Vox Pop Influentials - March / April 2013

FEATURED STORY JOhn D. WElTY:FRESnO STATE PRESiDEnT

Can You Really Buy Success?

The Ever-Changing Face of Cuba

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2 VOX POP Influentials

A lot of wonderful things happen in the spring as the weather warms.

Beautiful flowers and blossoms bloom, mountain snow melts filling our lakes and streams, and people like Alyssa Perry and her 15-team members begin training for some special races ahead later in the year.

April is host to a slew of national and international celebrations as well. We have Easter, Passover, Earth Day, Spring Equinox, Tax Day, and two of my favorites Koninginnedag Day (in the Netherlands) and Opening Day (for whichever baseball team you favor)!

I recently learned that Alyssa Perry decided to run in two significant races to raise money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS). One is Disney’s Half Marathon in Anaheim on September 1st (the Dumbo’s Double Dare race, which is a 10K) on August 31st, and a half marathon the next day. This race starts and finishes at the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim.

A month later Alyssa plans to run again in Nike’s Women’s Marathon in San Francisco on October 20th. Her goal is to be the top LLS fundraiser in Tulare County. Personally, she hopes to raise $10,000. I agreed to help her out as best I could since a loved one of mine was recently diagnosed with lymphoma.

Before I told Alyssa my personal cancer story, I asked her why she was running. Her answer was simple and direct - “Because I can,” she said. After I told her my story she said I inspired her, and her new personal motto would be just that: “Because I can.”

No one on Alyssa’s running team has ever competed in a marathon or a half marathon before. They are pretty serious contenders though. They will be training as a team two days a week for five months, and then on other weekdays they will individually train.

Each person on her team has committed to fundraise $2500. In the past I have admired people like Alyssa and her teammates from a distance, not really knowing much about

this type of fundraising for blood cancers. Now I know that people like Alyssa, a mere 24 years of age are much older and wiser than they appear. Until recently, I knew very little about chemotherapy or the different treatment regimes of individuals diagnosed with diseases like leukemia and lymphoma. I had never even heard of words like Nupogen, Rituxan, Cytoxin or Vancomycin. That’s all changed now.

Alyssa and I know that many people are fighting for their lives against these cancers. Leukemia is the number one disease killer of children, and every ten minutes someone dies from this disease.

Young, extraordinary people, like Alyssa, are not athletes, but they are making athletic commitments. They are organizing running teams, making new friends, and in the process are accomplishing amazing things, not for themselves, but for others. Alyssa says she wants to be the voice of those most affected by cancer. She wants to raise awareness and help fundraise for LLS research. “That’s what I will do. That’s what I am doing,” she proclaims.

Today, there are drugs and treatments available that weren’t around five years ago, but more funding is needed to keep the research moving forward.

I promised Alyssa that I would help her with her crusade any way I can. If you or your business would also like to help Alyssa’s Team, it’s pretty easy to do so. Alyssa’s email is [email protected].

I know Alyssa will appreciate any donation, no matter how small. All of the $10,000 she will raise will be donated directly to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

Since it is April, how about springing into action yourself? Help ACS or LLS runners like Alyssa who are so motivated to help others. I certainly plan to do so!

R.J. Latronico, Publisher

PublisherR.J. Latronico

Creative DirectorJennifer Lingard

ContributorsAlana Unger, Harvey Mackay, Kurt Eichsteadt,

Cathy Humerickhouse, Emily Latronico

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Volume 8 Issue No. 2 March/April 2013

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CENTRAL VALLEY’S VOICE OF THE PEOPLE - INNOVATIVE, INSPIRATIONAL, INSIDE MAGAZINE

April - The Perfect Time to Spring Into Action

[ FROM THE PUBLISHER’S DESK ]

Parents have come to the Bianco Law Firm in Visalia, California, for help in determining custody and visitation. Our focus is to resolve disputes peacefully while always looking out for the best interests of the child.

Child Custody and Visitation for Married Couples

At the Bianco Law Firm, our family law practice includes representing clients in child custody and visitation related matters. For married couples, we use the legal mechanisms in place to determine custody and visitation schedules that are in the best interest of the children.

While mediation is not required by the courts, we believe that sometimes this is the best strategy to use to move toward a resolution. It shields the children from a sometimes-ugly process and facilitates future, postmarriage relationships.

Child Custody and Visitation for Unmarried Couples

Unmarried couples do not have a formal legal process to resolve their disputes. Their options are limited to filing a petition to determine paternity of the child. That legal finding can protect an unwed father’s rights and result in a court order for custody or visitation. While there are challenges, we have the experience to resolve child custody disputes for unmarried couples.

Child Custody and Visitation Modifications and Enforcement

A court order establishing child custody and visitation schedules does not mean that the mandate will be followed to the letter. Job changes and second marriages will take a parent out of state, requiring a modification of the order. Other times, we have to move in to ensure enforcement of a child support order if one parent is not cooperating. Our job may not be over until your child reaches the age of 18.

Contact the Bianco Law Firm at (559) 732-8654 for more information or to schedule an appointment with an experienced lawyer regarding a child custody or visitation matter.

Phil and John Bianco | 118 E. Oak Street | Visalia, CA www.BiancoLawFirm.com


FROM THE PUBLISHER’S DESK2 April - The Perfect Time to Spring Into Action.

WEALTH & FINANCE6 Harvey Mackay has traveled to Cuba a half dozen

times and has some unique observations about this island of 11 million people. What moral could Mackay possibly offer us about Fidel Castro, the Cuban people and the U.S sanctions imposed there?

8 Kurt revisits three very interesting Rich Man stories while providing us with a few new twists and turns. Follow along as the lives of Conrad Black, Carlos Slim Helú and Lynsi Synder, (now Lynsi Torres of In-N-Out Burger fame) are all brought up to date.

HEALTH & WELLNESS12 Alana Unger: Motivation is key to committing our

efforts in the pursuit of success. According to Alana, we need to put stakes on the table (and offer something to lose) if we wish to achieve their goals.

