SACRAMENTO COUNTY, CA (MPG) - The Heroes of Human Service Awards recognition was created to honor those who have touched the lives of others through their advocacy, dedication, service and support throughout Sacramento County.
We are looking for individuals/groups who have demonstrated outstanding involvement and commitment to human services. Human services are broadly defined as community services that support and protect individuals and families. Examples include efforts not limited to:
Social work; Mental health care; Dependent care; Job training; Shelter services; Health programs; Mentoring; Financial assistance; After school programs; Nutrition services; Substance abuse services; Legal and criminal justice services; Recreation services.
A person/group may be nominated for extraordinary efforts exhibited by commitment, dedication and dependability over a period of time OR a person/group may be nominated for a one-time specific situation or incident that exhibited extraordinary effort. ALL nominations will be considered.
Who is Eligible?
Nominees must have demonstrated a commitment to human services through efforts to provide residents of Sacramento County with the resources, services, supports, or opportunities needed to enhance quality of life and social functioning.
Nominees may be from a volunteer organization/ club or committee: Examples should be reflective of efforts that go beyond the scope of their regular employment.
Nominees may be from a place of employment: Examples should be reflective of extra-ordinary work that they do at their place of employment that is beyond performing their regular work duties
Selection and Notification
A panel representing the Sacramento County Board of Supervisors and the Human Services Coordinating Council will make the selection of honorees and those selected will be notified by their respective County Supervisor’s office.
How do I Nominate?
Fill out the nomination form and return it to the Human Services Coordinating Council by the deadline. You may attach extra pages if needed to answer questions. Please only nominate one person or group per form. Submission deadline is Sep. 4, 2020.
For questions regarding the nomination process please contact:
Gloria Bedford
Human Services Program Planner
916-875-1344
FOLSOM, CA (MPG) – With the state’s heat wave dragging into its sixth day, the California Independent System Operator (ISO) is asking for the public’s help this afternoon by reducing energy use earlier than a typical Flex Alert.
A statewide Flex Alert, a call for voluntary electricity conservation, will be in effect from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. today. Consumer response to the Flex Alerts has been instrumental in averting power loss for two straight days.
With temperatures forecast above-normal again today, operators are expecting demand on the system to come in high, particularly in the mid-afternoon hours. California’s record-breaking persistent heat wave has put strain on the ISO electric system, primarily driven by air conditioning use across the state.
Rotating power outages are still possible if system conditions don’t improve. However, expected outages on Monday and Tuesday were prevented partly by consumers using less electricity in the most critical time of the afternoon and early evening, when temperatures remain high and solar production drops.
Conservation efforts during these times can prevent more dire measures, such as rotating power outages, or generator equipment failures that can lead to more serious unplanned losses of power.
The ISO understands that conserving electricity is difficult, especially for those working from home or who have children attending school at home. But if all Californians are thoughtful about their energy use, even in small ways, power interruptions can be avoided or limited.
Between 2 p.m. and 9 p.m., the ISO is urging consumers to:
- Set air conditioning thermostats to 78 degrees, if health permits
- Defer use of major appliances
- Turn off unnecessary lights
- Unplug unused electrical devices
- Close blinds and drapes
- Use fans when possible
- Limit time the refrigerator door is open
Consumers can also take steps to prepare for the Flex Alert by doing the following before 2 p.m.:
- Pre-cool their homes, or lower air conditioning thermostats
- Pre-cook meals
- Charge electric vehicles
- Charge mobile devices and laptops
- Run dishwashers, washing machines and other major appliances
- Set pool pumps to run in the morning or during the night
For information on Flex Alerts, and to get more electricity conservation tips, visit the ISO’s Flex Alert website.
Click here to learn more about System Alerts, Warnings and Emergencies. Follow grid conditions in real time at ISO’s Today’s Outlook, or download the free ISO Today mobile app.
Conservation Tips
• Set thermostat at 78° or higher and turn off, if away
• Cool with fans and draw drapes
• Turn off unnecessary lights and appliances
• Use major appliances in morning or late evening
Learn more: http://www.flexalert.org (Available in Spanish and Vietnamese)
|
SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG)- As West Coast's record-breaking heat wave continues for the fifth straight day, the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) is asking all Californians to conserve energy to avoid temporary energy service interruptions. Cal OES is also encouraging all Californians to take steps now to prepare themselves and their families should a temporary service disruption occur.
The California Independent System Operator (ISO) issued a statewide Flex Alert calling for voluntary electricity conservation and extending through Wednesday. The Flex Alerts are in effect from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. each day.
Cal OES is also working with utilities & local officials to minimize the impact to Californians during potential rotating outages. Messages for saving energy are available in seven languages.
State Emergency Managers are available for remote interviews with members of the media on energy conservation and the state's efforts mitigate the impacts of potential power outages. To arrange schedule interview please contact: media@caloes.ca.gov
Individuals and Business Can Take Action at Home to Save Energy
ISO highlights three simple actions individuals and businesses can take to reduce energy consumption:
- Set your thermostat to 78° or higher between 3 and 10 P.M.
