, or Spirit 88.9 for the chance to win free VIP tickets.

Many fundraising opportunities are available at this event & the Visalia Freedom Celebration is looking for interested partners. If you would like more information about the opportunities available, there will be an informational session on Wednesday, May 22nd from 12pm to 1pm at Rawhide Ballpark. After that, information will be available online.

Sponsorship opportunities are also available & can be received through any of the Visalia Freedom Celebration committee members.

A portion of the proceeds from this event will go to benefit the Momentum Broadcasting Kids to College Project. The goal of the Kids to College Project is to send 1,000 Visalia Unified School District students plus a parent on a day trip to one of California’s nationally and internationally recognized post-secondary academic institutions. The Project will provide transportation, chaperones, food and beverage, and coordination with each of the institutional partners in the program at no cost to the participating students.

SIERRA VIEW

their progress and working toward the highest possible standard of safety.

To see Sierra View Medical Center’s full grade, and to access consumer-friendly tips for patients, visit www. hospitalsafetygrade.org

continued from 1

the public.

SVMC pledges to honor the trust of patients by being transparent about

Valley Voice 6 June, 2019

Bank of the Sierra awards over $46k in grants in first quarter STAFF REPORTS

Bank of the Sierra has announced that $46,500 was given to 12 nonprofits in the Central Valley during the first quarter. The bank awards $1,000$5,000 grants to 15-20 nonprofit organizations each quarter as part of its Sierra Grant program. Overall in the first quarter, Bank of the Sierra awarded a total of $66,000 to nonprofits in eight counties it serves.

The California 4-H Foundation is hosting its signature event, the 4-H State Leadership Conference, at UC Davis in July. A Sierra Grant will help several young 4-H members from low- to moderate-income families with travel and registration costs. The conference will help youth improve their leadership skills and prepare them for college and a future career.

The Mission at Kern County’s Lee and Krystyna Jameson Recovery Home for Women and Children offers safe shelter and addiction recovery programs. A Sierra Grant will help provide basic needs for children at the home, including formula, diapers, cribs, car seats, childcare, and healthy snacks.

The organization’s goal is to assist mothers toward responsible parenting and self-sufficiency while providing the best possible care and learning environment for the children.

Happy Trails Riding Academy provides equine-related therapy to children and adults with disabilities throughout Tulare, Kings, and Fresno counties. A Sierra Grant will go towards scholarships for children to attend Camp Happy Trails in June and July. The weekly camps will feature a different theme each day, including

arts and crafts, farm animals, and nature – all with a twist involving horses.

“I’m so proud of what we’ve accomplished with the Sierra Grant program,” said Kevin McPhaill, Bank of the Sierra President and Chief Executive Officer. “The program is now 15 years old, and we’ve seen our communities benefit greatly through the nonprofits we’ve supported.”

About the Sierra Grant Program Since its inception in 2004, the Sierra Grant Program has been responsible for donating over two million dollars to organizations that improve local communities. Nonprofits who wish to apply for a Sierra Grant can pick up an instructional brochure at any Bank of the Sierra branch, or visit the bank’s web site at www.bankofthesierra.com/ resources/sierra_grant_program.

About Bank of the Sierra Bank of

Mosquitoes carrying West Nile found in Visalia STAFF REPORTS Sampling from a mosquito trap in southwest Visalia has tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV).

Delta Vector Control District, the testing agency, and the Tulare County Health & Human Service Agency’s Public Health Branch are asking Visalia residents to be vigilant against mosquito bites.

WNV is an illness caused by the bite of an infected mosquito.

Symptoms of WNV can vary in severity, and though most individuals experience minimal to no effects, symptoms can include fever, headache, body aches, skin rash, and swol-

len lymph nodes, while severe symptoms include disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, and paralysis. If you experience symptoms after being bitten, contact your local physician or clinic.

Mosquitoes are infected with WNV by taking a blood meal from a bird infected with WNV. It is imperative that community members take precautions to prevent being bitten by mosquitoes and report dead birds and incidences of high mosquito presence.

To reduce the risk of being bitten by mosquitoes, Tulare County residents are strongly urged to: • Report mosquito presence

(anonymously, if you like) by calling the Delta Vector Control District, or your local vector control agency, tollfree, at 1-877-732-8606 or by reporting online at www.DeltaVCD.com, or on its Facebook page (www.facebook.com/ DeltaVectorControlDistrict), Twitter (@DeltaVCD), or Instagram (@DeltaVCD) accounts.

• Apply an EPA-registered insect repellent that contains DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535 according to label instructions, especially in the early morning and evening.

• Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants if outside in the early morning and evening.

the Sierra is in its 42nd year of operations and is the largest independent bank headquartered in the South San Joaquin Valley. Bank of the Sierra is a community-centric regional bank, which offers a full range of retail and commercial banking services with full-service branches located within the counties of Tulare, Kern, Kings, Fresno, Los Angeles, Ventura, San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara. The bank also maintains an online branch, and provides specialized lending services through an agricultural credit center and an SBA center. Bank of the Sierra is recognized as one of the strongest and top-performing community banks in the country, with a 5-star rating from Bauer Financial and a Sm-All Star award from Sandler O’Neill.

• Make sure that doors and windows have tight-fitting screens to keep out mosquitoes. Repair or replace screens that have holes.

• Eliminate standing water and containers that can hold water from around the home.

Find out about mosquito reports all over the state of California by logging on to www.westnile.ca.gov.

A Tulare County map of virus activity for the DVC area is viewable on the Delta Vector Control District homepage at http://www.deltavcd.com/ by clicking on the tab “Current Mosquito Collections.”

Proudly introducing:

We are pleased to introduce Adventist Health Tulare — now the official, licensed operator of Tulare’s hospital.

Whether your health care needs are big or small, urgent or routine, the expert care you have come to expect from Adventist Health will be here for you and your family in Tulare, today and for years to come.

Learn more at AdventistHealthTulare.org

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6 June, 2019 Valley Voice

6

AGRICULTURE

COS offers training classes for specialty crop members STAFF REPORTS

The College of the Sequoias Training Resource Center was awarded a grant to support California’s Central Valley specialty crop industry by providing affordable food safety training. This training started in 2019 and will continue into 2020. The majority of the training will take place at the COS Tulare College Center. Depending on the training course, the fee will be just $30-$60 for Specialty Crop Industry members.

As a member of the Specialty Crop industry, Adriana Plascencia from Bravante Produce states, “I was somewhat familiar with the HACCP program, but taking this class has given me such a valuable perspective of what this program really entitles us to do to help us understand our organization.”

The Produce Safety Rule training will be in August, October and December. The class costs $30 for specialty crop members as opposed to the regular price of $249. This training is certificated by the Produce Safety Alliance.

This class will provide a foundation of Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs) and co-management information, FSMA Produce Safety Rule requirements, and details on how to develop

a farm food safety plan.

The Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) training will take place in July, September and November. The class costs $30 for specialty crop members as opposed to the regular price of $249.

GAP training is critically important for individuals working in Agriculture, as well as those working in Food Processing. GAP is not only a compliance issue; it also represents a competitive advantage as buyers are requiring food safety plans.

The NEW training offering of FSMA 101 will take place in August and September and is open to anyone for $75.

Come to this 3 hour workshop to learn more about FSMA and get these questions answered: What is FSMA? Which rule(s) apply to me and/or my organization? Why does FSMA exist? How do I comply?

The Foreign Supplier Verification Program training is accredited by the Food Safety Preventive Controls Alliance. This training will take place on August 5-6 and will be $60 for specialty crop members, as opposed to the regular price of $599. New Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) regulations require that importers must have a program in place to verify that their foreign suppliers are producing food

in a manner that provides the same level of public health protection as the preventive controls or produce safety regulations, as appropriate, and to ensure that the supplier’s food is not adulterated and is not misbranded with respect to allergen labeling. Importers are required to develop, maintain and follow an FSVP for each food brought into the United States and the foreign supplier of that food.

The Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) class will be held in July, September, November and January. The class costs $60 for specialty crop members, as opposed to the regular price of $399. These trainings are accredited by the International HACCP Alliance. HACCP is a management system in which food safety is addressed through the analysis and control of biological, chemical, and physical hazards from raw material production, procurement and handling, to manufacturing, distribution and consumption of the finished product.

The Preventive Controls for Human Foods class is accredited by the Food Safety Preventive Controls Alliance. This class will be held in October, December and February and is $60 for specialty crop members as opposed to the regular price of $599. The Preven-

tive Controls for Human Food regulation is intended to ensure safe manufacturing / processing, packing and holding of food products for human consumption in the United States.

This course, developed by the FSPCA, is the “standardized curriculum” recognized by FDA and fulfills the FSMA requirement for a PCQI (Preventive Controls Qualified Individual).

The Preventive Controls for Animal Foods class is accredited by the Food Safety Preventive Controls Alliance. This class will be held in January, 2020 and is open to anyone for $599.

The Preventive Controls for Animal Food regulation is intended to ensure safe manufacturing / processing, packing and holding of food products for animal consumption in the United States. This course, developed by the FSPCA, is the “standardized curriculum” recognized by FDA and fulfills the FSMA requirement for a PCQI (Preventive Controls Qualified Individual).

To find out more about this grant or to see a list of upcoming classes, please visit the COS Training Resource Center website at www.cos. edu/trainingcenter . You can also email the Training Resource Center at trainingcenter@cos.edu or call at (559) 688-3130.

California Farm Bureau welcomes lifting of agricultural tariffs STAFF REPORTS The California Farm Bureau Federation supports President Trump’s removal of steel and aluminum tariffs on Mexican and Canadian imports and urges swift ratification of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement.

“With Canada and Mexico agreeing to lift their retaliatory tariffs on many California agricultural prod-

ucts, it will provide a boost in exports and have a ripple effect throughout the farm and rural economy,” CFBF President Jamie Johansson said. “The president’s action today to remove steel and aluminum tariffs on two of our trading allies eliminates a major obstacle to USMCA moving through Congress.”

The next step is for the president to submit USMCA to Congress

for approval.

“We urge our California senators and representatives to work together for quick passage of USMCA,” Johansson said. “This could be a bipartisan achievement resulting in a big victory for the family farm.”

Canada represents the second-largest market for California agricultural exports, with sales of more than $3.3 billion in 2016, according to

the California Department of Food and Agriculture. Mexico is the No. 5 foreign market for California farm products, with sales of more than $1 billion in 2016.

The California Farm Bureau Federation works to protect family farms and ranches on behalf of nearly 40,000 members statewide and as part of a nationwide network of more than 5.5 million Farm Bureau members.

