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Aviator, Civic Leader, Ross Davidson Served Nation and Community

By Susan Maxwell Skinner
Posted: 5/17/2011

Sporting vintage uniform and full-medal chest, Davidson (third from left) was recently saluted by Air National Guard pilots at Mather Field. Photo by Susan Maxwell Skinner.

Colonel Ross Davidson. The Carmichael resident was decorated in three wars and for peacetime service. Photo courtesy of the Davidson family.

CARMICHAEL – At a recent air show, active duty fighter pilots greeted Retired Air Force Col. Ross Davidson like the hoary old campaigner he was. Saluting, a 28 year old airman admired the veteran’s vintage Blues and ventured: “Looking great, sir!”

“Any better,” drawled Davidson, “and I couldn’t stand it.”

Carmichaelite Davidson was 91 when his seemingly indefatigable heart stopped beating on May 5. He leaves a community bereft of its most tireless town haller; a host who grabbed restaurant tabs at the drop of a bill; a pillar of the Chamber of Commerce; a geriatric tennis champ; a chronic joke teller; a polka dancer and distributer of cookies at concerts.

Industrious, generous, gregarious, outspoken — adjectives for the man abound. But lifelong patriot and great American are epithets that outrank all.

Having survived three wars, numerous plane crashes and a wound that added a Purple Heart to the pilot’s chest, Davidson did not sweat small stuff. West Nile Virus immobilized his right arm in 2008. Like the Energizer Bunny, Davidson kept marching through life — to his own drum.

Raised in Alabama, he ditched a musician’s career when WW 2 began. He was soon flying bombers over Germany. “I was immature and naïve,” he recalled. “On our first mission, three planes out of 18 returned home. At 21, I suddenly realized a guy could get killed this way…”

His wartime career included 87 combat missions and over 1000 combat flying hours. Flying in the 92nd Bomb Group in WW 2, he crash landed (or had his B-17 damaged beyond repair) six times. Because of the enemy flack he attracted, comrades called him “Clay Pigeon.”

“Our Berlin raids were the most hazardous duties anywhere in the war,” said the pilot. “I awoke each day knowing it might be my last. I never thought I’d see my 23rd birthday. Every day since was a bonus. Sometimes I felt guilty. My buddies gave their lives. I survived and got medals.” The survivor was nominated for a Silver Star in 1944. Because his Commanding Officer was killed the next day, required paperwork was not submitted.

Serving the US Air Force for 28 years, Davidson’s decorations included the Legion of Merit; two Distinguished Flying Crosses; a Meritorious Service Medal; eight Air Medals; a Purple Heart (over Germany in 1944); two Presidential Citations; seven Bronze Stars; Air Force Commendation Medals; an Expeditionary Medal for = Korean duty and a special medal for counter-insurgency activities in Vietnam.

In the late 1940s, he became a test pilot. Over a long aviation career, he flew 55 types of craft. Fighters, bombers, transports, tankers, helicopters, gliders, sailplanes, float planes, ski-planes, USN carrier bombers – even the Goodyear Blimp – were all in a day’s work.

As a pilot and Inspector General for the Air Force Missile Test Center, Davidson helped install and operate missile tracking stations throughout the Caribbean. These contributed to NASA’s Cape Canaveral space program. He was later Joint Services Project Officer for the construction and testing of the “DEWLINE” project, which covered 3000 miles of Arctic wasteland from Alaska to Greenland. Davidson spent six years in Arctic exploration and perfected experimental landings on icepacks.

The construction of a billion-dollar radar station chain — to counter Cold War threats from across the North Pole — was considered impossible. Navigation depended on WW 2 aircraft and human reckoning. In a wilderness of snow and ice, Davidson’s successes were heroic feats. To get airborne from glaciers, he pioneered the use of Jet Assisted Take Off (JATO) powered boosters. He helped construct and support research stations. The famous NORAD radar defense system benefitted from this pilot. John Wayne’s movie “Island in the Sky” enacted the dangers of Artic aviation. Real life hero Davidson admitted: “Sometimes, when I looked back, it scared me to death. I depended on one little aircraft engine. If that had failed, I’d be on an ice floe, yet…”

Polar adventures led to his induction into the legendary Explorers Club, formed by Admirals Robert Perry, Richard Byrd and Lowell Thomas. Members have included Roald Amundsen, President Theodore Roosevelt, Sir Edmund Hillary, Chuck Yeager and Apollo Astronauts. A high point of Davidson’s retired life was the annual club reunion in New York.

