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Start Off the Year With a Hero

Posted: 1/19/2012

Fair Oaks – Author Ted Robinson will be the featured speaker at the Fair Oaks Chamber of Commerce Business Luncheon, Thursday, January 19, noon at the Fair Oaks Community Clubhouse, 7997 California Avenue.

As the Radar Officer of the lead boat in the attack that involved future President John Fitzgerald Kennedy, LCDR Ted Robinson is probably the best still-living person to know what happened that fateful night of August 1-2, 1943, when JFK’s boat was rammed by a Japanese destroyer.

He was also one of 12 men who were on a boat that rescued him, and was the first to talk to JFK and his crew about what happened during and after the ramming. A month later, Robinson lost his boat and spent over a month with Kennedy in a tent while both were recovering. There, Robinson learned first-hand JFK’s version of that night.

The meeting is open to the public and reservations are required. Cost of the lunch is $17 for members with reservations; $20 for walk-ins, future members and guests. The entree is Roast Sirloin.

For further information call 967-2903.

Rancho Cordova Installs Speed Feedback Signs

Posted: 1/19/2012

Rancho Cordova – Two speed feedback signs were installed near Mills Middle School near the intersection of Coloma Road and Chase Road this week.

The signs alert drivers to the speed limit and speed they are traveling. City residents, staff, and the Rancho Cordova Police Department felt the signs will encourage drivers to slow down around the school.

“We strive to provide for continued safety improvements on City roadways and this is a measure we believe will improve safety around the school site,” said Cyrus Abhar, Rancho Cordova Public Works Director.

The improvement was originally proposed at a Neighborhood Traffic Management meeting. Approximately 70 residents attended the meeting to discuss safety concerns.

Since Cityhood, several pedestrian, bicycle, and traffic improvements have been made to promote safety on Coloma Road including bike lanes, sidewalks, medians, and road resurfacing and paving.

“The Growing Strong Neighborhoods initiative includes a focus on safety throughout the City,” said Rancho Cordova Mayor David Sander. “We are committed to targeting problem areas and taking action to improve safety.”

New Neighborhood Outreach Program

Posted: 1/19/2012

Rancho Cordova – Nextdoor enables residents to communicate on a private, secure website The City of Rancho Cordova announces a private social computer network for residents that fosters neighbor-to-neighbor and city-wide communications. Using Nextdoor (www.nextdoor.com), residents can create private websites for their neighborhoods where they can ask questions and exchange local advice and recommendations. There is no cost to the City, the neighborhoods, or residents.

Topics of discussion on Nextdoor can be as varied as local events, school activities, plumber and babysitter recommendations, disaster preparedness, upcoming garage sales, or even lost pets.

Nextdoor was founded in 2010 with the first neighborhood website in Menlo Park. Seven other California cities are now participating and several more, including Rancho Cordova, are starting this month.

For the program, Rancho Cordova is divided into 22 neighborhoods. Four areas – Cordova Towne, Sunridge Park, Stone Creek, and Anatolia – are up and running. Cordova Lane and Cordova Meadows will soon be in operation. In addition, the City will have a Nextdoor site to share information relevant to Rancho Cordova neighborhoods such as street closures.

“Nextdoor is worth considering for anyone who is serious about improving their neighborhood,” said Ryan Lundquist, the founding member of Nextdoor’s Cordova Towne website. “We must talk with each other if we are going to see progress.”

Those interested in joining their neighborhood’s Nextdoor website can visit www.nextdoor.com and enter their address. If Nextdoor is available in their area, they can immediately sign up. If a Nextdoor website has not yet been established (active neighborhoods must have at least 10 members), neighbors are invited to apply to bring the program to their neighborhood.

All Nextdoor members must verify that they live within the neighborhood. Shared information is password-protected and cannot be accessed by those outside the neighborhood or found on Google or other search engines.

“We are proud to be the first city in this region to offer Nextdoor to our residents,” said Rancho Cordova Mayor David Sander. “A neighborhood where residents regularly interact and engage with each other is a healthy neighborhood; Nextdoor is another important tool for our Growing Strong Neighborhoods Initiative.”

For more information about Nextdoor, please contact Kelsey Grady at Kelsey@nextdoor.com or at (415) 857-2999.

Need Help with California Common Core Standards?

Posted: 1/192/2012

SACRAMENTO REGION – California teachers who want to make sure their lessons meet the standards can now just check their smartphones. The Sacramento County Office of Education (SCOE) announces the release of a free eStandards Web app that connects K-12 teachers and administrators to the California Common Core State Standards.

With the Web app, users can quickly find California’s K-12 math standards and Language Arts standards by subject, grade, and category on their smartphones and other mobile devices. This app can serve as a great reference tool for anyone who wants to read and better understand the standards.

“We are always looking for new and better ways to help our teachers,” said Sacramento County Superintendent of Schools David W. Gordon. “It is our hope that this California Common Core resource will help teachers and curriculum specialists better apply the standards in their daily lessons.”

The California Common Core State “eStandards” Web app was designed to facilitate collaborative planning and decision making among teachers. It is streamlined and simple, yet extremely helpful for teachers and administrators to quickly reference the Common Core Standards.

“Today, SCOE is placing important information about the standards right into the palm of a teacher’s hand,” said Sue Stickel, Deputy Superintendent of Schools. “This information will serve as a great reference tool for students, teachers and families to better understand the standards.”

The Web app is freely available and optimized for iOS and Android smartphone users. It can be downloaded from the following site: www.scoe.net/estandardsmobile. An enhanced, searchable version, including additional resources, will be available in the coming months in the iTunes App Store and the Android Market.

The eStandards Common Core Website provides online information for traditional computer users and can be located at www.scoe.net/estandards.

In September, 2010, SCOE provided the staff for the California Academic Content Standards Commission’s work in developing the standards, including retired experts in the area of English Language Arts and mathematics. Deputy Superintendent Stickel served as Project Director.

Five $1,000 Wedding Dresses up for Grabs in Wedding Gown Giveaway

Posted: 1/19/2012

Sacramento REGION – Since Christmas and New Year’s are the most popular times for couples to get engaged (followed closely by Valentine’s Day), there are now thousands of new brides-to-be hot on the trail of the perfect wedding dress. And with the economy still sputtering along, most couples will likely be looking to trim their wedding costs wherever they can. Luckily for all those newly engaged brides-to-be, Sacramento Perfect Wedding Guide’s Great Gown Giveaway offers a chance to win the perfect wedding dress!

Not only is PWG’s Great Gown Giveaway unique with its large number of first place prizes (5), but it’s also a standout in the sea of wedding contests in that it is a true “creative contest”, not a sweepstakes or public voting setup. That’s important because it greatly increases one’s chance of winning.

“Creative contests are typically entered by a much smaller number of people than a sweepstakes, because there’s effort involved”, says PWG’s publisher, Abby Schneider. “But a little effort can really pay off for that exact reason.” Creative contests are rare these days, but were very popular in the 60s and 70s, as Schneider can attest to. Her mother was a contesting fanatic back in the slogan, jingle, and 25-words-or-less heyday. She taught a course on “How to Win Contests”, and even appeared on the 70s TV game show “To Tell the Truth” as a contesting expert.

In keeping with the creative style contests of the past, the Great Gown Giveaway rules ask entrants to tell “Why they are the perfect couple” in 100 words or less, and include one photo. To help creative contest newbies get the idea, Schneider offers these suggestions: “Some favored techniques for winning creative contests include writing poems (rhyming, acrostic, limericks, etc.), using humor, and being artistic. Since this contest requires you to include one image, that opens up a whole world of possibilities. You might write a clever mini one act play, and then take a photo of the two of you as the actors. Or you might design your entry as a scrapbook page and take a photo of that. You might even create an entry that you can also use for your save-the-dates, or to display at your wedding, making your creative time serve double duty!”

A bride’s wedding gown is of course a very important choice that only she can make, and she won’t have to sacrifice that prerogative if she wins. Prior to submitting their entries, contest entrants can visit the five local participating bridal shops to scope out their favorite Sacramento wedding dresses, and then enter to win a gown of up to $1000 value at the shop where they know their perfect dress is calling. No worries if it turns out that dress costs more than $1000 - the prize can be applied towards a higher value dress. The participating Sacramento bridal shops are Sparkle Bridal Couture, Enchanted Bridal Shoppe, Dreamnette Bridal, Bridal Gallery, and A Bride’s Dream Come True.

Perfect Wedding Guide is the most comprehensive source for planning Sacramento weddings, with free resources available through their web site (sacramento.pwg.com), magazine (free at local bridal and jewelry stores), and Engaged Wedding Library, their unique wedding planning boutique that offers free use of wedding books and magazines, and a large selection of local vendor portfolios.

For more information on how to enter PWG’s Great Gown Giveaway, go to www.EngagedSacramento.com. Entries must be received by March 15, 2012.

Annual Fair Oaks Rotary Club Crab Feed

Posted: 1/19/2012

FAIR OAKS – The Fair Oaks Rotary Club will put on its 22nd annual crab feed on Saturday, February 11, 2012 at the Divine Savior Church located at 9079 Greenback Lane, Orangevale. Rotary is an international organization that has clubs around the world helping local communities. Our Club has partnered with other rotary clubs around the world to provide disaster relief, fund sewing machines in Africa, and members also contribute to the worldwide effort to eradicate polio.

The Rotary International Foundation has partnered with the Gates Foundation to eradicate polio, and our Club members have even gone to Africa and administered polio vaccine.

Featured Club member: Alice Rowe retired from work as a nurse in 1986 to raise a family. She and husband Fred – a retired physician – have lived in Fair Oaks for 26 years are both members of the Fair Oaks Rotary Club.

Alice also helps coordinate a volunteer program at Northridge Elementary School, oversees an after-school tutoring program, and is a public library reading tutor. Alice is an enthusiastic supporter of local and international efforts including holiday baskets for the needy, dictionaries for local students, wheelchairs for persons with disabilities in Peru, and polio eradication.

She will participate with other Rotarians in a polio National Immunization Day in India next month.

People who live or work in the Fair Oaks area can learn more about Rotary by attending one of the Club’s dinner meetings most Monday nights at 6:45 in the basement meeting room of the Fair Oaks Community Clubhouse in Fair Oaks Village. Guests will hear an interesting speaker and enjoy a free dinner.

For more information contact Alice at (916) 541-1248.

BBB Lists Top 10 Scams and Rip-Offs of 2011

Social media users and homeowners targeted
Posted: 1/19/2012

Sacramento REGION – Better Business Bureau released its list of top 10 scams of 2011 today. The list cites job hunters, home owners and internet users as top targets for fraudulent activity.

“The internet is a goldmine for scammers,” said Gary Almond, president of BBB serving Northeast California. “Some of these scams are annual players, but the rise of social media has added a few new twists to our list.”

The list is compiled using data from Better Business Bureaus across the United States, documented via spikes in complaints and consumer inquiries. Following is the list, in no particular order, of scams and rip offs that took advantage of consumers across the U.S. in 2011:

Top Job Scam

BBB sees many secret shopper schemes, work-from-home scams, and other phony job offers, but this job-related scam can steal identities. The emails, websites and online applications look professional. Candidates are interviewed for the job (usually over the phone) and then receive an offer. In order to start the job, however, the candidate has to fill out a “credit report” or provide bank information for direct deposit. The online forms are nothing more than a way to capture sensitive personal data – Social Security number or bank accounts – that can easily be used for identity theft.

Top Sweepstakes and Lottery Scam

This year’s top sweepstakes scam was an email claiming to be from Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg announcing the recipient was the winner of $1 million from the popular social networking site. BBB always urges consumers to never click links they are not sure about. Instead go directly to the homepage of the company mentioned. If they are really giving away $1 million, there will be some kind of announcement on their website.

Top Social Media Scam

Viral videos claiming to show everything from grisly footage of Osama bin Laden’s death to the latest celebrity hijinks have shown up on social media sites, often looking as if they have been shared by a friend. When one clicks on the link, a prompt to “upgrade your Flash player” appears, but the file that downloads contains a worm that logs into the social media account, sends similar messages to the recipient’s friends, and searches for personal data.

Top Home Improvement Scam

Always near the top of BBB complaint data are home improvement contractors who leave homes worse than they found them. They usually knock on the door with a story or a deal – the roofer who can spot some missing shingles or the paver with some leftover asphalt who can give a great deal on driveway resealing. Itinerant contractors move around, keeping a step ahead of the law. The worst are those who move in after a natural disaster, taking advantage of desperate homeowners who need immediate help and may not be as suspicious as they would be under normal circumstances.

Top Check Cashing Scam

They contact a seller via a craigslist.org posting and send the seller a check for more than the amount they owe. The seller is then asked to deposit it into a bank account and send them the difference via wire transfer. A deposited check takes a couple of days to clear, whereas wired money is gone instantly. When the original check bounces, the seller is out of the money wired and stuck with whatever her or she was trying to sell.

Top Phishing Scam

“Phishing” is when one receives a suspicious phone call asking for personal information or an email that installs a virus to hunt for personal data. The most pernicious phishing scam this year disguised itself as official communication from NACHA – the National Automated Clearing House Association – which facilitates the secure transfer of billions of electronic transactions every year. The email claims one of the recipients’ transactions did not go through and urges the consumer to click a link. It may take the consumer to a fake banking site to “verify” account information or it may download malware.

Top Identity Theft Scam

This scam is so prevalent that many hotels are posting warnings in their lobby. Here’s how it works: The guest receives a call via the phone in the room in the middle of the night. It’s the front desk clerk, very apologetic, saying their computer has crashed and they need to get the guest’s credit card number again, or they must have gotten the number wrong because the transaction won’t go through. Scammers are counting on the guest being too sleepy to catch on that the call isn’t from the hotel at all. By morning, the credit card has been fraudulently charged.

Top Financial Scam

After the federal government announced or expanded several mortgage relief programs this year, many sound-alike websites popped up attempting to fool consumers into parting with their money. Some sound like a government agency, or even part of BBB or other nonprofit consumer organization. Most ask for an upfront fee to help deal with the mortgage company or government (services easily done for free), and almost all leave consumers in more debt than when they started.

Top Sales Scam

Sales scams are always popular, but the internet has introduced a whole new way to rip people off. Penny auctions are popular because it seems like one can get something useful - cameras, computers, etc. – for below retail. Consumers actually pay a small fee for each bid and if they do not win, they lose all the bid money. Winners often are not the top bidder, but the last bidder when time runs out. Although not all penny auction sites are scams, BBB recommends treating them the same way one would legal gambling – know exactly how the bidding works, set a limit, and be prepared to walk away before exceeding that limit.

Scam of the Year

The BBB phishing scam – Hundreds of thousands, perhaps millions, of people received emails imitating an official notice from BBB. The subject line says something like “Complaint Against Your Business.” The instructions tell the recipient to either click on a link or open an attachment to get the details. If the recipient does either, a malicious virus launches. The virus can steal banking information, passwords and other critical pieces of information needed for cyber-theft. BBB is working with security consultants and federal law enforcement to track down the source of these emails, and has already shut down dozens of hijacked websites. Anyone who has opened an attachment or clicked on a link should run a complete system scan using reputable anti-virus software. If a computer is networked with others, all machines on the network should be scanned.

For more information on these and other scams, go to BBB Scam Source (www.bbb.org/scam).

Gas Prices Start 2012 with Jump

Posted: 1/4/2012

Sacramento Region – Average retail gasoline prices in Sacramento have risen 6.2 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $3.53/g yesterday. This compares with the national average that has increased 2.4 cents per gallon in the last week to $3.25/g, according to gasoline price website www.SactoGasPrices.com.

Including the change in gas prices in Sacramento during the past week, prices yesterday were 27.7 cents per gallon higher than the same day one year ago and are 2.5 cents per gallon lower than a month ago. The national average has decreased 4.1 cents per gallon during the last month and stands 20.9 cents per gallon higher than this day one year ago.

“Average gasoline prices are moving up as we enter the New Year, a trend that has held since 2008,” said GasBuddy.com Senior Petroleum Analyst Patrick DeHaan. “The biggest problem with that trend holding true this year is that we’re starting 2012 about 20-cents per gallon higher than 2011, breaking yet another high price record and setting up an ugly year for motorists,” DeHaan said.

Early indications show this year may see the highest ever recorded prices at the pump, with real potentials for some areas to see close to $5/gal gasoline if conflict arises in Iran over several key issues.

GasBuddy.com operates over 250 live gasoline price-tracking websites, including SactoGasPrices.com.

Del Campo High School Resource Center

From Michele Moore
Posted: 1/4/2012

Del Campo High School is proud to announce a valuable tool for both students and parents, The DC Family Resource Center. This center will be staffed by parent volunteers and will provide the following services:

Community Resource directory
Zangle and Naviance access
Local job leads
After school tutoring
Parenting classes
Community service opportunities
Extracurricular activity opportunities
Summer program opportunities
DC Program explanations (AVID, ROTC, AP, etc)
DC Parent-Teacher communication ideas
College pathways information

In order to provide theses services on a consistent basis we need volunteers! Volunteers can work regular days and times on a weekly or monthly basis, or random days as needed. Shifts will run from 7-10am, 10am-1pm, and 1-4pm daily.

Drop-in tutoring is available in the FRC for all students after school Mon-Thurs. We can also make it available before school if there is enough interest – please let us know if that would work better for your child. To contact the center: Del Campo Family Resource Center, Del Campo High School, 4925 Dewey Drive, Room 33, Carmichael, CA 95608 (916) 971-5682 or DCFamilyCenter@SanJuan.edu.

Memorial Plaques Stolen from Patriots Park

Posted: 1/4/2012

Thieves vandalized one of Charmichael’s sacred landmarks.

Sacramento COUNTY – The Sheriff’s Department is seeking information regarding the person(s) responsible for the theft of several memorial wall plaques from the Wall of Honor at Patriots Park. The plaques are memorial tributes to former Carmichael residents who were first responders in law enforcement and medical professions, as well as members of the United States military, and who sacrificed their lives while working in their professions.

It appears that the suspect(s) responsible attempted to take other plaques from the wall, but did not complete the theft of those remaining. In addition to the dedication plaque, which measured 24” by 24” and weighed approximately 10 pounds, four individual plaques were stolen. Those measured approximately the size of a steno pad, and weigh approximately 1.5 pounds each. All of the plaques are made of bronze.

Anyone having information regarding these stolen plaques, or the person(s) responsible for this incident is asked to call the Sheriff’s Department Property Crimes Bureau at (916) 874-5051.

Source: Deputy Jason Ramos, Sheriff’s Spokesman

Rancho Cordova Employee Earns “Green” Certificate

Posted: 1/4/2012

Rancho Cordova City staff member, Laurel Bane, has been awarded a Green Associate Certificate in association with LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design).

Rancho Cordova – Laurel Bane, Facilities Service Representative for the City of Rancho Cordova, has earned a LEED Professional Credential from the Green Building Certification Institute that signifies professional excellence and a strong depth of knowledge and understanding of the LEED rating systems.

LEED, which stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is a rating system for buildings that is comparable to a gas mileage rating for cars. It is an international building certification system that provides third-party verification that a building is designed and built to increase performance, reduce waste, and improve quality of life.

Bane completed several sustainability classes before she joined the Rancho Cordova staff in 2009. She also served on a LEED Certification project team in 2008 when she was employed by VSP. In 2009, she completed a continuing education certificate program through Sacramento State. And she has attended several conferences and organized building tours of LEED Certified commercial properties. “This year, I set a goal to study and take the two-hour exam to obtain my LEED Green Associate certificate,” she commented.

Bane’s main duties at the City are helping manage and coordinating building operations, maintenance contracts, tenant improvement, rentals, and tenant and staff education at City buildings. She says that LEED principles help her to “efficiently and effectively manage our City facilities, thus saving money, reducing our impact on the environment, and providing a healthier indoor environment for our staff and customers.”

Rancho Cordova City Hall was awarded the LEED-CI in 2006 and the City operates their other buildings per LEED standards.

Rosco, a 68 Pound Lap Dog

Posted: 1/4/2012

Portuguese water dog, Rosco.

Roscoe is a brown wavy, 4 year old Portuguese water dog owned by Pete and Becky Reiter. He weighs 68 pounds and thinks he is a lap dog. He loves fishing, going to the dog park and being with his friends and family. Roscoe is well behaved, mischievous, and very smart. He is a good friend and companion.

Roscoe became very ill this year and was diagnosed with Addison Disease. He must have a monthly shot and needs prednisone every day to keep him alive and well. All this is very costly but Roscoe is an important part of the Reiter family and they do what it takes to keep him healthy. Addison Disease is a condition caused by under active adrenal glands indicated by pigmentation of skin, weakness, and digestive disturbances.

The Portuguese Water Dog once existed all along Portugal’s coast, where it was taught to herd fish into nets, to retrieve lost tackle or broken nets, and to act as a courier from ship to ship, or ship to shore. Their coats are profuse, non-allergenic, non-shedding, and waterproof. Its coat can be curly or wavy and is black, white or brown, or a combination of black or brown with white. Midsized and robust the breed possesses the ability to swim all day.

The breed also has web feet.

Roscoe is lovingly known as Cuddle Bug.

Kay Burton is a longtime columnist and supporter of the SSPCA and other rescue groups. To share your family pet story with our readers, email Kayburton1@comcast.net.

Fair Oaks Community Update

By Supervisor Susan Peters
Posted: 12/22/2011

Through the generosity of The American River Messenger I intend to use this column as an opportunity to provide an update periodically about matters affecting the Third District, which includes the unincorporated communities of Arden-Arcade, Carmichael and now Fair Oaks. This is my first report to you since Fair Oaks became part of the Third District following redistricting.

The Next Economy

A broad-based public-private partnership effort dubbed the “Next Economy” is now underway to create effective strategies over the next 12 months to drive new job creation, investment, and innovation for our region. The group consists of employers, business, government, educational institutions, utilities and labor.

I am serving as the co-chair of this effort. It is my hope that by bringing together leaders representing a cross-section of private industry, education and government, we can chart a path for transforming our regional economy into a long-term sustainable, growth economy.

Together we are re-examining our region’s competitive position and evaluating the area’s economic strengths and weaknesses. This effort was inspired by four prominent regional-scale non-profit organizations – Sacramento Metro Chamber, Valley Vision, Sacramento Area Regional Technology Alliance, and the Sacramento Area Commerce and Trade Organization.

The first regional forum was held in November with more than 200 stakeholders participating in an interactive session that included responding to preliminary research findings. The next Regional Forum is scheduled for Friday, February 17 from 9–11:30 a.m. at the Folsom Community Center, 52 Natoma Street. For more information, including results of the first meeting, please visit nexteconomycaptialregion.org.

Hazel Avenue Phase 1 Done

Motorists on Hazel Avenue traveling over the American River Bridge between U.S. Highway 50 and Curragh Downs Drive now have more vehicle lanes with the completed widening from four to six lanes under the first phase of the Hazel Avenue Improvement Project. This is a big step forward in relieving congestion on this vital north-south corridor.

Hazel Avenue has a current traffic demand of up to 55,000 vehicles per day and was designed to handle just 36,000. The widening of the bridge was a natural first step in moving toward reducing congestion and improving safety. Future phases will complete the widening northward to Madison Avenue.

Besides providing immediate benefits for motorists, construction improvements included new bicycle, pedestrian and equestrian facilities to improve connections to the American River Parkway. Most notable is the separation barrier keeping those modes of transportation away from vehicle traffic on the bridge over the American River.

Chicago Creek Bridge Repaired

Erosion repairs were completed in October by the Sacramento County Department of Transportation to maintain the structural integrity and stability of the Winding Way Bridge over Chicago Creek.

The work was performed following an inspection by Caltrans earlier which revealed some erosion of the soil had occurred surrounding the bridge’s foundations. Now the piers and abutments constituting the bridge’s foundations are protected by a shield of rock.

Speed Controls for Phoenix Avenue

The County Department of Transportation received the green light from the Board of Supervisors in December to implement speed controls on Phoenix Avenue between Kenneth and Illinois Avenues as well as on Valonia Street between Madison and Phoenix Avenues. The placement of these traffic calming devices is part of SACDOT’s Neighborhood Traffic Management Program and designed to slow down speeders.

To be considered for the NTMP, residents must submit a petition request which the department evaluates using objective traffic criteria like volume, speed and collision history. Each request is ranked by SACDOT and the Board of Supervisors authorizes which streets can participate.

After the Phoenix Avenue/Valonia Street area was selected, residents worked with SACDOT to come up with a specific traffic management plan that was subject to a separate neighborhood vote to demonstrate consensus before receiving approval from the Board of Supervisors.

Residents in the area gave 75 percent approval to have three speed tables on Phoenix Avenue plus a speed bump on Valonia Street. Because the Laying of asphalt requires a warmer ambient temperature, the construction will occur in the spring rather during the winter months.

For more information about the NTMP, please visit sactdot.com.

Protecting the Parkway

Last year the Board of Supervisors officially went on record opposing a plan to put a new large federal-state operations center next to the American River Parkway near Lake Natoma and the Nimbus Fish Hatchery. Whether it will occur is still unknown but we are continuing to voice our opposition.

If the Federal Bureau of Reclamation, the National Weather Service and the State Department of Water Resources have their way, a joint operations center will be built that will be around 200,000 square feet in size and be home to up to 600 employees open 24 hours in a very sensitive area by the parkway. It would clash with the parkway and damage the scenic vistas and natural habitat enjoyed in the parkway’s Upper Sunrise area.

Several meetings have been held with state decision-makers and I have voiced opposition at every opportunity, including at a meeting with representatives of Governor Brown’s administration. Despite strong community opposition, the possibility still exists that the project could advance even though there are other alternative locations outside the Parkway that are more suitable than the site preferred by the federal and state authorities.

Curbing Medical Marijuana Dispensaries

Sacramento County’s Zoning Code does not permit the operation of any marijuana dispensaries or marijuana-related distribution businesses, and business licenses to operate these businesses are not available. Notwithstanding that prohibition, numerous establishments had popped up operating without licenses and, once reported, they were investigated. To curb that unauthorized activity, the Board of Supervisors authorized stepped up enforcement practices on medical marijuana facility operators and those property owners who allowed such facilities to operate in violation of our local planning and building regulations.

As part of the enhanced enforcement, progressive administrative penalties have been used subjecting landlords to up to $500 per day for zoning code violations and $1000 a day for building code violations. Liens also are a tool against the property for unpaid penalties as well as the pursuit of injunctions against facilities and property owners to shut down these unpermitted operations.

This increased enforcement appears to be generating closures of many establishments although a few indicate the desire to litigate the issue. The reports to date, however, are encouraging — 91 out of 99 identified illegal dispensaries in the unincorporated area have closed.

In light of the success of the County’s enforcement activities as well as recent court decisions and increased enforcement activity by the federal government through the U.S. Attorneys, the Board of Supervisors adopted an amendment to the Zoning Code clarifying no activity is allowed that is against state or federal law. As a result, dispensaries remain barred under the Zoning Code due to the current federal prohibition.

Rancho Cordova Permit Supervisor Gets Building Official Credential

Posted: 12/22/2011

Rancho Cordova employee, Joe Cuffe, continues to complete California Building Officials Training Institute classes so he can keep up with ever-changing building and construction laws, statutes, and codes. He recently earned his California Building Official Credential.

Rancho Cordova – Joe Cuffe, Permit Services Supervisor for the City of Rancho Cordova, has earned a California Building Official Credential from the California Building Officials Training Institute (CALBO), the state-wide organization dedicated to promoting public health and safety in building construction.At the City, Cuffe supervises staff members who issue building permits and take in plans from residents and developers. He also helps develop policies for permit issuance, plan reviews, and building inspections.

“It is important for the health and safety of our community that I keep up with current building and construction laws, statutes, and codes that change almost every year,” said Cuffe, who took 10 one-day CALBO classes during and outside of work hours. Cuffe has worked in the Rancho Cordova Public Works Department since the City’s incorporation eight years ago.

He started as a Sacramento County contract employee at the City. He then transferred to a Senior Engineering Technician position when the City began its own Building Division. Cuffe has completed two of the six CALBO credential programs and has already completed some of the requirements for the next programs. He asks, ”How can I competently assist our customers and staff if I’m not professionally trained?”

County Animal Shelter and Partners Aim for 1,000 Holiday Pet Adoptions

Posted: 12/22/2011

Sacramento – Through the month of December, the Sacramento County Animal Shelter, City of Sacramento Animal Care Services, Sacramento SPCA, and Happy Tails Pet Sanctuary are joining together in a major campaign to place 1,000 homeless animals in forever homes. “Home for the Holidays” is the theme, and to encourage pet adopters all adoption fees will be reduced by 75 percent.

“Together, local shelters take in tens of thousands of animals every year and we are joining forces to make a dramatic impact this holiday season,” stated Dave Dickinson, Interim Director of Sacramento County Animal Care. “We all have wonderful animals looking for a lifelong, loving home and offer the incentive of 75 percent off on all adoptions.”

