Valley Voice
Blair facing seven charges filed by Kings County DA
Mooney Grove Project prioritizes improvements for park
CATHERINE DOE
catherine@ourvalleyvoice.com
ALEXANDRA FELLER
alexandra@ourvalleyvoice.com
The Real Mooney Grove Project, a non-profit organization in Visalia, started its meeting on June 29 by sharing fond memories of the Mooney Grove Park of its heyday. The organization is compelled to return the park to its original state for families to enjoy. “I swear, I could almost hear the park screaming ‘please don’t let me die,’” non-profit president Mary Bryant said about her 2014 visit to the park. This was her motivation to found The Real Mooney Grove Project. Bryant was born and raised in Visalia and has had the opportunity to experience all that the park was and now isn’t. Bryant, and others in the organization, hated seeing the park being mistreated and decided they would join forces to restore it. In the past, cooperation between city officials and Bryant’s organization has been hard to develop. Although, with new leadership in the county, Bryant is confident things will look up for her non-profit and Mooney Grove Park. On June 13, members of The Real Mooney Grove Project attended a general services meeting where they presented their mission and vision for Mooney Grove Park to parks directors and other county officials. At first, Bryant and her grant director, Gary Siegentholar, were hesitant about the meeting. They were unsure if it would be a hostile environment like that of past meetings. To their pleasant surprise, Bryant said, the board was welcoming and supportive of their ideas.
PARKcontinued on 13 »
Volume XXXIX No. 13 4 July, 2019 ourvalleyvoice.com
Valley Pure currently has a location in Woodlake. Soon, it could expand to Farmersville. Courtesy photo
Farmersville poised to become cannabis center DAVE ADALIAN
dave@ourvalleyvoice.com
State approval is the only obstacle left to Farmersville becoming Tulare County’s new cannabis sales center. City manager Jennifer Gomez says two of the three recreational cannabis storefronts already approved by the Farmersville City Council are awaiting their sales licenses from the state and then will be ready to open their doors. Valley Pure, which operates the county’s only recreational cannabis sales point in Woodlake, will likely be the first to open its doors in Farmersville. “They have their building permits and are doing some remodeling,” Gomez said. “They’re waiting for their state permit, then they’ll be ready to go.”
Location Tipped Scales
The three businesses will be located in the city’s industrial center near Highway 198 and Farmersville Boulevard.
Requiring the trio of businesses--Valley Pure, Token Farms and Platinum Connection--to hang their shingles at the edge of town, according to Gomez, was key to getting the city council to approve the idea of cannabis sales in the town of 11,000 residents. “The council didn’t want it in our downtown,” she said. “At that location, it will allow easy access from the highway. I don’t know that if we didn’t have that location the council would have allowed it.”
Following Woodlake’s Lead
While Gomez is uncertain how much revenue bringing cannabis businesses to Farmersville will generate, she expects their returns to beat those of Woodlake. The city hopes for great returns despite not knowing how much future cannabis sales tax revenue to expect. “It’s really hard to know at this point. We just look at Woodlake to give us some kind of idea,” Gomez said. “I just expect to exceed what Woodlake
FARMERSVILLE continued on 13 »
Lemoore City Council Member Holly Blair will be in a courtroom July 5 facing seven criminal charges filed by the Kings County District Attorney’s (KCDA) office. Assistant DA Matt Darby, who challenged Tulare County DA Tim Ward in 2018, is the lead prosecutor in the case. Her arraignment will be in the Kings County Superior Court in Hanford, Department 9, at 8:15am. Blair was arrested three weeks ago on June 5 for assault with a deadly weapon, child endangerment, and resisting arrest. Blair spent the night in jail and bailed out on a $19,000 nonrefundable bond. Bail was set at $195,000. After reviewing the evidence, KCDA officially filed four felonies and three misdemeanors against Blair on June 24. Three of the felonies are assault with a deadly weapon. The weapon in Blair’s case was her car. Phil Esbenshade, Public Information Officer and Assistant District Attorney, said these were grave felonies and that “this was a very serious case.” Blair allegedly almost hit police officer Kevin Cosper, civilian Crystal Giles, and Giles’ nine-year-old daughter. The fourth felony charge was evading an officer, which is a lesser offense. Esbenshade said that if convicted of just one count of assault with a deadly weapon, Blair will automatically lose her driver’s license for the rest of her life. The three misdemeanor charges are child endangerment, resisting arrest and reckless driving. If convicted on all seven counts Blair could spend eight years in jail.
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Ravalin takes the reins at Visalia Unified JOHN DILLON
john@ourvalleyvoice.com
Dr. Tamara Ravalin is getting her steps in at the Visalia Unified School District (VUSD) office. “That’s kind of my running joke,” said Ravalin. “I still have the two offices here.” The VUSD administrator took over for Dr. Todd Oto as acting superintendent after he announced his resignation on May 7 at a Visalia Unified Board Meeting. She’s since been named interim superintendent, and she’s experienced a flurry of responsibilities. “We finished the year out together. He did the commencement speeches. We made sure we covered what we needed to cover,” said Ravalin. As of July 1, she took over the official position of interim Superintendent, but she still is responsible in her previous position as Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources until they find a replacement.
“They’re looking at candidates now. It’s really about taking care of people,” Ravalin noted about human resources. Dr. Ravalin Tamara Ravalin. began her career in Fresno County education as a custodian while she attended college. After graduating, she taught middle school shop class. “That’s one of my little claims to fame,” she said. “I was the first credentialed shop teacher in Fresno County that was a female.” She went on to work for the Kings County Office of Education and found herself as Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services. Then, a position for Dean of Student Services opened up at College of the Sequoias in Visalia. “I had always kind of, in my mind,
thought it would be a nice experience to work at a community college. I had been, at that point, in K-12 for about 20 years. That would complete the picture. I could see how our students are doing once they leave the K-12 system,” said Ravalin. She cherishes the time she spent at COS, especially working with the colleagues she met there. “I’ve worked under very strong leaders there and people extended themselves for students like I couldn’t believe,” said Ravalin. From there, she moved to VUSD and began working again in human resources as Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources. “For me, it’s always about service and helping others. The most important part to me is helping people on a day-to-day basis,” she said. Dr. Ravalin emphasized the need for human interaction and its importance in a modern day workplace. During her tenure as Assistant Superintendent, the district opened
the Visalia Health & Wellness Clinic though she made it clear she was not alone in that effort. Relaxation and leisure time is also important to Ravalin. In her free time, she likes to garden and read, but travel seems to particularly be of interest. In the past, she’s done work in the community, but that’s an area she’s let slip as she’s gotten more and more professionally involved though she’s expressed interest in finding Tulare County groups to join. Now as interim Superintendent, Ravalin has some goals she hopes to get started during the 2019-2020 academic year. “We definitely have some target areas of growth. One of those is our mathematics. If we want to keep going as a nation and as a society, math is that underlying foundation,” said Ravalin. While she didn’t go into specifics so far as a plan for developing the district’s mathematics, she has spoken with the board members
RAVALIN continued on 12 »
4 July, 2019 Valley Voice
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R D JURY
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2018 – 2019 Grand Jury Final Report
The 2018 – 2019 Grand Jury Final Report is now available to be viewed by the general public. You can access the report electronically at the Tulare County Civil Grand Jury website: https://tularecounty.ca.gov/grandjury/ click Reports, click the year you wish to view. If you do not have electronic access, paper versions are available at various Tulare County government buildings and public libraries. The following are titles of reports for 2018 – 2019
Agencies Affected
Elder Abuse: Everyone’s Business
Kings-Tulare Area Agency on Aging
Tulare County Resource Management Agency-Code Enforcement
Tulare County Resource Management Agency
Elections: Timely Access to Results
Tulare County Registrar of Voters
Inmate Educational Programs in Tulare County
Tulare County Sheriff’s Office
Electronic Monitoring
Tulare County Probation Department
Water, Water Everywhere, Not a Drop to Drink
Tulare County Resource Management Agency
Sheriff’s Patrol
Tulare County Sheriff’s Office
Effects of Prop 64 in legalizing Marijuana in Tulare County
Tulare County Sheriff’s Office, Resource Management Agency
If you wish to apply to serve on the Tulare County Civil Grand Jury, you will need to ll out an application available at the Civil Grand Jury website: https://tularecounty.ca.gov/grandjury/.
FROM THE PUBLISHER'S DESK
Blink of an Eye
It’s hard to believe the Fourth of July is already upon us. If I knew where the first half of the year went I’d bottle the knowledge and become wealthy selling it. Twenty years ago this month we moved to Tulare County. It’s gone by in the blink of an eye. The Chief was raised here. I was raised in the Bay Area and, after a brief stint near Eureka to attend a junior college, enrolled at Berkeley. It’s where I met the Chief. She introduced me to this area. Having visited with her, I had some idea of what living here would be like. Twenty years on most of those preconceptions are completely torpedoed. It has become evident to me you can live well anywhere provided internet and television reception. Twenty years ago we only had the latter. We had five kids then, ranging in age from 12 to a newborn--so television was a big deal. Especially after having moved from the wilderness that that was then Cabo San Lucas. The internet--and everything else--was still before us. Raising children--literally everything that entails--was mostly still before us. But now, in the blink of an eye, it’s achieved. We lost a son in the blink of an eye. We’ve lived in four houses during the past 20 years--lost two in the blink of an eye--and left the third in fairly short order to move to a house we’ve just bought. We’ve had no neighbors, endured odious ones, and now we don’t even need a deadbolt on our front door. We’ve bought, sold, and continue to hold commercial property here. It’s how we put our kids through college. Tempus fugit! When we landed here 20 years ago I was only four years older than our oldest is now. This seems 40 times worse than somehow losing a measly half year. I can feel mortality upon me whereas, 20 years ago, I had no inkling other than intellectually. Being in a state of decline that you know can’t reverse is a daunting prospect. As my Dad once said, “Ageing is not for the faint of heart.” And the time, of course, is never lost--not if you’ve been productive; not if, especially, you’ve been involved in the nurturing of your loved ones. Not if you leave a legacy. The Chief and I will have released five children into the wild as part of our effort. But it’s not the having of children. Any idiot can do that--just look at me. It’s the raising of them. We’ll also try to fly--and improve--this paper for the next few decades. It’s a labor of love for our part of the Valley--somewhere I never thought we’d wind up living, yet now a place I’ve come to love and call home. Unless the winter fog returns. I hate that as most folks here hate liberals--although, now that I consider it, having raised all of our kids, we can always escape the damp gloom and decamp, temporarily, to some sunnier clime. These days, we can even do layout remotely. Still, I feel a terrible pity for people who go through their whole lives and leave nothing meaningful behind them. Can they be said to have existed? I mean, if you only live for yourself have you really lived at all? You’ll be able to Google me--and read my columns--long after I’m gone. I don’t know if that’s reassuring or silly, just that it’s true. It’s the same with this paper our staff has put out for six years now. Six years that have passed in the blink of an eye. Joseph Oldenbourg
Valley Voice
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Valley Voice 4 July, 2019
POLITICAL FIX
3 a column by CATHERINE DOE — catherine@ourvalleyvoice.com
Adding to the wall built around to perjury laws. The defendant can he would not return my calls. I The Shakedown of Hanford the followers of these evangelical respond in kind but no one cares also could not trick his faithful Vice-Mayor John Draxler websites, all of the articles’ com- what they have to say. on-site apartment manager into Part II – The Money Game
On June 5 Hanford resident Skip Athey posted an article on facebook. The article had just been released by Pacific Justice Institute (PJI) an evangelical law group, concerning Hanford Vice Mayor John Draxler’s evicting a widow for her religious activities. I was soon to discover that thousands of people across the United States were doing the same. PJI is a nonprofit legal defense organization that defends religious freedoms, parental rights, and other civil liberties without charge. The Southern Poverty Law Center has labeled them a hate group. Like thousands of others spreading the news, Mr. Athey emailed me the article; even though he vowed last year to never communicate with me again because of something I wrote about City Councilmember Francisco Ramirez. I guess he felt Mr. Draxler’s actions were so egregious that he would swallow his pride. Based solely on the accounts of former Windgate Village resident Diana Martin and her son, PJI circulated a story how Mr. Draxler evicted an elderly, sick widow for praying and other religious practices. The PJI article stated, “When she began to cry, protesting that it was winter and that her children did not live nearby, he (Mr. Draxler) responded that it was not his problem.” Current residents of Windgate Village say, however, that Ms. Martin was “evil, nasty, and rude” and that she seemed to be in the early stages of dementia. They described Ms. Martin as a lonely old lady whose children rarely visited. After receiving Mr. Athey’s email, I Googled “Draxler” and found a dozen evangelical websites featuring slightly different versions of the same article. Many of the websites were emblazoned with large “Donate” buttons back lit in neon red or yellow beckoning the reader to open their wallet to help defend people like Ms. Martin. Because of PJI’s article, the internet was flooded with facebook posts, comments, blogs, and negative reviews written about Mr. Draxler’s businesses. The articles and personal posts made sure to point out that Mr. Draxler was the Hanford vice-mayor, so as to not only drag his reputation through the mud, but to also cast a pall over Hanford as anti-Christian.
