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Carmichael Water District votes on Alternate Water Plan

By A.Weaver
Posted: 1/26/2012

In the end, after all was said and done, the final decision on whether to raise Carmichael’s water rates by 18 percent came down to a choice of three alternative plans that the Carmichael Water District Board members voted on, during its monthly meeting on January 23, 2012.

And the results were anti-climactic.

In the CWD meeting packet made available at the meeting, three alternative plans to challenge the proposed18 percent rate increase for Carmichael residents were included.

Taking into account the public’s concerns/thoughts/comments/ideas from the previous month’s meeting regarding the proposed increase, they came up with the following three alternative plans:

Alternative #1

- Adopt the Prop 218 rate increase as listed above effective 1/1/12.
- Then freeze the rates for a period of 3 years.
- In 2013, form a Citizen Committee to work with 2 Board members, staff and a consultant to update the District Master Plan, Financial Plan, and Rate Structure.
- Once reserves are recovered to the reserve goals recovery level, any funds collected over approved budget would be credited back to the customer's accounts.
- Continue to look for ways to reduce the budget.
- Continue to market water for sales and transfers with water agencies both inside and outside our region.

Summary of Projected Cash Position with Alternative #1:

Cash Flow at November 1, 2012 (after COP Debt Service Payment) = $921,708

Pro-forma at June 30, 2014 = 76% of reserves funded on Reserve Policy and ISA reserve account used to pay final ISA monthly payments.

Alternative #2

- Adopt the Alternative #2 rates as defined in Alternative 2 tables above.
- In 2013, form a Citizen Committee to work with 2 Board members, staff and a consultant to update the District Master Plan, Financial Plan, and Rate Structure.
- Once reserves are recovered to the reserve goals recovery level, any funds collected over approved budget would be credited back to the customer's accounts.
- Continue to look for ways to reduce the budget.
- Continue to market water for sales and transfers with water agencies both inside and outside our region.

Summary of Projected Cash Position with Alternative #2:

Cash Flow at November 1, 2012 (after COP Debt Service Payment) = $51,433

Pro-forma at June 30, 2014 = 26% of reserves funded on Reserve Policy and ISA reserve account used to pay final ISA monthly payments.

Alternative #3

- The surcharge would sunset no later than June 30, 2014.
- Revenue from the surcharge can only be used for Revenue Recovery and Debit Service.
- In 2013, form a Citizen Committee to work with 2 Board members, staff and a consultant to update the District Master Plan, Financial Plan, and Rate Structure.
- Once reserves are recovered to the reserve goals recovery level, any funds collected over approved budget would be credited back to the customer's accounts.
- Continue to look for ways to reduce the budget.
- Continue to market water for sales and transfers with water agencies both inside and outside our region.

Summary of Projected Cash Position with Alternative #3:

Cash Flow at November 1, 2012 (after COP Debt Service Payment) = $134,065

Pro-forma at June 30, 2014 = 28% of reserves funded on Reserve Policy and ISA reserve account used to pay final ISA monthly payments.

During the meeting, CWD board member Roy Leidy stood up and, explained the history of the Water District and how it operates different programs and utilizes its funds. He broke down the reasons for the two million dollar loan, step-by-step, and examined all the reasons why they need to raise rates.

After his presentation, the floor was opened to public comment.

This meeting was far less contentious than the previous month’s CWD meeting, and there were a number of empty seats, as opposed to the December 12th meeting in which there was standing room only.

However, some Carmichael residents were still angry and vented their frustrations to the Board. Several audience members who spoke up said they felt they couldn’t trust the Board, or the figures the Board was presenting to them.

One speaker wanted to know why they didn’t get this information (the three alternative plans) sooner. Some speakers and audience members thought they would be discussing the three alternative options with the Board at this meeting, but that did not happen.

Leidy stated several times that they needed to fix the problem now, and not keep kicking the can down the street.

Speaker Jim Baker came up with ideas that he said could save the district $300,000; such as extending financing; and restructuring the debt left on the two million dollar loan.

Board member Paul Selsky commented that he liked some of these ideas.

However, after a brief discussion, the Board took a vote and chose 4-1 in favor of Alternative Plan One. Plan Three, which was backed by Board member Mark R. Emmerson was voted down, 3-2.

As quickly as it came up, it was voted on by the Board. It was a very anti-climatic end to a problem that many people had been very outspoken about.

Sources: CWD meeting packet; CWD website; interviews

BBB’s Top 10 Scams of 2011

Posted: 1/26/2012

This year’s top sweepstakes scam was an email claiming to be from Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg.

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).

SMUD, Library Offer Power Use Monitors

Posted: 1/26/2012

Sacramento Region – If you have a Sacramento Public Library card, you can check out a “Kill A WattTM EZ” power monitor just like you would a book and learn which appliances in your home are using the most power and costing you the most money to operate. SMUD has donated 56 Kill A WattTMEZ monitors, two for each of the Sacramento Public Library’s 28 branches, in an effort to educate customers about energy efficiency and about SMUD programs designed to help them save money.

The monitor is simple to use. Just plug the device into an electrical outlet, and then plug the appliance into the device. Enter the cost per kilowatt-hour, and the device displays the kilowatt-hour usage and the cost of electricity to run the appliance. Customers can monitor the energy cost of any 110- or 120-volt appliance such as refrigerators, freezers, televisions and computers.

The monitor helps customers understand how individual appliances can impact their energy bills and determine if those appliances should be unplugged or plugged into a power strip that can be easily turned on when the appliance is needed. The monitor even calculates cost and forecasts costs by the week, month or year.

SMUD and the Sacramento Public Library see the program as a tremendous way to engage their customers on a grand level. “This service is one more way Sacramento Public Library can fulfill its mission to provide valuable information to the public – information that can impact their lives for the better," said Library Director Rivkah Sass. “The library is thrilled to partner with SMUD to help Sacramento residents lower their energy use,” she added.” he Sacramento Public Library system serves residents throughout Sacramento County — the same territory as SMUD — and more than 600,000 county residents have library cards.

For more information about saving money on your electric bill, visit smud.orgor call 1-888-742-SMUD. For information on borrowing a monitor, visit saclibrary.org or call 916-264-2920.

A Serendipitous Connection

By Susan Maxwell Skinner
Posted: 1/19/2012

Artist David Post presented a painting by his famous father, Alan Post, to Effie Yeaw Nature Center staffer Betty Cooper. The landscape was recently auctioned to support the non-profit. It realized $2,750. Photo by Susan Maxwell Skinner.

Carmichael – On a 1938 Sierra Foothill trek with his brother, emerging artist Alan Post was taken with a roadside view. He painted the winter vignette in watercolor.

Post later settled in Sacramento, hanging the picture in his Arcade home. Through a long career, Post earned fame as a legislative analyst and, after office hours, one of California’s most acclaimed painters. He died in March last year. Though Mediterranean-warm Alan Post canvases are still avidly sought, his early watercolor remains a rare example of cooler and leaner times.

Post’s son David – himself a noted artist – donated “Foothill Roadside” to a fundraiser that benefitted the Effie Yeaw Nature Center in Carmichael. A serendipitous connection with the non-profit was noted by Post the Younger. Now 66, David recalls childhood visits with his dad to a house near Ancil Hoffman Park. “A woman with glasses and a severe hair style showed me all sorts of animals,” he explained, describing Effie Yeaw to a tee.

Post’s 73-year-old painting sold to Al and Christie Jahns, environmental benefactors who live in Carmichael, yards from Effie Yeaw’s old home. “I’m not a sophisticated collector,” said Al Jahns. “The prospect of having a piece by an iconic figure like Alan Post drew me as much as the painting itself.” The work will hang in his American River Drive law office.

Mosquito Spraying Issue May Come Back to Bite

By Leslie Carrara
Posted: 1/19/2012

Sacramento Region – The Sacramento Yolo Mosquito Vector Control District will not be allowed to fully spray the region due to a court ruling in 2009. The 6th District Court of Appeals ruled that spraying will not be allowed over waterways for pollution purposes.

“There is going to be a challenge,” David Brown said. The district manager of the vector control district said there will be “reduced” spraying.

After the ruling the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System issued a permit saying that in these two counties, spraying will not be allowed in certain areas.

Luz Maria Rodriguez, public information officer with the SYMVCD said that the ruling will have “a very serious impact on us doing work.” She added that the district will not be able to provide the same level of control, but some control will be possible. She said that they will not be able to treat waterways, including rivers and area creeks and streams.

Citrus Heights City Councilwoman Dr. Jayna Karpinski-Costa, who is Citrus Heights’ city representative to the district, said that area residents will need to be on the “offensive” against West Nile Virus carrying mosquitoes by means of dressing appropriately, draining standing water and wearing the chemical deet on exposed body parts.

“These mosquitoes are going to be here and people need to band together,” she said. “They are going to have to take care of themselves.”

The potentially contaminated mosquito population thrives in the spring and summer. The mosquitoes that have surfaced this winter do not carry the virus.

Rock-abilia Reigns

By Susan Maxwell Skinner
Posted: 1/19/2012

Track Shack founder, Carmichaelite Chuck Hansen (right) and partner Jeff Tamelier pause beneath the 1960s sign from Tower Records. Symbol of a defunct global empire, the neon icon now decorates Hansen and Tamelier’s recording studio. Photo by Susan Maxwell Skinner.

SACRAMENTO REGION – Given that the genre now predates many grandparents, rock ‘n roll comes honestly by antiques. Not just Paul McCartney. But local recording entrepreneurs Jeff Tamelier and Chuck Hansen certainly include Beatle-abilia among hundreds of vintage treasures at their Markston Rd (Arden) studio. “We have a framed contract for the Beatles’ 1965 concert at Shea Stadium, New York,” boasts Tamelier. “What struck me is how little the group asked for. They were the biggest act in the world; they had 55,000 fans at Shea (then a crowd record) and they were paid $100,000. Their backstage requirements were basically two packs of Pepsi and some towels. These days, bands can have over 15 pages of requests: special furniture; nannies, masseuses; French chefs – crazy food demands – you name it.”

Tamelier speaks as an expert. A career guitarist, he toured the world 10 times with Starship (formerly Jefferson Airplane) and played 10 years with Tower of Power. His nostalgia collection includes backstage passes from the Hollywood Bowl to the North Pole. “Tower of Power was billed to play with Ike Turner at Rovaniemi (Arctic Circle),” Tamelier recalls. “He didn’t make it. We played anyway.” A favorite souvenir recalls T of P concerts with James Brown, B.B. King and Ray Charles. “I had James Brown sign my 40-year-old ‘Live at the Garden’ LP,” recalls the sideman. “I’d loved soul music for so long and he was huge voice. For me, his autograph was like having a Beatle’s signature.”

Tamelier runs the Track Shack studio with his Carmichaelite partner, sax and software guru Chuck Hansen. The musicians met at Charles De Galle Airport when Tamelier was on a T of P tour. “Eventually, Chuck made me an offer to help run this studio, and I took it,” he says. “We keep a low profile, but we get some pretty big names recording here.” Rockers Eddie Money and Todd Rundgren are among clients. “I’m on a long vacation now from touring,” says the studio boss. “I’ve drifted around the world for 25 years. It’s been a great run. But my kids are at junior high. It’s time to be around for them – at least until they reach college.

“Making records in a studio is great. But I miss playing live more than you’d believe.”

Promises Tamelier: “I’ll be back, touring again, when I’m in my 60s. I won’t be too old, no way. Most big names from my era are grandpas; still hitting the road and rocking. The fans love them even more for it.”

Learn about Tamelier and Hansen’s studio at www.thetrackshack.com.

State’s Motorists Face a New Year with New Laws

Posted: 1/19/2012

SACRAMENTO REGION – As we begin a new year, California motorists should be aware of some of the new laws going into effect this past January 1, 2012. These new traffic laws were passed by the Legislature and signed by the Governor earlier in 2011, and the California Highway Patrol (CHP) is asking the motoring public to familiarize themselves with the changes before they take effect.

“Our hope is by educating the public of these new traffic safety laws in advance, more lives will be saved in the new year,” said CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow.

The following are highlights of a few of the significant changes for the upcoming year:

- A change to California’s Child Passenger Safety Seat law will now require children to ride in either a car seat or booster seat until the age of eight, or until they reach a height of 4 feet 9 inches. This law also requires children who do not meet the age or height requirement to ride in the rear seat of a vehicle unless the vehicle has no back seats, the restraint system cannot be properly installed or the rear seats are already occupied by children under age eight. However, the law still maintains that a child may not ride in the front seat of a vehicle with an active passenger airbag if they are under one year of age, less than 20 pounds, or riding in a rear-facing child safety seat. (SB 929, Evans)

- Drivers are required to stop and submit to a sobriety checkpoint. However, peace officers will be prohibited from impounding a vehicle for 30 days out of a sobriety checkpoint if the only offense by the driver is failing to hold a valid driver license. The new law requires that the officer make a reasonable attempt to identify the registered owner in order to release the ehicle. (AB 353, Cedillo)

- Anyone who is convicted of reckless driving under Section 23103.5 of the Vehicle Code can apply for a restricted driver license prior to the completion of their one-year suspension, provided they meet specified conditions, including the installation of an Ignition Interlock Device in their vehicle. (AB 520, Ammiano)

- Vehicles will be prohibited from crossing double parallel solid white lines except where permitted. (AB 1105, Gordon)

- Electric Vehicles (EV) must now be plugged in for refueling when occupying an EVdesignated parking space, otherwise they may be towed. In addition, the law prohibits a person from obstructing, blocking, or otherwise barring access to an EV-designated parking space. (AB 475, Butler)

- Local governments can now regulate advertising signs on any motor vehicle parked or left standing upon a public street, except for signs painted directly upon or permanently affixed to the vehicle for permanent decoration, identification, or display that do not extend beyond the overall length, width, or height of the vehicle. (AB 1298, Blumenfield)

- A law dealing with repeat driving under the influence (DUI) offenders that was passed in 2010 also goes into effect on January 1:

- Section 23579 was added to the Vehicle Code, which authorizes courts to revoke a driver’s license for 10 years if a person is convicted of three or more DUIs. Under this law enacted in 2010, a motorist may be allowed to apply for reinstatement of his or her driver’s license with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) after five years, if the person installs an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) in their vehicle. The law allows the DMV to terminate this restricted license if the IID requirements are not met. (AB 1601,Hill)

The points above are only a synopsis of the new laws listed here and only a partial list of California’s new laws adopted for 2012. For complete information on chaptered bills enacted in 2011, please refer to the Legislative Counsel website at www.LegInfo.ca.gov.

Fair Oaks Painter of Cities and History Passes Away

By Susan Maxwell Skinner
Posted: 1/12/2012

Weeks before his death, master watercolorist Potter honed a study of Sacramento’s Tower Bridge in his Fair Oaks studio. Photo by Susan Maxwell Skinner

CARMICHAEL – One of California’s great water colorists, Ken Potter died in Carmichael last week. He was 85. Famed for his Northern Californian cityscapes, he pursued his artistic passion all over the world.

Already a talented painter, he graduated from McClatchy High. As a US Marine, the teenager was soon sketching his way around the Pacific Theater of WW 2. His style was later honed in San Francisco, Paris, Italy and Rio de Janeiro. Potter’s final years were spent in Fair Oaks, where a hectically cluttered studio overflowed into every other room of his house. Omnipresent were his masterful watercolors: framed views of San Francisco; Sacramento rivrboats; the architectural jumble of Old Sacramento. Here and there, giant oils recalled abstract and cubist years in Paris.

Incongruous with his bold colors were black and white photographs of a young man in uniform. These documented the artist’s Marine service. A painting of a storm-tossed USS San Diego recalls Potter’s historic witness to the peace of 1945.

At 18, days after the official Japanese surrender, Private First Class Potter sailed on the first Allied warship to enter Tokyo Bay. Dubbed “the unbeatable ship that no one heard of,” the San Diego had fought 34 battles; earned 18 Battle Stars and cruised over 300,000 miles without refitting. She never lost a man or took a serious hit.

After atomic bombs ended the war, Admiral “Bull” Halsey hand-picked the cruiser as flagship in a fleet charged to deliver terms of peace to the Japanese. One of seven Marines on board, Ken Potter was orderly to Rear Admiral Badger. Accompanied by minesweepers and destroyers, his vessel anchored beside the surrendered Yokosuka Naval Shipyard. The San Diego then piped on board a bevy of brass: admirals, generals, civilians, Japanese officials and press. From the bridge, the historic scenario was broadcast live all over the world. Admiral Halsey famously demanded a haircut on board and tipped the ship’s barber with a cigar.

Sixty-six years later, the veteran Marine recalled his tense passage into fortified Tokyo Bay. “We were all excited but we didn’t know what would happen,” he said. “We were at battle stations and half expected to be blown out of the water by a mine or attacked if the enemy had changed his mind. We were busy young men but – after all that had taken place — we knew how important what we were doing was. When the Japanese came on board, we frisked them. That was just standard procedure but we had to keep in mind their feelings – they’d just been doing what we did – serving their own country.

“When we had time to go ashore, we visited some beautiful residential areas. We were invited into many homes and the aristocratic Japanese thanked us, for ridding them of a military monster that destroyed their country.” Potter felt himself a man at 18. “We’d taken some hits and been attacked by several kamikazes,” he said. “Some got so close; I still remember the pilots’ faces as they were blown to bits…”

Two weeks after the San Diego’s famous mission, The Peace was officially signed on board the USS Missouri. Potter’s “unbeatable” ship was by then steaming back to California. De-mobbed, the Marine studied at San Francisco’s Academy of Art under the G.I. Bill. “I never had another ambition in my life than to be an artist,” he said. Barely 20, he was “discovered” at an art festival and began a professional career that flourished over six decades and in at least six international cities. The Picasso-like figure lived and loved passionately, marrying three times and leaving three daughters and four grandchildren.

Ken Potter’s work reflects the modern “California style” – painting large with bold colors, bold strokes and bold optimism. “You must find your direction and go for it,” said the painter. “You have to follow your passion and do what you love.”

Sacramento Metro Fire Has Had a Busy Start to the New Year

Scott Cockrum, Assistant Chief, Sacramento Metropolitan Fire
Posted: 1/12/2012

SACRAMENTO REGION – The first eight days of 2012 has been busy for firefighters of the Sacramento Metro Fire District. The first two days of the year firefighters responded to fourteen suspicious fires in dumpster’s through-out the Carmichael, North Highlands and Foothill Farms area. So far no arrests have been made.

On January 4th, firefighters responded to an Apartment fire in Rancho Cordova where on arrival fire crews were faced with a well involved second story apartment unit with fire extending to an adjacent apartment where three children and two adults were attempting to escape the flames from a second story balcony. Fortunately with the quick thinking of citizens and the fast response of the fire department, all five were able to escape; only one suffered a minor injury. The cause of this fire was determined to be an unattended candle.

On January 6th firefighters responded to the report of a house fire in the 100 block of Tyron Ct. While responding to the fire, firefighters were made aware one person may have been in the home. Firefighters arrived and found a large home with significant fire showing from the front of the house. Fire Crews entered the home from the front entrance, and also used Vent Enter Search (VES) techniques, which is an operation where firefighters enter rooms in a structure through windows in an effort to locate victims in uninvolved rooms quickly without the support of hose lines. Firefighters did locate an eighty-one year old female in the home, in a bedroom. She was removed and transported to the hospital where she later died of her injuries. Fire Investigators could not eliminate an electrical problem in the living-room of the home.

On January 6th, firefighters responded to an apartment fire at 5738 Windmill Way in Carmichael. Firefighters quickly extinguished a fire in a single unit, preventing the fire from extending to additional units. This fire is deemed accidental. On January 7th, firefighters responded to the Rio Linda Area for a trailer fire. Crews arrived and found a travel trailer fully involved with fire. Reports from the owner was that this was an Arson Fire. Investigators responded to the scene and questioned several people. This fire continues to be under investigation.

On January 7th, firefighters responded to 2113 Landon Lane in the Arden area. Prior to arrival firefighters were alerted that there may be someone in this home. The first arriving fire department unit was in the area and arrived quickly. Firefighters found significant fire showing from the front of the home. Crews initiated search of the home, again using Vent, Enter, Search (VES) techniques. Firefighters located a man in his 60’s in the home. They pronounced him dead on scene. Fire Investigator’s could not rule out improper disposal of cigarettes as the cause.

On January 7th fire fighters responded to 5243 Columbine Way in Citrus Heights for the report of a roof fire. This fire was occurring at the same time as the Landon Lane Fire. Firefighters arrived and found a roof fire with fire extending into the attic. Firefighters were able to quickly extinguish the fire and cover much of the contents of the home with salvage covers to prevent further property damage. The cause of this fire was determined to be related to a fireplace chimney.

Later that night on January 7th, firefighters returning from a separate emergency response, spotted smoke from the roof of a Jiffy Lube store at Fair Oaks and Sunrise. The first arriving crews found a developing fire under the awning, extending to the roof. Firefighters were able to access the fire quickly with estimates of $30,000 in fire damage. The quick actions of firefighters resulted in saving the building from being completely destroyed. Firefighters estimate saving over $500,000 in fire damage and countless dollars in economic loss to Sacramento. Fire Investigators could not rule out electrical issues under the awning as the cause.

Sacramento Metro Fire would like to remind all of our citizens to look for fire safety tips on our website sacmetrofire.ca.gov, signup for our quarterly newsletter where you will receive fire safety tips, emergency response information, and messages from our Fire Chief. Also follow us on Twitter at sacmetrofirepio where you will see up to date emergency information.

First Snow Survey Shows Dry Conditions

Posted: 1/12/2012

SACRAMENTO – Snow surveyors reported that California’s mountain snowpack is among the driest for the date on record. Manual and electronic readings today record the snowpack’s statewide water content at 19 percent of the January 3 average. That is only 7 percent of the average April 1measurement, when the snowpack is normally at its peak before the spring melt. Despite today’s dry conditions, however, water managers remain cautiously optimistic about this year’s water supply. “Fortunately, we have most of winter ahead of us, and our reservoir storage is good,” said DWR Director Mark Cowin.

Electronic readings indicate that water content in the northern mountains is 21 percent of normal for the date and 8 percent of the April 1 seasonal average. Electronic readings for the central Sierra show 13 percent of normal for the date and 5 percent of the April 1 average. The numbers for the southern Sierra are 26 percent of average for the date and 9 percent of the April 1 average. Statewide, the snowpack water content is 19 percent of normal for today’s date and 7 percent of April 1.

DWR and cooperating agencies conduct manual snow surveys around the first of the month from January to May. The manual surveys supplement and check the accuracy of real-time electronic readings from sensors up and down the state.

DWR’s initial estimate is that the State Water Project (SWP) will be able to deliver 60 percent of the slightly more than 4 million acre-feet of water requested by the 29 public agencies that supply more than 25 million Californians and nearly a million acres of irrigated farmland. The 60 percent delivery estimate is largely based on the known quantify of carryover reservoir storage.

Sacramento County Grand Jury Seeks Applicants

Posted: 1/12/2012

SACRAMENTO COUNTY–The Sacramento County Grand Jury is currently accepting applications for jurors for the 2012-2013 session. Applications are due no later than February 6, 2012. The upcoming term will run from July 1, 2012 to June 30, 2013.

The Grand Jury is comprised of a diverse panel of 19 citizen volunteers who provide oversight of governmental activities within Sacramento County. During the session, the jury may respond to community complaints and examine county and city governments, schools, and special districts. Objectives of investigations include saving taxpayer dollars, eliminating waste and fraud, and verification of compliance with the law.

For applications or to learn more about the Sacramento County Grand Jury go to www.sacgrandjury.org. For additional information, contact Rebecca Castaneda, Grand Jury Coordinator at (916) 874-7559.

Honorary Mayor Has Big Plans

By Susan Maxwell Skinner
Posted: 1/4/2012

Esteban Nava (left) is Carmichael’s Honorary Mayor for 2012. The election victor assembles wife Teresa and sons Jordan, Jerry and Gabriel at Carmichael’s Great Wall. Photo by Susan Maxwell Skinner

Carmichael – Esteban Nava was born in Mexico, raised in Chico and lately elected in Carmichael.

Along this 48 year road, he has served in the US Marines, built a 23-year career with SMUD and raised a family. His recent victory as Carmichael’s 2012 Honorary Mayor followed a campaign in which he, his family and supporters raised $3700 to benefit the Carmichael Chamber of Commerce.

A SMUD compliance specialist, he has been a member of the Chamber for seven years. Observing previous mayors and noting – with the year 2012 on the horizon – that 12 was his favorite number, he set his sights on the honorary Chamber position. “I wanted to involve the community and take leadership in some issues that have not been addressed in Carmichael,” he said. “Crime is worsening because we lack a strong community watch system and policing is insufficient. In the military we were taught to recognize and prioritize; to correct problems before they got worse.” He proposes establishing a community reporting mechanism, so neighborhoods can be alerted to patterns of crime in order to guard against it.

A father of three sons is all too aware of the need to keep them occupied. “Youth doesn’t have much to do in Carmichael,” he observes. “They need more positive avenues to express themselves.” Having based much of his election campaign in the Carmichael Farmers’ Market, Nava regards organizations such as BeMoneySmartUSA (a non-profit that runs the market while teaching entrepreneurial skills to teens) as a win/win for the community. “Showing kids how to budget and be accountable is huge,” he considers. “They don’t teach that at school. Being at the market every Sunday enlightened me; I heard about kids’ ambitions and challenges. As a community, we need to find ways to assist their success. I’ll support BeMoneySmartUSA and help them find more sponsors for their youth training programs.”

Blessed with Nava’s dark eyes and abundant hair, three handsome sons were a huge asset to the campaign. “They often donated their pocket money,” says papa. “They attended all my events and helped run my fundraiser raffles. My second twin, Jerry (14) is interested in politics as a career. He inspected all the flyers and E mails before they went out. He kept count of the money. My wife Teresa hosted a ladies jewelry party to raise money. There’s a lot of pride in Hispanic families. Since August, everything has been about my campaign for us all. The process taught my boys how to be organized and committed. But it’s also been fun. We went to the Carmichael Soccer Club and I was introduced as “Mr Mayor.” Everyone clapped. I had to explain that I was just honorary – that it wasn’t a real position. But I believe this can still be a position of influence.

“Who knows where Carmichael will be in ten years’ time? Nava ponders aloud. “If we become our own city, guess who’ll be running it?”

“Mi papa!” chorus three dark-haired sons.

Memorial Plaques Stolen from Patriots Park

Posted: 1/4/2012

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

Carmichael Water District Ratepayers Reject Proposed Increase

By A.Weaver
Posted: 1/4/2012

CARMICHAEL - It’s back to the drawing board for the Carmichael Water District board members as Carmichael property owners and ratepayers showed they were in no mood for explanations from the CWD board, roundly rejecting an 18 percent increase proposal for their yearly water bills. The usual increase is normally a three to four percent increase per year.

Proposition 218 notices were sent out to district homeowners in October, proposing an 18 percent water rate increase to cover the shortfall of revenue and generate $1.5 million for the district, beginning in January 2012. The CWD serves over 40,000 customers The monthly CWD, meeting, held on December 12, 2011 was at full capacity with a crowd of people (over 85) showing up to protest an 18% increase in their water rates.

General manager Steve Nugent opened the meeting with a 15 minute slide presentation to explain to the citizens how the CWD has cut costs, and reduced expenses. The board noted that they even had to streamline internally and cut some staff positions.

They sought the increase, they say, because water consumption has gone down 25 percent, due to ratepayers using less; more homes foreclosing; milder winters; meter installations and already existing rising costs that have caused revenues to decrease.

After opening up the meeting to public comment, numerous speakers voiced their displeasure at the idea of an 18 percent increase in their water rates, especially many residents who are on fixed incomes.

The crowd’s mood, at times, was contentious. Over 20 people spoke to the board, relaying their concerns about how an increase of that size would unfairly affect people.

Conversations turned tense and serious for the next two hours, as different Carmichael property owners took turns protesting the increase, and asking why they weren’t told about a $2 million loan the district borrowed. Now they feel the board is passing on that 18% to its ratepayers to pay for the cost of servicing a loan that the public was unaware of.

