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Headline News Capitol Resource Institute Burglarized Tim LeFever, Chairman of the Board Most of us spent this past Christmas weekend with family and friends. We paused to celebrate what is good. Still others took the opportunity to do harm. Despite extensive security precautions, Capitol Resource Institute's Sacramento office was broken into over the holiday weekend. While staff was away with family, some took the opportunity to vandalize and take things of value. Unfortunately, it does not appear that this was a random entry in search of electronics and cash. Those responsible for this act apparently spent time poring through files and other things with little street value. [More] Caltrans, Disabled Rights Advocates Applaud Agreement to Improve Access To Pedestrian Facilities For the Disabled SACRAMENTO.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Caltrans has reached an agreement on the settlement of a class action lawsuit filed by Californians for Disability Rights (CDR) and California Council for the Blind (CCB) to improve access to pedestrian facilities such as curbs and sidewalks for persons with disabilities. The proposed settlement agreement was submitted to the federal court today (Dec. 22, 2009). The court must preliminarily approve the terms of the agreement and then conduct a hearing before it is binding. There will be a public notice period, and all interested parties and the U.S. Department of Justice will be given an opportunity to review the settlement and provide input to the court. Final court approval of the settlement is not expected before April 2010. [More] Anglers Advised to Avoid Endangered Coho Salmon Spurred on by recent rains, endangered coho salmon are returning to the Russian River to spawn, the Department of Fish and Game (DFG) reports. In an effort to protect and ensure the safety of the returning coho, conservation groups and fishery managers are conducting an educational campaign to ensure that steelhead anglers can differentiate between a coho and a steelhead trout. “Because coho salmon can be easily mistaken for steelhead by a novice or uninformed angler, it’s imperative that we make every effort to educate anglers about the differences,” said Brett Wilson, Senior Hatchery Supervisor for DFG’s Bay Delta Region “Angler cooperation is vital to our efforts to replenish this diminishing species, which was once commonly found in these waters.” [More] Transportation Workforce Development Summit to Address California’s Growing Need for Well-Trained Executives, Managers and Line Workers Transportation Professionals and Educators are Invited to Participate in the Statewide Policy Summit on Monday-Tuesday, February 1-2, 2010 at the Hyatt Regency Long Beach, California LONG BEACH, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- METRANS Transportation Center and the Mineta Transportation Institute (MTI), in partnership with Long Beach City College, will present “Ensuring the Growth of California’s Transportation Workforce: Developing the Right Workforce for Today’s Challenges and Tomorrow’s Jobs.” This two-day professional summit is set for Monday-Tuesday, February 1-2, 2010 at the Hyatt Regency Long Beach. Expert panels will address career development, skills gaps, training strategies, outreach, best practices and more. [More] California American Water Launches Online Customer Service in Northern California SACRAMENTO (Dec. 16, 2009)– California American Water residential customers are accustomed to the convenience of 24-hour customer service, but a new website is making it easier for those customers to manage their accounts quickly and easily when the time is best for them. The new site, called My H2O Online and available at www.amwater.com/h2o, allows customers to take care of some of the most common reasons they have contacted the company in the past, from requesting appointments for turning service on or off to managing their account, checking their balance and paying their bills. Customers with more than one property will be able to see all of their accounts at a glance. [More] A Year of Progress for SEIU-UHW Members in 2009 Oakland, CA – For the members of the Service Employees International Union-United Healthcare Workers-West (SEIU-UHW), a look back at 2009 reveals a successful year of reengaging members, settling contracts, and improving jobs, wages, and healthcare in spite of the economic crisis. “This past year demonstrated the power of 150,000 members to make a significant impact on the lives of workers and the people for whom they care. SEIU-UHW members continued to make strides on many fronts, despite a terrible economy, a hostile Governor, and the need to repair damage done by previous leadership,” said Dave Regan, trustee of SEIU-UHW. [More] Rancho Cordova Ceremony Will Launch Road Construction The ceremonial groundbreaking for the International Drive extension that includes the Folsom South Canal Bridge took place on Wednesday, December 2nd, at 10 a.m. in the vacant lot near the International Drive and Kilgore Road intersection in Rancho Cordova. The quarter mile extension will be constructed on a currently undeveloped piece of land. When finished, it will be a six-lane thorough-fare, connecting Kilgore Road to Sunrise Boulevard and converting International Drive into a major regional arterial road. The project will include intersection improvements, bicycle lanes, and pedestrian facilities. [More] Reuben Meeks Named City of Rancho Cordova Police Director Rancho Cordova, CA—Ted Gaebler, City Manager of Rancho Cordova, is pleased to announce that the City is transitioning Reuben Meeks, Chief of the Rancho Cordova Police Department, (RCPD), from the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Department contract to work directly with the City in leading the Rancho Cordova Police Department (RCPD) and workforce. He will continue to direct the highly successful public safety and law enforcement activities that protect the Rancho Cordova community. He has been serving as Police Chief under the County contract since 2006. [More] Red Cross Dawn Lindblom is the new CEO of