February 2016 by Direct Magazine

CULTURE, COMMERCE, AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE — THE HEART OF THE SOUTH VALLEY

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FEBRUARY 12, 13 & 14 VISALIA CONVENTION CENTER

OVER 350 HOME & PATIO EXHIBITS

Bring Your Dreams To Life! www.VisaliaHomeShows.com See pages 4-6 GARDEN

Grow Your Own Avocado Tree From a Seed

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Clifﬁes Among Techies: Experts in Their Own Minds FEBRUARY

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INSIDE FEBRUARY 2016

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P U B L I S H E D BY

4 Springfest

DMI Agency 801 W. Main St. Visalia, CA 93291

Bring Your Dreams To Life!

A D M I N I S T R AT I O N & E D I T O R I A L

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features

Editorial Staff KATIE PRESSER

CO NTR I BUTI N G WR ITE R S

ANDY SALAZAR CRAIG WHEATON C. S. WYATT IMAGINEU JIM BARLOGIO KAREN ROBERTSON KATHLEEN REMILLARD KATIEDID LANGROCK KELLEY PETTY LEE LITTLEWOOD MISSY YAVASILE MARY HUNT RYAN STILLWATER SHARON MOSLEY SHARON PLEIN VALLEY OAK SPCA WARREN GUBLER GR APHIC DESIGNER

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MALKASIAN ACCOUNTANCY LLP GARY MALKASIAN CPA JEFFREY MALKASIAN EA Direct Magazine is published twelve times a year and is distributed via direct mail to nearly 33,000 homes in Visalia. An additional 2,000 magazines are circulated at distribution points around Visalia and Tulare. Views expressed in columns are those expressed by the columnist and not necessarily those of Direct Magazine. We are dedicated to serving the community. Please call us for questions, comments, article suggestions or for information about local events at 739-1747. Fax us at 738-0909 or email us: direct@dmiagency.com. Online Issue at: www.issuu.com/dmiagency © 2016 DMI Agency

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10 SPCA 11 Green Valley Gardening 14 College Prep 15 Senior Coalition

Editorial Coordinator KELLY LAPADULA

Operations Manager MARIA GASTON

departments

8 Virtual Valley

Cliffies among Techies: Experts in Their Own Minds

12 Humor

See ya, 2015. Peace.

13 Easy Eating

Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs

18 Community

The Visalia Give Box

21 Create

Be My Valentine Craft

26 Gardening

Grow Your Own Avocado Tree From A Seed

16 Fitness 17 Kids’ Bookshelf 19 Auto Shop 20 VUSD 22 VRM 23 Fashion 24 Visalia First 25 Character Counts! 27 PRO-PT 28 Money Matters 29 Crossword 30 Goings-On 32 Warren Reports

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SPRINGFEST

Bring Your Dreams To Life!

he 23rd Annual Visalia SpringFest – South Valley’s largest Home Show - returns to the Visalia Convention Center, February 12, 13 and 14 with more than 350 exhibits featuring great ideas for every room of the house – inside and out – to bring your dreams to life! LANDSCAPING & OUTDOOR LIVING In the Landscape Tent, Evergreen Landscaping & Sprinklers can design and construct water features, sprinkler systems, outdoor lighting, concrete, flagstone, rock walls, dividers, gazebos, pavers, and fire pits. This year, Luis Nursery returns to the show, so stop by and talk with Melanie Mackenzie about how to have a gorgeous, colorful garden using less water but with plant varieties – from blooming perennials and flowering vines, to fruit and shade tree varieties. For low maintenance options, talk with Synlawn about artificial turf options 4

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or decorate your yard with outdoor items including topiaries, birdbaths, yard art from California Topiary Creations, and improvements for Better Homes. In the Courtyard, see the great patio furniture options at the Wood & Wood Barrel Furniture and Patio Imports booths. Golden State Building returns with options for custom sheds, dog houses, and kid’s playhouses. And new this year, Brick Mailbox features some secure and solid ways to house your letters and packages. If your health regimen for the New Year includes exercise and relaxation, check out the new Jacuzzi energy efficient J-LX Collection, and be sure to sign-up to win the grand prize – a landscaping package including graphic design from 3Dscapes, artificial turf from Synthetic Grass Solutions, and a brand new Artesian Spa from Premium Jacuzzi Spas.

HOME IMPROVEMENT SpringFest welcomes Lowe’s Home Improvement. All of the South Valley stores have teamed up to provide some exciting options for home improvement.

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SPRINGFEST Inside Exhibit Hall-East, Lowe’s plans on featuring state-of-the-art appliances, vinyl flooring, and bath and shower displays. Outside, you will see fencing, windows and doors, siding, roofing, and information on financing programs to help improve both the interior and exterior of your home. In addition, each day, you can learn from their experts on the seminar stage how to make simple and basic home repairs and ways to redecorate with paint, flooring, and window treatments. SpringFest also welcomes Bath

Planet, the newest division of RFMC Construction Inc. Specializing in acrylic bath and shower systems, Bath Planet remodels can be installed in as little as one day. In addition, they offer options such as the American Standard Walk-In tub. With its removable shower head, patented swing door system, and a raised seat level, you will be able to bathe with the ease of accessibility. This option also includes an extensive line of grab bars and walk thru tub inserts to easily convert your shower into a safer bathing experience. SEMINARS & COOKING DEMONSTRATIONS This year, SpringFest opens a brand new Seminar Stage with a series of presenters covering topics including gardening and landscaping, DIY and home improvement, simple home repairs, and even a home buying seminar. Featured presenters include Tom & Sandra Kay from Your Home Remodeling & Design, Vicki Shoemaker of 3 Oaks Studio, Earl Bier of Cabinetry Design Center, Melanie Mackenzie of Biomirage Landscape, Master Gardeners, and 6

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experts from Lowe’s Home Improvement. In addition, the show will feature cooking demonstrations on both weekend days. On Sunday, join celebrity and public figure Albert J. Hernandez, The Untamed Chef, as he demonstrates how to prepare the perfect romantic Valentine’s Day dinner – a chocolate risotto topped with lobster and rosé sauce. VALENTINE’S DAY GIFT MARKETPLACE Be sure to stop by De Brito Chocolate Factory to get that guilty pleasure for that special someone on Valentine’s Day. Don Pitts will have great metal crafts, and Mathews Designs will offer inventive BBQ Hooks – just the perfect gift for the BBQ chef. Also, the local crafters at Ingrained will display unique serving treys, wine racks, and bar lights. TREASURE HUNT Have fun finding all of the Treasure Hunt booth locations (with a red star) for a chance to win one of the many merchant prizes being offered this year. The giveaways include a bird house and bird bath, brick mailbox, oriental rug, King Frosch imported wines, Carrie Underwood concert tickets, Visalia Mall shopping spree, metal art, BBQ grill, gift baskets filled with chocolates, and lots of KJUG memorabilia. Simply grab a form as you enter the show and get it stamped at each “enter-to-win” show location. TICKET PRICES Show hours are: Friday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. General (adult) admission is $8 and senior admission (60+) is $6. Children under 12 and parking are free. For more information, visit us on Facebook, at www.VisaliaHomeShows.com, or call (559) 713-4000.

CULTURE, COMMERCE AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE — T H E H E A R T O F T H E S O U T H V A L L E Y

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VIRTUAL VALLEY

Cliffies Among Techies:

Experts in Their Own Minds

ou should use F# for your next programming project,” Cliffie declared. “Are you using F# for any projects?” I asked.

“I’m looking into it.”

More wonderful (and useless) advice from one of the tech “experts” I know. A Cliffie. Cliff Clavin sat at the end of the bar on the show “Cheers,” a Postal Service employee desperately seeking to demonstrate he knew more than his position in life suggested. Cliffie would expound on any topic. Others humored him, while secretly pitying the lonely and insecure Cliffie. 8

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We’ve all met people who feel compelled to impress us with their expertise. These “Cliff Clavins” share almost-accurate information and accurate trivia out of context. They know a lot of tidbits, but have no realization that facts alone are not knowledge. Techie Cliffie is easily found online and among our coworkers. He understands just enough to mislead some people and not enough to impress genuine experts. You don’t have to be a programmer or technician to recognize someone trying too hard to impress people with buzzwords. These are the people who tell you to defragment your solid-state drive. They breathlessly inform you on the latest Apple and Linux viruses, without knowing anything about how the Pwn2Own contest works. They offer an opinion on every programming tool, though they aren’t hardcore developers. Most annoying of all, Cliffies will tell you why whatever you’re doing is wrong, without hearing any explanation of your objectives. Based on a story posted to some online blog or supposed

CULTURE, COMMERCE AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE — T H E H E A R T O F T H E S O U T H V A L L E Y

TEXT BY C. S. WYATT

tech journal, F# is the new Ruby. If you’re interested in programming, you might know that F# is one of Microsoft’s .Net languages, ideal for complex math and pattern analysis. A few months earlier, this Cliffie told me I should use the AngularJS JavaScript library for my projects. Though I appreciate the value of AngularJS for web development, it had no role in anything I was teaching in classes or using as a technology consultant. At the time, I was working on R and Python projects with students, crunching data on academic outcomes and family income. Angular was irrelevant. I wanted to tell Cliffie that the F# language has been around since 2005 and that version 4.x is well-known in the financial industry. It’s not wildly popular, but it has fans. It also has detractors. It’s a tool to be used when appropriate for complex modeling. Whatever he reads next, tech guru Cliffie will share it with those around him. He mixes and matches his technologies, revealing his shortcomings to those who know better while others simply nod in bemusement. Those of us who recognize his mistakes try not to correct him, because we’re not sure he wants to learn about programming or software design.

