POLICY & POLITICS
Valley:
Gavin Newsom campaign stop in Fresno July 17
Fresno Bee
Lt. Gov. Gavin Newsom, the frontrunner for California governor in November, will appear in Fresno on Tuesday. Details including time, location and purpose have not yet been released to the public, but spokesman Nathan Click confirmed that Newsom will be in town.
Gustine teen running for mayor
ABC30
A North Valley teen wants to see a change in Gustine, so he's decided to run for Mayor. At 19, Zachery Ramos’ young age and mature decision surprised the community.
Former Tulare police chief files lawsuit seeking to get job back
Visalia Times-Delta
Former Tulare Police Chief Wes Hensley has filed a lawsuit to get his job back. In the lawsuit, Hensley is also seeking civil penalties and the cost of the suit and attorneys' fees.
See also:
● Attorneys respond to former Tulare police chief's lawsuit Visalia Times-Delta
EDITORIAL: Fox News apologizes for fake news targeting Cal Poly SLO
Fresno Bee
We have a message for “Fox & Friends First”: Sorry don’t cut it.
State:
Midterm primary turnout in California highest since 1998
The Hill
Voter turnout in California's midterm primary elections was reportedly the highest its been since 1998, according to new numbers. The Associated Press reported Friday that more than 37 percent of registered voters cast a ballot during the state's June primary.
California Democrats endorse de León for US Senate race, snubbing Feinstein
Sacramento Bee
The California Democratic Party on Saturday endorsed U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein’s challenger, highlighting the moderate lawmaker’s political disconnect with liberal activists in her home state.
See also:
● In rebuke of Dianne Feinstein, Kevin de León wins endorsement of California Democrats in Senate race Los Angeles Times
● As Democratic Party activists reject Sen. Feinstein, which side of the debate is more in touch with voters? Los Angeles Times
● Feinstein gets progressive smackdown Politico
● Democrats Dump Moderates, Move Far Left National Review
● Feinstein iced out by state Democratic Party leaders—they endorse progressive de León for U.S. Senate CALmatters
● California Democratic Party Endorses Dianne Feinstein Opponent Kevin de León Roll Call
● Feinstein Has Advantages in California Race. De León Now Has Party Leaders. New York Times
California needs more transparency about its lawmakers who sexually harass or discriminate
Los Angeles Times
The public has a right to know if the people they elect — hire, really — to represent their interests in Sacramento have groped staffers. And they deserve to know whether those who misbehave are being overpunished or underpunished.
See also:
● California Enacts a Privileged Communication Law Regarding Sexual Harassment Claims Littler
Donations from candidate's father fueled high-spending race for California's No. 2 position
Los Angeles Times
It's a job that can be a stepping stone to one of the most powerful jobs in America, or nothing more than a political footnote. The race to become California's next lieutenant governor for the first time has two Democrats battling this November.
Suspected DUI driver plows into vehicle carrying State Controller Betty Yee
San Francisco Chronicle
California State Controller Betty Yee and her husband were recovering at home on Saturday after a driver suspected of being under the influence of marijuana plowed into their car a day earlier in the Posey Tube between Oakland and Alameda, officials said.
Walters: California vs. Trump over 2020 census
CALmatters
The 2020 federal census will provide the official population count, but there are rising fears among California’s political leaders, Democrats, and myriad civil rights groups that the census will severely undercount Californians for political reasons.
See also:
● Opinion: Don't let children be undercounted in 2020 census Mercury News
Gov. Jerry Brown, Lt. Gov. Gavin Newsom lose 10% of followers after Twitter purge
Los Angeles Times
Two of California’s most prominent politicians lost a noticeable slice of Twitter followers this week, as the social media platform began a crackdown on accounts it deemed to be suspicious.
See also:
● Filling the gaps in US data privacy laws Brookings
Lawmakers should not stifle innovation
Capitol Weekly
There is no doubt that California is the world’s leading edge of innovation, product safety and modernization. It’s curious then that a strongly anti-innovation bill is making its way through the Legislature.
A Fight for Men’s Rights, in California Courts
New York Times
Rich Allison, 47, is in a movement of men’s rights activists challenging female-focused businesses, marketing strategies, educational programs and civic projects that have surged since the election of President Trump in November 2016 and the #MeToo movement.
Federal:
Mitch McConnell: Far-left scare tactics won't stop Brett Kavanaugh's confirmation
Visalia Times-Delta
President Donald Trump has chosen a superb nominee to serve on the Supreme Court. Through the most transparent and democratic process in recent memory, he has selected a brilliant judge with an outstanding reputation.
See also:
● What to expect as Republicans race to confirm Kavanaugh Brookings
● California Dems trying to flip the House aren’t running on abortion rights San Francisco Chronicle
● EDITORIAL: Who is paying for the next Supreme Court justice? Washington Post
Russian bots, trolls test waters ahead of US midterms
Sacramento Bee
Russian bots and trolls are deploying increasingly sophisticated, targeted tools. And a new indictment suggests the Kremlin itself was behind previous hacking efforts in support of Donald Trump.
