July 27, 2010

Boxer in Need of a Reality Check on What Makes a Veteran
Mike Berryhill, Republican Nominee for the 18th Congressional District calls on California Senator to apologize for her latest show of disrespect for the American military

CERES, CA- In comments made earlier this week, California Senator Barbara Boxer once again offended members of the military and veterans who have served our country. Boxer made her remarks at a campaign stop in Southern California where she equated serving in Congress to serving in the military.

Boxer stated:

"We know that if you have veterans in one place where they can befriend each other and talk to each other. You know when you've gone through similar things you need to share it. I don't care whether you are a policeman or a fireman or a veteran or by chance a member of Congress," and "[Democratic Rep.] Maxine [Waters] and I could look at each other and roll our eyes. We know what we are up against. And it is hard for people who are not there to understand the pressure and the great things that go along with it and the tough things that go along with it."

"I think that comparing her service in the U.S. Congress to the service of the brave men and women who have fought and died for this country in far off places around the world is just another example of how out of touch with reality Barbara Boxer has become! She should do the right thing by apologizing," said Mike Berryhill, Republican Nominee for the 18th Congressional District.

This is not Boxers first public display of contempt for those who serve in uniform. Last year Boxer upbraided a Brigadier General for daring to politely refer to her as "Ma'am". Boxer was also one of only 25 Senators to vote against condemning MoveOn.org after the organization attacked General David Petraeus in the New York Times and claimed he had "cooked the books" regarding the success of the troop surge in Iraq.

"Senator Boxers comments underscore the need for new leadership in Congress and I for one pledge to honor our veterans and servicemen with my service in Congress should I prevail this November," said Berryhill.

July 24, 2010

Congressman Cardoza Votes to Extend Unemployment Benefits

Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Cardoza voted to extend unemployment benefits for millions of Americans who have lost their jobs during the recession.

The legislation had been blocked by Senate Republicans for nearly two months. Today, the bill finally moved forward to the House of Representatives for final passage allowing Congressman Cardoza to vote in favor of it. It will be quickly signed into law by the President.

“It is unconscionable that at a time when so many people are suffering from the economic downturn, there would be any debate about the need for unemployment benefits in Congress. My community continues to suffer the highest unemployment rates in the country. Through absolutely no fault of their own, many of those I represent have lost their jobs and simply have not been able to find employment,” said Cardoza.

“American workers have paid their taxes and earned these unemployment benefits. This needed to have been passed weeks ago. Shame on those who held this process up when people all across America – people across my district – have been struggling to put food on their kitchen table while they’ve been out of work.”

Now that it has passed both the House of Representatives and the Senate, the Emergency Unemployment Compensation and Extended Benefits programs will extend unemployment benefits through November 30, 2010. The legislation also restores benefits to those who lost them during the legislative stalemate in the Senate.

July 23, 2010

Berryhill Condemns Passage of Financial Reform Bill

CERES, CA-Congressional Democrats are seeking to change the way Wall Street does business by implementing the largest change in rules governing the financial system since the Great Depression. The legislation is the brainchild of Connecticut Senator Chris Dodd who is not seeking re-election largely due to his involvement in numerous scandals related to his position as Chairman of the Senate Banking Committee.

The bill creates a consumer bureaucracy at the Federal Reserve, a council of regulators to monitor firms for systemic risk to the economy and a system for selling off large financial firms whose collapse would threaten the economy. The final bill hopes to strengthen consumer protection, simplify complex financial products, create a new system for dismantling large, failing financial firms, and protect them from financial failure. The House version of the bill was passed on June 30, 2010.

Politicians are making the system worse by introducing more regulations. The financial crisis was brought on when the housing bubble burst.

Banks collapsed because of exposure to turmoil in the mortgage market. The growing debt of the Government and consumers brought the flow of credit to a halt.

"More regulations are just a way for Congress and President Obama to look like they are doing something to prevent another financial crisis, but most of this is redundant window dressing. This crisis was caused by federal regulators who were asleep at the wheel and failed to enforce rules that were already on the books. Hundreds of pages of new rules aren't the answer to our present problems! Congress needs to address the crisis we have in unemployment. The road to recovery is to create jobs, we do that by reducing regulations, cutting red tape, and providing temporary tax incentives to get the economy rolling," said Mike Berryhill, candidate for California's 18th Congressional District.

July 23, 2010

Kiddie Corral at Applegate Park Zoo

Visitors to Applegate Park Zoo will now have the opportunity to have a hands on experience with baby animals at the new Kiddie Corral! For $1 extra, you can pet and hold animals such as ducklings, chicks, bunnies, kittens, a puppy, a guinea pig and a tortoise. The Kiddie Corral is open Monday-Friday from 10am-12:30pm. Children under 6 years old must be accompanied by an adult. For more information please call 385-6298.

July 21, 2010

Congressman Cardoza Supports Legislation Helping American Workers and Manufacturers

WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the U.S. Manufacturing Enhancements Act with Congressman Cardoza’s support. The miscellaneous tariff bill (MTB) is expected to help economic recovery by helping U.S. manufacturers compete at home and abroad. The bill temporarily suspends or reduces duties on imported products and materials used by U.S. businesses that are not available in the United States, but are used to manufacture products that are made here, and more importantly, by U.S. workers. This helps American businesses lower costs in production and thereby increases the competitiveness of their products.

Part of a broader manufacturing strategy, the reductions and suspensions of import duties will promote the competitiveness of U.S.-made products, innovation, and exports. The bill is estimated to support tens of thousands of jobs, while helping to increase U.S. production and expand gross domestic product (GDP).

“Made-in-the-USA is something we can’t lose sight of. I’m proud to stand up for the American manufacturer who is trying to compete in the global marketplace, and for the American worker who makes the product,” said Congressman Cardoza. “This bill will cut costs during this difficult economic time and help American businesses compete, which is exactly the kind of common-sense legislation that will help put our country on the right track.”

The bill is supported by over 130 businesses, including the Chamber of Commerce, National Association of Manufacturers, and leading U.S. textiles associations.

July 21, 2010

Law Enforcement Leaders Say Cannella is the Right Choice

Five respected law enforcement leaders have joined numerous city council members and county supervisors in supporting Anthony Cannella for State Senate. Cannella is the Republican nominee for the 12th State Senate seat currently held by Senator Jeff Denham (R-Atwater) and he will face opponent Anna Caballero (D-Salinas) in November’s general election.

Law Enforcement leaders backing Cannella include:

John Anderson, Madera County Sheriff
Adam Christianson, Stanislaus County Sheriff
Les Weidman, Former Sheriff, Stanislaus County
Mark Pazin, Merced County Sheriff
Richard Hawthorn, Atwater Chief of Police

As Mayor of Ceres, Anthony Cannella helped create a multi-agency task force work that worked to dismantle criminal gangs and suppress gang activity before it started. As a City Councilmember, Anthony also increased the number of police on patrol.

July 20, 2010

Congressman Cardoza Chairs Committee on Upcoming Farm Bill

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Cardoza conducted a hearing today on implementation of agriculture support programs established in the current 2008 Farm Bill. Congressman Cardoza chairs the House Agriculture Subcommittee on Horticulture and Organic Agriculture. The hearing was part of Congressional work to receive input for the upcoming 2012 Farm Bill.

Farm bills, written every five years, establish and amend federal farm, conservation, energy, trade, marketing, research, nutrition and rural development programs. The most recent farm bill, the Food, Conservation and Energy Act of 2008 was signed into law in 2008. It made an unprecedented $1.7 billion investment in specialty crops – such as those grown in California – through research, marketing and federal food purchase programs. Many of the provisions in the bill will expire in September 2012.

At today’s hearing, seven witness representing a host of interests – ranging from production to packing – provided testimony at the two-hour hearing in Washington, DC. For a complete list of today’s witnesses, please click here.

“I am once again reminded of the extraordinary diversity of products and practices represented by the specialty and organic sectors of our nation’s agriculture industry,” said Congressman Cardoza. “It is imperative we work together to promote these products while also addressing health and nutrition issues in this country by increasing accessibility to healthy fruits and vegetables.

Based on what I have heard today, it is clear we have work to do but are on the right track.”

Today’s hearing comes on the heels of the first round of field hearings conducted by the full House Agriculture Committee on the 2012 Farm Bill. The Committee convened a hearing on May 3, 2010 in Fresno, CA. To read more, please click here. To provide testimony for the 2012 Farm Bill, please click here.

“The Farm Bill is critical for our nation’s farmers and agriculture producers. As we continue to review support programs established under the 2008 Farm Bill, I encourage the public to remain engaged in this process. Our farmers play a critical role in feeding our country and supporting our economy. It is imperative Congress does all it can to support them.”

July 19, 2010

Reps. Cardoza and Putnam Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Support Veterans and Their Families

WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Congressman Dennis Cardoza introduced bipartisan legislation that would ensure each veteran returning to civilian life receives a CD for a personal computer that clearly explains the benefits to which they are entitled. Adam Putnam (R-Fla.) was the original co-sponsor of the bill.

H.R. 5719 would direct the Department of Veterans Affairs to provide the CDs to service members as the process out of the military. The CDs would help veterans and their families quickly access information about their service-earned benefits, including for health care and education. The CD would also help veterans and their families navigate the VA website.

“Our nation’s veterans, many readjusting to civilian life after returning from combat, deserve the best treatment and care available,” said Cardoza. “The last thing they need is to be given the run-around by our government bureaucracy or be forced to navigate complicated websites when they need immediate help with their benefits. This legislation will help give them the information they need to succeed when they are done serving our country.”

