www.KVPR.com - Quality of Life

Music Appreciation

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 14:30:09 -0700

Classical music is one of the most popular genres used by filmmakers to score their productions. The great composers provide wonderful resources to evoke a wide range of emotions. But over the years, teaching music appreciation in public schools has changed. Are the classics in danger of becoming extinct? Moderator Terry Phillips leads our discussion.

Panelists include: Mike Dana, Head of the Jazz Studies and Commercial Music program at Fresno City College; Kristina Herrick, host of "Clearly Classical" (weekday mornings), "In The Mode" and "Young Artists Spotlight" on Valley Public Radio; Dennis Herbst, Coordinator of Visual and Performing Arts at Panama-Buena Vista Union School District in Bakersfield; Vince DiCiccio, host of "The Intersection" and "The Oasis" on Valley Public Radio; Robert Emmett, host of the "Norman Bates Memorial Soundtrack Show" on KFJC at Foothill College in Los Altos Hills, Calif.

Additional links:

Kindness

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 14:53:24 -0700

At a time of growing social and political division, what can we do to get along better? Moderator Terry Phillips invites listeners to talk about the protection of animals and religious tolerance.

Guests include: Louis Medina, first place winner at this year’s Center of the World Festival; Kamal Abu-Shamsieh, Director of the Fresno Islamic Cultural Center.

Additional Links

Nursing Shortage

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 14:52:46 -0700

The San Joaquin Valley has a critical shortage of qualified nurses. Many nursing schools have long waiting lists and turn away would-be students because they don’t have enough teachers. One solution: Assembly Bill 867 which would help to create a new nursing doctorate degree at the California State University system. Moderator Terry Phillips leads a discussion with guest experts and listeners. Correspondent Shellie Branco has a special report about job prospects for nursing school graduates.

Panelists include: Kris Aubry, Director of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Children’s Hospital Central California; Michael Russler, Chair of the Nursing Department at CSU Fresno; Christine Lawry-Hawkins, Director of Clinical Education at Kaweah Delta Hospital in Visalia; Pilar De La Cruz-Reyes, Director of Diversity at the Institute for Nursing and Health Care in Fresno; and Gloria Fitzgerald a retired nurse who managed educational development at Fresno Community Medical Centers.

Additional Links:

Kaweah Delta Hospital Festival

Air Quality Policy

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 15:39:57 -0700

What, if anything, can government do to clean the atmosphere? Terry Phillips moderates a discussion with guest experts and listeners to examine the political challenges for preventing pollution and improving air quality.

Panelists include: Tom Jordan, Senior Policy Advisor at the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District; Dorene D'Adamo, Board Member of the California Air Resource Board; Sam Atwood, Media Relations Manager for the South Coast Air Quality Management District in Los Angeles County; and Karen McConell, Director of Special Services at Hanford Elementary School District.

Additional Links

Landscape

Tue, 3 Aug 2010 15:32:26 -0700

George Mason fills in for Terry Phillips and talks with listeners and guests about weeds, landscape and watering.

Panelists include: Bob Boro (Landscape Architect, ***commercial/residential, member: American Society of Landscape Architects); Elizabeth Sereda (Master Gardeners of Fresno County, Univ. Calif. Cooperative Extension - UCCE); Martin Querin (Asst. Director of Public Utilities, Water Division Manager at City of Fresno, ***City of Fresno Water Conservation Program as well as the City 'Pilot Program'), Susan Stiltz (Landscape Water Conservationist Specialist, City of Fresno, ***Assists customers through landscape consulting and design of Water-wise landscaping. Susan also surveys irrigation systems for water efficiency, helps find water leaks, and sets controllers. These are Free services to City customers. Water meters are coming and approximately 60% of water use is outdoor. Susan is well-known in the local Green industry. She has over 24 years in horticulture, including: Staff at Tree Fresno )

Immigration Policy

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 17:01:00 -0700

What is the impact of immigration - both legal and illegal - in the Central Valley? Moderator Terry Phillips talks with listeners and guest experts about this controversial subject.

Panelists include: Fresno immigration attorney Isabel Machado; Dr. Va Nee Van Vleck, Economics Professor at CSU Fresno; Alfredo Cuellar, Dean of Behavioral and Social Science at Imperial Valley College in Calexico, Calif.; Mark Krikorian, Executive Director of the Center for Immigration Studies in Washington, DC.

Additional Links:

Medical Technology

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 12:04:01 -0700

How is the increased use of medical technology affecting the quality of health care in the Central Valley? Computers influence nearly every aspect of the way we live including medicine. High-tech evolution provides many benefits. But some people say all this technology costs more than just money. Are doctors and nurses and other wellness professionals doing a better job with all these modern tools at their disposal? Correspondent Shellie Branco has a special report about telemedicine.

Moderator Terry Phillips takes listener calls and interviews a panel of guest experts including: Sean McFarland, Dept. Of Veterans Affairs; Dr. Varoujan Altebarmakian, Physician-in-Chief of Kaiser Permanente in Fresno; Professor Dylan Roby, Ph.D., UCLA Center for Health Policy Research.

Pollution

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 10:04:19 -0700

Where does all our garbage go? We are a notoriously disposable society. But all that trash has to end up somewhere, and we’re running out of room for rubbish. In some parts of the Central Valley, ground pollution poses a serious health risk.

Moderator Terry Phillips talks with a panel of guest experts about the need for cleaning up after ourselves and some creative solutions. Panelists include: Stephanie Acker, Director of Fresno City Recycling Education and Outreach ("Operation Clean Up"); Steve Fuller, Cal Trans Maintenance Manager; Margo Reid Brown, Director of the California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery ("Cal Recycle"); Jeanette Richardson Park, recycling artist and Kern County Arts Council Exec. Director; Ricardo Martinez, Deputy Secretary for Environmental Justice and Border Affairs, California EPA, Sal Moretti, Bakersfield Solid Waste Superintendent.

Additional links:

Summer School

Wed, 7 Jul 2010 09:45:00 -0700

Some kids attend classes during vacation months to earn extra credits or to make up a failed course. Others go to summer school just for fun. A wide variety of choices are available for students of all ages.

Moderator Terry Phillips talks with guest experts and takes listener calls. The panel includes Dr. John Mayer, Course Coordinator of the CSU Summer Arts Program at Fresno State; Randy Mehrten, Executive Director for the Safe and Healthy Kids Programs at the Fresno County Office of Education; Jackie Brouillette, Summer Camp Director of the Lori Brock Discovery Center at the Kern County Museum; Jennifer Joliffe, Adult/Child Summer Fun Program Coordinator for Clovis Unified School District; and Mr. Arnie Prieb , Director of International Programs & Services at Fresno Pacific University.

Additional Links:

Fresno County Office of Education

CSU Summer Arts Program

Kern County Museum Summer Camp

Clovis Unified School District

Fresno Pacific University

Sports Medicine

Tue, 15 Jun 2010 16:04:41 -0700

As we move into warmer weather, many of us are using muscles that were in hibernation during recent months. Whether one is a serious athlete, a weekend warrior or just moderately active, warming up is an important prelude to any physical exertion. What should we know to avoid getting hurt?

Moderator Terry Phillips interviews guest experts and takes listener calls.

Panelists include: Dr. Jason Gray, owner of Physiomotion Physical Therapy; Dr. Steven Thaxter, orthopedic surgeon at Sierra Pacific Orthopedic & Spine Center; and Bob Pair, co-owner of Pair & Marotta Physical Therapy

Physiomotion Physical Therapy

Sierra Pacific Orthopedic & Spine Center

Pair & Marotta Physical Therapy

Conflict Resolution

Wed, 9 Jun 2010 10:33:39 -0700

Many people claim to have irreconcilable differences. But not all disputes have to end unhappily for one person or the other. Sometimes, there is some common ground that can lead to a win-win outcome. Moderator Terry Phillips interviews guest experts on mediation, and takes listener calls.

Panelists include: Daniel DeSantis, CEO of Fresno Regional Foundation; Lori Granger, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist at the Center for Mindfulness; Erin Rhames-Childs, Collaborative Divorce Attorney with the Childs Law Group; and Detective Doug Reese, Fresno Police Department Crisis Team Negotiator.

Additional links:

Fresno Superior Court alternative dispute resolution program
Fresno Pacific University Center for Peacemaking and Conflict Studies
Fresno Regional Foundation
The Center For Mindfulness
Childs Law Group

Primary Election Propositions

Wed, 2 Jun 2010 09:30:33 -0700

This is a fast-paced summary of the arguments for and against the statewide initiatives. Terry Phillips moderates a debate among advocates for and against the most controversial measures: Proposition 14 (changes primary election process), Proposition 15 (introduces public funding of political campaigns) and Proposition 16 (limits local electricity providers).

Advocates include: Jeannine English, President of California AARP (Yes on 14); Richard Winger, Californians for Electoral Reform board member (No on 14); Trent Lange, California Fair Elections Act campaign chair (Yes on 15); Richard Wiebe, Schubert Flint Public Affairs firm (No on 15); Becky Warren, Mercury Public Affairs firm (Yes on 16); and Mark Toney, Executive Director of TURN (No on 16).

Other guests include: Tom Holyoke, Political Science Professor, CSU Fresno; Mark Trezza, Political Science Professor, Fresno City College.

Additional links:

Yes on Prop. 14
No on Prop. 14
Yes on Prop. 15
No on Prop. 15
Yes on Prop. 16
No on Prop. 16
Yes on Prop. 17
No on Prop. 17
California Secretary of State Guide to Propositions
League of Women Voters Guide to Propositions

Politics and Public Opinion

Tue, 25 May 2010 14:12:38 -0700

Today's program is all politics and public opinion, as moderator Terry Phillips leads a discussion on how public opinion is moving in today's political climate.

Terry’s guests are: Mr. Mark Balsassare, President and CEO of the Public Policy Institute of California; Mr. Jonathan Zwicle, Fresno County Treasurer of the California Libertarian Party; Mr. Derek Iverson, Spokesperson for the California Green Party; Mr. Markham Robinson, State Chair and Media Contact for the California American Independent Party; Mr. Kevin Akin, State Chair of the California Peace and Freedom Party.

Public Policy Institute of California
California Libertarian Party
California Green Party
California American Independent Party
California Peace and Freedom Party

Addiction

Tue, 18 May 2010 14:11:50 -0700

Today’s program deals with the all too common and very serious problem of addiction. Our moderator Terry Phillips leads a discussion covering the psychological and physiological realities of addiction, and our listener’s calls offer unique insights into the way individuals and families deal with a variety of addictive behaviors.

Our guests are: Dr. Markham Kirsten, and addiction specialist at Kaiser Permanente; Dr. David Roy, Ph.D., Director of the Center for Creative Transformation; Ms. Sherill Calhoun, who speaks about methamphetamine addiction and its effect on families; Ms. Marti Rodriquez, Family Health Supervisor for the Kern County Mental Health Department.

Civility

Tue, 11 May 2010 14:39:50 -0700

Today's discussion centers around civility in politics and individual, corporate and international affairs. We learn about the International Civility Project, and discuss the traditional "politeness" and civility in the U.S. military. The importance of protocol and discipline, the display of respect, responsibility and restraint in the armed services is important in providing the polite society in the military. We discuss the loss of civility in daily life that encourages the need for change toward a more polite society. Our quests are Ms. Cynthia Bruno Wynkoop, Esq., President, Wynkoop Image; Dr. David Schecter, Political Dept. Chair, CSU Fresno; Mr. Peter Laufer, Author of "Wireless Etiquette."

Shopping Malls

Tue, 4 May 2010 14:05:34 -0700

Today, our Moderator Terry Phillips leads a discussion on the "Public Square" function of shopping Malls. Our guest panelists are: Mr. Craig Scharton, Director of the Downtown and Community Revitalization Department, City of Fresno; Mr. Joe Altschule, Attorney; Mr. Mike Jenner, Executive Director, Bakersfield Californian.

School Textbooks and Testing

Tue, 27 Apr 2010 14:06:50 -0700

Today’s program addresses the questions surrounding the writing and selection of school text books, and testing. Our moderator Terry Phillips welcomes a panel of experts, and we have many interesting calls from listeners.

Our guests are: Dr. Don Holder, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum Instruction for Fresno County Office of Education; Ms. Jill Tafoya, West Fresno Interim Superintendent, Fresno County Office of Education; Dr. Guadalupe Solis, Administrator for Educational Resource Services, Tulare County Office of Education; Dr. Lisa Benham, Language Arts History Coordinator for Fresno County Office of Education; Mr. Lou Massicci, Sales Executive with Voyager Learning.

Obesity and Diabetes

Tue, 20 Apr 2010 14:11:31 -0700

A large and growing problem in central California is diabetes, and one of the main causes is obesity. Today, moderator Terry Phillips, our guest panelists and callers talk about this problem and what can be and is being done to combat the unhealthy trend.

Our guests are: Dr. Deborah Van Gundy, Ecdrocrinologist with Kaiser Paermanente Medical Center in Fresno; Ms. Nancy Whalen, Dietitian for Clovis Unified School District; Ms. Edie Jessup, Program Development Specialist with the Central California Regional Obesity Prevention Program at CSU Fresno; Mr. Matthew Constantine, Director of Public Health Services for Kern County.

Central California Regional Obesity Prevention Program
Kern County Public Health Department
California Center for Public Advocacy

What Are We Growing?

Tue, 13 Apr 2010 13:31:30 -0700

Fresno County is the nation’s number one agricultural county in the U.S., producing more than 350 commercial crops, totaling more than $5.3 billion dollars in gross production value. Our moderator Terry Phillips and his guests talk about what’s new in crops, our listeners call with their own experiences growing edible plants, and we have a special guest who puts a comedy spin on it all.

Our guests are: Mr. Ryan jacobsen, Executive Director of the Fresno County Farm Bureau; Mr. Les Wright, Deputy Commissioner of the Fresno County Department of Agriculture; Dr. Margaret Reeves, Senior Scientist with Pesticide Action Network North America; Mr. Roger Radley, Comedian.