McKellar Family Farms to hold fundraising dinner STAFF REPORTS On June 15th, McKellar Family Farms will host their 2nd annual “Tree to Table” fundraising dinner at Historic Seven Sycamores Ranch. At their last dinner event, a little over 125 guests from across Tulare County came out to support the farms’ ag education programs while enjoying a beautiful farm-to-table dining experience.

This year’s dinner will again feature a three-course meal with locally sourced ingredients prepared by Chef David Vartanian of The Vintage Press.

This “Tree to Table” event is the flagship fundraising event that McKellar Family Farms hosts each year. Starting at 5PM, guests will have the opportunity to experience a wagon ride tour SALES, SERVICE, RENTAL AG EQUIPMENT & TRUCK REPAIR

of the farm accompanied with hors d’oeuvers and drinks. Farmer Bob McKellar will introduce their new Board of Directors and discuss their vision and plans for an interactive farm experience, Farmer Bob’s World.

Event Details: • ­­­Saturday, June 15th 5:00PM-8:00PM • The Garden at Historic Seven Sycamores • 32988 Road 164 • Ivanhoe, CA 93277 • Ticket Cost: $125 per person (includes three-course dinner and dessert) Donations: To reserve a ticket or purchase a sponsorship package, visit the McKellar Family Farms website at https://www.mckellarfamilyfarms.

com/events or call their offices at (559) 731-7925 McKellar Family Farms is located in the heart of the Central Valley, just 41 miles from Sequoia National Park. As a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, they provide visitors with an educational and interactive agricultural experience on

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VALLEYSCENE

6 June, 2019

ourvalleyvoice.com

Rocket Man Show will play Fox Theater on July 21 STAFF REPORTS

Courtesy/Rodarte Media

The CLUB in Visalia invites youth to summer programming STAFF REPORTS The Visalia Boys & Girls Club would like to announce the opening of their newly-renovated “The CLUB” Teen Room! The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Sequoias recognizes that teens & preteens require a space separate from younger Club members. The room is a place for teenagers to call their own and hold activities that better suit their age. Recently, the Teen Room has received a makeover which includes: a new coat of paint chosen by teen members, new restaurant-style booths for snacking with friends, a huge high-definition TV with a Playstation & Nintendo Switch for video game breaks, and a full-sized kitchen. Along with the Visalia Teen Room, a variety of summer activities and programs will be offered at 6 total Clubs.

The renovation of the room has been made possible by the Measure “N” Grant meant to sponsor extracurricular activities for young adults starting at middle-school-age. Thanks to the Visalia Police Department and

the City of Visalia, Boys & Girls Clubs of the Sequoias has been awarded the grant. The teen room will be open all summer—Visalia The CLUB memberships for teens are free!

Even if you do not reside in Visalia, your kids and teens can still participate in summer programming. The Tulare, Strathmore, Exeter, Ivanhoe, & Farmersville sites will also be providing exciting game room activities, sports leagues, fun reading clubs, STEM clubs, art, and service projects all throughout the summer vacation.

To register for a membership, you can register at your local Club or print out an application ahead of time at www.bgcsequoias.org/ourclubs and turn it in. Morning summer programming will be offered at the Exeter & Visalia Clubs, running from 7:30AM to 12PM for $60 a week. Programming start dates vary depending on the district’s last school day. Summer hours for Clubs are 1PM to 6PM, with the exception of Tulare (10AM to 2PM) and Strathmore (12PM-4PM). Fees vary by location.

The number one Elton John musical tribute, The Rocket Man Show, will rock the Fox Theatre on Sunday, July 21 at 7:00pm.

Tickets are on sale now and available online at foxvisalia.org, turnaroundartists.org, or by dialing 559-625-1369.

The Rocket Man Show is the #1 Elton John musical tribute. Hand Picked

by Elton John, The Show matches Elton’s insane energy night after night.

Recreating an early concert with gorgeous, colorful and flamboyant costumes, including boots, glasses, and jumpsuits, some of which were worn

by Elton himself! With all the classic young Elton antics, audiences are in for a night of nostalgia, singing, laughing and participation.

Not only is this clearly the most authentic Elton John tribute show in the world, but this was Elton‘s choice as his own body double to re-enact some of the most memorable moments of his career. These moments are being

Rus Anderson, playing Elton John, has generated rave reviews in his role.

The Humans opens Ice House on June 7 IRENE MORSE The final production in the Visalia Players 62nd Season is, The Humans.

If you think your family has the last word on tricky holiday family get-togethers, you are going to want to join the Blake family for a traditional Irish-American Thanksgiving meal.

Erik and Deidre Blake have brought their family together in the New York apartment of their daughter, Brigid, and her partner, Richard. Like all young couples, Brigid and Richard want to impress the family, which in this case means putting the best possible face on an apartment that insists on emitting quirky noises and producing unsettling incidents.

Erik and Deidre Blake are portrayed by Players’ veterans, Keith Lindersmith and Nancy Holley. Brigid is played by Christina Enquist, Richard

by Aaron Johnson.

Brigid’s sister, Aimee, is dealing

HUMANS continued on 10 »

used in the promo for Elton’s ‘Farewell Yellow Brick Road’ world tour. How’s that for peace of mind?

Rus Anderson, who plays Elton in the show, has put his extensive live and theatrical experience to work nightly, performing as a young Elton John in the tribute show ‘Rocket Man’.

This has earned him an endorsement from the official Elton John Fan club & praise from many prestigious clients, including The Elton John AIDS Foundation. In the past year alone, The Rocket Man Show has appeared in all four corners of the USA. Rus is keeping the 70’s Elton alive by re-enacting his charisma, vocals, piano playing, and costumes – the ones we all know & love!

Rus and his full band of merry crackerjack musicians are the very best in the business. The show is 100% live in both vocals & instrumentation.

Absolutely no tracks or lip-syncing.

The performance itself is an extremely sincere, intense and visual spectacle of a journey. There are ballads and driving rock songs.

8

Zoorassic Park is hatching at Fresno Chaffee Zoo

STAFF REPORTS An exciting exhibit is opening at Fresno Chaffee Zoo that will make guests re-think extinct.

For a limited time only the Zoo will be home to Zoorassic Park presented by The Kirkland Foundation, a self-guided exhibit featuring 21 lifelike and life-size dinosaurs that move and make sounds.

The exhibit will open to the public Saturday, June 8, at 8:30 a.m. As part of the grand opening celebration, the first 100 children to enter at the Zoo admissions booth starting at 8:30 a.m. with paid entry will receive a free ticket to the Zoorassic Park exhibit.

Children must be accompanied by an adult with paid entry to the Zoo and the exhibit. The morning’s festivities

will include additional opportunities to learn about paleontology and interact with the exhibit through special photo opportunities and appearances by mascots and puppets.

Other limited-time programs for dinosaur enthusiasts throughout the exhibit’s time at the Zoo include dinosaur-themed birthday party packages, paleontology summer camps, and a T.

6 June, 2019 Valley Voice

Rex adopt-an-animal.

In addition to presenting sponsor The Kirkland Foundation, sponsors for this exhibit include Haron Jaguar Land Rover and Fresno State.

Zoorassic Park tickets can be purchased starting June 8 at the Zoo admissions booth or online at www.fresnochaffeezoo.org.

Advance purchase is recommended. The exhibit will run through October 31, 2019. Ticket prices are as follows: • Adults (12 and up): $4 • Children (2-11): $3 • Babies 1 and under: Free • Zoorassic Park Season Pass for Fresno Chaffee Zoo Members: $20.

This provides all individuals covered on the membership unlimited entry to Zoorassic Park through the end of the exhibit.

New field station creates summer internships TULARE COUNTY OFFICE OF ED. This summer, a small group of high school students will be the first to benefit from the generous community support given last year for the new UC Merced/SCICON Field Station.

During the last week of June, students will receive a stipend to begin an ongoing project to map the Circle J-Norris Ranch, which is the site of the new field station.

Using GPS devices, students will establish a grid, which can be used by local environmental science students and researchers from the University of California.

The grid will also serve as a basis for their own ongoing oak mortality research.

The three-day mapping project will begin on June 25 at Circle J-Norris Ranch and will be led by lead teacher Nancy Bruce, with support from staff at UC Merced.

“It’s through the support of sponsors such as Educational Employees Credit Union, Fred and Mitzie Ruiz, the Porterville Breakfast Rotary and so many others who pledged to support student paid internship opportunities during the fundraising dinner TCOE held in November that we are able to offer this first research program,” said Tulare County Superintendent of Schools Tim Hire. “This is the beginning of an internship program that will involve more Tulare County students and lead, we hope, to them seeing UC Merced as a place for them

to continue their studies, particularly if they’re interested in environmental sciences.”

At a recent meeting of the UC Merced/SCICON Field Station steering committee, members Dr. Sam Traina, vice chancellor of research at UC Merced; Dr. Jessica Blois, faculty director of UC Merced’s Natural Members of the new UC Merced/SCICON Field Station Steering Committee Reserves; Tim Hire; include (l-r) Dr. Sam Traina, vice chancellor of research at UC Merced; Tim Jim Vidak, mem- Hire, Tulare County superintendent of schools; Dianne Shew, SCICON adminber of the Friends istrator; Dr. Jessica Blois, faculty director of UC Merced’s Natural Reserves; of SCICON board; and Jim Vidak, member of the Friends of SCICON board. and Dianne Shew, exciting times for SCICON and UC MerSCICON administrator, began to plan ced as we create a much-need research the operations of the new field station. site in the Sierra Nevada foothills and “The big news from the university expose students to higher education is that it was able to obtain permission learning and environmental science to utilize the University of California’s career opportunities.”

Natural Reserve System reservations High school students interested system for the new UC Merced/SCICON in participating in the UC Merced/ Field Station,” said Mr. Hire. “This will SCICON Field Station mapping internbring the field station statewide, na- ship June 25-27 are encouraged to contional and potentially international tact Dianne Shew at (559) 539-2642. exposure with researchers. These are

Kimberly Haynes in concert on June 15 at 7:30pm STAFF REPORTS L.A. singer/ songwriter Kimberly Haynes and Visalia attorney Doug Hurt got to know each other through song.

Haynes was singing at sound healing meditation gatherings in Los Angeles which Doug began attending.

A singer/guitarist himself, Hurt started singing at the weekend retreats.

Doug brought Kimberly’s concert to Visalia last year, and she is making a return visit at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, June 15 at the Center for Spiritual Living Visalia, 117 S. Locust.

Doug will open the concert performing with pianist Marco Rodriguez.