“Our offices regularly receive complaints from former military service members who simply haven’t received essential information about the benefits they earned in service to our nation,” said Putnam. “This legislation is a common sense solution that will make up-to-date information available in an easy to access electronic format for these American heroes.”

The bill would additionally mandate that the VA maintain an easy to navigate website describing all of the benefits available to veterans. The VA already has a website which contains some, but not all, of this information. Among other things, the website would describe how family members could receive a copy of the CD-ROM.

July 18, 2010

Cook-off at the Courthouse…You be the Judge!

MERCED – The Greater Merced Chamber of Commerce announced today that it will be holding a barbecue cook-off on Labor Day weekend. The event will be open to the public (free admission) and will give Merced County’s backyard chefs a chance to prove that their dinners are the most delectable.

The cook-off will take place on Saturday, September 4th, 2010 at Courthouse Park, located on “M” Street between 20th and 21st streets in Merced.

Participants and non-food vendors may download applications on the Chamber’s website at www.merced-chamber.com.

Members of the public may also visit the website to purchase discounted sampling tickets up until the week before Labor Day. The tickets will be used to purchase all of the barbecued goods that will be for sale.

July 16, 2010

Cardoza Assists Homeowners with Flood Insurance

WASHINGTON – Today the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Flood Insurance Reform Priorities Act of 2010. Included in the bill is language by Congressman Cardoza aimed at saving Stockton area residents money on their premiums.
The bill overhauls the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and requires the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to certify levees and update flood maps. When FEMA completes its certification and mapping process, homeowners all across the country, and many in California, will suddenly find themselves within an area deemed to provide insufficient protection from 100-year floodplains and be required purchase flood insurance. The Cardoza language eases the burden on these homeowners by phasing in the insurance premium over a five-year period. The bill also includes a 5-year delay in the mandate to purchase for newly-mapped areas, so with the Cardoza language, newly-mapped areas wouldn’t pay the full premium until the tenth year.

“My constituents are getting hit twice – they are suffering the highest foreclosure rates in the country and will soon suddenly find themselves facing an expensive new flood insurance premium when they thought they lived behind protective levees. As we make necessary reforms to the flood insurance program, we must be cognizant of the impact this legislation will have on unsuspecting residents suddenly determined to be inside the floodplain,” said Cardoza.

“This amendment blunts the impact the re-mapping process will have on those homeowners, many of whom are low- and moderate-income earners, who have been hardest-hit by the recession and are in most need of assistance.”

Since FEMA and the Corps of Engineers first announced in 2005 that they would be reviewing flood maps and re-certifying levees, it has been a top priority to mitigate the impact on residents who will be affected by the changes.
“The need for the re-mapping is clear, but residents of the newly-designated unprotected areas should not bear the entire cost of the government’s negligence to re-certify more responsibly. And we cannot over-state the need to consider the economic impact that this will have on a community and region that have been hardest hit by the recession,” continued Cardoza.

July 15, 2010

Atwater High School Receives Outstanding Agriculture Program Award

The agriculture program at Atwater High School has been selected as the 2010 California Outstanding Middle/Secondary School Agricultural Education Program. Dave Gossman, Beth Knapp, Dan Flatt, Sam Meredith, Jackie Ioimo, Natalie Kirschner and Erica Cardey serve as instructors for the program. The award was presented at the annual California Agriculture Teacher’s Association (CATA) conference in San Luis Obispo, CA. MUHSD Board member Dave Honey, MUHSD Superintendent Scott Scambray, and Atwater High School Principal Alan Peterson were present at the awards ceremony. “This honor is a result of our student’s efforts, school/district support, and the tremendous support and encouragement from the community and agriculture industry,” said instructor Dave Gossman. “Our primary goal is to get students involved and make a positive difference in their personal, academic, and career endeavors through agriculture education and the FFA.”

This award, given by the National Association of Agricultural Educators (NAAE), recognizes the nation’s most successful agricultural education programs by highlighting the local programs and teachers that achieve success. Winners are educators who have developed an outstanding agricultural education program at either the middle school or high school level. Applicants are judged on a variety of criteria, including teaching philosophy, effective classroom and experiential instruction, development of partnerships, and professional growth.

Over the past three years, the agriculture program at Atwater High School has nearly tripled with more students taking advantage of the various opportunities agricultural education has to offer. A recent $1.7 million dollar renovation made possible by state grants and the Measure “M” bond has expanded student learning resources which has led to an increase in “hands on” learning”, expanded development of student skills, and current state-of-the-art technology. “We strive to ensure the students, parents, community, and industry gets a return on their investment,” said instructor Beth Knapp.

Atwater High School will compete against Outstanding Middle/Secondary School Ag Ed Program Award winners from surrounding states for the opportunity to be named the 2010 NAAE Outstanding Middle/Secondary School Ag Ed Program for Region I. Regional winners will receive a plaque and expense paid trip to attend the 2010 NAAE convention in Las Vegas as well as an invitation to a special awards dinner during convention.

The Outstanding Middle/Secondary School Ag Ed Program Award is sponsored by the National FFA Alumni Association as a special project of the National FFA Foundation.

Agriculture education and the FFA provide students with the opportunity to gain “hands-on” learning through agricultural education. For more information on how your son/daughter can get involved, contact your local high school agriculture program or log onto www.AtwaterFFA.org.

Atwater High School Agriculture Program instructors Dan Flatt, Jackie Ioimo, Dave Gossman, Beth Knapp, Natalie Kirschner, Sam Meredith, and Erica Cardey (not pictured).

MUHSD Board member Dave Honey, AHS Principal Alan Peterson, Dan Flatt, Jackie Ioimo, Dave Gossman, Beth Knapp, Natalie Kirschner, Sam Meredith, and MUHSD Superintendent Scott Scambray gather together following the CATA awards ceremony in San Luis Obispo, CA.

Written by: Carolyn Schiber, Atwater FFA Reporter
Photos by Dave Gossman, FFA Advisor

July 15, 2010

San Benito Elected Officials Rally Around Cannella

The Cannella for Senate campaign announced that it had secured endorsements from four prominent leaders within opponent Anna Caballero’s home Assembly District.

The San Benito elected officials supporting Cannella include: San Benito County Supervisor, Jaime De La Cruz; Hollister Mayor, Victor Gomez, Raymond Friend of the Hollister City Council, and former Hollister Mayor, Brad Pike Sr.

Cannella spokesman, Josh Cook, said the campaign was particularly pleased by having support from local elected officials who are very familiar with Caballero’s track record and who believe Anthony Cannella is better suited to represent the interests of the people of the 12th Senate District in Sacramento.

July 15, 2010

G Street groundbreaking Friday

The groundbreaking ceremony for the G Street Underpass project will take place at 10 a.m. Friday, July 16, the first day of actual road work at the site.
Using a backhoe, the Mayor will take a ceremonial scoop of dirt, followed by the Council and other officials turning a shovel (or more) of dirt.
The groundbreaking will take place near the intersection of 24th and G Streets.

There is media parking available at the Bernie’s parking lot, G and 23rd streets. Parking access is from the alley on East 23rd St. next to the Bernie’s building.

Friday is the first day that digging will begin on G Street. The Burlington Northern and Santa Fe Railroad will begin its work on the site Monday, July 19.

The $18 million City of Merced/Merced Redevelopment Agency project is expected to take 18 months to complete. It will be the first railroad undercrossing in the City, providing a direct link between Central and North Merced.

July 14, 2010

Record Number of Bobcats Headed to UC Merced This Fall
Campus sees 35 percent jump in Statements of Intent to Register for Fall 2010

The groundbreaking ceremony for the G Street Underpass project will take place at 10 a.m. Friday, July 16, the first day of actual road work at the site.
Using a backhoe, the Mayor will take a ceremonial scoop of dirt, followed by the Council and other officials turning a shovel (or more) of dirt.
The groundbreaking will take place near the intersection of 24th and G Streets.

There is media parking available at the Bernie’s parking lot, G and 23rd streets. Parking access is from the alley on East 23rd St. next to the Bernie’s building.

Friday is the first day that digging will begin on G Street. The Burlington Northern and Santa Fe Railroad will begin its work on the site Monday, July 19.

The $18 million City of Merced/Merced Redevelopment Agency project is expected to take 18 months to complete. It will be the first railroad undercrossing in the City, providing a direct link between Central and North Merced.

At this point, the campus has received 524 more Statements of Intent to Register (SIR) than it realized this same time last year. The SIR is an interim step in the overall application, admission and enrollment cycle. Final enrollment figures for the fall term typically are available in late October.
“We are seeing students from all parts of California, throughout the United States and the world,” said Chancellor Steve Kang, praising UC Merced students, alumni and staff for their strong collaboration and outreach efforts. “The fact that UC Merced is recognized in the minds of high-performing students and their families is a compliment to the visionaries who built this campus.”
Hundreds of admitted students and their families have already attended New Student Orientation, which began in June.

July 13, 2010

Fair Success for Atwater FFA Students

Over 350 Atwater High School FFA students participated and exhibited a variety of livestock, horticulture, and agriculture mechanics projects at the 2010 Merced County Fair last month. This was the largest groups of Atwater FFA students in more than a decade. “Our program continues to grow each year,” said FFA advisor Dave Gossman, “The increased student involvement is a direct reflection on our strong community support.”

Sixty-five students exhibited various livestock projects. Competition highlights included Terilyn Bettencourt earning Overall Reserve Grand Champion Replacement Heifer and Nikki Schiber earning FFA Grand Reserve Champion Market Goat. Atwater FFA Goats earned Outstanding Chapter group with ther Atwater FFA Swine earning 2nd overall for Outstanding Swine Chapter Group. “We had many 1st and 2nd year FFA exhibitors and overall they did an outstanding job with their efforts,” said FFA advisor Beth Knapp.