Though established in Carmichael soon after WW 2, his wife and three sons followed their Colonel to an Air Force job in Japan. His final posting was at McClellan Air Force Base; from there he flew missions into Vietnam. “Most people learn their lesson after one war,” he shrugged. “I went back for more.”

The veteran retired from the USAF in 1970. Carmichael, its Chamber of Commerce and civic life then became a passion. A landlord and spokesman for town improvement, he opened his mouth and wallet frequently. Late into his energetic 80s, Davidson cracked the whip on tour groups he led anywhere from Washington DC to Ayers Rock.

Ross wore many hats. He knew everyone and never hesitated in calling in favors from the powerful – but never for himself. He also helped raise many thousands of dollars for non-profits. Over decades, he was awarded scores of awards and honorary titles for public service. Lest we forget, the most recent of his many caps were those goofy wig-hats the wily prankster distributed at park concerts.

It seemed his battery would never run out. But a 2011 decline sent him in and out of hospital for the six months preceding his death. He attended a Chamber of Commerce luncheon just a week before he bid a lucid goodnight to his son Mark and died the next morning, in his own home.

With the full military honors of Colonel Ross Davidson’s May 15 burial at East Lawn Cemetery, America’s “finest generation” lost another legendary son. Carmichael farewelled an institution of Americana.

Goodbye and thank you Ross. It’s a quieter town without you.

Seeds of Love in Bloom

By Susan Maxwell Skinner
Posted: 5/2/2011

Seven months after scattering thousands of wildflower seeds during Jan Park’s opening festivities, Barrett Hills Neighborhood children enjoy the results. The Seeds of Love (SOL) project will continue with further flower dispersal this fall. Photo by Susan Maxwell Skinner.

A swallowtail butterfly slurps spring nectar from winter vetch at Jan Park. Photo by Susan Maxwell Skinner.

As you sow; you reap. The Biblical proverb has lately sprung to life for children in Carmichael’s Barrett Hills neighborhood.

Kids, parents and visitors are delighting in a bumper crop of wildflowers at Jan Park. Lining walkways and dotting meadows with kaleidoscopic hues, volunteer blossoms were last fall augmented by seeds scattered during the reserve’s opening day celebrations. Seeds Of Love (SOL) is the ongoing project that encourages children to “own” their own park by contributing to its beautification. “It’s wonderful for the park’s future to keep children involved,” says SOL organizer Victoria Ralston. “Flowers are like children – fresh, young and always growing – their innocent faces remind us of flowers, turning to the sun.”

The Hedgerow Farms of Williams, Ca. donated seeds for the 2011 opening day. Hundreds of packets contained species native to Northern California: clarkia, daisies, clovers and lupines. Added to the wild rhubarb, blue-eyed grass and purple vetch already established at Jan, a massive wildflower crop responded to April rain and sun. Hundreds of butterflies are a fluttering bonus; birds and honeybees also rejoice in the nectar buffet.

Blending cultivation and wildness, 13-acre Jan Park was developed last year by the Barrett Hills Neighborhood Association and Carmichael Park District. Planners retained much unruly landscape that made the former farm a haven for wildlife and humans escaping suburbia. Oaks abound; walking paths are largely unpaved; only a small picnic and playground area is mowed. The rest remains au naturel.

Children will be encouraged to scatter more wildflower seeds at Jan’s one-year-anniversary this September. Anyone may visit the reserve at 4310 Jan Drive or access its paths from Salmaan Avenue. For information on the Barrett Hills Neighborhood group, visit www.barretthillsneighborhood.org.

Woody Boyd, Guitar Man

By Julie Parker
Posted: 5/2/2011

Woody Boyd, Master Luthier. His experience and expertise are founded in his musical roots. Photo by Julie Parker.

“The guitar is a super-charged, portable piano,” says Woody Boyd, Master Luthier. “A piano has 88 keys, but a guitar has 134. Plus, one note on a piano can’t be found anywhere else. On a guitar, I could find it 12 more places.”

He should know. His experience and expertise are founded in his musical roots. His mother played piano, organ, clarinet; his grandfather played saxophone, and organ, and was a composer for the Cleveland Philharmonic Orchestra. Boyd not only played guitar at a young age, but also delved into the brass section–French horn, tuba, Sousaphone, trumpet, and flugelhorn. “I got A’s in music, and bad grades in everything else.”

As a high school freshman, he began teaching guitar at the local music store. That led to his first paying gig at Woodland’s first art gallery, which later segued into a 30+ year career as a luthier (repairs stringed instruments).