Other rate payers, who spoke out, said the following:

One woman said, “I’m on SSI and I live in an apartment. We’ve cut our usage and our grass is dying. This (increase) is a slap in the face; it’s outrageous; this is devastating to us. Do we have to give up food and medication in order to pay our water bills?”

Another man said, “I think the board has become too comfortable and forgot why they’re here. They are supposed to serve the public’s best interest, not their own.”

One irate man yelled and consistently interrupted the board, in protesting the rate increase.

Rate-payer Harry Sidhu came to the meeting to protest the rate hike. He was polite, but firm, saying, “We’ve had steady increases every year. An 18 percent increase will put us over the top and make us struggle. I was going to write in, but I came to this meeting instead, to say, ‘please add my ‘no’ vote on this increase.”

Some people thought the board members should cut their salaries by 18 percent, and leave theirs alone.

In order to stop the proposal from going forward, the CWD board said that it would take 5,600 written protests from residents. One speaker stated, “You’re not going to get 5,600 written protests, and you know it.”

Seth Hodges was one of two people who spoke up in favor of the 18% proposed increase. The other was Sanford “Sandy” Kozlen, a retired, former, CWD board member.

Hodges said he has been attending meetings for years and understands what the CWD board has been going through. He says they need to raise rates to replenish reserve funds. “Water sales are down 25 percent, and the board has used up the reserve funds. I feel their estimates have always been conservative. Knowing these things, I support it,” said Hodges. “I support the increase and conserving water,” he added.

Hodges noted that one of the cost cutting measures that the board has undertaken was downsizing and laying off people. “We’ve got a good staff at the district, and laying off employees is not the answer. I oppose finishing the water meter installations, due to the cost.”

Local Tea Party activist Pam Pingston told the board in no uncertain terms, “I’m with the Tea Party and we will be watching you.”

Pingston summed up her thoughts about the meeting by saying, “What was made crystal clear in this hearing was that CWD’s revenue shortfalls were caused, in part, by a lack of foresight in anticipating water usage would go down when meters were installed, as well as miscalculating the metered rate charge to compensate for this.”

Pingston continued, “Poor business decisions, borrowing money to complete projects all at once, rather than staggering their completion, (thus keeping within their budget), and being unwilling to make the necessary drastic cuts in expenses to deal with the falling revenues. Once again we have a perfect example of a public entity being unwilling to take the necessary steps to protect tax/rate payers, and instead, they do what they always do, expect the rate payers to pay for their bad business decisions.”

Boisterous at times, audience grappled with making their feelings known. The board members looked stunned and uncomfortable at the barrage of protests, as many people spoke out against the increase. And it was overwhelmingly rejected by the Carmichael residents.

General Manager Steve Nugent said that people made it clear that the proposed 18 percent increase would not be accepted and the CWD board members got the message. They will now look for other ways to fill the gap.

At the end of the meeting, board member Roy Greenwood said, “We’ll confer about what we’ve received and heard from the public. We would like a closed meeting to discuss the public comments and see what else can be done.”

The Carmichael Water District is governed by a five member Board of Directors. Each Director represents his/her division and the ratepayers as a whole. The Directors are elected by the customers of the District and serve four year staggered terms.

A decision is expected at the next meeting on January 23, 2012.

Sources: CWD website; Carmichael Water District office.

Fair Oaks Boulevard Approved for $4 Million in SACOG Funding

Posted: 1/4/2012

CARMICHAEL – At their December 15, 2011 meeting, the Sacramento Area Council of Governments (SACOG) Board of Directors approved $4 million in funding for the Fair Oaks Boulevard Improvements Phase 2 project. This roadway infrastructure project is part of a comprehensive plan to turn a portion of Fair Oaks Boulevard into a “main street” for Carmichael. The “main street” district is located from Kenneth Avenue to Engle Road. The Phase 2 project provides improvements from south of Landis Avenue to Engle Road. This project fits in with SACOG’s Blueprint effort to promote compact, mixed-use development and more transit choices.

In September, the Board of Supervisors approved The Fair Oaks Boulevard Corridor Plan to help guide revitalization and enhancement of Fair Oaks Boulevard. The overall goal of the plan is to facilitate development of a pedestrian-oriented town center for the Carmichael community including a “main street”. The development of the plan included substantial public involvement with the local Chamber of Commerce, a citizen’s advisory committee and many public meetings. “Main Street” efforts are moving forward with a Phase 1 project that is currently out to bid for improvements to the Fair Oaks Boulevard at Marconi Avenue intersection. The Phase 2 project will build on Phase 1 work with major pedestrian, bicycle and roadway enhancements from south of Landis Avenue to Engle Road.

According to Supervisor Susan Peters, “These two important project phases will hopefully act as a catalyst to get the “main street” concept off the ground and running, and spur private investment to help to get other projects moving forward. I know the entire community is looking forward to breaking ground for the Phase 1 project in 2012, with Phase 2 to follow.”

The Phase 2 project is the most substantial project to emerge to date resulting from the Fair Oaks Boulevard Corridor Plan, and once completed will provide the roadway infrastructure needed for a portion of the “main street” district. Future “main street” project phases will be developed as funding becomes available. More detailed information about the Phase 2 project is listed below:

The project includes various improvements to Fair Oaks Boulevard in Carmichael — from south of Landis Avenue to Engle Road ­— to improve capacity, safety and mobility for all travel modes in the corridor, and to implement transportation elements of the Fair Oaks Boulevard Corridor Plan.

Proposed improvements include installation of landscaping and streetscape elements, improvements for ADA compliance and transit access, bicycle and pedestrian facilities, and traffic signal modifications.

Estimated Phase 2 costs are $5 million, with anticipated project construction in 2014. SACOG Community Design Funds will provide $4 million for overall project costs.

In addition to the Phase 1 and 2 projects, the Fair Oaks Boulevard Corridor Plan calls for monument signs to be installed at the Fair Oaks Boulevard at Marconi Avenue intersection to provide community identity for Carmichael and the “Main Street” district. Conceptual designs will be presented and discussed at the January 18 meeting of the Carmichael/Old Foothill Farms Community Planning Advisory Committee to be held at 7 p.m. at the Carmichael Library, 5605 Marconi Avenue. The public is invited to attend.

Dog Lovers Pitch In

Posted: 12/28/2011

Carmichael Canine Corral Association supporters took a petting break during recent fundraising at Carmichael Park. The volunteers aim to raise $125,000 for improvements to the park’s off-leash facility. Photo by Susan Maxwell Skinner.

Carmichael ––Fido-friendly Carmichael Park last weekend hosted a fundraiser for Canine Coral improvements. Two off-leash exercise enclosures are a haven for socialized dogs – and equally socialized owners.

Televised by “Good day Sacramento,” the event included a multi-mutt photo shoot. A 2012-13 calendar that features supporters’ pooches will help toward the park’s $250,000 goal for coral renovation. New fences, better drainage, night lighting and sun protection will bring the 10-year-old doggie domain up to scratch. The Carmichael Park District will meet half this expense, undertaking improvements in incremental phases. Users will fund the balance.

Canine Corral Association members have so far whistled up over $12,000 toward the Corral Association’s commitment. Commemorative bricks are selling from $125 to $250. Calendar inclusion commanded $50 per month and was sold out in days. (For a total of $300, cover and back page placement fell by auction to the pampered poodles of association president Sus Brown.) Calendar copies are $15 and will be available from the non-profit’s website in January.

Future fundraisers include a pot luck dinner at the Carmichael VFO Hall (5750 Grant Ave), at 5:30 p.m. January 21. Admission is $5 and the program will include guest speaker, Petco stores’ regional trainer Tom J. Licido.

Learn more about the Canine Corral Association www.carmichaeldogpark.com.

California DUI Deaths Drop to Record Low

Posted: 12/28/2011

SACRAMENTO – The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced today that California’s DUI deaths reached their lowest level ever in 2010. This also signifies the largest single yearly drop of DUI deaths in the past 14 years. A record low of 791 persons were tragically killed in DUI crashes on California roadways last year, compared to 950 in 2009. DUI deaths in California increased yearly from 1998 to 2005, but have decreased every year since 2005.

“This marks a huge milestone in the fight against drunk driving,” said California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) Director Christopher J. Murphy. “While we are elated by these figures, there were still 791 lives, futures, and dreams that will never be fully realized. We cannot back off from our ultimate goal – toward zero deaths.” The Office of Traffic Safety credits the record number of DUI checkpoints conducted in 2010 as partly responsible for the sharp reduction in DUI deaths. OTS allocated $16.8 million in federal funds to law enforcement agencies to conduct 2,553 DUI checkpoints in 2010, up from the $11.7 million allocated to 1,740 checkpoints in 2009.

According to NHTSA, checkpoints have provided the most effective documented results of any of the DUI enforcement strategies, while yielding considerable cost savings of $6 for every $1 spent. In addition, 88 percent of Californians surveyed report they support the use of checkpoints. Other contributing factors include countywide Avoid DUI Task Force operations that saw the California Highway Patrol (CHP) team up with police departments across the state to arrest impaired drivers, the widespread recognition of the “Report Drunk Drivers Call 911” message promoted by CALTRANS through their changeable message signs, the many action items addressing DUI developed and implemented by state departments such as the Department of Motor Vehicles and local agencies through the Strategic Highway Safety Plan, the successful programs aimed at keeping alcohol from minors implemented by the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC), and the great work done by advocate and educational organizations such as Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), Safe Transportation Research and Education Center at U.C. Berkeley, and RADD – the entertainment industry’s voice for road safety.

“Preventing these tragedies remains our top priority,” said CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow. “By combining DUI enforcement efforts of the entire law enforcement community, with the support and dedication of our traffic safety partners and the motoring public, we will continue to make strides toward reducing DUI fatalities.” The announcement comes just days before the December 16 start of California’s December DUI Crackdown and NHTSA’s nationwide “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign.

The increased enforcement campaign ends January 2. Statewide 2010 DUI arrest numbers have been consistent with the past five years and higher than any year between 1997-2005. “California has taken a comprehensive approach to reducing drunk driving including aggressive use of sobriety checkpoints” said NHTSA Administrator David Strickland. “We commend California for its commitment to highway safety and efforts by its law enforcement officers to keep drunk drivers off the roads.” “The people of California are to be congratulated along with all those who actively worked to avoid these tragedies,” said Murphy. “They see that not only is drunk and drugged driving a serious crime affecting the lives of so many, it is now seen as a socially unacceptable behavior for everyone.”

Six Year-End Tips to Reduce 2011 Taxes

Posted: 12/28/2011

The Internal Revenue Service today reminded northern and central Californians that there is still time to take action to lower 2011 federal taxes.

“In order to claim certain benefits on your 2011 taxes, you need to take action no later than Dec. 31,” said IRS spokesman David Tucker. “Taking steps now could save you money when you file your taxes next year.”

Here are six steps that you can take before the year ends to save on your 2011 taxes:

Make Charitable Contributions – Donations must be made to qualified charities no later than Dec. 31 to be deductible for 2011. Taxpayers must have a canceled check, a bank or credit union statement, a credit card statement or a written statement from the charity showing the name of the charity and the date and amount of the contribution. Donations charged to a credit card by Dec. 31 are deductible for 2011 even if the bill isn’t paid until 2012. Clothing and household items donated to charity must be in good used condition or better to be deductible.

Install Energy-Efficient Home Improvements – Homeowners still have time this year to make energy-saving and green-energy home improvements and qualify for either of two home energy credits. Installing energy efficient improvements such as insulation, new windows and water heaters can provide up to $500 in tax savings. Homeowners going green should also check out the Residential Energy Efficient Property Credit, designed to spur investment in alternative energy equipment. For details see Special Edition Tax Tip 2011-08.

Contribute the Maximum to Retirement Accounts – Elective deferrals to employer-sponsored 401(k) plans or similar workplace retirement programs, such as a 403(b) plan for employees of public schools and certain tax-exempt organizations, a governmental 457 plan for state or local government employees, and the Thrift Savings Plan for federal employees, must be made by Dec. 31. However, taxpayers have until April 17, 2012, to set up a new IRA or add money to an existing IRA and still have it count for 2011. A taxpayer normally can contribute up to $5,000 to a traditional or Roth IRA, and up to $6,000 if age 50 or over.

Consider a Portfolio Adjustment – Check investments for gains and losses and make sales by Dec. 31. Taxpayers may normally deduct capital losses up to the amount of capital gains, plus $3,000 from other income. Net capital losses that are more than $3,000 can be carried forward and deducted in future years.

Make a Qualified IRA Charitable Distribution – The qualified charitable distribution allows individuals age 70½ or over to exclude up to $100,000 from gross income that is paid directly from their individual retirement accounts to a qualified charity. The excluded amount can be used to satisfy any required minimum distributions that the individual must otherwise receive from their IRAs in 2011.

Don’t Overlook the Small Business Health Care Tax Credit – Small employers that pay at least half of employee health insurance premiums may qualify for a tax credit of up to 35 percent of the premiums paid. An employer with fewer than 25 full-time employees that pays an average wage of less than $50,000 a year may qualify. For more information see the Small Business Health Care Tax Credit page on IRS.gov.

Santa Checks Carmichael List

Posted: 12/2/2011

Santa Checks His List Twice Before Visiting Carmichael

Carmichael Water District Responds to Public Hearing

By Chris Nelson, Pio, CWD
Posted: 12/22/2011

Carmichael – On December 12, 2011 the Carmichael Water District (District) Board of Directors held a public hearing to give rate payers an opportunity to voice their opinion regarding the District’s proposed revenue increase. In attendance were 89 members of the public. Of the 89 attendees 24 chose to speak regarding the proposed increase.

Prior to the public hearing ratepayers were afforded the opportunity to submit a written protest to the District. Only 284 written protests were submitted to the District.

During the District’s rate study, rates were analyzed and assumptions took in to account anticipated fluctuations along with the new requirement of the State of California’s 2009 Water Conservation Act calling for the reduction of water production by 20% by the year 2020. For Fiscal year 2011-2012 the District rate study planned for water production to drop to about 15% of the historic average. The past 12 months actual water production figures are 25% lower than the District’s historical average and 5% lower than the State of California’s 2009 Water Conservation Act.

Typical of all water utilities, 80% of CWD’s costs to provide water service to our customers are fixed costs and 20% variable. Over the past few years, the District experienced increases in these costs due to economic and regulatory conditions. Those increased expenditures were: Power, Chemicals, Fuel & transportation, Materials.

CWD acted to reduce expenses significantly based on projected shortfalls. The results are a 10% reduction for the FY 2011-2012 budget. The cuts are: 1) Layoff of 5 employees, 2) A reduction in pay and frozen wages for management/exempt employees, 3) There will be no cost of living increases and the pay scale has been frozen for all non-represented employees, 4) Significant reductions in the District’s Operation and Maintenance budget, 5) Reduction of the meter installation program 6) Reduction in capital improvement projects until further notice.

When water consumption falls so do revenues, even though the fixed costs remain the same. Even with severe budget cuts, an increase in revenue is necessary in order to safely operate and maintain the District’s water system.

Unclaimed Checks Listed on SMUD.org

Posted: 12/22/2011

SACRAMENTO REGION – The Sacramento Municipal Utility District has posted the names of customers and vendors with checks dated October 1, 2008 or earlier who have not yet cashed them. The list of names will remain online until December 27, 2011.

Each year SMUD posts this information in an effort to locate the money’s rightful owner. Claims against these uncashed checks should be filed on or before December 27, 2011 with SMUD Unclaimed Monies, 6201 S Street, Mail Stop B302, Sacramento, CA 95817-1899 or by calling (916) 732-5556. Replacement checks will be issued only to the payee whose name is on the list. Checks not claimed by December 27, 2011 become SMUD property under California Code Section 50050-50056.

Sac Metro Fire Announces Board Vacancy

Posted: 12/22/2011

SACRAMENTO REGION – The Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District is accepting applications to fill a vacant position of Director for Division 4 on its nine-member Board of Directors. The selected applicant will serve the remainder of a four-year term expiring the first week of December, 2012. Applicants must be a registered voter, residing within the jurisdictional boundaries of the Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District.

While all interested applicants within the District will be considered, preference will be given to applicants from Division 4. The approximate boundaries for Division 4 are Elkhorn Boulevard to Auburn Boulevard on the north, Cypress Avenue to Edison Avenue on the South, Manzanita Avenue on the east, and Watt Avenue to Elkhorn Boulevard on the west.

Interested persons may apply for the position by submitting the Board of Directors District Employment Application and a letter of interest to Board Clerk Charlotte Tilson, Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District, 10545 Armstrong Avenue, Suite 200, Mather CA 95655. Application must be received by noon on Friday, January 6, 2012. A Special Board of Directors meeting will be held on Wednesday, January 11, 2012 at 6:00 p.m. at the City of Rancho Cordova City Hall, 2729 Prospect Park Drive, Rancho Cordova, CA for the purpose of interviewing qualified candidates.

Additional information may be obtained by contacting Charlotte Tilson, Clerk of the Board, at 859-4305, or visiting the District website at www.sacmetrofire.ca.gov for the Board of Directors District Employment Application form and division map. Posted: 12/12/2011.

A Flight of Fancy

By Susan Maxwell Skinner
Posted: 12/14/2011

Effie Yeaw Nature center’s ambassador Echo makes friends with naturalist Shawna Protze. The owl will be part of an education program on December 31. Photo by Susan Maxwell Skinner.

CARMICHAEL – Fresh from Lake Tahoe, a great horned owl has joined the educational “ambassador” menagerie at the Effie Yeaw Nature Center. Raptor Echo will make her debut for a free December 31 program at the Carmichael facility.

Though the eight-month-old is one of a raptor species sometimes dubbed “flying tigers” for ferocious predatory skill, this tiger lacks teeth. Ill-advised care from a mystery Samaritan means Echo is imprinted on people and cannot feed unaided. “She might have fallen from the nest and been taken home by a human who cared for her,” theorizes Effie Yeaw naturalist Shawna Protze. “But she should have been left where she was found. Owls are known to feed babies on the ground.”

Apparently liberated near Lake Tahoe, the voracious adolescent was near starvation. Volunteer rescuers heard her desperate cries in the wilderness. Offering preferred owl food, they sought her at night. Far from having to be lured, the orphan flew down and gobbled a mouse, while perched on the rehabilitator’s lap. “It was obvious that she was imprinted on humans and could not be free,” says Protze.

Knowing the Effie Yeaw Nature center lost its ancient great horned owl Virginia last year, Lake Tahoe Wildlife Care contacted the Ancil Hoffman Park facility. The young bird soon arrived in Carmichael and was named for her chatty verbalizations. Unlike her injured predecessor, she can fly but will starve if freed. Her fate is a life time of room service (up to three mice per day) in a protected habitat.

Will the nocturnal bird miss her wild black yonder? “Echo has an 8ft by 12ft habitat and can fly around when she wants to,” says Protze. “Birds of prey take flight when they need food. Otherwise, they tend to be lazy. All birds deserve to be wild and free but because Echo was imprinted, she can’t be.” Instead, she will join rescued raptors Skye, Tanner, Rocky and Sophia in enjoying the good life and great admiration at Effie Yeaw.

“Echo’s a great addition to our ambassadors,” enthuses Protze. “She is calm and confident and is becoming wonderful on the glove. She’s chirping constantly she doesn’t mind being among people — she’s used to that. Her story is a good lesson: if you find a wild animal in distress, take it to people who know how to raise it; so it can eventually survive as a wild animal.”

To learn about Effie Yeaw’s programs or to donate toward Echo and fellow ambassadors’ care, visit www.sacnaturecenter.net

Stepping Up Safety on the Parkway

Posted: 12/14/2011

Private and public partners coordinate efforts for safety and maintenance, changing parks operations to insure public safety and protection of the American River’s sensitive habitat. Photo by Susan Maxwell Skinner

Sacramento County – With the popularity of Sacramento County’s Regional Parks remaining high, especially the American River Parkway, the County is leveraging resources, collaborating with the private/public sector, and changing parks operations to insure public safety and protection of sensitive habitat.

“The Parkway is bordered by cities, neighborhoods, businesses and state land, all of whom have a vested interest in keeping the Parkway safe and clean,” stated Supervisor Phil Serna, District 1. “To help address the illegal camping situation on the Parkway, we are collaborating with private interests dedicated to funding homeless services and partnering with the broader law enforcement community to maximize public safety.” To address security, Regional Parks is partnering with the Sacramento Police Department to increase patrol presence in the lower Parkway, where most illegal camping occurs. The joint patrol operates seven days a week and will conduct warrant sweeps throughout the year in collaboration with County Probation and other law enforcement agencies. Ranger Assistants are helping to increase presence during periods of peak bicycle and recreational traffic.

Rangers and police follow strict protocol with illegal campers: campers are “noticed” to leave within 48 hours in writing and in person. If campers do not vacate within the allotted time, they are issued a citation and their possessions are confiscated and safely stored. If outstanding warrants or probation/parole violations exist, campers are arrested and booked into the County Jail.

In addition to noticing campers, rangers may be accompanied at times by County social workers and volunteers from Sacramento Steps Forward who provide information about temporary shelter options, meals, and other social service programs. Information about pet kenneling and where their personal belongings will be stored is also provided.

To protect the environment from camping garbage and other waste, Parks has increased cleanup of the campsite areas from one to two days a week. Cleanup is done by Sacramento County Sheriff Work Release crews within and also adjacent to the Parkway. The County Department of Regional Parks is partnering with the American River Parkway Foundation to increase cleanup in targeted areas. In addition to five major cleanups in 2011, one hundred Foundation volunteers, including Rob Leonard, the County’s Interim Parks Director and Supervisor Serna, removed over three tons of debris from the Northgate Area in November.

Illegal camping can be reported to Park Rangers at 916-875-7275. To support Sacramento Steps Forward and the Winter Sanctuary Program, donations can be made on line at sacramentostepsforward.org.

United Way Gives Grants of $1.1 Million to Nonprofits

Posted: 12/14/2011

SACRAMENTO – United Way California Capital Region will make grants totaling $1,168,008 to 13 local nonprofits, United Way president and CEO Steve Heath announced recently. Funded partners serve people across Amador, El Dorado, Placer, Sacramento and Yolo counties and participate in United Way’s projects: STAR Readers, $en$e-Ability and Fit Kids.

“All of our funded partners have proven their incredible abilities to produce profound change in our community,” Heath said. “They know how to achieve measurable outcomes on important issues, and we’re excited to see what they do in the very important areas of children’s education, financial literacy and childhood obesity.”

United Way’s STAR Readers project is working to ensure all children are reading at grade level by fourth grade, a key indicator of whether or not a child will eventually graduate high school. The project uses a three-pronged approach: after-school tutoring to at-risk children from kindergarten through third grade, tools and resources for parents to involve them in their children’s reading, and summer reading programs for children.

STAR Readers partners are Amador-Tuolumne Community Resources ($48,903), Boys & Girls Clubs of El Dorado County Western Slope ($82,000), New Morning Youth and Family Services ($54,281), Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Sacramento ($50,000), Sacramento Children’s Home ($70,000) and Sacramento Chinese Community Services Center ($94,283).

United Way’s $en$e-Ability project is working to ensure low-income households are financially literate so they can meet their current obligations and maximize longer-term financial well-being. United Way partners are providing financial education and follow-up support on bank services, budgeting, saving, debt management, retirement planning and insurance.

Several $en$e-Ability partners are working specifically with foster youth to create Individual Development Accounts so they can be self-sufficient when they leave the foster care system. These special bank accounts earn one dollar for every dollar the foster youth saves, and the matching funds can be used to purchase specific items. While earning, foster youth take financial literacy classes and receive financial counseling.

$en$e-Ability partners are Amador-Tuolumne Community Resources ($81,791), Koinonia Family Services ($40,175), Child Abuse Prevention Council of Sacramento ($81,836), Community Link ($94,070), Women’s Empowerment ($40,000), New Morning Youth and Family Services ($27,500) and Yolo Family Resource Center ($70,000).

United Way’s Fit Kids project is working with several nonprofit partners to address the rise in obesity and challenges related to weight gain so that more people will live a healthy lifestyle and fewer people will battle obesity and its corresponding health challenges. Fit Kids partners are teaching kids about nutrition and physical activity and providing opportunities for healthy eating and exercise.

Fit Kids partners are YMCA Superior California ($40,160), Child Abuse Prevention Council of Sacramento ($72,347), Sacramento Chinese Community Services Center ($63,429) and Health Education Council ($197,393).

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. United Way’s team of nonprofits, businesses, donors and volunteers work together to provide positive, measurable results on these issues through United Way projects: STAR Readers, $en$e-Ability and Fit Kids. 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

Source: Kristin Thébaud Communications

Kitty O’Neal to be Feted at Fundraiser Banquet

By Susan Maxwell Skinner
Posted: 12/8/2011

KFBK’s Kitty O’Neal admires a picture of Carmichael’s landmark Palm Drive. The broadcaster/humanitarian will be celebrated as Carmichael’s 2012 Person of the Year on January 6. Photo by Susan Maxwell Skinner.

CARMICHAEL - The Carmichael Chamber of Commerce has named broadcaster Kitty O’Neal 2012 Person of the Year. The KFBK star will be honored at a fundraiser banquet on Friday January 6.

Co-honorees are Jim and Lola Warrick – organizers of the Carmichael Elks July 4 parade since 1957. Mother and son will be declared Patriots of the Year. A third award goes to Earl “Ranger Jack” Koobs, a school teacher who established Carmichael’s Vietnam War memorial. The WW 2 naval officer will be named Veteran of the Year.

A long-time supporter of the Chamber, Kitty O’Neal will be spotlighted for broadcasting and humanitarianism service. “There are few voices more constant in Sacramento life,” said Chamber President Chris Meyer. “In 26 years of broadcasting, Kitty has gained credibility few public figures earn. Her sincerity echoes beyond the air waves.”

“Media sensations like Rush Limbaugh and Tom Sullivan move to greener pastures. Kitty stays loyal to the community she cares for. Our banquet guests can put a face to one of Sacramento’s best-loved voices,” said Meyer.

Transmitting beyond Redding, Reno, San Francisco and San Diego, this voice is heard on five radio shows weekly. Additional celebrity stems from show business coverage (20 Oscar ceremonies to date), countless charity appearances and community awards. Sacramento Magazine readers voted her KFBK spot “Best Afternoon Show” for the past eight years.

The honoree counts Sheriff John McGinness – a former Carmichael Person of the Year — as a friend. “He says wonderful things about growing up in Carmichael,” she reports. “We share a love for Ancil Hoffman Park. I attended American River College for a year and still support its Culinary Arts program.”

Culinary outreach includes her chef and restaurateur husband Kurt Spataro. O’Neal also helps child and animal charities. In her name, a donation from the Carmichael fundraiser will go to the Sacramento Children’s Home. “I’m delighted by the (Carmichael) honor,” she said. I have many fond memories of the area. I took my driver’s license at the Carmichael D.M.V. In my years as a rock singer, I enjoyed singing at the El Dorado Saloon. Though I reside in Sacramento, I’ve always hoped my work would serve the greater Sacramento region.”

Anyone may attend the January 6 fundraiser. Admission is $50 per person and includes dinner, music and no-host bar. The La Sierra Community Center (5325 Engle Rd) hosts the banquet from 6:30 p.m. Table sponsorships are available. Information: www.carmichaelchamber.com or call (916) 481-0334.

4th of July is Year-Round Job for Region’s Fireworks Industry

By David Dickstein
Posted: 12/8/2011

Firework shipments arrive year-round to TNT’s regional offices in Sacramento with Rafael Cortez tasked with stacking. Photo by David Dickstein.

SACRAMENTO REGION - When Cathy Castilone tells people she works in the fireworks industry, the usual knee-jerk response is, “What do you do the rest of the year?”

“I get that all the time,” she said.

Castilone’s job as Northern California vice president of American Promotional Events, aka TNT Fireworks, is by no means as short-fused as a defective smoke ball. It’s a full-time, oftentimes feverishly paced gig for her and staff charged with putting most of the snap, crackle and pop in fireworks-friendly communities from Monterey Bay to the Oregon border, even if citizens are generally limited to lighting them off just seven days out of the year.