Showmanship highlights included Briana Hamamoto winning the Horse Showmanship, Kaylyn Schiber earning 1st overall for Novice Goat Showmanship and sophomore Samuel Lord-Huff placing 4th overall in Swine Showmanship. Atwater FFA won the Goat Clean Barn award with Atwater FFA winning the overall Chapter Scoop award for overall clean barns in all species. “This highlights the effort and teamwork of our students throughout the fair,” said Knapp.

The Atwater FFA Horticulture and Floriculture program won the Horticulture and Floriculture Sweepstakes award based on their plant exhibits and 1st place finish overall for their FFA landscape exhibit. “The Atwater High School Horticulture program continues to grow and expand and we’re excited to see more students getting involved.” said FFA advisor Jackie Ioimo.

In addition to plants and animals, the Atwater FFA exhibited agriculture mechanics projects that correlated with their classroom and ag shop curriculum. The efforts of Atwater FFA students earned them 1st place overall in the Agriculture Sweepstakes award. “The fair is an excellent opportunity for students to showcase their skills in tool repair, wood working, electrical wiring, plumbing, welding, and metal fabrication,” said Atwater FFA Beef and Agriculture Mechanics advisor Sam Meredith, “The students have an opportunity to display and take pride in their efforts.”

Students involved in the FFA program have been raising their animal projects since early spring. Students invested their own money or received agriculture loans through American Ag Credit towards the expenses related to their projects. “If it wasn’t for the tremendous support of our community, many of these students would not have the opportunity to experience this opportunity of responsibility, business, learning, personal pride, and accomplishment,” said Agriculture instructor Dave Gossman, “It is the continued support of the community that drives our goal of getting students involved.”

FFA provides students with the opportunity to gain “hands-on” learning through agricultural education. For more information on how your son/daughter can get involved, contact your local high school agriculture program or log onto www.AtwaterFFA.org.

July 13, 2010

Fair’s Theme Will Be About Horses

MERCED – From equestrian competitions and showmanship to rodeo events, there will be a lot of horsing around at the 2011 Merced County Fair.

The Merced County Fair is kicking off its annual theme contest for the 2011 Fair and horses will be the theme of the 120th event. The deadline to enter theme ideas is Thursday, Aug. 5 at 3 p.m. The 2010 fair recently ended, but planning for the next fair has already begun, so the new theme must be selected soon.

The winner of the contest will receive $100 and two season passes to the fair. The second- and third-place entries will each be awarded a pair of season passes to the 2011 Fair, June 14-19. The contest is for Merced County residents only.

“This contest is a fun way for our community to be a part of the fair from the start,” said Tom Musser, the fair’s CEO. “If you’ve got some clever ideas for the fair’s theme, you bet we want see them, so stop horsing around, get a jump on the competition and you could find yourself in this year’s winner’s circle.”

Agriculture is big in Merced County and horses continue to play an important role in our community and at the fair – from the Junior Horse Show and livestock showmanship to the Rodeo and other Grandstand events.

The first-place theme will be used as the fair’s theme. Once the winning theme is picked, there will be a contest to find a logo design to illustrate the theme.

July 12, 2010

FIREFIGHTERS ENDORSE CANNELLA IN SD 12

The Cannella for Senate campaign today announced the endorsement of the Stanislaus Consolidated Firefighters.

“Providing for the public safety is the primary function of government. I am pleased that the Stanislaus Firefighters have chosen to stand with me in my bid to bring real change to California. It is disgraceful that the Legislature has not passed a budget and instead went on vacation. Everyday the state loses millions of dollars because the Legislature has not passed a budget. The money wasted today by their inactions should be going to protect vital local government services like police and fire protection.” said Mayor Cannella.

The endorsement letter from Local 3339 included this statement:

“We feel that you have the much needed education, experience and leadership skills that the state is starving for. When elected we feel you will make sound, appropriate decisions based on what will be beneficial for the people of this great state and the people of the 12th Senate District. With regards to firefighter safety and emergency response, we feel you have a well documented understanding of what our state needs, as well as the 12th District. Many of our members have fought fire next to you when you were a volunteer

firefighter with the City of Ceres and believe you know very well the conditions in which we operate.”

Cannella has more endorsements than his opponent Assemblywoman Anna Caballero. The Senate race in SD 12 is the number one priority of the Senate Republicans in 2010.

July 12, 2010

Congressmen Cardoza and McNerney Announce $5 Million Grant for Transportation Service in San Joaquin County

STOCKTON, CA – Congressman Cardoza joined with Congressman McNerney and the Federal Transit Administration today in announcing a $5 million grant to increase transportation services in San Joaquin County.

Present for the announcement was Therese McMillan, Deputy Administrator of the Federal Transit Administration.

The grant is being awarded through the federal Bus and Bus Facilities Livability Initiative Program. It will be used to help San Joaquin Regional Transit District (RTD) complete its Hammer Lane Corridor Transportation Project.

The project is the third phase of a comprehensive connected regional transit system in Stockton. The first phase runs along the Pacific Avenue Corridor and the second phase runs along the Airport Way Corridor. Today’s grant will help fund the third phase, traversing approximately 6.3 miles along the east-west Hammer Lane Corridor – connecting Interstate 5 and State Route 99 –and connecting to the existing Pacific Avenue Corridor route.

The project increases access to residential areas, employment centers, medical centers, social service centers, shopping and entertainment. Additionally, it will reduce traffic congestion, improve air quality and contributes to economic productivity.

“This is an opportunity for jobs and transportation convenience, and benefits all of Stockton,” said Congressman Cardoza. “I congratulate San Joaquin RTD for establishing such a worthy project and thank the Department of Transportation for directing this grant to an area that is in need of projects that will help improve the local economy. I will continue to do all I can to advocate the needs of our community in Washington.”

July 12, 2010

Student Group to Bring Karl Rove to UC Merced
Former advisor to President George W. Bush will speak and hold a book signing during appearance coordinated by the College Republicans at UC Merced

MERCED, Calif. — The University of California, Merced, will welcome its latest high-profile figure to campus this fall, as former presidential advisor Karl Rove will speak and hold a book signing on campus Oct. 8.

Rove, who served as deputy chief of staff and senior advisor to President George W. Bush, will also take part in a question-and-answer session after his speech. He is the third speaker with ties to White House to visit UC Merced, joining first lady Michelle Obama and President Jimmy Carter.

The Rove event was coordinated by the College Republicans at UC Merced, a student group. Obama’s appearance as the keynote speaker at UC Merced’s 2009 commencement was similarly brought about after a student-led campaign. Carter visited in May to take part in the National Parks Institute seminar and receive the university’s Spendlove Prize for 2010.
“We are very proud of our students for once again taking the initiative to bring to their campus someone they truly look up to and respect,” said Steve Kang, UC Merced chancellor. “We have a strong diversity of cultures and viewpoints on our campus, and we welcome what should be a spirited appearance by Mr. Rove.”

The event will begin at 6 p.m. in the Joseph Edward Gallo Recreation and Wellness Center on campus. Tickets will be distributed to 325 students during the fall semester on a first-come, first-served basis, and 400 tickets will be available to the general public at $35 each.

Ticket sales will help cover Rove’s $25,000 speaking fee, with the remainder to be paid by the Associated Students of UC Merced, a student enterprise with elected student representatives.

ASUCM maintains an annual budget of $420,000 that comes from student fees and goes toward student services, clubs and other activities.

The College Republicans will be fundraising to cover any additional costs associated with the event. There will be no cost to the university for this event.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit http://www.KarlRoveatUCMerced.com

July 12, 2010

Dine-Out for Meals-On-Wheels

During the month of September the Merced County Community Action Agency will be promoting Dine-Out for Meals-On-Wheels in participating restaurants in Merced and throughout the county. Meals-On-Wheels is the program that provides a hot, nutritious meal to homebound senior citizens Monday through Friday. There is a suggested donation of $2.00 per meal but, for some, they cannot afford even that. We currently serve approximately 1600 meals a month in Merced alone but we know there are more that need our service. That is why we are raising money to continue to work to keep any senior from going hungry.
The Dine- Out program allows people who are dining at local participating restaurants the opportunity to donate any amount either through a donation box at the counter or through a small remittance envelope included with their guest check at the end of the meal.

We would appreciate if you could put this on the Chamber calendar and let restaurants know they can contact me for more information about participating. It cost the restaurants nothing to participate. In return for putting our donation box in their restaurant or including the remittance envelope in their guest check at the end of the meal we will promote all of the participating restaurants through the radio, TV and newspapers encouraging people to dine out at these restaurants and consider making a donation to Meals-O-Wheels.

July 10, 2010

Top FFA Students Go Major League

Members of the Atwater FFA gather at field level with LAA Angels pitcher and Merced native Brian Fuentes prior to the ballgame at the Oakland Coliseum.

Twenty-five Atwater FFA students earned a trip to an Oakland A’s vs the Los Angeles Angels MLB game last month in recognition of being 2009-2010 Atwater FFA Point Award winners. The FFA Point Awards system was developed in order to recognize and award those members who are most active in various FFA activities throughout the year.

This year’s recipients attended an Oakland A’s game in Oakland and had the opportunity to visit and chat with Merced’s hometown MLB player (LAA Angels) Brian Fuentes prior to the game. “We appreciated he took the time to talk to us and sign autographs before the game,” said FFA member and Angels fan Terilyn Bettencourt, “It was fun to have a player who was familiar with our school and community.” The trip represented an opportunity for staff and students to enjoy the year’s end and enjoy each other’s company on a fun-filled summer day.