Typically adoption costs range from $81 to $147 before the 75 percent discount. In addition to the holiday discount, at the Sacramento County Animal Shelter, qualified new pet owners will also receive the following benefits with their pet adoption through December 31.

- Spay/neuter surgery
- Health vaccinations
- Rabies vaccinations
- Microchip ID (with lifetime registration)
- 1 year animal license (County adopters)
- Free vet exam voucher
- Pet care information packet
- Disease testing (on most adult cats)
- Starter bag of food

Available animals can be viewed online at www.SacCountyShelter.net, www.sacpetsearch.com, www.sspca.org, or www.happytails.org. The County Animal Shelter is open Wednesday through Friday from 12:30 - 5:30 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from Noon - 4:30 p.m., and is closed Monday and Tuesday and most holidays. The shelter is located at 3839 Bradshaw Road, one mile south of Highway 50.

Fair Oaks Chamber Presents End of Year Awards

Posted: 12/22/2011

Recognition of Service Awards were presented to Kathy O’Brien as Business Person of the Year, Barry Brown as Volunteer of the Year, Mariah Eli, representing both Fair Oaks Safeway Stores as Business of the Year, and Diane Templeton as Citizen of the Year.

Hazel Avenue Improvement Project is the SACOG Salutes Regional Project of the Year

Posted: 12/22/2011

Sacramento – The Sacramento County Department of Transportation (SACDOT) is pleased to announce that the recently completed Hazel Avenue Improvement Project – Phase 1, has won the prestigious Sacramento Area Council of Governments 2011 SACOG Salutes Regional Project of the Year award. Award recipients were honored at the SACOG Board of Directors meeting on Thursday, December 15. Phase 1 of the Hazel Avenue Improvement Project was completed in September, and is part of a major roadway infrastructure project to improve Hazel Avenue from U.S. 50 to Madison Avenue, to reduce congestion and improve safety and mobility for all modes of transportation in this corridor.

According to Mike Penrose, Director of the Department of Transportation, “We are honored to receive the Regional Project of the Year Award for the Hazel Avenue project. From initial community input efforts, to the planning, environmental, project design and approval process to final construction -- our contractors, consultants and County staff have completed a great project with many benefits to the community and to local and regional roadway infrastructure.”

Completion of the Phase 1 project is a big step forward in Sacramento County’s efforts to improve the Hazel Avenue corridor. The Phase 1 bridge widening effort came first, and future project phases will complete the widening from Curragh Downs Drive to Madison Avenue. The Phase 1 project provides immediate benefits for motorists, users of local recreational facilities, bicyclists, pedestrians and equestrians. In addition, this $22 million construction project helped support local businesses, material suppliers and contactors during this continued downturn in the economy.

Roadway improvements completed in Phase 1 project work included:

Widening Hazel Avenue from four to six lanes over the American River Bridge from U.S. 50 to Curragh Downs Drive.

Construction of new bicycle, pedestrian and equestrian facilities and improved connections to the American River Parkway.

Architectural treatments on the bridge structure and decorative street lighting.

Extensive landscaping and decorative retaining walls along Hazel Avenue.

Phase 1 project construction costs were $22 million and covered with a combination of Developer Fees, Measure A Sales Tax funds and State and Federal funding sources.

Please contact Dan Regan (Communication & Media Officer) at 916-874-7056 or regand@saccounty.net for additional information.

SACDOT Bus Stop ADA Accessibility Study

Posted: 12/22/2011

Sacramento – The Sacramento County Department of Transportation (SACDOT) was recently awarded a Caltrans Planning Grant to evaluate the accessibility of Regional Transit bus stops within the unincorporated county.

Providing accessible bus stops is a high priority for Sacramento County and Regional Transit, to help ensure that everyone can physically access bus stops and properly load and unload from buses. As part of this study, SACDOT staff will visit existing unincorporated area bus stops (approximately 1,100) and make note of any ADA accessibility improvements to enhance access. This information will enable SACDOT and Regional Transit to better manage, prioritize and schedule improvement projects as funding becomes available in the years ahead.

We would like to encourage residents to assist by voluntarily filling out a survey if they are having difficulty accessing bus stops in the unincorporated area.  Interested residents can visit www.sacdot.com/survey to answer a brief and anonymous “Ridership Accessibility Survey” to help identify specific bus stop access issues. This feedback will supplement the SACDOT database for consideration in future projects. Examples of physical obstructions that could prevent access to a bus stop may include the following:

Lack of sidewalks leading to the bus stop.

Lack of curb ramps at street intersections in route to the bus stop.

Inadequate loading/unloading area at the bus stop to accommodate a wheelchair or scooter.

Physical barriers on a sidewalk such as a power pole restricting wheelchair or scooter passage.

This Accessibility Study is being funded by a $250,000 “Environmental Justice and Community-Based Transportation Planning” grant made available through the California Department of Transportation.

Air Board Fuel Mandate Threatens Recover

Posted: 12/22/2011

Sacramento – The California Trucking Association (CTA) released the following statement on the California Air Resources Board (CARB) proposed adoption of amendments to the Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS). “California trucking companies have faced a number of major and rapid disruptions to their businesses at the hands of CARB,” said Michael Shaw, Vice President of External Affairs for the California Trucking Association.

“Now CARB wants to impose a new fuel standard that even under the best of circumstances would lead to higher fuel prices for trucks and cars in the short term and possible fuel shortages in the future. “The California Energy Commission tagged the LCFS with an annual cost to California of more than $4 billion. How can CARB impose a major drag on our economy at a time when California’s unemployment rate still hovers at almost 12 percent?

“CARB’s LCFS mandate also fails to provide any safety net against biodiesel blended fuels that exceed national standards and may damage engines or reduce their efficiency. Until CARB can provide independently verifiable data that this new fuel mandate will not impose a massive financial burden on truckers and Californians, we ask CARB to pull back and take a more reasoned approach. The California Trucking Association supports the research and development of alternative fuel technologies and encourages CARB to continue working down that path. However, it must be done in a responsible manner with a very strong consideration for economic impacts to truckers and the economy as a whole.

New Website Provides Info Source to Residents and Businesses

Posted: 12/22/2011

Rancho Cordova – The City of Rancho Cordova has added another tool to its website. The Rancho Cordova Community Map Portal enables residents and business owners to quickly and easily find property related information such as garbage pickup days, water service providers, street sweeping days, and permitted zoning land uses for specific addresses.

Located at http://maps.cityofranchocordova.org, the site can also be used to find out what school or political district the location is in and who the government representatives are. Users can focus on a single property or investigate the surrounding geography. More than 50 layers provide information regarding parcels, streets, parks, schools, aerial photography, bikeways, redevelopment areas plus many more categories. Other layers show streetlights, speed humps, and geographic landmarks.

There is also an area for comments that goes to City staff who respond in a timely manner. “It is a convenient way for members of our community to obtain answers to their geographic related questions or be directed to sites that can provide the information,” said Mark Dumford, the City’s Geographic Information Systems Analyst. “And the service is available 24/7.”The site will be continually updated with new functionality and information.

For additional information, please contact Dumford at mdumford@cityofranchocordova.org or contact the City at (916) 851-8700.

Upward Basketball and Cheerleading Ready for the Season

Posted: 12/8/2011

Upward basketball players get ready for the 2012 season.

Fair Oaks – Registration is done and player evaluations are complete with 301 new basketball players and 42 new cheerleaders ready for the 2012 season. Orientations and evaluations took place between October 17th and October 26th, resulting in 38 teams.

The season should be a lot of fun. In addition to the positive environment, new friendships formed and Christian learning, there are many activities planned to get the children and families involved in the community. The highlight of the year is the Northern California Upward Night with the Kings on February 11, 2012. Together with four other churches, FOPC has coordinated with the Sacramento Kings to host a special night for Upwards teams in the area. The children will get to:

- Sit on the front of the Kings’ bench while the team warms up
- Do “high fives” with the players
- Hold the American Flag on the court during the National Anthem
- Celebrate Slamson’s birthday with other NBA mascots
- And more!

This is going to be a busy season with 19 games being played each Saturday and lots of other activities. Next on the calendar to prepare for the new season is coach and referee training. But we still need volunteers! There are many ways to get involved. In addition to basketball coaches and referees and cheerleading coaches and assistants, there is a need for drivers, team sponsors, prayer partners, half-time entertainers and many other opportunities to participate. The season starts in January and runs through March.

Upward Sports is a family-friendly sports experience that welcomes all in the community. For more information you can go to www.fopc.org or contact Ken Friedman at (916) 745-3872 or Will and Karri Eggers at (916) 966-1042 or wikaheje@sbcglobal.net.

Christmas in the Village

Posted: 12/8/2011

Carmichael’s Brownie Troop 1470 enjoyed singing Christmas Carols at the annual event. Photo by John Brothers,Brothers Electric

FAIR Oaks – Christmas in the Village brought an even larger crowd than last year, up to an estimated 2,000 people on a windy but sunny day to enjoy the shopping, many vendors, and of course, the Annual parade.

John from Brother’s Electric, who is the mainstay in the Christmas tree lighting event said “Attendance has grown every year since I started helping with the 28-year old celebration of Christmas in Fair Oaks. We have over 10,000 LED lights on the tree this year.” Fair Oaks residents are sure to enjoy the evenings lit up with Christmas joy when coming to the old part of town full of old fashioned shops and unique gifts.

The lights come on nightly from 5pm to 10pm for the next 6 weeks. A warm cup of coffee or hot chocolate can be bought just across the street for anyone wanting to enjoy some real Christmas spirit.

Attila the Hon

Posted: 12/8/2011

Attila the Doberman pinscher.

Sacramento residents Janet Garner and her sister, Caye Woods are the happy owners of 3 1/2 year old Attila, a Doberman pinscher.

Attila was born to a breeder in Milan, Italy and lived with him for the first two and a half years. There he was trained as a Companion dog

He then went to Germany to be trained as a Protection Dog. He has Schutzund training, which we don’t have here in the U.S., and has graduated as a Certified Service Dog.

The new owners met Attila at the K9 Working Dogs International, LLC in Langford, Kansas. While they had to learn German to communicate with him, he had to learn English.

The Doberman originated in Germany over 100 years ago.

Today, this elegant, obedient and resourceful breed is a companionand service dog all over the world.

Dobermans are puppy-like until about 4 years old. Attila is full ofenergy and likes to get up early. After playing for about an hour in the morning his owners alternate taking him for his 45 minute walk. During the day he takes short naps. He entertains them with his goofy side of his personality and enjoys chasing squirrels out the backyard. After his squirrel hunt it takes him quite a while to calm down.

Kay Burton is a longtime columnist and supporter of the SSPCA and other animal rescue groups. To share your family pet story with our readers, email KayBurton1@comast.net

Bloodsource Opens New Fair Oaks Location

Posted: 12/8/2011

Fair Oaks – BloodSource, the not-for-profit community blood services organization serving Northern and Central California since 1948, is pleased to announce the grand opening of a new blood donation center in Fair Oaks. Local blood donors and residents are invited to stop by the Community Open House on Thursday, December 8 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. and be introduced to their neighborhood BloodSource donor center.

Attendees will enjoy live music, light appetizers and refreshments, plus view the entire collection of 10 Gallon Club Milk Cans on display for the first time in a BloodSource donor center.

“This is a wonderful opportunity see our new BloodSource donor center, meet our staff and learn about blood donation,” BloodSource Donor Center Manager Lorraine Schlak shares. “The holidays are a perfect time of year to find out more about blood donation because it’s a lifesaving gift only one person can give to another. It’s a gift that truly matters.”

Thursday, December 8
4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
BloodSource Community Donor Center
Almond Orchard Center
11713 Fair Oaks Blvd

For community members unable to attend the Open House, please call 866.822.5663 or visit www.bloodsource.org to learn more about blood donation, find answers to eligibility questions (blood donation or Be The Match marrow registry) or to schedule a lifesaving blood donation appointment.

Zinfandel Drive Extension Completed

Posted: 12/8/2011

Sacramento – The Sacramento County Board of Supervisors, Sacramento Housing & Redevelopment Agency, Economic Development and the Department of Transportation are hosting an event to celebrate completion of the Zinfandel Drive Extension Project. Construction has been completed on a two-lane extension of Zinfandel Drive from the Rancho Cordova/Sacramento County boundary south to Douglas Road. The project also realigned Eagle’s Nest Road (now renamed Zinfandel Drive) south of Douglas Road, to align with the new Zinfandel Drive/Douglas Road intersection. Information about the roadway opening event is as follows:

According to Supervisor Nottoli, “This stretch of new road provides a number of benefits for the South Mather area, opening it up for future retail, commercial and light industrial development. Additionally, residents now have much better vehicle, pedestrian and bicycling connectivity to recreational facilities, shopping and other neighborhood areas. The City of Rancho Cordova also benefits through this long anticipated extension of one of the City’s important north-south corridors. This project marks another milestone in the ongoing reuse and redevelopment at Mather.”

“The completion of the Zinfandel Extension paves the way for our continued efforts with the County to fulfill the reuse goals of the Mather area and the key role the Redevelopment Agency is able to play in providing the funding leverage to support the infrastructure work that helps make projects like this one happen,” said SHRA Executive Director La Shelle Dozier.

DeSilva Gates Construction was the contactor for this $1.9 million project. Project construction costs were funded with Mather 2008 Tax-Exempt Bonds.

Ratio of California Women’s to Men’s Earnings 2nd Highest in Nation

Posted: 12/8/2011

The latest BLS News Release showing women’s earnings in California is now available online at www.bls.gov/ro9/cawomen.pdf. This data is from the Current Population Survey, which provides a wide range of information on the labor force, employment, and unemployment.

In 2010, California women had median weekly earnings of $747, or 88.9% of the $840 median weekly earnings of men.

Nationwide, women earned $669/week, or 81.2% of the $824 median for men. At 88.9%, women’s earnings as a percent of men’s in California was the 2nd highest in the nation, trailing only Delaware at 91.3% To view national data showing women’s pay in detailed occupations visit www.bls.gov/cps/cpsaat39.pdf.

Office and administrative support occupations had the highest women’s earning as a percent of men’s at 93.3% among major occupational groups. The percent was lowest in legal occupations with women’s earnings at 58.2% of men’s.

Source: Bureau of Labor

A Horse That Kisses

Therapy for Two
Posted: 11/17/2011

Diana Garner and Lacey.

Lacey is a beautiful American Paint horse mare (female). She is sorrel (red) in color with white markings and white spots on her belly. Also, she has a blue eye and a brown eye, she is a drop dead gorgeous animal!

Owner Diana Garner, a Gold River resident, had a life-long love of horses.

Diana had a knee replacement had not been in the saddle for about seven years.

Lacey was adopted by an Elk Grove family. At that time Lacey had not been ridden for several years. When a horse is not properly exercised they can develop bone and muscle issues; so, Lacey had developed problems with her front legs.

A Gold River friend named Louise introduced Diana and Lacey.

Lacey and Diana started “rehabbing” together, riding once day a week then slowly increasing the days to improve and strengthen both of their legs. Now they are riding five days a week.

In the 1899’s, the western plains were generously populated by free-ranging herds of horses, and those herds included the particular spotted horse. Because of their color and performance, flashy, spotted horses soon became a favorite of the American Indian. The Comanche Indians, considered by many authorities to be the finest horseman on the Plains, favored loud-colored horses and had many among their immense herds.

Oh, by the way, Diana has taught Lacey to kiss her.

Kay Burton is a longtime columnist and supporter of the SSPCA and other rescue groups. To share your family pet story with our readers, email: kayburton1@comcast.net.

Gold River Boy Scouts Hold Christmas Tree Recycling Event

Posted: 11/17/2011

RANCHO CORDOVA – The Gold River Boy Scouts come to you to remove the tree you place on the street by 9:00 am on the following dates: December 31 January 2 and January 7.

Please call (916) 668.9281 or email troop281goldriver@gmail.com and specify which date you will have your tree ready for pick up.

Suggested donation for this fundraiser is $15 per tree.

The Gold River UNITED Christmas Tree Recycling Event is the main fundraising effort for all the Gold River units of Boy Scouts and Venture Crew (the co-ed Scouting program) and also involves the Cub Scout Pack 281, hense the UNITED name on the appeal!

As you consider who to call for Christmas Tree removal this year, we hope you will support the Gold River UNITED Christmas Tree Recycling Event.

You may see other tree recycling efforts from out of area groups, but we urge you to support Troop 281 as this is the only Gold River Scout unit tree recylcing effort. The Scouts of Gold River appreciate your support!

You Can Help Homeless Women and Children Fill Their Holiday Stockings

Posted: 11/17/2011

SACRAMENTO Region – Christmas morning will be filled with holiday cheer for formerly homeless women and their children, thanks to Sacramento-area residents who are donating to Women’s Empowerment’s annual Holiday Stocking Drive.

The group is seeking stockings and specific fillers for infants and toddlers, children, teens and adult women. For the list of items needed, visit www.womens-empowerment.org. Residents can also make a financial donation and volunteers will then shop and fill the stockings. The average filled stocking costs $30. Items are needed by Friday, Dec. 2, at 1400 North C Street, Sacramento. For more information, contact Courtney Parmer at courtney@womens-empowerment.org or (916) 669-2307.

“In this economy, more than half of the women who walk through our doors are homeless for the first time,” said Lisa Culp, executive director. “These remarkable women have worked tirelessly to break the cycle of homelessness, and these stockings bring immeasurable holiday cheer to their hearts and their new homes.”

Women’s Empowerment is the only job-readiness program exclusively serving homeless women in the greater Sacramento region. The 2009 Nonprofit of the Year has graduated 831 homeless women and their more than 1,000 children, with 93 percent of them finding permanent housing and 74 percent finding jobs or enrolling in school, despite the current economy. This unique program combines self-esteem courses, job training, health classes and support services to help homeless women across diverse ages, races and cultures. For more information visit www.womens-empowerment.org.

Source: Kristin Thébaud Communications

Veterans Salute Dance

FREE to Sacramento Veterans
Posted: 11/5/2011

On November 12, 2011, Big Band Dance Party presents "Stars & Stripes; Veterans Salute Dance."

Performers include London's Swing Band "The Jive Aces," featuring Toni Elizabeth Prima (daughter of Louis Prima and Keely Smith). The evening includes dance lessons.

November 12, 2011
7:00 Dance Lessons
7:30-10:30 Dance

Sunrise Event Center - Grand Ballroom
11167 Trade Center Drive
Rancho Cordova

FREE to Sacramento veterans.
Tickets for the public are available at http://www.inticketing.com/events/176248/veterans-salute-dance/

More information call 800-385-2323; http://www.bigbanddanceparty.com/vererans-salute-sacramento.html

Spooktacular!

By Leslie Carrara
Posted: 11/2/2011

Dale Covey and Jayna Karpinski-Costa.

Citrus Heights – This year’s Third Annual Spooktacular was a huge success and complete with entertainment, a pet Halloween costume contest, and a magician.

Sponsored by the Antelope Crossing Business Assocation (ACBA) and the City of Citrus Heights, the Spooktacular was held at Antelope and Tupelo in the shopping center parking lot just west of the I-80 interchange on Sat., Oct. 22.

ACBA Board Member Dale Covey said that the annual event is one of the ways to keep the energy going and to keep activities going in the area. They change locations each year, so next year it will at Zenith and Antelope, just across the street.

At Antelope and Tupelo, Albertson’s and Rite Aid are former tenants. Covey said that new businesses have come to the area in both shopping centers, including Andrew’s Furniture, O’Reilly’s Automotive, Mercy Pet Hospital, and Just Send It Postal, which is in the Raley’s shopping center. As far as the larger buildings that Albertson’s and Rite Aid worked out of, they have had “lookers, but no one has signed on the dotted line,” Covey said.

About the Spooktacular, Covey said that they had a “grand show. There was fun and activities for everyone. It was a beautiful day for an early fall event.”

The Antelope Crossing area is on the move as the Sacramento Regional Air Quality Infill Streamlining Program awarded Citrus Heights a $100,000 grant. “The project is to develop a vision and concept plan for Antelope Crossing to capitalize on the location, provide for a mix of uses, improve connectivity between the shopping centers and the residential area surrounding it and intensify uses,” according to an Antelope Crossing flyer distributed at the Spooktacular.

Also, Antelope Road was recently redeveloped in the area, making turns safer and improvements easing up on the congestion it was known for. Covey indicated that as well as the ACBA and the City, the Chamber of Commerce is also involved in this part of Citrus Heights.

CHPD and the City of Citrus Heights Announce Annual Holiday Referral Program

Posted: 11/2/2011

Citrus Heights – The Citrus Heights Police Department (CHPD) and the City of Citrus Heights are pleased to announce the kick-off of the Third Annual Holiday Referral Program. The Police Department and City have again partnered with various local service clubs, schools, neighborhoods, businesses, and community members to brighten the holidays for some of our Citrus Heights families.

This unique community-involved program was created to spread joy and holiday cheer to certain residents of Citrus Heights by providing participating families with food, household items, and toys/clothes for the children. We rely heavily on the community to help make the effort a success. Participation can include the donation of items, adopting a family, volunteering, referring a family into the program, or all of the above!

This year we are facilitating an additional approach to collecting donations. You and a group of friends, neighbors, service clubs, co-workers, church members, etc., are invited to select a category in which to focus your donations.

The goal will be to collect 100 items in each category. In so doing, we can provide all of our families with “like” items, maintaining consistency in our giving. We are looking to adopt 100 families and provide food, toiletry baskets, modest gifts for the adults, and toys and clothes for the children.

To refer a family for consideration, an application must be completed and submitted to CHPD. A “Holiday Referral Program Application” can be picked up at the front counter of CHPD or found online at www.citrusheightspd.net.

Completed referrals can either be dropped off at the department or mailed to CHPD at 6315 Fountain Square Drive, Citrus Heights, California, 95621. Applications will be accepted from Monday, October 31st thru Monday, November 14th, 2011.

If you are interested in adopting a family, donating items or have any questions regarding the program, please email Cassandra Roesser at the Police Department at croesser@citrusheights.net or call (916) 727-5561.

Rancho Cordova Hosts Enterprise Zone Conference

Posted: 11/2/2011

George Runner State Board of Equalization

Rancho Cordova - George Runner, District 2 Board Member of the California State Board of Equalization, will be the keynote speaker at the California Association of Enterprise Zones’ annual conference at the Sacramento-Rancho Cordova Marriott, November 16th to 18th. The hotel is located at 11211 Point East Drive in Rancho Cordova. A training event, the annual conference attracts Enterprise Zone managers from California’s 42 Enterprise Zones, tax consultants, accountants, and others.

Runner, who was elected to the Board of Equalization in 2010, served 12 years in the State Legislature: three terms as Vice Chair of the Assembly Budget Committee and as a State Senator from 2004 to 2008. He and his wife, California State Senator Sharon Runner, are the authors of Jessica’s Law. He also authored the California Amber Alert. The conference program will also feature representatives from the State Department of Housing and Community Development and the Franchise Tax Board.

Title sponsors of the conference are ADP as the private sector sponsor and Pacific Gateway Workforce Investment Network as the public sector sponsor. Platinum sponsors are Ernst and Young, First Advantage, Moss Adams, Romo Incentives Group, the Sacramento Enterprise Zone, and the Tax Credit Company.

The Enterprise Zone program was established in 1984 to provide special business and tax incentives to support the attraction, expansion, and retention of local businesses.

For more information about the conference program and registration, contact Micah Runner, Economic Development Manager for the City of Rancho Cordova which is hosting the conference, at (916) 851-8783 or visit the conference website at www.caezconference.com.

Project Linus: Providing Security Through Blankets

By Julie Parker
Posted: 10/19/2011

Claire Cliddon with some of the 300 blankets going to Sacramento Food Bank.

For a child experiencing grief, medical stress, trauma or other challenging situations, a homemade blanket offers more than warmth. It provides emotional comfort.

In 1995, Karen Loucks read an article in Parade in which a security blanket helped a young girl endure painful chemotherapy treatments. That article inspired her to donate homemade security blankets to a cancer center in Denver, which, in turn, led her to create Project Linus. “Providing Security Through Blankets,” gifts of homemade blankets and afghans for children in need have escalated.

As of January 2011, Project Linus has inspired the creation of 371 chapters around the country, one of which began in 1996 by Claire Cliddon, serving Sacramento, Placer and El Dorado Counties.

“We delivered 35 blankets that first year,” says Cliddon. “We started out with hospital pediatrics, telling them, ‘If you can use them, let us know.’” Today, service organization recipients are now rotated from a lengthy list. Law enforcement, U.S. Forest Service, hospital pediatric units, elementary schools, shelters and hospice are just a few examples of those who can now offer blankets to children in need. “Last year, we delivered over 6,000 blankets.

They’re for kids even just going through a difficult time, like their parents are in Afghanistan and they miss them, or they lost a sibling. We do it from natal infants up to 18 year olds.”

Although many chapters across the country keep an extra supply of 200 blankets, Cliddon doesn’t agree with that policy. “If the blankets come in, they need to go out. Someone needs them now.”

Who makes the blankets? The diversity of volunteers range from a six year old Daisy Girl Scout who made a no-sew fleece blanket, to a 105-year-old woman who sews infant blankets.

Geraldine Dillon is turning 101 at the end of the month, and enjoys being a part of Project Linus, even though her peripheral vision limits her crocheting to a single pattern, which she can stitch by feel. “I’ve done almost 300,” declares Dillon.

She encourages others to volunteer their sewing time. “If they don’t know how, I can show them. It’s good for people, even if you’re sick for awhile. I can’t stand to just sit and do nothing, even when I look at television. I like to do something with my hands. I think Project Linus is wonderful.”

Cliddon says, “I have one lady who has made two blankets every single month since 2000. We had a woman in an assisted living home who said, ‘Project Linus gives me a reason to get up in the morning.’”

Although donated homemade blankets are distributed locally, Cliddon makes a point of assisting with global disaster relief efforts. Hundreds of blankets were donated to Katrina, 9/11, Texas, Haiti and Japan. “We had people pouring out of the woodwork for those causes. It was amazing.”

Project Linus is looking for volunteers who crochet, knit, quilt and no-sew:

• Mothers can sew while they watch the kids’ games
• A great community project for Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts and high school students

Cliddon says, “I write a thank you letter to everybody who makes a blanket, and tell them where they’re going that month.”

Donations of washable yarn, 100% cotton fabric and batting can always be used for volunteers who can’t afford sewing supplies. Dillon’s grandson and others pick up yarn for her from the thrift store and yard sales.

“The Sacramento Book of Dreams gave us a lot of yarn and office supplies. In general, we have no funding and we have to depend on outside sources or I just buy it, which can add up.”

If you would like to be a volunteer “blanketeer” or donate items or funds, visit sacprojectlinus.org or contact Claire Cliddon at (916) 965-8955.

“I can’t think of a better thing to do. It’s just the neatest thing for me to give blankets to kids, but to have all of these women say, ‘Oh, I finally feel like I’ve done something worthwhile,’ is wonderful.”

SJUSD Seeks Principals for a Day

Community leaders offered a chance to be a Principal for a Day in San Juan Unified
Posted: 10/19/2011

San Juan Unified schools will offer community leaders and volunteers a unique look inside learning by inviting them to be a Principal for a Day on Nov. 8. Guest principals will join school principals to conduct learning walks to see classroom instruction first hand, greet students, take part in campus events and even help with supervision and yard duty.

The day will begin at the start of school and go through noon when participants will gather at the Citrus Heights Community Center for a luncheon and celebration of achievements.

Any and all interested community members are invited to participate by signing-up at www.sanjuan.edu/pfad. Requests for specific schools will be accepted but final assignments will be based on availability.

SJUSD’s first Principal for a Day event welcomes community leaders and volunteers to each of the District’s 70+ schools to see instruction first hand and take part in administration of the school for a morning. Participants will then gather for a celebratory lunch and state of the district address by Interim Superintendent Glynn Thompson.

Tuesday, Nov. 8
On campuses from the start of school (7:30 a.m.) to 11:45 a.m
Luncheon from noon – 1:30 p.m.

Each of SJUSD’s 70+ school sites; Luncheon hosted at the Citrus Heights Community Center

Open to all interested members of the community; Space limited as only one guest principal will be assigned to each school.

Sign-up: www.sanjuan.edu/pfad

THE THEATRE OF LIGHTS RETURNS TO OLD SACRAMENTO WITH NEW PRESENTING PARTNER – RALEY’S

Holiday Attraction Returns to Region’s One-of-a-kind Shopping and Entertainment District After Enjoying Crowds of More Than 50,000 in 2010

OLD SACRAMENTO, CA – For the third year in a row Old Sacramento is the hometown holiday headquarters for the greater Sacramento region. With major holiday attractions like The Polar Express and the Raley’s Theatre of Lights, a visit to Old Sacramento is quickly jumping to the forefront on many resident’s lists of “must do’s” during the holidays.