See also:
● Indictment: Russians tried to hack Clinton around when Trump publicly asked them to The Hill
● 2017 Lie of the Year: Russian election interference is a 'made-up story' PolitiFact
● Timeline of Russia Investigation Fact Check
● The Russian "Firehose of Falsehood" Propaganda Model: Why It Might Work and Options to Counter It RAND
● GOP senators downplaying Russian interference shows how Trump has co-opted the party Washington Post
Trump resists Mueller interview, leaving difficult decision on subpoena before fall elections
Los Angeles Times
After months of negotiations failed to secure an interview with President Trump, special counsel Robert S. Mueller III warned the president’s lawyers during a contentious meeting this spring that he could use a grand jury subpoena if necessary to compel his testimony.
Trump hides losses at golf courses in Scotland from voters
McClatchy Washington Bureau
President Donald Trump’s pair of golf resorts in Scotland have steadily lost money, with losses calculated at $23 million the last year his company reported figures to United Kingdom officials.
Never Trumpers Will Want to Read This History Lesson
Politico
In the 1850s, disaffected Democrats made the wrenching choice to leave their party to save American democracy. Here’s what happened.
See also:
● Intensifying partisanship is aiding the authoritarian threat AEI
● The infectious incompetence of the populists Washington Post
Can truth survive this president? An honest investigation.
Washington Post
The disregard for honesty in the Trump era, with its ever-changing menu of “alternative facts,” is eliciting new research and polemics from philosophers, literary critics, political analysts and social scientists.
See also:
● When it comes to lying, Trump is nonstop Washington Post
Study Looks at Role of Racial Resentment, Cultural Anxiety With Trump Supporters
KQED
Studies since the election have concluded that white Trump supporters are less motivated by economic pressures than by racial resentment and cultural anxiety brought about by social and demographic changes.
Brookings
While talk of whether Trump is or is not “draining the swamp” of lobbyists continues in Washington (and on Twitter), one form of lobbying—lobbying the White House about regulations—has quietly flown under the radar.
See also:
Big Banks Reshape Lobbying Game Wall Street Journal
VP Pence family's failed gas stations cost taxpayers $20M+
AP News
The collapse of Kiel Bros. Oil Co. in 2004 was widely publicized. Less known is that the state of Indiana — and, to a smaller extent, Kentucky and Illinois — are still on the hook for millions of dollars to clean up more than 85 contaminated sites across the three states.
John Kerry rebuts Trump, says NATO spending was up, not down
PolitiFact
Former Secretary of State John Kerry took exception to President Donald Trump’s criticism of the NATO allies at the recent meeting in Brussels.
Other:
First Amendment widely supported, although most don’t know what’s in it
Fresno State Institute for Media and Public Trust
An annual survey of attitudes about the First Amendment found that a vast majority of Americans support the amendment and the freedoms it guarantees.
How closures of local newspaper increase local government borrowing costs
Brookings
Local newspaper closures increase local government borrowing costs, according to a paper to be presented at the 2018 Municipal Finance Conference at Brookings.
New York Times
For decades, leakers of confidential information to the press were a genus that included many species: the government worker infuriated by wrongdoing, the ideologue pushing a particular line, the politico out to savage an opponent.
Skelton: Larry Thomas was a political practitioner who knew how to work in the heat and keep cool
Los Angeles Times
Politics today is uncivil. But it’s too simple to say it used to be less vicious, rosy nostalgia aside. It has always been bloody. Think back to 1994.
The trouble with polling
AEI
As political pundits and the general public prepare for the 2018 midterm elections this fall, it’s a safe bet that pollsters will undergo fresh scrutiny. Questions are still being raised about their performance in the 2016 presidential election.
EDITORIAL: Encourage more robo-calls? No, no, no!
San Diego Union-Tribune
There are few annoyances as constant in modern life as robo-calls. Despite a 1991 federal law meant to limit them, robo-calls to Americans set a new record last month with 4.1 billion, according to the company behind the YouMail call-blocking application.
In about 20 years, half the population will live in eight states
Washington Post
In 2040, eight states will have just under half of the total population of the country, 49.5 percent, according to the Weldon Cooper Center’s estimate.
EDITORIAL: Papa John’s apology half-baked
Stockton Record
What you do in the dark is revealed when it is brought into the light. And then the consequences follow. John Schnatter, founder of Papa John’s Pizza, resigned as chairman of the company last week after Forbes magazine reported he used the N-word during a conference call in May.
MADDY INSTITUTE PUBLIC POLICY PROGRAMMING
Sunday, July 29, at 10 a.m. on ABC 30 – Maddy Report: “The Federal Reserve Does Community Development: Who Knew?” – Guest: Leilani Barnett, Regional Manager for Community Development of the Federal Bank of San Francisco . Host: Maddy Institute Executive Director, Mark Keppler.
Sunday, July 29, at 10 a.m. on Newstalk 580AM/105.9FM (KMJ) – Maddy Report - Valley Views Edition: “Community Development in the Valley: A Federal Response” – Guests: Mike Dozier, Former Executive Director of the Office of Economic and Community Development at Fresno State; Ben Duran, President and CEO of the Great Valley Center; Fresno EDC Director of Business Expansion & Retention, Victor Bribiesca; and Prof. Antonio Alavos, Chair of the Economics Dept. at Cal State Fresno. Host: Maddy Institute Executive Director, Mark Keppler.