ment sections were turned off or there was a “mediator” to ensure that the residents of Windgate could not tell their story. Most disappointing was Alex Tavlian’s local online newspaper, The San Joaquin Valley Sun, formerly the CV Observer. He posted PJI’s article with no fact checking or corroboration. A national newspaper wouldn’t know better, but Mr. Tavlian had no right to disparage the city of Hanford and trample on a local businessman’s rights. The Valley Future Foundation launched the SJV Sun, an organization run by former Congressman Valadao and Nunes staffers. After the 20 June Political Fix described what really happened at Windgate, I asked Mr. Tavlian to retract his story. He said he would have the SJV Sun’s author, whose email was disabled just like its comment section, to reach out to Mr. Draxler, knowing full well that Mr. Draxler couldn’t talk. And so the circle was complete and primed for Act II. Now that PJI’s legal group and their lackeys had spread Ms. Martin’s story to the four corners of the Earth and sealed it up tight, it was time to make some money. All the lawyers have the game down pat, so let me enlighten you how it’s played. Your first lesson in the American judicial system is that anyone can sue anybody for anything at anytime. It doesn’t matter if you, the plaintiff, are lying or telling the truth. What matters is how effective your lawyer is in making the defendant feel so miserable and worried that they realize settling is less expensive than a legal battle--even if the defendant would win. First the plaintiff’s lawyer files a suit at the courthouse stating all the ‘facts” and serves the defendant. The defendant then has a chance to respond but that is irrelevant. Then both sides and their lawyers go to court. The judge sets up a trial date about a year out and demands that in the meantime the two sides go to mediation. A few days before mediation the plaintiff’s lawyer writes another brief that might have some resemblance to the truth, but is basically a bunch of lies to intimidate the defendant and get them off balance. This document is not filed with the court, is not part of the public record, nor is it subject
During mediation, the mediator, a retired judge, knows the plaintiff’s lawyer is lying but nevertheless encourages the defendant to accept an unfair settlement. The judge repeats, in different iterations, until the defendant is worn to a nubbins that it will cost exponentially more to go to trial. And no matter how airtight their case they could still lose. Mediating judges’ success rate, by the way, isn’t based how many lawsuits come to a fair resolution. Their success is gauged by how many cases don’t land in court no matter how egregious the terms of the settlement. So why do the lawyers and judges lie during mediation? Because they can. Nothing they say during mediation, nor the briefs, can ever be repeated to friends, relatives, or the press. Its every lawyer’s Shangri-la. And remember, almost all judges and mediators were former lawyers. In PJI and Ms. Martin’s case, they had so thoroughly ravaged Mr. Draxler’s reputation the two weeks prior that they didn’t even need to play the first two steps of the game. They just jumped straight to mediation. By 10:30am on June 12, Mr. Draxler agreed to settle for an undisclosed amount. PJI not only made 33.3% of the cash settlement but collected an unknown amount of donations after e-blasting Ms. Martin’s story to hundreds of thousands of people. On top of that, PJI is a “Charitable Organization.” So they pay no taxes on their winnings or donations. All this is sealed with a confidentiality agreement so the truth never comes out, lest Mr. Draxler talks, and he is sued by PJI again. Pretty darn good for a morning’s work, isn’t it? I‘ve been on the business end of some seriously unethical mediations. So when I received Mr. Draxler’s text saying, “The matter has been resolved amicably between both parties” followed by a text saying that he had signed a confidentiality agreement, I was quite frankly really pissed. Exposing what really happened at Windgate Village wouldn’t turn back the clock on what happened to me, Joseph or my kids, but it could even the score on the side of the truth. Whether Mr. Draxler was guilty or not, I was on a mission to find out. I do not know Mr. Draxler and
giving me any information. (My bad Dolores. I’m the one with the small dog “interested” in the one bedroom.) So I was going to have to go to Windgate Village Apartments myself. Let me tell you first off that if you are looking for a secure place to live get on the waiting list at Windgate Village. I had a heck of a time getting into that complex and finally found a hole through a construction area. After almost giving up the night before, I found Ms. Martin’s former address at Windgate online so I knew the general area to go where the tenants would know her. I knocked on a couple of doors and found a tenant who knew Ms. Martin well. Jessica initially didn’t want to talk as she was suspicious I was “one of them,” or a member of PJI. Once she believed I was who I said I was she told me her entire story. Jessica did not want her real name used because she did not want PJI to attack her as they did Mr. Draxler. The next day Jessica set up an interview with Samantha at Mike’s Grill next door to the apartment complex. Samantha told me her story and the stories of other tenants with whom she was good friends. She was still visibly rattled by Ms. Martin’s behavior towards her. It turns out Mr. Draxler did not kick an old sick woman out of his apartment complex for her religious activities. In fact I don’t even think Mr. Draxler evicted her. I think she was asked to leave because of her erratic and increasingly disruptive behavior. It seems the thought of her having to take responsibility for her behavior, or admit she might be suffering from dementia, sent her secretly moving out of the complex undetected by the other tenants. So there are two victims--Mr. Draxler, and a lonely old woman whose children never visited. Pacific Justice Institute and her children would do well to crack open a bible and stop throwing stones. PJI should not have made money off their mentally and physically frail client and her children should have taken better care of their mother so none of this would have happened in the first place. But there’s no money in that.
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4 July, 2019 Valley Voice
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Hilti celebrates grand opening in Visalia Industrial Park MIKE SEIB
Special to the Valley Voice
Visalia mayor Bob Link was joined by vice president of logistics Patrick O’Connell, general manager of western North America and Chief Financial Officer Peter Andersen, employees and locals for the grand opening of Hilti’s new distribution center in the Industrial Park in north Visalia early Wednesday, June 19. Hilti is a multinational corporation that was founded by Martin and Eugen Hilti in Shaan, Liechtenstein in 1941. They specialize in producing products for the construction, energy and manufacturing industries, including powder-actuated fastening, drilling and demolition, diamond cutting and coring, laser measuring and detection, and firestopping. 28,000 are employed worldwide including more than 3,500 in the United States alone. The mayor began the ceremony by sharing his appreciation for Hilti’s growth and contribution to the local economy. O’Connell followed with a message to the employees: “It’s all about the team. This is for you guys. We stayed here in Visalia for the location and also for the community.” Peter Andersen added some technical details, detailing Hilti’s growth of 12% over the last year and strategies to continue growth toward a benchmark in 2023. Andersen also mentioned the addition of software products to the Hilti repertoire, giving the company an edge over many hardware-producing competitors. The solidarity of the Visalia team
was symbolized by the ribbon cutting itself: 30 pairs of scissors were passed out to all employees for a simultaneous slicing to the sound of jokes and laughter. Regional manager Robert Rodriguez took over next, proudly offering a tour of the “flagship facility” in the west. Manager Pablo Moreno and others continued the tour, showing off innovations in safety, efficiency and ergonomics. Added docking bays and forklifts were among additions said to increase Mayor Bob Link address the crew at Hilti. Mike Seib/Valley Voice productivity and warehouse and VASC, saving time and decrease employee fatigue. Rodriguez gas. “This will improve support of our added that as employees are expected continued sales growth while also deto work hard and top performers are livering efficiencies for our customers rewarded systematically. and organization,” said O’Connell. The As business in Visalia grew over new facility is at 50%-60% capacity so the years, Hilti experienced growing there is room to grow. pains. Less than 10 years after starting Corporate Events Manager Carin 1995 with a 32,000 square-foot ware- la Biggs and O’Connell emphasized house, Hilti moved to a 45,000 square- Hilti’s philosophy for innovation. foot location. Next, in 2014, the first Suggestions are formally accepted Value Added Service Center (VASC) was from everyone involved. “We didn’t added at a separate location. Now they employ a warehouse engineer. 99% of have a 166,000 square-feet, combining our ideas come from workshops with
our everyday employees. All ideas are considered to produce optimal flow,” said O’Connell. For more information on any of Hilti’s products and services, please visit www.hilti.com or call 1-800-879-8000. Hilti isn’t alone as Visalia’s Industrial Park continues to grow . California Dairies, one of the nation’s leading suppliers of butter, will be adding a new 8,550 square-feet dry goods storage building at its headquarters and processing facility on Plaza Drive in the Industrial Park.
Tulare County Library waves goodbye to late fees STAFF REPORTS The Tulare County Library has turned the page on providing patrons with one less barrier to service by eliminating late fees. Also known as overdue library fines, the Library will no longer charge for items checked out and returned past their due dates at any Tulare County Library location. The Library joins over 50 library systems nationwide, and the first in the San Joaquin Valley, to eliminate late fines, joining Oakland, San Diego, San Luis Obispo, and San Mateo County in California.
The Tulare County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved eliminating late fees at all Tulare County Library branches at the April 30, 2019 meeting. County Librarian Darla Wegener reported that charging late fees is not an incentive for returning books and materials on time but actually creates a barrier for patrons. “That negative experience could lead to the loss of that patron and the loss of their entire family. This is in direct conflict with our mission as a public library to provide information in a positive, customer-centered, free library”
said Wegener. Under the old system, accumulated late fines and fees could block a patron from using free library services such as borrowing materials, using the computers, and searching the online databases. The Library’s resources aid in many areas, including adult literacy, early literacy and school readiness for children, lifelong learning for school and beyond, and job skills and employment resources. Access to these resources changes lives of the Tulare County residents every day. In 2018, the Library collected around $54,000 in late fees in 2018 with library
staff spending on average 8% ($47,000) of their time collecting overdue fees. The numbers are similar to other libraries nationwide that have eliminated late fines. Now these libraries, like Tulare County, will be able to use staff to focus on providing better library services, programs, and community outreach directly to our patrons. Patrons are still expected to return their books, music, and DVDs on time and without the stress of fines, maybe on time or even early. Three days prior to the due date, patrons will be notified to return items.
Students & Teachers grades 7 - 12 are invited to participate in the 2nd Annual Porterville Summer Writing Academy (PSWA) on the Porterville College campus A collaboration between Porterville College, the San Joaquin Valley Writing Project (Fresno State), and California Poets in the Schools.
Porterville Summer Writing Academy July 29, 2019 - August 1, 2019 • 9:00 am - 12:30 pm Intensive writing experience for students. The focus will be on argument writing, with opportunities for creative projects, including a day devoted to spoken word poetry. Decades of successful work by the National Writing Project and the California Writing Project provide the model for this program.
Professional Development Opportunity for teachers from all content areas July 22, 2019 - July 25, 2019 • 9:00 am - 4:00 pm July 29, 2019 - August 1 2019 • 9:00 am - 4:00 pm Teachers & students are invited to enroll free of charge at the following links: Students: https://tinyurl.com/PSWA2019Student Teachers: https://tinyurl.com/PSWA2019Teacher Please contact Dr. Juliet Wahleithner (jwahleithner@mail.fresnostate.edu) or Professor Catherine Hodges (chodges@portervillecollege.edu) with any questions.
Valley Voice 4 July, 2019
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Protesters gather outside Nunes’ Visalia office JOHN DILLON
john@ourvalleyvoice.com
Protestors stood outside Representative Devin Nunes’ office in Downtown Visalia on July 2 to protest immigrant detention camps. “We’re out here protesting the deplorable conditions these kids are being kept in,” said Julia Jump-Doyal, a protestor. She emphasized the importance of calling attention to the border camps. The protest follows a call from MoveOn, a political advocacy group urging residents to use the Fourth of July weekend to gather at their representative’s office. The slew of nationwide demonstrations is being gathered under the banner of #CloseTheCamps. “It’s become politicized,” said Chris Polk, an organizer at the event. “Keeping kids in cages is directly against our American values and we need to remind some people of that,” he said, gesturing to the top of the
building toward Nunes’ office. Constituents and residents of neighboring districts alike stood united. Many of the activists present at the event live in Three Rivers, which lies outside the district’s boundaries. “It’s important to show up at these kinds of things and we can’t get someone good to run against Kevin McCarthy. He’s the House Minority Leader after all,” said a protestor from Three Rivers. As cars passed by, some honked in support of the protest. The activists clapped and raised their signs higher when they got feedback. Not all were fully supportive of the event, though. “I just think it’s important to display all the real facts,” said Steve Ray, a passerby. “It all depends on what people want to call a cage. Is it a cage just because the fence is chain link?” He did not seem to have decided on the issue, but Ray said he wanted to start
Protesters gathered outside Devin Nunes’ office with signs protesting immigrant detention camps. John Dillon/Valley Voice
a dialogue. Some protestors arrived with signs and wore black shirts with “An-
tifascist” and the words “No Pasaran” in a logo on the shirt. They declined to comment.