For its third year producing this live staging of ‘Twas The Night Before Christmas, the Old Sacramento Business Association announces a new presenting sponsor – Raley’s Family of Stores. “I can’t be prouder to have Raley’s support for Theatre of Lights,” said Chris McSwain of the OSBA. “In Old Sacramento we celebrate the history of our region and obviously Raley’s is an important part of the history.”

"We are excited to be part of such a wonderful community event," said Jennifer Teel-Wolter, Raley's Community Relations Manager. "The Theatre of Lights is a magical way for families to celebrate the holiday season."

Raley’s Theatre of Lights mixes the historic charm of Old Sacramento with cutting edge sound and lighting technology to create a truly unique holiday experience for visitors from all over. About 50,000 guests from all over Northern California enjoyed the holiday magic of Old Sacramento’s Theatre of Lights last year.

“Raley’s Theatre of Lights is at the center of Old Sacramento’s complete holiday experience — from shopping and celebrating to giving to loved ones and to charity,” McSwain said. “Old Sacramento gives guests something that’s hard to find anywhere else in Northern California, historic holiday nostalgia.”

Old Sacramento ‘tis the location for visitors to get all their shopping done and more. From the Gold Rush to the mid-1960’s when this first historic district in the West was created, its prime waterfront location has become a unique, one of a kind shopping experience that can’t be found anywhere else in the region. With over 100 shops and 53 historic buildings, Old Sacramento is bringing traditional holiday cheer to this national historic landmark with this annual event, not only for locals, but for the entire region. Whether visitors come for an hour or a long weekend, Old Sacramento has plenty of historic landmarks, museums, entertainment, and shopping, providing something for everyone.

This season’s Theatre of Lights begins with the lighting of the City Christmas Tree on Nov. 23. Festivities begin at 5:30 p.m., followed by the official tree lighting at 6:30 p.m. and first Theatre of Lights performance at 7:00 p.m. Theatre of Lights continues through the holiday season with two 20-minute light shows at 6:15 p.m. and 7:45 p.m. every Thursday through Sunday until December 18. By popular demand the shows will begin running every night from Dec 19-23 at the same times. The Christmas Eve show will only be at 6:15 p.m. New Year’s Eve will feature Theatre of Lights as an important piece of the overall fireworks spectacular with shows running later in the evening at 8:15 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.

Old Sacramento’s Theatre of Lights is a unique state-of-the-art live staging of the classic ’Twas The Night Before Christmas hosted by Mark Twain. The show blends a symphony of lights, sounds and visual effects which will take the audience back to a time when the beloved poem ‘Twas The Night Before Christmas was first introduced in Sacramento in 1857 in The Sacramento Bee. The beloved poem comes to life on the balconies and rooftops of Old Sacramento’s historic buildings on K Street between Front and 2nd Street.

“Old Sacramento’s Theatre of Lights has solidified itself as a new tradition with more than 50,000 people attending the show in its second season last year,” explained Chris McSwain of the Old Sacramento Business Association. “We look forward to sharing some new and exciting surprises and enhancements to the show with the audience this year. We hope it continues to attract families to the hometown magic of Old Sacramento during the holidays.”

This year’s show includes many technical upgrades to the lighting and sound for the production. “Audiences will be blown away by the professional quality of the sound and lighting effects,” added Troy Carlson, owner of Stage Nine Entertainment and creative director of the Theatre of Lights. “With lighting by Sacramento Theatrical Lighting and sound effects by Skywalker Sound, it will rival any theme park holiday attraction, and Theatre of Lights is free to the public!”

Old Sacramento's Theatre of Lights will be dark on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. It runs through New Year's Eve. For more details on Old Sacramento’s holiday festivities, visit www.oldsacramento.com.

Celebrity Waiter Dinner Benefit for International Peace Park

Posted: 10/19/2011

For the past few years, I Am Peace, a non-profit organization dedicated to inspiring individuals to lead peaceful lives, has been working with the students in the Pacers for Peace Leo Club at Grant Union High School in Sacramento. After an emotional visit to the Peace Memorial in Hiroshima, Japan, the students decided that Sacramento should have an international peace park, too. The board of trustees of the Twin Rivers Unified School District agreed to give them the land to build the park across the street from the high school. A video of the park plans can be found at www.internationalpeacepark.wordpress.com.

In order to generate the necessary funds to start the park, I Am Peace is hosting a Celebrity Waiter Dinner at the Aerospace Museum, 3200 Freedom Park Dr., McClellan, CA, on Nov. 16th from 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. The emcee will be Tony Asaro, Community Liaison of the Sacramento River Cats.

There will be a catered dinner at $50 per person, a silent as well as a live auction led by professional auctioneer, David Stone, and opportunities to ride in the flight simulator at the museum.

Celebrity waiters such as Frank Porter, superintendent of Twin Rivers USD, Allan Warren, CEO of New Faze Development, Dev Berger with CalPERS Office of Governmental Affairs, Bud Gardner, retired teacher from American River College, and many others will be competing among themselves to garner the most tips to win the coveted trophy for Celebrity Waiter of the Event.

For further information, call Wayne Hironaka at 916-206-2531.

Registration Opens for “Nature Bowl” Science and Conservation Competition

Posted: 10/19/2011

The Department of Fish and Game (DFG) invites parents and teachers to help their children have fun learning about California’s natural resources. Registration is now open for the 28th annual Nature Bowl, an elementary school activity-based competition held each spring. This popular program increases the science and conservation literacy of third- to sixth-grade students in the Sacramento Valley and Foothills.

“The participants learn about the natural environments where they live, as well as how to employ teamwork, creativity and critical thinking,” said Nature Bowl Coordinator Bruce Forman.

The Nature Bowl is open to students from any school, group or organized youth club in the area. Teams will consist of three to seven children each. The day-long, semi-final events are held during March and April in El Dorado, Placer, Sacramento and Yolo counties. Several groups will advance to the final event that will be held May 5, 2012.

Prior to the semi-finals, there will be a series of workshops for coaches. Integrating environmental science concepts and conservation information into the classroom curriculum (following the State Science Standards), these workshops help prepare students for the competition. Teachers, youth group leaders or parents may sign up to coach a team. The entry fee for each team is $20, which pays for materials provided.

A coaches’ workshop will be held on Jan. 17, 2012 from 3:45 to 5 p.m. at the Nimbus Fish Hatchery in Rancho Cordova. Make reservations by calling (916) 358-2884. Students in Sacramento County will have a choice of two semi-finals to attend at Nimbus Fish Hatchery in Gold River, on April 10 or April 12.

For more information about the Nature Bowl please call DFG at (916) 358-2353 or go to the DFG website at www.dfg.ca.gov/education/Naturebowl.

Fair Oaks Resident Billie Cross Hits the Century Mark

By Leslie Carrara
Posted: 10/4/2011

Jocelyn “Billie” Cross

Fair Oaks – A new Centurion lives right here in Fair Oaks and she is the proud matriarch of four generations.

Jocelyn “Billie” Cross turned 100 on Sept. 11 and had a birthday bash where she resides at Embracing Arms Care Home. The celebration continues to this day.

“I get cards and calls every day,’ she said.

Born in St. Louis, MO., Billie and her husband, Charles “Warren” Cross, moved to the Sacramento area in 1942. Her 62 year marriage resulted in two daughters, Marion Silva of Fair Oaks and Carolyn Schilling of Sacramento. Her husband worked as a civil engineer for the federal government while Cross was a homemaker. Warren died in 1994. Silva said that Billie was a good wife and mother while working at their 5 acre walnut orchard, which was her dad’s hobby. The girls had horses on the property.

Over their years together, Billie and Warren did quite a bit of traveling to places such as Europe, China, Mexico and Cambodia in the early 1960s before Viet Nam. Silva, now 72, married in 1962 and has two sons, now 44 and 46-years-old. Silva’s sons have a combined 3 boys and 2 girls, ages 2 and a half to 10-years-old. Schilling raised a lot of animals, as animals have always been a large part of this family.

Billie was an avid bridge card player in her day. Silva said that at her peak, she was in five bridge clubs. She started playing cards in the 1940s. She doesn’t play any more because most of her friends are deceased and younger people play by different rules, Billie said.

Meantime, Billie said she does not feel any different being 100-years-old. “Millions of people don’t get to be this old,” she said. “Sometimes I realize it’s quite old, but I don’t feel any different,” she said.

Aerojet Claims it is Committed to the Future Success of Rancho Cordova

By Leslie Carrara
Posted: 10/4/2011

Rancho Cordova – They came. They spoke. And they are hopping mad.

Citizens of Rancho Cordova spoke out Monday evening, September 19, 2011, at the city council meeting about GenCorp’s (Aerojet) request to change the zip code to a Folsom zip code in an unincorporated area of their city.

The area at the center of the controversy is south of Folsom Blvd., west of Prairie City Road and east of Hazel Ave., slated as the Easton development, a large retail and residential community to be developed in the future.

All of this land was allotted to Rancho Cordova in 1980 by Sacramento County, according to Rancho Cordova Mayor Robert McGarvey, speaking the afternoon before the meeting, and although the 1,400 acres of land in question is not entitled yet, it does have a Rancho Cordova zip code.

“My first impression is that this is a money grab,” said first speaker Rod Borba. “Many people feel that Folsom is a desirable location.”

Also at issue is the fact that tax monies in this area will go to Sacramento County, and all police and fire, library, and park services will also belong to Rancho Cordova. Sheriff Department Captain Doug Diamond told the council that this will be “confusing” for residents living in the Easton area as they would be inclined to call Folsom for life saving services.

Meantime, Wallace Morgan, another speaker, said that he felt betrayed and that the people of this All America City are due an apology.

Julie Pierce said that she backs the city council’s position of this “theft”. And Sheryl Longsworth spoke of GenCorp’s greed and how “GenCorp only wants what is good for GenCorp.”

At the meeting, people discussed similarities to Gold River’s decline to be incorporated and to the Loomis/Granite Bay area where Granite Bay had a more desirable area and therefore, received their own zip code.

Customer Relations Coordinator for Sacramento Post Offices Ralph Petty said that at this time, there is a review in place and that they are receiving information from both Folsom and Rancho Cordova cities and residents. He indicated that they are 15 to 30 days into the process, and that a decision may not be ready for six months.

Meantime, Tim Murphy, Gencorp’s spokesman, said that he believed the citizens of Rancho Cordova are misinformed. He explained that the boundary of Rancho Cordova city limits stops at Hazel and does not extend eastward. While this land does have a Rancho Cordova zip code, he explained that this does not mean the land belongs to Rancho Cordova, and GenCorp is letting the post office decide which facility is better equipped to handle the mail as part of the long term planning process. “Zip codes are not used to define city boundaries,” he said.

“This emotional battle waged by the city is not necessary,” he said. “For Rancho Cordova (officials) to say that they have claim to this land is inconsiderate. We consider ourselves a part of Rancho Cordova, Folsom and Sacramento County We are very much committed to the future successes of Rancho Cordova.”

He went on to add that GenCorp views themselves as partners with Rancho Cordova. “This is unincorporated land,” Murphy said. He explained that GenCorp added 4,000 acres of land within Rancho Cordova for future projects such as Rio Del Oro and Westborough, two future developments.

“We would like for the city council to step back and look at what Aerojet has done with the city and recognize that we want to partner with them.” Murphy said.

Mesa Verde High School Threats

By Leslie Carrara
Posted: 10/4/2011

Citrus Heights – Mesa Verde High School is presently experiencing threats to students’ safety as the school and neighboring Carriage Elementary School were put on lock down on Friday, Sept. 30 while both schools were evacuated Monday, October 3, 2011 due to a bomb scare.

Friday’s threat was that someone had a gun on campus. School officials notified all parents of the incident by phone and the lockdown lasted for approximately two hours while Citrus Heights Police Officers thoroughly searched the school. According to Public Information Officer for the Citrus Heights Police Dept. Jon Kempf, they determined the call on Friday was a hoax and they arrested two students. They are not releasing any information about the students at this time.

Monday’s bomb threat required the assistance of the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Dept. Canine Unit. Kempf said that the dogs sniffed the buildings and did not locate any explosives.

“We made an arrest for a hoax on Friday,” he said. “We are not saying that the incidents are related but we are investigating them separately.”

The San Juan Unified School District office was contacted, but was not available for comment.

SMUD Reaps Savings Through Refinancing

Posted: 10/4/2011

Sacramento – The Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD) took advantage of low interest rates and refinanced a portion of its long-term debt saving the utility and its customer-owners millions. The move will save customers $70 million between 2015 and 2022.

“Rates are at historic lows. And SMUD not only has good credit but improving credit ratings, which made refinancing bonds attractive to investors,” said SMUD Treasurer Noreen Roche Carter.

Last month, Fitch Ratings raised its rating of SMUD’s credit worthiness from ‘A’ to ‘A+,’ a boost that stands out in a volatile market where credit downgrades have been more common.

SMUD recently sold $325 million worth of bonds at a total interest cost of 3.5 percent, which includes the cost of underwriting fees and other expenses.

SMUD sells bonds periodically to finance capital projects or to reimburse itself for capital expenditures made in previous years.

As the nation’s sixth largest publicly owned utility, SMUD has been providing low-cost, reliable electricity for 65 years to Sacramento County (and a small portion of Placer County). SMUD is a recognized industry leader and award winner for its innovative energy efficiency programs, renewable power technologies, and for its sustainable solutions for a healthier environment. SMUD was the first large California utility to receive more than 20 percent of its energy from renewable resources.

For more information, visit www.smud.org.

Citrus Heights Scholarship Winners

Posted: 9/20/2011

Citrus Heights – New San Juan High School hosted the Annual Awards Night honoring scholars and athletes from the high school. The San Juan Alumni Association, for the 31st year, awarded seven seniors with scholarships and since we have the brightest stars, it was hard to choose. Over those years, the SJAA has awarded over $227, 550 to 183 San Juan students.

The awardees, as shown in the photo above, are (left to right) Summer Van Bogart, Alina Khil, Brenda Hurtado, Logan Day, Julie Sandoval, Natalie Reznik and Natalie Pinchuk. These students are off to college campuses near and far. Summer Van Bogart will be attending the University of Arizona; Brenda Hurtado will attend the University of California at Santa Barbara; Logan Day will attend the University at Puget Sound; Julie Sandoval will attend the University of California at Los Angeles; Natalie Reznik will attend the University of California at Los Angeles; Natalie Pinchuk will attend Sierra College.

The amounts of funding each will receive is $1,500, and Julie Sandoval is receiving the Robert G. Cornwell Scholarship in the amount of $3,000. The event was held at the end of last school year.

The Cat with Ten Lives

The Trials, Tribulations & Triumphs of “Good Boy” the Cat
Posted: 9/20/2011

This summer "Good Boy" celebrated the 2nd anniversary of his rescue. Photo courtsey of Kay Burton.

The determined little cat dragged his broken body over the hot asphalt between the meat packing plant and an abandoned lumber yard, in an industrial area of Sacramento. Just moments before, he had been hit by two cars while trying to cross a busy street. A plant worker witnessed the accident and watched the little cat get hit by a car, flip up in the air and then get hit by a second car. The wounded little cat limped off toward the plant. The plant worker thought this cat’s ninth life was surely near its end. Somehow the little cat survived and made the plant and yard his home for at least another two years.

Life on the streets is difficult for a lone animal. Evidence suggests this plucky little cat had been living between the plant and yard prior to his near-fatal escape. It also suggests that he never had a real home because of the terrible condition he was in. People were afraid to approach this dirty, mangy-looking cat. Now he was left licking his wounds and fractured hip all alone. His teeth were badly infected; he had drool hanging off the sides of his mouth, and his once beautiful yellow-green eyes weeped due to a chronic eye infection. He survived by eating dirt to get at the insects for protein and scrounged in the meat plant’s dumpster when people who pitied the poor cat weren’t throwing him scraps.

On July 18, 2009 Ed and Kasey Jones brought this injured animal home and got him the medical attention he needed. Although he still has medical problems due to his prior environment, he has received the best the world could offer him and more love than he could have ever wanted and is thriving. Now the only discoloration on his once-yellowed fur is the kisses he gets from his owners. Kasey is currently writing a book entitled “You Don’t Have to Eat Dirt Anymore” on their experiences and will announce its publication date when it is completed.

Kay Burton is a longtime columnist and supporter of the SSPCA and other rescue groups. To share your family pet story with our readers, email: Kayburton1@comcast.net.

Flowers for Seniors

By Leslie Carrara
Posted: 9/20/2011

Fair Oaks - Seniors at home or in medical nursing facilities started receiving a pleasant surprise recently – flowers.

Flowers for Seniors, a non-profit branch of Support for Home, delivers carnations to senior citizens in skilled nursing, assisted living, rehabilitation and memory facilities, as well as private homes, beginning last June. They delivered flowers to Eskaton Fair Oaks Thursday, Sept. 15.

The total number of seniors receiving flowers per facility is anywhere from 100 to 200, depending on the list provided by the facility. Flowers are donated by local and regional shops, including Strelitzia Flower Company, Forever Yours Flowers & Gifts and Bloem Decorations, according to Carlotta Sanchez, Flowers for Seniors client services and staffing manager.

Companies in the area are donating cards and ribbons, assembly and distribution. On this particular day, Forever Yours Flowers & Gifts donated carnations, Support For Home provided organization and printing, assembly was completed by Winding Commons and Vitas Innovative Hospice Care did the delivery.

Cori Deck, community liaison for Vitas, said that the flowers bring happiness to the seniors. “It’s a little pick- me-up,” she said. “It’s a way to have companionship and to visit seniors.”

Sanchez said that the flowers provide “memories, especially because we give them carnations. When they were growing up, a lot of the flowers they used were carnations.” She added that this type of flower was commonly used in corsages and boutonnières.

Other companies donating at the present time include First Call Hospice; Windsor El Camino Care Center; Comforcare Senior Services; Winding Commons Independent Living; Advanced Home Health, Inc.; Davis Healthcare Center; Asian Community Center Nursing Home; Vitas Hospice; Folsom Convalescent Hospital; Support For Home; Greenhaven Estates; and Interim Health Care.

If you want to donate flowers or assembly and distribution time, please contact Flowers for Seniors at 482-8484.

Source: www.flowersforseniors.org

A New Postmaster Takes Over in Fair Oaks

By Leslie Carrara
Posted: 9/20/2011

Edward West, 42, of Fair Oaks was sworn in by Congressman Dan Lungren.

Fair Oaks – The community of Fair Oaks has a new Postmaster running the show at the post office.

Local boy Edward West, 42, of Fair Oaks took over the post office on Aug. 1 of this year, and was sworn in by Congressman Dan Lungren on Aug. 18 at a Chamber of Commerce luncheon.

West began his career as a mail carrier in Rocklin and then worked as a customer service supervisor in Folsom. Before becoming the Postmaster, he worked as a station manager in El Dorado Hills. All in all, he has 20 years of postal experience behind him.

“To get the position of Fair Oaks Postmaster to further serve my community is awesome,” he said.

Married to Traci, they have a 15-year-old son, Tyler, and all are involved in the Sunrise Community Church on Greenback Lane in Fair Oaks. A former Little Leaguer, Tyler is now “heavily into” karate, West noted. His wife works, as a workers compensation claims adjuster. Tyler attends Bella Vista High School, as did West, who graduated in 1987.

West’s family is involved with Walk on Water (WOW) through their church. WOW is a program at the church helping disabled children and teens. They have activities every other Sunday. West does lighting and sound, whereas Tyler is actually working with the kids, he said.

Meantime, West has a staff of 68 employees he oversees. Postmaster Ed says, “Stop in and say ‘Hi’” sometime.”

Non-Profit Organization Looking for Community Representatives to Join our International Team

Posted: 9/20/2011

ASSE International Student Exchange Programs is seeking volunteers to serve as Area Representatives in your local community. ASSE provides academic year and semester exchange programs in the United States for high school students from around the world. Students are 15 to 18 years of age, have passed a series of academic and character requirements and are awaiting an opportunity to embark on their American Adventure.

Area Representatives recruit and screen prospective host families, interview students to study abroad and supervise the exchange students in their community. Area representatives are compensated based on the number of students they are supervising.

ASSE’s primary goal is to contribute to International understanding by enabling students to learn about other languages and cultures through active participation in family, school and community life. ASSE’s Area Representatives are the cornerstone of the organization, making all of this possible!

For more information about ASSE or becoming an Area Representative, please call our Western Regional Office at 1-800-733-2773 or email us at asseusawest@asse.com. We look forward to welcoming you to the ranks of Area Representatives nationwide – striving towards a world of understanding, one child at a time!

UNITED WAY’S WOMEN IN PHILANTHROPY CELEBRATES 10 YEARS OF HELPING FOSTER YOUTH OCT. 13

Anniversary event will include fashion show and luncheon
Posted: 9/20/2011

SACRAMENTO – Residents can raise funds to empower local foster youth while celebrating the 10th anniversary of United Way’s Women in Philanthropy. The 10th Anniversary Celebration will take place 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Oct. 13 at the Macy’s Women’s Store Courtyard in Downtown Plaza, Sacramento, and will include a fashion show featuring Women in Philanthropy members and foster youth, sponsored by Macy’s, as well as a gourmet luncheon and anniversary video featuring speakers and foster youth from past events. Members also will discuss their new work supporting financial literacy courses and a matched savings program for foster youth. Tickets are $100. To purchase tickets, contact Kaila Ricci at kricci@uwccr.org or (916) 856-3910.

United Way’s Women in Philanthropy brings women together to foster the future, preparing foster youth for a successful adulthood. A dynamic group of businesswomen, homemakers and community leaders, Women in Philanthropy members raise funds, hold drives and provide trainings focused on helping foster youth rise to their dreams. The group also is a partner in United Way’s $en$e-Ability project, helping foster youth become financially self-sufficient through financial literacy courses and individual development accounts that provide a matched savings program. For more information, visit www.yourlocalunitedway.org/wip.

Happiness On Call

By Julie Parker
Posted: 9/14/2011

Edwin Edebiri

Philosophers, songwriters, poets and observers of life attempt to express or define it. Therapists and researchers attempt to analyze it. And the rest of us simply attempt to recapture it. Happiness is a concept which seems to be, at times, elusive.

Is it possible for happiness to be easily accessible? Edwin Edebiri, MBA, of the I Am Happy Project, believes it is.

A child of Nigeria, Edebiri was nine years old when he saw a plane flying overhead for the first time, and decided he was going to learn how to fly one. “The idea that something that big could fly in the air was fascinating.”

He also became enamored with a book that was gifted to him, “The Power of Positive Thinking.” “It was given to me because I love reading, but I couldn’t really read that book. It was just too advanced for me. It said anything you believe, you can achieve. That really stuck with me.” He made a list of 101 things he wanted to accomplish.

He moved to the United States to receive a higher education, and during his college years, he did, indeed, receive his pilot’s license, and ultimately completed the list.

While shopping in a Chico bookstore, he observed a couple having an intense fight. “I found myself in front of this couple. I asked them, on a scale of 1-to-10, how happy they were. The number they gave me wasn’t bad. I gave them each a sheet of paper and asked them to write three things they were grateful for and were happy about. They each wrote the same things, in the same order. The chances of that were phenomenal. I told them they should focus on what they have in common, instead of what they were fighting about. That was the beginning of the I Am Happy Project.”

The Project brings happiness to children’s hospitals, nursing homes and Veterans Halls, and has begun training students in junior high and high school on ways to be happy.

If a child learns how to appreciate happiness, he or she has a better chance of becoming a happy and well-adjusted adult. After participating in classes with the I Am Happy Project, students have shown improvement in test scores, self-esteem and self-confidence, and experience a reduction of bullying (victim or perpetrator). “We encourage the students to keep a happiness journal. It is the ten days of happiness.”

A few ideas to bring happiness into your life:

- Volunteer your time
- Create a list of all the things you are thankful for or that make you happy
- Be active and make healthy choices
- Create a goal or dream list and work on it/them diligently

Three things that make Edebiri happy:

- My family – my wife and three children; 24, 22 and 15
- Working with kids
- Motivational speaking; knowing there’s a transformation taking place inside of them is rewarding

“There is too much gloom and doom in the news,” says Edebiri. “We are looking for more ways to help people focus on the positive side of life.” To learn more about how you can sponsor happiness classes in a school, donate your time for the Project, or discover additional ways to experience more happiness in your life, visit iamhappyproject.org

Junior Achievement Welcomes New Program Manager

Posted: 8/29/2011

Susan Nelson has joined Junior Achievement of Sacramento as the nonprofit’s program manager. She will be working with volunteers, schools and business partners to bring Junior Achievement’s K-12th grade programs to students throughout the Greater Sacramento Area.

“I’m excited to partner with the community to ensure that our top-notch programs are offered to as many youth as possible,” she said.

Nelson comes to JA from Children’s Gaucher Research Fund where she worked in fund development.

As Junior Achievement of Sacramento’s program manager, she will bring the nonprofit’s programs to traditional K-12 school settings, while also introducing JA’s financial literacy, workforce readiness and entrepreneurship programs to after-school clubs, foster programs and homeless shelters.

“As a former JA participant, joining Junior Achievement of Sacramento is a full-circle moment. It is a pleasure to work with our business partners, schools and other youth program partners to deliver exceptional programs to our K-12 youth.

Junior Achievement impacted more than 9,400 Sacramento area students during the 2010-2011 school year with help from more than 380 business volunteers who taught JA classes. Junior Achievement’s mission is to empower young people to own their economic success. This year, JA of Sacramento celebrates 50 years. To learn more, visit www.jasac.org.

To become a Junior Achievement classroom volunteer or to learn about bringing JA to your school, contact Susan Nelson at (916) 480-2770, ext. 13.

Pony Express Rides Again

By Julie Parker
Posted: 8/23/2011

Californians use to wait for months for letters to arrive, so the Pony Express was welcome, indeed.

It only lasted a year and a-half, but the legend continues to inspire.

This year marks the 150th anniversary of the beginning of the Civil War, as well as the demise of the Pony Express.

Central Overland California & Pike’s Peak Express Company, later known as “The Pony Express” and “the Pony,” was a costly entrepreneurial venture which began in 1860 by a freighting firm, Russell, Majors & Waddell, who already ran a stage line between the Missouri River and Salt Lake City. The lengthened Pony route ran from St. Joseph, Missouri, through the territories of Kansas, Nebraska, Colorado, Wyoming, Utah, Nevada, and into the only formal western state of the Union – California.

Californians waited months for letters to arrive, so the Pony Express was welcome, indeed.

Previous mail delivery efforts using mules and even camels, proved unsuccessful. John “Snowshoe” Thompson famously carried mail on homemade 10’ cross-country skis through high snow packs from Placerville to Carson City.

Eighty riders were hired to ride the Pony; their average age being nineteen. Rider William Campbell recalled, “Sometimes we used to say that the company had bought up every mean, bucking, kicking horse that could be found, but they were good stock and could outrun anything along the trail.”

On April 3, 1860, riders simultaneously took off from Missouri and California, east-to-west and west-to-east, to begin the new, fast mail service. Although some claim it began in San Francisco, the mail was shipped via steamer from San Francisco to Sacramento, where the ride itself actually started.

Adolph Sutro (later mayor of San Francisco) spoke of a sighting high in the mountains in a blinding snowstorm. “On the very summit we met a lonely rider dashing along at a tremendous rate. We wondered what could possibly induce him to go on through that gale, and thought it must be some very important business. It was the Pony Express.”

In addition to challenges of extreme weather conditions and physical exhaustion, riders faced dangers of tribal attacks. The Paiute Indian War resulted from an incident which occurred at Williams Station, Nevada, located along the Pony route. The station had been found burned to the ground, along with three burned, mutilated bodies. The man who discovered the horrific scene assumed it to be the work of Paiutes, who had a grisly reputation.

As news spread, the number of bodies and Indians rose in each telling of the story, with panic following in the wake. Many stations were destroyed and stock run off or stolen. “The Indians committed great atrocities,” recalled rider William F. Fisher, “burning some of their victims on wood piles, scalping some and badly mutilating others. They had a good many bloody fights.”

Meanwhile, Robert Haslam aka “Pony Bob” was a regular rider on the Nevada-California border. Unaware of what was happening, he arrived at Carson City, where no fresh horses were to be found, as they had been gathered for a military Indian skirmish. So, he fed and watered his horse, and continued his ride east. At his next stop, the station keeper had been murdered, station burned and no fresh horses. He continued riding. At another station, the relief rider, panicked, refused to ride. The station keeper offered $50 to Haslam to continue, so he did. He rode on, delivered the mail and returned to his point of origin, without any problems. He had ridden about 380 miles in thirty-six hours.

For the delivery of Lincoln’s inaugural address to California, Haslam’s leg of the journey was 120 miles in eight hours and ten minutes, using twelve horses.

“…our work was more strenuous than freighting,” said Campbell. “It took sheer grit and endurance at times to carry the mail through.”