the Sacramento-Sierra Chapter of the American Red Cross According to Steve Turner, Sac-Sierra Chapter Board Chair, "Dawn is a perfect fit for this position, given her collaborative leadership style and track record. She came directly from her highly successful role as Regional Executive Director for the Inland Northwest Chapter in Spokane, WA". "Spokane is a regional chapter like Sacramento", Lindblom explains. She oversaw six district chapters spread out over 38,611 square miles, almost two-thirds of the state of WA. Much of the area is rural. [More] My God Its Full of Stars The Christmas season is both one of great joy and great despair for many people. It symbolizes the end of another year of hard work, a cycle of relationships, a benchmark for how we’ve done. Often the joy of living gets lost in the failures of life. Gratitude is misplaced, and is difficult to find. But find it we must. Gratitude for the life we do have, the love around us, and gratitude for our current station in life. [More] PG&E Reminds customers to Stay Safe and Save Energy While Stringing Holiday Lights As people begin to decorate homes and trees this holiday season, Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) encourages customers to keep safety and energy efficiency in mind. Holiday lights bring joy to the season, but they can also bring hazards and added costs to your energy bill. PG&E offers the following holiday lighting tips for customers... [More] What They Are Not Saying...About the Comprehensive Water Deal? The Legislature recently passed five pieces of legislation to address California’s water needs. Before careful examination, below are highlights of the comprehensive water deal worth noting: SBX7 1Under SBX7 1, a new powerful government agency directed by an unelected board – the Delta Stewardship Council – will be created. The seven appointed-member Council and its staff are granted enormous oversight powers to redesign the Delta and enforce its new plan. With its broad authority, the appointed members are faceless political appointments who are not accountable to the public but to the politicians who appoint them. [More] Those Hit by Health Care Surtax Would Pay 36% of Federal Income Taxes A popular defense of the proposed 5.4 percent surtax on high-income people to fund House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s health care reform plan is that it would only affect 0.3 percent of all tax returns. An analysis by the Tax Foundation shows that this small group earns about 14 percent of the nation’s adjusted gross income (AGI), and would foot 36 percent of the entire federal individual income tax bill in 2011. This assumes expiration of the Bush tax cuts for high-income returns, which would push the top two federal individual income tax rates from 33 percent to36 percent and from 35 percent to 39.6 percent, along with other tax increases. This is compared to the remaining 99.7 percent of tax returns, which earn 86 percent of AGI and would be paying 64 percent of all federal individual income taxes, according to Tax Foundation calculations. [More] School District Moves to Hide Students' Medical Decisions from Parents Sacramento, CA – One of the largest school districts in the Sacramento area is quietly moving to revise its student absence policy to make clear that parents will not be notified if their children in grades 7-12 leave school to get "confidential medical services," such as abortions, contraceptives and drug abuse counseling. Pacific Justice Institute has learned that last week, the school board of San Juan Unified held an initial hearing to revise the district's student absence policy. School officials have acknowledged that, currently, decisions are left to individual school counselors, nurses or administrators as to whether parents are notified when their children miss school for "confidential medical services." The new proposal would make clear that parents of 7th-12th graders would not be informed in such instances. Only one board member, Dr. Larry Masuoka, questioned the proposed policy change. A final vote is scheduled for the next board meeting on November 17. [More] California to Stop Mailing Tax Booklets to Nonresidents SACRAMENTO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Franchise Tax Board (FTB) today announced that it will no longer mail the 540NR California Nonresident or Part-Year Resident income tax booklet to taxpayers. FTB is discontinuing this service due to the decreased use of this booklet, and its efforts to cut government spending. FTB estimates it will save the state more than $259,000 by not sending the 540NR booklet directly to nonresident taxpayers. [More] Action Alert From Capital Resource Institute The right of parents to be aware of and be involved in their minor child's crucial medical decisions is being debated by the San Juan Unified School Board on Tuesday, November 17, 2009 We, at Capitol Resource Institute, will be attending this important hearing and I am prepared to testify on behalf of families in SJUSD, to preserve and protect parental rights. [More] Timber Harvest Plans Can Be Extended to Seven Years Devastated by California’s strangling regulations and the economy, the timber harvest industry may see a glimmer of hope with the passage of a bipartisan measure to allow for more time to complete a timber harvest plan. “At a time when unemployment is high and job opportunities are scarce, this is great news for those workers whose livelihood depends on the timber industry,” said Sen. Dave Cox. “Assemblyman Mendoza, all community leaders and businesses involved should be applauded for their dedication and hard work.” [More] California Gasoline Demand Rose for Month and Quarter SACRAMENTO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Betty T. Yee, Chairwoman of the Board of Equalization (BOE), today (September 30th, 2009) released gasoline consumption figures for June and total figures for the second quarter of 2009. This is the first quarterly increase in more than three years, since the first quarter of 2006. “While there is a very slight up-tick in the consumption numbers, at the same time the price of