Hanford council limits new businesses allowed around mall MARK PRATTER
Special to the Valley Voice
The Hanford city council has once again at its June 17 meeting voted to restrict many potential uses west of downtown in order to protect downtown businesses. Since Hanford Mall at 12th and Lacey was developed more than 20 years ago, the city has used zoning to exclude medical and professional offices, optometrists, and large furniture stores in the 12th and Lacey area. The Regional Commercial Zone (RCZ) is bounded by 12th Avenue and Lacey Boulevard and Highways 198 and 43. The idea was that by limiting these uses near the mall, it would protect those same businesses downtown. The council voted 3-1, with Councilmember Martin Devine voting no, to allow a few new uses in the RCZ at 12th and Lacy but not all the ones sought by a Fresno developer, John Kashian. Kashian of 198-43 LLC, the developer of the Costco Center at highways 198 and 43, said the reason why he supported the change in zoning around the mall is that “…since 2015 the retail environment has changed.” The Costco Center is here to make Hanford better, he said. He also said he wanted downtown to survive. Many uses approved by the Hanford Planning Commission in a 6-1 vote on May 14 were denied by the council. The planning commission, following a staff recommendation, wanted to allow offices of 2000-6000 square-feet, medical, dental and optometry offices,
large furniture stores and other uses. During the planning commission meeting, Joe Serrano of Serrano’s Furniture, at 104 N. Douty St. in downtown Hanford, said he wanted the zoning change because his business is growing and he needs more room. He said if his downtown location were larger, he would remain downtown. The council agreed only to allow exercise and dance studios, business support services and large health and fitness facilities after downtown businesses opposed the planning commission’s changes. Not permitted in the RCZ were optometrists, furniture stores of more than 20,000 square-feet, landscaping/nursery businesses, second bank branches, payday lenders/check cashing stores, government offices and tailoring and clothing alteration businesses. Downtown business interests staunchly opposed any zoning change. Downtown optometrist Jeffrey Garcia said the current zoning “… has everything to do with survival.” Former Councilmember Diane Sharp, who owns a substantial amount of downtown property, said, “if approved downtown (would) suffer vacancies and blight.” Michelle Brown of Main Street Hanford, which supports downtown business through various activities, was also opposed to the change. “The change,” she said, “could wipe out optometry in Hanford.” Optometrist Michael Mayer said, “Costco is not making enough money, so it wants to change the rules.”
Ex-councilman Dan Chin, also a downtown property owner, said an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) is required on the change under the California Environmental Quality Act. The city has “one lawsuit in front of you (Helena Chemical). You don’t need another one,” Chin said. Chin was on the Hanford Planning Commission when the current zoning rules limiting uses west of downtown were developed. The acting city attorney disagreed with Chin’s analysis that an EIR was required. And during the discussion Community Development Director Darlene Matta indicated that the California Environment Quality Act is not relevant when there is no physical project to evaluate. Craig Johnson, owner of Salmon’s Furniture downtown, also opposed the changes. He said the zoning rules are “imperative for the city to survive.” Mayor Sue Sorensen, who has an ownership in interest in the Laundry Building on West 7th Street, excused herself from the discussion and voting pending a legal ruling by the state Fair Political Practices Commission. City Attorney Ty Mizote also excused himself because he owns downtown property. Councilmember Francisco Ramirez favored expanding the RCZ
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and wanted all the changes approved by the planning commission. But he feared the vote would be 2-2 for the zoning changes and the motion would die. To make the few zoning changes possible he compromised and the limited changes passed. “Why would we limit ourselves if we have the opportunity to grow?” asked Ramirez. “There has to be a level playing field,” Ramirez said, “where Hanford can grow economically.” And he vowed not to run again if there was no economic growth in Hanford. Councilmember Art Brieno explained the reasons for his vote to expand some uses and not others. “I want to get a better grasp of how downtown will develop---how it’s (expanding uses in the Regional Commercial Zone) going to impact. I need more information.” He said he would like to have a study on the matter. Devine opposed Kashian’s request and said the current zoning works. Councilmember John Draxler also sided with Ramirez. Referring to a study of people from Hanford buying out of town, he said Hanford loses more than it gains by current zoning which protects downtown. “How about more competition somewhere else,” Draxler said. “Lower prices gives more opportunity to people?”
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AGRICULTURE
State may receive reinforcements in nutria battle
KEVIN HECTEMAN
Ag Alert/California Farm Bureau Federation
In the war against nutria, reinforcements will soon be on the way, thanks to new funding. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife is slated to receive nearly $2 million from the state budget, pending Gov. Gavin Newsom’s signature. The department also received an $8.5 million, three-year grant last month from the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta Conservancy. And members of Congress from the Central Valley want to send money to the state from Washington. That should help the solitary person who’s been trying to keep the swamp rat from taking over California’s interior waterways, as has already happened to Maryland, Louisiana and 16 other states. “Right now, we have one full-time employee in the state of California dedicated to nutria,” CDFW informa-
tion officer Peter Tira said, adding that the nutria program has otherwise operated “largely on reassigned staff and reallocated funding.” The funding boost, Tira said, would mean his department could hire more permanent staffers and bulk up its knowledge. “What’s really important is, you have to develop some expertise,” he said. “Where do they live? How do you trap them? We don’t have people in California who grew up trapping, like we did 100 years ago. … It’s a learning curve to understand them. That institutional expertise, we don’t have.” Nutria carry the potential to undermine levees and other water infrastructure, devastate wetlands and dine on farmers’ crops. Nutria can eat as much as 25 percent of their body weight in a day and spawn several litters per year. With that in mind, Rep. Josh Harder, D-Turlock, introduced a bill
in Congress to reauthorize the Nutria Eradication and Control Act of 2003, which helped fight off nutria in Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay, and direct $7 million to California’s nutria-be-gone efforts. Three other Central Valley representatives—Jim Costa, D-Fresno, John Garamendi, D-Walnut Grove, and TJ Cox, D-Fresno—have signed on as cosponsors. Erin Huston, who works on natural-resources issues for the California Farm Bureau Federation, called the need for eradication urgent. “Nutria have the potential to cause damage to crops as well as levees and other water infrastructure,” Huston said. “In order to prevent crop loss and local flooding, it is essential that we move quickly, get ahead of the detections and eradicate this invasive species.” The nutria hails from South America; it first showed up in California decades ago but was eradicated in the
1970s. It reappeared in 2017. Tira said that as of June 20, 531 nutria had been trapped in the state, with the bulk of them—443—in Merced County. The rest were taken from San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Mariposa and Fresno counties. The northernmost sighting reported so far was last month, along the San Joaquin River in Stockton. Adult nutria can grow to as long as 2 feet and weigh as much as 20 pounds, and are distinguished by their orange teeth, white whiskers and footlong, round tails. They’re often mistaken for muskrats or beavers. CDFW has a spotting guide and other information at www.wildlife. ca.gov/nutria. Suspected nutria sightings may be reported to the CDFW Invasive Species Program at 866-4409530 or invasives@wildlife.ca.gov. (Kevin Hecteman is an assistant editor of Ag Alert. He may be contacted at khecteman@cfbf.com.)
California Food Expo sessions lineup and agenda now available STAFF REPORTS The 2019 California Food Expo agenda is now available and features the food industry’s most significant topics: Retailer and Foodservice Future Trends, Transparency & Sustainability, Food Brand Pioneers and more. Sponsors, exhibitors and qualified buyer attendees can expect to hear from the food industry’s most trusted research firms and top executives from California’s leading food companies. Martin Kruger, the Chief Operating Officer for Follow Your Heart, will be the featured speaker for the, ‘2019 California Food Brand Pioneer,’ where he will be sharing the story of how this southern California plant-based food company, which launched in 1970 as a natural food store, is now one of the
world’s largest plant-based food manufacturers whose egg-free mayonnaise (Vegenaise) and dairy-free cheese can be found in over 25,000 thousand retail stores in 35 countries around the world. “Follow Your Heart has an amazing story and I am grateful for the opportunity to share it with attending buyers and my California peers,” stated Kruger. “Equally exciting is participating at the first annual California exclusive food show. No other state in our nation has a food industry with as much diversity, volume or innovation. We are proud to be a part of this dynamic platform.” Phil Lempert, President & CEO for Consumer Insight, Inc. and more famously known as the Supermarket Guru, will be moderating one of the Expo’s most anticipated sessions, ‘How Retailers & Brands Can Capture
the Changing Consumer: A Look at Retailer and Foodservice Future Trends.” Joining Lempert on this panel will be industry experts from Technomic and the Nutrition Strategist & Brand Influencer for Raley’s. Additional sessions being released include, ‘Transparency in the Age of Sustainability’ and ‘Navigating the Digital Space: eCommerce Platforms for Food Industry Companies.’ These sessions include the CEO of a San Diego-based vodka company who makes vodka out of day-old baked goods and the Vice President from the tech-start up turned industry standard platform for buyers and suppliers in the food industry. Details on these sessions can be found at: California Food Expo Schedule. World-renowned broadcaster, author and Food Network personal-
ity, Simon Majumdar will be leading a competition for California’s most renowned chefs. More details will be forthcoming. For updated information about the 2019 California Food Expo, including details on the New Product Award platform, and to register to exhibit or attend, please visit: www.CaliforniaFoodExpo.com. The 2019 event will be hosted at the Fresno Convention & Entertainment Center on Monday, September 9 and Tuesday, September 10, 2019. For more information about the California Food Expo including the complete event agenda, or to register to exhibit or attend, please visit: www.CaliforniaFoodExpo.com
CFBF endorses senate water legislation STAFF REPORTS Water legislation introduced today in the U.S. Senate recognizes the continued crisis facing water reliability in the West, according to the California Farm Bureau Federation. CFBF endorsed the Drought Resiliency and Water Supply Infrastructure
Act by Sen. Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif., who introduced the bipartisan legislation along with Sens. Cory Gardner, R-Colo., Martha McSally, R-Ariz., and Kyrsten Sinema, D-Ariz. The bill would authorize federal funding for new storage, recycling and desalination projects; create a loan program for
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water supply projects; enhance forest restoration and other activities to benefit water supply or quality; and take additional steps to encourage water development. “We thank Senator Feinstein for her ongoing efforts to improve the water outlook in California and throughout the West,” CFBF President Jamie Johansson said. “In this decade alone, California has experienced severe drought and torrential rainfall, and experts believe that may be the future trend for our state. That means we must improve investment in water projects to capture water when it’s available.” Johansson said the bill would make investments in water infrastructure more attractive and affordable SALES, SERVICE, RENTAL AG EQUIPMENT & TRUCK REPAIR
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VALLEYSCENE
4 July, 2019
ourvalleyvoice.com
V.I.P Pizza takes the whole pie in Sacramento STAFF REPORTS Last month, Assemblyman Devon Mathis (R-Visalia) announced that V.I.P. Pizza from Tulare was awarded the 26th Assembly District’s 2019 Small Business of the Year. Founded in 1985, V.I.P. Pizza was originally guided by the late Joe Gregory, a partner in the business who continuously served as a strong contributor to the community, taking part in myriad fundraisers and promotions to help downtown Tulare and ensuring that V.I.P. Pizza was especially supportive of local youth sports programs. When Joe Gregory passed away in 1998, he left his legacy of V.I.P. Pizza to his sister, Gloria McCauslin, and his brother, Clarence Gregory, who continue to give back to the community and provide financial support for youth programs and civic-minded organizations in Tulare. “We open these awards up to the community to choose and the community over whelming spoke,” said
Assemblymember Mathis. “V.I.P. Pizza not only lives up to their name by making amazing pizzas, but also treating the community and customers as Very Important People!” Small businesses play a critical role in supporting the economic well-being of the State of California by creating new business and employment opportunities and by bringing unique and innovative services and products to the marketplace. “I take immense pleasure in congratulating V.I.P. Pizza and its owners, Gloria McCauslin and Clarence Gregory, on being selected as the 26th Assembly District’s 2019 Small Business of the Year,” said Mathis. “I am proud to commend them for providing valuable services to the people of the local area, and applaud their history of community support.” “I am so honored to receive this award and if it wasn’t for my staff and customers it would not have been possible,” said McCauslin. Devon Mathis, Gloria McCauslin, and store manager Eric in Sacramento. Courtesy photo
Celebrate 4th of July weekend at national parks
Tulare Hospital Foundation hosting breast cancer event
NATIONAL PARKS SERVICE
STAFF REPORTS
Celebrate Fourth of July weekend in your national park. Summer is in full swing at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, and to help visitors have an enjoyable and safe holiday weekend, we’ve put together some helpful information and things to keep in mind.
Campgrounds
Campground reservations for the holiday weekend are fully booked, and first-come-first-served (walk-in) campsites are likely to fill by Wednesday. To make future reservations, visit www. recreation.gov. Please be aware that no public showers are available in Grant Grove or Cedar Grove. Portable showers are permitted if you collect the water and dispose of it in one of the outdoor sinks.
Fireworks and Fire Safety
For everyone’s safety, fireworks are not allowed in the parks. They are illegal year-round, and this is even more critical during the hot summer months as fire danger increases. Never leave a campfire or BBQ unattended. If it’s too hot to touch, it’s too hot to leave. Always fully extinguish your campfires before going to bed or departing your site.