Rider Richard Cleve recalled riding for seventy-five miles in a raging Nebraska blizzard, and he still had thirty-two miles to the next station. Just finding the road was next to impossible. “I would get off the horse and look for the road, find it and mount the horse, but in five yards I would lose it again. I tried it several times, but gave it up, so I dismounted and led the horse back and forth until daylight.”

In “Roughing It,” Samuel Clemens (who would become Mark Twain) wrote of the Pony Express. “In a little while all interest was taken up in stretching our necks and watching for the ‘pony rider.’ … carrying letters nineteen hundred miles in eight days! Think of that for perishable horse and human flesh and blood to do!”

The Pony riders weren’t the only ones racing against time. They would often pass on communications to those building the telegraph, which would ultimately end the riders’ employment. Two days after the telegraph to President Lincoln was sent announcing the completion of the cross-country telegraph, the Pony Express went quietly out of business.

“Our little friend, the Pony, is to run no more.”
Sacramento Bee - October 26, 1861

Russell, Majors & Waddell hadn’t been financially solvent at the outset. When the Pony Express ended, so did any opportunity for future business success. Majors and Waddell died in financial ruins.

The romantic saga of the Old West wouldn’t die, however.

Buffalo Bill Cody’s adventures as a Pony Express rider were actively promoted in dime novels and his traveling Wild West Show, which toured around the country, and Europe, into England, France, Spain, Italy and Germany. Unfortunately, Cody never actually rode with the Pony Express. The closest affiliation he had was his two month stint as an eleven-year-old messenger boy for Russell, Majors & Waddell.

Contrary to popular assumption, Wild Bill Hickok never rode with the Pony, either. Hollywood added to the romance of the old west and Pony Express, with its usual fabrication of facts.

Haslam, a true hero of the Pony Express, spent a brief period as a Deputy Marshal, but spent his remaining years drifting around. He suffered a stroke at age seventy-one and died a year later, penniless, on Chicago’s South Side. Buffalo Bill paid for his headstone.

You can experience the spirit of the Pony Express as The National Pony Express performs its annual re-ride of the historical Pony route from St. Joseph, Missouri to Sacramento – a distance of 1,966 miles – carrying commemorative and personal letters.

You can follow real-time coverage at www.xphomestation.com, where there will be reports and pictures from the trail.

The last rider will gallop into Pony Express Plaza in Old Sacramento on August 27, 2011 at 10:00 a.m. Bring the kids, enjoy a sarsaparilla and listen for the “War-hoop!”

Princess Diana Remembered

Posted: 8/23/2011

Citrus Heights – New Zealand-born Susan Maxwell Skinner joined the royal press retinue for Diana’s wedding to Prince Charles in 1981. For the next eight years, she traveled with the Wales family. She will have on display her “Dianabilia” collection and be offering many stories about her experiences.

Maxwell Skinner has written three books on Diana. Now living in the Sacramento area, she is regarded as an expert on the Diana phenomenon and speaks nationally on the subject. She was recently featured in The Learning Channel’s documentary about royal memorabilia.

The event is to be held Saturday September 3 from 2:00 to 4:00 pm at Merrill Gardens at Citrus Heights, 7418 Stock Ranch Road, Citrus Heights. Call (916) 725-7418 for more information. Please bring your own items of royal memorabilia and hats are encouraged, but optional.

Meet Chopper the Motorcycle Dog

By Kay Burton
Posted: 8/23/2011

Chopper is a two-year-old Shih Tzu who keeps very busy. He blogs, has a motorcycle club, and has recently written his first book. The book is entitled I’ve Been Picked.

Chopper’s co-author and mommy is Amanda L. Steedley, who co-hosts his events. The photo- illustrated I’ve Been Picked is the story of Chopper’s forever family through his eyes. Readers can come along for the ride as Chopper meets new friends and neighbors. He finds all kinds of ways to have fun and make mischief. I’ve Been Picked is a delightful photo story…a good book to read for all ages showing his friends, family, habits and happy adventures.

A compact and solid dog, the Shih Tzu’s long, flowing double coat is its most distinctive feature. The word Shih Tzu means “lion” and although this dog is sweet and playful, he is not afraid to stand up for himself.

Cherished by Chinese royals as prized house pets for over a thousand years, it is believed to have descended from crossing the Lhasa Apso or Tibetan mountain dog and Pekingese. The Shih Tzu was the house pet for most of the Ming Dynasty and was discovered by soldiers in England during World War II.

Chopper will be the Grand Marshall of the Founder’s Day Dog parade at the Carmichael in September 24 and will have a book signing booth at the event. In addition, this busy little dog will have a book reading and signing at the Fair Oaks Library.

When riding with hismotorcycle pals, Chopper wears riding gear, sits in a special tank bag, wears a motorcycle helmet and wears goggles.

Kay Burton is a longtime columnist and supporter of the SSPCA and other rescue groups. To share your family pet story with our readers, email: Kayburton1@comcast.net.

STAR-Studded Evening Supports Education

Posted: 8/23/2011

Celebrities who got their start in San Juan schools will help celebrate excellence in education at the fifth annual Evening with the STARS gala on September 30, 2011, at Arden Hills Resort Club & Spa, hosted by the San Juan Education Foundation.

Journalist/author Joan Lunden (a Bella Vista graduate), Olympic swimmer Debbie Meyer (a Rio Americano graduate), and Hollywood car “King of Kustomizers” George Barris (a San Juan graduate) will be inducted into the STARS Hall of Fame.

Emmy Award winning comedian Jack Gallagher will entertain with his special brand of humor and serve as Master of Ceremonies, keeping the event lively and fun.

The STARS Hall of Fame recognizes alumni who have distinguished themselves in their profession as well as given back to the community by supporting youth. Previous honorees include journalist Lisa Ling and baseball great Dusty Baker.

Arden Hills Resort Club & Spa will provide five star catering, and attendees will dance under the stars to stellar music provided by SJUSD musicians. Several top area wineries will sample wines, and live and silent auctions will help raise money for San Juan classrooms.

The San Juan Education Foundation is an independent, non-profit organization formed as a link between the community and San Juan schools. The mission of SJEF is to support innovative learning programs with a focus on science, technology, arts, and reading for students (STARS).

Tickets for the event can be purchased online at www.sanjuanfoundation.org.

Score a Job – Not a Scam: BBB Advises Job Hunters on Phony Job Postings

Posted: 8/23/2011

Looking for a job? You’re not alone. With unemployment at a soaring rate of 9.2%, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, many job hunters are turning to online job boards to post their resume and search for jobs. Better Business Bureau (BBB) is warning job seekers to proceed with caution before sharing their personal qualifications for jobs found online.

The Internet provides an opportunity for ID thieves and scammers to take advantage of eager job seekers. It’s becoming common for scammers to lure in potential candidates with phrases like, “Get rich quick – without even leaving your home!” all in the hopes of getting their personal information. Craigslist, Monster.com, Careerbuilder.com and Facebook are all breeding grounds for scammers.

“Job seekers need to be on the look out for potential scams. Before posting your resume to a career site or inquiring about a job, make sure you know with whom you are dealing,” said Gary Almond, president and CEO of the BBB serving Northeast California. “Many job scammers are having candidates set up direct deposit accounts as part of the application process and making it seem as though it’s naturally part of the process to get an interview—when it’s absolutely not.”

BBB advises job hunters to be on the look out for these red flags when conducting their job search:

Employer emails are rife with grammatical and spelling errors. Most online fraud is perpetrated by scammers located outside the U.S. When one’s first language is not English, it is often evident in a poor grasp of the language. Look for poor grammar and the misspelling of common words.

Emails purporting to be from job posting websites claiming there’s a problem with a job hunter’s account. After creating a user account on a site, a job hunter might receive an e-mail saying there has been a problem with their account or they need to follow a hyperlink to install new software. Phishing e-mails like this are designed to convince readers to click a link within the message to fix the issue, but actually take them to a website that will install malware or viruses on their computer.

An employer asks for extensive personal information such as social security or bank account numbers. Some job seekers have been surprised to learn they landed a job without an interview. However, when the employer asked for personal information in order to fill out the necessary paperwork suspicions were raised. Regardless of the reason given by the employer, a job applicant should never give out his or her Social Security or bank account number over the phone or by e-mail.

An employer offers the opportunity to become rich without leaving home. While there are legitimate businesses that allow employees to work from home, there are also a lot of scammers trying to take advantage of senior citizens, stay-at-home moms, students and injured or handicapped people. Job hunters should use extreme caution when considering a work-at-home offer and always research the company with the BBB.

An employer asks for money upfront. Aside from paying for a uniform, it is rarely advisable for an applicant to pay upfront fees for a job.

The salary and benefits offered seem too-good-to-be-true. Phony employers might brag about exceptionally high salary potential and excellent benefits for little experience in order to lure unsuspecting job hunters into their scam.

The job requires the employee to wire money through Western Union or MoneyGram. Many phony jobs require the prospective employee to cash a check sent by the company through the mail and then wire a portion of the money on to another entity. Reasons given for this requirement vary from scam to scam. The check might clear the employee’s bank account initially, but will eventually turn out to be a fake. The consumer is then out of the money wired to the company.

CSLB Revokes License of Once-Prominent Area Restaurateur and Developer

Source: V.Stromberg CSLB Public Affairs Office
Posted: 8/23/2011

Sacramento Region – The Contractors State License Board (CSLB) officially revoked the license of Stonegate Construction, Inc.’s license (#766777) on August 12, 2011. Stonegate Construction President and Responsible Managing Officer Abolghassen “Abe” Alizadeh signed and accepted the terms of a stipulated settlement agreement on August 5, 2011, in response to a CSLB investigation that concluded Alizadeh had diverted construction funds, and failed to pay subcontractors and materials suppliers.

As part of the agreement, Stonegate Construction’s license is revoked for at least one year. Before the license can be reinstated, or another license issued to Alizadeh, he must:

- Pay CSLB for the cost of its investigation and enforcement ($16,386.05);
- File a disciplinary bond valued between $15,000 and $125,000 for at least two years; and
- Prove that restitution has been made to subcontractors, or demonstrate that these debts were resolved civilly or successfully discharged in bankruptcy.

CSLB opened its investigation in 2009 after complaints were filed by more than 20 subcontractors and materials suppliers who had not been paid. CSLB partnered with the Franchise Tax Board, Board of Equalization, Employment Development Department, and Division of Labor Standards Enforcement, to whom Alizadeh also owed millions in unpaid fees and taxes. Alizadeh was arrested in January 2011 on grand theft and other felony charges related to that part of the investigation.

“CSLB hopes this sends a clear message that there will be serious consequences for licensees who do not follow state laws,” said CSLB Registrar Steve Sands. “Mr. Alizadeh must be held accountable for these violations of state contracting and other laws before he is ever allowed to contract again.”

The Contractors State License Board operates under the umbrella of the California Department of Consumer Affairs. More information and publications about hiring contractors are available on the CSLB website or by calling 800-321-CSLB (2752). You can also sign up for CSLB email alerts at www.cslb.ca.gov. CSLB licenses and regulates California’s more than 300,000 contractors, and is regarded as one of the leading consumer protection agencies in the United States. In fiscal year 2010-11, CSLB helped recover nearly $45 million in ordered restitution for consumers.

Carmichael Oaks Hosts Annual Alzheimer’s Fundraiser

Posted: 8/23/2011

Carmichael – Carmichael Oaks Senior Living will be hosting their annual Alzheimer’s Association fundraiser BBQ, Beer, & Boogie event with co-host the Kiwanis of Carmichael, on Friday September 23rd from 5 - 8pm. The annual event serves to raise funds for the Alzheimer’s Association Walk To End Alzheimer’s. The Memory Walk is the nation’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer care, support, and research.

This year’s event will be held at a new location, St John’s Catholic Church, located at 5751 Locust Ave in Carmichael. Enjoy great food, drink, and entertainment featuring the Rotary Rooters band. In addition, there will be a silent auction and raffle. Ticket price for the event is $30 in advance or $35 at the door. All proceeds will be donated to the Alzheimer’s Association. For more information, or to purchase tickets, please contact Virginia Stone or Denise Brandt at 944-2323. Last year, this event was the largest fundraiser for the Alzheimer’s Association of Northern California. With your help, Carmichael Oaks hopes to meet this goal again.

Alzheimer’s is the sixth-leading cause of death in the U.S. and the only cause of death that cannot currently be prevented, cured or even slowed. Today, an estimated 5.4 million have Alzheimer’s disease. Another American develops this disease every 69 seconds. By the year 2050, as many as 16 million Americans will have the disease. You may know someone personally affected with this disease, so please join Carmichael Oaks in supporting their fundraising efforts. If you can not attend, please join Carmichael Oaks Walk team, Carmichael Oaks Folks at alz.org and make a donation to their team.

Carmichael Oaks Senior Living, located at 8350 Fair Oaks Blvd, has been part of the Carmichael community for over 30 years, offering seniors Independent, Assisted, and Memory Care living. Please visit their website at www.carmichaeloaks.com for more information.

Creative Frontiers, Inc. Requests Delay for Administrative Hearing

Source: City of Citrus Heights
Posted: 8/23/2011

Citrus Heights – On July 18, 2011, the City of Citrus Heights temporarily suspended and revoked the business license issued to Robert and Saundra Adams, owners of Creative Frontiers School, Inc. located at 6446 Sylvan Road, Citrus Heights.

The suspension and revocation was based on information provided by the Police Department, the California Department of Social Services along with the City’s Building Department and the Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District. Owner and Principal, Robert Adams, is the named suspect in an ongoing criminal child molestation investigation. Additionally, the business is in violation of city and state law, and its continued operation posed a serious and immediate threat to the health, safety, and welfare of the public.

In compliance with Citrus Heights Municipal Code 22-114(c), the licensee was given an opportunity to object to the temporary suspension of their business license within twenty four (24) hours from the original date of the suspension. Creative Frontiers, Inc. did not contest the temporary suspension.

In compliance with Citrus Heights Municipal Code 22-116(a), the licensee was given an opportunity to appear at an administrative hearing to appeal the revocation of their business license. The hearing was scheduled for August 18, 2011. City Finance Director Stefani Daniell, stated “Creative Frontiers, Inc. requested to delay the hearing for at least three weeks and the City agreed to continue the hearing to a mutually agreeable future date”.

At this time, the City of Citrus Heights will not comment further on this continuing administrative process.

SACRAMENTO AREA’S LARGEST OUTDOOR DISCO PARTY TO BENEFIT UCP OF SACRAMENTO AND NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

Annual event raises funds for people with developmental disabilities
Posted: 8/20/2011

SACRAMENTO—Sacramento area residents can turn the beat around for people with developmental disabilities as they get down with disco at the annual Rocklin ‘70s Disco Party Sept. 17, 7-11 p.m. The largest outdoor disco party in the Sacramento area will take place at the Sunset Whitney Country Club, 4201 Midas Avenue, Rocklin, and will raise funds for UCP of Sacramento and Northern California.

“This is such a fun and creative way to raise money,” said Doug Bergman, UCP president and CEO. “We are always excited about partnering with creative people to find new ways to empower people with developmental disabilities to live life without limits.”

The event includes music, dancing, refreshments, a silent auction and raffle tickets. Event tickets are $30 if purchased by midnight on Sept. 15 or $35 at the door. To purchase tickets, e-mail rocklin70sparty@gmail.com or visit www.rocklin70sparty.com.

To learn more about creating a fundraiser for UCP of Sacramento and Northern California, visit www.ucpsacto.org/create-your-own.htm.

Each month, UCP of Sacramento and Northern California serves 2,600 children and adults with developmental disabilities and their families in Butte, El Dorado, Nevada, Placer, Sacramento, Shasta, Sutter and Yolo counties. Programs include Saddle Pals adaptive horseback riding, UCP’s Autism Center for Excellence at Sacramento State, adult day programs, independent living services, transportation and in-home respite care for families. For more information, visit www.ucpsacto.org.

Sacramento Public Library encourages patrons to nominate a local librarian to win $5,000 national award

Posted: 8/20/2011

Librarians in our nation’s 122,000 libraries make a difference in the lives of millions of people every day. If a local librarian has made a difference in your life, now is the chance to tell your story.

Nominations are open through September 12, 2011 for the Carnegie Corporation of New York/The New York Times I Love My Librarian Award. The award encourages library users to recognize the accomplishments of librarians in public, school, college, community college and university libraries for their efforts to improve the lives of people in their community.

Nominations are accepted only at www.atyourlibrary.org/ilovemylibrarian through an online form.

Up to 10 librarians nationwide will be selected to win $5,000 and will be honored at a ceremony and reception in New York, hosted by The New York Times. Winners will be announced in December.

Over the past three years, 30 librarians from across the country have won the I Love My Librarian Award. Last year, more than 2,000 library users nationwide nominated a librarian. Previous winners have been lauded for starting community gardens, helping students with severe disabilities read classic works of literature, for helping non-traditional students learn new technology to get better jobs and more. For more information on previous winners, visit atyourlibrary.org/ilovemylibrarian.

Each nominee must be a librarian with a master’s degree from a program accredited by the American Library Association (ALA) in library and information studies or a master’s degree with a specialty in school library media from an educational unit accredited by the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education. Nominees must be currently working in the United States in a public library, a library at an accredited two- or four-year college or university or at an accredited K-12 school.

The award is supported by Carnegie Corporation of New York and The New York Times and administered by the ALA, the oldest and largest library association in the world; and The Campaign for America’s Libraries, ALA’s public awareness campaign about the value of libraries and librarians.

American Red Cross Launches Education Campaign to Increase Disaster Readiness

PG&E Pledges $1 Million to Support New Campaign
Posted: 8/9/2011

Volunteers from PG&E and the American Red Cross join Stockton City Council Member Susan Eggman, Stockton Police Chief Todd Broddrick, Ed Bedwell, Vice President of Government Relations for PG&E, and Dawn Lindblom, CEO of American Red Cross Capital Region Chapter to launch Capital Region Ready, a new disaster readiness campaign.

The American Red Cross today announced a new initiative designed to improve disaster readiness throughout eleven counties in Northern California. With the Capital Region Ready campaign, the Red Cross will host disaster preparedness events, or “Prep” Rallies to educate the community about how to be ready for disasters.

The first Prep Rally took place August 4 at the Janet Leigh Plaza in Stockton from 10:00 am until 1:00 pm. A variety of disaster preparedness activities were available for adults and children, to help families prepare for different types of disaster.

Continuing its ongoing support of the American Red Cross, Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) has pledged one hundred and fifty thousand dollars to the Capital Region Chapter, as part of a $1 million gift to the Red Cross, supporting northern and central California communities.

“It is not a matter of if, but when the next disaster strikes. More likely than not, this will come in the form of a catastrophic flood or wildfire. The Capital Region Ready campaign will help make sure that our residents have the tools they need to plan, lead and rebuild our diverse communities,” said Dawn Lindblom, chief executive officer of the American Red Cross Capital Region Chapter. “PG&E’s generous support of this readiness campaign allows us to reach even further into communities across northern California, teaching residents how to be ready when disasters occur.”

“The Red Cross not only provides relief to those affected by disasters around the world, it also empowers individuals right here in our own community to prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies,” said Ed Bedwell, vice president for government relations for PG&E. “PG&E’s support of the Capital Region Ready program continues our longtime commitment to emergency readiness in the communities we serve and is an extension of our proud history of supporting the American Red Cross.”

The Red Cross will work closely with community leaders, local businesses, government agencies, schools and nonprofit organizations to (1) identify vulnerable neighborhoods, (2) assess readiness needs, (3) equip residents and community leaders with disaster preparedness and response skills, tools, supplies and plans, and (4) foster sustainable relationships to continue the ongoing disaster readiness efforts.

RT HOSTS PUBLIC MEETING TO DISCUSS BLUE LINE PROJECT

Design Changes Proposed for Blue Line to Cosumnes River College Light Rail Extension
Posted: 8/13/2011

The Sacramento Regional Transit District (RT) will host a public meeting to discuss the Blue Line to Cosumnes River College light rail extension project at 6 p.m. on Monday, August 15, 2011, in the multi-purpose room of the Susan B. Anthony Elementary School located at 7864 Detroit Boulevard.

RT staff will discuss design revisions to the Blue Line to Cosumnes River College (also referred to as South Line Phase 2), which are the subject of an Environmental Assessment that is currently under review. RT is seeking community input regarding the proposed revisions, which include:

- The draft IS/EA and public review process
- Updated right-of-way information
- Updated design information that intends to keep the 20-inch PG&E natural gas pipeline in its current location

The meeting will begin with an open house at 6 p.m., followed by a brief presentation at 6:30 p.m. The open house will resume following the presentation.

Once complete, the Blue Line to Cosumnes River College will expand RT’s light rail system 4.3 miles from the existing terminus at Meadowview Road to Cosumnes River College. The extension will include four new light rail stations: Morrison Creek, Franklin, Center Parkway and Cosumnes River College.

For more information about the Blue Line to Cosumnes River College, visit www.slp2.org.

California Teens Receive $230,000 Grant to Drive Highway Safety

Funding Fuels Teen Safe Driving Teams Across California
Posted: 8/9/2011

RANCHO CORDOVA, CA – California youth in communities from Redding to San Diego, Roseville to Rancho Cucamonga will dream, develop and deliver their own safe driving campaigns during the upcoming school year – energized by a $230,000 grant from The Allstate Foundation. Allstate agency owner Julie Domenick in Roseville joined California Secretary of Business, Transportation and Housing Traci Stevens, California Highway Patrol Deputy Commissioner Ramona Prieto, leaders from the California Friday Night Live Partnership and others at CHP headquarters recently to unveil the grant.

“Allstate recognizes the effectiveness of teens listening to other teens. It’s a big part of how Friday Night Live helps save lives,” said Domenick, who also owns Allstate agencies in Lincoln and Rocklin. “This program powerfully supports Allstate’s national initiative to put teens in front of other teens to promote safe driving behaviors.”

According to Allstate, nearly American 3,500 teens die annually in accidents caused by distracted driving. More than 300,000 teens are injured. Domenick says this grant will help reduce those crashes.

This is the second year for the partnership between California Friday Night Live Partnership and The Allstate Foundation.

This new grant rewards and builds upon the extraordinary efforts made this past school year by more than hundreds of California youth who hosted safe driving events across the state with local chapters of the Friday Night Live. Specifically focused on eliminating distracted driving by teens, Allstate’s support provides local Friday Night Live chapters with mini-grants that allow youth leaders to devise new methods to encourage friends, classmates and peers to drive safely. In the upcoming school year more schools across California will receive funding for life saving peer-to-peer programs.

“Building partnerships like this encourages positive and healthy development for our young people and engages them to become active leaders,” says Jim Kooler, California Friday Night Live Partnership Director. “This support from Allstate will allow hundreds of California’s young people to convene at our Traffic Safety Summit and lead their peers in reducing distracted driving collisions.”

The Teens

Programs created so far by California Friday Night Live Partnership teens include:

X The TXT pledge drives to eliminate cell phone use while driving.

Measuring distracted driving on busy streets near high schools, and reducing it.

Roadside safe driving rallies and other cooperative efforts with California Highway Patrol and traffic safety officials to deliver safe driving messages throughout local communities.

High school and senior class events to increase awareness for eliminating distractions while driving.

New social media Internet sites for local teens to share distracted driving stories and advice with other teens statewide and across the country.

The Foundation

Established in 1952, The Allstate Foundation is an independent, charitable organization made possible by subsidiaries of The Allstate Corporation (NYSE ALL). Through partnerships with nonprofit organizations across the country, The Allstate Foundation brings the relationships, reputation and resources of Allstate to support innovative and lasting solutions that enhance people’s well-being and prosperity. With a focus on teen safe driving and building financial independence for domestic violence survivors, The Allstate Foundation also promotes safe and vital communities; tolerance, inclusion, and diversity; and economic empowerment. For more information, visit www.allstate.com/foundation.

The Partnership

The California Friday Night Live Partnership has chapters in 54 California counties. Last year Friday Night Live youth leaders introduced more than 30 driving safety events to 13 counties statewide.

Citrus Heights PAL Offers Summertime Fun

By Leslie Carrara
Posted: 8/9/2011

Citrus Heights – The weekend of Aug. 6th and 7th, volunteers took a full house to Beale’s Point at Folsom Lake, according to Elena Calderon, school resource officer with the CHPD. The Residents’ Empowerment Association of Citrus Heights and other neighborhood associations purchased all of the camping equipment.

Funding for the PAL program is from various sources, including the City, local business donations from stores such as Wal Mart, Target and Best Buy, and the Rotary and Kiwanis Clubs, Calderon explained. Additionally, kids are charged $5 for the year, however, if they can’t afford it, scholarships are available.

The Citrus Heights Police Department offers kids in the community a place for education and fun through their Police Activities League (PAL). It is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization staffed with volunteer officers and other personnel from the department. The program was implemented to teach kids about gangs and drug awareness.

Events coming up include tennis classes, baseball and basketball. Wrestling and martial arts are among the ongoing activities.

Source: www.citrusheightspal.com.

Francis House Honored by Sacramento City Hall

Posted: 8/3/2011

Sacramento Mayor Kevin Johnson and the City Council will recognize the late Greg Bunker and Francis House, a provider of homeless services, with a formal commendation next week at a Tower of Power concert being held to raise funds for the local nonprofit resource center. Bunker served as Executive Director of Francis House for more than 20 years before suffering a fatal heart attack last December.

The Resolution from City Hall recognizes Bunker & Francis House for their contributions and dedication to the Sacramento community as advocates for the homeless and dispossessed. Francis House offers counseling and resources, such as helping clients get identification cards, jobs and even hotel rooms to help the needy get back on their feet.

The Resolution will be presented to Francis House at a benefit concert next week on "Greg Bunker Day", Friday, August 12th at the Radisson Hotel Sacramento, 500 Leisure Lane. Headlining the concert, billed as the "Bump-City Dance Party", are 70's icons Tower of Power. Best known for hits like "Down to the Nightclub", "What is Hip?" and "You're Still A Young Man", their performances have been bringing excited crowds to their feet for more than 40 years. Special guests Mick Martin & the Blues Rockers will open the show. This popular local band has been named three times as the area's "Best Blues Band" by the Sacramento Area Music Awards (SAMMIES).

Tickets for this event are available at Dimple Records stores, online at www.ticketmaster.com or by phone at 1-800-745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased at the door. The concert begins at 7:30 PM.

Please contact Francis House at (916) 443-2646 or www.francishouse.info for more information.

TEEN MOM UP FOR NATIONAL AWARD NEEDS COMMUNITY VOTES

Mom who lost baby to cerebral palsy is the only Sacramento student in running
Posted: 8/3/2011

SACRAMENTO – Catalina Rodriguez of Winters was in high school when she lost her 18-month-old son to complications from cerebral palsy. Now an incoming sophomore at Solano College, she has been named a qualifier for the national “Most Influential College Student” award by StayClassy.org. She is one of only 30 college students or organizations across the country up for the award and the only one in the Greater Sacramento area.

To advance to the round of 10 finalists, she needs community votes by Aug. 26. To read Caty’s story and vote, visit http://www.stayclassy.org/stories/teen-mom-turns-grief-into-action-after-death-of-son-with-cerebral-palsy and log into Facebook to add your vote.

“It does not get much more heartbreaking—and inspiring—than Caty’s story,” said Doug Bergman, president and CEO, UCP of Sacramento and Northern California, who nominated her for the award. “We are so proud of this incredible mom, whose love for her son shines through everything she does.”

Rodriguez dedicated her high school senior project to raising funds for UCP of Sacramento and Northern California, which empowers people with all developmental disabilities to live life without limits. Rodriguez’ senior project began in early 2010 when she formed a partnership with First Northern Bank in Winters. When customers made a donation, a paper heart was displayed. By the end of April 2010, the bank was covered in paper hearts. Rodriguez also held car washes, garage sales, a hike-a-thon and sold a spa to raise funds. She spent more than 300 hours and raised $7,800 for UCP.

Each month, UCP of Sacramento and Northern California serves 2,600 children and adults with developmental disabilities and their families in Butte, El Dorado, Nevada, Placer, Sacramento, Shasta, Sutter and Yolo counties. Programs include Saddle Pals adaptive horseback riding, UCP’s Autism Center for Excellence at Sacramento State, adult day programs, independent living services, transportation and in-home respite care for families. For more information, visit www.ucpsacto.org.

Gearing Up for Another Upward Basketball (and Cheerleading!) Season

Posted: 7/20/2011

Fair Oaks – If you haven’t heard of Upward Sports before, get ready to hear a lot more about it this year. Upward Sports (www.upward.org) is a non-profit organization that provides kids a fun sports experience based on healthy competition and Christian values. Last year 550,000 K through 6th graders participated in one of the 2.400 leagues and camps throughout the country.