“Working all year long for one big holiday — we’re like Santa Claus,” Castilone said from TNT’s regional office in Sacramento, some 4,250 miles away from the North Pole.

If there are any elves making fireworks for the Northern California market, they’d be in factory-fused China and not the Sullivan Building, named after Castilone’s late father, John Sullivan, a pioneering fireworks executive. Since his passing 8 years ago next month, his middle daughter has run the region, and her older sister, Sally Sullivan Doerr, is one of five sales associates who make up a total of 16 full-time regional employees.

The week starting June 28, or what Castilone calls “our Christmas Eve,” is when the entire operation is in full swing with upwards of 125 workers. Job No. 1 is to make sure nearly 700 nonprofit organizations selling TNT fireworks have what they need to make maximum profits so that kids can play sports, homeless can be fed, and countless others can be served in myriad ways.

Gearing up for that wild week involves key milestones that take the other 51 weeks to accomplish, and things are no different at the regional HQ of Phantom Fireworks, TNT’s top competitor located 2 miles away in Depot Park. If it’s not meeting with groups to sign them up for another year, it’s negotiating with property owners for the best stand locations at the best price. Those are year-round tasks just as is receiving merchandise, although the season’s debuting items usually don’t arrive from China sooner than May. A year earlier is when those new items – the ones that passed state testing from November to January — are chosen after a months-long process. At TNT, product selection is undertaken by American Promotional Events brass, including Castilone, and Hong Kong-based buyers.

There’s allocating the checks to the nonprofits shortly after the Fourth of July. There’s deciding which fireworks get phased out, a task that happens around August after the complete sales report is in. (Home Run, a $9.99 fountain that debuted this year, obviously didn’t live up to its name; Castilone said that item, to use another baseball term, is out for 2012 along with four other fountains.)

Licensing nonprofits with cities and counties happens from January through May. This process is pretty much rote for the local TNT staff as about 85 percent of the groups return the following year, and of that number, 98 percent sticks with TNT, according to Castilone.

“We’re very proud of that,” she said, adding that the Sacramento Youth Band, Knights of Columbus 4443, VFW Post 8985 and the Breakfast Optimist Club of Sacramento have been clients “since the beginning,” or 1964.

There’s much more to the company’s year-round operation than PR, paperwork and pyrotechnics passed on the basis of preferences and price points.

In the 45,000-square-foot warehouse is a year-round team of three operations associates and one manager responsible for an inventory of thousands of cases of fireworks and hundreds of dismantled wooden stands.

Stacks and stacks of stalls, most of the 24-foot, 3-panel variety, are stored at the facility for 11 months out of the year. Starting June 8, stands are dropped by truck in the designated location – usually a parking lot — and later built, some as late as the eve of fireworks sales, which begin on June 28 in Sacramento County. The last spark of the last finale lit has barely died by the time crews commence teardown at 5 a.m. July 5. By July 14, the last stand standing is removed and joins the other 700 or so for various levels of refurbishment. Some will need repairs, others are replaced entirely, but all get new signs, and power washing and repainting are done on 4-year cycles.

The man who oversees this process is Jim Vales, who commutes from Woodland. With 7 years under his belt, Vales knows exactly what needs to be done and when. Receiving shipments and prepping the stands are the main tasks during the off-peak months. One specialized job is tackling the cardboard watermelon box filled with 87,000 nuts, bolts and washers removed from all the stands. For the past 5 years that tedious task has belonged to Francisco Cortez, a 12-year employee who sorts the hardware into 124-piece sets boxed for each of the 700 stands. He even rethreads screws by hand. How Cortez, 61, remains sane and smiling is commendable. Maybe it has to do with the fact that for the past 10 years he has the paternal benefit of working side by side with his sons Rafael and Gerardo.

Vales said compared to the rest of the year, the fall and winter “are like a vacation in the warehouse.”

“Yes, it’s still a lot of work, but our deadline is still months away. In May is when we start stressing.”

Vales laughs about the first question he asked his would-be boss when he looked into the operations manager job.

“I asked Cathy what I was going to do the rest of the year,” he said. “I didn’t think the job would require me to work more than maybe 3 months out of the year.”

And now?

“Oh yeah,” he said. “There’s more to this business than what most people think.”

Ironically, the slowest workday of the year for this team of self-described Santa Clauses is – you guessed it -- Christmas Eve. “We make that a half-day,” Castilone said, knowing full well that the stretch of working weekends and getting little sleep is, once again, just around the corner.

Carmichael Water District’s 18% Rate Increase Proposal

By Allyse Weaver
Posted: 12/8/2011

Carmichael – Carmichael residents will have an opportunity to get involved and voice their opinion to decide whether or not they want to have their water rates increased by18 percent, starting next year. The normal yearly rate increase is four percent.

The reason for the rate increase request, according to Carmichael Water District general manager, Steve Nugent, is because “we have seen a reduction in water usage of 25 percent. Less water is being used, due in part to customers conserving water; the weather, the economy, and the installation of water meters, which have all contributed to the proposed 18 percent rate increase.”

Carmichael Water District customers receive approximately 70-80 percent of their water from the American River and 20-30 percent from District groundwater wells. The district’s microfiltration water treatment plant uses the latest water purification technology.

The district has reviewed the current water usage and rate structure and determined that there is a significant revenue shortfall. “Over the past two years, the district has been using reserve funds to cover the revenue shortfall from the lower water usage,” Nugent added.

CWD said they acted to reduce expenses significantly based on projected shortfalls. Some of the cuts are:

- Refinanced $28,550,000 in bonds in March 2010, resulting in substantially lower interest rates and interest payments while maintaining the same maturity schedule.
- Applied for and received grants worth $1,000,000 to help finance a water reliability project (water treatment plant expansion) and to accelerate the meter program.
- Reduced operating costs in March 2011, while preparing the FY 2011-12 adopted budget.
- Restructured the departments to maximize efficiency, resulting in elimination of 1 position and layoff of 1 employee.
- Deferred capital improvement projects and extended the completion schedule of the meter installation program eliminating 3 operator positions.
- Revised the FY 2011-12 budgets with additional budget cuts to total $972,245.

“Even with severe budget cuts, an 18% increase in revenue is necessary in order to safely operate and maintain the District’s water system,” Nugent said.

Concerned rate payer, Pam Kingston, says, “ The CWD board did not tell us in their notification of the proposed rate increase, that they had made a bad business decision related to borrowing money for several scheduled projects. They had three projects that could have been completed, in segments, over the next 3 years: (1) government-mandated installation of water meters (completion of the last meters not yet installed); (2) installation of a ground water filtration system in Ancil Hoffman Park; and (3) upgrading pipes and hydrants within Ancil Hoffman Park.”

“The funds for these three projects were included in annual budget figures, spread out over the next 2-3 years. Nonetheless, the Board ultimately decided to borrow $2 million dollars so they could finish the projects at the same time, instead of staggering them.

Because of this decision, the CWD has incurred the additional expense of servicing this $2 million debt for the next 5 years,” Kingston said.

“If they had completed the projects on the staggered schedule that they had initially planned for, they wouldn’t have needed to borrow the 2 million dollars, and would not have incurred the additional debt servicing costs, of which will now be passed on to the consumer,” she said.

Carmichael resident, Jim Baker also questioned the board at their last meeting, wanting to know if there are any omissions in the Proposition 218 notice that would help customers reach an informed decision regarding their favor or opposition for a rate increase. He too wanted to know why the loan information was left out.

A public hearing on Proposition 218 will be held on Monday, December 12, at 7 pm at the district office, 7837 Fair Oaks Blvd., in Carmichael. For questions regarding the protest process, customers can call the district office at 916-483-2452.

Interested Carmichael residents can send their written protest to: Assessor- Collector, Carmichael Water district; 7837 Fair Oaks Blvd., Carmichael, CA 95608., or voice their protest at the December 12 meeting.

According to Nugent, “It will take 5,600 letters of protest from Carmichael homeowners to stop the rate increase from going into effect. Currently, they have received approximately 200 letters of protest.”

The Carmichael Water District is governed by a five member Board of Directors. Each Director represents his/her division and the ratepayers as a whole. The Directors are elected by the customers of the District and serve four year staggered terms.

Sources: CWD website; Carmichael Water District office.

Rosie’s Legacy of Light

By Susan Maxwell Skinner
Posted: 12/1/2011

Angel recalled. The Carollo family treasures memories of daughter Rosie, who died in 2004. To celebrate her short life, the Carollos hold an event to collect toys for hospitalized children. Their drive brings hundreds of visitors to view illuminations at the family home on Fair Oaks Blvd, Sacramento. The 2011 festival date is December 11. Photo by Susan Maxwell Skinner.

A Fair Oaks Blvd family has turned tragedy into Christmas joy for sick children.

Commemorating Chritsmas and the brief life of the the Carollo’s first-born, electric color dazzles on their Arcade property. The display heralds a night of gift-giving to benefit Sutter Memorial Hospital’s most junior patients. “People come by to enjoy the lights; we give them hot chocolate and cookies,” says Nicole Carollo (36). “We ask that they donate toys for children who spend Christmas in hospital.”

The family mission came through pain. Nicole and George Carollo’s baby Rosie would have been nine this year. “We lost her when she was 21 months old,” says the mother. “She had two Christmases.”

A type of epilepsy called infantile spasms was diagnosed when Rosie was six months old. Despite specialized care, these terrifying episodes increased and her brain development suffered. “Rosie’s resolve was amazing,” recalls Nicole. “She fought tirelessly. Her great goal seemed to be to smile. She made everyone she encountered smile, too. After 15 months of continual seizures, our angel left us. We were devastated. But I was pregnant again and so we had something to look forward to. We could be parents again.” A healthy daughter came five months later. Rosie’s picture in a stairwell gallery is now flanked by those of three later Carollo sisters. The first-born’s epilepsy has not reoccurred in the family.

Though three healthy girls will never open Christmas stockings with their oldest sister, Rosie is not left out. “They feel as if they know her,” explains the mother. “Not a single celebration or event passes where she’s not in our hearts. Our daughters talk to their sister and they pray to her. We visit her at the cemetery as a family. She’s like our own little angel, watching over us.”

The Carollos’ attic is jammed with candy canes and nutcrackers. Helped by volunteers and a rented boom, they festoon redwoods in their yard to glow heavenwards each December. Reindeer graze near a shining nativity. A thousand points of light pick out their steep roof.

Several Noels back, the Fair Oaks Blvd home began drawing a crowd. Nicole and George saw a humanitarian opportunity among swarms of sightseers. “We wanted to do something good in Rosie’s name,” said Nicole. “She’d receeived so much care in Sutter Memorial Children’s Hospital. Sutter’s Child Life Program provides a wonderful support system for patients and families. It also creates a comfortable environment, with mobiles, toys and movies to keep children entertained. We have seen many babies hospitalized for long periods. We know what they go through. We want to help them and their families.”

In December 2007, the Carollos used their over the top décor as a lure for their first toy drive. Donated items would cheer sick youngsters and boost ammenities the Child Life project offered. Initial success was as dazzling as the illuminations. An evening of hot chocolate and cookies yeilded 700 gifts.

“That night, we stacked the toys in our garage and I cried,” says Nicole. “I said: ‘look what our little Rosie has done for others.’ We decided our little toy drive would be the first of many. We called it The Rosie Carollo Christmas Lights and Toy Drive Event.” Staged on a single December night, the festival has gathered steam over ensuing Christmases. Last year — with a visit from Santa Claus added to the program – extra families flocked from the Carollo daughters’ St Ignatius School. The toy total reached 1600 items.

Cash donations were icing on the Christmas cake. “We never set out to collect money,” says George Carollo. “But we split any cash received between the hospital and the Epilepsy Foundation. People come by not knowing about the toy drive and they hear Rosie’s story. It touches everyone. People just want to help.”

The Carollo home is at 3961 Fair Oaks Blvd, on the corner of San Ramon Way. Donations may be left in a driveway gift box all through December. Visitors may join Santa Claus and take refreshements there between 5 and 9 p.m. on Decemeber 11. For more information, contact rosiestoydrive@yahoo.com or call (916) 600-1169.

Festive Fair at Fine Arts Center

By Susan Maxwell Skinner
Posted: 12/1/2011

A festival offering hand-crafted gifts at the Sacramento Fine Arts Center will be enhanced by the daily arrival of Santa Photo by Susan Maxwell Skinner.

CARMICHAEL - Santa and Mrs Claus will be among patrons of the three-day Artisan and Craft Fair at Sacramento Fine Arts Center (SFAC). The event runs from from Friday December 9 to Sunday December 11. Doors open at 11 a.m. each day.

A 17 year tradition, the fair features one-of-a-kind gifts, hand made by artists and craftspeople. Woodworkers, knitters, potters, silk-painters and leatherworkers are among 80 artisans offering handiwork. While-you-wait family portraits will also be available. Live music sets the scene and, in tune with Santa’s daily visits, a Sugar Plum Kitchen will supply drinks and snacks. Proceeds support the non-profit facility.

The SFAC showroom is at 5330-B Gibbons Drive, Carmichael. For information, call (916) 971-3713 or visit www.sacfinearts.org

Donation Drive Collects Winter Coats for Regional Shelters, Nonprofits

Posted: 12/1/2011

SACRAMENTO REGION – More than 3,000 people and children in need throughout the Sacramento region can now count on new, warm coats to get through the coming winter, thanks to an all-out effort by Lyon Real Estate agents.

Working with the national nonprofit One Warm Coat, Lyon’s regional team of agents, brokers and support staff threw themselves into a month-long winter coat donation drive during October. Given their busy schedules, many in the company expected to hit the 500 mark. But when you have 17 regional offices full of dedicated, creative professionals, then stand back.

“When we added up coats collected from everyone’s efforts, from offices in the Foothills to agents based throughout the Sacramento region, it came to a whopping 3,110 coats,” said Lyon Real Estate President Pat Shea. “It was an amazing example of how a large group of people can achieve a great amount of good by working together.”

The coat donation drive started out as an idea at Lyon’s annual Fun Realtor Education Day — FRED for short. To supplement the coat drive, Lyon employees partnered with Kohl’s Department stores to obtain 50 new children’s coats for the Kids First organization in Roseville and Auburn and the Sacramento Food Bank’s Mother Baby Program. Those coats, and all the donated coats, had to be either new or lightly used to qualify for donation.

Another truck load of coats were given to Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services. In all, more than 17 agencies received coats collected by Lyon agents and employees that will be distributed to people in need in Sacramento, Placer, Nevada, Sacramento and El Dorado counties.

Before distributing the coats, employees at the company’s Sacramento headquarters converted their administrative offices into storage space for thousands of winter coats.

“We had mountains of them. It really brought home all the hard work our agent team did in reaching out to the community,” said Lyon Marketing Director Christi McDowell, who helped organize the coat donation drive.

This year, we are on pace to collect and distribute our 3 millionth coat — and Lyon’s 3,110 coats made a fantastic contribution to that effort,” said Sybil Hunt, community outreach director for One Warm Coat.

With real estate agents in 17 regional offices in Sacramento, Placer, El Dorado and Yolo counties, Lyon remains the region’s leading real estate company.

Helping Small Businesses Start, Grow and Succeed

Free Small Business Forum “Getting It Right” Coming Next Week to Sacramento Area
Posted: 12/1/2011

SACRAMENTO REGION – The Internal Revenue Service will soon team up with other federal and state tax agencies helping regional small businesses at a free tax forum to be held in Citrus Heights. Themed “Getting It Right,” the forum will provide important information for business leaders to better understand and meet their tax responsibilities. The program will also highlight significant government resources available that can help small businesses grow and succeed.

“One of the forum’s goals is to promote awareness of the programs, services, and assistance government tax agencies have to offer,” said IRS spokesman David Tucker. “If our local entrepreneurs and business leaders understand basic federal and state tax rules and how to get help when they need it, they can meet challenges that can sometimes be barriers to success.”

The Small Business Forum is sponsored by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to facilitate the exchange of information between the government and the small business community in Northern California. Other state agencies participating include the California Franchise Tax Board, Board of Equalization and Employment Development Department.

All local small businesses and chambers of commerce in Northern California are invited. The event is Thursday, December 8, 2011, 8:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m. It will be held at the U.S. SBA, 6501 Sylvan Road, Main Conference Room, Citrus Heights, CA 95610

Registration is required for this free forum. Limited seating will be assigned on a first-come first served basis, so register soon to guarantee you won’t miss out of this popular event. To register send an e-mail to SBEDSacramento@irs.gov. If interested businesses have questions or want more details about the event please call Christella Sanchez at 916-974-5117.

A High Speed Financial Train Wreck

Commentary by Katy Grimes
www.CalWatchDog.com
Reprinted by permission
Posted: 11/25/2011

There have been many train wrecks, but none as big as California’s High Speed Rail Project.

The news that the California High-Speed Rail Authority finally revealed its long-awaited business plan only made the state’s residents more suspicious of the monster rail system. With a $99 billion price tag, a 300 percent cost increase since the 2008 voter-approved measure, and a claim of more than 1 million jobs created, High-Speed Rail appears to be taking over as the WPA project of California’s future.

But many say that $99 billion is not the final figure. The plan, originally billed as a $9.9 billion bond measure for a $40 billion train system, now has unlimited borrowing and spending, as well as a yearly $5.3 billion cost for upkeep.

HSR officials were all cheer and optimism as they presented the plan, originally due in early October. But officials also showed a penchant for glossing over facts with wild estimates of job creation and transportation numbers they said will be needed for California’s growing population.

California labor union officials seemed to love the plan. “The California High Speed Rail business plan brings us closer to making our vision of clean, efficient transportation and good jobs a reality in California,” wrote Labor leader Art Pulaski in a Twitter message.

More Waste

But rail experts disagree. “California High Speed Rail is likely to increase energy, energy waste, and greenhouse gas because its route is 20 percent longer than the highways, and 217 miles per hour trains consume more energy per passenger mile than conventional trains or autos,” Rich Tolmach recently wrote in an op-ed.

Tolmach, a rail expert and enthusiast, has been critical of the California High Speed Rail Authority over the planned waste and inefficiencies. “European high speed rail are cost effective because they are on the ground and bypass most cities, instead of blasting through them,” Tolmach wrote in an op-ed on the High-Speed Rail Talk blog.

Tolmach has been critical of California’s High-Speed Rail plans because he says officials and planners ignore lessons already learned by Europeans. “Europeans stopped building elevated trains in the 1930′s — the same reason that California stopped building elevated freeways. Turning CalTrain’s 47 mile track from San Francisco to San Jose, which has 79 mile per hour speeds, into a quadruple-track elevated rail is a wet-dream for the authority.”

Tolmach, just like many people in California, wants to see more rail, but not at the expense of efficiency and cost-effective plans.

The High-Speed Rail Authority predicts that California will need to spend “tens of billions of dollars in expanded transportation systems over coming decades,” as outlined in the plan. “But High Speed Rail can meet the demands.”

High-Speed Rail officials estimate $18.7 billion annually in wasted time and fuel on our roads. And they state that the airline flights between San Francisco and Los Angeles are the most delayed in the country.

Instead of upgrading airports and using transportation taxes for the state’s roads, it appears that state officials have been allowing the roads to degrade in order to get residents so fed up, an alternate transportation plan, at any cost, will be accepted.

Rail officials had their own estimates for airline and road updates and repairs. The High-Speed Rail business plan states that 2,300 miles of new highways, 115 new airport gates and four new airport runways will be needed over the next 20 years, at a cost of $170 billion. So why not instead invest $99 billion into High-Speed Rail instead?

But the infrastructure is already in place for highway and air travel. California’s roads are in such a state of disrepair, they need repair anyway.

Democratic Support

Democratic Legislators were supportive and optimistic about the plan, even with the “sticker shock,” as Senate President Pro Tem Darrell Steinberg, D-Sacramento, said. “It’s a tough and honest assessment of the challenges ahead,” Steinberg said. And he touted the 100,000 jobs the plan states will be hired in the first phase.

“This plan is current, transparent and realistic,” said Mike Rossi, Democratic Gov. Jerry Brown’s Jobs Czar.

As Democrats proclaimed support for the business plan, Republicans were saying, “I told you so.” Board of Equalization Member George Runner, a former state senator, has been predicting that the High-Speed Rail costs would escalate. Runner said in a statement that that the voters should be able to decide if the plan should go forward. Otherwise it is a breach of contract since the costs have tripled since Proposition 1A, which authorized the HSR, was passed in 2008.

Another Vote?

Sen. Doug LaMalfa, R-Redlands, advanced that plan. LaMalfa announced he is introducing a bill that would allow voters to give the rail spending plan a thumbs-up or down.

LaMalfa proposed a bill during the last legislative session that would have de-funded High-Speed Rail, but it was killed in the Senate Transportation and Housing Committee.

The bill now is up for reconsideration. LaMalfa said he will bring back SB 22, as well as his new bill, and push both of the bills through. “It’s important to run the legislation and let the voters weigh in on it, as they did the first time,” LaMalfa said. “The Legislature could just sit on approving the spending plan and not formally approve it, letting it hang out there, but too many people and especially farmers would not know what the future holds. It’s important to get voter input and finality.”

Currently, the High-Speed Rail Authority only has the $3 billion federal rail grant and the $9.9 billion approved by state voters. “The grant is burning a hole in their pockets,” LaMalfa said.

LaMalfa said the smart thing to do is give the money back to the federal government, “It’s a bad investment at this point.”

Grants Support Innovative Classroom Learning

Community-Based San Juan Education Foundation Awards Grants for Science, Technology, Arts, and Literacy
Posted: 11/25/2011

San Juan Unified School District students are the big winners from the new educational grant programs.

SACRAMENTO COUNTY - Grants totaling nearly $40,000 from the San Juan Education Foundation (SJEF) will be awarded immediately to teachers in the San Juan Unified School District to fund innovative programs in science, technology, arts, and reading. An additional $30,000 had been allocated for literacy programs in 2012.

San Juan Education Foundation is an independent, non-profit community organization formed as a link between the community and schools in the San Juan Unified School District. The Foundation annually awards grants directly to educators to support teacher-initiated classroom programs that creatively challenge San Juan students and nurture their desire to learn.

Some of the projects that will benefit from the grants include a campus radio station that will provide English language learners with the opportunity for meaningful school involvement, a project that uses Mouse Trap Cars to help students understand how to calculate speed and velocity and use critical thinking in teams, the use of GPS technology to develop topographic maps of the American River Parkway, the use of radio controlled cars to better understand the laws of physics, development of a mallet ensemble using marimba, xylophone and vibes, a collaborative program with Powerhouse Science Center and RAFT (Resource Area For Teachers) to give students a hands-on science experience, as well as additional science, literacy and music projects that integrate technology.

“California’s budget problems have seriously impacted the ability of our schools to continue important academic program, and we believe it is critically important to do everything we can as members of the Sacramento community to enrich the classroom experience and offer support to teachers who want to use their creativity and innovation to challenge their students,” said SJEF Board Chair Charlene Mattison.

The Foundation’s Board is comprised of community, business and education leaders, who bring professional expertise, knowledge of community resources and the creativity necessary for a fresh approach to helping teachers help their students to thrive.

For more information about how to apply for grants and about the San Juan Education Foundation, please visit www.sanjuanfoundation.org.

Help Homeless Women and Children Fill Their Holiday Stockings

Posted: 11/25/2011

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

Pothole Sweeps Begin

Posted: 11/25/2011

Sacramento County – The Sacramento County Department of Transportation (SACDOT) recently intensified efforts to identify and repair potholes. This project is part of continuous efforts to improve preventative maintenance acti-vities for unincorporated area roadways. Pothole sweeps are performed twice each year: in Fall to ready road surfaces for the storm season and in late Spring to repair potholes caused by inclement weather.

Work crews began inspecting streets and marking potholes with white paint in early November. To report a problem pothole not identified by crews go to www.sacdot.com.

Repairs should continue for another two to three week period. Maintenance crews and equipment will sweep through streets and repair all identified potholes.

Recalling Fallen Carmichael Sons

By Susan Maxwell Skinner
Posted: 11/17/2011

Veterans of more than 70 years of wars honor La Sierra High School students who died in Vietnam. Local troops of Cub and Boy Scouts provided an honor guard in Carmichael. Photo by Susan Maxwell Skinner.
Posted: 11/17/2011

Carmichael – Over 1000 years ago, Greek philosopher Plato said: “Only the dead have seen the end of wars. The need for heroes continues.”

Seventeen such heroes were honored in Carmichael last week. The fallen were students of La Sierra High School. Hard hit by the Vietnam War, the school created the first known California memorial to this conflict in 1973. Though the school is now closed, a towering steel monument in the Earl J. Koobs Nature Area oversees annual Veteran’s Day observances. In the former school grounds, a new plaque honors the17 young men who volunteered or were drafted soon after graduating. Their memorial may be viewed at the La Sierra Community Center, 5325 Engle Rd, Carmichael.

New names may yet be added. Guardians of both memorials seek to verify high school attendance of several others who died in Vietnam. These include: Jean Dugas; Mark Miller; Edward Schlottman; Daniel Bishop (for whom the Carmichael Park concert shell is named). Some may have attended la Sierra, even for a short period. Information may be shared with the La Sierra Class of ‘69 website: www.lsl69.com

A rusty monument names 15 former La Sierra students who gave their lives in Vietnam battles. More names were recently inscribed on a plaque on the grounds of the school, now La Sierra Community Center. Photo by Susan Maxwell Skinner.

The November 11 Carmichael ceremony saw ever-dwindling ranks of WW 2 veterans bolstered by those who served in Korea, Vietnam and Middle East wars. Supporters brought the event attendance to 180. Earl (“Ranger Jack”) Koobs taught most of the Vietnam fallen during his career at La Sierra. The 91-year-old struck a solemn chime as each of their names was announced.

In keeping with tradition at November 11 ceremonies, the poem “In Flanders Fields” was read. Written in 1915 by Canadian physician Lt John McCrae, its verses honor soldiers who died in Flanders (Belgium) during WW 1. It contains the lines:

“In Flanders fields the poppies grow
Between the crosses, row on row…”

McCrae’s tribute ends with the pledge:

“If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders Fields”.

Moved to tears, Jack Koobs applied the words to La Sierra’s Vietnam heroes. “We should never forget them,” said the WW 2 Navy veteran. “They were wonderful boys. I loved them all."

Moved to tears, Jack Koobs applied the words to La Sierra’s Vietnam heroes. “We should never forget them,” said the WW 2 Navy veteran. “They were wonderful boys. I loved them all.”

Koobs is now a paternal figure for his “boys.” Few of their parents are alive to attend the annual remembrance. One exception this year was Carmichael resident Betty Morford, who farewelled her 19-year-old when he was drafted. “The last time I saw Larry was the day that men landed on the moon,” she recalled.

Larry Morford planned to be a medical missionary. Instead, he became one of the most decorated soldiers in the Vietnam War; just one medal short of Audi Murphy’s WW2 record. After seven months of service, two Purple Hearts and multiple awards for valor, Morford died protecting comrades in the 199th Light Brigade. He could have been invalided home after his first Purple Heart but had chosen to stay with his comrades. When asked why he stayed in combat duty, he replied: “The job (we do) is the job of a beast. The least beastly of us should be doing it.”

Betty Morford said the annual ceremony made her proud that La Sierra boys were not forgotten. “You can’t imagine what they had to go through,” she said. “They were the finest, the best of their generation.”

DMV’s New Web Page to Honor Military

Posted: 11/17/2011

Sacramento – The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is proud to honor the courageous men and women of the armed forces with a new “Area of Interest” web page, exclusively designed to offer a centralized clearinghouse of valuable resources accessible from anywhere in the world.

“Whether you are a veteran or currently serving, the DMV wants to thank you and your family for the sacrifices you have made for this country and the citizens of California,” said DMV Director George Valverde. “Many of our own employees are veterans, so we feel a personal connection to our military community.” Veterans, active military and their families will not only enjoy convenient DMV online services at www.dmv.ca.gov/coi/veterans/veterans.htm, but can also link with our partner, the California Department of Veterans Affairs, to find resources including information about home loans, voter registration, medical services, and educational assistance.