There’s a reason banks still have COBOL code running reports. Many hospitals still use a version of the ancient MUMPS language. Fortran has been updated for the latest supercomputers. You don’t dump millions of lines of code for whatever seems trendy today. You use the right tool for the job. Experimenting is nice, but you don’t bet big projects on programming tools that aren’t established and well-known. If I develop an application for a client, that client wants to be able to hire other consultants or employees to update the project later. This year, I’m completing the classes for my masters in fine arts degree in film and digital technology. Another helpful Cliffie told me I was wasting money on Apple hardware, since “everyone knows” Apple computers are more expensive than build-it-yourself computers. The problem with this advice is that Final Cut Pro X and Logic Pro X, the two applications used by the university film school, only work on Apple computers. There are no Windows or Linux versions of these tools. Final Cut costs $299 on the Apple Store, and Logic is $199. Software purchased from Apple runs on all my computers for that $500 total.

In the 1980s, I worked alongside a programmer who would tell stories about ancient mainframes and minicomputers. The stories were interesting, but he seldom helped us solve current problems. He knew history, but didn’t know what anyone around him was doing. He could explain why IBM systems used 31 bits instead of 32, and the stories behind various operating systems. Like Wally in Dilbert, he walked around with his coffee mug, sharing these tidbits. I’m uncertain if he wrote any code on new projects, though.

Avid Media Composer, the only other video editing application approved by the university, costs $1,599 per computer and requires a USB dongle to work to prevent piracy. Avid’s Pro Tools for audio editing costs $599. There is an education discount available from Avid, but I work on professional projects, too. Another catch is that the (crippled) educational version only works for a year.

Cliffie reminds me of this old programmer, but without the proven programming skills.

Being anti-Apple doesn’t make you a tech expert. It means you don’t understand what I do with the computer. What you need to accomplish should dictate what tools you select.

One afternoon I was particularly tired and frustrated with a problem. Cliffie said I was using the wrong language for the task. I attempted to explain that my employer approved specific tools. The primary server-side scripting language was PHP, period. There were tens of thousands of lines of code in the system I was modifying, all in PHP using a well-established framework. More than four thousand PHP files. Many things we use on the Web are coded in PHP, such as the popular WordPress blogging platform. Love it or hate it, PHP isn’t going away soon. Cliffie’s answer was, “Why not rewrite whatever it is you’re developing?”

If I built a Windows PC, I would have to spend $2,200 for the appropriate university-approved software, which isn’t the same software most of my colleagues are using.

If you asked me to configure a new Web server, I would not recommend Apple hardware or a Windows-based PC. I’d build a computer and install Linux. Blind loyalty to anything in the tech industry is unwise and demonstrates a lack of expertise. The tech expert version of Cliff Clavin reads something, somewhere, and has to share it with the world. You can tell if it is something he’s read online by how many of his assumptions are incorrect. Anyone claiming to be an expert on all things tech doesn’t realize how ignorant he or she is. DIRECT MAGAZINE

CULTURE, COMMERCE AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE — T H E H E A R T O F T H E S O U T H V A L L E Y

SPCA TEXT BY VALLEY OAK SPCA

February is Spay and Neuter Awareness Month

ow is the ideal time to spay and neuter cats to get ahead of kitten season and end the breeding cycle before it starts. Kittens are born year-round; however, animal shelters experience a significant rise in the number of kittens throughout spring and summer. Cats can become pregnant as young as four months of age, having a litter when they are six months old, and can become pregnant again even before her litter is weaned. Spaying and neutering as soon as cats are two months old and weigh two pounds or more is important. Veterinarians who spay or neutered kittens at two pounds (typically two months old) report that it is an easier, faster procedure. The patients recover quickly and it is the highest level of prevention of litters. Veterinarians routinely recommend that cats be spayed before they go into their first heat cycle, not only to prevent unwanted litters, but to prevent the development of mammary gland tumors. Research shows that kittens spayed or neutered before 12 weeks of age have fewer complications from surgery than those more than 12 weeks old. Also, kittens rebound much more quickly after the surgical procedure with less stress than their counterparts more than six months of age. (Alley Cat Allies) We typically see three groups/types of cats: feral (wild), community (stray), and owned pets. •

Feral cats are offspring of stray and abandoned pet cats or other feral cats who are not spayed or neutered. They are un-owned, un-socialized, and are typically too fearful and too wild to be handled. When people abandon their domesticated cats or they become lost, they will learn to live on their own and become feral. If these cats aren’t spayed or neutered, they produce feral kittens that usually live their entire lives without human contact.

•

Community/stray cats make their home where they find shelter and food, often in close proximity to people. These may be your “neighborhood” cats that everyone feeds but no one takes responsibility for spaying, neutering, vaccinations, or health care. A stray can become feral as their contact with humans dwindles.

•

If you and your neighbors allow your unaltered and unvaccinated pet cats to roam, your cat can become pregnant or impregnate others, contributing to the number of unwanted litters. We recommend cat owners commit to keeping your cat indoors only. Indoor/outdoor cats rarely

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live their natural lifespan due to the dangers of cars, disease, poison, and injury. Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) is promoted by the Valley Oak SPCA, the ASPCA, the Humane Society of the United States, Alley Cat Allies, Visalia Feral Cat Coalition, and other organizations as a humane and more effective alternative to euthanasia for managing and reducing feral cat populations. Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) is a way to control feral cat populations and is successfully practiced in hundreds of communities across the country. Through Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR), feral cats are humanely trapped and brought to a veterinarian to be evaluated, spayed or neutered, and vaccinated. While under anesthesia, the cat’s left ear is tipped, which provides identification that the cat has already been spayed or neutered. After they recover from the sterilization surgery, they are returned to their outdoor home where caretakers provide them with food and shelter. Young kittens who can still be socialized, as well as friendly adults, are placed in foster care and adopted out to good homes. TNR stops the breeding cycle of cats, preventing reproduction and stabilizing the size of the colony. The nuisance behavior associated with feral cats is dramatically reduced, such as yowling and fighting that come with mating activity and the odor of unneutered males spraying to mark their territory. RESOURCES Valley Oak SPCA Low Cost Spay and Neuter Clinic, 9405 W. Goshen Ave, Visalia. (559)741-1121 vospca.org/vet-services/low-cost-spay-and-neuter-clinic visaliaferalcatcoalition.org facebook.com/visaliaferalcatcoalition Alley Cat Allies - alleycat.org

PET OF THE MONTH Meet Lucy. She is a piebald dachshund, approximately 4 years old. Lucy gets along with other dogs and is a real cuddle bug. She loves a lot of attention. Lucy had an injury that required removal of her right eye and she has limited vision in her left eye. This does not slow her down, but she does require some extra tender loving care. She is spayed and current on her vaccinations. Lucy is in foster care with one of our wonderful foster volunteers. If you would like meet Lucy please contact Valley Oak SPCA at 651-1111 ext 3.

CULTURE, COMMERCE AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE — T H E H E A R T O F T H E S O U T H V A L L E Y

GREEN VALLEY GARDENING Lawn Care Tips:

Annual Pruning and Pre-emergent

ate winter through early spring is a great time to perform annual pruning on trees and shrubs that have gone dormant during the winter. This is done to keep the plants the size that best suits your landscape, and may also be necessary to get the best blooms next season, as is the case for crape myrtles (or crepe myrtle, as they call them in the south). Crape myrtles need to have the dead blooms cut off in order to bloom in the summer. Remove any crossover branches and dead branches. A popular method is to leave an odd number of main branches, for example, three or seven. Open up the center to allow sunshine in to help avoid powdery mildew, which is a fungus the plant is susceptible to. Avoid cutting the main branches all the way down to the knuckles, called pollarding. This produces too many blooms on small branches, which can break. A short list of plants on the annual pruning list are the rose, Rose of Sharon, dogwood, honeysuckle, banana tree, lily, and ornamental grasses.

Pre-emergent (seedling stage) weed control in lawns is most effective when applied in February or earlier for the first application. Since we have a long crabgrass season, two to three applications are more effective. Weeds are not only unsightly, but they consume more water, grow quicker than the grass, and choke out and take over your valuable lawn. For more information and to get the professional grade tools and supplies you need for your yard, contact Garden World, (559) 651-3388. Professional Landscape Maintenance tips provided by Green Valley Gardening. (559) 713-6848, 6837 W Pershing Ave., Visalia.

TULARE COUNTY HEALTH CARE CENTERS · Pediatrics · Laboratory · Teeth Health · Family Medicine · Obstetrics & Gynecology · Diabetes Management & Health Education · We accept Medi-Cal, Medicare and have programs for people without insurance.

Your Health and Well Being Is Our Commitment Tulare County Health & Human Services Agency Visalia Health Care Center 2611 N. Dinuba, Visalia 559) 623-0700

Farmersville Health Care Center 660 E. Visalia Road, Farmersville (559) 713-2890

Tulare Pediatric Health Care Center 1008 N. Cherry Street, Tulare (559) 688-5437

Anthem Blue Cross is the trade name of Blue Cross of California. Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross Association.