Fair Oaks Presbyterian Church began a basketball program only 3 years ago with 39 kids - last season, the program accommodated 278 kids!! For the 2012 season, cheerleading is being added to the program and the number of flyers being distributed to area schools will be doubled – so it will be exciting to see how many participants there are this year! (If you know of any facilities that can accommodate basketball practices and/or games, we need to hear from you!)

On June 9th, the planning for next season began with the annual training session hosted by the Fair Oaks Presbyterian Church. 130 volunteers were in attendance representing 15 churches; some from as far away as Mountain View. Churches around the world partner with Upward Sports to provide a positive and family-friendly sports experience that welcomes all in the community.

Volunteers include Head Coach, Assistant Coach, Greeters, Concession Operators, Cheerleading Coaches and Assistants, Referees, Scorekeepers, and much more. Want to join in the fun? No experience is needed – just a love for kids – everything you need is provided. Or interested in your kids or the neighbors playing basketball or cheerleading? Registration begins in September, evaluations will be in October and November and the season starts in January.

For more information, see www.fopc.org or call (916) 966-1042.

CDPH Reports First Human West Nile Virus Case of 2011

Posted: 7/24/2011

SACRAMENTO – The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) today reported a man in Santa Barbara County is the first confirmed human case of West Nile virus infection in California this year. The man was hospitalized, but is now recovering at home.

"With the first confirmed human illness from West Nile virus this year, we are intensifying our surveillance for the virus with the help of all counties,” said CDPH Chief Deputy Director Kathleen Billingsley. “To protect against West Nile virus, the most important step people can take is avoiding mosquito bites.”

West Nile virus is most commonly transmitted to humans and animals by the bite of a mosquito harboring the virus. The risk of serious illness to most people is low. However, some individuals – less than 1 percent – will develop serious neurologic illness such as encephalitis or meningitis. People 50 years of age and older have a higher chance of getting sick and are more likely to develop serious symptoms. Recent data also indicate that those with diabetes and/or hypertension are at greatest risk for serious illness.

To date in 2011, West Nile virus has been detected in 14 other California counties.CDPH recommends that individuals prevent exposure to mosquito bites and West Nile virus by practicing the “Four Ds”:

- DEET – Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaradin, oil of lemon eucalyptus or IR3535 according to label instructions. Repellents keep the mosquitoes from biting you. DEET can be used safely on infants and children 2 months of age and older.

- DRESS – Wear clothing that reduces the risk of skin exposure to mosquito bites.

- DAWN AND DUSK – Mosquitoes bite in the early morning and evening so it is important to wear repellent at this time. Make sure that your doors and windows have tight-fitting screens to keep out mosquitoes. Repair or replace screens with tears or holes.

- DRAIN – Mosquitoes lay their eggs on standing water. Eliminate all sources of standing water on your property, including flower pots, old car tires, rain gutters and pet bowls. If you have a pond, use mosquito fish (available from your local mosquito and vector control agency) or commercially available products to eliminate mosquito larvae.

California’s West Nile virus website includes the latest information on West Nile virus activity in the state. Californians are encouraged to report all dead birds and dead tree squirrels on the website or by calling toll-free 1-877-WNV-BIRD (968-2473). www.cdph.ca.gov

Have Fun…. and Help Locally!!

Posted: 7/21/2011

The first graders smile widely and send Pat Walton small, sweet waves as she quietly enters the classroom at Northridge Elementary School each Tuesday morning at 8:30 A.M. While Pat has a busy schedule as an after-school flute teacher and as a member of two flute groups, she feels her life is more meaningful because she takes the time to give back to the Fair Oaks community. Ms. Stilson, the first grade teacher with whom Pat works, says that Pat, and other volunteers, make a huge difference with the students they help. During Pat’s hour in the class room, she works individually with children who need help with improving their reading skills.

Lucia Hicks, another first grade teacher at Northridge Elementary school, has several volunteers that help her during different days of the week. Phil Barbera, a retired Electronics Supervisor, is one of those, and he’s helped with Lucia’s students for six years. It is because of his help, and others like him, that Lucia’s class is able to walk to the Fair Oaks Library once a month, and go on several field trips each year. The volunteers help the students realize that they matter, and that their education is important enough that people are willing to give of their free time to help them succeed at school.

It is surprising to know that we have our first Title One School right here in Fair Oaks, and that school is Northridge Elementary (located near the Fair Oaks Library). Last year, over 65% of their student population qualified for federally subsidized meals, and this year the percentage has gone up. The teachers are aware that more and more homes are headed by single and/or unemployed parents. In addition, there is a larger than ever population of English learners at Northridge as more and more of their students come from homes where English isn’t spoken.

Volunteers are needed now more than ever according to Michele Flagler, the school’s principal! With this year’s state budget cuts, all the class sizes will be going up. Last year, over thirty volunteers came forward after the call went out for help. Members of the local Fair Oaks Rotary Club, The Women’s Thursday Club, church members and local residents now volunteer at Northridge School. The volunteers come from all walks of life and include a retired high school math teacher, a librarian, ER physician, social worker and others. All that is needed is the desire to help a young student. The needs are many and varied, and the hours are flexible.

If you, or anyone you know, has an hour or more to help out, once a week or once a month, please contact one of the Volunteer Coordinators (Joyce Daniels 990-0546 or Alice Rowe 967-5082). Any help you can give will be greatly appreciated. We guarantee that you’ll have fun, AND you’ll be making a making a difference, not just in our local community, but you will be benefiting our society. Also, you will be richly rewarded, with student “waves”, smiles and hugs. It doesn’t get any better than that!!

SMUD’s Fridge, Freezer Recycling Program Hits 40K Mark

Utility Expects to Pick Up 8,000 Energy-Wasting Units in 2011
Posted: 7/20/2011

SACRAMENTO — SMUD’s refrigerator and freezer recycling program celebrates a milestone this month by having picked up more than 40,000 old, energy-wasting units since 2001, saving enough energy to power roughly 6,000 homes for one year.

The utility plans to keep up the momentum with the goal of picking up 8,000 refrigerators and freezers in 2011. Program participants receive a $35 rebate and FREE pickup as a reward, but over a year’s time, they can save up to $125 a year in lower energy costs. Older units commonly used for extra cold storage often require three times more energy to operate than newer models manufactured to higher energy-efficiency standards.

Not only can customers make a little money, and save much more, the program gives people a great way to jump start a clean-up project for a garage or basement, where most secondary refrigerators and freezers are stored. SMUD dispatches a truck to participating homes and provides the labor of moving the old unit free of charge.

To schedule a free pickup and find out more about the $35 SMUD rebate, and to schedule a time for a pickup, people can call 1-800-299-7573 or visit www.smud.org/rebates.

A maximum of two units for each household can be removed as part of the SMUD program. They must be in working order and have an inside measurement of 10 cubic feet or more.

The older refrigerators and freezers are picked up FREE of charge by national appliance recycler JACO Environmental.

The company de-manufactures refrigerators and freezers at a Hayward plant through a process that returns 95 percent of their material back into the manufacturing stream. It also safely extracts various toxic components that are found inside refrigerators, including contaminated oils, mercury and CFCs that both deplete the ozone layer and accelerate global warming. This prevents the extensive environmental damage caused when refrigerators and freezers are dumped in landfills.

The refrigerator and freezer pickup programs are popular throughout the country. Combined, they make a huge difference by steadily reducing pressure on the power grid and saving millions of megawatt hours over time, not to mention millions of dollars in saved electricity for Americans.

“Recycling older, energy-wasting refrigerators and freezers has a multiplier effect when it comes to efficiency. People save money, everyone saves energy and all of us enjoy a healthier planet,” said Michael Dunham, director of energy and environmental programs for JACO.

New Sacramento County Trustee Area Boundaries Tentatively Approved

Public Comment Sought on Boundary Realignment
Posted: 7/20/2011

In response to 2010 Census population counts, county board of education trustee areas must be assessed and adjusted to meet legally required population criteria. At its July 12, 2011 meeting, the Sacramento County Board of Education approved redistricting maps realigning its trustee area boundaries.

The final Sacramento County Board of Education Trustee Area maps, along with narrative descriptions of each area, are being prepared and submitted for public hearing and approval by the Sacramento County Committee on School District Reorganization. The committee will meet on August 16, 2011, at 6:30 p.m., at the David P. Meaney Education Center, 10474 Mather Boulevard, Sacramento. Interested members of the public are invited to attend and comment on the boundary realignment.

The Sacramento County Board of Education appointed a Redistricting Committee to work on the redistricting process of the trustee areas, and contracted with Thomas M. Griffin Law Offices and EdTec Inc. for redistricting services and expertise. Population data from the 2010 Census was analyzed and used to suggest potential adjustments to trustee areas in order to ensure compliance with state and federal law.

Visit www.scoe.net to view the newly proposed Sacramento County Board of Education trustee areas.

Following approval, the final maps and narrative descriptions will be submitted to the County Registrar of Voters in Sacramento, San Joaquin, Solano, Placer, and Yolo counties.

City Budget Remains on Course for Citrus Heights

By Leslie Carrara
Posted: 7/20/2011

Citrus Heights - One thing is certain–the founding council members of Citrus Heights’ incorporation knew to prepare for the worst possible scenario. Case in point, the city now has $34.6 million in its savings account, according to City Manager Henry Tingle.

Citrus Heights has managed to survive very well during this economic downturn of the last three years without any lay offs or hiring freezes.

The city’s annual budget is $73 million, with monies coming from services permits, sales tax revenues, vehicle license tags and other sources, Tingle said. “We built it up over time,” he explained. He went on to state that they have it saved for severe economic hardships, road failure or major capital expenses. This economic hardship that the country is in right now did not affect Citrus Heights, he explained, or the “rainy day fund.”

Tingle also said that as part of the incorporation process, the city agreed to give up property tax revenues for 25 years. In 10 years, the city will be increasing its’ revenue as it starts to receive these tax payments.

Tingle explained that the entire cost of the Civic Center, including the Police Department building and the Community Center, had a total price tag of $29 million, all paid for with cash. City Manager since 1999, he explained that the city’s approach is to “take our time. We weren’t going to rush.” He also added that the publically owned Community Center paid for itself the first year. “We’ve been open one year and eight months and we’ve had 1400 rentals,” Tingle said.

A future project to watch out for is upgrading Auburn Blvd. from Sylvan Corners to Rusch Park. All overhead utilities will be placed underground, and they are going to make this stretch more pedestrian friendly by redoing curbs and gutters. Additionally, the City is adding a landscaped median in an effort to make it safer in this area. Total cost for the project is $21 million with Phase One bidding going out after the Holidays.

Tower of Power Keeps Sacramento Tradition Alive

Bump City Dance Party Returns to Benefit Francis House
Posted: 7/20/2011

Tower of Power brings their high energy show back to The Radisson Hotel Grove for the 18th semi-annual “Bump City Dance Party” Friday, August 12 at 7:30 PM! Best known for hits like “Down to the Nightclub”, “What is Hip?” and “You’re Still A Young Man”, Tower of Power’s performances have been bringing excited crowds to their feet for more than 30 years.

Profits from this concert are being donated to Francis House, a Sacramento counseling and resource center for poor individuals and families. Francis House provides a link to caring volunteers, life-changing services and help for those in need. “Give Them Hope” is the theme for this event, which celebrates the life of Francis House Executive Director Greg Bunker, who passed away last December.

Opening the show for Tower of Power will be special guest Mick Martin and the Blues Rockers. This popular Sacramento band has been named three times as the area’s “Best Blues Band” by the Sacramento Area Music Awards (SAMMIES).

Tickets are on sale now at Dimple Records, TicketMaster outlets or online at www.ticketmaster.com. To charge by phone, call (800) 745-3000. This event is “dance party”-style with limited seating. Doors open at 6:30 PM.

The Radisson Hotel Sacramento is located at 500 Leisure Lane, Sacramento, CA 95815. For dinner or room reservations, please call (916) 922-2020.

Golf Tournament Supporting At-Risk Youth Needs Golfers and Sponsors

Project SAVE Proven to Reduce Youth Violence
Posted: 7/13/2011

Every year in Sacramento County hundreds of students are expelled from school because of involvement in on-campus violence. Many of these instances of violence involve weapons. In order for these students to be readmitted to their schools, especially in cases reaching the court system, they must successfully complete a sanctioned violence prevention program. Project SAVE (Safe Alternatives and Violence Education) is one such program. It is a program that needs the public’s help and support.

The 9th Annual Project SAVE Golf Tournament is scheduled for Monday, October 3, 2011 at the Catta Verdera Country Club, in Lincoln. Check-in will begin at 8:00 a.m. and the “shotgun” start will begin at 9:00 a.m. This annual fundraiser is the main source of funding for this model community project that has been proven to prevent and reduce youth violence and bullying behaviors.

The mission of Project SAVE is to reduce youth violence and weapons possession through strong partnerships with local agencies. The mission emphasizes that weapons possession and violent behavior are unacceptable, especially on school grounds. Since 1998, Project SAVE has served more than 2,500 young people in Sacramento County. Nine out of ten participants remain violence-free after participating in the program.

Project SAVE is a collaborative project involving the County Probation Department, County Sheriff's Office, Sacramento City Police Department, Superior and Municipal Courts, Sacramento County School Districts and community members and is coordinated by the Prevention and Student Services division of the Sacramento County Office of Education (SCOE).

Entry fees for the October 3, 2011 golf tournament are $150 per person or $600 for a foursome. Tournament host, contest sponsor and individual hole sponsor opportunities are also available. Project SAVE is also seeking door prize donations to benefit the program. A short luncheon will be provided at the conclusion of the tournament.

For more information about the Project SAVE golf tournament, or to find out about sponsorship and volunteer opportunities, contact Cheryl Raney at (916) 228-2201 or craney@scoe.net.

Think BIG to Recruit “Citizen Architects”

Residents across region will play key role in complex’s development
Posted: 7/13/2011

SACRAMENTO, CA – Emphasizing the need for a broad, grassroots based effort to build a new entertainment and sports complex, Think BIG Sacramento today unveiled its “Citizen Architects” initiative, which will enable residents from throughout the Sacramento region to apply for and become key members of the Think BIG team. One of the key responsibilities of the “Architects” will be to facilitate a community design competition for a section of the new facility.

“The new complex will offer hundreds of amenities and opportunities for people from all walks of life,” said Mayor Kevin Johnson. “But, it will only happen if we engage the interest, imagination and participation of citizens from every corner of our region.”

The Citizen Architects will act as neighborhood and community leaders helping to disseminate information and recruit supporters. Their most important contribution, however, will come in the form of a first-of-its kind initiative that will allow the public to design a component of the new entertainment and sports complex.

The program will be open to residents across the Sacramento region of all ages. Application materials are available at www.thinkbigsacramento.com.

Think BIG Sacramento will review applicants and select those who best capture the spirit and regional diversity of the initiative. The Committee will also integrate several social networking tools into the website to assist the innovative campaign.

“This is exactly what we need to get this complex built,” said popular radio-host and Think BIG Committee Member Carmichael Dave. “From the start, this movement has been built by the grassroots energy of the people around our region. I’m thrilled to see that momentum will carry forward through our Citizen Architects.”

Think BIG Committee Member Greg Hayes, who serves by day as Communications Director for State Senator Kevin de Leon, developed the Citizen Architect concept. “This region absolutely needs a more adequate gathering place for entertainment, civic functions, conventions, large meetings, and other events,” said Hayes. “And I know from my conversations with others, there are many people out there who want to help make this happen. I hope they step up in a big way.”

The deadline to apply is 5PM on July 18. Citizen Architects will be announced on or before July 21, with details on the community design competition debuting shortly thereafter.

American River Water Flows Expected to be Like Last Year for ‘Eppie's Great Race’

Posted: 7/13/2011

Rancho Cordova/Sacramento, CA--Organizers of Eppie's Great Race are pleased with the recent news from the Bureau of Reclamation, operator of Folsom Dam, that water levels on race day---July 23, 2011---are expected to be near the same level as last July.

"Based on currently available information, Reclamation expects our releases to the lower American River on race day to be about 4,500 to 5,000 cubic feet per second - comparable to that of last year. But, it is important to recognize that reservoir operations and releases to the river are based on developing conditions and needs," said Lynnette Wirth, Bureau of Reclamation, Deputy Public Affairs Officer.

According to Eppie Johnson, founder of Eppie's Great Race, the 38th annual run-bike-paddle triathlon is expected to be another fun and exciting event on the American River.

"We always stress the importance of wearing personal flotation devices and avoiding obstacles on the river on race day and every day," said Eppie. “We are very pleased that the water flow will be comparable to that of last year and encourage everyone to come out to compete in Eppie’s Great Race!”

More than 2,000 athletes are expected to compete in this year's race with thousands more spectators on the sidelines cheering on the athletes.

The 38th annual Eppie's Great Race takes place on July 23, 2011. Participants run 5.82 miles, cycle 12.5 miles and paddle boats 6.35 miles on a racecourse located on and along the American River Parkway in Sacramento and Rancho Cordova. Kids can join the fun with the US Bank Kids Duathlon, a 2-mile run and 5.75-mile cycle for kids 17 and younger.

TEICHERT FOUNDATION FUNDS HALF THE COSTS TO SEND LOCAL CHILDREN WITH AUTISM TO SUMMER CAMP

Summer camp builds on UCP of Sacramento and Northern California’s ongoing program
Posted: 7/13/2011

SACRAMENTO — Children with autism spectrum disorder had the chance to attend summer camp at the end of June, thanks to a $5,000 grant from the Teichert Foundation. The grant to UCP of Sacramento and Northern California, which empowers people with developmental disabilities to live life without limits, enabled half of the eligible children to attend A.C.E. Camp at Grizzly Creek Ranch.

“Autism diagnoses have skyrocketed in recent years, and we are working hard to ensure that children with autism have the chance to live life to the fullest and participate in community activities like summer camp,” said Doug Bergman, UCP president and CEO. “Thanks to the Teichert Foundation, six children experienced the one-of-a-kind thrill of summer camp.”

UCP of Sacramento and Northern California sent 13 A.C.E. participants to camp for a week to learn swimming, arts and crafts, kayaking, archery, volleyball, scooter hockey, fishing, soccer and dancing. They also enjoyed a movie night, campfire time and a talent show.

A.C.E. Camp compliments UCP’s Autism Center for Excellence at Sacramento State, which includes an interdisciplinary team of occupational therapists, speech therapists, adaptive physical activity specialists and behavioral analysts. During the school year, participants, ages 8-12, take part in a large group activity to practice communication skills before dividing into smaller groups that help them see the inter-relatedness of the people in their lives. Parents are then instructed on techniques to use at home.

A.C.E. Camp costs $1,350 per child, but families are only charged $600. UCP relies on the community to fund the remaining $750 per child. To sponsor a child at A.C.E. Camp next year, or make a donation to UCP, contact Steve Horton at (916) 283-8312 or shorton@ucpsacto.org. For more information, visit www.ucpsacto.org/ACEcamp.htm.

Each month, UCP of Sacramento and Northern California serves 2,600 children and adults with developmental disabilities and their families in Butte, El Dorado, Nevada, Placer, Sacramento, Shasta, Sutter and Yolo counties. Programs include Saddle Pals adaptive horseback riding, UCP’s Autism Center for Excellence at Sacramento State, adult day programs, independent living services, transportation and in-home respite care for families. For more information, visit www.ucpsacto.org.

The Teichert Foundation makes grants to organizations that create beauty, foster culture, nurture children, provide access to food and housing for those in need, preserve nature, increase awareness of the environment, build an educated citizenry and a well-prepared workforce, and strive to provide better health for all. For more information, visit www.teichert.com/teichert-foundation.cfm.

11th Annual Healthy Kids Day

Posted: 7/7/2011

Join Cover the Kids and Assemblymember Dr. Richard Pan for the 11th Annual Healthy Kids Day. Also listed to attend are City Councilmember Angelique Ashby and County Supervisor Phil Serna. This is a free event.

Receive health information, free screenings, and apply for low cost health insurance for your child, teen and expecting mother.

Schedule an appointment to enroll your child today at (916) 808-3838 or toll free at (866) 850-4321.

Saturday, August 13, 2011 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Inderkum High School
2500 New Market Drive
Natomas, CA

California American Water to host diverse business expo in Citrus Heights

Woman, minority and disabled veteran owned businesses invited out for informative event
Posted: 7/7/2011

SACRAMENTO, Calif – California American Water will host a “diverse” business expo on July 12 for the area’s minority, disabled veteran and woman owned businesses.

The event will provide potential business opportunities, mentoring and coaching for Sacramento’s diverse business owners as well as offer potential networking partnerships.

Members from the California Public Utilities Commission’s Supplier Clearinghouse will also be on hand to help business owners navigate the administrative requirements of becoming and maintaining their status as a certified diverse business owner in California.

California American Water’s 2011 Diverse Business Vendor Expo

July 12, 2011, 8 a.m. to Noon

Citrus Heights Community Center
6300 Fountain Square Drive
Citrus Heights, CA 95621

In 1988, the CPUC ordered all large investor-owned electric, gas, water and telecommunication utility companies to develop and implement programs to increase the utilization of woman, minority and disabled veteran owned businesses. The Clearinghouse was established to audit and verify the status and to establish and maintain a database of these businesses.

Last year, California American Water exceeded the CPUC’s diverse vendor goals, becoming the first water utility to do so since the ordered was issued. California American Water spent more than $16 million with woman, minority and disabled veteran owned businesses throughout the state or nearly 24 percent of its total capital expenditures. The CPUC’s goal is 21.5 percent.

“We believe that our workforce should be representative of the communities we serve,” said California American Water president Rob MacLean. “We are very proud of our accomplishments in this area and we hope this expo and other initiatives we have planned will continue that success.”

A diverse vendor includes businesses that are owned and operated by minorities, women or disabled veterans. This can include construction, consulting, engineering, financial and marketing firms as well as businesses that provide tools and equipment.

Prospective vendors are encouraged to attend the event in order to learn more about becoming a certified diverse vendor and meet with company representatives who make purchasing decisions. For more information about the event contact Tina Heaox at (916) 568-4248.

California American Water, a wholly owned subsidiary of American Water (NYSE: AWK), provides high-quality and reliable water and/or wastewater services to approximately 600,000 people.

Founded in 1886, American Water is the largest publicly traded U.S. water and wastewater utility company. With headquarters in Voorhees, N.J., the company employs more than 7,000 dedicated professionals who provide drinking water, wastewater and other related services to approximately 15 million people in more than 30 states, as well as parts of Canada. More information can be found by visiting www.amwater.com.

In 2011, American Water is celebrating its 125th anniversary with a yearlong campaign to promote water efficiency and the importance of protecting water from source to tap. To learn more, visit www.amwater125.com.

Historic Old Sac Foundation is Looking for a Few (Hundred) Good Men & Women to Volunteer During Gold Rush Days 2011!

Applications are Being Accepted Now for More Than 200 Volunteer & Artisan Positions Over Labor Day Weekend

OLD SACRAMENTO, Calif. - From friendly greeters to crafty artisans and everything in between, the Historic Old Sacramento Foundation is now accepting applications for more than 200 volunteer positions during Gold Rush Days 2011. Widely known as Old Sacramento's annual heritage celebration, Gold Rush Days volunteers are needed over Labor Day weekend (September 3-5) and for a preview "education day" on Friday, September 2, that is set-up primarily for area school children. Gold Rush Days 2011 is free to the public and produced by the Historic Old Sacramento Foundation, the Sacramento Convention and Visitors Bureau, the City of Sacramento and California State Parks.

Given the sheer magnitude of the large-scale community event that transforms Old Sacramento into a scene straight out of the 1850s, a large number of volunteers are needed to help with the Gold Rush Days information booth, hospitality tent, first aid station, security booth, children's activity areas, and much, much more. Some, but not all, positions require period appropriate attire that will be provided. Additionally, interested artisans are encouraged to submit applications to participate in a new "Artisan Alley" happening this year in the Freight Depot -- candle dippers, soap tanners, gold panning experts, dyed wool makers, basket weavers, leather makers, silver smiths and barrel makers are just a few of the artisan opportunities during the three-day community event. Those chosen to participate in the period appropriate "Artisan Alley" will be asked to demonstrate their craft to Gold Rush Days visitors and can also sell their wares at the event.

While the crowd pleasing Gold Rush Days event is scheduled for Labor Day weekend, interested volunteers are encouraged to apply now. The deadline to apply to become a Gold Rush Days volunteer or participate as an artisan at the event is Monday, August 1.

Orientation workshops are scheduled to take place on Friday, August 19 and Saturday, August 20. Volunteer/artisan applications can be downloaded at www.historicoldsac.org/goldrushdays and more information is available at 916-808-7059.

VERGE CENTER FOR THE ARTS TO HOLD 2ND ANNUAL JUMBLE SALE FUNDRAISER AUGUST 4-7

Rummage sale to benefit Sacramento’s contemporary art scene
Posted: 7/6/2011

SACRAMENTO—Local residents are invited to Verge Center for the Arts’ 2nd Annual Jumble Sale, a creative rummage sale benefiting Verge’s exhibitions, artist residencies, education programs and studio space. The sale will take place Aug. 5, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., and Aug. 6-7, 8 a.m.-2 p.m., at Verge Center for the Arts, 625 S Street, Sacramento.

The event also will include a preview party from 6-10 p.m. on Aug. 4, where guests will have the first opportunity to browse and purchase items for sale while enjoying a no-host bar, appetizers and music. Verge artists will have their studios open and art for sale at the preview. Cost to attend the preview party is $15 per person.

Founded in September 2008, Verge Center for the Arts is a non-profit arts organization focused on promotion and support of contemporary art in the Sacramento region. Verge offers contemporary art exhibitions, artist residencies, educational programming and affordable studio space to Sacramento artists. In 2010 VCA relocated to a 22,000-square-foot warehouse in downtown Sacramento. The larger space doubles the number of artist studios available, provides additional educational programming and expands the gallery. For more information, visit www.vergeart.com.

SACRAMENTO COOPERATIVE COMMUNITY FUND GRANT CREATES GARDEN FOR PEOPLE WITH DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES

Garden will help people learn how to grow food and make nutritious meals
Posted: 7/6/2011

SACRAMENTO — When UCP of Sacramento and Northern California staff first envisioned a garden where people with developmental disabilities could learn to grow their own food, they pictured a 6’x6’ plot. When the group’s adult day program moved to the former Aero Haven Elementary School campus in North Highlands, the dream expanded. Thanks to a grant from the Sacramento Cooperative Community Fund, UCP will create a community garden where people with developmental disabilities can watch flowers and vegetables grow, dig their hands into dirt, learn how to grow food and learn how to create nutritious meals to share.

“Gardening is a hobby we tend to take for granted, but many people with developmental disabilities have never had the chance to feel soil in their hands, much less learn about the farm-to-table concept of growing food to create healthy meals,” said Doug Bergman, UCP president and CEO.

UCP, which empowers people with developmental disabilities to live life without limits, is in the process of creating the garden, including building raised beds that will accommodate wheelchairs sliding under them. The Sacramento Cooperative Community Fund grant provided all of the garden tools, potted vegetables, seeds and more. UCP anticipates 119 people with developmental disabilities will help create the garden, plant, harvest and prepare meals.

Each month, UCP of Sacramento and Northern California serves 2,600 children and adults with developmental disabilities and their families in Butte, El Dorado, Nevada, Placer, Sacramento, Shasta, Sutter and Yolo counties. Programs include Saddle Pals adaptive horseback riding, UCP’s Autism Center for Excellence at Sacramento State, adult day programs, independent living services, transportation and in-home respite care for families. For more information, visit www.ucpsacto.org.

The Sacramento Cooperative Community Fund is the giving arm of the Sacramento Natural Foods Co-Op. For more than 30 years, the co-op has continued its tradition of consumer advocacy, education, community outreach and support in the greater Sacramento area. Through programs, projects and activities developed by dedicated staff and co-op owners, the co-op serves the greater Sacramento community by providing services to consumers in the store (such as food tasting fairs, product demos and consumer literature), offering classes, seminars and special events at the Co-op Community Learning Center, participating in community events and making donations to local nonprofits. For more information, visit www.sacfoodcoop.com.

“Cocktails for a Cause” generates funds for Big Brothers Big Sisters with 11 of Sacramento's finest restaurants contributing proceeds from a special cocktail throughout the entire month of July

Posted: 7/6/2011

Big Brothers Big Sisters has partnered with eleven celebrated Sacramento restaurants for “Cocktails for a Cause” in July. These eateries are lending their best mixologists to create refreshing, innovative cocktails to generate funds for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Sacramento throughout the entire month of July.

Beginning Friday, July 1st and continuing throughout the entire month, DeVere’s Irish Pub, District 30, Dive Bar, Ella Dining Room and Bar, Grange, L Wine Lounge, Lounge on 20, Mulvaney’s, Pizza Rock, Red Lotus and Zocalo will be serving a delicious cocktail, aptly named the "Big Brother/Big Sister" or something similar. Every one of these eleven Sacramento hot spots will contribute proceeds from the cocktails to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Sacramento.