Fresno County Farm Bureau
Pesticide Action Network North America
Roger Radley's Site

What Do We Know

Tue, 6 Apr 2010 13:49:55 -0700

Today’s program takes us to the Library for an interesting discussion about these institutions in this new age of on-line information. Taking part in the discussion are: Bill Secrest Jr., Local History Librarian, california History & Genealogy Room at the Fresno County Library; Rod Hersberger, Dean of the Library at CSU Bakersfield; Johanna Alexander, Reference Series Coordinator, CSU Bakersfield Walter Stiern Library; Rick King, Chairman of the Minnesota Ultra high-Soeed Broadband Task Force; Jeff Scott, Deputy Librarian at the Tulare County Library. And, our listeners come up with the correct answer to the question "which book is most often stolen from libraries."
Fresno County Library
Kern County Library
Tulare County Library
Gather No Dust Blog
Library of Congress

Violence in the News: How Does it Affect You?

Tue, 30 Mar 2010 14:29:30 -0700

Today’s program features the listener/callers who share their ideas about how we are affected by what we hear, read and see in the news. We share some very personal stories about reactions to the violence of war, about traveling without fear because of the belief that God will protect, and dealing with violence in the home. Also, Terry takes us on a pre-recorded trip to the "Center of the World Festival" at Pine Mountain Club. Center of the World Festival

Local Banking

Tue, 23 Mar 2010 13:51:58 -0700

Today’s program is a very interesting discussion about local "community" banks and the big national banks. Our discussion and questions from listeners are informed by a panel of experts in banking and business. They are: Mr. J. Michael McGowan, President & CEO of Premiere Valley bank; Mr. Robert Hemsath, President & CEO of Security First Bank; Mr. Tim Sheehan, Reporter for the Fresno Bee; Mr. Mike Wilson, President 7 CEO of Suncrest Bank; Dr. John Emery, Dean of Business & Public Administration, CSU, Bakersfield.

Teen Pregnancy & Domestic Violence

Tue, 16 Mar 2010 13:58:22 -0700

Today, Quality of Life tackles a difficult pair of topics – Teen Pregnancy and Domestic Violence. With a special report from correspondent Shellie Branco, great questions and comments from listeners, and a notable panel of experts, the program is an interersting and thoughtful presentation. Our guests are: Ms. Kayla Wilson, Teen Parent and Support Coordinator for Fresno County Office of Education; Ms. Katie Quinn-Crask, Director of Clinical Services and Licensed Therapist at the Marjorie Mason Center of Fresno; Ms. Afreen Kaelble, Supervising District Attorney, Tulare County District Attorney’s Office, Family Protection Team.

To contact Teen Parent Support, Fresno County Office of Education: 559-265-3098 ext 3239 or Kayla Wilson at kwilson@fcoe.org.

Tulare County Victim/Witness Assistance Bureau at (559) 733-6754

The Crane Valley Equine Project – For Kids at Risk and Battered Women. 559-877-3455

Free Speech on Campus and at Work

Tue, 9 Mar 2010 14:47:59 -0800

Today’s program is a very special pre-recorded program. On March 4th, our moderator, Terry Phillips, led a discussion before a live audience at the College of the Sequoias in Visalia. With questions and comments from the public, the conversation includes Mr. Joe Altschule, an Attorney; Mr. David Miller, President of Pacific Employers; Dr. Sue Cox, adjunct Professor at Fresno Pacific university; Mr. Tommy Smothers, entertainer. The panel discusses our First Amendment protections for freedom of speech, and how they are extended to the workplace, and where the lines should be drawn between exchange of ideas and unreasonable intrusions at Universities.

Water Bond

Tue, 2 Mar 2010 14:45:49 -0800

California voters will have an opportunity to decide on passage of a very large water bond. The long-standing and very contentious issues connected to the distribution, sale, use and storage of water are extremely important in the San Joaquin Valley as well as the rest of the state. Our panel of guests speak to the issues, and deliver a stimulating discussion. Our guests are: Dr. Robert Merrill, PhD, Emeritus Professor of Geology, CSU Fresno; Mr. Jim Earp, Co-Chair of the California Water Bond campaign; Mr. Jim Metropulos, Senior Advocate, California Sierra Club. Also, to speak to issues surrounding increasing the flow of water in the Kern River, is Mr. Florn Core, Former Water Resources Manager for the City of Bakersfield.

The Central Valley Water Forum “Fact vs Fiction” will be at Fresno City College on Saturday, March 13 from 9am to 4pm. Registration is free at revivethesanjoaquin.org.

Funerals and Organ Donation

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 14:11:22 -0800

Today’s topic is difficult but interesting, and moderator Terry Phillips has a most interesting line-up of guests. Our discussion ranges from typical questions about the funeral business to organ and full body donation, interesting observations by an Anthropologist, and finally, a conversation with the COO of a Cryonic Society. And, we have emails and calls from listeners. Our guests (six of them!) are: Mr. Michael J. Rabara, President of Central Valley Funeral Directors Association; Mr. Russ Heimerich, spokesman for the California Department of Consumer Affairs; Ms. Ayanna Anderson, Community Development Coordinator for California Transplant Donor Network in Oakland; Ms. Kristin Dorn, Community Relations Manager for Science Care in Phoenix; Dr. Ron Barrett, PhD, Assistant Professor, Department of Anthropology at Macalester College in St. Paul, Minnesota; Mr. James Yount, Chief Operating Officer for American Cryonics Society.

California Dept. of Consumer Affairs - Cemetery & Funeral Bureau

Donate Life california - Organ & Tissue Donor Registry

Whole Body, Organ & Tissue Donation

American Cryonics Association

Health & Air Quality

Tue, 16 Feb 2010 13:53:51 -0800

The quality of the air we breathe and the related health issues we are dealing with are the focus of today’s program. Moderator Terry Phillips welcomes guests speaking to the science of air quality and the medical responses doctors employ. Our guests are: Dr. David Lighthall, Ph.D., Health Science Advisor for the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District; Dr. Praveen Buddiga, Baz Allergy, Asthma & Sinus Center in Fresno; Dr. Segun Ogunjemiyo, Ph.D., Geography Professor, Atmospheric Science Program at CSU Fresno; Ms. Susie Rico Vasquez, Associate Director of Programs, American Lung Association of California. Healthy Air Living San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District American Lung Association - State of the Air To phone the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District with complaints about possible violations: Northern Region: San Joaquin, Stanislaus & Mercend Counties 1-800-281-7003 Central Region: Madera, Fresno & Kings Counties 1-800-870-10037 Southern Region: Tulare & Kern Counties 1-800-926-5550 For general questions: 559-230-6000

Mining

Tue, 9 Feb 2010 14:44:07 -0800

Today’s program springs from a labor dispute in Boron, California, where the Rio Tinto Borax plant is in dispute with the workers represented by the International Longshore and Warehouse Union. We hear representatives of both sides in this labor dispute, and learn a bit about mining, geology and some history. Moderator Terry Phillips welcomes these guests: Ryan Couch, Hanford Corrections Officer, who is from Boron and offered historical perspective; Professor Andrew Isenberg, who joined us by phone from Germany, Temple University Professor and Author of “Mining California: An Ecological History; Mr. Patrick Keene, General manager of Keene Engineering in Los Angeles; Mr. Bob Deal, Pilot Plant Director for Rio Tinto, U.S. Borax plant; Mr. Craig Merrilees, Communications Director of International Longshore and Warehouse Union.

Weather

Tue, 2 Feb 2010 16:29:37 -0800

Today is Groundhog Day, a perfect day to talk about the weather, which we do from several different angles. From the effects of weather on local agriculture and wildlife in the Sierra Nevada to the beautiful and changing Antarctica. Our guests are: Mr. James Brotherton, Warning Coordinator Meteorologist with the National Weather Service; Mr. Vernon Peterson, Founder of Abundant Harvest Organics; Ms. Desiree Achollo, with PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals; Ms. Adrienne Freeman, Public Affairs Specialist with Sequoia National park; Mr. Sebastian Copeland, Photographer and author of "Antarctica: A Call to Action" and "Antarctica: The Global Warning."

Culture Crisis

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 09:27:44 -0800

How is our culture surviving his period of financial crisis? American arts organizations are suffering cutbacks, layoffs and even closings, and the Central Valley is no exception. Our moderator Terry Phillips welcomes guest and callers to share their views. Our guests are: Mr. Don Reinhold, Executive Director of the Fresno Philharmonic Orchestra; Ms. Jennifer Baldwin, Founder and Executive Director of the Bakersfield Express; Mr. Stewart Randall, President of the Board of Trustees of the Fresno Metropolitan Museum; Mr. Don Martin, President and Creative Director of Metro Galleries in Bakersfield.

Health Care Reform Update

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 09:27:22 -0800

With national legislation possibly nearing completion, Terry Phillips invites some people directly involved in supplying services to people in central California to discuss their views on what is happening now, and on changes we may see. Our guests are: Mr.. Michael Boyle, Washington bureau reporter for McClatchy newspapers; Dr. Brian Olowude, Psychological Services Coordinator for Fresno City College; Mr. Steve Schilling, CEO of Clinica Sierra Vista; Mr. Keith Winkler, Director of Kings County Public Health Department.

Law & Order

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 09:28:56 -0800

Today’s program is a general discussion about law enforcement and the Grand Jury, but we start with a quick conversation about flu shots with Dr. Bela matyas, acting Chief, Communicable Disease Emergency Response Branch of the califiornia Department of Public Health. Our guests for the rest of the hour include Sheriff John Anderson, Madera County Sheriff; Senior Deputy Michael Whorf, with the Kern County Sheriff’s Department, and Fresno County Superior Court Judge Robert Oliver.

Electoral Reform

Tue, 5 Jan 2010 14:56:37 -0800

Our electoral processes are central to our democracy, and there are many contentious issues that have been subjects of debate over the years. There are a considerable number of organizations seeking to change, streamline, revolutionize and reform our systems, and our Moderator Terry Phillips invited an impressive group of experts to discuss the various issues. Our guests are: Dr. David Provost, Professor Emeritus of Political Science, CSUF; Mr. Steve Chessin, President of Californians for Electoral Reform; Mr. Steve Peace, Co-Founder of the California Independent Voter Project; Mr. Gautam Dutta, Deputy Director for the Political Reform Program of the New America Foundation; Dr. Jonathan Sanders, Communications and Media Department professor at Fordham University.

New Year's Eve

Wed, 30 Dec 2009 09:57:01 -0800

What are you planning for December 31st? Quality of Life moderator terry phillips and guests take a look at some interesting traditions for New Year's Eve, and we'll hear some of your New Year's resolutions. Our guests are: Mr. Josh Patterson, CEO of Robot Co-op; Ms. Holly McGuire, Editor-In-Chief of Chase’s Calendar of Events; Ms. Adrienne Sioux Koopersmith, America’s Premiere "Eventologist." A very happy New Year’s wish to you!

Secret Wishes

Tue, 22 Dec 2009 17:14:28 -0800

Our very special guest today is none other than Santa Claus! Listeners - children and grown-ups share their special wishes and share some fun and some bitter-sweet wishes and remembrances around Christmas time.An unusual and peaceful hour for "Quality of Life."

Alternative entertainment

Wed, 16 Dec 2009 14:55:33 -0800

Today's topic takes us to the movies, theatre and elsewhere to have some fun with entertainment that doesn't often grab the headlines. Our guests and listeners give us many ideas! Our guests are: Mr. Phil Neufeld, President of Flics International Cinema Society, Bakersfield; Mr. Robert Emmet, Radio show host at KFJC in Los Altos Hills; Michael Prince, Artistic Director of Gaslight Melodrama Theatre and Music Hall in Bakersfield.

Business Benevolence

Tue, 8 Dec 2009 17:13:16 -0800

Many companies, large and small, dedicate people and money toward beneficial activities aimed at helping organizations, individuals and communities. Moderator Terry Phillips welcomes guests representing three companies doing business in central California to talk about what they do for the community and why they do it. Our guests are: Mr. Scott Bridgeman, CEO of Eye Q Vision Care; Ms. Carla Musser, Manager of Public Affairs for Chevron in the San Joaquin Valley; Mr. Eric Johnson, Executive Director of AT&T External Affairs.

National Service & Proposition 12

Tue, 1 Dec 2009 17:42:15 -0800

Today's program takes a quick look at California State Proposition 12, passed by voters to provide financial assistance to veterans for home purchases. Then, our moderator Terry Phillips leads a discussion about national service - should there be mandatory national service? Should we re-introduce the draft? Should we have a draft for service other than military service? These questions and more are addressed by our guests and callers. This week's guests are: Mr. Jim Lowrey, Deputy Secretary for Farms & Homes for the Veterans Affairs Dept., Sacramento; Mr. Chris Asch, Founder, U.S. Public Service Academy, Washington, D.C.; Mr. Jim Palmer, Board Member, Center for national & Community Service; Major General Ron Markarian (ret.), Selective Service System Representative.

Thanksgiving

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 15:26:27 -0800

As we prepare for the Thanksgiving holiday, Terry Phillips welcomes guests to discuss the efforts to get food to those who need it in central California, and visits with a chef who will be creating dining experiences for the more fortunate. Our guests are: Ms. Sandy Bels, Executive Director of Foodlink Tulare County; Mr. Gary Romriell, Program Manager of Partnership of Kern Food Bank; Mr. Karsten Hart, Executive Chef at Erna's Elderberry House in Oakhurst.

Redistricting and Money in Politics

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 14:43:30 -0800

Today we look back on Proposition 11, approved by the voters in California, and discuss the Commission yet to be formed and the likely effects of redistricting. Our panelists and callers also talk about money in politics, and what might be done about that. Moderator Terry Phililps leads the informative and interesting session with these guests: Ms. Terri Figgs, Board member, League of Women Voters; Mr. Jim Boren, Editorial manager, Fresno Bee; Mr. Steven Hill, Director of the Political Reform Program for New America Foundation; Mr. Trent Lange, Chairman of Californians for Fair Elections; Mr. Steve Chessin, President of California for Electoral Reform.