Sunday, July 29, at 7:30 a.m. on UniMas 61 (KTTF) – El Informe Maddy: “State Auditor's Report on Medication of Foster Kids” – Guest: Mony Flores-Bauer, League of Women Voters in California. Host: Ana Melendes.
Support the Maddy Daily
Thank you!
AGRICULTURE/FOOD
Increased Chinese Tariffs Could put California Producers in a Tight Spot
California Ag Today
The ongoing threat of Chinese tariffs on American agriculture has recently been the topic of conversation for agriculturalists. With China posing a possible 25 percent tariff on U.S. soybeans back in April, it seems this conversation is here to stay.
Time for California Table Grapes
California Ag Today
You might want to take a second look when reaching for fresh grapes in your local grocery store, said Kathleen Nave, president of the Fresno-based California Table Grape Commission. She urged buyers to choose California table grapes when grocery shopping.
Desert Sun
Growers say innovation is needed as a worker shortage and new state labor regulations drive up costs, making it harder to compete with operations in Mexico.
Podcast: Two Senators on How They Got a Bipartisan Farm Bill
Roll Call
Senate Agriculture Chairman Pat Roberts of Kansas and the Agriculture panel's ranking Democrat, Debbie Stabenow of Michigan, explain their bipartisan approach as they prepare for a fight with the House conservatives pushing the food stamp changes.
How Science Ruined Tomatoes (and How It Can Fix Them)
Bloomberg
How tomatoes went from a sweet-savory summer treat to something watery and bland presents not just a chemical and genetic mystery, but an economic and cultural one.
Pot equity program hurting those it was meant to help
San Francisco Chronicle
The goal of the pot equity program was to allow people living in parts of the city disproportionately affected by the failed war on drugs to get to the front of the pack of businesses seeking fortune in California’s cannabis gold rush.
CRIMINAL JUSTICE / FIRE / PUBLIC SAFETY
Crime:
Homicide: Gangs aside, many victims knew their killers
Fresno Bee
Last year was a bloody one for homicides in Fresno County, with 85 cases making 2017 the deadliest in more than 20 years.
See also:
● Fresno gang member challenged judge over the law. 13 years later, the gang member won Fresno Bee
● Special Report: Violent Crime In Stockton “Picking Up the Pieces” Stockton Record
Los Angeles Times
In the statute books, California has changed sentencing policies to make them more rational and just, and to ensure that costly prison beds are used for only the most serious criminals. On the ground, though, police and prosecutors have been slow to update their practices, and that has gotten in the way of their ability to fight crime.
Public Safety:
Parents talk water safety while visiting Kern River, Hart Park Lake
Bakersfield Californian
There have been two apparent drownings in Kern County bodies of water over the past few weeks, stark reminders of how an afternoon cooling off in a lake or river can quickly turn deadly.
California Assault Weapon Owners Face Legal Jeopardy After State Agency’s Website Crash
Capital Public Radio
Second Amendment groups in California say a state website’s crash could turn thousands of gun owners into felons after they were blocked from registering their firearms ahead of a state imposed deadline.
See also:
● More Research Could Help Prevent Gun Violence in America RAND
Want to Reduce the Number of People in Prison? Stop Sentencing So Many People to Prison.
The Nation
California still spends more than $20 billion a year on incarceration and responding to crime, when you include state and county dollars. These are dollars that could be going to any number of priorities.
Fire:
Residents fleeing Ferguson Fire hope for best, as fire tops 4,000 acres
Fresno Bee
The fire by Sunday afternoon had burned 4,310 acres, with just 2 percent contained by firefighters, as it forced more than 50 people from their homes near El Portal, according to Cal Fire and the U.S. Forest Service. In addition, a Cal Fire firefighter was killed Saturday while battling the blaze.
See also:
● Mariposa firefighter dies battling Ferguson Fire near Yosemite Fresno Bee
● Wildfire causes evacuations, road closure just west of Yosemite Fresno Bee
● Ferguson Fire at 4,000 acres, evacuation advisory in effect ABC30
● Yosemite wildfire closes highway, kills firefighter Visalia Times-Delta
● Firefighter killed while battling blaze near Yosemite National Park Los Angeles Times
● Fire near Yosemite explodes as officials mourn firefighter killed on front lines Los Angeles Times
● Deadly Yosemite fire grows to 4,310 acres, evacuations ordered San Francisco Chronicle
● California firefighter dies battling blaze near Yosemite National Park UPI
● Smoke from Ferguson Fire blowing into San Joaquin Valley, prompting air quality caution Bakersfield Californian
● Watch: Governor candidates on how they would tackle California wildfires CALmatters
● Deadly fire shuts down key route to Yosemite National Park AP News
'Controlled Burns' Can Help Solve California's Fire Problem -- So Why Aren't There More of Them?
KQED
With climate change, wildfires threaten disaster and chaos in more California communities, more often. Experts say it’s possible to avoid catastrophic harm to human and forest health by setting planned burns before human error, lightning or arson choose when fires start.
See also:
● Fighting Fire with Fire: Rethinking Forest Management The Maddy Report
Firefighters face possible OT cuts as negotiations for new union contract begin
Bakersfield Californian
Nobody doubts that Kern County firefighters work hard to keep area communities safe. But as negotiations for a new union contract ramp up, the county hopes to get some of those firefighters to work less.