gasoline has dropped dramatically. This most recent data indicates while more gasoline was used, it wasn’t to the degree expected with the significantly lower prices,” said Chairwoman Yee. [More] California's Gas Use Rises 0.6%; Diesel Declines 7% Betty T. Yee, Chairwoman of the Board of Equalization (BOE), recently announced that California gasoline consumption rose in May, while diesel fuel continued to decline. “We’re in an uncertain time,” said Chairwoman Yee. “While more fuel efficient cars and trucks are increasing fuel economy – and in light of some of the recently improved economic statistics – consumers remain cautious in their spending as the economy continues toward an uncertain recovery.” Figures released show that gasoline consumption rose by 3.5 percent from April, and was 0.6 percent higher than a year ago. Diesel consumption declined by 4.8 percent from April, and was 7.0 percent lower than a year ago. May 2009 gasoline sold for use on California roads totaled 1.29 billion gallons of gasoline, which was 0.6 percent above that of May 2008, when Californians consumed a total of 1.28 billion gallons of gasoline. [More] Gifts to Lawmakers Are a Slap at Taxpayers Two years ago, when then Assemblywoman Sally Lieber introduced a bill to prohibit the spanking of children, she was ridiculed for what many Californians considered to be frivolous legislation. In light of recent revelations of the "S & M" tinged escapades of a married, middle-aged lawmaker and one or more lobbyists, some capitol observers are wondering if Lieber should have targeted an older demographic. Although the just-resigned legislator, who described his conduct to a colleague unaware that he was also sitting before an open microphone, now says he made it up, it calls into question just what services and gifts are provided by lobbyists in an effort to influence legislation. After all, the lobbyist with whom the official claimed to have this special relationship had business before a committee on which he served as vice-chair. [More] You, Too, Should Care About What’s Happening to Journalism A central aspect of the art of politics in Washington is getting information to the American people. Determining what the White House, Congress and the people will focus on — and, just as important, what the content of debate will be — preoccupies politicians at both ends of Pennsylvania Avenue, and legions of lobbyists, pundits, strategists and consultants. One major institution looms large in all these people’s calculations: the national media. Not only has it historically played a vital role in informing the people and focusing their attention on issues that need addressing, but also it has a considerable impact on how we talk about them. What we read in the newspapers, hear on the radio, and see on television or online helps to shape how public policy gets discussed. [More] Remembering William B. Pond: Architect of County Regional Parks William B. Pond, the first Director of the Sacramento County Department of Regional Parks, passed away on September 20 at the age of 91. Often called the “Father of the Parkway”, Pond was responsible for the establishment of the American River Parkway. He will be remembered for his kindness and his ability to connect with and work well with others. “He was a collaborator,” said Ron Suter, retired Regional Parks Director. “He worked with people in the community before that was something that governments did. With Bill’s smile and willingness to listen, he set the future standards for collaboration in government. Bill was truly a man with a vision and was ahead of his time. His mission was to make things better for generations to come and he made things happen.” [More] Family Films are Killing R-rated Movies Christian Newswire -- The summer blockbusters are over and the box office results are in -- family friendly films are killing R-rated movies in the pocketbook as reported by OregonFaithReport. Only one Rated-R film, The Hangover, made the top 10 box office list. The next highest grossing Rated-R film, The Watchmen, came in at a distant #18 on the list. The money gap comes at a time when Hollywood is undergoing historic changes which may alter the movies we see in the future. The top 10 movie profits of 2009 so far; [More] California's Gas Use Rises 0.6%; Diesel Declines 7% Betty T. Yee, Chairwoman of the Board of Equalization (BOE), recently announced that California gasoline consumption rose in May, while diesel fuel continued to decline. “We’re in an uncertain time,” said Chairwoman Yee. “While more fuel efficient cars and trucks are increasing fuel economy – and in light of some of the recently improved economic statistics – consumers remain cautious in their spending as the economy continues toward an uncertain recovery.” Figures released show that gasoline consumption rose by 3.5 percent from April, and was 0.6 percent higher than a year ago. Diesel consumption declined by 4.8 percent from April, and was 7.0 percent lower than a year ago. May 2009 gasoline sold for use on California roads totaled 1.29 billion gallons of gasoline, which was 0.6 percent above that of May 2008, when Californians consumed a total of 1.28 billion gallons of gasoline. [More] Questionable Lawsuits Target Taxpayers Several years ago, Stephan Pastis, the creator of "Pearls Before Swine," drew a cartoon that illustrates the threat now faced by taxpayers. In the comic, Zebra is complaining to his friend Goat that he was being sued by crocodiles. The crocodiles' cause of action? "Defendant Zebra has willfully failed to be plaintiffs' food, in breach of Natural Law ... Plaintiffs seek defendant Zebra cooked medium well over a barbecue pit." Taxpayers know what it is like to be Zebra, as the tax-and-spend lobby is accelerating its use of the courts in an effort to make sure that those who pay the bills are the main course of government's feast. [More] Schwarzenegger Highlights Increased Volunteerism in the Golden State Today, (July 28th) Governor Schwarzenegger issued the statement below after the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS) released a new study illustrating that 800,000 more Californians