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On Valley Edition: Shrinking Streets; First 5 Gets Reprieve; Stories of Service

This week on Valley Edition we talk about why many Fresno roadways are getting smaller, thanks to something called "road diets" and the move towards "complete streets." We'll also learn about how a recent court case is good news for Fresno's First 5 program, and talk about stories of service from Valley veterans. 

Segment 1: Shrinking streets in Fresno & Bakersfield
Many roads in Fresno are about to go on a "diet" with lanes for cars and trucks being removed in order to slow traffic and make room for more bike lanes. Some people, including bicycle advocates think it's a good idea, but it has also raised concerns from some residents and motorists. Today on Valley Edition we talk about efforts in both Bakersfield and Fresno to create streets that are more bicycle friendly. Scott Mozier Assistant Director of Public Works with the City of Fresno, Bob Smith, founder of the Bakersfield Bicycle Coalition, and Byron Watkins of the group I Bike Fresno join the discussion.

Segment 2: First 5 gets funding reprieve from court
Last week a court in Fresno rejected an attempt by California lawmakers to access up to $1 billion in funds from the state's First 5 programs, as part of an effort to craft a state budget. The effort had left local First 5 commissions in limbo, with millions of dollars and programs at risk. Kendra Rogers Executive Director of First 5 Fresno joins host Juanita Stevenson to talk about what this new court ruling means for Valley First 5 programs.

Segment 3: Local author documents "Stories of Service"
On the eve of the 70th anniversary of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor and entry of the United States in the Second World War, Valley author Janice Stevens joins us to talk about her new book "Stories of Service Volume II." Her book includes remembrances of local veterans from World War II, Korea, Vietnam and the Cold War.

Juanita Stevenson has lived and worked in Fresno for the past 24 years. She is perhaps best known to Valley residents as a longtime reporter and news anchor with local television station ABC30, and has also worked at stations KJWL, KYNO and ValleyPBS. She is the recipient of the 2001 Associated Press Award for Best Reporting, and the 1997 Radio & Television News Directors Association Regional Edward R. Murrow award for Best Reporting.