24 Cathy Humerickhouse, RN, LMFT: Communication is a key part of building healthy relationships. Cathy informs us that there are five key skills we need to learn if we want to develop healthy relationships with our partners, family and friends.

FOOD & WINE26 Kurt Eichsteadt: Cheers! The Wine Institute has

declared April as “Sustainable Wine Month.” Did you know that there are three kinds of winemaking during this month: Sustainable, Organic and Biodynamic? Kurt explains them all.

ENTERTAINMENT28 Kurt Eichsteadt: Don’t waste your time watching

awful movies! Kurt’s recommended DVD picks this month include: Life of Pi, Les Miserables, and The Impossible. A DVD DON’T this month is Hyde Park on the Hudson.

JOhn D. WElTYThis summer Dr. Welty will retire as the longest serving president in the 102-year history of Fresno State. The oldest of six children, Welty grew up on a small family farm in North Central Illinois and was the first in his family to graduate from college. CSUF has been very fortunate to have John Welty serve as president for the past 21 years. He leaves behind a lasting legacy at Fresno State and some very large shoes to fill..

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FEATUREON THE COVER

COnTEnTS MARCh/APRil 2013

www.voxpopinfluentials.com 5


The 1986 measures taken against South Africa surely hastened the end of apartheid. In most other cases, embargos are a blunder. Take Cuba. We started imposing sanctions against Cuba a half century ago. Where have they gotten us? The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has put a number to the impact. It cites estimates that the embargo annually sacrifices $1.2 billion in U.S. exports and revenues. That’s nearly twice the cost suffered by Cuba, experts contend. George Shultz, Secretary of State under Ronald Reagan, said in 2009: “With the cold war behind us, we should simply remove the embargo on Cuba.” I just returned from my most recent visit to Cuba, having now been there a half-dozen times. This visit convinced me there will be a tremendous change in Cuba in the next five years. No one will recognize it from the paternalistic, cradle-to-grave operation that country has been in since 1959. That’s when Fidel Castro took power.

In 1976, I led a 21-person trade delegation to Havana for five days. Our goal was to negotiate future trade with Castro. That’s also when I learned he spoke perfect English - after I struck up a conversation with him about his passion for bowling. When Fidel checks out, Father Time will be the likely culprit.

After all, El Comandante has survived countless assassination attempts and is 85. Meanwhile his younger brother -- the modest and pragmatic Raúl -- is really the helmsman. As to speechifying,

Raúl is the short-winded sort, something his brother has never been. Fidel recently summoned sixty world leaders and harangued them for four hours. His wife made him rest for an hour, but then the octogenarian came back and pitched for another four. Raúl, president of the Council of the State of Cuba since 2008, is a savvy problem solver. Smoothly, and under the radar, Raúl has been dismantling Fidel’s classical communist agenda:

He’s released a hundred political prisoners.•He doesn’t assail the U.S. as the root of all •Cuba’s problems.He has organized grassroots feedback organizations •for himself.178 categories of activity are now licensed for private-•sector development and entrepreneurship.In the next five years, 40% of the economy will •be privatized.Education is revered, and the population is remarkably •well schooled. And, tourism has displaced sugar as the single most •important force in the economy.

Compared to Jamaica, Haiti, El Salvador, and Honduras, Cuba is a jewel for the average citizen. The government pays all basic living expenses. With great medical care, its life expectancy rivals that of the United States.

Life is still no day at the beach for the 11 million people of Cuba. Raúl is reputed to be as brutal as he is tough. Officials still get fired for dissing the government, which happened to two of them recently. Discretionary spending is a fantasy. The average Cuban income is a paltry $20 per month, since their essentials are basically provided.

With some of the richest soil in the world, Cuba stunningly imports 80% of its food. When the spigot of Soviet aid was stilled as the 1990s began, a $5-billion lifeline disappeared. Raised

[ WEALTH AND FINANCE ]

Cradle-to-grave Cuba:Cradle-to-grave Cuba:

by Harvey Mackay

Raúl Castro


100 Willow PlazaSuite 106Visalia, CA 93291

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Poised for rebirth?Poised for rebirth?

with a guaranteed lifetime job script, the new directive quickly became: If you want to live, you have to work! Getting to work is a daily trauma for many on an island outfitted with pre-Revolution 1950s American autos.

Freedom is stifled everywhere. While many Cuban kids have Facebook page, Internet access is restricted. Cubans hunger for the Internet and travel freedoms we take as givens. They also know a great deal about America. While bewildered by some of our political quirks, their affection for us Yanks is remarkably high.

With the embargo in place, Cuban importing is a do-it-yourself proposition. Our group of 35 CEOs and spouses saw an unforgettable sight at the Miami airport: A six-block-line of Cuba-bound travelers standing 4-abreast with shrink-wrapped goods for their relatives and friends. Their parcels included food, medicine, clothing, blankets . . . and even a washing machine!

Despite sanctions up to a half-million, Cuban Americans fly to their ethnic homeland annually. Speculation about a possible oil bonanza in Cuba might cause us to look at the embargo differently. It may take something that dramatic for sanctions to end and for U.S. cruise ships to dock in Havana Harbor. Meanwhile, one wonders if Washington realizes who is paying the real price.

Mackay’s Moral: Sanctions rarely speed democracy . . . especially when a regime has already begun to tilt in our direction.

Reprinted with permission from nationally syndicated columnist Harvey Mackay, author of the New York Times #1 best seller “Swim With the Sharks Without Being Eaten Alive” and “Use Your Head to Get Your Foot in the Door”. “The Mackay MBA Of Selling In The Real World” is Mackay’s seventh New York Times Bestseller. It’s #1 on the Wall Street Journal Business Bestseller list, and #2 on USA Today Money Bestseller.



INTRORegular readers of our Rich Person profiles may have noticed that often times the subject has passed away by the time we get around to them. Obviously nothing about them has changed since the time we first wrote about them.