volunteered their time in 2008 than in the previous year. In 2008, 7.1 million Californians performed 989.2 million hours of service with an estimated economic contribution of more than $18 billion. Additionally, Californians gave more time than the national average, last year contributing 35.2 hours per resident compared to 34.2 nationally. “Civic engagement belongs at the highest levels of state government, which is why I created the first state cabinet secretary for service,” said Governor Schwarzenegger. “I am thrilled that more and more Californians have responded and joined us in the effort to strengthen our state and its communities through service, which is even more important during these difficult times.” [More] ProLife Organizations Announce Major National Campaign to Stop Taxpayer Funded Abortions in the Obama/Pelosi Health Care Plan Christian Newswire -- The name of the campaign is called "Abortion is Not Health Care" and it will begin on Saturday, September 12, in Washington, D.C. "Abortion is Not Health Care" will include public prayer vigils, rallies, lobbying, demonstrations and cutting edge pro-life witness on Capitol Hill. There will be a large rally and 28 hours of prayer beginning Sunday, September 13-14 on the West Lawn of the Capitol. President Obama and his team have said that taxpayer funded abortions would be included in his health care plan. [More] Study Calculates Economic Cost of Higher Tax Rates, Health Care Surtax The actual economic costs of the proposed health care surtax and the expiration of the 2001 and 2003 tax cuts will be twice the amount of revenue the government intends to collect. According to a new analysis from the Tax Foundation, the higher tax rates are estimated to raise $88 billion in 2011, but the economy will incur $76 billion in lost activity – or “deadweight loss” – as a result, which raises the total cost of the tax increases to $164 billion, roughly double what lawmakers intend to raise. [More] State Corporate Income Taxes Hurt Workers' Wages A new Tax Foundation report shows that the burden of corporate income taxes is likely borne by workers – not investors. This finding throws more cold water on the notion that higher corporate income taxes would provide greater progressivity in the tax system. High corporate income taxes are often justified by the rhetoric that businesses – and their high-income investors – should “pay their fair share.” In Tax Foundation Special Report No. 169, “The Corporate Income Tax and Workers’ Wages: New Evidence from the 50 States,” Senior Fellow Robert Carroll, Ph.D., finds that states with high corporate income taxes have likely depressed their workers’ wages over the long term, while states with low corporate taxes have boosted worker productivity and real wages. [More] Stanford Home Announces 5th Annual Sacramento Valley Wine Auction SACRAMENTO – Wine enthusiasts from the greater Sacramento area will eat, drink, and be merry at the fifth annual Sacramento Valley Wine Auction to be held Friday, September 25, at Arden Hills Resort Club and Spa. All event proceeds will benefit Stanford Home for Children, a nonprofit organization that is a Sacramento leader in providing services to children and families in their homes and communities. Local and Napa Valley wineries and restaurants will begin the evening by offering wine and gourmet food tastings. The evening will feature a cigar bar, live entertainment, and two separate auctions beginning with a silent auction featuring rare wines, travel and lifestyle lots, and a rousing live auction with a remarkable assemblage of wine, art and gift certificates good for vacation getaways and more. [More] Don’t Miss Your Chance to Submit Your Best Photo of a County Regional Park!! Sacramento – As the region enters into the dog days of summer, Sacramento County Regional Parks wants to remind all photographers and nature lovers alike that now is the perfect time to grab your camera, get outside, and take your best shot of any of our Regional Parks for the 50th Anniversary Regional Parks photo contest. The contest theme is Sacramento County Parks: Our Golden Treasure. The deadline to submit a photograph is September 25. “This photo contest is a great way for people to get outside and celebrate our regional parks,” said Liz Bellas with County Regional Parks. “The contest is open to people of all ages and skill levels, so we are inviting everyone to participate in this contest and show off your best photos.” [More] Sacramento to Host the Only Civilian Air Force Week in the U.S. SACRAMENTO – The California Capital Airshow is more than just a weekend of family fun. It is a platform for encouraging young people to reach for the stars. As a non-profit organization, the Airshow assists young people interested in aviation, aeronautics, aerospace, and related fields with a scholarship program. Over the past 3 years, they have awarded over 60 scholarships to local students. “This Airshow not only hosts a remarkable roster of military and civilian aircraft both flying and on display,” said Darcy Brewer, Executive Director of the Airshow, “but it’s also an amazing opportunity for kids of all ages to meet the pilots, and hear first hand their inspiring stories and experiences.” [More] DMV Online Business Surges 20.4% During First Six Months of 2009 Sacramento – Online business surged 20.4 percent during the first six months of 2009, as the Department of Motor Vehicles recorded 4.7 million internet transactions through June 30, 2009, the DMV announced today, July 31st. “Customers plan their trips carefully and are opting in many cases to forsake a trip to the DMV and instead do business with us online,” said DMV Director George Valverde. “We are constantly striving to add new features and encourage customers to take advantage of some of our more popular options.” [More] Rid the OldFridge and Reap Some Cold Cash SMUD will pay customers $35 for their spare operating refrigerator or freezer. Old refrigerators can add up to $125 to an annual electric bill because they use up to three times more power than newer models. SMUD wants to help customers lower their bills and their