“The guitars that stand out for me are the pre-World War II Martin acoustics. They have a sound that, in conjunction with age and playing, is nirvana.”

Boyd says the most challenging guitars to repair are those created in the 1920s and 1930s. “There was no reinforcement inside the neck. It was all wood. There’s a metal bar now, and in some cases, a torsion bar, so you can make adjustments. Over time, the woods wants to bow, and the neck starts to come forward of about 150 psi. So, we have to remove the neck, re-cut the angle, and put it back on. The last one was valued at close to $500,000. There was a lot of glue used, so we drilled some microscopic holes, injected steam, and slowly steamed the glue to get it off. It’s labor intensive.”

Before it was added to the endangered species list, Brazilian rosewood was commonly used for guitars. (Although Gibson Guitars has been raided twice by the federal government for alleged illegal timber harvests, it has not been officially charged.)

Today’s guitars are typically built with “smart woods,” such as cherry, American mahogany, and sapele.

“Most guitars have a spruce or cedar top. The bottom and sides will be either Honduras mahogany or East Indian rosewood. Those are the general Ford and Chevy sedans. Most guys who play electric in loud situations use maple, because it’s very reflective. The back and sides determine volume, sustainability, and projection.”

When choosing your first guitar, Boyd suggests a basic, steel string. “You can get something that’s playable starting at about $100. You just need something that is comfortable, because if you’re in pain, you’re not going to pursue it. To determine the correct size, the elbow should rest at a natural position, and the hand on the neck should not contort.”

Boyd is available for consultation if you’re not sure whether you’ve bought the correct one. “I can tell what kind of guitar – not necessarily brand – they should be looking at that will bring out the best in their playing. I work with beginners or real advanced.”

Storage is a consideration as well. “We’ve learned that the best place is in the noisiest rooms of your house, where it can vibrate–even with conversation. The more it vibrates, the better the tone will get. That’s what they call ‘opening up.’”

Guitarists often develop carpal tunnel syndrome and tendonitis, which Boyd says can be prevented when playing the instrument in a better way. “The less physical energy you throw at a guitar, the more it will give you back. Watch a You Tube video of a great guitar player, with the sound off. The less you see, the better they are.” He’ll be offering workshops on playing with both hands. “It’s more efficient, and creates endurance. Using both hands is like adding more RAM to your computer.”

Boyd still performs for private parties (including corporate), small clubs, and may hold concerts in his workshop again. His genre ranges from Woody Guthrie to Korn, to bluegrass, even though some may scoff. “A lot of people pass it off as simple, but it’s simply perfect.”

Guitars, mandolins, violins or ukuleles, Boyd Luthiery & Guitar Co. is tuned in to your needs. Visit, boydguitars.net, or the store at 2100A Del Paso Boulevard, Sacramento; (916) 583-1138.

Wage Reductions, Furloughs and Layoffs More the Rule These Days

Posted: 5/2/2011

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.”

Work Begins on Main Street Makeover

By Susan Maxwell Skinner
Posted: 4/24/2011

Community and County officials last week broke ground for the long awaited Fair Oaks Blvd Improvement Project. Digging in were: Transportation Director Mike Penrose (left), Carmichael Chamber of Commerce President Chris Meyer, County Planner Tricia Stevens, Supervisor Susan Peters, SMUD director Bill Slaton and honorary Mayor Esteban Nava. Photo by Susan Maxwell Skinner.

CARMICHAEL - In a week of unveilings and groundbreakings, Carmichael received a new boundary sign (see page 2) and kicked off improvements to its maligned main artery.

Once dubbed “Sacramento’s ugliest street,” Fair Oaks Blvd is the focus of a $5 million-plus improvement project that has involved more than a decade of public meetings and residential input. Initial phases of the corridor plan envision a “main steet” feel for the mile of boulevard that stretches between Kenneth Ave and Engle Rd. Later upgrades will continue where Fair Oaks dog-legs towards Sunrise Ave. The first phase of this makeover broke ground last week. In a ceremony staged in the Walgreen’s parking lot, County and civic leaders took up golden shovels to begin a Marconi/Fair Oaks intersection revamp. Work will include:

• Curb, sidewalk and bike lane improvements.
• New trees; ornamental “street scaping.”
• Signal modifiactions for the disabled.
• Better lighting.
• Upgraded safety features.

Phase One upgrades should be complete by November. The $950,000 bill will be met by Measure A sales tax funds and Developer Fees.