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HUMOR TEXT BY BY BY KATIEDID LANGROCK TEXT KATIEDID LANGROCK

See ya, 2015. Peace.

y family was blessed to not have anything devastating occur in 2015, but it was certainly a year with challenges. My difficult pregnancy was greeted with frightening sicknesses and injuries suffered by those closest to me. As we await further test results in the new year, my heart and blood pressure need a break from the stress. So, Dearest Father Time and Baby New Year, I’m going to help you both out. I understand that life is a balancing act and every year must have its challenges, and I certainly am not immune. Here is a list of bad news I could tolerate receiving in 2016: •

George R.R. Martin decides he’s just not interested in finishing writing the book series behind Game of Thrones. He gives up and begins writing fan fiction for Thomas the Tank Engine.

•

Sour gummy worms lose their sour.

•

“Cool Pope,” aka Pope Francis, admits he was actually the person who shot Cecil the lion. The dentist was just a decoy.

•

S.C. Johnson, makers of the Pledge brand of cleaning supplies, finds a loophole and buys the rights to the Pledge of Allegiance. The company makes money every time a child recites the pledge in school. On the plus side, coins now smell lemony fresh.

•

It turns out that those in the alien species that Jar Jar Binks is part of are immortal, and it’s announced that Jar Jar will return as the lead role in the eighth and ninth episodes of “Star Wars.”

•

The president does not pardon a turkey for Thanksgiving. Instead, he airs a live hunt “Hunger Games”-style.

•

Public schools allow midterm papers to be written completely in emoticons. :(

•

Tom Brady admits to deflating the Goodyear Blimp. After it plummets to the field in a fiery blaze, no aerial shots of sports games are permitted ever again.

•

The USA places fourth in every single sport we compete in during the 2016 Summer Olympics.

•

Shark Week replaces all of its cool and informational programming with a “Sharktopus Meets Sharknado” marathon. (Ok, maybe this doesn’t actually qualify as bad news.)

•

Fourth of July fireworks are replaced with glitter bombs. Glitter bombs are replaced with sand.

•

Willie Nelson cuts his hair. Doesn’t even donate the famous pigtails to Locks of Love.

•

All radio stations begin exclusively playing EDM. Canada decides Ryan Gosling is too precious a commodity to lose and never allows him to leave Canadian borders again. On the flip side, Canada pays the United States to permanently take over Justin Bieber’s citizenship.

•

The Dos Equis “Most Interesting Man in the World” enters rehab for alcoholism. Sadly, it turns out he is less likely to battle sharks just to see whether they cry firsthand when he’s sober.

•

The Leaning Tower of Pisa falls over.

•

House cats are permitted to vote in the 2016 presidential election. Cats being the evil creatures they are, either vote for the candidate they think is least qualified or use the ballot boxes as litter boxes

E.T. returns to Earth but can’t phone home because no kid has a Speak & Spell anymore. The home invasion from those astronaut-like scientists doesn’t end so pleasantly this time.

•

Bono changes his name to the Artist Formerly Known as Bono.

Alex Trebek goes hipster. He begins wearing skinny jeans, tells everyone he was into double jeopardy before the Fifth Amendment made it cool, and grows back his mustache just to be ironic.

•

The hottest fashion trend is a bastardization of the kilt. Now conveniently made as “skorts,” they come in bright neon colors for him and her.

•

Chocolate mousse is replaced globally with chocolate moose.

•

Move over, Rainbow Loom and Shopkins. The newest kid obsession is ... taxidermy!

•

Aaron Sorkin suffers a stroke. He completely recovers, with the exception that now he is only able to write characters who speak at a normal human pace.

Everyone is required by federal law to friend or follow their bosses, parents, grandparents and that creepy neighbor down the street on all social media.

•

And last, the worst news of all...

Because of climate change, the Great Pumpkin Shortage makes it so only the top 1 percent can afford now-exclusive jack-o’-lanterns for Halloween.

•

Cheese becomes outlawed.

If all the above were to come to fruition, it would be a tough year, but I think I could handle it. Be kind, 2016. Thanks in advance.

•

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EASY EATING TEXT BY KATIEDID LANGROCK

Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs Ingredients: 1 lb. skinless, boneless, chicken breasts, cubed. 1 15 oz. can of pineapple chunks ½ C soy sauce ¼ C oil 1 T brown sugar 1 tsp. garlic salt 2 tsp. ground ginger 1 tsp. dry mustard ¼ tsp. ground pepper 1 green or red pepper, chopped 1 onion, chopped Directions: Combine 1/2 C of the pineapple juice from your can with the soy sauce. Whisk in the oil, brown sugar, garlic salt, ginger, mustard, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, and simmer for five minutes. Place your chicken (cubed) in a shallow bowl. Pour the hot marinade on the top of the chicken, covering it with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for 1-2 hours while placing the skewers in a bowl of water. After the chicken has been marinated, you can put together your kabobs any way you like, but be sure place the pineapple and chicken close together, so the chicken will be sweet. Reserve the marinade. Place the skewers on a preheated grill and cook for 15-20 minutes, making sure to turn and brush with the marinade frequently. They are ready to enjoy once the chicken is fully cooked!

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CULTURE, COMMERCE AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE — T H E H E A R T O F T H E S O U T H V A L L E Y

COLLEGE PREP TEXT BY MISSY YAVISILE, INDEPENDENT COLLEGE CONSULTANT, SOAR COLLEGE PLANNING AND CONSULTING

Juniors:

College To-Do List

f you are a junior, you have made it halfway through your third year of high school, and if you are planning to go to college, the next 10 months are crucial in the planning process. Do not make the mistake many juniors make in thinking that you don’t need to think about college until you begin your senior year. There is much to do starting now! The first thing you need to decide is which path you choose to walk – Will you go straight to work, go to college, or a combination of both? If you decide to go to college, will you go to a vocational school, community college, or four-year college or university? Maybe you will choose a military career. It is important that you start to think about these choices now. For our purposes today, we will focus on “to-dos” for the students with aspirations of attending a 4-year college or university. YOUR TO-DO LIST: 1. Maintain your grades and class rigor. For most colleges, your sophomore and junior year classes and grades will be most important.

2. Plan your testing schedule. With the new SAT being untested, at SOAR we are recommending that you focus on the ACT instead. Be sure to prepare for this test. Not only 14

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does it affect admissions, but it also increases scholarships. If you want the best shot at the college of your choice, also consider the SAT Subject Tests and AP exams. 3. Start a college list. Research each college, visit if possible, and check out some colleges you have never heard of. Don’t rule out the private colleges right away. Not only do they have more scholarship money to give to students, but the likelihood of graduating in four years is much higher than it is at most state schools. 4. Continue with your extracurricular activities. Take them to the next level by becoming a leader. Maybe organize a fundraiser or volunteer your talents in another way. 5. Talk to your family about your college plans. Discuss finances and make sure they understand that financial aid at different colleges is not created equal. 6. Start researching careers. Big Future (College Board) is a great resource. There are hundreds of different majors and careers to choose from, most of which you have probably never heard of. Be open-minded and understand the rigor of the major you choose. Choose a major you are good at and that you enjoy. Summer will be here before you know it, and it will be time to finalize your college list, so start writing application essays and getting ready for the onslaught of fall of your senior year. This is a busy time for seniors, so get as much planning as possible done before fall so that when school starts, you can focus on grades and building lasting memories with your high school friends.

CULTURE, COMMERCE AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE â&#x20AC;&#x201D; T H E H E A R T O F T H E S O U T H V A L L E Y

SENIOR COALITION TEXT BY BY KATHLEEN REMILLARD

The Heart of Seniors:

Resource Fair

re you in the health care field? Are you 65 or older? Do you care for a loved one? Do you want to hear a dynamic speaker encourage and empower you? If you answered yes to one or more of these questions, you will want to attend the upcoming Heart of Seniors Community Resource Fair and Luncheon. The 3rd annual Heart of Seniors Resources & Rejuvenation for the Caregiver Luncheon, presented by Senior Care Organization, will be held on Thursday, Feb. 11 from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Wyndham Hotel, 9000 W. Airport Dr., Visalia. The event kicks off at 9:30 a.m. with a community resource fair featuring vendors who specialize in care and products for our senior citizens and their caregivers. These vendors range from inhome care services, rehabilitation services, insurance companies, specialty medical providers, and more. The program will begin at 11 a.m. with a fashion show

featuring senior citizen models strutting their stuff to showing off merchandise from the Boot Barn, JC Penney, and Harley Davidson. We are positive that the occasional catcalls and whistles will be heard. The luncheon will feature a keynote address by Jewel Diamond Taylor, a very powerful and sought-after celebrity motivational speaker with extensive experience in motivating and empowering both men and women. Jewel is committed to helping others succeed. She offers candid, practical, viable solutions, all while leaving a lasting impression of hope for the future. Tickets are available for only $10 per person. Early registration is recommended as seating is limited and the event is expected to sell out. To purchase tickets for the luncheon or for more information, please call 559-972-9800 or 559-977-6812, or stop by a sponsor location. For online information or to print a copy of the registration form, go to facebook.com/Senior-Care-Organization. The event is sponsored by Kaweah Delta Home Care Services, Dinuba Healthcare, Kast & Company, Linwood Meadows, Optimal Health Services, The Providence Group, Redwood Springs, Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel, Valley Home Health, Westgate Gardens Care Center, Amdahl In-home Care, Delta Nursing & Rehabilitation Center and Humana.

Join us for the 3rd Annual Senior & Caregiver Resource Fair where Caregivers and Seniors can learn about the continuum of care resources that are available for their loved ones, have lunch, see a fashion show and gain valuable information from informational speakers. Various community vendors will be sharing what services they have available. Don't miss this fun-filled event! Check out the latest in fashion for the mature woman. No low-cut, mini zippers here.