energy demand, especially during the hot summer months. When older refrigerators and freezers are taken out of service and recycled, the customer saves money through lower electric bills and the entire community benefits from lowered power demand on the grid, especially when supplies are at their lowest levels, hot summer afternoons. [More] Priority Number One Protecting the safety of the citizens it serves it the most basic function of government, especially at the local level. It is the service citizens expect before any other, and should be the top priority of those elected to represent the people. Law enforcement is my number one priority as a member of the Sacramento County Board of Supervisors. [More] Chain Restaurants to Provide Nutritional Information Starting July 1 SACRAMENTO, CA - California is the first state in the nation to adopt a statewide menu labeling law (SB 1420). The landmark legislation requires California chain and fast-food restaurants to post calorie counts on menus and menu boards, part of an effort to address the state’s growing obesity epidemic. The new law applies to chain restaurants with 20 or more locations statewide and is designed to provide consumers with the information they need to make healthier food choices. In California, over 17,000 restaurants will be affected by SB 1420. The Environmental Management Department is the local enforcement agency for Sacramento County. Compliance efforts for this law will be incorporated into food facility inspections. [More] KCRA 3 Meteorologist Eileen Javora and Alzheimer's Aid Society Run/Walk Article KCRA 3 Meteorologist Eileen Javora knows first hand how Alzheimer’s disease can affect families. “My grandmother was a wonderful lady with elegant fashion,” Eileen said, remembering her beautiful dresses and extravagant scarves. “I loved talking to her the most. When she developed Alzheimer’s disease, the hardest part was not being able to communicate with her the way I used to when I was younger.” [More] Rancho Cordova City Manager Wins Top Professional Award Ted Gaebler, Rancho Cordova City Manager, is this year’s recipient of the top career development award from the International City/County Management Association (ICMA). The prestigious honor is awarded to the ICMA member who has made a significant contribution to the development of new talent in professional local government management. ICMA is the premier local government leadership and management organization and has a membership of nearly 9,000 members throughout the world. [More] Glue Fumes Cause of Over 100 Workers Rancho Cordova – (July 16, 2009) at 1200 noon Metro Fire responded to a report of an odor in the Employment Development Department located at 10949 Trade Center Dr. Investigation discovered that workers, who were using a commercial grade glue to adhere roofing materials, left an open container next to the intake of the air handling system and that sent the fumes throughout the building. Approximately 190 workers were evacuated for over two hours. Two citizens were treated for exposure to the fumes, one was transported by ambulance to the hospital for breathing problems and the other was released at scene. Metro Fire along with Sacramento County Environmental Management Division declared the conditions to be safe and returned the building back to it occupants. Mary Purvis Is Honored by County for Her Many Acts of Kindness Mary Purvis, a long-time Citrus Heights philanthropist, was recently named one of Sacramento County’s Outstanding Senior Volunteers for 2009 and honored at a Sacramento County Board of Supervisors meeting. Purvis is well-know and involved in almost every Citrus Heights event. She owns and coordinates many Citrus Heights beauty pageant titles. She and her pageant participants work and provide assistance at community fund-raisers and activities. The list includes the Firemen’s Fill the Boot and numerous events sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce, civic organizations, Shriner, and the City of Citrus Heights. She and her pageant ambassadors have done face painting at Sunday FunDay, the Cancer Relay for Life, and Rusch Park events. Her only condition is that no fee can be charged. [More] Sacramento Area Teen Scores a Perfect 2400 on the SAT New York, NY (June 2, 2009) - Fair Oaks teen Diana Li has just accomplished a rare feat achieved by less than .02% of approximately 1.5 million students nationwide: she scored a perfect 2400 on the SAT! As if this were not impressive enough, Diana also scored a perfect 800 on both the Chemistry and Math SAT 2 exams. For most students seeking admission to competitive colleges and universities across the country, the SAT looms as one of the most challenging and critically important entrance hurdles. [More] Bug Bomb Causes Explosion in Citrus Heights Apartment Citrus Heights, Ca, June 21, 2009. At 6:02 pm Metro Fire responded to an explosion at 7539 Cook Ave in Citrus Heights. Firefighters discovered a 2nd story unit had a significant explosion. The explosion caused walls to become disconnected from the roof, windows to be blown apart (sending glass flying over 50 feet) and structural damage destroying the integrity of the building. The cause was an over use of bug bombs that created and explosive atmosphere. Metro Fires Arson unit cannot rule out the refrigerator as the ignition source. Three families were displaced and the damage is estimated at over one million dollars. SAFE CU Members Give $9,000 for Fight Against Cancer SAFE Credit Union’s recent participation in the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life in Citrus Heights raised nearly $10,000 for the fight against cancer. SAFE fielded a team of 75 walkers at the May 30 event in the Sacramento area community. Before the event, SAFE branches invited members to make donations and sponsor participants. SAFE’s efforts raised $9,142 for the local American Cancer Society chapter. SAFE’s team was among 27 teams and nearly 400 people turned out for the event. A total of more than $67,000 was raised. [More] RT to Hold Public Hearing on Monday, June 22 In response to the state of California's elimination of $26.2 