Who Are We?

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 16:35:26 -0800

A combination of philosophy and practical considerations about how we view ourselves as people. Our moderator Terry Phillips welcomes a diverse group of guests, and we take interesting calls from listeners. Our guests are: Mr. Jeff Hensley, Owner of Hensley Associates Marketing & Sales Consulting; Ms. Jennifer Giles, Communications Director for the U.S. Census Bureau in Northridge, California; Ms. Deborah Nankivell, CEO of the Fresno Business Council; Mr. Ray Pezolt, Pinkerton Investigations, Denver Office.

Fresno Mayor - Ashley Swearengin

Tue, 3 Nov 2009 15:14:03 -0800

Today, our moderator Terry Phillips welcomes back to our studio the Mayor of Fresno, Ashley Swearengin. The conversation ranges from police auditor to public art, with many questions from listeners. The program begins with a short conversation related to last week's special on health insurance. Dr. Matt Hendrickson, MD, who was arrested shortly after his appearance on "Quality of Life" checks in. Information and questions to the Mayor can be directed to 559-621-city (2489), or to the Mayor's line, which is 559-621-8000. Much information about the city is also available at City of Fresno

Health Care Insurance Special - Part 5

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 15:59:31 -0700

Today's 2-hour special has been divided for ease of use into 5 segments. Part 5 The politics of it all. A lively, fast-paced run through the political arguments of the past few months with two regular columnists for the Visalia Times-Delta newspaper – Mr. Tom Fife, a Visalia-based invest broker, and Mr. Jow Altschule, a Visalia-based attorney.

Health Care Insurance Special - Part 4

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 15:58:44 -0700

Today's 2-hour special has been divided for ease of use into 5 segments. Part 4 The insurance industry gets its turn in this part of the program. Our guests are: Mr. Rick Kolstad, President of Central California Association of Underwriters; Mr. Mark Weideman, Vice President for Government Affairs for Blue Shield of California.

Health Care Insurance Special - Part 3

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 15:58:07 -0700

Today's 2-hour special has been divided for ease of use into 5 segments. Part 3 Physicians speak out in this part. Our guests are: Dr. Matt Hendrickson, MD, an Emergency Room Physician at St. Agnes Hospital, and Chairperson of LA Single Payer Coalition and Vice Chair, California Physician’s Alliance; Dr. Steve Chooljian, MD, in private practice – Internal Medicine; Dr. Winthrop Dillaway, MD, Practicing family medicine for more than 30 years, and representing PNHP, A Chicago-based organization that supports universal health care.

Health Care Insurance Special - Part 2

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 15:57:17 -0700

Today's 2-hour special has been divided for ease of use into 5 segments. Part 2 The economics of health care and insurance is the focus for this part of the program. Our guests are: Dr. Mohammad Rahman, Assistant Professor of public Health, College of Health and Human Services at CSU Fresno; Dr. Gerald Kominski, Director of Health Economics and Evaluation Research at the UCLA Center for Health Policy Research.

Health Care Insurance Special - Part 1

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 15:55:24 -0700

Today's 2-hour special has been divided for ease of use into 5 segments. Part 1 Our program begins with a short produced story that introduces some of the insurance issues through the true experiences of a real family in Madera. The story was prepared by our correspondent, Shellie Branco. Our guests for this part are: Dr. John Capitman, Professor of Public Health, and Executive Director of the Central Valley Health Policy Institute at California State University, Fresno; Dr. Joan Voris, A Fresno Pediatrician and Associate Dean at the UCSF Center for Medical Education and Research; Ms. Marian Mulkey, Senior Program officer with the California Health Care Foundation.

Preschool

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 16:27:56 -0700

Our discussion today centers on is Preschool and early childhood education and development. The attitude and actions of the professional educators and administrators toward home schooling, especially in children's earliest years may surprise you. Our guests are: Dr. Larry Powell, Superintendent of Schools, Fresno County Office of Education; Dr. Michele Cantwell-Copher, Administrator: Educational Services, Fresno County Office of Education; Ms. Cindy Ruiz, Director: Early Childhood Education & Development, Kern County Superintendent of Schools; Ms. Linda Fiddler, Healthy California Network. As usual, we have interesting and thoughtful comments from listeners as well.

For help & information from the Fresno County Office of Education: 559-265-3000

Fire

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 16:10:05 -0700

Today, our moderator Terry Phillips explores the world of fire fighters. We gain some insights into the work of these "first responders" with the help of three professionals: Captain Chris Christopherson, Public Information Officer with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection; Mr. Don MacAlpine, Deputy Fire marshall with the Fresno Fires Department; Mr. Sean Collins, Engineer with the Kern County Fire Department.

Alternative Fuels

Tue, 6 Oct 2009 16:18:08 -0700

Guest moderator Jay Parks leads today’s discussion about alternative fuels for our cars and trucks. Bio-fuels, electric cars, hydrogen, and natural gas are all considered. Our guests take some interesting calls from listeners as well. Today’s panelists are: Mr. Mike Smith, Deputy Director of the Transportation Division for the California Energy Commission; Mr. Joseph Oldham, Sustainability manager, City of Fresno; Mr. Richard Chapman, President & CEO of the Kern Economic Development Corporation.

Unemployment

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 16:28:43 -0700

The central California city of Delano is the focus for this discussion on unemployment. Delano is suffering from an unemployment rate of about 35%, sharing with other San Joaquin Valley cities this important problem. There is, however, an optimistic outlook for improving conditions in Delano, and there is considerable help available for job seekers. Three leaders in Delano help us understand what is going on now, and about some new projects that will expand opportunities in the city. Our guests from Delano are: Mr. Sam Ramirez, Mayor of Delano; Mr. Keith Woodcock, Delano Community Development department; Ms. Maribel Reyna, Director of the Delano Economic Development & Re-development Department. Also joining the program is Mr. Bill Stevenson, Employer Services Coordinator for the Kern Workforce Investment Board.

Marathon Running

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 09:35:57 -0700

Marathons running and walking is a large and growing sport in the Valley, and today, our Moderator Terry phillips welcomes a panel of experts and questions and comments from listeners as we take a closer look at marathons. Our guests are: Mr. Mike Herman, Race Director of "Two Cities Marathon and a Half" which returns to Fresno/Clovis November 8th; Mr. Ken Takeuchi, Race Director of the "Smokey Bear Run" at Bass lake; Ms. Deb Whitneye-Johnson, Running Trainer at Pro-Cor Fitness; Mr. Craig Wheaton, Director of Visalia Runners; Ms. Lauri Chichester-Taylor, representing the Bakersfield Track Club.

Housing and Homelessness

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 14:19:49 -0700

Moderator Terry Phillips has a full house of panelists for today’s discussion of help for the homeless and information for care givers and those needing medical help. Our guests include two attorneys who are specialists in long-term care planning – Mr. Robert Howk and Ms. Marcella Downing, Howk & Downing, Attorneys at Law. From Californians for Economic Security, Director Ms. Susan Smith brought information from a recently completed study on the cost of long-term care for seniors done by the Insight Center for Community Economic Development. Ms. Cynthia Sterling, President of the Fresno City Council and Representative from Fresno’s District # 3 spoke about what is going on in Fresno, and potential help from federal monies. Mr. Louis Gill, Director of the Bakersfield Homeless Center helps us understand who the homeless are, and points to organizations ready to help. Ms. Sylvia Petitt, Supervisor of the Adult Transition Team, under the Kern County Mental Health System of Care explains how her team helps people. All of our guests have recommended phone numbers or web sites for more information or help. Hicap: For free help with Medicare questions: 1-800-434-0222 Susan Smith, Director - Californians for Economic Security: 510-251-2600 ext. 108 Information regarding homelessness, City of Fresno City manager & City Council office: 559-621-8000 Homelessness help in Bakersfield area: Call 211. Adult Transition Team, Kern County Mental Health System of Care: 661-868-1842

Forgiveness

Tue, 8 Sep 2009 16:02:20 -0700

In an unusual topic for a public affairs program, moderator Terry Phillips and his guests are swamped by callers wishing to share in the conversation. The program starts with a discussion of President Ford’s pardon of President Nixon. Phillips speaks with Professor Jeffrey Crouch, Professor at American University, Washington DC and author of "The Presidential Pardon Power." The rest of the hour features our other three guests: Reverend Father Arshen Aivazian, Parish Priest at St. Paul Armenian Apostolic Church, Fresno; Rabbi Cheryl Rosenstein, Temple Beth El, Bakersfield; Senior Pastor Will Stoll, Northwest Church, Fresno. These three and callers share their personal and religious points of view.

Proposition Nine and Open Line

Tue, 1 Sep 2009 16:48:53 -0700

Today's program stays mainly on two lines of discussion. First, moderator Terry Phillips introduces Fresno County District Attorney Elizabeth Egan to fill us in on State Proposition Nine, the victim’s Bill of Rights also known as Marsy's law passed by voters last election. Ms. Egan talks about the important changes in law regarding victim's rights. Next, we welcome Canadian journalist Sandy Wolofsksy for a discussion on health care Canadian style. Ms. Wolofsky talks with Terry and takes listener calls about health care in Canada.

Same Sex Marriage - The Law

Tue, 25 Aug 2009 16:53:27 -0700

Today's program explores California and Federal law in regards to same-sex marriage and Domestic Partnerships. Our first guest is Mr. Andy Pugno, architect of and Chief Counsel for Proposition 8, an attorney in Folsom, California, and candidate for State Assembly in 2010. Our other guests are Ms. Kathleen Bakergumprecht-Davies, a Fresno attorney specializing in Domestic Partnership law; Ms. Vaughan Bearski, a paralegal; Ms. Jenny Pizer, Senior Counsel and Marriage Project Director for Lambda Legal. Thoughtful questions from listeners help drive this very interesting discussion.

Medical Insurance

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 16:32:24 -0700

Quality of Life joins the national debate on medical insurance today, as moderator Terry Phillips welcomes guests and callers for a wide-ranging discussion. Our guest panelists are: Ms. Norma Forbes, Executive Director of Fresno County Healthy Community Access Partners; Mr. John Capitman, Professor of Public Health at CSU Fresno, and Executive Director of Central Valley Health Policy Institute; Dr. Henry J. Aaron, Senior Fellow in Economic Studies at the Brookings Institution; Ms. Yolanda Prado, Program manager of Kern County Aging & Adult Services.

Water Management

Tue, 11 Aug 2009 15:20:05 -0700

Quality of Life revisits some of the issues surrounding water management in the San Joaquin Valley. Today, moderator Terry Phillips has guests with expertise in farming, nuclear power, integrated water management and reverse osmosis. Callers add some interesting questions to the mix. Our guests are: Mr. Bill Dietrich, a farmer on the west side; Mr. John Hutson, President, CEO of Fresno Nuclear Energy Group; Mr. Mark Cowin, The California Department of Water Resources’ Deputy Director for Integrated Water Management; Mr. Shannon Murphy, Watts Water Technologies. For more information: To arrange a visit to the farm of Bill Dietrich, contact him at agspray@sbcglobal.net

Religious Philosophy

Tue, 4 Aug 2009 16:31:40 -0700

Most of us have some familiarity with the basics in regards to Christian, Jewish, and Muslim religions. There are, of course, many religious philosophies with followers in central California. Today, our moderator Terry Phillips welcomes guests with three very different perspectives: Reverend Kurt Rye, Fresno Buddhist Temple; Amanda Peterson, President, Board of Trustees of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Fresno; Mark Boyd, President & Co/Founder of the Central Valley Alliance of Atheists and Skeptics. This is a very interesting discussion that is most certainly worth your time.

Stay-cations

Wed, 29 Jul 2009 14:58:55 -0700

A new word has entered our vocabulary recently "stay-cation" short for stay-at-home vacation. Many of us are saving money this summer by spending our holidays closer to home. But where to go? Our moderator, Terry phillips, welcomes three guests with lots of suggestions on where to go and what to do within easy reach of our own backyards. Our guests are: Gay Fontana, Fresno Convention and Visitors Bureau; Don Cohen, Executive Director of the Bakersfield Convention and Visitors Bureau; Erin Capuchino, Tourism, marketing & Events Services Coordinator for the Visalia Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Nursing Homes and Rehabilitation Centers

Tue, 21 Jul 2009 15:10:55 -0700

Today's program focuses on skilled convalescent homes as well as in-home care. How good are the facilities and the care? Who regulates them, and what can you do to make sure the services are up to standards? Our correspondent Elizabeth Tracey has a special background report, and moderator Terry Phillips welcomes these guests to our studio: Ms. Pattie Yost and Ms. Randy Walter, both are Ombudsmen for Fresno/Madera County, working with the Valley Caregiver Resource Center; Ms. Terri Garcia, President/Founder of Fresno AngeliCare (In-Home Companion Care).

Community Theater

Wed, 15 Jul 2009 14:11:01 -0700

We explore some of the Central Valley’s many local theaters. Moderator Terry Phillips talks with Jim Spaulding, festival director of the CSU Summer Arts Program (Fresno); Danette Moser, theater arts instructor in the Clovis Unified School District; Heather Parish, artistic director of the Woodward Shakespeare Festival (Woodward Park); Sheila McClure, director of production for the Bakersfield Community Theater; Donald Williams, secretary-treasurer of the Enchanted Playhouse Theater (Visalia); and Chris Haberman, board member of the Visalia Community Players.

Alternative Energy

Tue, 7 Jul 2009 14:55:25 -0700

For an interesting discussion about living with a higher degree of energy efficiency, our moderator Terry Phillips welcomes these guests: Mr. Tom Cotter, Solar Specialist with Real Goods Solar; Dr. Don Hunsaker, Professor in the Earth and Environmental Sciences Department at CSU Fresno; Mr. Pete Schoemaker, renewable energy expert, Pacific Energy Center.