Central to intersection beautification will be two nine-foot high “gateway monuments.” Formed from sedimentary rock and granite, these obelisks will include an oak leaf engraving. Through the extended corridor, similar monuments will be raised with emblems representing other facets of local natural history.

Phase Two of the Fair Oaks Boulevard Corridor Plan is scheduled for 2014. This will continue the main street concept from Landis Ave to Engle Rd and incorporate more trees, streetscaping, improved sidewalks, bike lanes and traffic signal modifications. A Sacramento Council of Government (SACOG) community design grant will pay $4 million of the projected cost. Other “main street” development phases will be executed as further funding becomes available.

Speaking at the ground breaking ceremony, Supervisor Susan Peters considered a pedestrian-oriented town center would emphasize the identity of the once rural Sacramento satellite. “Fair Oaks Boulevard is an ideal location for creating a main street for the community,” she said.

Though wryly noting that these long-awaited improvements to the century-old town seemed 100 years in the making, Peters predicted: “This is just the start of things to come for Carmichael.”

Fair Oaks and Marconi: An Artist’s View Report by Susan Maxwell Skinner Posted: 4/24/12 An artist’s vision of the Fair Oaks and Marconi corner shows improvements detailed in the Fair Oaks Blvd Improvement Project’s first phase. Landscaping will echo 90-year palms planted by pioneer Mary Deterding on the riverward extension of Marconi (Palm Drive). This phase should be complete by November 2012. Phase Two – tackling the stetch between Landis Ave and Engle Rd -- will begin in 2014. Picture courtesy of Carmichael County Transportation Department. Featuring sedimentary stone and sculpted leaves to symbolize of Carmichael’s native oaks, two nine-foot gateway monuments will stand on either side of the Fair Oaks and Marconi intersection. Similar obelisks built from varying materials will mark other intersections between Kenneth and Cypress Aves.Picture courtesy of Carmichael County Transportation Department.

Heroic Teacher Gets Community Awards

By Susan Maxwell Skinner
Posted: 4/19/2011

Teacher Elaine Johnson (front, third left) and fellow rescuers accepted community and County awards for saving children from a recent car fire. Supervisor Susan Peters, plus Carmichael Chamber of Commerce members and firefighters joined Johnson and school staffers at the Effie Yeaw Nature Center. Photo by Susan Maxwell Skinner

CARMICHAEL – A Car-michael elementary teacher was last week honored for quick action and courage that helped save two children from a car fire.

When near-disaster struck at Cameron Ranch Elementary last month, teacher Elaine Johnson’s role jumped from educator to heroine. Supervising afternoon dismissal, Johnson (37) saw a parent’s vehicle in flames. Ignited by hitting a speed bump, the SUV spewed fire from beneath.

“It was like a movie,” the second grade teacher said on national television. “I expected the car to explode any second. I acted in the moment, as anyone would have.” Without thought for her safety, Johnson reached the vehicle and tore open the door. The driver was struggling with his seat belt; behind him, two small children were harnessed into booster seats and helpless. The teacher unbelted and removed a boy toddler. Kenneth Hattin – parent of another Cameron Ranch pupil – grabbed a little girl. School staff raised the alarm and brought fire extinguishers. Before firemen reached the scene, flames were doused; all car occupants were safe.

A mother of three, Johnson has taught at the Hackberry Lane school for seven years. Principal Theresa Altieri said the incident underscored her staff’s belief that students come first. “I don’ think Elaine feels heroic,” said Altieri. “She feels what she did was just part of being a teacher.”

Agreed Johnson: “Teachers wear many hats. That day, my hat was fire rescue.”

Add a mom’s hat to the mix — “My heart has a passion for kids,” she nods. “I couldn’t see them suffer.” An active congregant of Christ Community Church, she also thanks divine provenance. “It was God’s timing to put me in the right place that day.”

A month after the nationally reported drama, life is back to normal for teacher and school. But Johnson still reports many extra hugs and “an outpouring of love” from the youngsters she teaches. Her own grown up children particularly approve one media raconteur’s description of mom as “all Chuck Norris.”

Rescuers Johnson and Hattin — plus custodians John Horn and Larry Clark and library clerk Sheelah Eulberg — all received awards for their life-saving actions. Recognitions were made at the Effie Yeaw Nature Center. “The courage Elaine and the other rescuers displayed,” said County Supervisor Susan Peters, “reflects the strong values that are so evident in Carmichael.”