million in State Transit Assistance funds and a severe decline in local sales tax revenue projected for the Sacramento Regional Transit District (RT) in Fiscal Year 2010, RT will hold a public hearing to discuss proposed fare changes for implementation on September 1, 2009. The public hearing will be held on Monday, June 22, 2009, at 6 p.m. in the RT Auditorium located at 1400 29th Street (at N Street). [More] The San Juan Alumni Association Announces Their 2009 List of San Juan-Class of 2009 Scholarship Recipients The San Juan Alumni Association was formed in 1980 as a social group and to support their Alma Mater, San Juan High School. With the scholarships that were awarded in 2009 of $16,500, the total scholarships awarded to San Juan High School students is $199,050. [More] Assemblyman Niello Recognizes WWII Veteran Al Cooper During Veterans Recognition Event SACRAMENTO - Assemblyman Roger Niello (R-Fair Oaks) recognized World War II Veteran Al Cooper during a Legislative Veterans' Recognition held this week at the Sacramento Convention Center. Members of the Legislature were invited to nominate a veteran from their Legislative districts to honor during this recognition luncheon, and Mr. Cooper was selected by Assemblyman Niello to represent the 5th Assembly District. [More] Schwarzenegger’s Call to Consider Marijuana Legalization To Boost Taxes Is “Irresponsible,” Says Chairman of DARE Board (BUSINESS WIRE)-- Recent calls by California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger and others to study the legalization of marijuana as a way of boosting tax revenues are “irresponsible” and send a dangerous message, the chairman of the board of the drug abuse education program D.A.R.E., prominent Los Angeles attorney Louis “Skip” Miller, said today (june 4, 2009). “Marijuana is a dangerous drug with numerous demonstrable ill effects on health,” Mr. Miller added. [More] Transparency and Accountability in the County Budget The Sacramento County Board of Supervisors makes choices about its priorities and how it funds discretionary programs. This is the Board’s job, and one that I take seriously. However, it is necessary for the budget document to clearly show what spending is mandatory, and what spending is not. I have been fighting this battle for years now. Thanks to the hard work of a citizen’s committee I established in April, we are finally moving in a direction that will bring greater transparency to the County’s spending choices. The Sacramento County general fund exceeds $2 Billion – the public deserves to know how that money is spent on meeting mandates and funding local discretionary priorities. [More] Rancho Cordova Prepares Key Presentation for All-America City Final Competition Twenty-two Rancho Cordovans are rehearsing the important presentation that will determine the City’s fate regarding this year’s All America City award. The final competition will take place June 17th to 19th in Tampa, Florida and the 10 winning cities will be announced June 19th. Rancho Cordova is one of 32 finalists for the prestigious title. The award is given by the National Civic League for outstanding civic accomplishments. During the three-day competition, finalist delegations will present challenges and solutions to a jury of national experts from across the U.S. Rancho Cordova’s presentation will target and highlight the City’s law enforcement achievements, civic triumphs, and the City’s diversity. [More] Governor Proposes Eliminating Cal Grants for More Than 200,000 Students this Fall In direct contrast to federal efforts to increase college access during the current recession, Governor Schwarzenegger proposed eliminating all new Cal Grants, along with deep cuts to public university systems and other essential state programs and services. The Cal Grant program has been an integral part of California’s commitment to college access and affordability for more than 50 years. Since 2001, all qualified graduating high school students have been guaranteed a Cal Grant. [More] CA Labor Commissioner Files Suits to Close Down Nine More Carwash Businesses (BUSINESS WIRE)-- California Labor Commissioner Angela Bradstreet today (June 2, 2009) pursued legal action to shut down nine carwash businesses across the state for failing to register with the California Division of Labor Standards Enforcement as required under California Labor Code section 2050. The Labor Commissioner filed a similar suit against a Sacramento based carwash business in April. Each of the ten carwash businesses was repeatedly cited by the Labor Commissioner’s Office for failure to register. [More] SAF, Calguns Foundation Challenges California Handgun Ban Scheme BELLEVUE, Wash. & REDWOOD CITY, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- The Second Amendment Foundation, The Calguns Foundation and four California residents today filed a lawsuit challenging a California state law and regulatory scheme that arbitrarily bans handguns based on a roster of “certified” handguns approved by the State. This case parallels a similar case filed in Washington, D.C., Hanson v. District of Columbia. California uses this list despite a ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court last summer that protects handguns that ordinary people traditionally use for self-defense, and a recent ruling by the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals that the Second Amendment applies to state and local governments. The California scheme will eventually ban the purchase of almost all new handguns. [More] $250 Stimulus Checks Arriving Soon, May Not Be Enough Bailout for Some Seniors El Dorado Hills, CA — May 8, 2009 –Starting May the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act will provide a one-time payment of $250 to Social Security and Supplemental Security Income, or (SSI) beneficiaries, as well as those who receive Railroad Retirement and Veterans benefits. The payments are part of the $787 billion package of spending and tax cuts enacted in February to help boost the economy. Mary Glenn-Croft, deputy commissioner of the Social Security Administration, told a congressional panel last month that