Direct Magazine - May 2017 by Direct Magazine

CULTURE, COMMERCE, AND COMMUNITY IN VISALIA AND TULARE — THE HEART OF THE SOUTH VALLEY | MAY 2017

M A G A Z I N E

VIRTUAL VALLEY

MEET A LOCAL

Internet Privacy Debates: What Has and Has Not Changed

Garth L. Gipson CFP®, Financial Planner & Owner, Gateway Financial Planning Group

WARREN REPORTS Seniors Are Winners

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INSIDE MAY 2017 PU B LIS H E D BY

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Executive Editor KAREN TELLALIAN Assistant Editor KELLY LAPADULA Operations Manager MARIA GASTON CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

ANDY SALAZAR & ERIN C. S. WYATT CAROL ADAMS JESSICA CULTRA IMAGINEU KELLEY PETTY MARY HUNT MARTHA TORRES MISSY YAVASILE RYAN STILLWATER SUE BURNS SUSAN SCHIEFERLE TODD OTO VALLEY OAK SPCA WARREN GUBLER GRAPHIC DESIGNER

CHRIS BLY ADVERTISING SALES

Account Executive MELISSA OLSON melissa@dmiagency.com 559.739.1747 SALES OFFICE

801 W. Main St. Visalia, CA 93291 559.739.1747 • fax 559.738.0909 email: direct@dmiagency.com B U S I N E S S M A N AG E M E N T

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 © 2017 DMI Agency

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COVER STORY

4 LA SIERRA MILITARY ACADEMY Foundational Life Tools for All Youth

DEPARTMENTS 11 PRO-PT 12 Visalia Chamber 13 Tulare Chamber 14 The Recipe Box 16 Valley Oak SPCA 17 Garden World

18 Seen Around Town

F E AT U R E S

8 Virtual Valley

Internet Privacy Debates: What Has and Has Not Changed

10 Meet A Local Garth L. Gipson, CFP®, Financial Planner & Owner, Gateway Financial Planning Group

21 Craft Corner

Pet Rock

25 Gardening A Secret Garden in Visalia

26 VUSD Measuring Up on the California School Dashboard

18 People on the Move 19 Focus on Fitness 20 Visalia First 22 Visalia Rescue Mission 23 Ask M.J. 24 Character Counts! 27 Money Matters 28 College Prep 29 Crossword 30 Goings-On 31 People & Pets 32 Warren Reports

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LA SIERRA MILITARY ACADEMY

Global Standards Beyond the Classroom

Foundational Life Tools for All Youth

s the world continues to change, there is a real need to ensure schools are progressing along with it. Preparing with the next generation of governmental leaders, soldiers, teachers, doctors, skilled professionals, and others requires the preparation of students in a way that helps them learn critical thinking skills, collaboration, communication, and creativity. At La Sierra Charter Military Academy, students are fully immersed in programs that require them to engage in this type of learning day-in and day-out. La Sierra Charter Military Program, a tuition-free school established in 2000, offers a structured military environment for students who choose to commit to honor, leadership, post-secondary 4

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pathways, and community service. Identified as a Model School by the CSU Chancellor’s Office in 2013, the school and its faculty continue to build and share its successes across California. "The structure and programs designed by students and staff are proving that La Sierra graduates can perform alongside today’s leaders,” said Anjelica Zermeno, La Sierra principal/ administrator. “As educators, it is our moral imperative to ensure our students can compete in an ever-changing world; their lives are at stake! Our philosophy is steadfast and interwoven; students must have a plan A, B, and C before they ever graduate high school.” FOUNDATIONAL PREPARATION FOR THE NATION La Sierra Military Academy (LSMA)

provides a structured paramilitary experience for cadets; an experience like no other in Tulare County. Cadets are held to real-life standards beyond the classroom setting, such as being the officer or non-commissioned officer (NCO) in charge of training, conflict resolution, project management, student teaching, and community. These are just a few of the life tools the military program provides. “Honestly, I feel extremely comfortable standing aside every morning while I supervise my 26 cadet officers and NCOs as they start the school day, ” said Chief Warrant Officer, Joseph Andrade. “These leaders, who were either chosen for a particular position or earned their rank and position via assessment, arrive ready to

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work in the administration office, commandant’s office, chow hall, and on the grinder like clockwork at 0745 hours.” Cadets in leadership positions have been trained to lead from the top-down. They give orders like real-world supervisors to their subordinates, then assess the tasks assigned and either praise, train, or enforce policies within the scope of their duties. The Academy motto is “Decus, Virtus, Doctus,” which means honor, courage, and academic excellence. The academy provides its cadets with the sustained practice of finding all three attributes. Wearing the uniform of the LSMA cadet is a privilege and should be looked upon as an honor. Uniform standards address this by requiring cadets to have pride in the way they look. This standard, followed by the Cadet Code of “Never lie, cheat, steal, nor tolerate those that do,” helps build not only a cadet’s self-worth, but a global expectation for good. The expectation for every cadet is to put forth 100 percent effort in everything they do all the time. “Speed and intensity,” are the words school administrators use. “Loafing is unacceptable and won’t be tolerated,” said Principal Zermeno. “Cadets are expected to build courage and fortitude, and to do the right thing when faced with adversity. Peer pressure creates adversity at times. However, it isn’t uncommon for cadets to call each other out when someone isn’t performing to the standard.” Finally, the Academy prepares its

cadets for academic excellence via military customs and philosophy. New recruits to LSMA go through a twoweek basic training, which is run by cadets within the Academy’s leadership cadre and overseen by the commandant. These recruits learn the basic military customs that help them become disciplined cadets once they graduate basic training. Recruits are taught how to respond with respect and confidence.

must complete a grueling 24-hour fitness evolution in order to wear the corresponding uniform of their Special Operations Platoon. Students graduating La Sierra Military Academy that seek service in the military forces have irrefutable training that allows them to transition into the Air Force, Navy, and other branches with some real exposure and practice. “La Sierra cadets share the same qualities and the same opportunities for leadership,” said Chief Andrade. GLOBAL TECHNICAL EDUCATION & APPLICATION

Cadets begin building their tolerance to a serious physical fitness regimen during basic training. Exercise helps keep the cadets fit, which in turn allows them to stay healthy and keep coming to school. Cadets are put through 53 minutes of daily physical exertion. They are trained to give maximum effort and to do it right the first time because it pays to be a winner and builds great habits. By the second semester, cadets are running two miles every Thursday. The most physically fit cadets challenge themselves by trying out for L.A.S.S.O. (La Sierra Special Operations). These cadets must pass a combination of minimum standards from the US Army Ranger and US Navy SEALs fitness tests. Once passed, they

La Sierra currently offers Construction Trades, Graphic Arts & Media Design, and Culinary Arts pathways. These pathways are strategically aligned to College of the Sequoias where course articulation, alignment, and apprenticeship ensure not just certification for students, but also college bearing credit. The Construction Trades pathway is partnered with the Northern California Carpenters Union and offers select graduates a way to begin their career right after high school, earning high wages from the start. Students working in the Graphic Arts & Media Design pathway gain state-of-the-art editing, layout, compositing, and painting capabilities to share a glimpse of what these programs offer in related industries. All students in this class are evaluated on their current understanding of these program(s) and extend that knowledge to numerous real-world design projects. Through local advisory committee DIRECT MAGAZINE

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LA SIERRA MILITARY ACADEMY meetings, a relationship with our local college allows this course to teach with positive outcomes to students that wish to further their education in related fields. EARLY COLLEGE EXPERIENCE Although La Sierra uses methods of the military to support learning, approximately 15 percent of our students enter the armed forces while 85 percent go directly onto college. La Sierra intentionally requires all students, beginning in the seventh grade, to plan their future, weekly and monthly throughout the school year, ensuring higher rates of entrance into college. Counselors work with students to provide an academic plan designed for each student with concurrent college enrollment at College of the Sequoias and Career Technical Education (CTE) certifications. Most parents are unaware that their student can take up to six units of college courses per semester and that it is paid for by the state. The only thing the student has to cover is the cost of transportation and books. “The outcomes are inspiring; we have witnessed one student who has challenged himself to go as far as accomplishing his associate of arts degree while achieving a high school diploma,” said La Sierra’s college and career coordinator, Stephen Reid. “Most students hear this story and want to start their pathway down the same road. Each student has a tailored plan for what they will be doing with their life beyond high school and know it very well.” La Sierra also offers the Bridge Program where the school maintains contact with alumni to follow-up and 6

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make sure they are successful in life beyond high school. The National Student Clearinghouse Research Center (nscresearchcenter.org) indicates that only 60 percent of students continue on in college while most drop out.

universities to experience college first hand. Gabrel Castro, parent facilitator for the Academy, shared, “the results have significantly helped to shape our meetings and increase our parent participation by 70 percent.”

