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July 10 , 2018

The lobby of the Merced Civic Center was packed with family, friends, colleagues, and community leaders watching Chris Goodwin being sworn-in as Chief of Police by Mayor Mike Murphy. Chief Goodwin now serves as the leader of the City of Merced Police Department composed of 95 sworn officers and 33 non-sworn personnel.

“Serving the streets of Merced for over 22 years, Chief Goodwin brings his experience and education to the Merced Police Department,” says Mayor Mike Murphy. “He is also well anchored in the community, has an established network, and possesses institutional knowledge from the prior positions he held.”

Chief Goodwin has enthusiasm for recruiting well-qualified officers, setting a goal of integrating technology with community based policing and desire to push the department to evolve with law enforcement trends, truly sets him apart. According to City Manager Steve Carrigan, “Chief Chris Goodwin is passionate about his home and protecting those within his community.”

“I am honored to serve the City of Merced as its Police Chief. Our community expects a high Quality of Life. Council responds by assembling one of the finest Police Departments in the San Joaquin Valley,” says Chief Goodwin.

A Santa Clara native, Chief Goodwin came to the Merced Police department in 1996. He worked his way up through the ranks starting in patrol. He continued to serve as a detective and later a sergeant - both supervising patrol and the Gang Violence Suppression Unit. He was then promoted to Lieutenant and later Captain, specializing in SWAT, defense tactics and the department’s active shooter program for over 15 of his 22 years. This extensive experience coupled with a bachelor’s and master’s degree in criminal justice have prepared him to take the next step in his career - as the Chief of the Merced Police Department.

Chief Chris Goodwin is married to Jackie Goodwin, and a father to his two sons – Joel and Jenson and his daughter Carolina. He enjoys working-out, is an avid duck hunter, and a college sports fan.

Chief Chris Goodwin

July 10 , 2018

Students enjoy hands-on STEAM lessons at MCSD Summer Academy

More than a thousand students from throughout the Merced City School District are enjoying a variety of fun and interactive learning opportunities during Summer Academy.
They’re getting a chance to create their own math games, produce videos, make instruments, conduct science experiments, and much more! There are also special performances, assemblies, and educational excursions to places such as local zoos, museums, colleges, and universities. The content is further supported through literature, computer simulations, and art projects.
All of the activities and other classroom instruction are based around integrated STEAM learning – science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics. This approach helps students develop 21st century skills including critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and creativity.
The session started June 18 and will continue through July 13. The classes are open to children who are going into kindergarten through 8th grade. They are being held at Sheehy Elementary, Givens Elementary, and the MCSD STEAM Center. At the end of the program, students will present their projects to their families and peers during a special showcase.
Summer Academy also offers online programs for foreign language and mathematics. Students enrolled in those courses can work from home at their own pace but also have the option of attending classes at the school sites for extra support and unique learning opportunities that incorporate art into both subjects. Those who meet certain math requirements this summer will be eligible for advanced math classes in the fall, setting them on an accelerated college/career path by completing high school requirements while still in middle school.
MCSD began offering Summer Academy in 2013 to give students more time to learn, and it has continued to evolve into an enriching experience that students, parents, and staff look forward to each year.
Please let me know if you have any questions.

July 10, 2018

City of Merced False Alarm Reduction Program
City to go live on July 1, 2018

The City of Merced will go live with their new Alarm Reduction Program on July 1, 2018. In an effort to reduce false alarms within the City of Merced, the City has updated its alarm ordinance and collaborated with PM AM Corporation to implement and administer the False Alarm Reduction Program. The partnership will also provide educational training for our citizens. PM AM is a national company with expertise in this area and will be responsible for our alarm permit registrations, false alarm billings, and educational material. Per Chief Goodwin, PM AM has a record of providing excellent customer service. As of July 1, A False Alarm Management System (FAMS) website has been established to assist City of Merced customers atwww.FAMSpermit.com/Merced . Prior to July 1, please continue to contact the Merced Police Department at 209-388-7800 for questions or permit processing.

The goal of the ordinance and the city’s partnership with PM AM is to reduce the number of false alarm activations requiring a response by the Merced Police Department. Chief Goodwin states, “This will free up police resources and reduce the fines levied on alarm customers by having a company who can reach out to the citizens of our city who may have alarm malfunctions. With this type of partnership the alarm owner should be notified quickly of any false alarms so that they can correct the malfunction.” With fewer false alarm activations the officers will be available to respond to the more urgent calls.

For current alarm permit holders, there is nothing that will need to be done. All

account and transaction history will be uploaded to the new system. As of July 1, 2018, users will be able to visit the citizen web portal and they will be able to request a user name and password. Once the user validates their information, the system will email back their username and password. For those citizens who are unable to complete the new account setup, you may contact PM AM at 1-888-387-1959 and a customer service representative will be able to assist you.

Initial Alarm Registration: The City of Merced Alarm Ordinance requires all residents and businesses to apply for an alarm permit by completing an online application available atwww.FAMSpermit.com/Merced. Alternatively, citizens can also complete the application by hand and send it to:

City of Merced False Alarm Reduction Program
P.O. Box 141415
Irving, TX 75014

Failure to register your alarm will result in additional penalties or fines.

For any questions related to the City of Merced Alarm Reduction Program, please call PM AM at 1-888-387-1958 Monday through Friday 6:30 AM to 3:30 PM PST.

July 10 , 2018

The Next Chapter of California’s Water Wars Has Begun

(Sacramento) – Assemblymember Adam C. Gray (D-Merced) released the following statement condemning today’s announcement from the State Water Resources Control Board to ignore decade’s worth of science and public opinion by adopting radical new requirements to seize and waste critically needed San Joaquin Valley water supplies.

“The State Water Resources Control Board’s decision today is the first shot fired in the next chapter of California’s water wars. The board has chosen to create, in their own words, ‘a permanent regulatory drought’ and shrugged off our concerns as ‘significant but unavoidable’.

This is what theft looks like. A small group of special interests have spent years plotting one of the largest water takes in our state’s history. They attempted and failed to change the law and win in court, so instead they have infiltrated government itself. They positioned their allies to influence the process from within and spent hundreds of millions of dollars of taxpayer money to prop up their house of cards. Despite entire agencies at their disposal and seemingly unlimited funds, no amount of trickery can obscure the truth – their fish first philosophy will decimate our region, poison our drinking water, and provide no environmental benefit what-so-ever.

These special interests are desperate to claim the moral high ground and demonize our entire region. They speak about the people of the San Joaquin Valley as if we are parasites on the land and demand we apologize for our very existence.

They do this because without the zealous drumbeat of environmentalism on

Assemblymember Adam C. Gray

their side, the truth would have an opportunity to surface. People would begin to question the wisdom of poisoning the drinking water of poor immigrant communities or the sense in decimating the farms that feed the nation and fields that make California’s farm-to-fork movement possible. People would question why the proponents of a plan designed to save fish cannot demonstrate any meaningful benefit to those very fish or why the questions and concerns of a million people do not deserve even a halfhearted response. People might even question whether it is really environmentally friendly to sacrifice the health of one environment for the health of another.

They have left us no alternative. We will continue to negotiate with the best interests of the Valley at heart, but, if the state continues to violate the principles of good faith, a decades worth of lawsuits are about to begin.

The final public comment period is now open until July 27th with final adoption scheduled for August 21st. Please submit your comments to tell the State Water Board exactly how their plan will impact your community. They have made the comment period short to try to keep us quiet. Let’s not let them.”

July 10, 2018

TRAFFIC ADVISORY
RAMP CLOSURES
STATE ROUTE 99 FROM THE TRUCK INSPECTION STATION
TO LE GRAND ROAD IN MERCED COUNTY

MERCED COUNTY – The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) will perform full on and off-ramp closures on northbound and southbound State Route 99 (SR-99) from the truck inspection station to Le Grand Road in Merced County for striping work.

Work is scheduled as follows:

• Full on-ramp closure from the truck inspection station to northbound SR-99 beginning Sunday, July 8, 2018, through Friday, July 13, 2018, from 8:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m.

• Full on and off-ramp closures on northbound and southbound SR-99 at Sandy Mush Road and at Le Grand Road beginning Sunday, July 8, 2018, through Friday, July 13, 2018, from 8:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m.

This work is part of a project that is re-striping 27 miles total of SR-99 in Merced County.
The 6-inch stripes being installed improve the safety and mobility of the roadway by improving visibility and road comprehension for motorists. The reflective material used is also beneficial for emerging technology that allows autonomous vehicles to “see” the road clearly.
There will also be intermittent lane closures for 11 miles on southbound SR-99 from Harvard Avenue to the Merced/Madera County line at the same time as the ramp closures.
Motorists should expect 10 minute delays. Alternate routes should be taken whenever possible.

This work is scheduled to begin as listed, but is subject to change due to traffic incidents, weather, availability of equipment and/or materials and construction related issues.

For the safety of workers and other motorists,please Slow For the Cone Zone.

CONSTRUCTION ADVISORY
STATE ROUTE 59 FROM THE BLACK RASCAL CANAL
TO OAKDALE ROAD IN MERCED COUNTY

MERCED COUNTY – The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) is performing pavement work on northbound and southbound State Route 59 (SR-59) from the south fork of the Black Rascal Canal to Oakdale Road in Merced.
Work is scheduled as follows:
• One-way traffic control on northbound and southbound SR-59 from Black Rascal Canal to Belcher Avenue beginning Sunday, July 8, 2018, through Monday, July 9, 2018, from 9:00 p.m. until 7:00 a.m. for grinding and paving.

• One-way traffic control on northbound and southbound SR-59 from Belcher Avenue to Oakdale Road beginning Tuesday, July 10, 2018, through Friday, July 13, 2018, from 6:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. for grinding and paving.

This work is part of a 6.8 mile pavement improvement project on SR-59.
The purpose of this project is to restore the roadway, extend the service life of the pavement and to limit costly maintenance efforts for the future, both for motorists and taxpayers. An overlay of rubberized asphalt concrete will be used to enhance this section of SR-59/Snelling Highway – a pivotal roadway for local motorists and agricultural traffic.
Motorists should expect 10 minute delays. Alternate routes should be taken whenever possible.

Work is scheduled to begin as listed, but is subject to change due to traffic incidents, weather, availability of equipment and/or materials and construction related issues.

TRAFFIC ADVISORY
LONG-TERM FULL HIGHWAY CLOSURE
STATE ROUTE 49 FROM BEAR VALLEY ROAD
TO STATE ROUTE 132 IN MARIPOSA COUNTY

MARIPOSA COUNTY – The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) has closed northbound and southbound State Route 49 (SR-49) long term for approximately 15 miles from Bear Valley to the junction with SR-132. (Due to the Fourth of July holiday, there is no scheduled construction Wednesday, July 4, 2018, or Thursday, July 5, 2018.)

The closure is necessary for repair work due to the violent storm on Thursday, March 22, 2018. Caltrans crews and construction partners are working to re-open this section of SR-49 by Wednesday, August 1, 2018.
The roadway on this stretch of SR-49 was severely eroded due to the massive amount of water and must be given a new foundation and fully repaired before re-opening. This effort is to ensure the safety and efficiency of the roadway for motorists.

The town of Coulterville is accessible via southbound SR-49 and via eastbound and westbound SR-132. SR-49 and SR-132 meet in Coulterville. Businesses are open in Coulterville.

Motorists can expect an additional hour of travel time due to the closure.

Work is scheduled to begin as listed, but is subject to change due to traffic incidents, weather, availability of equipment and/or materials and construction related issues. For videos on the storm repair work being done by Caltrans and our construction partners, go to: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_XAGWcbbqoV2h6LOQR7WnQ

June 26, 2018

Turn in illegal fireworks, no questions asked

People possess illegal fireworks and want to get rid of them legally can dispose of them during the City’s Safe Surrender Day Sat., June 30 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
“We’re not going to ask any questions. We don’t care how you got them, we just want them off the streets and out of people’s homes,” said Merced Fire Chief Michael Wilkinson.
People can turn the fireworks in at Fire Station 51, the Fire Department’s headquarters, located at 99 E. 16th St. Fire personnel will be on hand to take them and put them in a safe container.
“This isn’t some sort of a sting operation,” Merced Police Chief Chris Goodwin said. “This is a public safety campaign. Illegal fireworks are dangerous. They can cause fires, they can hurt people, they are a public nuisance. We just want people to know how they can safely get rid of illegal fireworks without setting them off.”
The City has cracked down on illegal fireworks and so far four people were arrested for the sale of illegal fireworks. The police and fire department have plans for holiday enforcement teams to patrol City streets during the Fourth of July holidays citing people for setting off illegal fireworks. Fines can range from $1,000 to $2,000 and there is the possibility of criminal prosecution.
Illegal fireworks are generally anything that explodes or leaves the ground, and doesn’t have the California Fire Marshal’s Seal of Approval. They would include firecrackers, barrel bombs, M-80s, skyrockets and mortars. They are commonly bought out-of-state and brought into California. It’s also illegal to modify the “safe and sane” fireworks that are sold in Merced.
People with questions about Safe Surrender Day can call 209-388-SAFE (388-7233).
Call 388-SAFE to report illegal fireworks
People are encouraged to report anyone they see or know who is buying, selling, distributing, possessing or setting off illegal fireworks by calling 209-388-SAFE (388-7233). Someone will answer the line as available, but all messages will be followed up on.
Please don’t call 911 except to report a fire or injury. Part of the problem with illegal fireworks is that authorities usually receive multiple calls for any one offender. One neighbor setting off numerous skyrockets can swamp the 911 dispatchers with many calls on the same incident. The 209-388-SAFE number relieves pressure on the emergency dispatchers but still allows the illegal fireworks to get reported and acted upon.

On July 3 and 4 there will be a call center opened from 7 p.m. to 3 a.m. and operators will be answering the phones and sending reports of illegal fireworks directly to dispatchers. The information will be forwarded to teams in the field.
In addition, people can report illegal fireworks by sending an email tocelebratesafe@cityofmerced.org. Those emails will also get forwarded to authorities.
A third option is to report illegal fireworks using the Merced Connect app. The Merced Connect app is free and available at the Apple Store and Google Play. In addition to allowing you to report illegal fireworks, residents can obtain other information about City government.

June 22, 2018

A heat wave arrives, cooling zone opens over weekend

The City of Merced will open its cooling zone Saturday and Sunday as a heat wave arrives in the first days of summer. Temperatures are forecast to reach 105 degrees for Saturday and 102 Sunday before dropping to 98 degrees on Monday.

The cooling zone for the City of Merced will be in the Sam Pipes Room of the Merced Civic Center, (City Hall) 678 W. 18th St. from 3 to 8 p.m. People can bring their pets to the cooling zone as long as they don’t disturb other people or pets.

“This weather doesn’t look like it will last long, but it is opening the door for a hot summer time,” said Assistant City Manager Stephanie Dietz. “The cooling zone will give residents a cool place to go to escape the summer heat.”

“As always, we are asking people to check in on your neighbors, watch out for our vulnerable populations,” Dietz said. “Try to stay cool, and don’t leave kids or pets in your vehicles.”

People are reminded to stay hydrated during the heat wave, wear loose clothes and light colored fabrics.

Information on other cooling zones in Merced County can be found atwww.co.merced.ca.us

Below are some tips from the state Office of Emergency Services.

Tips to Prevent Heat Related Illness
• Never leave infants, children or the frail elderly unattended in a parked car.
• Drink plenty of fluids. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty.
• Dress in lightweight, loose-fitting clothing. Use a hat and sunscreen as needed.
• Drink fruit juice or a sports beverage to replace salts and minerals lost during heavy sweating. (If a client/resident is on a low-sodium diet, check with his/her physician first.)
• During the hottest parts of the day, keep physical activities to a minimum and stay indoors in air-conditioning and out of the sun.
• Use fans as needed.
• Open windows to allow fresh air to circulate when appropriate.
• Use cool compresses, misting, showers and baths.
• Avoid hot foods and heavy meals—they add heat to the body. Eat frozen treats.
Read more: Division of Occupational Safety & Health (bilingual resources), Center for Disease Control and Prevention Tips for Preventing Heat-related Illness

Heat Stroke and Heat Exhaustion
Heat stroke—which occurs when the body can’t control its temperature—may result in disability or death if emergency treatment is not given. Heat exhaustion occurs when the body loses a large amount of water and salt contained in sweat.
Warning signs of heat stroke vary, but may include:
• An extremely high body temperature (above 103 degrees Fahrenheit, orally)
• Unconsciousness
• Dizziness, nausea and confusion
• Red, hot and dry skin (no sweating)
• Rapid, strong pulse
• Throbbing headache
Warning signs of heat exhaustion vary, but may include:
• Heavy sweating
• Muscle cramps
• Weakness
• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Paleness, tiredness, dizziness

What to Do
If you see any of these signs for heat stroke or heat exhaustion, you may be dealing with a life-threatening emergency and should do the following:
• Have someone call 911 while you begin cooling the victim.
• Get the victim to a shady area.
• Cool the victim rapidly with a cool bath or shower, or by sponging with cool water, until body temperature drops to 101-102 degrees Fahrenheit, orally.
• If emergency medical personnel are delayed, call the hospital emergency room for further instructions.
• Do not give the victim alcohol to drink.
• Again, get medical assistance as soon as possible.
If a victim’s muscles twitch uncontrollably as a result of heat stroke, keep the victim from injuring him/herself, but do not place any object in the mouth and do not give fluids. If there is vomiting, make sure the airway remains open by turning the victim on his/her side.

