OBSNews: Breaking Business and Politics News

Lungren Secures $78.7 Million for Sacramento Area Flood Control

Fri, 17 Jul 2009 23:28:57 +0000

Bill will head to the Senate for debate

By Brian Kaveney

WASHINGTON, D.C. (OBSNews.com) – Congressman Dan Lungren (R-CA) today voted in favor of a bill that would bring much needed flood control funds to the Sacramento region. H.R. 3183, the Energy and Water Appropriations Act of 2010, is the first step in a three part process. The second step will send the bill to the Senate for debate and revision. When both House and Senate versions are agreed to, this bill will make available funds for various energy and water projects in the California’s 3rd Congressional District in 2010.

“I am pleased with the outcome of this appropriations bill and what it means for my district. Flood control has always been and will always be a top priority for me. Though Republicans are in the minority this Congress, I will continue to work in a bipartisan way to benefit the constituents I represent,” Lungren said.

The following projects will help improve California’s 3rd Congressional District’s flood control:

American River Watershed (Common Features) - $6,700,000

American River Watershed (Folsom Dam Modifications) - $66,700,000

American River Watershed (Folsom Dam Raise & Bridge) - $600,000

South Sacramento County Streams - $4,750,000

“My staff and I will continue to work hard to secure funds for projects of national importance – like flood protection in the Sacramento region. We realize there is more work to be done to ensure the safety of all who are threatened by potential flooding in our district,” Lungren concluded.

Brian Kaveney is the Communications Director for Congressman Dan Lungren who serves as Ranking Member on the House Administration Committee in addition to serving on the Judiciary and Homeland Security committees

Story sponsored by Sacramento real estate broker www.TheHomeBuyingCenter.com.

Rep. Doris Matsui Announces $93 Million for Sacramento Flood Protection Projects

Fri, 17 Jul 2009 23:18:27 +0000

Secures Vital Federal Funding to Protect Public Safety in the Region

By Mara Lee

WASHINGTON, D.C. (OBSNews.com) – Congresswoman Doris Matsui (CA-05) announced that the Sacramento region will receive an additional $93,750,000 in federal funds through the Fiscal Year 2010 House Energy and Water Appropriations Bill passed by the U.S. House of Representatives today. Representative Matsui has worked tirelessly throughout this past year to ensure that Sacramento’s flood protection priorities are protected in the face of increased economic insecurity, and to make sure that federal funds continue to flow toward local projects.

“Providing the Sacramento community with an improved level of flood protection is my number one priority so that we can invest in the infrastructure necessary to protect our families, homes and businesses,” said Congresswoman Matsui. “In the face of the current economic situation, it is vital that we continue to bring federal resources to the Sacramento region and to fund our flood protection projects.”

Congresswoman Matsui was successful in securing $93,750,000 through the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Construction Account for the following projects in Sacramento, which represents an increase of $34,783,000 over FY 09 levels:

American Rivers Watershed, Folsom Dam Modifications - $66,700,000

· Funding will help construct an auxiliary spillway which will provide greater efficiency in managing flood storage in Folsom Reservoir.

Sacramento River Bank Protection Project - $15,000,000

· Funding will support the repair of critical erosion sites along the Sacramento River and tributaries.

American River Watershed, Common Features - $6,700,000

· Funding will widen flood levees near Jacobs Lane, raise levees between Howe Avenue and Watt Avenue, strengthen levees near the confluence of the Natomas East Main Drainage Canal/American River, address seepage around utilities, and continue the work on the American River Common Features General Re-evaluation Report.

South Sacramento County Streams - $4,750,000

· Funding for both levee and channel improvements, ecosystem restoration, recreation features, and detention facilities.

American River Watershed, Folsom Dam Raise – $600,000

· Funding to raise Folsom Dam which will help achieve 200-year-flood protection for the region.

“In the midst of our budget crisis and the economic recession – I understand the need to keep projects like this alive,” stated Matsui, “Waiting is simply not an option. I will continue to work to secure robust federal funding to reach our goal of 200-year flood protection for Sacramento businesses and families.”

Mara Lee is the Press Secretary for Congresswoman Doris Matsui who represents the 5th Congressional District in California.

Story sponsored by Sacramento real estate broker www.TheHomeBuyingCenter.com.

Mortgage rates continue down for a third week says Freddie Mac survey

Fri, 17 Jul 2009 16:13:21 +0000

By Marie Brown

SACRAMENTO (OBSNews.com) - Mortgage rates are down again, and Americans of all sorts are hoping that more encouraging signs like this will usher in a new era of stability after years of volatility in the Sacramento real estate market.

According to a survey released today by Freddie Mac mortgage interest rates fell to 5.14 percent for the week ending on July 16. The previous week the figure was 5.2 percent.

The record low for the year occurred during the week which ended on April 2. Rates then averaged 4.78 percent. The survey has been in effect since 1971.

For Sacramento real estate watchers this should be good news as the region has seen the extremes of real estate boom as well as bust.

Sacramento real estate broker Patrick McGilvray, president of TheHomeBuyingCenter.com. said that the agents on his team are very busy helping first-time home buyers buy foreclosure houses and also that, "Mortgage refinancing has been very busy this year. Many homeowners are taking advantage of the low rates to refinance their mortgage loans for long-term savings."

McGilvray added, "Refinancing isn't right for everybody, but it's something to look at in terms of trimming monthly expenses in times like these."

Opportunity Online Grants Will Help Public Libraries Improve Quality of Free Computer Access Used by Millions of Americans

Thu, 16 Jul 2009 23:41:22 +0000

Program to Help Generate $3.7 Million in Local Funding for Public Technology Access in 11 States

SEATTLE (OBSNews.com) – The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation announced today $6.5 million in grants to help public libraries in 11 states increase and sustain free, quality public access to computers for their patrons. These Opportunity Online hardware grants will help libraries upgrade and add public computer workstations for patrons in communities with high concentrations of poverty and where a library’s public computers are at risk of becoming outdated with limited capacity for users.

Despite the fact that most libraries (73 percent) are typically the only provider of free Internet access in their communities, many do not have adequate funding to maintain quality computer and Internet services, and to meet growing community demand for these technology tools.

“In today’s economy, more than ever, public access to technology in libraries is a critical resource for people who are working to improve their lives and regain financial stability,” said Jill Nishi, deputy director of U.S. Libraries at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. “But this valuable public benefit that opens the door to opportunity for millions of people is at risk. Communities must commit the funds libraries need to ensure they can keep pace with local demand for high-quality computer and broadband access.”

Nearly 800 library branches in Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, Vermont, and Wisconsin are eligible for the grants announced today. This is the last of three rounds of Opportunity Online hardware grants offered by the foundation.

“A rising unemployment rate in our county has stimulated even more demand for the technology resources at our library,” said Nick Slone, a librarian at Garnet A. Wilson Public Library in Waverly, OH, which is eligible for the grants. “Many people in our community without Internet access elsewhere now come to the library regularly—even daily—to take courses and search for jobs online. If it weren’t for the library, these people would simply not be able to use the Internet as a tool to find new opportunities in this tough economy.”

Since 80 percent of library funding comes from local sources, libraries eligible for the Opportunity Online hardware grant program are required to match the Gates Foundation funds with local dollars to show they can sustain investments in technology access in the future. The Gates Foundation expects that its investment will leverage $3.7 million in local funding to support technology access in libraries.

The need for increased support for library services is dire in many states. Since late 2008, libraries throughout the country have seen dramatic increases in visitors in the down economy. At the same time, many libraries are facing unprecedented local budget cuts, and 41 percent of states reported declining state funding for libraries for fiscal year 2009.