Counselors make themselves available to meet with alumni to ensure students are staying enrolled in college. The Bridge Program also offers concurrent enrollment at College of the Sequoias. This is a class that is physically offered on the La Sierra campus and taught by a high school counselor who also serves as an adjunct

“Our goal for these meetings is to educate, inform, and most of all empower our parents to get and stay involved with their children on the wide number of opportunities and support systems in place,” said Principal Zermeno. “We accomplish this by covering topics on financial aid and grants, bringing in experts from higher education— especially our feeder schools— taking campus tours to local universities, and covering parenting tips on how to get their children collegeand career-ready. Parents are encouraged to talk about concerns they have and receive advice and support for next steps. By doing so, we harness the love they have for their children and support their efforts in building up our future leaders.”

counselor for the college. Bottom line: the La Sierra college and career readiness programs equip students for life beyond the high school diploma. BEHIND EVERY SUCCESSFUL STUDENT IS A SUCCESSFUL PARENT Preparing students for the real world means ensuring parents are effectively engaged, informed, and aligned to what students are doing in the classroom. At La Sierra, an effective involvement component is tailored specifically to the needs of our population, ensuring parents feel comfortable enough to have a voice in their child’s education and future successes. Parents are first given a survey asking about what topics they want more information on, best means for communication, and the time they prefer to have the meetings held. In addition, parents are provided with field trips alongside their children to

Over the past five years, La Sierra has continued to see success in all aspects of the school. Faculty and staff teams are leading the way in transformative education. The school offers tours to educators across California and support training to share best practices with the educational community. La Sierra is a tuition-free public charter school operating under the auspices of Tulare County Office of Education since 2000. If interested in more information or attending La Sierra, contact the main office at 733-6963 or visit their website at tcoe.org/LaSierra. Tours are held monthly.

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VIRTUAL VALLEY Internet Privacy Debates:

What Has and Has Not Changed

n late March, articles appeared online about the “end of privacy” on the internet. The Electronic Frontier Foundation warned, “If the bill is signed into law, companies like Cox, Comcast, Time Warner, AT&T, and Verizon will have free rein to hijack your searches, sell your data, and hammer you with unwanted advertisements.” Of course, Google does all these things, but Google isn’t an ISP. According to the internet providers, letting Google sell data, but not

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Comcast, gave Google an unfair advantage. Responding to broadband industry complaints that regulations applying only to ISPs were unfair, both houses of Congress voted in March to rollback a December 2016 Federal Communications Commission rule limiting the internet traffic data ISPs could sell. Here is the theoretical distinction: Facebook and Google do not force you to use their service. No website forces you to visit. Therefore, the data websites collect about you is given voluntarily. You have decided to use a service knowing the provider might (and probably does) analyze visitor information. Your ISP, however, is not much of a choice. If you use a cellphone, the cellular service provider is your ISP. Changing providers requires significant effort. If you have broadband internet at home, it is likely through a cable or phone company. Choices are limited. The FCC decided that since you

cannot easily choose an ISP, those companies should not have the same freedom to collect, analyze, and sell data on website and networked application usage. The ISP also knows precisely which houses or businesses are assigned to specific IP addresses, so the ISP could analyze data down to the neighborhood level. Some ISPs collect data to the MAC address level, allowing them to identify which devices visited websites or received data from specific services. The ISPs remain restricted in what data they can sell to other companies by the Telecommunications Act of 1934 and its various revisions. Cell phone companies already warn you that data are collected and used. Sprint, for example, states in their contracts that the company tracks “web sites you have visited, applications purchased, [and] applications downloaded or used.” What the companies legally cannot sell is data identifying specific individuals. That was true before December and

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TEXT BY C. S. WYATT

remains true today. The dispute between the FCC and the ISPs is about interpretations. Section 222 of the Telecommunications Act specifically requires customer permission before collecting and selling data. It also bans selling “identifying” data to third parties. The ISPs argue that if their contracts state data might be sold, you are giving permission the moment you sign up for internet service. The FCC wanted to give people the right to “opt in” to data collection by ISPs, while current rules require customers “opt out.”

Without unique numbers, there would be no way to send data to the correct device. The IP is like a phone number: it routes the traffic across the network to its final destination. You want your Netflix movie sent to the correct tablet or streaming device. Your internet service provider (ISP) assigns a primary IP to your home network. Generally, this one number is what websites and services receive. That number reveals the company that provides your internet service and your primary region within that ISP’s

The FCC cannot regulate websites such as Facebook because sites are not “communications providers” legally. The FCC can only regulate companies that own cables and towers, the infrastructure of the internet. By overruling the proposed FCC interpretation of Section 222, nothing changed. The new guidelines never went into effect. We trade our privacy online for free services, vaguely aware that Facebook and Google make money from targeted advertising and search analytics. If these companies didn’t sell something, they’d have to charge users. Every major website and online service tracks use data. When you connect to a website, the website must know your internet address to send data back to your computing device, be it a computer, a tablet, a phone or a smart TV. That internet protocol (IP) address is four bytes, written with periods between the values. For example, 192.168.0.12 could be an IP address within a local area network. The IP version 4 standard is slowly migrating to IP version 6, but the concept remains the same: every computing device connects to the internet directly or indirectly through a unique identification number.

network. Because ISPs randomize assignments, the websites you visit usually cannot identify your precise location, but they can get close. The ISP, however, can identify specific locations on their networks. Using Google analytics, I know that nearly 90 percent of visitors to my blogs are from the United States, Ireland, United Kingdom, France and Canada. These data have value because I can write about topics of interest to people in those countries, thereby increasing the appeal of my blog. The advertisements can also be targeted, so someone in France sees ads for French companies or in the French language.

users. I know my sites are most popular after 5 p.m. Eastern, suggesting people read the blogs when they return home from work. Analytics tell me from where, at what time, and for how long someone visited one of the websites I manage. I don’t need the name or address of someone to get a great deal of value from the data. And there’s no way to stop me (or any website) from collecting data because without them we cannot transmit web pages or data to users. We need IP addresses; storing them for analysis is merely one extra step. Despite all the online uproar, the largest data merchants in the United States are credit card companies and processors. Every purchase you make with a credit or debit card is analyzed. Those data are valuable to groups ranging from ad agencies to political parties. Yes, it is possible to map likely political affiliations through purchasing patterns. If you’re afraid of what an ISP might know about you, a credit card company likely knows more already. Stores issue loyalty cards to avoid paying the credit card companies for the same data. Should we limit the ability of ISPs to sell information about internet use? Such limitations make little difference. We surrendered privacy the moment we connected our lives to data networks.

About the Author: Visalia native Scott Wyatt is currently completing his Master of Fine Arts in Film and Digital Technology at Chatham University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Scott has several additional graduate degrees and was a visiting professor of business communication at Carnegie Mellon University.

Data show more Mac, iPhone, and iPad users visit my blogs than Windows DIRECT MAGAZINE

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MEET A LOCAL How did you get your start in this line of work? I was a logistics officer in the Navy and when I was getting out, I knew I wanted to work directly with people and help them. I love meeting new people and growing relationships. I wanted to utilize my leadership skills to help people make tough decisions about their life. This is what ultimately led to me becoming a Financial Planner.

Garth L. Gipson CFP®, Financial Planner & Owner, Gateway Financial Planning Group* How did you end up here in Visalia? I grew up in Exeter and my wife Vanessa grew up here in Visalia. When I was getting out of the military, almost nine years ago, my wife and I wanted to return home to start a family. We love the community here and couldn’t be happier with our decision to move back. 10

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right occupation. If you had to choose another career, what would it be? Honestly, I can’t really think of one. I will say, I am pretty optimistic and enjoy most things. So, I feel that I would be happy no matter what my profession. I believe happiness is a choice and you have the ability to determine your mindset. Tell us a little about life outside of work: My wife and I have three wonderful girls (Sienna, 6; Harper, 4; Ava, 2), so we are very busy with things relating to them. We are very active at Neighborhood Church, sports, and spending time with family and friends. I really enjoy being active by running and going to the gym.

Why are you passionate about your work? Helping people feel confident about their financial future is incredibly fulfilling. Working with families and small business owners to help them achieve their financial dreams is what I enjoy most. What is the most challenging thing about your job? Working with the unpredictability of the stock markets is definitely the most difficult part of my job. So, building this known variability into a plan is something that is a must for me. Tell us about a single moment when you realized this was the right occupation for you: I have a client who came in a few years ago, very near retirement, and they were unsure about whether or not they would be able to retire. We got them on a plan and got a lot of things figured out. And now, they are about to retire with all the confidence in the world. The interesting part they always mention is that now that they are back on track financially, so many other things continue to fall into place. Impacting change like this helps remind me I am exactly in the

What about Visalia makes this a great community to live and work in? The people, most definitely. We have some of the most caring and thoughtful people in our community. People make time for their relationships with others, and that shows. You can run into people downtown, at the grocery store, or wherever, and they always seem to make time to catch up. * A financial advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc.