Water Management

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 14:52:33 -0700

Our planet's most valuable resource is water, and in central California we face many important issues regarding the use and management of this finite resource. Moderator Terry Phillips welcomes an impressive panel of experts to discuss the problems and possible solutions. Our panelists are: Mr. Sarge Green, Program Director of Cal Water Institute at CSU Fresno; Kris Kristofferson, Public Information Officer with the Fresno County Division of the California Department of Forestry & Fire Protection joins us for a short discussion about fireworks; Mr. Ryan Jacobsen, Executive Director of the Fresno County Farm Bureau; Dr. Juliet Christian-Smith, Senior Research Associate with the Pacific Institute; Mr. Bill Diedrich, A Mendota Farmer.

A Shortage of Doctors

Tue, 23 Jun 2009 15:23:08 -0700

Central California, like many parts of the country, suffers from a shortage of doctors. Medical institutions are working to overcome the problem in a variety of ways, and there are promising new programs operating now with the intent to recruit doctors and to train local physicians in specialties who will serve patients in the San Joaquin Valley. Our guests are: Dr. Varoujan Altebarmakian, MD,Physician-in-Chief, Kaiser Permanente Medical Center, Fresno; Dr. Dominic Dizon, MD, Professor of Medicine and Clinical Director for Internal Medicine, Medical Education Program, UCSF, Fresno; Mr. David Quackenbush, CEO of Central Valley Health Network.

Police Funding - Proposition 6

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 16:18:20 -0700

Our Moderator Terry Phillips leads a discussion that begins with how California's resources might best be redirected away from incarceration and toward youth opportunities. Zachary Norris, Director of "Books Not Bars" stresses his belief that California's expensive youth prisons be replaced with rehabilitation centers and community-based programs. Another guest panelist, Roselyn Clark, President of the Fresno Police Department Neighborhood Watch Association adds her expertise and experience to the discussion, and many callers share their personal stories and opinions about how police are doing their jobs.

History of Broadcasting

Tue, 9 Jun 2009 14:19:42 -0700

Today, we take a look at the history of radio and television broadcasting in the San Joaquin Valley. With some audio from days gone by, we enjoy a conversation with John Wallace and Colin Dougherty, with a few words from FM-89’s Station Manager, Jim Meyers.

Live from Yerevan, Armenia

Wed, 3 Jun 2009 10:56:51 -0800

Our program today is direct and live from Yerevan, the capital city of Armenia. Terry Phillips discusses life and politics in Armenia with Levon Zourabian, Headquarters Coordinator of the Armenian National Congress, and with Onnik Krikorian, an independent journalist from Great Britain, now living and working in Armenia. Armenia’s relationship with Russia, and the difficulties facing the relatively recently independent Armenia are two of the interesting topics covered in this hour.

Butterflies and Flowers

Tue, 26 May 2009 14:47:07 -0800

Today we take a look at how land Conservancies and our own small at-home environments can support populations of butterflies and flowers. Thousands of acres of foothill land in central California is now under the protection of conservancies such as the Sierra Foothill Conservancy, from which we welcome two of our guests: Jeannette Tuitele-Lewis, Executive Director, and Chuck Peck, Land Protection Director. Also in our studio is Susan Stiltz, Landscape Design Expert with the UC Master Gardeners of Fresno County, University of California Co-op Extension Program. Joining us via phone is Peter Laufer, author of "The Dangerous World of Butterflies: The Startling Subculture of Criminals, Collectors, and Conservationists."

Drugs

Tue, 19 May 2009 14:30:28 -0800

What should our policy be regarding drugs? We look back at last year's vote on Proposition Five, get some expert views and hear from lots of listeners. And our corespondent Elizabeth Tracey files a fascinating report. Guests on the program today are: Ms. Tamar Todd, a Staff Attorney with the Drug Policy Alliance Network - Office of Legal Affairs; Mr. Jim Kirby, Instructor at Fresno City College, who is a licensed clinical social worker.

State Initiatives

Wed, 13 May 2009 09:50:45 -0800

State Propositions 1-A through 1-F are on the ballot, and we welcome some help in understanding what they mean for Californians. Guiding us in the non-partisan portion of the discussion are two representatives from the League of Women Voters: Elizabeth Shields, Voter Services Director; Terri Figgs, Board of Directors member. Making partisan arguments are Tom Hudson, Executive Director of California Tax Payer Protection Committee (against the Propositions), and Bob Prath, Executive Board Member of California AARP (for the Propositions). Thoughtful comments from listeners round out the program, hosted by our Moderator, Terry Phillips.

Bilingualism

Tue, 5 May 2009 14:00:05 -0800

Today’s Discussion on bilingualism in the United States centers on the costs and the benefits of our multi-language society. With language playing a substantial role in all of our personal identities, many, but certainly not all of us place a positive value in our diversity and embrace it. Some see the costs as too high and argue against the official use of languages other than English. We listen to the viewpoints of many listeners, and draw on the experience and expertise of our panelists: John Fitzer, Department Chair of the Fresno City College English as a Second Language program; Sandy Wolofsky, a Canadian Journalist; Dr. Emilio Garza, Assistant Professor of bilingual Education - Advanced Educational Studies Department at CSU Bakersfield; Dr. Irene Borrego, Associate Professor and Multi Cultural Education Coordinator in the Teachers Education Department at CSU Bakersfield. Our Moderator, Terry Phillips, leads the lively discussion.

H1N1 Influenza A and Proposition Four

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 16:18:44 -0800

The first half of today’s program is a discussion of the H1N1 Influenza A situation, and how it is affecting travel and other plans for people in the San Joaquin Valley. The second half is dedicated to a very interesting discussion about the value and difficulties of communication in families - especially between mothers and daughters when the issue is sexual activity, pregnancy or abortion. Marilyn Golleher, Director of the Department of Adolescent Family Services at the Clinica Sierra Vista in Bakersfield, is with us to describe how they counsel young women, and encourage greater communication with parents. Our callers describe how they were able - or in some cases - unable to communicate openly with their parents. Information about the services offered at Clinicia Sierra Vista is available at 661-324-0293.

Medical Technology & Privacy

Tue, 21 Apr 2009 14:29:57 -0800

Our Medical policy issues reporter, Elizabeth Tracey leads off the program with her report, and moderator Terry Phillips welcomes four panelists to speak to medical technology and privacy issues. Sean McFarlan is an RN and Clinical Applications Coordinator in the Chief of Staffs Office of the Veteran’s Administration in Central California; Dr. Dominic Dizon, Assistant Clinical Professor of Medicine and Director of Ambulatory Care at University Medical center, UCSF, Fresno; Dr. Rob Longers, MD., at Kaiser Permanente, Fresno; Deven McGraw, Director of the Health Privacy Project at the Center for Democracy & Technology.

The Economy

Tue, 14 Apr 2009 16:54:20 -0800

Today's program includes a general discussion about economic theory with one of our guests, Professor Mark Martinez, Chairman of the Political Science Department at California State University, Bakersfield. Professor Martinez has written a a new book, "The Myth of the Free market: The Role of the State in a Capitalist Economy." We also went into considerable detail in regards to class action lawsuits against home builders in the Fresno area. Darius Assemi, Vice President of Granville Homes and David Weiland, an Attorney with Dowling, Aaron & Keeler, Fresno brought their expertise to the discussion, and took listener calls. The program finished with a short conversation with Jesse Weller, a spokesman for the Internal Revenue Service, who had some advice for last-minute filers.

Preserving Our Memories

Tue, 7 Apr 2009 14:37:34 -0800

Today’s program takes a look at how we preserve our memories in photographs. Whether it is on a civic or personal scale, most of us have a substantial interest in preserving history through photography. As the medium has become digital, the possibilities for preservation have expanded, and we have several guests with expertise in this area. Howard Watkins is a well-known photographer and archivist in Fresno County, and has an extensive collection. Also, we are joined by Sunny Frazier, from the Hanford Book Fest, Randall Priester, owner of Kamotion Marketing, and Ruth Thomasian, Founder and Executive Director of Project save - Armenian Photograph Archives.

The Future of Media

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 15:35:26 -0800

The title describes the topic quite well for today's program. Our moderator, Terry Phillips, visited the College of the Sequoias to lead a public forum on media. A panel of students and teachers shared their opinions and took questions from the live audience.

Children's Hospital

Tue, 24 Mar 2009 15:20:30 -0800

Today's program is the first in a special series of health care programs in which our medical issues reporter sets the focus. Today, Elizabeth Tracey reports on California's Proposition 3, which was approved by voters in the last election. We'll look at what the Children's Hospital Bond is doing for the hospitals. Joining moderator Terry Phillips on our panel of experts are: Diana Dooley, President & CEO of California Children's Hospital Association; Tim Curley, Director of Community and Government Relations, Children's Hospital Central California; Kristine Aubry, Director for Emergency and Trauma Services for Children's Hospital Central California; Terence Cunningham, Administrator & CEO of Shriners Hospitals for Children. Special funding for our series of health care policy issues comes from California HealthCare Foundation.

Physical Education

Tue, 17 Mar 2009 16:20:28 -0800

Today, our moderator Terry Phillips, guests, and callers discuss the state of physical education in our schools today. Our guests are Nancy Mealer, Coordinator of Health and Wellness for Clovis Unified School District, and Nancy Shelton, physical education teacher at El Diamonte Elementary School in the Visalia Unified School District.

Scams & Safety

Tue, 10 Mar 2009 15:44:40 -0800

Today, our moderator, Terry Phillips, leads a discussion in the first half-hour about a variety of scams and how you can protect yourself. The second half-hour is about safety and injury protection. With us for the first part are Doug Broten, CEO of the Better Business Bureau in Central California. In the second half-hour we welcome Carlos Flores, RN – Trauma Coordinator, Injury Prevention Dept. at Children's Hospital Central California, and Leticia Adkins, a Passenger Safety Technician and Instructor who works with law enforcement in Tulare County. Two suggestions for avoiding financial scams that didn't make it into the program are worth noting here: To keep telemarketers at bay, in addition to signing up for "do not call" is to implement The Privacy Manager. Another is to use pre-paid debit cards with small balances to make purchases.

Education

Tue, 3 Mar 2009 15:35:27 -0800

How well are we educating our children today? Does "No Child Left Behind" create, rather than solve problems? These and many other questions surface in our discussion today, as moderator Terry Phillips welcomes these guests: Larry Powell, Superintendent of Fresno County Schools; Pat Alexander, Administrator, Division of Instructional Services for Kern County Superintendent of Schools; Horace "Rog" Lucido, Retired Physics Instructor, Founder of Educators and Parents Against testing Abuse (EPATA). Our phone lines stay filled as students, teachers and retired teachers have their say.

International Agribusiness

Tue, 24 Feb 2009 14:58:20 -0800

The San Joaquin Valley has depended on the economy of agriculture for many decades, and the business of agriculture is dealing with the same world-wide economic pressures affecting all other businesses. Four guests with substantial expertise join our moderator, Terry Phillips, in an engaging discussion. Our guests are: Paul Betancourt, farmer; Vern Crowder, economist; Susan Smith, Director of Californians for Economic Security; Bruce Allbright, Founder and President of Allbright Cotton.

What We Breathe

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 14:18:31 -0800

Air quality has been a major concern in the San Joaquin Valley for decades, and in recent years much attention has been paid to to farming and ranching practices in regards to their contributions to the problems and solutions. There are cooperative efforts in this regard, and our discussion today brings in both farmers and a representative from the Air Pollution Control District, along with interesting calls from listeners. Our guests are: Manuel Cunha, President of the Nisei Farmers League; Mark McKean, a Riverdale area grower; Rick McVeigh, Deputy Air Pollution Controller.

What we Raise

Tue, 10 Feb 2009 15:30:40 -0800

Today, Terry Phillips leads a discussion on the effects of Proposition 2, which was passed by California voters last November. The new law requires changes in the amount of space made available to chickens, hogs and calves. Our guest panelists are Paul Shapiro, Senior Director of the Factory Farming Campaign for the Humane Society of the United States, and Ryan Armstrong, owner of Armstrong Egg Farms. We take calls from listeners with unique perspectives, such as a poultry Veterinarian and a large egg retailer.

Eating Badly

Tue, 3 Feb 2009 15:05:08 -0800

The first half of today's program is about the very large number of people in the San Joaquin Valley who are overweight, under-nourished, or both. Moderator Terry Phillips calls on Dr. Constance Schneider, Registered Dietitian with the University of California Co-Operative Extension in Fresno County. In the second half, the discussion turns to helping those who need help getting the food they need. Three guests and quite a few callers participate in this conversation. Our guests are: Don Clarke, Director of Donation Services for the Bakersfield Rescue Mission; Louis Gill Jr., Executive Director of the Bakersfield Homeless Center; Dana Wilkie, CEO of the Community Food Bank in Fresno.

High-Speed Rail and Food Transportation

Tue, 27 Jan 2009 15:23:58 -0800

This week's program takes a look at high-speed rail and transportation of food in central California. Californians voted in favor of Proposition 1-A, calling for bond money to be used to construct a high-speed rail line from Sacramento to Los Angeles. After more than a decade of discussion and preliminary planing, it is hoped that work will be able to begin in the reasonably near future. We also discuss the transportation of food, and the value of buying locally grown products. Our guests on the program are Bethany Thompson, Strategic Initiatives Manager for the Economic Development Corporation; Roger Van Groningen, President of Van-G Trucking; Carrie Pourvahidi, Deputy Director of California High-Speed Rail Authority.

Inauguration of President Barack Obama

Tue, 20 Jan 2009 15:16:05 -0800

Today's Quality of life is a special program in which our listeners talk about their hopes and concerns for the new American administration. Moderator Terry Phillips guides the lively discussion on this historic day.

Personal Transitions

Tue, 13 Jan 2009 15:12:30 -0800

Today's program takes a look at two common transitions in life - finding a new job, and changing residences - with little warning. Our first guest is Jeanette Woodward, author of "Finding a Job After 50: Reinvent Yourself For the 21st Century." Then, our moderator Terry Phillips welcomes George Mees, President-elect of the Fresno Association of Realtors with advice on getting ready to move, and then we are joined by Dr. Lynn Buzhardt, DVM and Dr. Sue Steib, PhD, who are co-authors of "Can We Have One? - A Parents Guide to Raising Kids with Cats and Dogs."