Library staff participating in the grant program are required to attend Turning the Page: Building Your Library Community, a professional development conference offered by the Public Library Association that helps strengthen the skills and confidence library professionals need to increase awareness of the library’s value and motivate local support.

Intermediary organizations will administer and manage the Opportunity Online hardware grant program in each state. The intermediaries for this round are: Bibliographical Center for Research, Hawaii State Public Library System, Illinois State Library, Indiana State Library, Minnesota State Library Services, Missouri State Library, Nebraska Library Commission, NELINET, State Library of Ohio, South Dakota State Library, and Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction, Division for Libraries, Technology, and Community Learning.

"Public libraries have been leaders in helping bridge the 'digital divide' in our state, and throughout the country," said Jesse White, Illinois secretary of state and state librarian. "Libraries enable millions of people to find important information online, search and apply for jobs, and benefit from technology tools they would never be able to access elsewhere. The Opportunity Online grants will help Illinois libraries build the support and momentum to sustain high-quality technology services for all our community members for years to come."

The first two rounds of Opportunity Online hardware grants were awarded in 2007 and 2008 to libraries in Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Iowa, Kansas, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Utah, Virginia, Washington, and Wyoming. The remaining 18 U.S. states are not eligible for the Opportunity Online hardware grants because they participated in the foundation’s Public Access Computing Hardware Upgrade Grant program in 2006.

To date, the foundation has invested $350 million in grants and support to install and sustain computers in libraries and train thousands of library staff in all 50 states and U.S. territories. This will be the last round of grants given by the foundation to fund computer upgrades for U.S. libraries with vulnerable technology, but the foundation continues to support libraries through investments in programs, research, advocacy training, and public awareness efforts that will help libraries sustain high-quality online access for patrons in partnership with their communities.

About the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
Guided by the belief that every life has equal value, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation works to help all people lead healthy, productive lives. In developing countries, it focuses on improving people’s health and giving them the chance to lift themselves out of hunger and extreme poverty. In the United States, it seeks to ensure that all people—especially those with the fewest resources—have access to the opportunities they need to succeed in school and life. Based in Seattle, Washington, the foundation is led by CEO Jeff Raikes and Co-chair William H. Gates Sr., under the direction of Bill and Melinda Gates and Warren Buffett.

Story sponsored by Sacramento real estate broker www.TheHomeBuyingCenter.com.

City of Sacramento Declares Spare the Water Alert

Tue, 14 Jul 2009 17:20:19 +0000

Asks Residents to Reduce and Delay Non-Essential Water Use

SACRAMENTO (OBSNews.com) - With significant temperatures bearing down on the Sacramento region, the City of Sacramento Department of Utilities has issued a Spare the Water Alert for Tuesday, July 14-Thursday, July 16.

When temperatures reach their peak, demand for water stretches the City’s treatment and pumping abilities, making it difficult to refill storage supplies overnight. Refilling these supplies is critical to running the distribution system efficiently, having enough water pressure and retaining adequate reserves for fire emergencies.

Energy costs for treating and pumping water to homes are also highest during peak temperatures, especially during late afternoon. This means higher energy costs for the City, and can mean higher water and energy bills for customers.

Customers are urged to reduce and delay non-essential water use in order to conserve water and energy, especially in the late afternoon. Tips for quickly reducing water use include:

· Delaying all outdoor water use, including landscape irrigation, until early morning or late at night.

· Waiting to use big appliances such as the dishwasher or clothes washer.

Additional tips on reducing water can be found at www.SpareSacWater.org.

This advisory is based on the best data available at the time of its release. Pumping conditions are subject to change without warning. This forecast is accepted by the recipient on the condition that errors, omissions and/or changes to the contents shall not be made the basis for any claim, demand or cause of action against the City of Sacramento Department of Utilities.

Source: City of Sacramento

Story sponsored by Sacramento real estate broker www.TheHomeBuyingCenter.com.

Rocklin Citizen Group Organizes to Support Parks

Tue, 14 Jul 2009 17:11:48 +0000

Rocklin Citizens for Quality Parks Urges ‘Yes’ Vote on Parks Measure in Mail-Only Balloting

ROCKLIN (OBSNews.com) – A grass-roots group of Rocklin residents has formed to urge community members to approve continuation of support for our Rocklin parks in a special, mail-only election that will begin in late July.

The group, Rocklin Citizens for Quality Parks, includes long-time community residents, youth sports group leaders, business owners, teenagers and seniors.

“More than 20 years ago, Rocklin residents made a commitment to creating and maintaining quality parks in our community by agreeing to pay a $30 per year assessment for park maintenance,” said Paul Ruhkala, a lifelong Rocklin resident who is co-chairing the group.

“The result of this commitment is easy to see around us: attractive neighborhood and community parks that provide great recreational opportunities, enhance property values and contribute to a quality of life that helped make Rocklin one of Family Circle magazine’s “10 Best Towns for Families” in 2008,” Ruhkala said.

Ballots for the election will begin arriving during the week of July 27 by mail. There will be no polling places for this election. Voters will be able to cast ballots by returning the ballot in the provided postage-paid return envelopes. The measure to continue the park maintenance fee, called Measure A, is the only item on the ballot.

“Our parks are one of the unique features of Rocklin – and great assets to our community,” said Diana Ruslin, who is also co-chairing the citizens group. “We appreciate the wide breadth of support we have received to renew this commitment to our parks and ensure that our parks remain properly maintained.”

“Importantly, this will not raise taxes, merely keep park funding at the same level residents have been paying since they requested it in 1988,” Ruslin said.

For more information or to support the Rocklin Citizens for Quality Parks effort, please visit www.RocklinParks.com

Kris Gibson Awarded Jim Janssen Scholarship at Sierra College

Mon, 13 Jul 2009 19:40:06 +0000

Ambitious Student Revives Newspaper at Sierra College

ROCKLIN, Calif. (OBSNews.com) – Determined to fill a void that was missing on campus, Kris Gibson headed up the effort to revive a student newspaper at Sierra College, producing the first issue on a chilly February evening in his own unheated garage.

Gibson’s journalism skills, leadership and resilience were qualities that helped him become the recipient of the 2009 Jim Janssen Memorial Scholarship, which is awarded to promising journalism students at the Sierra College campus in Rocklin.

A 2004 graduate of Placer High School who grew up in Foresthill, Gibson will receive a $750 scholarship in memory of Janssen, a longtime reporter at The Press-Tribune. Janssen worked at the Roseville newspaper for 43 years prior to his death in 2004.

Scholarship Funder Kyriakos Tsakopoulos

“We’re pleased to support an inspiring student like Kris in his pursuit of a journalism career,” said Kyriakos Tsakopoulos, who provided the leadership donation to establish the scholarship fund. “Jim Janssen was admired for his work at The Press-Tribune and we hope the values and integrity he demonstrated as a journalist will be carried on by this year’s scholarship winner.”

Gibson, who resides in Lincoln, personally recruited a handful of staff members and put out three issues of the campus newspaper – renamed the Sierra Independent Press. The Outlook, the former campus newspaper, was disbanded in 2008.

The Sierra Independent Press was part of a club activity under the guidance of Sierra College journalism instructor Kent Pollock. Gibson sold advertising, wrote stories, and served as editor and chief, while his wife Alishea handled the design and layout of the newspaper, which printed 1,000 copies of each edition.

