Headline News

Wage Reductions, Furloughs and Layoffs More the Rule These Days

Posted: 5/3/2012

Sacramento REGION – The Sacramento Public Library Authority Board voted Thursday, April 26 to unilaterally implement its best offer on library workers represented by International Union of Operating Engineers Local 39. This action follows five months of negotiations in which the Library sought wage concessions and furloughs. Those negotiations reached an impasse on February 28, 2012.

Three furlough days are slated between now and the end of June 2012. Under the Authority Board’s April 26 decision, no more than 12 furlough days per year may be imposed in the next two fiscal years. The remaining changes in the Authority’s implementation start on July 1, 2012. For example, on a phased-in basis, employees will be required to pay their full contribution to retirement. A second tier retirement benefit was also approved for new employees.

Twelve furlough days per year equates to approximately a four-percent wage reduction. “Wage reductions, furloughs and layoffs are unfortunately more the rule rather than the exception in public employment these days,” observed Library Director Rivkah Sass. Most of the members of Local 39 working for the City of Sacramento, for example, were required to take 12 unpaid furlough days over the past two fiscal years.

“We saw furloughs as being far preferable to the alternatives of layoffs and service reductions,” Sass said.

The furloughs the Library is implementing will allow the Board to defer or avoid layoffs of 17 staff and the closure of at least three library branches.

“We don’t take this decision lightly, but we needed to avoid an action that would have devastating consequences on both the users and the employees of the library,” said Sacramento Public Library Authority Board Chair, Sophia Gonzalez-Scherman. Closing library branches, she noted, would also deprive affected communities of vital connections to information, the Internet, resources for children, and free family programming. Starting July 1 of last year, the library’s management team accepted more concessions than the Board is asking of Local 39. Library managers have accepted an increased contribution requirement for their retirement; reduced paid time off; and five unpaid furlough days between March 30 and June 30. The furloughs alone amounted to about a 5.5 percent wage reduction.

Sass and Gonzalez-Scherman expressed their gratitude for the hard work of employees during tough times. “The majority of our front-line staff have been incredibly supportive over the last three years as we have dealt with significant revenue reductions and increases in service demand,’” said Sass. “We are asking their union to work with us, just as Library management and the vast majority of public employees around the city, the county and the state have already accepted furloughs as a means of preventing Draconian service cuts.”

“These days shared sacrifices are needed to maintain quality library operations and to abide by our duty to our constituents,” Gonzalez-Scherman said. “In charting our course with diminished resources, we have to remember that at the end of the day, we all work for the same people.”

Citrus Heights Embraces Earth Day

By Leslie Carrara
Posted: 4/18/2012

Citrus Heights – Inaugural Earth Day-Citrus Heights is coming to Citrus Heights this Saturday, April 21st from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Skycrest Elementary School on Mariposa between Madison and Greenback.

Note that the event coincides with the kick off of Cool California Challenge, the largest team Eco-challenge in the history of California where Cities compete for the title “Coolest California City!”

This is a state sponsored challenge for homes and businesses to reduce the carbon footprint of each dwelling and the City of Citrus Heights has entered the competition. The winning city will receive $100,000 and Eco-groups that lead the effort to sign up residents and reduce the most will receive awards as the competition progresses.

The Citrus Heights Green Team is hosting the Inaugural Earth Day-Citrus Heights, under the direction of the Residents’ Empowerment Association of Citrus Heights. Green Team President Sue Frost, wrote in an email:“…We are a community group with vision and our Inaugural Earth Day event is a springboard to other meaningful projects, the next of which will be the Cool California Challenge. Our mission is to promote sustainable principles. The Earth Day will feature a myriad of lifestyle options from simple to technical in nature. They are innovative solutions for the modern suburban family and the top businesses in our region will be at the event. Some of our community members are concerned about global warming and lowered carbon footprints. Others are simply previewing ideas on how they can maintain their current standard and comfort in living with the cost of energy, water and sewer increasing. Either way, we are in for some wonderful innovations and while Earth Day is a fun, educational experience, the Cool California Challenge will be a “hands on” experience that delivers participating households some eye opening information about their own possible challenges and solutions to the rising costs of resources. Find us at www.citrusheightsgreenteam.com or “like us” on www.facebook.com/citrusheightsgreenteam. We invite you to join us in our effort to promote sustainability.”

Ten cities in the state have signed up for the Cool California Challenge, including Citrus Heights, Sacramento and Davis in this area. In order to sign up for participation, residents must visit their website at www.CoolCalifornia.org. Originally, it was scheduled to kick off on April 1, however, technical difficulties have delayed the start of the challenge. Once Cool California begins, you can receive e-notifies from the city or it will be published in this newspaper.

The challenge lasts a year, and your energy usage is tracked on line. Meanwhile, the event will feature 60 exhibitors and the Green Team has received 10 anchor sponsors at $500 each and 19 sponsors at $100 each. On Earth Day, 15 minute seminars will be held with two every half hour in two classrooms.

Mayor Jeffrey Slowey will be present to award the students who participated in the logo art contest. The Green Team was originally formed and supported by the area 11-Birdcage Heights Neighborhood Association and is working under the direction of the Residents Empowerment Association of Citrus Heights, a 501 (c3) non-profit organization.

Distracted Driving Puts Teens at High Risk

Posted: 4/17/2012

Teen girls are twice as likely to use electronic devices while driving, AAA study shows.

SACRAMENTO REGION - Female teens are twice as likely as male teens to use cell phones and other electronic devices while driving, according to a new in-car video study from the AAA Foundation of Traffic Safety. The study also shows that many other potential driving distractions are common and problematic among teenage drivers.

The Foundation study is the first study using in-car video footage to focus on teen distracted driving. Researchers identified the prevalence and consequences of various distracted driver behaviors among teens. They also identified the prevalence and consequences of distracting conditions that teens face. These behaviors and conditions vary based on the presence of passengers, the time of day, the sex of the driver, and other potentially important factors.

“Cell phones, texting, personal grooming, and reaching for items in the car were among the most common distracting activities that the cameras caught inside the cars of new teen drivers,” says Cynthia Harris, AAA Northern California spokesperson. “This new study provides the best view we’ve had about how and when teens engage in distracted driving behaviors, which are believed to contribute to making car crashes the leading cause of teenage deaths.”

The main findings from the report show that gender played a role in some of the observed distractions. Females were nearly twice as likely as males to use an electronic device while driving, and overall, were nearly 10 percent more likely to be seen engaging in other distracted behaviors, like reaching for an object in the vehicle (nearly 50 percent more likely than males) or eating or drinking (nearly 25 percent more likely than males). On the other hand, males were roughly twice as likely to turn around in their seats while driving and were also more likely to communicate with people outside of their vehicle. “Drivers are three times as likely to take their eyes off the road when using electronic devices. They were also two and a half times more likely to look away from the road when engaged in other behaviors.” says Harris. “A second may not seem like much, but at 65 miles per hour a car travels the length of a basketball court in a single second. That extra second can mean the difference between life and death.”