In addition, a few clicks of the mouse will transport visitors to the websites of the U.S. Department of Defense and U.S. State Department. “We are grateful to our partner, the DMV, for creating this website which serves and honors California’s veterans,” said Peter J. Gravett, CalVet Secretary. “This DMV web page will greatly assist veterans in taking care of issues dealing with their motor vehicles. I also remind all veterans to make sure they identify themselves as veterans on the form when they renew their drivers license or identification card so we can ensure they get notified of all the benefits they have earned.”

An estimated 2.2 million veterans live in the Golden State and that number increases as an average 30,000 troops return each month from Iraq and Afghanistan. Remember, you can order California Veterans special interest license plates at www.dmv.ca.gov. The California Department of Veterans Affairs uses proceeds to benefit participating county veteran service offices and to commemorate veteran organizations.

Hard Work, Low Pay, Miserable Conditions

CCC California Conservation Corps Marks 35 Years with Work Throughout the State
Posted: 11/17/2011

The California Conservation Corps has now been around for 35 years, but don’t expect to see balloons or birthday celebrations. Instead, the CCC will mark the anniversary with shovels, chain saws and chippers.

The CCC’s motto is “hard work, low pay, miserable conditions…and more.” True to form, corpsmembers will find themselves commemorating the 35 years with more work throughout the state.

The program was created by Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. in 1976, during his first term. Modeled after the original 1930s Civilian Conservation Corps, Gov. Brown envisioned a “combination Jesuit seminary, Israeli kibbutz and Marine Corps boot camp.”

Since 1976, more than 115,000 young men and women have participated in the CCC, earning minimum wage for natural resource work and emergency response. Despite the low pay, there are more than 800 applicants currently on the CCC’s waiting list.

Corpsmembers have devoted more than 67 million hours to conservation work throughout California, planting 21 million trees, constructing or repairing 9,779 miles of backcountry trails, improving more than 1800 miles of salmon and steelhead habitat, and auditing and retrofitting more than 25 million square feet of public buildings to reduce energy use.

CCC crews may be most visible as they respond to floods, fires, earthquakes, oil spills and pest infestations. Corpsmembers have provided more than 9.6 million emergency hours and assisted with recovery efforts following the Station Fire (2009), the Oakland Hills Fire (1991), the Loma Prieta (1989) and Northridge (1994) earthquakes and many other natural disasters.

Corpsmembers – young men and women ages 18 to 25 – work out of 27 different residential and nonresidential sites throughout California. The CCC is the oldest and largest conservation corps program in the country.

After a year in the CCC, many corpsmembers are hired by resource management agencies, others have become teachers, firefighters, law enforcement officers and small business owners. There are now second-generation corpsmembers, the sons and daughters of early-day corpsmembers.

In recognition of the CCC’s anniversary, corpsmembers from throughout the state submitted more than 1,000 video clips to showcase “A Day in the Life” of the CCC. The footage was shot during a two-week period in October and also includes some vintage video of the late B.T. Collins (CCC director 1979-81) as well as reflections from CCC Director David Muraki. The video is posted on the CCC’s website: www.ccc.ca.gov

Vote Again On High-Speed Rail

Commentary by George Runner
Posted: 11/17/2011

Imagine you found the house of your dreams. The price is $450,000. You sign papers only to later learn the sellers made a mistake. The price for the house is actually $1 million. Fortunately, under California real estate law, you can back out of the deal. But if you were a California voter buying a train instead of a house, you might be out of luck.

In November 2008 California voters narrowly approved - by a vote of 52.7 percent to 47.3% percent - Proposition 1A. The measure authorizes nearly $20 billion in state spending to establish high-speed train service linking Southern California counties, the Sacramento/San Joaquin Valley and the San Francisco Bay Area.

At the time, the entire project was expected to cost about $45 billion.

Proponents claimed funds from other public and private sources would cover the project’s remaining costs.

Tom McClintock, Jon Coupal and I co-authored the opposition ballot argument. We called the measure a “boondoggle” that “could cost $90 billion - the most expensive railroad in history.” We warned that no one really knew how much the project would ultimately cost.

After years of waste and mismanagement, California’s High Speed Rail Authority (CHSRA) has finally admitted what critics like us warned all along: “Building the entire system will take longer and cost more than previously estimated.”

In fact, the price tag for this risky transit gamble is now nearly $100 billion - more than twice the original estimate. The new number is greater than California’s entire annual state budget. To fund the entire project today, every Californian, including men, women and children, would need to write a check for more than $2,500.

Without those checks, existing funding will only be enough to cover the first phase of the project connecting Fresno and Bakersfield. Should additional funding materialize, Merced and San Jose will be the next stops.

Despite the uncertainty, the folks at CHSRA claim California voters still want to buy this train. At a recent press conference, CHSRA chair and former Democrat Assemblyman Tom Umberg said, “There are some things that do change - development changes, cost changes. But the will of the California voter, I believe, remains the same today...”

Mr. Umberg might believe California voters are still on board, but I’m not so sure. Much has changed since 2008. California’s unemployment rate has risen from single to double digits, the state’s budget has become much, much tighter, and our credit rating has been downgraded to the worst of any state in the nation.

Further, the deadly collision of two high-speed trains in China earlier this year has prompted new worries about the safety of high-speed rail and led to the recall of 54 trains, reduced speed limits and a moratorium on new projects in that country.

Finally, renewed concerns about our nation’s debt and overall government spending make the outlook for federal funding far less certain. Congressman Kevin McCarthy has introduced a measure that would freeze federal funding and require a thorough audit of the project. The measure, introduced last month, is being co-sponsored by nine other California congressmen.

Perhaps California voters support high-speed rail regardless of the cost.

If so, high-speed rail proponents shouldn’t fear a new vote on their new plan. If not, it would be a breach of contract—or as liberal columnist Tom Elias puts it - “a bait and switch”—to move forward with a costly plan that is little like the one Californians voted for three years ago.

As even Mr. Umberg admits, there are other options for improving California’s crumbling transportation infrastructure. One hundred billion dollars – or even a smaller portion of that number – could do much to improve the roads, freeways, ports and airports Californians use every day. The taxpayers who will foot the bill should make this call.

To that end, State Sen. Doug LaMalfa plans to introduce legislation putting the project back on the ballot. California taxpayers should support his effort and urge Gov. Jerry Brown, the Legislature and the CHSRA board to do the same.

Elected in November 2010, George Runner represents more than nine million Californians as a member of the State Board of Equalization. For more information, visit www.boe.ca.gov/Runner.

Heroes Honored at Patriots Park

By Susan Maxwell Skinner
Posted: 11/12/2011

Families with kin named on the Patriots Park Wall of Honor are saluted by the Del Campo High ROTC and piper Bruce Locken. Photo by Susan Maxwell Skinner.

Carmichael – In a weekend remembrance ceremony, Carmichael Park District and bereaved families honored fallen sons.

Central to Patriots Park (Palm Ave, near Dewey and madison) a Wall or Honor bears plaques naming local men who died in service to community or nation since the Carmichael Park District began. While there is provision for more names, no new plaques were added to the monument this year. Instead, a ceremony recalled the sacrifice of 12 Carmichael and Fair Oaks’ heroes.

County Supervisor Susan Peters paid tribute to the fallen and praised the monument’s role. “For families in attendance today, we offer thanks,” she said. “Patriots Park has been embraced by the community since it opened in 2008. We hope it is a source of continued pride and remembrance.”

To some families, the Wall of Honor serves as a symbolic grave stone. During Operation Desert Shield, US Navy fighter pilot Lt. David Warne was lost in the Mediterranean Sea. Though he is honored at Arlington National Cemetery, his body was never recovered. Still living in the same house where he grew up, the Warne family attended the weekend commemoration. Said David’s father, Vietnam Silver Star recipient Col Evans Warne: “The Wall of Honor provides comfort that my son’s sacrifice is recognized by people who come to this park.”

Plaques represent men who wore the uniform of Army, Marines, Air Force and Navy. The CHP, Sacramento Sheriff’s Department and Firefighters are also represented.

“In some ways, it’s a wall of healing,” said Jim Byrnes, whose brother Robert was lost in Vietnam. “It enables us to talk about our loved ones and keep their memory going.”

Carmichael Park District allows more names to be added to the Wall of Honor each fall. Conditions apply. For nomination guidelines, call (916) 485-5322.

Footnote: Several of the Wall’s honorees are also named on Carmichael’s Vietnam War Memorial. Situated in the Earl Koobs Nature Area (5325 Engle Rd), the memorial will host Veterans’ Day observances this Friday, November 11, at 11 a.m. Anyone may attend.

Carmichael Water District Welcomes New Director

Posted: 11/12/2011

George “Roy” Leidy

Carmichael - Carmichael Water District is happy to announce the appointment of George “Roy” Leidy to the District’s Board of Directors.

Roy is a senior aquatic ecologist with AECOM, a global provider of professional technical and management support services. Roy specializes in conservation biology and fish and wildlife management. Director Leidy was appointed to the Board of Directors for District 1 on September 19, 2011 to fill the unexpired term of former director Sanford B. Kozlen. He has a B.S. degree from U.C. Berkeley in resource management and has been involved in a broad range of California water management issues since 1974, including endangered species, water resources, watershed management, instream flows, water quality, habitat restoration, and regulatory compliance. He possesses extensive knowledge of resource management issues in the western United States.

Aerospace Museum of California Honors Veterans Day and Partners with “Support 4 Soldiers” to Help Wounded Warriors

Posted: 11/12/2011

Sacramento – The Aerospace Museum of California (AMC) (www.aerospaceca.org) announced a special tribute on Friday, November 11, in honor of Veterans Day from 9:00am to 5:00pm with a brief ceremony honoring all veterans at 11:00 a.m. The Air Force Sergeant’s Association of Sacramento is hosting the Museum’s Veterans Day event and the program will be held at the AMC’s Memorial Plaza with a tribute to the flag, followed by the National Anthem, a wreath laying, and will conclude with remarks. Special Museum admission of $5.00 per person (children under the age of five are free) will be available all day.

“We want to honor and thank all veterans for serving this great nation,” said Roxanne Yonn, executive director of the Aerospace Museum of California. “We encourage visitors to enjoy a day at the Museum, be inspired and give thanks to the men and women (both past and present) who served and sacrificed for the freedoms we enjoy today.”

The community is also invited to donate much needed items to wounded warriors currently stationed in Afghanistan. The AMC has partnered with local non-profit organization, Support 4 Soldiers, and will serve as a drop off point for donations specifically for soldiers that have been injured in battle and are currently recuperating. Soldiers arrive straight from the battlefield and do not have anything with them. For this particular program all donations must be dropped off by November 11th.

Representatives for Support 4 Soldiers will be at the Museum all day on Veterans Day and will be on hand to collect donations and answer questions. Items needed are:

- Warm clothes such as hoodies, jackets, sweatpants, gloves, etc.
- Shoes and flip flops (for shower shoes)
- Twin size bed sheets
- Blankets
- Sunglasses (black only)
- Snacks (candy, beef jerky, granola bars, sunflower seeds, etc.)
- Anything for entertainment such as games, books, movies, music, etc.

Monetary donations will also be accepted and will be used to defray shipping costs and/or purchase additional requested items. Donations are tax deductible; for more information please visit Support 4 Soldiers. In addition, attendees can color pictures, sign cards and flags or just send their thoughts and gratitude to the troops overseas. The organization will also have information on hand regarding its holiday care package program.

Active duty military service members receive free admission to the Museum. To receive free admittance visitors must present a military ID. Admission for the general public is $5.00.

The AMC is a non-profit foundation dedicated to inspirational and educational programs, honoring the rich military and aviation history of the greater Sacramento region, and highlighting the impact and innovation of the Museum’s many community partners. For more information visit www.aerospaceca.org or join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/AerospaceMuseumCA. The Museum is located at 3200 Freedom Park Drive, McClellan, CA 95652.

FBI Names Community Leadership Award Recipient

Posted: 11/12/2011

Sacramento County–The Sacramento Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is pleased to announce that WEAVE, Inc. is the recipient of the 2011 Director’s Community Leadership Award. The annual award recognizes the achievement of an individual or organization for commitment to violence education and prevention. “It is an honor to be able to present WEAVE, Inc. with the Director’s Community Leadership Award for commitment to crisis intervention and prevention in our region,” said Herb Brown, Special Agent in Charge (SAC) of the Sacramento FBI field office. “Beth Hassett and her team’s outstanding efforts have continually increased the community’s understanding of domestic violence and sexual assault and have ensured that victims have resources available to begin the healing process.”

Since opening as a grassroots organization in 1978, WEAVE has become a large, nationally recognized agency that provides crisis intervention and prevention services to women, men and children who are victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and human trafficking in the Sacramento region. Focused on eliminating the cycle of violence and abuse, WEAVE dedicates significant resources to prevention and education programs in addition to essential victims services.

In 2011, WEAVE realized the following successes: 197 women and 168 children found refuge at the safe house for an average of 27 days each15, 865 callers received help from the 24-hour Support Line1, 006 women and men received counseling 57 children received therapy to break the cycle of violence1, 404 victims received legal services, 212 rape victims were accompanied at the hospital during evidence collection. “I am honored that WEAVE has been chosen as the Sacramento area recipient of the Director’s Community Leadership Award.

WEAVE believes that all women, men and children deserve to feel safe in their homes and community, “said Beth Hassett, Executive Director of WEAVE. “In these difficult times we have to be more innovative, more enthusiastic and more committed to making sure that the most vulnerable among us are taken care of. The award represents our continued efforts to create a cohesive response to victims and accountability for perpetrators.” For more than two decades, Beth Hassett, Executive Director of WEAVE, has been a volunteer and staff member for non-profit organizations focused on improving the quality of life in the Sacramento region and beyond.

As the Executive Director of WEAVE, Hassett leads a team of advocates, counselors, educators and volunteers who share the common goal of bringing an end to domestic violence and sexual assault in the community.

In addition to her position with WEAVE, Hassett currently serves as a commissioner on the First Five Sacramento Commission, President of the Planned Giving Forum of Sacramento, Treasurer of the California Coalition Against Sexual Assault (CALCASA), Vice President of the Midtown Business Association, Secretary of the Sacramento Children’s Coalition, and is a member of both the ALS Association National Board of Representatives and the board of the ALS Association of Greater Sacramento. She was appointed to the statewide Domestic Violence Advisory Council by Governor Schwarzenegger in 2010 and graduate of the Sacramento FBI Citizens Academy in 2011.

Hassett will accept the 2011 FBI Director’s Community Leadership Award on behalf of WEAVE, Inc. from SAC Brown during a small ceremony held at the Sacramento field office at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, November 30, 2011. Hassett will also travel to FBI Headquarters in Washington D.C. to receive the official engraved crystal award from FBI Director Robert Mueller on March 16, 2012, at a public ceremony.

Tall Ship Hawaiian Chieftain Arrives

Posted: 11/2/2011

The Hawaiian Chieftain has sailed into Sacramento to provide educational tours. Photo by Ron Arel, Coastal Images.

Sacramento – The topsail ketch Hawaiian Chieftain arrived in Sacramento this month for its annual visit focused on helping young people understand the amazing maritime history of California and the west coast. The two-masted sailing ship has tied up at Old Sacramento, Front and L Streets, and will stay through December 13.

Built of steel in 1988, Hawaiian Chieftain is a replica of a typical European merchant trader of the turn of the nineteenth century. Her hull shape and rigging are similar to those of Spanish explorer’s ships used in the expeditions of the late 18th century along the Washington, Oregon, and California coasts. During most of the year, she accompanies the brig Lady Washington on voyages to more than 40 ports along the coast. Hawaiian Chieftain is 109 feet, nine inches long, and her mainmast rises 75 feet off the water.

The ship will host K-12 school groups, as well as home-school groups, service organizations, seniors groups, and church groups for one-hour and three-hour education programs. Space is still available for the education programs on weekdays and weekends. The programs feature a number of on-board stations focused on navigation, basic oceanography, and the lives of 18th century mariners. Program scholarships are available for qualified schools. To qualify, a public school must be designated Title I by the U.S. Department of Education, which means at least 40 percent of the school’s students receive free or reduced-price lunch. For information on scholarships and scheduling, contact Roxie Underwood, 800-200-5239, education@historicalseaport.org.

Hawaiian Chieftain will also open for walk-on tours to the general public.

4 p.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

A $3 donation per person is appreciated. No sailing programs for the general public are scheduled.

The ship will be closed Thanksgiving Day.

The Grays Harbor Historical Seaport Authority is a not-for-profit, 501(c)(3) public development authority based in Aberdeen, Wash. that owns and operates the tall ships Hawaiian Chieftain and Lady Washington, the Official Ship of the State of Washington. GHHSA provides educational, vocational, recreational and ambassadorial activities and experiences that promote and preserve the maritime history of Grays Harbor, the Pacific Northwest, and our nation while serving the needs of the community.

Revenue Down, Rates Up for Water District

From Steve Nugent, General Manager
Posted: 11/2/2011

Carmichael – Water utilities are feeling the effects of revenue shortfalls. Communities are using less water which has translated to lower than average water sales. Factors that contribute to the decrease in revenue are cooler weather conditions, the economic downturn, and meter installation to meet the State mandated Water Conservation Act.

Carmichael Water District (CWD) is not immune to these conditions. The District has reviewed the current water usage and rate structure and determined that there is a significant revenue shortfall. Over the past two years, the District has been using reserve funds to cover the revenue shortfall from the lower water usage. Most metered customers have been experiencing lower water bills than the District had planned.

During the District’s rate study, rates were analyzed and assumptions took in to account anticipated fluctuations along with the new requirement of the State of California’s 2009 Water Conservation Act calling for the reduction of water production by 20% by the year 2020. For Fiscal year 2011-2012 the District rate study planned for water production to drop to about 15% of the historic average. The past 12 months actual water production figures are 25% lower than historical average and 5% lower than the State of California’s 2009 Water Conservation Act.

CWD acted to reduce expenses significantly based on projected shortfalls. The cuts are:

- Refinanced $28,550,000 in bonds in March 2010, resulting in substantially lower interest rates and interest payments while maintaining the same maturity schedule.
- Applied for and received grants worth $1,000,000 to help finance a water reliability project (water treatment plant expansion) and to accelerate the meter program.
- Reduced operating costs in March 2011, while preparing the FY 2011-12 adopted budget.
- Restructured the departments to maximize efficiency, resulting in elimination of 1 position and layoff of 1 employee.
- Deferred capital improvement projects and extended the completion schedule of the meter installation program eliminating 3 operator positions.
- Revised the FY 2011-12 budget with additional budget cuts to total $972,245.

Typical of all water utilities, 80% of CWD’s costs to provide water service to our customers are fixed costs with only power, chemicals, and a portion of labor costs being variable. When water consumption goes up, revenues go up, but when consumption falls, so do revenues. Even with severe budget cuts, an 18% increase in revenue is necessary in order to safely operate and maintain the District’s water system.

Sixty-Six Marijuana Dispensaries Closed

By Nora Heston
Posted: 11/2/2011

Sacramento County - Sacramento County’s plan for closing down marijuana dispensaries in its unincorporated areas has proven successful with reports of 66 dispensaries closed as of October 27, said county officials.

“Since dispensaries were never legal in the unincorporated county, enforcing the law and closing these operations down was the right course for Sacramento County to take,” said Brad Hudson, County Executive, according to a press release dated October 20. “After completing a series of public meetings in pursuit of a regulatory ordinance, I will be recommending to the Board of Supervisors that we discontinue pursuing any kind of regulatory permitting plan, and maintain the status quo of keeping them illegal.”

Hudson said the recent enforcement activity by the federal government, as well as the success of the county’s enforcement activities and recent court decisions, also helped to influence his decision regarding the matter.

While the individual dispensaries closed for various reasons, the county enforcement actions, as well as federal pressure, have been a significant factor, said Chris Andis, Communication and Media Officer.

According to a the press release, the county’s enforcement actions include administrative penalties of up to $1,500 per day as well as injunctions against facilities and property owners to shut down facilities. Liens against the property for unpaid penalties will also be used. Property owners are responsible for administrative fees even if the business has closed and is no longer in operation.

“I supported [the] decision to penalize businesses and property owners that are operating in violation of county codes and regulations,” said Susan Peters, Sacramento County Supervisor for the third district. “This stepped up action by Sacramento County is having a positive impact.”

The 66 closed dispensaries include six of the eight stores located on Fair Oaks Boulevard, Peters said.

Money collected from the fines enforced as part of the county’s plans for closing illegally operating dispensaries go back into the efforts, Andis said. “The Board of Supervisors also appropriated $135,000 of General Fund revenue for this purpose.”

The county is still working to close the other 33 known establishments,” Andis said.

Rio Americano High School to Hold Musical Marathon

Posted: 11/2/2011

Sacramento – Join the Rio Americano High School Band on Thursday, November 10 for Playathon, a 17-hour musical marathon featuring all seven of the school’s jazz and concert bands in addition to soloists and combos from the Small Ensemble program. This annual event, in its 31st year, benefits Rio’s comprehensive music program, serving all levels of high school musicians. Band students from local middle and elementary schools are invited to attend from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. to play along with Rio Band. This year’s theme is Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. A carnival with Potter-themed games and food will be open to all musicians from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m. The community is invited to attend evening performances scheduled from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. Events take place at the Rio Americano campus at 4540 American River Drive, and are free of charge. Tax-deductible donations to the Rio Americana Band Boosters (Federal Tax ID#680018985) will support program expenses not covered by the district budget.

The Rio Americano band program, under the direction of Josh Murray and Max Kiesner, provides the highest quality high school music education. In September students performed at the Monterey Jazz Festival, Rio’s 15th appearance at the famed musical event. This honor is awarded annually to the top three high school bands participating in the Monterey Next Generation Festival the previous spring. On October 27, Rio’s concert and jazz bands will premiere new works composed by Christopher Caliendo and Omar Thomas in conjunction with an emerging non-profit organization, Composers and Schools in Concert. Rio bands have toured Argentina, Australia, Europe, Japan and China, and will travel to Spain this summer.

For more information about the Rio Band program and the Playathon, contact Josh Murray at (916)971-7512, jomurray@sanjuan.edu, or visit www.rioband.net.

A Wild Success for Effie Yeaw

By Susan Maxwell Skinner
Posted: 10/26/2011

Corky Qirk (left) reveals the wing structure of one of her live charges. Founder of the Nor Cal Bats organisation; the Davis-based naturalist uses rescued and handicapped bats to improve understanding of these maligned mammals. Learn about her work at www.norcalbats.org. Photo by Susan Maxwell Skinner.

Carmichael – Two wild cats helped to achieve record attendance for last weekend’s Nature Fest at the Effie Yeaw facility. In what is likely to be an annual event, the outreach brought over 1300 visitors to the Ancil Hoffman Park facility.

Formerly supported by Sacra-mento County, the center, its preserve and educational programs lost all public funding in 2009. It has since been administered by the American River Natural History Association (ARNHA) and now depends on grants and fundraisers.

Reported Effie Yeaw Director Paul Tebbel: “More people came to our Nature Fest than to than any event we’ve had here. We wanted families and that’s what we got. Many had never visited the us before. We measure our success by 500 E- mail addresses we collected; from people who want to hear about the center in future.” Tebbel credited the imported wild cats for the extraordinary public response. “People were overawed by their beauty,” he said. “But many stayed three hours or more. There was so much else to do.”

Outdoor programs included crafts and interactive displays. “Bat lady” Corky Quirk brought a stable of educator bats from Davis and was immediately engulfed for close encounters of the megachiropteran kind. Informal lectures on raptors, reptiles, bees and lady bugs continued the educational theme; a display of historical photographs provided views of early Carmichael life. Guided nature walks were hosted by avian experts.

For the “wild cat adventure” – two showings of mountain lioness Shoshone and her Canada lynx cousin Tiquanna – the indoor auditorium was packed. Hosts were Barbara and Rob Dicely. The couple’s 22-acre Occidental ranch is home for 19 endangered felines. Gasps orchestrated the elegant arrival of their eight-year old lioness. Exhibiting the muscularity of fabled leaping prowess, Shoshone mounted the display table and paced its length. Meaty tidbits enticed cooperation as the Dicelys discussed misconceptions about such species. A smaller, fluffier lynx was an equal crowd pleaser. Both muzzled their owners like tame kitties. “How come they’re acting so nice?” asked a little girl.

“It’s not being nice, “explained a patient Rob Dicely. “They don’t love us; they’re out of their territory and they’re using us for security. They’re wild animals. They’re not obeying commands to sit or stay. They enjoy meat snacks, so they sit on the table. They prefer to return to their carriers; that’s familiar territory.”

Among the Dicely’s animals, lioness Shoshone pleases wherever the couple’s 100 or more educational programs per year take them. “She has such a presence, people are in awe of her,” says Dicely. “No one gets to see mountain lions, yet they share our territory. When she jumps up and looks at you with those beautiful eyes, I think people realize how lucky we are to have such magnificent creatures around us. We hope that seeing them first hand makes people want to help save them from moving towards extinction.”

Learn about Effie Yeaw Nature Center programs at www.sacnaturecenter.net.

Visit the Wild cat Education and Conservation Fund at www.wildcatfund.org.

Carmichael Elks to Assist Supporters of U.S. Troops

At Home and Abroad
From Carmichael Elks Lodge
Posted: 10/26/2011

Elks Tom Ingle (left) and Dale Weisst (right), lead the way in support of our troops. Photo by Paul V. Scholl.

Carmichael - In honor of all active US Troops serving at home and abroad, Carmichael Elks Lodge #2103 is launching its banner giveaway to help up to 20,000 Americans show their support for the US armed forces. With this donation assistance, Carmichael Elks Lodge will assist with ordering the free banners and post cards from one of our cooperating suppliers. Freight charges are the only cost to the families and supporters. We will assist in providing military families all over the country with one free personalized banner or one free personalized jumbo postcard for their homecoming and holiday celebrations while encouraging businesses to create banners that show their support of our troops.

Carmichael Elks Lodge and its sponsoring manufacturers are also giving away jumbo holiday cards to families whose service members won’t be home in time for the holidays. These families can send personalized jumbo holiday cards to loved ones overseas for less than the cost of shipping a banner. Both free banners and free jumbo cards are available to everyone by contacting the Veterans Committee - Carmichael Elks Lodge #2103: Phone: 916 489-2103 or email: CarmElks@comcast.net. We will assist in coordinating your order with our cooperating manufacturer to personalize your banner or jumbo postcard.

Local florist and Carmichael Elks Lodge #2103 member Dawn Conyers of Bella Fiore Florist and Event Specialist is offering a 30% discount on floral services to military families who order the free banners and jumbo postcards mentioned above. She can be reached by phone; (916) 962-3800 or visit the website; www.bellafieoredesigns.com

“We received such an amazing response from our original banner giveaway in July that we had to find a way to re-launch the campaign. Now, after making some capital improvements to our production process, we’re ready to give away twice as many banners as before. We’re also giving away jumbo holiday cards that families can more easily ship to their loved ones overseas”. - Andy Knopp, Sr. Operations Manager at our cooperating manufacture’s office.

All products offered are 100% customizable. Users can simply choose from one of the 12 designs. If you do not have internet service available, one of our veterans committee members will assist with ordering on line.

Through the landing page, military families and friends can also enjoy heavy discounts on many or cooperating manufacturer’s popular holiday gift products like magnetic bumper stickers, custom parking signs and personalized license plates. The offer is limited to one free product per order and does not include the cost of shipping. This donation cannot be combined with any Carmichael Elks, or our cooperating manufacturer’s other promotional offers and will end when all 20,000 banners have been given away. Carmichael Elks Lodge #2103 is proud to help the community support our troops.

This campaign is projected to run through July, 2012.

County Faces Pot Dispensaries Dilemma

By Nora Heston-Boo
Posted: 10/26/2011

Sacramento County - Sacramento County is making plans to regulate medical marijuana dispensaries that have been popping up all over the county for years, according to county officials.

It is not a matter of targeting some shops and not others, said Chris Andis, Communication and Media Officer, but rather about ensuring businesses are complying with current regulations and enforcing regulations for those that are not.

“We feel it’s important to enforce the current zoning and building and licensing laws, plain and simple, and it’s only fair to all those businesses who comply with regulations and pay their fees that we enforce the laws for everyone,” Andis said.