“A lot of people didn’t believe we could do this, but a big campus like Sierra College really needed a newspaper and we put together a great staff and are very proud of our work,” said the 23-year-old Gibson, who managed to run the newspaper while also working full-time and taking full load of classes at Sierra. “I still remember Alishea, wrapped in a blanket, laying out the first edition late one night in our freezing cold garage, which had no heat. We dove into it head first and we really fell in love with the whole process of producing a newspaper.”

The Janssen scholarship was established in 2004 when more than $12,000 was raised from a number of area donors. In addition to Mr. Tsakopoulos, other major donors include: Gold Country Media, publisher of The Press-Tribune in Roseville; Hewlett Packard; Halldin Public Relations; SureWest; Del Webb California; Westpark Associates; and Agilent Technologies.

“I’m proud to be chosen for this scholarship and I’m very appreciative of the donors who made this possible,” Gibson said. “I didn’t know Mr. Janssen personally, but he was obviously a dedicated journalist, so to be able to continue my education at Sierra College in his name is a real honor.”

The scholarship fund is made through the Sierra College Foundation, whose mission is to give members of the community an outlet to assist and invest in the development of quality educational opportunities.

For more information on how to make a charitable donation to the Sierra College Foundation, call 916-660-7020 or visit www.sierracollege.edu/foundation

Sacramento Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Announces Historic Partnership to Ensure All Latinos Are Counted in the 2010 Census

Mon, 13 Jul 2009 18:10:59 +0000

SACRAMENTO (OBSNews.com) – In response to historical trends that Latinos are undercounted in the Census, the Sacramento Hispanic Chamber of Commerce has announced it will form a partnership to ensure all Latinos living in Sacramento County are counted in the 2010 Census. The partnership, known as the Sacramento Latino Complete Count Committee, will work to increase the number of Latinos who mail back their census questionnaires and increase awareness in the Latino community about the non-response follow-up efforts that will be on the ground. A summit to educate organizations and community leaders about the importance of obtaining a complete count of the Latino population has been scheduled for September.

Census accuracy can impact funding, programs, education planning and a host of other initiatives. “The Sacramento Hispanic Chamber looks forward to working with organizations in our community to create an historic partnership that will count every Latino in the Census,” said Steve Gándola, President/CEO of the Sacramento Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. “Because Latinos are historically undercounted, we want to make sure that over the next few months, every community leader, business, religious group, government agency and non-profit organization is promoting the Census to Latinos.”

Some of the Latino Complete Count Committee’s early partners include: Univision, Bustos Media, the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), Opening Doors, and members of the Sacramento City Unified School Board.

US Mortgage Rates Continue Decline

Sun, 12 Jul 2009 04:14:51 +0000

By Marie Brown

SACRAMENTO (OBSNews.com) - According to Freddie Mac 30 year mortgage rates dropped again this past week, but they are somewhat higher than a record 4.78 percent achieved earlier in the year. Sacramento real estate watchers say this is a hopeful sign that may continue to benefit the region's battered housing industry.

Rates on average this past week were 5.2 percent. The figure from the week before was 5.32 percent, and one year ago the figure was 6.37 percent.

This drop led to a refinancing boom for those homeowners with equity in their homes and steady incomes. However, for first-time homeowners looking to buy Sacramento real estate, the record low rates were not a guarantee of being able to qualify for a loan.

Many first-time homebuyers report that it is difficult to qualify for a loan unless they seek a government-backed loan like a Federal Housing Administration loan (FHA) or a Veterans Administration loan (VA). These types of loans, not surprisingly, are extremely popular with home buyers across the nation.

Sponsored by Sacramento real estate broker www.TheHomeBuyingCenter.com

CA Sen. Gil Cedillo Joins Panel on Human Cost of Severe Budget Cuts

Sat, 11 Jul 2009 00:27:48 +0000

Joe Mathews moderates a panel discussion on “Armageddon budget cuts” and the long-term impact they will have on California’s youth and vulnerable populations

By Christy Wolfe

LOS ANGELES (OBSNews.com) - Senator Gilbert Cedillo (D-Los Angeles) joined Joe Mathews, Irvine Senior Fellow, at the New America Foundation and public policy forum Zocalo Public Square for a panel discussion on the human cost of severe budget cuts. The event was hosted at the California Endowment on Thursday evening. Panel speakers included journalist Marta Russell, Mike Herald of the Western Center on Law & Poverty, Michelle Wolf, a parent of disabled child, Gloria Rodriguez, president and CEO of the Community Clinic Association of Los Angeles County, and State Senator Cedillo.

“We’re not literally talking about the end of the world,” joked Mathews in opening remarks. But each of the panelists outlined a bleak portrait of California should health and education program funding be severely slashed or eliminated. Cuts to CalWorks, which provides benefits for the children of unemployed Californians, may put over one million children at risk of homelessness or condemn them to a life of poverty.

Cuts to In-Home Support Services would impact 380,000 recipients, primarily the elderly and disabled, forcing them out of their homes and into nursing facilities. In Cedillo’s downtown Los Angeles senate district there are over 40,000 residents over the age of 65. Nearly 23,000 live in single households or by themselves and are potentially reliant upon IHSS or other state benefits like SSI or SSP to stay self-sufficient and in their own homes.

Cedillo spoke of the broader implication for California and noted that attempting to re-brand a rollback of the social safety net as reform was Orwellian. “It’s the product of 30 to 35 years of ideological creep,” remarked Cedillo. “What we see is a very pronounced hostility to government and the desire to unravel it, to unravel the social safety net, and to unravel the traditional role of government.”

A video link can be found on the Zocalo web site: http://www.zocalopublicsquare.org/archives_2009.php?event_id=311

Full story: http://www.zocalopublicsquare.org/thepublicsquare/2009/07/last-night-wha...

Christy Wolfe is the Director of Communications in the office of California State Senator Gilbert Cedillo (D – Los Angeles)

Sponsored by Sacramento real estate broker www.TheHomeBuyingCenter.com.

William Jessup University Will Hold Information Session Aug. 4 For Yellow Ribbon Veterans

Fri, 10 Jul 2009 17:33:56 +0000

ROCKLIN, CA (OBSNews.com) - William Jessup University will hold an information session from 6-7 p.m., Tuesday, Aug. 4 to discuss its new Yellow Ribbon program, a full tuition scholarship program aimed specifically at local veterans.

Any veteran who has served on active duty for at least 36 aggregate months since 9/11 will have the complete cost of tuition covered in any program the University offers.

“This scholarship program reinforces the commitment WJU has made to those individuals willing to put their lives on the line for our country,” said Korey Compaan, Director of Financial Aid at William Jessup. “We are excited to be able to assist our veterans with the opportunity to experience the unique value of private, higher education for virtually no out-of-pocket costs to the student.”

Effective Aug. 1 for the 2009-10 school year, the Yellow Ribbon program is made possible by the passage of the new post 9/11 GI Bill. Eligible veterans will receive the cost of tuition and fees, up to the most expensive in-state undergraduate tuition at a public institution of higher learning. For California that amount is over $13,000 per year.

Because a private education is more costly than a public one, the Veterans Administration has added a new provision to the GI Bill called the Yellow Ribbon Program.

Under this provision, WJU has entered into an agreement with the Veterans Administration to scholarship up to 50 percent of the cost of tuition and fees that exceed the standard education benefit. The VA will then match the amount of the scholarship – completely covering the cost of tuition and fees for the veteran.

The VA also contributes up to $1,000 per year for books and supplies as well as a monthly housing allowance. Combining these benefits will enable a veteran to have nearly all educational costs covered for each term.

“WJU gladly works with all the programs offered through the Veterans Administration,” Compaan said. “The Yellow Ribbon Program is the only VA program that guarantees full tuition, but we certainly encourage all veterans to explore the possibility of utilizing their benefits at WJU.”