“These students represent the ‘cream of the crop’ within our chapter and it was nice to reward their efforts and contributions to our program with this trip,” said FFA advisor Beth Knapp.

Atwater High School students who earned the 2009-2010 “Top 25” award were Laura Gonzalez, Stefani Dias, Lilly Reyes, Chritina Willman, Marisa Jorge, Collette Wilcox, Terilyn Bettencourt, JD Brownwood, Jackie Vasquez, Nikki Schiber, Mekayla Coughran, Sandra Flores, Mai Kia Vang, Stephanie Quintana, Jose Vargas, Carolyn Schiber, Paul Ortiz, Reign Encenzo, Sasha DelMuro, Ricky Ornelas, Billy Thomas, Kia Vue, and Mary Thao..

For more information on the Atwater High School Agriculture Department and Atwater FFA, please log on the website www.AtwaterFFA.org

Written by: Carolyn Schiber, Atwater FFA Reporter
Photos by Dave Gossman, FFA Advisor

Nikki Schiber and Sasha Del Muro display their souvenir game baseball that went into the stands during the game.

Atwater High School agriculture students and FFA members enjoy the baseball game in Oakland which represented the first MLB game for many of them.

July 10, 2010

Congressman Cardoza announces report on UC Merced Medical School

Today, Congressman Cardoza joined with Congressman Costa and the Valley Coalition for UC Merced Medical School to announce the report “Vision for the Valley.” The 56-page report details the challenges of health care in the San Joaquin Valley and provides the results of the Coalition’s outreach and education project. This project was designed to raise greater community awareness of the medical school and to elicit community input for the development of the medical school.
The report was developed by the Coalition for UC Merced Medical School with the support of a $147,000 grant from the California Endowment. The Coalition was formed in 2008 for the purpose of supporting the development of the UC Merced Medical School. As a result of the Coalition’s extensive outreach and education campaign, the Coalition’s numbers have grown to over 1,000 citizens from throughout the San Joaquin Valley. The report released today is just one of many key developments that show forward momentum for the medical school.
The Coalition’s outreach and education project elicited a wide spectrum the community’s responses and program ideas to aid in the planning of the medical school, among them the need to:
• Prepare students for medical school and to develop pipeline and recruitment programs
• Train culturally competent physicians
• Develop a curriculum that addresses the Valley’s needs

“There is perhaps no greater opportunity to increase access to healthcare in the Valley than to have a medical school in the Valley where we can “grow” our own physicians,” said Congressman Cardoza. “UC Merced’s Medical School makes economic sense, even in this economy. Our state is at a crisis with the shortage of physicians. To ignore this crisis, particularly in the Valley where the shortage is even more serious, will result in fewer people getting adequate care and an increasing unhealthy population. A medical school will also reap substantial dividends in the Valley by reversing the flow of medical dollars to other regions of the state.”
The Coalition is aiming to have an independent medical school by 2015.

“The Coalition, with 1,000 members and growing, is strong and formidable,” said Congressman Cardoza. “This grass-roots effort is what we need to get the support in the Legislature and the Board of Regents for the medical school. I am confident that we will be successful.”

July 9, 2010

Modesto City Councilmembers Unite Behind Cannella

The Cannella For Senate Campaign today announced that it had secured endorsements from the Mayor of Modesto and four members of the Modesto City Council in the election to succeed Jeff Denham in the 12th Senate District. Cannella is running against Assemblywoman Anna Caballero (D-Salinas).

Mayor Jim Ridenour joined with Vice Mayor Kristin Olsen, and Councilmembers David Greer, Brad Hawn and Dave Lopez in backing Anthony Cannella.

Kristin Olsen is the Republican nominee in A.D. 25 and is unopposed in the general election.

The Modesto councilmembers and Mayor join with the five Stanislaus County Supervisors in supporting Canella.

Cannella has a commanding lead in the endorsement battle in Stanislaus County -- the largest county in SD 12.

For more on Anthony Cannella, please visit: www.cannellaforsenate.com

July 8, 2010

Authority Signs Agreement with Belgium
for High-Speed Rail Planning
Agreement Demonstrates Continued International Interest

SACRAMENTO – The California High-Speed Rail Authority signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) today with the country of Belgium to continue sharing high-speed rail planning and development information. The agreement, with Belgium’s Federal Public Service Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation, was approved by the Authority Board at its May 2010 meeting.
“This is another example of the international recognition and support of California’s high-speed rail system,” said Curt Pringle, Chairman of the California High-Speed Rail Authority. “We’re pleased that this partnership with Belgium will enhance our planning as this project moves forward.”
Belgium has been operating high-speed rail since 1997, with routes connecting Belgium to France, Germany, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. The agreement includes the exchange of information on technical standards, purchasing and building methods, engineering know-how, funding options as well as operations and maintenance data.
“Belgium has extensive experience and expertise in providing high-speed rail technology, with neutrality and objectivity towards technical references, standards and manufacturers.

The Belgian railways have been instrumental in making European high-speed rail a success, through international technical integration. We’re happy to share this experience with the California HSRA”, said Geert Criel, Consul-General of Belgium.
The signing of the agreement was followed by a presentation by Joseph M. Borremans, Senior International Project Manager and Representative for North-America of TUC-RAIL (Belgian Railways group). TUC RAIL extended and modernized one of the world’s busiest railway networks situated at the heart of Europe and has been involved in many international projects, acquiring valuable experience as a leader in high-speed rail technology.
This demonstrated interest in California’s project is the latest to accompany similar agreements between the California High-Speed Rail Authority and seven other countries operating high-speed rail.
The California High-Speed Rail Authority is the state entity responsible for planning, constructing and operating an 800-mile-long high-speed train system serving California's major metropolitan areas.

July 8, 2010

Compost Facility Tour Offered

MARIPOSA—Get some ideas on how to cut your waste disposal costs during a free tour of the Mariposa County Compost Facility. The tour will be offered on Wed., Aug. 4 at 10 a.m. Groups as well as individuals are welcome; however, space is limited and reservations are required. To make a reservation call 209-966-5165 by 4 p.m. Tue., Aug. 3.
Participants will learn how their biodegradable garbage is transformed into a composted end product that is used as daily cover on the landfill. They will also learn ways to reduce their waste, such as choosing products packaged in recycled and recyclable materials, thereby lowering their disposal costs and helping the Compost Facility to operate efficiently,

The Compost Facility is one component of the Mariposa County solid waste management system that also includes a recycling center, landfill and transfer stations. The Facility is the first of its kind in California with an in-vessel composting system entirely enclosed within a building, including an air and odor control system and a water re-circulation system.
For more information about the Facility and materials that are accepted for recycling in the County, go to www.mariposacounty.org/solid waste.

July 8, 2010

Racing Resumes at Merced Speedway

MERCED – The flag goes up on auto racing at Merced Speedway on Sunday, July 18.

John M. Soares, the new promoter of the Merced Speedway Auto Races, has been busy making improvements at the Merced County Fair fairgrounds racetrack. He’s new to Merced but Soares isn’t new to auto racing. He’s the racing promoter at the Contra Costa County Fairgrounds in Antioch – Antioch Speedway -- and comes from a family with auto racing in their blood.

Soares raced at Merced Speedway in the 1960s. “It has the best grandstands of any fairgrounds I’ve been to and it’s always been one of my favorite racetracks,” he said. “There are a lot of people who want to race here and there many race fans in the area. I’m really looking forward to bringing back the glory days of racing here in Merced.”

One of the many changes Soares is making is reconfiguring the Merced Speedway track to a quarter-mile from a one-third mile and regrading it so it’s not flat anymore. “It’s got quite a bit of bank in it,” he said, pointing to the newly-engineered curves. “The shorter track will make for a lot better racing. The bigger the track, the more boring the race. The guys with more horsepower usually win the race, but with the short track it makes it more about the handling and the driver than the horsepower. ”

Soares’ crew has also replaced the safety fence on the front straight-of-way and is sprucing up the facility. His goal is to fix up the racetrack and restore the Grandstands. He’s also bringing in a new food concession and menu for Speedway fans. “People will see a vast improvement. We want to make the Merced Speedway more family-friendly,” he said.

The plan is to open the front gate at 4 p.m., start the first race at 5 p.m. and run a show that will be big on entertainment with no lag time. “We want people in the Grandstands to have a really good time. We’ll get everybody out while the sun is still up.”

Merced County Fair CEO Tom Musser said, “We’re happy the Merced Speedway will be hosting auto races again. We know there’s a big demand for it because we’ve heard from a lot of drivers and fans who can’t wait for racing to return here.”

Soares is scheduling the races on Sundays this season to attract more racers. “I respect the other Speedways that are running races on Saturday nights. The car counts will be way up by offering racing here on Sundays.” The July 18 line-up includes mods, streets, hobby, 4bangers, Valley sport and mini trux. The racing schedule wraps up October 24.

Speedway admission is general admission, $10, $8 for seniors 65 and up with I.D., $7 for kids ages 6 to 12 and free admission for children 5 years and under. A family pack is available for $23, (a $34 value) including two general admission tickets and two kids’ admission tickets. Parking is free.

Soares has raced oval track cars since the 1960s including racing at the Antioch Speedway. He also raced eight years in the NASCAR Winston West Grand National Series in the 1970s finishing in the top 10 in points several years.

He raced late model stock cars during the 1980s and 1990s and also raced against top drivers in Australia during the winter.

His parents, John P. and Gladys Soares, promoted races at Antioch Speedway for four decades. John M. Soares has worked in motor sports since 1961, starting out helping run the racetrack and concessions. He was the track manager at Petaluma Fairgrounds Speedway from 1994-96, running races, coordinating with racers and officials, overseeing racecar rules, preparing the track and doing maintenance for every race.

