May 2010

May 2010

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H OM E T OUR 20. The Freeman Home New Home Dawns on Rancho Salida del Sol

CHARITY EVENT 10. Road Show

A R T C OLLEC TIV E 38. Three Rivers Artists Showcase

for Visalia Miracle League

2010 Studio Tour Marks 9th Biennial Outing

CULINARY ARTS 32. Blue Cheese Filet

TR AV ELER ’ S TR EK 52. The Wisdom of the Oracle

ON THE COVER: Mexican geometric tile work focuses this view from the terrace of the kitchen from Rich and Janel Freeman’s Rancho Salida del Sol, recently completed in the Mehrten Valley near Exeter.

Photo by Forrest Cavale of Third Element Studios

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8. Letter from the Executive Editor 16. Local Event: Spikes & Sparkles Race 18. Word Play 30. Local Event: Prom Dress Giveaway 44. Happenings 48. Fashion: Spring into Color 50. Faces & Places: Heart Spectacular Donor Wall Celebration

58. First Person: Judge Lloyd Hicks

M AY 2 0 1 0 P U BL I S H E D BY DMI Agency 801 W. Main St. Visalia, CA 93291

BU S I N E S S M A N A GE M E N T MALKASIAN ACCOUNTANCY LLP GARY MALKASIAN CPA JEFFREY MALKASIAN EA Bookkeeper MARILYN HARRIS Office Administrator MARIA GASTON

E DI T O R I A L Executive Editor KAREN TELLALIAN Copy Editor DARA FISK-EKANGER Calendar DARA FISK-EKANGER Editorial Assistant TAYLOR VAUGHN

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS AARON COLLINS MARK ROWE LISA LIEBERMAN TONY GARCIA DIANE SLOCUM SHARON MOSLEY DARA FISK-EKANGER CAROLE GREENING LESLIE DAVIS

A R T & P R O DU C T I O N Creative Director MARK FLEMING

A DV E R T I S I N G S A L E S DARLENE MAYFIELD 559.738.0907

S A L E S O F F I CE 801 W. Main St. Visalia, CA 93291 559.738.0907 • Fax 559.738.0909 E-mail: lifestyle@dmiagency.com See us online at VisaliaLifestyle.com.

Visalia Lifestyle Magazine is published monthly and is distributed via direct mail to nearly 13,000 homes in the upper-middle and high-income neighborhoods in Visalia and Exeter. An additional 2,000 copies are distributed at various distribution points around both communities. Views expressed in columns are those of the columnist and not necessarily those of Direct Media, Inc. or its advertisers.

Circulation of this issue: 15,000 © 2010 DMI Agency

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RACK LOCATIONS Borders Books Music & Cafè Direct Media, Inc. Evolutions Fitness Center, Tulare Marcela’s Home Store Tazzaria Coffee & Tea Visalia Chamber of Commerce Visalia Coffee Company Visalia Convention Center COUNTERTOP LOCATIONS 210 Cafe Advanced Laser Clinics Bravo Farms Cheese Factory Country Club Mortgage Creekside Day Spa & Wellness Center Downtown Visalians Exeter Chamber of Commerce Holiday Inn Kaplan Financial Services Kaweah Delta Hospital Koster Financial Services Red Carpet Car Wash Richard Rumery, Attorney at Law Party City Smiles by Sullivan The Lifestyle Center Tiffany’s Luxury Medispa Tulare Chamber of Commerce Tulare County Library V Medical Spa Visalia Community Bank-Downtown Visalia Eye Center Visalia Imaging & Open MRI Visalia Marriott Visalia Medical Clinic Wildflower Cafe-Exeter Dr. Keith Williams Williams, Jordan, Brodersen & Pritchett, Attorneys at Law Windows Plus, Inc.

EDITOR NOTE

Photo by Becca Chavez | Hair and Make-up provided by Velvet Sky

id you notice anything different about the cover of this issue of Lifestyle Magazine? Before you answer, you should know that change is not always easy for me, and every once in a while the creative staff here has to drag me into it kicking and screaming.

If you don’t believe that, just remember how long it took me to change my photo. That’s important for you to know before you read any further.

After a few sleepless nights (mine) and while working with several different versions, the Lifestyle staff opted for a more contemporary look for our cover. We arrived at the final decision based on a list of pros and cons, but one thing kept coming to the forefront: our readers love to see the stunning photography, and the large, bold text was inhibiting viewing.

So, after more than six years – change cometh. (Insert shallow breathing here.) Actually, I love the new look and appreciate the staff risking their jobs in order to take Lifestyle to a beautiful new level.

We couldn’t think of a better time for this change than with this month’s Home Tour. Addy award-winning writer Aaron Collins richly describes “Rancho Salida del Sol,” the Southwest-style home of Rich and Janel Freeman, beginning on page 20. The home is filled with expressions of their personal taste and travels, and the view from their deck – extraordinary.

Two years ago I vowed to spend more time traveling, but like so many other resolutions even the best of intentions don’t seem to get me out of my office. That must be why the Lifestyle travel articles are one of my favorites. This month, Irene Morse shares her travels to Greece with the “Wisdom of the Oracle” on page 52. Irene’s travels are always more than a vacation; they are an adventure and education into the cultures of the people she and her husband, Gary, befriend along the way. Greece is now on my personal bucket-list, and we guess it will soon be on yours.

We were recently invited to Las Vegas to attend a private soiree with Pete Rose and Dan Marino. Visalia business owners Gary and Jennifer Geiger put together the fundraiser to benefit the Visalia Miracle League, a local baseball program for the developmentally disabled. Honored that we were asked to attend the two-day event, we applaud the efforts by the Geigers and their commitment to these special athletes. Make sure to see the Lifestyle exclusive photos on page 10.

We cannot close this issue without thanking you for your continued support and readership. Lifestyle is always close to our hearts; the staff, the writers, the photographers and the copyeditors appreciate the time you take to enjoy what we do.

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KAREN TELLALIAN, EXECUTIVE EDITOR For more information or to submit a story idea email Karen@dmiagency.com or call (559) 739-1747 or fax (559) 738-0909.

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Photos by Taylor Vaughn

he Visalia Miracle League is Gary Geiger’s passion.

Since its ground breaking in 2002, VML has become an increasingly successful program for the developmentally disabled in the Visalia area. Just as Geiger’s business need fresh ideas and approaches to increase sales, the VML also has recently benefited from one of his unique ideas that took the 8th annual major fund raising event out of the area. Despite this unusual move, it still provided a much-needed funding boost to help pay for the expansion for a second Miracle League baseball field. In a gesture that supports its mission, the Visalia First Assembly of God has dedicated some of its land for the location.

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Over the previous seven years, thousands of local citizens have enjoyed a dinner and auction produced by Geiger, his wife Jennifer, the VML committee and directors and Visalia First Assembly of God. This has proven to be one of the most popular fund-raising events in the area. Inviting highly recognized speakers and guests not only upped the level of money raised but the level of awareness for the program itself. For 2010, this took a whole new approach and focused on the fund-raising portion, increasing the amount of support from the those past sponsors already on the VML bandwagon. How was this achieved? Geiger took the show on the road.