ECONOMY / JOBS
Economy:
What city is hit hardest by extreme poverty in your state? In Calif. It’s Visalia-Porterville
USA Today
The Department of Health and Human Services sets the poverty threshold at $25,100 for a family of four in the contiguous United States. The share of Americans living in poverty climbed from 13.8 percent to 15.1 percent between 2010 and 2016.
California Must Be Doing Something Right in Trump’s America
Bloomberg
Just about every policy Donald Trump imposes to make his America great is opposed by the world's fifth-largest economy. That would be California, which is growing faster and outperforming the U.S. in job growth, manufacturing, and personal income.
The Next Gov. Should Set Goals to Break California’s Dickensian Economy
Fox & Hounds
Our next Governor will face the daunting challenge of an economy. Sadly, this Dickensian economy, though affording great bounty to those at the top, is failing to help those who work the hardest, middle- and lower-income earners.
See also:
● EDITORIAL: California’s Mortgage Fraud Wall Street Journal
Supporting Working Mothers in California
California Budget & Policy Center
The share of women balancing work and family life has risen dramatically over the past half century, and now more than ever women’s paid work is critical to the financial well-being of their families.
Glaring Problem: Trump tariff trade war with China, Canada, EU, Mexico has no goal, end
Business Insider
In just over four months, President Donald Trump has managed to assault the international trading order, kick off trade battles with key allies, and push the US into a full-blown trade war with China. But amid the flurry and sudden rush of trade protectionism, Trump's goal in the end remains a mystery.
See also:
● Opinion: Is Trump possibly tight on trade? Fresno Bee
● Some MAGA hats made in China may increase in price because of tariffs The Hill
● Foreign Relations Panel Shows Bipartisan Scorn for Administration Trade Agenda Washington Post
● Evidence That New Tariffs, Not Immigrants, Are Costing Jobs Forbes
● It’s time for Republicans to end Trump’s trade war AEI
● U.S. Stocks Resilient in Trade Spat, Sparking Complacency Fears Wall Street Journal
● Trump's trade offensive is producing brutal local headlines Washington Post
Is the US economy stronger than we think? Probably
AEI
The US economy keeps generating gobs of jobs, but we’re still waiting for a pickup in economic growth. Real GDP growth was up just 2.3 percent last year and 2 percent in the first three months of this year.
See also:
● America's Top States for Business 2018 CNBC
● Survey of economists: US sales and employment likely to grow AP News
● Trump Inflates GDP Growth Fact Check
● Foreign investment in the United States plunged 32% in 2017 CNN
Jobs:
Valley Ventures helps entrepreneurs earn millions of dollars
Fresno State
In its first year, the Valley Ventures Accelerator has helped 25 companies attract $10 million in sales and $9 million in investment capital.
New deputy director appointed to Small Business Administration in Fresno
Business Journal
The Small Business Administration (SBA) has appointed George Flores the new Deputy Director for its Fresno District.
Workers claim injuries all over their bodies for big payouts — but continue their active lives
Los Angeles Times
Claims involving at least five injured body parts have become by far the most common in California, according to a Times data analysis of millions of workers’ compensation cases spanning nearly three decades.
Worker wages drop while companies spend billions to boost stocks
CBS News
Six months after the Tax Cut and Jobs Act became law, there's still little evidence that the average job holder is feeling the benefit.
See also:
● Wages aren’t rising. These theories could explain why. Washington Post
To Restore U.S. Competitiveness, Pass the JOBS Act 3.0
Wall Street Journal
Excessive regulation has stalled startups and IPOs. The Senate should now act to get out of the way.
EDUCATION
K-12:
Special ed students twice as likely to be suspended at FUSD
Fresno Bee
An audit of Fresno Unified’s special education services found that the district struggles to include students with disabilities in traditional classrooms, and suspends students with individualized education plans at more than double the rate of their general education peers.
First 5 invests $250,000-plus in programming for children
Madera Tribune
In a time of declining tobacco revenues, First 5 Madera County continues to make the needs of young children a priority in Madera County. During a Commission meeting on June 6, more than $250,000 of funding was approved to reach children and parents throughout Madera County this year.
Districts use incentives, non-credentialed teachers to address shortage
Bakersfield Californian
Teacher shortages continues to be an issue across the state and beyond, but that may not be visibly apparent on school campuses across Kern County. That’s because many districts have taken significant steps to meet their staffing needs.
Walters: California’s school war will have new political players
CALmatters
Over the last half-decade, California has spent many billions of dollars to close the “achievement gap” that separates poor and “English learner” K-12 students from their more privileged classmates.
Educators to Trump school safety commission: Don’t repeal Obama discipline guidelines
EdSource
As the federal commission on school safety ramps up its schedule of public forums, an unusually broad array of individuals and organizations has sent a letter imploring DeVos and Attorney General Jeff Sessions to retain federal guidelines issued by the Obama administration to combat racial disparities in school discipline.
Billionaires fuel powerful state charter groups
AP News
Dollar for dollar, the beleaguered movement to bring charter schools to Washington state has had no bigger champion than billionaire Bill Gates.
RAND
In recent years, state and local education leaders across the United States have revised their teacher evaluation policies and practices in an effort to enhance the quality of evaluation measures and improve instructional practices.