Regional Transitions: Changes in the Central Valley

Wed, 7 Jan 2009 13:27:26 -0800

Today's program brings together executive leadership of four of Central California's news organizations to discuss with our moderator, Terry Phillips, the outlook for changes we might expect to see in the next year. Our panelists are: Betsy Lumbye, Executive Editor of the Fresno Bee; Kevin Kennedy, Managing Editor of The Business Journal; Paul Jurley, Community Conversation Editor for the Visalia Times-Delta; Mike Tharp, Executive Editor of the Merced Sun Star; Mike Jenner, Executive Editor of the Bakersfield Californian.

Smart Presents

Tue, 16 Dec 2008 14:31:40 -0800

This is a season for giving, and today Terry Phillips, our guests and listeners exchange ideas and stories about gifts…from planned estate giving, to families volunteering their time to help others. Our guests are Jeff Jaech, an attorney with Baker Manock and Jensen, and Dan De Santis, CEO of the Fresno Regional Foundation. Our callers have many wonderful stories about what has made giving special for their families.

Alternative Energy

Tue, 9 Dec 2008 14:55:11 -0800

Solar power is explored today, as moderator Terry Phillips welcomes guests in the studio and via phone. Franz Weinschenk is a teacher and writes a column about alternative energy issues. Erin Clark is Managing Director of Regrid Power, Tom Cotter is a Solar Consultant for Regrid Power, and Bruce Williford is a biology teacher at Fresno High School. We learn about the Fresno Solar Tour coming up on April 18th, and talk with listeners about their experiences and ideas regarding solar power.

Prohibition

Tue, 2 Dec 2008 15:27:27 -0800

Should our government tell us what to do... and what not to do? Quality of Life moderator Terry Phillips leads the discussion, and gets some expert legal input from Professor Brian Landsberg, Professor of Constitutional Law at McGeorge Law School. And, we receive many interesting opinions from listeners.

Fibromyalgia and AML

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 14:55:09 -0800

Today’s program delves into two troublesome diseases. Fibromyalgia, which is not well understood, seems to cause a general malaise and considerable pain throughout the body. AML – Acute Myelogenous Leukemia is a cancer of the blood, and is a very aggressive cancer. Our guests are Dr. A.P. Sidhu, A Physician and President of Fresno Long-Term Medical Care; Dr. Michael J. Moffett, Oncologist with Cancer Care Associates; Jodie Henslee-Giannetto, a Fibromyalgia patient.

Fresno vs Bakersfield

Wed, 19 Nov 2008 14:48:15 -0800

Where do you prefer to live? Moderator Terry Phillips invites listeners to compare Fresno and Bakersfield. Guests include Jim Shaw, President of Buck Owens Enterprises; Jon Carroll, Development Director of the Fresno Metropolitan Museum; and Bruce Janigian, attorney for William Saroyan.

Local Food

Wed, 12 Nov 2008 16:30:40 -0800

One of our listeners emailed us with this reminder: "There are two things money can't buy... True love, and home-grown tomatoes!" Our moderator, Terry Phillips, welcomes the author and photographer of the book "Edges of Bounty: Adventures in the Edible Valley." William Emery, author, and Scott Squire, photographer discuss their adventure in exploring locally grown foods, and many listeners join the discussion with memories and current home gardening experiences. We also welcomed Ms. Lou Veihn, Treasurer of the Mono Nation, who filled us in on opportunities to learn about the history, food and culture of the Mono Nation at the North Fork museum.

Citizenship Test

Tue, 4 Nov 2008 02:52:53 -0800

Today's election day program is all about immigration and citizenship. Should everyone born in the USA automatically be a citizen? Should some sort of test be required for everyone? We have an Immigration and Citizenship Attorney, Brent Woodward, in the studio to let us know what the law says, and to discuss the process of becoming a citizen. Also, Terry tests the listeners with questions from the actual test used to qualify immigrants for citizenship. Our callers do very well!

College of the Sequoias Political Panel Discussion

Mon, 27 Oct 2008 16:39:04 -0800

Today’s Quality of Life is a special pre-recorded program. Our moderator, Terry Phillips, hosted a panel discussion and audience questions at a live event given by the Arts and Lectures Department at College of the Sequoias. Local political newspaper and radio commentators Joe Altschule and Tom Fife discuss the issues and take questions from the audience. Dr. Peter Tannenbaum, Fresno State professor of mathematics joined via webcam to discuss election prediction models and the math of elections. This program is longer than normal, running about an hour and a half.

Candidates & Issues

Tue, 21 Oct 2008 14:55:47 -0800

Today, our moderator Terry Phillips, with the help of three guests, covers the candidates and issues on the ballots in central California. Our guests are: Jeff Cummins, Political Science Professor at California State University Fresno; Bill McEwen, columnist for the Fresno Bee; James Geluso, reporter for the Bakersfield Californian.

Fresno Mayoral Candidates

Tue, 14 Oct 2008 14:38:21 -0800

Moderator Terry Phillips welcomes the two candidates for Mayor of Fresno, who engage in a spirited and substantive discussion. Questions from listeners and from Phillips cover a wide variety of topics. Valley Public Radio thanks both Ms. Swearingin and Mr. Perea for their appearance on Quality of Life

Local Elections and the Economy

Tue, 7 Oct 2008 15:39:03 -0800

Today’s program first takes a look at some of the local elections, and how voters can get the information they need to make informed choices. Moderator Terry Phillips welcomes two guests: Kay Bertken, Chairperson of the Education Committee of the League of Women Voters; Sarah Woolf, member of Fresno Citizens for Good Government, and co-author of “Choosing Our Future” which is about Fresno Unified School District. The second half of the program is dedicated to a conversation about how the economy is affecting business in the Central Valley. Travis Sheridan, Director of Member Services for the Central Valley Business Incubator is our guest, and he offers an interesting an informed view of the current economic situation, and how it may offer some real opportunity.

Down Syndrome

Tue, 30 Sep 2008 14:19:51 -0800

Today, our discussion is about Down Syndrome, with an emphasis on the Special Education programs available. Two of our guests not only are professionals in education and other services for people with developmental disabilities, they also have children with Down Syndrome. They help us understand that people with the syndrome learn more slowly than others, but that they continue to learn throughout their lives. Fortunately, the school districts and private organizations are able to provide much assistance to families. Our guests are: Denise Allshouse is Founder and President of the Board of Directors of the Fresno Area Down Syndrome Society; Michal Clark, PhD, Executive Director of the Kern Regional Center; Pam Sanders, Special Education Services Administrator of Kern County Superintendent of Schools; Juliana Gaines, Special Education Services Director, Kern County Superintendent of Schools. Fresno Area Down Syndrome Society 559-228-0441 Kern Regional Center 661-327-8531

Hospital Safety

Tue, 23 Sep 2008 14:50:33 -0800

Investigations by State inspectors have uncovered problems in local hospitals. Today’s guests help us understand the importance of these inspections, and discuss the operational realities of safety procedures in hospitals. Moderator Terry Phillips’ guests are: Dr. Herbert Boro, MD, Chief of Quality at Kaiser Permanente in Fresno; Dr. Thomas Utecht, MD, Senior VP and Chief Quality Officer for Community Medical Centers, Fresno and Clovis; Kathleen Billingsley, Deputy Director of the Center for Health Care, California Dept. of Public Health, which is responsible for licensing and oversight of health facilities, hospitals and clinics. Additional information: People with complaints about patient care can contact the California Department of Public Health at: www.cdph.ca.gov

Blood and Blankets

Tue, 16 Sep 2008 14:59:13 -0800

We all sympathize with the victims of fires, hurricanes and other tragic situations. But few of us have taken the necessary steps to anticipate how we would survive such challenges. Quality of Life moderator Terry Phillips invited guests to advise us on what we can do to protect ourselves and to help others. Our guests are: Greg Gallion, CEO of Houchin Blood Services; Lorraine Castro, CEO of American Red Cross, Kern Chapter; Dr. Heather Case, Coordinator for Emergency Preparedness and Response for the American Veterinary Medical Association.

Water Quality

Tue, 9 Sep 2008 14:53:00 -0800

Issues of water quality and quantity take center stage in today’s Quality of Life as moderator Terry Phillips and expert panelists take on a few of the water issues in central California. David Zoldoske, the Director of the CSUF Center for Irrigation Technology & California Water Institute discusses a variety of these quality and quantity issues, and answers interesting questions from listeners. Martha Guzman, a Representative and Attorney for the California Rural Legal Assistance Foundation speaks to the problems of water quality and availability for farm laborers in the Valley, and Shannon Murphy from the Watts Regulator Company in Phoenix, introduces us to the latest in reverse osmosis technology which holds promise for the provision of clean water where it is a scarce resource.

Central Valley Jobs

Tue, 2 Sep 2008 14:59:40 -0800

The Central Valley is one of the fastest-growing regions in the United States. Ironically, it is also one of the hardest-hit in terms of unemployment. On this day after Labor Day, Terry Phillips and our expert guests talk about jobs lost and gained, how bad things really are, and how this picture might improve. Terry’s guests are: Blake Konczal, Director of the Fresno County Workforce Investment Board; Swean McNally, Vice President of Corporate and Government Affairs for Grimmway Farms, Bakersfield; Kirk Vogt, Senior Executive Vice President for United Food & Commercial Workers in Fresno, and President of the Central Labor Council for Fresno/Madera/Kings/Tulare Counties.

William Saroyan Centenary

Tue, 26 Aug 2008 14:26:53 -0800

Today, Quality of Life celebrates the William Saroyan Centenary. The on-going year-long festival includes many of the area’s cultural organizations and an impressive list of special events. Joining our moderator Terry Phillips are: Larry Balakian, Co-Coordinator of the Saroyan Centennial Celebration and a member of the Board of Directors of the Fresno Armenian Museum; Mary La Follette, Director of the Fresno Armenian Museum and a Co-coordinator of the Saroyan Centennial Celebration; John Kallenburg, Chairman of the William Saroyan Society; Jerry Lee, Vice President of Programming and Partnerships for Valley Public Television, KVPT.

Emergency Medical Care

Tue, 19 Aug 2008 15:38:20 -0800

Among the pressing medical issues in central California as well as in much of the nation are the availability and cost of emergency medical services. Two physicians with extensive experience in emergency medicine help us understand the problems, and listener calls relate some illuminating stories. Our moderator Terry Phillips welcomes two guests for this program: Dr. Gene Kallsen, MD is Chief of Emergency Services for UCSF Fresno; Dr. Dennis Martinez, MD is the Medical Director for Hall Ambulance in Kern County and a former emergency room physician at Mercy Hospital in Bakersfield.

Land Trusts and the Russia-Georgia conflict

Wed, 13 Aug 2008 11:50:55 -0800

In the first half-hour, moderator Terry Phillips explores Central Valley land trusts - non-profit organizations that preserve agricultural land, rivers and foothills. Guests include: Dave Koehler, Executive Director of the San Joaquin River Parkway and Conservation Trust (www.riverparkway.org); President Scott Spear and Farmland Conservation Director Dan O'Connell of the Sequoia Riverlands Trust (www.Sequoiariverlands.org); Chuck Peck, Executive Director of the Sierra Foothill Conservancy (www.Sierrafoothill.org). In the second half-hour, journalist Jonathan Sanders and San Francisco State University political science professor Andrei Tsygankov analyze the Russia-Georgia conflict.

Public Education Funding

Tue, 5 Aug 2008 15:25:10 -0800

Quality of Life moderator Terry Phillips leads a discussion of public funding in California for education, and asks the question: "Are you getting your money's worth?" While some programs are "on hold" while the California legislature struggles to produce a budget, our panelists and callers carry on a lively conversation about financing options available to students, and also about the expectations that students and educators have regarding academic performance. Our guest panelists are Jessie Ryan, Outreach Coordinator for the Campaign For College Opportunity, and Steven Watkin, Director of outreach at CSU Bakersfield.

Wine in the Central Valley

Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:32:29 -0800

The wine industry is an important factor in the economy of the Central Valley, and plays an important role in the continually evolving international business. Today, Quality of Life moderator Terry Phillips welcomes guests from different parts of the business, creating an interesting blend for our conversation. Our guests are: Dr. Robert Wample, Research Center Director and Chair of the CSUF Viticulture and Enology Department; Chuck Van Fleet, owner of Vino 100 in Fresno; Laurent Guinand, President of GiraMondo Wine Ventures; Ray Kraus, Proprietor of Westbrook Wine Farm; Chris Shackelford, Co-Owner and Sommelier of Trelio Restaurant in Clovis.

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 16:35:33 -0800

Today's program focuses on Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Moderator Terry Phillips welcomes Vietnam Vet Elliott Storm, author of "These Scars are Sacred" (www.TheseScarsAreSacred.com) and his wife Debbie. From Good Samaritan Hospital in Bakersfield, CEO Tim Kollar (661-215-7500) and therapist Russ Sempll (661-303-1416) talk about efforts to diagnose and treat PTSD. More information is available from the National Alliance on Mental Illness (www.NAMI.org). And Dr. Albert "Skip" Rizzo is a research scientist at the USC Institute for Creative Technologies with some innovative methods using virtual reality to treat veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. More information is available at http://ict.usc.edu/people/400.

Future of Telecommunications

Tue, 15 Jul 2008 14:39:45 -0800

Today's program takes a look at current telecommunications and where it is all headed. Moderator Terry Phillips welcomes panelists Randy Reed, President of Community Media Access Collaborative in Fresno, Leo Laporte, a technology journalist and Host of "This Week in Tech" podcast, and Danille Wade, Customer Service & Marketing Director for Bright House Cable in Bakersfield.