For two nights in Las Vegas, rather than sit in a large hall with 1,000 others and hear speakers from a distant dais, approximately 30 supporters enjoyed an intimate Friday evening with former major league baseball star Pete Rose. An additional 20 supporters experienced an intimate Saturday evening with Hall of Fame football player Dan Marino and former Indy car driver Sam Schmidt.

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In a private suite at Caesar’s Hotel and Casino, the 30 guests mixed with Pete Rose over cocktails and hors d’oeuvres and were treated to an autographed baseball and photo with the legendary player. Rose’s lively and engaging personality engaged attendees who were treated by Rose as if they were all old and dear friends.

In story after story, Rose proved his graciousness to those who support the Miracle League and the generosity of his time made the evening a success. As Geiger pointed out, “Pete is not only generous to the Miracle League but many other worthy causes as well”. This was Pete Rose’s second appearance on behalf of the Visalia Miracle League.

The uniqueness of Marino and Schmidt’s joint appearance reflects the diverse interests of the participants of VML. In past years, Rex Hudler (parent), Ollie Cantos (disabled), Jim Kelly (parent) have appeared at the annual dinners and have brought their personal experiences with the disabled community to the center of attendees’ hearts.

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Following the Saturday evening reception Sam Schmidt, in his 10th year of paralysis due to a car crash in a competition, spoke and relayed his feelings about how fortunate his life has been. He felt particularly blessed to have lived out his dream as a racer, and now he feels fortunate enough to help those like the Geigers who provide an opportunity for others to live out their own dreams. Schmidt reflected on the incredible importance of giving the athletes of the Miracle League the opportunity to shine and be recognized. His support did not end at his appearance in Vegas. Schmidt is also a current owner of an Indy car racing team who will try to complete in this year’s Indy 500.

With a win by his car #99, Visalia Miracle League will be the recipient of $100,000 of the winner’s earnings.

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When Dan Marino pulled up a chair with Geiger in front of the 50 in attendance, the floor was opened up to a very informal Q&A session. Marino was asked about the work the Miracle League is doing, and he offered that his son has been diagnosed with autism; he is a first-hand witness to the benefit of such programs not only for the special needs children but for their families as well. Marino shared, “I am honored to be a part of this” with a conviction in his voice that was not evident in other answers, which ranged from Super Bowls to weight loss.

The impact of the Miracle League in our community was heightened by the presentation of the video highlights from the 2009 season. As Ruiz Foods Chairperson Kim Beck Ruiz said, “I don’t know what was more inspiring: the special presentations or the video highlights. Once you witness the impact the Miracle League has on our persons with special needs, your heart is changed forever.” Many were moved to tears as the video demonstrated how the simple experience of playing baseball became major events to be celebrated by disabled players in the most heartwarming ways.

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While the fundraising and awareness program may have gone on the road this year, it is certain that the Visalia Miracle League will be here in Visalia for many years to come, thanks in a large way to this year’s road show. For more information on the Visalia Miracle League and all of its activities and schedules, go to the website (www.visaliamiracleleague.com) and see for yourself the results of the many years and countless hours of dedication to the cause given by the Geigers and countless others in the community. From financial supporters to the coaches, extending even to the fans who come out and root at the games, perhaps you’ll find the urge to join in to celebrate these most special athletes of the Visalia Miracle League.

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738-7572 5530 Avenida De Los Robles • Visalia (West of Applebee’s) L I F E S T Y L E | M A Y 2 0 1 0 15

LOCAL EVENT

THE AJ VANDERHAM SPIKES & SPARKLES HIGH HEEL RACE Only for such an amazing woman would grown men parade around [publicly] in women’s high heel shoes!

On April 10, 2010, our community of men, women, kids, friends and family joined with the Visalia Rescue Mission to celebrate the life of AJ Vanderham, a woman who battled breast cancer until December 2009.

People of all ages participated in the 75-yard high heel dash and enjoyed bbq, music, and vendors booths -- perhaps just as AJ would have planned it herself.

AJ’s passion for and involvement with the VRM’s Women’s and Children’s programs has left an impression on our community and our hearts.

Photos by Ashley Machado Photography

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CHARITY EVENT W WORD PLAY

Tex t by Diane Slocum

hether the month of May was named after a goddess of fertility or after elders, there are books to suit the season. Those seeking their own fertility goddess may want to look at www.infertilitybooks. com for over 300 books on the topic. Among those recommended by fertility specialists are Flight of the Stork, by Anne C. Bernstein, The Couples Guide to Fertility by Gary S. Berger, et al, and Getting Pregnant When You Thought You Couldn’t by Helane S. Rosenberg and Yakov M. Epstein.

For a real tear-jerker (in a good way) about elders, read your children Song and Dance Man by Karen Ackerman. A grandfather shares his memories of vaudeville with his grandchildren. For other children’s books portraying elders in a positive light (as opposed to most fairy tales) look at www.gwumc.edu/cahh/booklist/ booklist_20041110.pdf. A few of the other books listed include When I Go Camping with Grandma by Marion Dane Bauer and Alan Garns, Halmoni’s Day by Edna Coe Bercaw and Robert Hunt and The Gawgon and the Boy by Lloyd Alexander.

FANFICTION

Hanford’s Sharon Lathan turned fanfiction into a second career (see Literary Arts). To get serious, or just for fun, look for your favorite books at websites such as www.fanfiction.net/book.

Would-be writers take a stab at rewriting scenes, continuing stories, combining characters and more. Some are entertaining, some perhaps annoying, some have potential. Popular choices include Tom Sawyer, Huck Finn, Little House, Ann of Green Gables, Left Behind, Chronicles of Narnia, Bridge to Terabithia, Lord of the Rings, Gone With The Wind, Harry Potter and Twilight.

THE BIG READ

Fresno County Library’s Big Read for 2010 is Ray Bradbury’s Fahrenheit 451, the classic story of a society that bans books to the extreme. In this future time, the job of a fireman is to burn books.

The kick-off for the event included a live video conference with the author.

CONFERENCES

The Write-to-Publish Conference has been helping Christian writers get published for almost 40 years. This year’s conference will be held June 9-12 at Wheaton College in Wheaton, Ill. The full-conference fee is $475. Key presenters include screenwriter and producer Zena Dell Lowe, educators’ author Steven James, book and magazine author and editor Joyce K. Ellis and author and songwriter Marty Nystrom. Register by June 2. Details at www.writetopublish.com/index.htm.

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WORKSHOPS

Writers Digest presents WritersOnlineWorkshops.com with topics such as “Write Great Fiction: Description & Setting,” “Characters, Emotion & Viewpoint,” and “Writing the Young Adult Novel.” Among the now-published authors who took these courses are Ted Weir (“Stealing Home”), Mark Biskeborn (Mojave Winds), and Leceila Turnage (A Gift to the Eye and More).

LOCAL WRITERS

Visalia teacher Janet Nicholls Lynch read excerpts from her novel Chest Pains on Valley Writers Read on March 3. Her reading is archived on the website at www.kvpr.org/vwr-schedule. php?display=15&id=. Larry Hill reads Breakage on February 10, Franz Weinschenk reads from Sixty Years of Teaching on April 21 and Deb Borofka reads Ordinary Grief on April 28.

Fresno author Burlee Vang is another reader with his story “A Necessary Trip.” Vang’s “A Red Spoon for the Nameless” is one of the stories featured in 20Something Essays by 20Something Writers.