Dr. Pan Recognizes Arden-Arcade Resident Liz Igra at Holocaust Memorial Posted: 4/19/2011 At 90, Igra Recalls Her Story of Escape from Nazi Germany to Inform Work on Holocaust Education. SACRAMENTO – As a young child, Liz Igra escaped Nazi persecution by fleeing with her mother from their home in a Polish ghetto. Today, Igra was recognized by Dr. Richard Pan (D-Sacramento) on the floor of the California State Assembly for helping to educate new generations about the horrors of the Holocaust. “Liz continues to give voice to a generation that saw how intolerance and totalitarianism tear society apart,” Dr. Pan said. “The Assembly’s Holocaust Memorial recognizes this dark chapter in our shared past, but it also honors the dedication of Liz and others to help us understand these critical lessons from history, which will always be important to any free society.” To disguise their Jewish origin, Igra and her mother assumed false identities and crossed the border on foot over Czechoslovakia to Hungary, where they were kept hidden. After migrating to America, Igra became an educator in the Elk Grove Unified School District, and moved to Arden-Arcade, where she resides with her husband. She is now president and founder of the Central Valley Holocaust Educators’ Network, which is a nonprofit dedicated to supporting teachers in effectively implementing a Holocaust and genocide curriculum through workshops, trainings, support, consulting and other resources. Dr. Richard Pan is a father, pediatrician, educator, small business owner and first-term Assemblymember who lives in Sacramento. He also represents the Cities of Citrus Heights and Folsom and surrounding areas. Website of Assemblymember Richard Pan: www.asmdc.org/pan.

Board Selects Thompson as New Superintendent

Posted: 4/19/2011

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

Get Ready for the Annual Parkway Half Marathon

Posted: 4/19/2012

SACRAMENTO REGION ­– Sacramento Friends In Training (SacFit) and Capital Road Race Management (CRRM) announced recently that the Sixth Annual American River Parkway Half Marathon–a leading fundraising running event for the benefit the American River Parkway – will host over 4000 participants and 300 volunteers this weekend.

On Saturday, April 28, 2012, SacFit and CRRM will present the American River Parkway Half Marathon and 5K (www.parkwayhalf.com) for runners and walkers. The race and post-race festivities will be held on the American River Parkway. All the proceeds from the event are committed to supporting the American River Parkway.

Race Director Ken Press of SacFit reflected upon last year’s race, “The fifth annual American River Parkway Half Marathon continues as the only major race in the Northern California area to go Green including the first-ever race to feature race shirts made of 100% recycled materials.

The fifth annual race sold out at 4000 registrants – smashing all attendance records for community events along the Parkway and cementing the race as the largest and most popular community event along the American River Parkway.

Press added, “A major factor in the success of the race is it’s unique features–it takes place on one of the most scenic and tranquil sections of the parkway trail, away from traffic and urban congestion, and has separate race courses for runners and walkers – the only race in the world having this unique course format–enabling race amenities to be appropriately tailored for each group.”

Race Manager Rich Hanna of CRRM, and local endurance athlete legend, has recommitted to managing the race. According to Hanna, “The park and its beautiful trails are a jewel for bikers, runners and hikers in the greater Sacramento region. Thousands regularly train and work out on the trail, including myself, and we all benefit from a world class park. After only two short years, the Parkway Half Marathon is the community fundraiser for the American River Parkway much like what the Run To Feed The Hungry is to local food banks. Come support and join in this important civic event.”

Young Artists Win Big For Creeks!

From Jamie Cameron-Harley
Posted: 3/8/2012

Sacramento Region – Skycrest Elementary 5th grade student was one of three Sacramento area children who won honors today in the 2012 Creek Week T-Shirt Art Contest: “Why We Care For Creeks.” As the first prize art winner the student-artist will see her art as this year’s Creek Week t-shirt art, in addition she receives $50 and will be interviewed on Radio Disney. The first prize classroom teacher also receives $100 for educational materials. Second and third prize student-artists will receive $25 and $20 respectively.

The Sacramento Area Creeks Council (SACC) designed the contest in association with San Juan Unified School District Visual and Performing Arts program to educate, raise awareness, and encourage exploration and enjoyment of Sacramento area creeks and aquatic life.

SACC received from about 200 students (grades 4 -6) attending Grand Oaks, Arlington, Skycrest, Cambridge Heights, Lichen, Kingswood K-8, Citrus Heights and Woodside. After students learned more about creek systems and aquatic life they created their 8 x 8 pieces of art illustrating the importance of creeks and why we should care for them.