Sports and the City

Tue, 8 Jul 2008 14:12:59 -0800

Today's program takes a close look at the impact that a professional sports franchise can have on a city. Terry Phillips welcomes Bryan Glover, the Managing Partner of the Fresno Grizzlies and David Berri, an Economics Professor formerly at California State University Bakersfield and now at Southern Utah University, who is a co-author of "The Wages of Wins: Taking the Measure of the Many Myths in Modern Sport." It is a fascinating look into the world of sports.

Self Defense

Tue, 1 Jul 2008 16:50:47 -0800

What can we do to protect ourselves against violent crime? Moderator Terry Phillips gets advice from personal safety trainer Kelly Rudolph, author of "Safety Quick Tips" (www.SafetyQuickTips.com); and martial arts instructor Charles R. Hepburn II (www.VitalSelfDefense.com).

Obesity: A Growing Epidemic

Wed, 25 Jun 2008 12:36:02 -0800

Obese - overweight - weight loss: All issues of great importance to our health and the health of our communities. Today, Moderator Terry Phillips welcomes guests with expertise on the many problems associated with an overweight society: Genoveva "Veva" Islas-Hooker, Regional Program Coordinator for the Central California Center for Health & Human Services; Marlene Bengiamin, Research Associate at the Central Valley Health Policy Institute at CSU Fresno; Dr. Portia S. Choi, MD, Deputy Public Health Director for Kern County; Dr. Avtar Nijjer-Sidhu, MD, Community Health Capacity Building Specialist for Kern County.

State of the Station

Tue, 17 Jun 2008 14:51:49 -0800

Today's program offered listeners the opportunity to pose questions to the station's President and General Manager, Mariam Stepanian and Station manager, Jim Meyers. We also welcomed the National Public Radio Ombudsman Alicia Shepard for the network perspective. The conversation with Moderator Terry Phillips and listeners ranged from programming decisions to technical questions.

Child Care

Tue, 10 Jun 2008 15:34:13 -0800

Its an age-old problem... who can take care of the kids? Today, our moderator, Terry Phillips, welcomes four guests with extensive expertise in today's world of child care: Mary Scaff, Senior Program Officer for First 5 Fresno; Wilma Hashimoto, Assistant Director for Child Development for Clovis Unified School District; Lisa Duncan-Purcell, Program Director for Community Connection for Child Care in Kern County; Rose Ellen Burgess, a former teacher operating an in-home day care service designed to help prepare children for school.

Fixing Democracy

Tue, 3 Jun 2008 15:06:19 -0800

Terry Phillips tackles two large issues today – The state of our democracy and electoral politics is the main focus of the program, but a discussion on the graduating student from Fresno’s Bullard High School, who faces possible deportation due to his immigrant status prompts many listener calls. Our guest in the studio is Michael Der Manouel, Jr., Chairman and Founder of the Lincoln Club of Fresno County, who has served in various capacities for the Republican Party. Also joining us are Victor Salazar, Fresno County Board of elections and Sandy Brockman, Kern County Election Board.

Fresno Mayoral Race

Wed, 21 May 2008 15:09:04 -0800

On June 3rd, Fresno voters will decide who - or who will be in a run-off election - to replace term-limited Mayor Alan Autry. Valley Public Radio’s Quality of Life moderator Terry Phillips speaks with all eleven candidates (the only forum to include every candidate) about their views. To give the office-seekers enough time, this is a special two-hour broadcast. You will hear from each candidate on why they want to be mayor. Why they think they are qualified for the job, and what issues are most important to them - and much more.

Alzheimer’s

Tue, 20 May 2008 14:57:16 -0800

A single word that can mean tragedy for an individual and a family. This widespread condition brings a complicated change of life for those affected, and our Moderator Terry Phillips welcomes two guests who help us understand the disease and offer advice on how to begin to deal with it. Dr. Alex Sheriffs, M.D. is the Medical Director of the UCSF Alzheimer Center in Fresno, and Dr. Arnold Bresky, M.D. is a self-described Preventive Gerontologist. Listener calls and emails add much of value in this hour-long discussion. Dr. Sherriffs recommends the book The 36 Hour Day by Nancy L. Mace and Peter V. Rabins, M.D. Dr. Arnold Bresky is the author of The Secret for Caregiver Success.

Forestry Management

Wed, 14 May 2008 15:56:10 -0800

Environmental groups, the Forest Service, and the lumber companies have long-standing differences regarding best management practices for our forests. Moderator Terry Phillips discusses the issues with several guests: John Flaherty from the Sierra Club; Tom Eliason from the Tehipite Chapter of the Sierra Club; Steve Brink, Vice President of California Forestry Association, which represents forest landowners and the logging industry. And, we take your calls and emails.

Alternative Transportation

Tue, 6 May 2008 16:36:35 -0800

Today's program is all about getting around the valley without a car. Busses, trains, bicycles, and good old-fashioned walking all play a role. Moderator Terry Phillips welcomes three guest panelists: Michael Hamilton, Train Master for Amtrack; Lauren Franconi, Executive Director of Bike Bakersfield; John Downs, Senior Transportation Planner for Fresno Area Express (FAX). These experts and callers from all over the valley make for a lively discussion.

Bakersfield Mayoral Race

Thu, 1 May 2008 08:18:56 -0800

Moderator Terry Phillips talks with candidates for mayor of Bakersfield - building contractor Dennis Martinez; film producer Joseph Caporali; tattoo artist, musician and businessman Marc deLeon; incumbent mayor and ambulance company owner Harvey Hall. Political science professor Kent Price of CSU Bakersfield gives expert analysis.

Race Relations

Tue, 22 Apr 2008 14:15:04 -0800

Race relations in 21st century America have certainly changed quite a bit in the past several decades, and our moderator Terry Phillips, guests and listeners discuss their perceptions about how things have changed and the current state of affairs. Our guests are: Ms. Youa Lee, a student-member of the Asian-American group at Fresno City College; Mr. Kamal Abu-Shamsieh, Director of the Islamic Cultural Center of Fresno; Dr. Justin Akers Chacon, Professor of Chicano Studies at San Diego City Community College, and author of "No One is Illegal".

Allensworth

Tue, 15 Apr 2008 15:51:51 -0800

Allensworth, the unique State Park in the central valley is celebrating its centennial this year. Founded by Colonel Allensworth, this community was built for and by African Americans. The history and meanings we can draw from Allensworth are the focus of today’s program. Moderator Terry Phillips welcomes three guests: Steve Tomey, an Interpreter at Allensworth State Park; Dr. Eleanor Mason Ramsey, President of Mason Tillman Associates, a public policy research company; Dr. Clayborne Carson, historian and Director of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Research and Education Institute at Stanford University.

Alternative Medicine

Tue, 8 Apr 2008 17:16:08 -0800

Terry and his guests talk about treating pain with complementary and alternative medicine. Dr. Matthew Norton is a chiropractor and author of "Where Does It Hurt?" Tim Moore is a licensed acupuncturist. Dr. Jonathan Shear is Professor of Philosophy at Virginia Commonwealth University and author of "The Experience of Meditation."

April Fool's Day

Tue, 1 Apr 2008 11:42:08 -0800

With help from our guest, Benjamin Radford, Managing Editor of the Skeptical Inquirer Magazine, Moderator Terry Phillips and listeners have some fun with stories about April Fool’s Day exploits. Mr. Radford recommends a web site at which you can check the veracity of statements you hear or read: snopes.

Hope and Art and What's On Your Mind?

Tue, 25 Mar 2008 14:39:44 -0800

Today's program follows up on last week's with more discussion of the local arts scene with two long-time leaders in central California. Joyce Aiken, Executive Director of the Fresno Arts Council and Nancy Marquez, a founder of FCASH (Fresno Coalition for Arts Science and History) and member of Fresno Arts Council have seen the growth of arts of all kinds in the San Joaquin Valley. In our "what's on your mind" discussion, the subject of AML (Acute Myelogenous Leukemia) was brought up in regards to a possible cluster of the disease in Visalia. We learn that the week of April 6 – 12 is a National Awareness Week for cancer, and that information from a variety of sources will be available to callers at 1-800-477-7666 during that week. And finally, Terry Phillips checks in with Wandering Dave - David Burke - who has finished his travels. Tales of his experiences are available at www.wanderingdave.com

Value of the Arts

Tue, 18 Mar 2008 14:48:27 -0800

Public spending on the arts and arts education in California has, according to our panelists, been woefully low for decades. There are many people in central California communities seeking to create opportunities for artists and students, and that includes our panelists: Cynthia Cooper, Executive Director of the Fresno Coalition for Arts, Science and History - FCASH ; Pam Beecher, Executive Director of the Madera Arts Council; Jeanette Richardson, Executive Director of the Kern Arts Council.

Death and Dying

Tue, 11 Mar 2008 15:08:20 -0800

The one part of living that all of us have to deal with sooner or later is the end of life. That’s the topic for today’s program, as our moderator Terry Phillips welcomes guests with expertise in the many facets of death and dying. Our guests are: Jane Lindberg, Executive Director of Hinds Hostice; Sylvia Miller, Ethics Committee member at St. Agnes Hospital; Dr. Joanne Cacciatori, Professor at Arizona State University, Tempe, and MISS Foundation CEO and Founder; Esther Padilla, Community Outreach Coordinator for Organ and Tissue Donor Network Donate Life California, which can also be reached at 800-588-0024.

Air Quality

Tue, 4 Mar 2008 14:14:44 -0800

On more than one occasion, we have talked about air quality. It's no secret that the Central Valley has very bad air. Many of us suffer measurably from the pollutants in our atmosphere. There are people trying hard to do something about the problem, and on today's program we meet five of them. This program was produced in association with The Maddy Institute. Our guests: Kim Thompason, Air Quality Director for the Fresno/Madera Medical Society; Dr. Michael de Lollis, Chairman of the Community Health Committee for the Fresno/Madera Medical Society; Peter Weber, Chairman of the Air Quality Workshop of the California Partnership for the San Joaquin Valley; Dee Dee D'Adamo, California Air Resources Board; Seyed Sadredin, Executive Director, San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District.

The Flu

Tue, 26 Feb 2008 15:24:18 -0800

It happens every year, and it is never good news. The flu season is in full swing, and Terry Phillips welcomes a panel of experts to help us understand what we can do to avoid the flu, and what to do when we get it. Our guests our: Curtis Allen, Spokesman for the National Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Dr. Howard Backer, Chief of Immunization Branch of the Center for Infectious Diseases, California Dept. of Public Health; Dr. Dennis Martinez, Emergency Room Physician at Bakersfield Mercy Hospital; Shauna Miller, Public Health Nurse; Isidro Fragoza, Health Education Specialist, Fresno County Dept. of Community Health Immunization Program.

A Visit From C-Span

Wed, 20 Feb 2008 09:51:16 -0800

Today, we welcome two representatives from C-Span, in Fresno with the C-Span Bus, and in our studio to talk about the non-profit television and radio services from the cable programming source. Our guests are Vanessa Bailey and Erin Patton, both C-Span Marketing representatives, who also give our Moderator Terry Phillips and our listeners an audio tour of the C-Span Bus.

Libraries

Tue, 12 Feb 2008 16:45:13 -0800

The library, known to most of us now as the Free Public Library, has a long history. As the age of personal computers took hold, many predicted the demise of the public library as an out-dated and no longer needed institution. However, the past decades have seen the growth of libraries, and the old institutions have become even more often used than in the past. Helping us in the exploration of libraries are: Dr. Kevin Starr, California State Librarian Emeritus; Dr. Thomas Frey, Executive Director and Senior Futurist at the DaVinci institute; Karen Bosch Cobb, Fresno County Librarian.

Hair

Wed, 6 Feb 2008 12:24:15 -0800

Whether one has a full head of locks or a slightly smoother scalp... hair is everywhere. How do you manage what you have? What do you do to try to keep it... or try to restore it... or cover up where it used to be? Moderator terry Phillips asks our guests experts. They are: Lorina Alvarez, Licensed Cosmetologist at Sunday Stylist, Clovis; Angela McIlvain, Aesthetician, Santa Cruz; Benjamin Shapiro, Author of "Project President".

Third Parties

Tue, 29 Jan 2008 14:31:42 -0800

In this Quality of Life program, we hear from the political parties that are seldom given any attention by the media. We hear what the parties stand for, and about how they hope to influence the electoral process in California and the nation. Our guests are: Green Party of California - Fresno County Council Member, Larry Mullen; Libertarian Party of California - Fresno County Chair, Rodney Austin; Peace & Freedom Party of California - Madera County Chair, Vickie Fouts; American Independent Party of California - Chaplain, Warren Campbell.

California Propositions

Tue, 22 Jan 2008 14:46:04 -0800

Today's program explores Propositions 92, 93, and 94-97. Moderator Terry Phillips welcomes spokespersons for and against each. Our guests are: Yes on 92 - Zwi Reznik, President, California Federation of Teachers, Local 1533; No 0n 92 - Teresa Wheeler, California Teachers Association; Yes on 93 - State Senator Roy Ashburn; No on 93 - Lew Uhler, President and Founder, National Tax Limitations Committee; Yes on 94-97 - Jacky Parks, President, Fresno Police Officers' Association; No on 94-97 - Cheryl Schmit, Founder and Director, Stand Up for California

Traffic

Wed, 16 Jan 2008 10:28:07 -0800

Today's program is all about traffic - new laws coming into effect, safety issues, and lots of listener's opinions about how we drive in central California. Moderator terry Phillips welcomes two experts to our studio: Capt. Roy Huerta, Commander of the Fresno area CHP, and Capt. Greg Garner, Commander of the Fresno Police Dept. Traffic Enforcement Bureau.

Air Quality

Tue, 8 Jan 2008 15:08:26 -0800

A new air quality report issued by the Central Valley Health Policy Institute, CSUF helps inform today's discussion about air quality and various health issues connected to air pollution. Our Moderator, Terry Phillips. Welcomes David Lighthall, the Senior Scientist and lead author of the report entitled "The Long Road to Clean Air in the San Joaquin Valley: Facing the Challenge of Public Engagement." On the phone we welcome Charlie Eaton, Regional Political Director of United Healthcare Workers Service Employees International Union, and Dale Julin, a talk show host on radio station KXRA-AM in Monterey. The Julin family moved from the central valley to the coast due to air pollution related health problems.