June 22, 2018

Assemblymember Adam Gray Honors Veteran of the Year

Assemblymember Adam Gray honored Modesto American GI Forum Commander Steve Fimbrez as the Veteran of the Year for the 21st Assembly District. Commander Fimbrez was honored yesterday at a luncheon in Sacramento.

Steve joined the U.S. Air Force in July 1975, and he was sent to Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio Texas for basic training. After completing basic training he was stationed at Chanute Air Force Base in Rantoul Illinois where he trained to become a Fire
Protection Specialist. Later Steve received additional training at Chanute Air Force Base for Munitions and advanced Firefighter Rescue training. Steve was honorably discharged from the Air Force in July 1979.Upon returning to his home state of California, Steve continued his career as a Firefighter at the Defense Depot in Tracy, California. In January of 1982 he was hired by the Modesto Fire Department where he rose to the rank of Captain and retired after 33 years of service.

Steve is currently serving as the Commander for the American GI Forum PFC Oscar Sanchez Chapter of Modesto. He also serves as the Secretary for the State of California American GI Forum, and is the second Vice Commander for the newly formed American GI
Forum Riders, which is a veteran’s motorcycle and car club. Steve is currently serving as the veteran representative for the Stanislaus County Commission on Aging.

“Our community is fortunate to have such a dedicated individual such as Steve Fimbrez serving the needs of our veterans and their families,” said Assemblymember Gray. “Steve is a stellar example of how many in our armed forces continue their service for a lifetime.”

Modesto American GI Forum Commander Steve Fimbrez as the Veteran of the Year for the 21st Assembly District.

June 22, 2018

CONSTRUCTION ADVISORY
STATE ROUTE 59 FROM THE BLACK RASCAL CANAL
TO OAKDALE ROAD IN MERCED COUNTY

MERCED COUNTY – The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) is performing pavement work on northbound and southbound State Route 59 (SR-59) from the south fork of the Black Rascal Canal to Oakdale Road in Merced.
Work is scheduled as follows:
• One-way traffic control on northbound and southbound SR-59 from Black Rascal Canal to Belcher Avenue beginning Monday, June 25, 2018, through Friday, June 29, 2018, from 7:00 p.m. until 7:00 a.m. for grinding and paving.

• One-way traffic control on northbound and southbound SR-59 from Belcher Avenue to Oakdale Road beginning Monday, June 25, 2018, through Friday, June 29, 2018, from 6:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. for grinding and paving.

This work is part of a 6.8 mile pavement improvement project on SR-59.
The purpose of this project is to restore the roadway, extend the service life of the pavement and to limit costly maintenance efforts for the future, both for motorists and taxpayers. An overlay of rubberized asphalt concrete will be used to enhance this section of SR-59/Snelling Highway – a pivotal roadway for local motorists and agricultural traffic.
Motorists should expect 15 minute delays. Alternate routes should be taken whenever possible.

Work is scheduled to begin as listed, but is subject to change due to traffic incidents, weather, availability of equipment and/or materials and construction related issues.

CONSTRUCTION ADVISORY
STATE ROUTE 33 FROM MCCABE ROAD
TO STATE ROUTE 140 IN MERCED COUNTY

MERCED COUNTY – The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) will perform one-way traffic control on northbound and southbound State Route 33 (SR-33) from McCabe Road in Santa Nella to SR-140 in Gustine for pavement work.

Work is scheduled beginning Sunday, June 24, 2018, through Friday, June 29, 2018, from 8:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m.

This work is part of a project that will install a slurry seal (a mixture that rejuvenates pavement) and asphalt overlays for 13.3 miles from SR-152 to SR-140 in Merced County.

Slurry seal is economical, corrects existing distresses in the roadway such as surface cracking and makes pavement waterproof to prevent further deterioration.

Motorists should expect 15 minute delays. Alternate routes should be taken whenever possible.

Work is scheduled to begin as listed, but is subject to change due to traffic incidents, weather, availability of equipment and/or materials, and construction related issues.

TRAFFIC ADVISORY
RAMP CLOSURES
STATE ROUTE 99 AT GOLDEN STATE BOULEVARD IN TURLOCK

TURLOCK – The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) will perform shoulder work on northbound and southbound State Route 99 (SR-99) at Golden State Boulevard in Merced County.

Full on and off-ramp closures are scheduled on northbound and southbound SR-99 at Golden State Boulevard beginning Sunday, June 24, 2018, through Tuesday, June 26, 2018, from 9:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m.

The closures for shoulder work at Golden State Boulevard are part of a project that will replace the two outside lanes and shoulder on northbound and southbound SR-99, from just north of Bradbury Road to just north of the county line.
Motorists should expect 10 minute delays. Alternate routes should be taken whenever possible.

This work is scheduled to begin as listed, but is subject to change due to traffic incidents, weather, availability of equipment and/or materials and construction related issues.

TRAFFIC ADVISORY
LONG-TERM FULL HIGHWAY CLOSURE
STATE ROUTE 49 FROM BEAR VALLEY ROAD
TO STATE ROUTE 132 IN MARIPOSA COUNTY

Northbound and southbound SR-49 from the Mariposa/Tuolumne County line to Moccasin/SR-120 was re-opened on Wednesday, May 23, 2018. Eastbound and westbound SR-132 from Granite Springs Road to Piney Creek Road in Mariposa County was re-opened on Friday, May 18, 2018.

Motorists can expect an additional hour of travel time due to the closure.

For the safety of workers and other motorists,please Slow For the Cone Zone.

June 22, 2018

Costa Continues Advocating for Bipartisan Farm Bill

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Jim Costa (CA-16) released the following statement after the House of Representative passed H.R. 2, more commonly known as the Farm Bill, with a razor-thin margin vote of 213 to 211:

“The partisan Farm Bill the House passed today abandons some of the most vulnerable people in our Valley. At the same time, it fails to build on the farm policies in previous Farm Bills that have successfully supported California producers. As I said when I voted against this exact same bill last month, it simply fails our farmers and our families. Worst of all, while the House advanced a bad Farm Bill today, it has failed to address the two largest issues currently facing California agriculture: ensuring a stable agricultural workforce and dealing with the President’s unnecessary and harmful trade war.

“While I do not support the Farm Bill the House passed, I am hopeful that the action taken today will bring us one step closer to conferencing with the U.S. Senate. I look forward to getting back to work on a bipartisan Farm Bill that serves farmers, feeds Americans, and provides our nation with food security.”

Congressman Jim Costa

June 21, 2018

Turn in illegal fireworks, no questions asked

June 20, 2018

Christopher Goodwin named Merced Police Chief

(A swearing in ceremony for Merced Police Chief Christopher Goodwin will be held at 1:30 p.m. Friday, July 6 in the City Council Chambers on the second floor of the Merced Civic Center, (City Hall) 678 W. 18th St., Merced.)

From patrolling the streets of Merced, to managing drug informants, to supervising the SWAT team, Christopher Goodwin has pretty much done it all in the Merced Police Department.

On June 18, he will have achieved the top position in the Department as he becomes the police chief for the City of Merced.

Goodwin, a 21-year veteran of the Department, has been doing the job temporarily since the retirement of Chief Norman Andrade in December.

“Chris was the best person for the job,” City Manager Steve Carrigan said when he made the announcement Tuesday. “He knows the City, he knows the community, he knows the Department. He has everything I was looking for in a police chief.

“Chief Goodwin is the most qualified for the job. He’s been a beat cop, he’s commanded the patrol officers and command staff, he’s led SWAT and the training program,” Carrigan said. “And a big advantage he has is that Chris has been doing the chief’s job for the last seven months where he has been terrific, so it will be a seamless transition.”

“It’s a lot of work being chief, but I’m excited for this opportunity to work with the community and the City and the individuals in this Department,” Goodwin said. “I received a lot of support over the last several months from people asking me to take the job, so I feel good about that.”

“Law enforcement is a challenging profession right now,” he said. “To overcome that will take training within the Department, developing competent personnel, and listening to the community. We need to respond to their needs. The more we can get feedback and communicate with the community, the better off we will be.”

To address the challenges Goodwin is working on a body camera/video policy and increasing and enhancing the use of social media in the Department.

The chief plans to bring a policy to the City Council that would outline the release of video from officer worn body cameras and car cameras. “It comes back to being more transparent to the community, and also being able to tell our side of the story,” he said.

“That’s why I think we need to use social media more,” Goodwin said. The Department has a Facebook that is mostly used to post news releases. He plans to set up a Twitter account, and train staff to use the platforms to engage the community more.

While serving as interim chief, Goodwin took ownership of the position and focused on needs of the Department.

Recruiting and retention became one of his priorities, so Goodwin and top management went to police academies to conduct interviews with recruits who were reluctant to take a day off from classes and come to Merced to interview for a job.

“We are hiring for dispatchers and police officers” is something Goodwin seems to work into just about every conversation. The change and more aggressive recruiting resulted in numerous candidates applying for jobs in Merced, with three candidates in training and six waiting to start classes in July.

Other changes followed in the Department. A focus on promotions resulted in a new lieutenant and two new sergeants. The Department was reorganized creating better span and control, allowing for better accountability.

The City Council is in the process of evaluating the construction of a new police headquarters building, and Goodwin attended a conference in Dallas devoted to police station construction. He also is one of three top City officials reviewing stacks of cannabis dispensary applications and oversees the background checks on all cannabis business applications.

When Goodwin took over in January he also was plunged into leading the Department’s budget process for the upcoming year. Council indicated it will be adding two dispatchers and a new officer to the force, moving an officer off of Measure C funding and into the general fund and moving a police officer position up to a sergeant’s position as part of his span and control reorganization.

The City contracts with Merced College to run the campus police department. Goodwin sees that as a beneficial partnership in many ways.

“The criminal justice and reserve classes will help us with recruiting,” he said. “The arrangement let’s us know what’s going on out there because it’s almost a small city unto itself. Now we know and work with the campus officers in case we have to call on them for backup, and we’re working with the college administration on how the campus impacts the City.”

He also plans to reach out to other jurisdictions to begin working with them.

Goodwin worked his way up through the ranks of the Department starting as a patrol officer in 1996. He’s served as a field training officer, detective and sergeant on patrol and in the Gang Violence Suppression Unit. He served as a lieutenant and captain before his appointment to chief. He was in the Department’s SWAT unit and defense tactics instructor, supervisor, lieutenant and captain until he took the reins as chief. Goodwin has been involved with the Department’s active shooter program since 2000.

He holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in criminal science.

Born in Santa Clara and raised in Campbell, he came to Merced as a police officer in 1996. His wife, Jackie, is a local businesswoman. He has a daughter and two sons.

Goodwin is a “huge” college sports fan who became mildly obsessed with the North Carolina Tarheels basketball in the 80s and it has stuck. He also enjoys duck hunting when it is in season and working out with CrossFit.

Goodwin officially assumes the position June 18. The position of police chief pays up to $157,372 a year.

June 20, 2018

Wolfsen’s Meat and Sausage Honored at the State Capitol as 2018 Small Business of the Year for AD 21

Assemblyman Adam Gray (D-Merced) joined Vance, Donna, and Warren Wolfsen as they were honored as this year’s “Small Business of the Year” at a luncheon in Sacramento. The annual “Small Business Day” event and luncheon are organized in partnership with the California Small Business Association, and feature representatives from each of California’s 120 Legislative districts.
Wolfsen’s began as the “West Side Locker” in the 1940s offering custom butchering for wild game hunters. The current owners purchased the business in 1988 and eventually focused in on their mission of making and selling high quality meats and sausages. They are known for their “old-world style linguica,” enjoyed by many Merced County natives, and their store has attracted a regular following of customers from every corner of California. Assemblymember Gray and the Wolfsen family were surprised to encounter the honorees from the 13th Assembly District, Genova Bakery of Stockton, which provides Wolfsen’s with the artisan bread used in their deli.
“Today was a wonderful opportunity to recognize the contributions of California’s small businesses – they are the backbone of our economy,” said Gray.

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Assemblymember Adam C. Gray represents the 21st Assembly District which includes all of Merced County and portions of Stanislaus County.

Assemblyman Adam Gray (D-Merced) joined Vance, Donna, and Warren Wolfsen

June 20, 2018

Merced receives grant for physical activity program

MERCED – The City of Merced Parks and Recreation Department, in collaboration with Dignity Health, will soon be offering adults with arthritis a new way to manage pain and stay fit. Thanks to an instructor training grant from the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the City of Merced in collaboration with Dignity Health will offer the Walk With Ease (WWE) program to the Merced community. Merced City Parks and Recreation is one of 88 park and recreation agencies to receive the WWE instructor training grant.

The WWE program, developed by the Arthritis Foundation, is scientifically proven to help reduce pain and stiffness associated with arthritis, but also offers benefits for people managing other chronic conditions. Studies by the Thurston Arthritis Research Center and the Institute on Aging at the University of North Carolina have shown that the WWE program contributes to reduced pain, increased balance and strength, increased levels of physical activity, and improved overall health.
Together, NRPA and the CDC aim to reach more people living with arthritis and other chronic conditions to improve their levels of physical activity and quality of life through this trusted and measurable program administered by local parks and recreation agencies across the country.
“Sixty percent of adults in the United States suffer from one or more chronic conditions,” said Joey Chavez, Interim Director of Parks and Recreation. “This grant from NRPA and the CDC allows us to help the

older adults in our community, and adds a new way Merced residents can work to achieve a healthy lifestyle. We are excited because this is a new type of program offering for our community, and we hope many people will take advantage of it.”

The programs provided by Parks and Recreation in collaboration with Dignity Health will be offered at the Mercy Outpatient Center located at 2740 M. Street on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 9 to 10 a.m. Classes run for six weeks and are taught by certified and trained instructors. The classes are ideally suited for anyone that is interested in a low-impact exercise program in their local community, especially those looking to manage their chronic condition. The first session is scheduled to begin June 25, with other sessions rolling out throughout the summer and fall. To register visit the Parks and Recreation office at 632 W. 18th Street, Merced, CA 95340.
For more information, call 385-6235 or visithttps://www.cityofmerced.org/depts/parks_n_community_services/default.asp

The National Recreation and Park Association is a national not-for-profit organization dedicated to advancing park, recreation and conservation efforts that enhance quality of life for all people. Through its network of more than 60,000 recreation and park professionals and citizens, NRPA encourages the promotion of healthy and active lifestyles, conservation initiatives and equitable access to parks and public space. For more information, visit www.nrpa.org. For digital access to NRPA’s flagship publication,Parks & Recreation, visit www.parksandrecreation.org.

June 20, 2018

CONSTRUCTION ADVISORY
CALTRANS TO BEGIN PAVEMENT IMPROVEMENT PROJECT
ON STATE ROUTE 33 IN MERCED COUNTY

MERCED COUNTY – The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) is preparing to begin a 13.3 mile pavement improvement project on State Route 33 (SR-33) from SR-152 to SR-140.

This project will include a slurry seal (a mixture which rejuvenates pavement), and hot mixed asphalt and rubberized hot mixed asphalt overlays to extend the service life of the pavement and improve the safety and efficiency of the roadway for motorists.

Slurry seal is economical, corrects existing distresses in the roadway like cracking in the surface and makes pavement waterproof to prevent further deterioration.

This work is scheduled to be done at night, and motorists should expect 15 minute delays. There will be lane closures, shoulder closures, and temporary on and off-ramp closures.

This $3.8 million project has been awarded to Granite Construction Company. Construction is scheduled to begin on Sunday, June 24, 2018, and to be completed in October 2018.
While this project is not funded by SB 1, many “fix-it-first” projects like this one are beginning throughout the state to improve roadways. There will be $15 billion used for “fix-it-first” highway repairs across the next decade, including smoothing pavement and filling potholes.

Work is scheduled to begin as listed, but is subject to change due to traffic incidents, weather, availability of equipment and/or materials and construction related issues.

For the safety of workers and other motorists,please Slow For the Cone Zone.

June 8, 2018

Assemblymember Gray Honors CASA of Merced County
as the Nonprofit of the Year in Sacramento

Sacramento – Assemblymember Adam Gray was pleased to honor the Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Merced County as the 2018 California Nonprofit of the Year from his Assembly District at California Nonprofits Day at the Capitol.

Cathie Lancaster, Executive Director, Nancy Young-Bergman, Founding President, and Bette Woolstenhulme, former Board President, traveled to Sacramento to join with one hundred other nonprofit leaders to be honored by their state Senators and Assemblymembers during a celebration luncheon as part of the 2018 California Nonprofits Day.

“CASA volunteers are often the key element in improving the lives and future of children in the Dependency Court System,” according to Assemblymember Gray. “What these generous and caring members of our community do for some of our most vulnerable children cannot be overstated.”

Founded in September 2010, Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Merced County is dedicated to providing quality intervention and advocacy services for abused, abandoned, and neglected children. CASA is seen nationally as a positive solution to the high volume of dependency cases, and Merced County faces one of the highest caseloads per capita in the state. CASA provides important information to the Court in order to assist the judge in making the life-changing decisions that he must make.