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PRO-PT

TEXT BY MARTHA TORRES, DPT, PT, PRO-PT PHYSICAL THERAPY, LINDSAY

Hip and Knee Osteoarthritis

Aquatic Physical Therapy

steoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis characterized by joint stiffness, local inflammation, tenderness, and limitations of movement. Osteoarthritis of hip and knee is one of the most common orthopedic disorders in the world. Osteoarthritis affects approximately 70 percent of the population aged over 55 years. Individuals suffering from pain to these areas can be limited in function and mobility, resulting in possible disability and decreased quality of life. Severe limitations and impairments to the hip and knee often leads to functional limitations, which may eventually require surgery, such as joint replacements. Conservative treatment, such as physical therapy consisting of

land and/or aquatic therapy, can be used in preventing functional limitations as well as aide in increased quality life. A primary complaint of hip or knee OA is weight bearing activities. Aquatic therapy has a few benefits over land therapy. For instance, the water buoyance helps to decrease forces at the joint, allowing patients to perform activities—walking, step-ups, and squats—that they may not tolerate on land. Further, aquatic therapy is performed in warm water at a temperature ranging from 84-94 degrees. The warmth of the water can facilitate with decreasing swelling, relaxing muscles, and providing pain relief. The water turbulence and water depth immersion is also utilized as forms of exercise progression.

Per the literature, twice weekly aquatic physical therapy sessions carried out for six weeks at 45-60 minutes resulted in a significant reduction in pain level. Furthermore, individuals who undergo aquatic physical therapy can achieve improvements in hip strength and joint stiffness and therefore increase mobility and quality of life. Though similar improvements can also be found in traditional or land physical therapy, aquatic therapy can be utilized as an alternative for those individuals that have decreased weight bearing or exercise tolerance. In conclusion, the literature supports both conventional and aquatic physical therapy and can aid in increasing hip and knee strength as well as function. However, aquatic therapy will typically allow for increased exercise interventions with less pain. If interested in learning more about aquatic physical therapy, give PRO-PT in Lindsay a call at (559)562-9040.

I am 100% back to

MYSELF Thanks to the patience and encouragement of my awesome therapist, I am back to the way I was prior to my shoulder injury. - Michelle Serrano

LEMOORE HANFORD 755 N. Lemoore Ave., Ste. C 323 N. 11th Ave. Lemoore, CA 93245 Hanford, CA 93230 (559) 817-5808 (559) 772-8304 www.pro~pt.net

EXETER 134 South E. St. Exeter, CA 93221 (559) 592-9000

TULARE 1132 E. Leland Ave. Tulare, CA 93274 (559) 684-0611

VISALIA 1870 S. Central St. Visalia, CA 93277 (559) 636-1200 ext.1

PORTERVILLE 1150 W. Morton Ave. Porterville, CA 92357 (559) 782-1501

LINDSAY 860 Sequoia St., Ste. A Lindsay, CA 93247 (559) 562-9040

DINUBA 1401 W. El Monte Way, Ste. 107 Dinuba, CA 93618 (559) 315-5203

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VISALIA CHAMBER

he Visalia Chamber of Commerce serves as the local “voice of business” as they advocate for businesses throughout Visalia. Each month, the Chamber facilitates a variety of events to support and further the success of the community.

1. Visalia Chamber President/CEO Gail Zurek met with local business leaders who are involved in generational family businesses for March’s 12 @ 12 lunch. 2. The winners of the 2017 Leadership Visalia Golf Tournament: Paul Heidenreich (Quality Jewelers), Steve McMartha (True Legacy Consulting), Bryn White (20/20 Financial), and Aaron Williamson (Rabobank). 3. Leadership Visalia participants Fran Herr (Aflac), Christie Long (Central Valley Community Bank), Lisa Walsh (Hydrite Chemical Co.), and Brandi Spray (Visalia Unified) help out at the 2017 Leadership Visalia Golf Tournament. 4. Chamber staff and Ambassadors join owners Susie and Eric Espinola for a Ribbon Cutting ceremony celebrating the grand re-opening of Espi’s Kids at their new location at 3338 S. Mooney Blvd.

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PHOTOS SUBMITTED BY THE VISALIA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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TULARE CHAMBER

he Tulare Chamber of Commerce exists to serve its members and citizens by advocating for, and engaging in, efforts to encourage economic opportunity and business prosperity. The Tulare Chamber supports businesses by building partnerships, providing educational opportunities, and advocating for its members and community.

1. Mayor Carlton Jones was the guest speaker at the monthly meeting of the Chamberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Governmental Affairs Committee. This meeting is open to members and the agenda regularly includes government updates as well as the review of legislation impacting business. 2. A ribbon cutting ceremony was held to celebrate the opening of Collette's Closet, a local resale shop operated by Lighthouse Rescue Mission in Tulare. 3. Chamber member Manpower of Visalia, an employment placement service, recently held a ribbon cutting to announce the company is under new management. 4. Chamber members gathered at Evolutions Fitness & Wellness Center for an evening of networking to grow and sustain business relationships. The event was hosted by HCCA/Tulare Regional Medical Center.

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THE RECIPE BOX RECIPES AND PHOTOS BY SUE BURNS, IT’S OKAY TO EAT THE CUPCAKE

Easy Mother’s Day Lemon Pudding Cake

emon Pudding Cake is rich and delicious, and a batch of my favorite whipped cream cheese frosting makes both strawberry filling and lemon icing to complement it perfectly. Easy enough for kids to make with a bit of help, mom will be delighted with this extra special dessert!

and smooth. Add vanilla extract. Gradually add powdered sugar, starting on low speed and increasing to medium-high after each addition. Pour in whipping cream. Start on low speed and increase to high, whipping until the frosting becomes light and fluffy, 30 seconds to 1 minute. Remove 1/3 of the frosting to a bowl and add the lemon zest. Fold in gently, transfer to an airtight container. Fold the strawberry jam into the remaining 2/3 frosting and transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate filling and frosting for at least two hours.

Lemon Pudding Cake Recipe INGREDIENTS

To assemble the cake, place one layer onto a serving plate, flat side down, and slide pieces of wax paper underneath the cake (to keep the plate clean).

1 package lemon cake mix 1 - 3.4 oz box instant lemon pudding ½ pint sour cream (full fat) ½ C light vegetable oil ½ C warm water 4 eggs DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray two 9” cake pans with non-stick baking spray. Using a hand mixer, combine all the ingredients on medium speed for 2 minutes. Divide batter evenly between the two pans and smooth the tops. Bake 24-28 minutes, until a toothpick inserted near the middle of the cake comes out clean. Cool on racks for 10 minutes; turn out of the pans and cool completely.

Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting INGREDIENTS 2 packages cream cheese, room temperature 1 C (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract 1 - 16 oz box confectioner’s sugar ¼ C heavy whipping cream Zest of 1 large lemon ½ C strawberry jam Fresh whole and sliced strawberries Fresh mint

DIRECTIONS With a mixer, whip the butter and cream cheese on high speed until light 14

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Spread the strawberry filling onto the layer to desired thickness; place a layer of sliced strawberries on top. Place the second layer on top of the filling, flat side up. Spoon some of the lemon frosting onto the top of the cake and spread it over the entire cake and down the sides. Use a metal spatula to smoothly spread the frosting around the top and sides of the cake. Spread it thinly for the trendy “naked cake” look; use more to create a thick layer with pretty dips and swirls. Remove the wax paper. Store the cake, covered, in the refrigerator. Take it out 30 minutes before slicing. Garnish the top and individual slices with the fresh strawberries and mint. For the printable recipe with flavor variations and Sue’s step-by-step tips and tricks, visit www. itsokaytoeatthecupcake.com.

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VALLEY OAK SPCA TEXT BY DR. CAROL ADAMS, VALLEY OAK SPCA

Keep Your Pet Healthy This Spring application, please visit our website: vospca.org. Please like us on Facebook to stay up to date on adoptable pets, events, and news! UPCOMING EVENTS: • Saturday, May 6, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.— Visalia Rawhide Low-Cost Vaccination & Microchip Clinic at Visalia Rawhide Stadium. • Sunday, May 7, 10 a.m.—New Volunteer/Foster Orientation at Valley Oak SPCA Adoption Center. • Saturday, May 13, 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.—26th Annual Walk-A-Dog-AThon & Furry 5K at Mooney Grove Park. Register today at runsignup.com. • Wednesday, May 24, 5:30 p.m.—New Volunteer/Foster Orientation at Valley Oak SPCA Adoption Center.

t’s official. Spring is here, bringing with it warmer temperatures, higher pollen counts, and a few potential health risks for our pets. With a little effort, we can help our pets avoid most of these risks. As the days get warmer, our pets are more likely to encounter fleas, ticks, snakes, and toads. Fleas and ticks are annoying to our pets and they can transmit diseases like Lyme disease. Very small animals, especially puppies and kittens, can die due to anemia if they have heavy flea and/or tick infestations. There are all types of products to control fleas and ticks. You should discuss with your veterinarian the most effective one for your pet. If your pet lives or travels to areas where there are rattlesnakes, consider a vaccine to the venom available at most clinics, including the Valley Oak SPCA vaccine clinic, which occurs every weekday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. The clinic also offers topical flea treatment, which lasts about a month. Toads and frogs in this area are not terribly toxic, but they can cause vomiting if our pets

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try to eat them. Usually the vomiting occurs shortly after a pet puts a frog or toad in their mouths. Smart pets will learn to avoid the toads and frogs, but owners can try to minimize the chance that these critters are in the yard. A variety of plants and fungi can also pose dangers to our pets. Sago Palms can cause fatal liver failure in dogs. In the spring, mushrooms often pop up in our yards. Most are harmless, but some are dangerous and even fatal if a pet eats them. There can be dangers from houseplants as well. With Spring approaching, many people will have lilies inside the home. Cats are extremely sensitive to the toxin found in most lilies. If you think your kitty nibbles on a lily, take them to a veterinarian ASAP. A list of toxic plants and other poisons may be found at petpoisonhelpline.com. Valley Oak SPCA is a 501(c)3 non-profit, no-kill rescue that operates solely on donations and contributions from our local community. To make an online donation or submit a volunteer

VALLEY OAK SPCA LOW-COST SPAY AND NEUTER CLINIC 9405 West Goshen Avenue, Visalia, CA 93291 For clinic information and appointments, please call (559) 741-1121 or (559) 741-0492

PET OF THE MONTH

My name is Beau. I’m a two-year-old male loving machine looking for my forever family to spend the rest of my life with. I am good with other dogs, I would make a great exercising buddy, and I am a fantastic companion/family dog. Am I the one you’ve been looking for?