He became the on-site general manager of the Antioch Speedway in 1998 when his parents won the bid to promote the Bay Area fairgrounds racetrack. Soares and his wife, Donna, later bought his parents’ interest in the track. John M. Soares has been the active president of Oval Motorsports and he and his wife are shareholders of Oval Motorsports, Inc.

For the past 13 years, Soares has done it all at Antioch Speedway, from track preparer and maintenance man to serving as general manager. The new Merced Speedway promoter and his wife have worked together in auto racing for all of their 50 years of marriage. They also have a business that sells race car parts, including the special racing muffler the couple devised to eliminate noise problems on autos racing at Antioch Speedway. Donna has worked at the Antioch Speedway and Petaluma Fairgrounds Speedway doing everything from preparing food, running the concessions stand and beer booth, working at the front ticket gate and in the pit booth. She has run the office and concessions for Oval Motorsports since she and her husband took over the Antioch Speedway in 1998.

For more race information call (209) 383-3802 or visit the track website, www.racemercedspeedway.com.

July 7, 2010

Uke-n-Reed returns for Merced Mall's Summer Music Series

Uke-n-Reed returns for Merced Mall's Summer Music Series, Saturday, July 17.
This fun-loving powerhouse trio blends the silken vocals and fierce ukulele of Patti Dahlstrom with the nationally renowned clarinet of Blackwood Tom Schmidt and driving double bass of Russ Manfredi, for a perfect concoction of good time music.
Patti Dahlstrom is known around these parts as former ringleader of 70’s bluegrass band Stoney Creek, and co-owner of The Ranch Restaurant. She was also a featured cast member of legendary “A Winter Night’s Yeow!” show where she first performed with Blackwood Tom.
Blackwood Tom Schmidt has lent his talent on clarinet and saxophone to recordings with Joe Craven, John Lescroart, Dave Nachmanoff, Old West, Sourdough Slim, and The Creole Jazz Kings. He has toured with folk swing acts Backwoods Jazz, The Barrett Brothers, Washboard Wizardz and The Rhythm Knickers, as well as Dixieland bands The Sutterville Stompers and Port City Jazz Band.
PLUS! As a special treat, Uke-n-Reed is bringing jazz violinist Karen White to help knock your sox off!
Free F-U-N begins at 6:00 pm. For information visit www.MercedMall.com or call (209) 723-3981.

July 5, 2010

Congressman Cardoza Co-chairs Task Force on Housing Stabilization

WASHINGTON – Congressman Cardoza will jointly chair the newly established Congressional Task Force on Housing Stabilization along with Congresswoman Shelley Berkley (D-Nev.) The Task Force will undertake a comprehensive review of housing stabilization efforts, looking at programs that have been successful along with those that are in need of changes and improvements.

“As economists have correctly stated, the foreclosure crisis was at the heart of our nation’s economic meltdown,” said Congressman Cardoza. “My district is among the most devastated regions in the country. Until we address the crisis with adequate solutions that target the hardest-hit communities, our economic recovery will lag and my constituents will continue to suffer. This task force represents a significant opportunity to study what is and isn't working as we work toward improving the federal response to this crisis.”

“The Task Force on Housing Stabilization is an opportunity to refocus the conversation on America’s housing crisis. My hometown of Las Vegas has been hit hard by the housing crisis and the wave of foreclosures that have swept the nation, and we can do more to help people who continue to struggle to stay in their homes. I look forward to using this forum as a means of critically evaluating those programs in place to deal with on-going foreclosure and housing issues.

That includes identifying additional ways to enhance these efforts, and improve their effectiveness, and the Housing Stabilization Task Force is an important step toward accomplishing this shared goal,” said Congresswoman Berkley.

The Housing Stabilization Task Force will bring a renewed focus to housing issues and provide Members a forum where they can discuss ways to improve existing housing programs and examine new paths for dealing with the housing crisis.

Housing Stabilization Task Force Issues: Foreclosure Mitigation
Home Valuation
Lending Programs
Real Estate Market Stabilization

July 3, 2010

Congressman Cardoza Announces $1 million to Help Dairy Operators Improve Water Quality

WASHINGTON – Congressman Cardoza announced $1 million today to assist dairy operators improve water quality in the Central Valley.

The funding is supported through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Water Enhancement Program (AWEP). The program is administered by USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in partnership with Western United Dairymen. The AWEP program provides technical and financial assistance to help farmers and ranchers implement activities to improve agricultural water.

Western United Dairymen intends to use the funding to assist dairy operators comply with water quality standards through conservation and increased manure management practices, as well as making infrastructure improvements. EQIP is a cost-share program requiring applicants to pay half the cost of any improvements.

Western United Dairymen will work with individual producers to inform and advise them on the program, including providing assistance completing the applications.

“Western United Dairymen values the partnership with NRCS. We appreciate the fact that they recognize that California dairy producers have some of the strictest regulations in the nation. This funding will help us comply with those regulations. We also appreciate the continued support of Congressman Cardoza and his work on the farm bill that make these kinds of programs possible,” said WUD Director of Environmental Services Paul Martin.

“As I have continued to say, nobody cares more about our land and water resources than those whose livelihood depends on it,” said Congressman Cardoza. “This funding will be of critical help to those who are seeking to address wastewater discharge regulations. Further, given the economic hardship many dairy operators face, the timing could not be better. I will continue to do all I can to support these types of win-win programs in Congress.”

July 2, 2010

Community Conversations on Aviators, G Street and top businesses

Merced’s Businesses of the Year, a G Street construction update and an interview with the coach of the Atwater Aviators are among the features this week on Community Conversations, a public service program on KYOS.

The show focuses on community, education and government news affecting residents throughout Merced County. It airs on KYOS, 1480 AM, at 7 p.m. Saturday and at 3 p.m. Sunday.
Other Community Conversations set to air this week include news from the Challenger Learning Center, how to help pets deal with fireworks and Neighborhood Watch.

The hour-long show focuses on news that has gone unnoticed or underreported.
The show is hosted by Nathan Quevedo, the public information officer for the Merced County Office of Education and engineered by Dave Luna of KYOS. The show is produced by MCOE, the City of Merced Public Information Office and Roger Wood, in association with UC Merced and the County of Merced.

July 2, 2010

North Valley Patriots take part in Memorial Day festivities around the valley

North Valley Patriots take part in Memorial Day festivities around the valley Perhaps the largest of the local celebrations was in Manteca. Volunteers from the Turlock Chapter spent the day Friday putting up 75 American flags around the entrances to Woodward Park. Other volunteers pounded in 5,800 white crosses to represent lives lost since 9/11 protecting our country.
A “ninth panel” was added to the Traveling Tribute honoring those killed in the “War on Terror” Saturday night. Mothers of the fallen soldiers were honored and treated to dinner. Sunday started with an early morning 5K run/walk. A Pentacostal church service was well attended. The service was inspirational, patriotic, and geared for all attendees. At 11 a.m. classic cars began to arrive.

July 2, 2010

Council agenda for Tuesday, July 6

The Merced City Council will meet Tuesday to consider a professional services agreement with the Greater Merced High Speed Rail Committee, renewal of the contract with the Merced County Office of Education for broadcasting services and hold a public hearing on revising the Bellevue Ranch Master Development Plan.

The Council will meet in closed session at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 6, to discuss an existing lawsuit and then conduct its regular meeting at 7 p.m. The Council is meeting on Tuesday because of the Monday Independence Day holiday.

The City is considering a $40,000 agreement with the local High Speed Rail committee to help pay for studies, plans and consulting fees for the rail station proposed for Downtown Merced and the Heavy Maintenance Facility proposed for Castle Commerce Center and Mission Avenue.

The Council also will consider an agreement with County Schools to operate the City’s Government Channel for broadcasting meetings and information.

July 2, 2010

MERCED COLLEGE AWARDS NEARLY $327,000 IN SCHOLARSHIPS

Merced College has awarded nearly $327,000 in scholarships to 507 students for the academic year of 2009/10, according to the Merced College Financial Aid office.
Over $265,000 came from the Merced College Foundation, Bloss, and other outside sources, benefiting 442 students.
Thirty-three transfer students received a total of $34,775 and ten students received scholarships totaling $10,000 from the Bernard Osher Foundation.

July 2, 2010

Message from Jeff

Another Late Budget
Once again, the California Legislature shamefully failed to pass a budget on time. To add insult to injury, Senate Concurrent Resolution 113 was recently introduced to boycott Arizona because of its new immigration law.
California businesses are leaving the state in droves and taking thousands of jobs with them. A "You boycott me, I'll boycott you" scenario is a risk California cannot afford to take. Arizona has every right to protect its citizens and I fully support its immigration law.
With state budget deficit of over $19 billion and statewide unemployment above 12 percent, California legislators should be focused on creating jobs and balancing the budget, not poking this state's nose into another state's business.
SCR113 is authored by one of the most left-wing legislators in Sacramento: Senator Gil Cedillo, a Democrat from Los Angeles. Senator Cedillo is also the author of other ridiculous measures, including bills that would give drivers' licenses and college financial aid to illegal immigrants.

Governor Schwarzenegger and Jeff break ground on the Fresno Veterans Home
Denham Helps Break Ground on Fresno Veterans Home
Jeff, who chairs the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee and is a 16-year United States Air Force Veteran, helped break ground recently on the Veterans Home of California, Fresno (VHC-Fresno). The home will have 300 beds and employ approximately 452 permanent employees. VHC-Fresno is scheduled to open in the spring of 2012 and will serve aged and disabled veterans who served honorably in the military.
To watch the video of the groundbreaking ceremony, click here.