Kimberly will again sing with her

musical partner, Vito Gregoli, who performs on a vast array of instruments such as guitars, South American charango, mandolin, sitar, Native American flute and percussion.

Kimberly’s first CD, “Awaken Me,” won Album of the Year in the international One World Music Awards in 2016.

She says her music is hard to categorize. It ranges from new age world fusion to gentle folk and soft pop.

The concert is sponsored by the Law Offices of Douglas L. Hurt.

For tickets, go to Eventbrite or call 559 625-2441. Food trucks will be available with seating behind the center at 6:45 p.m.

Valley Voice 6 June, 2019

Calendar

June 7 – 22 “Mama Mia!” in Porterville ABBA’s hits sung on a Greek Island in this stage adaptation of the hit movie with non-stop laughs and explosive dance numbers. Porterville Barn Theater, 42 S. Plano, Porterville. 550 3107046 or www.portervillebarntheater. com June 7, 8, 14, 15, 21 & 22 at 7 p.m.

Sunday matinees June 9 & 16 at 2 p.m.

June 7 - 28th: Rockin’ the Arbor Rockin’ the Arbor is the Lemoore Chamber’s Annual summer concert series event held every Friday in June 6:00 pm-10:30 pm. There is live entertainment provided by various valley bands and local food vendors and beer garden.

June 7th: Juried Community Exhibition and Opening Reception at Arts Visalia Exhibition runs June 5th through June 28th. Gallery Hours: Noon-5:30 p.m., Wednesdays-Saturdays. Opening Reception is First Friday, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Arts Visalia Visual Art Center 214 E. Oak Ave., Visalia. Janelle Howard, Gallery Director. 559-739-0905, artsvisalia@sbcglobal.net June 7 – 23: Ice House Theater present “ The Humans” Presented by The Visalia Players, 410 E Race Ave, The Humans is an uproarious, hopeful, and heartbreaking play that takes place during a family dinner on Thanksgiving. Our modern age of anxiety is keenly observed, with humor and compassion, in this new American classic that won the 2016 Tony Award for Best Play. Show times June 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22 at 7:30 pm, June 9, 16, 23 at 2:00 pm Tickets at www.visaliaplayers.org or at the door on the night of the show.

June 8: Candidate Larry Micari Meet and Greet Larry Micari for Tulare County Board of Supervisor District 1 would like to invite the community to an evening of food and fellowship. The event is on Saturday from 6pm-9pm at the Lindsay Wellness Center @ 860 N. Sequoia, Lindsay. Please RSVP to Raj 303-5909 or Jaskurn 920-5300. www.micari4supervisor.com.

June 8 & 9: Over The River and Through The Woods Enjoy Kings Players Community Theater in a play about Nick who is a single guy from New Jersey who sees both sets of grandparents every Sunday for dinner until he tells them he’s been offered a job that will have him moving away. Thus begin schemes to keep Nick around - which includes bringing to dinner the lovely, single Caitlin O’Hare.

Kings Players Community Theater, Temple Theater June 8: Stan Taylor performs with his band Singer/songwriter Stan Taylor (better known as Visalia’s own Stan Carrizosa Jr., winner of the ABC reality series “High School Musical,” will perform with his band at 8 p.m. at the Visalia Fox Theatre, 300 W. Main. 559 625-1369 or www.foxvisalia.org June 8: The Yosemite Jazz Band from Oakhurst Band will play a concert at 2 p.m. at the Three Rivers Veterans’ Memorial Building, 43490 Sierra Dr. (Highway 198). Plus a dinner at 1 p.m. Reservations required for dinner at 559 359-1442. https://www. facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=254343 6875687531&set=a.1025329397498294&type=3&theater June 8: “Urban Cowboy”

9 Urban Cowboy (1980) starring John Travolta will be shown at the Hanford Fox Theatre, 326 N. Irwin, at 7 p.m. 559 5847823 or www.foxhanford.com June 8: Loud Mouth Prom Poetry Slam Poetry Sam invites everyone to come in their best prom outfit. 7 p.m. at Howie & Sons Pizza, 2430 S. Mooney, Visalia. Go to Facebook: Loud Mouth 4th Annual Prom Slam.

June 8: Terry Halbardier Remembrance Day Terry Halbardier, who died in Visalia, helped save the USS Liberty from sinking by, “…without hesitation and with complete disregard for his own personal safety, fearlessly and repeatedly exposed himself to overwhelming rocket and machine gun fire to repair a damaged antenna in an open deck area during heavy aerial attacks…” according to the Silver Star Citation presented

by Congressman Devin Nunes. Two survivors of the USS Liberty will address by phone a remembrance event and pot luck on June 8, 2019, at 6 pm at 1213 South Fairway Street, Visalia. RSVP: Roy Kendall, 559-901-1974. royjkendall@ hotmail.com.

June 9: Opening reception for “Seascapes and Ocean Views” Opening reception at the Exeter Courthouse Gallery, 125 South B Street from 2-4 p.m. Over 40 pieces in the show. www.facebook.com/SeascapesandOceanViews June 11th through July 20: Summer Reading Program Visalia Library Stop by the library to register and get your reading log! As you meet your reading goals earn prizes. For children ages 1-18, we can feed their bodies as well with our Summer Lunch at the Library program. Free meals are served Tuesdays-Fridays at 12:30pm.

June 11 through July 19: Summer Reading Programs and Entertainment Lindsay, Springville and Strathmore, Pixley, Alpaugh, Earlimart, Tipton Exeter, Farmersville, Three Rivers, Woodlake, Dinuba, Ivanhoe, London, and Orosi Libraries dishes up fun and excitement with the free programs at your local Tulare County Branch Library. Participants can sign up throughout the program to get their reading logs to earn prizes and be entered into drawings for more prizes. The earlier you sign up, the greater the fun. Each of the branches has entertainers, events and special reading activities every Wednesday and Thursday June 12 – July 18. Three Rivers, Earlimart and Tipton Library events are on Fridays.

June 11th - July 16th Toddler Storytimes Every Tuesday at 10am, in the Children’s Wing o the Visalia Library June 12th - July 17: Activities for Kids and Families Visalia Library Lego Club, every Wednesday from 2:00pm – 3pm, Pajama Storytime every Wednesday at 6:30pm, June 12th - July 17th, Movies every Funtastic Friday at 2pm and 4pm, board games & Xbox Kinect at 3pm, every Friday.

June 13, 20 & 27 – Porterville Farmers Market Sierra View Medical Center welcomes you to the 5th Annual Farmer’s Market where you can purchase seasonal produce and goods, learn about community resources, receive health education, and grab a bite to eat. Children activities. Sierra View east parking lot from 8 to 11:30 a.m. 465 W. Putnam Avenue in Porterville. Visit sierra-view. com/farmers-market June 13 – July 18: The Visalia Branch

Library Thursday shows Every Thursday at 11am and 3pm in the Children’s Wing, E&M Reptile, June 13th, Ballet Folklorico Sierra Linda, June 20th, Magician Tim Mannix, June 27th, Reptile Ron, July 11th, Steve Martin’s Working Wildlife, July 18.

June 13 – Visalia Chamber of Commerce’s 2019 Annual Awards Dinner Celebration from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Visalia Conference Center, 303 E. Acequia in downtown Visalia. Tickets are $75 at eventbrite.com.

June 14 – “Wine, Cheese & Jazz” The Creative Center Foundation presents the return of its Wine, Cheese & Jazz fundraising event! Top local jazz musicians, Creative Center client performance, original art for sale, and silent auction prizes! from 6 to 9 p.m. at the The Jon Ginsberg Gallery, 410 E. Race Ave. in downtown Visalia. Tickets are $35 at eventbrite.com.

June 14 – July 19 Activities for Teens (ages 13-19) Visalia Library Teen Art Workshop “Express Yourself” Instructor: Lisa Alvarado, June 14th 3:00 - 4:30pm (Blue Room) Tween/Teen Poetry Writing Workshop, Instructor: Erin Elliott, June 15th 3:00 - 4:30pm (Purple Room) Teen Art Workshop “Let It Go” Instructor: Lisa Alvarado, June 21st 3:00 - 4:30pm (Blue Room) Art Workshop “The Power of You,” Instructor: Lisa Alvarado Saturday, July 13th 2:30 - 4:30pm (Blue Room) Teen Board & Video Games, July 19th 4:00 - 5:45pm (Blue Room) June 15 – July 12 Activities for Tweens (ages 10-13) Visalia Library Tween/Teen Poetry Writing Workshop, Instructor: Erin Elliott, Saturday, June 15th 3:00 - 4:30pm (Purple Room) Tween Art Workshop, Instructor Mikayla Gutierrez, Friday, June 28th from 3:00 - 5:00pm (Blue Room), Tween Art Workshop, Friday, July 12th 3:00 5:00pm June 15: Kimberly Haynes in concert Kimberly will sing with her musical partner, Vito Gregoli, who performs on a vast array of instruments such as guitars, South American charango, mandolin, sitar, Native American flute and percussion. Kimberly’s first CD, “Awaken Me,” won Album of the Year in the international One World Music Awards in 2016. The concert is sponsored by the Law Offices of Douglas L. Hurt. For tickets, go to Eventbrite or call 559 6252441. Food trucks will be available with seating behind the center at 6:45 p.m.

June 15: Boots and Brews RESCHEDULED TO SEPT 15 Celebrate Flag Day the American way with the Exeter Republican Women Federated, 6:00 – 7:00,VIP reception, 7:00pm Program and Dinner at The Pine Residence, 1600 Palm Rd. Exeter.

Event sponsored by Tulare County Supervisor Kuyler Crocker and candidate for TCBOS District 1 Larry Micari, Distinguished speakers, Dinner and Raffle, Tickets $75, VIP $125. Info 280-3726 or 972-3707.

June 15: Tree to Table” Dinner McKellar Family Farms will host their 2nd annual “Tree to Table” fundraising dinner at Historic Seven Sycamores Ranch, 32988 Road 164 Ivanhoe, This year’s dinner will feature a three-course meal with locally sourced ingredients prepared by Chef David Vartanian of The Vintage Press.5PM, a wagon ride tour of the farm accompanied with hors d’oeuvers and drinks. Tickets $125 per person (includes three-course dinner and dessert) June 15: Spanish-speaking comedian, Chuponcito Chuponcito has his show for adults

and is always characterized as a funny, irreverent, tender and very witty clown. He has been touring for a year and a half uninterrupted with his show for adults and has done over 300 shows in Mexico. Doors: 7:00 pm | Show: 8:00 pm, $25.00 - $49.00, Visalia Fox Theatre, 300 W. Main St 559.625.1369, foxvisalia. org June 21 Candidate Larry Micari Bologna Feed Larry Micari for Tulare County Board of Supervisor District 1 would like to invite you to an opportunity to personally get to know him and enjoy an evening of food and fellowship. The Meet and Greet Bologna Feed is Hosted by Mel Borbolla on Friday, from 6pm-9pm at 31020 Road 160, Visalia. Please RSVP to Beth Micari 280-7546 or micari4supervisor@gmail.com. www.micari4supervisor.com.