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GREEN VALLEY GARDENING Lawn Care Tips:

How to Save Water When Irrigating Your Lawn

t’s that time of the year again—time to get your lawn and plants ready for irrigation. While we had a great rain season, it’s still very important to conserve water when irrigating. A properly set sprinkler timer can save thousands of gallons of water from washing down the gutter. Every day that you water, we lose water to evaporation from the wind and the sun. Fewer, deeper watering cycles save water. Here’s how to do it. Before you begin, replace the

battery backup in the timer so you don’t lose the program when the power goes out. Think of the timer as a glorified alarm clock. Step 1. Set the date and time on your system, it needs to know what time it is and what day of the week it is. Make sure you have the a.m./p.m. correct. This is important for plant health and for following government water restrictions. Step 2. Set the water to go on during your allotted days. Odd addresses water on Tuesday and Saturday, even addresses are Wednesday and Sunday. Fewer watering days per week equal greater savings, fewer weeds, and lower chance for disease. Step 3. Set the amount of run time for each station. For May, we need about 1.4 inches of irrigation for Fescue and one inch for Bermuda, per week, which is around 72 minutes of run time for standard pop-up and spray sprinklers for Fescue and around 50 minutes for Bermuda. If the sprinklers rotate or have low flow nozzles, you may need to

double that time. The critical step here is to break that 72 minutes down to multiple start times, two days per week. For example, three start times at 12 minutes each, two days per week, equals 72 minutes of total water time. Step 4. Set the start time in the early morning. The watering should be completed by 7 a.m., so you can set your timer to go off at 2 a.m., 3 a.m., and 4 a.m., for 12 minutes each. Avoid watering in the evening, as it wastes water and is unhealthy for the lawn. That’s how simple it is. Just a few extra steps go a long way toward saving water and keeping a healthier lawn. For more information on professional landscaping and maintenance, contact Green Valley Gardening at (559) 713-6848 or go to GVGardening.com, and for all of the professional grade tools and supplies you need, contact Garden World at (559) 651-3388 or visit TheGardenWorld.com.

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SEEN AROUND TOWN COMIX 4 KIDZ WITH BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS Tulare Boys & Girls Club hosted the 10th annual Comix 4 Kidz fundraiser on April 1. It was a great success, thanks to the support of the Tulare community. The comedy show, featuring Tulare’s own Johnny Sanchez, broke fundraising records by netting more than $60,000, all to ensure that kids have a fun, safe, and educational after-school environment to enjoy. Nearly 300 eager supporters filled the TDES Hall in Tulare to support the youth of Tulare. Picture shows club member Luz Rincon, Site Director Madison Pena, and Area Director Cynthia Montano.

VISALIA POLICE EASTER EGG HUNT

RAWHIDE BASEBALL SEASON BEGINS! The Visalia Rawhide kicked off their home schedule with an Opening Day win on April 13! Join the Rawhide for fireworks after every Friday home game, All-American Saturdays, and 4th of July Fireworks. Plus every Sunday bring your dog to the game, thanks to Visalia Animal Services. Come out to see the California League All-Star Game in Visalia on June 20 for the first time in 28 years. Tickets and more information are available on rawhidebaseball.com.

On Easter weekend, the Visalia PAL (Police Activities League) held an Easter Egg Hunt at the Lincoln Oval Park in Visalia. It was a great family event with more than 700 people in attendance. Visalia PAL even gave away 12 bikes and 66 Easter baskets as prizes to very excited children.

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE JANELLE HOWARD—NEW ARTS VISALIA GALLERY DIRECTOR With a background in fine arts and graphic design, Janelle Howard has taken on the role of Gallery Director for Arts Visalia. In this position, she will help promote, market, and coordinate gallery events. Born and raised in Visalia, Janelle attended the prestigious Art Institute of California in Orange County, where she graduated with a BA in graphic design. She is looking forward to sharing her knowledge of the arts with the community, while building upon her own knowledge.

VISALIA ARTS CONSORTIUM MOVES TO A NEW LOCATION! In the beginning of April, the Arts Consortium and My Voice Media Center moved to the Old Lumberyard at 300 E. Oak Ave. With this move, the Arts Consortium hopes to become a hub for the arts in Tulare County. They have 18

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been painting and making repairs to the new building, but have many plans in the works to expand and achieve their vision for local arts.

SUBMIT AN ANNOUNCEMENT If you witnessed something great that took place in Visalia or Tulare County, submit a short blurb and a photo for Seen Around Town or People on the Move to direct@dmiagency.com.

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FOCUS FITNESS ON

ANDY & ERYN SALAZAR, EMPOWER FITNESS TEXT BY DR. JOHN SULLIVAN, SMILE CENTRAL VALLEYTRAINING

3 Tricks to Get Back on Track for Summer

ummer is quickly approaching. If your New Year’s resolution is a distant memory, it’s time to get back on track. Whether you’ve hit a plateau, have slipped into a routine, or feel like your workout is getting you nowhere, it’s time to mix things up to get your body responding again. In this article, I’m going to give you three tricks to get you back on track and in shape for summer. 1. Do High Intensity Interval Training “HIIT” workouts. This is a great way to burn a lot of calories in a short period of time. High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) involves performing short bursts of high-intensity, all-out exercise, followed by a brief lowintensity activity or a small rest period. These workouts should last no longer than 30-45 minutes and help you burn excess fat and build lean muscle. This type of workout causes what is known as the “after-burn” and can help you stay in a fat-loss state for up to 24 hours post-workout. Now that’s pretty cool!

2. Reset your nutrition with a 21-day clean eating challenge. You can do anything hard for a short period of time. With this plan, you’re going to cut out all junk, processed foods, and dairy. You’ll only eat lean meats, fresh fruits, and vegetables. This will reset your metabolism and get your body and your gut health back into a burning state. After the 21-day reset, you can go back to your normal clean eating routine. This is a great way to get your body to respond to your training and nutrition and help you get the results you are seeking. 3. Add one thing. If you have been consistent with your routine but your results have slowed, then I recommend you add one thing. If you’ve been doing only cardio, then add in two to three days a week of

weight training. If you’ve only been watching what you eat, then it’s time to add in a regular exercise routine. If you’ve been exercising and watching what you eat, add a day of exercise to your routine or kick-up your intensity. Just adding one thing to your routine will be enough to get your body to start responding again. There you have it, my top three tricks to get you back on track and keep your results coming. Remember, Time + Consistency = Results. If you’ve fallen off the wagon, it’s time to get back on track. If you are feeling burned out, it’s time to mix it up and get inspired again. Remember, if you’re struggling, you don’t have to go at it alone. It’s okay to seek out the help of an accountability or fitness professional to help guide you to your goals..

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VISALIA FIRST TEXT BY JESSICA CULTRA

When You Can’t Find Quiet

s Mother’s Day approaches, I begin to think about a place where I can find quiet. Ever since I became a mother, it’s amazing that I can’t even use the restroom in peace. I can be out of sight and out of mind for the length of an entire episode of Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, but when I try to shut that bathroom door for any and all reasons, I have two little people that want to see every bit of what I am doing. However, when their dad goes to the very same throne room, he can get a days worth of work done, an entire fantasy football league drafted, and a group message to all his boys all on his iPhone. I guess we all have different places where we find quiet. Mine is not so much the bathroom. Every day I hunt for a little piece of quiet and seem to 20

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come up short. Maybe you are like me and need to step back and give up on quiet. What if we just aren’t in a place in life where quiet is even an option? What if God wants to speak to us in the madness instead of the mundane? Have you thought that maybe He trusts us enough to know we will walk with Him in the loudness of life; that He trusts us to be the ones to not look away from the chaos, but to get close enough to it to find Him in the midst of it; that He chooses to speak to us in these ways because we can handle it. I am not saying that quietness doesn’t have its time and very much-needed place, but let’s be honest; finding it daily isn’t an option for some of us. And maybe, just maybe, that is exactly how it is supposed to be. Take a look at these scriptures that talk about this idea. Exodus 3:2-3. “There the angel of the Lord appeared to him in flames of fire from within a bush. Moses saw that though the bush was on fire it did not burn up. 3 So Moses thought, ‘I will go over and see this strange sight—why the bush does not burn up.’”