Driving and Shuttles
Avoid long waiting periods by arriving prior to 10 a.m. or after 3 p.m., and have your method of payment ready when you arrive at the gate. Having snacks, water, and a full tank of gas is also recommended. Help decrease the waiting times by purchasing your park pass online
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Community members from throughout the Valley are invited to the 2019 “Proud to Wear Pink – Real Men Wear Pink” event hosted by the Tulare Hospital Foundation to support breast cancer awareness and research to prevent many types of cancers. This year’s event will be Saturday, July 13, 2019, at the Tulare Veterans Memorial Building, 1771 E. Tulare Ave., and includes a Fight Cancer Expo for local businesses, vendor shopping from local entrepreneurs, dinner with a keynote speaker, a fashion show, entertainment, a silent auction array plus a live auction of designer handbags. The doors open at 4 p.m., and the Fight Cancer Expo kicks things off at 4:30 p.m. The festivities begin at 6 p.m. “This is always a fun event,” says Jan Smith, director of the Tulare Hospi-
Dr. Ibironke Adelaja will be the keynote speaker
tal Foundation, “but we also take pride
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3rd Annual Boots, Brews and Bacon Festival at Visalia Convention Center STAFF REPORTS Join us for the 3rd Annual Visalia Convention Center Boots, Brews and Bacon Festival at the Visalia Convention Center on Saturday, July 27, 2019. The Boots Brews and Bacon Festival is a beer tasting festival designed to build the appreciation of craft brew all while listening to live music and enjoying BACON! The festival will take place indoors in the nicely air conditioned building on July 27th and will feature over 75 craft beers. Local restaurants will be sampling their best bacon inspired tastes for you to savor. In addition to crafts, domestics, imports and specialty ciders, root beer provided by
the A&W Root Beer Float Mobile will be available for sampling. Wine provided by Cacciatore Fine Wines will also be available for sampling for those attendees who wish for even more variety than already available. A $1,000 CASH PRIZE to the restaurant for the best bacon taste as voted by the attendees will be awarded, and don’t forget the bacon eating contest. Attendees will have the opportunity to sign up the night of the event and win two VIP tickets to 2020. In 2018 we celebrated a successful inaugural year with over 1,300 attendees that came to enjoy the refreshing brews and bacon bites from local breweries and restaurants. Last year,
the honor of Best Bacon Bite went to Cinnamon Roll Shack for their bacon topped cinnamon rolls. Enjoy live entertainment provided by Brandon Pasion Facebook. com/BrandonPasionMusic, Nameless https://www.facebook.com/NamelessGenreless/ and JJ Brown https://www. facebook.com/jjbrownmusic/ Singer-songwriter Brandon Pasion writes to tell our collective story. Having grown up in the shadow of some of songwriting’s greatest talents and his father’s guitar, Brandon’s songs come from a place of honesty - the hurts and joys that define him, and the hope that carries him through. For the last decade, Pasion has played shows up and
down the west coast, from Victoria, BC to San Diego, headlining conferences, concerts, vineyards, and beer gardens. JJ Brown is a USN Veteran and Country Singer Songwriter. He is known for his lyrical stories and high energy shows. He has shared the stage with other artist including Clint Black, Kevin Costner, Peter Frampton, the Doobie Brothers, and many more. Brown’s blended sound has been compared to Keith Urban, Eric Church, and Bruce Springsteen. His music has been described as Country, Rock, and Americana. His lyrics tell stories of life in the military, love, and empowerment. JJ Brown’ music will make you
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Visalia job fair set for July 9 STAFF REPORTS
The Visalia Economic Development Corporation will host a job fair from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Tuesday, July 9, at California Dairies, 2000 N. Plaza Drive. This is the fourth annual job fair coordinated by the VEDC, noted Board Chairman Carrie Groover, and the organization now offers winter and spring fairs. Confirmed participants to date include University of Phoenix, Fresno Pacific University, ServiceMaster, Sequoia
PARKS
continued from 7 ahead of time. This greatly reduces the amount of time spent at the entrance gate. Visit www.recreation.gov/pass. The Sequoia Shuttle is a great way to have a more enjoyable park experience. The Sequoia Shuttle runs from Visalia to the Giant Forest in Sequoia National Park (via Highway 198). The $20 reservation cost includes your entrance fee. More information can be found at www. sequoiashuttle.com. Moro Rock/Crescent Meadow Road will be closed to personal vehicles July 4 through July 7 for the holiday weekend. Access that area by shuttle, bicycle, or on foot.
River Safety
This year’s heavy snow pack and warming temperatures have resulted in extremely dangerous river conditions. The cold, swift, and dangerous Kaweah River and South Fork of the Kings River is posing a greater risk to public safety
Adult Education Consortium, Hydrite, USA Staffing, VWR, California Dairies and Electric Motor Shop. The Visalia Economic Development Corporation is a nonprofit organization committed to supporting current employers and recruiting new employers in ways that lead to the creation of new jobs and fiscally stronger businesses. For information on how to participate, contact Nancy Lockwood, executive director, at 733-3737 or nlockwood@thelockwoodagency.net.
than in recent years. The park urges visitors to enjoy areas of the park that are away from the river. Getting in the river or going near it could create a life or death situation.
Bears
It is very important that visitors not approach bears of any size and store food properly. Bears can grab unattended food or easily break into cars that have food in them. All food or anything with a scent must be stored and out of sight, and trash must be disposed of in bear-resistant cans and dumpsters.
First Time Visitors
If you are visiting the parks for the first time, or you haven’t been here in a while, make sure to look through the park newspaper you receive when entering the gate. Information about services and things to do are categorized by area, and a helpful shuttle and parking map can be found on the back page. You’ll also be handed a park map with more information about what makes
L-R:Senior Queen Trinity Silveira Reimer, attendants Chloe Cota and Mary Rosa; Junior Queen Malinda Tavares, attendants Makenna Meneses and Maisie DoCanto; President: Joey Mello Visalia’s Portuguese Celebration is one of the Valley’s oldest, started by the PPAV in 1913 to honor the Holy Ghost that inspired Portugal’s Saint Queen Isabella to feed the poor. This year 3,000 were fed free sopas. The daily rosary held at St. Anthony’s retreat saw 100 people daily. Entertainment after each rosary were Tulare Marsha dancers, blessing of the animals, D.J. dancing. 22 towns representing 24 queens in a 2-mile parade.
New art exhibition opens at Visit Visalia office STAFF REPORTS Visit Visalia has announced a unique exhibition of artwork by local artist Heidi Steinman. The installation is showcased in the Visit Visalia office at 112 E. Main Street in downtown Visalia. “Steinman’s vibrant oil paintings capture the beauty and color of our region’s Sierra Nevada foothills,” said executive director of Visit Visalia Demea Metcalf. The exhibition is free to the public. Visitors and art lovers are encouraged to come by to view Steinman’s work during regular business hours. Visit Visalia is open Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday and Friday until 6 p.m. and on Saturday from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. The exhibition will run through August 7, 2019. Steinman was born and raised in Visalia and credits her grandfather for supporting her pursuit of the arts. For her, art has continued to be an out-
let of expression. Her artwork reflects that passion, through the color-rich oil paintings she creates using the natural surroundings of her hometown as inspiration. Heidi Steinman “It’s an honor to have my work featured at Visit Visalia,” Steinman said. “I find pleasure and joy in the process of making an oil painting, and seeing the whole picture come together at the end is very rewarding.” Visit Visalia has a history of displaying the work of local artists. They continually support the creative community and were a stop on the First Friday Art Walk on June 7, 2019. “We enjoy showcasing original, local artwork and supporting the things that help to attract visitors to Visalia. Arts are a big draw for tourists to our city,” Metcalf said.
Steinman’s art pieces, such as this one, will be featured at Visit Visalia.
Valley Voice 4 July, 2019
Calendar
Through 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. Through July 19: Movies in the Park Films are shown on our giant inflatable movie screen at dusk. Free. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and sit back and enjoy the show! Guests are welcome to bring picnic dinner and snacks. Riverway Sports Park Special Event Promenade (3511 N. Dinuba Blvd.) June 14th – Smallfoot, June 21st - Lilo & Stitch, June 28th – Aquaman, July 5th - The Emperor’s New Groove, July 12th - Spider-Man into the Spider-Verse, July 19th - How to Train Your Dragon. Call (559) 713-4365 for more information. Through 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) Through 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 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. 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. Through July 16th Toddler Storytimes Every Tuesday at 10am, in the Children’s Wing o the Visalia Library Through 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.
9 July 4: 4th of July festival and fireworks in Exeter 10K run, 2-mile walk and Horseshoe Tournament in Exeter City Park located at Chestnut and E streets. To register and for more information, call Exeter Community Services at 559-5925262, Pancake Breakfast from 7 to 10 a.m. sponsored by the Exeter Fraternal Order of Eagles 3608. Tickets are $5 at the Exeter Eagles Lodge, 555 W. Visalia Rd. in Exeter or at the Exeter Chamber of Commerce, 101 W. Pine St. For more info, call 559-592-1771,The Exeter Lion’s Club presents the 74th Annual Free Fireworks Show at dusk in Exeter Lions Stadium located on east Rocky Hill Drive in Exeter.
5:00-7:00pm with a reception for the artist, Grace Harvey, The reception is open to the public and free of charge. THM hours of operation are 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Thursday - Saturday. Admission is free.
July 5 – 13 “Hairspray” in Tulare Winner of eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical, “Hairspray” is a family-friendly musical set in 1962 when plus-size Tracy Turnblad’s one desire is to dance on the popular Corny Collins TV show. July 5, 6, 9, 10, 11, 12 & 13 at 7:30 p.m. Sunday matinee July 7 at 2 p.m. Encore Theatre, 324 South N St., Tulare. 559 686-1300 or www.encoretulare.org
July 21: The Elton John musical tribute The Rocket Man Show, will perform at 7 p.m. at the Fox Theatre in Visalia. Tickets are $33 to $55 at foxvisalia.org.
July 6: Gadabouts Meeting 10:00am at the Senior Center, 310 N. Locust, Visalia. A group of active seniors who love to travel and love to travel together! info, Barbara Davis 732-5066 July 6: 1st Saturday in Three Rivers Visit artist studios and artists at work from 11-5. Pick up a map at the Three Rivers Historical Museum, 42268 Sierra Dr. (Highway 198) or the Arts Center, 41673 North Fork Dr. Free www.1stsaturdaytr.com July 8: “Meet the Mayor”, Visalia Mayor Bob Link welcomes Visalia residents to meet the mayor as he holds office hours on Monday. Meetings are conducted in 15-minute increments and allow citizens time to meet one on one with Mayor Link and discuss City matters and items of interest. All meetings will be by appointment time and start at 5 p.m. Office hours will be held at the City of Visalia Administration Office located across from the Transit Center at 220 N. Santa Fe. Questions, or to book an appointment time, contact Kathy Rouse, City of Visalia Administration, at 713-4355. To reach Mayor Link directly, email bob.link@visalia.city July 9: Visalia Economic Development Corporation Job Fair Annual job fair coordinated by the VEDC 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Tuesday, at California Dairies, 2000 N. Plaza Drive.Participants to date include University of Phoenix, Fresno Pacific University, ServiceMaster, Sequoia Adult Education Consortium, Hydrite, USA Staffing, VWR, California Dairies and Electric Motor Shop. Information Nancy Lockwood, executive director, at 733-3737 or nlockwood@thelockwoodagency.net. July 13; Proud to Wear Pink ~ Real Men Wear Pink Tulare Hospital Foundation Presents its annual Proud to Wear Pink fundraiser. Join the fight against all cancers! 4:00 Doors Open, 4:30 Expo Begins (Wellness Information, Vendor Boutique, Silent Auction, Networking) 6:00 Main Event - Cancer Survivor Tribute, Dinner - Fashion Show, Live Designer Purse Auction, Jewelry Raffle. Info Jan Smith, Executive Director 685-3438 Office, jan@tularehospitalfoundation.org July 13: Exhibit “Oils by Grace” Tulare Historical Museum The Heritage Art Gallery at THM is happy to announce the opening of our newest exhibit “Oils by Grace” from
July 19-27:Read all about it! Paper Mill Playhouse presents Newsies L. J. Williams Theater, 1001 W. Main St. in Visalia. Tickets are $8-$20. For more information, visit tcoe.org. July 20: The Real Mooney Grove Project meeting At the Mooney Grove Bridge on at 10:00 am. They encourage any community members to come and support the ongoing project.