Andis said Sacramento County hopes to address all of the shops that they know are open and are not utilizing proper building codes.

Two shops have already been closed after the county put injunctions on them, Andis said.

“We are working our way through the process that involves inspections, notifying them, legal wait periods and re-inspections,” Andis said.

The county is moving forward with other injunctions as well.

While the county attempts to close down dispensaries that are in violation of current zoning and building licensing laws, they are considering allowing some shops to stay open, despite the fact that all marijuana dispensaries are currently illegal, and therefore, unpermitted.

“Allowing a specified number of dispensaries is the route other jurisdictions have taken and is one of the options we will consider,” Andis said. “We want the communities to weigh in on this subject so that we can craft a regulation that works.”

According to Andis, one of the plans that could be used to achieve this would be considering a certain number of dispensaries per capita to avoid clustering a large number of dispensaries in one neighborhood.

Perhaps Surprisingly, Amir Daliri, Director of Government Relations at the California Cannabis Association, or CCA, agrees that there are too many dispensaries in Sacramento County, and he blames the county’s supervisors for failing to do their job as public servants and not regulating the dispensaries already.

However, Daliri also said the association believes dispensaries are the right way to provide safe access to marijuana.

“With regards to Sacramento County, I think dispensaries play a vital role in safe access and curb illicit markets, not to mention most dispensaries provide safe tested medications and this ensures over all patient well-being,” Daliri said.

When asked how the county’s efforts to monitor, shut down and seek legal action against some dispensaries affected the CCA and the shops in Sacramento County, Daliri responded that it only made them stronger.

“We are all about working with law enforcement, the State Board of Equalization, locals and the state lawmakers to create a reasonable, transparent regulatory framework,” Daliri said. “We won’t back down.”

George Mull, president of the California Cannabis Association, suggested a plan that involved overseeing dispensaries by charging a permit fee as well as a six-month reprieve to be given to dispensaries while the county decides how to handle the issue.

While Andis said charging a permit fee is one of the issues on the table, as well as a conditional use permit structure, as far as the reprieve is concerned, the county must enforce current laws and regulations.

The permits would require an upfront fee to recover costs and must be vetted through Community Planning Advisory Board Committees, comprised of community members, as well as brought to the Sacramento County Board of Supervisors for approval, according to Andis.

Concerns regarding closing dispensaries impact on the economy have also been raised.

Dispensaries provide jobs and are also great sources of state and local tax dollars, Daliri said.

But Andis said it is too hard to speculate on the impact of the economy at this time, especially without proper employee documentation, though they have plans in place to recover costs of enforcing regulations.

“Currently, we are assessing administrative penalties that should recover the cost of enforcing the regulations. These are progressive penalties and could add up to $1,500 per day,” Andis said. “These would be assessed to the property owner, and if unpaid, could be liened against the property owner.”

The CCA confirmed that the situation in Sacramento County is not an isolated one.

“The situation in Sacramento County is happening all over the state, and its as simple as this; the incumbents are not forward thinking and don’t care enough to make their communities safe by regulating dispensaries and the bottom line is that they have to step up their game and act as true leaders, what they were elected to do, and understand that the people of the state of California have spoken and passed prop 215 over a decade ago,” Daliri said.

Daliri also said he believes there is a compromise that can be reached between Sacramento County and the dispensaries and the CCA is there to make it happen.

“The medical cannabis providers are eager to work with the county,” Daliri said. “The CCA have offered our helping hand and will continue to do so.”

And while the Sacramento County Board of Supervisors is moving forward with their plans to close dispensaries in the county, they are still in an information-gathering stage.

“We are in the midst of three stakeholder meetings that will discuss location requirements, density, neighborhood concerns and cultivation among other things. Once we gather and assess the information from the stakeholders, which includes collective representatives, community members, medical marijuana users, attorneys and others, we will bring options to the Board of Supervisors for their direction,” Andis said.

The United States’ attorneys for California have indicated that they are going to pursue closing down illegal dispensaries, as well. However, these plans don’t currently change Sacramento County’s plans.

The county is regulating from a land use policy and targeting dispensaries that are not permitted by the county, said Howard Schmidt, Chief of Staff to County Supervisor Susan Peters.

“The county is proceeding with its enforcement action,” Schmidt said.

Final Adoption of the Fair Oaks Boulevard Corridor Plan

By Nora Heston-Boo
Posted: 10/26/2011

e Fair Oaks Boulevard Corridor Plan, or FOBCP, could take place on Wednesday when the Sacramento County Board of Supervisors meet, said county officials. A board meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, October 26, said Howard Schmidt, Chief of Staff to County Supervisor Susan Peters.

“This meeting is intended for final adoption of the Fair Oaks Boulevard Corridor Plan, the Main Street District SPA and amendments to the Zoning Ordinance regarding the non-Main Street portions of the [FOBCP] area,” said Tricia Stevens, Principal Planner of the Community Planning and Development Department’s Planning Division.

The planning commission matters are a follow-up to the September 14 board meeting in which Plan B was presented to and tentatively approved by the Sacramento County Board of Supervisors.

The proposed plan underwent multiple changes requested by the board and the final version, which will be presented to the board on Wednesday, was made available on the county website on Friday, according to Stevens. Addendum 8 outlines the revisions that have been made to the plan based on board direction.

Stevens referred to the revisions as “minor.”

If the board adopts the final version of the FOBCP plan there will be no further decisions made regarding the plan, Stevens said. However, the board could opt to ask for additional changes to be made in which case a final vote would not take place at Wednesday’s meeting.

Prior to the meeting, the Final Environmental Impact Report was certified as adequate and complete and the General Plan Amendment and the Findings of Fact and Statement of Overriding Consideration were adopted.

The only new information that will be given at the meeting is the minor clarifications that were made, Stevens said. “If people want to speak to add new comments, the board will need to decide whether to open up the discussion.”

“There is some disappointment on the part of some community members that the board did not go with the original plan,” Stevens said. However, business owners have provided a generally positive response to the board’s tentative action and approval of Plan B.

ther items on the agenda include announcing vacancies in several councils and commissions including the Fair Oaks Community Planning Advisory Council, with three spots currently open due to expired terms.

According to the agenda, available online, the General Plan Amendment, Community Plan Amendment and Rezone and Zoning Ordinance Amendment are on the schedule for 11:30 a.m. at 700 H St. in room 1450. The meeting is open to the public.

“Book Club in a Box”

Posted: 10/26/2011

Sacramento – The Sacramento Public Library is helping book lovers start their own discussion groups with the new Book Club in a Box. Library card holders may check out a box that contains 15 copies of a popular book and a discussion guide that includes tips for running a book club and a participation sheet.

Book Club in a Box can be borrowed for six weeks, with a one-week renewal period up to a maximum of two renewals. The box may be checked out by any adult library card holder and can be picked up from any Sacramento Public Library location of your choosing.

“What makes Book Club in a Box special is discussion members do not have to buy the books to read before each meeting. The books are free to read -- just like all library books,” said Nina Biddle, library materials manager.

According to Biddle, the library currently has more than 30 book titles available that include such popular and high-demand books as State of Wonder, Strapless, The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society, The Beach Trees, The Time Traveler’s Wife, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, The Girl Who Kicked a Hornet’s Nest, and Becoming Marie Antoinette.

The Book Club in a Box program is supported in part by the generous donations of the Friends of the Sacramento Public Library and the Sacramento Public Library Foundation.

For more information, telephone the Sacramento Public Library at (916) 264-2920 or visit www.saclibrary.org.

“Convoy” Brings Help at Cal Expo

By A. Weaver
Posted: 10/19/2011

The SCOH will distribute between 400,000-500,000 lbs. of goods to the approximately 15,000-20,000 individuals expected at the event this year. Photo courtesy of SCOH.

Sacramento Region–In the United States, approximately one in five children live at or below the poverty line, and in Sacramento, about 18 percent of families and 22 percent of individuals are living below the poverty level.

To help these individuals, the Sacramento “Convoy of Hope” organization will be hosting a one-day, event, on Saturday, November 5, 2011, at Cal Expo, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event is free to the public and parking is free. No ID is required.

The Sacramento Convoy of Hope is a local, non-profit organization, providing food for the hungry and relief for people in crisis. Their mission is to feed people in the United States and around the world.

According to SCOH coordinator Robin Smith, “We are trying to bring a day of hope to our city, especially since the last few years have been hard on the majority of people.”

This local event will aid the growing number of underprivileged, unemployed/underemployed and homeless families and individuals living in the greater Sacramento area, and provide necessary goods and services to meet their most basic needs.

All interested parties will be provided goods and services, free of charge. The services include on-site hot meals, free social services /educational assistance, free medical screening, free job fair, free entertainment for the entire family, free “Kid’s” Carnival, free hair cuts, free clothing, free groceries.

The SCOH is a neighborhood partnership between local area businesses, churches, social services, educational and medical professionals, and more.

“We want to show that our community can come together and help take care of our less fortunate citizens,” said Smith.

Since its inception in 1994, the COH has helped more than 60 million people in more than 100 countries. In that time, nearly $200 million worth of food and supplies has been dispensed to people in need.

The SCOH will distribute between 400,000-500,000 lbs. of goods to the approximately 15,000-20,000 individuals expected at the event this year.

This all-volunteer event brings together hundreds of area residents, businesses, community agencies, service organizations, professionals and churches to put on this sizeable event.

During this economic downturn, with both national and state unemployment at record highs, critical needs are not being met through traditional means. More than 37 million people are living in poverty in our country, and over six million are in California alone. Families with children make up 40 percent of the US homeless population.

To donate, please make checks payable to Sacramento Convoy of Hope, COH, 1524 Santa Ynez Way, Sacramento, CA 95816.

For more information, contact Robin Smith, coordinator, Sacramento Convoy of Hope (916) 549-9922.

Sources: SacramentoCOH.org website; United Way; US Census Bureau; Step Up California; National Coalition for the Homeless.

Soaring Works of Art Take Flight at the Airport

Posted: 10/19/2011

Photo courtesy of Sacramento Metropolitan Arts Commission.
Posted: 10/19/2011

Sacramento Region – Twelve major public artworks are premiering in this month with the opening of the new terminal at the Sacramento International Airport. The general public got its first look at the art as airport passengers from everywhere departed from the new Central Terminal B on October 6th.

The terminal is the largest construction project in the history of Sacramento County, and the artworks there represent the largest public art project in the history of the Sacramento Metropolitan Arts Commission. These public artworks, shepherded by the commission’s Art in Public Places program, are both an integral component and featured attraction of the new terminal.

Each of the 12 artworks activates and responds to the larger environment of the terminal—conceptually and architecturally. They range in scale, form and materials from a 56-foot sculp ture of a red rabbit suspended in the building’s atrium to a multi-story interactive video installation to finely-crafted mosaic floors. The artworks also serve a function: ten of them line the terminal’s central spine, guiding passengers through the facility, and one piece points passengers to baggage claim.

“The artworks are seamlessly integrated into the new terminal, resulting in architecture that is strengthened by art and art that is more powerful because of a well-designed building,” says Art in Public Places Director Shelly Willis.

Three of the twelve artists—Suzanne Adan, Gregory Kondos and Joan Moment—are from Sacramento and nine total from the region. All are nationally recognized and award-winning.

Sacramento artist Joan Moment’s vibrant blue mosaic floor, titled A Fragment of the Universe, evokes the night sky, outer space, the surface of water and the playful interaction of crop circles and planetary forms. Ned Kahn’s 420 steel flags move with the passing Airport’s passenger trains, making the wind visible.M

Lawrence Argent’s monumental red rabbit looks as if it has leapt from the green space on the outside of the terminal to dive headlong into a granite suitcase located in baggage claim. Passersby might think the 56 foot-long rabbit is leaping towards unknown adventure, or running away from something. Children might think of playtime and toys, and adults, images of cleverness, cowardice, good luck, or fertility. But one thing can be reasonably certain: Argent’s “Leap” will make people think. And that is the purpose of the installation.

Bringing the “outside in” was the focus of most but not all of the artists. Po Shu Wang and Louise Bertelsen created a giant, polished, stainless steel sculpture in the form of a French horn, inviting passersby to create music by typing emails translated to sound. Mildred Howard chose to remind travelers of home with a 17-foot hand-blown glass house of reflecting and refracting light that includes fragments of letters written during the California Gold Rush.

“Airports are the gateways to our region, and we’re proud that these artworks will play a role in shaping the perception of Sacramento natives and visitors. Public art can transform the identity of a place and is also an economic strategy for Sacramento,” said Rhyena Halpern, Sacramento Metropolitan Arts Commission’s Executive Director.

Out of the funds allocated for art at the Airport, 15 percent went to artist fees. The other 85 percent went to their contractors, subcontractors, and electrical and structural engineers. The production of the artworks employed more than 150 people—most of them from in and around Sacramento.

The Sacramento Metropolitan Arts Commission is devoted to supporting, promoting and advocating for the arts in the region. Art in Public Places, established in 1977, is a nationally known program founded to expand the experience of visual art in public spaces in and around Sacramento. The Sacramento Metropolitan Arts Commission, found online at www.SacMetroArts.org, is funded by the City and County of Sacramento.

Employers Show Extreme Caution

Source: Pacific Staffing
Posted: 10/4/2011

It is getting tougher and tougher to keep a job. Hiring trends in the Sacramento Region continue to be influenced by Wall Street fluctuations and the depressed national economy.

Sacramento Region - While Sacramento’s top employers are hiring, they continue to show extreme caution as events outside the area raise concerns about the economy. Like the up and down bouncing of the children’s toy, extreme fluctuations on Wall Street and in the greater world economy are impacting hiring trends revealed by Pacific Staffing for October, November and December. Polled directly by phone sixty-two percent (62%) of Sacramento’s top companies say they will hire in the Fourth Quarter, but forty-two percent (42%) of planned hiring was motivated only by the need for replacements. These levels mirror a straight line, or flat trend from third quarter numbers continuing to reflect caution in hiring for expansion by employers.

On the flip side, some industries are improving and thirty percent (30%) of hiring was also cited for growth needs, which is a slight improvement from the third quarter when twenty-five percent (25%) of hiring was motivated by planned expansion. Service industry companies were discovered to be most active in hiring during the Fourth Quarter.

Ten percent (10%) of companies say they planned to layoff workers in the next three months. Half those reductions, or 5% are motivated by seasonal change. The remaining reductions caused by acquisitions and slowing business demand according to employers surveyed between 8/29 – 9/23/ 2011.

Employers continue to say benefits costs and management are their biggest struggle. A new challenge was noted, as some companies report finding qualified applicants is becoming an issue. Specific skills in high demand are technical including software design and digital networking, with biology lab science, allied health skills, sales and customer service workers in demand.

When asked if their company had a page on the social network, Facebook, fifty-four percent (54%) of Sacramento’s top companies said, ‘Yes’. Twenty-four percent (24%) admitted to looking at job applicants social network posts in hiring, while twenty-nine percent (29%) say they are spending part of their budget on social networks, through marketing or human resource departments.

Of the top 100 Sacramento Regional Companies 38% are Service, 37% are Manufacturers, 16% are Construction and 9% are Retail.

How does this Quarter compare to last Quarter, or last year? Find out for yourself, for more information & sur-veys go to www.pacificstaffing.com.

Gas Still More Than Last Year

Posted: 10/4/2011

Sacramento Region – “Motorists are certainly delighted that average gasoline prices are at their lowest since early March, but compared to prices a year ago, motorists are still feeling a pinch at the pump,” said Patrick DeHaan, GasBuddy.com Senior Petroleum Analyst. “It’s great to see gasoline prices falling, but at the same time, prices a year ago were nearly 75 cents less per gallon. The good news is that over the upcoming weeks, there will continue to be factors that could put more downward pressure on oil and gasoline prices. I continue to expect that average gasoline prices will bounce between $3.25-$3.50 for much of the rest of 2011,” DeHaan adds.

Average retail gasoline prices in Sacramento have fallen 4.9 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $3.75/g yesterday. This compares with the national average that has fallen 5.9 cents per gallon in the last week to $3.46/g, according to gasoline price website SactoGasPrices.com.

Including the change in gas prices in Sacramento during the past week, prices yesterday were 82.9 cents per gallon higher than the same day one year ago and are 8.8 cents per gallon lower than a month ago. The national average has decreased 20.3 cents per gallon during the last month and stands 73.3 cents per gallon higher than this day one year ago.

GasBuddy.com operates over 200 live gasoline price-tracking websites, including SactoGasPrices.com.

Effie Yeaw Nature Center Welcomes Students and Congresswoman Matsui

By Susan Maxwell Skinner
Posted: 10/4/2011

Over 60 pupils from Maple Elementary School visited the Effie Yeaw Nature Center for environmental lessons from facility staff and US Army Corps of Engineers rangers. Congresswoman Doris Matsui (center) represented President Obama in promoting his Great Outdoors Initiative. Assistant Secretary of the Army’s Civil Works, Joe-Ellen Darcy (right of Matsui) joined the Carmichael outing. Photo by Susan Maxwell Skinner.

Carmichael–Over 60 pupils from the Maple Elementary School last week visited the Effie Yeaw Nature Center to study the environment with naturalists and with US Army Corps of Engineers Rangers. Congresswoman Doris Matsui joined the Carmichael outing. The 5th and 6th graders also learned about the American River from the officers who protect its levees.

As wild turkeys pecked for acorns, VIPS, kids and facility staff picnicked under oaks with box lunches. Nature hikes in the 70-acre preserve followed. Addressing the children, Congresswoman Matsui lauded Carmichael’s late naturalist Effie Yeaw and encouraged the youngsters to “become ambassadors for the environment, to make sure it goes on and on.” President Obama, she added, “believes the great outdoors is for everyone to enjoy.”

The event supported Obama’s Great Outdoors Initiative; to develop a 21st century conservation and recreation agenda. The initiative contends that protecting America’s natural heritage is a non-partisan objective. It calls for the Federal Government to partner with community agencies to preserve parks and other natural resources.

Said US Army Corps of Engineers District Commander Col Bill Leady: “this visit was all about connecting with kids; (helping them to) understand the natural world we all belong to. We all have a responsibility to protect it. As the nation’s environmental engineers, it’s important for our corps to share that message.”

Effie Yeaw development director Betty Cooper approved: “It’s logical that the Army Corps of Engineers choose us to demonstrate the president’s initiative. Everything we do at the nature center aims to connect people with nature. We’ve been working on that for 35 years.”

Learn about the Great Outdoor Initiative at www.americasgreatoutdoors.gov

Carmichael Plans Big Annual Birthday Bash

By Susan Maxwell Skinner
Posted: 9/20/2011

Family fun is among the 102-year-old traditions of Carmichael Founder’s Day Photo by Susan Maxwell Skinner.

Carmichael – Something old – Carmichael community – will be celebrated with something new for Carmichael’s Founders Day, September 24. For the first time this year, festival events will leave the band sound shell area to center on Carmichael Park’s Grant Ave and Fair Oaks Blvd area. Here, canopied avenues will provide vendor space and a stage will feature day-long music and entertainment.

Something borrowed will be the giant feline mascot on loan from the River Cats baseball team. The “blue” something is hoped to be skies over Carmichael blessing this auspicious event. Now 102 years old, the township plans a full day of birthday fun.

Celebrations kick off with a 7 to 11 a.m. pancake breakfast at the park clubhouse. Opening ceremonies and VIP welcomes begin at 11 a.m. Then, the 60-piece Sacramento Symphonic Winds band will present a one-hour concert. Headlining the afternoon program is the classic rock ensemble Custom Neon. A free children’s carnival will offer inflatables; more junior entertainment features the Touchstone Theater and puppet show. Vintage and classic American cars are further all day attractions.

Food will be available for purchase and picnickers are welcome.

Sponsors include Carmichael and Mission Oaks Park Districts. Vendor opportunities remain.

For information, call (916) 485-5322.

Sac Metro Fire Douses House Fire

Posted: 9/20/2011

A citizen passing by assisted elderly resident out of smoke filled house. Photo by Paul V. Scholl

Carmichael – SacMetroFire Report: At 4:30 pm on September 12th Sacramento Metro firefighters responded to the report of a house fire with multiple calls. Fire Crews arrived and found a home with extensive fire and smoke showing from the rear of the house. Firefighters also found the home’s attic fully involved with fire. Fire crews aggressively attacked the fire and had containment twenty minutes after arrival. Firefighters located the homeowner, an elderly woman. She told firefighters she was lost in the smoke inside the home and a man came in and located her, then assisted her out. The man said he was passing by and stopped to help. He entered the burning home and located the woman. The woman was evaluated by firefighters. She had no complaint of injury.

It appears the fire started in a small apartment unit built off the rear of the home, then extended into the attic area of the primary residence. The cause is under investigation. Damage is estimated to be $60,000. The fire was controlled with a single alarm of 24 firefighters and no reported injuries.

Times report: The citizens who stopped to help the occupants were Robert Wise of Fair Oaks and his daughter Karen. Mr. Wise said he was driving in the neighborhood looking for an antique store when he saw the flames and turned around to help. He also stated that he had previous emergency training experience. Mr. Wise stated that when he entered the home the male occupant, possibly the occupant of the attached apartment to the main residence, was heading out the door when Mr. Wise heard the female occupant in the hallway. He grabbed her around the waist and led her out the front door. Karen then assisted her across the street to safety.

Thank you, Mr. Wise, for your act of heroism.

Sacramento Wrestling Federation to Perform Fundraising Event

Posted: 9/20/2011

Sheik Khan Abadi, El Chupacabra, Kimo Kahnaloa, Mike Rayne, Jody Kristofferson, and the Wise Guy with special guest ring announcer, Good Day Sacramento’s own Alan Sanchez. Photo provided by Josh Edlow.

Carmichael – The Sacramento Wrestling Federation (“SWF”) will be hosting another exciting and innovative charity event in the Sacramento area.

On September 23, 2011, at 7pm, the Sacramento Wrestling Federation proudly brings California’s premier sports-entertainment brand to the La Sierra Community Center in Carmichael, 5325 Engel Road. The SWF’s unique brand of family entertainment will raise funds to assist the family of Seth Fengel in purchasing a headstone for his resting place.

“September 2 Remember” will bring twenty-five of the nation’s top sports-entertainers to Carmichael for a fun-filled, action-packed event. The evening will be capped off with SWF Heavyweight Champion Dylan Drake defending his title against “Big Country” Jody Kristofferson. History will once again be made, but more importantly funds will be raised.

Sacramento native Josh Edlow spearheads the Sacramento Wrestling Federation. Mr. Edlow is well known in the community as an award winning business manager, lifelong student, and committed family man.

Sporting a twelve-year history in the realm of sports-entertainment, Mr. Edlow has been featured several times on local television and radio. He has also been spotlighted in newspapers and periodicals nationwide.

“Seth Fengel had a myriad of health problems,” Edlow said. “Nevertheless, he donated his time whenever he could. Whether it be through volunteer work at Shriner’s, or Christmas Caroling with the local LDS church, he was always lending a hand to those in need. It will be a great way to honor our friend.”

Tickets are $15 for adults, kids 6-12 $10, kids 5 and under free. There is also a family four pack for $50. They can be purchased on our website at www.sacramentowrestling.com and at http://Sethfengel.Eventbrite.com or at the door. Doors open at 6:30 and the show starts at 7pm.

Fair Oaks Blvd Plan B Gets Unanimous Vote

By Nora Heston
Posted: 9/20/2011

Sacramento County – The Sacramento County Board of Supervisors tentatively approved the revised Fair Oaks Boulevard Corridor Plan, or Plan B, with a unanimous vote at the September 14 public hearing.

Property owners had openly discussed their disapproval of the original Fair Oaks Boulevard Corridor Plan, or FOBCP, noting unnecessary rezoning and potential trouble for businesses located within the affected area, which includes both residential and commercial properties along Fair Oaks Boulevard between Oak and Marshall Avenue as well as along Manzanita Avenue and north to Winding Way.

Tricia Stevens, principal planner for the Community Planning and Development Department, said the recent changes could have affected the outcome of the vote.

“The business owners drove the revised version of the plan, and are more receptive to the revisions,” Stevens said. “The changes helped some of [the] property owners feel more comfortable by providing more clarity.”

Stevens noted rezoning was the main difference between the two versions of the plan.

In the revised version, the Main Street area was rezoned to the Special Planning Area while the other three districts in the corridor remain with their existing zoning, Stevens said.

Susan Peters, a member of the Sacramento County Board of Supervisors representing District Three, said she is hopeful that the result of this planning effort will encourage businesses to locate in Carmichael and on the boulevard.

“The selection of Plan B that received unanimous support from the entire Board of Supervisors allows us to focus on revitalizing the Main Street District while still providing encouragement to property owners for quality development in the other areas of the corridor,” Peters said.

Chris Meyers, the president of the Carmichael Chamber of Commerce wrote a letter criticizing the first plan in March, but Peters said support from the Chamber, as well as from many other individuals, has been expressed over Plan B. Gary Andersen, vice president of the Carmichael Chamber of Commerce, confirmed the chamber is in support of Plan B.

Stevens, however, said that many community members were more supportive of the first version.

So what’s next? The planning staff was directed to come back to the Board in 30 days with a zoning amendment, said Peters. “After the zoning amendment is adopted, the plan will be operative in 30 days.”

While Peters said major changes to the boulevard would need to come from private investment, the government will play a part in regards to transportation.

“The County Department of Transportation will be modifying the intersection at Marconi Avenue next year, which will include landscaping and sidewalks,” Peters said.

Private investment changes have also begun. The property at 6525 Fair Oaks Blvd. has received approval for an Auto Zone and will include pedestrian-oriented features including moving the store closer to the street, Peters said.

“I think it is important to give the plan a chance to see if it will be an effective tool to urge reinvestment. The streetscape part of the plan is important for obtaining funding for transportation improvements, and the businesses will see a change over the next few years,” Stevens said.

Old Roy: A Carmichael Tradition

By Leslie Carrara
Posted: 9/14/2011

Old Roy, a Carmichael favorite, is looking for a new home. Photo provided by Patrick Haley.

Carmichael - He’s very big. He knows the streets of Carmichael pretty well. He’s been a fixture in the Carmichael Fourth of July Parade for the last four out of seven years. And he’s for sale.

‘Old Roy’, affectionately named in memory of a grandfather, is a 50-foot long white fire truck. His owners, long-time friends Pat Haley, 61 and Bill Horton, 60, both of Carmichael, don’t have kids at home anymore to rock and roll on the parade route, and he has brought them both wonderful memories.

“We used it for the El Camino High School Student Government Homecoming Parade,” Haley reminisced.

Horton said it was a fluke how they ran into Old Roy. The University of California at Davis had the truck for sale and Haley’s father wanted a float in the parade. The two friends bought it in 2004 and they would like to see it stay right here.

At his peak, decorated Old Roy carried 85 kids on the parade route, all the while shooting water canons spraying the crowd in sync with the music and blaring rock, blues and patriotic tunes for all to see and hear. Haley explained that the kids on the truck were theirs, as well as students from Mission Avenue Elementary School, all dressed in red, white and blue. “Our kids are grown and gone.” he said. “We want to keep it in the Carmichael parade. We are trying to sell it locally.”

Old Roy has been used for fundraisers as well, including for the Eastern Little League.

Built in 1967, this Seagrave truck has scaffolding on it to seat up to 80 people, as well as water canons.

“We see so much potential for it here in the community,” Horton said. “It’s a real sentimental thing. We don‘t want to see it rot.”

The friends would like to see someone to either buy Old Roy outright and keep him in Carmichael or possibly a benefactor who would provide the cash for upkeep and storage. In return, Haley and Horton would remain on and help as much as possible. The benefactor, of course, could use the truck for parades, school functions, benefits, as a home for a Dalmation or racing to a pretend fire to show off for loved ones. “We are looking for ideas to keep it locally,” Horton added. If you are interested in purchasing, being a benefactor or have any ideas about who could use the truck, call Pat at (916) 835-0728.

Carmichael Native and Acclaimed Journalist Lisa Ling Scheduled for Lecture Series

Posted: 9/14/2011

Lisa Ling, a former Carmichael resident, Del Campo alumni and acclaimed journalist.