Straight up conversation: Nat Malkus on what’s next for teachers’ unions after Janus
AEI
My friend and colleague Nat Malkus has been tracking the implications of the Janus v. AFSCME Supreme Court decision for quite a while. Given that, I was curious to hear his take on the case, what’s gotten missed amid the frenzied aftermath, and what comes next.
Higher Ed:
New CSUB president believes Roadrunner athletics is on right track
Bakersfield Californian
Lynnette Zelezny’s first day as president of Cal State Bakersfield came on July 2 as she became the fifth president in school history and first woman in the role.
Four new members appointed to Fresno State University Advisory Board
Fresno State
President Joseph I. Castro announced four appointments to the University Advisory Board, a 25-member panel of community members that provides strategic input on development of the University. Members generally serve three-year terms.
Bakersfield College Parking Lots Use Measure J Funds
Bakersfield Californian
Heavy equipment operator Mario Ornelas prepares the circle drive in front of the Bakersfield College administration building for paving. Roads and parking lots on the Bakersfield College campus are being prepared for paving using some of the $502 million Measure J funds.
Agriculture Grads in High Demand
California Ag Today
There is a big demand for college graduates with agricultural degrees, especially in plant and crop sciences. California Ag Today spoke with Shannon Douglass, first vice president of the California Farm Bureau Federation, about the need for agriculture grads.
Stockton Record
This summer, seven fellows — six from various UC campuses and the seventh a University of the Pacific graduate — have paid summer positions thanks to the brand-new Stockton Urban Revitalization Fellowship, or SURF.
To Recruit Students, Colleges Turn to Corporate-Marketing Playbook
Wall Street Journal
Schools are borrowing retailers’ approach in analyzing consumer databases and triggering online ads.
Why Do Women Shun STEM? It’s Complicated
Wall Street Journal
University of Washington lecturer Stuart Reges—in a provocative essay, “Why Women Don’t Code”—suggests that women’s verbal and analytical skills lead to career choices outside STEM.
EDITORIAL: UC readies for a surge of transfer students
San Francisco Chronicle
The University of California is launching one of its biggest changes ever, and it’s about time. Under political duress and upon reflection, the top ranked system is opening the door in a major way for transfer students.
ENVIRONMENT/ ENERGY
Environment:
Need to File an Air Quality Complaint? Here’s How
Valley Air
Complaints should be reported as quickly as possible after you detect an offensive odor, observe smoke, fallout, dust or any other air pollution problem.
It’s mid-July, and the heat isn’t going anywhere soon
Modesto Bee
The Weather Service repeated its summer advice: Stay hydrated. Dress for the heat. Limit your time outside. Check on people and pets who might be at risk.
See also:
Climate change is behind the global heat wave. Why won't the media say it? Los Angeles Times
California Is Preparing for Extreme Weather. It’s Time to Plant Some Trees New York Times
New EPA Head Andrew Wheeler Vows to Be ‘Stabilizing Force’ After Pruitt Turmoil
Wall Street Journal
Energy companies and trade groups harbor one big hope for the new leader of the Environmental Protection Agency: a steady hand. Lobbyists say longtime Washington insider Andrew Wheeler will likely better marshal bureaucracy to realize Trump agenda.
Energy:
Power savings to pay for new streetlights in six years
Bakersfield Californian
It was a big project. And it was done (almost) on time. The cooperative effort between the City of Bakersfield and PG&E to replace 12,865 old “cobra head” street light fixtures with more efficient LED lights was scheduled to be completed by June 30.
California slashes emissions, hits major greenhouse gas goal years early
San Francisco Chronicle
In a major win for California’s fight against global warming, the state appears to have hit its first target for cutting greenhouse gases — and it reached the goal early.
See also:
● California’s Progress on Greenhouse Gas Reductions: A Review of the Numbers California Center for Jobs & the Economy
● U.S. CO2 Levels Drop Again — So Why Aren't Green Groups Rejoicing? Investor’s Business Daily
● Trump Says Environmental Regulations Tank The Economy. California Is Proving Him Wrong. BuzzFeed
● EDITORIAL: Surprise! California cracked down on carbon and its economy is still booming Los Angeles Times
Power play: How California lawmakers are trying to navigate a changing energy landscape
CALmatters
State lawmakers, faced with a transformed energy landscape and a glut of renewable power as California charges into a greener future, are considering a handful of measures to meet the state’s energy challenges.
HEALTH/HUMAN SERVICES
Health:
FDA recalls heart med Valsartan citing cancer concerns
Fresno Bee
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued a voluntary recall of several medications that contain the active ingredient valsartan, which is used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure.
Reedley hospital board members endorse Adventist as TRMC administrator
Visalia Times-Delta
Kathy Omachi says she walks the hallways of what's now called Adventist Health Reedley, touching the walls to ensure the facility is really there. Affirmation is needed to ensure what once seemed lost and gone is still standing. If Reedley's story sounds familiar, that's because it is.
Kern Public Health’s lab gets high-tech upgrade
Bakersfield Californian
There’s a new room in the Kern County Public Health building known as the “Ebola Room.” The health department has recently constructed a new addition to its lab, with the ostensible goal of testing for the Ebola virus should an outbreak ever occur in the region.