The scholarship program applies to both the Traditional Program and the School of Professional Studies (SPS) Program.

For more information, visit info@jessup.edu or call (916) 577-2200.

About William Jessup University

Founded in 1939 by William Jessup, the University moved to Rocklin, California, in August 2004. WJU is the first and only WASC accredited private four-year university to have its main campus located in the greater Sacramento area, offering degrees in many different disciplines, including Business Administration, Family & Children’s Ministry, English, History, Intercultural Studies, Liberal Studies (Teacher Education), Music, Pastoral Ministry, Psychology, Public Policy and Youth Ministry. Anticipated majors include fields in the humanities and science. WJU also offers a School of Professional Studies (SPS) at its campuses in Rocklin and San Jose. Program concentrations in Rocklin include Business Administration, Counseling Psychology and a Post-Baccalaureate Teacher Credential Program. In San Jose, concentrations are offered in Business Administration, Counseling Psychology, and Christian Leadership. For more information, please visit www.jessup.edu or call (916) 577-2200.

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Government FHA and VA Loans Very Popular with Home Buyers

Thu, 09 Jul 2009 23:30:26 +0000

By Marie Brown

SACRAMENTO (OBSNews.com) – Mortgage loans backed by the United States government such as FHA and VA loans fell out of favor during the housing boom, but their use has been skyrocketing lately, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association (www.MBAA.org).

According to the MBAA the level of applications for mortgage loans insured by the government rose to 35.9 percent in June of 2009, the highest number in almost 20 years. The figure is up 27 percent compared to a year ago and up from 25.7 percent in May. The lowest percentage on record since 1990 was in August of 2005 at a mere 5.8%

“A primary reason government-insured loans have retained a high share of the purchase market is that these loans typically require lower down payments than conventional loans,” said Orawin Velz, MBA’s Associate Vice President of Economic Forecasting in a statement on the association's website.

In the Sacramento real estate market brokers and agents report that much of the current home buying and selling is focused on first-time homebuyers. Because these would be house buyers are usually younger and less affluent than other real estate purchasers the lowered down payments associated with these loans is a large incentive.

Additionally, lending standards have tightened considerably for other companies who lend money for home mortgages, in part because of the difficulty of obtaining private mortgage insurance in the wake of the housing crash.

"The applications for government-backed loans shows how difficult it can still be to get a loan that is backed by private mortgage insurance," said Patrick McGilvray, president of Sacramento based real estate brokerage The Home Buying Center (www.TheHomeBuyingCenter.com).

Rep. Doris Matsui Announces Additional Grants for Sacramento State Education Programs

admin — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 22:56:43 +0000

By Mara Lee

WASHINGTON, D.C. (OBSNews.com) – Congresswoman Doris Matsui (CA-05) today announced that California State University, Sacramento (CSUS) will receive a grant of $451,000 that will be used by the University’s Bilingual and Multicultural education program. Through the Bilingual and Multicultural Education Department’s High School Equivalency Program (HEP), many migrant and seasonal workers are able to attain a GED with support from Sacramento State. Following attainment of the diploma, the University’s program further supports those in need with higher education and employment counseling. Congresswoman Matsui has been a long-time supporter of CSUS-HEP and instrumentally encouraged its receipt of this grant from the Department of Education.

“I am pleased to announce that CSUS has been selected to receive over $450 thousand dollars from the High School Equivalency (HEP) Program,” stated Congresswoman Matsui. “This money will greatly benefit many Sacramento-area families, as it supports providing a path to a better life for many first-generation Americans. Community-based programs like those operating with Sacramento State are helping Californians to improve their lives and reach their full potential.”

“Sacramento State greatly appreciates the continued support of Congresswoman Matsui for the Sacramento State High School Equivalency Program, which was recently awarded a grant from the U.S. Department of Education for more than $450,000,” added CSUS Provost Joseph F. Sheley. “This program has been and will continue to be successful in preparing migrant and seasonal agricultural workers in attaining their General Education Diploma. We are thankful that Congresswoman Matsui is supportive of ensuring that everyone throughout the Sacramento region has access to education.”

The CSUS-HEP program is one of 59 such programs in the United States, ranks as one of the top programs of its kind in California, and is only program operating in Sacramento, Yolo, and Colusa counties. In the 11 years since its inception, the program has helped more than 1,700 individuals pass the GED.

The program at CSUS operates on a year-round schedule with open entry and exit. It is designed to serve 180 participants at any given time. The sites to benefit from this grant will include Woodland Community College and Winters High School in Yolo County; San Joaquin Delta College in San Joaquin County, Galt Adult School in Sacramento County, Dixon High School in Solano County, and are eligible to receive this grant funding over the next five years.

Mara Lee is the Press Secretary for Congresswoman Doris Matsui who represents the 5th Congressional District in California.

Sponsored by Sacramento real estate broker www.TheHomeBuyingCenter.com.

Sacramento Real Estate Buyers Helped by Federal Homebuying Tax Credit

Wed, 08 Jul 2009 20:18:53 +0000

By Marie Brown

SACRAMENTO (OBSNews.com) - Uncle Sam has provided for an $8,000 tax credit for first-time homebuyers, and many in the Sacramento region are hoping that this assistance will help the local real estate market rebound from the foreclosure crisis. Industry watchers point to the fact that Sacramento real estate prices were among the earliest in the nation to start falling in the hopes that they will also be among the first to to stabilize and then increase.

For first-time buyers interested in the tax benefit of buying a home there are some important things to note. First of all, the credit can be used on 2008 or 2009 tax returns on properties purchased between Jan 1, 2009 and December 1, 2009. Second, for home buyers who obtain a loan that is backed by the Federal Housing Administration (a FHA Loan), they can use the money to cover closing costs and some other fees.

"There are lots of good deals available on great starter homes in the Sacramento area. The federal tax credit plus low-interest rates on loans makes it a great time to buy property in our region now," said Sacramento real estate broker Patrick McGilvray, president of www.TheHomeBuyingCenter.com.

In order to be eligible for the tax credit a buyer must not have owned a principal residence during the past three years. Also, there is an income limit of $75,000 for individuals and $150,000 for taxpayers who file jointly. People earning more than those amounts of money see a phase-out of the credit as their incomes increase.

According to the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) borrowers can ask their lender for an advance of the $8,000 credit to prevent having to wait until filing their 2009 tax returns to get their credit.

Home buyers still must pay the minimum 3.5% down payment, but the tax credit can be used to pay for closing costs, fees, or even to augment the down payment.

For more information about the federal tax credit please visit the National Association of Realtor's website.

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USHCC Reaffirms Need for Comprehensive and Substantive Federal Contracting Reform

Fri, 03 Jul 2009 00:44:11 +0000

WASHINGTON, D.C. (OBSNews.com) – The United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC), the national advocate for nearly 3 million Hispanic-owned businesses, reaffirms its longstanding commitment to comprehensive and substantive federal contracting reform. Today, an obscure organization criticized the USHCC and Representative Nydia Velázquez, Chairwoman of the Committee on Small Business of the U.S. House of Representatives, on the commitment to such reform.

“Chairwoman Velazquez has been on the frontlines of reforming the federal marketplace to drive out practices like contract bundling, fraud in size standards, awards of small business contracts to large businesses, and huge no-bid Halliburton- style contracts. To attack the principal champion of reform is plain silly,” said David C. Lizárraga, Chairman of the USHCC.

“The USHCC believes in real solutions to the problems small businesses face in the federal marketplace. Chairwoman Velazquez had our support on contracting reform in the 110th Congress, and we look forward to lending it again,” said Augustine Martinez, President & CEO of the USHCC.