Denham's Bill to Help Farmers and Ranchers Passes the Legislature
Jeff's Senate Bill 1229, to allow farmers, ranchers and their employees to use all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) for agricultural business on two-lane roads with specific limitations, recently passed the Legislature.
ATVs are often used by farmers and ranchers to manage day-to-day operations over many tracts of land in a safe, effective manner. These vehicles are designed specifically for off-road travel and make the job much easier. ATVs can easily travel where highway vehicles cannot due to their size and off-road capabilities.
Many tracts of land are separated by public roads. In the course of farm and ranch operations, it is often necessary to use these roads to access the next property, but ATVs are currently not allowed to do so.
Current law is making it difficult for farmers and ranchers to do their jobs. It allows farmers and ranchers to cross a public road only at a certain angle and greatly limits their ability to navigate road areas between properties. Often parcels of land don't line up directly with the section of road being crossed. Access gates may not line up for geographic or safety reasons.
SB 1229 adds ATVs as implements of husbandry to Section 36000 of the California Vehicle Code.

"ATVs are an efficient and economical substitute for pick-up trucks, the horse and the tractor for farmers and ranchers today," said Denham. "SB 1229 is a simple fix, which will greatly help agricultural workers in California and help bring California's transportation code into the 21st century."
SB 1229 is now on its way to the governor's desk.

Denham Introduces Senate Resolution to Honor Fallen Officer Jose Rivera
Jeff recently introduced Senate Resolution 118 to honor Jose Rivera, a federal correctional officer employed at the United States Penitentiary in Atwater. He was violently murdered by two inmates on June 20, 2008; a needless death at a very young age.
Officer Rivera grew up in Chowchilla and graduated from Le Grand High School in 2003. He enlisted in the United States Navy and served four years in the military, including two tours in Iraq.
After returning home, Officer Rivera began working for the Federal Bureau of Prisons in Atwater.
"Officer Rivera's death is tragic and a reminder that law enforcement officers who serve the public risk their lives on a daily basis," states Denham's SR 118. "We can only hope that this small tribute to Officer Rivera and his family serves as a reminder of his sacrifice and that the safety of all our law enforcement officers is a matter of statewide and national concern."

Madera County Arts Council Featured
The Sierra Nevada Arts Alliance, of which the Madera Arts Council is a member, is featured in the California Arts Council's ArtWorks! publication, for creating an innovative and interactive arts and culture map.
The map can be searched by region, county, city, category and date to find out about open studio tours, performances, exhibits, festivals and places of cultural interest.
"The Sierra Nevada Arts Alliance is the new paradigm for supporting the arts and culture of a region. Their collaborative efforts are raising the visibility of the Sierra Nevada as a cultural destination," said Marilyn Nielsen, deputy director of the California Arts Council.
The Sierra Nevada Arts Alliance a collaborative alliance of the county arts councils of the Sierra Nevada region. Its mission is "to attract visitors to the area and sustain the lively arts communities of the Sierra Nevada, while raising awareness of the economic, educational, and social value of the arts."
"I applaud the Madera County Arts Council for its contribution to enriching our diverse community and supporting the vitally of our local economy," said Denham.
To view the map, visit: http://www.sierranevadaartsalliance.org

July 1, 2010

City offices closed Monday, July 5

Offices at the City of Merced will be closed Monday, July 5, in observance of the Independence Day holiday.
Due to the holiday closure, the Merced City Council will meet at 7 p.m. Tuesday, July 6.
There will be no trash pickup Monday. People with a Monday trash day will have their refuse removed Tuesday.

July 1, 2010

Congressman Cardoza Supports Wall Street Reform
Bill Includes Emergency Mortgage Loans for Laid-off Workers and Support for Foreclosed Property

WASHINGTON, DC – Today with Congressman Cardoza’s support, the House of Representatives passed the Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act. The legislation includes $1 billion requested by Congressman Cardoza for emergency mortgage loans to help unemployed workers. It also includes $1 billion he requested for the Neighborhood Stabilization Program, which helps local governments with the purchase and redevelopment of foreclosed properties. (To see the letter on these requests, please click here.)

The Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act reins in the reckless practices by large banks and Wall Street which led to the nation’s worst recession since the 1930s Great Depression. The legislation takes multiple steps to increase consumer protections and reduce the high-risk practices that put personal profit over our nation’s and consumers’ economic well-being.

“As we continue to pull ourselves out of the recession and create the conditions for job growth, it is imperative that we address the root causes for the near collapse of our economy,” said Congressman Cardoza.

“For years, Wall Street gambled with America’s future, exploiting loopholes and relaxed regulations created under the previous Administration. It has ultimately cost our country 8 million jobs, and a loss of $17 trillion in retirement savings and net worth. The San Joaquin Valley – and especially the 18th Congressional District – has been forced to bear the cost of these failures more than just about any other region. Our cities have remained at the center of the economic crisis. We have the highest foreclosure and unemployment rates in the nation as a direct result of the policies of the Bush Administration and the recklessness of Wall Street. Simply put, my vote today is on behalf of the American families who are bearing the vast majority of the suffering from Wall Street’s mistakes.”

Among the key protections in the Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act:

• Establishes a new independent watchdog agency, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, with the authority to ensure American consumers get the clear, accurate information they need to shop for mortgages, credit cards, student loans, and other financial products. It protects American consumers from hidden fees, abusive terms, unfair terms, and deceptive practices.
• Eliminates many of the hidden fees and abusive practices that trapped families with loans they could not afford to repay.

• Reforms debit card transaction fees, potentially saving American small businesses and consumers billions of dollars each year.
• Creates a national consumer complaint hotline so consumers will have, for the first time, a single toll-free number to report problems with financial products and services.

• Allows consumers free access to their credit score if their score negatively affects them in a financial transaction or a hiring decision. Gives consumers access to credit score disclosures as part of an adverse action and risk-based pricing notice.

• Establishes a simple federal standard for all home loans: institutions must ensure that borrowers can repay the loans they are sold.

• Prohibits the financial incentives for subprime loans that encourage lenders to steer borrowers into more costly loans, including the bonuses known as “yield spread premiums” that lenders pay to brokers to inflate the cost of loans.

• Establishes Penalties for Irresponsible Lending: Lenders and mortgage brokers who don’t comply with new standards will be held accountable by consumers for as high as three-years of interest payments and damages plus any attorney’s fees (if any). Protects borrowers against foreclosure for violations of these standards.

• Gives the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) the authority to impose a fiduciary duty on brokers who give investment advice. The advice must be in the best interest of their customers.

• Requires the Federal Reserve to issue rules to ensure that fees charged to merchants by credit card companies for debit card transactions are reasonable and proportional to the cost of processing those transactions. These retailers stand to save billions in payments; debit swipe fees amount to about $20 billion a year.

June 29, 2010

California High-Speed Rail Authority to Seek Additional Federal Funding

SACRAMENTO -- California High-Speed Rail Authority Chairman Curt Pringle, issued the following statement after the Federal Railroad Administration announced it would accept applications for $2.3 billion in new grants for high-speed rail projects nationwide.

"Today’s announcement of the application process for $2.3 billion in additional federal support for high-speed rail projects confirms the President’s commitment to this important transportation infrastructure. The High-Speed Rail Authority and California will compete aggressively for our share of these funds to supplement the federal stimulus funds we have already been awarded and the state funds committed to the project by the people of California. We will continue to move forward with building the nation’s first high-speed rail system because we know it will create jobs, economic opportunity for Californians, and improved mobility for our state.”

June 29, 2010

Modesto Native Selected as Library of Congress Junior Fellow

WASHINGTON – Congressman Cardoza announced today that Modesto native Lindsay Davis has been selected to serve as a Library of Congress Junior Fellow this summer.
The focus of the program is on increasing access to collections and awareness of the Library’s digital preservation programs by making them better known and accessible to researchers including scholars, students, teachers and the general public.
Lindsay Davis is one of 41 college students from across the country selected to reprise the annual “treasure hunt” as a participant in the Library’s 2010 Junior Fellows Summer Internship program. A panel of Library curators and specialists has selected the students from nearly 1000 applicants. Lindsay, a student at San Jose State University, will be working in the Library’s Hispanic Division.
“This program offers a great experience for students interested in curatorial work,” said Congressman Cardoza. “The Central Valley is full of talented, young minds and I am happy that Lindsay has been accepted into this highly competitive internship.”

Over the course of 10 weeks, Junior Fellows will be involved in a broad spectrum of library work including preservation, reference, access standards and information management. Upon completion of their work assignments, the interns will work closely with Library curators and specialists to plan a display and discussion of their most significant discoveries that will be held in the historic Thomas Jefferson Building in Washington, D.C.

June 29, 2010

Businesses of the Year announced

J & R Tacos, ServiceMaster and Mercy Hospital were honored as businesses of the year at the 11th annual Merced Success Breakfast. Over 200 people were on hand at the Merced Senior Community Center as City of Merced Economic Development Advisory Committee member Janet Young announced the winners. The breakfast was hosted by the City of Merced and its Economic Development Advisory Committee, and sponsored by The Merced Boosters and the Greater Merced Chamber of Commerce.
Janna Rodriguez and Oscar Torres, the entrepreneurs behind J & R Tacos, can debate whether assembling the perfect taco an art, or is it a science. Both would probably win. This business isn’t your typical taco joint, from its fresh ingredients to its healthy menu. The owners of this business embody the American Dream. Both were born in J Mexico and came to the States to work hard to achieve the Dream. Through hard work, fortitude and dedication they have succeeded in Downtown Merced. Not bad for a duo that is still going to school. Rodriguez has a degree in mathematics and is working on another in mechanical engineering at UC Merced. Torres has the art background and is studying art at Merced College.
Too often employees are told the job comes first, their families come second, but not at ServiceMaster. Owner Jack Mobley takes pride that his business works with its employees to find schedules and times that work out for everybody.