July 27: 3rd Annual Boots, Brews and Bacon Festival 3rd Annual Boots, Brews and Bacon Festival at the Visalia Convention Center. The Boots Brews and Bacon Festival is a beer tasting festival designed to build the appreciation of craft brew all while listening to live music and enjoying BACON! The festival will feature over 75 craft beers. Local restaurants will be sampling their best bacon inspired tastes for you to savor. In addition to crafts, domestics, imports and specialty ciders, root beer provided by the A&W Root Beer Float Mobile will be available for sampling. Wine provided by Cacciatore Fine Wines will also be available Tickets are on sale and can be purchased at the Visalia Convention Center Box Office, Monday through Friday, or online at www.visaliatix. com. For more information call the Visalia Convention Center Box Office at (559) 713-4040. August 3: 1st Saturday in Three Rivers Arts Consortium presents event from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Art studios, restaurants and merchants open their doors and invite all for a town-wide celebration. Go to the Three Rivers Historical Museum, 42268 Sierra Hwy. for a map of participating venues. Info, visit 1stsaturdaytr.com or call 559-561-3463. Aug 22: The State of the County Luncheon Visalia Marriott at the Convention Center 300 S Court St, Visalia, 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM. The State of the County Luncheon serves as a forum for the Tulare County Board of Supervisors to highlight the county’s accomplishments, outline a foundation for the future and recognize an area.This year Tulare County Board of Supervisor Chairperson Kuyler Crocker will award California Citrus Mutual the Tulare County Outstanding Partner Award. Please contact the Visalia Chamber of Commerce with questions about tickets or sponsorships. September 15: Boots and Brews 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. September 27: Oktoberfest This year’s event is on Friday, at Vossler Farms. With your ticket you’ll get food samplings, wine tastings, and of course, beer tastings from local breweries. We’ll also have some incredible
live music. Our goal is to share the Central Valley’s best food, wine, beer, and entertainment with the community. Tickets are NOW available! A limited number of Early Bird tickets are available the month of July (or until they sell out) for $45. Starting August 1, tickets will go up to $50. The week of the event, tickets will go up one last time to $60 and we’ll likely sell out again this year, so don’t wait! Tues-Wed: 3PM-7PM; Thu-Sat: 11AM2PM Tulare Public Library, Veterans Resource Center, Referral services to all veterans and their families. Saturday 10:00 – Tuesday through Thursday: Homework Help Tulare Public Library Homework Help 4:00 - 7:00pm, grades K-12th in our Learning Center, Every other Wednesday: Knitting Club Tulare Public Library 5:30pm; September 26th in the Olympic Room. All ages welcome! To register for book clubs or computer classes call 559-685-4503 or stop by the research and information desk. Every Tuesday, Thursday and Friday: Visalia Duplicate Bridge Club 12 noon Tuesdays, 7pm Thursday, and 12 noon Fridays - $6 on Tuesdays and Friday and $7 on Fridays. Includes lunch. At First Christian Church, 1023 N. Chinowth St. Info Elaine Smith 559 734-4780 First Tuesdays of month: National Alliance on Mental Illness, 5:45pm Education Meeting: 7pm Support Group St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Visalia, 120 N. Hall, Corner of Center and Hall. For more information call: (559) 627-1306 Mondays: Bridge Club, 9:30am-2pm 210 W Center Street Visalia. Admission is free. For additional information call: Joan Dinwiddie, (559) 732-0855 Mondays: Knitters, 10am-12:30pm 210 W Center Street Visalia. Everyone is welcome. Mondays: Monday Karaoke at Barmageddon, 9pm-1am Karaoke Jockey Miss Sammi will be hosting from 9pm - 1am. No Cover. Tuesdays: Barmageddon Trivia Thunderdome, 9pm-1am Challenge your friends to the ultimate trivia throwdown. Earn some bragging rights in categories ranging from Saturday morning cartoons, classic video games, and pop culture films. Free sign ups at 9:30pm. Tuesdays and Thursdays, 7am Healing Hearts Walks Walk a 1 mile loop on the paved roads inside the Visalia Cemetery, Free coffee. Meet at the Veterans’ Memorial Wall. For more information call 7346181. 2nd Tuesday, Monthly: Yappy Hour, 5-9pm Well-mannered, leashed pets are welcome at the Planing Mill Artisan Pizzeria, 514 East Main Street, Suite A, in Visalia. A portion of the proceeds is donated to the Valley Oak SPCA. (559) 651-1111. Wednesdays: Barmageddon Game Night Come blow off some steam at our game night. Happy hour from 6-8pm. 1st Thursday, Monthly: Veterans Support Group, 5:30-7pm Free support group for global war on terrorism & post 9-11 (Veterans Only) at the Tulare Public Library, 475 North M Street in Tulare. Facilitated by: Dr. Lance Zimmerman, PhD of Veterans Counseling Clinic.
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Fresno airport celebrates art & culture with new art exhibitions
STAFF REPORTS Fresno Yosemite International Airport is pleased to unveil new art exhibitions to welcome summer travelers as part of the Airport’s Arts & Culture program. The latest exhibition includes original works of art by California Central Valley artists and is a combination of large scale paintings, mixed media and photography. Exhibits in the new arts lounge provide travelers with a comfortable and quiet setting for viewing local works of art. Aimed to welcome travelers and celebrate the vibrant and diverse Central Valley area, the Airport’s Arts & Culture program has expanded to include larger works of art and musical performances by area musicians for holidays and special events. By sharing interpretations of their traditions and heritage through art and music, local artists and musicians guide travelers on journey through the region they call home. “As the major air transportation hub for California’s Central Valley, Fresno Yosemite International Airport is the global gateway to a region with a rich history and is home to generations of many backgrounds,” said Airports Marketing Manager Claudia
BOOTS
continued from 7 laugh, dance and even cry. Nameless is the South Valley band that can’t be labeled. New, Old, Country, Pop, Rock, if it’s good music, they have it covered. You will have a great time with Danny DeSimas on vocals, Jef Edwards on drums, Lloyd Cassidy on guitar, and Stephen Soto on bass. We are excited to be partnering again with Visalia’s roller derby team the V Town Derby Dames. Partial proceeds will be donated to the Derby
PINK
continued from 7 in providing important information about the realities of breast cancer today and the treatment options open to
Arguelles-Miller. “While the Airport connects travelers to destinations around the world through the Arts & Culture program, we also connect people to cultural identities and the diverse histories of the Central Valley.”
Featured Artists
Adrianna Alejo Sorondo’s exhibition showcases her paintings of plants, foods, and tools used in food and farm labor. Ms. Sorondo has exhibited at the Galleries at San Francisco State University, Alena Museum in Oakland and has done commissioned mural work for ACLU Northern California Offices, Arte Americas and Fresno Barrios Unidos. Nick Potter’s large scale exhibition incorporates elements of idealized mid-century architecture and furniture into rich and colorful paintings. Mr. Potter has shown in numerous group and solo exhibitions. His upcoming solo exhibition Constructed Utopia at the Fresno Art Museum will be on view this summer through early January. Mr. Potter, originally from the United Kingdom, now calls Fresno his home and teaches at California State University Fresno. The Spectrum Photography Gallery features photographers Jenni-
fer Franklin and Travis Rockett. Ms. Franklin’s “Fauna” exhibition is a mix of portraits and abstract detail images to capture a small fraction of the magnificence she sees in the animal life on the planet. “Natural Selection” by Mr. Rockett captures the unique personality of animals by illustrating insight
that might not be immediately noticed through monochromatic color. In celebration of its 90th year anniversary, a second Spectrum Photography Gallery space features “Celebrating the Fresno Chaffee Zoo” by Spectrum Art Gallery members.
Dames. Come and support your local breweries, restaurants, bands and your Derby Dames. Tickets are $30.00 in advance, $35.00 day of the event, groups of 10+ $25.00, and $75.00 VIP (only 100 VIP are available). This is a 21 and older only event, proof of age will be required at the door. VIP tickets include early admission at 5:30pm, VIP lanyard, merch, exclusive access to the VIP “Budweiser Country Club” area with private food and brewery serving area and unlimited tastings, restaurant bacon bite sam-
ples and live entertainment. General Admission tickets include entrance at 6:00pm, unlimited tastings, restaurant bacon bite samples and live entertainment. Brewery, Restaurant and Sponsorship Participation Packages are available. Please contact Shelley Ellis at shelley.ellis@visalia.city or 559-713-4004. Tickets are on sale and can be purchased at the Visalia Convention Center Box Office, Monday through Friday, or online at www.visaliatix.com. For more information call the Visalia Convention Center Box Office
at (559) 713-4040. Be sure to buy your tickets ahead of time, print at home or pick them up in advance to avoid lines. Breweries and restaurants are being added regularly, be sure to check for the latest news and updates on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ visaliaconventioncenter. Thank you to the Boots, Brews and Bacon Festival event sponsors: Bueno Beverage Company, California Pork Producers Association and Giant Chevrolet/Cadillac.
women and men.” This year’s keynote speaker is Dr. Ibironke Adelaja, a general surgeon specializing in breast cancer, benign breast disease and women’s health. She earned her degree in medicine from Texas A&M and has been
practicing medicine for more than eight years. “In addition, a portion of this year’s proceeds benefit Adventist Health imaging services in Tulare,” says Smith. A major equipment overhaul valued at nearly $4 million is
underway at the Adventist Health Tulare Imaging Department. The list of equipment includes an MRI, two ultrasound scanners, two C-arm imaging scanners, a 3-D mammogram machine, two portable X-ray machines and a digital radiography X-ray suite. Funds from the event also will support the Tulare Relay For Life. Every year the Proud to Wear Pink event also presents a Survivor Video Tribute, which contains inspirational stories of hope plus important information about the crusade to fight all forms of cancer. Tickets are $50 per person and are available at the hospital Gift Shop at the main entrance to the Tulare hospital, at the Tulare Hospital Foundation office, at Dejavu Hair & Nail Studio, 124 S. K St. in Tulare, or through any Foundation member. Gift shop hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Monday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday through Friday. The foundation office is located at 906 N. Cherry St. across from the hospital’s main entrance. More information about tickets and sponsorship can be found at www. tularehospitalfoundation.org More information about the foundation or event is available by contacting the Tulare Hospital Foundation at 559-685-3438 or jan@tularehospitalfoundation.org.
Nick Potter’s large scale exhibition incorporates elements of idealized mid-century architecture and furniture into rich and colorful paintings. Courtesy photo
CENTRAL COAST SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL Summer Season 2019
Admission:
Twelfth Night AND Treasure Island by Phil Willmott
$20 General Admission $18 Student & Senior $12 Kids 12 & Under Prepaid groups of 10 or more, $15 each
July 11 – August 3, 2019 Enjoy live theatre outdoors on the beautiful Filipponi Ranch 1850 Calle Joaquin, San Luis Obispo
Tickets on sale Now centralcoastshakespeare.org
Pack a picnic meal, bring a lawn chair and blankets. Filipponi Ranch Cellars wine sold by the glass or bottle.
Valley Voice 4 July, 2019
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AGRICULTURE
CFBF hosts Centennial Celebration at state capitol CALIFORNIA FARM BUREAU FEDERATION
More than 500 people—including legislators and their staff, state government officials and others—attended the California Farm Bureau Federation Centennial Celebration at the state Capitol on June 26. The event featured 31 exhibits, including from 25 county Farm Bureaus showcasing their region’s agricultural bounty. Other exhibitors included CFBF Young Farmers and Ranchers, CFBF Member Services, Farm Employers Labor Service, California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom, University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources, 4-H, Farm Credit and Nationwide. Assemblyman Jim Cooper presented a resolution commemorating the centennial to the CFBF Board of Directors.
CFBF officers and board members pose with Assemblyman Jim Cooper and state Food and Agriculture Secretary Karen Ross after the Assembly passed a resolution honoring the organization on its centennial. Courtesy/Ching Lee/CFBF
Farm Credit helps dairy group train leaders of tomorrow STAFF REPORTS
California dairy farmers lead the nation in milk production but face a growing number of issues, including several years of low milk prices, the state’s ever-increasing emphasis on reducing greenhouse gases, trade disputes, and other environmental regulations. In an ongoing effort to educate up-and-coming dairy industry leaders about these issues and how to advocate for the industry, Western United Dairies (WUD) this year is continuing a long-standing immersion program to give them public relations skills, a better understanding of how government works and dairy promotion. The Farm Credit Alliance is helping to fund the program. “Farm Credit strongly supports industry efforts to train and equip tomorrow’s leaders,” said Leili Ghazi, Farm Credit Alliance Chair and Senior Vice President of the Farm Credit Banking Group for CoBank. “We’re proud that our funding will allow
WUD to continue its successful Dairy Leaders Program, helping the dairy industry navigate the increasingly difficult regulatory maze in the years to come.” CoBank is the lending partner for California’s Farm Credit System members. Also participating are American AgCredit, Farm Credit West, Golden State Farm Credit and Yosemite Farm Credit. WUD economist Annie AcMoody said the program, now in its 15th session, could not be held without Farm Credit’s support. “We could not put together this program without Farm Credit’s support,” she said. “We’re a volunteer membership organization and our revenues and membership are down because of the headwinds buffeting the industry here in California. Without that support, there is no way we could continue this program and it’s critical that we do.” WUD represents farmers who produce more than 60% of California’s
milk each year. AcMoody said the program is designed to educate farmers and other industry leaders about the challenges they face and to create leaders who will shape the industry’s future. “We teach them about things that happen outside their farms that affect their operations,” she said. “People who participate realize they didn’t know how much happens (in Sacramento and Washington, D.C.) that they wind up having to deal with on a daily basis, and they really appreciate learning about the impact government has.” The program begins with PR training, helping future leaders learn how to best craft communications strategies and develop messages. Participants, primarily from the Central Valley and Sonoma County – the state’s two main dairy production regions – then head to Sacramento to learn about the state legislative process and advocate for key issues that pertains to the dairy industry.