Sylvia Ross’ latest release with Heyday Books is Blue Jay Girl, the story of a Yaudanchi girl who isn’t like the other girls in her foothill village. She roams wild and free, while the others are industrious quails. The shaman helps her to appreciate her differences. Ross, of Porterville, drew on her own Chukchansi heritage for her earlier book, Lion Singer, also from Heyday.

PUBLISHING

Science Fiction Writers’ website at www.sfwa.org/for-authors/ writer- offers warnings for writers of all genres on its “Writers Beware” page. The list includes publishers that have taken advantage of writers’ dreams of selling their books, as well as warnings about contests that aren’t always what they seem.

Preditors and Editors at http://pred-ed.com also advises writers about publishers and agents who are not always straightforward in their dealings with would-be authors. The site is currently being sued by someone who was not happy with the recognition.

According to MediaBistro.com, Salon.com is rapidly gaining readership. This online outlet features news and politics, technical and business reporting, lifestyle stories and more. It is also venturing into new ways of presenting stories, utilizing slide shows.

Symptomatic of Newsweek’s financial struggles, after only a year at its new location, the reduced staff has to move again, to less classy office space.

THE LAST WORD

“I want people to talk to one another no matter what their difference of opinion might be.” (Studs Terkel, 1912 – 2008)

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Tex t by A aron Collins | Photos by Forrest Cavale of Third Element Studios

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ON THE SPREAD: Convincing patinas and well-scaled timbers add a sense of authenticity to Rich and Janel Freeman’s Southwest-style home near Exeter, which they dubbed “Rancho Salida del Sol” for its amazing views of the sunrise over the Sierra Nevada.

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riving through any Central California neighborhood, one can see any number of various styles imported to the region. Amid contemporary construction from Anywhere, U.S.A. we spot a Cape Cod- or Colonialstyle home but do not assume its owners derive from the East Coast. We see a Spanish Colonial Revival home and need not assume its owners have any Latino heritage or even a passing interest in Hispanic culture. One might reasonably presume a home’s owners simply prefer those esthetics, devoid of any other explanation for why things look the way they do.

The San Joaquin Valley’s predominant culture is simply too new to the region to have spawned a more authentic or deeply reflective or iconic architecture, beyond a few mere practical vernaculars. All that makes the case of Rich and Janel Freeman’s recent Mehrten Valley residence, which they dubbed Rancho Salida del Sol (Spanish for “Sunrise Ranch”), something of a remarkable exception. That’s appropriate, considering the fantastic view from the entire rear of the house, which is comprised of solid windows and French doors that Rich aptly says “bathe and engulf ” the rooms with light and views of the valley, foothills, and sunrise above the mountains beyond.

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Their family roots – particularly Janel’s – run a lot deeper beneath the appearance of their Southwest-style home, which poetically reflects her family history in New Mexico and West Texas as well as both Janel’s and Rich’s abiding love of the high desert landscape. The home’s style may be an import, but they also share an enduring mutual interest in Native American cultures, stemming at least in part from Janel’s parents, who are both fractionally Cherokee.

The home’s design also embodies the memories of Rich and Janel’s numerous travels through the American Southwest in their 27 years together. Those many excursions have given them mutual experiences that have left an indelible impression in their minds and upon their personal tastes and interests. Their visits to Sedona, Flagstaff, Prescott and other places are recorded in vestiges found throughout their home. Southwest pottery and art objects abound. Notable tribes’ cultural output is collected in breadth, perhaps more so than depth, presenting an overview of the varied esthetics grouped under the often too-broad aegis of “Southwest Style.”

ABOVE: That cantina-style kitchen at the Freeman home may offer a glimpse of old New Mexico, but the appliances are strictly modern. Corrugated metal siding on the island throws in an additional contemporary surprise that brings informality to the heart of the home’s daily activity.

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“These trips also brought us a bounty of design and decorating ideas, cultural artifacts and native art, custom and antique furniture and fixtures that have been incorporated into the overall finished product,” Rich says. So the style just feels right to them. It may not reflect California history, but it certainly reflects their own.

The style also appears somewhat coincidentally at home in our region, where blazing hot summers might suggest the building genre’s thick walls are a good idea. Or that building horizontally – in deference to the broad flat landscape or the predominant horizontal blue line of the High Sierra – makes good visual sense in the way that Prairie Style springs organically from the Midwest terrain of its origins. Nestled in the low, semi-arid Sierra Nevada foothills, one might get a fleeting sense of being transported to a hillside near Santa Fe or Taos, were only the flora a bit more reminiscent.

The home also feels right because they designed it. Rich Freeman – who began planning it in 2004 along with input from Janel and a team of other creative professionals – drew on a number of sources for inspiration over the five years required to conceive and build it. Fortunately, Rich combined the Freeman’s interest in the style with his expertise and background in the construction industry. Janel serves as CFO for Quad-Knopf, Inc., the Visaliabased civil engineering firm.

“During the early years of the design process, there were elements of many native and cultural styles incorporated into the final product. The original base influence was a Taos Pueblo Adobe Style,” which he says accentuates large open and connective indoor and outdoor living spaces, courtyards and portals. Taos Pueblo adobes were typically built using earthen adobe block and large natural pine timbers.

TOP LEFT: The Freeman’s master bedroom offers fantastic views of the surrounding Sierra as well as spaciousness and privacy.

TOP RIGHT: The master bathroom features sunny, bold colors and elaborate geometric Mexican tile work.

BOTTOM RIGHT: Throughout the Freeman home, contemporary Southwest-style objects intermingle with traditional Native American tribal items from the American Southwest.

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LIFESTYLE | MARCH 2010

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Rich, a native of Southern California, says the home also incorporates additional regional influences, such as elements of the Southwestern high desert “Territorial Style” with its large timber-supported porches and high ceilings. And, he adds, “as a native Californian and resulting from many trips to our own California Missions, just a pinch of Early California Mission Style” with its characteristic solid wood doors, plaster walls, archways, and red tile roof porches.

Despite those numerous sources, the home exudes integrity, perhaps owing to its simple and unfussy layout. “Nothing about our home or lifestyle screams ‘formal,’” Rich says. “We have no formal dining area or living room. The entry and the grand salon are one and the same, as the open center of the house and flows easily to each other room without any need for hallways,” which perhaps most greatly accounts for the unobstructed flow of the floorplan.

ABOVE: Janel and Rich Freeman enjoy their terrace views the fleeting green of Central California spring along with the companionship of the beloved 11-year-old Jack Russell terrier, Tobi.

LEFT: The main entry from a small courtyard contrasts Southwest simplicity with the trove of Native American objects just inside, a result of years of travels to the American Southwest where Janel Freeman was born.

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The cantina-style kitchen also reflects their informal lifestyle.

Perhaps that accounts for the numerous awards it was garnered, including the California Society of American Society of Building Design blue ribbon for custom home design, a blue ribbon for its working drawings, and a second place recognition for its “Overall Honor Award.”

It takes an unbelievable cadre of building professionals to complete a project of this scope. Ron Hudspeth of Hudspeth Construction served as general contractor. Tom DeVore of The Drawing Board drew up the plans. The extensive grading required for the site’s sloped hillside was done by Bob Gill of Gill-Reeves Co.; the energy efficient ARXX Block wall system was crafted under the guidance of Richie Sing of Sing Masonry; the home’s green plumbing and floor’s radiant heating system was set up

by Treece Plumbing; stained concrete floors and counter tops crafted by Solid Concrete Solutions lend the home some old New World patina; custom cabinetry was created by Avila Cabinets; lodgepole timbers were manhandled by Chris Schultz of Meeker Lodge Poles; custom iron work (including that for the home’s subterranean wine cellar) was crafted by David McDermott of David’s Portable Welding, and the list goes on.