the payments are intended to inject more than $13 billion into the economy while helping beneficiaries of the four programs meet everyday living expenses. [More] St. John's Shelter Celebrates Mothers at Annual Tea Party Sacramento - Five “Super Moms” will be honored by St. John’s Shelter Program for Women and Children on Friday, May 8th, announced Michele Steeb, Executive Director of St. John’s Shelter Program for Women and Children. These five honorees will be recognized for their contributions to both their families and the Sacramento community at the third annual “Celebrating Mothers 2009, A St. John’s Shelter Program for Women and Children Tea Party” benefit set for 1:30 p.m., Friday, May 8, 2009 at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Sacramento. Eight hundred guests are expected to attend the Mother’s Day-themed event. [More] Rancho Cordova Is Finalist for All-America City Honors The City of Rancho Cordova is a finalist for the 2009 All-America City Award. The award which is often dubbed the Nobel Prize of Communities is given by the National Civic League to the top 10 cities for outstanding civic accomplishments. Rancho Cordova is among 32 finalists. The 10 All-America City winners will be announced at the 60th annual All-America City Awards competition in Tampa, FL in June. “We feel honored and privileged to be finalists in this very prestigious competition,” said Rancho Cordova City Manager Ted Gaebler. “Even though we are a young city, we have responded to and developed strong relationships with the various segments of our community that demonstrate the inclusiveness, collaboration, civic engagement, and innovation of the All-America City Award.” [More] Supervisor MacGlashan Announces Establishment of Community Budget Oversight Panel Citrus Heights – Sacramento County Supervisor Roberta MacGlashan announced during remarks to the Citrus Heights Chamber of Commerce today (April 14th) that she will be convening a group of community members to review the County’s budget and identify ways to reduce spending, improve efficiencies, and eliminate unnecessary or outdated programs as she prepares to deal with an unprecedented shortfall in the County’s General Fund budget. “Hard working families are sitting around the kitchen table every night trying to figure out how they’re going to make it through these tough times,” said Supervisor MacGlashan, “It’s time the County did the same. That’s why I am putting together a group of people with a wide range of experience and knowledge to help me lead a frank discussion on the challenges of protecting taxpayers and providing essential services.” [More] State Officials Issue Desist and Refrain Orders Against Loan Modification Firm Operating Unlawfully SACRAMENTO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- After a joint investigation, the California Departments of Corporations (DOC) and Real Estate (DRE) issued separate Desist and Refrain Orders against 2nd Chance Negotiations, Inc., ordering the company to stop performing loan modification services. “While the current market has created some wonderful opportunities for those looking to buy, it has also fostered an environment ripe for abuse,” DRE Commissioner Jeff Davi said. “With so many folks struggling to stay in their homes, foreclosure rescue scams have risen dramatically. The department is aggressively pursuing individuals and companies trying to cash in on Californians in their time of need.” [More] State Announces Effort to Fast-Track Plan Review for ‘Shovel-Ready’ School Construction SACRAMENTO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Emphasizing a commitment to moving school construction forward, the Division of the State Architect (DSA), which provides design and construction oversight for K–12 schools and community colleges, today announced it will give top priority to reviewing school design plans that do not require state funding. “The availability of federal economic stimulus funds coupled with local school bond approvals creates an opportunity to advance ‘shovel-ready’ school construction projects,” said State Architect David Thorman. “Because state bond proceeds for school construction funds are likely to be impacted for many months, it is imperative that we remove any barriers for projects that don’t require state funding.” [More] Pacific Gas and Electric Company Reminds Customers to Call Before You Dig April is safe digging month, and as people plan various garden and home improvement projects this spring, Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) reminds customers to always call 811 before digging. Whether it’s planting a tree, installing a sprinkler system or building a fence, homeowners and professional excavators need to know where gas and electric lines lay underground. The 811 hotline is a free service to obtain important information on what utilities exist beneath the excavation area. Natural gas pipelines, electric power lines and other utilities buried underground can lie within just a few feet of the surface. Accidental contact with these lines can be dangerous and even fatal. [More] Bella Vista, Casa Roble, and Pasteur Named 2009 California Distinguished Schools The California Department of Education has announced that Bella Vista High School, Casa Roble Fundamental High School, and Louis Pasteur Middle School have each been selected as 2009 California Distinguished Schools. “Being named a California Distinguished School is a hard earned recognition,” said Superintendent Dr. Pat Jaurequi. “The staff, students, parents, and community of Bella Vista, Casa Roble and Louis Pasteur deserve credit for this award, as they work together each day to ensure the delivery of innovative, rigorous, and student-focused instruction in a collaborative learning community.” [More] Pacific Staffing - Sacramento Quarterly Employment Trends Hiring Trends Flat - Fifty-nine percent (59%) of Sacramento’s top employers are not planning to hire anyone for at least the next three months. In the telephone poll of 100 top regional companies in March, hiring demand remains stagnant in April, May and June. Pacific Staffing discovered sixteen