Sacramento Region – Lisa Ling, a former Carmichael resident and Del Campo alumni, is just one of the six nationally acclaimed superstars coming to Sacramento. Ling is set to appear in at the Community Center Theater in Sacramento. She will be apart of the Sacramento Speakers Series 2011-2012 season line-up. The series gives Ling the opportunity to lecture about her life experiences in addition to answering questions from the audience during the open forum discussion.

Ling’s expertise, honesty, knowledge and personality are just a few of the characteristics that stood out to Attorney Mitchell Ostwald, current owner of the Series. Mr. Ostwald states, “I greatly value Ms. Ling’s desire and passion to expose the truth in various communities around the world. The Series greatly welcomes Ms. Ling and the nationally renowned speakers this season.” Ling has been nominated for several Emmy awards over the past 11 years. She has been a field correspondent for the Oprah Winfrey Show and will currently is host on “Our America with Lisa Ling” on the Oprah Winfrey Network.

The Sacramento Speakers Series is a community lecture series. The Series promotes free speech and an open forum of important issues. These issues are discussed and debated between the nationally acclaimed speakers and patrons of the Series. ”Ostwald describes the Series as “an extraordinary community experience. It gives our patrons an opportunity to hear about a variety of topics from influential and renowned speakers.” The speakers are chosen on the basis of their career achievements, and unique expertise in their particular field of endeavor.

This seventh season of the Sacramento Speakers Series, Mr. Ostwald and Mr. Brothers will welcome six prominent and astounding speakers, including David McCullough, David Gergen, Condoleezza Rice, Richard Roeper, Peter Greenberg, and Lisa Ling. The season will open October 11, 2011 and finish April 3, 2012, with roughly one engagement per month.

For further information, please contact: The Sacramento Speakers Series at (916) 388-1100

Sacramento Metro fire Responds To Well Involved House Fire In Carmichael

Citizen Passing By Assits Elderly Resident Out Of Smoke Filled House
Posted: 9/12/2011

Carmichael – SacMetroFire Report: At 4:30pm on September 12th Sacramento Metro firefighters responded to the report of a house fire with multiple calls. Fire Crews arrived and found a home with extensive fire and smoke showing from the rear of the house. Firefighters also found the home’s attic fully involved with fire. Fire crews aggressively attacked the fire and had containment twenty minutes after arrival. Firefighters located the homeowner, an elderly woman. She told firefighters she was lost in the smoke inside the home and a man came in and located her, then assisted her out. The man said he was passing by and stopped to help. He entered the burning home and located the woman. The woman was evaluated by firefighters. She had no complaint of injury.

It appears the fire started in a small apartment unit built off the rear of the home, then extended into the attic area of the primary residence. The cause is under investigation. Damage is estimated to be $60,000. The fire was controlled with a single alarm of 24 firefighters and no reported injuries.

Times report: The citizens who stopped to help the occupants were Robert Wise of Fair Oaks and his daughter Karen. Mr. Wise said he was driving in the neighborhood looking for an antique store when he saw the flames and turned around to help. He also stated that he had previous emergency training experience. Mr. Wise stated that when he entered the home the male occupant, possibly the occupant of the attached apartment to the main residence, was heading out the door when Mr. Wise heard the female occupant in the hallway. He grabbed her around the waist and led her out the front door. Karen then assisted her across the street to safety.

(Thank you Mr. Wise for your act of heroism.)

Windmill Nursery Says ”Good-bye”

By Susan Maxwell Skinner
Posted: 8/29/2011

End of an era. Carmichael Windmill Nursery has helped beautify local gardens for 15 years. Photo by Susan Maxwell Skinner.

Carmichael – For Paul Niemann, the final straw for business came after a recent Sunday night break-in at his Windmill Ave nursery. “They took all our weekend receipts and demolished my office,” Niemann (58) explained.

“When I opened 15 year ago, I framed the $5 bill from my first customer’s purchase. The thieves even took that. It was just $5 to them. To me, it represented years of work.

“We’d already had two hard seasons. That burglary told me perhaps it was time to go.” He broke the harsh news to seven staffers (including son Andrew) days later.

With closure signs now displayed, Carmichael’s Windmill Nursery’s wrought iron gates will be locked within weeks. Faithful customers are weeping; staff are still in shock. “It all happened so fast,” said a female staffer. “I’ve been here seven years. I’m 63. I don’t know what I’ll do.”

A career nurseryman, Niemann hopes for another job in his field. But he concedes that small nurseries are headed the direction of countless family businesses. Home Depot is a short walk from his door; Costco and Walmart megastores just minutes away in Citrus Heights. Windmill is the second private Carmichael garden shop to surrender in the last few years. “The economy is killing everybody,” Niemann said. “We’ve also had two rainy springs in a row. March through June is our Christmas season. It gets you through winter. There’s pride involved in owning your own business; sometimes pride outweighs reality. We kept up appearances and never appeared to be failing. I was still hoping things might come together. That break-in was insult on injury.”

Windmill customers are enjoying buy-one-get-another-half-off bargains. The melancholy reality is that another Carmichael anchor – like the bowling alley and the Sheriff’s Service Center — will soon be gone. Windmill has long filled a niche market, providing rare specimens and the seasoned advice seldom offered in corporation stores.

“I’ve seen a lot of emotion in the last days,” says the owner. “Customers knew us as people who supported the community and donated prizes for every fundraiser that approached us. We weren’t just a business.”

SASD Board Of Directors Vote to Postpone Closure of Crossing Over Arcade Creek

By Leslie Carrara
Posted: 8/29/2011

Sacramento County – The Sacramento Area Sewer District (SASD) Board of Directors voted unanimously Aug. 24th to postpone the anticipated closure of a pipe crossing over Arcade Creek near the Jo Smith Nature Trail. It was slated to be closed by early September at the latest.

According to Howard Schmidt, chief of staff to County Supervisor Susan Peters, SASD hired a consultant for “possible feasible alternatives.” Peters is on the SASD board.

Quincy Engineering will determine if it is feasible to reconstruct the determined unsafe walkway or to build a different pedestrian bridge, or perhaps something else, according to Christoph Dobson, SASD director of operations. “What are the range of options,” Dobson said would be answered by the engineering firm. “Future efforts are a stakeholder process,” Dobson added. Once it is determined what will work in the area, the cost will be determined, he explained.

At the meeting on Tuesday, citizens spoke up about their specific concerns regarding the pending closure. Rick Anderson, American River College Track Coach, explained to the board that during the 16 years he’s been coach, he has never had an injury to a runner on the crossing. However, he has had three track runners hit by cars during that time. Other area residents spoke about traffic concerns increasing in the area.

Meantime, the board decided to have signs put up in the area warning of the crossing dangers.

SASD District Engineer Stan Dean said, “To get a long term solution here is going to require the community.” This includes the Arcade Creek Recreation and Park District (ACRPD), Sacramento Area Creeks Council (SACC), American River College, neighborhood associations, and community groups, he added.

Alta Tura, president of the SACC, said that a walkway in the area is “really an important asset to the community. A lot of people rely on it.”

The current crossing was constructed in the early ‘60s and met construction codes at that time.

Writer’s note: Our apologies to Jo Smith for incorrectly spelling her name in a previous article.

Carmichael Oaks to Host Annual Alzheimer’s Fundraiser

Posted: 8/29/2011

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.

Willing Hands Prepare Jan Park for September Opening

By Susan Maxwell Skinner
Posted: 8/23/2011

In a push to ready Jan Park for its September 17 opening, Barrett Hills Neighborhood Association members last weekend joined forces with the Active 20-30 Club of Greater Sacramento and Carmichael Park District. Photo by Susan Maxwell Skinner.

Carmichael – Many hands last weekend made light work of dispersing 200 cubic yards of surface fiber over a playground at Carmichael’s newest park. Sweating teams also sank 250 wooden bollards around the 13-acre reserve that lies between Jan and Salmaan Ave.

Saturday’s five-hour “build out” at Jan Park assembled over 150 workers and completed over 750 volunteer hours. The effort entered the home strait in what has been a triumph for Carmichael volunteerism. Buoyed by popular demand to keep the rugged reserve intact, the Carmichael Park District last year sought and won a $410,000 State grant. This windfall – combined with neighbors’ fundraising – built concrete trails, picnic sites and a playground. The last vestige of an early Carmichael farm, the reserve contains century-old oaks and remains refuge for many birds and small animals. Development has focused on maintaining the native feel of the land. “Nature Rocks” is the theme of next month’s opening celebrations.

A Saturday working bee at Jan Park benefited by the efforts of over 150 volunteers. Work teams sank bollards around the reserve perimeter to prevent unlawful vehicle access. Photo by Susan Maxwell Skinner.

Carmichael Park District Chief Jack Harris applauds Jan Park’s modest development: “We kept existing trees and promoted natural surroundings,” he said. “Our parks don’t look like school yards. What had to be spent was minimized with volunteer expertise and labor.”

The biggest victory for the neighborhood was that all improvements were funded without land sale. “We always wanted to keep the property intact but we lacked finances to develop them,” said Harris. “It’s exciting to work in concert with the neighbors; this increases community appreciation for a park. Carmichael is blessed by mature sites with lots of trees; we needn’t do much more than make these reserves accessible and safe. Upkeep is minimal and because people contributed to park planning, it’s natural for them to stay involved in park maintenance.”

The success of Saturday’s volunteer efforts ensures that D (dedication) Day stays on schedule. Greater Sacramento’s Active 20-30 Club not only provided 100 beefy volunteers; members also donated $15,000 for the kids’ adventure playground. This area is the focus of the September 17 community party. Assembling before 9:30 a.m. at Jan Drive and Slate Way, a parade of children’s bikes, trikes, wagons and scooters will proceed along Jan and onto the park’s new walkways. Boy Scouts will raise the first flag in an area paved by 171 commemorative bricks, sold to supporters for $125 each.

Sacramento County Supervisor Susan Peters will officiate at the opening. “The community’s volunteerism and support are truly inspirational,” said Peters. “While the Park District was instrumental in obtaining the State grant, much credit goes to residents and the Barrett Hills Neighborhood Association. Their labor has created recreational possibilities and preserved open spaces in Carmichael.”

Jan Park is the latest feather in the cap for the Carmichael Park District, which – despite budget and staff cuts — has opened three neighborhood parks in four years. Such an achievement, noted Peters “is unprecedented in these challenging times.”

Anyone may attend the opening celebrations and children are welcome. For more information, call (916) 485-5322.

Californians Volunteer Over 900 Million Hours in 2010

Posted: 8/16/2011

The value of volunteerism within the State of California for 2010 was estimated at $20.6 billion.

Sacramento Region – During a time of economic recession and high unemployment rates, volunteers continue to provide a powerful economic and social benefit to communities across California. The Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS) released their annual Volunteering in America Report this week, illustrating that citizens in California volunteered nearly 27 million hours more than the previous year.

In 2010, nearly 7 million Californians performed 964.7 million hours of service through or for a nonprofit or community organization. The amount of hours contributed is valued at $20.6 billion, using the Independent Sector’s annual estimate of the average value of a volunteer hour, which was $21.36 in 2010. Additionally, 7.4 percent of California residents volunteered informally (working with neighbors to address or fix a community issue), totaling over 2.1 million individuals.

The volunteer rates increased from 2009 numbers in the San Jose, Riverside and San Francisco Metropolitan Statistical Areas. In addition, over the last four years, the retention rate for volunteers in San Jose and San Francisco has surpassed the national retention rate of 64.5 percent.

Economic Downturn Drives Demand and Opportunities for Volunteers

Across California, organizations are serving the state’s most vulnerable using fewer resources. Between 2008 and 2010, citizens volunteered in a range of vital areas to bridge the gaps left by budget cuts and unemployment.

- Nearly half of volunteers devoted their time to working with youth through tutoring and teaching (19.3 percent) or the collection and distribution of food (20.9 percent).
- About one-quarter of volunteers (24.5 percent) participated in fundraising activities or sold items to raise money for an organization.
- Over half of volunteers (approximately 54.6 percent), were born during the Baby Boomer generation.

“The nonprofit sector has experienced a one-two punch – the increase in demand for services and the decrease in donations,” said Secretary of Service and Volunteering, Karen Baker. “The renewed interest in volunteers couldn’t come at a more critical time. With unemployment up during these tough economic times, volunteering can provide individuals the opportunity to hone skills, learn new skills, make contacts and stay engaged. By becoming a volunteer, you can help yourself while helping others.”

Metro areas are ranked yearly on their volunteer rate. These are the rankings in California according to the rates provided by the Volunteering in America Report for 2010. #1 San Francisco at 30.1%, #2 San Jose at 29.8%, #3 San Diego at 23.9%, #4 Sacramento at 22.8%, and #5 Los Angeles at 21.5%.

The Volunteering in America Report is made possible by a partnership between CNCS, the United States Census Bureau and the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Data is collected each year through a supplement to the Current Population Survey (CPS) September Volunteer Supplement. The Volunteer Supplement collects data on the volunteering activities of adults aged 16 and older. Volunteers are considered individuals who performed unpaid volunteer activities through or for an organization at any point during the 12-month period, from September 1 of the prior year through the survey week in September of the survey year.

To view the report in its entirety, please visit: www.VolunteeringInAmerica.gov.

CaliforniaVolunteers is the state office that manages programs and initiatives to increase the number of Californians involved with service and volunteering. Through its innovative web site, individuals and families can find more than 50,000 volunteer opportunities throughout the state involving the arts, education, animals, disaster preparedness, the environment and other areas of interest. Karen Baker, the nation’s first state cabinet secretary of service and volunteering leads the organization. For more information, please visit www.CaliforniaVolunteers.org.

Q-Balls “Cue Off” Night to Remember

By Susan Maxwell Skinner
Posted: 81/6/2011

Big stars. Equally known for his day-gig as a Sacramento trial lawyer, Quincy Brown (center with guitar) anchors his own band. The Q-Balls, including Mike Capelli (left), Bruce Leino, Ted Poppinga and Sean McAuliffe were pronounced a hit at Carmichael Park last Saturday. Photo by Susan Maxwell Skinner.

Carmichael - Drawing the largest Saturday crowd so far this summer, the Q-Balls band entertained about 2000 concert goers in Carmichael Park last weekend.

The Sacramento-based rock ensemble dished up oldies including favorites from Van Morrison, Bruce Springsteen and the Beach Boys. Dancers and picnickers enjoyed a double-whammy weekend with the music continuing on Sunday’s Metro Swing performance.

The free series continues next Sunday with a performance by the 60-piece Capitol Pops concert band. Downbeat is 6:30 p.m.

Remaining 2011 concerts are:

Mick Martin and the Blues Rockers; (Saturday) August 27, 7 p.m.
River City Concert Band; August 28, 6:30 p.m.
Founders Day (Saturday, September 24) will also offer a daylong program of musical entertainment.

Carmichael Park is at 5750 Grant Ave. Its band shell is near the North Ave end of the reserve. For information on concerts, call the Carmichael Park District at (916) 485-5322.

New Tax Scams Hitting California

Special IRS Report
Posted: 8/9/2011

A national scam based on Social Security benefits is surfacing in California that also markets a phony federal tax refund or rebate.

The Internal Revenue Service recently issued a consumer alert warning taxpayers to be on guard for unscrupulous individuals charging a fee to file false claims for tax credits or refunds. The IRS has received reports of bogus refund schemes targeting Asian communities in Fresno, Sacramento, the San Joaquin Valley and the San Francisco Bay Area. A national scam aimed primarily at seniors and people with low income has also spread to various locations in California.

“What these scams have in common is that the promoters prey upon people in need, building false hopes. When victims’ claims are rejected, their money and the promoters are long gone,” said IRS spokesman Jesse Weller.

Schemes appearing in northern and central California primarily involve residents in Vietnamese, Cambodian, Laotian and Hmong communities. Scammers promise to obtain a federal tax rebate of up to $800, charging hundreds of dollars of fees in some cases. The claims are based on the Making Work Pay Credit, which most wage earners received in 2009 and 2010 through larger paychecks because of reduced federal tax withholding.

“We want everyone to take advantage of the legal deductions and credits which they are entitled to claim,” said Arlette Lee, Special Agent IRS Criminal Investigation. “However, we will vigorously pursue promoters and others who intentionally try to defraud the government.”

A national scam based on Social Security benefits is surfacing in California that also markets a phony federal tax refund or rebate. Flyers and advertisements appearing in community churches encourage seniors and others to file tax returns, for a fee, to get a refund on tax withholding from Social Security. The withholding is nonexistent, and the claims are false. Many victims are not required to file a federal tax return.

The IRS says taxpayers should be wary of any of the following:

- False claims for the Making Work Pay Credit when no work was performed.
- Fictitious claims for refunds or rebates based on excess or withheld Social Security benefits.
- Claims that Treasury Form 1080 can be used to transfer funds to enable an IRS payout.
- Unfamiliar for-profit tax services selling refund and credit schemes to local church congregations.
- Home-made flyers and brochures implying credits or refunds are available without proof of eligibility.
- Offers of free money with no documentation required.
- Promises of refunds for “Low Income – No Documents Tax Returns.”

Taxpayers who normally don’t need to file a tax return but who are entitled to a credit or refund can have their tax forms prepared for free by the IRS or a community partner volunteer organization. Be suspicious of someone promising to get you a refund from the government if you just pay them a fee to do the paperwork.

If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Anyone with questions about a tax credit or program should visit www.IRS.gov, call the IRS toll-free number at (800) 829-1040 or visit a local IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center.

A Real “Guardian Angel” for Dogs

By Julie Parker
Posted: 8/9/2011

The altruistic Megan generously asked friends and family to donate presents to the dogs at Homeward Bound. Photo by Julie Parker.

A toad was her first pet. “It was okay. It didn’t do much,” says a very poised Megan Stedifor, age eleven. “After seven years of begging my parents, I got them convinced that I was responsible enough to take care of a dog.”

Golden retrievers are known to be good family pets, and Megan enjoyed her aunt’s goldens, so they decided to adopt one from Homeward Bound Golden Retriever Rescue and Sanctuary in Elverta. The fact that Homeward Bound has never euthanized an animal was very appealing to Megan.

“They opened this door of a house, and like 50 golden retrievers came running out,” says Megan. “Keely ran right to us!”

Although they know Keely was about two years old when they adopted her a year and a-half ago, they know little else about her history, other than she was rescued from the SPCA in Fresno. “We were told by a person we knew who volunteers there,” says Megan’s mother, “that someone had referred to her as a young dog with an old soul.”

Keely was initially skittish and nervous, but quickly and happily adapted to her new home, becoming protective of Megan and her younger brother, Jack. She even protects the cherry tree from squirrels. “Sometimes, she shakes the fence and the squirrels just fall off,” says Megan.

Keely joins the family on their outdoor adventures as well – camping, hiking and even kayaking. “She has her own life vest,” says Megan, “and she really likes to go swimming. I was snorkeling one time looking for fish, and I saw this giant orange thing coming by, and it was Keely!”

After adopting Keely and witnessing the wonderful services Homeward Bound performs, Megan aches to be one of their volunteers. The minimum volunteer age is 13-years-old, however, and although she has to wait a couple of years, she still wants to help. “I’m not old enough to volunteer yet, so I wanted to volunteer in a different way.”

For her birthday this year, the altruistic Megan generously asked friends and family to donate presents to the dogs at Homeward Bound, instead of her. “I got a whole bunch of treats, leashes, nylon bones, tennis balls and cash donations.” Justina Codde, D.V.M., a volunteer veterinarian, says the $181.00 they received from Megan will pay for 40 vaccinations.

Megan’s care giving extends to dogs that run loose. “Sometimes they would be in our neighborhood, and I would ask, ‘Whose dog is that?’ And nobody would know. ‘Dad, open up the gate! We’ve got to get them in the backyard. You can’t just leave them out here!’” Her dad says, “We put up signs and ads on Craigslist, and so far we’ve been able to find the owners.”

Megan wants to encourage other people to donate to help animals, even if they are strapped for cash, such as mowing lawns, washing cars, washing and walking dogs, watering plants and sweeping porches. “If you donate stuff, you have this good feeling inside.”

Heading back home after presenting the donated items and cash to Homeward Bound, Megan reiterates her desire to volunteer.

“You can play with the dogs, help feed them and you get to hold a puppy. What could be better than that?”

“Getting to keep the puppy,” responds Jack.

Everybody Wins!

Story and photo by Paul V. Scholl

Carmichael Chamber members and guests enjoy another great comeback by the River Cats at Raley Field.

The Carmichael Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors entertained guests and sponsors on August 1st at Raley Field for another exciting River Cats game. The Skybox, compliments of the Sacramento River Cats, was awarded to Carmichael for winning the competition this year between many local chambers, selling the most tickets for a single game. On “Carmichael Night” the combined efforts of the Chamber of Commerce, Carmichael Recreation and Park District, Mission Oaks Recreation and Park District and the Carmichael Kiwanis sold 250 tickets to spirited locals.

“We want to thank all those who have supported us throughout the year. This is our way of showing our gratitude for all of our sponsors, contributors and our many community volunteers” said Linda Melody, Chamber Executive Consultant, on behalf of the sponsoring organizations.

This just shows that when good people come together in the spirit of the town they love, everybody wins. The goal for next year is to sell 500 tickets for Carmichael’s Night at Raley Field.

The thirty-two “rowdy” locals were given a special treat at the end of the game when Josh Donaldson of the River Cats homered in the bottom of the ninth inning with one runner on to win it over the Colorado Springs Sky Sox. “It’s at the wall, It’s gone! The River Cats Win it!” was the radio call from announcer Johnny Doskow.

You’ve just gotta’ love baseball, and you’ve gotta’ love Carmichael!

Jesuit High School Senior Earns Top Score on ACT

Source: Jordan Blair, Director of Communications
Posted: 8/2/2011

Drew Robinett

Sacramento – Drew Robinett, son of Gary and Kelly Robinett and a rising senior at Jesuit High School, earned a top composite score of 36 on a recent ACT test. Nationally, while the actual number of students earning a composite score of 36 varies from year to year, roughly one-tenth of one percent receive a top score. Among test takers in the high school graduating class of 2010 (the most recent year for which information was available), only 588 of nearly 1.6 million students earned a composite score of 36, and only 54 of the 90,371 test takers in California achieved that composite score.

The ACT consists of tests in English, mathematics, reading and science. Each test is scored on a scale of 1-36, and a student’s composite score is the average of the four test scores. Ellen Gemma, Assistant Principal for Curriculum and Assessment at Jesuit High School said, “Drew is an amazing student and young man who can do it all – and with humility and good humor. He excels in everything he does, and he is a delight to know.”

This past year, Drew has been actively involved in Drama, Science Olympiad, Liturgy Planning Committee, California Scholarship Federation, the Plunge, and the Jesuit Chamber Choir where he performed on the stage of Carnegie Hall in April. He is volunteering this summer as a camp counselor at Camp ReCreation, a residential summer camp program for persons with developmental disabilities.

Drew hopes to study literature or humanities in college next fall. He will begin the college application process this October.

Jesuit High School of Sacramento is a Roman Catholic college preparatory dedicated to forming competent young men into conscientious leaders in compassionate service to others for the greater glory of God. Members of any faith or religion are welcome. For more information visit: www.jhssac.org.

A Busy and Wonderful Life

By Susan Maxwell Skinner
Posted: 7/26/2011

Rosemarie and Gordon Martell offer a ripe cornucopia at their produce stand. The Winding Way landmark has been in business since 1970. Photo by Susan Maxwell Skinner

Carmichael – For Carmichael’s Farmer’s Wife, Rosemarie Martell, the summer months bring 12-hour work days on a dusty corner.

When kids venture out at Halloween, the 70-year-old greengrocer bags final autumn apples and prepares for vacation. This year marked her fourth decade at the roadside stand on Winding Way. “Halloween is a memorable date to close every year,” says the German-born merchant. “Then we open again on April 15. Yes, tax day is also unforgettable.”

The Farmer’s Wife vegetable stand is a Carmichael tradition. In 1970, Clayton and Maize Mize founded the original booth next to their home garden. Mother of four, Rosemarie Martell helped keep shop in the store’s early years. In 1998, she and husband Gordon Martell took over as proprietors. “I became the Farmer’s Wife,” declares Rosemarie. “So my husband is the Farmer.”

Former automobile dealer Gordon Martell jumped at owning this business and its garden. “He once had high blood pressure,” said his wife. “Now that’s gone. Hard work and good food is the secret. We work all day, seven days a week.” The couple does not dread inevitable 112-degree Carmichael days. “Bring it on,” says Gordon. “We are acclimatized. We hated this year’s cold spring. Nothing wanted to grow.”

Trade is seasonal. Because produce comes directly from local market gardens, supplies dwindle by November. “I hate closing,” Rosemarie laments. “I miss our regulars. I’ve known them for 40 years. My friend Astrid has worked here since the stand began. Our gardener, Cirilo, has been with us for 14 years. We’re all so happy to see our customers again when the asparagus and strawberries start in April.”

Far from hibernating, the Martells have a winter gig. By December 24, their stand sells nearly 1000 Christmas trees. Dedicating January to bookkeeping, they take February off and plant organic crops in spring. “Growing things is the fun part of it,” says the farmer’s wife. “We’ll never be rich but we love what we do. It’s a busy and wonderful life."

Visit the Farmer’s Wife at 5701 Winding way, Carmichael.

Fido Fashionistas to Aid Park Appeal

By Susan Maxwell Skinner
Posted: 7/26/2011

Canine Corral supporters and pooches will stage a fashion show as part of their fundraising efforts. Volunteers hope to raise $125,000 for improvements to Carmichael Park’s off-leash dog facility. Photo by Susan Maxwell Skinner

A recent Carmichael Park District Master Plan might as well be termed a master and mutt plan. The venture requires $250,000 to be spent on new infrastructure for the 10-year-old Canine Corral in Carmichael Park.

The district will meet half the expense. To raise the remainder, facility users are doggedly pitching in. “Our corral is a success,” says supporter Bonnie Smith. “We have over 3000 visitors from three counties, annually. The park allows dogs to run off -leash, to play and become better citizens. But many users are not members of our dog park association. They contribute nothing to upkeep. We need new fences, better drainage, night time lighting and protection from the blazing sun. It costs more than the park district can afford.”

A recent pot luck and training exhibitions event yielded $1000 to get the fundraising ball rolling. A September 17 fete will feature music, vendors and a dunk tank for wet and willing organizers. Entertainment on Carmichael Founders day (September 24), will include the Corral’s doggie fashion parade. Beginning this month, proud masters can submit mutt pictures for a “cutest photo” contest. Twelve top dogs will star in a 2012 calendar, to be sold for fundraising.

“We also need donated labor and materials,” says Smith. “We hope an engineer might donate time and skill for infrastructural design.” Businesses and individuals are also encouraged to write checks; big spenders will get plaques at the 1.3 acre Corral facility.

Submit “cutest photo” entries to www.carmichaeldogpark.com

For more information call (916) 873-2326.

California Adult Smoking Rate Reaches Historic Low

From California Department of Public Health
Posted: 7/26/2011

Sacramento – The state’s adult smoking rate has hit a record low, announced California Department of Public Health (CDPH) Director Dr. Ron Chapman last week. Last year, 11.9 percent of the state’s adults smoked, down from 13.1 percent in 2009, making California one of only two states to reach the federal Healthy People 2020 target of reducing the adult smoking prevalence rate to 12 percent.

Smoking Prevalence among California Adults, 1984-2010

“The drop in smoking means that fewer people will see their lives cut short by tobacco,” Chapman said. “Since the inception of California’s tobacco education efforts in 1990, we have witnessed declines in lung cancer, heart disease and other tobacco-related illnesses.”

Chapman praised the state’s success in reducing tobacco use, but noted California must continue its aggressive efforts: “While we take great pride in seeing smoking decrease nearly 10 percent in just one year, smoking remains the number one preventable cause of death and disease, killing more than 400,000 Americans each year.”

Smoking among high school students decreased from 14.6 percent in 2008 to 13.8 percent in 2010, while middle school student smoking decreased from 6.0 percent in 2008 to 4.8 percent in 2010.