June 22: The Golf Tournament Fundraiser for Larry Micari Join us for a fun day at the Exeter Golf Course supporting Larry Micari for Tulare County Board of Supervisor, District 1. Check in is at 8am. Sponsorships are available! The cost is $50 per player but teams are recommended. BBQ and drinks will be provided along with great prizes. Tickets and sponsorships can be purchased at www.micari4supervisor.com or https://www.eventbrite. com/e/micari4supervisor-golf-tournament-tickets-62617625002. Contact Chris Wenzinger 901-8705 or Beth Micari 559-280-7546 for more information.

June 22 & 29 – Free Family Night Swim Mt. Whitney High School Pool in Visalia. 6:00pm - 8:00pm. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

June 26 - Tai Chi for Arthritis, Fibromyalgia, and Chronic Pain This class consists of 8 consecutive sessions. Wednesdays and Fridays, 5:45pm to 6:45pm. $80.00 per person. Instructor. E. Velasquez, Certified TCH Instructor. Each session in this class will build on concepts already learned in the previous sessions. Therefore, no new students will be added to the class after the third session . Register Now! 816 W. Oak Ave. Visalia June 28 – Family Night at Visalia Adventure Park Hwy 198 and Akers St., 9 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. $18 wristband gets you unlimited access to go karts, bumper boats, mini golf, batting cages, and laser tag.

Karaoke mic will be available, too. For more info, visit adventurepark.com/ family-fun.

June 28: 3rd Annual Dream Big Golf Tournament and Fundraiser Visalia Unified School District and Citywide Home Loans – Anthony Gonzales Mortgage Team will partner to host the This event serves to raise funds for VUSD’s PULSE After School Programs operated at VUSD’s five middle schools; Green Acres, Divisadero, Valley Oak, La Joya and Ridgeview. For more information on this event, please contact Director of Student Services Frank Escobar at fescobar@vusd.org or (559) 730-7570.

June 29: SHOOTOUT” Fundraiser for Larry Micari Come out and support Larry Micari for Supervisor at the “SHOOTOUT” Fundraiser at the Tulare County Trap Club.

Enjoy the morning of shooting, bbq, lots of prizes and more! Shooter cost is $100 and sponsorships are available. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/micari4supervisor-shootout-trap-shoot-tickets-62526982889 or www.micari4supervisor.com. Or contact Scott James 559-352-6982 or Beth Micari 559-2807546.

6 June, 2019 Valley Voice

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High school students respond to problem gambling

STAFF REPORTS Students from El Diamante, Sequoia, and Hanford West High Schools are working together to increase awareness of problem gambling in Tulare and Kings counties with the support of the Tulare County Office of Education and the California Office of Problem Gambling. The three local schools connected through Betting On Our Future (BOOF). BOOF is a statewide program that supports students in 30 sites across California to develop a multimedia campaign to raise awareness of problem gambling.

Students began their advocacy work in the fall of 2018 with the administration of the BOOF Prevalence Survey to gain a snapshot of what underage gambling looks like in their local community.

Surveys were returned from 943 students in 28 counties across California; 413 of the surveys were from Tulare and Kings counties. The survey shows that roughly 45% of local youth (ages 8-21) gamble on a monthly basis. The National Council on Problem Gambling estimates that in 2016, 2% of the US population, roughly 5.5 million people, experience out of control gambling addiction (2016 Survey of Problem Gambling Services in the United States). Introducing gambling before young brains fully develop (age 24) increases the risk of addiction as young people are more likely to act impulsively and take unreasonable risks.

In response, young people from each site created public service announcements and graphics to raise awareness of the issue.

Ayden Stone, a Hanford West fresh-

The El Diamante High School team visited several local lottery vendors to distribute information about problem gambling. Students from El Diamante, Sequoia, and Hanford West high schools attended a press conference on the Betting On Our Future program to share the process and the products they developed to build awareness of problem gambling among young people. Courtesy/TCOE

man, shared that students learned a lot about the effects of gambling addiction, “I was really shocked to [learn] all of the physical and mental effects it can have on a person, and I hope that the posters I created help spread awareness about gambling addiction because I don’t think many people take gambling addiction seriously.”

In addition to the multimedia components of the campaign, students spent time in their communities reaching out to local lottery merchants to re-educate them on the regulations and penalties when selling or paying out lottery tickets. Working with local merchants provided opportunities for youth advocacy and allowed young people to help shift social norms, all of which contributed to the reduction of underage and problematic gambling behaviors. This work provided unique

opportunities for young people to engage different populations and gain diverse perspectives on the issue.

When El Diamante student Kanwar Singh reflected on the experience of working with a local lottery merchant, he shared, “…I felt moved by her… by the way she responded…I wasn’t expecting her to give her side of the story too, like how she would explain how she sees these young kids try to buy these scratchers too…I was surprised that she had seen that happen.”

Jason Hopper, the Arts, Media, and Entertainment teacher at Hanford West is a first-time BOOF advisor and worked with his freshman classes on the project. “BOOF gave my students the opportunity to use the skills they learn in class to make a difference in the real world. By using a Project Based Learning approach, students were

able to really investigate the problem and develop solutions that make sense in their community.”

The statewide Betting On Our Future program has been supported through the Tulare County Office of Education for over ten years and has created media tools utilized both locally and statewide to raise awareness of problem gambling. “Programs like BOOF create opportunities for young people to take a critical look at the issues facing them and their peers and give them an opportunity to take action. These skill-building opportunities will serve them throughout their life while creating healthier communities for all of us.” says Tim A. Hire, Tulare County Superintendent of Schools.

Avi Kaplan, Mt. Whitney graduate, returns to Visalia for Fox show STAFF REPORTS Avi Kaplan lives deep in the forest near the Tennessee run of the ancient Natchez Trace trail. His rural cabin is worlds away from Los Angeles, his hub for six years as he toured the world with Pentatonix. Now, surrounded by farms and forests just a stone’s throw from Nashville, the kid who grew up listening to folk music among the California Sequoias is content.

“I’m finally writing the music that is in my heart,” Avi says. “It’s actually the music I’ve always written. I’ve just never had a chance to show people.”

In 2017, Avi stepped away from creating after years of rushing from stadium to stadium at a frenzied pace––an experience he calls “beautiful,” but one that also left him physically and artistically depleted.

Since returning to music on his

Humans

continued from 7 with a newly developed intestinal disorder. She is also trying to bravely get over a recent breakup, but not managing very well. Marisela Ramos takes on the role of the idiosyncratic Aimee.

Then there’s Momo, the Blake matriarch, who is suffering from Alzheimer’s, and an inclination to be difficult. Robin Hoffman handles this role.

The Humans, written by Stephen Karam, opened on Broadway in 2016 and won a Tony for Best Play that year.

It was also nominated for a Pulitzer Prize. The prize committee said of the play, “A profoundly affecting drama

own terms, the songs have poured out of him, ready for foot-stomping music halls and serious listening rooms alike.

He has also liberated his vocals, once so famously known as the perfect power-bass, to reveal a nuanced voice, rich, tender and abounding.

Surrounded by forest and newfound artistic clarity, the result has yielded dozens and dozens of new songs. Reveling in the simplicity, “I get on my porch with my guitar, look at my trees, and write a song,” he says.

The songs Avi has always written and continues to write are timeless, earthy, and raw––roots music in its purest form.

Avi attributes his deep connection to folk music and its authenticity to the natural environment he was surrounded by growing up.

Raised just 40 minutes from Sequoia National Park, in the golden

rolling hills of central California, “that music always felt right with what I was seeing,” the 29-year-old says.

Avi has taken his time, and his future is wide open because of it. As he has rediscovered his own musical roots and delved deeper into the folk he’s always loved––exploring a range of sounds from soul to bluegrass––he has reconnected with himself and found yet another way to connect beautifully with others.

“I am so grateful I get to do this.” Avi says. “I’m truly excited for the future.”

Kaplan will play at the Visalia Fox Theater, 300 W. Main, as part of his “The Otherside Tour” on July 11, 2019.

Doors open at 6:30pm; the show begins at 7:30pm.

Tickets range from $24-65, and can be purchased at foxvisalia.org.

that sketches the psychological and emotional contours of an average American family.”

In the words of Jesse Green, in the New York Magazine, “…for all this, the play is rackingly funny even as it pummels the heart and scares the bejesus out of you.”

Director, Donny Graham, says that his cast is talented and easily lives up to the play’s publicity. He reports that it is rare for a director to have time to sit and chat with his cast about their performances, rather than working problem scenes over and over. Graham feels that their work is even, and their instincts about the characters are spot on.

If you are coming to the play ex-

pecting it to be based on the novel by Matt Haig or on the British TV series, both of the same name, this is not it.

While these three forms of entertainment all have the same title, they are different stories.

What they have in common is – well, Humans. The human condition, human relationships, human foibles, or what director, Donny Graham says, “Life Happens.”

Chris Jones, in the Chicago Tribune, writes that while Playwright Karam never “romanticizes his characters nor minimized the struggles of those who find themselves in lower-middle class and older in years … he focuses on their connections with each other. You watch them drive each

other crazy, but you also want them at your own dinner, quite badly. You’ll be surprised how much.”

The Humans opens at the Ice House Theatre at Race and Santa Fe in Visalia at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, June 7, 2019 and runs for three weekends with evening performances at 7:30 p.m. on 6/8, 6/14, 6/15, 6/21, and 6/22; and matinees at 2:00 p.m. on 6/9, 6/16, and 6/23.

For more information about the Visalia Community Players and to purchase tickets, check out their website at www.visaliaplayers.org. Tickets may also be purchased by calling 734-3900.

For details about local arts groups in Tulare County, visit the Visalia Arts Consortium website.

Valley Voice 6 June, 2019

11

AGRICULTURE

Farm Bureau members advocate in D.C. CHRISTINE SOUZA

Ag Alert/California Farm Bureau Federation

Issues including agricultural trade, immigration reform and water storage emerged as priorities as a delegation of Farm Bureau leaders from California met with administration officials and members of Congress in Washington, D.C. The trip culminated with announcement by the Trump administration of $16 billion in assistance for farmers affected by retaliatory tariffs, just as the California Farm Bureau Federation annual advocacy trip came to a close.