About the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

Founded in 1979, the USHCC actively promotes the economic growth and development of Hispanic entrepreneurs and represents the interests of almost 3 million Hispanic-owned businesses in the United States that generate nearly $400 billion annually. It also serves as the umbrella organization for 200 local Hispanic chambers in the United States, Puerto Rico, Canada, Mexico, Bolivia and Uruguay.

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City of Sacramento Solid Waste Services Reduced in Fiscal Year 2010

Fri, 03 Jul 2009 00:38:52 +0000

Reductions result in schedule and service changes

SACRAMENTO (OBSNews.com) – As part of Fiscal Year 2009-2010 budget reductions, the City of Sacramento Department of Utilities’ Solid Waste Division will make necessary service changes to street sweeping, illegal dumping, and neighborhood clean up services beginning July 6. Additional changes, including the implementation of a four day, 10 hour work schedule will commence on July 20, which will affect garbage, recycling and green waste pick up schedules. Below are specific changes to services and programs.

Changes occurring on Monday, July 6:

▪ Monthly street sweeping services will be reduced from monthly to bi-monthly.

▪ Illegal dumping service turnaround times will be extended from three day to seven day response times.

▪ Neighborhood appointment clean up service will be temporarily suspended until further notice.

Change occurring on Monday, July 20:

▪ To accommodate the four day a week, 10 hour a day work week schedule, weekly residential collection service schedules will be adjusted. The Solid Waste Division will provide its customers additional information prior to the change, and will also have information online.

For more information, including garbage pick up, visit http://www.cityofsacramento.org/utilities/solid-waste-recycling/ or contact 311.

Sacramento Mayor Kevin Johnson Announces Fellows Program

Fri, 03 Jul 2009 00:26:20 +0000

Five Harvard Business School Students Ushered in as Inaugural Class

SACRAMENTO (OBSNews.com) – This week Saramento's Mayor Kevin Johnson announced his eight-week Mayor’s Fellows Program.

This summer, five fellows from Harvard Business School will work with the Office of the Mayor to help develop Johnson’s specific policy initiatives, including economic development, housing, education, and the arts.

Throughout the summer, the fellows will meet with various community groups and leaders as they work to help Johnson realize his vision of a city that works for everyone.

The Fellows Program will serve as a way for aspiring public servants to gain valuable first-hand experience and will continue to partner with top graduate schools around the country and bring a diverse array of the nation’s young talent to Sacramento.

This program is another example of Johnson’s efforts to recruit top talent and inspire passion for public service.

“I’m excited about this program. These students will be able to contribute their skills and energy to our efforts. In exchange, they gain invaluable insights and exposure into how city government works,” Johnson said.

The Mayor’s Fellows Program is patterned after the White House Fellows Program in Washington, DC. The five fellows beat out 30 peers from 10 graduate programs nationwide.

Source: Office of Sacramento Mayor Kevin Johnson

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Drexel University in Sacramento Offers Free Graduate Education to Post 9/11 Military Veterans

Thu, 02 Jul 2009 19:36:36 +0000

Center for Graduate Studies In Sacramento Participates "To The Max” In Special Yellow Ribbon Veterans Program

SACRAMENTO (OBSNews.com) – The Drexel University Center for Graduate Studies in Sacramento announced today it will participate in the new GI Bill’s Yellow Ribbon Program, a tuition scholarship program benefitting veterans of the nation’s armed forces who have served since the terrorist attacks on our country on September 11, 2001.

The partnership between the federal government and Drexel means that eligible veterans will be able to take Drexel courses and receive Drexel degrees without paying any tuition or fees, while receiving a living stipend of approximately $1,700 per month.

Unlike many institutions participating in the new program, Drexel is among a small group of universities with no cap on the number of veterans who may enroll.

The University’s contribution allows veterans who meet government and University admissions requirements to receive a completely free education at the Graduate Center, located at One Capitol Mall in Sacramento, in any one of Drexel’s 10 master’s and one doctoral degree programs.

“We are proud to be able to give back to those who have served our country so well,” said Carl “Tobey” Oxholm III, Dean of Drexel’s Sacramento campus. “A graduate education at Drexel will help our veterans master the substantive knowledge and practical skills they need to succeed in careers that are at the heart of this region’s economic engine.”

This program also benefits veterans wishing to attend Drexel’s main campus in Philadelphia for undergraduate as well as graduate programs, as well as those who prefer to pursue their educations entirely on-line, where Drexel offers more than 70 different programs.

The Yellow Ribbon program was authorized by Congress under the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008 and becomes effective August 1, 2009. It is the most extensive educational assistance program authorized since the original GI Bill was signed into law in 1944.

The Department of Veterans Affairs expects 460,000 veterans to participate during the first year of the program. VA officials anticipate a 20 to 25 percent increase in the total number of applications for veteran’s educational programs.

According to the VA, veterans are eligible if they an aggregate period of active duty after Sept. 10, 2001, of at least 36 months or if they were honorably discharged from active duty for a service-connected disability and served 30 continuous days after Sept. 10, 2001.

For information on the new GI Bill and specific benefit questions, visit http://www.gibill.va.gov/ or contact the Department of Veterans Affairs at 1-888-GIBILL-1.

For more information about using military benefits to fund a Drexel education, visit www.drexel.edu/sacramento or call (916) 325-4600 or (888) 389-3781.

Drexel opened its doors to students in Sacramento on January 5, 2009 and is offering 10 master’s and one doctoral program in careers at the heart of Greater Sacramento’s growth and economic development initiatives – entrepreneurial business, knowledge management and information science, engineering, health care, and education.

The Center for Graduate Studies’ initial master’s programs include: Business Administration, Higher Education, Information Systems, and Library and Information Science.

In September 2009, the university will add six master’s programs in: Engineering Management; Nursing Education & Faculty Role; Nursing Leadership in Health Systems Management; Public Health; Science of Instruction; Human Resource Development; and a Doctorate in Higher Education Leadership and Management.

Drexel holds Information Sessions at the Center every two weeks at 6 p.m. The next sessions are Wednesday, July 8 and Tuesday, July 21, at One Capitol Mall. To learn more about applying for fall programs in Sacramento, visit www.drexel.edu/sacramento or call (916) 325-4600 or (888) 389-3781.

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Congressman Dan Lungren: Americans Do Not Need Higher Energy Taxes

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 06:55:47 +0000

WASHINGTON, D.C. (OBSNews.com) - U.S. Representative Dan Lungren (R-CA), made the following statement in opposition to the Majority’s ill-conceived Cap and Trade legislation -H.R. 2454 - which will put a cap on the amount of carbon which can be emitted. Companies then buy and sell permits which allow them to emit carbon dioxide.

“We all can agree that the health of our environment is important. However, this cap and trade bill is not the answer to weaning ourselves off foreign oil or stopping green house gasses. Depending on how the system is structured, the Tax Foundation estimates cap and trade could reduce U.S. employment by 965,000 jobs, household earnings by $37.8 billion, and economic output by $136 billion per year or roughly $1,145 per household.

“As Warren Buffet just this week repeated his criticism of "cap and trade" as a method to control pollution, saying it would be “a huge, regressive tax.

“President Obama himself explained in 2008, “Under my plan of a cap and trade system the electricity rates would necessarily skyrocket. Coal power plants, natural gas, you name it, whatever the industry was, they would have to retrofit their operations. That will cost money. That money will be passed on to their consumers.