Show #50 air date December 18th 2007

Tue, 18 Dec 2007 17:16:03 -0800

The State’s budget and the proposed health care plans are the main topics for discussion today. Terry Phillips welcomes three guests: Don Jackson, Chairman of The Maddy Institute; Assembly Minority Leader Mike Villines (R-Clovis); Assembly member Nicole Parra (D-Hanford). And we take listener calls as well.

Show #49 air date December 11th 2007

Tue, 18 Dec 2007 17:14:08 -0800

Water conservation, new reservoirs, under ground storage, and repairs needed to the state's levees are just some of the issues facing Californians. Joining Terry Phillips in the discussion are Thomas Holyoke, Political Science Professor at CSUF Fresno; State Senator Dave Codgill (R - Merced); Assembly member Juan Arambula (D - Fresno). Both legislators feel guardedly optimistic about the chances of political compromise on the decades old arguments.

Show #48 air date December 4th 2007

Tue, 18 Dec 2007 17:10:54 -0800

With the U.S. Senate beginning hearings today on the FCC's proposed rule changes regarding media ownership, our Moderator, Terry Phillips, brings in Broadcast industry experts and a well known author for a lively conversation. Our panelists are: Terry Dolph, Broadcasting Consultant, A/Dolphin Associates; Dennis Wharton, Executive Vice President of the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB); Dr. Elliott Cohen, with the Institute of Critical Thinking, and co-author (with Bruce Fraser) of "The Last Days of Democracy: How Big Media and Power-hungry Government Are Turning America into a Dictatorship.

Show #47 air date November 27 2007

Wed, 28 Nov 2007 09:40:44 -0800

Today, Quality of Life Moderator Terry Phillips looks into the world of charitable giving. In the studio is Dan DeSantis, CEO of the Fresno Regional Foundation, and joining the conversation via telephone is Trent Stamp, President of Charity Navigator, a company offering on-line information on many charities throughout the country. Here are some places for more information: www.fresnoregfoundation.org; www.charitynavigator.org; www.unicefusa.org; www.americares.org. Suggested reading; “The Soul of Money” by Lynne Twist.

Show #46 air date November 20 2007

Tue, 20 Nov 2007 16:46:56 -0800

As the holiday season approaches, we look at how to avoid the temptation of too much food - particularly fattening food and lack of exercise. Today’s guests include Dr. John Zweifler, Chief of Family and Community Medicine at UCSF Fresno; Dr. John Capitman, Executive Director of the Central Valley Health Policy Institute at CSUF; and Kezia Frayjo, project manager of the Latino Nutrition Coalition - publisher of Camino Magico, a free bilingual guide for healthier living through traditional Latin cuisine. It is available through their website (www.latinonutrition.org) or by calling (617) 896-4818. More information about obesity prevention can be found at www.cvhpi.org or www.ccropp.org.

Show #45 air date November 13, 2007

Tue, 13 Nov 2007 15:09:57 -0800

Today's program explores the tendency for people to believe conspiracy theories, with special attention to the attacks on 9-11. Our Guests include Dr. David Ray Gifin, Professor of Philosophy, Religion and Theology at Claremont Graduate University; Gene Corley, Senior Vice President of the CTL Group of the American Society of Civil Engineers and FEMA; Brooke Gladstone, Host of "On The Media" from NPR; Professor Bob Levine, Professor at CSUF.

Show #44 air date November 6, 2007

Tue, 6 Nov 2007 14:10:59 -0800

Today’s program covers a lot of political ground, as moderator Terry Phillips welcomes representatives from the Democratic and Republican parties and two other knowledgeable guests. On the program are: Candi Easter, Chairman of the Kern County Democratic Party; Stuart Weil, Vice-Chairman of the Fresno County Republican party; Nicole Winger, Communications Deputy for the California Secretary of State’s Office; Bill Benoit, Professor of Political Communication at the University of Missouri, and author of "Communication in Political Campaigns." Benoit refers us to a website to learn much more about political campaigns, and some political myths: http://www.presidentialcampaign2004.coas.missouri.edu/default.htm .

Show #43 air date October 30, 2007

Tue, 30 Oct 2007 16:35:18 -0800

Today, Quality of Life Moderator Terry Phillips leads a discussion about one of the most common subjects of conversation – the weather. Our guests are: James Brotherton, Warning Coordination Meteorologist with the National Weather Service; Dan Errotabere, a San Joaquin Valley farmer; Angelo Stalis, meteorologist and weather reporter for KFSN-TV; Scott Nestor, from the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District. We also spoke with Jeff Smith from PG&E about weather related power outages such as the rather large outage from Monday night’s thunderstorm.

Show #42 air date October 23, 2007

Tue, 23 Oct 2007 15:36:10 -0800

Our discussion about health care reform in California continues today with an emphasis on the political side of the equation. Our guests are Herb Schultz, Governor Schwarzenegger’s Senior Health Policy Advisor, and Art Pulaski, Executive Secretary-Treasurer of the California Labor Federation. Mr. Schultz provided three avenues for more information or to add your ideas to the debate: www.fixourhealthcare.ca.gov ; email Mr. Schultz at herb.shultz@gov.ca.gov ; or Mr. Schultz’s cell phone – 916-213-0763. For information from the California Labor Federation: www.itsourhealthcare.org or telephone at 510-663-4000.

Show #41 air date October 16, 2007

Tue, 16 Oct 2007 15:05:39 -0800

Health insurance in America is complicated and is a challenge for the business of health care and is also a political football. This week, moderator Terry Phillips leads a discussion about the current state of health care with guests who are truly experts. Dr. Varoujan Altebarmakian, MD is Physician-in-Chief at Kaiser Permanente in Fresno; Tom Epstein is Vice President of Public Affairs for Blue Shield of California; Mark Keppler is the Executive Director of the Maddy Institute at CSU Fresno.

Show #40 air date October 9, 2007

Tue, 9 Oct 2007 13:54:27 -0800

Our guests today are Imam Seyed Ali Ghazvini from the Islamic Cultural Center of Fresno, and Hamid Entezam, an Islamic researcher and lecturer. Our discussion, moderated by Terry Phillips explores religious, social and political questions that are frequently raised. The resulting conversation is engaging and highly informative.

Show #39 air date October 2, 2007

Tue, 2 Oct 2007 14:10:45 -0800

Our discussions on life in big cities and small towns continues today with a look at the quality of life in small towns.Author David Savageau, whose latest book “Retirement Places Rated” kicks off the conversation with some ideas on how to choose a new home town for those who want to move when they retire. In our studio, Betty Morehead from the Pixley Chamber of Commerce, and Steve Rapada, a City Councilman in Reedley, offer their observations of life in their towns. And, we take calls from quite a few people who are very happy with their “small town” lives. Moderator Terry Phillips keeps the conversation going.

Show #38 air date September 25, 2007

Tue, 25 Sep 2007 13:54:52 -0800

Today on Quality of Life, we talk about life in the the Valley’s large cities. We begin with a bit of a sports rivalry between the hockey teams from Fresno and Bakersfield, and the two sports writers that had some fun with it in print. Ken Robison, sports columnist from the Fresno Bee and Andy Kehe, a journalist with the Bakersfield Californian meet for the first time on the air, and enjoy many calls from listeners eager to discuss the positive and negative aspects of city life in the central Valley. Our moderator, Terry Phillips, keeps the conversation flowing in a program that kept the phone lines full for the whole hour.

Show #37 air date September 18, 2007

Tue, 18 Sep 2007 15:33:50 -0800

Writing and publishing a book is a dream for many people, but progressing from an idea to a finished product presents a multitude of questions for the would-be authors. Today's Quality of life explores some of the options for small publishing or self publishing, and also addresses the creative side of this business. Moderator Terry Phillips has two guests who are well qualified to give advice: Scott Flora is Vice-President of About Books, Inc.; Howard V. Hendrix is widely known for his science fiction stories, having published 30 stories and novelettes and five novels. Those seeking more information about writing and publishing can visit www.spannet.org. Information for those looking for an agent is available at www.aar-online.org . For more about Howard Hendrix and his work, visit www.howardvhendrix.com.

Show #36 air date September 11, 2007

Tue, 11 Sep 2007 14:22:33 -0800

On the sixth anniversary of the attacks on Sept. 11, 2001, Quality of Life examines how terrorism has changed our lives. For a national perspective, our moderator, Terry Phillips, welcomes author Clarence Augustus Martin, whose book "Understanding Terrorism: Challenges, Perspectives, and Issues" speaks to this issue. With information about how California is dealing with the threat of terrorism is Jay Allen, Deputy Director of Communications for the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security.

Show #35 air date September 4, 2007

Tue, 4 Sep 2007 16:44:37 -0800

Today's program looks into the relationships of labor and management, and the state of unions today. Our guests are Bobby Kahn, Executive Director of the Madera County Economic Development Corporation; Arlene Ramos-Aninion, Kern Medical Center Clerical Workers; Chryl Brown, Labor Specialist with the UC Berkeley Center for Labor Research and Education. Listener calls provide many interesting questions, and our Moderator Terry Phillips pulls it all together.

Show #34 air date August 28, 2007

Tue, 28 Aug 2007 14:44:02 -0800

Today’s program explores home financing. With foreclosure rates causing problems for borrowers and lenders alike, Terry Phillips and guest panelists discuss the causes and effects of the current real estate market conditions, and answer many questions from listeners. Our guests were Dawn Golik, Operations Specialist with HUD; Kevin Williams, Vice President of Premier Valley Bank; Katy Hudson, President and CEO of Consumer Credit Counseling Service for Kern and Tulare Counties.

Show #33 air date August 21, 2007

Wed, 22 Aug 2007 09:50:36 -0800

Today we consider some of the issues and problems associated with the prison system in California. Our moderator, Terry Phillips, welcomes guests Marisela Montes, Chief Deputy Secretary for Adult programs in the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, and Mary Beth Pfeiffer, author of "Crazy In America: The Hidden Tragedy of Our Criminalized Mentally Ill."

Show #32 air date August 14, 2007

Tue, 14 Aug 2007 15:58:03 -0800

Everyone is interested in education. The range of challenges, opportunities, and problems facing school districts throughout central California run the gamut from mechanical and maintenance to teaching philosophies. Today’s guests fielded many thoughtful questions from callers, as moderator Terry Phillips guided a most interesting conversation. Our guests were Don Holder, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction for the Fresno County Office of Education, and Larry Reider, Kern County Superintendent of Schools.

Show #31 air date August 7, 2007

Wed, 8 Aug 2007 10:06:36 -0800

He's been called Fresno's favorite journalist. Mark Arax is a critically-acclaimed author and a former reporter for the Los Angeles Times. Arax has spent decades covering life in the Central Valley and elsewhere. Moderator Terry Phillips spends the entire hour talking with Mark about the stories he's written as well as the quality of journalism.

Show #30 air date July 31, 2007

Tue, 31 Jul 2007 14:17:53 -0800

Sleep is important for everyone. Scientific studies indicate that insufficient rest can affect many aspects of our lives, from physical and emotional well-being to professional productivity. Our panel of experts discuss causes of sleeplessness, and what we can do to sleep better.Our moderator Terry Phillips welcomes three experts for today’s program: Dr. Kathryn Lee, PhD is a Professor of Nursing in the Department of Family Health Care Nursing at the University of California, San Francisco, and is a sleep consultant for many NIH-funded research projects; Dr. Karl Van Grundy, MD, is a Pulmonologist and a Clinical Professor of medicine at UCSF in Fresno; Dr. Herbert Ross, DC, is Founder of the Aspen Sleep Institute in Colorado, and is an authority on alternative solutions to sleep disorders.

Show #29 air date July 17, 2007

Tue, 24 Jul 2007 14:17:10 -0800

A visit to Yosemite National Park by our moderator Terry Phillips resulted in this information-filled program. Terry walks and talks with Park Ranger Scott Gediman, Mark Gallagher from the Delaware North Company, the park’s concessionaire, Park Service Hydrologist Jim Roche, Park Ranger Adrienne Freeman, and Naturalist and Director of Educational Programs for Yosemite National Park Pete Devine.

Show #28 air date July 17, 2007

Tue, 17 Jul 2007 15:40:16 -0800

Today we explore what may be the number one issue facing all of us. Whether we raise crops, raise children, or simply raise our own standard of living, we need water. Here in the Central Valley, we are interdependent on the supply and distribution of water. And during times of drought, every ounce matters. Joining moderator Terry Phillips are: Paula Landis, San Joaquin District Chief for the California State Department of Water; Don Mills, General Manager of the Kings County Water District; Tim larson, First Vice President of the Kings County Farm Bureau.

Show #27 air date July 10, 2007

Wed, 11 Jul 2007 14:41:19 -0800

Hollywood studios frequently use California's Heartland as a filming location. On this program, moderator Terry Phillips finds out what productions have been made here, what famous stars have strolled among us, and what it takes to get cast as an extra. Panelists include Kristi Johnson of the Fresno County Film Commission, Dave Hook of the Kern Film Commission and Carollyn De Vore of De Vore Talent.

Show #26 air date July 3, 2007

Fri, 6 Jul 2007 15:21:27 -0800

Today's program is about patriotism - what does it mean in America today, and how has the concept changed? Light is shed on the questions by our guests: John Ferling, Historian and Author ("Almost a Miracle: The American Victory in the War of Independence"); Brad Jones, American History Professor, CSU Fresno; Markos Kounalakis, Publisher of The Washington Monthly Magazine, and producer/director of an animated film based on Mark Twain's "The War Prayer," which is heard in this program. Our moderator is Terry Phillips, who, along with the FM-89 staff, wishes you a happy Independence Day!