Look out for the Grange’s fresh “Big Brother/Big Sister” - Stolichnaya vodka, blueberry lemon verbena syrup, lemon, and soda, served tall with lemon verbena and blue berries on top. Or, try Red Lotus’s rejuvenating “Big Brother Big Sister” - Absolut wild tea vodka, lavender spiced bitters, muddled blue berries, fresh lemon juice, rosemary simple syrup and topped with sparkling wine. Maybe Ella’s “Big Sister” will quench your thirst – Dolin dry vermouth, simple syrup, lemon juice, Gvori vodka, cranberry juice, creme de cassis and proseco!

This exciting full month promotion of charity cocktails - "Cocktails for a Cause"- will generate awareness for Big Brothers Big Sisters, and celebrate the spirit of giving that these eleven restaurants have embraced. This is the second installment of the Big Brothers Big Sisters partnership with area eateries. Eat and drink up!

Participatiing Restaurants:

DeVere's Irish Pub
District 30
Dive Bar
Ella Dining Room and Bar
Grange
L Wine Lounge
Loung on 20
Mulvaney's
Pizza Rock
Red Lotus
Zocalo

Big Brothers Big Sisters is the oldest, largest and most effective youth mentoring organization in the United States. We have been the leader in one-to-one youth service for more than a century, developing positive relationships that have a direct and lasting impact on the lives of young people. Big Brothers Big Sisters serves children, ages 8 through 14, in Sacramento, Yolo, South Placer, San Joaquin Counties, Sutter and Yuba Counties.

Assessor Announces County Property Tax Roll Totals

Source: County Assessor's Office
Posted: 7/5/2011

Sacramento County Assessor Kathleen Kelleher announced that the 2011-12 assessment roll was completed on July 1. The gross assessed value of the combined secured and unsecured property tax roll totals approximately $124.8 billion. This is nearly $4 billion less than the 2010-11 assessment roll total, or a 3.07% decrease. The property tax revenue decrease totals nearly $40 million overall. The loss to the Sacramento County general fund is 16.3% of the decrease, or approximately $6.5 million.

Assessed value information for all Sacramento County parcels will be available July 5 on the Assessor’s web site Parcel Viewer application.

The Assessor’s Office reviewed the market value of over 187,000 residential and 2,700 commercial and apartment properties for the 2011-12 roll. Many of these reviews resulted in adjusted assessed values below their Prop 13 value. The adjustments will be reflected on tax bills issued in October of 2011. These adjustments in assessed value are provided for in California tax law and often referred to as Proposition 8 (Prop 8) adjustments, reflecting the 1978 ballot proposition that authorized them. This is the fifth consecutive year of widespread Prop 8 reductions in Sacramento County.

It is important to remember that Prop 8 value reductions are temporary. Once a property receives a Prop 8 reduction, its value must be reviewed each year to determine whether the January 1 fair market value remains less than its Prop 13 base year value (typically acquisition value) plus inflationary adjustments. The lower of these two values is the value used for property tax purposes.

The Assessor’s Office will be accepting requests for Prop 8 review on residential and agricultural properties between July 5 and November 30, 2011. Further information on the Prop 8 review process can be found on the Assessor’s web site.

As to commercial and apartment properties, the Assessor’s Office will NOT be accepting requests for 2011 roll Prop 8 reviews. Owners of commercial and apartment property who believe their market value has declined below their factored Prop 13 value will need to file an assessment appeal. Information on the appeal process can be found on the Assessment Appeals Board web site.

For more information on property tax assessment, including information on Prop 8 reductions and instructions for filing Prop 8 reviews, taxpayers may visit the Assessor’s website: www.assessor.saccounty.net or visit the Assessor’s office in person at 3701 Power Inn Road, Suite 3000 (Monday -Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.).

Free eWaste Event Benefits Domestic Violence Center

Posted: 7/5/2011

Citrus Heights - Clean out your garage of old computers, monitors, televisions, cell phones, MP2 Players, ink and toner cartridges, printers, microwaves, cables and wires, lab tops and all electronics and donate them free of charge to the Domestic Violence Intervention Center’s eWaste one-day event on Saturday, July 16th, 9-4 pm located at DVIC, 6060 Sunrise Vista Dr. in our main parking lot located South of Greenback Lane on Fair Oaks Boulevard.

All Green Electronics Recycling and DVIC volunteers will be onsite to help collect your donations.

Your support and participation will touch the lives of numerous victims. You may visit us at DVIC and Harmony House, 6060 Sunrise Vista Dr., Ste. 2340, Citrus Heights, CA 95610 or www.DVICcares.org

The Domestic Violence Center of Citrus Heights and Harmony House is a Nonprofit 501 (c) (3) agency, which seeks to eliminate barriers by offering proactive prevention and intervention strategies to women, children, youth, and families of our community. DVIC is a wellness-based organization that serves the victims and families of our community and surrounding region. For more information regarding DVIC & Harmony House please call 916-728-5613.

Charlie Pillman Celebtrates 1,000th Tour with Family

By Reanna Leon
Posted: 6/28/2011

This year Charlie enjoyed the celebration of his 1,000th tour with his family and friends.

Citrus Heights – Charlie Pillman was born in Gilroy, California on December 11th, 1931. Charlie served on active duty with the United States Nave Reserve on a repair ship in the Korean War. Before and after his time served during the war, Charlie worked in printing and eventually became a Journeyman printer on the Gilroy Dispatch. Through the years, Charlie always had an interest in trains and the railroads.

Charlie was part of the restoration crew of a Southern Pacific P-10 Pacific type locomotive in San Jose, California. When he moved to Sacramento in 1998, Charlie volunteered at the California State Railroad Museum where he worked in the restoration shop. In 1999 he became a docent there. Charlie was asked to tour his granddaughter Julie and the rest of her 5th grade class for a field trip. This triggered his interest in becoming an official tour guide. Charlie began to train for this position and became an official tour guide for the California State Railroad Museum in 2001.

This year Charlie enjoyed the celebration of his 1,000th tour with his family and friends, including Julie who is now 21 years old. Congratulations Charlie!

Pledge Your Independence from Chronic Illness this July 4th

National Medication Adherence Campaign, Script Your Future, Launches Local Efforts in Sacramento
Posted: 6/28/2011

SACRAMENTO, CA – Most people remember their morning coffee more often than their daily medication. That lack of adherence could lead to serious health consequences and avoidable costs. With the local launch of the National Consumer League’s Script Your Future campaign on Thursday, June 30th, patients can pledge their independence from the emotional and financial burden of chronic disease by taking their medicine as directed.<.

Medication adherence has become a growing focus among health care stakeholders, and addressing the problem is critical, especially as the number of Americans affected by at least one chronic condition is expected to grow from 133 to 157 million by 2020. Locally, the prevalence of diabetes, asthma and cardiovascular disease continue to increase, and patients who play an active role in managing these chronic diseases can have a longer and better life. The local roll-out of the Script Your Future campaign follows a national launch led by U.S. Surgeon General Regina M. Benjamin and is supported by more than 100 private and public partners.

WHAT: Local, Sacramento launch of Script Your Future new multi-year, consumer-focused campaign on the importance of medication adherence. The Sacramento campaign is part of a nation-wide campaign launched in May in Washington, DC.

WHEN: Thursday, June 30, 2011, 10:30am

WHERE: Rite Aid Pharmacy
980 Florin Road
Sacramento, 95831 (Pocket area)
In the Lake Crest Village Shopping Center, West of I-5 at Florin Road and Greenhaven Drive

For more information visit www.ScriptYourFuture.org

City of Citrus Heights to Pay $196,758 to Six Families

By Leslie Carrara
Posted: 6/28/2011

Citrus Heights – Demolition and relocation efforts are under way as former Sayonara Drive residents receive stimulus money from a $1 million federal grant, with the residents receiving final checks next month.

One of the 11 families will receive a combined total of $96,000, based on family size and income levels, according to Katherine Cooley, Development Specialist with the city. Former residents began receiving monthly checks in March, and based on federal guidelines, they are all to be paid in full by September. Six families qualify for a pay out check as they received over $5,000 each. Total paid out will be $196,758 with six families receiving a pay out check in July. The majority of properties on Sayonara Drive were in foreclosure when demolition began a year ago and only 11 units were occupied with the people needing to be relocated, Cooley said.

The city purchased 64 units with the Federal Neighborhood Stabilization grant before the demolition project began. The grant paid for the 15 properties, the demolition, the fencing and for the relocation of the families that lived there at the time. Grant monies will also pay for the redevelopment of the street, with the city required by federal law to rebuild affordable housing. All guidelines by HUD (Housing and Urban Development) and HCD (Housing and Community Development) are being followed, Cooley said.

Greenback Lane and Auburn Blvd Intersection Construction Planned

By Leslie Carrara
Posted: 6/28/2011

Citrus Heights – The intersection of Greenback Lane and Auburn Blvd. will be undergoing a facelift beginning mid-July while the city attempts to make the intersection more disabled user friendly, including making the area cleaner and moving the bus stop.

The work will be done on Greenback up to Indian River Drive and a few feet in on both the east and west sides of Auburn Blvd.

Estimated cost of the work, which is slated to be complete by mid-September, is $1 million. Monies will be pulled from the gas tax fund.

Del Campo High School 25-Year Class Reunion

Posted: 6/28/2011

Del Campo High School’s Class of 1986 will hold its 25-year class reunion this summer. The event, which will take place on Friday, August 12, 2011, will take place at the Radisson Hotel Sacramento. The doors will open at 7:00pm.

The theme for the reunion, “Ready to Have Fun Again”, sets the tone for the much-anticipated event that is expected to reunite the class of more than 500 students. The 1986 graduates of this high school, which is located in the Fair Oaks suburb of North Sacramento, are encouraged to attend the reunion and catch up with classmates from 25 years ago, to revisit old friendships and create new ones. All alumni and their guests are invited to attend the reunion. The Reunion Planning Committee has established affordable registration fees for the convenience of classmates.

During the reunion, guests will enjoy a delicious assortment of hors d’oeuvres, while mingling throughout the venue, which will include a scenic outdoor terrace. For out-of-town alumni, guest rooms will be available on site at a discounted rate. A disc jockey will also be on hand to play an assortment of music, including the music of the 1980’s.

Registration for the 25-year reunion is available via PayPal. Payments may be made by using MasterCard, Visa, American Express, Discover Card and bank debit cards. To register online, please go to www.dccougars1986.com. This website has been created exclusively for the Del Campo 1986 alumni. Registration may also be made via check. To register using this option, please contact staff@dccougars1986.com for details.

A Facebook page for the Del Campo reunion has been set up to aid classmates in getting in touch with one another. On this Facebook page, Del Campo High School Class of ‘86: 25-Year Class Reunion, important information is often posted. Classmates are encouraged to join this Facebook page to receive updates on the reunion and to converse with fellow classmates. The Committee seeks help in locating classmates. For information, please contact staff@dccougars1986.com.

Del Campo High School Class of 1986: 25-Year Reunion:

Date: Friday, August 12, 2011
Time: 7:00pm – 1:00am
Locale: Radisson Hotel
500 Leisure Lane
Sacramento
(916) 922-2020

For additional information about the Del Campo reunion, please contact the Reunion Planning Committee at staff@dccougars1986.com.

DONATE ITEMS TO VERGE CENTER FOR THE ARTS’ 2ND ANNUAL JUMBLE SALE FUNDRAISER

Rummage sale to benefit Sacramento’s contemporary art scene
Posted: 6/25/2011

SACRAMENTO—Verge Center for the Arts is seeking gently used, high-quality items for its 2nd Annual Jumble Sale, a creative rummage sale benefiting Verge’s exhibitions, artist residencies, education programs and studio space.

“This is a great opportunity for local residents to clean out closets and garages while supporting the local art community,” said Liv Moe, executive director, Verge Center for the Arts. “The Jumble Sale will help us renovate our new space and build the next phase of artist studios.”

Verge is seeking art supplies, furniture, jewelry, home decor, kitchenware, books, tools, collectibles, trinkets, small appliances, toys and more. All items must be clean and in working condition. Verge will not accept clothing that is stained or in disrepair, computers, televisions or other electronics. Donations will be accepted until July 28. To donate, contact Moe at liv@vergegallery.com or (916) 448-2985.

The sale will take place Aug. 5, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., and Aug. 6-7, 8 a.m.-2 p.m., at Verge Center for the Arts, 625 S Street, Sacramento. The event also will include a preview party from 6-10 p.m. on Aug. 4, where guests will have the first opportunity to browse and purchase items for sale while enjoying a no-host bar, appetizers and music. Verge artists will have their studios open and art for sale at the preview. Cost to attend the preview party is $15 per person.

Founded in September 2008, Verge Center for the Arts is a nonprofit arts organization focused on promotion and support of contemporary art in the Sacramento region. Verge offers contemporary art exhibitions, artist residencies, educational programming and affordable studio space to Sacramento artists. In 2010, VCA relocated to a 22,000-square-foot warehouse in downtown Sacramento. The larger space doubles the number of artist studios available, provides additional educational programming and expands the gallery. For more information, visit www.vergeart.com.

Submission of Tumor Survivor Shows Off Brain Power

Sutter Patient Awarded Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation Scholarship
Posted: 6/19/2011

At only 18 months old, Melody O’Brien’s parents noticed a sudden limp in their daughter’s step. Shortly after, doctors found a lemon-sized tumor on the toddler’s brain stem. Physicians told Melody’s parents to prepare for the worst. Fast forward 16 years – Melody, 17, is alive and well and a recent recipient of a college scholarship from the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation.

Her mother, Jennifer O’Brien, describes Melody’s story as nothing short of a miracle.

Throughout the years, Melody has been faced with a series of demanding procedures as she copes with her astrocytoma. Melody underwent chemotherapy in 1995 and then again in 1997 – both for 18 months. In 2004, when her cancer returned once more, she underwent a gamma knife procedure – a non-invasive surgery that sends tiny beams of radiation directly to the targeted tumor – at Sutter Medical Center, Sacramento.

The gamma knife surgery reduced the size of her tumor and was followed by radiation treatment every day for six weeks in 2006 until she reached the maximum dose to her brain. While Melody has been in remission ever since, her last dose of radiation left her with life-altering side effects.

“Melody was left with severe cognitive slowing, although her IQ wasn’t affected at all,” Jennifer said. “She fatigues really easily and gets headaches; her body knows when it is tired and has to slow down.”

Melody lives at home with her family in Fair Oaks and recently participated in high school graduation at Victory Christian School in Carmichael, where she attended from fourth through eighth grade. Due to the cognitive side effects of her radiation treatment, Melody transitioned into an educational setting of one-on-one tutoring after her eighth-grade year and has been excelling ever since.

Throughout the ever-present challenges with her condition, Melody has maintained academic excellence, been an active participant in her school choir and created her own jewelry-making business.

Samuel F. Ciricillo, M.D., Medical Director of the Sutter Neuroscience Institute, said that despite Melody’s cognitive and mobility issues, she has always remained hopeful about her future.

L“Melody has been able to get past all of her challenges with the best attitude and is one of the happiest kids that I have had in my clinic,” Dr. Ciricillo said. “She gets through her hurdles with a smile on her face and is always looking to the future, which is clearly what it takes.”

As Melody approached the last semester of her high school year, she applied for the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation Scholarship Award. Although competition was stiffer than ever this year, Melody’s accomplishments were awarded with a $1,000 scholarship.

“This scholarship is really a blessing,” Melody said. “I want to be educated and be able to get the job of my choice, which takes hard work.”

Melody’s parents are also ecstatic about their daughter’s achievement. “To be chosen for this scholarship is a big deal,” Jennifer said. “We are so very proud of her and feel very special that the foundation was impressed with her credentials.”

Melody will attend Folsom Lake Community College in the fall. She plans to enroll in a metal sculpture class, where she can learn to make jewelry, as well as sign language courses.

“When I was little, they thought that I might lose my hearing,” Melody said. “I have slight hearing loss, so I can’t hear high-pitched sounds, but thankfully I can still hear. I have a real passion for learning sign language.”

Sutter Health physicians have been by Melody’s side every step of the way. “Sutter doctors have been amazing. They know you on a deeper personal level. They know your hobbies,” Jennifer said. “When they know the whole person, they can remember and tell differences in your appearance and behavior and that’s really important.”

Sutter Medical Center, Sacramento is affiliated with Sutter Health, a not-for-profit, community based health system located throughout Northern California. For more information on Sutter Medical Center, Sacramento, visit www.suttermedicalcenter.org.

State Officials Urge Californians to Prepare for Summer Heat

Posted: 6/10/2011

MATHER - Even though the official start of summer is almost two weeks away, State officials today urged Californians to prepare now for the prospect of prolonged periods of hot weather later this summer and fall.

"Summer isn't here yet, but it's not too early for Californians to prepare for the possibility of several days of extremely high temperatures, particularly in areas where temperatures don't reach into the 90s and 100s very often," said California Emergency Management Agency (Cal EMA) Acting Secretary Mike Dayton.

The Acting Cal EMA Secretary urged Californians who haven't already done so to review their emergency plans, replenish their emergency supplies, learn first aid and CPR and create a cooler, more comfortable environment in their homes.

"As we saw in 2006, prolonged periods of extremely high temperatures can cause a significant number of deaths and heat-related illnesses, including heat exhaustion and heat stroke," said California Department of Public Health (CDPH) Interim Director Dr. Howard Backer.

According to information provided by California's county coroners and medical examiners, 136 Californians died due to heat-related illnesses caused by a 13-day heat wave that struck the state in 2006.

"Infants, young children and seniors, as well as persons who have chronic health conditions, are particularly vulnerable when temperatures rise," noted Backer. "Caretakers must be sure to provide adequate fluids to persons who cannot ask for them or get fluids for themselves. Never leave a child or pet in a closed vehicle for any length of time. Plan outdoor work and exercise during the early morning hours or evening hours. During periods of severe heat, communities will set up cooling centers for daytime use."

Workers in all outdoor worksites such as agriculture, construction, landscaping and other industries, are at risk of serious heat illness and even death when temperatures rise across California. According to the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA), employers are required to take four basic steps to prevent heat illness at all outdoor worksites. These include training all employees on heat illness, providing adequate water, rest and shade and having an emergency response plan in place.

"I am pleased to see a greater level of compliance and a reduction in occupational heat- related illnesses and fatalities in recent years, but we must remain vigilant during times of high summer heat," said Cal/OSHA Chief Ellen Widess. "Heat related illness and death are preventable with simple steps that employers take to ensure workers have adequate water and shade and training on the symptoms of heat stress. Having a good program in place not only protects workers' health, but ensures greater productivity."

State officials urged Californians to incorporate energy conservation measures as part of their heat emergency plans.

"Californians can save money and reduce the risk of power outages by setting their thermostats to 78 to 80 degrees when they're home and to 85 degrees or the 'off' position when they're away from home," said Dayton. "They also can reduce strain on the power grid by using their primary refrigerators and freezers for perishable foods and beverages and disconnecting secondary refrigerators and freezers."

Other conservation measures Californians can employ include turning off lights, fans and appliances that aren't in use and using dish washers, driers, washing machines and other appliances after the peak hours of 4 to 6 p.m.

Summer heat resources are available at www.calema.ca.gov and www.cdph.ca.gov.

UNITED WAY AIMS TO COLLECT 60,000 ROLLS OF TOILET PAPER AT 3rd ANNUAL LIVE UNITED TOILET PAPER DRIVE

All-day drive collects toilet paper to offset costs for nonprofits
Posted: 6/10/2011

Community members from across the greater Sacramento region will gather at Cal Expo to donate toilet paper as part of United Way California Capital Region’s 3rd Annual LIVE UNITED Toilet Paper Drive. The annual drive helps offset the cost of this necessary staple that costs local nonprofits thousands of dollars each year—which they can now spend on programs. Last year’s drive raised 50,000 rolls of toilet paper. This year’s goal is 60,000. Toilet paper will be distributed at Foodlink the following week to many of United Way’s 142 certified partners in Amador, El Dorado, Placer, Sacramento and Yolo counties. Sac-Val Janitorial Supply will donate one roll of toilet paper for every two rolls collected.

HIGHLIGHTS:

- More than 120 volunteers waving signs, collecting and packaging toilet paper
– Mascots, cheerleaders and more building Toilet Paper Drive spirit
– 9 nonprofits speaking about what toilet paper really buys
– Local companies dropping off mass quantities of toilet paper throughout the day

TOILET PAPER DROP-OFF HIGHLIGHTS:

**Several companies will be doing creative toilet paper drop-offs throughout the day**

8 a.m.: Assemblymember Dr. Richard Pan
10 a.m.: Golden 1 Credit Union
1 p.m.: American Fed. of State, County, Municipal Employees via Regional Transit bus
TBD: NAPA Auto via NAPA trucks
TBD: Allied/Nationwide via dozens of walking employees

June 16
7 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Cal Expo
600 Exposition Boulevard
Sacramento

United Way is the region’s leading provider of innovative solutions on the community’s most pressing issues, including high school graduation rates, household financial stability and obesity. Working with other nonprofits, businesses, donors and volunteers, United Way provides positive, measurable results on vital health and human services issues. Through new and traditional fundraising and mobilization programs, community members can give, volunteer and advocate in support of the causes they care most about, benefiting United Way and hundreds of nonprofits in Amador, El Dorado, Placer, Sacramento and Yolo counties. United Way is an independent, local affiliate of United Way Worldwide. For more information, visit www.yourlocalunitedway.org.

CALIFORNIA CAPITAL REGION EDUCATION COLLABORATIVE TO EXCHANGE FRESH IDEAS ON INCREASING GRADUATION RATES AT KICK-OFF EVENT

Posted: 6/10/2011

SACRAMENTO—An alarming number of the region’s youth are not graduating from high school. A group of public and private agencies, corporations, small businesses, education institutions and concerned citizens have come together to form the California Capital Region Education Collaborative in order to focus attention on this issue.

Jack O’Connell, former state superintendent of public instruction and Patricia Rucker of the California State Board of Education and legislative advocate for the California State Teachers Association will join the collaborative at a kick-off event on June 17 where the group will share its vision and goals and showcase programs that are successfully helping to improve graduation rates. Teachers, administrators, nonprofits, community organizations, parents and concerned citizens from Amador, El Dorado, Placer, Sacramento and Yolo counties are encouraged to attend.

“The dropout issue is no longer just a moral issue; today it is an economic issue,” O’Connell said. According to a report by Alliance for Excellent Education, in the Sacramento metropolitan area, an estimated 7,100 students dropped out from the class of 2008. The report goes on to state that 24 percent of high school students in the region do not graduate on time with a regular diploma, which ultimately affects the local economy.

The kick-off event will take place 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. on Friday, June 17, at the AT&T Auditorium, 2700 Watt Avenue in Sacramento. Participants will have the opportunity to learn about successful programs, hear from community leaders and work in facilitated groups to create community action plans to support schools.

The California Capital Region Education Collaborative is working to ensure young people graduate from high school and move on to higher education and/or successful careers. The collaborative’s purpose is to bring together students, leaders, advocates, parents, community members, educators, experts and all concerned parties to identify and disseminate promising practices and models, while serving as a clearinghouse for education, youth development efforts and attaining resource opportunities for the region. The collaborative will serve as an advocacy and liaison body, assisting in the facilitation of increasing graduation rates in Amador, El Dorado, Placer, Sacramento and Yolo counties. For more information on the collaborative and the kick-off event, visit https://sites.google.com/site/unitedwayrec/home.

California Questers Forming New Chapter in Sacramento & Seeks Interested Participants

Informational Meeting to be Held Saturday, June 11 At Governor's Mansion State Historic Park
Posted: 6/8/2011

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (June 6, 2011) -- California Questers invites interested participants to attend an informational meeting on Saturday, June 11, at 11:00 a.m. at the Governor's Mansion State Historic Park, 1526 H Street in Sacramento. With the intent of starting a Questers chapter in the Sacramento area, the meeting will highlight the organization's interest in educating members by research, the study of antiques as well as donating funds for the preservation and restoration of artifacts, memorials, historic buildings, landmarks, and educational projects.

Questers chapters work on defined projects often working with local historical society's preservation and restoration projects including preservation of lighthouses, historic homes, monuments and artifacts in museums and missions. They donate their time, raise funds and do research to accomplish these goals.

This year the Governor's Mansion State Historic Park has been the benefactor of the efforts of the California Questers. Questers representative, Claragene Rainey, works with the Governor's Mansion State Historic Park staff to identify acquisition needs. This has led to a series of projects, each of which contributes to the restoration of this state historic park and Sacramento landmark.

Projects specific to the mansion include replacing curtains, commissioning painting reproductions and acquiring the silverware to complete the set once used in the family dining room at the Governor's Mansion State Historic Park. Earlier this year, California Questers restored an Eastlake style billiard table for the mansion's third floor billiard room including a donation a matching cue rack by the restoration firm.

Questers is an international nonprofit organization, founded in 1944 by Jessie Elizabeth Bardens, headquartered in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Its major objectives are to stimulate an appreciation of antiques and to encourage the preservation and restoration of historical landmarks. With a strong desire to see that the best of American heritage preserved for future generations, Questers sponsor graduate level scholarships at Columbia University as well as a fellowship at Winterthur/University of Delaware. Questers' chapters number 800 and 13,000 members in 43 states and two provinces. In California, there are 35 chapters with more than 500 members.

Prior to the its work with the Governor's Mansion State Historic Park, California Questers restored the statue of the Pioneer Mother and its base in Golden Gate Park in San Francisco. The Pioneer Mother was designed by Charles Grafly for the Pan Pacific Exposition of 1915.

For more information about the upcoming June 11 meeting, please contact Sylvia Rathbun at 408-267-3879 or visit www.calquest.org.

Annual Concerts In The Park Series Returns This Week

Posted: 6/7/2011

Fair Oaks – Come out and enjoy this year’s Concerts in the Park! The schedule opens June 9th with Todd Morgan and the Emblems, an old-time rock and roll band. Music starts each week at 7:00pm and runs for approximately two hours.

You can find the music playing and hundreds of music lovers gathering at the band stage just behind the Community Clubhouse in old Fair Oaks Village.

The music plays every Thursday evening through August 25th. The event is always free and always fun.  Bring your picnic dinner or buy comfort food (pizza, hot dogs or ice cream sundaes).  Now is the time to relax and enjoy the summer that has finally arrived with friends, families and local strangers.  Dancing, eating, laughing, and laying back are all that is required.

Some concerts have been known to draw an audience of 800 or more. As the weekly bands represent several genres of music, the concert goers drop their lawn chairs and goodies in place for the bands they love best. Bands this year include smooth jazz, cowboy ballads, rhythm and blues, rock and roll, Cajun and Broadway hits. For a complete schedule go to www.fairoakschamber.com

Concerts in the Park has become a Fair Oaks Tradition. The entire community supports the concerts through sponsorships. The series is sponsored this year by Grand Sponsors Fair Oaks Recreation and Parks District, Fair Oaks Chamber of Commerce, Fair Oaks Water District, Fair Oaks Foundation for Leisure and the Arts, Safeway and Seniors Helping Seniors. There are also weekly sponsors for each event. If you enjoy the music, be sure to thank one of the many sponsors who step up and make the event possible.

A Delicious Taste of Fair Oaks

Posted: 6/7/2011

Fair Oaks - Like all recent days lately, Friday was breezy, cool, dank and pale-gray. Nosing into the North Ridge Country Club for the Chamber of Commerce 18th Annual Taste of Fair Oaks (TOFO 18) we were already in trouble. Grounds crew and security men ran at us waving, pointing to rows of leering grilles and smooth-curved rear bumpers. A blue clad man sprinted ahead, stopped, turned, pointed to a slot with his left hand, rotating his right in the universal signal for “Move it!.” Squeezing between an over-used Ford F-10 pickup and a never-used Lincoln Navigator I told my photographer “They’ll be parking on the fairway in ten more minutes.” She laughed, “So far TOFO 18 looks like a success.” We aim ourselves for the tables crowded around the main gate.

The air’s heavy, warm, scented with flavor and spice. Food. Tables of it filled with ahi tuna, sweet chili chicken, dim sum, pasta, lamb chops, pizza, tapas and silky sweet chocolate. And folks packed paunch to haunch waiting. There’s wine to be enjoyed. Folks who’d began by seriously tasting Zins, Cabs and Merlots Branch out to Chardonnay and Pinot Grigio. Countless flavors found in vineyards and regions from El Dorado to San Luis Obispo. And Fair Oak’s most delightful party begins.

Along the center of the room large tables covered with packages wrapped in ribbons and bows wait like little pack-burros to be unloaded. More auction items than TOFO 17, 16 and 15 - and more people bidding.

A small tap on a drum. “Aaaaa-aaa-at…laaasssst, my love has come alooooonnnng…” A rich even purr like an expensive car begins confidently, boldly and not too loud. Folks migrate to the patio to listen until the PA clicks on, screeches, hums, rings and a brassy voice asks, “Can you hear me? In the back of the room? Can you hear?” Billy Mills, Olympic champion was introduced to the enthusiastic crowd and the auction began.