Foundation data analysis also found that potentially distracting activities significantly decreased when parents or other adults were present in the car. In contrast, loud conversations and horseplay were more than twice as likely to occur when multiple teen peers, instead of just one, were present. These distractions are particularly concerning, as they are associated with the occurrence of crashes, other serious incidents, and high g-force events.

Drivers were six times as likely to have a serious incident when there was loud conversation in the vehicle, and they were more than twice as likely to have a high g-force event when there was horseplay. AAA tips for parents to improve teen drivers’ safety as they start to drive on their own: Practice, practice, practice. Once teens have their actual license, continue to ensure that basic skills are mastered and to introduce varied driving conditions such as snow and heavy traffic rural roads with an experienced driver in the passenger seat.

Keep passengers out. Teen drivers’ crash risks multiply with teenage passengers in the vehicle. Set limits and enforce them consistently.

Limit night driving. Reduced visibility makes night driving riskier for drivers of all ages. For inexperienced teens it’s even harder. Allow new teen drivers to drive at night only if it’s truly necessary for them to practice driving in the dark with a parent.

Keep setting rules. Establish and enforce rules above and beyond state laws. In addition to night and passenger limits, set rules for inclement weather, highways, cities, or other driving conditions in which a teen has not gained enough experience. Find a parent-teen agreement on TeenDriving.aaa.com that can help. The data for this report came from an analysis of video clips collected as part of a three-phase naturalistic study of 50 North Carolina families with novice teen drivers. The first study looked at how parents supervise their teens during the learner’s stage, and the second examined how teen behaviors and driving conditions shift during the transition to unsupervised driving. For the current study, 7,858 clips from the first six months of unsupervised driving were re-analyzed to investigate distraction specifically.

For more information about teen driving visit our website at www.aaa.com/teendriving. AAA Northern California offers a wide array of automotive, travel, insurance, DMV, financial services and consumer discounts to nearly 4 million members. AAA has been a leader and advocate for the safety and security of all travelers since it was founded more than 100 years ago.

Board Selects Thompson as New Superintendent

Posted: 4/17/2012

Glynn Thompson selected San Juan Unified Superintendent of Schools. Photo courtesy of SJUSD.

SJUSD – After conducting an extensive search, the San Juan Unified School District Board of Education has selected Glynn Thompson as the District’s Superintendent of Schools with a unanimous vote. Thompson had been in the role on an interim basis while the search was being conducted and will assume his duties permanently effective May 1. His contract will run through June 2015 with an annual salary of $225,000.

“Throughout the search process we heard students, teachers, parents, principals and community members tell us that the number one priority in selecting a superintendent was to ensure that the work of our community-developed strategic plan continued,” said Board President Richard Launey. “Mr. Thompson has been a leader in implementing our strategic plan and we need his strong voice to provide leadership as we build upon the work underway in our schools to close achievement gaps and educate and inspire each student to contribute to our radically evolving world.”

Thompson was previously named the District’s interim superintendent of schools in June of 2011 while a search was conducted to find a permanent candidate for the position. He became San Juan Unified’s first chief academic officer in July 2009 building up on his more than 30 years of experience in New Haven and Los Angeles Unified school districts. He has previously served as a teacher, principal, professional development advisor, coordinator of special education and director of instruction.

“We cannot do more with less, we must do differently,” said Thompson. “As state budget cuts continue to take resources away from our schools and classrooms, we must work collaboratively as a community to rethink how we deliver services and educate students to produce 21st century learners and leaders. San Juan Unified has a long and proud history of success which we will continue together.”

A graduate of Texas Christian University with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education, Thompson also holds a master’s in educational psychology from the University of Houston and has completed post graduate studies at the University of California Los Angeles and Pepperdine University. His full bio can be found at http://www.sanjuan.edu/superintendent.

Source: SJUSD

San Juan District Honors Top Teachers

By Susan Maxwell Skinner
Posted: 4/12/2012

Music man Rick Baker (center) was among educators recently feted as 2012 teachers of the year by the San Juan School District. The band director posed with Arden Middle School’s jazz band, Gelato. Photo by Susan Maxwell Skinner

FAIR OAKS – Months from retirement, Carmichael music teacher Rick Baker was among education professionals recently lauded by the San Juan Unified School District. The district hosted an awards banquet in honor of the 16 middle school teachers and counselors at Fair Oaks Presbyterian Church.

A Rio Americano and CSUS graduate, honoree Rick Baker has been 33 years in San Juan District employ. Teaching 23 years at Arden Middle School, he has led many bands to competition victories. His protégés in the school’s Gelato jazz group recently won top honors at a CSUS competition. The jazzy eighth graders serenaded teachers and guests at the awards banquet. Now 61, their “Mister Baker” will retire this summer and looks forward to giving back to the community by playing his trumpet in volunteer bands.

San Juan’s other middle school teacher/counselor awardees were:
Amber Betzler and David Traversi (Arcade);
Rick Baker and Takoa Stathem (Arden);
Glenn Bisquera and Erin O’Brien (John Barrett);
Pete Hinman and Marilyn Hesse (Andrew Carnegie);
Jamie Masse and Ladonna Ray (Winston Churchill);
Brandalyn Burke and Pete Ribadeneira (Louis Pasteur);
Jinne Horger and Svetlana Popov (Will Rogers);
Daniel Gamba, Jr and Jennifer James (Sylvan).

What’s Up With Hiring?
Job demand & hiring trends looking up

Posted: 4/4/2012

Sacramento Region – Hiring motivated by the need to grow workforces in Sacramento will rise above hiring only for replacements for the first time in several years in the Second Quarter of 2012.

In direct contacts by phone with Sacramento’s top regional companies, Pacific Staffing has discovered significant indications of economic improvement as seventy-one percent (71%) of employers say they are hiring in April, May and June 2012. For the first time in years, forty-two percent (42%) of planned hiring was motivated by the need to grow existing workforces. While just thirty-eight percent (38%) of Sacramento regional employers, polled directly between February 27th and March 17th, attributed hiring needs to attrition, or replacements within their existing workforces. Hiring attributed to growth demands has trended up for three Quarters in a row among Sacramento employers surveyed.

Warmer temperatures are also heating up hiring demand as Sacramento’s regional agriculture, recreation and hospitality companies begin seasonal hiring. Ten percent of hiring demand in the second quarter is attributed to seasonal change. While most of the regional economy is improving, some of those involved in residential construction, property development and some peripheral industries remain slow. Three percent of those surveyed report they will consider reducing workforces in the next three months as business remains slow for their individual companies.

Sacramento’s employment marketplace is warming back to life but recent strong spikes in gasoline costs were of great concern to those polled. In anecdotal conversations with company contacts, higher transportation costs for employees; and increased company transportation and petroleum related products costs could throw cold water on hiring plans quickly forcing a renewed slowdown.