Following sessions on how the state’s dairy pricing system works, they travel to Chicago to get a national perspective on dairy promotion and learn more about risk management. As part of that module, they visit the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, where dairy futures and options are traded, which are key parts of risk management strategy for farmers. The class later heads to Washington, D.C., to meet with federal agencies and associations, learn about the federal legislative process and advocate for issues that matter to the California dairy industry. The final session provides information about environmental issues and the constant efforts put forth to limit regulations and their constraints on the industry. This year’s participants are Darby Toth from Hanford, Eileen De Raadt from Tulare, Kayleen Kemp from Hanford, Zach Cahill from Loleta (Humboldt County), Darlene Idsinga from Hanford, and Stephanie Moreda-Arend from Petaluma.
Commentary: It’s time for action on USMCA trade agreement CONGRESSMAN KEVIN MCCARTHY California is the fifth largest producer of agriculture in the world, and I’m proud to say that much of this production comes from my own backyard in Kern County, Tulare County, and the Central Valley. In order for the Golden State to remain a world leader in agriculture, Congress must act on commonsense legislation that will put our farmers first and modernize a trade agreement that has not been updated in a quarter of a century. The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement follows through on the administration’s promise to support America’s farmers and ranchers by bringing our current trilateral trade agreement into the 21st century. Ratifying the USMCA would add hundreds of thousands of jobs to our workforce and give farmers increased market access to sell produce to our biggest trading partners: Mexico and Canada. This deal will not only further help the approximately 11,500 jobs in
Kern and Tulare counties that are supported by North American trade, it will open opportunities for more growth. One of the most impactful updates to the trade agreement grants our dairy farmers more market access to Canada by eliminating unfair policies that put our U.S. milk producers at a disadvantage. It also creates new access for poultry producers, and increases transparency on various policies related to fruits and vegetables that will help maximize U.S. exports. Expanding access for U.S. exports to Canada and Mexico is critical, especially as the Trump administration works to curb the trade abuses of China, which is retaliating with unfair tariffs against U.S. agricultural exports. In Kern and Tulare counties alone, exports to these two countries from our farmers and manufacturers contribute more than $600 million to the local economy annually. I am encouraged by the overwhelming support for USMCA. It already enjoys bipartisan support from
members of Congress, and more than half of our country’s governors have called for its swift passage. Countless companies, businesses and coalitions—including nearly 1,000 agricultural groups—have also publicly announced their support of the updated trade agreement. Along with domestic support, Mexico and Canada are working hard to ratify the agreement. In fact, just last week, the Mexican government officially ratified USMCA. That leaves the United States and Canada to follow. Last week, I had a productive meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and fellow members of Congress to discuss the future of USMCA for both nations. I was satisfied with the direction of our conversation and am even more confident that our countries will move swiftly toward ratification. Now is the time for the U.S. Congress to act. In particular, it is up to Speaker Nancy Pelosi to schedule this agreement for House floor con-
sideration. I am encouraged by Speaker Pelosi’s willingness to engage in discussions with U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, and am optimistic we will be able to keep up the momentum on working towards passage of the USMCA. Until this agreement is signed by President Trump, I will work every day to support and strengthen our community. For as long as I have the privilege of serving in Congress, I remain committed to making sure Congress enacts legislation that helps support our local farmers, ranchers and dairy producers in our community, the Central Valley and across the state. (Rep. Kevin McCarthy, R-Bakersfield, represents the 23rd Congressional District, encompassing most of Kern and Tulare counties and northeastern Los Angeles County, and serves as House minority leader.)
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Porterville organization awarded Alzheimer’s Foundation grant STAFF REPORTS The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) announced that it has awarded a $5,000 grant to Valley Adult Day Services, in Porterville, to provide respite care services for families affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia-related illnesses. Valley Adult Day Services was one of fifteen organizations in nine states to receive grants as part of AFA’s Milton and Phyllis Berg Respite Care Grant program. Grant funding will support Valley Adult Day Services’ person-centered adult day program, which cares for individuals living with dementia, and cognitive and physical impairment, while specializing in Alzheimer’s disease care. The program provides care for participants while affording caregivers a much needed break to tend to other important needs. Additionally, Valley Adult Day Services offers caregivers support groups, training programs, classes and
workshops, legal referrals, advocacy, an extensive resource library, and more. “We are so honored to have been chosen as one of the recipients of the 2019 Spring Respite Care Grant. The work of AFA is remarkable and we are humbled to be a part of this wonderful organization,” said Kayla Muller, Executive Director of Valley Adult Day Services. “Funding for this grant will go to provide respite care for family caregivers in the Tulare County area, providing care for the victims of this devastating disease. This funding will allow us to provide day programming services to those families that find the cost of the program beyond their financial abilities, providing the caregiver with much needed respite from the caregiving responsibilities. We want to say ‘Thank you,’ for this support not only to our program but to the Alzheimer’s and caregiving community of Tulare County.” “Valley Adult Day Services provides
valuable services in the local community. They play a vital role in improving the quality of life for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, and their families,” said Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr., AFA’s president and CEO. “Their respite care program provides much-needed support to families affected by Alzheimer’s disease. We are pleased to help them deliver these important services to family caregivers and their loved ones with Alzheimer’s.” “As the incidence of Alzheimer’s disease continues to grow, we need to remember that it has a tremendous impact not only on those living with the disease, but the caregivers as well,” said AFA Board Treasurer, Barry Berg. “It is a tremendous responsibility for caregivers. It is important for them to be able to take time for themselves, maintain their own health, and recharge so that they can provide the best quality care to their loved ones.”
The Milton and Phyllis Berg Respite Care Grants are awarded to organizations that share AFA’s mission of providing support, services and education to individuals, families and caregivers affected by Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias nationwide. They were created in response to the overwhelming need for respite care as a result of caregiving responsibilities. Funding is awarded twice a year. The grants are named in honor of the deceased parents of Barry E. Berg, who has served on AFA’s Board of Trustees since 2004. Mr. Berg’s mother, Phyllis, lived with Alzheimer’s disease and his father, Milton, was her primary caregiver. Caregivers who need information about respite care services can contact AFA’s Helpline at 866-232-8484 and speak with a licensed social worker, or connect through AFA’s website, www.alzfdn.org. The Helpline is open 7 days a week.
RAVALIN
Kaweah Delta Medical Foundation names CEO
about furthering progress in math. The district is expected to open a school this fall serving students experiencing developmental or behavioral issues. There, students in grades seven to 12 will get more personal help than if they were in a larger school setting. Dr. Ravalin also anticipates beginning a conversation about making campuses welcome to students and staff of all backgrounds. Though the work seems daunting, Ravalin is hoping for growth. “Sometimes you learn from your mistakes more than your successes
STAFF REPORTS
continued from 1
BLAIR
continued from 1
June 5
On the day of the incident Lemoore police officers and community members were in the rear parking lot of the police department preparing for a procession to Hanford. Esbenshade said because it was a civic gathering the police did not have their body cameras on. Once Blair was seen entering the parking lot driving at high speed one officer turned on his camera. The video starts as Blair is at the end of the parking lot and turning around. The video shows Blair almost hitting Officer Cosper as she drove out of
e
Th
The Kaweah Delta Medical Foundation, which operates the medical offices staffed by physicians from Visalia Medical Clinic, has a new Chief Executive Officer. After an extensive national search, Paul Schofield, a healthcare executive with more than 30 years of experience, accepted the position in late May. He has served the Kaweah Delta Medical Foundation in the interim CEO position since February. “I have had success in handling challenges that are similar to those we face here, so I am ready for the
the lot and he entered. The two other felonies happened before the body camera was turned on and are based on eye witnesses. Three officers had their body cameras activated when they pulled Blair from her vehicle said Esbenshade. Esbenshade was surprised to learn that there are no surveillance cameras in the parking lot; there is, therefor, no footage of when she entered. The parking lot is not open to the public, adding to the mystery of why Blair entered the parking lot in the first place.
No longer represented by Melo and Sarsfield
Blair is no longer being represented by the Law Firm of Melo and Sars-
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road ahead,” said Schofield, who prior to coming to Visalia completed 12 years as CEO of Ogden Clinic, an independent physician-owned, multi-specialty group practice in northern Utah, operating 16 clinics, with 136 providers. “I have a high respect for physicians and the responsibilities and pressures they face. Physicians want to practice medicine and if they can rely on someone they trust to run their business for them, they can be successful. I am here to help them and also meet the community’s need for primary and specialty care physicians.”
Schofield is no stranger to California or the Central Valley. His 30 years of experience includes serving as Vice President of Sierra Vista Regional Medical Center and Twin Cities Community Hospital in San Luis Obispo. He has also worked at medical centers in Fairfield, Modesto and San Jose. Schofield has a Master of Hospital Administration from the University of Minnesota and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Brigham Young University. He is fluent in Spanish and enjoys playing golf, tennis, pickleball, and hiking.
field, which successfully represented her earlier this year in an anti-SLAPP suit and visited with her in jail after her arrest. Melo and Sarsfield would not comment on why they are no longer representing Blair. Immediately after her arrest, though, Maggie Melo said that a medical condition might have contributed to her erratic behavior. In Blair’s mug shot she has her eyes shut and looks catatonic. This theory was buttressed by Lemoore Police Chief Derrell Smith’s June 5 press conference when he said,. “I can only describe her behavior after listening to officers …….. as very bizarre. We can’t explain what her intent was when she came into the rear compound.” Smith also said during his press conference that at the time of her arrest “Blair went limp.” Under criminal law the DA will have to prove intent to cause bodily harm. If it is proven that Blair was under medical distress at the time of the incident the charges of assault with a deadly weapon could be ruled an accident. Esbenshade said he didn’t see any evidence of medical distress in the video and that her mug shot appeared to be simple malingering. It is unknown if Blair currently has legal counsel to represent her in court July 5. If she does not have a lawyer and cannot afford one, a lawyer will be provided for her, said Esbenshade.
has only attended one council meeting on May 7. According to the California Code, a council person’s seat becomes vacant if they miss the regular city council meetings for 60 consecutive days without permission. That would mean that if Blair misses the July 2 meeting she would no longer be a City Council member. The Lemoore City Council July 2 meeting was initially canceled last year but reinstated due to city business through a resolution. According to Nathan Olson, Lemoore City Manager, the City of Lemoore Rules of Conduct state that a council seat does not become vacant until a member misses five consecutive regular meetings, giving Blair until the July 16 meeting. Olson said that he is following the more lenient of the two codes unless legal council says otherwise. Blair attended a special meeting on May 22 that was a luncheon but Olson said only regular meetings count. The July 2 meeting, coincidentally, was reinstated so the council could strategize how it plans on filling Council Member Chad Billingsley’s seat. Billingsley, who was elected in 2018 and is a lifelong resident, is moving to Colorado because of a work transfer with Leprino Foods. His last meeting will be July 16. If Blair misses the regular July 16 meeting it will constitute her fifth consecutive absence. In such an event, the city council may be faced with filling two vacancies rather than one. Olson said, “I hope after all this we can get back to business as usual. The residents and staff deserve more than all this turmoil. We want to start moving our agenda forward.”
Future as a Council Member in Question
Since the Lemoore City Council rescinded Blair’s censure in April and agreed to pay her lawyer’s fees, Blair
Valley Voice 4 July, 2019
FARMERSVILLE continued from 1
has because of our location and because we have three dispensaries.” Woodlake is currently the only city in Tulare County that allows recreational cannabis sales. In its first year of business there, Valley Pure’s flagship location generated more than $400,000 in sales tax, much of which has been spent improving public safety for the town. Tulare may soon join them, with a ballot measure on recreational cannabis sales in that town set for 2020.
5% Pot Tax
Farmersville is also mimicking the way Woodlake taxes the newly legal intoxicant. “We’re also 5%. We just matched Woodlake’s tax rate,” Gomez said. “We wanted to make sure we were being competitive with any neighboring agency. They were the only one close by. No reason to go lower than them.” Wes Hardin, manager of Valley Pure, previously said Woodlake’s middle-of-the-road tax rate was one of the main reasons the business chose to open its doors there. Other California cities have set their cannabis sales tax rate as high as 10%.