Show #25 air date June 26, 2007

Tue, 26 Jun 2007 12:14:21 -0800

Take the bus? What about trains or high speed rail in California? Questions about mass transit on a local and state-wide scale are topics for discussion today on Quality of Life. Our host Terry Philips has experts live in the studio and via phone. We'll meet Ken Hamm, Director of Fresno Area Express (FAX); Ed Eames, Chairman of the Fresno ADA Advisory Council; Ron Brummett, Executive Director of the Kern Council of Governments; Carrie Pourvahidi, Deputy Director of the California High Speed Rail Authority.

Show #24 air date June 19, 2007

Tue, 19 Jun 2007 13:52:20 -0800

International trade is our topic today, as our host Terry Phillips moderates a discussion on the impact of international trade on the Valley's economy. Free trade, tariffs, and the need for guest workers are topics of debate these days, and our guests offer their expertise and opinions. Our guest panelists are Riley Walter, an attorney with the Walter Law Group; Congressman George Radanovich, Republican from Mariposa; Carol Whiteside, President of The Great Valley Center; Professor Steve Blank, Department of Agricultural Economics at UC Davis.

Show #23 air date June 12, 2007

Tue, 12 Jun 2007 14:38:28 -0800

Today, we take a trip to the Zoo! Both Fresno and Bakersfield have excellent collections of fascinating animals, and some special learning programs for children. We take a closer look at the California Living Museum in Kern County, and the Chaffee Zoological Garden in Fresno. Join Terry Phillips for this field trip!

Show #22 air date June 5, 2007

Tue, 5 Jun 2007 15:12:19 -0800

Today our Moderator, Terry Phillips, takes us on an excursion into planning for residential and industrial growth in the San Joaquin Valley. As the Valley's population continues to grow, so does the demand for housing, industrial growth, and the need for sound planning. Developers and builders have new sets of problems, and cities and counties are faced with difficult economic and land-use decisions. Helping us get a handle on this complex situation are today's guests: Rick Ballantyne, Executive Officer of the Fresno County Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO); Bob Keenan, Executive Director of the Home Builders Association of Tulare and Kings Counties; Fred Brusuelas, Planner for the City of Visalia. Our phone banks were filled throughout this most interesting discussion.

Show #21 air date May 29, 2007

Tue, 29 May 2007 15:04:21 -0800

In today's program we discuss medical care and other veteran's benefits, and the quality of care received by our wounded troops.There are many services available in central California, and to help inform us, Terry Phillips welcomes Al Perry, Director of the Fresno Veterans Administration Central California Health Care System, Robert piaro, President of California Veterans Assistance Foundation, and Ralph Cansimbe, Manager of Veterans Services Division of California Department of Veterans Affairs. And, of course, interesting calls from listeners.

Show #20 air date May 22, 2007

Tue, 22 May 2007 14:44:14 -0800

Gun control - one of America's most emotional and contentious issues is on center stage in today's Quality of Life. Moderator Terry Philips leads a fascinating and civil discussion about the role of guns in our society. Do we want them? Do we need them? Do the benefits outweigh the costs? You will hear very thoughtful callers giving us their ideas, and an interview with Fresno County Sheriff Margaret Mimms. Also on the program is Dr. Rebecca Stickler, MD, from Kaiser Permanente.

Show #19, air date May 15, 2007

Tue, 15 May 2007 15:23:35 -0800

Where do you like to eat: a neighborhood deli...a fancy restaurant...maybe something in-between? The central valley is home to very diverse cuisine. With all the choices available, how do you decide? Our moderator, Terry Phillips goes in search of the Valley's best food. Joining Terry on the program are Chef Klaus Tenbergen, now an Assistant Professor of Culinary Science in the Culinology program at California State University, Fresno, and who has worked at fine restaurants around the world and is the author of the textbook entitled "On Baking." Also on the panel are Tori Parker, food writer for the Visalia Times-Delta, and Representative Tom Nelson from the Wisconsin State Assembly. All this and listener calls make this an enjoyable program.

Show #18, air date May 8, 2007

Tue, 8 May 2007 14:53:58 -0800

Our pets fulfill a variety of needs from loving companion to trusted guardian. We focus today on dogs and cats, and how well we treat them. The discussion touches on some of the problems associated with over population, and efforts to better control the number of strays and unwanted pets. Our listeners call in with some very interesting questions for our panel, which includes Beth Caffrey, Volunteer Coordinator with the Central California SPCA, and Dr. Gary Shahbazian from the Palm Bluff Veterinary Hospital. Our moderator is Terry Phillips.

Show #17, air date May 1, 2007

Tue, 1 May 2007 16:33:55 -0800

Today's topic is corporate ownership of media. Moderator Terry Phillips and guests discuss the evolving media landscape and issues such as political candidates debates available to the public exclusively on one cable news outlet, and whether consumers are doing a responsible job of finding or paying attention to the growing variety of news and information choices available. Terry's guests are: David Schecter, Assistant Professor in the CSUF Political Science Department; Harut Sassounian, Publisher of the California Courier; Peter Hart, Activism Director for Fairness and Accuracy in Reporting (FAIR); Adam Thierer, Senior Fellow at the Progress and Freedom Foundation; Mary Wilson, President of the League of Women Voters.

Show #16, air date April 24, 2007

Tue, 24 Apr 2007 15:13:16 -0800

Today's program examines an international tragedy with local connections - genocide. For ethnic Armenians in the Central Valley and around the world, April 24th is the day to commemorate the slaughter of more than a million innocent souls living in the Turkish Ottoman Empire. Nearly a century later, their pain persists. Unfortunately, Armenians aren't the only victims of genocide. Similar crimes against humanity continue to this day. Our panel of experts will help us understand this dark side of human nature - and search for hope in the face of evil. Joining our moderator, Terry Phillips, are: George Papagiannis, from Internews; Suliman Giddo, Darfur Peace and Development Project; Chuck Poochigian, attorney and past member of the California State Assembly and Senate; Rev. Yeghia Hairabedian, Pastor.

Show #15, air date April 17, 2007

Wed, 18 Apr 2007 10:43:32 -0800

It's a disease that affects tens of thousands of us every year. It can occur without any significant symptoms, and it can sometimes be very serious. The disease is called Valley Fever. Today, Terry Phillips welcomes Dr. Hans Einstein, well known for his work with this disease. The conversation moves from Valley fever to air pollution and associated medical problems. Also on today's panel are Michelle Garcia, Program Director for the American Lung Association Central California Office; Jaime Holt, Public Education Administrator for the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District; Dr. A.M. Aminian, from the Allergy Institute in Fresno.

Show #14, air date April 10, 2007

Tue, 10 Apr 2007 15:00:00 -0800

The Fresno Film Festival is up first today, as our Moderator Terry Phillips welcomes John Moses, a film professor at Fresno City College and President of Fresno Filmworks, and Stephen Crutchfield, an Oakhurst-based filmmaker. Joining the program via phone is Darren Navarro, a film editor working in Los Angeles. The second part of the program is about civility - Are we less polite than we used to be? Are Americans still perceived as the "ugly American" in the rest of the world? Joining the conversation are Nelsene Deranian, a retired elementary school teacher, Peter Laufer, author of "Wireless Etiquette," and Terri Morrison, author of "Kiss, Bow, or Shake Hands."

Show #13, air date April 3, 2007

Tue, 3 Apr 2007 14:15:19 -0800

There’s no business like show business! Today’s program is all about theatre in the San Joaquin Valley. Moderator Terry Phillips takes a look at the very active theatrical scene with the help of some of the leaders in the field. Donald Munro is the theatre columnist for the Fresno Bess; Dan Pessano, co-founder and Managing Director of Good Company players, Roger Rocka’s Music Hall and Second Space Theater; Kate McKnight-Wippern is music coordinator for the Fresno Unified School District and an actor; Coleen Gundzik, board member of the Bakersfield Community Theater; Chris Haberman, President of the Board of Directors of the Visalia Community Players.

Show #12, air date March 20, 2007

Tue, 20 Mar 2007 16:25:59 -0800

Today, Terry Phillps leads a discussion on going to college. Some of the issues include why people go to college, the problems associated with financing, and some advice to parents who are concerned that they might not be able to convince their children that going to college would be a wise choice. Our guests also explained some of the outreach programs intended to help young students find their way into college. We welcomed Jessie Ryan, Outreach Coordinator of the Campaign for College Opportunity; Chri Cruz, Executive Director of Central Valley Higher Education Consortium; Keith Kelley, President and CEO of Fresno West Coalition for Economic Development; Bernie Vinovrski, Vice President of Enrollment at California State University Fresno; Steven Watkin, Director of University Outreach and Recruitment at California State University Bakersfield.

Show #11, air date March 13, 2007

Tue, 13 Mar 2007 11:52:42 -0800

Where would you like to go on vacation this year? London? Paris? Rome? How about driving around the United States? How about driving around the Central Valley? Terry Phillips invites two guests to share some thoughts on vacation ideas: David Burke (“Wandering Dave”) is already on the road; Gigi Gibbs, from the Fresno Visitors Bureau, would like you to stay right here.

Show #10, air date March 6, 2007

Tue, 6 Mar 2007 16:25:52 -0800

In this issue of Quality of Life we look into computer security. Our panel includes law enforcement officials and banking insiders. How big is the problem? What can you do to protect yourself? Moderator Terry Phillips welcoms Roger Wilson, a prosecutor with the Fresno County District Attorney’s Office andCarrie Bennett, VP of Marketing and Membership with the Fresno County Federal Credit union.

Show #9, air date February 27, 2007

Tue, 27 Feb 2007 15:35:48 -0800

Medical Reform in California is the topic for today’s program. Moderator Terry Phillips, our panel of experts, and callers will examine various proposals to provide better health care for everyone. Among the issues: Is universal medical insurance the solution? If so, how much will it cost and who will pay? Should we tax doctors to offset those costs, or offer them a tax credit as an incentive to treat the uninsured? Our guests: Deborah Riordan, a research analyst for the Central Valley Health Policy Institute; Dr. Joan Voris, Associate Dean at the UCSF – Fresno Center for Medical Education and Research. Dr. Voris practices as an attending physician at the Children’s Health Center; Fran Blackney, Communications Director and Business Advocate for the Clovis Chamber of Commerce; Ruth Liu, Associate Secretary of Health policy for the Central California Health and Human Services Agency. She was instrumental in building the governor’s health care reform plan. Among the callers to the program was Michael Dukakis, former Governor of Massachusetts.

Show #8, air date February 20, 2007

Tue, 20 Feb 2007 15:44:26 -0800

Immigration: Whether we call them illegal or undocumented, millions of people are in the United States without permission. Are these immigrants guests or outlaws? Quality of Life Moderator Terry Phillips, his guests and FM-89 listeners take an in-depth look at immigration. Today’s guests are Ms. Mari Martinez, Host of “Punto de Vista” (Point of View) on Radio Campesina, and Mr. David Bacon, a photojournalist whose latest book is “Communities Without Borders: Images and Voices from the World of Migration.”

Show #7, air date February 13, 2007

Tue, 13 Feb 2007 14:25:00 -0800

Today, Quality of Life goes in search of love. On the eve of Valentine's Day, we'll talk about whether the romance has gone out of relationships. Our moderator, Terry Phillips, welcomes five guests: Ms. Zetta Hadden, Licensed Clinical Social Worker and expert in couples counseling; Ms. Sherri Mosher, wedding planner and owner of "A Vision of Elegance" in Fresno; Mr. Gerald Tomassian, attorney; Ms. Kay Trimberger, author of "The New Single Woman;" Professor Robert Palacio, Chair of the CSUF Sociology Department and research scientist at CSUB Applied Research Center.

Show #6, air date February 6, 2007

Tue, 6 Feb 2007 14:44:20 -0800

Today’s Quality of Life takes a look at the connection between politics and music. Throughout history, artists and musicians have inspired political though. But where are today’s artistic promoters and protesters? Our panel of experts includes: Dr. Benjamin Boone, Associate Professor of Music Theory and Composition at CSUF; Mike Osequeda, Fresno Bee columnist; Gene Butler, actor, writer and composer; Jim Shaw, Musician and Business Manager for Buck Owens Productions.

Show #5, air date January 30, 2007

Wed, 31 Jan 2007 14:30:37 -0800

In this program we examine Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD. This condition affects millions of children and adults. Yet, there is some disagreement about its cause and treatment. Our expert panelists are: Dr. Karen J. Kraus, a Clinical Professor of Child Psychiatry for UCSF in Fresno; Ms. Linda Fiddler, a Resource Specialist at Bessie Owens Primary School in Bakersfield; Dr. Mark Popper, a clinical psychologist and the Director of Sequoia Psychotherapy Center in Fresno.

Show #4, air date January 23, 2007

Thu, 25 Jan 2007 10:27:21 -0800

A nuclear power plant in Fresno? The Fresno Nuclear Energy Group is working to make it happen. The group's President and CEO, John Hutson Joins our moderator, Terry Phillips, along with Dr. Ian Farnan, Earth Sciences Professor at the University of Cambridge, Dr. Aslam Lone, a consulting nuclear scientist, and Mr. Carl Zichella, Regional Director of the Sierra Club.

Show #3, air date January 16, 2007

Thu, 18 Jan 2007 10:45:05 -0800

Quality of Life jumps into the front seat with local law enforcement officers as moderator Terry Phillips explore traffic issues in the Valley. Guests include Fresno Policy Department Officer Andy Hall and Gary Fief and Paul Solorzano from the California Highway Patrol.

Show #2, air date January 9, 2007

Thu, 18 Jan 2007 10:45:04 -0800

California Highway Patrolman Axel Reyes has just returned from the Middle East where, for the past six months, he's been helping to train Iraqi police officers. He'll give us a first-hand progress report.

Show #1, air date January 2, 2007

Thu, 18 Jan 2007 10:45:03 -0800

This week's program is on college sports. Discussing the academic and economic issues of college sports are Tony Caviglia, Head Football Coach at Fresno City College, Andy Zimbalist, author and professor, and Keith Brown, Head Basketball Coach at California State university Bakersfield.