Seventeen Farm Bureau leaders from across the state—including the 2019 Leadership Farm Bureau class— joined CFBF officers and staff for a packed, three-day schedule of meetings that took place in offices, hallways and on the steps of the U.S. Capitol.

“We had already spent several days talking to members of Congress, U.S. Department of Agriculture and their staff about the impacts that trade is having on our farms and that it is important for them to know as this trade package goes forward and in getting their support for it,” said CFBF President Jamie Johansson, who attended President Trump’s news conference on tariff assistance at the White House (see story, Page 6).

A member of the CFBF delegation to Washington, Lake County farmer Daniel Suenram, said it is critical for new trade agreements to be ratified, adding, “There is a lot more at stake this time around with the ongoing trade issues and the impact this is having on California farmers.”

Suenram, second vice president of

the Lake County Farm Bureau, called it “very important” for people feeling the effects of the disputes “to bring our firsthand stories to our representatives and let them know what the outcomes mean, not only to us, but to our local and regional economies.” He said Farm Bureau members also reiterated the importance of ratifying the pending United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement.

Pertaining to another important issue—the need for immigration reform and a stable workforce for agriculture—California farmers and ranchers discussed possible solutions with members of Congress.

San Diego County produce farmer Hannah Gbeh described a shortage of farm employees as “a major issue for our industry within San Diego County,” noting that the lack of a solution takes a toll, both emotionally and economically, on farm employees and farm owners.

“Our farmers proudly offer some of the highest wages and safest working conditions in the agricultural industry,” Gbeh said. “However, the current state of immigration policy leaves us scrambling to find staff when needed.”

While in Washington, she said, farmers “were able to provide real-life, tangible examples of how this situation is negatively affecting our industry.”

During meetings in which labor challenges were discussed, Johansson and others cited a CFBF survey released earlier this spring that documented employee shortages on California farms and ranches.

The survey showed 56% of the farmers and ranchers said that they’d

been unable to hire enough people, despite raising wages, reducing the number of acres and crops grown, increasing use of the H-2A visa program and mechanizing where possible.

One solution, Johansson said, is legislation introduced by Rep. Zoe Lofgren, D-San Jose, and Sen. Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif., to grant legal “blue card” status to immigrant farm employees in the United States.

“An important part of any kind of labor reform is how we take care of our existing workforce in terms of status adjustment, and making sure they are legal in a way that recognizes that their family members are part of our community as well,” Johansson said. “Moving the blue card bill is important. We also need a program that allows for easy, secure access into the United States and portability, so that those people coming to work in agriculture can move from crop to crop as the seasons change.”

With insufficient water storage to capture additional rainfall and aging water infrastructure throughout the state, the need for continued investment in Western water projects to meet current and future water needs was a primary concern brought to Capitol Hill by farmers.

Modoc County farmer Cody Dodson grows alfalfa and wheat with water from the Klamath Project, which faces ongoing water shortages and endangered-species concerns.

“I had the opportunity to talk with Congressman Doug LaMalfa about California water infrastructure in our district,” said Dodson, a member of the Leadership Farm Bureau class. “I had a great time learning and seeing the relationships California Farm Bureau

has with our members of Congress.

It is refreshing to see the presence we have at our nation’s capital. My hope is with continued interaction we can gain more support for California agriculture.”

In discussing agricultural issues with House Agriculture Committee Chairman Collin Peterson, D-Minn., Johansson said the chairman told Farm Bureau members to engage with new members of Congress, such as new members on the Agriculture Committee.

“We have great California representation, but we really have to engage new members on what California agriculture needs,” Johansson said. “Being engaged does not always mean leaving your farm, but being a resource so they can look to you for advice or information. Another important aspect is to take advantage when they are in town, such as setting up meetings with congressmen and congresswomen.”

CFBF First Vice President Shannon Douglass, who farms in Glenn County, said, “Trips like this are critical to remind our lawmakers about how their decisions are impacting us as farmers.

If we want to make change, these are the visits we need to have.”

Suenram, noting he has been to Washington to advocate for agriculture previously, added, “Anyone involved in farming in California who can afford to take the time to make this trip with CFBF should do so. Not only is it a great personal experience, but a great way to let your voice be heard.”

(Christine Souza is an assistant editor of Ag Alert. She may be contacted at csouza@cfbf.com.)

Rainfall, grass growth benefit cattle ranchers CHING LEE

Ag Alert/California Farm Bureau Federation Despite a weaker cattle market and trade uncertainties affecting U.S. beef exports, California ranchers say marketing heavier cattle this year has improved their returns, thanks to abundant rainfall, which produced plentiful grasses on the range for grazing livestock.

Tehama County rancher Bert Owens described the weight gain on his cattle as “excellent,” adding that “tremendous” forage production on his winter range will allow him to keep his cattle there for 10 days longer before moving them to their summer pastures.

“It was just a wonderful year for the cattle,” he said. “We’re really thankful for that.”

Being able to sell his cattle at a higher weight has helped to offset “slightly depressed” cattle prices, he said, noting that calves he sold recently were 3% to 4% lower in price than a year ago. Ample forage has also reduced his production costs, as he didn’t have to buy supplemental feed, he said.

Though Riverside County rancher Andy Domenigoni did not get “the deluge of rain” that ranchers in other parts of the state received, he described his grass year as “really good—not only for the flat land but for the hill land too.”

“With all the forage that we’ve had, the cattle just packed on the pounds,” he said.

After reducing his herd about 40% during the drought, Domenigoni said his numbers are now back to where they were prior to the drought—and he plans to expand by an additional 20% to 25%,

noting he’s been in a “growth mode” the past three years.

Driven by heavier carcass weights, U.S. beef production is expected to reach record levels this year, and 2020 production is projected to surpass 2019 by nearly 1%, according to estimates by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

“That’s why the market is somewhat depressed,” Owens said. “There’s a lot of cattle on the market and plenty of beef to go around. And there’s plenty of chicken and pork, our competing meats, on the market as well.”

Four or five years ago, the nation’s cattle herd was much smaller and beef prices reached record highs. At that time, the state was in the middle of its multi-year drought and ranchers were thinning their herds, even though market signals told them to expand.

These days, it is dairy farmers, responding to sustained low returns, who are shrinking cattle numbers and liquidating herds, which has put “a large amount of that beef on the market,” said Jon Dolieslager, owner and operator of Tulare County Stockyard. But he also noted that the cull-cow market has stabilized in recent weeks after a year of weaker prices.

Dolieslager said “there should be better demand” for other classes of beef, but there are now fewer people and companies handling and buying cattle in the state, making it harder for auction yards to sell cattle for a premium. He blamed the declining trend on the state’s trucking and other regulations. Higher fuel costs also have made shipping cattle out of state “extremely expensive,” he said.

George Gookin, a representative for

With pasture grasses replenished by abundant winter and spring rains, California cattle ranchers say they’ll be able to sell heavier animals, helping offset a weaker cattle market. Courtesy/CFBF/Rob Andrew

Cattlemen’s Livestock Market in Galt, said the fat-cattle market has “dropped significantly” in the last two months, making heavy feeder cattle harder to sell. But he said he expects more will move once the weather gets warmer, especially in northern states and the Midwest, and the grilling season accelerates.

“We’ll use the product eventually, and that’ll possibly help this fat market move up,” he said.

People in the cattle business say prolonged U.S.-China trade tensions have not helped, contributing to market uncertainty. And with USDA expecting U.S. meat production to continue increasing into 2020, producers say foreign markets remain an important outlet for all meats.

“Our export markets are key drivers on how the market is acting right now,”

San Luis Obispo County rancher Kevin Kester said. “With protein coming out of our ears, so to speak, we need the export market in all sectors to be increasing” so that production does not outpace demand.

One bright spot on the trade front, he said, is the announcement last month that Japan has agreed to lift age restrictions on beef imports from older U.S. cattle. Japan banned entry of U.S. beef from animals older than 30 months beginning in 2005, due to cases of bovine spongiform encephalopathy in U.S. cattle.

The U.S. Meat Export Federation estimated removal of the cattle age restriction will increase exports to Japan 7% to 10%, or by $150 million to $200 million annually.

CATTLE continued on 16 »

6 June, 2019 Valley Voice

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Troy Barker is Tulare County’s employee of the year STAFF REPORTS

More than 120 nominees from 18 Tulare County departments were submitted to the Tulare County Board of Supervisors as potential recipients of the 2018 Employee of the Year Award.

With great difficulty, the Board narrowed it down to one deserving candidate who was announced at today’s Board meeting. The 2018 Tulare County Employee of the Year is Troy Barker.

Barker works for the Tulare County Resource Management Agency as a County Building/Zoning Inspector. It is with his exceptional work ethic as a Cannabis Compliance Officer that he has achieved an abatement rate in excess of 90%.

Barker’s work statistics speak for themselves. He has documented 333 grow site locations resulting in 312 closed violations and 76 sites abated

HEMP

continued from 1 were both listed as prohibiting the cultivation of industrial hemp. Yolo County recently followed in their steps.

“The nation’s most populous state has yet to license a single hemp grower, deferring to local authorities,” stated the report. According to Hemp Industry Daily, California has over 68,000 registered marijuana growers.

“It may surprise some that California’s hemp industry is still very nascent,” said the report. “California didn’t start a commercial hemp pro-

CEMETERY continued from 1

office. According to Castaneda and the office assistant, Gilson took the personnel records home and at times had them in the trunk of her car for weeks at a time.

Lastly, Ramos was upset that a personal medical condition was disclosed to the public by members of the board.

He said that only his mother knew of his diabetes but that after the board disclosed his condition publicly his fiancé left him.

Ramos said that he has suffered from depression after his allegedly wrongful termination and the disclosure of his diabetes.

with violations fees.

“I am proud of all our County employees and the great work they do each and every day,” stated Board Chairman Kuyler Crocker. “This year our Board has placed an emphasis on code enforcement and we appreciate Troy, the fruits of his labor, and his work in enforcing our local cannabis laws throughout the County.”

In his role, Barker deals with very stressful situations and often serves as the lead inspector in several investigations. He handles each case respectfully and professionally obtaining positive results. In just one year, his work has led to the eradication of over 86,630 illegal marijuana plants and recovered associated costs of $78,372.00.

“Due to the political climate and passage of Proposition 64 we have seen a significant increase in violations to our local cannabis ordinance, Troy has been instrumental in han-

dling these violations and resolving them,” shared Mike Grove, Tulare County Code Compliance Supervisor who nominated Barker.

