This week on Valley Edition we talk with the mother of Seth Walsh, the Tehachapi teen who took his life after being bullied at school about his sexual orientation. We'll learn more about a new state law that aims to prevent such tragedies, and a new film about bullying. We'll also learn more about the City of Fresno's ongoing operation to install water meters at every home in the city, and about a new exhibit at the Fresno Art Museum that celebrates the legacy of one of Fresno's greatest artists, sculptor Clement Renzi.
Valley Edition for May 29, 2012:
Segment 1: Seth's Law
In 2010, Seth Walsh, a 13 year old Tehachapi student committed suicide after being repeatedly bullied at school over his sexual orientation. In about a month, a new state law will take effect that aims to prevent such tragedies from happening in the future. AB9, also known as Seth's Law, the legislation is the focus of a forum taking place tomorrow at the campus of CSU Bakersfield. In addition to a forum of guest experts on the issue, the event will also feature a screening of the new documentary "Teach Your Children Well". On this portion of Valley Edition we talk with Seth Walsh's mother, Wendy Walsh about her efforts to prevent similar tragedies from happening in the future, through the Seth Walsh Foundation. We also talk with Vincent Pompei, a foundation board member and the Director of the Center for Excellence in School Counseling and Leadership. Filmmaker Gary Takesian also joins us to talk about his new anti-bullying film.
Segment 2: Water meters for Fresno
After decades of debate and controversy, within about six months, all of Fresno's residential water customers will be on water meters. The City of Fresno's contract with the federal government for water from Millerton Lake requires the installation of meters at homes throughout the city, a process that is now well under way. In fact some customers are already being billed under the new water meter system. What will this mean for residents' water bills? And will it result in improved water conservation in the city? Patrick Wiemiller Director of the City of Fresno's Department of Public Utilities joins us to talk about the water meter program and how it will affect local residents.
Segment 3: Clement Renzi exhibit
From Downtown Fresno's Fulton Mall to Fresno State, Fresno City College, the Visalia Convention Center and beyond, the bronze sculptures of Fresno's Clement Renzi are among the most beloved pieces of art in the San Joaquin Valley. Renzi, who died in 2009, was a prolific artist, and his work is now being featured in a special exhibit at the Fresno Art Museum which opens this Thursday. Linda Cano, Executive Director of the museum joins us, as well as local artist and exhibit curator Mark Rodriguez to talk about the life and work of one of Fresno's most famous artists.