CELEBRITY M O T I VAT I O N A L SPEAKER

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2016

9:30a - 2p The Wyndam Visalia, 9000 W. Airport Dr., Visalia

JEWEL DIAMOND TAYLOR

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

Senior Care Organization | 2017 E. Noble Ave., Visalia CA | 559.625.3822 DIRECT MAGAZINE

CULTURE, COMMERCE AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE — T H E H E A R T O F T H E S O U T H V A L L E Y

FOCUS FITNESS ON

ANDY & ERYN SALAZAR, EMPOWER TEXT BY DR. JOHN SULLIVAN, SMILE CENTRALFITNESS VALLEY TRAINING

Nine Easy Steps to Get In-Shape

his is the year you are finally going to do it. You’ve set your goals and mapped out a plan to finally get in-shape and get healthy. Now, where do you start, and what do you need to do to accomplish your goal? This is where getting in-shape and losing weight can seem like a daunting task. A lot of us get paralyses by analyses and a never even get started. I’m going to give you nine tips to get back into shape, lose those unwanted pounds, and reclaim your body and health once and for all. 1. Schedule your workouts. Schedule each and every one of your workouts in advance and don’t miss any. After a month of doing this, you will have a solid routine and it will become easier and easier to stick to your schedule. Sure, there will be things that come up and you may have to miss a scheduled workout from time-to-time. Just be sure to reschedule it and then get back on schedule. It’s not about perfection, it’s about consistent action. 2. Train to match your goals. What do I mean by that? If your goal is to lose weight and get back into shape, then don’t try to be a power-lifter right out of the gate. Start slow and begin by doing activities/exercises that you enjoy and that limit your risk for injuries. 3. Preplan your meals and snacks. If you know what you are going to eat and have a plan for your meals, you will make smarter choices and you will have more control over your calorie consumption. When we don’t have a plan for our meals and are forced to make impulse decisions, we tend to make poor, high calorie choices because we are hungry. 4. Make working out social. Find a friend, coworker, or family member to workout with to help hold you accountable. This will make your workouts more enjoyable and create a sense of camaraderie. Include as many people as you can in your

journey to losing weight and getting into shape through Facebook and other social media outlets. You can also seek the assistance of a fitness professional to make your workouts challenging, fun, and give you accountability. 5. Start lifting weights. A lot of us shy away from lifting weights because of misconceptions or lack of knowledge. Weight lifting isn’t just for bodybuilders or athletes, it can help everyone. Weight training keeps you physically strong, helps keep your body in alignment, is good for your bones and ligaments, and can really help you lose inches. 6. Eat less sugar. Cut out sugary drinks, junk food, and processed food. Instead, eat fresh foods such as lean meats, fresh vegetables, and fruits. Don’t beat yourself up if you have a bad day, just make the next one better. It’s not one bad day of eating that’s the problem; the problem is bunching up weeks, months, and years that add inches to our waistline. 7. Don’t expect perfection. With every workout plan and healthy eating routine, you are going to screw up. Don’t let it derail you. True results and a lifestyle change come from being consistent over a long period of time. So focus on being consistent with your routine and not on being perfect. 8. Add to your routine. Once you have created healthy habits of regular exercise and eating right, look to add to your plan. This will keep your routine exciting, keep you challenged, and keep you from getting bored. 9. Reward yourself. When you hit a weight loss goal or run that 5k, you have been training to reward yourself with a new workout outfit or pair of running shoes. This is a nice way to create incentives for yourself and pat yourself on the back for all of your hard work and consistency. There you have it, nine tips for getting in shape. I know that you have it in you to make this year a success with your fitness and weight loss goals. All of the resources and assistance you need are out there for you if you really want it, so get out there and make it happen. Remember: Time + Consistency = Results, every time!

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CULTURE, COMMERCE AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE — T H E H E A R T O F T H E S O U T H V A L L E Y

KIDS’ BOOKSHELF TEXTby BYLee LEELittlewood LITTLEWOOD Text

Imaginative Picture Books

n 2015, we saw releases of many amazing picture books. Here are a few of the finest, chock-full of magic, creativity, and imagination.

The Storm Whale by Benji Davies From a quaint home on a beautiful coast (that looks a lot like New England), a boy watches his dad go off to work every day on a fishing boat. One day the boy, never mind that he’s left home alone with six cats, ventures down to the beach after a storm to see what’s left behind. He spots a little beached whale and brings it home on his wagon, where he lets it stay wet in the bath. Eventually the boy’s dad finds the whale in the bath, and the two head out to sea in a rowboat to set him free, where he belongs. A simple, poignant tale of loneliness, friendship, and doing the right thing, Benji Davies’ New York Times Notable Children’s Book is a tender, homey tale set by an overwhelmingly big ocean. Davies’ vintage-like illustrations convey emotion and love. And soon out from Davies, my favorite book of the new year, Grandad’s Island. This story of a kind, bearded grandfather and his grandson, who pretend to open an attic porthole and sail to a faraway island, is superbly imaginative and special. Grandad decides to stay on the lush island, while Syd ventures back to an empty house, with the portal door missing. An incredibly unique, special metaphor for Grandad’s death, Davies’ dreamlike story ends with a tropical macaw delivering a postcard home to Syd, and it’s festooned with a smiling Grandad and an orangutan. Davies’ vivid island pages are covered with brightly colored birds, flowers, and tropical foliage and animals, certainly frame-worthy. To be released soon. Winter’s Child by Angela McAllister To continue with the escapism theme, Angela McAllister’s unforgettable story harkens back to classic tales of magic, mystery, and fantasy. Young Tom can’t get enough of winter, and he finds a friend in the forest who plays the days away with him in the snow. Tom’s nana, in the meantime, is hungry and sick, and, along with his mother, longs for springtime and warmth. Tom and the boy ride reindeer, make music with icicles, and concoct polar bears and white horses with snow and ice,

while nana grows weaker. The boy finally realizes Tom has a sad side, calls Father Winter to come get him and harkens spring to begin. Incredibly thoughtful writing and gorgeous, surreal wintry artwork make Winter’s Child a frosty but warm tale of friendship, family, and change. I Don’t Like Snakes by Nicola Davies Snakes get a bad rap, and many harmless snakes are killed because of fear and misinformation. Davies, trained as a zoologist, aims to dispel some of those fears in this cool book about a little girl afraid of the slithery creatures. The girl’s family members explain away her scary thoughts about snakes, from why their skin looks wet to why their tongues flick and eyes stare. Equal parts sweet story about a child evolving from being scared to being informed, plus amazing snake facts, I Don’t Like Snakes smartly features a line across the word “Don’t” in the title. Luciano Lozano’s hip, retro illustrations give the tale a lighthearted, whimsical feel, as far removed from staid nonfiction snake fact book as you can be. Zig and the Magic Umbrella by Sylvie Kantorovitz Incredibly charming and full of whimsy, Zig and the Magic Umbrella is an imaginative rainy day journey perfect for winter story times. Zig, a crayon-drawn blue boy with antennae, grabs a red umbrella on a rainy day. The umbrella enables him to fly where he follows a cheery yellow bird to a colorful forest. Zig abandons his shy persona to save the bird and his friends from a monster and then travels back home with his magic umbrella. The subtle lesson in selflessness and making new friends encourages toddlers to take imaginary journeys on days they’re stuck inside. Sylvie Kantorovitz’s magic writing and childlike illustrations equal a lovely, fun book. Float by Daniel Miyares A multi-award winner, the wordless Float oozes adventure, persistence, hope, the comfort of home, and the importance of trying again. A boy floats a small paper boat in puddles on a rainy day, loses it downstream, hunts for the damaged boat, then returns home to get dry and cozy. When the sun comes out, he makes another one out of newspaper, and heads outside for a new adventure. A perfect capturing of a spectacular childhood moment, Float doesn’t need words to showcase its special story. Daniel Miyares’ use of color, texture, and visual storytelling say it all. DIRECT MAGAZINE

CULTURE, COMMERCE AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE — T H E H E A R T O F T H E S O U T H V A L L E Y

COMMUNITY

The Visalia Give Box

t’s easy to lend a helping hand to a friend or family member, but it may surprise you just how easy it is to help out a stranger too. In January, Visalia became home to its very first “Give Box,” thanks to the efforts of a passionate mom who was inspired by a similar project in Tulare. A Give Box is exactly what it sounds like; a box where community members can give and exchange necessities to reduce waste. Sable Davenport, the community activist who started the Visalia Give Box, defined it as “a large, open cupboard, placed in a public area, where people can drop off and pick up second-hand goods (clothes, books, tools, canned food, household items, etc.).” The Give Box isn’t just a local initiative; these boxes are popping up in communities all over the United States. Locally, Leo Speaks was the first to bring this idea to Tulare County, starting a box on Prosperity Avenue as part of his Sustainable Communities Project in Tulare. There, community members exchange books, food, clothes, and more.