Barker began working for the County two years ago as an Extra Help employee to assist in the cannabis program. He has previously served in law enforcement which has proven helpful in his role at the County assisting the public in understanding the ever changing cannabis laws as well as upholding our local regulations aimed to eliminate illegal cannabis operations.

According to Grove, Barker’s strong work ethic is contagious to other members of the County’s Code and Building Department. He is regarded by his peers as a can do individual who gets results and often helps out other team members in their investigations.

In being named as the Employee of the Year, Barker will receive an extra week of paid vacation along with

a year’s worth of appreciation knowing he is truly one of the County’s best assets.

gram until 2016, when voters approved hemp language that was tucked into a larger measure legalizing recreational marijuana.”

Six months into the Hemp Farming Act of 2018, states and counties are left confused and wondering how to proceed without clear regulations.

Supervisor Eddie Valero showed some frustration with the issue.

“Like other counties across California, we sit here today with significant uncertainty and uneasiness around state regulation of this market, around the odor, around pollination, and around THC testing protocols.

With the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill,

we as a state in general and as a county in particular are left in limbo trying to figure out how to regulate hemp production,” said Valero.

He also made clear that 22 months is the longest time the moratorium could take effect, not any indication that the regulations will take that long to arrive.

Supervisor Kuyler Crocker echoed his sentiments.

“We’ve talked about this several times already with the study session and with the initial temporary ordinance, so to Supervisor Valero’s point and to the comments made previously, the 22 months is a maximum amount

we can have the interim moratorium before we have to make a permanent moratorium,” said Crocker.

Meanwhile, Fresno and Kings Counties are exploring options to allow industrial hemp cultivation and manufacturing, but one farmer was able to explain what it’s like operating without a clear directive in a new industry.

They were interviewed on the condition of anonymity.

“The chance of going to jail is high,” said the farmer. “The chance of going broke is high. There’s a low chance for stable genetics, and there’s no stable base for buyers.”

While reading his prepared statement during the May 29 meeting, Ramos did not specify what exactly he wants in terms of remuneration from the district. He also claims that he did not resign, but has not identified who fired him.

Ramos also stated that after 30 years of employment he was treated like “garbage” and that Tulare Public Cemetery Chair Xavier Avila never got back to him about the results of his investigation in August/September 2018.

“I trusted you but you never got back to me,” said Ramos during public comment.

viewed old and new employees and former and current board members after Ramos contacted him about his complaints.

“I chose not to take any further action after conducting my interviews but did not close the book on it,” said Avila.

After Ramos finished his statement during public comment Avila responded, saying that he didn’t get back to him because Ramos lied about living at the cemetery.

Avila said that his investigation showed that it was clear he “lived there for a very long time.” There were Direct TV bills, food in the fridge, furniture, trash, and witnesses dating back to 2009 who said Ramos lived at the cemetery.

“You unjustly enriched yourself at the cemetery’s expense,” said Avila. He pointed out that Ramos received free electricity, water, rent and more “that would have added up to 60, 70, or 80 thousand dollars.”

At the insistence of legal counsel that the matter be discussed in closed session, Avila terminated his comments.

The next day Avila told the Voice he wanted to add that Ramos hired a man named Abraham who was undocumented to do his work and moved him into his place at the North Cemetery.

This scenario went on for a long time before the cemetery’s manager had to finally fire Abraham because of his legal status.

The Tulare Cemetery board discussed Ramos’ case in closed session after the May 29 meeting but did not report out.

Avila’s response

Last September Avila said he inter-

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Background

It was widely believed during the tumultuous period of September 2017, when two long-time board members resigned and the top management surreptitiously quit, that Ramos had also resigned.

Ramos claims that he did not resign but that he was wrongfully terminated because several bodies had been buried in the wrong grave.

Ramos claims that mistakes were made, but that there was too much work for one person to do and he was constantly asking the board to hire more groundskeepers. He also said that after he plotted out where a body was to be buried his supervisor, Steve Cunningham, was supposed to double check his work but that never happened.

According to Avila, the cemetery changed its policy to double verify with two employees the opening of a grave and every sale to avoid the same problems in the future.

Ramos claims, “After I left they hired two people and one part time person to do what I used to do for the cemetery.”

Concerning his diabetes, former office manager, Marilyn Correia, along with several former board members, disclosed that Ramos suffered from severe diabetes and was hard of hearing.

Correia disclosed this information in an effort to explain how Ramos could have buried bodies in the wrong grave.

Former board members reported to the Voice in 2017 that they and Correia were trying to figure out how to terminate Ramos, a long-time employee, without getting sued but hadn’t yet taken any action.

Valley Voice 6 June, 2019

13

New college grads can get plans through Covered CA STAFF REPORTS It’s college graduation season, and congrats to the class of 2019! The moment they’ve worked so hard for is finally here! They’re ready to walk across that stage, grab that diploma and begin the rest of their lives. But life can be complicated, and it’s imperative to have the important things — like one’s health — covered. Graduation can mean that college students are coming off a school-sponsored health plan, or turning 26, the limit for when they can remain on parents’ health plans.

Transitioning into Covered California health plans is relatively simple through the Special Enrollment process, and graduating college students may even qualify for financial help to pay for monthly health care costs – often for about $50 per month.

As an older college student, Saul Guevara had to think about some of those things even before he graduated from the University of Southern California earlier this month in Los Angeles with a Master’s Degree in Communication Management. Now 28, Guevara has been a Covered California

HOMELESS continued from 1

“Every year it’s like we’re scratching a lotto ticket.”

The Kings-Tulare Homeless Alliance, along with other organizations committed to fighting homelessness, sent a letter to the Governor to stop this unfair treatment of our bi-county area.

After hearing this, Tulare Mayor Jose Sigala proposed that his city join the coalition standing up against these unfair regulations. The motion passed and the council will vote on it in the coming city council meeting on June 4th.

Mario Flores, ad hoc homeless committee member, believes Tulare may have a pathway to having its voice heard in the capitol. As it turns out, the Senior Advisor on Housing is Tia Boatman Patterson. If you’re unfamiliar with that name, Patterson was once a resident and graduate of Tulare.

“So one of the most senior point

consumer for the past two years while finishing work toward his degree.

“I chose to become a Covered California consumer because I learned that I qualified for federal subsidies to pay for my monthly health care payment,” Guevara said. “I’m paying $109 a month now instead of $316. Covered California has allowed me to get my medical needs met with the same primary care physician at a fraction of the cost.”

Guevara will begin working for the federal government this summer and plans to keep his Covered California coverage until he gets a health plan through his employer. Working part-time is a reality for many college graduates, as is getting married and starting your own business.

“Congratulations to all of this year’s college graduates for all you have accomplished,” said Covered California Executive Director Peter V. Lee. “But amidst all the changes in your life, make sure you always know what you will be doing for health care. If you are leaving your coverage behind when you graduate, then you may be eligible to enroll during Covered California’s ongoing special-enrollment period.

Taking care of your health gives you the freedom to pursue your dreams.”

There are currently more than 336,000 Californians between the ages of 18 and 34 enrolled health plans through Covered California, and they are receiving quality, name-brand insurance coverage without breaking their banks.

The following circumstances are among the more common reasons people become eligible for Covered California Special Enrollment: • Losing health coverage because you have lost or changed jobs.

• Turning 26-years-old.

• Getting married or entering a domestic partnership.

• Having a baby or adopting a child.

• Moving and gaining access to new Covered California health insurance plans that were not available where you previously lived.

• Becoming a citizen, a U.S. national or a lawfully present individual.

If you qualify under any of these conditions, you are eligible to get

health insurance coverage and join your fellow Californians in having one less thing to worry about. Make sure you take advantage of the financial help available to you and your family.

For more information on special-enrollment rules, visit http://www.CoveredCA.com/individuals-and-families/ getting-covered/special-enrollment.

Those who qualify for Medi-Cal may enroll through Covered California year-round Eligible consumers who are interested in signing up should go to www.

CoveredCA.com where they can get help to enroll. They can explore their options and find out if they qualify for financial help by using the Shop and Compare Tool. They can also get free and confidential enrollment assistance by visiting www.coveredca.com/ find-help/ and searching among 800 storefronts statewide, or more than 17,000 certified enrollers who can assist consumers in understanding their choices and enrolling, including individuals who can assist in other languages. In addition, consumers can reach the Covered California service center by calling (800) 300-1506.

persons for the Governor’s office for the state of California is right here from Tulare,” Flores said. “I think that opens a lot doors for communication, funding, and housing dynamics.”

That being said, Smith encouraged the public to also speak its piece.

“Pick up the phone,” Smith said.

“Talk to your assembly member Devon Mathis, talk to your senator Shannon Grove…That’s a free thing we can do for the whole community.”

While there’s a lot riding on what leadership decides in the capitol, that doesn’t mean money hasn’t been flowing locally to alleviate homelessness.

Smith announced that the Homeless Alliance has awarded $3.8 million to projects in the bi-county area attempting to combat homelessness.

“There’s a new project called the Bridge Housing Project, located in the city of Visalia, but there is a carve out for Tulare city residents.”

The program is designed for homeless who have been assessed for housing and have been matched with

permanent housing opportunities.

Another project that got funded is called Tulare Home, which is designed to keep people housed after transitioning off the streets.

Sigala announced that the city council has managed to allocate $14,000 and another $25,000 will be available by July.

Margie Perez announced that a grant was received from the state to create five beds for “bridge housing,” to help homeless transition from the street to permanent housing

by November.

She also mentioned a low-income apartment complex in development across the street from Mission Oaks High School. The complex will have 65 units. Perez said that the apartments would not be section 8, but will potentially help low income and homeless as well.

There was also a mention of a mental health office potentially opening up in Tulare.

When the floor opened up to pub-

lic comments many of the speakers expressed their concern about rumors of a “homeless village” potentially popping up in their neighborhood or near their businesses.

City council member Terry Sayre emphasized that the committee was still in the process of developing a plan and no action has been taken in regard to the homeless issue yet.

“We have not made any decisions.

We are in the process of research and development,” she said.

Other members of the public warned Sigala about following in the footsteps of larger cities and using “old ideas” that have failed to curb homelessness.

“I think that’s a good suggestion,” Sigala said. “If there’s ideas that haven’t worked, then we need to be thinking outside the box…But at the same time, there may be some good things that are working and we need to look at that.”