While companies are getting a large number of applicants, many are noting the first problems in selecting specific qualifications. Finding applicants with specific skills are among first concerns as companies seek customer service, sales, technical, general office, manufacturing and warehouse workers in the next three months.

How does this Quarter compare to last Quarter, or last year? Find out for yourself.

For more information, employment blogs & market surveys go to www.pacificstaffing.com.

Source: Pacific Trends Quarterly

Sprouts Farmers Market Opens Soon!

Posted: 3/8/2012

CITRUS HEIGHTS – Sprouts Farmers Market, the newest kid on the block in Citrus Heights, is poised to open bright and early next week.

The doors open on Wednesday, March 14th at 7:00 am. Store management claims they will have many steals and deals to introduce to their new customers. They anticipate a local crowd excited about their shopping concept to be waiting outside to experience what the new kid in town has to offer.

The popularity of organic foods is spreading like wildfire, and Sprouts Farmers Market is helping lead the charge. According to the Organic Trade Association, U.S. sales of organic food and beverages has brown from $1 billion in 1990 to over $24 billion in 2009. Sales in 2009 represented 5.1 percent growth over 2008 sales. Projections continue to be strong.

Sprouts Farmers Market was founded in 2002 by one of California’s oldest and most successful families, the Boneys, who have been in the fresh food business since 1943.

Sprouts is still an independent family-run business and has become one of the fastest growing retailers in the country.

The announcement of the new store came from Inter-Cal Real Estate back in February of 2011 that the grocery retailer was coming to the center. The addition of the Sprouts store, coupled with the new Panera Bread location on the same corner, seems to be a continuing theme of new stores and retailers desiring to come to Citrus Heights. Located across the street from Sunrise Mall, all four corners the intersection is fast-becoming a destination shopping hub for even a greater number of area buyers than ever before.

Each Sprouts store features a unique mix of natural, organic great-tasting foods at low prices. Much of their stock is produced by local farmers. They aim to make healthy food from local producers more affordable.

The new store has approximately 30,000 square feet. There is also plenty of parking.

It is located at the corner of Sunrise and Greenback in Citrus Heights.

Help Kids Become Star Readers Through United Way Book Drive

United Way, Barnes & Noble to hold Starry Night reading event in March
Posted: 3/8/2012

SACRAMENTO REGION – Local residents can help kids reach for the stars by participating in United Way California Capital Region’s STAR Readers Book Drive through March 23. The drive benefits the group’s STAR Readers project that is helping children read at grade level by fourth grade, a key indicator of high school graduation rates.

“Through third grade, children are learning to read; in fourth grade, they’re reading to learn,” said Steve Heath, president and CEO, United Way California Capital Region. “Children reading at grade level entering fourth grade are far more likely to graduate high school. This book drive will help 615 kids have access to books that will set them on a path for success.”

The online book drive includes four books, three of which were written by local authors, for children in kindergarten through third grade. The goal is to collect 615 books, one for each child in the STAR Readers project. To purchase books, visit www.yourlocalunitedway.org.

As part of the STAR Readers Book Drive, United Way is teaming up with Barnes & Noble in Citrus Heights for a children’s reading event. Families are invited to A Starry Night from 7-8 p.m. on March 14 at 6111 Sunrise Boulevard. Three of the authors participating in the book drive will read from their books, which will be available to purchase that night for the book drive. The event will include refreshments, and children are encouraged to wear pajamas. For more information, visit www.yourlocalunitedway.org.

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

Crosswood Oaks to Host Dog Show and Pet Faire to Benefit SSPCA

Posted: 3/8/2012

CITRUS HEIGHTS – Crosswood Oaks Senior Living Community – a pet friendly Senior Community – will hold a “Dog Show and Pet Faire” that includes SSPCS pets for adoption, a dog show, pet products fair and fund-raising raffle to benefit the Sacramento Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA).

The event will take place on Friday, March 23 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the community’s beautiful, wooded campus at 6650 Crosswood Circle, Citrus Heights. The Dog Show includes a contest with prizes for the “Cutest Pet,” “Best Trick,” and “Best Dressed Pet” and many other surprises.

Entry fee for the contest is $5, with all proceeds benefiting the SSPCA. For more information about the event and how you can help, please call Kathy or Marty at 916-969-6161.

CHPD Officers Save a Life Posted: 3/8/2012 Community Services Officer Aaron Copeland Police Officer Jeff Schouten Citrus Heights – On January 16, 2012 at 11:21am, Citrus Heights Police Department Officer Schouten and Officer Copeland responded to the report of a car that had fallen off it’s jack and onto the chest of a 50 year old man who was working under the car, pinning him to the ground. Sacramento Metro Firefighters are crediting the officers’ quick action as life saving. Captain Eric Rublicava said, “These two officers worked together in the finest tradition of public safety, and saved this mans life.” Sac Metro Firefighters also responded to the report of a traumatic injury in the 6900 block of Sunburst Way in Citrus Heights. The report was that a car had fallen on a male who was working under the car. The report indicated the car was still on top of the person. Metro Firefighters arrived on scene and found two Citrus Heights police officers, and the male out from under the car. Police officers told the fire crews that when they arrived the man was still pinned under the car. Officers said they quickly looked around and found a jack in the garage. Officers used the jack, lifted the car, and pulled the man out who was unresponsive and not breathing. Citrus Heights police officers said they were preparing to start CPR, when the man gasped, took a breath and opened his eyes. Metro Firefighters further assessed the patient who was becoming more alert. The male was transported to Mercy San Juan Hospital. Metro Fire Captain Eric Rublicava said “The quick action of the officers no doubt saved this mans life. The jack that was used to initially lift the car broke. They had the presence of mind to find another jack, lift the car, and were prepared to start emergency medical treatment once the patient was removed.” Source: Sac Metro Fire Dept.

Abused Birds Need Your Rescue Posted: 3/8/2012 Abused or abandoned feathered friends need your help! Photo provided by Mickaboo Companion Bird Rescue. CARMICHAEL – Mickaboo Companion Bird Rescue (www.mickaboo.org) is a non-profit Northern California animal rescue, focusing on the intake and rehabilitation of unwanted, neglected, and abused companion birds. The term “companion bird” means essentially any pet bird in someone’s home. Mickaboo has almost 300 birds currently available for adoption, ranging from perky little budgies to large majestic macaws. Birds that come to Mickaboo have often been neglected and otherwise mistreated. Many are ill, with owners unable or unwilling to pay for urgently needed medical care. Monthly veterinary bills run upwards of $15,000. Mickaboo provides a spectrum of services to people and birds including: Bird care education, Foster care for surrendered birds, Avian vet care, Outreach to highlight the plight of homeless birds, Adopter recruitment and support and Behavioral consultation. Mickaboo is hosting a free adoption fair on Sunday, March 18, 2012, 11 am - 4 pm at the Carmichael Public Library, 5605 Marconi Avenue, Carmichael. Take advantage of this chance to meet and greet some of the many birds that are up for adoption. Bird care supplies and a free basic bird care class will be available.