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After hearing about the Tulare Give Box, Visalia resident Sable Davenport was quickly inspired to start one for the Visalia community. “Leo Speaks is the coordinator of Sustainable Communities, which basically is a bunch of different community projects that have been going on around the world that we just haven’t implemented in our area, but Leo has been trying to implement wonderful ideas that benefit the community,” said Sable. “I’m just supporting him and helping him with his projects because I think it’s great.” Within just a few days, the Visalia Give Box was filled with all sorts of items for people to pick up and use for themselves, and there is even talk of a new box being constructed to go up in another part of town. “We really want to have a Give Box at the College of the Sequoias, because a lot of the students are struggling, so if they could help each other out, it would be awesome,” said Sable. If you have any items you would like to drop off at the Visalia Give Box, or if you are in need of items for yourself, search for the “Give Box Visalia” on Facebook group and request to join for its location and more information.

CULTURE, COMMERCE AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE — T H E H E A R T O F T H E S O U T H V A L L E Y

AUTO SHOP QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

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OIL CHANGE $ 3499 SPECIAL You Don’t Know What You Think You Know!

re “code readers” friends or foe? We are getting more and more calls from customers asking, “I have a code reader and I have the code, so do I need to know how much it costs to replace my part that I bought?” It may get you close, but it will not pinpoint the problem. For example, a PO 171 and 174 can point you to a bad mass air flow sensor, but it also can mean that there is an intake leak, low fuel pressure, plugged injectors, etc. So unless you have the knowledge to pinpoint the problem, you better stick to your daily profession. It reminds me of the guy who once said to me, “I know my alternator is bad because my friend told me.” When I asked him if his friend was a mechanic, he said, “no, he washes cars, but he has lunch with the mechanics at the dealership.” That is like looking up your problem on Web MD to find out what is wrong with you and calling your doctor to ask him to write a prescription. Tip: Find out more about your car with this helpful website: napaserviceassistant.mynapasa.com/#!car-full Our grandson Joel had his last MRI in December, and his scan came out clean. He is not out of the woods yet, but with every clean scan, he gets a little closer to becoming a survivor.

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VUSD TEXT BY TODD OTO, ED. D, VUSD SUPERINTENDENT

A Time of Transition

he beginning of the spring semester of the 2015-2016 school year is a time of transition for Visalia Unified. As you may know, Craig Wheaton, our superintendent for the past five and half years, has accepted a position as deputy superintendent for Tulare County Office of Education. In an earlier article, he outlined the accomplishments of our district during his tenure, including the continuous increase in academic achievement, a graduation rate that significantly exceeds the state average, the opening of a new elementary school and, soon, a new middle school – all while successfully guiding Visalia Unified through the recession. We wish Dr. Wheaton well as he takes on the responsibilities of his new position. In November 2015, I was named the interim superintendent of Visalia Unified. As interim superintendent, my role will be to ensure that the school district functions smoothly until the new superintendent is named. This involves maintaining all of the services and activities currently being provided by the district to support learning and achievement for all students. We have much work in progress, including the ongoing transition to the new state standards, our growing systems for academic and personal support for students at all levels, and our efforts supporting teachers in their work with students. Currently, the Visalia Unified School Board is considering the process and timeline for

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selecting the new superintendent. Our organization has strong and capable staff at all levels, and I am confident that the interim period will be one of seamless transition. On a personal note, I am honored to be the interim superintendent of our district. This is my 28th year with Visalia Unified, the only district that I have known as an educator. My career began at Mt. Whitney High School in 1987, where I taught drafting and woodshop. I was a dean at Mt. Whitney for one year and then an assistant principal at Redwood High School for five years. In 2004, I was selected as principal of Sequoia High School, and in 2006, I was named principal of Redwood. In 2010, I became an area superintendent, with oversight of alternative education; in 2012, I became an assistant superintendent, with oversight of secondary education (middle schools and high schools); and in 2015, my position was expanded to oversee the entire Instructional Services division, which includes all 40 of our schools. Having worked at many levels within our district, I have knowledge of all aspects of our schools. As interim superintendent, I will become more familiar with the financial and human resources systems that, along with instruction, represent the whole of our district’s organization. I look forward to learning more about Visalia Unified in my new position, and I am excited to be leading an organization in which I have grown up – one that is engaged in many great things that are bringing education, achievement, and options for the future to the 28,000 students whom it serves.

CULTURE, COMMERCE AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE — T H E H E A R T O F T H E S O U T H V A L L E Y

CREATE TEXT BY IMAGINEU CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

Be My Valentine Craft

ebruary is always such a fun time for the kids. Schools often allow students to exchange fun little cards and candies in order to celebrate Valentine’s Day. Rather than getting the same store-bought cards, this month’s craft allows kids to get hands-on and add a personal touch to their own Valentine’s Day cards. MATERIALS: •

Colored construction paper

•

White, pink, or red tissue paper (can use construction paper)

•

Green tissue or construction paper

•

Scissors

•

Non-toxic glue

•

Colored markers or glitter glue pen

•

Optional: glitter, buttons, or gems

DIRECTIONS: •

Fold the colored construction paper in half.

•

Cut leaves and stem from the green paper and glue it to bottom of card (or draw leaves and stem with a green marker.)

•

Cut hearts out of the white, pink, and red paper and glue them on the stem.

•

Glue buttons, gems, or glitter on the hearts.

•

Let the glue dry then write a sweet note for your favorite Valentine. DIRECT MAGAZINE

CULTURE, COMMERCE AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE — T H E H E A R T O F T H E S O U T H V A L L E Y

VISALIA RESCUE MISSION

TEXT BY RYAN STILLWATER

meals. In 2014, we received over $563,000 worth of donated food. These numbers reveal an incredibly generous community. It also shows that the problems we encounter aren’t due to a lack of resources, but more typically, are due to a lack of response. Respond with us by attending Empty Bowls on Tuesday, March 1. Enjoy the food, the company, and the bowls knowing that together we are making a difference, simply because we showed up. Empty Bowls is sponsored by: Elanco, Adisseo, Diamond V, Zinpro, and Nutrius. Soups catered by The Vintage Press.

Simply Show Up

ebruary 2 is Groundhog Day. A furry little fellow comes out to play. He sees his shadow and runs away. ‘Six more weeks of winter,’ they say.” I can’t remember high school algebra, my kids’ first words, or my own blood type, but for some reason, I can remember that Groundhog Day rap my elementary school friends and I created more than twenty years ago. Many of you know exactly what I’m talking about. Our brains are so strange and selective when it comes to long-term memory storage. Like a string tied around a finger, some of us really need a physical object to help remind us of daily tasks or important projects. On March 1, one of our annual events serves as a one of those special reminders. Since 1990, Empty Bowls has served as an “international grassroots effort to raise both money and awareness in the fight to end hunger.” At our event, you get to enjoy some amazing soups from The Vintage Press in a specially handcrafted bowl crafted by local artists. Long after the event has come and gone, this bowl stays with you, as a reminder of all of the empty bowls in the world.

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Ryan Stillwater is the Director of Community Engagement for Visalia Rescue Mission. Contact him on Twitter: @RStillwater or by e-mail: ryan@vrmhope.org.

To be honest, I didn’t totally understand the premise initially. “You want me to eat a bunch amazing food so that I remember the hungry people of the world? Shouldn’t we just feed the hungry people?” But my reaction was incredibly nearsighted. This event is just a catalyst, a means to help a community catch the cold of compassion. Growing up, I remember being told to eat all of my food because there were hungry kids in the world. Unfortunately, that didn’t help those kids to be any less hungry, and it just made me bloated and feel guilty. But in this day and age, there are many easy ways to do something about the need that exists. In 2015, Visalia Rescue Mission served over 105,000

6TH ANNUAL

Empty Bowls TUESDAY MARCH 1 5:30PM 7:30PM VRM COMMUNITY CENTER supporting life change at

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FASHION TEXT BY SHARON MOSLEY

Resolve Those Fashion Resolutions

very year I resolve not to make any resolutions, but then I do enjoy looking back on the past few years to sneak a peek at what I’ve written and what fashion advice I’ve actually incorporated into my own style. Here are a few of my favorite non-resolution “resolutions”: Shop the postholiday sales. I used to love schlepping from store to store with hundreds of my fellow shopaholics, picking through leftover merchandise after the holidays, hoping to find the deals of the year at bargain prices; but I have to admit that the older I get, the more I find that the thrill of the hunt is not as strong as it used to be, and, after all, I can easily find great buys at any time of the day or night on the Internet. Even so, nothing feels so good as cashmere at 70 percent off. On second thought, I think I will make time to stop by the mall this weekend. Declutter. Yes, declutter. Period. This is a constant chore for me, but it helps if I do just a little bit throughout the year. One big clean-out of the closet just gets me depressed. It may work for some to do a major overhaul all at once, but I prefer to take a few minutes at the beginning of each new season to weed out the clothes and shoes that I no longer wear. Then it’s a quick trip with a light load to my favorite charity. This method is much more manageable to me, and doesn’t involve as much angst or as many prolonged hours of decision-making.