“Manufacturers will ship their plants to countries with less stringent environmental safeguards, hurting American workers and the environment. During these difficult economic times, higher energy prices and massive job losses are the last thing American families need. The United States has the technological know how to create cleaner ways to power our economy. We can increase our use of nuclear power, produce more natural gas and find a cleaner way to use our most abundant natural resource, coal.

“My constituents deserve better than this massive national energy tax. We will continue to fight for a comprehensive energy solution that creates jobs, makes energy more affordable, helps clean up the environment, and ensures our energy independence. Finally, I will oppose any effort to impose a national energy tax on working families.

Source: Office of Congressman Dan Lungren. The Congressman serves as Ranking Member on the House Administration Committee in addition to serving on the Judiciary and Homeland Security committees. He represents California's 3rd congressional district.

Cedillo Statement on Immigration Reform: Tangible Milestones Will Create Accountability

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 06:48:45 +0000

By Christy Wolfe

SACRAMENTO (OBSNews.com) - Senator Gilbert Cedillo (D-Los Angeles) issued the following statement on comprehensive immigration reform after President Obama and Congressional leaders met to initiate policy discussions earlier this week:

“President Obama and Congressional leaders took the first step to open policy discussion on comprehensive reform yesterday. The announcement that for the first time ever, applicants for citizenship will have a method to check the status of their application is also a move forward.

"However policy discussions and reform efforts must reflect tangible milestones.

"A critical component of any reform plan must include timelines and concrete policy objectives. The President outlined specific timelines and objectives for healthcare, finance, and environmental reform; we need immigration reform to be held to this same accountability.

There are several critical areas President Obama could take immediate action on to bring about that accountability.

"The first would be an Executive Order calling for a more reasonable approach to the inhuman immigration raids. Currently, raids are conducted in college dormitories, on neighborhood streets, in schools, and at small businesses at the heart of economic growth. In an instant families are destroyed, mothers and fathers deported, separated from their children with no regard for the child’s well being.

"A second priority must be passing the federal DREAM Act enabling our best and brightest young minds, who are here at no fault of their own and only know the United States as home, to complete their college education and obtain citizenship. These young people are our future highly skilled workforce and they will contribute greatly to our shared economic prosperity.

"And finally the President can work with Congress to enact PASS ID this year and make driving legal for all residents of this nation. There is not a rational reason to deny an immigrant a license. It does not change their status, they do not come here for a license, and driving permits, training and insurance would improve public safety for all.

"President Obama inspired a great hope within the immigrant community during his campaign. We must work diligently to maintain that trust with clear timelines and objectives for reform."

Christy Wolfe is the Director of Communications in the office of California State Senator Gilbert Cedillo (D – Los Angeles)

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Hispanic Business Groups Nationwide Endorse Sotomayor

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 06:45:09 +0000

USHCC garners support from 67 local Hispanic chambers of commerce; urge U.S. Senate confirmation

Washington, DC (OBSNews.com) - The United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC), the national representative for almost 3 million Hispanic-owned businesses, has been joined by 67 local Hispanic chambers of commerce from across the United States to express their strong support for Judge Sonia Sotomayor’s nomination to the United States Supreme Court. Local chambers of commerce from states such as California, Florida, Illinois, New York, Texas, Utah, and dozens more signed a letter to the U.S. Senate urging the quick and timely confirmation of Judge Sotomayor.

“The Hispanic business community believes that Judge Sotomayor will continue her reputation as a fair and impartial jurist when she is confirmed to serve on the Supreme Court. That is why Hispanic chambers of commerce from all across America have expressed their support of her,” said David C. Lizárraga, USHCC Chairman of the Board. “Hispanic business leaders and entrepreneurs are extremely supportive of this nomination. There has been a resounding level of support for her within our community, and we believe the Senate should confirm her without delay.”

Judge Sotomayor has one of the most prolific judicial backgrounds in decades and an incredibly compelling personal story. She has a deep respect for the U.S. Constitution and the rule of law. She has demonstrated a thorough understanding of a wide range of highly complicated legal issues, and has a strong reputation for deciding cases based upon the careful application of the facts to the law. The nation will benefit greatly from her service on its highest court.

To read the full letter addressed to the U.S. Senate, please go to: http://www.ushcc.com/_data/n_0001/resources/live/Reid%20Sotomayor%20Lett...

About the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

Rep. Doris Matsui Celebrates Winner of Congressional Art Competition

Fri, 26 Jun 2009 19:18:19 +0000

Cody Terry of Elk Grove Travels to Washington, DC to Meet with Matsui, Participate in Workshop and Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony

By Mara Lee

WASHINGTON, D.C. (OBSNews.com) – Today, Rep. Doris Matsui (CA-05) celebrates this year’s winner of the Fifth District Congressional Arts Competition, and participated in the ribbon-cutting ceremony with Cody Terry, 17, of Elk Grove. Cody traveled to Washington, D.C. this week to participate in a reception honoring the winners from across the nation, see the unveiling of his artwork in the Capitol, and meet with Congresswoman Matsui.

Cody’s work, as well as all other entries, was judged based on its ability to personify this year’s theme: “The Spirit of Sacramento.” Cody’s picture, “Street Dreams,” is a photograph of downtown Sacramento at night, and showcases his interest in light studies. Cody’s winning submission is a unique, colorful piece that embodies the spirit of Sacramento.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for Sacramento students to show the rest of the nation how talented, innovative and creative they are,” said Congresswoman Matsui. “Every time I walk through the Capitol, I am proud to see the artwork of a local student hanging on the Capitol walls. It is a constant reminder of the vibrant arts community Sacramento has, and I am pleased to celebrate Cody’s work with him and his family this week.”

Cody graduated from Sheldon High School earlier this year, and will be attending Sierra College in the fall, where he will be taking art and photography classes. Cody’s family has encouraged his artistic endeavors since his youth and for Christmas he was given a new camera, which he used to take the winning photo in this year’s Congressional Arts Competition. Cody is hoping to pursue a career as a photojournalist, and is currently most inspired by taking photos of downtown Sacramento – and this week – of Washington, D.C.

Cody is thrilled to be honored with this award, and is also excited to be here in DC with his family, and to meet his fellow winners from across the country. In addition to meeting with Congresswoman Matsui, he will be able to participate in workshops and attend the official ribbon-cutting ceremony. Accommodations were provided by the Sacramento Metropolitan Arts Commission, and Southwest Airlines provided airfare for Cody and his family to Washington, DC. This year’s judges included Jan Geiger, Muriel Johnson, Jennifer Tachera and members of Congresswoman Matsui’s staff. This year also marks the 27th anniversary of the Congressional Art Competition. First launched in 1982, thousands of contests have been held around the country. Throughout the history of the competition, more than 650,000 high school students have been involved in the program.

Mara Lee is the Press Secretary in the office of Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA).

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US Hispanic Chamber Pushes for Health Care Reform

Thu, 25 Jun 2009 17:18:33 +0000

USHCC issues white paper; recommends measures to modernize the healthcare system

WASHINGTON, D.C. (OBSNews.com) - The United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC), the national representative for almost 3 million Hispanic-owned businesses, released a comprehensive white paper on healthcare this past week detailing recommendations to reform and improve the health care system that would address the needs of small businesses and would go a long way toward expanding coverage to all working people and their dependents.

The growing number of uninsured Americans constitutes a real problem for the small businesses in United States. Today, Hispanics represent 32 percent of the uninsured population in the country, an issue that hinders both their economic and health security and well being. The USHCC strongly urges President Obama and Congress to make every effort to ensure that the health care reform reaches everyone. The modernization of the health care system would not only ensure a better quality of life for the American society but also supports the growth of the national economy.