percent (16%) of employers also report additional layoffs may be near if the economy doesn’t gain strength soon. All but one of those companies anticipating cuts in the second quarter attribute the continuing weak economy as the primary reason. [More] Sacramento’s Political Funny Bone Comes of Age The Humor Times, a monthly political satire magazine launched in Sacramento in 1991 and now available worldwide, is celebrating its 18th anniversary with the April issue, out now. Appropriately enough for a publication bent on tickling readers’ funny bones, its birthday was April Fools Day, 1991. Without warning, the California capitol suddenly was home to one of the nation’s funniest publications – an irreverent, take-no-prisoners, no-holds-barred review of the news, featuring editorial cartoons from the best artists in the country, humor columns by the likes of veteran political comedian Will Durst and others, “fake news” ala The Onion, and much more. [More] Proposed Septic Tank Regulations May Affect Pocketbooks The State Water Resources Control Board has proposed a new set of regulations governing the installation and inspection of all new and existing septic systems. The new regulations would take effect on January 1, 2010 and will have financial impact to residents who have septic tanks on their property. The regulations are required by a law that was passed by the Legislature in 2000. As I opposed the original legislation, I must also oppose the proposed regulations by the State Water Resources Control Board. As I stated in a recent letter to the water control board, the “one size fits all” approach of this legislation and the proposed regulations will not work well in rural communities, and they will place an excessive burden on homeowners throughout the state. [More] DMV to Close Offices First, Third Fridays of Each Month Sacramento -- All offices will be closed the first and third Fridays of each month beginning Friday, Feb. 6, the Department of Motor Vehicles announced today. The action is in connection with the Governor’s Executive Order (S-16-08) that addresses the state’s $42 billion deficit and ongoing fiscal crisis. [More] Sacramento County Reduces Building Permit Fees for Projects with High Equipment Valuations Sacramento, Calif. – Sacramento County has lowered building permits fees on projects with equipment valued at over $5 million. “This fee reduction will help attract manufacturing and industrial projects to the County,” said Steve Pedretti, Deputy Administrator of Development Services. “We’re providing a progressively reduced scale of fees as the equipment value goes up; so the fee increase is moderated.” [More] A National Security Failure The United States no longer has a Navy big enough to defend our shores and safeguard America’s interests and citizens around the globe. It is time for the American people to hold our leaders accountable for this failure. The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) recently analyzed the funding needed to build the Navy to 313 ships – the minimum number the Chief of Naval Operations and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff say is required to meet our national security requirements. Building on data from its 2005 report, the CBO notes that from 2000 through 2008, the Navy was authorized to build fewer than six ships per year, shrinking the fleet to an inadequate 278 ships. Our Navy is now less than half the size it was 20 years ago, and 40 ships fewer than just a decade ago. [More] Rancho Cordova Police Department Deploys New Automated License Plate Recognition System The Rancho Cordova Police Department (RCPD) has recently deployed a patrol car equipped with an automated license plate recognition system (ALPR). The ALPR cameras are integrated with the patrol car’s onboard computer-aided-dispatching (CAD) computer and automatically take photographs of every license plate within their view. The system then compares them with license plate numbers in a statewide database. This database contains license plate numbers reported as Lost, Stolen, or as a Wanted Vehicle. If a match occurs it immediately alerts the officer, displays a color photograph of the vehicle, and a close-up photograph of the license plate. On the first day of deployment over 4,000 license plates were read. Of those, two vehicles were stopped that had license plates reported as lost or stolen, and one vehicle was recovered that had been carjacked. The media is invited to ride-along with an officer to see this valuable new law enforcement tool in action. Those interested may contact RCPD Sergeant Pete James to schedule an appointment. Statement on the Debate Over Lowering the Drinking Age Marlborough , Mass. – In response to the renewed debate over underage drinking, SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions) reemphasizes its stance in opposition to lowering the drinking age. SADD believes that lowering the current minimum-age drinking laws would likely do little, if anything, to reduce problematic drinking behaviors on college campuses and would contribute to the downward age trending of initiation into alcohol use by legally moving it into the high school community. According to SADD's Teens Today research, students in grades 6-12 ranked the drinking age as the number one reason why they choose not to use alcohol. [More] California Children Still Considered State Property In a decision being widely hailed as a victory for parental rights, a Los Angeles County court has confirmed, grudgingly, that homeschooling “is permitted under California statutes.” In so ruling, the court reversed an earlier decision that ordered the parents of “Rachel L.” to send her away to a public or private school, where she could get a “legal education” But where’s the real victory for parents’ rights? Rights identify actions you can take without permission. A true victory would have been a judicial declaration that parents have an absolute right to control their children’s upbringing--and that they therefore don’t need government permission to educate their children as they see fit. [More]  |
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