One special feature is Tobi, the Freeman’s 11-year-old Jack Russell terrier, whose energy means she can be found in the kitchen or just about anywhere around the eight-acre natural paradise that any dog would love to roam.

TOP LEFT: A view of the grand salon, the social hub of the Freeman home located in the Mehrten Valley, where heavy Ponderosa timbers do structural as well as esthetic duty.

TOP RIGHT: The Freemans incorporated a variety of traditional and contemporary artworks acquired from their travels in the Southwest U.S., fitting given that the home itself also borrows from a variety of indigenous regional styles: Southwest Territorial, Taos Pueblo – even a few Early California Mission gestures here and there.

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With the house project mostly complete, the Freemans have other involvements and commitments ahead. “We have always been committed to doing all we can for Visalia Emergency Aid,” Rich says. Additionally, Janel has also served on numerous fundraising committees for the organization and has served on its Board of Directors for more than 10 years. Janel has also been active with the Visalia Breakfast Rotary Club.

Soon they’ll renew their love of heading out across the vast high desert. Family will be renting a Taos vacation home next summer where they’ll meet up with friends, enjoy great food and wine before the art enclave’s red-orange Southwest sunsets, until they can return to the sunrise views of Rancho Salida del Sol.

BOTTOM RIGHT: The Freeman’s family entertainment room, which also houses an extensive collection of pottery and artifacts from various Southwest American tribes. The thick, high R-value Arxx block walls and floor’s radiant heat system keep the home at an amazingly constant – and affordable – temperature.

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LOCAL EVENT

ENCHANTED EVENING PROM DRESS GIVEAWAY The cost of a dress should never cost a girl her prom experience.

Thanks to Annie Gilles of Franey’s in Visalia, and her hard-working team of helpers, a total of 201 girls from 19 different schools were able to get their prom dress absolutely free this year.

Last year was the first Enchanted Evening Dress event, which reached girls in Visalia, Farmersville, and Woodlake schools. They were ecstatic to be able to reach more territory this year.

This year, not only were a couple hundred girls given a prom dress, they were also given the opportunity to pick out free makeup donated by Mary Kay, matching purses, and earrings.

Kim Wescott Photography of Visalia, who attended the event this year as a helper, decided she wanted to donate photo packages to 20 girls, giving them lasting memories of their special night.

Needless to say the girls were grinning from ear to ear; a few of them even joyfully skipped out the door with their beautiful gowns and accessories.

For more info about Enchanted Evening Dress, visit www.EnchantedEveningDress.com.

Photos by Taylor Vaughn

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SPRING SHRIMP FRUIT COCKTAIL

DIRECTIONS:

Serves 2

To poach shrimp: Bring large pot of water to a medium-low simmer. Place shrimp in water and simmer uncovered for five minutes, or until shrimp are bright pink. Strain water to remove shrimp from pot. Chill shrimp thoroughly.

COCKTAIL INGREDIENTS:

6 large shrimp, poached ½ medium red onion, diced ½ red bell pepper, diced 1 jalapeno, diced 1 C pineapple, diced 3 leaves romaine lettuce (optional) DRESSING INGREDIENTS:

½ C fresh lime juice 1 C extra virgin olive oil 3 tbsp. sugar ¾ C red wine vinegar Small bunch of cilantro Salt & Pepper to taste

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When shrimp is chilled, mix together in a bowl with red onion, red bell pepper, jalepeno, and pineaple. Place in a martini glass for a fun cocktail display. Add romaine lettuce for aesthetic element.

For dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together fresh lime juice, extra virgin olive oil, sugar, red wine vinegar, cilantro, and salt & pepper until mixed evenly. Poor dressing over shrimp cocktail mixture, serve and enjoy!

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CAB FILET WITH BLEU CHEESE

DIRECTIONS:

Serves 1

Preheat oven to 350°F.

FILET

Wrap bacon slice around filet and hold in place with toothpick.

Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Sear filet on all sides. Once seared put filet in an oven safe pan. Pour reduction sauce over top of filet (holding back 2 T. of sauce). Cook in oven until desired meat temp (6 minutes for rare, 10-12 minutes for welldone). Remove from oven and sprinkle bleu cheese mix on top of filet, and pour remaining 2 T. red wine reduction sauce on top of bleu cheese mix set under broiler until melted. Serve with your favorite side and enjoy!

8 oz Filet Mignon 1 thick slice of smoked bacon Salt & pepper BLEU CHEESE MIX

2 T. crumbled bleu cheese 1 T. Tommy’s Cabernet Sauvignon RED WINE REDUCTION SAUCE

½ C. Sugar 1 2/3 C. Tommy’s Cabernet Sauvignon (set aside 2 T.)

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JAMES ENTZ

Porterville College associate professor of art James Entz is a longtime fixture on the Studio Tour. The Otis College of Art and Design graduate has exhibited beyond the local arena including at Fresno Fig Tree Gallery and elsewhere.

Entz’s work occupies the region between painting and sculpture – both at the same time. He explores the theme of water in a water-based medium, painting what becomes a very solid form upon completion. About the recent work, Entz says it’s also suitable as a metaphor for the most valued aspect of his studio practice, “the creative flow – those moments of working transcendence” as he puts it. His chosen theme also reflects concern about the increasingly scarce resource and commodity that vexes California politics. “We are running our rivers dry here in the West,” Entz notes, not the least problem when Three Rivers residents block and divert the three rivers that comprise it. But his concerns are not strictly local. “We import water as the fuel for population and economic growth, and mine our groundwater as we did oil in the last century, at an unsustainable rate.”

The work’s lacerations and exposures also nearly read as geological meditations, the results of water’s millennia-long effects upon the natural world.

Tex t by A aron Collins

pringtime on even-numbered years finds the biennial Three Rivers Studio Tour on the Central California arts calendar. The event’s ninth incarnation wrapped up recently and featured a broad cross section of that longtime arts-oriented village’s many and varied visual arts talents.

Since the first half of the 20th century, Three Rivers has attracted a variety of artists and artisans due in part to its magnificent setting, and perhaps owing also to the ample presence of fellow artists, as well. In the unincorporated hamlet that sits at the entrance to Sequoia National Park, artists share the Kaweah River canyon with a variety of unlikely fellow citizens, from descendants of the townsfolk from Three Rivers’ days as a cattle town, to its more recent outdoors, hippie and alternative crowd, to its social and religious conservatives who don’t pay much heed to the arts element. This renders the locale among the more colorful mixes in the region, its fairly homogenous ethnicity notwithstanding.

Studio Tour immerses attendees in a weekend-long event where visitors find a whirlwind of multiple genres and mediums of a scale that requires a little pacing to avoid art overload. Occasionally art lovers might find themselves flagging after a day or two of artgoing to the studios, which numbered 21 this recent go-around.

So the opportunity arises here to focus more in depth and examine a cross section of the disparate and notable artists whose output from the past two years factored in the event.