Raising Money for the Wounded

Posted: 3/8/2012

John Schuessler: One Man, One Bike, 3,100 Miles.

Sacramento REGION – Orangevale resident John Schuessler departed San Diego February 20th on a solo, self-supported bicycle trek across the United States. It is John’s hope that the burden of pedaling such a heavy load will diminish on the knowledge that funds raised will benefit our wounded soldiers returning from conflicts abroad.

The charities that John will be riding for are:

The Wounded Warrior Project – Providing programs that are uniquely structured to nurture the mind and body, and encourage economic empowerment.

Paralyzed Veterans of America – This organization champions for improvements in health care benefits, career placement, and provides the path to adventure through adaptive sports.

For 45 days, John will be traveling on an established cycling route known as “The Southern Tier.” At approximately 3,100 miles, this route plays hosts to an exciting mix of landscapes, featuring extremes in both elevation and temperature. A seven-map set from the American Cycling Association will guide him through California, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida. Along the way, John is sure to encounter a wide variety of wildlife, many of which would be quite content with trying to eat him!

Follow John Schuessler’s daily journal w/photos at www.johnridesforthewounded.com.

There will be blogs on John’s web site where you can send a heartfelt “thank you” and other words of encouragement to our brave men and women returning from war. Additionally, there will be direct links to the aforementioned charities where your donations (even small ones) can make a difference in the lives of our heroes and their families.

Marching Band High-steps into 2012

Posted: 2/8/2012

Proud and enthusiastic Citrus Heights Marching Band members will participate in main events this year.

Citrus Heights – The award-winning Citrus Heights Community Marching Band invites interested musicians to become members of the 2012 band. Practices are on Mondays, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Citrus Heights City Hall, 7115 Greenback Lane.

“We are looking for anyone who currently plays a musical instrument as well as those who were in a school band in their youth and would like to find a place for music in their life as an adult,” said Kody Tickner, director of the band. “We have complimentary loaners for those who don’t have their own instruments.”

Last year’s 54-member band ranged in age from10 to 77 years. The band performed at 20 events, including the prestigious 9/11 Memorial Ceremony at the State Capitol. The band participated in the Citrus Heights Red, White, and Blue and the Rancho Cordova 4th of July Parades and at two high school football games.

The group won several awards in 2011, including 1st place awards at the Orangevale Pow Wow and Roseville Holiday Parades and 2nd place at the North Highlands Memorial Parade. Because of the band’s supporting sponsors, there are no membership fees for band members or charges for uniforms. “Our only requirements are that you be able to play an instrument, read music, and be able to march,” said Tickner.

Now in its seventh year, the band was organized to perform for the Citrus Heights Red, White, and Blue Parade. “Since then, the band has grown each year and we hope to have 80 members in this year’s band,” commented Tickner.

For more information about the band, contact Kathy Cook, the band co-founder and program director, at (916) 725-0198 or at abusycook@aol.com.In addition to the musicians, the band offers opportunities for majorettes and the color guard team who march with the band. Majorettes will begin practice on Tuesday, February 28th, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Citrus Heights City Hall.

There are both beginning and advanced classes. Fees are $48 for an 8-week session. For more information, contact Cook at (916) 725-0198 or at abusycook@aol.com.The color guard team performs “exciting” flag routines that accentuates the band’s music. Practices will start Monday, January 29th at 6:30 p.m. in the Citrus Heights City Hall.

“No experience is needed and there is no charge,” said Tickner. For information about the color guard, contact Tickner at (916) 467-6783 or at chcmb@hotmail.com.Band Members are hosting their 3rd annual Spaghetti Feed Fundraiser on Saturday, March 24th, at the Citrus Heights Community Center, 6300 Fountain Square Drive. Entertainment will include the Golden State Accordion Club marching band, and the concert choir. Tickets are $10 for adults and $7 for youth. “This is always a sell-out,” said Cook.

For tickets, contact Cook at abusycook@aol.com.

Source: CHMB PR

Cameron Ranch Fourth Graders Paying it Forward

By CindySue Jones
Posted: 2/8/2012

Citrus Heights – Reaching out, paying it forward or just being kind is what this teacher is teaching his fourth grade students at Cameron Ranch Elementary School. Some of you may have already read about him in a few papers lately. A teacher of 37 years, who has taught every grade including adult education classes, and continues to be devoted from the day he started teaching. Thomas Carroll was recently chosen as a teacher advisor for Teaching Tolerance magazine, a branch of the Southern Poverty Law Center. The SPLC and magazine aim at teaching respect, inclusion, and acceptance. They work against hatred, bigotry, and discrimination. His work with his kids and the residents is a natural extension of his commitment to help change the country and the world for the better. But another thing that he has been doing is giving back to the community and teaching the kids how to give back to a community down the street from them.

When Carroll mother-in-law and sister-in-law became residents at the American River Care Center in Carmichael, he wanted to give back to the residents that also lived there. Here at the home for seniors and handicapped individuals, it came to him, why not have his class visit. They have been visiting the center for two years now. There are no grades that get handed out for this; they do it because they enjoy doing it. They plan arts and crafts activities to do with their friends at the care center. Some months they do art projects to take along to decorate the dining room at the care center. Sometimes they work with the residents to create artwork or decorations. Last holiday season, they decorated cookies together, and then ate them! They always have a good discussion when they come back; talking about how happy their friends are when they visit.

For Valentine Day, the students are making special “mail bags” for all of the Valentine cards they plan to receive from their classmates. They are going to create valentine cards for all of their friends at the center. Then, when the go, they will help the residents decorate their own “mail bags”. Each resident will then receive a card from EVERY student in the class. That’s 32 valentines EACH!! Very often at holidays, the residents at the center are forgotten or overlooked. That won’t happen as long as Carroll class is there!

Carroll believes our children need to actually see and know seniors and handicapped adults! He spoke of how often, Americans “hide” the elderly and ill, so our children don’t know how to have empathy or understanding about them. Cameron Ranch School is inclusive, meaning students who are physically or mentally handicapped are in all of the classrooms. Since their students are expected to tolerate and appreciate the differences among themselves, it seemed like a logical step to go beyond the classroom door and meet people in the “real” world! His students have come to love visiting the center. They all have their favorites, but enjoy working with all of their friends. They anticipate having a good time, and always do!

The greatest reward for Carroll has been watching the faces of the students and the residents. They just sparkle when we are together. He visits the center often alone, to see his in-laws. Whenever any of our residents see him, they immediately ask about his students and want to know when they are coming back!

Tracey Ann Jacobson to be the Ambassador to Kosovo

Posted: 2/8/2012

Tracey Ann (Thomas) Jacobson was chosen to be the new Ambassador to Kosovo by U. S. President Obama. Tracey is originally from the Sacramento area and a graduate of San Juan High School in Citrus Heights. Tracey is a former Ambassador for Tajikistan (2006-2009) and Turkmenistan (2003-2066).