Fair Oaks Rotary Restores Phoenix Field

By Fred Rowe
Posted: 6/7/2011

With their task partly financed by a grant from Rotary International, on April 15 the Rotary Club of Fair Oaks began some renovation work on the 90-foot Little League diamond at Phoenix Park in Fair Oaks. With members Mike Vinks and John Brothers providing the technical direction, a crew of ten put in place the supporting framework for new roofs on the dugouts, which have been without them for several seasons. In addition to re-roofing the dugouts, the dugout benches will be replaced, the bullpens weeded and re-leveled, and the shade cloth on the outfield fences replaced. Project manager Bruce Vincent estimates that 2-3 more workdays over the next several weeks should suffice to finish the job, and will allow most of the membership to be a part of the project. League president Rob Franco expressed the league’s appreciation for what the club is doing to make Phoenix Park a quality place to play and see games.

The Rotary Club of Fair Oaks is a group of men and women with ties to Fair Oaks who subscribe to Rotary’s motto, ”Service Above Self”, and is one of the nearly 34,000 Rotary clubs worldwide. They meet in the basement of the Fair Oaks Community Clubhouse on almost every Monday evening. Google ”Fair Oaks Rotary” to find out more.

Friends of the Library Summer Book Sale

Posted: 6/7/2011

The Fair Oaks Friends of the Library will host its Summer 2011 Book Sale, Sat. June 11, 10 - 4Pm. On Mon. June 13, 1-5pm is a Clearance of unsold books. A pre-sale for members is held on Fri. June 9, 3:30-4:30pm. Non-members may join at the door.

All sales are in the Community Room of the Fair Oaks Community Library, 11601 Fair Oaks Boulevard, (916) 264-2700.

EFFIE YEAW NATURE CENTER HIRES NEW DIRECTOR

Posted: 6/2/2011

Carmichael, CA - Effie Yeaw Nature Center (EYNC) and the American River Natural History Association (ARNHA) are pleased to announce the hiring of Paul Tebbel as Executive Director to take over on June 1st from Marilee Flannery who is retiring after 18 years at the Center. EYNC is a community service of ARNHA.

Paul has more than 15 years of experience running nature centers, including 12 years as director of Rowe Sanctuary and Audubon Center on the Platte River in Nebraska. He also managed a wildlife care hospital in New Mexico, which provided him with valuable experience to oversee the care of the display birds and animals at the Nature Center.

Just prior to coming to the Nature Center, Paul was the executive director of Friends of the River, the statewide river conservation organization located in Sacramento. He originally moved to northern California from New Mexico to be nearer his parents who now live at Carlton Plaza in Sacramento.

“Now that ARNHA is responsible for raising the money needed to operate, we needed someone who could help us be financially successful while maintaining the high quality nature experience people enjoy at the Nature Center.” Said Larry Washington, President of ARNHA which operates EYNC. “Paul’s skills matched our needs since he has considerable fundraising experience and has managed two non-profit nature centers.”

EYNC was part of the Sacramento County Regional Parks system until July 2010 when it was leased to the non-profit American River Natural History Association (ARNHA). A favorite location for teachers throughout the greater Sacramento area, EYNC provides nature education programs to kids from kindergarten through 6th grade and takes care of the 77-acre nature preserve located in Ancil Hoffman Park near Fair Oaks Blvd. in Carmichael.

Built in the 1970’s, the Nature Center honors the work done by Effie Yeaw (1900-1970) who brought connected thousands of children with nature at the location now protected as a nature preserve. Each year nearly 100,000 residents, including many families with young children, walk the nature center trails and enjoy the quiet natural area which extends from the oak woodland to the Lower American River. The natural area is open daily from dawn until dusk and the nature center visitor center is open from 9-5 Wednesday through Sunday. There is no fee to enjoy the nature preserve but a county parking pass or membership in ARNHA is required to enter the county park.

Nature Center Location
2830 San Lorenzo Way
Carmichael, CA 95811

SCOE Teacher Joe Clark Wins Honor

Named Instructor of the Year at 3rd Annual California Voices Youth Film Event
Posted: 6/2/2011

Joe Clark did not expect to hear his name called. He knew his students’ video project was good, but felt they deserved more credit than he did. However, when organizers of the 3rd Annual California Voice Film Premiere announced the 2011 Instructor of the Year Award, the Multimedia Sound Engineering teacher for the Sacramento County Office of Education (SCOE) found himself accepting the honor.

On May 25th, 2011, the Center for Multicultural Cooperation hosted the event at the Crest Theatre. Over 600 students, parents, community leaders, partners, and elected officials gathered together to celebrate and recognize the hard work of more than 150 local youth filmmakers. The event showed documentary films created by students at 12 schools in the Sacramento area and showcased youth issue videos where students identified and shared their perspective on issues in their community.

Mr. Clark, a resident of Natomas, received the award for a video produced by students in his Regional Occupational Program (ROP) at the LINKS Academy at Marian Anderson, a community school program operated by SCOE. The video, titled" Decisions", focused on the hard decisions community school students must make on a daily basis.

“I was very surprised at winning the award as I thought our students' video was good, but we had wanted to do even much more with it,” Mr. Clark said. “I think it shows the potential our students have, even though so many dismiss them as ‘unteachable’.”

In addition to teaching the highly technical subject of sound engineering, Mr. Clark works with at-risk students in grades 9-12 in areas of career exploration and work preparation practices such as developing resumes and completing job applications.

"Joe's Multimedia Sound Engineering class is cited by many students as the reason they come to school,” said SCOE Community School Principal Philip Moore. "Joe is one of those rare individuals who truly enjoys his work and the creative process of offering new and interesting opportunities to our students."

The California Voices program is supported by: Sacramento City Unified School District, Sacramento County Office of Education, The California Endowment, My Dream My Life Academy, California Center for Civic Participation, Sacramento Regional Foundation, City of Sacramento Teen Services, and Sacramento Chinese Community Service Center.

SACRAMENTO TOMATOFEST GROWS AT ITS 2ND ANNUAL EVENT AT TOWN AND COUNTRY VILLAGE

Posted: 6/2/2011

SACRAMENTO - Town & Country Village is sponsoring its 2nd Annual Sacramento TomatoFest from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 30 - show off your green thumb, even if its not so green - there's a $500 cash prize to the winners in each of the three categories: largest tomato, smallest tomato and ugliest tomato. Contestants can download an entry form at www.shoptownandcountry.com, or register their tomatoes in person by 9:30 a.m.

The TomatoFest is also featuring local restaurant chefs competing against last year's winner, Chef Jon Nelson from Sienna Restaurant, for a trophy and bragging rights as they prepare their best salsa, bruschetta and tomato soup (hot or cold). Samples available for Restaurant People's Choice Award.

There's something for everyone - live music, art, cooking demonstrations, wine-tasting, demonstrations by Master Gardeners, a Kid's Area (sponsored by Emigh's Hardware), face-painting, kettle korn, performances by Sacramento Theatre Co., and don't miss the tomato truffles and tomato gelato and much more!

New this year - a Tomato Trot for kids 13 and under (throughout the Village)

Of course, for those shopaholics, there is a village-wide sidewalk sale.

TEN-YEAR-OLD EARNS $21,000 FOR HOG SOLD AT SACRAMENTO COUNTY FAIR

Posted: 6/1/2011

FFA Student Ryan Denier with his steer at Sacramento County Fair Jr. Livestock Auction

SACRAMENTO, CA. It was a good year for one ten-year-old at the Sacramento County Fair, which finished a five-day run yesterday (May 30). The record-setting event was the sale of a young 4H student’s hog at the annual Jr. Livestock Auction. Weighing in at 277 pounds, the hog sold for more than $80 per pound to enthusiastic buyers. The 10-year old owner says he has to pay his expenses, then “I guess the rest will probably go into a college fund.”

Preliminary numbers show an increase in revenue. According to TJ Plew, CEO, paid attendance at the Fair this year will probably equal that of 2010, despite a cold and drizzly Saturday afternoon and evening. “Saturday night is our biggest night so the weather directly affected attendance, food and carnival sales.”

But, while they were at the Fair, visitors ate. Thousands filled up on Fair food with increases in sales on Thursday and Friday, and record sales on Sunday. New vendors with savory and fruit crepes, homemade potato chips, and Hawaiian plates were big hits along with everyone’s favorite — cinnamon rolls overflowing with cream cheese frosting and topped with chopped nuts.

Total sales at the auction brought in more than $483,000 for 574 lots to reward a year of hard work by Sacramento County’s 4-H and FFA youth. Gross sales in 2010 were $453,300. While the unusually large swine sale is getting attention, the reality is that most animals sell for market value.

Numbers are only one measure of success, and visitors were enthusiastic about the Sea Lion Encounter show, while hundreds of children each day participated in Circus Imagination. The privacy lounge provided for nursing mothers, with rocking chairs and a diaper changing station, healthy snacks and a video center was well received by parents.

For now, staff is proud to declare 2011 a successful year, before planning begins in short order for the 2012 Sacramento County Fair. For information on the Fair visit www.sacfair.com.

13th ANNUAL RACE FOR THE ARTS IS MORE THAN A RUN

IT'S AN EXPERIENCE

SACRAMENTO (May 24) - Anyone who enjoys theatre, dance, music, art - and exercise - won't want to miss this annual celebration of the arts and the outdoors. Join for the 13th Annual Race for the Arts benefiting all California non-profit performing, cultural and visual arts organizations, and school music, drama and arts programs. Run or walk to support your favorite organization or school program. Enjoy entertainment throughout, 42 interactive booths, costumed characters and a post-run party. 100% of your pledge monies benefit your designated group. Pledges are due September 30, 2011 (pledges are not a requirement for participation)

Grab your shoes and come on out for the 5K Run/Walk - as well as Kids' Fun Runs (440-yard run for ages 6 and under, 1/2 mile for ages 7-9, 1 mile for ages 10-12). Starting Line: 15th Avenue and Land Park Drive, Sacramento

Gear up for Race for the Arts with Off to the Races on August 20.

Go to www.raceforthearts.com to download a flyer (which can be personalized for your organization / school), entry form and pledge forms. Beginning July 4, entry forms will be available at Raley's, Bel Air, Hobrecht Lighting Design & Decor and California Family Fitness locations.

TEAMS OF 10 OR MORE WILL RECEIVE A 20 PERCENT DISCOUNT

In 2007, Galena Street East raised $27,000!! It works!

SMUD Neighborhood Performance program offers customers substantial energy efficiency rebates

Program targets customers in Rosemont section of Sacramento County
Posted: 5/26/2011

Hundreds of Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD) residential and commercial customers will soon be able to take advantage of generous rebates to help pay for comprehensive energy efficiency retrofits thanks to a federal grant. Using stimulus funds from the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act (ARRA), the Neighborhood Performance program provides rebates to single-family and multifamily residential customers and small and large commercial customers in the downtown and midtown areas of Sacramento and the Rosemont area in Sacramento County. Those areas were chosen based on customer profile and peak energy usage. SMUD received about $2.8 million in the grant, which was awarded to Los Angeles County last year. The program will run through June 2013.

For residential customers, the Neighborhood Performance program is designed to take into account the home as a system and uses an innovative whole-house approach. Based on the Environmental Protection Agency’s Home Performance with ENERGY STAR, it makes a house or apartment building more energy stingy. The program aims to retrofit about 130 single-family homes and 50 multifamily units with energy-saving upgrades that may include duct sealing, new insulation and new heating and air conditioning systems. Efficiency improvements averaging 20 percent are well within reach for participating customers. More than 80 qualifying low-income households are also eligible in the neighborhoods for free weatherization and retrofit services up to $3,500.

A new commercial program called Complete Energy Solutions will be made available to small to mid-sized stores, restaurants, offices and other businesses that draw no more than 300 kilowatts of electricity. These businesses will be eligible for comprehensive retrofits to boost the energy efficiency of lighting, refrigeration and heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems. Rebates are expected to cover well over half of retrofit costs. A separate program will target large commercial operations for whole-building energy efficiency retrofits.

SMUD will offer its established energy efficiency loans to customers that require financing in the range of $3,000 to $10,000. To help customers who require less financing, SMUD is working to develop a financing option that will allow customers to spread out the project cost over one to two years, with monthly payments appearing on their SMUD bill. It’s important to note that most customers who go this route would be cash-flow positive from the outset, with monthly energy savings more than covering their installment payments.

For more information, visit smud.org or call 1-888-742-SMUD.

Memorial Day Weekend River Safety Awareness Event May 26

Posted: 5/26/2011

Sacramento, Calif. – With Memorial Day weekend around the corner, County Regional Parks and the Sacramento Metro Fire Department are hosting a river safety event to remind people to take a few precautions to stay safe around area rivers, and that the law mandates that all children under the age of 13 must wear a life jacket in or around waterways.

The American River Parkway Foundation and GenCorp Foundation will also be showing their commitment to water safety by partnering to purchase and maintain the “Kids Don’t Float” free life jacket loaner program for children at several spots along the American River Parkway. The GenCorps Foundation’s generous donation of $10,800 to purchase 2,000 life jackets will help ensure that any children who visit the river can have a chance to borrow a life jacket for a day to stay safe.

Throughout the Memorial Day weekend, alcohol consumption and possession of open containers will be prohibited on the shore and river within the Parkway between Watt and Hazel Avenues on Saturday, May 28, Sunday, May 29 and Monday, May 30. Parking fees will be increased at County Parks from $5 to $8 per vehicle, $10 to $13 for vehicles towing watercraft.

What: River safety media event

When: May 26 at 10 a.m.

Where: Sunrise Recreation Area at American River Parkway

Rancho Cordova Memorial Day Event Honors Local Heroes

Posted: 5/24/2011

“Honoring Our Local Heroes” will be the focus at the 5th annual Memorial Day Celebration at the Veterans Memorial Plaza on Monday, May 30th at 10 a.m. Sponsored by the City of Rancho Cordova; the Department of Veterans Affairs, Northern California Health Care System; and Heritage Community Credit Union, the program will take place at the Sacramento VA Medical Center Memorial Plaza that is located at 10535 Hospital Way in Mather.

Fernando Ponce, an Iraqi war veteran, will introduce and pay special tribute to three local veteran heroes: Paul Zimmer, Upton Gassaway, and Wayne Omori.

While folding the American flag, members of the Emblem Club 479, the auxiliary for the Rancho Cordova Elks Lodge, will do a unique presentation of the flag’s history.

Guest speakers will include Morrie Turner, a World War II veteran and a nationally syndicated cartoonist; Barbara Ward, Deputy Secretary of Women and Minorities of the California Department of Veteran Affairs; California Assemblywoman Alyson Huber; and Brigadier General David Baldwin, Adjutant General of the California National Guard.

Patriotic music will be presented by the AmVets Band and the St. John Vianney Choir. “Amazing Grace” will be performed by Lyle Seeband on the bagpipes and Sarah McGarvey will sing the National Anthem.

Rancho Cordova Mayor Robert J. McGarvey, an Air Force veteran, and Dr. William Cahill, VA Northern California Healthcare System Chief of Staff, will welcome attendees. The Navy Sea Cadets will present the colors and the Pledge of Allegiance will be led by Bob Burns, Sr., a veteran of three wars. The Honor Guard, made up of members of the U.S. Marine Corps Motor Transport Maintenance Company 4th Maintenance Battalion, will do a 21- gun salute. The invocation and benediction will be by the Reverend Larry Stafford from the Cordova Church of Christ.

Also on the program will be Dawn Lindblom, CEO of the Capital Region Chapter of the American Red Cross, and representatives from Congressman Dan Lungren’s and Congresswoman Doris Matsui’s offices.

The newest commemorative bricks dedicated to local men and women of the armed services will be on display.

During the program, the California Air National Guard’s 144th Fighter Wing will do a flyover.

For additional information, please contact Robin Jackson at (916) 240-3370.

NEW ARTWORKS GALLERY

Solo Exhibit of Works by Christine Klasner-Pariseanu
Posted: 5/12/2011

MMe

"Fantasia", New Artworks Gallery presents a solo exhibit of works by Christine Klasner-Pariseanu. The paintings in this exhibit include oil, acrylic and mixed media. Pariseanu's work makes a transition from oil to acrylic dependent on the season, but it always holds true to her consistent impressionistic style.

Please join her at the opening reception on Second Saturday, June 11th, from 5:00 - 9:00 pm at

NEW ARTWORKS GALLERY
10239 Fair Oaks Blvd.
Fair Oaks, CA 95628

Gallery Hours: Wed.-Sun. 11am-5pm, and by appointment.

Call 916-962-7362, send email to newartworks@att.net or visit us online at www.thenewartworksgallery.com.

Small Business Resource Summit

Posted: 5/19/2011

Sacramento, CA – The United States Small Business Administration (SBA) today announced the Small Business Resource Summit will take place on Thursday, May 26th at the Citrus Heights Community Center, 6300 Fountain Square Drive, Citrus Heights, California, from 9:00 AM until 12:30 PM.

The event will provide information from more than forty government agencies for those that are looking to open or expand a business. Individuals will have the opportunity to talk directly with agency representatives and have their questions answered.

The event will also include sessions on how to start a business in the current economy, business funding, business expansion, and other topics. The keynote presentation of the day will be an Economic Forecast for the region by Dr. David Gallo from the Center for Economic Development from the California State University, Chico.

The event is free and open to the public. To register, please go to www.SmallBusinessResourceSummit.com or, for additional information call the Sacramento District office of the Small Business Administration at 916-735-1700.

Parents need to bring reality check to reality TV shows about teen sex, pregnancy

By Patti Lutz, MPH and Linda Mack-Burch, MPH, Health Educators, Sacramento County Public Health
Posted: 5/12/2011

Is being a teen mom glamorous? Sexy? A good way to get on TV?

Too often teens learn about sexuality from misinformed friends and what’s on television, radio, movies, music videos, magazines, and the internet. Some critics believe that reality shows such as “Jersey Shores,” “Teen Mom” and “16 and Pregnant” sensationalize teen pregnancy and send inaccurate messages to youth about sex.

Teens are very susceptible to media messages. Most teens spend more time watching television or using electronic devices than talking with their parents. These messages can influence the choices they make.

The Sacramento County Public Health Division’s campaign “Think Jeans are Expensive? Try Diapers” aims to counteract these messages.

Your teen deserves to fully understand the realities of teen pregnancy and sex, including the financial, emotional, physical, and social changes that adolescent parents really experience.

Parents, you can make the difference – talk with your teen about preventing teen pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases.

Here are some tips to help you get started:

· Take advantage of “teachable moments” to educate teens and share your values.
· Talk with your teen about everyday things such as school, sports, and shopping. Then conversations about sexuality will be easier because you have a rapport with your child.
· Use the media as an opportunity to educate and communicate with your teen. Initiate “reality check” conversations about teen pregnancy and sex.
· Teach your teen to be an independent thinker and to critically analyze what is seen on TV.
· Actively listen to your teen, being careful not to interrupt him or her.
· Use good eye contact so that your teen knows that you are paying careful attention. Be aware of your body language and facial expressions.
· Be honest about what you do not know.
· Be prepared to talk frequently. The facts and your messages about your values and beliefs should be repeated often.

Websites that help parents communicate with teens about sexuality includes:

For more resources on talking with teens about sexuality, call Sacramento County’s Adolescent Health Program at (916) 875-5869 or follow Sac Teen Health on Facebook, Twitter, and MySpace.

Sac Metro Fire Battles Three Unrelated Blazes, Asks for Help

From Assistant Chief, Scott Cockrum
Posted: 5/4/2011

Rancho Cordova - 0121 hrs, Metro Fire Crews responded to the report of a structure fire at 2525 Queenwood Dr, Rancho Cordova. Prior to arrival, fire crews were advised people may be inside the residence. On arrival fire crews found a residential structure well involved in fire. On scene was an on-duty Sacramento Sheriff’s deputy and a neighbor assisting a man and woman from the burning home. Fire crews immediately evaluated the rescued man and woman for injuries and transported them both to UCDMC with serious heat and smoke related injuries. Two dogs were later found, they did not survive.

The fire was held to one alarm, with the addition of three medic units to transport the injured. One firefighter received a minor injury. He was checked out and returned to work. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Rancho Cordova - 0553 hrs, Metro Fire crews responded to the report of a Recreational Vehicle (RV) fire at 10665 Chardonay, Rancho Cordova. Crews arrived on scene to find the RV fully involved with fire and minor extension to shrubs adjacent to the parked vehicle. Fire crews extinguished the fire. Investigators determined the cause to be accidental and likely related to poor vehicle maintenance. This fire was held to a single alarm and no injuries were reported.

Sacramento - 0657 hrs Metro Fire crews responded to the report of a structure fire at 7539 Power Inn. Crews arrived to find a structure well involved with fire. Crews were able to quickly contain the fire, holding it to a single alarm. The structures were abandoned. There were no injuries to civilians or the public. Fire Investigators said the cause was squatters, and that this is the third fire at this location in recent weeks. Metro Fire has seen an increase in the number of fires related to abandoned structures and squatters.

We are encouraging the public to notify the Sheriff’s department if you witness this in your neighborhoods.

A Son is a Son Till He Gets a Wife

How Toxic Daughters-in-Law Destroy Families
BY Anne Killinger
Posted: 4/28/2011

Most women fear the Monster-in-Law.

The TV stereotype is always the mother-in-law, for whom no woman will ever be as good to him as she is. Doris Roberts on Everybody Loves Raymond embodied that image for 8 years on TV – the grasping, sweet-to-your-face, rude-behind-your-back mother-in-law who only wants her son to be happy, as long as she’s the one behind it.

But what if things were the other way around? What happens when it’s the wife, and not the mother-in-law, that tries to drive a wedge between a man and his mother? That’s what happened to Anne Killinger, author of A Son is a Son Till He Gets a Wife: How Toxic Daughters-in-Law Destroy Families (www.parsonsporchbooks.com).

“In a world where mothers-in-law are frequently made the butt of bad jokes, many people assume that they are the ones that make life unbearable for their daughters-in-law,” Killinger said. “I contend that it is often the other way around, that many daughters-in-law today are selfish, possessive, and narcissistic, and will not rest until they have divorced their husbands from the parents who raised them. It’s a deceptively gradual process, and half the time, you don’t even realize it has happened until it’s too late. It starts with her taking phone calls for the family, or the canceling of trips to visit family. Soon, phone calls go unreturned, and finally you realize that your son is no longer your son. He’s just some other woman’s husband.”

From the emails Killinger receives from her readers and the discussions she has had with others about the topic, she believes the problem is more widespread than the stereotype would lead people to believe.

“I estimate that at least one in ten families in the U.S. today has experienced this problem, to some degree or another,” she said. “It’s difficult to assign blame for it, however, because everyone’s relationship is different. Part of me is torn, because I have been a lifelong feminist, yet I cannot escape the feeling that the rampant feminism that women absorb through their education, societal attitude shifts and the popular culture is at least a partial cause for these women believing that it’s perfectly fine to emotionally separate a son from his parents.”

That’s not the only cultural shift that could be leading to this issue, according to Killinger.

“Children in today’s society grow up without a strong sense of respect for their parents and what their parents have done for them,” she added. “With the realities of the two-income family, and most kids being ‘latch-key kids’ throughout most of their upbringing, children are more independent. They tend to seek their own paths earlier in life, and disobey their parents without much hesitation. This part of our culture makes it a lot easier for children to abandon their parents once they are grown. It’s a dark, slippery slope.”

Unfortunately, through her experience, she has discovered that there is little that can be done to salvage the child-parent relationship.

“Once a son becomes capable of completely breaking off his contact with his parents, it is a difficult decision to dial back,” Killinger said. “In our case, the break took three years, from March 2002 to March 2005, to take place completely. That’s a long time to get used to not having his parents around. In many cases, the son may simply stay in the thrall of his wife. On the other hand, even if he realizes he has made a bad choice to let go of his parents, he may be too embarrassed or humiliated to try to repair the relationship. He may feel that things have gone too far for him to ever be worthy of forgiveness, which is tragic.

There is no greater loss for a parent than that of losing a child. If a son should ever seek to turn back that clock, he should know that parents will always accept him back into their lives, no matter what. While 50 percent of all new marriages end in divorce, a son can never truly divorce his parents, because they will always take him back.”

About Anne Killinger

Anne Kathryn Killinger, author of "A Son is a Son Till He Gets a Wife" was born in Somerset, Kentucky, the youngest of seven children. At 17, she married her childhood sweetheart, John Killinger, who is a retired pastor with PhDs in literature and theology. Anne’s book is the story of her and John’s grief when one of their sons married a woman who demanded his abandonment of his original family to form a closer attachment to hers.

N. CA Boy Meets Miley Cyrus to Celebrate World Wish Day® with the Make-A-Wish Foundation® of Sacramento and NE CA

Posted: 4/28/2011

SACRAMENTO – A 16-year-old from Galt was granted his wish to meet singing and acting sensation Miley Cyrus in Los Angeles on Tuesday as part of the Make-A-Wish Foundation’s World Wish Day celebration.

Wish Kid Matthew and 13 other wish kids were greeted by Cyrus at the studio where she is preparing for her upcoming Gypsy Heart concert tour, which opens on World Wish Day, April 29, in Quito, Ecuador. Matthew’s wish experience included a chance to visit with Cyrus, plus being treated to an exclusive performance by the platinum-selling artist during a dress rehearsal for the tour.

The Sacramento and Northeastern California chapter will celebrate World Wish Day on April 29, 2011 by granting a Sacramento boy’s wish for a Toy’s R Us Shopping Spree in Elk Grove. Media is welcome to attend- Great wish kid visuals! See following Media Advisory.

World Wish Day is a global wish-granting celebration that commemorates the anniversary of the wish that inspired the creation of the Make-A-Wish Foundation, now the world’s largest wish granting organization. Seven-year-old Chris Greicius’ wish to be a police officer was granted in Phoenix by volunteers from several law-enforcement agencies on April 29, 1980.

The Make-A-Wish Foundation will celebrate World Wish Day by granting the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions in 41 countries where it operates.

“We granted Matthew’s wish to meet Miley Cyrus to celebrate World Wish Day and spread our unifying message of hope, strength and joy for children with life-threatening medical conditions,” said Joanie Johnston, Wish Director at the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California. “We encourage people to join in the celebration and help us reach every eligible wish child in our 24 county region.”

Miley Cyrus has granted the wishes of more than 120 children with life-threatening medical conditions in collaboration with the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

The Make-A-Wish Foundation grants a wish every 25 minutes somewhere in the world. In 2010, the Foundation granted nearly 21,000 wishes – more than 13,500 to children in the United States and more than 7,000 to children outside of the United States.

You can share the power of a wish® on World Wish Day – refer your child, make a donation, spread the word via Facebook (www.facebook.com/makeawish) and Twitter (@makeawish) or give your unused airline miles to help a wish family reach their wish destination. Learn how at wish.org.

Sunrise Festival Shopping Center in Citrus Heights presents the Finale Event to the “Caribbean Countdown”

Five finalists, selected at random from all entries, will be invited to attend a live “Final Showdown” at the Sunrise Festival Shopping Center where the Grand Prize winner will be selected
Posted: 4/28/2011

Citrus Heights, CA – Sunrise MarketPlace Business Improvement District (SMP) has teamed up with AAA Travel Citrus Heights and Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines to create the “Gotta Getaway” Travel Promotion for the Sacramento region. The final winner will be chosen on May 21 at the “Caribbean Countdown” Event held at the Sunrise Festival Shopping Center.

The contest began April 18 and continues through May 14. Contestants can enter at the new Sunrise Marketplace Facebook page, or by filling out an entry form at these participating locations:

· AAA Travel Citrus Heights at Marketplace at Birdcage Shopping Center · JC Penney at Sunrise Mall
· I B Tan at Sunrise Festival II Shopping Center
· Sunrise Mall Customer Service Desk
· Sunrise Marketplace office at Sunrise Mall

Director of Marketing for SMP, John Chermesino said, “The economy knocked us around the past couple of years. Many of us cut back on travel with “staycations.” Even those can be a challenge now with rising gas prices. We thought we could help fight the staycation trend by offering the chance to win a Caribbean cruise. We teamed up with AAA Travel Citrus Heights and J C Penney at Sunrise Mall to offer a value-packed prize package that would attract the attention of our Facebook friends and residents in and around our business area. I B Tan at Sunrise Festival II Shopping Center stepped up to offer tanning sessions for our four lucky runners-up so they can have that “just been on a cruise” glow.”

The Grand Prize has a value of over $3000 and includes a $2500 value five-day Caribbean cruise for two, plus a five-piece Claiborne designer luggage set worth over $500 value from JC Penney.

Contestants must be at least 21 to enter and residents of Sacramento, Placer, Yolo, Yuba, El Dorado and Sutter counties. One finalist will win the $3000 Grand Prize; four runners-up will receive a $125 gift certificate from I B Tan. Must be present to win.