However in this issue, we’ll look at three previous subjects who are still alive and see how their situations have changed. We’ll check in with Conrad Black who was on his way to prison, Carlos Slim Helú who was the richest man in the world, and a member of the family from the legendary In-N-Out Burger.

CONRAD BLACK THEN (2007)When we first profiled Conrad Black, he was going to prison for embezzlement and wire fraud. His real crime was stealing money from his companies for personal use.

His defense attorney pointed out that although Black was charged with bilking shareholders out of $84 million, he was convicted of embezzling “just” $2.9 million.

He started his career in Canada in 1969 with one newspaper. Over the next 30 years, he acquired control of some of Canada’s most important blue chip companies and newspapers like the London Telegraph Group, the Chicago Sun-Times and several hundred others. By 2003 he was out as chief executive. The company was demanding repayment of money he was accused of taking. At the time, his response was, “Two years from now, no one will remember any of this.”

He knew how to live: A New York apartment (purchased by the company) was filled with antiques including Napoleon’s shaving set. A London home, in the Kensington district, cost about $7 million in 1992, not counting the house next door, which he also purchased. He also had the holding company donate hundreds of thousands of dollars to charities in New York City and museums, opera houses and libraries.

Unfortunately for Black, when we last saw him in 2007, he had been convicted of federal charges. He was sentenced to six and a half years in the big house. Two of the charges were overturned on appeal and he was resentenced on the remaining two counts to 42 months and a fine of $125,000. He was released in May of 2012.

CONRAD BLACK NOWIn October of 2012, he was fined $6.1 million for security violations related to the chairmanship of his holding company, which is being delayed while some other appeals are resolved.

In the fall of 2012, Black published a memoir, A Matter of Principle, in which he gave his version of his indictment and trial (basically denying everything). When challenged by a writer for the Financial Times of London that he was found guilty on four counts, even though two were overturned on appeal, he replied, “You cannot be serious.”

by Kurt A. Eichsteadt

A Rich Man and His Money:

Flashback Edition



The Sunday Times of London said, “There cannot have been many more arrogant or self important men who have ever put pen to paper.”

He devotes an entire epilogue to the inequities in the American legal system, but according to him, his behavior inside was impeccable.

One of his defense attorneys, Edward Greenspan, said, “Conrad’s flawed account of his own trial is a reminder of how seldom an accused person actually grasps what is going on.”

Most recently in January, it was announced that Black would host a Canadian TV show called The Zoomer-Television for Boomers with Zip, targeted to those over 50.

CARLOS SLIM HELU THEN (2008)In 2008, Carlos Helú Slim was one of the top five richest men in the world, with a fortune somewhere in the area of $60 billion. (He said he didn’t care about the ranking).

In our original look at Slim we said, depending on your point of view, he was gifted and spotted undervalued companies or he used close ties with the Mexican government to his advantage. He said he targets companies that are undervalued and have sufficient cash flow to support further acquisitions.

Anyway, he bought those undervalued assets and then in 1990 got 20% of the Telmex (landline and wireless phone business) in Mexico. Plus, he got a seven-year guarantee of monopoly status.

Also in 2008, Slim became the third largest outside shareholder in the New York Times.

CARLOS SLIM HELU NOWSince our first encounter, Forbes ranked Slim as follows: 2009, third; 2010, first; 2011, first and 2012 first. In March of this year, Forbes again anointed him the richest man in the world, with a net worth of $73 billion. That’s up from $62 billion in 2008. (Bill Gates is second at $67 billion).

Over the last two years, he was fined three times totaling more than $1 billion by the Mexican antitrust commission (Cofeco) and agreed to lower “interconnection fees” paid by competitors.

On the other hand, in February, Slim and Bill Gates opened the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT) to “promote research and the development of agricultural technology

to increase farmers’ productivity and reduce hunger among the world’s poor people.” In a release announcing the formation of CIMMYT, Gates added that he and Slim had collaborated before in launching another initiative to support health projects in Chiapas, Mexico, and across Central America.

IN-N-OUT THEN (2010)Founded in 1948, In-N-Out has been selling the best burgers for decades. They have stayed true to their concept: “Give customers the freshest, highest quality foods you can buy and provide them with friendly service in a sparkling clean environment.” None of the ingredients are frozen. No microwaves are used. Milk shakes are made with real ice cream. The burgers are 100 percent beef. French fries are cut by hand in each restaurant.

After founder Harry Snyder died in 1976 (there were 18 locations), his wife and sons Guy and Rich ran the company. Rich was killed in a plane crash in 1993. Guy continued to expand the company, but died in 1998 from what the coroner said was a drug overdose.

The company continued to grow, but in 2006, a legal free for all broke out between the managers of the company and 24-year old Lynsi Synder, who was Guy’s only biological child. There were terrible accusations in all directions, but all the litigation stopped the same year with confidential statements issued by their attorneys.


Bill Gates with Carlos Slim Helu


IN-N-OUT NOW A charitable foundation formed in 1995 gave away more than $1,500,000 in 2012.

Lynsi got 50% of the company in 2012 and will get full control in 2017 when she turns 35.

In February of 2013, Bloomberg News said that Lynsi (now Lynsi Torres), the president and owner of In-N-Out, is one of the youngest billionaires in the world, clocking in at about $1.1 billion. In an email to Bloomberg, one of the company’s other executives said that since In-N-Out is a private company, any valuation of the company is speculation.

In a very rare interview with the Orange County Register, Torres said that she is very involved with the company; however, major decisions are made by a committee of senior managers.

She’s married to racecar driver Val Torres Jr. and competes in amateur categories at National Hot Rod Association Events.

In addition to California, there are now 281 locations in Utah, Arizona and Texas. All the locations are within short distances of distribution centers in California and Texas.

There you have it! As the old saying goes, the rich do indeed get richer sometimes, but only if they are able to avoid lengthy prison terms and fierce family fights!



As a Registered Nurse and Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, I believe in treating the whole person which encompasses aspects of the individual’s biological, pyshcological, social and spiritual needs.