Work on my workout wardrobe. First I need to work on my workout routine – as in, I really don’t have one. That gym

membership expired a few years ago, and a compound ankle fracture broke up my yoga class. However, I love yoga clothes. I think it’s time to invest in some new “ath-leisure” wear and get moving again. I just have to find some great new walking shoes. Wear more color. After years of a closet full of fashion editor “black,” color is slowly brightening up. I’ll never be a pastel person – so I think I’ll skip Pantone’s current custom color of the year, rose quartz, but stick to last year’s darker rosy Marsala. And I’m still loving the darker marine blues. Those hues – and even my favorite, black – are great to wear with white, a spring and summer classic. Experiment with hair and makeup. I may not streak my hair with lavender locks for my high school class reunion, but my hair stylist has convinced me to add some caramel highlights that give me a little lift and a lot of shine. If you don’t have a great go-to hair professional, make it your New Year’s resolution to find one pronto. They can change your life just by updating the color and cut of your hair. Ditto for makeup professionals who can also give you a brand new outlook on life. Wear more prints. As spring clothes swing into the season ahead, it’s refreshing to see tropical floral prints popping up from designers. And in a sea of solids like the ones in my closet, a few new printed tops will make me feel a little like I’m on vacation (or at least planning one for the warmer months to come). Buy a new dress. I don’t wear too many dresses anymore. Separates are just easier for my more casual lifestyle these days. Hopefully, this spring and summer, I will find that easy, breezy maxi dress that will glide right through the summer with me, flat sandals, and a big straw hat. St. Tropez, anyone? DIRECT MAGAZINE

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VISALIA FIRST

Surround Me

y name is Karen Robertson and for the last eight years, I have coled Visalia First with my husband, Mike Robertson. Within that time, I have had the opportunity to share my love and gift for music through Worship Arts. All throughout my life, God has used my heart for worship in ways I never thought possible. My desire has always been to make God known in the ways that I have come to know God, allowing the love and character of God to come through. Worship for me is the beginning; it’s where people’s hearts are being prepared and where His presence becomes real. During my time at Visalia First, I have been asked what it is that I feel when I lead worship. My response is that I feel I am preaching the Gospel of Jesus, believing every song has a message. If I ever have a sense that the message was not conveyed, I am overcome with disappointment. It’s far more disappointing than missing something vocally or someone in the band playing a wrong note or being off key. I have a strong conviction that the message is first and foremost. If the message doesn’t get conveyed, then my leading has meant nothing. When Mike and I came to Visalia First, we fell in love with the community, immediately feeling a call to further the dreams of those around us. As we stepped out in faith following that call, God reminded me of a dream He had given me early in my life. My piano bench, notebooks, and voice memos are full of fragments to songs. I am constantly writing songs and pieces to songs. Each song reflects a precious moment where God has spoken directly to me. God was asking me to use my gifts and talents to surround His people. Through these collections of songs, God has opened the door for me to pursue the dream of releasing a full-length studio album. The songs come from my experience as a Christ follower, of lessons learned, prayers of anticipation, acclamations of God’s All Sufficiency, personal growth, and maturity. It is my desire to encourage 24

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everyone to live their life as a Christfollower and to know God fully. The song “Give It All” is a summons and challenge for each one of us. It was written for dreamers who, many times, place their pursuits ahead of giving their all to God. The message within the song is that when we lose our life for Christ’s sake, we will find it in the end. (Matthew 16:25, NIV) As I began working on the studio album, God reminded me of Visalia First’s vision statement and our deep desire to see lives changed in God’s presence. It wasn’t easy, but through it all, it has reassured me that God is always pulling out of us the things we never thought possible. He believes in us more than we could ever dream or imagine. It was and is a humbling experience to be used by Him in this way. With every song, my hope is that it will give those listening a little piece of His presence. It is my hope that each listener receives a glimpse of what God has been doing in my life and experiences a “God Moment,” as I like to call it.

I would be honored if you would join me for a Night of Worship and the release of the “Surround Me” studio album on Saturday, March 5 at 5 p.m. for a free concert at Visalia First. I’d love to see you there! Enjoy your Journey,

Karen Robertson For more information regarding the release of “Surround Me” and to listen to the first single “I Collide Into You” visit karenrobertsonmusic.com Surround Me | Studio Album Release FREE CONCERT Saturday, March 5 at 5 p.m. Visalia First 3737 S. Akers St., Visalia Phone | 733-9070 Email | info@karenrobertsonmusic.com

CULTURE, COMMERCE AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE — T H E H E A R T O F T H E S O U T H V A L L E Y

CHARACTER COUNTS! TEXT BY KELLEY PETTY, CHARACTER COUNTS! COORDINATOR, TULARE COUNTY OFFICE OF EDUCATION

ALYSSA GALVIN, SOPHOMORE

ALISSA GOMEZ, SENIOR

Butterfield Charter High School, Porterville

Dinuba High School, Dinuba

As a new teacher to Butterfield Charter High School, Mrs. Skinner didn’t know many staff members or students. But it didn’t take long for sophomore Alyssa Galvan to catch her attention. As a student new to the school, Alyssa’s personalized academic plan was reassigned to Mrs. Skinner from another teacher’s caseload. This is when a “new-teacher-meets-determined-young-lady” scenario developed, and together, the two have made a perfect pairing to meet Alyssa’s goals. Alyssa knew at an early age that she wanted as few distractions as possible during her school day, even if it meant relocating to another school. Mrs. Skinner says, “Alyssa is set on completing her high school requirements ahead of schedule. She meets with me once a week and has already brought in work that exceeds requirements. She definitely goes above and beyond in her efforts, and has the scores and grades that exhibit her dedication.” When Alyssa struggles with her academic abilities or loses focus, she knows Mrs. Skinner will be the one to respectfully redirect her. Alyssa shares, “Mrs. Skinner is willing to point out if I am falling off track based on my own expectations and goals. She cares about my future and believes in my individual goals and what I have chosen for myself.” Alyssa’s hopes for the future include travel, business entrepreneurship, and interior design, all while remaining grounded with her family values and spiritual commitment to serve others.

Dinuba high school senior Alissa Gomez is a shining example of the famous quote by Margaret Mead, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” A class assignment last year provided an opportunity for Alissa to think about others first and gave her a platform to recruit other classmates to do the same. Alissa exceeded the requirements of this particular assignment by founding the ARK (Acts of Random Kindness) club. Teacher Mrs. Poor says, “Alissa started this club with three friends and now the club has 15 active members. Alissa’s one simple act of kindness has changed the way students treat each other at Dinuba High School and, more importantly, has changed the way students think about service to the community.” Under Alissa’s leadership, the ARK club invites motivational guest speakers to the school campus, volunteers in the community by raising money for the public library, and creates handmade Valentine’s Day cards to give to the patients at Valley Children’s Hospital. They have gathered more than $300 worth of food supplies to give to families who have children in the hospital, allowing these families to stay by their child’s side rather than leaving for meals. ARK continues to serve and grow beyond the school campus. The ARK club has become an active resource for the community of Dinuba. Several community members have called to ask for students to help with events, such as parades and soup kitchens. Mrs. Poor states that Alissa Gomez is a student who demonstrates all the Pillars of Character, however the pillar of citizenship describes her best. And the city of Dinuba agrees.

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CULTURE, COMMERCE AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE — T H E H E A R T O F T H E S O U T H V A L L E Y

GARDENING TEXT BY BY SHARON KATIEDIDPLEIN, LANGROCK TEXT MASTER GARDENER, UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA COOPERATIVE EXTENSION

Grow Your Own Avocado Tree From a Seed

ebruary can be a cold and foggy month for outdoor gardening, but it is a good month for gardening indoors. There are many seed sprouting activities that your family can enjoy during the winter season. Starting an avocado tree is an easy project that requires just a few materials. All you need is an avocado seed, three toothpicks, a wide clean glass or jar, water, and a sunny windowsill. LET’S START THE FUN! 1. After eating a delicious avocado in a salad or as guacamole, save the large seed. 2. Clean the seed by rinsing and drying it or wiping it with a paper towel. 3. Notice that the seed has a pointed half and a flat or rounded half. The sprouting shoot will appear at the pointed end. The root will appear from the flat end. It is important to know which end is “up.” The root will appear from the flat end. 4. Insert three toothpicks at equal distances in a circle around the seed about halfway down the sides. You don’t have to drive the toothpicks through the seed. You are simply creating a support to hold the seed in place. 5. You are ready to insert the seed into a water-filled glass or jar. Make sure the pointed end of the seed is pointing up, and balance the seed on its toothpick holders on the container’s rim. 6. The bottom half of the seed should be immersed in water at all times. Check the water every couple days to make sure the developing roots do not dry out. 7. The half of the avocado seed above the toothpicks should not be covered by water. This is the part of the seed that will develop into the leaves and stem off your avocado tree. 8. Place the glass container with the avocado seed in a place in your home that receives plenty of sunlight. Now the waiting begins. Be patient and watch. In a few weeks’ time, you will notice a small root emerging from the rounded end of your seed. The top of the seed will begin to develop a small shoot, tiny leaves will begin to unfold, and the main stem will emerge. On a calendar, mark the dates that roots and leaves develop.

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Later as your plant grows, you can plant the seed in a container with houseplant potting soil. Keep the potting soil moist, not wet, and move it to a sunny or well-lighted place. Fertilize every three months with a houseplant fertilizer. You will need to repot your avocado seedling into a larger container as your plant grows taller. Fall is a good time to plant your new seedling outdoors. Be aware that our climate is far from ideal for growing avocado trees as they do not like freezing temperatures. Plant in an area where the tree can be protected from frost. In late fall, cover your tiny tree with burlap or a frost cover for the winter. If you take care of your seedling, you will be able to enjoy your “windowsill” avocado for many years to come.

Happy Gardening!

