Theme: Fluid Perspectives

Some of our incredible speakers will be shedding light on the vital issue of water in the Central Valley, offering unique insights into its challenges and opportunities. Discover how our community is contributing to sustainable solutions that will shape our future.

Ice House Theatre Visalia
410 E Race Avenue
Visalia, California, 93291
United States

Chris Johnson

Hydrogeologist

Chris Johnson, PG, CHg is the founder and principal hydrogeologist, with over 35 years of consulting experience in the groundwater industries.

Don Wright

Water Activist

Agriculture is California’s top industry and water is its most precious resource. There’s always something in the news about water in California but very little reporting takes place at the intersection of public and private transfer – the water or irrigation district that makes all of this possible.

Eva Lopez

Conservation Activist, Biologist at Sequoia National Park

Eva Lopez (pronounced eh-va) is a biologist, yoga teacher, artist, herbalist, and environmentalist. She has a masters of science in biology focused on forest dynamics and a bachelor’s of science in environmental biology with a minor in chemistry. Her current scientific role is a biological research crew lead stationed in Sequoia National Park researching demography, forest, and tree health. She is also a yoga and meditation teacher with a 200-hour certification, teaching yoga at the Canopy studio in Three Rivers, CA and on the local organic farm, Flora Bella. Her passion is finding the link between intuitive knowledge and scientific research to make the world a more beautiful, joyful, and sustainable place. She believes mindfulness in the present moment not only benefits personal health, but also the environment.

Lisa Marie Spagnola

Sound Healing

Lisa Marie is a Sound Healing Facilitator. She discovered the benefits of sound healing through her personal healing journey. Using a variety of instruments, Lisa Marie can produce a combination of sound, frequency and vibrations that produce a deep state of relaxation allowing the body to release tension on a cellular level.

Mad Samkie

Musician

Samkie, a true maestro of melodic persuasion for over twenty years, has traversed the vast expanse of the musical landscape, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and souls of listeners far and wide. Not only has he composed a myriad of unforgettable musical masterpieces— but has also embraced the role of performer, producer, and avid spectator of the local entertainment scene. His melodic creations, akin to ethereal spells, have bewitched audiences, captivating them in a sonic embrace that transcends time and space. From intimate sets in cozy backyards and/or garages, to grandiose performances in slightly larger backyards and/or garages, Samkie's musical charisma transcends boundaries, uniting audiences in a shared experience of sonic bliss. Samkie's music is not just a collection of sounds—it is a testament to the power of artistic expression, a gateway to emotions untamed, and a pilgrimage on the transcendental language that unites us all.

Rebb Firman

Musician

Rebb Firman lives near the big trees in Central California. He has been playing music since childhood. You can find Rebb infrequently at the Ol'Buckaroo by the Kaweah River, usually on a Friday Night. Rebb's music are true stories that he made up.

Robert Jeff

Tribal Leader

Heyett, my name is Robert (Bob) Jeff, and I am an American Citizen as well as a member of the Tachi Yoktus Tribe in Lemoore, California. I am a tribal leader as well as a spiritual practitioner for my tribe. Being involved in the spiritual aspect of my tribe is what keeps me balanced and what tells me to love all life. This life has brought many cultures together here in American and all I want is for us to all live a good and healthy life and look out for the health of our next seven generations that come after us. I will be discussing Tachi's connection to the land and Pa'ashi (Tulare Lake).

Rossie Ballard

Fitness Coach

Rossie (pronounced Ro-sie) brings with her over 20 years of experience in teaching and presenting fitness and wellness. As the founder of Visalia's F.I.T. Warriors studio, she has nurtured a thriving fitness community that focuses on comprehensive well-being through the integration of body and mind. Recognized as the host of "Home Workouts with Rossie," a weekly segment featured on Fox News Channel's "The Great Day Show," she promotes fitness and wellness to a broad audience. Rossie is not only enthusiastic about promoting physical health but also advocates for mental health. She holds certifications thru ACE, AFAA, IIN

Steve Cory

Entreprenuer

Steve Cory is the owner of Cory Media, a full-service Video production and Digital Marketing agency. Steve is committed to serving Entrepreneurs, and is currently creating the Ignite Small Business Academy, an online course that will help Small Business Owners create profitable businesses so that they can enjoy more life, with less stress.