“In this challenging economy, we cannot neglect such a fundamental issue to our businesses and our employees. We must embrace the principle of shared responsibility to ensure access to health care that is second to none,” said David C. Lizárraga, USHCC Chairman of the Board. “The proposed health care policy in this white paper will help close the gaps within the system. Small businesses in the United States are suffering great harm under our current health care system and will likely fare far better under a substantially reformed system.”

The USHCC recommends reducing healthcare costs throughout the system, to create more coverage choices for businesses and employees and to guarantee affordable healthcare coverage for all, citizen and noncitizen alike.

Click here to read the entire white paper. Or, for additional information about the USHCC’s views on education, or to read the white paper, please contact David Ferreira at (202) 842-1212 or visit www.ushcc.com.

Source: United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

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Rep. Matsui Announces Almost $5 Million for Sacramento Job Training, Retention Programs

Tue, 23 Jun 2009 20:48:45 +0000

By Mara Lee

WASHINGTON, D.C. (OBSNews.com)– Today, Congresswoman Doris Matsui (CA-05) announced more than $4.9 million in funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act has been allocated by the Sacramento Employment and Training Agency (SETA) to Sacramento-area businesses and workforce development organizations. $4,929,276 in federal funding will go to twenty Sacramento County organizations to train and employ over a thousand job seekers starting July 1, 2009. The money will be broken down into three categories: workplace training, occupational skills, and business development.

“The almost 5 million allocated by SETA to Sacramento-area businesses and workforce development organizations is indicative of President Obama’s and this Congress’ commitment to use stimulus funding to retain and create American jobs, and help put our country back on track,” said Representative Matsui.

· $1,132,884 will help upwards of 200 public assistance recipients, dislocated workers, and people with significant barriers to employment to prepare for employment through paid workplace training and work experience programs;

· $2,973,713 will help over 600 dislocated workers participate in occupational skills training programs through technical and vocational programs; and

· $866,987 is allocated to local businesses and organizations for business development and expansion programs that could help create or retain over 200 job positions.

“This is the time we need to invest in our community to help displaced workers train and re-train for jobs in growing industries,” said Rep. Matsui. “I am pleased to see additional funds coming to the Sacramento region to help invest in and support the great work SETA provides to our community.”

To see where over $350 million in recovery funds have been allocated throughout Sacramento, visit www.matsui.house.gov/recovery for a complete list and interactive Google Map.

Mara Lee is the Press Secretary in the office of Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA).

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California Hispanic Chamber of Commerce to Host 30th Annual Convention in San Diego

Tue, 23 Jun 2009 20:46:49 +0000

CHCC State Convention to be held August 19-22, 2009

SACRAMENTO (OBSNews.com) - The California Hispanic Chambers of Commerce (CHCC) is the leading statewide Hispanic business and professional organization. With a network of over 65 Hispanic chamber and business associations, the CHCC represents the interests of more than 720,000 Hispanic businesses in California.

The goal of the CHCC's Annual Convention is to elevate discussion and participation among Hispanic business owners, corporate business leaders, community leaders, and government officials to address issues of relevance to the Hispanic business community.

The CHCC State Convention brings together some of the most influential Hispanic business owners, Hispanic leaders and government officials in California and the nation. The CHCC Annual State Convention is the premier business event for California’s emerging business community. It offers participants the opportunity to learn the latest trends in business development, network with outstanding business professionals, and gain insights into growing and maintaining a successful business. Throughout the convention, participants have the opportunity to celebrate the educational, political, and economic success of the Hispanic community.

Convention participants will be exposed to some of the most dynamic, enterprising and informative speakers discussing current issues pertinent to the economic growth and development of California business and our communities. The event will also feature procurement and matchmaking sessions designed to bring business owners together with corporate and government procurement representatives.

For more informaiton or to REGISTER visit www.CAHCC.com or call 800-299-6033

Source: California Hispanic Chambers of Commerce

Entrepreneur-Focused Golf Tourney Mixes High-Tech and Old Fashioned Networking

Tue, 23 Jun 2009 18:29:40 +0000

Sacramento Technology Companies Have Until June 26 to Apply to Give Their Business Pitch to Investors In Relaxed Environment

EL DORADO HILLS, CA. – In the Sacramento region the economy is experiencing many challenges, but the Entrepreneurial Drive Golf Tournament, spearheaded by local VC firm Velocity Venture Capital seeks to foster the growth of high tech businesses through a day of networking for investors and startup executives.

The tournament, which will be held Monday, July 20, at Serrano Country Club in El Dorado Hills, brings investors and startup executives together for what could be a lot more than a great day of golf for both.

The tournament is seeking applications from young technology-oriented companies, interested in seed, angel or early-stage venture capital funding. The deadline for submitting a request to present is June 26 – submissions can be made to info@entrepreneurialdrive.com. Each of the start-ups chosen will have the opportunity to present to investors right on the course – competing for up to $5,500 in prize money.

Bringing investors and entrepreneurs together attracted top tier sponsors and more than 120 golfers to the tournament last year, raising $10,000 for non-profit organizations that support entrepreneurship in the Sacramento region.

"Those unique tee-box pitches paid off for emTRAiN last year,” said Janine Yancey, CEO and founder of emTRAiN, an online training and delivery platform service that presented to investors last year. “It was a busy day of real work out there on the course, believe me, but it was good for us.”

The Entrepreneurial Drive was the vision of Jack Crawford, Jr., of Velocity Venture Capital. Since 2005, Velocity has been investing in seed and early-stage technology companies with an emphasis on clean tech companies.

“This region is quickly becoming a national leader in clean energy with its quickly maturing technology sector – we’ve got all of the ingredients: a strong academic infrastructure, a talented workforce, plenty of incubating companies, a cache of great entrepreneurs and a bunch of experienced investors,” said Jack Crawford Jr., a general partner with Velocity Venture Capital, which is presenting the event in conjunction with the non-profit Enterpreneurs’ Organization of Sacramento. “Events like this help bring us all together to support really promising local companies, who create jobs and wealth right here at home.”

“It’s an exciting opportunity that we just couldn’t miss,” said John Finegan, past president and Board member of the Sacramento chapter of EO. “I played in the tournament last year and I was really impressed with the caliber of the participants, and the tee-box pitches were great. This event is a perfect fit for us.”

The tournament is generously supported by a number of regional top tier businesses that contribute to technology ecosystem with professional services that are essential to the growth and development of young companies. Banks, legal firms, accounting firms, device manufacturers recruiters and others, round out investors and venture firms as sponsors and golfers participating in the event. Sponsors for this year’s tournament include Social Venture Philanthropy of Sacramento, Interwest Insurance Services, and the Positive Coaching Alliance.

The tournament begins with a trade-show luncheon 10:30 a.m., and the shotgun start is at noon. For more information on sponsorships or to register, visit www.entrepreneurialdrive.com

About Velocity Venture Capital:
Located in the Sacramento region, Velocity Venture Capital is a venture capital firm specializing in seed and early stage technology companies. Since 2005, the firm has invested in 13 companies with an emphasis on the clean technology sector. Leveraging its proximity to California’s capital to develop a large network of influential relationships in the political arena, Velocity is well positioned to support its clean tech companies and other portfolio companies that will be positively impacted by the stimulus package. For more information, please visit www.velocityvc.com.

About EO:
The Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO) – for entrepreneurs only – is a global community that enriches members’ lives through direct peer-to-peer learning, connections to experts and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. EO is the catalyst that enables entrepreneurs to learn from each other, leading to greater business success and an enriched personal life. EO is comprised of more than 7,000 members in 38 countries, with an average member age of 39 and average annual revenue of $14.4 million. The organization is committed to building the world’s most influential community of entrepreneurs. For more information, please visit www.eonetwork.org.