Emphasis Includes:

Reproductive Grief (Infertility/Miscarriages)• Medical Illness/Diagnosis• End of Life Issues• Marital/Relationship Issues• Blended Families• Anxiety/Depression•

Cathy Humerickhouse, RN, LMFT

Call Me (559) 625-6752


“Desire is the key to motivation, but it ’s determination and commitment to an unrelenting pursuit of your goal – a commitment to excellence – that will enable you to attain the success you seek.” - Mario Andretti

I have many patients who come to me because they are “motivated” to make a change in their health. They have a great desire to eat healthier and exercise regularly to avoid having a second open-heart surgery. They are motivated to lose weight for health, beauty, or to ease the agonizing pain on their joints. They have a desire to control their blood sugars to avoid heart disease, kidney

disease, and amputations. Although these motivators would seem to be ample to fuel their success, many do, and will continue to fail. The desire to succeed and the motivations that drive us to make change are not enough to carry many of us through to true success.

Somewhere along the path to success, our motivation falters. Our desire to eat junk food wins over our desire to be healthy, feel healthy, and look healthy. Our desire to sit and watch reality shows and sitcoms wins over getting up to exercise our heart, the most important, life-sustaining muscle in our body. Does this sound reasonable? Trading in our quality and quantity of life for sugar, fat, and excessive couch time? Hopefully you see the ridiculous lack of logic, but

does it sound all-to-familiar? Are you motivated but failing at achieving your health goals?

It may comfort you to know that you’re not alone. This phenomenon of being fired up without follow-through covers society like a plague. But there are those who are able to successfully achieve their goals – what’s their secret? As Mr. Andretti said, desire brings motivation, but commitment brings success. “…Commitment to an unrelenting pursuit of your goal – a commitment to excellence…” Can you honestly say that you have shown an unrelenting pursuit of your goals, letting nothing and nobody get in the way of your success? Few people show this level of commitment – but, if they do, they are the material of great success stories.

Can you Buy Success? There is a new approach that just might help you write the first chapter in your own success story. What if you could simply pop into an online store and put your money where your motivation is? What if you could buy the commitment that is the missing component in your quest of success? Would wagering against your failure fuel an unrelenting pursuit of your goal? Let’s look at a couple of online “stores” that might have just what you need. You decide if you want to “shop for success.”

stickK it to Yourself! Economists at Yale University have done extensive research on the effectiveness

[ HEALTH AND WELLNESS ]

by Alana Unger, Registered Dietician

Put Your Money Where Your Motivation IsCash In on CoMMItMent


of commitment contracts. They have found that individuals who put stakes on the table (those who actually have something to lose rather than the usual pursuit of gain) are far more likely to achieve their goals. stickK.com provides a format for you to bet on your success and push your motivation to a level of commitment. Here’s how it works:

1. Goal: Start by deciding what you want to achieve and when you want to achieve it by. Preset goals include weight loss, regular exercise, smoking cessation, or you can customize your own goal.

2. Stakes: Lay the money down! How much money do you need to risk losing to give you that push? How much incentive do you need? Each week you don’t meet your set goal, stickK will send this amount of money (from your credit card) to a friend, a charity, or an anti-charity of your choice. (This step is optional but effective!)

3. Referee: Invite someone you know and trust to keep you honest and verify your progress reports to stickK. (This step is also optional; you may choose the honor system.)

4. Supporters: Invite other stickK users in to support and cheer your success or push you when you’re efforts are slipping. They will make daily comments in your commitment journal. (Note: you can customize the privacy level of your profile, contract, etc.)

Now, get to it! Take all necessary steps to achieve your goal – or pay up! How many weeks of money penalties do you need to keep you on the straight and narrow? Get on track, or stickK it to yourself!

All Bets In! If your goal is to lose weight, but stickKing it to yourself seems more punishing than you’re ready for, perhaps you prefer the reward system instead. If you’re into gambling and group work, take a look at dietbet.com. This four week social dieting game invites you to join forces, and money, with others to spark your determination to succeed.

Go online to dietbet.com to see what groups have a game starting. To join a group, you simply have to place your bet into the pot in the amount set by each group. The more players that join a group, the more the pot grows. Currently, one group has an entry bet of $35 and currently has 480 players – which makes the pot $16,800!

Let the games begin! Send in your beginning weight and photo. For the next 28 days you can submit photos, comments, etc. as desired to the site. Invite others to be your cheer team for support. Benefit from their motivation and weight loss tips. Some of the players in your game may be trainers or simply other persons with the same desire to lose weight. Participate as little or as much as you need to motivate yourself to lose weight successfully.

Moment of truth. At the end of the 28 days, send in your current weight and photo (see the site for details on how this is verified). If you have lost 4% of your starting weight, you win!! And so do all other players who lost 4% of their starting weight in the same 28-day period. So, if we look at the group with a $16,800 pot – if 200 of the players all lose 4% of their weight, they split the pot 200 ways: $84 each! If only 100 of the players meet the 4% goal, they each receive $168! Not bad for a $35 investment!

At the end of the month (win or lose) did you find that motivation to commit your efforts to the unrelenting pursuit of success? Do you need another month to continue making progress? Wanna bet on it?


With the acquisition of a 3.0 Tesla MRI at Visalia Imaging, a new standard for high-tech medical imaging has been set. Our community has an innovative medical asset enabling patients to stay local for their critical diagnostic imaging studies. We are able to offer the most spacious, highest quality MRI in Tulare and Kings Counties.

The Discovery MR750w 3.0 T with GEM Suite coil technology is a result of GE Healthcare’s mission to humanize the MRI experience for all those involved - the patient receives a more comfortable scanning experience, the technologists have ease of use, speed and simplicity, and the radiologists can count on superb image quality along with advanced procedures, exams and protocols. This focus of caring only helps to serve the ultimate goal of bringing the best possible diagnostic imaging capability for the most advanced and demanding exams.