SACC’s contest was “We are thrilled to see children being creative and learning about our local creeks and the environment,” said Alta Tura, Creek Week Committee Chair and SACC Board President. “This partnership with the San Juan Unified School District staff gave us a unique opportunity to educate children about the environment and how we can work together to preserve natural resources.”

The Sacramento Area Creeks Council is a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting and sharing the abundant natural treasures that make up the extensive creek systems of our region.

The 22nd Annual Creek Week splashes off this year from April 6 to 14. During Creek Week young and old will enjoy, explore, learn about and work to protect our local creeks and aquatic life.

For information on activities, clean up locations, volunteer opportunities and E-Waste collection, go to www.creekweek.net.

The top three entries can be seen on the Creek Week Facebook page. The top ten entries will be on display in late April at Kidz Art along with other art displayed by the SJUSD Visual and Performing Arts program.

KFBK Celebrates 90 Years of Broadcasting

Posted: 2/8/2012

SACRAMENTO REGION – On Thursday, Feb. 2, FM NewsTalk 92.5 and AM 1530 KFBK celebrated 90 years of delivering live and local news and talk coverage to the Sacramento region. As part of Thursday’s celebration, KFBK unveiled an online museum at kfbk.com that showcases and honors the station’s rich and storied history. The museum includes audio clips, photos and videos that will transport listeners back in time to relive KFBK’s evolution.

Festivities throughout the day included Rush Limbaugh joining KFBK Morning News anchors Amy Lewis and Ed Crane to reminisce about KFBK. The event concluded with Tom Sullivan joining Kitty O’Neal during the KFBK Afternoon News to commemorate the occasion.

“Having the privilege of working with the people that keep KFBK a significant and relevant voice in the community is a daily occurrence that has been happening for every General Manager of the station over the years,” said Jeff Holden, Vice President and Market Manager of Clear Channel Sacramento. “The celebration today is recognition and confirmation that the commitment of the employees, past, present and future, is exactly what Sacramentans, at each point in time over the past 90 years, have so welcomingly accepted into their lives. I couldn’t’ be more proud to be part of such an illustrious and valuable asset to the region and a part of the team that is making history.”

KFBK’s anniversary celebration began last year on Dec. 1, when the station began simulcasting on 92.5 FM. On Jan. 27, the Sacramento Metro Chamber of Commerce honored KFBK by inducting the station into the Chamber’s Business Hall of Fame.

“I’m proud and humbled to help lead one of the most enduring brands in media,” said Alan Eisenson, KFBK Operations Manager. “KFBK’s amazing legacy of entertainment, information and service to the community, as well as the station’s rich history of helping grow local businesses and create jobs through the myriad of marketing opportunities KFBK provides, can’t be equaled.”

In addition to broadcasting on 92.5 FM and 1530 AM, KFBK can be streamed live at kfbk.com, iheart.com and on the iHeartRadio app.

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

Posted: 2/2/2012

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

PG&E Making $148 Million in Property Tax Payments to California Counties

Posted: 12/22/2011

SACRAMENTO – More than $148 million is on its way to 49 California counties, as Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) delivers its property tax payments.

The amount, which PG&E is paying this week to the counties in which it operates, represents full, timely payment of property taxes due for the last six months of 2011, from July 1 to December 31.

“Local governments are tackling public safety, environmental protection, health care, and education needs with limited financial resources these days,” said Mark Caron, PG&E’s vice president of tax. “Our timely and substantial payments to local governments for property taxes and other fees will help communities address those vital services.”

The company’s total tax payments to counties for the last six months of 2011 increased by almost $7.5 million over the same period in 2010. The overall increase is tied to higher assessments as PG&E invests in key infrastructure projects throughout its Northern and Central California service area. PG&E’s investments have included building new power-generating stations and upgrading equipment to boost electric reliability.

Local counties are receiving the following property tax payments: Colusa, $4,385,070; El Dorado, $1,059,344; Nevada, $883,337; Placer, $3,382,563; Sacramento, $2,859,800; Sierra, $60,220; Solano, $3,702,681; Yolo, $1,495,882; and Yuba, 1,024,243.

Pacific Gas and Electric Company, a subsidiary of PG&E Corporation (NYSE:PCG), is one of the largest combined natural gas and electric utilities in the United States. Based in San Francisco, with 20,000 employees, the company delivers some of the nation’s cleanest energy to 15 million people in Northern and Central California. For more information, visit http://www.pge.com/about/newsroom/.

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.

Post Office to Change Service Standards

Posted: 12/8/2011

Tough changes are coming for the US Postal Service in these continued tough times. USPS photo.

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

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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