This week on Valley Edition, host Juanita Stevenson talks about plans to privatize the CIty of Fresno's residential trash service, Gabriela Ornelas reports on what a shortage of farm laborers will mean for the Valley's economy, and we learn about a summer program for kids that encourages them to invent the future.
On Valley Edition for July 17, 2012:
Segment 1: Privatizing Fresno's residential trash service
Fresno residents soon may find the city crews who pick up trash and recyclables from their homes each week replaced with employees from private companies. Last month, the Fresno City Council adopted a budget that anticipates $1 million in franchise fees by outsourcing the city's residential solid waste service. The move was part of an effort to close a $16 million budget gap, but some say the result won't be a good thing for Fresno residents. On this portion of Valley Edition, Fresno City Council Member Lee Brand joins us to talk about what this change would mean for the city.
Segment 2: Farm labor shortage
As crops around the Valley begin to near harvest time, some farmers are worried they may face a shortage of workers. Valley Public Radio's Gabriela Ornelas has a special report, and Valley Edition's Juanita Stevenson talks with Manuel Cunha of the Nisei Farmers League and Patricia Stever Blattler of the Tulare County Farm Bureau.
Segment 3: Kids Invent
Summer camp isn't just about activities in the mountains and at the lake. At Fresno State's Lyles Center, it can also be about using math and science skills to invent the future. On this portion of Valley Edition, Stefanie Trevino-Gander joins us to talk about the Kids Invent! after school & summer program at Fresno State, and how parents can enroll their children this summer.