Sunrise Marketplace is a collection of over 400 retail and service businesses in one of the region's most heavily travelled commercial corridors in the heart of Citrus Heights, CA. They come together as a single brand to highlight the breadth of goods and services offered in the area along Sunrise Blvd between Arcadia Drive (just north of Greenback Lane) and Madison Avenue, and along Greenback between Birdcage St. and Fair Oaks Blvd. Sunrise MarketPlace Business Improvement District was created in 1999 to advance the commercial vitality of the City of Citrus Heights and is funded by an assessment of businesses and property owners within the Business District.

Sacramento Pulls Together for March for Babies

March of Dimes Fights for Stronger, Healthier Babies
Posted: 4/28/2011

Who: Sacramento families, companies and volunteers dedicated to giving babies a healthy start

What: Thousands of people will be at the State Capitol in Sacramento to take part in the March for Babies on Saturday, April 30. In addition to the 6-mile walk, other festivities include kids’ activities, refreshments, music and more! The Sacramento March for Babies brings together families, companies and volunteers raising money so that our babies are born happy and healthy. Funds raised by March for Babies help support prenatal wellness programs, research grants, neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) family support programs and advocacy efforts for stronger, healthier babies right here in the Sacramento area.

March for Babies is the March of Dimes’ premier fundraising event that benefits Sacramento babies. March of Dimes is the champion for all babies, those born healthy and those who need help to survive and thrive. March for Babies is locally sponsored by Sutter Health and Health Net.

When: Saturday, April 30
Registration starts at 7:30 a.m.; walk starts at 9 a.m.

Where: State Capitol, Sacramento West Steps
10th Street (between L and N Streets)

Why: The March of Dimes is the leading nonprofit organization for pregnancy and baby health. With chapters nationwide and its premier event, March for Babies, the March of Dimes works to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality.

For the latest resources and information, visit marchofdimes.com or nacersano.org.

Historic Old Sacramento Foundation Offers "Above Ground" Walking Tours All Summer

Gold Rush Legacy Tours and Old Sacramento Architectural Tours Available on Weekends May Thru August
Posted: 4/28/2011

OLD SACRAMENTO, Calif. -- In addition to the popular Old Sacramento Underground tour program already underway for the season, the Historic Old Sacramento Foundation is adding to the fun with intriguing "above ground" walking tours as well. On weekends beginning in May and continuing through August, two informative walking tours will be offered that include the following: Sacramento City: California's Gold Rush Legacy Tour and From Canvas to Brick: Old Sacramento Architectural Tour.

For the Gold Rush Legacy Tours, docents in historically appropriate attire take guests on a journey back to the 1850s using original and reconstructed Gold Rush-era buildings as a compelling backdrop to describe what the town was like during that fascinating period in California's history.

For the Old Sacramento Architectural Tours, guests are guided through Old Sacramento to see how the architecture of the buildings silently but assuredly reflects the compelling history of how Sacramento was transformed from a water-logged tent city -- with floods, fires and the Gold Rush along the way -- to a firmly established city and the state's capital.

During the month of May, there is one above ground walking tour available each day starting at 11 a.m. On Saturday, the Sacramento City: California's Gold Rush Legacy Tour is offered and on Sunday the From Canvas to Brick: Old Sacramento Architectural Tour is offered. Then, beginning in June and continuing through August, two tours are available each day and are scheduled as follows: Sacramento City: California's Gold Rush Legacy Tour at 11 a.m. then the From Canvas to Brick: Old Sacramento Architectural Tour at 12:30 p.m.

All Old Sacramento walking tours last approximately one hour in length and guests are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to walk on uneven surfaces. Walking tours begin and end at the Sacramento History Museum located at 101 I Street in Old Sacramento. Above ground walking tours cost $7 for adults and $5 for youths, and can be purchased in advance at www.historicoldsac.org or in person the day of the walking tour (if space is available). The above ground and underground tour programs are coordinated by the Historic Old Sacramento Foundation (HOSF) and in partnership with the City of Sacramento, California State Parks, Old Sacramento Business Association and participating merchants and businesses.

Crystal Apple Awards Night Honors Area Teachers

From Jon Dresser
Posted: 4/19/2011

Citrus Heights – More than 200 people attended Crystal Apple Awards Night, Wednesday, April 13th, as five San Juan Unified School District teachers were honored by seminary students of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints as teachers of the year. Several talks by students, Church leaders and school board members stressed the significant role educators play in the development of our youth and the dedication and fine example the five winners represented.

Seminary students performed two songs dedicated to their award-winning teachers. Julie Dean and Houston Wilfley presented a crystal apple to Norm Ryan, a Casa Roble High history teacher and varsity football coach. Other teachers receiving awards were Michael Peoples of Mesa Verde, Walter Rodriguiz of Del Campo, Kristan Edington of Bella Vista and David Levis of New San Juan.

The event was sponsored by the Carmichael and Citrus Heights Stakes of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, planned by Naomi Harper and emceed by Derek Jackson.

California Moves to Force Unionization on Workers Via Intimidation & Coercive Tactics

Commentary by Katie Gage & John Kabateck
Posted: 4/19/2011

John Kabateck

In recent weeks, the California state Senate passed legislation on a party-line vote that would eliminate the secret ballot in union organizing elections for farm workers. The legislation, SB 104 by Senate President pro Tem Darrell Steinberg, would allow farm workers to form a collective bargaining union through a majority sign up – essentially instituting “card check” at the state level. And of course, Big Labor is ecstatic, trying to portray the vote in the state Senate as a victory for workers. But sometimes the truth just slips out and the real intentions are revealed. A key strategist for the farm workers union in California was quoted as saying, “this is about power.”

For Big Labor, they have been dealt defeat after defeat, as workers and small businesses have stood up to them to reject their agenda that forces workers into unions, regardless of whether they want to join one or not. As articulated by Big Labor’s supporters, this legislation is about the union bosses wanting more “power” over workers’ wages, benefits and workplace conditions. But more importantly, Big Labor wants more “power” in the form of union dues to spend on political candidates who support their radical agenda. What isn’t reported is the fact that if this legislation, awaiting action by the State Assembly, becomes law it will mean more union dues for union bosses to spend on behalf of candidates who support an agenda of forced unionization.

A vicious cycle exists between Big Labor and its political allies. Its political allies bail out Big Labor with legislation that fattens their pockets with more money. Then, Big Labor uses this money to provide them cover in the form of campaign contributions. And ultimately, Big Labor demands “payback” for their support in the form of anti-worker, anti-small business legislation.

More fascinating is the fact that similar legislation being promoted in California has been rejected by the U.S. Congress. Last year, a debate occurred between the small business community and Big Labor over the Federal card check legislation, which economists estimated would cost America 600,000 jobs in one year alone. Voters overwhelmingly rejected candidates at the polls who were bought and paid for by Big Labor – delivering an overwhelmingly rebuke to California Congressman George Miller – the chief architect of the Federal card check legislation. California is in the midst of a jobs crisis, so it isn’t clear why elected officials are supporting legislation that will undoubtedly cost California jobs they can’t afford to lose.

Let’s point out the facts surrounding the card check legislation in California. If signed into law, it will diminish worker freedom. At any time under this process, a worker could be approached by a union representative and asked to sign a card in support of unionization. The secret ballot is a time-honored tradition developed to help keep elections fair and free of intimidation. In fact, it was Governor Jerry Brown who signed the original Agricultural Labor Relations Act in 1975 and was a major supporter of the secret ballot election process, along with United Farm Workers founder Cesar Chavez.

SB 104 would open the floodgates to intimidation and coercion. Small businesses would be shackled with additional costs and interference by government bureaucrats, which will result in increased unemployment. The most likely outcome is that small businesses may have to shut their doors. That is why the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) has been such a strenuous opponent of this terrible public policy which strips “mom and pop” businesses and employees of their independence – there is no “free choice” about it.

Workers and small businesses in California need to continue to stand up to Big Labor and reject this job-killing, anti-worker, anti-small business legislation. A national debate has occurred over this bad policy and Big Labor lost. It is time that members of the California legislature receive that message as well. Katie Gage is the executive director of the Workforce Fairness Institute (WFI) & John Kabateck is the executive director of the NFIB/CA.

Seeking Residents for Planning Advisory Council

Commentary by Supervisor Roberta MacGlashan
Posted: 4/19/2011

Roberta MacGlashan

One of the most critical components of any County review of requests to develop property is input from the community. There is no better mechanism for this review than the Community Planning Advisory Council (CPAC) – especially in the community of Fair Oaks.

At the moment, there are vacancies on the Fair Oaks CPAC, and I would like to encourage those who are interested to apply and be interviewed to fill these vacancies.

The CPAC has proved an invaluable resource to me in my time as County Supervisor. The group has helped to review myriad applications and requests, and their input has helped the County make better planning decisions for the community.

As a member of the CPAC, you would be expected to attend one meeting a month. During these meetings, you will be presented with various requests from property owners seeking to develop their property or make changes to their existing homes or businesses that require County approval.

Your review comes very early in the process, and is usually the first opportunity for the public to comment on the preliminary proposal. At the end of each item, you and the rest of the CPAC members will vote on recommendations that will be forwarded to County staff and, depending on the nature of the request, all the way to the full Board of Supervisors.

The recommendations you make will not be limited to just approval or denial of the project. In fact, you will be able to suggest changes to the project that would better fit the community, request that the County review certain possible conflicts with nearby community assets that staff might not have recognized, and assist the project proponent in identifying additional community outreach strategies.

If you are interested in the CPAC, please feel free to contact my Chief of Staff, Ted Wolter, at (916)874-5491. He would be more than happy to discuss the application process and CPAC service with you.

Or, you can always attend my monthly Community Cabinet Meeting. I am in the community every third Wednesday of the month to meet with residents about issues of interest to them while also hosting a different speaker from the County. The meetings occur at Dianda’s Italian Bakery in the Old Fair Oaks Village at 7:30am. In April I will be hosting the Registrar of Voters who will be making a presentation on changes to the Board of Supervisors’ district boundaries. In May, I am excited to announce that we will be hearing from our new Sheriff, Scott Jones. I hope to see you there.

Everyone is Welcome to the Friends Church Annual Easter Egg Hunt!

From CindySue Jones
Posted: 4/19/2011

Citrus Heights - The Citrus Heights Friends Church is having their Annual Easter Egg Hunt and Family Fun Event. This year, the event is being held on Saturday, April 23rd from 10am – 12pm. Friends Church is located at 7070 Woodmore Oaks Drive on the corner of Fair Oaks Blvd.

There will be three age specific Easter Egg hunts: 0-4 year olds at 10:30 am, 5-7 year olds at 11:00 am, and 8-11 year olds at 11:30 am. Other free activities include pictures with the Easter Bunny, face painting and bounce houses.

For a nominal ticket prices, the entire family can enjoy the rock climbing wall, Giant slide and other amusements. Hot dogs, cotton candy, and liquid refreshments are available at the concession stand.

You are also invited to Worship at our Sunrise Easter Service starting at 6am on Easter Sunday, April 24th. There will also be a community wide pancake breakfast following at 7:00 am.

You may also choose to bring the whole family to our Easter Service at 9am. Check out our website: www.friendschurchonline.com or contact us at 726-3327 for more info.

Pershing School Holds Carnival

Posted: 4/19/2011

Orangevale - Pershing Elementary School in Orangevale is hosting its annual PTA Carnival on Saturday, April 30 from 11:00am to 2:00pm on school grounds at 9010 Pershing Avenue. This inexpensive family activity provides fun for all ages and includes a well-stocked Silent Auction.

Fuddruckers Restaurant will be on site cooking burgers. Other food options also available for purchase include hot dogs, cotton candy and dozens of cakes at the cakewalk. A wide variety of games, loads of prizes, a live DJ, clown, and members of the local fire department are all a part of the fun. Entrance is free and carnival game tickets are 4 for $1.00. Community members are welcome to enjoy this annual tradition benefiting our area students that is also easy on the pocketbook.

Silent Auction offerings include a 2 full-day canoe or kayak rental from California Canoe & Kayak; 2 one-hour massages from Massage Envy; a week of summer camp at BounceU; a family of 4 pass to the Sacramento Zoo; a birthday party package from Tricks Gymnastics and a host of incredibly stocked theme baskets with themes such as “Family Fun”, “Kids Cooking”, “Kids Gardening”, etc. The auction will be open at 11:00am and close promptly at 1:00pm with winners announced at 1:15pm.

Area Residents to be Honored as “Blue Thumb Ambassadors”

Posted: 4/19/2011

The Regional Water Authority (RWA) and local water providers kick off their 2011 Blue Thumb Pledge Drive by honoring 11 Sacramento-area residents and organizations as “Blue Thumb Ambassadors.” Honorees will be recognized for their dedication to landscape water efficiency this Sunday, April 10, at 12:45 p.m. at the Sacramento River Cats game.

Nearly 40 individuals and organizations were nominated by water providers and landscape advisors. Ultimately, 11 were selected because of their passion for using water wisely outdoors and their work as environmental educators, resources for their neighbors and stewards of our local water supplies.

“Sometimes it’s difficult to appreciate the need for water efficiency after such a wet winter,” said RWA’s Water Efficiency Program Manager Linda Higgins. “Our Blue Thumb Ambassadors understand that water is a limited resource that shouldn’t be wasted no matter the short-term weather and water supply conditions. They also know firsthand that that beautiful landscaping and water efficiency go hand-in-hand.”

With the Sacramento region’s hot, dry climate and long summer season, it’s estimated that more than 65 percent of a household’s yearly water consumption typically goes toward landscape irrigation. Of that, 30 percent is lost to overwatering or evaporation. RWA estimates that Sacramento-area residents could collectively save almost 100 gallons of water per person per day during the irrigation season (April through October) by using water wisely and eliminating water waste outdoors. That’s enough water to meet the drinking water needs of more than 135,000 families for a year.

Blue Thumb honorees range from landscape experts and contractors to a homeowners association and park district, and stretch from Rocklin to Sacramento to El Dorado. They include:

• Chuck Ingels of Sacramento, Interim Co-County Director for the UC Cooperative Extension, an expert in the field of landscape water efficiency and sustainable landscaping practices.

• Crosswoods Homeowners Association in Citrus Heights, represented by Property Manager Paul Schorno and Resident Bob Acrea. Crosswoods HOA removed 25,000 square feet (about the size of a football field) of thirsty lawn and replaced it with beautiful, water-efficient landscaping, a drip irrigation system and weather-based irrigation controller.

• The City of Sacramento Water Conservation Ambassadors, represented by Maureen Johnson, resident-volunteers that help neighbors learn to use water efficiently.

• Robert Makimoto of Roseville, owner of Tri-Asian Enterprise, a landscape maintenance and installation company in Roseville, whose advocacy for weather-based irrigation technologies has motivated his commercial clients to reduce their water use to the benefit of the bottom line.

• Judy McClure of Sacramento, Water Quality Outreach and Master Gardener Program Coordinator for the UC Cooperative Extension, an expert in the field of water-efficient landscaping and gardening.

• Rosemary Carey of El Dorado, President of the El Dorado Chapter of the California Native Plant Society whose endeavors have included meeting one-on-one with 37 homeowners to advise them about incorporating low water-use native plants into their landscapes as part of a grant from the Sierra Nevada Alliance.

• Joe Zaniker and Gregg Coffin of Sacramento, transformed their thirsty Land Park yard to a beautiful, water-efficient landscape that features original sculpture and other artistic elements.

• Paul MacGowan of Rocklin, a 30-year educator and Professor/Department Chair of the Horticulture Department at American River College.

• Sue Jennings of Sacramento, an “environmental crusader” who formed Sacramento Citizens for Sustainable Landscapes and maintains sacgardens.org.

• Robb Munn of Carmichael, owner of English Garden Care, a landscape design and maintenance company in Rancho Cordova, who specializes in sustainable landscaping, water-wise landscapes and environmental restoration.

• Mission Oaks Recreation and Park District in Carmichael, represented by Parks Director TJ Newman. Mission Oaks Recreation and Park District installed moisture-based irrigation controllers and other water-efficient irrigation measures.

The 2011 Blue Thumb Ambassadors will be honored Sunday, April 10 at 12:45 p.m. during a pre-game ceremony at the Sacramento River Cats game. Their stories will also be featured on the Blue Thumb Web site at BeWaterSmart.info.

Other event highlights include an on-the-field “Garden Hose Limbo” contest where three fans will compete for a wheelbarrow of water saving goodies and River Cats tickets, as well as the opportunity for visitors to take the Blue Thumb pledge and earn prizes at the game.

About the Regional Water Authority: RWA is a joint powers authority representing 21 water providers in the greater Sacramento area. Its primary mission is to help its members protect and enhance the reliability, availability, affordability and quality of water resources.

SPCA Golf Tournament

Hank Fisher Properties Presents the 2nd Annual Sacramento SPCA PAWS, PALS & PUTTS Golf Tournament
Posted: 4/19/2011

Sacramento Region – Join the Sacramento SPCA for its 2nd Annual Paws, Pals and Putts Golf Tournament on Monday, May 9 at Del Paso County Club. Proceeds from the tournament, which is presented by Hank Fisher Properties, will benefit the Sacramento SPCA’s Senior Services program providing services to ensure the continued relationship between Sacramento area seniors and their pets.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to spend a day golfing on one of the oldest and most renowned golf courses in Sacramento. The Club’s 18-hole park-style golf course challenges amateurs and professionals alike. The beautifully renovated golf course features five sets of tees offering a challenge to players of all levels.

Paws, Pals & Putts will feature an 18-hole golf scramble, lunch, awards dinner and live auction. The day will also feature an exciting Helicopter Ball Drop. Purchase a ball (or two) and be entered into the exciting Ball Drop drawing–with a guaranteed winner.

Paws, Pals & Putts tournament fees are $250 per player including lunch and dinner, or $50 per non-golfing guest for dinner and evening program.

For more information, to sponsor, to purchase tickets, or to enter the Helicopter Ball Drop: Visit www.sspca.org or call (916) 504-2802 today.

11 Local Companies Honored at United Way Kings Game Event

Posted: 4/19/2011

Sacramento – United Way California Capital Region honored 11 companies from across the region for their outstanding philanthropy to local nonprofits. The companies were honored at a private awards ceremony followed by a Sacramento Kings basketball game on March 29.

“The greater Sacramento region is filled with some of the most generous people I have ever known,” said Steve Heath, president and CEO, United Way California Capital Region. “It was an honor to express our gratitude to some of our community’s top companies for their generosity to people in need – and that giving spirit is found from the top executives down through all of their employees.”

Companies honored included Nordstrom, Intel Corporation, Allied/Nationwide, Proctor & Gamble, Dr. Pepper Snapple Group, Comcast, SMUD, AT&T, Costco Roseville, NAPA Auto Parts and Greenheck Fan Company.

United Way California Capital Region is the region’s leading provider of innovative solutions on the community’s most pressing issues, including high school graduation rates, household financial stability and obesity.

For more information, visit www.yourlocalunitedway.org.

May Fair Plans a Night of Blues Hits

Posted: 4/19/2011

The 136th annual Dixon May Fair will begin its concert series next month with a night of blues.

Officials announced earlier this week that Grammy award winning artist Jonny Lang and guest Robben Ford will entertain thousands on May 4, the opening day of the five-day fair.

Tickets go on sale today at the Dixon May Fair box office and online at www.ticketmaster.com. Reserved seats are $35 and $25, and general admission is $19. All prices include all-day admission to the May Fair.

“It’s going to be a great night of blues at the Dixon May Fair on our Grand Opening day,” said Jack Murphy, the CEO of the Dixon May Fair. “Lang travels all over the world. In the blues world, he is one of the best.”

Lang first started playing the guitar when he was 12 years old, after his father took him to see the Bad Medicine Blues Band, one of the few blues bands in Fargo, North Dakota. He began taking guitar lessons from a member of the band and a few months later, Lang joined the group, which was re-named Kid Jonny Lang & The Big Bang.

The band moved to Minneapolis, Minnesota and released the album “Smokin’” when Lang was 14. The young performer was signed to A&M Records in 1996, and he released the multi-platinum album “Lie to Me” in 1997. He followed with “Wander This World” in 1998, which earned him a Grammy nomination. His newest album, the gospelinfluenced “Turn Around” was released in 2006 and won Lang his first Grammy award.

In over a decade on the road, Lang has toured with the Rolling Stones, Buddy Guy, Aerosmith, B.B. King, Blues Traveler, Jeff Beck and Sting.

Robben Ford is one of the premier electric guitarists today. He is known not only for his blues playing, but also his ability to be comfortable in a variety of musical contexts. Ford is a five-time Grammy nominee, and has played with an array of talented artists, including Joni Mitchell, Jimmy Witherspoon, Miles Davis, George Harrison, Phil Lesh, Bonnie Raitt and Bob Dylan.

Lang and Ford join a May Fair concert line-up that Murphy described as one of the best the fair has ever had. Tickets are still available for all concerts, through www.ticketmaster.com or at the Dixon May Fair office.

John Kay and Steppenwolf will rock the May Fair arena with special guest Eric Burdon and the Animals on May 5. Both bands have classic rock hits that date back to the 60’s and 70’s. Reserved tickets are $35 and $25, and general admission tickets cost $19.

Trace Adkins will headline a night filled with country favorites May 6 that will open with country legend Merle Haggard. Adkins, long considered country music’s alpha male, has had over 20 of his songs on the Top 20 chart, while Haggard, one of the most famous country artists to emerge in the 1960’s, has 40 number one hits. Tickets are $45 reserved and $39 general admission.

Disney star and pop singer Selena Gomez and her band The Scene will headline a concert May 7 with guest Days Difference that is sure to have the crowd on its feet. Signed to Hollywood Records in 2009, Gomez released her debut album, "Kiss & Tell" with her band The Scene and it was certified Gold. "Naturally", the second single off "Kiss & Tell" was later certified Platinum. Tickets to this concert are $45 reserved and $39 general admission.

Murphy said there are also still plenty of tickets available for the Dixon May Fair’s Demolition Derby that will be on Mother’s Day May 8, the final day of the fair. Tickets are on sale for $22 and include all-day admission. Car registration is available at www.dixonmayfair.com

The May Fair office also has advanced discount carnival ride wristbands available for purchase. The wristbands, which will allow an individual to ride unlimited rides for the day, are on sale for $25. Most attractions at the May Fair cost three to five tickets per ride.

Advanced admission tickets are also available for $7. Once the fair opens, admission is $12 for adults, $7 for children under 12, and $8 for seniors and military. Advanced tickets will be available until 5 p.m. May 3.

Exhibit guidebooks for the fair are now available online at www.dixonmayfair.com and in the May Fair office at 655 South First St. Every exhibitor is required to complete an entry form. There are an array of showcases at the May Fair, including interior living, fine arts, photography, floriculture, today’s youth, industrial education and Ag mechanics. There were 6,000 competitive exhibits submitted last year from Solano County residents, and officials expect that number to grow this year since entries can now be done online. All entries close Friday at 7 p.m.

The May Fair is also accepting applications from people interested in being ticket sellers and cashiers during the five-day event. Applications can be turned in weekdays between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. The only requirement is that each employee must be at least 18 years old.

For more information on the 136th annual Dixon May Fair, please visit www.dixonmayfair.com

SACRAMENTO NATURAL FOODS CO-OP RANKS #1 IN CALIFORNIA FOR SUSTAINABLE SEAFOOD

Posted: 4/19/2011

SACRAMENTO, CA – Sacramento Natural Foods Co-op was recognized as one of the most sustainable seafood retailers in the USA, according to Greenpeace's updated seafood sustainability scorecard 'Carting Away the Oceans', which was released on this week.

The Sacramento Natural Foods Co-op is proud to be the top-ranked store in California for its commitment to sustainable seafood. The Co-op provides the best options to customers and offers them help making good choices for their own health and the health of our oceans. The Co-op’s support of policy initiatives such as the creation of marine reserves and establishing caps on bycatch has helped to bring sustainable seafood issues to national prominence.

Robert Duncan, Seafood Manager, Sacramento Natural Foods Co-op says the purpose of the Sacramento Natural Foods Co-op has always been “to be a trusted source of natural foods and products, and a reliable resource for consumer information as well as modeling sustainable environmental practices in our business.”

Seafood purchasing is one part of the Co-op’s commitment to sustainable practices. This involves partnering with FishWise, a non-profit organization focused on improving the sustainability of seafood retailers. The Co-op has partnered with FishWise since 2005, and through this collaboration has been able to implement a comprehensive sustainable seafood policy that includes training staff, providing customers with point-of-sale information, sourcing responsibly and supporting fishery and aquaculture reform.

The Co-op and FishWise work with the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch program and follow its recommendations and ranking system. Seafood Watch ranks seafood as Green “Best Choice”, Yellow “Good Alternative” or Red “Avoid”. Since the launch of its partnership with FishWise, the Co-op’s seafood department has stopped purchasing Red-ranked items completely.

The Sacramento Natural Foods Co-op scored 9.1 out of 10, compared to Whole Foods, which scored 6.2 and Trader Joes, which scored 4.5. To view all of the stores rated by Greenpeace, visit: http://www.greenpeace.org/usa/en/campaigns/oceans/seafood/supermarket

About FishWise

FishWise is a non-profit organization based in Santa Cruz, CA. Uniquely positioned between the seafood industry and marine conservation organizations, FishWise offers a range of services that create trust between seafood vendors and their customers, enabling businesses to sell more sustainable seafood. For more information please visit www.fishwise.org

Coast Guard Responds to Grounded Houseboat in San Joaquin River

Posted: 4/19/2011

SAN FRANCISCO – Coast Guard and the Sacramento County Sheriff's Department crews are on scene near a houseboat that ran aground this morning at the 47 and 49 marker buoys in the San Joaquin River.

There is no pollution threat and no injuries were reported.

The houseboat was being towed from Sacramento to Helen’s Marina when it ran aground early Sunday morning near Webb’s Tract. At the time it did not pose a navigation hazard, and the owner stated that he would hire a commercial towing company to move the tug and the houseboat.

At approximately 9:40 a.m., the houseboat refloated and started to drift down the river. It ran aground again near the 47 and 49 marker buoys. The houseboat is not in the channel; however, the Coast Guard is broadcasting a notice to mariners about the potential hazard to navigation.

The Coast Guard arrived on scene at approximately 10:40 a.m. with a 25-foot response boat.

The Coast Guard is conducting an investigation into the cause of the events.

Saving California is Worth the Journey

Commentary by Assemblyman Dan Logue
Posted: 4/12/2011

You may have read in recent news that I am leading a bipartisan delegation of California Legislators to Texas in just a few days. I am doing it because our state is in economic crisis and it is time to pull our heads out of the sand. California is a beautiful state. My father was a developer who helped build it. I grew up here and made a life as a realtor. I helped families find homes here for thirty years. It’s a state I love and would give my life for.

But now the dream of California is falling apart. We have some of the highest unemployment in the nation. We also have the highest taxes. We’re ranked 49th on sales tax, 50th on capital gains, 50th on gasoline and school parcel taxes, and 50th on overall taxes. We even beat New York on how much we take from taxpayers.

When you couple our taxes with the strictest regulatory climate in the nation, it’s a lose/lose situation for businesses, especially with today’s economy. Businesses are leaving California in droves now. Joe Vranich, the Business Relocation Coach, has seen four times more businesses looking to leave California this year than last, and many of them are going to Texas.

Texas was ranked by Chief Executive Magazine as the best state in the nation for business and job growth. California ranked worst. Forbes Magazine ranked Texas the 7th best state to do business while ranking California 39th. Texas ranked No. 3 in the Small Business & Entrepreneurship Council’s 2010 “Small Business Survival Index.” California ranked as the 4th toughest state. You get the picture.M

Rankings aren’t the only numbers to be concerned with. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Texas added 165,386 jobs between January 2008 and December 2010. California lost 1,145,037 jobs in that same time frame. Those are jobs that provide incomes to real people. They also provide tax revenues to our state. Without jobs in the private sector there is no one to pay for jobs in the government; it takes roughly 20 private sector jobs to fund one government job. So as private jobs decline here, so too will jobs for teachers and public safety workers.

I can’t sit idly and watch this happen. Our children, and grandchildren, deserve the same opportunities we’ve enjoyed for so many years. So I’ve invited California Legislators, our Lt. Governor, even representatives from the California Teachers Association, to join me on an educational journey to Texas. We’re going to meet with both public officials, and actual business leaders who left our state for theirs.

I know Texas isn’t perfect. I don’t expect us to manage our state exactly like theirs. But right now they are attracting businesses and jobs while ours are slipping away. In this one area they’re doing something right, and California has it terribly wrong. The nation is watching us and they want to know if California can save its economy, or remain a dead weight holding back the rest of the country. For our sake, I hope that those watching will open their hearts and minds, and help us turn our state around.