Although men continue to smoke at higher rates than women–14.4 percent and 9.4 percent respectively–both groups have shown declines since 2009 when 15.6 percent of men and 10.7 percent of women smoked. In addition, smoking rates declined among all age groups. The most significant decrease occurred among adults ages 25 to 44, which fell from 15.2 percent in 2009 to 13.1 percent in 2010.

California’s 2010 adult smoking rates are from the Centers for Disease Control’s Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. The 2010 youth smoking prevalence rate is taken from the in-school California Student Tobacco Survey that is fielded biennially. Charts illustrating the data are available at www.cdphca.gov/programs/tobacco/

The California Tobacco Control Program was established by the Tobacco Tax and Health Promotion Act of 1988. The act, which was approved by California voters, instituted a 25-cent tax on each pack of cigarettes and earmarked 5 cents of that tax to fund California’s tobacco control efforts. These efforts include funding local health departments and community organizations, an aggressive media campaign and tobacco-related evaluation and surveillance. California’s comprehensive approach has changed social norms around tobacco-use and secondhand smoke which have produced dramatic results. It is estimated California’s tobacco control efforts have saved more than 1 million lives and have resulted in $86 billion worth of savings in health care costs. To learn more about California’s program, visit www.TobaccoFreeCA.com.

“Chozen” Dreams

By Julie Parker
Posted: 7/19/2011

9-year-old Claire Elizabeth is on her way to fulfilling her dreams. Photo by Julie Parker.

When the ten winning movie scripts were selected for Access Sacramento’s 12th Annual “A Place Called Sacramento” (PCS), the judges were unaware that one of them was written by nine-year-old Claire Elizabeth. “My mom said, ‘Sure, you can enter,’ not thinking I was going to get in. And, now, we’re in the middle of making a movie!”

Claire became an actress first, when at the age of five made an appearance in the play, The Mix-up Story of Goldilocks and Little Red. “I played Mother Red. I tried many different things, like karate, gymnastics. After I was in a bunch of plays, I saw the movie ‘Zoom’ and I really liked the little girl in it, and I thought, ‘I want to do that.’ I thought, ‘Well, my mom could get me into plays, so why can’t she get me into TV?”

She did just that, for the local cable access show, Kids Corporation. “They were doing a music video for another little girl. The man who created it just really liked me, so I started doing things like that. Then, I got to interview David Cook on there – the singer from American Idol. He was in town for the State Fair. I asked him normal questions, like, how old were you when you started singing. He was super nice. I got to interview a Disney animator - Larry Scholl. He worked on the movies Tinkerbell, Move On. I learned a lot about drawing from him. He was really creative and he was really nice.“

At the Folsom History Museum, she played a historical character for tour groups. “In this one building it had an old washboard and a bucket, a butter churner and coffee grinder. I had to learn all about that.”

In Old Sacramento, during Travel Back in Time Days, she played the famous Lotta Crabtree, singing such songs as “Molly Malone,” “Sweet Betsy From Pike” and “Yankee Doodle.” “One lady said ‘I remember that song.’ She started singing along. It felt really nice. I really love history stuff. It’s just so interesting.” (Claire is currently re-visiting her Lotta Crabtree role each weekend in Old Sacramento until Labor Day Weekend, if you’d like to see her in action.)

She appeared in a PSA for Common Sense Media. “It was telling people how you should talk with your kids about how stars make mistakes, that you shouldn’t do that, but it’s still okay to like them.”

Attending meetings of the California Film Foundation and Capitol Film Arts has been educational for her. Her mother Rachel says, “I started taking her to meetings so she could meet the filmmakers.” “I learn so much there,” Claire responded. “I take notes. They teach you so many interesting things. I really enjoy it.”

PCS is a scriptwriting and short film production project for local writers and producers. It challenges local scriptwriters to write ten-minute scripts about the people, places, and events that make our community such a unique place to live. They probably weren’t expecting a nine-year-old to enter, let alone win.

Last year, she had a role in a film production for PCS. “I loved it. I realized, ‘I want to write a script. I think I should.’” Her mother downloaded scriptwriting software and Claire went for it. “I would try to write little plays in Word, but with this software, you have to write it a certain way. It formats it for you, and the Spell Check really helps.“

(In case you were wondering, Claire is homeschooled and the scripts have been included in her writing assignments.)

Claire’s movie, The Chozen (spelling chosen for available Internet domain address purposes), along with the other nine winners, will be shown at the Crest Theater in October. “The best part of making a movie is watching your characters come to life. It is so cool.”

Claire’s advice to other kids? “Look at me. You can succeed in any dreams that you have. When I got discouraged on the script, I took a little break for a couple of hours. I knew something good was going to come out of this. It takes a lot of work. Your dream doesn’t just fall from the sky. You actually have to work for something that you want. If you really love it, it’s not work. If you follow your dreams, you’ll have a wonderful life.”

You can follow Claire’s film project at facebook.com/pages/The-Chozen or thechozenfilm.com.

Dog Day Afternoons Continue at Library

Posted: 7/19/2011

Volunteer handlers and hounds for the Read to Rover program cosy up to library clients. A weekly chance to improve reading skills with a canine audience remains a popular program at the Carmichael Library. Story and photos by Susan Maxwell Skinner.

Carmichael – Each Tuesday, Carmichael Library hosts dozens of under 10-year-olds who wait patiently for an audience with the least critcal listener they will ever encounter.

Carmichael is one of Sacramento system libraries that enable children to paractice their skill with dogs. Alternately called “Paws to Read,” “Read to Rover” or “Reading with Dogs,” these youth programs are also scheduled at Rancho Cordova, Belle Coolidge and Galt Libraries. For four years, the free “Read to Rover” opportunity has drawn children from all over Sacramento to Carmichael. Clients choose their preferred tomes (the community room contains a large selection pooch-related plots) and adorn the carpeted floor with dog and owner teams. Parents stay on hand but are not encouraged to supervise or correct their young readers.

Errors do not cause canine eyelids to bat. But under the velvet gaze of theraphy trained animals, children learn manners, kindness and patience. Organisers note that kids from dogless homes are first daunted. “They inch closer to the dogs every week,” says a program founder. “They gain in confidence each time and their reading improves every week.”

Ranging from canine miniatures to Baskerville-sized hounds, the dogs are certified by the Delta Society. Though toothy yawns are unpreventable at times, these mentors must be able to lie still and appear interested. Petting and hugs are encouraged.

To learn about Read to Rover and similar canine opportunities at Sacramento libraries, call (916) 264-2920.

Flowers of the Market

Posted: 7/12/2011

Fresh fruits, vegetables and smiles. Carmichael sisters Jordanne (14), Lauren 17) and Vanessa (18) shopped for fruit and flowers in Carmichael Park. Photo and story by Susan Maxwell Skinner

Carmichael – Carmichael Park’s newest attraction – a farmers market – is gaining popularity as more residents learn about the Sunday shopping opportunity.

Vendors praise a location where the shade of mature redwood trees recently enabled comfortable browsing on a 100-degree Sunday morning. “It’s preferable to some market venues,” said an organic plant grower. “Often, we’re stuck in parking lots, where everyone bakes.”

Beginning in April, the weekly fruit-fest has seen stalls rise at Grant Avenue end of the park. Vending is from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Clowns, balloon art and live music complete the mobile feast. Most of the produce is organic and Sacramento grown; other merchants bring sun-ripened treats from surrounding counties. Nuts, dried fruit and gourmet sauces are additional offerings. Demonstrations of canning, cooking and gardening are also offered.

Organising this and several other farmers market is BeMoneySmartUSA, a non-profit that provides business education to young people. Director Marie Hall reports seller and shopper participation is growing like organic bean sprouts. “On a good Sunday, between 600 and 1000 people attend,” she says. “We started with 24 vendors and now we have 60. We listen to requests from patrrons. One lady wanted organic eggs, so we found a vendor in Bute County and added those to the market. The egg lady also brings raw sheeps wool for spining into yarn. We’ll have her do a demonstration soon. Spinning a great way to keep you hands busy while watching TV.”

Vending opportunities are still available. To learn about the market and the BemoneysmartUSA organization, call (916) 806-3989.

Tax Roll Totals Announced

Source: County Assessor’s Office
Posted: 7/12/2011

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.).

Building a Legacy of Service and Civic Responsibility

Posted: 7/5/2011

Casey Robbins is one of the young activists awarded for taking on genocide, better education, clean water and public gardens. Photos courtesy Morris + King Company

Carmichael – The Helen Diller Family Foundation and The Jewish Community Federation of San Francisco, the Peninsula, Marin and Sonoma Counties announced on June 24th the 2011 recipients of the prestigious Diller Teen Tikkun Olam Awards. Nearly 125 teens from across the state of California were nominated and considered for this impressive award—five recipients were chosen to each receive $36,000. Each Diller honoree has initiated an innovative social action project exemplifying tikkun olam, a central precept of Judaism meaning repair of the world. These volunteer projects have truly made a difference in today’s economically volatile world.

The teens will be recognized at a celebratory luncheon in San Francisco on August 29, 2011. This is the fifth year the awards have been given, and a special commemoration of past recipients and the impact their efforts have made in the world will also be celebrated at the luncheon.

“This is the fifth year for our Tikkun Olam Awards and we could not be more excited by what these remarkable teens have achieved,” said Helen Diller, president of the sponsoring foundation. “There is no doubt that this year’s honorees see how much our world needs help. With creative and committed solutions, they are tackling global issues of access to education, availability of natural resources and distribution of sorely needed humanitarian aid—with every step they truly do repair the world.”

Carmichael teen Casey Robbins heard a startling radio interview with Liberia’s Deputy Minister for Public Affairs Gabriel Williams in which he spoke urgently about the need to rebuild the country after a 14-year civil war that ravaged Liberia’s infrastructure. Inspired to help, Casey contacted Mr. Williams and decided she could best correct the pressing lack of educational materials in Liberia, by donating the surplus of books from her school. Thus, Textbooks for Liberia was born. To transport the textbooks overseas, Casey conquered excessive shipping obstacles including distance, rising gas prices, a stubborn recession and natural disasters. Now in its fifth year, Textbooks for Liberia has grown from its first donation of 450 books to nearly 4,000 each year – helping to provide a better and more meaningful education for her peers in Liberia. This spring, Casey took an incredibly moving trip to Monrovia, Liberia to meet with students who received the textbooks and visit the Casey Robbins International School, founded in honor of her tireless work. Casey’s next shipment proves to be her largest yet, doubling in size with a 60,000 lb. container of textbooks to be shipped this fall. The awardees’ projects include a fundraising and advocacy movement to provide lifesaving relief for refugees from genocide; a clean water initiative that creates global awareness and brings essential resources to impoverished families; a student-run community garden that has engaged students and the greater public; a textbook donation program benefitting students in Liberia; and a charitable school supply program for less-fortunate Los Angeles youth. Each project required leadership and careful organization in addition to fundraising. Use of the award money is largely unrestricted, and recipients can use it to fund college or to further implement their vision for making the world a better place.

The teens were selected by a panel composed of educators and community leaders from San Francisco, Los Angeles, San Diego, Marin, Yolo, Fresno, Placer, Contra Costa, Alameda and Orange Counties. Candidates completed a detailed application describing their projects, goals, inspiration and challenges, fundraising tactics and ultimate accomplishments. Eligible applicants were California residents, between 13 and 19 years old, who self-identify as Jewish. The community service projects focused on any area of interest to the teen.

Other 2011 Diller Teen Tikkun Olam Award Recipients and their Projects:

Gabriel Ferrick (Santa Rosa): ‘Envision No Victims’ Campaign Supports Young Refugees in Darfur
Liza Gurtin (La Jolla): Walk for Water Fundraising Facilitates Clean Water Systems Globally
Naftali Moed (Pacifica): Locally-Supported Oceana High School Garden Nourishes Community
Daniel Sobajian (Los Angeles): School and Art Supply Drive Revives Los Angeles Schools
The Diller Teen Tikkun Olam Awards initiative is one of a number of projects funded by the Helen Diller Family Foundation through the Jewish Community Endowment Fund to develop leadership in teens and enhance Jewish education. Helen Diller believes that philanthropy is a fundamental part of living a full and accountable life. Now in its 12th year of giving, the Helen Diller Family Foundation has granted more than $200 million to support education, the arts, medical research and development, leadership training programs for teens, and many other charitable endeavors.

For more information please visit www.sfjcf.org/diller/teenawards or contact Jacque Seaman at (212) 561-7456, Erica Schwartz at (212) 561-7462 erica.schwartz@morris-king.com; Lisa Kurtz at (212) 561-7478 lisa.kurtz@morris-king.com.

Off to The Parade

By Elizabeth Crisante

Competitive carriage driver John Walker (right) and partner Moka Davis kit out for Carmichael July 4 celebrations. Walker’s “gentleman’s phaeton” is a restored 1880s vehicle. Horse power is provided by 18-year-old Morgan horse, Jesse. Property owners in the old Carmichael Colony, Walker and Davis are both realtors for the Sierra Oaks office of Lyon Real Estate. Photo courtesy Susan Maxwell Skinner

Carmichael - The 4th of July is just around the corner and Carmichael once again has big plans to celebrate. The Elks Club is hosting the 53rd Annual Parade which starts at 10:30am on Monday . The route begins at Marconi and Fair Oaks and spectators can watch as the trail of classic cars, community floats, marching bands, military units and dignitaries make their way down Fair Oaks Boulevard to Cypress and Manzanita where the parade ends. This year’s theme is “A Gathering of Patriots” and is sure to celebrate the many service units who have aided in protecting this country. The Carmichael Kiwanis Club is hosting its Annual Pancake Breakfast at Carmichael Park so stop by the Clubhouse for a stack of flapjacks before finding the perfect viewing spot along the parade route.

But wait – the day isn’t over yet! What would a 4th of July be without a spectacular display of colors and sounds that light up the night sky? Yes folks I’m referring to the Fireworks Show – a plethora of sparkle, pops and snaps that always incite the patriotism for which our country stands. Sponsored by Carmichael and Mission Oaks Recreation and Park Districts, the shoot is scheduled for dark (approximately 9:30pm) at the La Sierra Community Center, 5325 Engle Road. The fun starts at 7pm when the FREE Kids Zone opens. Children can enjoy the inflatables, arts/crafts and more. Carmichael Little League, the Elks Lodge and other vendors will provide concessions to provide all of your patriotic cravings.

If you are interested in volunteering, the Carmichael Recreation and Park District is in need of people for a variety of positions during the evening festivities. If you have any EMT training, enjoy working with the public or just want to participate in the community’s largest event, please call Elizabeth Crisante at 483-7826.

A Gathering of Patriots

From Jim Warrick
Posted: 6/28/2011

The 53rd Annual Carmichael Elks 4th of July Parade and Celebration will include Grand Marshal Curly Bunfill, an American Hero and his classic Caddy

Carmichael - Ninety-eight year old Curly Bunfill has graciously driven dignitaries as parade goers have marveled at his classic blue Cadillac. For decades people have politely waved at the smiling driver with the white cowboy hat without knowing his tremendous devotion to his country and his rich experiences as an American. Fifties film star Rita Hayworth appreciated Curly enough to will him her famous Cadillac. Movie stars Tom Mix and Alan Ladd knew Curly as the real deal, one who lived experiences movies try to portray.

Race horse owner, construction worker, cowboy, and classic western movie actor, Curly personifies a hard working, hard playing American citizen. Curly loves to reminisce with movie producer Alan Ladd Jr. and his ninety-five year old younger brother Larry Bunfill about their intriguing civilian exploits. Larry was known in the 1930’s movies “The Little Rascals” and was a close friend of fellow movie star Jackie Cooper. Meanwhile, Curly played parts in a score of “B” westerns. Whereas he was routinely killed as a character in the westerns, Curly reflects solemnly about his real near death experiences in WWII.

He has a picture of Admiral Halsey awarding him with one of his three purple hearts. He has a personal letter from the World War II Secretary of the Navy thanking him for his meritorious service. He also has memories about talking with Jimmy Doolittle on the U.S. Carrier Hornet before Doolittle’s famous raid… And, he has reflections of how he shot down enemy aircraft with his 30 mm guns before the Hornet sunk. He carries memories about how he was wounded in the encounter and how he and fellow sailors floated in the cold, Pacific Ocean for four hours before being rescued. He has stories about how the Navy patched him up and promptly reassigned him to the U.S. Carrier Princeton. He has memories of how he was wounded again and thrown into the ocean as the enemy sank the Princeton too. Finally, he has reflections about how he was reassigned as a tail gunner and wounded a third time as his plane was shot down.

It’s ironic that Curly has been primarily known in the community for his quality work ethic and his association with the Cadillac-LaSalle Club. It’s amazing how he has transported so many dignitaries and yet his own service to his country has been greatly unnoticed. It is so appropriate that Curly Bunfill is our 53rd Annual Fourth of July Grand Marshal. With “A Gathering of Patriots” we recognize all those who love our country, especially unselfish and devoted Americans like Curly Bunfill and the Bunfill family.

Glimmer of Hope for La Sierra Skate Park

By Elizabeth Cristinate
Posted: 6/14/2011

La Sierra Skate Camp participants. Photo courtesy Elizabeth Cristinate.

Carmichael – Scheduled to close July 1 due to extreme budget cuts, the La Sierra Skate Park has a new local business championing the cause. R Thrift (Store), owned by Rochelle Rountree has hit the ground running with its fundraising since the doors opened just 2 ½ months ago. They have currently donated close to $2000 to the Carmichael Recreation and Park District to help keep the skate park open. It costs Carmichael Recreation and Park District approximately $1700 per month to staff the skate park so Rochelle says her goal is $2000 per month. Of course these donations depend on their customers’ buying power as Rochelle matches every dollar donated by clients at the time of purchase.

R Thrift (the “R” stands for Rochelle) who now occupies the former Weave building at 6634 Fair Oaks Boulevard, takes gently used items and puts them up for resale at bargain prices. Having just gotten started they are in need of furniture, clothes, electronics, household items, anything you don’t want – they will gladly take. You can even schedule a pick-up if you don’t have a way of getting your things to the store. So just by donating items, the community can help support the skate park.

Don’t breathe a sigh of relief just yet though – La Sierra Skate Park still needs other champions from the community to help with the cause. It takes approximately $20,000 to keep the park open for a year and currently R Thrift is the park’s only contributor. Local business owners should understand that if the park closes, kids, teens and young adults with boards, blades and scooters will be forced to recreate on the streets, public property and store fronts. Think about that while you do business around town at the bank, grocery store or stroll leisurely through one of Carmichael’s parks. You will now hear the sound of wheels grinding on concrete, the boisterous behavior of teenagers and perhaps even a sharp pain as you accidentally get hit with a board. Come on folks – La Sierra Skate Park is a safe and supervised place where the underserved youth of the Carmichael community can be creative and athletic but above all, just be themselves.

The Carmichael Recreation and Park District greatly appreciates Rochelle Rountree and R Thrift for being a local “skate” hero. If you would like to donate items or get more information on R Thrift call 973-8081 or 915-7166. If you would like to be a champion for the skate park, please call Elizabeth Crisante at 483-7826 or email her at ecrisante@carmichaelpark.com.

Publisher’s special note: The Carmichael Times is currently offering to donate $20 from every new annual subscription to the skate park fund. Your $39 annual subscription will get you 52 weeks of the Times delivered to your home, and $20 will be donated to the skate park in your name. To subscribe, simply send your check for $39 to the Carmichael Times and make a note that you wish $20 to be donated to the skate park.

Taxable Sales Up 8.5%

Report shows state ended 10-quarter slide in the first quarter of 2010
BOE Newsroom
Posted: 6/7/2011

Latest taxable numbers are good news for California. Some people are starting to buy again.
Posted: 6/7/2011

New Board of Equalization data indicate a pronounced recovery in taxable sales. BOE staff has developed an estimate of statewide taxable sales for the first quarter of 2011, based on cash receipts. Taxable sales are estimated to have risen 8.5 percent in the first quarter of 2011 over the same period a year earlier, the best showing since the 3rd quarter of 2005 (when taxable sales rose 10.1 percent). The estimated level of statewide taxable sales for the first quarter of 2011 is $117.8 billion.

“These latest numbers are good news for California, but I wish they were even better,” said Senator George Runner, Second District Member of the California State Board of Equalization. “More than two million Californians need a job, yet our state’s hostile business climate continues to repel job creators we so desperately need.”

The BOE also released taxable sales numbers showing that California ended a 10-quarter slide in the first quarter of 2010. California taxable sales totaled $108.6 billion in the first quarter of 2010, up $1.4 billion (or 1.3 percent) from the first quarter of 2009. The last quarter of positive growth in year-over-year taxable sales was the second quarter of 2007, when such sales rose 0.9 percent.

First quarter 2010 taxable sales in the greater Sacramento area rose 0.9 percent, slightly lower than the statewide increase of 1.3 percent. The Second Equalization District’s largest cities continued to post declines, with the city of Sacramento declining 2.3 percent, and the city of Fresno down 1.8 percent.

Gasoline station sales in first quarter of 2010 increased over 30 percent, the largest gain of any major category. Taxable sales made by gasoline stations were $10.3 billion. The average price of gasoline at the pump increased 40 percent during the first quarter of 2010, which lifted total taxable sales made by service stations. Gallons of gasoline purchased in the first quarter of 2010 actually decreased slightly, dropping 1.0 percent from the first quarter of 2009.

Clothing and clothing accessory stores had the next largest increase, 7.9 percent in the first quarter of 2010, followed by general merchandise stores (which rose 4.5 percent). Taxable sales at general merchandise stores represent the largest nondurable retail category, and totaled $10.2 billion in the first quarter of 2010.

First quarter 2010 taxable sales by motor vehicle and parts dealers were essentially flat, rising 0.7 percent. Within this category, taxable sales of used car dealers rose 10.4 percent, while those of new car dealers were much more muted, rising only 0.4 percent in the first quarter of 2010.

First quarter 2010 taxable sales made by building materials dealers and gardeners slipped 0.1 percent, while those of furniture and home furnishing stores declined by 0.5 percent. Electronics and appliance stores saw taxable sales in the first quarter of 2010 decline by 5.5 percent. Sales from “all other outlets” (comprised primarily of manufacturing and wholesale businesses) in the first quarter of 2010 were down 4.8 percent, to $33.6 billion. To view all taxable sales in California, visit: www.boe.ca.gov/news/tsalescont.htm.

California’s Second Oldest Oak Tree Falls in Sacramento Neighborhood

From Mandy Morello
Posted: 6/1/2011

Mother Nature and prolonged rain storms take their toll on the second oldest Oak in California, causing massive damage to two homes. Photo courtesy Mandy Morello.

Sacramento – The unusually wet May caused damage in one Sacramento neighborhood Tuesday afternoon. The damage was not because of flooding, but by causing the second oldest Oak tree in California to fall, damaging two homes, cars and the street itself.

Neighbors and a curious community came out to see the damage caused by this mighty oak. The massive tree, whose one branch spanned the length of two large homes in the American River Parkway neighborhood, fell onto the homeowner and a neighbor’s homes causing severe damage to the structures. Another branch, which grew out over the street, fell with such force that it caused an approximately five foot hole in the pavement.

As the county crews quickly cleared the debris from the roadway, onlookers shared their stories and concerns about such massive trees in their neighborhoods. One onlooker even shared the concerns he had with a similar tree on his property. “They are beautiful trees, but I fear of the possible damage they can cause to property or even a person... my neighborhood has several of these trees, but since these trees are listed as “protected,” it is too hard to maintain. This causes my homeowners insurance to be sky high and I can’t utilize my driveway in case something were to fall.” Another bystander even commented, “ I hope they have excellent insurance that does not use an “Act of God” clause.”

In the words of John Muir, “God has cared for these trees, saved them from drought, disease, avalanches, and a thousand tempests and floods. But he cannot save them from fools.” Could the extensive protection for some trees, be more to blame than Mother Nature?

Sacramento is the 5th Smoggiest City in Nation

Posted: 6/1/2011

The city of Sacramento is ranked fifth smoggiest city in the nation, according to the American Lung Association’s annual report on air quality, State of the Air 2011. The report shows people in Sacramento continue to breathe dangerous levels of air pollution, despite positive nationwide trends toward cleaner air.

Reflecting the continued problems, this year’s report showed that Sacramento’s air quality stayed at the same level as 2010’s State of the Air report, unlike the majority of American cities most-polluted by ozone (smog) or year-round particle pollution (soot). Sacramento’s best opportunity for progress depends on locally raising awareness of the problem and the continued cleanup of deadly pollution.

The State of the Air 2011 report grades cities and counties based, in part, on the color-coded Air Quality Index developed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to help alert the public to daily unhealthy air conditions. The 12th annual release of the Lung Association’s report uses the most recent EPA data collected from 2007 through 2009 from official monitors for ozone and particle pollution, the two most widespread types of air pollution. Counties are graded for ozone, year-round particle pollution and short-term particle pollution levels. The report also uses EPA’s calculations for year-round particle levels.

The pollution problem showed up most in El Dorado, Nevada, Placer, Sacramento, Sutter and Yolo counties that all received in “F” for ozone pollution. Ozone is the most widespread air pollutant, created by the reaction of sunlight on emissions from vehicles and other sources. When ozone is inhaled, it irritates the lungs. It can cause immediate health problems and continue days later. Ozone can cause wheezing, coughing, asthma attacks and even premature death.

Despite getting a passing grade for year-round particle pollution, the city of Sacramento was ranked ninth as most polluted by short-term particle pollution which is considered unhealthy by the American Lung Association and other public health groups and medical societies. Particle levels can spike dangerously for hours to weeks on end (short-term) or remain at unhealthy levels on average every day (year-round).

For more information on the 2011 State of the Air report, go to stateoftheair.org.

Now in its second century, the American Lung Association is the leading organization working to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease. With your generous support, the American Lung Association is “Fighting for Air” through research, education and advocacy. For more information about the American Lung Association or to support the work it does, call 1-800-LUNG-USA (1-800-586-4872) or visit www.lungusa.org/california.

Sacramento County Fair Offers Best Deal for Holiday Weekend

Posted: 5/25/2011

Dancers, singers, variety acts and a whole lot more... the Fair’s got it! In the Kids’ Carnival and throughout the fairgrounds there’s plenty of spectacular amusement. Photo courtesy Sac

Sacramento – With free admission for kids and seniors, and just $5 general admission for ages 13-61, you would be hard-pressed to find a better entertainment value than the Sacramento County Fair. Even a visit to the movie theater costs more and it usually lasts less than two hours. Plus with the price of gasoline you can start your summer close to home on Memorial Day weekend and get more bang for your buck all the way around.

Consider that the price of admission includes live music by Bay Area favorites like Max Cabello, or a comedy stunt show by Matt Baker from the “America’s Got Talent” TV series, a wild animal adventure, a circus, an art and photography show, hands-on science exploration and much more inside the magical world of the County Fair. Where else can you spend all day, get hypnotized, watch a Sea Lion show, learn where your food comes from, talk to the farm animals, all for free once you pass through the gates?

Of course it wouldn’t be a Fair without carnival rides, but there’s a great deal there too. An unlimited ride wristband is just that – all the rides you want any one day. If you plan in advance you can save up to $15 on a ValuPass sold at area Walgreens which includes Fair admission and a wristband. If you wait till the last minute, you can take advantage of the Good Buddy BOGO (Buy One Get One Free) deal on Thursday, May 26.

For parents with little ones who like to visit the Fair early, they can download a coupon for free admission until 3:00 pm on Friday, May 27, through News 10’s Mom’s Like Me Club. There will be a complimentary privacy lounge for breast feeding and healthy snacks as well as a diaper changing area, open all days of the Fair.

For more information on the Sacramento County Fair, May 26-30, at Cal Expo, visit SacFair.com. For 75 years they have been creating “Memories & Magic” and your family can too.

Aerospace Museum Planning to Celebrate Armed Forces Day

Posted: 5/18/2011

Active Duty Military Personnel and Their Families Can Explore the Museum at No Charge and Discounted Admission Offered to the General Public. Photo provided by Aerospace Museum of California.