June 29, 2010

Students Return From Harvard, Ready to Serve Valley

Six UC Merced students from across the San Joaquin Valley to channel leadership skills and lessons into serving the community ater a week of classes at Harvard University

MERCED, Calif. — The University of California, Merced, students participating in the Latino Leadership Initiative at Harvard University have returned to the San Joaquin Valley energzed and ready to make a difference.
During a packed week of classes in Cambridge, Mass., students heard lectures from some of the nations top leaders, including Univisión President César Conde, businessman Farouk Shami and former U. Secretary of Commerce Carlos Gutierrez.

The Latino Leadership Initiative did a great job of making its pioneering students well-rounded in all areas, from negotiations to public speaking and networking to emotional intelligence," psychology major Jacqueline Miramontes said. "It is now our responsibility to apply all the skills that we have learned and put them forth to a program that will enable us t promote leadership in our community."

June 28, 2010

G Street closes July 12 for underpass work

G Street will be closed for construction of the Burlington Northern and Santa Fe railroad undercrossing beginning Monday, July 12. Once completed, the project will provide residents with cross-town access travel without having to stop for passing trains.

The $18 million project is expected to take approximately 18 months to complete. G Street between 23rd and 25th streets will be closed to through traffic during construction. Detour signs will be posted along the streets to guide people around the closed streets.

The railroad staff has said they will begin construction of the track alignments and bridge replacement July 19.

The City recently awarded a $5,059,272.10 contract to Tiechert Construction for the project. The City has encouraged Tiechert to hire local employees and subcontractors whenever possible.

The project is funded by:
California Transportation Commission $9 million
Merced Redevelopment Agency $4.8 million
City Public Facility Financing $2.3 million
Burlington Northern & Santa Fe RR $1.9 million

In addition, the City is spending another $2.4 million for improvements in the project area, including a $1.1 million water line replacement.

Assemblywoman Cathleen Galgiani was instrumental in the City receiving the state grant.

The road project has its roots in a tragedy occurring almost 80 years ago. It was at the intersection of G Street and the then Santa Fe railroad tracks that a school bus coming from Fremont School was struck by a train. Six students were killed and another 23 were injured. That tragedy on May 7, 1931, helped lead to the legislation that requires all occupied buses to stop at railroad crossings.

Traffic will be heavier throughout the City during the construction. Residents are asked to plan their routes ahead, leave early, consolidate their trips and talk to their employers about alternative work schedules that will avoid peak traffic times. Telecommuting, carpooling, ride The Bus, biking and walking is strongly encouraged.

The completed project will eliminate the delay motorists and trucks experience on our streets. The undercrossing will help improve air quality, save fuel and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. And the project will improve public safety by providing an unhindered route to the City’s one hospital for the majority of our residents who live on the north side of the tracks.

Updates on the G Street project will be posted regularly on the City’s web site, www.cityofmerced.org and also on Facebook @ The Streets of Merced.

June 28, 2010

Congressman Cardoza Announces Funding to Help Farmers Reduce Emissions

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Cardoza announced today $10 million in funding that will help San Joaquin Valley farmers comply with air quality requirements.

The Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) helps farmers and agriculture operators reduce pollution. It provides incentives to retire older and inefficient farm equipment, and encourages them to adopt farming practices that improve the environment. The $10 million in funding is being provided by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NCRS) and is intended for projects that improve air quality targeting emissions from off-road mobile or stationary agricultural sources

“I am pleased to see these funds being made available,” said Congressman Cardoza. “EQIP is a valuable tool that benefits both our famers and our environment. This is the type of win-win support we need to provide our farmers.”

Merced, Stanislaus, and San Joaquin Counties were among the 36 eligible for assistance in California.

The funding is made available in addition to more than $13 million available earlier this year from the 2008 Farm Bill as a result of Congressman Cardoza’s efforts.

“This is a successful program,” said Cardoza. “In 2009, farmers in the San Joaquin Valley that obtained air quality incentive funds helped remove the same amount of air pollution as removing 153,000 cars from California highway.”

Applicants must provide about half of the funds needed to voluntarily swap out older engines for newer, more efficient ones that are nearly 75 percent cleaner. Stationary, portable and heavy-duty off-road mobile systems are included as part of the program.

June 28, 2010

New Rodeo Queen Announced at Fair

MERCED – The winner of the 2010 Miss Merced County Fair Rodeo Queen contest was announced at festivities before the Merced County Fair Rodeo on Friday, June 18.

Brittany Hart, 21, of Madera, a nursing student at Reedley College, is the new queen. She was one of seven candidates from Merced, Mariposa, Madera and Stanislaus Counties.

Contestants were judged on horsemanship, personality, public speaking, appearance and promotion of the sport of rodeo. Hart received a $500 cash award and other prizes including a custom trophy saddle, crown, custom sash and belt buckle.

June 27, 2010

Merced Fair Was Wet ‘n’ Wild

MERCED – Here are just some of the fun numbers from the “Wetlands, Water and Wildlife” 2010 Merced County Fair.
755. Kids from preschools, summer and Scouting programs went on the behind-the-scenes School Tours, Thursday, June 17.
1,473. Special needs kids and adults and seniors treated to a tour, mini rodeo, dancing and lunch at the “Friends Helping Friends” event, Friday, June 18.
4. Clay Walker’s ranking on Billboard Top Country Songs chart this week – up a notch from No. 5 when the country star performed at the fair, Thursday, June 17.
9,074. Entries judged in all categories including junior collections, FFA ag mechanics, 4-H rocketry, 4-H stitchery, FFA floriculture, 4-H plant science and FFA gardens.
65,469. Total attendance – paid and unpaid – at the 2010 Merced County Fair.
76. Degrees -- the temperature at 8 p.m. Wednesday, June 16, First 5 Merced County Kids’ Day.
340. Employees (regular & seasonal) and volunteers who worked at the Fair before and during fairtime including maintenance, Old MacDonald’s Farm, security and livestock.
700. Pounds of popcorn popped at the fair’s Kettlecorn concession.
1,071. Pieces of art displayed at the Pavilion during the fair including stained glass panels, oil paintings, a Beatle’s memorabilia collection, mosaic tables and jewelry.
3,500. Milkshakes – vanilla, chocolate and half and half – made and sold at the 4-H Milk Bar, sponsored by Interwest Insurance Services. Chocolate continues to be the top seller.
1,000. Double Cheese Burgers. Sold to hungry fairgoers at the Merced Eagles’ food concession by the Budweiser Beer Garden.
935. Exhibits displayed in the Kids’ Art Building including finger-painting, collections, watercolors, models, mixed media, wall hangings, holiday crafts and collages.
26,600. Acres of wetlands, riparian forests, native grasslands and vernal pools at San Luis National Wildlife Refuge. “Wetlands. Water and Wildlife” was the fair’s theme.
3,500. Miniature paper nurses’ hats handed out at the Emanuel Physician Center walk- through heart display. Fairgoers could take a tour of a giant heart model.
2,000. Margaritas served at the Merced Active 20-30 booth by the CVC/CVT Outdoor Theatre.

June 26, 2010

2010 Merced County Fair's Got Great Milk

MERCED – The 2010 Merced County Fair’s annual milk tasting contest proves Merced County, Stanislaus County and San Joaquin County dairies have got some great milk.

The results of the 2010 Merced County Fair’s Grade A Milk Producers’ Contest have been tabulated and six entries from all over the Central Valley rose to the top to receive the Creamery Award.

The contest is limited to Merced, Madera, Stanislaus, San Joaquin and Sacramento Counties. The annual event is held for educational purposes and as an incentive for milk producers who don’t distribute their own products, but sell them in bulk to companies for processing and distribution.

The competition is designed to give producers an opportunity to demonstrate their skills in producing high-grade milk and to recognize their abilities. Judging and collection of samples are done under the jurisdiction of the State Bureau of Dairy Service and Health Department Milk Sanitarians. Entries are scored for bacteria and flavor.

There were 444 entries in this year’s competition. Six plaques were awarded to the following high scoring producers from these creameries: Berkeley Farms, Relm Dairy, Modesto; California Dairies, Inc.,

June 25, 2010

Community Conversations on fireworks, the Fourth and finances

How to be safe with fireworks and how to stay safe over the Fourth of July weekend are among the topics featured this week on Community Conversations, a public service program on KYOS.

The show focuses on community, education and government news affecting residents throughout Merced County. It airs on KYOS, 1480 AM, at 7 p.m. Saturday and at 3 p.m. Sunday.
Community Conversations this week includes a chat with Fire Chief Ken Mitten on fireworks safety and a talk with Bomb Squad member and Merced Police Sgt. Joe Weiss how safety tips for the holiday weekend. News about the pool dedications at Buhach Colony and Golden Valley High Schools will air, along with some financial advice on surviving in these tough economic times.
The hour-long show focuses on news that has gone unnoticed or underreported.
The show is hosted by Nathan Quevedo, the public information officer for the Merced County Office of Education and engineered by Rick McMillion of KYOS. The show is produced by MCOE, the City of Merced Public Information Office and Roger Wood, in association with UC Merced and the County of Merced.