She is a career member of the Foreign Service and was currently the deputy director of the Foreign Services Institute, which is the U.S. Government’s primary Training center for foreign affairs specialists. If confirmed by the Senate, she will replace Washington’s current U.S. Envoy to Pristina, Christopher Dell.

Sacramento-Based App Lets Customers Provide Private Feedback to Local Businesses

Posted: 2/8/2012

SACRAMENTO–Sacramento residents weary of writing public online reviews can provide private, anonymous and immediate feedback to local businesses through the new free Sacramento-based iSuggest app. iSuggest is a Sacramento mobile technology startup company that gives customers a voice while providing tools for businesses to improve customer satisfaction.

“Often people want to provide suggestions to local businesses without risking the company’s reputation by writing a public review,” said Matt Brickley, iSuggest marketing director. “iSuggest gives them the chance to communicate directly with the manager or business owner right away without tracking someone down in person or searching for an online contact form.”

Customers visit iSuggest.com or download iSuggest for free from their app market. When the app is launched, customers see all nearby businesses or can search for businesses in other locations. After a suggestion is written, it is delivered instantly and privately to the manager or owner. Businesses can then respond to customers and offer rewards for helpful feedback. The basic iSuggest service is free for all businesses, but a Pro Plan upgrade will soon be available to businesses looking for additional tools such as customer rewards and analytics.

“This is a win-win,” Brickley said. “Customers have the chance to share their brilliant ideas, and businesses can correct errors or implement new ideas before negative public reviews hit the web. The result benefits the entire community.”

iSuggest can provide feedback to any business, but many local businesses have signed up to promote their desire to receive feedback, including De Vere’s Irish Pub, Hot Italian, Sterling Hotel, Sacramento Comedy Spot and Mike’s Bikes of Sacramento. Businesses receive iSuggest’s green “We Heart Feedback” stickers, bill inserts, table tents and more, and can manage their online suggestions and provide incentives through a control panel. To sign up as an iSuggest partner, visit www.isuggest.com or call (888) 907-2054.

iSuggest was created by Sacramento entrepreneurs Cory Robertson, Mike Machado and Matt Brickley when they noticed physical suggestion boxes were dwindling while at the same time, online review sites were lacking privacy, timeliness and direct communication. iSuggest provides a virtual suggestion box that allows customers to provide anonymous, private and immediate feedback through their mobile devices directly to management. iSuggest gives customers and businesses the chance to communicate privately and make changes that benefit the community as a whole. For more information, visit www.isuggest.com.

New Laws Motorists Need to Know

Posted: 1/19/2012

Motorists need to know that many new laws came into effect January 1st in California.

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.M

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.

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.

Mentors Needed for County Teenagers

Posted: 1/19/2012

SACRAMENTO COUNTY – January is National Mentoring Month. It is the time each year to remember the need for every child to have a caring adult in his or her life.

If you have what it takes to help young people navigate life’s tough choices, please consider serving as a mentor. The Sacramento County Office of Education (SCOE) is seeking adult mentors to serve as positive role models as part of the LINKS Mentoring Program for high school students at four schools in the county.

This program is unique because it offers ongoing support to mentor/protégé matches by providing staff-facilitated, structured mentoring sessions each week. SCOE staff members attend group mentor sessions to organize activities and provide materials and support.

Mentors meet with their protégés for one hour each week. The group mentoring sessions consist of group activities, combined with one-to-one time for mentors and protégés. Qualifying mentors may commit to a semester, or an entire school year. Meetings and activities center on specific themes:

Community Service/Service Learning Projects–Interpersonal/Life Skills–Planning for the Future–Career Exploration/Job Seeking Skills–Financial Savvy and Money Management–Health and Wellness.

The LINKS Mentoring Program is operated by the Sacramento County Office of Education’s Prevention and Student Services (PASS) Department. The program is made possible through a grant from the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention.

To learn more about the LINKS Mentoring Program, contact Cheryl Raney (916) 228-2201.

City Council Passes Resolutions, Appoints Board Members

By Leslie Carrara
Posted: 1/19/2012

Citrus Heights – The Citrus Heights City Council passed four resolutions unanimously on Jan. 12th and appointed council members to serve on county/district boards.

The first resolution passed was to adopt a signage fee for businesses looking to put signs up or change existing signs to just under two thousand dollars. The Planning Commission will individually review all new signage applications with newer limits and restrictions. What this means is that Citrus Heights could potentially allow businesses to put up flashier signs in commercial districts if approved by the Planning Commission.

Next, the council agreed to give Sacramento International Airport 75 sewer credits at $923 per credit as the airport is seeking a total of 400 credits from neighboring cities to keep sewage costs down. According to Councilmember Jeannie Bruins, the Sacramento Regional County Sanitation District bought back credits from Campbell’s and Aerojet and then distributed them to cities they serve within the county. Citrus Heights was allotted 1,046 credits in this process, and the city is now down to 897. As Bruins wrote in an email, the credits are there for “businesses that are new or expanding” within the city to help defray the cost of the sewage lines.

Third, the council voted to participate in a Regional Water Resources Coalition for the future of water in this area.

Finally, the ending of redevelopment funds decided by the State Supreme Court last month has left the Sayonara Dr. housing development and Auburn Rd. redevelopment in a lurch as there is no money. However, phase one of Auburn Rd. redevelopment will occur as this has already been funded.

“It’s a money grab from the state,” Mayor Jeff Slowey said at the meeting. The City of Citrus Heights will have to petition a new committee to get the money back, the council discussed.

Also discussed at the meeting was the fact that Mesa Verde High School’s Business Academy now runs a Safe Credit Union on campus, and Mesa Verde Bike Trail discussions are still going on for Area 2.

As for the council members serving on county/district committees, they are as follows:

Mel Turner, Human Rights/Fair Housing Commission, Citrus Heights Chamber of Commerce, Sacramento Metropolitan Cable Television Commission.

Jeannie Bruins, Sacramento Area Sewer District, Sacramento Regional County Sanitation District.

Mayor Jeff Slowey, Sacramento Public Library Authority, Sacramento Transportation Authority, Sacramento Area Council of Governments.

Vice Mayor Steven Miller, Regional Transit.

Dr. Jayna Karpinski-Costa, Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District, Sacramento Yolo Mosquito Vector Control District Development Specialist Devon Rodriguez will be serving on the Sacramento County Adult and Aging Commission.

Sacramento County Grand Jury Seeks Applicants

Posted: 1/19/2012

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.

Employment Trends Show Promise

By Rick Reed
Posted: 1/4/2012

Sacramento Region – Hiring in Sacramento will begin the New Year on an upward trend, as Pacific Staffing has discovered fifty-eight percent (58%) of top companies are motivated to hire in the First Quarter of 2012. This trend toward local economic recovery maintains a slow rise that began with forty-six percent (46%) hiring at this time in 2010, fifty-one percent (51%) in the first three months of 2011.