Not Just An Apple A Day: California Doctors Start Prescribing Medically Tailored Meals
WBUR
In California, doctors are prescribing food as medicine to treat low-income patients with congestive heart failure. The program delivers medically tailored meals to 1,000 patients in eight counties across the state
More California kids are having pot-related health scares, poison control officials warn
Los Angeles Times
State and local officials say they are alarmed by a spike in calls they have received to report children and teenagers ingesting marijuana products since California legalized cannabis for recreational use by adults in 2016.
Webcast: U.S. Senator Susan Collins on Addressing Rising Drug Prices
Pew Charitable Trusts
Addressing skyrocketing drug prices is a priority for Senator Susan Collins (R-ME), who has earned a national reputation for working across party lines to advance evidence-based solutions to pressing policy issues during 20 years in office.
Human Services:
Program fighting mosquitoes with mosquitoes expands
ABC30
This summer Debug Fresno vans have been making daily rounds in three neighborhoods. They're releasing male mosquitoes infected with a bacteria called Wolbachia. Don't worry, male mosquitoes don't bite people and can't spread the bacteria to humans or other insects.
Visalia nursing home hit with hefty fine after patient death
Visalia Times-Delta
A Visalia healthcare center will pay a hefty fine to the state’s department of public health after a family of a patient said staff caused the death of their loved one.
See also:
● Most nursing homes are not adequately staffed, new federal data says PBS NewsHour
Senate Finance Subcommittee Considers Paid Family Leave Proposal
C-SPAN
A Senate Finance subcommittee examined the issue of paid family leave that allows workers time off for maternity or paternity leave, or to care for a sick family member.
Are adult foster homes a good long-term care option?
PBS NewsHour
These small-setting, family-like environments blend neatly into local communities, and are a viable housing option for older adults who may need help with daily living basics, but not the clinical care or amenities of traditional assisted living facilities and nursing homes.
Trump Administration Denies Threatening Ecuador Over A Breastfeeding Resolution
NPR
U.S. officials made threats to Ecuador in an attempt to water down a resolution in support of breastfeeding, according to a report in The New York Times.
Once Militantly Anti-Abortion, Evangelical Minister Now Lives 'With Regret'
NPR
After more than 20 years in the movement, Evangelical minister Rob Schenck experienced a change of heart. Though firm in his evangelicalism, he has disavowed his militant anti-abortion stance.
IMMIGRATION
New U.S. asylum rules bring confusion, fear and few options for immigrants
Fresno Bee
Thousands of immigrants, many from Central America, are asking for asylum in the U.S. based on rampant gang violence or domestic abuse in their countries of origin. But two new actions by the Trump administration in recent weeks mean few of them are likely to win their arguments.
See also:
● Even with a green card, an immigrant can be deported under new guidelines Sacramento Bee
● Green card won’t save documented immigrants from deportation Fresno Bee
● Jeff Sessions' false claim that 80 percent of asylum applications are without merit PolitiFact
Legal residents first. Don’t separate families. California leaders advise DC on immigration
Modesto Bee
Although some of the Influencers suggested state level policy measures such as workplace protections and access to health care, most recognized that the most pressing changes to immigration policy must be accomplished by federal rather than state government.
US judge criticizes plan to reunify families split at border
Sacramento Bee
A federal judge, responding to a plan to reunify children separated at the border, said he was having second thoughts about his belief that the Trump administration was acting in good faith to comply with his orders.
See also:
● Trump closed a little-known door for family reunification, leaving refugees stranded Los Angeles Times
● Did the Obama Administration Separate Families? Fact Check
Poll: Where You Watch TV News Predicts Your Feelings On Immigration
NPR
When it comes to immigration policy, American opinions often break down along party lines, with most Republicans supporting President Trump, and Democrats vigorously opposed.
Republicans Put Immigration Divisions on Hold for ICE Messaging Votes
Roll Call
Lacking a unified strategy on most immigration policy, Republicans are looking to temporarily set aside their differences and highlight an issue that has divided Democrats.
See also:
● Opinion: Push to Abolish ICE Is the New ‘Repeal and Replace’ Roll Call
FactCheck
President Donald Trump said he has “heard” varying numbers on the DACA population — from 650,000 to 3 million. In fact, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services said there were 689,800 active DACA recipients as of Sept. 4, 2017.
Stepping Up to Help ‘Vulnerable’ L.G.B.T. Migrants
New York Times
Violence in Central America has brought thousands of L.G.B.T. migrants to the United States border to seek asylum in recent years, hoping to find protection from persecution over their gender identity and sexuality.
LAND USE/HOUSING
Land Use:
New Visalia development has residents buzzing
Visalia Times-Delta
A new development on the corner of Mooney Boulevard and Walnut Avenue has Visalia residents buzzing. The nearly-completed building has room for three tenants, one of which has a drive-thru window facing Mooney. Rumor has it Dunkin' Donuts will soon be filling the space.
Hanford Sentinel
After years of seeing empty buildings and storefronts, downtown Hanford seems to be going through a transformation. “We’ve kind of had a surge of businesses interested in opening in downtown Hanford,” Michelle Brown, executive director of Main Street Hanford, said.