June 25, 2010

Merced County’s Hay Top Quality

MERCED -- The results are in for the 2010 Merced County Fair's Hay Growers' Contest. The annual competition is open only to hay growers living in Merced County. Judging was done and lab tests were conducted before the fair, which was June 15-20. The contest limits each grower to one bale of hay per division.
All entries must be from the current 2010 crop. Lab tests include testing a sample of the hay for specific nutrient content and the physical judging is based on baled conformation.

The results are:
Alfalfa Hay (Lab test):
Edward Silva, El Nido, first
Pimentel and Fagundes, Atwater, second
Patrick Borrelli, Gustine, third
Billy Pimentel, Atwater, fourth

Alfalfa Hay (Physical Judging):
Edward Silva, El Nido, first
Billy Pimentel, Atwater, second
Pimentel and Fagundes, Atwater, third
Patrick Borrelli, Gustine, fourth

June 24, 2010

Support Strong at Fair’s Livestock Auction

MERCED – The 2010 Merced County Fair Junior Livestock Auction hung in there this year, wrapping up with good sales numbers and strong community support.

“Prices overall were up some and we sold more animals, but what really counts is the way the community continues to support these kids,” said Richard Regalo, superintendent of the Merced County Fair’s Livestock Department. The Auction was presented by American Ag Credit, Westamerica Bank, Rabobank and Universal Service Resources.

The number of livestock exhibitors and animals was up a little this year from 2009 and the auction sale prices were also up. The 2010 Merced County Fair’s Junior Livestock Auction sales totaled $335,064, an increase of $31,150 from the 2009 total of $303,915.

Youngsters from around the county in 4-H and FFA, as well as independent exhibitors, watched as their market goats, lambs, swine and beef were sold at the annual auction, Saturday, June 19, during the 119th Merced County Fair. The bred heifer sale was held Wednesday, June 16 and the replacement dairy heifer sale, presented by Westamerica Bank and Rabobank, and rabbit meat pens were sold at separate auctions on Thursday, June 17.

The average bid was $3.09 per pound, down from $4.03 per pound at the 2009 auction but the average seller price for the 2010 auction was $677.84 compared to $642.74 in 2009.

“Our community is very supportive of these young people, considering the economy,” said Regalo, adding, “It’s impressive how people stayed all day at the auction to support the kids and keep the prices up.”
The key to getting a good price for an animal no matter if it’s a lamb, a pig or a beef, is a good marketing campaign before the fair even starts, Regalo said. “A lot of these kids market their animals before the animal comes to the fair. Having an animal project is not just about feeding and caring for the animal. Students that market their animals usually get a better price.”
It also makes a big difference when the 4-H or FFA club has a booster organization that helps kids out with their projects, he said. The fact a lot of kids did exhibit their animals and get a decent price for them “says a lot about the 4-H and FFA programs and our community” he said.

Not only did the fair come early this year, but more fairgoers also got a chance to experience livestock showmanship and judging. Some of the judging times were changed this year to late afternoon and evening hours instead of the morning before the fair opens to the public. “We tried to have something going on in livestock every evening so there would be something for the public to watch when the fair opened,” Regalo said. Also, the number of goats exhibited at the fair continues to grow, so this year the goat show was moved to Thursday from Monday, to better showcase the animals when the public is around, he said.

One of the other changes implemented this year was the 4-H, FFA and independent exhibitors all were responsible for cleaning out their animals’ stalls in the livestock barns. In previous years the fairgrounds handled the clean-up. “They did a good job,” Regalo said, adding, “It’s a great experience for the kids, those are their animals and it saved the fair some money.”

Although there were a lot of animals that went through the auction this year, the sale, which lasted about eight hours, went well, Regalo said, adding he has nothing but praise for the auctioneers who volunteered their time once again to run the auction. “They work really hard to make sure those kids are getting a really fair price.”

Regalo also gives a lot of credit for the success of the livestock events and auction to the Livestock Office staff and volunteers -- parents, 4-H and FFA leaders and teachers. “They were all 4-H and FFA members themselves and they choose to work here as a way of giving back.”
A veteran of a few fairs when extreme heat made it challenging to keep animals, exhibitors and auction participants healthy, Regalo said “The weather really cooperated – it made it comfortable for exhibitors, staff, parents and everyone else.”
There were more market livestock sold at the fair this year – 568 compared to 539 last year. The animals sold were 15 beef, 312 swine, 104 lambs, 76 goats and 48 meat pens (three rabbits to a pen). The biggest changes at this year’s auctions was the increase in the number of rabbits and goats sold – there were 14 more meat pens sold this year and 8 more goats as well as 8 fewer beef.

The average per pound selling prices at the 2010 fair are as follows: The average price per pound for goats was $4.65, beef was $2.16 per pound, the average price per pound for lambs was $4.54, for swine the figure was $2.87 per pound and rabbit meat pens (3 rabbits per pen) were sold for an average price of $158.
The average seller price for market lambs was $579. The average seller price for market goats was $403, the average seller price for swine was $698 and for beef, the average seller price was $2,637. The average seller price for bred replacement heifers was $2,246.
The 2010 Merced County Fair’s Grand Champions are as follows: Stormy Aue, Merced, Golden Valley FFA, Grand Champion Market Beef; Mackenzie Hurley, Los Banos, Our Lady of Fatima 4-H, Grand Champion Market Lamb; Katie Migliazzo, Atwater, Buhach Colony FFA, Grand Champion Market Goat and Elijah Johnson, Ballico, Snelling 4-H, Grand Champion Market Swine.
The 2010 Merced County Fair’s Reserve Grand Champions are: Shane Nelson, Los Banos, Los Banos FFA, Reserve Grand Champion Market Beef; Jesse Silva, LeGrand, LeGrand FFA, Reserve Grand Champion Market Lamb; Jenna Borba, Gustine, Gustine FFA, Reserve Grand Champion Market Swine and Nikki Schiber, Livingston, Atwater FFA, Reserve Grand Champion Market Goat.
For more information call (209) 722-1507, fax at (209) 722-3773 or email to Info@MercedCountyFair.com . Visit the 2010 Merced County Fair’s website, www.MercedCountyFair.com and connect with us – find us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.

June 23, 2010

THANK YOU!

MERCED – The Merced County Fair’s Board of Directors and Fair Staff want to thank you for supporting the 2010 Merced County Fair.

We’re very proud of the 119th Merced County Fair for so many reasons. It was no small feat to move the fair to June, five weeks earlier than last year – and it was a huge success. Fairgoers raved about the incredibly beautiful weather, giving our June event two thumbs way up!

But we didn’t stop at new fair dates – we served up lots of new fun for fairgoers. We showcased Merced College physics students’ talents with Mr. Ducks’ Wild Ride, scheduled evening livestock judging, put on a daily antique tractor parade, provided more hands-on activities for kids with the new “Sunshine Lane” kids zone, debuted our new wine garden with live music, entertainment and a big, shady picnic area, we brought freestyle motocross racing to the Grandstand and introduced US vs. Mexico Bulls and More to a full house of enthusiastic spectators.

Most of all, we’re thrilled because everyone who experienced and participated in this fair had a lot of “Wetlands, Water and Wildlife” fun!

The attendance numbers show the fair was the place to be June 15-20. The unedited 2010 fair attendance total for paid and unpaid attendance is 65,469 – that’s a jump of 9,794 or 17.3% compared to the 2009 fair attendance total of 55,794. Paid attendance for the 2010 fair is 46,616, up 16% from 2009, when paid attendance was 40,130 or 6,486 less.

Tom Musser, the fair’s CEO stated, “It was a big challenge to put together the 2010 Merced County Fair in less time than usual. Everyone worked hard to put on a quality fair that was a lot of fun with many new attractions and fairgoers really seemed to enjoy it. You can’t plan the weather and we really got lucky with perfect temperatures and breezes that encouraged people to come out early to the fair, stay longer and come back again.”

Our community continues to rediscover our fair and finds that’s its clean, safe and fun family-oriented entertainment with something for everyone that’s a great value.

We’re always looking for ways to make the next fair even better and had lots to offer fairgoers this year. We judged 9,074 entries from stained glass, gardens, ceramics and canned veggies to woodworking, a fruit pie contest, alternative photography and kids’ arts and crafts.

At the Junior Livestock Auction, more animals were sold this year and the sales total of $335,064, also was up from 2009. Our 4-H, FFA and Independent exhibitors did a great job and continue to enjoy outstanding community support despite our challenging economy.

Fairgoers packed the Outdoor Theatre several nights – the Clay Walker and Alicia Villarreal concerts drew huge crowds and Night Ranger and Tower of Power also attracted big audiences. The Grandstand events continue to be popular, filling the venue nightly, especially for the Extreme Free Style Moto X and Destruction Derby and USA vs. Mexico Bulls & More.

The fair offered more attractions than ever to fairgoers for their admission dollars. Our Kids’ Day promotion drew thousands of kids 12 and under, who got free admission. There were dozens of hands-on arts and crafts and science activities, artists’ demonstrations and a variety of performances, music and dance shows at the smaller stages.

We kicked off the fair with the Junior Horse Show at Merced College, gave tours to 755 kids in preschools and summer and Scouting programs, assembled a quality petting barn with more than 100 animals, staged 11 “Day of” cooking contests for seniors and juniors, introduced duck races, hosted a blood drive and put on a “Friends Helping Friends” event that was our biggest yet for 1,473 special needs youngsters and adults and seniors from convalescent homes.
We’re proud to offer a growing number and variety of quality attractions for fairgoers to enjoy. We’re already looking ahead to the next fair, June 14-19, 2011, when the Merced County Fair will celebrate its 120th year! We invite the community to let us know what we can do to make the 2011 fair the best showcase of our county and our neighbors who live here.