In the recession-driven First Quarter of 2009 more than half of Sacramento’s regional employers surveyed weren’t hiring anyone while another twenty percent (20%) planned staff cutbacks and three local companies closed laying off their entire workforces.

In polling the top companies directly by phone between November 21st and December 14th, Pacific Staffing learned that just two companies planned layoffs; one for seasonal reasons with another citing slow business in the First Quarter of the new year.

A positive trend was also evident in demand for new workers in January, February and March. Thirty percent (30%) of employers are motivated to hire for growth in the first months of 2012, maintaining demand levels from the previous quarter of 2011. Another thirty-five percent (35%) reported hiring in the first three months of the new year due to attrition in their existing workforces.

While benefit cost and management is still a major concern, a new challenge was noted, as companies report finding qualified applicants is becoming an issue. Specific skills in high demand in the first three months of 2012 include sales and customer service workers, technical, warehouse and manufacturing experience.

When asked if their company has a retirement plan, thirty-one percent (31%) of companies polled say No. In addition, twenty-seven percent (27%) also say they have no plan to offer any retirement option in the future. While many companies did have some retirement plans, most were oriented to employee 401K account options, with just a few offering a contribution match. While some companies couldn’t or wouldn’t answer, Service firms were most likely to offer retirement while Retail industry companies were least likely.

The top 100 Sacramento Regional Companies By Industry; 40% are Service, 30% are Manufacturers, 20% are Construction and 10% are Retail.

How does this Quarter compare to last Quarter, or last year? Find out for yourself.

For more information, employment blogs & market surveys go to www.pacificstaffing.com.

Neighborhood Associations Meet

By Leslie Carrara
Posted: 1/4/2012

Citrus Heights – The all-neighborhood associations’ Bring-A-Dish-Make-A-Wish Potluck Dinner, hosted by Area 10, was a huge success this year, with 91 people attending. Mayor Jeff Slowey was present, as well as Vice Mayor Steven Miller and Councilwoman Jeannie Bruins. Councilman Mel Turner did not attend.

Councilwoman and President of Area 10 Dr. Jayna Karpinski-Costa said there was a lot of food, including a spiral ham, spaghetti, salads and desserts and each table played a trivia game answering questions about the city itself. Tables competed with each other, totaling the number of questions correct combined with the oldest person sitting at each table’s year of birth. Members of the winning table each received a 2012 Almanac. Each table then picked one month of the year to discuss what happened during that particular month, with the highlight being the month of May when 80-year-old “Wilma” married “Doug“.

Then came time for the Make-A-Wish portion of the evening, where people wished for something in Citrus Heights. Overall, wishes included traffic calming issues, starting a boys and girls club in Citrus Heights, and making street lights energy efficient. One man wished that his wife would not get any more red light violations (a $470 fine) and another person wished the city would stay the same. Also, wishes came in for the peace and safety of the city’s police force.

Karpinski-Costa said that a man told her that this event is what makes Citrus Heights a real community. “We are a real community,” she added. “It was just so wonderful. It was great to have the city’s support.”

The city is divided into 11 neighborhood associations, all under the umbrella of the Residents’ Empowerment Association of Citrus Heights. Citrus Heights’ first mayor, Bill Hughes, worked very hard at developing the neighborhoods, Karpinski-Costa said. Also, she has been Area 10’s president since the associations began.

Area 2, Area 3 and Area 9 did not have representation.

DVIC Grows

By Leslie Carrara
Posted: 1/4/2012

Citrus Heights – New programs, a rapid increase in crisis calls to the hotline and continuous fundraising all greet the Domestic Violence Intervention Center in 2012 as the non-profit agency experiences some minor growing pains.

Executive Director Elaine Whitefeather said that calls to the agency rose 30 percent in 60 days since being recognized by the state and receiving a $250,000 grant this fiscal year.

“The whole idea is to increase services,” Whitefeather explained. “I’m creating a one stop shop.”

She explained that she is the process of combining services such as job searching and expanding family support services with other agencies in the building they reside in. There is an agency for job placement and another for services for children all within the parameters of their building.

One of the things she said the agency needs are vans to be donated so they can help the women and abused men get to court and to the doctor’s office. She said they need one for the shelter and one for the agency. Also on their wish list are items including a heavy duty washing machine and dryer for the shelter, a high chair, a DVD player and energy saving light bulbs. The agency office needs white 20 pound paper, two Dell computers with printers, a locking four door file cabinet, and a vacuum cleaner, as well as other items.

While the DVIC needs these items, they are continuing fundraising efforts to continue to expand. Recently, the Lakeview Ladies Club raised and donated $2,500 to the agency in December, while the agency continues throughout the year with their Holiday Shopping On-Line 3000 Nights of Hope. According to literature, the DVIC provides “3000 shelter nights each year to women and children seeking a time-out respite and safety from life threatening abuse in a comforting, nurturing environment or recovery after a sexual assault. It costs $30,000 per year to shelter, clothe, feed, provide counseling and safety 24/7 for the full house.” People can help by shopping for the holidays or throughout the year at or at marketamerica.com/dviccares. With each purchase, the shelter receives a cash donation. Also, they have a face book campaign asking for $5 donations and then telling five of your friends to do the same. Additionally, they have fundraising events throughout the year, including their Garden of Hope dinner in October.

Meanwhile, some of the newer programs include a children’s playroom, with 15 kids regularly coming in to the agency, made possible from a donation from the Lakeview Ladies Club in 2010. Also, Whitefeather said she is actively recruiting 14 to 22 year-old students to form the Youth Advocates Council, teaching violence prevention and providing programs to youths in violent environments. Whitefeather also indicated that the agency is expanding into Folsom with plans under way to establish protocol as to what will work with law enforcement. Overall, the DVIC will be throughout Sacramento County, rather that just in Citrus Heights, she said.

Another program in the works is the Changing Lives Wellness Center, Whitefeather said. The program will teach 13 to 19-year-old girls self defense, providing prevention services for youth violence partnered with the Citrus Heights Police Department for the department’s juvenile diversion program.

Also, Whitefeather explained the beginning of the Domestic Violence Intervention Center’s Company Advocate Resource Team, otherwise known as DV C.A.Res Team, which allows “employers or employees to become work place domestic violence advocates” as one-fifth of adults in the work force have been victims of domestic violence, according to literature provided. Once an advocate contacts DVIC, the center will assist in recruiting employees and volunteers, then train, coordinate and provide support material when needed.