“Children in Merced County need our protection,” said Cathie Lancaster. “Almost 5,600 reports of child abuse or neglect in Merced County are recorded annually. As of 2017, the number of children in foster care was over 500. Many of these children are no longer able to be returned to their parents in hopes of reunification and are waiting adoption or being placed in permanent foster homes.”

Cathie Lancaster, Executive Director, Nancy Young-Bergman, Founding President, and Bette Woolstenhulme, former Board President, and Adam Gray

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California Nonprofits Day, now in its third year, was formally recognized by Assembly Concurrent Resolution 191, authored by the chair of the Assembly Select Committee on the Nonprofit Sector, Assemblywoman Monique Limon (Santa Barbara), who spoke at the celebration luncheon. The day is organized by Assemblymember Limon and CalNonprofits.

According to “Causes Count,” a 2016 report commissioned by CalNonprofits, the nonprofit sector is the 4th largest industry in the state, employing nearly one million people. Each year, California nonprofits generate over $200 billion in revenue and bring in $40 billion in revenue from outside of California. The unpaid labor contributed by volunteers at nonprofits is equivalent to 450,000 full-time jobs every year.

June 8, 2018

Make a splash this summer in a pool near you

This week recreational swim is coming to a pool near you, brought to you by the Merced Parks and Recreation Department.

Recreational swimming will begin the week of June 11 at McNamara Pool, from 3 to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. There also will be rec swimming at Golden Valley High School pool, 2121 E. Childs Ave., Saturdays and Sundays from 2 to 5 p.m. Cost of recreational swimming is $1 for swimmers under 18 and $2 for adults.

But it’s Free Swim Fridays at McNamara Pool for kids thanks to the generosity of the Merced Satellite Rotary Club, which is covering the cost of swimming for youths to swim every Friday afternoon. Sorry adults, you may feel like a kid, but if you’re over 18 it will still cost two bucks to swim.

All of the aquatics programs run through Aug. 12.

June 8, 2018

CONSTRUCTION ADVISORY
CALTRANS TO BEGIN PAVEMENT REHABILITATION PROJECT
ON STATE ROUTE 59/SNELLING HIGHWAY IN MERCED COUNTY

MERCED COUNTY – The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) is preparing a project to rehabilitate pavement on northbound and southbound State Route 59 (SR-59)/Snelling Highway in and near Merced.
This project spans 6.8 miles, from the south fork of the Black Rascal Canal to just south of Oakdale Road.
The purpose of this project is to restore the roadway, extend the service life of the pavement and to limit costly maintenance efforts for the future, both for motorists and taxpayers. An overlay of rubberized asphalt concrete (RAC) will be used to enhance this section of SR-59/Snelling Highway – a pivotal roadway for local motorists and agricultural traffic.
This $2.2 million project has been awarded to Teichert Construction.
Work is scheduled to begin on Sunday, June 10, 2018, and to be completed in October 2018.

This work will be done using one-way traffic control and is scheduled during both the daytime and nighttime. Motorists should expect 20 minute delays. Alternate routes should be taken whenever possible.

While this project is not funded by SB 1, many pavement-based “fix-it-first” projects are and will continue to be across the next decade.

Due to SB 1, Caltrans will allocate $15 billion for “fix-it-first” repairs, similar to the smoothing of pavement on SR-59, throughout the next 10 years. Construction is scheduled to begin as listed, but is subject to change due to traffic incidents, weather, availability of equipment and/or materials and construction related issues.

TRAFFIC ADVISORY
RAMP CLOSURES
STATE ROUTE 99 FROM STATE ROUTE 140 IN MERCED
TO THE MERCED/STANISLAUS COUNTY LINE IN TURLOCK

MERCED COUNTY – The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) will perform various road construction activities on northbound and southbound State Route 99 (SR-99) from SR-140 to the Merced/Stanislaus County line. Ramp closures are scheduled as follows:

• Various full on and off-ramp closures on northbound and southbound SR-99 from SR-140 to Golden State Boulevard in Turlock beginning Sunday, June 10, 2018, through Friday, June 15, 2018, from 7:00 p.m. until 5:00 a.m. for bridge work.

• Various full on and off-ramp closures on northbound and southbound SR-99 from SR-140 to SR-140/SR-59 (V Street) in Merced beginning Tuesday, June 12, 2018, through Wednesday, June 13, 2018, from 7:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m. for bridge work.

• Full off-ramp closure from northbound and southbound SR-99 to Golden State Boulevard beginning Sunday, June 10, 2018, through Friday, June 15, 2018, from 9:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m. for shoulder work.

The full off-ramp closures at Golden State Boulevard are part of a project that will replace the two outside lanes and shoulder on both northbound and southbound SR-99, from just north of Bradbury Road to just north of the county line.
Motorists should expect 10 minute delays. Alternate routes should be taken whenever possible.

This work is scheduled to begin as listed, but is subject to change due to traffic incidents, weather, availability of equipment and/or materials and construction related issues.

TRAFFIC ADVISORY
LONG-TERM FULL HIGHWAY CLOSURE
STATE ROUTE 49 FROM BEAR VALLEY ROAD
TO STATE ROUTE 132 IN MARIPOSA COUNTY

MARIPOSA COUNTY – The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) has closed northbound and southbound State Route 49 (SR-49) for approximately 15 miles from Bear Valley to the junction with SR-132.

The closure is long term and is necessary for repair work due to the violent storm on March 22, 2018. Caltrans crews and construction partners are working to re-open this section of SR-49 by August 1, 2018.
The roadway on this stretch of SR-49 was severely eroded due to the massive amount of water, and must be given a new foundation and fully repaired before re-opening. This effort is to ensure the safety and efficiency of the roadway for motorists.

Motorists can expect an additional hour of travel time due to the closure.

Work is scheduled to begin as listed, but is subject to change due to traffic incidents, weather, availability of equipment and/or materials and construction related issues.

For videos on the storm repair work being done by Caltrans and our construction partners, go to: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_XAGWcbbqoV2h6LOQR7WnQ.

For the safety of workers and other motorists,please Slow For the Cone Zone.

June 8, 2018

Costa Advances Legislation to Improve Water Reliability and Flood Protection

Washington, D.C. – Yesterday, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a significant piece of water infrastructure legislation – H.R. 8, the Water Resources Development Act – by a vote of 408 to 2. Congressman Jim Costa (CA-16) worked on a bipartisan basis to improve the legislation by including one provision that would increase water supply reliability in California’s San Joaquin Valley and another provision that could reduce permit compliance costs for utility ratepayers.

Rep. Costa’s first amendment incorporates into the Water Resources Development Act a bipartisan measure Costa has been leading in the House. The legislation would resolve a legal technicality that makes it more difficult to improve the structure and operations of water reservoirs than current law intends. This would have a real impact in the Valley, as it would allow Merced Irrigation District to move forward with a project to raise the spillway gates at New Exchequer Dam. When completed, this project will increase water supplies for eastern Merced County by 57,000 acre-feet during some years.

The second amendment Congressman Costa helped lead would make permanent a budget-neutral solution that has been successfully helping the Army Corps of Engineers work through its backlog of project permitting. Currently, the Corps has the authority to allow utility companies to pay for additional staffing to help the Corps complete its review process on the utility’s project. The amendment, which Rep. Costa cosponsored with fellow
Valley Congressman Jeff Denham (CA-10), eliminates the expiration date on

Congressman Jim Costa
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the Corps’s authority to accept such staffing support when offered. Accordingly, the Corps can continue to choose this option as a way to complete project reviews more quickly without reducing the quality or thoroughness of the review.

Costa described both amendments as “straightforward, commonsense solutions that address our daily water realities and infrastructure needs in the Valley and across California.”

June 7, 2018

Fireworks blamed for grass fire

On June 4, 2018 the Merced City Fire Department responded to a vegetation fire in the area of Martin Luther King Jr. Way and 19thstreet. Upon arrival at the fire, five separate spot fires were located. It was determined that the fires were started by fireworks.

The use of Fireworks is not permitted until June 28th, therefor the use of fireworks was Illegal as well as at least one of the fireworks was not Safe and Sane (was a mortar tube). Two Engine Companies responded and a Battalion Chief to the incident. An unreliable witness said that the fireworks were thrown from a vehicle.

The City of Merced has a Zero Tolerance for illegal fireworks. So far this year, four people have been arrested for the sales of illegal fireworks.

Call 388-SAFE to report illegal fireworks
People are encouraged to report anyone they see or know who is buying, selling, distributing, possessing or setting off illegal fireworks by calling 209-388-SAFE (388-7233). Someone will answer the line as available, but all messages will be followed up on.

Please don’t call 911 except to report a fire or injury. Part of the problem with illegal fireworks is that authorities usually receive multiple calls for any one offender. One neighbor setting off numerous skyrockets can swamp the 911 dispatchers with many calls on the same incident. The 209-388-SAFE number relieves pressure on the emergency dispatchers but still allows the illegal fireworks to get reported and acted upon.

On July 3 and 4 there will be a call center opened from 7 p.m. to 3 a.m. and operators will be answering the phones and sending reports of illegal fireworks directly to dispatchers. The information will be forwarded to teams in the field.

In addition, people can report illegal fireworks by sending an email tocelebratesafe@cityofmerced.org. Those emails will also get forwarded to authorities.

A third option is to report illegal fireworks using the Merced Connect app. The Merced Connect app is free and available at the Apple Store and Google Play. In addition to allowing you to report illegal fireworks, residents can obtain other information about City government.

Turn in illegal fireworks, no questions asked
The City also will hold a fireworks Safe Surrender Day from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, June 30 at Station 51, 99 E. 16th St. where people can turn in illegal fireworks with no questions asked.

June 6, 2018

The Bus kicks off Free Fare Summer program on
National “Dump the Pump” Day

MERCED - The Bus invites members of the community to try the bus on us this summer! Starting on National Dump the Pump Day, June 21 and continuing through August 31, 2018, The Bus will offer FREE service on all fixed routes countywide. By riding public transit, residents can help reduce congestion, minimize their carbon footprint, and save money.
"We are excited to offer free fixed route service throughout summer to encourage people who've never ridden the bus to give it a try,” said Artis Smith, Transit Director. This free service program is made possible through the State of California’s Low Carbon Transit Operations Program (LCTOP) which is provided to transit agencies to improve mobility and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

The Bus schedules and hours of operation can be found at www.mercedthebus.com or by calling The Bus at (209)723-3100. Real-time information regarding bus locations, services and arrival times can be found at www.thebuslive.com. All buses are equipped with bike racks and are wheelchair accessible.
The Bus is the single public transportation service provider for all of Merced County. It is administered by the Transit Joint Powers Authority for Merced County and managed by the Merced County Association of Governments (MCAG).

June 6, 2018

Merced has Zero Tolerance for illegal fireworks

Three men arrested for the sale of illegal fireworks in the City
(EDITORS: For more information on the undercover operation, contact Lt. Alan Ward at 209-388-8840.)
Use a skyrocket or a barrel bomb and it could cost you up to $2,000. Keep using illegal fireworks or sell them and it could land you in court, as three men learned Friday.
Three men were arrested for sale of illegal fireworks Friday as part of the City of Merced’s Zero Tolerance campaign on illegal fireworks.
Officers from the DART team arrested two Livingston men and a Winton man on charges of selling illegal fireworks, advertisement of illegal fireworks and conspiracy to sell illegal fireworks.
Officers seized a large amount of fireworks and $666 in cash in an undercover operation. The three men were booked in the Merced County Jail.
ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY
This year the City of Merced has Zero Tolerance for illegal fireworks in an effort to cut down on fires, injuries, noise, lost pets and neighborhood disruptions.
The Zero Tolerance Policy is in effect for any fireworks not labelled “safe and sane” by the California State Fire Marshall. Basically, if it explodes or leaves the ground, it’s not safe and sane.
Extra officers will be on patrol over the Fourth of July holidays to enforce fireworks violations. There also is a special phone number and email for people to report illegal fireworks.
“The last few years Merced has looked like a battle zone with the sky lit up with skyrockets and the air filled with explosions. It’s time for that to end,” said Council Member Kevin Blake, who asked for the increased enforcement of the City ordinance’s against illegal fireworks.
“I received a number of calls from constituents who had to medicate their pets because they were traumatized due to the loud noises over the holidays,” he said.
“We want people to have a fun Fourth of July, but not a dangerous one, a Fourth that is enjoyable for everyone, including your neighbors,” Blake said.
“We want people to be good neighbors and stick with the ‘safe and sane’ fireworks,” said Mayor Mike Murphy. “Have respect for people. Some of these illegal fireworks explode and leave buildings shaking. They scare little kids, senior citizens, and our veterans and pets who may be sensitive to loud explosions. We need to show consideration for everyone.
“This is the first year of a multi-year campaign. We are expecting to build on it each year,” Murphy said. “Once word gets out that we are serious, that we will cite you, that we will take away your illegal fireworks, people will be less likely to buy them and use them.”
The City shows a definite uptick in fires around the Fourth of July season when fireworks gain in popularity. While not all fires can be attributed to illegal fireworks, last year there July 4th saw 75 percent more calls than the average day, according to Fire Department records.
FIREWORKS RULES
• “Safe and sane” fireworks with the State Fire Marshal seal of approval can only be used from noon June 28 through noon July 6.
• The non-safe and sane fireworks are illegal year-round, 24-7.
• If fireworks can leave the ground or go up in the air they are illegal. Illegal fireworks include cherry bombs, bottle rockets, mortars, aerial shells, M-80s and firecrackers.
• Illegal fireworks the lack of the seal of approval by the California State Fire Marshal.

During the Fourth of July holiday period special teams of police officers and firefighters will be patrolling the City streets tracking down fireworks violators. Once found, the fireworks will be confiscated and the owners will be cited. Repeat offenders could end up in court.
Anyone caught possessing, using or selling dangerous or illegal fireworks is subject to fines ranging from $1,000 to $2,000 as well as criminal prosecution.

HOW TO REPORT ILLEGAL FIREWORKS
The number 209-388-SAFE became active June 1, and people are encouraged to report anyone they see or know who is buying, selling or distributing illegal fireworks. Someone will answer the line as available, but all messages will be followed up on.
Residents can report illegal fireworks displays before the holidays by calling 911.
During July 3 and 4 people are being asked to call 209-388-SAFE (7233) to report illegal fireworks displays, not 911 in order to keep the emergency dispatchers free for urgent calls.
On July 3 and 4 there will be a call center opened from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. and operators will be answering the phones and sending reports of illegal fireworks directly to dispatchers. The information will be forwarded to teams in the field.
Part of the problem with illegal fireworks is that authorities usually receive multiple calls for any one offender. One neighbor setting off numerous skyrockets can swamp the 911 dispatchers with many calls on the same incident. The 209-388-SAFE number relieves pressure on the emergency dispatchers but still allows the illegal fireworks to get reported and acted upon.
In addition, people can report illegal fireworks by sending an email to celebratesafe@cityofmerced.org. Those emails will also get forwarded to authorities.
A third option is to report illegal fireworks using the Merced Connect app. The Merced Connect app is free and available at the Apple Store and Google Play. In addition to allowing you to report illegal fireworks, residents can obtain other information about City government.
The City also will hold a fireworks Safe Surrender Day from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, June 30 at Station 51, 99 E. 16th St. where people can turn in illegal fireworks with no questions asked.

June 6, 2018

Hotel Tioga changes hands, getting improvements

The Hotel Tioga has changed hands and will soon be offering fully renovated and updated market rate apartments in Downtown Merced. The historic building, which opened in 1928, will have commercial spaces on the first floor.

PCG Commercial of Roseville had been marketing the building in early 2017. The property was purchased in April by Hotel Tioga Investors, LLC and will be redeveloped by the same firm. The fully renovated Hotel Tioga will bring additional multimillion dollar investments to downtown and will add to the major economic impacts of the El Capitan Hotel and Mainzer Theater projects that are currently underway.

“The Hotel Tioga was a huge boost for the town 90 years ago, and the sale and work that will be done shortly will once again be transformative,” said Merced Mayor Mike Murphy. “This is another big step forward for Merced and the Downtown.”

“The Hotel Tioga project fits right in with our Downtown Strategy,” Murphy said. “This will promote nightlife, and a diversified center that will include retail and hospitality.”

“This is an exciting time for Merced,” said District 3 Council member Jill McLeod, who represents Downtown area. “The sale of the Hotel Tioga, along with the renovation of the El Capitan and the Mainzer will bring so much new life and energy to the Downtown.”

A DOWNTOWN ICON
The historic building, opened in 1928, has been an icon of Downtown Merced and a social and business hub. Adding the additional market-rate housing to the Downtown housing scene adds a new dimension to the work/life potential in the City’s core. Economic Development Director Frank Quintero said a key element of the Downtown Strategy is having a strong residential base.

Hotel Tioga is strategically located close to the Merced Transportation Center and UC Merced’s Downtown Administration Building on N Street between Main and 16 streets.
“Bringing this much housing to the Downtown will help attract the restaurants and other kinds of businesses that people keep saying they want,” Quintero said. “This can be the foundation for the revitalization of the Downtown that everyone is looking for.”