THE POWER AND PERFORMANCE OF THE 3.0T IS INTEGRATED WITH AN OPEN ARCHITECTURE FEATURING:

Enlarged opening (bore) - 4 inches larger • in diameter

Shorter tube than conventional MRI •

Aspects to accommodate the claustrophobic, • elderly, or young patient

Allowance for an increased weight limit •

Table cushion with varying densities for • enhanced patient comfort

Twice the magnet strength of current MRI’s•

Significantly higher image quality•

Faster scan times•

Acoustic noise reduction•

Feet first positioning•

By having two magnets, the Open MRI and the 3.0 T MRI, scheduling backlogs will be a thing of the past. The possibility of scheduling as many as 35 patients in one day is now a reality. We are seeing an improvement in this facility’s workflow and productivity, and we expect a reduction of cancelled exams due to less patient anxiety. Patient satisfaction is our major focus; it can be difficult for patients who are not just looking for answers, but assuring care along the way. Less clinical, more personalized experience is what our patients deserve.

For additional information, please contact:

Brooke Mack, Physician Liaison 559-734-5674 www.visaliaopenmri.com

FUTURE FOCUSED…PATIENT CENTERED


To find out more visit www.smartooth.com or call 559.686.17731040 N. Cherry St. - Tulare (formerly the practice of Dr. Costin Marinescu)

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Last year Fresno State President John D. Welty announced his plan to retire this summer. Dr. Welty is the longest serving president in the 102-year history of Fresno State. His tenure began at CSUF in 1991, twenty-two years ago. He is now 68 years of age.

Under Welty’s leadership, Fresno State has enhanced its academic programs and overseen the construction of $425 million in new facilities. Enrollment has grown from 19,800 to over 22,000 students. Today, the school offers 61 undergraduate degrees, 45 master degree programs, and three doctoral degrees.

VPI thought it might be an opportune time now, before summer, to talk with John about his accomplishments and his fondest memories over the past two decades.

R.J. LATRonICo: What do you consider your top achievements at Fresno State?

JoHn D. WELTY: Smittcamp Family Honors College, which offers full scholarships for enhanced academic programs for top-performing, multitalented students.

Independent doctoral programs - Fresno State was first in the CSU system to implement an independent doctoral program in educational leadership, later adding doctorates in physical therapy and nursing practice.

Henry Madden Library – A state bond and a gift from the Table Mountain Rancheria provided funds to build a new north wing and renovate the south wing,

other campus construction, including the Save Mart Center, Science II building, Kremen Education and Human Development building, Bulldog Diamond, Downing Planetarium and Gibson Farm Market.

Centers and institutes, including the Lyles Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Central Valley Educational Leadership Institute, Gazarian Real Estate Center, Central Valley Health Policy Institute and the Maddy Institute.

The Richter Center for Community Engagement and Service-Learning – A $3.5 million gift from longtime benefactors Jan and Bud Richter established the center and spurred a significant boost in community volunteerism from the campus.

Private philanthropy – The Campaign for Fresno State, the university’s first comprehensive fundraising exercise, raised more $200 million. During my nearly 22 years, private gifts totaling more than $360 million were received.

opportunities for women student-athletes – our commitment to women’s intercollegiate sports has grown to 11 sports: basketball, softball, volleyball, track and field, aquatics, soccer, cross country, golf, tennis, equestrian and lacrosse. Our facilities for women’s sports are among the nation’s finest.

Diversity – To better reflect the population makeup of one of the nation’s most diverse regions, we have initiated programs to encourage students of all cultures and ethnicities to get a college education.

Student retention and graduation rates – We have undertaken numerous initiatives to help close the achievement gap, producing recent and ongoing improvements in the number of students staying enrolled and graduating within six years. Our gains are among the best in the CSU system.

Joining the Mountain West Conference in 2012, which gives Fresno State a higher national profile while providing student-athletes a higher level of competition.

Why?

These have helped Fresno State become nationally recognized as an engaged University.

What are your fondest memories here?

Commencement. I have awarded upwards of 83,000 bachelor’s, masters and doctoral degrees at Fresno State. I’ve also presented 31 honorary doctorates to individuals who have excelled at the national or local level in careers and support for public higher education.

Fresno state PresidentJohn d. Welty

the end of an era


[ FEATURED STORY ]

The Carnegie Foundation recognized Fresno State’s broad range of service to the community by granting Engaged University status in 2006 – one of just 76 institutions to win the honor.

national recognition for our community service efforts. The Corporation for national and Community Service honored Fresno State in 2008 with a Special Achievement Award as part of the second annual President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll. We’ve received national recognition every year since then.

Winning the nCAA Women’s Softball national Championship in 1998 and the College Baseball national Championship In 2008.

naming four colleges as the result of donor support: Craig School of Business, Jordan College of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Kremen School of Education and Human Development, Lyles College of Engineering.

1992 Freedom Bowl in which we beat USC 24-7 in Anaheim.

The Fresno State Marching Band’s annual holiday performance at University House.

As you reflect on your career, is there anything you would have done differently?

I have been very fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with incredible people. I can’t think of anything that I would have done differently.

What advice do you have for the next president?

Fresno State is a University that is dedicated to students. our faculty and staff are willing to devote extraordinary time to

our students. It’s important to continue to support that value. In addition, we have institutionalized the importance of serving our region. There is a great opportunity to build on these values and to demonstrate nationally the important role of an engaged University.

How do you see the landscape of higher education changing in the next ten years? Will it be any easier for students to get the education they need? (In terms of cost and access to classes).

There will be dramatic changes in higher education in the next decade. I believe that access to higher education will improve.

What are the biggest changes you’ve seen in Fresno State in academics?

our academic programs have grown dramatically. The addition of the Smittcamp Family Honors College has helped to transform the University. our commitment to improving the graduation rates has forced us to be very intentional about our work with students. Finally, the addition of three doctoral programs has helped us to build a graduate culture.

What are the biggest changes you’ve seen in Fresno State’s facilities?

We have constructed over $400 million in facilities during my presidency. The Madden Library has transformed our campus and the Save Mart center has allowed us to get more people in the region connected with the University.

