About every two years (or so) I get a shoot in Fresno, California. Not exactly the world’s most riveting assignment – but at least it’s not Hellhole, Montana or Podunk, West Virginia. Since I travel a lot for my job, going to various cities meant absolutely nothing to me. Same shoot, different day. But now I like to do a little research on the towns I’m in … because each of ‘em is vastly unique. And NOTHING like Kansas City.
Fresno, for instance, has the worst air quality in the nation. Apparently, all the smog and pollution from LA and San Fran moseys up to Fresno and gets trapped in the mountains. Who knew? I’ll be wearing a protective mask the rest of the day.
As I traipse around the city, the first thing I noticed is that it resembles a big giant United Colours of Benetton ad. Half the town is Hispanic. The other half is a mixed bag of ethnicities. I have yet to see another blonde male. I’m like a unicorn in Fresno.
It’s also the home and headquarters of Sun-Maid Raisins. So while I may not be able to breathe – at least I’ll be regular during my stay. In fact, most of Fresno is agriculture-oriented. It’s the single most productive and richest agricultural county in the United States. Who knew?
The heat is typically blistering … although, mercifully, NOT this week. I don’t do well in extreme temperatures. Any time I go to Palm Springs, I go from air-conditioned house to pool and immediately back. In fact, I’m notorious for starting the car with a remote and letting it cool down before I get inside.
Cher is an alum of Fresno High School. Quite the claim to fame if you ask me. If she could turn back time, she probably would have been home schooled. Less I digress.
Next up on the hit parade … Modesto. Can’t WAIT to see how that one turns out. If Sacramento is the state capitol, then Modesto is like its younger incarcerated brother. With tattoos. And a drug problem. Wish me luck!
I went to high school in Fresno! I lived in Clovis (one of the prettier ‘burbs), though. Fresno has apparently changed alot since I lived there, but some of the things are the same. The heat, for example. Although, I will say that I much prefer a 112 degree day in Fresno with little to no humidity over an 85 degree day in the Midwest with a full helping of humidity!
A little Fresno trivia – Alan Autry (“Bubba” from the TV show “In the Heat of the Night”) lives there (or at least used to). He actually went to my church.
Nothing more riveting than that, right?
If you have any free time, head up into the mountains to Table Mountain Casino. Good Prime Rib.
Bubba was the mayor until just the last election. His dad hangs around, too, I’ve fed him and his posse a few times. You missed all the early heat, but also one of the coolest thunder storms we’ve had in a while. I’m glad you’re here and I got to feed ya, even if you’re one breath closer to asthma. 🙂