Deuteronomy 4:36. "Out of the heavens He let you hear His voice to discipline you; and on earth He let you see His great fire, and you heard His words from the midst of the fire.” Mark 1:11. “And a voice from heaven said, ‘You are my dearly loved Son, and you bring me great joy.’” Here is something that you can say to God when you find yourself in the midst of chaos! Jesus, Thank you for trusting me to walk with you in the midst of chaos. Thank you for not giving up on speaking to me and entrusting me with your presence. I desire to hear from you and I long for time with you. Help me to notice you in all things, to take a closer look into the ways you would like to speak to me, and to act upon those opportunities, as you would ask of me. Amen. Jessica Cultra is the author of Every Good Work. You can find out more about her and her book at CultraandCo.com

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CRAFT CORNER TEXT BY IMAGINEU CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

Pet Rocks

n celebration of all the animals that enrich the lives of kids everywhere, this month we are creating pet rocks. This craft is excellent for children who adore animals or have a large imagination. Whether they are crafting their favorite animal or creating something brand new, there is no wrong way to make a pet rock.

WHAT YOU WILL NEED: • A smooth rock, about the size of a child’s fist • Washable tempura paint of various colors • Paint brush • Markers • Googly eyes • Non-toxic white glue or hot glue gun • Optional: felt, feathers, glitter, yarn, chenille stems (pipe cleaners)

DIRECTIONS: • Rinse your rock under water to clean off any dirt. Pat dry. • Choose a base color for the “skin” or “fur” of the rock. Paint and then let dry. • Paint on features (nose, mouth, etc.) with a different color. Markers work just as well. Let dry. • When all the paint is dry on your rock, glue on the googly eyes and any other fun extras like feathers, felt, or yarn. • When you are done, make sure to give your new pet a name!

TIPS: The best types of rocks to use are river rocks since they are smooth and even in texture. Rocks come in all different shapes, so get creative! Don’t worry about only using small round ones. If you want to have a sparkly pet, glitter can often be applied directly to wet paint to save you the glue. Using paint or markers to make the eyes is a good alternative if you don’t have googly eyes. In fact, paint or markers can be used to create any extra features, if you don’t have any of the optional materials. Encouraging your child to use their imagination and be creative in crafts like this is not only fun, it is healthy for their development.

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VISALIA RESCUE MISSION Transition vs. Transformation

o one practices ‘no’ politics. You either practice good politics or bad politics.” This is the first nugget of wisdom we received from Al Oliver, who at the time, two years ago, was the new Executive Director at Visalia Rescue Mission. Those words have rung true since then and were truer still while spending three days last month at our nation’s capitol. We had the opportunity to join representatives from 33 other rescue missions at an annual forum hosted by the Association of Gospel Rescue Missions, which has a total membership of 300. Each representative came with the same questions: “What do we need to know, and what do we need to do, to ensure we can continue to serve our guests to the best of our ability?” While the services offered vary with each mission, it was apparent our overall purpose in mission work is the same: to help the down and out in our communities. The means by which we are able to help varied greatly, with some missions accepting federal and state funding in one area or another. We learned about a potential change to charitable deductions in the draft tax plan, and how these changes would affect non-profits like us. It’s estimated those changes would reduce giving by between 4.5% and 9%, which for VRM, would result in between $72,000 and $144,000. If we combine that potential drop in giving with upcoming increases in our operational expenses — like minimum wage increases, as well as an additional 12-cents per gallon for gasoline, potential health care changes, and more — we could find ourselves in very rough shape. On our last day, we had the opportunity to communicate these concerns to our elected representatives in both houses of Congress. We did our best to practice good politics. We shared a video of our VRM graduates sharing their stories of loss and 22

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and at the end of the day we were just one small whisper in the cacophony that is DC. While we are intentionally increasing our involvement in these top-down conversations, we do so knowing there are many resources focused on one’s transition (homeless to housed), rescue missions like us across the country are equally focused on whole-life transformation. While an individual’s spiritual and emotional wellbeing is less tangible than a roof and four walls, it is what lies beneath the surface that often requires the most attention…and resources.

redemption, and we spoke to the potential changes in charitable deductions and their effect on our ministries. We discussed the value of faith-based organizations and the areas where Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and Health and Human Services (HHS), who we met with, could practice good politics by collaborating more closely and seeing more of an impact in local communities — all while saving money. California has spent billions of dollars over the past decade in this Ryan Stillwater and Lindsay Baldwin area and homelessness increased by head the Development department 2.1% in 2016. at Visalia Rescue Mission. Contact In the words of AGRM president, them at ryan@vrmhope.org and John Ashmen, “If money could fix lindsay@vrmhope.org. poverty, the government would have already done that.” In fact, a recent study by Baylor University, “Assessing the Faith-Based Response to Homelessness in 9th ANNUAL America,” revealed nearly 60% of emergency shelter beds for the homeless population in 11 major cities COOKIN’ UP A BETTER FUTURE surveyed are provided by faith-based organizations. One mission representative said it well, “People don’t become BENEFITTING homeless when they run out of money, at least not right away. They 2017 become homeless S U N D A Y when they run out of relationships.” WYNDHAM HOTEL There are many 9000 W. AIRPORT DRIVE • VISALIA voices and concerns needing the attention of our nation’s elected representatives,

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ASK M.J. M.J. is a single mom living in Visalia, adjusting to her only child getting ready to graduate from high school and go off to college. She has a Master of Science degree in Psychology, Bachelor of Science degree in Counseling Psychology, and has a certification in Life Strategies Coaching. Dear M.J.: My husband is very wrapped up in his career and he’s starting to miss out on important aspects of our childrens’ lives, and I think they’re starting to notice. How do I approach him about this before it gets worse?—Sincerely, Solo In the Stands Dear ‘Solo In The Stands’: As a single mom, I had to be very creative in re-arranging my work schedule to make sure I could make it to all of my daughter’s (many!) events. I remember, despite my best efforts, I missed one event when she was in the 4th

ADVICE COLUMN grade. She was so upset not having a familiar face in the crowd, she didn’t speak to me for the rest of the night. Thankfully, your kids have two parents, which means at any given time, they can always have one of you there for them. In a world where everyone wants to have it all, we sometimes forget such a thing isn’t always realistic. With that said, there is a way to balance all of life’s demands. Have a conversation with your husband that starts with your acknowledging his hard work in his career and his dedication for providing for your family. Let him know that you support him and want to find a way for him to participate in some of the more important aspects of your childrens’ lives. Let him know you completely understand that it may not be realistic for him to miss work for every event, but there is a way to plan for some important events, in advance, so he

gets to experience the joy of being there for his children. Chances are he already feels badly about missing out, so coming from a supportive place will reduce any stress or tension this type of conversation could create. Then, once you and your husband come to an agreement on what will work best, the two of you can have a conversation with the children as a family. If the children understand what to expect ahead of time, they won’t be so disappointed when dad misses an event. This also provides a great teachable moment for your children on how communication is important in managing expectations while compromise is equally important for balancing life’s responsibilities. Send your questions to direct@dmiagency.com with the subject line “Ask M.J.” All questions will be published anonymously.

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

DAISY SANDOVAL, SENIOR

School, Daisy supports others and contributes to ideas we develop to promote a positive school campus.”

DINUBA HIGH SCHOOL

As Daisy prepares to graduate and say goodbye to her Dinuba High School teachers and classmates, she is most appreciative for the encouragement and kindness given to her through the years. She says, “My class is awesome. They are willing to push me around wherever I need to go and they always make me feel happy.” Whether Daisy is tutoring her classmates in math or making someone smile, she can be counted on to always be prepared and to lead with a kind heart. She is well-known on campus and in the community, and is liked by everyone who knows her. She has never let her physical disability get in the way of a positive attitude. The Dinuba Emperors are better people for knowing Daisy!