What are the biggest changes you’ve seen in Fresno State in the student population?

The student population has become much more diverse, which has been an important change. We continue to serve a large number of first-generation college students and that will make a huge difference

in our region in the years to come.

We’ve heard you have a great sense of humor. What has been your favorite prank?

I enjoyed creating a special experience for my siblings when they got married. My favorite is the night that my brother accidentally gave me the keys to the apartment below his mother-in-law’s home where they were going to live. We talked our way past security people and were able to booby trap his new home. He is still trying to figure out how we got in.

What is your favorite spectator sport?

Football, with basketball a close second.


[ FEATURED STORY ]

What is your favorite participant sport?

Golf

What is the first thing you’ll you do on August 1 - your first day of retirement?

I have a tee time on August 1 and on August 2 Sharon and I will be on a cruise. Later on, we look forward to travelling, spending time with the grandkids and, hopefully, improving the golf game.

Where will you live?

We have a home in La Quinta at the PGA West complex.

Will you take up any new hobbies or travel? If so where?

We are talking about renting an RV and travelling to places we have not seen. We will travel to Africa to spend time with our daughter and son-in-law who are physicians working there.

Your wife, Dr. Sharon Brown-Welty, is actively involved with the university as Dean of Graduate Studies, and as head of the educational doctoral program. What are her plans after you retire?

She will complete her work at Fresno State over the next 6-10 months and then head toward retirement as well.

How will you stay involved in education and community service?

I will serve as a Trustee Professor for the California State University at San Bernardino Palm Desert campus. In addition, I will chair the Cal State online Board, chair the board of the California Health Sciences University, School of Pharmacy in Fresno and serve on the California Healthcare Foundation Board.

What will you miss most about your tenure at Fresno State?

All the wonderful people who are dedicated to working with students.

If you could change one present thing at Fresno State, what would that be? Why?

I wish we had sufficient funding to serve all of the students who want to come to Fresno State. This region desperately needs more college-prepared people and it is frustrating when we have to turn away qualified students who want to come to Fresno State.

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[ FEATURED STORY ]

Dr. John D. Welty lists the following as his favorite moments as Fresno State’s seventh – and longest serving – president:

The gift of a college degree – Since presiding over his first Fresno State Commencement, Welty has awarded upwards of 83,000 bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees. He also has presented 31 honorary doctorates to individuals who have excelled at the national or local level in careers and support for public higher education.

Receiving national recognition for community service -- The Corporation for National and Community Service honored Fresno State in 2008 with a Special Achievement Award as part of the second annual President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll. Fresno State was one of two minority-serving institutions that received the special achievement award in recognition of its commitment to service.

Engaged University status – The Carnegie Foundation recognized Fresno State’s broad range of service to the community by granting Engaged University status in 2007 – one of just 76 institutions to win the honor. Fresno State engages the region through more than 1 million hours annually of volunteerism; active participation in economic and career development initiatives; research into significant challenges; arts and entertainment; and educational opportunity.

NCAA Softball National Championship – In 1998, the Fresno State team, coached by Margie Wright, went 52-11 and beat Arizona State in Oklahoma City to win the university’s first NCAA top-division championship.

NCAA Baseball National Championship – In 2008, underdog Fresno State established a 47-31 record under Coach Mike Batesole, won the Western Athletic Conference title and came from the brink of elimination six times before defeating Georgia at the College World Series.

Centennial Celebration – In 2011, Fresno State turned 100, and the campus and community celebrated for 14 months in 2010-11 with such events as a Centennial Homecoming (complete with a parade through

campus), a fundraising gala at the Save Mart Center and the university’s 100th Commencement.

Named colleges – Half of Fresno State’s eight colleges and schools have been the recipients of naming gifts during Welty’s tenure: Craig School of Business, Kremen School of Education and Human Development, Lyles College of Engineering and Jordan College of Agricultural Sciences and Technology.

1992 Freedom Bowl – Fresno State stunned USC’s Trojans 24-7 in the Freedom Bowl football game in Anaheim after winning the Western Athletic Conference championship under Coach Jim Sweeney. Two future Super Bowl performers led the team to victory: quarterback Trent Dilfer, and running back and most valuable player, Lorenzo Neal.

Fondest Memories

President Welty and Dr. Sharon Brown-Welty greet guests at a University House function.

The Weltys, wearing Bulldog red, at a Fresno State football game.

With shirtsleeves rolled up, President Welty delivers his “last lecture” to faculty.


As “top dog” at Fresno State for more than two decades, President John D. Welty had plenty to choose from when asked for a list of what he considers his biggest achievements. He narrowed it down to the following:

The Smittcamp Family Honors College – Named for Earl Smittcamp, an alumnus and longtime Fresno State benefactor, and his family, who endowed Welty’s vision for a college within the university to offer an

enhanced academic program for top-performing, multitalented students. I t is unique in the California State University system.

Independent doctoral programs – CSU campuses originally could not award doctorates, but the Legislature changed course to allow partnerships with University of California campuses for joint doctorates. When that changed, Fresno State was first in the CSU to implement an independent doctoral program in educational leadership, later adding doctorates in physical therapy and nursing practice.

Henry Madden Library – With financing from a state bond, promoted by Welty, came $95 million to replace part of the library dating from 1956 and renovate the south addition opened in 1980. A $10 million gift from the Table Mountain Rancheria enhanced the landmark structure with landscaping, interior furnishings and design, and amplifying the university’s connection to the region’s Native American heritage.

Other campus construction – The Save Mart Center, Science II building, Kremen Education and Human Development building, Bulldog Diamond, Downing Planetarium and Gibson Farm Market are just some of the buildings erected during Welty’s tenure. Most campus construction since 1991 was financed privately.

Centers and institutes – The Lyles Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Central Valley Educational Leadership Institute, Gazarian Real Estate Center, Central Valley Health Policy Institute, Maddy Institute and other centers have opened under Welty’s leadership. They are important “town-gown” connections helping meet some of the region’s most profound challenges.