“This will create the opportunity for something similar to a live-work space, ‘Quintero said. “The live-work unit is actually an idea that has been modernized to meet the needs of entrepreneurs, small businesses and professionals.

“Once revamped, the Hotel Tioga will provide another option for living in Downtown Merced,” Quintero said. “Currently, the vacancy rate in Merced is under 1 percent, so the Hotel Tioga will create new opportunities.”

RENOVATION PLANS
When renovated the apartment units will feature new kitchens, countertops, light fixtures, and flooring. The 73,670-square-foot building will offer a mix of studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom units.

The architect for the project is Page & Turnbull, a full-service architecture, design, planning, and preservation firm that transforms the built environment.

Founded in 1973, the firm has offices in San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Sacramento. It brings together architects, planners, architectural historians, and conservators to take existing structures and adapt them to meet contemporary needs.

Nine decades ago when the Hotel Tioga was built it was aimed at the Yosemite tourists. Visitors could drive up the “all-weather” Highway 140 or take the Yosemite Valley Railroad train to enjoy the natural wonder.

HISTORIC BUILDING
The building, which cost $250,000 to build, is now on the National Register of Historic Places. In its prime it had a ballroom, handcrafted tile floors, art deco ceilings and the City’s first neon sign on the roof that could be seen for miles. Also on the roof were two penthouses with legendary views of the Sierras and the Central Valley.

June 6, 2018

CONSTRUCTION/TRAFFIC ADVISORY
G STREET AND YOSEMITE
INTERSECTION CLOSURE

Snelson Companies, Inc., in partnership with PG&E, will be constructing a new gas main to meet future demand for the UC Merced. For this reason, Snelson Companies, Inc. will be closing westbound Yosemite Avenue at the intersection of G Street and Yosemite Avenue. The work will commence on June 4 until June 11 starting at 9 p.m. to 6 a.m.
Please follow the advance warning signs and detour arrows that will guide you around the jobsite.
This work is scheduled to begin as listed, but is subject to change due to weather, availability of equipment and/or materials, construction related issues, and traffic incidents.

Should you have specific concerns or questions about the project, please contact the PG&E superintendent listed below:
Jack Symonds 209-639-2994

For the safety of the workers and other motorists, please slow down for the construction zone.
Snelson Companies Inc. and PG&E would like to thank you in advance for your patience and cooperation during this project.

June 6, 2018

First Year of Measure V Exceeds Expectations

Merced- In November 2016, Merced County voters passed Measure V – a countywide ½ cent sales tax for transportation- with an overwhelming approval of 71.3%. The sales tax, which went into effect April 1, 2017, was projected to generate an estimated $15 million annually. However, with the first twelve months of revenue collected, Measure V has exceeded projections by nearly $1.8 million - totaling $16.8 million in new revenue. Per the voter-approved Measure V Expenditure Plan, 50% of the new revenue has been allocated directly to the local jurisdictions within Merced County, 44% has been allocated to regional projects on the east and west sides of the county, and 5% to transit uses. MCAG receives 1% of the revenue for administration and implementation activities.
“This is an exciting time for our region” said Patrick Pittenger, Executive Director of MCAG. “Measure V is providing local jurisdictions with the resources to address long-standing street and road maintenance issues, and as a region we are able to plan for and implement much needed improvements to our regional transportation system.”
$8.4 million has been distributed to the six cities and the County of Merced to address local transportation needs such as repairing potholes and bridges, repaving streets, replacing traffic signals and improving sidewalks and bicycle facilities. More than $7 million has been collected for regional projects with 27% dedicated to projects on the east side of the county and 17% to west side. Projects eligible for this funding have been identified by the Measure V East Side and West Side Regional Projects Committees and will go to the MCAG Governing Board for approval later this month.

Since July 2017, The Bus has utilized the Measure V program to provide free fixed route service countywide to seniors, Veterans, and ADA eligible individuals. To date, Measure V has funded over 138,700 free rides to seniors, veterans and ADA eligible individuals with disabilities in Merced County.
MCAG, is the state-designated Local Transportation Authority for Merced County responsible for the implementation and administration of overseeing Measure V. In an effort to keep the community informed about this transformative measure, MCAG features monthly updates in their electronic newsletter which can be found on the MCAG website mcagov.org. Additional information about Measure V including specific project information by jurisdiction can be found at MeasureV-mcag.com.
Merced County Association Governments (MCAG) is the regional transportation planning agency and metropolitan planning organization for Merced County. In addition to regional transportation planning, MCAG also manages The Bus, YARTS and the Merced County Regional Waste Management Authority.

June 6, 2018

Costa Hosts Housing Roundtable to Increase Affordable Homeownership in Merced County

Merced, CA – In his continued efforts to increase access to affordable, safe, and secure housing in the San Joaquin Valley, Congressman Jim Costa (CA-16) hosted a housing roundtable today to bring together key leaders to collaborate on making homeownership an affordable option in Merced County. U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Regional Administrator Jimmy Stracner, additional regional HUD officials, and nearly 20 housing leaders and local officials participated in the roundtable, which also marked this year’s launch of National Homeownership Month.

Merced County’s homeownership statistics fall well below the national average. According to 2016 Census data, the homeownership rate in Merced County is 52.2%, compared to 63.5% nationally.

“Homeownership is the foundation for a strong middle class in America,” said Rep. Jim Costa, who has long worked to make homeownership affordable in the Valley. “The single largest investment that the average American family makes in a lifetime is the purchase of a home. The values of pride of property, understanding the complexity of financing a home, and living in a house where families can flourish are all made possible by homeownership. The purpose of today’s roundtable was to have local and federal leaders sit down together and consider ways to provide more opportunities for homeownership in Merced County.”

During the roundtable, HUD officials discussed the federal agencies and programs specifically aimed at helping Americans buy and maintain safe and secure housing. These include the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) and a nationwide network of nearly 2,100 housing counseling agencies certified by the Office of Housing Counseling (OHC). More than 1.2 million people turned to the FHA for home financing last year alone, while the education and support provided by housing counselors reduce the likelihood homeowners at risk of default end up facing foreclosure by 30%.

“We at HUD are determined to sustain a housing market that is honest and fair for every hard working American,” said HUD Regional Administrator Jimmy Stracner. “Today, we renew our commitment to all responsible future homeowners that seek their share of the American dream.”

“Homeownership is such an integral part of the American dream and experience. We need to explore and take all creative steps necessary to best position our Valley’s residents so that everyone within our region has the opportunity to sustainably own a home,” stated Mark Hendrickson, Director of Community & Economic Development for Merced County.

Congressman Jim Costa
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Kim Rogina, President of the Merced County Association of Realtors, was one of the local housing leaders who attended today’s roundtable. She shared, “The Merced County Association of Realtors supports and encourages the American dream of homeownership. We are a hardworking community that strives for an affordable and abundant supply of homes for our citizens. Our Association’s Charitable Foundation just received a grant of $25,000 from the California Association of Realtors to aid first time home buyer’s with down payment assistance. We are in the process of fundraising to match that amount. The quality of our community depends on the opportunities afforded individuals and families.

Congressman Costa hopes today is just the beginning of this collaborative effort. He reflected on today’s roundtable with, “We have had bipartisan policies for almost 100 years to encourage and make affordable homeownership. I strongly believe this is how we create healthy communities and a lasting middle class.”

June 6, 2018

TRAFFIC ADVISORY
LONG-TERM FULL HIGHWAY CLOSURE
STATE ROUTE 49 FROM BEAR VALLEY ROAD
TO STATE ROUTE 132 IN MARIPOSA COUNTY

Motorists can expect an additional hour of travel time due to the closure.

Work is scheduled to begin as listed, but is subject to change due to traffic incidents, weather, availability of equipment and/or materials and construction related issues.

For videos on the storm repair work being done by Caltrans and our construction partners, go to: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_XAGWcbbqoV2h6LOQR7WnQ.

TRAFFIC ADVISORY
RAMP CLOSURES
STATE ROUTE 99 FROM STATE ROUTE 140 TO
SOUTH TURLOCK/GOLDEN STATE BOULEVARD

MERCED COUNTY – The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) will perform various road construction and maintenance activities on northbound and southbound State Route 99 (SR-99) from SR-140 to South Turlock/Golden State Boulevard. Ramp closures are scheduled as follows:

• Various full on and off-ramp closures on northbound and southbound SR-99 from SR-140 to South Turlock/Golden State Boulevard beginning Sunday, June 3, 2018, through Friday, June 8, 2018, from 7:00 p.m. until 5:00 a.m. for bridge work.

• Full on-ramp closure on southbound SR-99 at South Turlock/Golden State Boulevard beginning Sunday, June 3, 2018, through Friday, June 8, 2018, from 10:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m. for drainage work.

Motorists should expect 10-minute delays. Alternate routes should be taken whenever possible. No consecutive ramps will be closed at the same time.

This work is scheduled to begin as listed, but is subject to change due to traffic incidents, weather, availability of equipment and/or materials and construction related issues.

For the safety of workers and other motorists,please Slow For the Cone Zone.

June 6, 2018

SB 1 Funding Approved for Highway 99 Widening Project in Merced County

MERCED- The Department of Transportation (Caltrans) announced last week that $2.7 billion in competitive grants funded through the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017 (SB 1) was awarded by the California Transportation Commission (CTC) to 64 projects throughout the State of California to tackle congestion, support valuable trade corridors and bolster local agency efforts to invest in transportation.
Among the projects approved was the Northbound State Route 99 (SR-99) Livingston Median Widening Project in Merced County. This $37 million project will widen northbound SR-99 to three lanes (from the two existing) through Livingston and Delhi, including widening of the bridge over the Merced River. The widening project will reduce congestion, improve goods movement, and remove a bottleneck condition where SR-99 is already three lanes to the north and south of the project. This project is a result of a partnership between the State of California and Merced County Association of Governments (MCAG), which is contributing $5.5 million of regional transportation funding. The State funding is provided by the Trade Corridor Enhancement Program (TCEP) which was approved by the CTC. Construction for the Livingston Median Widening Project is scheduled to break ground in the spring of 2019. The complementary Southbound State Route 99 Livingston Median Widening Project is programmed on a later construction schedule through a different funding source.

The Trade Corridor Enhancement Program, created by Senate Bill 1, will provide approximately $300 million annually throughout the state for infrastructure improvements on federally designated Trade Corridors of National and Regional Significance, on the Primary Freight Network, and along other corridors that have a high volume of freight movement. Currently, California serves as the nation’s largest gateway for international trade and domestic commerce, and freight movement which generates about a third of California’s $2.2 trillion economy. The CTC approved three years’ worth of funding (fiscal years 2017-20) totaling approximately $1.4 billion be awarded to 28 projects, valued at more than $4 billion.
Additional approved Trade Corridor Enhancement Program projects can be found at: http://catc.ca.gov/programs/sb1/tcep/docs/2018_Adopted_TCEP.pdf .
The Road Repair and Accountability Act (SB 1), the landmark transportation infrastructure bill signed by Governor Brown in April 2017, invests $54 billion over the next decade to fix roads, freeways and bridges in communities across California and puts more dollars toward transit and safety. These funds will be split equally between state and local investments. For complete details on SB 1, visit http://www.rebuildingca.ca.gov/.

June 6, 2018

2018 BUCKS FOR BOOKS SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS CHOSEN

LODI, CA – The Lodi Grape Festival would like to congratulate the recipients of the 2018 Bucks for Books scholarship. The students receiving the award are: Gabriella Borra, Lodi High School; Benjamin Colorado, Lodi High School; Tyler Davis, Lodi High School; Sofia Demski, Lodi High School; Meagan Gonzalez, Seton Hall University (Lodi High School); Grace Hayes, St. Mary’s High School; Hayden Lewis, Lodi High School; Charlotte Magapio Suiza, Lodi High School; and Christein Wiegum, Lodi High School.
Since 2004 the Lodi Grape Festival Bucks for Books scholarship program has awarded $101,000 in scholarships to students graduating or that have graduated within the Lodi Unified School District or living in the district boundaries to be used towards the purchase of books for college classes. The money for the fund is generated solely from fundraising efforts by the Lodi Grape Festival Board of Directors through donations, the Ultimate Wine Collection raffle at the Lodi Wine and Food Festival and the annual Bucks for Books concert at Heritage Oak Winery.
Scholarship applications are available in January and are due by March 1. For more information or to receive an application please e-mail info@grapefestival.com or call (209) 369-2771 or visit www.grapefestival.com.

The Lodi Grape Festival is September 13-16, 2018. For more information visit www.grapefestival.com and follow us on Facebook, Twitter at @lodigrapefest and Instagram at @lodigrapefestival.

May 23 , 2018

McSwain Unveils New Playground Equipment for Kindergartners

McSwain School held a ribbon cutting this morning and the youngsters couldn’t have been happier to celebrate a brand-new playground.
McSwain Union Elementary School District Superintendent Steve Rosa was anxious to see the long-needed upgrade completed and said his young students were equally excited.
One of the most appealing features of the new playground are the new shade structures which will keep students cool in the hot San Joaquin Valley sun. The previous playground areas lacked the shade, which made the slides and ladders hot to the touch at certain times.
Rosa said the project was supported by the district’s capital improvements budget. The McSwain Educational Foundation contributed more than half of the total cost; work on the playground started in March, with completion on May 7.
Kindergarten teacher Catarina Lourenco said the new playground is very exciting.
“The kids are super excited. We so appreciate everything the school and the foundation have given us. We didn’t have any shade out there. It’s amazing to see the school’s efforts to give a gift to the students. The community involvement is so amazing,” Lourenco said.
The new playground will allow the school’s transitional kindergarten students to join in the fun.
Modern playground fixtures with slides, steps and climbing apparatus replace the antiquated structures which were swapped out. The old wooden mulch was removed in favor of new rubberized bark which provides a safe, cushioned surface and an ability to play all year round, Rosa said.
The structures provide age-appropriate opportunities for the 110 young students to build motor development skills. Kindergarten students use the playground before school, during morning recess and at lunch time. The playground with its two figure eight-shaped play areas covers the entire kindergarten wing.

Marsha Seivert, president of the McSwain Education Foundation, cuts the ribbon for new kindergarten playground equipment at McSwain Elementary School on May 22.

McSwain students enjoy new playground equipment at McSwain Elementary School.

McSwain Elementary School opened a new kindergarten playground today thanks to funds from the district's capital improvements budget and the McSwain Education Foundation.

McSwain Transitional Kindergarten student Luca Miglizzo, 5, enjoys the new playground equipment at the elementary school on May 22.

PHOTOS BY NATE GOMES COURTESY MERCED COUNTY OFFICE OF EDUCATION

May 23 , 2018

Costa Supports Increased Access to Responsible Home and Business Loans in the Valley

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Jim Costa (CA-16) voted to increase opportunities for San Joaquin Valley residents to access responsible banking and home loans when supporting S. 2155, the Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act.

The legislation makes changes to law currently regulating credit unions, community banks, and small lenders, including key financial institutions serving the Central Valley. Central Valley Community Bank, United Security Bank, and credit unions like Travis, Educational ECU, Golden 1, and Valley First are just some of the Valley’s financial institutions which would be positively impacted by the Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act.

These types of smaller, community-based lenders serve as pillars of financial services in rural and less-populated communities like the San Joaquin Valley, and they currently provide over 60 percent of small business loans and 80 percent of agricultural loans throughout the United States. Provisions in the legislation would help these institutions responsibly increase their available loan funds and incentivize lenders to create mortgage agreements that are better for the borrower and the institution alike.

“Our Valley was hit hard and is still recovering from the 2008 financial crisis. In order to continue the economic recovery, consumers and businesses need access to fair and responsible loans from community banks and credit unions – which are the backbone of financial services in the San Joaquin Valley. This legislation maintains the strong consumer protections against predatory lending practices in the Dodd-Frank banking reform. It also relieves community banks and smaller lenders from unnecessary requirements that reduce their ability to finance loans. That’s what this bill is about: using narrow and targeted reforms to increase the ability of small lenders and credit unions to provide loans to our small businesses, farms and dairies, and home owners,” said Rep. Jim Costa, who voted in favor of S. 2155 today.

The Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act will also support home ownership in rural communities across the Valley. As Gary Quisenberry, Executive Vice President at Central Valley Community Bank, explains, “The reforms in the bill that address home ownership – for example mortgage loans, escrow accounts, loan data, and appraisals –

Congressman Jim Costa
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would be especially beneficial for home ownership, particularly in the rural areas of the Valley.” The changes the legislation makes to real estate loans would generate over $163 million for new residential lending in California alone, while allowing borrowers the ability to adjust or request changes to their mortgage, should another financial crisis hit.

Jeremy Empol, Vice President of Federal Government Affairs for the California Credit Union League, thanked Congressman Costa and other members of Congress who helped pass the legislation through both chambers of Congress with, “The Credit Unions of California thank Congressman Costa and the bipartisan coalition that supported S. 2155. Through this bipartisan process, that was done by the book, Congress has provided common sense regulation for credit unions and other community lenders that will ease regulatory burdens, allowing us to make lending more affordable for rural communities, small businesses, and low-income borrowers. Credit unions appreciate the unity and pragmatism of this bipartisan package for the 160,000 members in California’s 16th Congressional District and the 11.6 million members in California.”

The Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act passed in the House of Representatives today by a vote of 258 to 159, and it will be sent to the President to sign into law.

May 22 , 2018

Altamont Corridor Express (ACE®) Passenger Rail Service Partners with California’s Great America to Offer Discounted Park Tickets for Passengers

Stockton (CA) – Starting May 29th through August 10th, California’s Great America will offer discounted admission into the park for guests who ride the ACE train to the Great America station in Santa Clara. When ACE passengers purchase their ACE ticket, they are automatically qualified to receive the discounted park admission rate of $39. Park guests simply show their ACE ticket at the admission gate to receive the discount for up to 10 tickets. For additional information, ACE tickets, and schedules for ACE train 07 (Westbound) and 10 (Eastbound), visit www.acerail.com/fun.

About the Offer
Discounted Ticket Price: $39
Valid Dates: Weekdays only starting on May 29th through August 10th.*
*Blackout Dates: July 4th, due to no ACE train service in observance of the Fourth of July holiday and June 22nd, 27th, and August 8th, due to California’s Great America park closure.

For a complete list of park closures and operating hours, visit https://www.cagreatamerica.com/explore/calendar-and-hours.

About the ACE Train Service
Started in 1998 and serving over 1.3 million riders annually, the ACE train runs four daily round trips starting at the Cabral Station in Downtown Stockton and stops in Lathrop/Manteca, Tracy, Vasco Road, Livermore, Pleasanton, Fremont, Great America, Santa Clara and San Jose’s Diridon station. For more information on ACE, please visit www.acerail.com.

May 22 , 2018

The Fresno Food Expo Expands to Welcome all
Food & Beverage Companies from California’s $71.25 Billion Food Industry

New Retail Advisory Committee announced;
California Secretary of Food and Agriculture Karen Ross Keynote on the State of Food in California

Fresno, California – May 21, 2018…The Fresno Food Expo is now welcoming all California food and beverage businesses to exhibit their products on July 26 - establishing the only food industry tradeshow exclusively for California food and beverage brands.

“California is the largest fresh and finished food-producing state in the nation - and the Fresno Food Expo is building a world-class tradeshow that makes connecting with California food brands convenient, efficient and accessible,” said Amy Fuentes, Manager of the Fresno Food Expo. “Our awards and marketing programs are dedicated to bringing recognition and sales opportunities to all food companies in the Golden State.”

Also new for 2018, the Expo has developed a California Retail Advisory Committee to gain insight, connectivity and guidance on the current needs and trends for retailer and foodservice buyers, and to ensure the Expo’s platform continues to deliver relevant California food connections. In addition to bringing their buying teams to the Expo, this committee will also judge the Expo’s New Product Awards. Committee appointees include: Albertsons and VONS, Southern California; Albertsons and Safeway, Northern California; Bristol Farms; Erewhon Markets; and Whole Foods Market, Northern California and Reno.

“Discovering and carrying quality California products remains a high priority for our store,” said Randy Ducummon, Vice President for Whole Foods Market, Northern California & Reno. “Having the Fresno Food Expo expand its borders to include all California food and beverage products provides a unique and incredibly valuable opportunity for us to connect with California food businesses, while also sourcing new store offerings.”

The Expo has confirmed California Food and Agriculture Secretary, Karen Ross to Keynote at the Welcome Breakfast. The Secretary will discuss the future of food and agriculture in California and the food industry’s economic impact in California. The breakfast is open to participating exhibitors, sponsors and qualified, pre-registered attending buyers.

Returning is the Expo’s New Product Awards platform, which is open for submissions now through July 6 at
5 p.m. The New Product Awards will feature new products or packaging concepts introduced to the marketplace between January 1, 2017 andJuly 26, 2018. These awards will be judged by representatives from the new California Retail Advisory Committee.

For award program details and to apply, visit www.fresnofoodexpo.com/awards/new-product-awards.

“Since 2013, the Fresno Food Expo has launched more than 160 new products through its awards program from startups to multi-generation family businesses to national corporations whose entries are now seen in major retail outlets throughout the U.S. and internationally,” concluded Fuentes.

The 2018 Fresno Food Expo will take place on Thursday, July 26, 2018. More than 150 exhibitors and 700 key, pre-qualified international and domestic buyers are expected to participate in the buyer portion of the show, which will take place from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. It will be followed byExpolicious, the Expo’s evening celebration from 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. Tickets go on sale for Expolicious on June 4, 2018. Registration is currently open for buyers and exhibitors. For more details, visit www.FresnoFoodExpo.com.

About Fresno Food Expo
The Fresno Food Expo was launched in 2011 by the City of Fresno in an effort to connect the region’s food industry companies to new retail and foodservice customers, and put a spotlight on the San Joaquin Valley’s thriving and diverse food industry. Since then, the Expo has transitioned to a 501c-6 which is governed by a 13-member Board of Directors made up of Presidents and CEOs from the Region’s largest and most productive food companies, whose focus is connecting California food companies to retailers and foodservice distributors who actively seek out and make it a priority to sell local/California products.

The 2018 Fresno Food Expo Executive Board Members include:
• Chairwoman, Agnes Saghatelian, President Valley Lahvosh Baking Company
• Vice Chair, Vincent Ricchuiti, Director of Operations Enzo Olive Oil Company
• Secretary, Rod Noll, Vice President U.S. Cold Storage
• Treasurer, Denver Schutz, Technical Services Manager Gerawan Farming
• Lee Brand, Mayor, City of Fresno
• Helen Chavez-Hansen, Owner/President, La Tapatia Tortilleria, Inc.
• Mark Ford, President, JD Food
• Mike Grazier, President, Busseto Foods
• Jimmy Maxey, Chairman, Certified Meat Products
• Chuck Nichols, President Nichols Pistachio
• Justin Parnagian, Sales Director, Fowler Packing
• Fred Ruiz, Co-Founder & Chairman Emeritus, Ruiz Foods
• Bill Smittcamp, President & CEO, Wawona Frozen Foods

May 22 , 2018

Crime Victims United Endorses Morse for Merced District Attorney

Crime Victims United of California, the state’s most influential victims’ rights advocates, unanimously endorsed Larry Morse for Merced County District Attorney.

“You have always been a great supporter of victims and victim’s rights and we look forward to working alongside you,” said Harriett Salerno, Chair of Crime Victims United.

Morse also received the support of Marc Klaas, the father of Polly Klass. Polly Klaas’s horrific kidnapping and murder in 1993 when she was 12-years-old sparked tougher crime laws on repeat violent offenders in California.

Klaas founded the Klaas Kids Foundation in the aftermath of Polly’s murder. Klaas and Morse have served together for several years on the State Board of Directors of Fight Crime, Invest in Kids, a national organization that lobbies for evidence based solutions to juvenile delinquency and crime.

“We know that Larry Morse has always put victims first,” said Klaas. “I am proud to support his reelection as Merced county District attorney. He has played an essential role as a board member of the California District Attorneys Association in watching out for the rights of victims of crime,” he continued. “We can’t afford to lose him.”

“I’m honored by these endorsements,” said Morse. “Our bottom line as prosecutors is to see that every step is taken to hold people who break the law accountable for their actions.”

Morse has won the endorsement of every law enforcement group that has made an endorsement in the election. In addition to those endorsements, Morse has won the support of the North Valley Labor Federation and the Merced County Farm Bureau.

May 19 , 2018

MCSD Hosts 4th Annual STEAM Fair
Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math

Hundreds of students, parents, and staff from all 18 Merced City School District campuses came together Thursday evening for the fourth annual STEAM Fair. It was held at the district’s new cutting edge STEAM Center, which opened in August next to Ada Givens Elementary.

This event was a chance for the schools to showcase work done throughout the year in the fields of science, technology, engineering, arts, and math. It featured a variety of interactive student displays, performances by school bands, a solar car station, and an educational drum circle facilitated by special guest presenter, Dr. Craig Woodson.

Community partners from UC Merced, Mercy Medical Center Merced, the City of Merced, and Castle Air museum also set up booths with hands-on activities, from science experiments to CPR training. It was an opportunity for students to see how professionals in our community use STEAM every day. Children also had a chance to meet JiJi the ST Math penguin, which is the mascot for a computer program they frequently use in the classroom.

MCSD Superintendent Dr. RoseMary Parga Duran says, “We love bringing our community together for this event each year. It’s a chance to celebrate the outstanding work being done in our schools, while also providing new learning opportunities and inspiring experiences for our students.”

The Merced City School District is home to an award-winning STEAM program that combines daily classroom curriculum with educational excursions and visits to the STEAM Center. The facility provides a 21st century space for all of the district’s TK-8th grade students to enjoy collaborative, hands-on learning. It also allows groups of teachers to work together and learn from one another, and it provides a place for additional community collaboration and special events, including the STEAM Fair.

n
A family enjoys one of the student displays at the MCSD STEAM Fair

Students enjoy hands-on learning activities at the Merced City School District’s annual STEAM Fair

Educator and musician, Dr. Craig Woodson, leads a drum circle during the Merced City School District STEAM Fair

The “School of Rock” band from Rivera Middle School performs during the annual MCSD STEAM Fair

May 19 , 2018

Delhi High School Students Form First County School Mariachi Band

There’s a new sound coming from Delhi High School as 22 students have formed a mariachi band that has entertained and inspired many people in the Delhi community.
Adolfo Melara, superintendent of the Delhi Unified School District, said planning for the mariachi ensemble started last fall when educators visited Lincoln High School in San Jose. The group started in January and is here to stay.
“Through hard work, a lot of research and perseverance, we have created a fledgling mariachi band and we’re very proud of them,” Melara said. “Their first performance was at our March board meeting and it was an incredible success.”
Melara said they want to be a showcase for the high school in the community, across the state and the country.
“They have truly become a showpiece for the Delhi Unified School District,” Melara said.
Matthew Wellman directs the mariachi band. He volunteered for the job when the original teacher left his position. Twenty-two students, 15 of them seniors, are part of the seventh period elective ensemble.
Wellman plays trumpet with the group and says it will be a fixed feature for Delhi for the foreseeable future.
“It’s a blast. These talented kids rose to the occasion and the community seems really excited. It’s been a learning experience for everyone,” Wellman said. He has taught 15 years at Delhi High School.
The group has performed at Delhi’s multicultural festival, for the Local Control and Accountability Planning meeting and for the medical science graduation ceremony.
Joe Gutierrez of Los Banos is a Merced College trustee and is trying to promote creation of other mariachi groups in schools. He has been putting on mariachi concerts in Los Banos.
“This is history. They are the first high school in Merced County ever to have a mariachi band. You should see the pride in the parents. For the short time they have been together they’re doing great,” Gutierrez said.
High school mariachi bands are a win-win situation for everybody and it’s an awesome community atmosphere, Gutierrez said. He praises Wellman for his efforts and said he knew it would be well-received.
Melara said the district spent about $15,000 for violins, guitars and trumpets for the group.
“It’s a class, not a club, part of the music program. We want students’ education to be relevant to their experience. I thought it was a way to connect music programs to students in the community,” Melara said. He said Gutierrez was an inspiration to putting the program together.
Students’ costumes are just a white shirt, black slacks or skirts. Their first major performance was April 26 with the first three songs they learned.
“I could not be prouder to see our students showcasing their talents. It is really inspiring,” Melara said.

PHOTOS COURTESY DELHI UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT

May 19 , 2018

City budget, Arts Commission on agenda

The preliminary budget for the 2018-19 fiscal year and an update on the Arts and Culture Commission will be presented to the City Council at the Monday night meeting.

The meeting will be at 6 p.m. in the Council Chambers on the second floor of the Merced Civic Center, (City Hall), 678 W. 18th St. The Council meets the first and third Mondays of the month, except when there is a holiday, when it meets the following day.

The $233,059,750 budget includes $42,639,790 in the General Fund. The budget is designed to lay a foundation for the City’s growth, but also provide a cushion for any potential economic down cycle that could occur in the future.

There will be public hearings on the budget at the June 4 and June 18 Council meetings. The entire preliminary budget is available online at www.cityofmerced.org.

On the agenda are labor agreements with Merced Association of City Employees, American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees and Merced Fire Fighters. The agreement includes a 2.5 percent pay increase over the next two years.

Staff is asking for further direction on an Arts and Culture Advisory Commission when it presents a draft ordinance to the Council. A group of stakeholders has been working on the draft ordinance to create the commission at the direction of the Council. After receiving direction from Council, any changes will be incorporated into the ordinance before it is formally introduced at a later date

The Council will also get an update on its goals and priorities for the third quarter. The Council sets its goals and priorities at the beginning of the fiscal year and receives quarterly progress reports.

The Council will meet in closed session at 5:30 p.m. Monday to confer with labor negotiators.

City Council meetings are streamed live on the Internet. A link to the live meeting is on the City’s web site at https://cityofmerced.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx. Videos of previous meetings can be found at that link, and are tied to each agenda item. Those services are in addition to the live broadcast of the regular meeting on Comcast’s Government Channel 96.

The Council agenda is posted online at www.cityofmerced.org and is available outside the chambers prior to the meeting. Request to Speak forms are available at the meeting or can be downloaded from the City's website. Cards must be turned in to the City Clerk in order for a person to be recognized by the Council. Hmong and Spanish translators are available at all Council meetings.

May 19 , 2018

MCOE Special Education Teacher Honored by Fresno State

Yvonne Carlon received the shock of her life recently — but in a good way.
The teacher of deaf and hard of hearing students for the Merced County Office of Education received the Carolyn Dobbs Special Education Teacher of the Year Award from California State University, Fresno.
Carlon, 45, teaches four hearing-impaired students at Peterson Elementary School in Merced and has worked at MCOE for 12 years.
“It was a great honor to receive it; I was shocked to be the one named,” Carlon said.
Normally Carlon teaches preschool to second grade students but this year she has all second-graders. She points out her students are everyday normal kids who had can do anything that others do.
While a student years ago at Modesto Junior College, Carlon said she fell in love with sign language. She was an aide with the Stanislaus County Office of Education for 4 1/2 years and decided to pursue a degree from CSUF, graduating 12 years ago.
For three years she worked in a severely handicapped classroom. Carlon received a master's degree in deaf education and has a multiple subjects credential. She uses sign language as well as voice with her students.
The Kremen School at CSUF recently honored local special education teachers with the Dobbs award which recognizes the importance of the work of special education professionals.
The annual award, created in 2005, was named after Mary Carolyn Dobbs (1911- 2011) by the Kremen School.
Born in 1911 – the same year Fresno State was founded – Dobbs received the honorary doctorate degree in humane letters in 2004 in recognition of her contributions to special education through tireless advocacy for children with special needs.

From left, MCOE Assistant Superintendent of Special Education Susan Coston, MCOE Special Education teacher Yvonne Carlon and MCOE Special Education Coordinator Maria Duran-Barajas pose for a photo. Carlon recently received the Carolyn Dobbs Special Education Teacher of the Year Award from California State University, Fresno.

PHOTO COURTESY MERCED COUNTY OFFICE OF EDUCATION

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Dobbs, a Fresno State alumna, was a teacher and internationally renowned pioneer in special education. Her selfless work brought significant changes at the state and national levels in the classroom and in everyday life for students.

May 19 , 2018

Costa Votes for Valley Farmers and Families

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Jim Costa (CA-16) released the following statement after the House of Representatives rejected H.R. 2 – commonly referred to as the Farm Bill – by a vote of 198 to 213:

“The Farm Bill the House rejected today is a clear example of what happens when Republicans and Democrats fail to work together: bad policy that serves too few Americans. Today’s vote makes clear that the Farm Bill is too big and too important to pass in the House using partisan arm-twisting. This bill could not get enough support in the House because it simply fails to serve our nation’s food needs. It does not do enough to support our food system or our food security.

“American agriculture needs a Farm Bill that promotes trade, adequately supports dairy producers, and assists specialty crop farmers. Our nation needs a Farm Bill that feeds Americans, ensures our food producers can be successful, and supports our food security and food safety net. Sadly, the Farm Bill we voted on today not only fails to meet these basic tests, but it also increases food insecurity and further divides our country along both partisan and regional lines.

“My vote against this version of the Farm Bill was a vote to return to the bipartisan, deliberative policy process that has historically resulted in successful farm and nutrition programs – programs that advance the interests of all Americans. It was a vote demanding fair support for our San

Congressman Jim Costa

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Joaquin Valley farmers and families. It was a vote for a good Farm Bill, one that actually serves our food producers, feeds Americans, and provides our nation with food security. The Senate is currently working on such a bipartisan, solution-oriented bill, and I hope we take up this serious piece of legislation and get back to work on America’s food bill soon.”