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ABOVE: Stiff Upper Lip (acrylic on wood; 2009) by James Entz, whose working venue was featured on the recent Three Rivers Studio Tour 9.

In his art, Entz creates works that are both abstract painting and sculpture.

RIGHT: Deep in the Heart (acrylic on wood; 2007) by Three Rivers artist James Entz, a recurring participant in the biennial event. Entz is an art instructor at Porterville College.

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BELOW: Yellow My Love, by Three Rivers Artist Aranga Firstman, who was featured among 21 local artist of Three Rivers Studio Tour 9 (acrylic and oil stick on canvas; 2006).

BOTTOM: See What You See (acrylic on canvas) by Aranga Firstman, whose venue returned to the ninth biennial Three Rivers Studio Tour this spring.

Firstman is a former Science professor at College of the Sequoias.

ARANGA FIRSTMAN

Longtime COS biology professor Aranga Firstman may have retired, but her avocation has kept her plenty busy in the intervening period. Having shown in various Tulare County venues in recent years, Firstman’s work embodies styles and themes that might be considered somewhat unlikely for one steeped in the sciences (Firstman holds undergraduate and masters degrees in biological sciences from Cal Poly-Pomona).

Adept at web design and poetry among other mediums, Firstman’s fine art reflects an interest in alternative spirituality from archetypes to chakras, Reiki, and the Universe in general. In particular, her work recalls the output of another alternative universe: 20th Century women artists whose many accomplishments were largely downplayed, occasionally even written out of art history’s picture. Firstman’s work recalls notable second generation abstractionists like Helen Frankenthaler and Lynda Benglis, artists with whom Firstman would keep fine company. In her art, the rigors of science are supplanted with the demand for a fluid and free-spirited hand. Perhaps one most notable strength of the work is that it often walks an uneasy line between pure abstraction and representational art, often refusing to succumb to the conventional expectations of either.

FATHER JOHN GRIESBACH

A newcomer to the Studio Tour, Griesbach (“Father John” as he’s more commonly known around Three Rivers) is no newcomer to landscape painting. He has balanced practicing the craft with his work as a priest for over two decades, following an urge that began in his early 40s. “I am a padre first and an artist second, so priority goes to my work and ministry, but with a little foresight and planning, many things can be accomplished,” says the man from St Anthony’s Retreat Center.

“I feel privileged to live and work in Three Rivers. It has been one of my favorite places since my childhood, and the fact that my priestly work and ministry would one day bring me back to the very place of my joy and delight as a youth seems to have the hand of God written all over it.”

Having the public traipse into an artist’s inner sanctum can have its perils, as well as exposing a private space that one might best like to keep private. “I was tickled when Elsah Cort, our tour organizer, saw my studio and commented, ‘I’m glad you didn’t clean up your studio because people like to see a real working space like this.’ I didn’t tell her that I had cleaned it up so people could at least navigate the area without risk to life and limb,” he notes with humor.

ABOVE TOP: St. Anthony’s Retreat’s Father John Griesbach displayed his landscape painting avocation for his first time in Three Rivers Studio Tour 9.

California Gold (oil on canvas; 2009) depicts a bloom of poppies along Dry Creek near the small town of Badger in the Sierra foothills.

ABOVE: South Fork Shadows (oil on canvas; 2009, by Fr. John Griesbach) was on view in his studio and inner sanctum for Three Rivers Studio Tour 9.

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TINA ST. JOHN

Perhaps one important distinguishing characteristic of the Studio Tour is its comfort in mixing fine art and craft, two genres that are often considered at odds with one another in the art world proper. The Studio Tour makes no such distinction and offers something for everybody. Tina St. John is among the most prominent of the artisans, a jewelry maker whose talents span the range from reconfiguring vintage jewelry to crafting from scratch her own metal work for original pieces using fine and sterling silver, gold-filled (18kt overlay), Swarovski crystal, semi-precious stones and freshwater pearls.

Other exhibiting artists and artisans included Rick Badgley, Anne Birkholz, Jana Botkin, Carole Clum, Elsah Cort, Nikki Crain, Anne Haxton, Nancy Jonnum, Shirley Keller, Eddie McArthur, Wendy McKellar, Judy Miller, Armin Pfadisch, Marn Reich, George Smith, and Martha Widmann.

“I am always working on the next Studio Tour when the present one is happening,” says event organizer Elsah Cort, who started the event in 1994. What keeps her going, nearly 20 years into the tours? It’s a big undertaking to coordinate arts events on this scale. “This is a big question,” Cort muses. “I highly value art, or what I call ‘the creative life.’ The Studio Tour is a unique way to share this important aspect of the human spirit.” Cort also sees value in the many conversations that start up “that are rewarding for both visitor and artist.”

Until Studio Tour 10 hits in 2012, the artists will be back in their studios for a fresh go at mining the depths of human imagination. What is now only gestating will hatch out two springs from now to new audiences, new times, new currents in art making.

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ABOVE: Noted jewelry designer Tina St. John was among the 21 artists and artisans whose studios were featured for Three Rivers Studio Tour 9. St. John hand crafts the metal elements in many of her works, as well as occasionally reconfiguring vintage jewelry parts into new pieces.

559-967-2453 thirdelementstudios.com

third element studios photography

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June 26 Family Services of Tulare County invite you to an exotic evening of Moroccan cuisine and culture. Featuring Chef Jason Loeb from Chez Panisse. Saturday, June 26, 2010 from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM. $125 per person. Call 559-303-3997 for more information.

THE ATE RPERFORMANCES

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M AY Tim McGraw “Southern Voice” Tour with Lady Antebellum.

Tuesday, May 25, 7 p.m. at the Save Mart Center in Fresno.

For more information visit www.savemartcenter.com.

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M AY Cirque de Soleil Alegria.

Seven showings at the Save Mart Center in Fresno. May 27, 7:30 p.m.; May 28-29, 3:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; May 30, 1 p.m. Aand 5:00 p.m.

For more information visit www.savemartcenter.com.

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J U N E Rockin the Plaza. Friday, June 18, 6 p.m.-10 p.m. Gather downtown at Garden Street Plaza in Visalia for some classic rock music. For more information visit www.downtownvisalia.com.

J U N E Real Jazz Quintet. Join the Real Jazz Quintet for an evening of smooth sounds and soulful songs at the Patio Cafe in Fresno, Thursday, June 24 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. No cover charge. Call 559-243-1074 for more information.

J U L Y Backstreet Boys “This Is Us” Tour. Performing at the Save Mart Center in Fresno on July 1, 7:30 p.m. Tickets go on sale May 15. For more information visit www.savemartcenter.com.

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J U L Y Barnum’s Funundrum! Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Baily present Barnum’s Funundrum! at Selland Arena – Fresno Convention Center.

Showtimes range from Thursday, July 8 to Sunday, July 11. Tickets from $15 - $70. Call Ticketmaster for showtimes and prices.

J U L Y Paula Poundstone. Enjoy the razor-sharp wit and entertaining observations of critically-acclaimed comedienne Paula Poundstone at Tower Theater in Fresno on Saturday, July 17. Tickets available from $22.50 in advance. Call the Tower Theater Box Office at 559-485-9050 for tickets.

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4 5

AR TEX HI BITS

CLASSESWORKSHOPS

J U N E First Friday Art Tour. The Arts council of Tulare County invites the public to peruse downtown Visalia to see art and meet the artists at various venues during First Friday Art Tour. Friday, June 4, 2010, 6 p.m.