Housing:
California’s largest energy-saving home development being built in Clovis
Fresno Bee
De Young Properties is building a 36-single-family energy efficient development at Shaw and Highland avenues in southeast Clovis. It is the largest development of its kind in the state and could serve as a model for meeting the looming energy saving mandate.
Developer says improvements are almost ready for downtown
Madera Tribune
A consultant Wednesday evening told a meeting of the Madera Housing Authority about how he sees chances for improving downtown Madera by building low-cost housing where now are empty parking lots and unused buildings.
State Democratic Leaders Endorse Proposition to Repeal Rent Control Law
KQED
California Democratic leaders have endorsed Proposition 10, which would allow California cities to increase the use of rent control. Board members overwhelmingly voted on Sunday to endorse the proposition for the November elections.
See also:
● Californians will make a big decision on rent control in November Los Angeles Times
Homeless in California—what the data reveals
CALmatters
California is struggling to confront its homelessness crisis: After big-city mayors up and down the state lobbied hard for more funding, state leaders agreed to spend an additional $600 million this month to help fight the problem.
One legacy of the housing crisis: risky rent-to-own deals
Marketplace
Many rent-to-own and other "seller-financed" housing schemes target low-income people of color, who can't access traditional credit, attorney Sarah Mancini said. “It's partly based on the history of racial, residential segregation across the country,” she said.
Under US housing policies, homeowners mostly win, while renters mostly lose
Brookings
The public sector plays a relatively small role in U.S. housing markets, compared to many other developed countries. Because housing is essential for families’ well-being, however, policymakers take keen interest in the availability, quality, cost, and location of housing.
PUBLIC FINANCES
Council to discuss sales tax measure
Hanford Sentinel
The Lemoore City Council is holding a public hearing Tuesday to discuss a 1 percent sales tax increase in the city. Currently, the sales tax in Lemoore is 7.25 percent. The increase would bring it to 8.25 percent.
Modesto starts investigation after audit says it misspent as much as $1.94 million
Modesto Bee
Modesto is launching a personnel investigation after an audit faulted the city for how it spent federal housing money and recommended it repay the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development as much as $1.94 million.
Why California business leaders are fighting to save the gas tax increase
Sacramento Bee
It’s not often the California Chamber of Commerce endorses a tax increase. You are more likely to see such legislative proposals – on high-income earners, on services, on corporations — make the “job killers” list that the state’s largest business advocacy organization puts out each year to beat back bills it doesn’t like.
See also:
● Contractors, labor pour millions into campaign to save California gas tax hike for road repairs Los Angeles Times
Opportunity zones provide chance to increase private investment in our community
Bakersfield Californian
A large portion of Bakersfield has received a special designation by the federal government allowing private investors to take advantage of reductions in capital gains taxes. We should seize this opportunity.
If state Supreme Court rules against San Diego on pensions, it could could cost city millions
San Diego Union-Tribune
The state Supreme Court strongly indicated in May that it will rule San Diego’s six-year-old pension cutbacks are illegal, but crucial questions remain about how the court might order the problem fixed and how much it could cost the city’s taxpayers.
California voters almost always say yes to bonds, but don't always understand the trade-offs
Los Angeles Times
Perhaps more than any state, Californians govern themselves through the ballot. Most of the attention goes to the laws they write, but voters also spend taxpayer money — a lot of it.
Washington Post
For Republicans, the effort aims to ensure conservative policies govern the state even if they are voted out of office — a very real possibility ahead of midterms featuring tough polling and an unpopular president.
California Budget & Policy Center
Earlier today, Governor Jerry Brown signed more than 20 bills in the 2018-19 state budget package, his final budget as Governor. The new budget package forecasts revenues that are $8.0 billion higher than projected in January, due to strong economic growth.
Why delaying Social Security reform now could cause our children's wealth to shrink further
Marketplace
In early June 2018, the Social Security Trustees board reported that the Social Security Trust Funds — a main source of funding for Social Security benefits aggregated from Social Security taxes — would be depleted by 2034.
See also:
● The Trump administration has a new argument for dismantling the social safety net: It worked. Washington Post
● New CEA report highlights welfare’s disincentives, and suggests how to fix them AEI
● Looking at an unfair attack on the Trump tax cuts AEI
● Joint Budget Committee Will Meet on the Side to Work It Out Roll Call
TRANSPORTATION
Help FAX improve transit! Attend a Fixed-Route Public Involvement Workshop in November 2017
Fresno Area Express
The City of Fresno is making a significant investment to improve Fresno Area Express (FAX) services. We need your help envisioning a FAX transit system that reflects your and the community’s needs to improve your experience on FAX.
Struggling airport, growing city: What's up with that?
Bakersfield Californian
One measure of a city's economic prowess, and thus its place in the American landscape, is its access by air to and from the world beyond its borders. By that measure, Bakersfield is to say, just a few notches above irrelevance.
Davis, California, is Still One of the Safest Cities to Bike
Next City
Davis, California tops the list of safest cities for cyclists (no surprise there, considering Davis is essentially built around a massive employment center, UC Davis, that’s closed to cars).
EDITORIAL: DMV, investigate thyself
San Francisco Chronicle
The miseries of the California Department of Motor Vehicles have graduated from cliche to commodity. The DMV should be investigating how its dysfunction got severe enough to become a profit center.