May 18, 2018

Castle Air Museum Open Cockpit Day

Castle Air Museum located at 5050 Santa Fe Drive in Atwater will be hosting its 22nd Annual Open Cockpit Day, Sunday May 27, 2018 from 9 AM to 5 PM!
Over 40 of the Museum’s 70 vintage military aircraft open for viewing like the still secret SR-71 Blackbird spy plane, B-52 Bomber, the Navy F-14 Tomcat of Top Gun fame, and new exhibits like the F-16 Fighting Falcon, which is a former 144thFighter Wing aircraft from the California Air National Guard in Fresno! The Cold War era vaunted MIG-21 Soviet Fighter, Army Chinook Helicopter and Lockheed EC-121 Warning Star Radar and Early Warning aircraft!! Don’t forget for only an extra $10 per person see our Presidential Aircraft that flew two U.S. Presidents and a multitude of dignitaries around the globe for 30 years!
Food Court, Children’s activities, Law Enforcement and Fire Department displays, and Helicopter rides are just part of this year’s celebration at the Castle Air Museum in Atwater! For more information, please go to our website at www.castleairmuseum.org

May 18, 2018

Billions in SB 1 Funding Approved for
Congestion Relief, Freight and Local Projects

STOCKTON – Caltrans today announced that $2.7 billion in competitive grants funded through the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017 (SB 1) were awarded to 64 projects throughout California to tackle congestion, support valuable trade corridors and bolster local agency efforts to invest in transportation. These three programs, the Solutions for Congested Corridors, Trade Corridor Enhancement and Local Partnership Programs are vital infrastructure improvement programs created by SB 1.

“California is expected to keep growing, both economically and in population,” said Caltrans Director Laurie Berman. “These projects funded by SB 1 will help to ensure that we can keep our economy moving and growing, and ease commutes for our residents so they can move efficiently between destinations.”

The California Transportation Commission (CTC) approved the grants for these three competitive grants during their May commission meeting in San Diego:

Trade Corridor Enhancement Program

California is the nation’s largest gateway for international trade and domestic commerce, and freight movement generates about a third of California’s $2.2 trillion economy. Because of its importance and expected growth, SB 1 provides $300 million annually for projects related to the routes and transportation infrastructure vital to California’s trade and freight economy. Three years’ worth of funding (fiscal years 2017-20) totaling approximately $1.4 billion was awarded to 28 projects, valued at more than $4 billion.

Projects receiving funding include:

• Northbound SR-99 Livingston Median Widening Project in Merced County – The $37.4 million project will widen northbound SR-99 to three lanes (from the two existing) in and near the City of Livingston. A separate southbound project will also occur along this stretch but is not currently tied to SB 1.

• Central Valley Gateway Projects (I-205/International Parkway Interchange Improvements and I-580/International Parkway Interchange Improvements in San Joaquin County) – These two projects, totaling $24.7 million, will widen ramps, construct turn pockets, install bike and pedestrian improvements, and modify traffic signals.

• State Route 132 West Expressway/Expressway Phase 1 in Stanislaus County – The $149.4 million project will construct a two-lane expressway with full access control and grade separation divided highway.

The final approved project list, by county, for the Trade Corridor Enhancement Program can be found at http://catc.ca.gov/programs/sb1/tcep/docs/2018_Adopted_TCEP.pdf .

More information on the program can be found on the CTC's SB 1 Trade Corridor Enhancement Program web page.

Local Partnership Competitive Program

The CTC awarded approximately $309 million to 27 projects to fund transportation improvements valued at more than $1.7 billion. This funding represents three years (fiscal years 2017-20) of matching funds for local entities that have already chosen to make their own investments in transportation.

The Local Partnership Program (LPP) was created by SB 1 to provide counties, cities and regional transportation agencies that have passed sales tax measures, developer fees or other voter-approved transportation fees with additional support for local projects from the State. The LPP creates a continuous appropriation of $200 million annually to fund road maintenance and rehabilitation, sound walls and other transportation improvement projects. These funds are distributed through a 50 percent statewide competitive component and a 50 percent formula component. The recipients of the formulaic component were finalized in March.

Local projects receiving funding include:

• The State Route 99 (SR-99)/Fulkerth Road Interchange Improvement Project in Stanislaus County – The $11 million project will widen Fulkerth Road, construct retaining walls under SR-99, widen the northbound off-ramp, reconstruct the northbound on-ramp to provide two mixed-flow lanes and one HOV lane, realign the southbound off-ramp for two mixed-flow lanes and one HOV lane, and improve the intersection in the City of Turlock.

The final approved project list, by county, for the Local Partnership Program Competitive Program can be found at http://catc.ca.gov/programs/sb1/lpp/docs/2018_Adopted_CompetitiveLPP.pdf .

More information on the Local Partnership Program can be found on the CTC's SB 1 Local Partnership Program web page.

Solutions for Congested Corridors Program

SB 1 created the Solutions for Congested Corridors Program, which provides $250 million annually for multimodal corridor plans that make performance improvements along the state’s busiest highways. Approved projects and plans provide more transportation choices while preserving the character of the local community and creating opportunities for neighborhood enhancement projects.

The CTC approved four years’ worth of funding (Fiscal years 2017-18 to 2020-21) totaling approximately $1 billion to nine projects statewide as part of this program. These projects are valued at approximately $3.5 billion.

The final approved project list, by county, for the Solutions for Congested Corridors Program can be found at http://catc.ca.gov/programs/sb1/sccp/docs/2018_Adopted_SCCP.pdf .

More information on the program can be found on the CTC's SB 1 Solutions for Congested Corridors Program web page.

The Road Repair and Accountability Act (SB 1), the landmark transportation infrastructure bill signed by Governor Brown in April 2017, invests $54 billion over the next decade to fix roads, freeways and bridges in communities across California and puts more dollars toward transit and safety. These funds will be split equally between state and local investments. For complete details on SB 1, visit http://www.rebuildingca.ca.gov/.

TRAFFIC ADVISORY
OVERNIGHT FULL HIGHWAY CLOSURES
STATE ROUTE 140 FROM BERT CRANE ROAD
TO HULL ROAD IN MERCED COUNTY

MERCED COUNTY – Eastbound and westbound State Route 140 (SR-140) will be closed for five consecutive nights from Bert Crane Road to Hull Road west of Merced beginning Sunday, May 20, 2018, through Friday, May 25, 2018, from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.

The Merced Irrigation District will be working on a project in the area to install piping.

Detours are as follows:

East on SR-140:
- Left on Bert Crane Road
- Right on Atwater Jordan Road
- Right on Applegate Road
- Left on eastbound SR-140

West on SR-140:
- Right on Applegate Road
- Left on Atwater Jordan Road
- Left on Bert Crane Road
- Right on westbound SR-140

Motorists should expect 15 minute delays. Alternate routes should be taken whenever possible.

This work is scheduled to begin as listed, but is subject to change due to traffic incidents, weather, availability of equipment and/or materials and construction related issues.

TRAFFIC ADVISORY
LONG-TERM FULL HIGHWAY CLOSURE
STATE ROUTE 49 FROM STATE ROUTE 120/MOCCASIN IN TUOLUMNE COUNTY
TO BEAR VALLEY ROAD IN MARIPOSA COUNTY

TUOLUMNE/MARIPOSA COUNTIES – The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) has closed northbound and southbound State Route 49 (SR-49) for approximately 36 miles from Moccasin Creek at the junction with SR-120 to Bear Valley Road for repair work after heavy rain on Thursday, March 22, 2018.

The closure is expected to be long term in order to repair the roadway after a wash out.

The roadway on this stretch of SR-49 was severely eroded due to the massive amount of water, and must be fully repaired and given a new foundation before re-opening. This effort is to ensure the safety and efficiency of the roadway for motorists.

Motorists can expect an additional hour of travel time due to the closure. Access to the town of Coulterville is available using alternate routes.

Work is scheduled to begin as listed, but is subject to change due to traffic incidents, weather, availability of equipment and/or materials and construction related issues.

For videos on the storm repair work being done by Caltrans and our construction partners, go to: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_XAGWcbbqoV2h6LOQR7WnQ.

TRAFFIC ADVISORY
RAMP CLOSURES
STATE ROUTE 99 FROM MISSION AVENUE IN MERCED TO
APPLEGATE ROAD IN ATWATER

Ramp closures are scheduled as follows:

• Various full on and off-ramp closures on northbound and southbound SR-99 from Mission Avenue to 16th Street in Merced beginning Sunday, May 20, 2018, through Friday, May 25, 2018, from 7:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m. for striping work.

• Various full on and off-ramp closures on northbound and southbound SR-99 from SR-140 in Merced to Golden State Boulevard in Turlock beginning Sunday, May 20, 2018, through Friday, May 25, 2018, from 7:00 p.m. until 5:00 a.m. for bridge work.

• Full off-ramp closures from northbound SR-99 to Childs Avenue in Merced and Franklin Road and Applegate Road in Atwater on Tuesday, May 22, 2018, from 8:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. for landscape and irrigation work.

Motorists should expect 10 minute delays. Alternate routes should be taken whenever possible. No consecutive ramps will be closed at the same time.

This work is scheduled to begin as listed, but is subject to change due to traffic incidents, weather, availability of equipment and/or materials and construction related issues.

For the safety of workers and other motorists,please Slow For the Cone Zone.

May 17, 2018

Congressman Costa Crosses Party Lines to Bring More Water to the Valley

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Jim Costa (CA-16) again crossed party lines in the House Natural Resources Committee to support two bills that could dramatically improve the reliability and quantity of Valley water supplies.

The first bill – introduced by Representatives Ken Calvert (CA-42) and Costa (CA-16) – aims to bring all Endangered Species Act regulation of species that have a portion of their lifecycle in the ocean, like salmon, under a single regulating government agency. By doing so, H.R. 3916, aptly named the FISH Act, would eliminate the redundant and often conflicting requirements that commonly result from multiple agencies regulating water resources for the restoration of a single species without taking other factors, including water resources or other species, into account.

Shasta Dam fell victim to such contradictory requirements in 2016, when the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service considered requiring water be released from the Dam to supplement flows for Delta smelt, while the National Marine Fisheries Service was mandating that same water be held behind Shasta Dam to provide additional cold water for salmon rearing. Costa called this contradiction “absurd” before noting that regulation by a single agency “would make much more common sense” and that “San Joaquin Valley water agencies, the Metropolitan Water District and the Association of California Water Agencies support this.”

Congressman Jim Costa also advocated for support of H.R. 4419, a bill introduced by Rep. Dan Newhouse (WA-4) which would streamline the process for creating or expanding water projects by the Bureaus of Reclamation and Indian Affairs. This legislation would dramatically reduce the amount of time it takes to complete such water projects by limiting the project

Congressman Jim Costa

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

review phase to three years and a cost of $3 million dollars. This includes the expansion of Shasta Dam, which has been stuck in the “feasibility study” step of the process since 2010. It would also apply to feasibility studies for Temperance Flat Dam and a raise of San Luis Reservoir.

“Eight years of delay in completing storage facility studies is simply inconsistent with the challenges facing California today,”stated Rep. Costa, directly speaking to the expansion of Shasta Dam. “This legislation would address this and provide Congressional methodology to more rapidly construct the needed water storage in California, and across the nation. If we can’t do it in the fifth largest economy in the world – and manage our water supply – god help the rest of the planet.”

May 16, 2018

Atwater FFA Students Earn Top State Recognition and Awards

Written by: Grace Reyes - Atwater FFA

With over 300 high schools throughout the state and over 300o individual high school students competing, the Atwater High School agriculture and FFA program’s students earned recognition and awards that put them at the top of the state during the recent Fresno State University, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo University, and California State Leadership Convention events taken place over the past couple weeks.

The Atwater FFA Milks Quality and Dairy Foods team of Callie Norton, Luke van Warmerdam, Kendyll Cruz, and Natalie Frontella placed 2nd overall in the Cal Poly state championship in a contest where students demonstrate their knowledge and skills in milk quality (tasting), cheese identification, real vs imitation dairy foods, and a written exam on the dairy industry.

The Atwater FFA Marketing Plan team comprised of Jasmine Sandoval, Anessa Cardenas, and Alison Melanader placed 2nd overall at the Cal Poly state championship in a contest that seeks to effectively prepare students for the opportunities and expectations of the agricultural business workplace. Students seeking careers in agriculture business must develop a high degree of knowledge and skill as well as the capacity to create and present a marketing plan.

The Atwater FFA Novice Parliamentary Procedure team comprised of Nandani Patel, Teresa Cavallero, Isabel Murrillo, Jennifer Velazquez, Simarjot Gandhoke, Jerrod Nickerson, and Celeste Chargoy and the Advanced Parliamentary Procedure team comprised of Emily Junez, Anessa Cardenas, Michael Bray, Natalie Frontella, Emmanuel Mejia, Callie Norton, and Cristal Venegas each placed 5th overall in the state championships held at fresno State University. Parliamentary procedure is a set of rules, ethics, and customs governing meetings of clubs, organizations, legislative bodies, and other deliberative assemblies. FFA students throughout California participate in various parliamentary procedure contests where students demonstrate their public speaking, understanding, and implementation of skills.
“This is an opportunity to get students involved in an application that develops and strengthens public speaking, critical thinking, and leadership skills that can be applied towards any academic and career endeavor,” said West.

The Atwater FFA Farm Business Management team comprised of Ricardo Ortega, Zion Brigham, Liliana Vargas, and Belinda Espinoza placed 4th overall at the Cal Poly State Finals competition. The Atwater FFA Poultry team comprised of Anna Lozano, Victor Mejia, Stephania Valdovinos, Sayra Ramos placed 5th overall at the Cal Poly State Finals. The Atwater FFA Land and Soil Evaluation team comprised of Audrey Esau, Micheal Bray, Jose Ruiz, Arturo Valdovinos placed 6th overall in the state with a combined state finals contest at Fresno State University and Cal Poly, SLO. The Atwater FFA Meats team comprised of Daisy Flores, Emily Junez, Mariah Castro, and Bailey Weimer placed 6th overall in the state. The Atwater FFA Agronomy team comprised of Luz Soto, Elisabeth Garner, Maria Ruelas, Jennifer Velazquez placed 8th overall in the state. The Atwater FFA Vegetable team comprised of Dillon Guillen, Jose Montanez, Tyler Brawley, Kelsi Kamesch placed 11th in the state. The Atwater FFA Nursery and Landscape team of Brissa Garcia, Noemi Perez, and Vanessa Varela placed 13th overall in the state at Cal Poly. The Atwater FFA Ag Mechanics team comprised of Joel Rojas, Daisy Flores-Mota, Marie Corado, Juanable Perez placed 20th overall in the state at Cal Poly.

During the 90th annual California State Leadership Convention held in Anaheim a few weeks ago, Atwater FFA members were recognized throughout the state in front of over 7000 high school agriculture students in attendance. Atwater FFA’s Kaya Briscoe-Mattis was the California State Proficiency winner in Small Animal Production. Her application is now going on to the National FFA for national recognition. Atwater FFA Reporter Grace Reyes was recognized as one of the state’s Star Reporters. Belinda Espinoza, Anna Lozano, and Callie Norton were all scholarship finalists and recipients in various state-wide FFA scholarships given to a select few throughout the state.

There are over 87,000 high school agriculture students in California representing over 375 high school agriculture programs, and the success of the Atwater FFA agriculture program can be attributed to the agriculture pathway sequence of courses at Atwater High School, the increased student involvement/participation outside of the classroom, and the tremendous support from the school/district, community, and agriculture industry. “We will say it time and time again,” says FFA advisor Kaylyn Davenport, “We are seeing a positive return on everyone’s investment with our students, and we all should take tremendous pride in their accomplishments.”

Atwater High School agriculture students Anessa Cardenas, Allison Melander, and Jasmine Sandoval of the Marketing Plan team placed 2nd overall in the state during the Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo FFA State Finals Field Day.

Atwater High School agriculture students Luke Van Warmerdam, Callie Norton, Kendyll Cruz, and Natalie Frontella of the Milk Quality and Dairy Foods team placed 2nd overall in the state during the Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo FFA State Finals Field Day.

Atwater FFA's Kaya Briscoe-Mattis and her FFA advisor Shelby West gather together during the recent state FFA State leadership Convention in Anaheim where Kaya was recognized as the state proficiency winner in Small Animal Production. Her application goes on to the National FFA Finals in Indianapolis, Indiana this summer.