Gas Prices Start 2012 with Jump

Posted: 1/4/2012

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

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

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

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

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

Grateful for Your Support

Posted: 12/22/2011

FoodMaxx staff (L to R) Bonnalee Lamoreaux, Jessica Freels, Jenny Cardenas, Lucy Ramos, Amber Rose (back) Anthony Scriabin and Irene Matinez received recognition for their efforts in the recent campaign by Vita Sarginson, ACS Marketing Director, Corporate Relations (far left) and Barbara Wakeley, ACS Regional Vice President, Great Valley Corporate Relations.

Citrus Heights – A recent campaign between the Save Mart Corporation and the American Cancer Society raised an incredible donation of $156,210 from the sale of pink ribbon icons in 235 stores in Northern California and Northern Nevada this past October. Local cancer patient programs and services will benefit from the donations.

The FoodMaxx store in Citrus Heights, located at 6982 Sunrise Blvd, was one of the top Sacramento region stores raising over $1,200. They were presented recently with a prestigious Blue Ribbon Award for their outstanding efforts.

Only the stores that raised over $1,000 received the blue ribbon award. All participating stores received a special certificate of recognition and thank you letter from ACS.

“We are grateful for the support from Save Mart Supermarket customers and employees,” said Barbara Wakeley, RVP, Great Valley Region & Corporate Relations. “This money will help us continue to fund research, advocate for public policies to ensure all women have access to breast cancer screenings and treatments, and provide lifesaving programs and services.”

As the largest non-governmental supporter of breast cancer research nationwide, the American Cancer Society has invested nearly $352 million in breast cancer research grants since 1972. Dollars raised from this campaign and all Making Strides Against Breast Cancer events help fund local support programs.

In 2010, the American Cancer Society provided the following services in local communities throughout Northern California:

More than 11,000 callers received free support and patient related information from our toll-free number 243,000 cancer patients received rides to their treatments.

More than 10,000 patients participated in Look Good…Feel Better or Reach to Recovery programs.

The American Cancer Society combines an unyielding passion with nearly a century of experience to save lives and end suffering from cancer. To learn more visit cancer.org.

City Council Names Slowey New Mayor

By Leslie Carrara
Posted: 12/22/2011

New Mayor Jeffrey Slowey

Citrus Heights – The Citrus Heights City Council unanimously voted in a new mayor and vice mayor on Dec. 8th, while Senior Superstars were awarded for volunteer work in the community and the police department’s Holiday Referral Program was updated.

Jeffrey Slowey will serve as mayor in 2012, the city’s 15th anniversary, and Steven Miller is the new vice mayor.

This is Slowey’s second term as mayor, previously serving the city in 2007.

“While being mayor does carry some additional responsibilities, at the end of the day I am still just one vote out of five,” he wrote. “As a council, I think we work extremely well together.”

He went on to say that “some tough decisions have been made in the past, but those decisions have kept our city on a path of financial stability. In my opinion, sitting on the Citrus Heights City Council is one of the best part time jobs I have ever had. You get to work with a wonderful staff and an excellent city manager, and we are represented by the best police force in the state. Where other politicians are feeling the sting of their failed policies, we get to sit nice and quiet on the sidelines knowing our city is in the black, have no plans for any layoffs and can still reward our employees with equitable compensation. How can any of those things be a bad thing!

“I attribute our success to the fact that neither I nor my fellow council members look at the job as a stepping stone to further politics. We are there simply to better our community. None of us look at politics as long term employment. Perhaps it is a concept some of our state leaders should embrace…,” Slowey wrote.

Meanwhile, the Holiday Referral Program is in full swing at the Citrus Heights Police Department, who now have a total of 55 families adopted in the area by residents of this city. Support Services Manager with the police department Sandy Maraviov told the council that this is the third year of the program and that it has grown. “This community really does take care of the community,” she said.

The CHPD received referrals from schools and other sources and police were dispatched to homes to interview families in depth to see if they qualify for the program. Families selected are able to pick up their items on Tuesday, 12/20/11 and deliveries will be made on 12/21/11. They still need donations of toiletries, school supplies, non-perishable food items, infant supplies and toys for both younger kids and older kids.

Also, two women were announced as Senior Superstars, with the selection done by the Senior Superstar Committee, including Jon Paul Burke, vice president of Residents’ Empowerment Association of Citrus Heights (REACH).

First, we have Judy Wavers, who has been Area 2’s Neighborhood Assn. secretary for the past six years. Wavers and her husband, Hank, also belong to the Sacramento Area Woodworkers. In the past, the Wavers have made as many as 200 toys per year for the Salvation Army. In her early 70s, she is originally from Winslow, AZ and has lived in Area 2 since 1976. She has three sons and five grandchildren, one of whom has recently returned from Afghanistan where he served as a Marine Corp Captain flying F-18 fighter jets.

Next we have 73-year-old Anita Follett who is originally from Sacramento where she attended San Juan High School in Citrus Heights. Widowed in 1976, she raised two sons and two daughters by herself. She worked for the San Juan Unified School District as a sixth grade teacher and she is a talented singer. Follett began attending the Arcade Creek Neighborhood Assn. meetings right after incorporation and she has been on Area 4’s board of directors since 2003. She is currently the vice president, and she has also served as secretary and treasurer. Follett has six grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

City to Promote Nature Education

Posted: 12/22/2011

Citrus Heights – The Stock Ranch Nature Preserve is a 47-acre open-space park with over 1.5 miles of walking paths along the Arcade and San Juan creeks. In 2011, the California Department of Parks and Recreation awarded a grant to the City to promote nature education.

The grant will be used to add educational components to the existing Stock Ranch Nature Preserve that help create outdoor learning opportunities for people of all ages, abilities, and incomes.

The grant includes funding for Water efficient Native Landscape Demonstration, Oak Woodland Habitat Restoration Demonstration, Interactive Interpretative Exhibit, Educational Signage, Bird-watching Station and other supporting features such as lighting and benches.

The City will host a series of community workshops to foster community collaboration in the planning of this project. The first workshop will be held on Saturday, January 28, 2012, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on-site (7000 Auburn Boulevard in Citrus Heights) and will consist of half-hour guided walks of the Preserve (event flyer).

Tours will start on the hour; with the final tour at 1:00 p.m. Tours will depart from the information booth located between Costco and Wal-Mart (see star on map). If you are unable to attend the tour, please stop by the information booth between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. to discuss the project with City staff.

For more information visit the City of Citrus Heights web site at www.citrusheights.net.

Source: City of Citrus Heights

21st Century Learners at New San Juan

By Leslie Carrara
Posted: 12/8/2011

Principal Gloria Ervin, standing. Seated are Suzi Muradyan, Student Body President, Katie Kersanova, Honor Student, and Jaylon Ray, Football and Baseball Player.

CITRUS HEIGHTS - At its present location for nearly 100 years, New San Juan High School (NSJHC) has already undergone a major facelift and is now offering Project Based Learning (PBL) and Career Technical Education (CTE), where students can receive college credit for one of five pathways offered.