CULTURE, COMMERCE AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE — T H E H E A R T O F T H E S O U T H V A L L E Y

PRO-PT Physical Therapy First

fter waiting three weeks for your family doctor visit, you are finally able to discuss your lower back pain. This pain has limited your ability to do even the most mundane tasks, such as tying your shoes. The diagnosis is “degenerative disc disease.” The best treatment offered is being prescribed medications to reduce the “inflammation.” Fast forward a month, your lower back pain has been dulled, but you still cannot bend forward. Now your doctor prescribes you physical therapy. After a week or so of physical therapy, your lower back pain is reducing and you are able to perform the activities that used to cause you severe pain, such as bending forward. Not only have you responded better and faster with physical therapy, you may have saved yourself a lot of money as well. Early physical therapy

DR. ABEL OJEDA, JR., DOCTOR OF PHYSICAL THERAPY, PRO-PT PHYSICAL THERAPY, PORTERVILLE

services for lower back pain may save you more than $2,700. Early physical therapy services for managing and treating many orthopedic injuries is highly effective. Furthermore,

physical therapy may be as beneficial as common surgical interventions for orthopedic pathologies. Not to mention, physical therapy may improve your surgical outcomes before major reconstruction and joint replacement surgeries. It was suggested there is no difference in patients that were treated with

physical therapy or knee arthroscopic surgery. In a long-term study, patients’ diagnosis with lumbar spinal stenosis treated with physical therapy or surgical decompression resulted in parallel outcomes. A medical journal stated that after operative treatment is not any better than conservative treatment with regard to non-traumatic rotator cuff tears and conservative treatment should be considered as the primary treatment. Lastly, receiving physical therapy services before reconstructive surgery may reduce your post-operative care and enhance your recovery and function. In conclusion, physical therapy is a great alternative to medication and surgery for musculoskeletal pain. Research has proven that individuals who receive physical therapy early achieve more function, reduce their health cost, and may be as effective as surgery. So, the next time you find yourself having aches and pains, difficulty performing your normal activities, or are told you need surgery, consider physical therapy first.

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CULTURE, COMMERCE AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE — T H E H E A R T O F T H E S O U T H V A L L E Y

MONEY MATTERS TEXT BY MARY HUNT

What to do When Your Social Security Number is Compromised Dear Mary: About a month ago, my wallet was stolen out of my handbag while in the supermarket. I filed a police report, but they advised me it’s not likely I will ever get it back – or the contents. I reported this to my bank and credit-card company. Those accounts were closed and reopened with new account numbers. But I am sick with worry because my Social Security card was in the wallet. I don’t know what to do. What can I do? I so appreciate any guidance that will help give me some peace of mind. I’ve learned my lesson to never carry that with me. Just wish I’d been smarter sooner. – Marissa Dear Marissa: I am so sorry to hear about this. But worry is the wrong response because that is totally unproductive. Worry doesn’t fix anything. Before I give you the advice that will restore your peace of mind, I think it’s important that all of us understand that our Social Security numbers are much different than say a credit card or debit card. A Social Security number is the single most important piece of government-issued identification an American citizen can have. It is the most valuable piece of identification that cybercriminals can get their hands on. A valid SSN can be sold to undocumented workers or to people trying to hide their true identities. A stolen SSN allows the thief or his or her customers to do almost everything that you or I can do with our legitimate SSNs. By assuming a real person’s name and SSN, a thief can steal property and money from that person. If a thief uses your name and SSN to do criminal acts, the police are going to be looking for you, not that thief. You can close a credit-card account if it is compromised and you did. That’s good. The problem is you can’t close your SSN. Even if you were to get that card back by some miracle, you must assume that your Social Security number has been stolen. And here comes my advice: You can take control of this situation in one of two ways: Option One: You can join a trust and reputable identity-theft protection service like Lifelock. My family, my staff and I are all members of Lifelock. I highly recommend this service because I get to see it in action, almost daily. 28

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One of my staff members, Max, has been contending with identity theft since he was a teenager. His SSN was stolen, and over the past decade, hundreds of people have attempted to use his name and SSN to apply for jobs, file for tax refunds, sign up for health insurance, apply for passports, and get credit. Max’s problems have not ended, and they will not end anytime soon. But Max no longer worries about it. Lifelock moves into action the moment his SSN is ever used in any kind of application. In just the past week, Max has received three alerts from Lifelock, with information on three people trying to open credit card accounts using his SSN. Lifelock put a stop to them immediately before those thugs could even complete the first step. And that’s in just one week. Option Two: You can take all the steps yourself that are necessary to manage your SSN. If you choose this option, there are several steps you’ll need to take right away. Contact one of the three major credit-reporting agencies, Equifax (888-766-0008), TransUnion (800-916-8800), or Experian (888-397-3742), to place a fraud alert on your credit file. That agency will contact the other two. Renew the fraud alert every 90 days until you’re satisfied the matter has been settled; it could take years. Contact the Social Security Administration only to get a replacement card. Tell each of the three agencies that your SSN has been stolen. They’ll give you free copies of your current credit reports. Review those reports for unfamiliar accounts and unknown inquiries from companies. Report the theft of the SSN to the IRS by calling 800-908-4490. That will prevent tax-fraud thieves from filing tax returns in your name and collecting your tax refund. File an identity-theft report with your local police. The police report will be necessary to help clear your records and your name in the future. Keep track of, record, report, and close all fraudulent accounts by contacting both the companies holding the accounts and the credit-reporting agencies. This will keep your credit as clean as possible going forward. If several years pass after the theft of your SSN, and the problems arising from the theft continue, you may want to apply for a new SSN. But before you do, there are several things to consider: It’s not easy. In fact it is nearly impossible, that’s how rare it is. Even by some miracle it does, your old SSN will never go away completely. The Administration never invalidates an SSN once it’s been used. I wish you well, Marissa. Whichever way you choose to go with this, time is of the essence. You have no time to waste. Take care of this today, without fail.

CULTURE, COMMERCE AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE — T H E H E A R T O F T H E S O U T H V A L L E Y

CROSSWORD Home on the Range

11 Limerick 12 More wily 15 Alaskan island 17 Everybody Hurts rock group 18 Latin dance 23 Polish partner 24 Pakistani tongue 25 Prickly ___ cactus 26 Journalist/novelist Ben 27 Suffer from a migraine 28 Ark skipper 30 Calls balls and strikes 31 Repetition 32 Noted Harper’s Bazaar Illustrator 33 Crucifix 34 Sound unit 39 There are three in a third 40 Disentangle 41 Advocate 42 Freud’s homeland 45 Glower 46 Capital on the Red river 47 The Jungle author Sinclair 48 Sphere 50 Do as asked 51 Shuttle org.

35 Wells or Lupino

62 Author Yutang

52 Lasting impression, of a sort

1 Stared in wonder

36 Cafe offering

63 Saga

54 Conjunctions

6 ___ now: at present

37 Milne marsupial

64 Softens

55 Intro for cast or market

DOWN

56 ___ Tu: 1974 song

ACROSS

10 Winnebagos, e.g. 13 Yemeni’s neighbor

38 Apply force, in police jargon

14 Lest

43 Road-map feature

15 Hull backbone

44 Napped leather

16 Pressing matter

45 Railroad switch

19 Ponder

48 Wife of Saturn

20 Utopia

49 Subtitles

21 It goes in a setting

53 Interchange Goodyears

22 Saltpeter

57 Pending

23 Building manager, for short

59 Romances

26 ___ right: turn

60 La Bamba actor Morales

29 Tense situation

61 Move furtively

LOOK FOR YOUR ANSWERS IN THE NEXT ISSUE

1 Fossil-rich desert 2 Within 3 Congressional aide

58 Family DESCRIPTIVES - JAN. ISSUE

4 Meshes, as gears 5 They try to lose 6 Pershing’s troops: abbr. 7 Undergarment 8 Greek peak 9 Baseball-player’s rep Donald 10 Overhaul an apparatus DIRECT MAGAZINE

CULTURE, COMMERCE AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE — T H E H E A R T O F T H E S O U T H V A L L E Y

GOINGS-ON THE CREATIVE CENTER’S SUPER BOWL SPRINT

THE BEACH BOYS AT THE FOX For the first time in more than 15 years, The Beach Boys are making their way to the Visalia Fox Theatre this winter. The beloved California band will perform with original lead singer and songwriter, Mike Love, and long-time band member Bruce Johnston. Tickets are currently on sale and cost between $59 and $99.

As The Creative Center Foundation’s primary fundraiser, they are bringing back this fun event for its fourth year in a row. Playing off the Super Bowl theme, there will be prizes and entertainment for participants. Before you head to your Super Bowl party, run a 5K or get in a 2-mile walk through Mooney Grove. To register, visit thecreativecenterfoundation. org or at Soul 2 Soul Sports.