- 8 p.m. For more info rmation call 559-625-1520 or visit http://acoftc.org.

Imagine U Interactive Children’s Museum. A variety of classes, exhibits, hands-on workshops.

For more information visit: www. imagineumuseum.org or 733-5975.

First Saturday in Three Rivers.

Bring the family to downtown Three Rivers for art, music, dance, storytelling, food and drink.

Saturday, June 5, 10 a.m.5 p.m. For more information email nadispencer@yahoo.com

JUNE

S PE CIALEVENTS

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J U L Y Exeter’s 4th of July Celebration. Independence Day celebrations kick off at 10:00 AM on Sunday, July 4 at Exeter City Park.

Arts & crafts, food, entertainment and fi reworks.

CASA volunteer orientations.

Held Mondays at 5:30 p.m. and Thursdays, noon-1 p.m. at the CASA office, 1146 N. Chinowth, Visalia.

Sid Loveless at 625-4007.

Boys & Girls Club of Tulare County.

Offering a variety of youth development activities and classes, Monday-Friday, 12-8 p.m. 215 W. Tulare Ave., Visalia. $10 per year.

625-4422 or www.bgclubtc.org.

The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Sequoias. Offering classes for children of Exeter and Farmersville ages 6-18. Development and training in computer technology, life skills, sports, art, music and homework assistance. Annual fee $15. Exeter Club located at 360 East Pine. Farmersville Club located at 623 N. Avery; Freedom Extension site at 575 East Citrus. 592-2711.

DIVERSIONSEXCURSIONS

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JUNE

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JUNE

Blues, Brews & BBQ. Join in downtown Visalia at the Garden Street Plaza for live music by Electric Grease, delicious summertime barbeque, and refreshing beverages. Friday, June 4, 6 p.m.10 p.m. For more information visit www.bluesbrewsandbbq.net.

Train Meet. The Toy Train Operating Society (Central California Division) is hosting the June Toy Train Meet at Fresno Fairgrounds in Fresno on Saturday, June 26 at 10:00 AM. Multiple operating layouts and opportunites to buy, sell or trade. Children under 12 free, adults $5. For more information, call 559-674-2313.

WRITERSREAD ERS Book Sale. Friends of the Library now hosts two annual outdoor sales. The next one is May 15. Additionally, lobby sales at the Visalia branch are available during all business hours.

ImagineU Children’s Museum Story Time. Parents are invited to bring their children for the museum’s weekly interactive story time. Fridays at 10 a.m. 708 E. Main St. 733-5975.

Preschool Story Time. At the Tulare County Library every Wednesday morning at 10 a.m. Call the children’s desk at 733-6954 ex. 209.

If you would like to have your event considered for a free listing in our “Happenings” section, please email your submission to lifestyle@advertisewithdirect.com or fax to 738-0909, Attention Happenings.

Please note, we do not guarantee listing of any submission.

Submissions for the June 2010 issue must be received by May 25.

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Text by Sharon Mosley

hat’s an instant way to transform your wardrobe and your attitude? As some of our Southern mamas used to tell us: “It’s time to suck in your stomach and put some color on!”

“Color is an incredible fashion tool that’s often taken for granted,” says style expert Andy Paige, author of Style on a Shoestring. “We are all naturally attracted to color,” she says, “and it stimulates emotional, physical and even behavioral responses.

Every fashion decision we make has a color connection that sends a message to others and reflects our personality.”

Indeed, there is a whole array of science behind how we interpret certain colors and wear them in our wardrobes, according to Paige. “A stunning purple blouse reflects a passionate visionary.

To-die-for red shoes communicate energy, determination and charisma.”

“Your chocolate-brown suit tells your boss you are stable, earthy and reliable. The beautiful turquoise scarf you never wear could be telling the world you are motivated, active and dynamic, and the fantastic yellow handbag that you were so attracted to before you opted to go with the black instead would have declared you optimistic, playful and enthusiastic.”

So, how do you display your personality and electrify your wardrobe with color? Here are a few tips from Paige: Deliberately use colorful pieces as your style statements. If you are a girl who is most comfortable swaddled in black (is she talking about moi?), show your adventurous side with a chartreuse handbag, bold jade earrings or a stack of colorful bangles. If you live in a gray fog and frolic in tones of stone, charcoal and slate, make your unique style statement with a fuchsia wrap, sea-green coat or cognac boots.

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Pale colors rarely do anything for your skin tone; they are usually perceived as a little mousy. Saturated colors look more expensive and can elevate the look of a very inexpensive garment.

Choose richer colors like peacock blue, fuchsia, pumpkin, emerald green and deep purple (one of this season’s most popular colors) to send a strong, confident message.

Keep your anchor pieces dark, neutral and adornment-free.

Then use colorful tops and accessories to highlight your upper half and de-emphasize your lower half, naturally making you look taller and leaner. This is also known as fashion color blocking – strategically using light and dark colors to minimize figure flaws and showcase the good stuff.

And what colors do most men like to see women wear? Paige says that men prefer solid colors compared to patterns. Men are most attracted to a woman in a sugary coral tone. Red is another color many men equate with a confident woman. Women are most attracted to guys who wear blue, she notes. And if you want to avoid the color that most repels every one of us, be sure to leave that puke green color behind on the racks!

One more tip: Use complementary colors with your tops and accessories. In this case, opposites do attract: pair cool water tones (blues, greens, purples and lavenders) with warm tones (reds, yellows, oranges and pinks). When your top is a cool tone, choose warm-toned accessories. And when your top is a warm tone, choose cool-toned accessories. Think turquoise earrings with a red top and gray pants. Or try a yellow handbag with a blue, floral print dress. Your mama will be so proud!

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FACES & PLACES

HEART SPECTACULAR DONOR WALL CELEBRATION A spirit of gratitude consumed the Heart Spectacular Donor Wall Celebration on March 18, 2010.

“It takes a village to do things that need to be done -- I’m glad you were my village,” Tracie Mayer, the chief coordinator for Heart Spectacular, expresses to the room filled with gracious donors. “When you reach out and people reach back, that’s what makes the world go ‘round. I want to thank all of you for giving so humbly.”

In 2009, the Heart Spectacular Celebration concluded its tenth and final successful year, raising over $1.5 million over the decade.

The funds raised throughout the years allowed the Cardiac Services Program at Kaweah Delta to offer better services, train staff, send staff through special training, and achieve a level of expertise which otherwise would not have been possible.

‘Tis true that giving comes full circle; the people that have given both their time and money, or both, to this event made it possible for Kaweah Delta to give back to and benefit our community.

Photos by Taylor Vaughn

Dr. Frederick and Tracie Mayer.

Mark Garfield, Barbara Rayner, Thomas Rayner, and Linda Pruett.

Gary and Linda Kuncl.

Gary and Donna Amon.

Walter and Nancy Hurtado.

Tracie Mayer and Mary T. Hill unveiling the Heart Spectacular Donor Wall.

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Shelley Harris and Heather Ruffo.

Ed and Betty Vollmer, Donald and Mary T. Hill.

FACES & PLACES

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BELOW: The Tholos in Delphi.