WATER
The Valley floor is sinking, and it’s crippling California’s ability to deliver water
Fresno Bee
The Friant-Kern has been crippled by a phenomenon known as subsidence. The canal is sinking as the Valley floor beneath it slowly caves in, brought down by years of groundwater extraction by the region’s farmers.
Who is using our rivers, draining our aquifers? It’s you
Modesto Bee
Since 1975, farmers here have doubled crop production from every “unit” of water. But this technology does nothing to replenish underlying aquifers, meaning those dependent on groundwater – including city dwellers – have less to drink.
Grinding of water regulation is about to arrive from Manteca to Merced
Modesto Bee
The State Water Resources Control Board is back with a final draft order that would dramatically reduce water that can be used for cities and farms to grow and thrive.
If state is serious about our water, we won’t suffer
Modesto Bee
If state water regulators are sincere about improving the plight of salmon on our rivers, Assemblyman Adam Gray has a suggestion for them. First acknowledge the people living here “can’t be net losers,” then ask for the water.
New Groundwater Laws May Be Coming To California’s Premier Wine-Growing Region
Pacific Standard
California's premier wine-growing region has been identified for more regulation under the state's new groundwater law, likely resulting in new fees and limits on water extraction for the industry.
California Is Preparing for Extreme Weather. It’s Time to Plant Some Trees.
New York Times
The state expects drier dry years and wetter wet ones in the decades ahead. That means projects to restore river habitats now serve another purpose: battling the coming floods.
“Xtra”
CMAC helps community share its important stories
Fresno Bee
The Community Media Access Collaborative Fresno/Clovis (CMAC) concept is simple: programming created by members of the community to air on television. After taking several classes, I was allowed to create my own content.
Yosemite rangers, paramedic receive Department of Interior Valor Awards
Sierra Star
Two Yosemite National Park rangers and a park paramedic were honored on the Fourth of July at the 73rd Honor Award Convocation Ceremony in Washington, D.C.
Exhibit Captures The Valley's Rural African-American Communities In The 1960's With Rare Photos
Valley Public Radio
A new exhibit at the Fresno Art Museum opening Friday July 13th, sheds new light on the history of rural African-American communities in the San Joaquin Valley. It features the work of photographer and journalist Ernest Lowe.
Highway 1 reopens Friday, ending 18 months of epic U-turns along California’s coastal journey
San Jose Mercury News
Finally, the iconic Highway 1 — the “longest dead end” in California — will reopen at this scenic outpost south of Big Sur on Friday, relieving 18 months of epic inconvenience along the coastal journey between the Bay Area and LA.
Theatre Arts alumna to compete for Miss California 2018
Fresno State
Kindle Lynn Cowger, an acting student from the Department of Theatre Arts, was crowned Miss Fresno County 2018 in March. Kindle will now compete for Miss California from June 27-30, which has been held in Fresno since 1994 and will take place in Downtown Fresno at the Saroyan Theater.
Valley Cultural Calendar Thursday, July 12, 2018
Valley Cultural Coalition
Great things are happening in the Valley. Here's a list of VCC member offerings to keep you busy and entertained!
Be Public Live Event: The Future Of The Arts In The Valley
Valley Public Radio
As the valley continues to grow and audiences and donors change, what does this mean for local arts organizations? Those issues will be the subject of a Be Public Live forum at Valley Public Radio's Broadcast Center in Clovis at 6:00 PM on Wednesday July 18th.
First look inside Manchester Center's makeover
ABC30
When Manchester Center's makeover is complete, you won't recognize it. On Friday, Action News got a first look at what's planned for the mall and why the old Gottschalk's building will soon be a gathering spot.
Kuppa Joy brewing up success and celebrating Madera expansion
ABC30
Kuppa Joy already has a couple drive-thrus and locations in Clovis and Fresno. The newest expansion in Madera will open Friday for coffee lovers to enjoy.
Bako-based Temblor Brewing Co. wins gold at beer championship
Bakersfield Californian
Bakersfield-based Temblor Brewing Co.'s El Cerrito Mexican Style Lager has won a gold medal at the U.S. Open Beer Championship in the American Premium Lager category.
Take me home! Dogs available for adoption
Bakersfield Californian
These three dogs at Kern County Animal Services are looking for their forever homes. Can you help? Also, visit any Wednesday from 5 to 6:30 p.m. for a weekly low-cost vaccination, licensing and microchipping clinic.
Test yourself with our new free game: PolitiTruth
Think you can tell the difference between True and False?
Do you really know what is fake news?
Support the Maddy Daily
Thank you!
Maddy Institute Updated List of San Joaquin Valley Elected Officials HERE.
The Kenneth L. Maddy Institute at California State University, Fresno was established to honor the legacy of one of California’s most principled and effective legislative leaders of the last half of the 20th Century by engaging, preparing and inspiring a new generation of governmental leaders for the 21st Century. Its mission is to inspire citizen participation, elevate government performance, provide non-partisan analysis and assist in providing solutions for public policy issues important to the region, state and nation.
This document is to be used for informational purposes only. Unless specifically noted, The Maddy Institute at California State University, Fresno does not officially endorse or support views that may be expressed in the document. If you want to print a story, please do so now before the link expires.
To Subscribe or Unsubscribe: mjeans@csufresno.edu