For more information on this event, upcoming events, and information on the Atwater FFA, log on their website at www.AtwaterFFA.org or follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

May 16, 2018

Hilmar Dual Language Immersion Program Teaches Students Portuguese

Elementary school students in Hilmar are learning the Portuguese language through a dual language immersion program and the results are proving encouraging.
Isabel Cabral-Johnson, superintendent of the Hilmar Unified School District, said the Portuguese program began last August and will expand to a second-grade class for the next school year.
Hilmar is the only school district in California to offer the Portuguese dual language immersion program.
“It speaks to the innovativeness of the district and the value we place on languages and cultures,” Cabral-Johnson said. “This is a great enrichment activity. In six months, students are speaking Portuguese and solving problems together. They are attentive and engaged.”
Melissa Cunha teaches the Portuguese-math class to first-graders at Elim Elementary School. She said they start their day with math, science and social studies, all in Portuguese.
“Through exposure and repetition the students have picked up the language very quickly. By November, over half the class was participating eagerly in Portuguese. By January, all of the students openly spoke and participated using the Portuguese language,” Cunha said.
Cabral-Johnson, who also speaks Portuguese and Spanish, said almost all Hilmar students who applied have passed the test to get their seal of biliteracy recognition, which appears on their diploma and high school transcripts. Hilmar has conducted a similar Spanish language immersion program for about 20 years, beginning in kindergarten and continuing through all grades.
She said there has been a lot of interest in the Hilmar community to offer Portuguese language instruction. Hilmar educators last year visited a school near Provo, Utah that offers a similar program and are planning a return visit soon.
A monthly meeting is held to update parents on the program. She said it is progressing very well and students are like sponges, capable of learning a new language if they are given the resources.
Cunha explained since the Portuguese language is the seventh most used language in the world, the students at the beginning of the year were informed how important and how special an opportunity they had to be able to learn another language.
“Many students became very eager and excited because they wanted to work for the government in the future. We discussed many times how many different jobs require a second or third language. And how important it is for their future success,” Cunha said.
Cabral-Johnson said students are provided visual aids and manipulative, hands-on materials. They learn the same first grade math material mandated in state standards that other students receive, as well as the Portuguese language.
“We have found out they are not losing anything in English while doing this. By very animated teaching, we are bringing the language to life,” Cabral-Johnson said.
At least 40 percent of Hilmar's students have a Portuguese heritage. It is easier to create pathways in the brain to learn a language at an early age. Children are not afraid to speak another language, according to Cabral-Johnson.
Hilmar has 2,400 students from transitional kindergarten through high school.
“The kids don’t care. You get an opportunity to practice language without inhibition. We are always looking for things to enhance the education of students,” Cabral-Johnson said.
Cabral said this has been an amazing opportunity, not only for her, the students and their families. She said she can't wait to see what the future holds for all of these language learners.

Hilmar Unified School District second-grade teacher Melissa Cunha reads to her students in Portuguese. She teaches California's only Portuguese dual language immersion program at Elim Elementary School.

Pictures and Portuguese descriptions adorn the hallway and door outside of Melissa Cunha's second grade class at Elim Elementary School in Hilmar.

Students in Melissa Cunha's second grade Portuguese dual language immersion program are encouraged to speak only Portuguese during part of the school day and are pictured here in different regions of Portugal.

PHOTOS BY DYLAN MCMULLEN COURTESY MERCED COUNTY OFFICE OF EDUCATION

May 16, 2018

TRAFFIC ADVISORY
OVERNIGHT FULL HIGHWAY CLOSURES
STATE ROUTE 140 FROM BERT CRANE ROAD
TO HULL ROAD IN MERCED COUNTY

The Merced Irrigation District will be working on a project in the area to install piping.

Detours are as follows:

East on SR-140:
- Left on Bert Crane Road
- Right on Atwater Jordan Road
- Right on Applegate Road
- Left on eastbound SR-140

West on SR-140:
- Right on Applegate Road
- Left on Atwater Jordan Road
- Left on Bert Crane Road
- Right on westbound SR-140

Motorists should expect 10 minute delays. Alternate routes should be taken whenever possible.

This work is scheduled to begin as listed, but is subject to change due to traffic incidents, weather, availability of equipment and/or materials and construction related issues.

TRAFFIC ADVISORY
LONG-TERM FULL HIGHWAY CLOSURE
STATE ROUTE 132 FROM GRANITE SPRINGS ROAD
TO PINEY CREEK ROAD IN MARIPOSA COUNTY

MARIPOSA COUNTY – The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) has closed eastbound and westbound State Route 132 (SR-132) for approximately half a mile from Granite Springs Road to Piney Creek Road for repair work after heavy rain on March 22, 2018.

The closure is expected to be long term in order to repair the roadway after a wash-out.

The roadway on this stretch of SR-132 was severely eroded due to the massive amount of water, and must be fully repaired and given a new foundation before re-opening. This effort is to ensure the safety and efficiency of the roadway for motorists.

Motorists can expect an additional 15 minutes of travel time due to the closure. There is a local detour available before the closure on either side.

Work is scheduled to begin as listed, but is subject to change due to traffic incidents, weather, availability of equipment and/or materials and construction related issues.

For videos on the storm repair work being done by Caltrans and our construction partners, go to: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_XAGWcbbqoV2h6LOQR7WnQ.

For the safety of workers and other motorists,please Slow For the Cone Zone.

TRAFFIC ADVISORY
RAMP CLOSURES
STATE ROUTE 99 FROM OWENS CREEK IN MERCED TO
GOLDEN STATE BOULEVARD IN TURLOCK

MERCED COUNTY – The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) will perform various road construction activities on northbound and southbound State Route 99 (SR-99) from Owens Creek to Golden State Boulevard. Ramp closures are scheduled as follows:

• Various full on and off-ramp closures on northbound and southbound SR-99 from Owens Creek to Webber Canal in Atwater beginning Monday, May 14, 2018, through Friday, May 18, 2018, from 7:00 p.m. until 7:00 a.m. for striping work.

• Various full on and off-ramp closures on northbound and southbound SR-99 from Childs Avenue to Bradbury Road in Delhi beginning Monday, May 14, 2018, through Friday, May 18, 2018, from 7:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m. for bridge work.

• Full off-ramp closure from northbound SR-99 to Golden State Boulevard beginning Monday, May 14, 2018, through Friday, May 18, 2018, from 9:00 p.m. until 5:00 a.m. for shoulder work.

• Full on-ramp closure from Golden State Boulevard to southbound SR-99 beginning Monday, May 14, 2018, through Friday, May 18, 2018, from 10:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m. for shoulder work.

The work at Golden State Boulevard is part of a project that will replace the two outside lanes and shoulder on both northbound and southbound SR-99, from just north of Bradbury Road to just north of the county line.
Motorists should expect 10 minute delays. Alternate routes should be taken whenever possible.

This work is scheduled to begin as listed, but is subject to change due to traffic incidents, weather, availability of equipment and/or materials and construction related issues.

TRAFFIC ADVISORY
LONG-TERM FULL HIGHWAY CLOSURE
STATE ROUTE 49 FROM STATE ROUTE 120/MOCCASIN IN TUOLUMNE COUNTY
TO BEAR VALLEY ROAD IN MARIPOSA COUNTY

The closure is expected to be long term in order to repair the roadway after a wash out.

Motorists can expect an additional hour of travel time due to the closure. Access to the town of Coulterville is available using alternate routes.

Work is scheduled to begin as listed, but is subject to change due to traffic incidents, weather, availability of equipment and/or materials and construction related issues.

For videos on the storm repair work being done by Caltrans and our construction partners, go to: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_XAGWcbbqoV2h6LOQR7WnQ.

May 16, 2018

Congressmen Costa, Denham, Garamendi, and McClintock Introduce Legislation to Update Water Infrastructure Projects

Washington, D.C. – In their ongoing work to improve access to safe and reliable water, Congressmen Jim Costa (D-CA-16), Jeff Denham (R-CA-10), John Garamendi (D-CA-3), and Tom McClintock (R-CA-4) introduced H.R 5726, the Non-Federal Reservoir Operations Improvement Act, in the House of Representatives today. If enacted, the bipartisan legislation would resolve a technicality that impedes structural and operational improvements of water reservoirs and prevents reservoirs from functioning as efficiently as possible.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers regulates the flood-control operations of many federal and non-federal reservoirs, guided by criteria set down in a “Water Control Manual” for each project. Up-to-date manuals, guidelines, and flood-control information help improve the efficiency of reservoir operation, creating more useable water. However, these manuals are often not reviewed and updated for decades by the Corps, who cite budget constraints. While current law allows the Corps to accept non-federal funds to review and update this information for Corps-owned reservoirs, it cannot accept similar funds for reservoirs not owned by the Corps, such as those owned by states, counties, or irrigation districts.

This effectually prevents dam owners, like Merced Irrigation District, from raising the spillway gates at New Exchequer Dam, because the project requires that the Corps updates the flood control manual for Lake McClure. The Non-Federal Reservoir Operations Improvement Act fixes this issue by allowing the Corps to accept non-federal funding to review and update operational documents and flood information for non-federal, locally-owned projects.

“This bill is a straightforward solution to a senseless problem that blocks improved water supply in the San Joaquin Valley, and in communities across the United States,” said Rep. Costa, lead sponsor on the bill. “Merced Irrigation District has been trying to raise the spillway gates at New Exchequer Dam to increase the carryover storage capacity of Lake McClure for years, but cannot move forward without updated operations guidelines and flood information. This project, when complete, will increase water supplies for eastern Merced County by 57,000 acre-feet during some years, and every additional acre-foot of water is vital to the future of our community. Merced Irrigation District is willing to pay to update the information and move the project forward, but the Army Corps of Engineers, which regulates Exchequer, indicated that the law prohibits it from accepting these non-federal funds. This is absurd, and I introduced the Non-Federal Reservoir Operations Improvement Act to remove this ridiculous obstacle from hindering progress in securing water for our Valley.”

Congressman Jim Costa

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“We must address California’s lack of storage,” shared Rep. Denham, lead Republican on the legislation. “In the Valley, we’ve seen water tables dry up, community water systems completely empty, and the economic viability of some towns completely dried up as well. We must move this issue forward.”

Rep. Garamendi, an original cosponsor on the bill, stated, “Water is one of California’s most scarce and precious resources, but can also do incredible damage. By removing bureaucracy and making it easier for the Corps to update its operations manuals and flood control guidelines using modern data, this bill will increase water supply availability while also providing better flood protection for communities downstream of dams.”

“Droughts are nature’s fault. Water shortages are OUR fault,” said Rep. McClintock, who is also an original cosponsor on the legislation. “This bill is an important step in reforming the bureaucratic mess that has made it all but impossible to manage our crucial water supplies. After our local water agencies have spent years trying to satisfy one bureaucracy, another suddenly pops up to claim jurisdiction with an entirely new set of demands in an often endless permitting process. This bill will cut through the red tape and allow us to store more water from wet years so that we will have it in dry ones.”

The Non-Federal Reservoir Operations Improvement Act was included as a provision in the Senate’s current version of the America’s Water Infrastructure Act, indicating support for the measure in the Senate.

May 16, 2018

MERCED COUNTY “MUCH SAFER” ONE YEAR AFTER OPERATION “SCRAPBOOK”

One year after a gang sweep he termed “the most successful in Merced County history,” District Attorney Larry D. Morse II said today that “Merced County remains much safer as a result of Operation Scrapbook.”
In a one-year anniversary review of the criminal prosecutions that resulted from the May 10, 2017 sweep of Sureno gang members operating in Merced County and state prisons, Morse noted that 79 defendants were implicated in Operation Scrapbook. In Merced County, there have been 34 convictions, 21 cases are still pending in the court system, and one defendant resolved their case by admitting a violation of probation. One defendant remains at large with an active warrant for his arrest. Fourteen defendants were charged with felonies in federal court and three defendants were referred to San Joaquin County for prosecution, Morse said. Five of those arrested were ultimately not charged with crimes, he added.
Out of the 34 convictions in Merced County, 18 have been sentenced to prison and at least three will be spending the rest of their lives in prison, Morse said.
Following an investigation that began in early 2017, more than 500 federal, state and local law enforcement personnel gathered in Merced County on May 10th to serve arrest and search warrants throughout the county on suspected Sureno gang members and some who were conducting gang business in county jail and in state prisons. By day’s end law enforcement officials had recovered more than 120 firearms, including dozens of assault weapons, seized 21,000 rounds of ammunition, $225,000 in cash and six and a half pounds of methamphetamine, Morse said, adding that the entire operation was concluded without any injuries to law enforcement or those targeted for arrest.
“Operation Scrapbook not only took violent and dangerous gang members off our streets, the seizure of so many high powered guns and ammunition
DISTRICT ATTORNEY
LARRY D. MORSE II
550 W. Main Street
Merced, CA 95340
Phone (209) 385-7381
Fax (209) 725-3669
Chief Deputy District Attorney HAROLD L. NUTT
Chief Deputy District Attorney
ROBERT O. CARROLL
Director of Administrative Services
JEANNETTE M. PACHECO
INVESTIGATIONS
(209) 385-7383
Chief Investigator
WILLIAM K. OLSON
VICTIM WITNESS
(209) 385-7385
Victim Witness Program Director
LISA DeSANTIS
LOS BANOS DIVISION
445 I Street
Los Banos, CA 93635
Phone (209) 710-6070
Fax (209) 827-2029 www.countyofmerced.com/da
undoubtedly saved innocent lives, including law enforcement officers who very likely would have been confronting these well-armed gangsters at some point,” Morse said.
Based on information gathered through this investigation from MAGNET, (Merced Area Gang and Narcotics Enforcement Team) and the District Attorney’s VIPER intelligence unit, local law enforcement was able to gather information on at least eight homicides and violent assaults and prevented at least a dozen additional violent crimes, Morse noted.
Merced County’s homicide rate had topped 30 per year between 2013 and 2015, much of it gang related, and making the county one of top three deadliest in California. In the aftermath of 2014’s Operation Red Right Hand, which targeted Norteno gang members in Merced County and resulted in more than 50 arrests, gang investigators noted an increase in rival Sureno gang activity, Morse said, which led to Operation Scrapbook.
Morse said results from the two major gang sweeps have been dramatic. In 2016, there were only nine reported homicides in Merced County. In 2017 there were 19, but only three were gang related, he noted. Overall, Morse said, homicides in Merced County have been reduced by half in the last two years and gang violence is down dramatically as a result of both Operation Red Right Hand and Operation Scrapbook.
“Working closely with Sheriff Vern Warnke, the police chiefs and our allied agencies, and utilizing the intelligence gathering capabilities we’ve developed through the VIPER program, we have made significant progress in reducing gang violence in Merced County,” Morse said, adding, “it’s a trend intend to continue.”

THIRTEEN ARRESTED IN AUTO INSURANCE FRAUD RING

Thirteen people were arrested Friday following a lengthy investigation by the Merced County District Attorney’s office into an automobile insurance fraud ring involving 10 different insurance companies that paid out more than $430,000 in bogus claims, District Attorney Larry D. Morse II announced.
Last month, a Merced County Grand Jury indicted 21 people for their role in orchestrating staged auto accidents and vandalism and then submitting bogus claims. The scheme began in September of 2011 and continued through June 2016 during which time there were 20 fraudulent claims submitted to insurance companies for payment, Morse said.
The insurance fraud ring was brought to light in January 2016 when an investigator with the Special Investigation Unit of Allstate Insurance contacted Merced County District Attorney Investigator Sheri Carpenter regarding a claim that she believed was a staged accident. Carpenter started her investigation by running the names through an insurance database provided by the National Insurance Crime Bureau which linked the claim to 19 other similar claims.
During the investigation it was discovered that some of the same vehicles were used for multiple claims, with the same damage being reported. The main method of theft, according to Carpenter, came from the alteration of hospital bills that were submitted by the suspects to the insurance companies for which they were paid directly. Carpenter found that many of the same bills were used in multiple claims with the names and dates of service being altered to reflect a new claim date. In some cases, she noted, the totals on the hospital bills were altered to reflect a larger amount so that the payouts to the suspects would be higher.
“Not only is insurance fraud a crime, it costs Merced County residents substantially more in premiums and insurance costs every year ,” Morse said. He praised the work done by Carpenter in “unraveling this sophisticated and far reaching conspiracy to defraud insurance companies and consumers. Investigator Carpenter worked this complex case relentlessly for the last two years in addition to her other work and did an incredible job of putting all the pieces together. It was a first rate effort,” Morse said.
According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), auto related insurance fraud, particularly staged accidents, are a significant component of the $30 to $32 billion lost to insurance fraud each year.
“Unfortunately, many individuals view insurance companies as their personal piggy banks and they engage in fraudulent behavior without any concern for the economic harm they cause all consumers,” said Frank Scafidi, public affairs director for the NICB. “NICB commends District Attorney Morse and the participating law enforcement agencies for their diligence and extensive investigative efforts in this case.”
Joanna Tucker, 29, from Livingston, was described by Carpenter as the “ringleader” of the scam and directly involved in 19 of the 20 claims.
Deputy District Attorneys Walter Wall and Scott Drexel presented the case over several days to a Merced County Grand Jury last month which returned with 19 felony counts of insurance fraud and 17 felony counts of grand theft against Tucker. The grand jury also handed down indictments of 20 other defendants on charges of insurance fraud and grand theft.
Tucker’s boyfriend, Johnathan Huerta, 30, also of Livingston, was indicted on 10 felony counts of insurance fraud and nine counts of grand theft.
Investigators from the District Attorneys office, with assistance from Merced Sheriffs Department, Merced Police Department, Merced County Probation, Livingston Police Department, Atwater Police Department, State Parole and the Merced Area Gang and Narcotics Enforcement Team (MAGNET), arrested Tucker, Huerta and 11 other defendants in a coordinated sweep on Friday. Tucker was being held on $500,000 bail. Huerta’s bail was set at $100,000, Carpenter said.
Three defendants were already in custody outside Merced County on unrelated charges, Carpenter noted.
Also taken into custody Friday were Rhonda Valencia 45, Diana Tucker 26, and Freddy Barajas 29 all of Livingston; Jessica Valencia 27, Alejandro Cervantes 31, Patricia Diaz 31 and Angelina Galvan 35 all of Atwater; Britney Groves 29, Charlece Scott 27, and Monique Eguiluz 28 all of Merced.
Others for whom arrest warrants have been issued were Maria Hernandez, 59, Celina Garza-Hernandez, 27 and Sarai Bernal, 27 all of Merced; Rico Tucker, 28, Carlos Tucker, 26, Heena Birly, 25, and Jessica Barajas, 30 all of San Jose and Jairo Barajas, 29 of Livingston.