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14

VOICES & OPINIONS

6 June, 2019 Valley Voice

Veterans’ Corner: Service-connected disabled Veterans and Space-A travel SCOTT HOLWELL

KINGS COUNTY VETERAN SERVICE OFFICER When congress signed the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act last year, 100% service-connected disabled Veterans became eligible for Space Available Travel.

Better known as ‘Space-A’ or military hops, Air Mobility Command (AMC) maintains an extensive network of flights throughout the continental United States, Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam and American Samoa. Supplementing this network, several Air National Guard and Naval Aviation Units have flights available.

To be eligible for Space-A flights, Veterans must have a permanent and

total service-connected disability rating. These Vets must also obtain a DD Form 2765, “Department of Defense/ Uniformed Services Identification and Privilege Card (TAN).

The Space-A Program fills surplus capacity and seating on DOD aircraft.

A popular perk among retirees, now eligible Veterans can take advantage of the program and fly for free. So, whether the Veteran is looking for a getaway to Hawaii or a trip to catchup with their Veteran brothers and sisters on the other side of the country, the Space-A travel program can fly you there.

Eligible Veterans looking for flights should review schedules at AMC passenger terminals or go to https://

www.amc.af.mil/Home/AMC-TravelSite/AMC-Space-Available-Travel-Page/.

Most AMC terminals on military bases or at commercial airports, have a Facebook page that posts flight schedules and seat availability. Once a flight and destination are selected the Veteran can register in person, either at the terminal, or by email/fax. (Adapted from VA.gov) The Kings County Veterans Service Office can complete the DMV Veteran Status Verification Form for the California Veteran Designation on your driver’s license and also issues Veteran I.D. cards to honorably discharged veterans. Contact Scott Holwell at the email address provided below, if you would like to receive periodic veter-

an’s information by email. There are many state and federal benefits and programs available to veterans and their dependents. To determine if you are eligible for any of these benefits, visit or call our office. We can and will assist you in completing all required application forms. You can get information on the Web from the Kings County Veterans Service Office webpage at www.countyofkings.com/vets.

Scott Holwell, retired Navy Master Chief Petty Officer, is the Veterans Service Officer for Kings County. Send your questions to the Veterans Service Office, 1400 W. Lacey Blvd, Hanford, CA 93230; call (559)852-2669; or e-mail scott.holwell@co.kings.ca.us.

marginal land, while much of it can be used for grazing and recreation as well as for wildlife management.

But, you might say, shouldn’t we be all for energy independence? Who cares about a bunch of ducks or foxes?

Big Oil doesn’t like to tell people, especially Tulareans and Kern Countians, what fracking does to the one thing of overwhelming importance to those who live here-water.

Fracking uses a huge amount of water. Much of it comes from the aquifers-our supply of drinking water.

The chemicals used in fracking-which cause cancer, by the way-get pumped with the water into the wells. Some of these wells are pretty old, since Kern County has been a center of drilling since the early 20th century. The pumping of this extra water causes many of these wells to leak. That means irrigation and drinking water gets contaminated. Much of the contaminated water also gets drained into disposal pits.

The chemicals then get drained into the aquifers.

So, arent we already protected from environmental disaster by laws?

Fracking has been banned for several years. The problem is the local ordinances have no teeth. Among other studpidities, they are self-reporting.

That means the guy who robs the bank has to call the cops. Not even someone who voted for Bozo should believe that’s effective.

There are lots of other reasons to oppose the BLM proposal. One example-drilling releases many dangerous chemicals into the air. I don’t know about you, but I really do not want to see the air I breathe. This stuff also afffects the kids, especially ones with asthma (You probably know someone with this-we have one of the highest rates in the country due to our miserable air quality).

Another-of special interest hereis that fracking can cause or intensify earthquakes. My grandfather survived the 1906 quake in San Francisco, and I’ve felt a few myself. So maybe we havent felt a good one for a few years. The next could happen 30 minutes from now. Do you want to hurry it along?

I hope you are all concerned about climate change. The bad news is that burning the oil created by more drilling and production continues to add to carbon pollution. If you think the air around here already stinks, wait until more wells come online. Do you want to have to wear gas masks to school and work?

But, supporters like to say, fracking can create jobs. Well, that’s truebut misleading. it never creates as many jobs as projections suggests, and they are the wrong kind. Not just anyone can frack. You have to be specially trained. So Big Oil hires experts, not locals. They tend to be young and single, and they live in mancamps.

That brings its own set of troubles to communities. Frack, and you get bars, brothels and broken heads.

If you are not already mad as hell about this sneakiness, you can protest.

Of course, I can’t guarantee that they will listen. At a May meeting in Bakersfield, the bozos refused to record the concerns of attending protesters.

(There were a lot of opponents there, but the BLMsters didnt mind). After all, we are only Californians, and the Big Bozo knows this state will never vote for him.

You can write to the Bakersfield Field Office, ATTN. Bakersfield RMP Hydraulic Fracking Analysis, 3801 Pegasus Drive, Bakersfield, CA. 93308.

Youv’e got until June 10, which doesnt give you much time. About the only thing that can stop such an outrage is a massive protest by the residents of the Valley.

Frackin’ along STEVE PENDLETON The Big Bozo’s henchmen (toadies, or whatever you want to call them)are at it again. This time their termite-like shenanigans are close to home. OK, they are right right here in Tulare County-as well as some neighboring counties. If you are at all concerned about our environmnent, you had better be aware of what these bozocrats are up to.

All right, class, who knows what fracking is? In as few a words as possible, its what Big Oil does to oil wells to increase production. Sounds ok, until you find out what effects it has on our Valley, as well as much of Southern California. Not only that, wait till you find out what the Bureau of Land Management has proposed for Tulare, Kings, Fresno, Madera and Kern Counties (along with some coastal counties).

Now that I’ve alerted you, I’m going to scare your pants off. There is a proposal before the Bakersfield office of the BLM to allow fracking on Federal lands in all those counties. These bozocrats are proposing to lease our lands and allow any wells to be fracked.

We are talking about a stretch of real estate larger than lots of European countries. Some of it is

Your comments from Facebook

“ “ “

Mr. Ramos and his legal counsel: File a Claim for damages. No need to whine at a Board meeting. Just get on with it without the drama.

— Eileen Ledgerwood on Former Tulare cemetery employee

”“ “ ”

Eileen Ledgerwood if he wants to complain in public to the board, that’s his choice, that’s his right to. Who are you to determine these things? If you don’t want to hear about it, how about don’t attend the meeting. Simple, no need to whine about it Eileen.

— Alexis Lydia Ramos on Former Tulare cemetery employee

Alexis Lydia Ramos She did encourage Mr. Ramos and his legal counsel to FILE A CLAIM FOR DAMAGES. Perhaps all the public drama is entertaining for some but not so much for others. She too is entitled to as you say “whine” about the drama of someone publicly building their legal case in the newspapers. Many of us remember a time when work related issues weren’t so readily litigated in the public as a matter of practice. Of course Mr. Ramos is not the first to do this and he most certainly won’t be the last.....as we all know Tulare is infested with drama. I have a question, maybe it was answered and I missed it. I wonder if the Labor Board was ever brought in on this matter?

— Barb McGhee-Kane on Former Tulare cemetery employee

”

“

Except hemp doesn’t have big buds! Whoever wrote this is thinking about the damn leaf.

Fine. Let Woodlake rake in tax revenue while the farmers can keep growing alfalfa.

— Andrew Glazier on Industrial Hemp in Tulare County

”

Maybe Tulare/Tulare County should’ve been building apartment complexes especially low income apartment complexes instead of all these new unfinished housing developments. Half of those newly built houses are empty because there’s not enough good paying jobs around here to able to get the loans to buy them. Half of the others that were sold are rentals. Maybe Tulare should’ve built a homeless shelter a long time ago too. Visalia has a small one since 1997.

— Kevin Clark on Tulare homelessness The problem is not homelessness, the problem is mental illness and drugs. You can’t build housing without setting some boundaries and guidelines for the housing. The problem is they don’t want rules and regulations. Another problem is with drug addiction you wait for people to hit rock bottom so they will get help. Well they’ve hit rock bottom and still don’t want help with conditions. They want housing AND drugs.

I’ve watched people smoking pot doing drugs on the trail, and talking to themselves and yelling at themselves. You keep giving them a handout and the problem will only keep getting worse. Do I have an answer? No.

— Janice Evangelho on Tulare homelessness

”

Valley Voice 6 June, 2019

15

VOICES & OPINIONS

Local media ignored Visalia school failures JERROLD JENSEN “Were it left to me to decide whether we should have a government without newspapers, or newspapers without a government, I should not hesitate a moment to prefer the latter.” - Thomas Jefferson, third U.S. President. He set high expectations for their role as government watchdogs - but editors still choose what stories they will cover or ignore.

Visalia Unified School District leaders were probably relieved in February when the local daily newspaper chose to remain silent when the Department of Education revealed seven VUSD schools were on the Department of Education’s list of the “Lowest Performing Schools in California.”

In subsequent weeks, while School Board Trustees were apparently reviewing various measurements of sub-par performance, the public as-

sumed all must be well with our kid’s education. “Certainly, our newspaper would tell us if there were problems – wouldn’t they?” But they didn’t.

So now those Trustees are being roundly criticized for dismissing Superintendent Oto. He was obviously well liked by many administrators, teachers and students in Visalia. Personally, I liked him too. We didn’t always agree but he was always courteous and accessible.

But results do matter. Would those protestors feel differently if they saw the same data that was reviewed by the VUSD Board? Have our students received the quality of education they deserve?

For instance, the California Department of Education rated 42% of the state’s 2018 graduates as being “College/Career Ready.” Visalia held steady versus the previous year at 39%

while Clovis rose from 58% to 62%. Fresno Unified’s results soared from 37% to a 43% success rate.

Visalia’s High Schools performed close to state results on “English Language Arts/Literacy” testing. However, statewide, only 31% of high school students met or exceeded expectations on the “Mathematics” test. Locally, El Diamante scored 28%, Mt. Whitney 26%, Redwood 23% and Golden West 18%.

Recently, about 100 Visalia Unified teachers met with the School Board to protest the failing program to deal with disruptive students. Perhaps that frustration contributes to the district’s high turnover rate. According to state records, 22% of VUSD teachers are in just their first or second year in the classroom – versus just 12% statewide.

That lack of experience apparently shows up in academic results.

That brings us full circle to Presi-

dent Jefferson’s expectation that newspapers would be our most reliable watchdog over government – including our schools. The bad news story about “The Lowest Performing Schools in California” was covered by virtually every mainstream daily newspaper in the state – but not in Visalia. Publishing that story would have explained why agendas for recent Board meetings included eleven closed sessions to review the management of the district.