Senior Daisy Sandoval offers a smile and a helping hand to all her peers at Dinuba High School. Teacher Brooke Ikuta-Bennett says, “Although Daisy may utilize a wheelchair to get around campus and the community, she doesn’t let that stop her in any way. Daisy participates in as many senior activities as she can. She helps sell popcorn for the Emperor Fusion Club and last year was the top salesperson!” During instructional class time, Daisy stays on task and is the student known for following classroom rules. Her peers agree that Daisy always listens to every teacher and models proper citizenship daily. This behavior comes naturally to Daisy. She enjoys not only helping other people, but making sure they are also following the rules. One piece of advice that Daisy is most known for is, “Listen to your teachers because you don’t want to get in big trouble.” Daisy’s influence doesn’t stop at the classroom door. Throughout her day, she attends additional elective classes, including physical education, Spanish, and student leadership. Erin Tobias, Daisy’s leadership teacher, and the entire leadership class agrees, “From making posters for our events to thinking of ways to make sure everyone feels like they belong at Dinuba High 24

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BRYSON BALL, 7TH GRADE RIDGEVIEW MIDDLE SCHOOL, VISALIA The newest middle school in Visalia is fortunate to have seventhgrade student Bryson Ball to help set the standard for Raptor VISION. Ridgeview Middle School Raptors Value Integrity, Self-control, Innovation, Organization and a Never give up attitude — VISION. These attributes that set the standard for present and future

students at Ridgeview have been clearly demonstrated by Bryson. English Teacher Ms. Malmsten says, “Not only is Bryson an outstanding student athlete that is always trying to improve his personal best, but he is a great supportive friend to all his fellow Raptors. His kind heart and commitment to the community keep him involved in events that make a difference.” Fellow teammates and friends, like Jonathan, Luke, and Christopher, concur: “Bryson is just ‘that guy’—the one to be there to help no matter what the situation is. He doesn’t want to see anyone fail.” Whether in the classroom or on the baseball field, Bryson sets the standard for Raptor VISION, especially the Never give up attitude. Coach Thompson describes Bryson as, “a great young man to work with and a great competitor who is willing to do whatever he can to help out his team. Bryson is also a very positive influence on our team. He is constantly encouraging his teammates, both during practice as well as during games. Bryson does not shy away from pressure situations. While he may get nervous, he never shows it and his competitive drive allows him to have success in those moments. Bryson plays the game of baseball with a maturity that is well beyond his years. He understands what it means to be a good teammate by putting the needs of the team ahead of his personal goals.” Through Bryson’s influence on others, he has learned about himself as well. “I think I have learned the value of teamwork and helping others. It just doesn’t make sense to not help someone succeed, even if it means taking more of my time in class or falling back to help the last guy in a running drill so that we finish as a team.”

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GARDENING TEXT BY SUSAN SCHIEFERLE, MASTER GARDENERS OF TULARE-KINGS COUNTIES

A Secret Garden In Visalia

ave you ever seen the movie or read the book The Secret Garden? This is a family-friendly movie and a wonderful book to read to children. The novel, The Secret Garden, written by Frances Hodgson Burnett, was published in 1910. The story is set in England and focuses on a lonely, ill-mannered orphan girl, Mary, and her sickly cousin, Colin. Together they discover a private, secret, locked garden. After finding the key, the children explore and tend to the garden. Gardening bettered Mary’s attitude and manners, and surprisingly improved Colin’s health!

Central Valley” style, using all waterwise, California native plants. Waterwise means that these plants do not need much water to grow or maintain.

own touches of preferred annuals and perennials will enhance your seasonal garden. Look how we have mulched this garden to save water.

Our next two beds are Alternate Lawn Substitute Beds. Simply stated, you can replace your lawn with one of our seven recommended droughttolerant groundcovers. Choose the one that is your favorite.

Our Pollinator Garden consists of host flowering perennials and native plants to attract both beneficial and non-beneficial insects (pollinators). These pollinator insects need a water source, lots of sunlight, and shelter for insects. Make your own pollinator seed tape to take home.

Next is our Square Foot Garden. Square Foot Gardens reduce (your) time, seeds used, water, weeds, and space while increasing the amount of produce harvested. And no digging or rototilling! You need to let our expert Master Gardeners show you how easy this method is. Our Salad Garden follows! Here you will find everything you need to make a crisp, juicy salad every night. Lettuces, tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, or whatever your palate desires. We can show you how easily you can grow your own, and kids can do a make-and-take seed activity at this garden. The Master Gardeners of TulareKings Counties also have a “secret” garden. But unlike Mary’s garden, it will not be a secret for long! Master Gardeners would like you to know that a visit to this garden can make you happy and on the road to more healthy eating. Our nine garden beds are unique, special, and inspiring. Let us show you in person on May 6th! Our biggest garden bed displays a small-scale front yard and backyard. This garden demonstrates “Gardening

Herbs! What would our meals be like without herbs? Meals would be tasteless and bland. Our expert herb Master Gardener, who is also an herb published author, will show you how easily you can grow your preferred herbs, including mints, which are one of her favorites. And do you know what square stem herbs are? You should come find out! We also have a Themed Garden. Our themed bed has the “backbone” plants that you need in your yard. Adding your

Succulents! Who doesn’t love these drought tolerant plants? We have more than 20 succulents on display and can show you how to propogate your own succulent. Our secret garden also has 10 fruit trees and a state-of-the-art compost bin so that you can find out how easy composting is. So, how can you see our “Secret Garden?” Come to our first event, Spring Into Gardening, on May 6, 2017 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Hurley Elementary School in Visalia. The event will be held near the Marcin Street entrance (off Hurley Avenue). Follow the Master Gardener signs and balloons. If the weather is hot, no problem; the Kona Ice truck will be there with frosty treats available from 12 to 2 p.m.! Bring your kids, grandparents, and neighbors. We will have many hands-on, makeand-take activities for all. We sincerely thank our partnership with Visalia Unified School District and our many sponsors to make this garden possible. DIRECT MAGAZINE

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

Measuring Up on the California School Dashboard

previous year, while change level relates the pattern of performance over time. Results for Visalia Unified on the five state performance indicators can be found in the table below. Suspension Rate and Graduation Rate are selfexplanatory. English Learner Progress reflects the development of proficiency in English for our English Learner students. The academic indicators (English Language Arts and Mathematics) are based on the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) state testing that occurs in the spring. For the CAASPP, students are tested in grades 3-8, and grade 11.

“very high” and requires only that we work to maintain our current level of performance. The Dashboard reflects two things for us very clearly: first, we are not where we seek to be with regard to overall achievement on these indicators. This is not new news for us. We must increase student achievement through good instruction and support because we know that our kids must be better prepared to have limitless opportunity for the future. Second, these results display growth in all areas for our district. This is worthy of recognition, n March, the state released publically for we have worked hard to teach and the California School Dashboard, support kids and that effort is evident in which is a part of the new California how our kids are Accountability Model for performing. Further, our schools. This report is part DASHBOARD INDICATOR STATUS CHANGE LEVEL growth results support our of the state’s new decision to focus on Suspension Rate High Declined accountability system that process for improvement is intended to combine and on growth in our English Learner Progress Low Increased federal, state, and local organization. Stated accountability indicators. Graduation Rate Very High Increased simply, if we work together Designed to provide in informed ways, the information to parents, English Language Arts (grades 3-8) Low Increased results for kids will educators, and the public, come—and much more Mathematics (grades 3-8) Low Increased the Dashboard has the strongly and rapidly than if potential to allow all we focus simply on the stakeholders easily outcome. Because the 11th grade academic accessed insight into the strengths and assessments are a part of the larger In support of that perspective, the areas of growth for schools and districts College and Career indicator that will be State Department of Education has across California. published in the fall, they do not have advised districts that the Dashboard is The indicators described on the Status ratings. However, the state has designed to reflect a number of Dashboard are suspension rate, English indicated that the performance of our different factors and not just state Learner progress, graduation rate, 11th graders has increased in both academic test results, and that it should English Language Arts, and English Language Arts and be just one source of data that can be Mathematics. Chronic absenteeism, Mathematics. used to guide our work. This is hugely along with the college and career important, for we must not allow the Although the current level of readiness indicators, will be added to Dashboard to be the one thing we focus performance, or status, on four of the the Dashboard in the near future. on in Visalia Unified. We certainly seek five indicators reflects the need for Populations that will be included are to understand what the Dashboard tells improvement, the change level for all all students and numerically significant us, but we must understand also that five indicators shows improvement. (It subgroups (groups of 11 or more), while every picture tells a story, one is important to note that “suspension” including race/ethnicity, English picture alone cannot tell the whole rate results are the opposite of other Learners, socioeconomically story of how the kids in Visalia Unified measures; low is better than high on disadvantaged, and students with are doing. status, and a decrease is better than an disabilities. Foster and homeless increase on change level.) students will be added as a subgroup The results of Visalia Unified on the If you wish to take a deeper look at next year. Dashboard are encouraging. We have the California School Dashboard, this The Dashboard interprets two things work to do to improve the performance link will take you directly to the State for each indicator: status and change of students on all of the indicators Dashboard webpage: www. level. Status relates performance in the except for “Graduation Rate,” which is caschooldashboard.org/#/LCFF

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MONEY MATTERS TEXT BY MARY HUNT

Invest in Your Debt:

It's a Sure Thing With a Solid Return

hould I save or pay off debt? That has to be at the top of the most common questions I have received over the years. And the answer is solid: It depends! But only on one thing: if you do not have an emergency fund saved and stashed in a safe place— I'm talking at least $1,000—you should save madly while you keep paying the minimums required on your burgeoning debt. Once you have an emergency fund in place, the answer to that question is clear.