THE WISDOM OF THE ORACLE

Text by Irene Morse

e step off the bus in Delphi and step into the Golden Age of Greece. My husband Gary and I are traveling in the interior of Greece and have come here to see if the Oracle will speak to us.

We fi nd a tiny room in a doll-house pension and are invited to use the flower-bedecked patio which has a breathtaking view.

At our feet lies a deep, verdant valley surrounded on three sides by mountains. The sky is sapphire blue and clear; in the distance, we view the cobalt sea. This vista inspired Homeric Hymns more than 2,000 years ago.

After washing away our road weariness, we depart for a pleasant afternoon in the Museum of Delphi.

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First stop, a Roman copy of the archaic navel-stone (omphalos). It is told that Zeus wanted to find the very center of the world so he released two eagles, one from each end of the earth. When they met in Delphi, he proclaimed it the Navel of the Earth.

We see Flying Nike (510 BC) and the demonic Sphinx of the Naxians crouched on an Ionic column (560 BC). We see several friezes with Greeks, Trojans and giants locked in battle. The Kouroi (life-sized, nude young men), Kleobis and Biton, carved in the early 6th Century BC, are there as well.

As in every museum in Greece, Gary (who is blind) is encouraged to touch everything!

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On the way back to our pension, we stop at a small market for fresh fruit, salami, cheese; an additional stop at the bakery procures fresh-baked bread. We spread our repast on a patio table and settle in to abate our hunger and feast on the view. Two mute cats join us and rub against our legs, begging for a handout. The four of us remain there, awash in beauty, until it grows very dark and the long day begins to catch up with us.

In the morning, we visit the splendid sights of Delphi.

We begin with a downhill climb to the lower excavations, the Sanctuary of Athena Pronaia. We are allowed to walk in, on and around these well-preserved ruins. We visit the Temple of Athena Pronaia. Between this temple and the treasuries, we ďŹ nd the Fourth Century Tholos. Built entirely of marble, the unusual circular-shaped building once boasted twenty Doric columns, of which three have been restored to their original location.

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We stop to watch the current excavations at this lower level and then look for a shady place to rest. We come upon the sacred Kastalian Spring where the Delphic Oracle cleansed herself before speaking to petitioning pilgrims. Sitting in this cool, ancient place, we share a light lunch left over from last night’s picnic dinner.

The Pythia (Oracle) was to be a woman of at least 50 years of age, chaste and beyond reproach. She led a cloistered life and prepared herself carefully for audiences with the faithful.

ABOVE: The theater at Delphi is build further up the hill from the Temple of Apollo and it presented the seated audience with a spectacular view of the entire sanctuary below and the valley beyond.

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After bathing in the sacred spring, she would burn laurel leaves and inhale the smoke. She sat on a three-legged chair in a deep trance – brought on, some archeologists believe, by gas leaking up through the ďŹ ssures in the rocks. Supplicants were ushered into her presence and they asked advice on everything from politics to relationships, from wars to athletic competitions. Her responses, although generally ambiguous, carried the weight of divine proclamation.

Through personal attention and our onsite services, these physicians help our patients learn how to become healthier and stay healthier.

Let Visalia Medical Clinic help you Be Well.

ABOVE: The steep valley below the ancient region of Delphi, Greece.

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Around 400 BC, the Oracle was said to have proclaimed that none was wiser than Socrates and told him, Know thyself.

Rested, we begin the half mile trek to the upper ruins which are more extensive and where there has been more restoration.

Gasping and puffing, we are nearing the entrance when we see a sparkling trickle of water running over the rocks and falling some two feet to the ground, where it is carried away through a culvert.

Could this petite waterfall feed into the sacred Kastalian Spring? we wonder. Our guidebook informs us that the epic poet Panyassis wrote, “You reach, on the right of way the water of Kastalia, which is sweet to drink and pleasant to bathe in…”

It is on the right of way… we cup our hands and drink deeply of the icy, delicious water. While we are catching our breath, a group of young backpackers slides down from above us on the mountain. They are laughing and talking about how good it felt to remove their hiking boots and bath their feet in the cool water.

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Tramping down the Sacred Way, we pass the Roman Agora and the many treasuries of various provinces. We wander through the limestone Theater of Delphi and note the places where the statues we saw in the museum once stood.

Climbing further up, we pace the circumference of the stadium so Gary can get a feel for the massive size of it. We prolong our stay at the beautiful Temple of Apollo: it was from this place that the Oracle guided the paths of numerous city/ states for hundreds of years.

As Christianity began to spread throughout the area, the Oracle was consulted less frequently. At last, she uttered her final statement, Tell ye the King: the carven hall is fallen in decay/Apollo hath no chapel left, no prophesying bay/No talking spring. The stream is dry and had so much to say.

More Than A Trusted Advisor

Returning to town for a little shopping, we have a long conversation with a shopkeeper who recommends a good restaurant for dinner. We enjoy what Gary pronounces to be the best meal of our trip so far – he keeps track of such things.

We have felt a connection with ancient travelers and poets in this place and paused to listen for the voice of the Oracle. We have sojourned one of the most beautiful spots on earth. We have made friends with a chatty art dealer, with a sweet landlady and her two mute cats. Tomorrow we will reluctantly leave Apollo’s sacred site and join the modern world in the touristswollen coastal town of Nafpactos.

LEFT: Treasure of the Athenians at Delphi oracle archaeological site.

ABOVE: The Omphalos at Delphi came to be identiďŹ ed as the stone which Rhea wrapped in swaddling clothes, pretending it was Zeus. This was to deceive Cronus, his father, who swallowed his children so they could not grow up and depose him as he had deposed his own father, Uranus.

Front L-to-R: Monica Peterson, Amy Gunn, Penney Sick, Jim Wohlford Back L-to-R: Sherri Rigney, David Sharp, Lupe Sanchez

Jim Wohlford – Branch Manager & Senior Vice President/Investments Lupe Sanchez – Vice President/Investments David Sharp – Vice President/Investments Penney Sick – Vice President/Investments Amy Gunn – Client Service Associate Monica Peterson – OďŹƒce Coordinator Sherri Rigney – Wire Operator

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Interview and Tex t by K aren Tell alian

LM: That’s an accomplishment these days. Congratulations.

What types of things do you do in your spare time?

JLH: I do a lot of reading. I watch the 49ers. We do a little

Lifestyle Magazine recently sat down with Judge Lloyd Hicks, to address the recent criticisms regarding the Tulare County Grand Jury. Below, Judge Hicks walks us through the selection process and more than a few challenges of serving.

traveling when I get a chance on vacations and then we’ve got a cabin up in the mountains, an old family homestead. It’s an old log cabin that was built in 1949. We just refurbished it so I’m still working on that. And then we’ve got a little place in Pismo that we go to.

LM: Are you reading anything right now?

JLH: Oh, I’ve got usually eight or nine books going spread

between nonfiction and fiction.

LM: Any particular genre you like?

JLH: Yes, I like political books and I like biographies,

historical books, and then mysteries and thrillers.

LM: Thank you for speaking with us, Judge Hicks. In a few minutes we’d like to learn more about the Grand Jury process, but before that, would you tell us a little about yourself? How long have you been a judge?

JLH: Well, I’ve been a judge going on seven years now.

It will be seven years in October, which doesn’t seem possible.

It seems like it was just yesterday.

LM: What type of law did you practice before?