Our local students deserve a better education, our teachers deserve safer classrooms and employers deserve graduates better prepared to enter the workforce. And, our schools deserve balanced news coverage so the public understands past results before they hurl insults and threats against our elected board members who did their homework and had the courage to make an unpopular decision.

Wife of 49 years killed on Mother’s Day

two (2) previous infractions against him. These infractions include, driving without a license in Hanford, California in 2017 and another this year in 2019 in Visalia, California which included speeding. Now, he is looking at the following charges: 1. PC 191.5(a) gross vehicular manslaughter 2. PC 191.5(a) gross vehicular manslaughter 3. VC 23153(a) DUI while

causing injury a. Special allegation PC12022.7(c) 70 years or older b. Special allegation PC12022.7(b) great bodily injury c. Special allegation VC 23558 multiple victim 4. VC 23153(a) DUI while causing injury a. Special allegation PC12022.7(c) 70 years or older b. Special allegation PC12022.7(b) great bodily injury c. Special allegation VC 23558 multiple victim 5. Driving without license VC 12500(a) Counts 1-4 are felonies, count 5 is a misdemeanor Potential sentencing: Count 1: 4, 6 or 10 years Count 2: 4, 6 or 10 years Count 3: 2, 3, or 4 years Spec Alleg 1: 3 or 5 years Spec Alleg 2: 1, 3, or 6 years Spec Alleg 3: 1 year Count 4: 2, 3, or 4 years Spec Alleg 1: 3 or 5 years Spec Alleg 2: 1, 3, or 6 years Spec Alleg 3: 1 year Count 5: 6 months to 1 year Sergio Delfino Mendoza-Sanchez may be convicted of manslaughter un-

der counts 1 and 2 and if convicted of count 5, he could be convicted of DUI causing injury under counts 3 and 4 and he may be convicted of count 5.

Counts 3 and 4 are in the alternative to counts 1 and 2. So, without enhancements, just under a manslaughter conviction, if the court were to sentence him to the maximum, it could be 10 years for each person. If the judge runs those consecutively, that is 20 years.

My children and grandchildren along with Diana Whitfield’s children and grandchildren now get to grow up in this world without their mothers and grandmothers. We will never be able to gather for another Mother’s Day with them and although, nothing we do will ever bring them back, we will still honor them by making their names known. People need to learn that there are consequences for their actions. With your help, we can send this message and remind our community how precious life is. We will always remember Kathryn Garges and Diana Whitfield, my wife, our mothers, and grandmothers.

Thank you for your time.

headlines recently for his opposition to and call for the impeachment of President Trump: [O]f particular interest was a quote from one Republican local voter, whom NBC News spoke to after the event.

Cathy Garnaat, a Republican who supported Amash and the president said she was upset about Amash’s position but wanted to hear his reasoning.

She said that she will definitely support Trump in 2020 but that Tuesday night was the first time she had heard that the Mueller report didn’t completely exonerate the president.

“I was surprised to hear there was anything negative in the Mueller report at all about President Trump. I hadn’t heard that before,” she said. “I’ve mainly listened to conservative news and I hadn’t heard anything negative about that report and President Trump has been exonerated.”

People, this is how the likes of

Trump are vaulted into office. Russian meddling is unnecessary when our electorate continues to be so willfully, stubbornly ignorant. Democracy is messy, yes, but it’s also a constant call to action. Adequately educating oneself is a civic duty at least equal to voting or sitting on a jury. Maybe more so.

Here’s how Robert Mueller actually concluded his report: “[I]f we had confidence after a thorough investigation of the facts that the President clearly did not commit obstruction of justice, we would so state.

Based on the facts and the applicable legal standards, however, we are unable to reach that judgment. The evidence we obtained about the President’s actions and intent presents difficult issues that prevent us from conclusively determining that no criminal conduct occurred.

Accordingly, while this report does not conclude that the President committed a crime, it also does not exonerate him.”

What does that tell you?

It tells me the time is too early for talk of impeachment–unless, by actually opening up proceedings in the House, it will leverage their many so far stonewalled investigations. Impeachment, as a political exercise, is a non-starter simply because Senate Republicans would never cross party lines–no matter the evidence thus far–and vote for a conviction. Thus far, only Amash has demonstrated any political bravery in this regard.

So the House investigations, then, are more than constitutionally warranted–they’re paramount. And after they’re properly completed, with or without the cooperation of the White House, a decision on impeachment can be reached.

For now, though, it remains the duty of every American, individually, to educate him- or herself adequately on the issues of our era.

JAMES GARGES On May 12, 2019 (Mother’s Day), my wife, Kathryn Garges (67 years old), and whom I shared 49 years of marriage with, along with her best friend, Diana Whitfield (75 years old), were tragically killed by a drunk driver who was about three times the legal drinking limit. The drunk driver, Sergio Delfino Mendoza-Sanchez, was driving 71 mph when he ran the stop sign on Road 60 and Avenue 228 in Tulare, California and plowed into my wife, Kathryn and Diana. When he slammed into their car at 6:15pm they flew 250 feet into the field adjacent to the intersection. Sergio Delfino Mendoza-Sanchez was able to hop out of his window unharmed; my wife and her best friend died, trapped in their vehicle upside down, smashed between crushed metal and dead grass. Paramedics were unable to extricate them from their vehicle until after 10:30pm, four hours later, as we watched in despair alongside the wreckage.

We need your support and help for their story to go mainstream, as we need to put a stop to this kind of recklessness. As of right now, he is ONLY looking at a bail amount of $250,000.

Sergio Delfino Mendoza-Sanchez has

MEDDLING continued from 2

These pages will contain what I expect my friends, children and their friends demand: the Local Truth.

I reintroduce this, my first column, for two reasons. To begin with, I detect no improvement. And, worse– without disparaging any conservative friends–I suspect this kind of thing, rather than, say, Fox broadcasting, might just be the genesis of our “fake news” era.

People, you must be focused consumers and choose your news sources wisely. You wouldn’t take a used car salesman at his word without first kicking the tires and going for a test drive, would you? Here’s a sterling example released by NBC News last week after a town-hall meeting hosted by conservative Michigan Congressman Justin Amash, who has made national

16

Valley Voice

6 June, 2019

Rabid bats found in Tulare County, one in Visalia STAFF REPORTS Two bats that have tested positive for rabies have been found in Tulare County this year, one in the City of Tulare and one in south Visalia. Public health officials warn community members to exercise great caution around bats, educate their children about staying away from bats, and never touch a bat with bare hands.

Tulare County Public Health Officer Dr. Karen Haught notes, “Bats exhibiting abnormal behavior, such as being active during the day, sitting on the ground,

or not being able to fly or evade contact are more likely to have rabies. Do not attempt to handle bats, whether they are found in your home, on your property, or in a public place; call your local animal control instead.”

In 2018, 13 percent of bats tested by the Tulare County Public Health Lab were found to have rabies. Rabies is transmitted by the saliva of an infected bat through a bite or contact of the saliva with mucous membranes or an open cut or wound. Rabies is a serious and fatal illness, with an incubation pe-

riod of one week to several months. If there is an exposure, the disease can be prevented with a safe vaccine and immune globulin.

If a bat is found, wear heavy gloves to cover it with a can or box and request assistance from the animal control officer in your area. If you’re in the county, call Animal Services at (559) 636-4030, and if you’re in the city, contact your local animal control agency. Never touch a bat with your bare hands, and teach your children to never touch a bat but to call an adult for assistance.

If you have had contact with a bat, been bitten by a bat, or a bat was in a room where there was a young child or someone was sleeping, call a doctor or the Tulare County Public Health Branch Communicable Disease office at (559) 685-5720 to discuss whether rabies post-exposure prophylaxis is needed.

The vaccine should be initiated as soon as possible after an exposure is recognized, but if the concern is not identified initially, the vaccine is effective anytime after exposure, as long as symptoms have not developed.

Visalia Medical Clinic nurse practitioner earns doctoral degree STAFF REPORTS Visalia Medical Clinic adult gerontology nurse practitioner Andrea Van Beek has earned a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from Duke University.

Van Beek, who sees patients at VMC’s anticoagulation clinic, described the new degree as focused on evidence-based practices, quality improvement and systems leadership.

The program trains nurse leaders

CATTLE

continued from 11 News that Canada and Mexico have agreed to remove their retaliatory tariffs—imposed last year in response to U.S. steel and aluminum tariffs—will further “help trade in general,” Kester said, adding that market conditions for beef “are very dependent on how well our export markets go.”

“Now we just have to work on Ja-

to implement research into a clinical practice.

“I wanted to further my education so that I can best help my patients receive the highest level of care, based upon evidence-based research,” Van Beek noted. “The result will be a continual improvement in the care we provide. The DNP degree is not common in this area but it is going to prove to be very valuable to our patients.”

As part of her studies, Van Beek designed a quality improvement proj-

ect looking at the result of implementing home testing for her patients who are on anticoagulation medications such as Coumadin and need to have frequent blood draws. Her project demonstrated that the home testing helped to reduce adverse events, improved patient satisfaction and kept the patients’ key numbers in target range, more often than the national average.

Van Beek also holds a master’s degree in nursing from Duke Univer-

sity, a bachelor’s degree in nursing from California State University, Bakersfield, and is board-certified as an adult gerontology primary care nurse practitioner.

Visalia Medical Clinic, an affiliate of the Kaweah Delta Medical Foundation, offers the expertise of more than 60 providers. VMC also offers a lab and imaging including CT and MRI. For information, call 739-2000 or visit www. vmchealth.com.

pan-U.S. bilateral (trade agreement) and hopefully, at some point, get China back to the table where we can complete our negotiating with China,” he said.

Though the current market is not where it was last year due to “political battles” related to trade, Domenigoni said he’s “optimistic that next year will be better after it all settles out.” That’s why he’s comfortable with growing his herd, he said. He acknowledged, however, that other ranchers may be more

cautious about building back too quickly after the drought, “afraid that if they kept too many cattle, they’d have to sell them again.”

A large percentage of them, he said, have difficulty expanding because of land availability, as more grazing ground is converted to trees and vines.

Owens and Kester agree, noting that they’re both maxed out on production and capacity, unless they buy or lease additional land.

“There’s no irrigated pasture hardly available in the North State; it’s all trees,” Owens said. “Most people in California are just trying to hold their numbers in place.”

The heavier grass year has allowed Kester to buy stocker steers, which he said he hasn’t done for the last eight years due to drought in his region.

(Ching Lee is an assistant editor of Ag Alert. She may be contacted at clee@ cfbf.com.)

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