Popular Idea
Other Valley cities are also get-
PARK
continued from 1 According to Dan Veyna, a landscape architect working on the 20year Master Plan for the park, Mooney Grove was originally donated to the city to be an oak preserve for the enjoyment of Tulare County residents. This 20-year renovation plan was presented to the public in 2014 by the Tulare County Board of Supervisors. The renovation plan included museums and other flashy additions to the park that, according to Bryant, “strayed from Mr. Mooney’s original intentions for the park as a picnicking area and oak preserve.” The goals of Bryant’s non-profit do not always align with the county’s 20-year plan. For example, the organization believes in restoring historic buildings rather than building over them. Bryant has long advocated for saving the concessions stand that currently sits vacant. Her vision includes a functioning space with an updated kitchen that can be rented out to groups or organizations. In addition, she hopes to decorate the walls with old photographs of the park throughout the years. This is one of the projects her organization
13 ting on the recreational cannabis bandwagon. In March of this year, about the same time Farmersville took the plunge, Hanford approved cannabis sales for recreational purposes, allowing two dispensaries to open in its downtown area and a pair of pot delivery businesses to operate out of the city’s industrial park. Last month, Lemoore became the second Kings County city to approve the sale of recreational cannabis. Fresno has also approved sales of recreational cannabis, while the Visalia City Council continues to balk at the idea. The increase in tax revenue seems to be the motivating force in welcoming cannabis dealers to town. “I think that, honestly, the potential revenue we’d be getting in it is a large factor in it,” Gomez said. “We have various large projects around town, that revenue will allow it, and buying new equipment.” Farmersville’s city manager also hopes cannabis sales will bring new businesses to town. “It’s my hope that will encourage other development by the highway, as well,” she said.
Waiting on the State
Storefronts aren’t the only cannabis-related industry Farmersville is welcoming. Again following Woodlake’s lead, Farmersville will consider
Not only is Farmersville’s administration unsure how much revenue to expect from the sales of cannabis, it also doesn’t know when the flow of new cash will start. Gomez is hoping to see the new riches arriving no later than the start of next year, though it may not take that long. “I’m honestly just waiting until January,” she said. “If I see anything come in sooner, I’ll be happy.” Causing the confusion is the state-level bureaucracy. As with the approval of alcohol sales licenses, per-
will prioritize. At its most recent meeting, the board slated certain items of the park that need immediate attention. Community member and veteran Lary Parker said he “hopes we can just make the park as accessible for everybody as possible.” Parker is specifically referring to the elderly and disabled in that statement. When visiting the park, he finds walkways to be uneven, which makes it easy for someone to trip and fall. The main concern voiced at the meeting was the prioritization of the veteran’s memorial that lies bare. Bryant said there used to be plaques featuring the names of Tulare County veterans who gave their lives in war. Lacking the proper maintenance, the plaques eventually started to decay, so the parks department decided to take them out. The non-profit’s number one priority is to freshen up the memorial with new plaques listing names of those from Tulare County who were lost in the armed forces. Various people at the meeting belonging to veteran’s organizations voiced their support for this and wanted to provide financial support. The second aspect of the park the group would like to focus on is the
bridge stretching over the lagoon. This bridge was built in 1919, and it needs to be sandblasted and repainted Siegentholar said. The organization hopes to finish this project and celebrate its renewal on the one-hundredth year anniversary coming up next year. Cameron Creek flows through Mooney Grove Park, but has long been stagnant, allowing bacteria and algae to form. In the lagoon, it used to be popular to rent rowboats. But, currently, the rowboat service is non-operable, and the lagoon has sat unattended to for 20 years, according to Bryant. It is now filled with algae and dead fish. Signs decorate the side of the lagoon discouraging park goers from getting close to the lagoon due to its toxicity. The organization hopes to drain and repair the lagoon. Bryant also hopes to have a fence lining the park with a security system. Siegentholar, who is in charge of applying for and earning grant money, said this will not only help maintain the quality of the park, but it will increase the chances of earning grant money. “It shows we have a plan to keep the park in an operable safe place,” Siegentholar said. He then explained that people are more likely to fund
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allowing processing and the growing of cannabis inside the city limits. But, that remains a possibility for the future. “We do allow cultivation, manufacturing, just no one has submitted any applications for those kind of businesses,” Gomez said. Platinum Connection, which has yet to construct the building that will house it, has expressed interest in growing its own cannabis. “In future, they’d like to have some facilities for cultivation,” Gomez said. They apparently aren’t the only ones interested in growing cannabis in Farmersville. “I know there is interest in doing cultivation, but no one has moved forward on doing an application for cultivation yet,” Gomez said.
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mits to sell recreational cannabis are controlled by the state government. “I don’t know how long the state will take to issue these licenses,” Gomez said. “The dispensaries could be ready to go, just waiting for the state. They could be sitting here twiddling their thumbs. We don’t know how fast the state is issuing license.”
Not Counting Unhatched Chickens
While Gomez expects sales tax from cannabis to enrich the city’s coffers and improve the quality of life for Farmersville residents, she doesn’t believe it will bring radical changes to the city’s spending. “Say (tax revenue is) like $500,000 a year. It sounds like a lot of money,” she said. “But, say we’re doing street improvements. They can be more than a million dollars.” While Farmersville will be using the money cannabis sales generate for some large projects, it won’t be using those funds to hire new personnel. “We’re not going to use it for salaries,” Gomez said. “We want to see if these businesses are going to stay.” For now, there are no plans to spend revenue the city has yet to earn, but Gomez promises good things ahead for Farmersville. “We’re being cautious with how we’re going to use that revenue,” she said. “We’re certainly going to put to good use.”
projects that endure long past the individuals who start the project. The organization’s last endeavor is to partner with local elementary schools and involve kids in replanting the Valley Oak trees in the park. This has been a community concern with the park in the past, as several oaks have been taken out of Mooney Grove. Valley Oaks have a shallow and widespread root system. This makes their roots more vulnerable to foot traffic that may compact the soil around their roots. In addition, as the water table drops, they suffer from drought. This could be the reason for the loss of the Mooney Grove oaks in recent years. Toward the end of the meeting, community members and directors alike decided the next step is to create a clear mission statement outlining the organization’s goals. Parker also pointed out that it might be beneficial to present cost estimates to county officials. He said he would help Bryant with these things. The Real Mooney Grove Project will hold its next meeting at the Mooney Grove Bridge on July 20 at 10am. They encourage any community members to come and support the ongoing effort.
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14
VOICES & OPINIONS
4 July, 2019 Valley Voice
Worthley: Eliminating gas hookups is “a solution in search of a problem” STEVE WORTHLEY As the state of California hurtles toward adopting a building decarbonization policy that mandates electricity as the sole source of power, it is increasingly important that we pay attention to this issue and make our voices heard before the state heedlessly makes a decision that will have severe unintended consequences. I recently attended a California Public Utilities Commission workshop on building decarbonization and found the discussion eye-opening. For starters, much of the research people were citing as proof was either outdated or biased. More distressingly, many decision-makers appear to have already made up their minds. A 2016 report from the California Air Resources Board, for example, indicated that residential properties had a continuing decline in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and were on target to meet the 2020 goals and beyond. Yet that data is dated, and projections are that the emission reductions have likely accelerated in light of the electrical rate increases since then and the explosion in rooftop solar installations. Then there were those who spoke
as though it was established fact that electricity was a cost saver to consumers over gas. One local home builder spoke in favor of eliminating gas hookups and indicated they were building such homes in the Fresno/ Clovis area. While they said they had success in moving some customers to electrical appliances, they also admitted that there was general reluctance to give up gas stovetops (thus there still is the need to include gas hookups to their construction). They also said that there was an approximate $5,000 upfront cost over and above traditional gas appliances in the construction costs. Here again, the economics of gas vs. electricity rates would be significant. A publication from Choose Energy ranking residential rates by states indicated that California’s average in January 2019 was 18.32 cents per kilowatt hour (KwH). Yet my PG&E bill has a baseline rate of $.21775, $0.27402 101%400% of baseline, and $0.48009 over 400% baseline. When compared to neighboring states, our rates in California are outrageous: Oregon: $0.1061, Nevada: $0.1179, and Arizona $0.12.22. I learned that 60% of Central Val-
ley residents qualify for discounted rates but only about 20% of them are actually taking advantage of those rates. This has enormous implications: Many people are paying the full freight of these high rates; likely they live in older and dilapidated homes that require more energy to achieve comfort levels and because of costs are mitigating their high energy costs by going without air conditioning; and if by some chance all 60% did take advantage of the reductions, what would the economic impact be to the entire rate structure, i.e. fewer people paying the actual costs would drive up rates for the reduced number of rate payers subsidizing the others. The 2016 CARB report still shows that natural gas is the largest means of electrical generation in California as of 2016. The other non-GHG-emitter power generators include hydro projects (which are dependent upon rainfall/snow melt) and nuclear power with the last remaining nuclear generator scheduled for decommissioning in the near future. Why take away the options of individuals to utilize gas if we are still going to be dependent upon gas to generate electricity? Also,
as the state shifts away from carbon fuels, the demand for electricity will grow dramatically. How will all that electricity be generated? Most of the Central Valley is limited to monopolies of electrical providers. Without competition, we are at the mercy of the PUC rate setters and they have proven to be not protective of us. Simply compare what we pay for power versus our neighboring states. Bottom line, the proposed policy changes of eliminating gas hookups is a solution in search of a problem. In the end, the workshop reinforced to me why it is so important that we continue to engage on this matter and try to influence policy-makers before they rush into a hasty decision that we as a state will come to regret. California needs an energy portfolio that draws on a variety of sources. Doing so not just lessens the economic impact on Californians but supports climate policies that reduce emissions and allow consumers to make their own energy choices. Steve Worthley, the former chairman of the Tulare County Board of Supervisors, is a board member of Californians for Balanced Energy Solutions.
“Your slanted, lying hit piece in that laughable ‘newspaper...’” “LUCIFER” Columnist Catherine Doe received this e-mail from “Lucifer” concerning her Political Fix piece entitled “The Shakedown of Hanford Vice-Mayor John Draxler.” Dear Ms. Doe, A hearty hello and ‘well done’ pat to the head for you. I am using one of my many email addresses to write to you. Normally, it would have said @hell, but that is another issue for another day. I know we have met before, but introducing myself, once more to you, as the great one of the nether regions. That’s right, the goat horned
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you know who! You have proven yourself once again to be a great servant of me, the old ‘dragon’. I just wanted to tell you how much we rejoiced in hell the other day when we read your slanted, lying hit piece in that laughable ‘newspaper’ called the Valley Voice. I am referring to your article titled ‘Shakedown of Hanford Vice-Mayor John Draxler’. We loved the way you spun the article to trash our enemy. You effectively used falsehoods, half truths, and let’s face it, lies, and unsupported assertions to demolish your target. You are a person after our own heart. They don’t call me the father of lies for
Mr.Mayor Why this is about the home less why can’t the city put the home less on a property that the city owns it would get them off the trail an have them where the police can keep an eye on them an I’m sure the city has porta pottys so they won’t be useing peoples yards I would think that the city could pay for that and most everything belongs to Tulare so what would it hurt.
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Article says that “studies” have been done. They should be made public so local residents can judge for themselves. Occupancy taxes don’t stay in local area but go to County. Three Rivers hasn’t seen much return on those taxes over the years. What are winter plans when tourist visits plummet? Will they close parts like Comfort Suites? What jobs will locals be able to get? Their previous plan called for on-site employee housing. Looks like RMA has already decided that it’s a done deal.
— JPBeachBum on Three Rivers Hotel Plan
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rewards from us. And, when you are well, ‘done’ if you know what I mean, we have reserved a very, very special place in hell for you. A suite right next to Hitler, Lenin, Stalin and Mao awaits you in our ‘tropical paradise’. LOL So, keep up the good work attacking God, His Christ, and their followers, all of whom are our enemies, and we look forward to your arrival here. Don’t be surprised if we roll out the red, fiery carpet for you. Your reward awaits you. With much gratitude, Your’s truly, Proudly Evil, The Serpent, aka Lucifer aka.....
Your comments from ourvalleyvoice.com
— Jose Deleon on Sigala Becomes Tulare’s First Latino Mayor
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nothing. LOL. But, I digress. In particular, you were so serpertinely engaging in your attack on our nemeis, the PJI, and its brother organization, CBN. They have been such a thorn in our side, what with defending and promoting Christianity and followers of you know Who. And, as another plus, you cited our loyal servant the Southern Poverty Law Center. Yes, we know they have been thoroughly discredited. But we specialize in thoroughly discredited rebels who side with us against Yahweh and His followers. In conclusion, your efforts on behalf of hell have not gone unnoticed and you can expect many temporal
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Some residents of Three Rivers just resist major changes and will always fight it. Can’t stop time and can’t stop progress…….change (good or bad) always happens one way or the other and only time will tell which one it is going to be. Wonder what the success history of this Patel Group has been. Wonder how many complaints have been registered against them. For the sake of Three River residences I hope they are good actors.
— Former Resident on Three Rivers Hotel Plan
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I certainly will be interested to learn the information alluded to by Mr. Washam which indicates that the concerns expressed by Three Rivers residents are “overblown”. It will be good to know the parameters of the “studies” which have been done.