Dear Mary: I have $13,000 in credit card debt. I have designed a plan in which I would pay the amount of interest charged to me on my last statement plus $930 each month. The way I figure it, by doing this I will have this debt paid off in 15 months. I am going to have to dip into my investment account to come up with that additional amount each month, but I can do that. I

could also just pay off the whole amount from my investment account (it is not a tax-advantaged retirement account), but I don't prefer to do it that way. My investment account is at about $209,000, and I really don't want to go under the $200,000 mark. What is your suggestion?—Anonymous Dear Anonymous: You didn't say the interest rate you are paying on that debt, so I am going to assume it's the current average rate of 17.55 APR. And you didn't say how your funds are invested, so I will assume you are invested in the stock market (some equity stock, some bonds). HERE ARE THE FACTS: • You owe the $13,000 regardless of anything that happens in your life or the world. And you owe it at a huge rate of 17.55 percent interest. That works out to $190 interest per month. My point is that this is a sure thing. • The money in your investment account is at risk. It could grow. It could shrink. You could lose it all overnight. That's the nature of an investment as opposed to money in a savings account. It is not a sure thing. • Here is the principle I recommend you follow: There is no better investment than a repaid debt because it comes with a guaranteed return. It is always the wise thing to invest in your debt (but only to the point where you are

not raiding your basic emergency fund to do so). Pay off that $13,000 debt now. • By investing in this debt, you will, in essence, be earning 17.55 percent on that $13,000 rather than paying it to the credit card company. Let me explain how that works: If you keep paying on the debt, next month when you pay that credit card payment, you will be paying $190 in interest to the bank. But if you pay it off in full this month, next month you do not have to pay that $190. You get to keep it. That money is now yours and is the 17.55 percent interest you are "earning" on the $13,000 you chose to invest in your debt. Your investment account ebbs and flows due to current market conditions. Many believe the U.S. stock market is going to go through a major correction in the coming months or years (read: crash). We're being told we could see a 30 percent drop or more. Will that happen? Your guess is as good as mine. If the worst happens (your investment account suffers a mighty blow), you will still owe $13,000 on your credit card account. The wise decision would be to pay that off now and reap the benefit of not having to pay 17.55 percent interest (or whatever your exact rate is) going forward. Invest in your debt. It's a sure thing with a solid return. DIRECT MAGAZINE

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

Summer is Coming

No LazyHazy Days Allowed!

n May of 1963, Nat King Cole released his memorable song, "Those LazyHazy Days of Summer.â&#x20AC;? He sings about soda and pretzels, girls in bikinis, and the drive-in movies. Well, a lot of things have changed since 1963, and one of them is what students should be doing in the summer to enhance their college admissions applications. Colleges are looking for clues that a student can do a multitude of things besides studying, and they love to find something unique about a student they are considering for admission. If you want to be that student, think about your future goals and also about what you like to do. Then decide what you can do over the summer. Here are a few ideas (not in any particular order): 1. Study for the ACT or SAT. Unless you have a perfect score, you can always do better. A better score means more admissions and more scholarships! 2. Volunteer. Find a non-profit

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organization you care about and "adopt" it. Make it a regular part of your activities. Colleges love leadership and sustainability, meaning that you keep the same activities throughout high school. 3. Work. If you have something you are interested in, try to find a paid job or internship in that area. Not only will you learn a lot, but you might pocket some cash. If you can't find anything, create work for yourself. Maybe do a summer class for small children. Working parents are always looking for something for their children to do in the summer. Canvas the neighborhood.

6. Take summer classes. See if you can take a college class at the local community college, or a class at your high school that will open your schedule for an elective in the Fall. 7. Enroll in a summer enrichment program. Many colleges offer summer enrichment programs. They tend to be expensive, but if you have a strong interest in a subject and can afford to go, it can be a great experience. 8. Start a business. Do you love photography? Dogs? Swimming? Computers? Slackline? Horses? Race cars? Dance? If so, start your own business. Find your passion and run with it! 9. Study for ACT or SAT. Did I mention that already? Here are a few other things you may want to consider: develop an app, write a song, develop your special talents, make a positive social media presence, organize a literacy or book club, work on an art portfolio, attend a science camp or do research. The list can go on and on. Be creative!

4. Visit colleges. This is a great time to start searching for the type of college you hope to attend. Be sure you do the formal tour whenever possible and always go to the admissions office and give them your name. 5. Travel. Although this may not be an option for everyone, if it is for you, pay attention to other countries and cultures. This can enhance your resume.

Summer for students is meant to give you respite from a challenging academic year, so be careful not to overdo it. But be sure to do something productive. Try to find something that connects to your interests, requires leadership, enhances your education, serves others, and is something you can stick with. No more lazy-hazy days of summer!

C U LT U R E , C O M M E R C E A N D C O M M U N I T Y I N V I S A L I A A N D T U L A R E — T H E H E A R T O F T H E S O U T H VA L L E Y

CROSSWORD 7 Cupid 8 Swarm 9 Distress signal 10 Fifth, for one 11 Unrestrained revelry 12 High, clear sound 13 What a shame! 21 ___ in one 22 Ilk 24 Goad 25 Egyptian bigwig 26 Mozart’s 41st symphony 27 Money boxes 28 Ellipse 29 Lock 30 Vic’s mate 31 Uses a shuttle 32 Poker holding 35 One of Buchan’s 39 36 Lugubrious 38 Check 39 Preceptor 41 Dressy dress features 42 University speaker 4 4 Some writing 45 Baby buggy 46 City in Italia 47 Relocation 48 Geraint’s beloved

Down to Earth

49 Mother of Romulus and Remus

ACROSS

31 Western lake

53 ‘‘___ pass Go’’

50 Moro

1 Drop heavily

32 Turning point

5 4 Parisian pronoun

51 Meaows

5 Pesky tots

33 The Altar

55 Prayer word

53 ___ Rheingold

10 Cinematic dog

34 Yemeni seaport

56 Dispatch boat

14 Tibetan monk

35 Niçoise, for one

57 Verdi opus

15 Shakespearean character

36 Beat it

58 Fourth planet from the sun

16 Iowa town

37 ___ Mahal

59 Passover ceremonial

17 The terrible one

38 Moonshiner’s device

18 Reeds

39 Semblance

60 Asian country

19 Sicilian spouter

40 Has a speech impediment

DOWN

20 Garden denizen

42 Certain moths

1 Ballet movement

22 Battens dow

43 Kind of school

2 Output from 19 Across

23 Emcee

4 4 Goriot, e.g.

3 Gen. Bradley

24 Rain cats and dogs

45 Hector’s father

4 Roman temple

25 Pillar

47 Flighty

5 Look at leisure

27 Result of 24 Across

52 Culinary style

6 Player in a Capek drama

LOOK FOR YOUR ANSWERS IN THE NEXT ISSUE

PERSONAS - APR. ISSUE

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C U LT U R E , C O M M E R C E A N D C O M M U N I T Y I N V I S A L I A A N D T U L A R E — T H E H E A R T O F T H E S O U T H VA L L E Y

GOINGS-ON WORLDTOUCH BOWL-A-THON Celebrant Singers WorldTouch Bowl-AThon is an annual fundraiser to help send Celebrant teams on their international outreaches. All funds raised during the WorldTouch Bowl-AThon will be used for Celebrant Singers summer ministry outreaches. When: April 30, 2 p.m. Where: AMF Visalia Lanes, 1740 W. Caldwell Ave., Visalia Contact: celebrants.org/bowlathon ARTS VISALIA GALLERY— “CALIFORNIA’S GIANT SEQUOIAS” In May the Arts Visalia gallery will host painter Joy Collier, from Porterville, with a show entitled “California’s Giant Sequoias: Found No Where Else on Earth”. Joy paints in a postimpressionistic style and works from her own original photography and research in her studio. Her large canvases of our local Sierra’s giant sequoias will fill the gallery space. When: The month of May Where: Arts Visalia, 214 E. Oak Ave., Visalia Contact: artsvisalia.org SPRING MARKETPLACE AT VISALIA NAZ Join Visalia Naz for their Spring Marketplace, where there will be vendors selling a variety of ready-made and hand-made items. There will be a raffle and lunch will be available for purchase. Proceeds will go toward the Naz youth group to help fund their upcoming camp. When: May 5, 5-7:30 p.m. & May 6, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Where: Visalia Naz, 3333 W. Caldwell, Visalia Contact: Judie Casey, 623-1407

DOWNTOWN VISALIA CINCO DE MAYO The Downtown Visalia Cinco de Mayo Event, hosted by the Tulare-Kings Hispanic Chamber, is a battle of the bands with the two hottest local groups: The Band August and Mezcal. There is no cover charge, but attendees must be 21 and over to attend. When: May 5, 5:30 p.m.-10 p.m. Where: Old Lumber Yard, 300 E. Oak St., Visalia Contact: 734-6020

KENTUCKY DERBY PARTY FOR FOODLINK OF TULARE COUNTY Join FoodLink of Tulare County for their annual “party with a purpose,” featuring big hats and southern hospitality. Place bets on horse races, sip mint juleps, and enjoy delicious hors d’oeuvres, all while supporting FoodLink. When: May 6, 1 p.m. Where: Visalia Country Club, 625 N. Ranch St., Visalia Contact: foodlinktc.org