MAN CONVICTED OF ATTEMPTED MURDER OF TWO-YEAR-OLD DAUGHTER

Gerardo Ruiz-Lopez, 42, of Merced, was convicted of attempted murder and felony child abuse, by a Merced County jury on Wednesday afternoon, after he attempted to kill his two-year-old daughter in 2016, Merced County District Attorney Larry D. Morse II announced.
Ruiz-Lopez began sending his ex-girlfriend and the mother of his daughter disturbing texts messages, followed by phone calls on July 10, 2016, while he had custody of their daughter for the weekend. Due to the nature of the text messages and calls, the mother called the Merced Police Department to do a welfare check on Ruiz-Lopez and their daughter.
Once the police arrived at Ruiz-Lopez’s home and could not get anyone to answer the door, they forced entry into the home because they feared the child may be in danger. During their search of the home, they found Ruiz-Lopez and his daughter unresponsive and shut in the walk-in closet upstairs. Inside of the closet with them, were two five-gallon propane tanks that were both freely releasing propane gas due to the safety lines being purposely cut. Also in the closet were toys, a tablet and pillows.
The officers immediately picked up the victim’s limp body and took her outside, where she received treatment and ultimately survived. When officers spoke to Ruiz-Lopez, he claimed that he did not remember sending the texts, the calls, or taking the propane into the closet, however, the jury did not find that to be true. Ruiz-Lopez also attempted to plead insanity, and the jury found him not legally insane.
“I want to thank the police officer who acted quickly to save the child’s life,” said Deputy District Attorney Caleb Hegland who prosecuted the case. “I would also like to thank the jurors who gave their time and attention to this trial. The defendant is now facing a life sentence and will hopefully never have the chance to harm a child again,” he added.
Ruiz-Lopez will be sentenced at 8:30 a.m. in courtroom 3 of the Merced County Superior Court and faces 7 years-life.

May 8, 2018

Atwater FFA Prepares for its Largest Spring Plant Sale

Written by: Grace Reyes - Atwater FFA

Atwater High School horticulture students have spent the past couple months preparing for the 13th annual Atwater FFA Spring/Summer Plant Sale scheduled for this Friday and Saturday, May 11th and 12th from 8am to 4pm at the Atwater High School Agriculture Department. Over 5000 annual and perennial plants, ferns, succulents, and fruit & shade trees will be available. This year’s crop includes organic strawberries. The plants have been grown and maintained by the students and all the funds generated from the sale go back into the horticulture program to cover supplies, equipment, and facility maintenance expenses.

“This is a hands-on approach towards learning plant/horticulture skills, responsibility, and the opportunity to strengthen communication and customer service skills during the sale,” said Atwater FFA instructor Dave Gossman. “The students have put in numerous hours towards in preparation and gain a tremendous amount of pride through the experience.”

Atwater High School became the state’s first certified high school horticulture program through the California Association of Nurseries and Garden Centers (CANGC). The school’s nursery is a student run operation whose bi-annual plants sales help cover the costs of supplies, materials, equipment, and facility upgrades for the program.

For more information on this event, upcoming events, and information on the Atwater FFA, log on their website at www.AtwaterFFA.org or follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Atwater High School horticulture students Jennifer Ambriz, Jaqueline Ceja, and Amy vang place plant tags on some of the 5000+ plant stock that will be available to community members during this weekend's plant sale.

Atwater High School horticulture students Jasmine Sandoval and Noemi Perez inspect the succulent plant stock in preparation for the FFA program's largest plant sale on May 11th and May 12th.

Atwater High School horticulture student Sarah Baird waters the various flowering plants in the school's greenhouse that will be available during this Friday and Saturday's FFA plant sale.

May 8, 2018

Costa Honors Fresno Students for Works in Congressional Art Competition

Fresno, CA – Congressman Jim Costa (CA-16) honored Fresno County high school students who participated in the 2018 Congressional Art Competition with an awards ceremony Friday evening at the Fresno Arts Council.

More than 50 pieces of art were submitted to the district-wide competition, with high school students from Fresno County submitting 24 pieces total. Fresno students’ work was judged by local artists and members of the Fresno arts community.

Rep. Costa honored all student entrants individually during Friday’s ceremony before awarding this year’s first and third place winners. “It is vital that we engage in creative and innovative thinking, which is why I seize the opportunity to host the Congressional Art Competition in our Valley every year,” said Costa. “Looking around this room – at these remarkable students and their moving works – I am proud of each and every one of these young people, for what they have created here and for sharing it with our community.”

Congressman Costa announced Anna Titteringten as this year’s third place winner and Emilie Haskell as this year’s first place winner. Anna attends Edison High School, and her third place piece is an oil on canvas work entitled “Tiny Tears.” Emilie also attends Edison High School, and her grand-prize-winning work is an acrylic on Masonite board piece entitled “Serene.”

This year’s second place winner is Lylah Carranza from Los Banos High School. Lylah was announced as the second place winner at the awards ceremony honoring Merced County students, which was held Wednesday, May 2nd at the Merced Multicultural Arts Center. Her prize-winning work is a colored pencil piece entitled “Hidden.”

Emilie’s “Serene” will be sent to Washington, D.C. in June, where it will hang on display with other first place pieces from across the country to be viewed by the millions who visit the Capitol each year. All first place winners, including Emilie, are also invited to the Capitol to attend the opening of the display exhibiting the 2018 winning works and the congressional reception celebrating the student winners.

Lylah’s “Hidden” and Anna’s “Tiny Tears” will be displayed in Congressman Costa’s district offices.

Rep Costa with first place winner Emilie Haskell

Rep Costa with third place winner Anna Titteringten

Left: Rep Costa honoring Fresno student entrants of Congressional Art Competition

May 8, 2018

Congressman Costa Continues to Lead on Trade for California Agriculture

Washington, D.C. – In his ongoing efforts to fight for California agriculture, today Congressman Jim Costa (CA-16) led other California members of the U.S. House of Representatives in calling on the Administration to replace its tariffs with a “strategic,” allied approach for addressing unfair or unbalanced trade practices.

The message, sent to United States Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, expresses deep concern regarding the $3 billion worth of retaliatory tariffs China has imposed on more than 80 agriculture products since President Trump raised tariffs on steel and aluminum imports on March 8th. “In 2017 alone, California exported approximately $28.5 billion in products to China,” the letter states.

After acknowledging that deceptive or unbalanced trade practices must be addressed, the letter continues with, “The currently proposed tariffs will not effectively advance our shared goal of changing China’s harmful practices” and calls on the Administration “to address these fundamental challenges through aligned efforts with our allies across the globe and abandon the current back and forth retaliation that will ultimately impact both rural and urban businesses in California and across the nation.”

Rep. Costa has been urging the Administration to rethink its approach to trade since the Administration’s plans to raise steel and aluminum tariffs became public in early March. Costa warned the House of Representatives in March that California agriculture would“likely feel the most intense and direct pain

Congressman Jim Costa

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from these tariffs. California farmers and ranchers earned roughly 44% of their total revenue from international trade in 2016. But this pain will radiate across the country.”

Congressman Costa was joined today in sending the letter to Lighthizer by lead Republican, Representative David G. Valadao (CA-21), and Representatives Jeff Denham (CA-10), Julia Brownley (CA-26), Steve Knight (CA-21), Salud O. Carbajal (CA-21), Jimmy Panetta (CA-21), and John Garamendi (CA-03).

May 5, 2018

Road project, Mall EIR on City Council agenda

A road repair project on N Street and the Merced Mall environmental impact report are topics on the Merced City Council agenda Monday night.
The meeting will be at 6 p.m. in the Council Chambers on the second floor of the Merced Civic Center, (City Hall), 678 W. 18th St. The Council meets the first and third Mondays of the month, except when there is a holiday, when it meets the following day.
The Council will be asked to award a $1,007,139.55 contract to Taylor Backhoe Services, Inc. of Merced for a roadway rehabilitation project.
The funds would reconstruct N Street from Childs Avenue to 8th Street and include the replacement of a 6 inch and 8 inch water main, curb and gutter work, concrete handicap ramps, sidewalks, driveway approaches and traffic loops.
The project will require partial lane closure of N Street so staff will coordinate the work with affected school officials and construction will not begin until school is out for summer break.
The Merced Mall has announced renovation and expansion plans for the 52-acre site. There would be an additional 50,000 square feet of building space added, along with facade improvements.
Council is being asked to approve the hiring of an environmental consultant for the project, along with an agreement by the Mall to reimburse the City for the $84,390 in consultants and staff time costs.
Staff will be giving Council an update on a report from Quad Knoff regarding property owner polling for Industrial Park Study Area No. 7. The City is considering the 1,267-acre site for a potential industrial park. The property owners were recently polled on whether they favored the concept and 88.5 percent participated.

Also on the agenda is a continued public hearing on the repeal of the Regional Transportation Impact Fee Ordinance. The City collected $5.1 million in fees from 2005 to 2016, with the funds earmarked for regional projects. However, not all jurisdictions in Merced County were consistent in collecting the fees, so there is a move to rescind the agreement that created the fee.
The Council will meet in closed session at 5 p.m. to confer with labor negotiators.
City Council meetings are streamed live on the Internet. A link to the live meeting is on the City’s web site at https://cityofmerced.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx. Videos of previous meetings can be found at that link, and are tied to each agenda item. Those services are in addition to the live broadcast of the regular meeting on Comcast’s Government Channel 96.
The Council agenda is posted online at www.cityofmerced.org and is available outside the chambers prior to the meeting. Request to Speak forms are available at the meeting or can be downloaded from the City's website. Cards must be turned in to the City Clerk in order for a person to be recognized by the Council. Hmong and Spanish translators are available at all Council meetings.

May 5, 2018

Merced Youth Council Music Festival

The City of Merced Youth Council is hosting their 3rd Annual Music Festival at Applegate Park’s Merced Open Air Theatre (MOAT) on Saturday, May 19.

Local and Bay Area bands and individuals will perform original music, sing, dance and read poetry during the event. There will be performances from Jukebox Breakers, M.A.D. Skillz, Rob Rivas, Hmong Student Association, Building Young Leaders and more.

Other activities include airbrush face painting, rock climbing, tie-dying, student clubs and raffles. All activities are free.

The event will be from 6:30 to 9 p.m. at the MOAT, 1045 W. 25th St. For more information call 385-6235, visit the website CityofMerced.org, and click on Parks and Community Services or follow MercedYouthCouncil on Facebook.

Click here to see Flyer

May 5, 2018

ARRESTS MADE IN THE UC ORIENTAL MARKET FIRE IN DOWNTOWN MERCED

At 7:00 a.m. this morning, detectives from the Merced Police Department arrested the owners of the UC Oriental Market, 44-year-old Mai Moua and her husband 49-year-old Zang Her, in connection to the December 18, 2016 fire that left the building located at 630 W. Main in Merced completely destroyed, announced District Attorney Larry D. Morse II.
The blaze began around 10:00 a.m. that Sunday morning, and firefighters were on scene in just over four minutes after receiving the call. The fire was battled by a total of 51 firefighters from the City Fire Department, Turlock Fire Department, and Merced County Fire Department.
Although there were ultimately no injuries, firefighters have described this structural fire as one of the most significant in recent Merced history because of the risk to the firefighters involved in containing it.
Due to the nature of the fire, an arson investigation was initiated by the Merced Police Department and the Merced City Fire Department Investigation Unit, and was aided by a forensic accountant from the Federal Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms.

The losses from the fire are estimated to be over $1 million in total.
Moua and Her recently purchased the UC Oriental Market, however, they did not own the building.
Both defendants were booked at the Merced County jail and have been charged with one count each of arson of a structure, and one count each of filing a fraudulent insurance claim. Arson is considered a strike offense under California law, requiring registration as an arsonist, and the charges carry a maximum of seven years in state prison.
“Arson is a strike offense under California law for good reason. Structural fires like this one pose great risk for the firefighters trying to contain them. We were extremely fortunate that none of the 51 firefighters battling this blaze were injured. It could have been so much worse,” Morse said.

May 5, 2018

Morse Releases His Personnel File

Today Merced County District Attorney Larry Morse released his 25 year personnel file from the County and called on his opponent, Stanislaus County Deputy District Attorney Kimberly Helms Lewis to do the same.

“The District Attorney’s office has an annual budget of about $13 million with nearly 100 employees,” said Morse. “I’ve managed it successfully through recession and recovery for 12 years.”

“Voters should be able to see Ms. Lewis’ employment history at the Merced County Counsel’s office to evaluate her work history in making their choice as to who is best qualified to lead the office,” continued Morse.

Morse told members of the Merced County Farm Bureau during a recent joint candidate appearance that he would release his employment history. Ms. Lewis did not say if she would do so.

Ms. Lewis worked for more than a decade at the Merced County Counsel’s office before joining the Stanislaus County District Attorney’s office late last year as a deputy district attorney assigned to auto theft.

A county employee’s personnel history can only be released with the employee’s consent.

“Managing offices in Merced and Los Banos with 27 attorneys, an investigations unit, our Victim Witness Division and our outstanding clerical staff is one of the biggest responsibilities of serving as District Attorney,” said Morse.

“In 20 years at the County, Ms. Lewis has never been a manager at any level,” Morse concluded. “I believe that is a critical distinction between us.”

May 5, 2018

Tacherra Campaign Calls on Poythress to Give Back High Speed Rail Donations

After expressing his opposition to High Speed Rail, Madera Supervisor Rob Poythress, under investigation by the California Attorney General’s office for corruption, should return “donations” to his campaign from HSR vendors and those who will benefit financially.

The Tacherra for Senate campaign today called out corruption-ridden Madera County Supervisor Rob Poythress on his two-faced positions on High Speed Rail: Speaking out publicly against it while pocketing thousands in contributions from those supporting it.

“Rob Poythress is showing every day why he is under criminal investigation for corruption,” said Tacherra spokesman Carl Fogliani. “It’s obvious he has hung out the “For Sale” sign to fund his failing campaign by shoving cash into his dirty pockets. It will be the voters who have to pay for this waste of money for not just High Speed Rail but for his continued prosecution as well.“

The leading candidate in SD 12, Johnny Tacherra, challenged Poythress when he heard the news.

“I hope Rob gives up his support of High Speed Rail and gives the money back,” said Tacherra. “I’m starting to see why the state Attorney General’s office is so interested in Rob’s “Pay to Play” schemes in local government and hope he will start thinking of the taxpayers. His values are very far away from what our party needs to send to Sacramento. We don’t need to send a corrupt liberal Republican to join the corrupt liberal Democrats.”

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The Madera, Merced and San Benito Republican Committees have already endorsed the battle-tested Republican frontrunner Johnny Tacherra in the race for State Senate for the open seat of term limited Senator Anthony Cannella. Tacherra is a farmer from Fresno County who nearly upset Congressman Jim Costa in 2014 despite no support from the national GOP or California Republican Party. Tacherra is a recognized expert on water issues with a strong proven base in the core of this “swing” district.

“Poythress should not only consider leaving the race, he should apologize to all those members of the Senate Republican Caucus who endorsed his candidacy after he deceived them into believing he was a viable candidate,” said Tacherra consultant Carl Fogliani. “He is possibly the worst candidate for state Senate in California GOP history as a banker under investigation by the Attorney General for government corruption. If Senate Republicans do not want an even tinier caucus they need to cut bait on Poythress to have a chance to keep this seat.”

May 4 , 2018

Rep. Costa Visits Charlie Keyan Armenian Community School

Fresno, CA — Today, Congressman Jim Costa (CA-16) visited Charlie Keyan Armenian Community School in Clovis where he met with students and faculty and spoke to students about the importance of community engagement and his time serving in Congress. In addition, Rep. Costa heard directly from students about some of the programs and opportunities unique to Charlie Keyan Armenian Community School, the only Armenian school in the state of California from San Francisco to Los Angeles. Costa’s visit also featured components of Armenian culture, including sharing in a Mezza Table and student performances of traditional Armenian dances.

“One of the great things about our San Joaquin Valley is its diversity and the interweaving of all of its rich cultures,” said Rep. Costa. “Charlie Keyan Armenian Community School – in addition to providing students with a high-quality education – celebrates and engages students in the vibrant Armenian culture that plays a significant role in our Valley home. It was an honor to meet with these remarkable students and dedicated educators today.”

Curtis Shamlin, Principal of Charlie Keyan Armenian Community School, shared, “We truly appreciate the words Congressman Costa shared with us. We thank him for his service to our country and his continued recognition of our Armenian community.”

Charlie Keyan Armenian Community School focuses its educational courses and extra-curricular programs on academic excellence and the development of a rich appreciation of Armenian culture. To do so, the school broadly promotes technology and scientific advancements, visual and performing arts, and Armenian language, cooking, dance, and other Armenian culturally-significant areas.

Congressman Jim Costa

Rep Costa with Principal Shamlin and students at Charlie Keyan Armenian Community School

Rep Costa Speaking to Students at Charlie Keyan Armenian Community School.