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— Nadine Steel on Three Rivers hotel plan
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I survived a head-on wreck a few years ago. The drunk who hit me was a wrong-way driver on Highway 65. Double fatality, lots of carnage. The drunk driver who hit me tested at time of death at three times the legal limit; if he had lived he would almost certainly have been convicted of his FOURTH felony drunk driving, all with serious injuries to others. In this case, as double death, in my opinion there is not purpose in pretending the public interest should be “rehabilitation” – rather, it should be “Correction” – and this a very long sentence to dissuade anyone else from thinking they can plead for mercy after being convicted of a DUI with injuries. One, the families have to show up at trial and sentencing and demand a vigorous sentence. Two, with this state’s tendency to do early releases, 20 years can easily become 10 with good behavior, and so on. Mr. Garges, my prayers will be remember your family and Ms. Whitfield’s family.
— Eric on Letter: Wife of 49 years killed on Mother’s Day
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Valley Voice 4 July, 2019
15
VOICES & OPINIONS
“We are committed to mobilizing our communities” for affordable housing TOM COLLISHAW SELF-HELP ENTERPRISES DIRK HOLKEBOER HABITAT FOR HUMANITY TULARE/KINGS A safe home. Nutritious food. Health care. Access to good schools. Reliable transportation. If you could not afford all of these, which would you choose? One in 6 U.S. families are forced to make this decision every day, often paying more than half of their income on rent or a mortgage. The escalating cost of housing in California creates an even larger “affordability gap”. This trend is unsustainable and unacceptable! At Self-Help Enterprises and Habitat for Humanity of Tulare/Kings Counties, we know that when the cost of home is out of reach for a family it impacts their health, education and opportunities for advancement. Lack of
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affordable housing has negative consequences for everyone in the community, as well. Economic growth, public health and educational quality are all limited when there are not enough affordable homes available to working households. That is why we are committed to mobilizing our communities to find solutions that will increase access to affordable housing for hard-working people in Tulare County and throughout the San Joaquin Valley. This is an investment that will pay dividends for everyone! A recent report by the California Housing Partnership reports that minimum-wage earners must work 60-80 hours per week to keep their monthly rent below 30% of their income (the traditional standard for “affordability’’). Yet, Tulare County has lost 72% of the state and federal funding to ad-
dress this challenge (approximately $24 million per year) since 2008. The California Coalition for Rural Housing’s Rob Wiener calls this housing crisis “a human catastrophe of historic dimensions.” Self-Help Enterprises and Habitat for Humanity are responding. Self-Help Enterprises continues to provide affordable homeownership opportunities for scores of families each year through its partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s mutual selfhelp homeownership program. Since its founding in 1964, SelfHelp Enterprises has assisted over 6,300 families become homeowners in addition to creating another 1,500 affordable rental homes in communities throughout the San Joaquin Valley. Habitat for Humanity of Tulare/ Kings Counties is joining over 1,200
local Habitat chapters throughout the United States in the “Cost of Home” campaign to highlight the importance of improving housing affordability. While advocating for policies that address the need for more housing, Habitat continues to work with community volunteers to offer a “hand up, rather than a hand-out” to families trying to build a sustainable and affordable home for themselves and their children. June is “National Homeownership Month”. Everyone deserves to build the foundation for a strong, healthy future for themselves and their families, no matter how much money they earn. We hope you will join us as we strive to make this a reality. Tom Collishaw is CEO of Self-Help Enterprises. Dirk Holkeboer is Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity of Tulare/ Kings Counties.
Your comments from Facebook
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Having met Mr. Draxler I instinctively knew that these allegations were off base. It was upsetting that some people were so quick to believe these claims to be true without any proof. It’s especially sad that an organization claiming to be “Christian” would be involved in something like this.
— Lori Porter on Political Fix (20 June, 2019)
Well Luc.....you’ve had your 1 minute of public attention. Now go crawl back into your hell hole....your opinion at best is totally not wanted and at least is viewed the same.....again totally not wanted. But just to be polite....you words do make for a good trash liner.
— Barb McGhee-Kane on “Your slanted, lying hit piece..”
It was well written and it was funny...but were his accusations accurate? Probably, I’ve seen Catherine Doe do everything she’s been accused of by the devil himself. Truth hurts and publishing this does not convince me he’s wrong.
— Kelly Benevedes on “Your slanted, lying hit piece..”
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WTF?.....HAHAHAHAHA......well, all Politics is local. The sad reality is..... The Valley Voice, actually does write, about what is actually important at times. My Hat will always be off for Catherine Doe, because at least she cares enough, to “WRITE” about stuff, the other mainstream papers, dont even wish to mention. That is a new one, SATAN.....writing letters...... What’s Next, The grand Lord XENU and his wacky followers wanting their attention too??
— John Essex on “Your slanted, lying hit piece..”
Your comments from ourvalleyvoice.com
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On the surface this Complaint appears a weak suit, if not a sign of a certain desperation and arse covering by The Tulare Local Health Care District; an irony as TLHCD appears to be looking out for its (and its board members’) own interests, the same accusation it pejoratively claim of others. Interesting, is in this suit, The Tulare Local Health Care District has established HCCA’s, and therefore Benzeevi’s, actual legal right to move funds as Benzeevi did. The Tulare Local Health Care District suit, as paraphrased by this Our Valley Voice reporter’s article (by Tony Maldinado), says, “The suit also accuses the former board members of breaching their fiduciary duties to the district when they approved a resolution that gave HCCA the power to borrow up to $22m in the district’s name, with the approval to use district property as collateral, without requiring further approval from the board. HCCA would later sell some of the district’s property for in $3m in a leaseback deal with Celtic Leasing. The deal has come under scrutiny by the Tulare County District Attorney’s office, which claims that Benzeevi used the funds from the deal to enrich himself.” The Tulare Local Health Care District has itself now established the lack of criminal INTENT for moving funds by Benzeevi, which the DA apparently incorrectly claims as a felony misappropriation of funds. ‘Fraid not. The Tulare Local Health Care District just established otherwise. This suit, as filed by The Tulare Local Health Care District, clearly establishes its provided permission, and thus LEGAL right as provided to HCCA, and thus as provided to Benzeevi, to move funds in a manner as performed by Benzeevi. This professional negligence suit is apparently The Tulare Local Health Care District trying to look good, reaffirm its validity, clean house, put a new face on, yet it will be better served for it to in fact meet its mandate to place it’s community it serves first, its own Tulare Local Health Care District board members’ interest second, if placed at all, and simply move on. This in the best interests of everyone. Better yet, the District Attorney should likewise move on and stop its harassment of Benzeevi. It’s been how long now, and yet, no criminal charge. The DA got re-elected, move on. There is and was no felony intent to defraud the Tulare Local Health Care District. TLHCD itself in written contract established Benzeevi’s legal right to move funds as he did, and it is now taking issue with its previous board members about its own internal decision and representation. The DA in fact seems to be making it up. What’s that about?
— New Reader on Tulare hospital district sues former counsel
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People can attack the elderly woman John Draxler mistreated all they want but the fact remains Draxler admitted doing wrong, he offered her money but she refused it because she just wanted a written apology…
— Skip Athey on Political Fix (20 June, 2019) This article, at odds with published reports, seemed defective, incomplete, manipulative, and biased against Mrs. Martin for reasons inexplicable.
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Citing two anonymous complainers is meaningless. The writer then ‘clarifying’ that ‘many others’ complained about Mrs. Martin certifies to the meaningless, nonsensical, and manipulative nature of this article. Who are these complainers? Why didn’t they enter a notice of appearance and plead their concerns about the ‘evil’ Mrs. Martin to the authorities? Didn’t they have confidence in their assertions? The intent of the writer came clear at once when they mentioned that the Southern Poverty Law Center, the nation’s premier communist hate criminal front group, listed PJI as a hate group. Talk about the potheads calling the kettle black. The Southern Poverty Law Center has been at the center of controversy of late, millions of dollars missing, its co-founder leaving, saying the organization has become a leftist extortion racket. Any individual or group listed as a ‘hater’ by the SPLC should wear it as badge of honor. The SPLC defines hate, doesn’t it? Some might urge caution in posting the above, given the gutless, vindictive Left’s penchant for retaliation against any and all who expose truth. Who cares? Let them do their worst. The Left is proving every day that for all its sweet oratory, it is driven by hatred. Kudos to Mrs. Martin and PJI for taking on these bullies.
— Paul Vincent Zecchino on Political Fix (20 June, 2019)
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4 July, 2019
Valley Voice
Kings County approves hemp production ordinance ALEXANDRA FELLER
alexandra@ourvalleyvoice.com
Concerned residents and county officials filled the room on June 25 as the Kings County Board of Supervisors voted on an interim urgency ordinance regulating the cultivation of hemp in Kings County. Unlike in Tulare County where the supervisors passed a moratorium on the cultivation of hemp, Kings County took a more comprehensive look at the issue and approved an emergency ordinance for limited commercial hemp production. The background information given to the supervisors stated, “The Kings County Agricultural Commissioner-Sealer reported that the hemp growing season is soon to be underway with most planting expected to occur within the next two to three weeks. While there are no known hemp plants in the ground as of June 20, 2019, at least two growers have disclosed their plans to plant between June 21 and 23, 2019.” According to information provided by County Counsel David Prentice and Juliana Gmur, “For these reasons, an urgency interim ordinance is necessary. This ordinance will allow the County to permit, monitor, and inspect the cultivation of hemp in the county and fill the regulatory gap, obtain information about the crop for future uses, and recover its costs.” Kings County Supervisors Doug Verboon, vocalized his support for the crop, recognizing its versatility in many different products. Industrial hemp serves as an ingredient in everyday products like clothing, lotions, oils, and paper. “I’m all for it,” he said.
Agricultural Commissioner Jimmy Hook said, “There is an opportunity here to harvest a viable and profitable crop. So, they [The Board of Supervisors] wanted to allow farmers to experiment and learn from it so that it might do well in the future.” The board voted to adopt the interim urgency ordinance 5-0. It will be in effect until December 31, 2020, unless it’s otherwise amended or repealed. Specifically, the ordinance allows the agricultural commissioner to test levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)— the chemical compound that produces psychoactive effects— before the hemp is harvested. Farmers will also be limited to 1-acre of land per permit holder if hemp is being cultivated for research or educational purposes. This differs from hemp being farmed for industrial purposes, As long as the farmer is following the restrictions outlined in their permit, and use a very specific seed, they can grow as much as they want. Verboon said there is a shortage of the specific seed that farmers are required to use when planting their hemp crop so he didn’t see a problem. According to the supervisors, if a person is growing industrial hemp they must comply with state guidelines. “California allows for a commercial hemp program overseen by the Industrial Hemp Advisory Board within the California Department of Food and Agriculture,” According to California Food and Agricultural Code S81000 to 81010 (2016). Those farming industrial hemp in the unincorporated area of Kings County must first register and obtain a permit.
According to the ordinance, “applicants must be the deed holder of the land upon which hemp is to be cultivated…… and must be located in General Agricultural Zone Districts (AG20, AG-40).” The ordinance also stated that hemp production must have a minimum of one-half a mile set back from any church, child daycare, school, youth oriented facility, and Residential Zone. Dave Robinson, Kings County Sheriff, encouraged the board to adopt the ordinance so officials will have a base set of guidelines to follow when regulating it this growing season. He also had concerns about theft that might affect growers as it is possible for criminals to mistake hemp for marijuana plants. Hemp looks similar to the marijuana plant but contains less than three-tenths of a percent of THC. In order to ensure safety of hemp farmers and others, Robinson has added a fourth person to the Agricultural Crimes Task Force. In September 2018, California Legislature changed the definition of industrial hemp and removed growing restrictions, citing, “this act removes barriers to the growth of industrial hemp as an agricultural product, and for agricultural or academic research.” The 2018 Farm Bill was signed into law last December. This bill, passed with bipartisan support, legalizes hemp on a federal level giving states the power to regulate it how they please. Since then, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has been working to create quality control standards for hemp production. According to the National Institute for Food and Agriculture, “It is expected that the final [regulations of
hemp] will be implemented by the end of calendar year 2019.” This means that until the USDA establishes a set of guidelines, counties are responsible for appropriately regulating farmers. The California Department of Agriculture (CDFA) found a pressing need for regulations, “The absence of regulation.” it stated, “could result in a potential direct loss of over $43,000,000 to California farmers.” The CDFA proposed regulations regarding sampling, laboratory testing, and destruction of industrial hemp in late May 2019, and the regulations must be adopted on a local level before they can be enforced. Tulare County passed a temporary moratorium on the growth of hemp along with 15 other counties because of what they felt were incomplete regulations. Only San Luis Obispo and Imperial have approved the crop, “Any time you have a new crop, there needs to be regulations,” Hook added during the meeting. Hook, among other officials present at the meeting, have been concerned that the lack of regulations on hemp will result in it being unlawfully pushed into the market. During public comment, many Kings County residents expressed their concern over the cultivation of hemp in residential areas. While various community members were eager to see the ordinance put into place so residential areas are better protected, Kings County Farm Bureau executive director Dusty Ference said he felt the ordinance is rushed, and would benefit from more time under review.