The pathways are engineer design, transportation, media design and broadcasting, construction engineering and culinary. This year, enrolled freshmen are in the Freshman Academy, where they are able to experience all five paths as well as PBL, and they select their individual career paths during their sophomore year. Currently, the San Juan Unified School District offers the Regional Occupational Program, which requires students to travel to different locations to attend the courses. The hope is that students will actually enroll in NSJHS.

The PBL is a method of learning academics in this century, as students are given a question at the beginning of the semester and they research the project online, through networking with neighbors and friends, newspapers, or other sources, according to Principal Gloria Ervin.

“It equips students to become more of a 21st Century learner where they can apply their knowledge in other fields,” Ervin said recently. “When you are looking at how our students today are learning in 21st Century society, pathways and academics are essential to create a student who is well equipped to function in the world around them.”

One student is spending her senior year at Johnson Wells University in Denver, CO, Ervin explained, after receiving a $28,000 scholarship in the hospitality and restaurant field. She previously was in the culinary program at NSJHS and had very few classes to actually complete her senior year at high school San Juan High School campus started in Fair Oaks in 1911 and was moved to Greenback Lane in 1915 with land donated by Walter Trainor, who also named the city, according to the school’s website. Over the years, wings were added and with the $34 million from Measure J, it is the “new” school we all see today.

The only construction left is to redo the auditorium and turn it into a theater where they can host community plays and events, according to Principal Gloria Ervin. Also, during the renovation, they added a restaurant near the kitchen and will host community luncheons and events there.

Post Office to Change Service

Posted: 12/8/2011

The U.S. Postal Service announced December 5th it will move forward with its proposal to change service standards. This action is being taken in response to on-going financial challenges caused by the dramatic and continual decline in First-Class Mail volume and the resulting revenue loss.

“The U.S. Postal Service must reduce its operating costs by $20 billion by 2015 in order to return to profitability,” said David Williams, vice president, Network Operations. “The proposed changes to service standards will allow for significant consolidation of the postal network in terms of facilities, processing equipment, vehicles and employee workforce and will generate projected net annual savings of approximately $2.1 billion.” This is part of the overall savings expected from the network optimization initiative, which is projected to save up to $3 billion by 2015.

The size of the existing Postal Service network is dictated by the current overnight transit time in existing service standards. The Postal Service is 3 day−proposing, through the rulemaking process, to move First-Class Mail to a 2 standard for contiguous U.S. destinations; however, there would be an opportunity for mailers who properly prepare and enter mail at the destinating processing facility prior to the day's critical entry time to have their mail delivered the following delivery day.

On Sep. 15, the Postal Service announced it would begin studying 252 out of 487 mail processing facilities for possible closure. At that time, the Postal Service also announced it would be considering changes to service standards in an Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking published in the Federal Register. The Advance Notice filing was a formal effort to gather input from the public early in the process to ensure their views can be factored into the service change proposal.

The Postal Service will send to the Postal Regulatory Commission (PRC) a request for an advisory opinion regarding service standard changes associated with a significant rationalization of its mail processing network. Shortly thereafter, the Postal Service will publish a notice in the Federal Register soliciting public comment on the specific proposed changes.

The Postal Service receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations.

Source: USPS.com

Neighborhood Meeting Touches on Hot Topics

By Leslie Carrara
Posted: 12/8/2011

CITRUS HEIGHTS - The Sylvan Old Auburn Rd. (SOAR) meeting, a division of Residents’ Empowerment Association of Citrus Heights (REACH) held on Mon., Nov 21, included a visit from a Problem Oriented Police (POP) officer and assembling care packages for the troops, assisting Gold Star Wives and Blue Star Moms.

Councilwoman and SOAR (Area 10) President Dr. Jayna Karpinski-Costa also discussed plans for the upcoming 14th annual Bring-A-Dish-Make-A-Wish potluck on Dec. 18th at 6 p.m. to include all of REACH’s 11 neighborhoods, asking volunteers for set up to arrive at the Citrus Heights Community Center at 4:30 p.m., where the potluck will be held.

POP Officer Daniel Buckenmeyer told the group that prescription drug abuse among kids is the most common type of drug abuse today. This includes over the counter medications, such as Robitussin Cough Syrup and pseudoephederines as well as prescribed drugs, with the predominant choice of use being oxycontin prescribed for family members, including grandparents and parents. He recommends that adults lock up all medications.

“Obviously, you don‘t want your pills to get into the wrong hands,” he said to the group. He explained that the FDA has completed a lot of studying of such medications and that doctors know exactly how much to prescribe to patients. Oxycontin is a narcotic analgesic.

Kids used to snort and smoke oxycontin, but now, they have changed the way they manufacture the drug, he said..

“If you snort it, it will turn into gum in your nose,” Buckenmeyer said. “If you smoke it, it will turn into gel.” According to Buckenmeyer, this prevents the high that abusers feel.

He also told the crowd that heroin usage is up again, after a decline since the ‘70s, with kids as young as 14 using the drug.

Methamphetamine use is still a problem in communities as well. Federal restrictions are in place to allow nine mgs per month to be sold to individuals who need pseudoephedrine for nasal congestion. Manufacturers of methamphetamine hire groups of people to “smurf” stores for the drug, which means they go to as many stores as possible and purchase what they can, complete with identification, according to Buckenmeyer. This gives the manufacturer of the illegal drug enough of the product to make the meth.

Also at the meeting was Tonya Wagner, president of the Greater Sacramento Area Chapter of Gold Star Wives, as well as Blue Star Mom Kimberly Steinman-Elmquist and the group of citizens at the meeting assembled 17 care packages to be sent to the troops in Afghanistan. Wagner said she sends packages to troops each month. Gold Star Wives and Blue Star Moms are organizations of survivors of fallen heroes in war.

Council Votes On Community Centers Funding

By Leslie Carrara
Posted: 12/8/2011

CITRUS HEIGHTS–The Citrus Heights City Council voted last Wednesday to increase funding on construction of two separate community centers as the lowest responsible bid came in higher than expected. The vote was four to one with Councilwoman Dr. Jayna Karpinski-Costa voting against the funding.

PNP Construction submitted the lowest bid at a little over $1.6 million for the Sayonara and Sylvan Centers Project. City Manager Henry Tingle told the council the bid came in higher than expected due to nine foot ceilings, an unusual measurement, and because of some upgrades. He also said construction could begin as early as December, with the grand opening of both centers tentatively scheduled for May, 2012.

The additional funds will come from the General Capital Fund at $318,000, Drainage Funds at $100,000 and CDBG at $45,000.

The Sylvan Centers Project will be located at Community Dr. and Sylvan Dr. while the Sayonara community center will be near Sayonara and Wing. At the latter location, a park will also be developed in the area.

The Sayonara Community Center will provide a space for Campus Life, which provides after school tutoring help and educational games to low-income children on Sayonara Dr. and the Sylvan Community Center will provide meeting space for local service groups, non-profits and resident groups who can’t afford to rent the existing community center, according to a memorandum provided by the city.

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.

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