FIRST FRIDAY ART WALK: MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS Every month, the Arts Consortium presents First Fridays to explore the Visalia Art District. During the month of May, the Arts Consortium will be showcasing artwork made by members of the mental health community, in partnership with Tulare County Health and Human Services. Come support these talented artists and enjoy First Fridays around downtown Visalia. When: May 5, 5–8 p.m. Where: Arts Consortium, 300 E. Oak Ave., Visalia Contact: artsconsortium.org

EXETER BY DESIGN: A FESTIVAL OF ARTS This Festival of Arts is Exeter’s 16th Annual Garden Party, the only fundraising event for the outdoor art in Exeter. This year’s event theme is “Touching Up Our Roots” and will feature fabulous food, live music, live and silent auction items, and a lot of fun. Tickets are $50 a person. Tables can be purchased as well. When: May 7, 5 p.m. Where: Pine and E Streets in Downtown Exeter Contact: 359-4644

MASTER GARDENERS DEMONSTRATION GARDEN If you have questions about gardening, come see the Master Gardeners hands-on water-wise landscaping ideas. Their demonstration gardens include succulents, California native plants, pollinator gardens, square foot gardening, herbs, alternate lawn substitutes, and children’s activities. This event is free and there will be Kona Shaved Ice available from noon to 2 p.m. When: May 6, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Where: Hurley Elementary School, 6600 W. Hurley Ave., Visalia Contact: cetulare@ucdavid.edu

POWER OF THE PURSE FOR UNITED WAY OF TULARE COUNTY Join United Way of Tulare County for their second annual Power of the Purse breakfast. Enjoy breakfast and mimosas while gorgeous guys raffle off dozens of designer handbags. The keynote speaker will be Matt Emerzian, a Senior VP of a major music marketing company. Proceeds support The Literacy Project of UWTC. When: May 12, 7 a.m. Where: Visalia Convention Center, 303 E. Acequia Ave., Visalia Contact: unitedwaytc.org

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. 30

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PEOPLE & PETS CASA OF TULARE COUNTY’S “ ONCE UPON A DREAM” GALA Join CASA for their annual “Once Upon a Dream” fundraiser, featuring dinner by The Vintage Press, a no-host bar, live and silent auction and more. This event raises funds to support CASA’s mission to be a voice in court for children who are victims of abuse and neglect. When: May 12, 5:30 p.m. Where: Visalia Convention Center, 303 E. Acequia Ave., Visalia Contact: casatulareco.org 14TH ANNUAL EXETER GARDEN WALK The Exeter Chamber of Commerce invites you to their annual garden walk through Exeter. Explore beautiful and unique private gardens in and around the Exeter area, and take time to enjoy some refreshments hosted by Exeter’s 2012 Business of the Year, By the Water Tower Antiques. Tickets are $20 in advance, and $25 day-of. When: May 13, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Where: Start at By the Water Tower Antiques, 141 S. B St., Exeter Contact: 592-2919 SECOND SATURDAY CRAFT FAIR AT THE LOOKING GLASS From now through October, The Looking Glass in Visalia will be hosting a “Second Saturday” artisan and crafters fair. Come out and enjoy a day of shopping from local crafters. When: May 13, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Where: The Looking Glass, Court and Caldwell in Visalia Contact: thelookingglassvisalia.com

WALK-A-DOG-A-THON & FURRY 5K Join the Valley Oak SPCA for one of their biggest fundraisers to support their no-kill animal rescue mission. The Furry 5K will begin at 7:30 a.m. and the Walk-a-Dog-a-Thon will start at 9 a.m. Following the event, there will be vendors, raffles, and canine games. When: May 13, 7:30 a.m. and 9 a.m. Where: Mooney Grove Park, 27000 S. Mooney Blvd., Visalia Contact: 624-7227 39TH ANNUAL ARMENIAN FOOD FESTIVAL Come join us for lunch and/or dinner to enjoy a taste of Armenia. You can choose to dine-in, take out, or drivethru. The menu includes a choice of lulu kebab or chicken kebab, and includes pilaf, salad, peda bread, and bourma. The price is $14 and tickets can be purchased at the event. Proceeds go to support the St. Mary Armenian Church of Yettem. When: May 18, Lunch: 11 a.m.–2 p.m., Dinner: 5-8 p.m. Where: The Visalia Elks Lodge, 3100 W. Main St., Visalia Contact: 733-8741 EXETER UNION HIGH SCHOOL MUSIC OUTDOOR FESTIVAL Come listen to the EUHS Jazz Band at the Outdoor Festival outside of the EUHS auditorium while you bid on silent auction items and enter a drawing to win a set of battle drones or an Exeter family fun basket (food and drinks will also be available). When: May 22, 5:30 p.m. Where: Exeter Union High School Auditorium, 505 Rocky Hill Dr., Exeter Contact: 429-5142 or euhsmusicboosters.webs.com

et owners understand that furry friends are family. At Direct, we love to see your local pets, whether they’re dressed up for a holiday, playing with friends, or just enjoying life. If you submit a photo of your pet(s), we just might feature them in the next issue of Direct!

Featured Pet ROXY—GERMAN SHEPHERD Hi! My name is Roxy Emma Mann. I am a five-month-old German Shepherd. I love long walks to the park, yummy treats, and spending quality time with my humans. Hope you all had a Hoppy Easter! Human: Emalee S.

SUBMIT A PHOTO: If you’d like your furry friend to be featured in Direct Magazine, submit a photo and a blurb about your pet to direct@dmiagency.com and title the email subject line “People and Pets.”

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WARREN REPORTS TEXT BY WARREN GUBLER, MAYOR

Seniors are Winners

t's a wrap for the 2017 Visalia Senior Games, held for five days over the last two weekends of March. The goal was to double the attendance from the first senior games held in the fall of 2015, which had 239 participants. We exceeded that goal, this time having a total of 513 register and compete. New events that were added included track and field, swimming, disc golf, and trap shooting. About 25 percent of the participants were from Visalia and the Tulare County area. We had competitors from 90 different California cities, including San Diego, Sacramento, Santa Rosa, and some came from as far away as Washington and Texas. Some were grizzled, experienced senior games participants, having competed elsewhere in California and other states, and some were competing for the first time. In 2017, senior games locations in California include Pasadena, San Diego, the Bay area, Sonoma, and the Inland Empire. Visalia's Senior Games were the earliest of the year and are the only ones being held in Central California. As impressive as these statistics are, they only tell part of the story. Let me share with you the personal stories of three of our gold medal winners, which, in my opinion, are the true measure of the success of Visalia's Senior Games. At the Saturday evening social, put on by our local Lions Clubs at the Garden Street Plaza, we enjoyed appetizers and dancing to a live band. Don Overstreet came over to introduce himself to me. Don is a retired local businessman, and these were his first senior games. He participated in golf. I should add that Don is 90 years old. I was a little startled when he told me that, because he looked much younger. Obviously, he lives an active lifestyle and is enjoying good health. At the track and field events, I got to meet another young man by the name of Bill Ferrell. Bill told me that he lives in Murphys, north of Yosemite, and

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had driven down with his daughter to participate in our games. His wife had passed away a few months prior. He won gold medals in the 50 meter, 100 meter and 200 meter races. Bill is also 90. He stated that he started running when he was 52, and stopped counting how many miles he had run when he hit 75,000 miles. What an inspiration! Bill indicated that he is a regular participant in senior games throughout the west. The last gentleman I want to mention is Donald Welton of Visalia. Unfortunately, I didn't get to meet him, but I learned from a

colleague about how well he did in bowling. You see, Donald is 95 years old. I was told that his children, grandchildren, and others came out to watch him bowl six games and to cheer him on. These three gentlemen are representative of the competitive spirit and can-do attitude of the participants in the 2017 Visalia Senior Games. Our 10 oldest competitors were ages 82-95. As more and more Baby Boomers retire, they are looking for ways to stay fit, stay healthy, and to enjoy a better quality of life. There's no need to retire to the rocking chair, and exercise and fitness are a great way to avoid the

never-ending medical care debate emanating from Washington D.C.! For me personally, these games were the motivation I needed to drop 10 extra pounds I've been carrying around, and I even came home from the track meet with a little bling myself. I want to thank our Parks and Recreation Department, the many volunteers, the Lions Clubs and all those who made our 2017 Senior Games the best ever. For those of you lucky enough to be 50 or older, start working out now and getting in shape, select an event to participate in to prove to yourself what you can do, and plan on joining us for an even bigger and better Visalia Senior Games in 2018! HAPPY CITY According to the 2016 Community Wellbeing rankings by GallupHealthways, the Visalia-Porterville metro area ranked 25th in the nation (out of 189 metro districts). Their article noted that "where you live can impact your health and wellbeing. Innovative leaders are transforming their communities to create improvements in how people socialize, work, eat, play and move. These changes are empowering citizens to make healthier choices, be more productive, and have better quality of life." The rankings were based on social, financial, community, and physical indexes. I'd suggest that our Senior Games are an example of a healthier choice by our community. While there were two or three California coastal communities that ranked up there with us, Visalia scored the highest ranking in the entire San Joaquin Valley. If you have questions or topics regarding the city that you would like to have addressed in future articles, please email Warren at warren. gubler@visalia.city. For past articles, visit directfromwarren.blogspot.com.

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