JLH: I practiced generally civil law; mainly real estate,

business litigation and government. Represented some municipal entities.

LM: And then you were appointed?

JLH: Yes, by Governor Gray Davis, as part of his revenge,

toward the end of his tenure.

LM: His revenge on you?

JLH: His revenge on the state.

LM: Oh, I see! You and your wife, Loretta, have been married a long time, and have a son and two daughters. Correct?

JLH: [We were] married in 1966, so that makes a long time.

What is that? Forty-three coming up on 44 years.

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LM: No romance novels?

JLH: No. [Laugh] Escape-type fiction of the mystery genre.

LM: Judge Hicks, a lot of people don’t understand the purpose of the Grand Jury. How would you explain its function?

JLH: The civil Grand Jury’s function is to look into local

government and to perform an oversight to see if it’s working properly.

LM: What determines “working properly?”

JLH: They [Grand Jury] are charged by law with reviewing

the [county] finances; to see if departments should have more money, or they’re wasting the money. They’re required to investigate the jails and each of the county departments and they’re permitted to investigate any agency in the county that receives public dollars. That’s their basic function. They also take citizen complaints. That’s in essence what the Grand Jury does.

LM: What happens after an investigation?

JLH: Once they do the investigation, they make a report, which

they’re required to provide to each of the departments, and then the departments are required to make a reply. When they make their report, if they find something wrong, they’re supposed to make a recommendation. The general idea is it’s a way for citizens to get involved in government so that government doesn’t happen behind closed doors. The Grand Jury makes recommendations and the people know what’s going on.

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LM: Who advises the Grand Jury?

JLH: Good question. The Grand Jury is considered a department

LM: A citizen and local resident, that’s it?

JLH: There [are] some other qualifications. You have to have

of the judicial branch, technically, although it’s really totally independent. The presiding judge of the Superior Court oversees it, but they have advisors, including the County Counsel.

Technically, the District Attorney has some input and even the Attorney General, if they want it. But it’s the Court’s job to assemble and get the Grand Jury together.

normal intelligence and no felonies. And, then there’s a selection process. The people who are in charge of it, and historically that’s been the assistant presiding judge in our court, interviews them.

This year they interviewed everybody. They interviewed all 46 and unfortunately when they found out how much work was involved (because they actually have to sign a declaration that they will do it if they’re selected), 20 of the 46 dropped out.

LM: How does the Court find participants?

JLH: This has been a problem for years. Our local newspaper

criticized us a little bit, they said we weren’t doing enough outreach and weren’t getting enough diversity. Well, we were doing the outreach and the diversity is the result of who’s able to serve.

The problem is it takes by all reports 20-30 hours a week to do the job. So you need people who are dedicated and who have the time.

LM: Hard to do if you have a full-time job.

JLH: It’s very difficult to do if you have a full-time job and it’s

impossible to do if you have the type of job where you’re not getting paid if you’re not on the job.

LM: How many people sit on the Grand Jury?

JLH: There are19 people on the Grand Jury and we do all kinds

of outreach [to recruit members].

LM: For instance?

JLH: We advertise in the newspapers. We advertise in local

publications. We send out mailers to different clubs and groups, use word of mouth, to try to get anybody who’s interested to volunteer to serve. We just recently published a brochure, thanks to a Visalia Breakfast Rotary Club member asking if he could have one and found out we didn’t have one. We immediately got a brochure out, which is now available. We’re giving that to every single trial juror who shows up, and you’re talking thousands and thousands of people.

LM: Great idea. But, it sounds like a lot of work.

JLH: With all this we try to build up a bank [of potential

volunteers] and then we ask people, we call up the mayors, we call up the supervisors, every elected official we can think of, “Do you know anybody who would like to serve on the Grand Jury?”

Last year, out of all this, we got a grand total of 46 applicants – that’s it – out of a county with over 300,000 people.

LM: Are the qualifying restrictions excessive?

JLH: The main qualifications are that you’re a citizen and you’ve

been a resident for a year. That’s it.

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LM: That’s quite a few drop-outs.

JLH: Now what the law says is you narrow it down to 30 and

then you put those 30 in a barrel and you pull out 19 total by lot, except there’s another quirk; and that is the Grand Jury serves for a year and you have holdovers and you’re authorized to take up as many as 10 from the previous year’s Grand Jury to also serve on this Grand Jury. Theory behind that is it gives some continuity and some experience. We only used four holdovers last year, so that meant we were pulling 15 people from the barrel of 26. So they’re pulled out by lot. And then what we do is appoint alternates in case somebody drops off, and in fact we appointed all 11 that were left as alternates.

LM: Is there a foreman, and how is he or she selected?

JLH: The presiding judge appoints a foreperson of the Grand Jury

and that person actually runs it. If the Grand Jury [decides] they want to investigate something … they’ll go sit in on meetings and they’ll talk to the people involved. They’re supposed to look into any complaints of public corruption as well and if they see something that doesn’t look good, they have the power to issue subpoenas and have people actually come in and testify in front of them.

LM: It seems like a logical process, so let’s talk about the lack of diversity.

JLH: That’s how we select them and it is true that we’ve gotten an

older group and it’s been fairly diverse. The diversity of the pool was pretty good last year, but there’s no getting around the fact that there are not a lot of young people on there.

LM: Well, maybe they’re working or they’re in school?

JLH: That’s right. We’d love to have more and we’d love to have it

as diverse as possible.

LM: Tough when it’s all volunteer.

JLH: Absolutely. All volunteer. We can’t force people to be on it.

[Some have the impression] that we could go out and pick who we wanted and make them serve. We cannot do that. It’s automatically volunteers and the problem is they don’t get paid. They get a small per diem and mileage and that’s it. It’s a labor of love.

LM: What would the alternative be then?

Our society is becoming more apathetic.

What happens if you can’t find people to serve?

JLH: Well, we’d be in violation of the law. The State

Constitution mandates that every county have a Grand Jury and panel every year. So, I suppose if we didn’t, the Attorney General could take us to task, but we’ve had problems finding that many people. Probably what you’d have to do is go back and simply look at some of the previous volunteers. You’d have to go back and see who would do it. We’d have to come up with 19 people.

LM: Is there any limitations like term limits?

JLH: No. LM: So somebody could sit on the Grand Jury for 20 years if they wanted?

JLH: They could. But, that’s not really what we want. We want

different points of view. We want as many people as possible participating in it.

LM: What’s the difference between a Civil Grand Jury and a Criminal Grand Jury?

JLH: If there’s a particular type of criminal case that they don’t

want to take through the usual process, or for some reason they want to do witnesses in secret for a little while until they get the case done, [then they form a criminal Grand Jury]. That is one that they pick from the regular jury roles and that is through the regular process and you don’t get a choice on that. It’s a regular jury selection process, but it’s called a Special Grand Jury.

LM: Okay, so in a nutshell, why would you say that it’s important to serve on the Grand Jury?

JLH: We have a participatory democracy. It is our nature of

government and it doesn’t work if people sit on their hands and just complain but don’t do anything about it. So this is your chance to participate. You can bring your point of view. You can help the county by overseeing the operations of the county.

You can find out if it’s being run right and we appreciate it, or you can say, “We see a little problem here. Why don’t you see if you can correct it?” So, you get a chance to improve your government. And people who’ve done it say they really, really enjoyed it.

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