When: Jan. 29, 7:30 p.m. Where: Visalia Fox Theatre, 308 W. Main St., Visalia

When: Feb. 7

Contact: FoxVisalia.org CIRQUE ZIVA – GOLDEN DRAGON ACROBATS Cirque Ziva is currently performing OffBroadway in New York City, but, they’ll be on stage at the Visalia Fox on Saturday night. Their 2005 seven-week run at New York’s New Victory Theater earned two prestigious New York Drama Desk Award nominations. This is a show for all ages with exquisite costumes, stupendous stunts and acrobatic feats you never imagined possible. Tickets are between $12 and $17. When: Jan. 30, 4 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Where: Visalia Fox Theatre, 308 W. Main St., Visalia Contact: FoxVisalia.org

SHANE GUFFOGG CLOSING RECEPTION AND EXHIBIT World-renowned artist, Shane Guffogg, has returned to his hometown of Lindsay to host an art exhibit featuring his work. Much of Shane’s work consists of oil paintings with 50-60 layers of translucent colors mixed with a glazing medium, causing the paintings to seem illuminated from within. He has presented many exhibits throughout California and around the world. Community members will have a chance to meet Guffogg at a closing reception that will take place at the end of January. When: Jan. 30, 5 – 8 p.m. Where: Lindsay Museum and Gallery, 165 N. Gale Hill, Lindsay Contact: 562-2684 ARTS VISALIA 21ST ANNUAL SOFA ART Sofa Art turns 21 in February and you’re invited to the party! Equal parts community event and art exhibition, the Sofa Art Show is a highly-anticipated annual art show where any person who has an artistic inclination may display their creation. Sofa art will be on display nearly the whole month of February, with a special reception taking place on Friday, February 5 from 6 to 8 p.m. Attendance is free and open to the public. When: Feb 3 – Feb 26 Where: Arts Visalia, 214 E. Oak Ave., Visalia Contact: ArtsVisalia.org

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Where: Mooney Grove Park, 27000 S. Mooney Blvd., Visalia Contact: TheCreativeCenterFoundation. org 49TH ANNUAL WORLD AG EXPO 2016 More than 1,400 exhibitors will be displaying the latest in farm equipment, chemicals, communications, and technology on 2.6 million square feet of exhibit space. This event is open to the public and is $15 at the gate. Children six and under are free. When: Feb. 9 – 11 Where: International Agri-Center, 4500 South Laspina St., Tulare Contact: worldagexpo.com SPRINGFEST HOME AND PATIO SHOW Featuring over 350 home and patio exhibits, the South Valley’s largest home show will help you transform your home for Spring. Join them for weekend seminars presented by gardening, remodeling, and D-I-Y experts, and enter to win a variety of merchant prizes in our annual Treasure Hunt and get lots of show specials and discounts. Tickets are $8 for adults, kids under 12 are free. When: Feb. 12 - 14 Where: Visalia Convention Center, 303 E. Acequia Ave., Visalia Contact: VisaliaHomeShows.com

CULTURE, COMMERCE AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE — T H E H E A R T O F T H E S O U T H V A L L E Y

ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE

WINE AND DINE FOR HABITAT FOR HUMANITY

Visalia Breakfast Lions Club invites you to join them for the fun and festivities of this year’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade! Downtown will be filled with folks taking in the Irish cheer, so arrive early to stake out your spot along the parade route. The parade will begin at Garden Street Plaza, head West on Main Street, and then North on Willis, ending just north of Center Street. With so many events going on throughout the day, we have partnered with the Visalia Towne Trolley and will be offering FREE trolley rides from 1 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

Karl Merten, chef and owner of Cafe 225, is hosting a fundraising dinner to support Habitat for Humanity of Tulare County. Carl Rana, from Stefanelli Distributing Company, will pair wine with each course to provide the best flavor experience. Join Habitat for Humanity at Cafe 225 for a wonderful evening of great food, great wine, and a great cause. When: Feb. 21, 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. Were: Café 225, 225 W. Main St., Visalia Contact: 734-4040 JOHNNY RIVERS ROCK AND ROLL LEGEND The Rock ‘n’ Roll legend, Johnny Rivers, will be performing at the Visalia Fox Theatre in support of Hands in the Community. The singer/songwriter/ producer continues to perform before sellout crowds worldwide. The “Secret Agent Man” has many other accomplishments and has made significant contributions to the history of rock ‘n’ roll. Come support a charitable cause in the community while listening to great music.

When: Mar. 12, 10 a.m. Where: Downtown Visalia Contact: visaliabreakfastlions.org

When: Feb. 27, 8 p.m. Where: Visalia Fox Theatre, 308 W. Main St., Visalia BRIAN REGAN COMEDY CONCERT EVENT Join Brian Regan as he makes mountains out of the mundane, poking fun at the directions on a box of Pop-Tarts, and the clichés of postgame interviews. Mr. Regan doesn’t just work clean, he steers clear of anything topical, sexual, or remotely confessional. He has sold out on two previous events at the Fox Theater. To purchase tickets, go to ticketfly.com/ purchase/event/958841 or contact the Visalia Emergency Aid Food Pantry. Tickets are $30-$45

Contact: Lester Moon, 625-3822 or FoxVisalia.org END OF THE TRAIL ½ MARATHON AND 10K Register today for Visalia’s one and only historic End of the Trail Half-Marathon or 10K race. Whether you walk or run, join the Visalia Runners for a memorable experience with a new route that starts and ends in Downtown Visalia. Proceeds benefit Visalia high schools’ cross-country teams.

When: Feb. 25, 7 p.m.

When: Mar. 12, 6:30 a.m., 7:30 a.m., and 8 a.m.

Where: Visalia Fox Theater, 308 W. Main St., Visalia

Where: Downtown Visalia, 315 E. Main St., Visalia

Contact: 732-0101 or info@veac.orf

Contact: Joshua.hickey@gmail.com

THE LOOKING GLASS CRAFTER’S FAIR Come down to the corner of Garden and Caldwell for The Looking Glass Crafter’s Fair. The Craft Fair features more than 30 valley residents and their handcrafted goods. To become a vendor, pick up an application at The Looking Glass, 242 E. Caldwell, Visalia. When: Mar. 19, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Where: Corner of Garden and Caldwell Contact: 5732-2787 or email the_ lookingglass@att.net

If you would like to have your event considered for a free listing in our “Goings-On” section, please email your submission to direct@dmiagency.com or fax to 738-0909, attention Goings-On. Please note, we do not guarantee listing of any submission. Submissions must be received six (6) weeks before publication.

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CULTURE, COMMERCE AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE — T H E H E A R T O F T H E S O U T H V A L L E Y

WARREN REPORTS TEXT BY WARREN GUBLER, VICE MAYOR

Why I Write

irect Magazine published my first commentary in September 2010, which means that I’ve been writing this monthly article for five and a half years now. In reviewing my old posts, found at directfromwarren.blogspot.com, my initial articles from 2010 covered such topics as the Riverway Sports Park, the Historic Visalia Walking Trail, the Senior Center, city budget issues, and salary negotiations with the five city employee unions. At the time, I was still a relatively new city council member, having been first elected in 2009. The City of Visalia has a public relations department with capable employees who usually write the speeches, editorials, and articles on behalf of council members. Most politicians have ghostwriters. However, for Direct Magazine, I’ve always elected to write the articles myself. At least to me, they seem a little more authentic, and give me an opportunity to share my thoughts. As an elected figure, I want to express my independent viewpoints, perhaps giving you a little different peek into the workings of city government. On the other hand, because I don’t have my writings pre-approved by the city, I can’t blame them for my mistakes. I claim sole responsibility for the content. I also find that writing this monthly article is therapeutic, as it gives me the opportunity to sift through and digest what has been placed before me at City Hall, and crystalizes my thought process. For our biweekly city council meetings, each council member is usually provided at least 50 to 60 pages of reading materials, including staff reports, Powerpoint presentations, draft ordinances, and such. I read and mull over each topic in order to form an opinion that I believe will be consistent, and then vote in a way that I hope will benefit my constituents. This article actually provides me a sounding board, an opportunity to bounce ideas off myself. When I first came up with the idea of writing these articles, I approached a number of publications in the area about publishing them, but they expressed shock that I would even ask. Why should a politician be allowed to provide a regular article, when they were the ones employed to write and give their viewpoints as to what was happening at City Hall? In my mind, freedom of the press extends beyond the hired help, and all citizens, elected or not, should have the opportunity to express their opinions in print. Direct Magazine was the only publication that accepted my 32

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offer to write such an article, and for that, I am grateful. Direct has been kind enough to give me a regular spot on the inside back cover of their magazine each month since then. Ironically, in the intervening years, as print media has fallen on financial hard times and laid off staff, I’ve been approached by some of the same publications about writing a regular article for them. But I’m a loyal kind of guy, so I’ve continued to write exclusively for this magazine, because they first gave me a bully pulpit. That’s not to say that periodically, when a bee gets stuck in my bonnet, or when I believe an item needs additional emphasis, that I won’t continue to submit editorials to other publications. Finally, I thank you, my loyal readers, for reading what I have to say in this article each month. Over the years, I have received more and more comments from people who indicate that they anticipate reading my articles each month, whether they agree with my opinions or not. I look forward to continuing to write these articles and hope that I meet your expectations. As always, I encourage you to email or call me with any questions or topics you’d like me to address in future articles. WATER CONSERVATION UPDATE Beginning in June 2015, the state set a target for Visalia of 32 percent water usage reduction over 2013 levels. At a recent city council meeting, it was announced that in November 2015, Visalia conserved 33 percent compared to 2013, the first month that we met and exceeded our goal. Residential customers led the way by reducing their water usage by 38 percent. According to Cal Water, in 2015, the city used approximately the same amount of water as Visalia did in 1998, when our population was about a third less. With the wonderful winter rains we’ve been experiencing, it is my hope that the city and the state will cut back on their water restriction mandates, and instead educate the citizens on the benefits of voluntary compliance. As Cicero noted, summum ius, summa iniuria – the more law, the less justice. As for me, I trust the citizens of Visalia. Continue to pray for rain and for an end to this drought. However, we should all continue to try to conserve this precious resource. If you have questions or topics regarding the city, which you would like to have addressed in future articles, please email Warren at wgubler@ci.visalia.ca.us, or call (559) 713-4400 x 3313. For past articles, visit directfromwarren.blogspot.com.

3737 W. Akers St. Visalia, CA 93277

Service Times Sat. 5 Sun. 9//10:45//12:30

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