The Richter Center for Community Engagement and Service-Learning – Welty was one of the nation’s first university presidents to understand the importance of incorporating community service into the academic program, especially in a region with significant economic and social challenges. A $3.5 million gift from longtime benefactors Jan and Bud Richter established the center and spurred a significant boost in community volunteerism from the campus.

[ FEATURED STORY ]

Accomplishments

President Welty speaks to campus audience.

Commencement is one of President Welty's favorite memories.

The Weltys have been dedicated to Fresno State.


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Communication is a key part to building a healthy relationship. It allows us to share our interests, aspirations and concerns. Effective communication is about the way we talk and listen. It gives and allows us the opportunity to be on the same page with our partner, co-workers and friends. Another key aspect is the ability to maintain healthy boundaries. Creating healthy boundaries is accomplished by expressing what makes you feel comfortable and what you would like (or not like) to happen within the relationship. A healthy boundary is a good way to keep your relationship healthy and secure.

Let’s talk about five steps in developing healthy skills with your partner, family members and friends.

Step #1: A healthy relationship is the interaction between two people. It is built on honesty and trust. This begins by communicating feelings and thoughts to one another. This can be done by determining what it is we want to convey (talk about) and how would be the best way to do it. Sharing with one another is a choice we make. If something is bothering you, it is best to talk to the other person about it. Give them the opportunity to look at what you are saying or what has happened. This may look like confrontation, so how you set up the conversation is important.

Initially, begin by asking the other

person if it is a good time to talk.

Note that you have something that has been

on your mind and you would like to discuss it with them. If the other

person replies that it is not a good time, try and figure out when would be a good time. You need both parties to participate and be mentally and physically present. Do not begin by “attacking.” Let them know you would like them to just listen to what is being said. Once you have shared the information, ask them for their “feedback.” This skill allows the opportunity to correct any misunderstandings and provides the opportunity for a resolution.

It is healthy to talk about things rather than hold them in. Picture a “pressure cooker.” When you put in the water (topic) and replace the lid, you turn up the heat (conversation). If you continue to turn up the heat more without releasing some steam (information), the pressure builds. The same thing happens in relationships. Things need to be discussed openly and not ignored (suppression). Eventually, steam pressure will accumulate, more and more, with the possibility of blowing off “your lid.” This can happen with unresolved issues. Instead of accumulating the same things over and over again, try a new approach. Pick a topic, discuss it, and work towards a resolution. Otherwise, you will be talking about the same thing over and over again. The goal is the take your discussion topic to some type of agreement. It is possible that you may have to “agree to disagree” and move on.

Step #2: Ways to communicate healthy. Don’t use any judgmental words. For example, “childish behavior,” “uncooperative,” “self-involved,” “helpless,” or “that is a total crock.” These words attack and undermine feelings of worth. They have NO place in a caring relationship.

Avoid global labels. These include, • “stupid,” “crazy,” “selfish,” “lazy,” “useless” and “evil.” They are labels that will condemn the other person.

Avoid the “you” message. When you use • “you,” it blames the other person. The essence of a “you” message is simply this, “I’m in pain, and you caused it.” Replace “you” with “I” when identifying what you are experiencing. Example: “you” message: “You are always spoiling our evening by showing up late.” Versus the “I” message: “When you come home late I feel sad about missing the evening with you.” Notice, in the “I” message, there is no direct statement of causation. There is no blaming the other person.

Avoid old history; continue to stick to the • issue or topic at hand. For example, “You did this to me last week and a month ago at Joe’s home.”

Avoid negative comparisons of your • partner to others. Healthy communication doesn’t make your partner feel bad about him or herself. It is designed to help not hurt. Always avoid threats. Threats are way to punish your partner. Describe your feelings rather than attacking with them.

When you use feeling words you are clarifying what it is you want.

[ HEALTH AND WELLNESS ]by Cathy Humerickhouse, RN, LMFT

Five SkillS in


Step #3: Respect one another.Everyone is entitled to his or her opinion. This doesn’t mean you own their opinion. This

gives you an opportunity to evaluate what the other person is saying. If you find some truth in it, then take a closer look at yourself. You are the only one who can change YOUR behavior.

Step #4: learn to compromise and negotiate. In relationships, this is done so that both of you get your needs met. Relationships need to be balanced. If one person is always giving in to the other, resentment may begin to develop. This can be very challenging, especially if someone thinks there is one right way of doing things. Families and couples will face numerous unforeseen situations. You need to be prepared to compromise. Some situations will require more compromising than others. On the other hand, if all our differences could be easily compromised, we might miss out on learning more about each other, growing as an individual, and ultimately as a couple.

An important point in every relationship is how we handle our differences

Step #5: learning to implement healthy boundaries. Boundaries are a way in which we define and set limits with others. Boundaries define what is me and what is not me. For example, picture your home and then your neighbor’s home without any fences or curbs. It may be difficult to distinguish where your property line begins and theirs ends. Boundaries help

us to distinguish our property line so we can take care of it and know where to put up our fence. In these instances, we need to be able to open up our boundaries to let the good in

and the bad out. In other words, our fences need to have gates in them. Boundaries are not walls, but fences that have gates. This allows us to define what we will allow to pass through. Just as homeowners

set physical property lines around their home, we need to set mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual boundaries for our lives to help us distinguish what is our responsibility and what is not.

Boundaries are anything that helps to differentiate you from someone else, or showing where you begin and end. Examples include time, space, touch, physical, emotional, and financial boundaries.

Each spouse needs time apart from the relationship. Not just for limit setting but for self-nourishment/self-care. Many couples have trouble with this aspect and may feel neglected by the partner. Time apart helps couples realize the need to be back together, as stated by Drs. Henry Cloud & John Townsend. We need to take care of ourselves so we have the ability to care for one another. “Healthy” means spending time alone, as a couple, and as a family unit.