Sacramento Region – The Aerospace Museum of California (AMC) (www.aerospaceca.org) announced today a celebration of Armed Forces Day on May 21, 2011, from 9:00am to 5:00pm with a brief ceremony honoring our troops at 11:00 a.m. followed by a United States Coast Guard C-130 flyby. The AMC is a non-profit foundation dedicated to inspirational and educational programs, honoring the rich military and aviation history of the greater Sacramento region, and highlighting the impact and innovation of the Museum’s many community partners.

In honor of Armed Forces Day, the Museum will also be hosting an Open Cockpit Day where children of all ages can explore, climb into, or imagine what it would be like to soar through the skies in several of the many aircraft on the ramp. Guests will experience historic planes and displays representing over eight decades of aviation history, as well as a chance to view thrilling jets like a US Navy Blue Angels’ fighter, A-10 Thunderbolt, or a famous ‘Top Gun’ F-14 Tomcat just like the movie.

Guests at Armed Forces Day will learn about aircraft they may never have heard of before like a Voodoo, Warthog, Albatross, Boxcar, Dagger or Grasshopper. Who knew aircraft with names such as this carried the heroes that helped to secure the freedoms we enjoy today?

Activities are planned through-out the day, including an inter-active remote control aircraft display by Mather Aerospace Modelers, entertainment by Band of the Golden West from Travis Air Force Base at 11:00am, Support 4 Soldiers, where attendees can color pictures, sign cards and flags for troops overseas, and so much more.

"We want to acknowledge and honor Americans currently serving in the Armed Forces,” said Roxanne Yonn, executive director of the Aerospace Museum of California. “Offering free admission is just a small way of saying ‘thank you’ for their service and commitment. We encourage visitors to enjoy a day at the Museum, be inspired and give thanks to the men and women (both past and present) who serve and sacrifice for our great nation.”

The special no-cost admission rate applies to active duty military service members and their immediate family members. To receive free admittance visitors must present a military ID. Admission for the general public is $5.

The Museum pavilion and air park opened in February 2007, and since then over 250,000 guests have enjoyed the Museum’s unique collection of over 40 military and civilian aircraft, 15 restored engines on display, participated in numerous educational programs, and viewed the Coast Guard art collection. For additional information please visit www.aerospaceca.com.

Learn While Having Fun - Fair Exhibits and Activities are Educational

Posted: 5/19/2011

SACRAMENTO, CA. A visit to the Sacramento County Fair is surprisingly educational - both adults and schools kids can learn about science, animals, conservation, culture and more without even trying. In fact the Fair hosts nearly 10,000 children over two days on field trips from schools throughout the county.

While the carnival rides and cotton candy are great fun, Fair visitors love the interactive, people-powered entertainment and colorful educational exhibits. "We are always on the look-out for entertainment that educates," says TJ Plew, CEO. "It makes the Fair a much more valuable experience."

The line-up for the 2011 "Memories and Magic" themed Fair includes learning about farm animals with the Thank A Farmer magic shows or wild animals at the Sea Lion Encounter and the Enchanted Forest. Entertainers bring the young audience aboard in Circus Imagination and local groups demonstrate cultural dances. Science is made entertaining for all ages at the Mad Science shows and the Fun with Physics hands-on exhibit.

The Sacramento County Fair runs May 26-30, at Cal Expo. Admission is always free for kids and seniors, and is only $5 for ages 13 to 62. ValuPasses that include admission and carnival unlimited ride wristbands are available at Sacramento area Walgreens. For more information and an entertainment schedule you can visit www.SacFair.com.

Here are some of the exhibits and activities you won't want to miss!

Sea Lion Encounters. See these awe inspiring, world famous sea lions do incredible leaps into the air and see a demo of how they use the "Critter Cam" to explore depths and areas of the ocean unreachable by humans. During the shows the audience gets an exciting mixture of marine information and demonstrations of breathtaking natural behaviors.

Enchanted Forest - Discover exotic wildlife from jungle creatures to colorful birds, smiling trees and hidden benches as you take a walk through the Enchanted Forest. "Woodland Keepers" will be on hand to guide visitors and interact with animal friends and children, including live animal stories.

Thank a Farmer Magic Show - This friendly magician demonstrates the connection of every day products to farming, and points out that it is not just the food on your plate. For example a baseball is filled with wool from sheep and is covered by cowhide from Holstein milk cows.

Livestock Shows and Exhibits - A visit to the livestock barns gives you the opportunity to visit farm animals up close. The sounds of pigs squealing, cows mooing, and goats bleating give kids a real life experience and the youth raising the animals are experts who can answer questions. Watching the judging may seem confusing, but listen in as the judges explain to the young exhibitors what he or she is looking for in a prime animal. At the end of the Fair, the Junior Livestock Auction allows you to purchase the best quality, locally raised product for your table. Meat can also be donated to charity or purchased by groups.

Wheelbarrow Gardens - Dozens of gardens from vegetables to flowers have been planted by children in classrooms and are a great learning experience as they prepare the soil, plant the seeds, and anxiously wait for the sprouts to appear. They show off their work at the Sacramento County Fair where you can see how small an area you need to grow some of your own food!

Circus Imagination - Kids can join the circus using their imagination with props and costumes that are provided. The Ringmaster guides them through a fantasy adventure and before they know it, they have created their own world - something they can take home with them for many hours of backyard adventures.

Mad Science - Get ready to be mystified by molecules and amazed by atmospheric pressure in this show on the power of pressure. Witness how an ordinary object becomes a hot-air balloon. Zoom across the floor on the Mad Science hovercraft and discover how energy transforms liquid into an exciting chemical reaction. Have you ever seen toilet paper shoot 50 feet into the air?! You'll learn how the Bernoulli Principal demonstrates this amazing experiment!!

Fun with Physics - This hands-on Fair favorite entertains while it educates with Mind Boggler puzzles, electricity, magnets, simple machines and gears, tools of engineering, a construction zone and more. Adults are just as intrigued by the colorful stations as the kids.

Bring Your “Buds” to the Taste

By Walt Farl
Posted: 5/11/2011

Wine goes with any food! Join hundreds of your neighbors at Taste of Carmichael. Photograph courtesy of Walt Farl.

Carmichael – This Saturday, May 14th the Carmichael Kiwanis Club will present their 9th Annual “Taste of Carmichael” at the La Sierra Community Center at 5325 Engle Road in Carmichael.

Beginning at 4:30 and continuing to 8 PM this event brings together dozens of Restaurants, Winery’s, Markets and vendors. Last year over 500 participants were on hand to sample the festivities and this year even more are expected.

While at the “Taste” participants will also enjoy live music with groups such as Sister Swing and Vintage Fare scheduled to perform this year. Local businesses and non-profits will also be on hand to answer your questions and tell you about upcoming events.

The Taste of Carmichael also features Silent Auctions and Raffles with literally hundreds of items up for grabs.

Over the years the “Taste of Carmichael” has proven to be a great event to bring your friends and to meet others. Tickets are $35.00 and may be purchased at the door or by contacting George White at 916-481-0196. All net proceeds to assist the Carmichael Kiwanis Foundation’s charities that serve children including the Kiwanis Family House, Special Olympics, Scouting Organizations and Local School District’s enrichment programs.

Mira Loma High School Takes Top Honors

Wins the 21st U.S. Department of Energy National Science Bowl
Posted:5/11/2011

The winning student team in a pensive mood during the competition. Photograph courtesy of Mira Loma High School.

Washington, D.C. – The Mira Loma high school team from Sacramento won the 2011 U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) National Science Bowl on May 2nd at the National Building Museum in Washington D.C.

Mira Loma High School defeated Montgomery Blair High School from Maryland in the high school national championship match by correctly answering a chemistry question.

The high school national champions will receive an all-expense-paid trip in July to the International Science School in Sydney, Australia. Members of the winning high school team are Russell Islam, Siddharth Trehan, Andrew Chen, Anish Khare, Sriram Pendyala and are coached by James Hill.

At the awards ceremony, Secretary of Energy Steven Chu spoke to the more than 500 students and 100 teacher/coaches about the importance of science education to the Nation’s economic and technological future.

“These students represent the great promise and potential of America’s next great generation,” said Secretary Chu. “I have no doubt that the exceptional talent and hard work that earned them the Science Bowl championship will serve them well throughout their lives, as they help our Nation tackle the crucial scientific and engineering challenges we’ll face in the years ahead. America’s future will always be bright when we continue to invest in and support the young minds who will be tomorrow’s innovators, pioneers and leaders. That’s what the science bowl is all about.”

One hundred ten teams from 44 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S.

Virgin Islands competed in this weekend’s national finals of the 21st annual DOE National Science Bowl. Earlier this spring, more than 14,000 students from across the country participated in regional Science Bowls. Sixty-nine high school and 41 middle school regional Science Bowl champion teams received all-expense paid trips to compete in the National Finals in Washington, DC.

DOE created the National Science Bowl in 1991 to encourage students to excel in mathematics and science and to pursue careers in these fields. DOE supports mathematics and science education to help provide a technically trained and diverse workforce for the nation. More than 200,000 students have participated in the National Science Bowl throughout its 21 year history.

The top 16 high school and 8 middle school teams received a cash prize of $1,000 for their school’s science department.

Taste of Carmichael Brings Food & Fun

Posted: 5/4/2011

Sister Swing, an Andrews Sisters 40’s-era performance group, will once again offer entertainment. Photograph courtsey of the Carmichael Kiwanis.

Carmichael – Come out and enjoy the great food, wines, beers, music and laughs with your neighbors of Carmichael at this annual fundraising event! Featured again this year will be many samplings of food from local restaurants and tasting of locally brewed beer and wines from regional wineries.

The ‘Taste’ of food, wine, brew, music and art in previous years has drawn over four hundred people from the surrounding community. Proceeds go to Kiwanis Foundation’s contributions to charitable organizations serving the children, the youth, and the disabled. A partial list of beneficiaries of this fundraiser include: Carmichael Park & Recreation District programs, Kiwanis Family House, SJUSD High School Jazz program, local food closets, American Red Cross, Salvation Army, Special Olympic Events, Boy Scout & Cub Scout programs, SJUSD Elementary Special Projects, Children’s Receiving Home, Toys for Tots, Heifer Project, Eye Glasses, North Area Teen Center, and many more.

Planned for the event will be over forty booths filled with food and beverage vendors and businesses from the community. The event will be held at La Sierra Community Center, 5325 Engle Road, Carmichael on Saturday of May 14th from 4:30-8 PM. Tickets can be purchased at the door for $35 per person.

Taste of Carmichael Event is organized by many fellow-Kiwanians. They have created this fun-filled evening to help raise the needed funding for local organizations. To find out more about the Kiwanis Club of Carmichael, write to P.O. Box 680, Carmichael, CA 95609, or visit www.carmichaelkiwanis.com

Celebrating Three Special Mothers

Story and photos by Julie Parker
Posted: 5/4/2011

Amelia Crotty

Profile of Amelia Crotty

Born in Italy, Amelia Crotty was six years old when she, her mother and older sister joined her father in the United States in 1930. “I’d never known my dad until we came here,” says Amelia, “because he left to work and have money enough to bring us over. We ended up in Minnesota. Dad worked in the paper mill at International Falls, which is the coldest spot in the country,” Amelia smiles, glancing around her sunlit Carmichael Oaks apartment.

“Every day of the week, I could tell what day it was by what my mother was cooking. Chicken was on Sunday.” Her parents stressed education, up to a point. “Mom said, ‘Not for you. You learn all of the things women do.’ We learned how to sew and clean, clean, clean. The problem for me was that my sister was prettier and petite, had black, curly hair, and I had straight brown hair. We didn’t have a boy so I ended up being the boy. I shoveled the sidewalks, brought in the wood and coal. I didn’t mind. I’d rather be outside.

I was the disciplinarian in my family, but my mother was not. She’d say, “I’m going to tell Dad.” But, she never did. I don’t think she ever raised a hand to us, where I did, I have to admit.”

When Amelia was in the 7th grade, she was fascinated when the new public library opened, unlike her mother. “She’d say, ‘Don’t waste time with books. That is for the intelligentsia – doctors, lawyers and priests.’ I enjoyed reading, so I would hide under the bed to read.” Her mother eventually learned to read English. “We’d be reading the funnies, she’d hear us laughing and wanted to know what we were laughing at. So, we’d start reading to her, she started looking, and that’s how she learned to read–from the funnies.”

Amelia met her husband in high school, and married when she was 22. “The first baby came right away, and they just kept coming. I had 10 kids in 14 years. Those were good days. I loved the kids, and being in charge. When they get older, you don’t know where they are, or what’s going on. We lived payday to payday. A pound of hamburger can go a long way and you use a lot of pasta and rice. We didn’t know what leftovers were.

We sent all of the children to parochial schools, because we believed that was the best place for them. They all went to college. I’m just so proud of them all.

“It took me a long time to figure out that one system doesn’t work for every child. Each child is an individual, so I tried to treat them as such. God gives you these kids, because he thinks you are the best mom for these children. I always felt I had a responsibility to give them back to God in as good a condition as I got them.”

Illojean Peifer

Profile of Illojean Peifer

Jean’s mother died of uremic poisoning after giving birth to her, so she was raised by her father and maternal grandparents. “My grandmother was real strict. You better mind her. But, she was really good to me. She was afraid my father was going to get married and take me away from her, because she raised me from a baby.” They moved from the house she was born in, in East Nicholas, to Chico.

Ninety-year-old Jean sits at the edge of her bed in her apartment at The Chateau at Carmichael Park, remembering her childhood. “We had a chicken ranch, so I was raised with chickens, ducks, turkeys and rabbits. We worked on farms picking prunes for 7 cents a box, cutting apricots, and hauling almonds for 2 cents a pound. I could buy an ice cream cone for 5 cents a cone or go to the movies for 10 cents.” She also worked jumping on and off milk trucks, dropping off quarts of milk to houses. “I got 25 cents a night.”

Her grandmother took her and her girlfriends to dances. “She’d sit on the sideline while we danced from 9:00 ‘till 2:00 a.m., and then she’d bring us home.” After graduation, she continued dancing, and at the end of one evening of ballroom dancing at the local Air Force Base, a young man arrived during the last song, and asked her to dance. When he returned after the war in 1944, they married.

Jean’s grandmother (a midwife) stayed with Jean to assist when she delivered her first baby. “They used to say, ‘Oh, I can tell you’re going to have a girl by the way you carry it.’ ‘I just hope it’s a boy to show you can’t.’ I got a boy.” Eight years later, a daughter also arrived.

“My kids didn’t give me too much trouble. I worried a lot about them, like when they started with the marijuana and all that, and the narcotics. When we lived in Washington, the kids were using switchblade knives. Well, that worried me. I’m a worry wart.”

After retiring from the service, her husband became a letter carrier and they returned to dancing. “We didn’t dance after we had the kids, because you couldn’t take your kids with you. He said, ‘I can’t dance and carry the mail, so I’m going to quit working,’ and he did.” They traveled around the country dancing at polka festivals. “We danced from noon to midnight. You’d get charley horses in your legs, sweat running down in your eyes. It was fun and we met a lot of people. We danced up till he was 84.”

“It’s kind of hard for moms now, because they have to work. But, stay home and raise your children, if you can. I hope this world changes so we don’t have all of these drugs, and that my kids and their families are all okay. So far, they are. They’re very good kids.”

Marion Solo

Profile of Marion Solo

“I don’t really remember too much about my mom,” says 92-year-old Marion Solo. “In my high school years, she became an asthmatic. I was an only child, so I sort of took over running the house. My grandmother showed me how to cook and sew. This was just before the Depression. You counted your pennies all of the time.”

Marion grew up and spent most of her life in Fresno. “I had a girlfriend who lived around the corner from me and we played with our dolls. Did a lot of roller skating; skated and kicked the can down the street; not much traffic. That was lots of fun, and I belonged to Jobs Daughters.”

The family would spend their vacations in Santa Cruz, but didn’t travel much. “Cars weren’t all closed in, like they are now. You had to get out and put the side curtains on all around so the wind wouldn’t blow through the car.”

In 1942, while Marion was working for Metropolitan Life as administrative support, the Navy began recruiting for WAVES. “’We’re starting a new phase in the war–women in the Navy.’” She and her girlfriend signed up. “I was in the first group ever. I did training in Stillwater, Oklahoma, then, they stationed me in San Francisco. I was with the Sub Forces Commander of the South Pacific, stationed in the federal building. I was a pivotal person. When ships needed damage repair, our job was to find parts, and see that they got there the fastest way that we could to get the ships back in commission. That was very interesting. I did that for three years, until the war ended.”

Meanwhile, a cousin introduced Marion to her future husband. “He was a year ahead of me in high school. I knew who he was, but didn’t know him. He was a real good dancer. We liked to dance. The college had dances all of the time. At one time, we belonged to a dance club – ballroom dancing.”

They had two children – a daughter and a son. “My folks and my husband’s family all helped with my babies. They taught me to feed them when they should be fed, laugh with them when they should be laughed with, attend sports activities with them, and all that.”

They spent their vacations in Santa Cruz. “One year, we went to Disneyland right after they opened, then over to Catalina Island. In Santa Cruz, we usually stayed in motels, but, eventually we had a cabin when the kids were a little older and spent our whole summer there. “

Widowed in 1973, Marion continued working for a credit union until her retirement. In approximately 1998, she moved to Carmichael to live with her son.

“I think I did a pretty good job with my children. They have good manners, respect everybody, show attention to their elders. You have kids and you never let them go. They’re still your kids always.”

DWR Announces Results of Final Snow Survey of 2010-2011Season

Posted: 5/4/2011

SACRAMENTO – Manual and electronic readings today show that California’s near-record snowpack is slowly melting with warming spring weather.

But snowpack water content is still ­­144 percent of the April 1 full season average.

Today's readings will help hydrologists forecast spring and summer snowmelt runoff into rivers and reservoirs. The melting snow supplies approximately one-third of the water used by Californians.

“All indications are that we’re moving toward summer with a good water supply for our farms and cities,” said DWR Director Mark Cowin. “We must be aware, however, that California can quickly turn from wet to dry, and we can’t afford to forget the lessons of conservation that we learned in the 2007-2009 drought.”

Snowpack water content is measured manually on or near the first of the month from January to May, and in real-time by electronic sensors.

Electronic readings indicate that water content in the northern mountains is ­­­159percent of the April 1 seasonal average. Electronic readings for the central Sierra show 144 percent of the April 1 average. The number for the southern Sierra is 127 percent. The statewide number is 144 percent.

The first of April is normally wnen snowpack water content is at its peak.

California's reservoirs are fed both by rain and snowpack runoff.

A majority of the state's major reservoirs are above normal storage levels for the date. Lake Oroville in Butte County, the State Water Project's principal reservoir, is 112 percent of average for the date (93 percent of its 3.5 million acre-foot capacity) Lake Shasta north of Redding, the federal Central Valley Project's largest reservoir with a capacity of 4.5 million acre-feet, is at 108 percent of average (94 percent of capacity).

DWR estimates it will be able to deliver 80 percent of requested State Water Project (SWP) water this year.

In 2010, the SWP delivered 50 percent of a requested 4,172,126 acre-feet, up from a record-low initial projection of 5 percent due to lingering effects of the 2007-2009 drought. Deliveries were 60 percent of requests in 2007, 35 percent in 2008, and 40 percent in 2009.

The last 100 percent allocation -- difficult to achieve even in wet years due to pumping restrictions to protect threatened and endangered fish -- was in 2006. The SWP delivers water to more than 25 million Californians and nearly one million acres of irrigated farmland.

Statewide snowpack readings from electronic sensors are available on the Internet at http://cdec.water.ca.gov/cgi-progs/snow/DLYSWEQ

Historic readings from snowpack sensors are posted at http://cdec.water.ca.gov/cgi-progs/rpts1/DLYSWEQ

Electronic reservoir level readings may be found at http://cdec.water.ca.gov/cdecapp/resapp/getResGraphsMain.action

The Department of Water Resources operates and maintains the State Water Project, provides dam safety and flood control and inspection services, assists local water districts in water management and water conservation planning,and plans for future statewide water needs.

Contact the DWR Public Affairs Office for more information about DWR's water activities.

Crime and Homelessness Forum Packs Carmichael’s La Sierra Center

By Susan Maxwell Skinner
Posted: 5/4/2011

County agency panelists spoke before 120 citizens who attended a Crime and Homelessness forum at the La Sierra Community Center last week. Representing agencies were: Carmichael Park District Chief Jack Harrison (left), District Attorney’s representative Karen Maxwell, Bruce Wagstaff (County-Wide Services), Sheriff Scott Jones, Supervisor Susan Peters and Kevin Shriver from Sacramento County Code Enforcement. Photograph by Susan Maxwell Skinner.

Carmichael – Pan handling, graffiti, illegal camping and theft were hot topics at a recent community forum hosted by the Carmichael Chamber of Commerce.

A crowd of 120 filled the La Sierra Community Center to hear Sheriff Scott Jones and a panel of agency representatives discussed crime, homelessness and accompanying problems in the Carmichael area. County Supervisor Susan Peters moderated the two- hour meeting.

“Is Carmichael safe?” posed Sheriff Jones. “Overall, I would say yes.”

But he acknowledged that quality of life issues came hand in hand with the recession. The same economic downturn has impacted his department’s effectiveness. Carmichael lost a critical Sheriff’s Service Center due to 2010 budget cuts. In consequence, Problem Oriented Policing teams were removed from local duties. Jones said he hoped to have POP officers back on the beat by later this year and welcomed volunteers to help them.

County-Wide Services representative Bruce Wagstaff held the speakers’ attention as he discussed problems experienced and caused by Carmichael’s homeless population. Supervisor Susan Peters (left) chaired the panel. Photograph by Susan Maxwell Skinner.

Assistant deputy district attorney Karen Maxwell lauded the effectiveness of Neighborhood Watch volunteers. She stressed that residents should report all suspicious activities and crime.

Together with non-profit groups, churches and law enforcement, the Countywide Services Agency aimed to get homeless people into programs that helped them, said agency administrator, Bruce Wagstaff. He quoted recent statistics showing that chronic homelessness was down by over 25 per cent. “It looks like our approach is working,” Wagstaff said.

A follow up meeting will convene at 7 p.m. on May 3, at the Christian Science Church in Carmichael. The facility is located at 4949 Kenneth Ave. For further information, call the Chamber of Commerce at (916) 481-1002.

Congressman Denham Responds To CA Gov. Brown Cancelling Plans to Build New $356 Million Condemned Inmate Housing Facility at San Quentin

Posted: 4/28/2011

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Jeff Denham (CA-19), today released the following statement in response to California Governor Jerry Brown’s announcement that he is canceling plans to build a new $365 million housing facility for condemned inmates at San Quentin.

"San Quentin Prison is a prime example of how resources have been mismanaged and millions of taxpayer dollars have been wasted for numerous years. In the State Senate, I pushed to relocate death row inmates and allow for the land where San Quentin State Prison currently resides to be sold. I am glad to see that Governor Brown has made the right choice to save millions of taxpayer dollars instead of wasting money to expand upon the prison.” – Congressman Jeff Denham

As a former State Senator, Congressman Jeff Denham, has seen first-hand the costs that poor management of public buildings has on a budget. The waste is significant. As Chairman of the Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings and Emergency Management, Denham is working to identify unused properties that could be sold to reduce the debt.

Congressman Denham is working on legislation to create a bipartisan civilian BRAC commission to reduce our federal footprint and save taxpayers billions of dollars. The independent process for identifying consolidation, realignment and disposal opportunities for federal agencies would take politics out of the process and identify real savings for taxpayers.

Governor Brown Cancels Plan to Build New $356 Million Condemned Inmate Housing Facility at San Quentin

Posted: 4/28/2011

SACRAMENTO – Acting to save taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars, Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. today canceled plans to build new housing for condemned inmates at San Quentin.

“At a time when children, the disabled and seniors face painful cuts to essential programs, the State of California cannot justify a massive expenditure of public dollars for the worst criminals in our state,” said Brown. “California will have to find another way to address the housing needs of condemned inmates. It would be unconscionable to earmark $356 million for a new and improved death row while making severe cuts to education and programs that serve the most vulnerable among us.”

Planning for a new condemned inmate housing facility at San Quentin was initiated in 2003, during the administration of Governor Gray Davis, and was continued by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger’s administration. The project was designed to house 1,152 inmates and provide for future growth of California’s condemned population. California currently has fewer than 700 inmates awaiting death sentences.

This project would have added another $356 million to the state’s debt, at an annual cost of $28.5 million in debt service that would have come out of General Fund dollars.

Signed and Sealed

By Susan Maxwell Skinner
Posted: 4/26/2011

ARNHA’s Effie Yeaw Takeover Now Official. Marking the American River Natural History Association’s Effie Yeaw takeover, Sacramento County Supervisor Susan Peters (in green jacket) joins Nature Center students at the reserve. County Parks Director (back center) is Janet Baker. ARNHA members are Larry Washington, Noah Baygell and Carol Doersch. Photograph by Susan Maxwell Skinner.

ature Center has operated under the aegis of the American River Natural History Association since last summer. Documents signed last week made the change of leadership official.

In a 30-year contract, Sacramento County signed over Effie Yeaw administration to non-profit ARNHA. “It means we are here to stay,” explained the center’s development director Betty Cooper. “Our small staff (down by 70 percent since last year) has been doing the impossible, keeping the center open and our award-winning programs running. We now have some security.”

Budget cutbacks in the Department of Regional Parks last year removed every penny of public funding for the educational center and its 70 acres of wildlife preserve. “Without ARNHA’s assuming operation,” said County Supervisor Susan Peters, “the facility would have been closed. I encourage the community to join me in supporting (Effie Yeaw’s) art auction fundraiser in May.”

See story on Page 2 about the May Art Gala that will help raise funds to support the Nature Center.. Photograph by Susan Maxwell Skinner.

Equally welcome news was that the County will cover Effie Yeaw’s rent, maintenance and utilities. Utilities for the facility’s two buildings run about $17,000 yearly. Said ARHNA president Larry Washington: “Everyone who donates (to help Effie Yeaw) can now rest assured their whole donation will go towards programs and staffing – not for rent or utilities.”

Done deal. Sacramento County Parks Director Janet Baker (center) shows visiting students the contract that officially assigns care of the Effie Yeaw Nature Center to the American River Natural History Association. ARNHA president Larry Washington and Effie Yeaw staffer Betty Cooper (right) look on. Photograph by Susan Maxwell Skinner.

Footnote: “Painting where the Wild Things are” is a benefit to aid the Nature Center. Children and adult artists will paint at the preserve all morning during the May 21 event. An evening gala offers food, wine, music, an art exhibit and auction. Draw-cards include original work contributed by such celebrated artists as Alan Post, Jian Wang, Greg Kondos and Pat Mahony. Tickets are $40. Information: info@sacnaturecenter.net.

Metro Fire Responds to Abandoned House Fire

Poted: 4/26/2011

Carmichael – (April 20th) Sacramento Metro Fire responded to a reported residential structure fire this morning at 6:27am on the 5000 block of Walnut in Carmichael Ca. Units arrived and found a two story home, well involved with fire. Crews entered the home and during the initial operations and primary search, located a 60 year old male inside. The male later said he was disoriented from the thick smoke, and that the firefighters saved his life. Within 15 minutes of arrival, firefighters contained the fire with a single alarm, and no injuries to firefighters or the occupant.

An investigation revealed the man was a transient and did not belong in the home. The transient told investigators he had started a large fire in the fireplace to keep warm. Investigators determined that the lack of general maintenance to the home allowed the fire to extend to the structure through a faulty fire place. The home had been previously tagged as uninhabitable by the Sacramento County Code Enforcement.

Within the Sacramento region we have seen an increase in the number of abandoned homes and businesses. This has increased the number of transient-related fires. Metro Fire encourages citizens to call local code enforcement or law enforcement if they witness these activities.

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Carmichael Times| Paul V. Scholl, Publisher
P.O. Box 14 | Carmichael, CA 95609-0014 | Telephone: 916-773-1111 | Fax Line 916-773-2999
Email: publisher@CarmichaelTimes.com | Site Designed and Hosted by TheSiteBarn.com
ISSN#: 1948-1918

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