Forest Foundation Names Barr As New CEO

Tue, 23 Jun 2009 18:20:20 +0000

Nonprofit Organization Will Continue As Advocate For Forestry Education

AUBURN, CA (OBSNews.com) – The Forest Foundation announced today that Michael Barr has been named Chief Executive Officer for the nonprofit organization, which is dedicated to educating Californians about forests and environmental issues impacting our forests.

The Forest Foundation is elevating key points in the forest management debate and building valuable relationships with educators and communities. The nonprofit organization brings forest science to students, prepares future leaders, and develops on-the-ground solutions to improve forest health.

Mr. Barr joins the organization after 25 years of leadership positions in both public and non-profit organizations.

“The Forest Foundation has an excellent track record of educating the public about our forests, which cover 40 percent of land in California and are vitally important to our state,” Mr. Barr said. “I look forward to building on that record, expanding our outreach to educators and giving young people a closer look at the incredible opportunities for science and technology-based careers in managing our forests.”

Mr. Barr previously served as President and CEO for the California Agricultural Leadership Foundation, the nation’s largest and most senior leadership development program in agriculture.

Under his leadership, The Forest Foundation will continue to promote all aspects of forest health, including wildlife habitat, native plant species, water quality, and the economic value they provide. The organization will also continue its role of educating the public about forests ability to absorb carbon and the negative effects of forest wildfires on the environment.

“Michael Barr has a tremendous background of success in education-focused institutions and non-profit organizations,” said Mark Luster, Chairman of The Forest Foundation. “We look forward to working with Michael to grow our programs and expand our educational efforts.”

About the Forest Foundation:
The Forest Foundation was established in 1993 and strives to foster public understanding of forests and the role forests play in our environment. The Foundation is supported by a wide variety of individuals, corporations and foundations.

For more information on the The Forest Foundation and its programs, please visit www.calforestfoundation.org or call (866) 241-TREE.

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Romero Bill Seeks to Define the Mission of Public Education

Fri, 19 Jun 2009 18:59:58 +0000

Students First to Provide Input on Bill at June 23 Hearing

By Teala Schaff

SACRAMENTO (OBSNews.com) - Senator Gloria Romero, Chair of the Senate Education Committee, will hear testimony from public school children on June 23 at a hearing that will launch a statewide effort to get input from students, parents, teachers, school administrators, and all citizens on what they believe to be the mission of public education in California.

Romero’s SB 604 will draw on this public conversation to craft a preamble outlining “guiding principles” to the more than 2,000 pages of the California Education Code.

Students will be first to provide input on the bill at a hearing at 10:30 a.m. on June 23 in Room 100 of the Legislative Office Building. At a press conference at 10 a.m. on the West Steps of the Capitol, Romero will discuss SB 604 and announce the new “On a Mission” page on her Web site. Romero also will speak at the second annual “California Children’s Rally” at noon on the West Steps.

“We face an education crisis in California,” said Romero. “Secretary of Education Arne Duncan recently proclaimed that California has ‘lost its way’ but I believe that we can bring California back to its former status as a national leader in education if we all strive toward a common mission. First, we must clearly define that mission for our public schools as they prepare students for success in the 21st century global economy. Currently, our Education Code is nearly 3 inches thick and full of requirements without a statement of purpose, like a ship without a compass, a plane without radar,” said Romero.

SB 604 states that public debate about the mission of public education is necessary to ensure progress toward achieving it and is essential to a healthy democracy.

“This public dialogue is more important than ever as California faces difficult budget decisions, a shift toward greater local control, and new education reforms from President Obama and Secretary Duncan that are also tied to much-needed federal dollars,” said Romero. “This year also marks the 55th anniversary of the landmark Brown v. Board of Education decision striking down ‘separate but equal’ public schools, and yet we still face a stubborn achievement gap and shameful dropout rates most persistent in our minority and low-income communities.”

“A conversation on the core values and mission of public education will provide a framework to guide state and local decisions on specific education policies and programs,” said Romero. “In addition, it will require all of us to assess how we are doing. Is public education, the “great equalizer,” working for all of our students in the 21st century?”

For more information, visit the new (“On a Mission”) page on Senator Romero’s web site.

Teala Schaff is the Communications Director for Senator Gloria Romero who represents the 24th District for the California State Senate.

The text of SB 604 is available at here: http://www.leginfo.ca.gov/pub/09-10/bill/sen/sb_0601-0650/sb_604_bill_20...

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Sacramento Recycling News: Families Win $100 for Being Solid Waste Stewards

Fri, 19 Jun 2009 16:44:50 +0000

Recycling Pays Off for City Residents

SACRAMENTO (OBSNews.com) – The City of Sacramento Department of Utilities Solid Waste Services, with sponsorship from Sacramento Recycling and Transfer Station (BLT Enterprises), will award a $100 cash prize at the June 23, 2009 City Council meeting to three different winners: Frank and Linda Trujilo from Council District 7; Johnnie Painter from Council District 1; and Raymond Yee from Council District 2. Each household won for only having recyclables and no garbage in their randomly selected recycling container in recent months. Sacramento City Council Members will present the award to the families during the City Council Meeting, Tuesday, June 23, 2009 at 6:00pm.

Each month, a randomly selected City resident is eligible to win a $100 cash prize for having the right materials in their recycling container, which include paper products, metal cans, glass jars and bottles, and all plastics. The prize of $100 rolls over until a winner is found.

The City has received donations from BLT Enterprises for the past three years to fund this incentive program. The goals of the program are to encourage curbside recycling and reduce contamination of recycled materials.

For more information about the Residential Recycling Program, visit www.cityofsacramento.org/utilities or call City of Sacramento Department of Utilities Solid Waste Services at 311.

Source: City of Sacramento

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City of Sacramento to Issue Spare the Water Alert During Summer Heat Waves

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 00:13:12 +0000

SACRAMENTO (OBSNews.com) - The City of Sacramento Department of Utilities today announced their plans to issue a Spare the Water Alert during projected heat waves, urging customers to cut back non-essential water use to both conserve water and energy.

When temperatures reach their peak, demand for water stretches the City's treatment and pumping abilities, making it difficult to refill storage supplies overnight, said Department of Utilities Director and Assistant City Manager Marty Hanneman. Refilling these supplies is critical to running the distribution system efficiently, having enough water pressure and retaining adequate reserves for fire emergencies.

In addition, energy costs for treating and pumping water to homes are typically most expensive during peak temperatures, especially during late afternoon when electricity demand is high. This means higher energy costs for the City, and can mean higher water and energy bills for customers.

People may not realize the important link between water and energy, but electricity is our single largest expense as a water provider, Hanneman said. So, when it comes to conserving water and energy, especially during peak temperatures and hours, turning off the faucet is like turning off a light.

The City plans to issue a Spare the Water Alert when temperatures are projected to reach 100 degrees for at least three consecutive days.
Customers will be urged to reduce and delay non-essential water use in order to conserve water and energy, especially in the late afternoon.

Tips for quickly reducing water use include:
· Delaying all outdoor water use, including landscape irrigation, until early morning or late at night.

· Waiting to use big appliances, such as the clothes washer or dishwasher.

The City will notify customers about a Spare the Water Alert via the City's Web site and announcements to the news media.

Additional tips on reducing water can be found at www.SpareSacWater.org ( http://www.sparesacwater.org/ )( http://www.sparesacwater.org/).

Source: City of Sacramento

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