Additionally, each of us needs to respect the other’s physical body boundaries (touch). Physical boundaries range from unkind showing of affection to physical abuse.

Always remember the Biblical principle of “Treat others as you would want them to treat you.”

Be careful with the emotions of others. Verbal scars cannot be seen. If there has been an exchange of some hurtful talk, give yourself the opportunity for some emotional distance. If you are in a troubled marriage or there is a history of infidelity, you may need some

emotional space. The hurt will take some time to heal but it can heal with appropriate work.

Set limits with financial spending. Develop a budget or determine a

monetary amount that needs to be discussed with one another before the purchase is made. Look at some of the concepts by Dave Ramsey (www.daveramsey.com/fpu).

Remember, a boundary always deals with you, not the other person. If you would like to learn more about boundaries and ways to set them, I encourage you to read, “Boundaries” by Drs. Henry Cloud & John Townsend.

Communication is a vital part in building and maintaining a healthy relationship. This is possible when you are open, honest and trustworthy.

If you have any comments or questions you may email me at: [email protected] or call (559) 625-6752.

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Wine: The Good Life

It’s hard to think of a product more affected by the environment than wine. The air, weather, soil, insects and sadly, chemicals, are all key factors in the art of winemaking.

To take a closer look at the elements of wine making, the Wine Institute has declared April “Sustainable Wine Month.”

According to the Wine Institute (a California industry group), California is one of the world leaders in sustainable winegrowing with aspects ranging from old world practices like controlling weeds with livestock and using solar energy.

There are actually three kinds of winemaking highlighted in Sustainable Wine Month: sustainable, organic and biodynamic.

SustainableMaking sustainable wine includes the following techniques: using sheep and birds to control weeds and bugs; conserving water with cover crops, drip recycling and process ponds; minimizing waste by composting, recycling and reusing; and finally, preserving local ecosystems and wildlife habits. (FYI: Winemaking generates wastewater and a process pond collects and deals with that water.)

California wineries that offer sustainable wines include: Benziger, Beringer, Chalk Hill, Souverain, and Sutter Home.

OrganicWines that are considered “organic” follow the guidelines of the National Organic Program, which means no synthetic pesticides or nonorganic chemicals and natural additives to soul enrichment, pests, weeds and vine disease management. Wines labeled “organic” must be essentially sulfite free (sulfites help prolong shelf life) and are certified to contain no more than 10 parts per million. Examples of California organic wines are Grgich Hills, Sterling, and Benziger.

BiodynamicBiodynamic farming treats the vineyard as a closed loop. It uses natural alternatives for eliminating waste and promoting a natural ecosystem. Biodynamic techniques mean no synthetic pesticides or non-organic chemicals; compost teas and natural preparations to enrich soil and promote microorganisms; insectaries to control pests; and planting and pruning determined by the phase of the moon. (FYI: Insectary plants attract insects. They are used to increase production of natural enemies of pests.)

The following wines come from California: Bonny Doon, Charles Krug, Frey, Grgich Hills, Sonoma-Cutrer and once again, Benziger.

BenzigerObviously, Benziger appeared in all three types of winemaking discussed above. That’s no accident. On their website, the Sonoma County Benziger Family Winery says, “We’re about three things: family, great wine and healthy vineyards.”

Established more than 30 years ago, they followed normal techniques of the time, which included spraying to control pests and increase yield. After some time, the family started noticing changes in color and texture of the earth and the grapes.

In the mid 90s, they began using biodynamic techniques and working with their grape growers toward being organic or biodynamic certified.

Today, they offer sustainable/organic/biodynamic wines starting at about $30 a bottle. The wine is available in some retail outlets and online at www.benziger.com.

[ FOOD & WINE ]




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Life of Pi This movie won several Oscars including Best Director (Ang Lee), Best Cinematography, Best Original Score, and Best Special Effects. A great adventure story of a young boy who is shipwrecked and tries to survive a journey across the Pacific trapped in a lifeboat with a tiger. They definitely deserved the award for best Special Effects. It’s hard to believe that tiger is almost entirely computer created.Rated PG for emotional thematic content throughout and some scary action sequences and peril. 127 minutes.

Les MiserabLes Le Mis won Academy Awards for Best Supporting Actress (Anne Hathaway), Makeup and Hairstyle, and Sound Mixing. Most musicals get mangled when translated to the screen, however this one did not. Director Tom Hooper, who won an Oscar for directing The King’s Speech, deserves the credit for managing a much larger project in Les Miserables. He creates a character driven story against the vast background of a revolution in France. You have to overlook Russell Crowe’s singing, but it’s not distracting enough to spoil a great picture.Rated R for some language. 118 minutes.

The iMPossibLe You will be moved and changed by this story of one family’s struggle for survival after being caught up the tsunami that swept across the Indian Ocean in December of 2004. Naomi Watts was nominated for Best Actress. She was joined by Ewan McGregor as her husband and Tom Holland as their 10-year-son who must fight to help save his mother while dealing with situations that no child should have to face.Rated PG-13 for intense realistic disaster sequences, including disturbing injury images and brief nudity. 107 minutes.

DVD DoN’ThyDe Park oN huDsoN Hyde Park on Hudson is based on the true story of a romantic relationship with President Franklin Delano Roosevelt and a distant cousin. This movie has some aspirations of being a high-toned story, but it’s really a soap opera, with infidelity, a loveless marriage, and a meddling mother. You can be fooled by the high quality cast (Bill Murray, Laura Linney, Samuel West and Olivia Williams) but over all, it’s disappointing.

froM The VauLTbrokeback MouNTaiN Ang Lee (Life of Pi) won his first Oscar in 2006 for directing Brokeback Mountain, the story of sexual love between two Montana cowboys played by Heath Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal. It also won Best Picture Oscar that year.

[ ENTERTAINMENT ]

Several Academy Award winners are hitting the home video market now. At DVD Diary, we want to point you toward movies that are worth your time and money and steer you away from ones that might fool you into thinking it was a good movie.


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Vox Pop Influentials - March / April 2013