- Refrain from major appliance between 3 and 10 P.M.
- Turn off unnecessary lights and appliances
Additional Steps and Guidance:
- Adjust Your Thermostat
- During peak hours or when you're not home, remember to set your thermostat at 78° or higher. Setting your air conditioner 5° higher can save up to 20 percent on cooling costs.
- Pre-cool your home by running air conditioning at 72 degrees in the early part of the day (when it is more efficient) then turn your system to 78 or higher during the hottest part of the day when demand is the highest.
- Use smart or programmable features to help maintain energy savings when you're not home.
- Close Windows and Doors
- Keep windows and doors closed to prevent the loss of cooled or heated air.
- On summer nights, open windows to let cooler air in when safe. In the morning before the day starts to heat up, close windows and blinds to keep warm air out.
- Tilt blinds up and close drapes and shades on windows that receive direct sunlight.
- Smart Energy Use
- Turn off unnecessary lighting and use task or desktop lamps with LEDs instead of overhead lights.
- Enable "power management" on all computers and turn off when not in use.
- Unplug phone charges, power strips (those without a switch) and other equipment when not in use. Taken together, these small items can use as much power as your refrigerator.
- Access and Functional Needs
- Check in on neighbors, friends and family who may be at risk.
- Charge medical devices in off hours and have back ups plan for if the power goes out.
- In addition to traditional community support channels individuals with access and functional needs should reach out to local government for assistance.
- Contact local utilities companies if you are dependent on power for assistive devices.
- Major Appliance Use
- Postpone using major appliances like the oven, dishwasher, clothes washer, and dryer until cooler times of the day to avoid heating up your home.
- Run your dishwasher and clothes washer only when full. Wait until after 9 p.m. to use these and other major appliances.
- When possible, wash clothes in cold water. About 90 percent of the energy used in a clothes washer goes to water heating.
- Clean or Replace Your Filters
- A dirty filter forces your air conditioner and furnace to work harder, wasting money, using more energy or natural gas.
- Adjust Your Water Heater
- Turn your water heater down to 120° or the "normal" setting. Water heating accounts for about 13 percent of home energy costs.
- Conservation Programs
- Consider participating in your utility's demand response program. These voluntary programs are short, temporary measures to reduce energy consumption when power supplies are critically low and a Flex Alert has been issued. Contact your local electric utility to learn about your utility's program and incentives they may offer to participate.
Governor Newsom held all-hands meeting with top energy advisors and agency leads on the heat-induced energy shortages
In letter to California’s independent energy agencies that oversee and regulate the state’s energy sector, Governor calls failure to anticipate and protect against weekend’s service disruptions “unacceptable and unbefitting” of California
With severity of heat wave and demand on energy expected to increase, state officials worked throughout the weekend to decrease energy usage and bring more energy resources online
Energy experts are asking residents and businesses this week to use AC early in the day, pre-set thermostats to 78 degrees or higher and avoid appliance use from 3-10 P.M.
Sacramento - As the West Coast continues to experience an historic heat wave and related energy shortages, Governor Gavin Newsom signed an emergency proclamation designed to free up energy capacity and reduce the need for temporary energy service disruptions.
The proclamation temporarily allows some energy users and utilities to use backup energy sources to relieve pressure on the grid during peak times during the energy emergency. The text of the proclamation can be found here and a copy can be found here.
Over the weekend, state officials worked aggressively to bring more energy resources online, including increased generation from sources like the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, the California State Water Project and investor-owned utilities. The state has also worked with industrial and commercial consumers to reduce energy consumption during peak hours and to increase public awareness around energy saving measures.
All-hands energy meeting
The Governor yesterday convened an all-hands meeting with California Independent System Operator (CAISO), the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), the California Energy Commission (CEC), the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) and senior administration officials as the state and the entire West Coast anticipates serious power shortages as the heat wave intensifies over the coming week.
Governor Newsom demands investigation
Following the meeting, Governor Newsom sent a letter to CAISO, the CPUC and CEC demanding an investigation into the service disruptions that occurred over the weekend and the energy agencies’ failure to predict and mitigate them.
“I write today to express my deep concern about the broadscale de-energizations experienced by too many Californians on August 14 and 15th. These blackouts, which occurred without prior warning or enough time for preparation, are unacceptable and unbefitting of the nation’s largest and most innovative state,” Governor Newsom wrote. “Residents, communities and other governmental organizations did not receive sufficient warning that these de-energizations could occur. Collectively, energy regulators failed to anticipate this event and to take necessary actions to ensure reliable power to Californians. This cannot stand. California residents and businesses deserve better from their government.”
Governor Newsom convenes all-hands meeting with energy advisors and agency heads on service disruptions caused by the heat wave.
Guidance to residents and businesses to conserve power
Yesterday, CAISO issued a statewide Flex Alert calling for voluntary electricity conservation, beginning Sunday and extending through Wednesday. The Flex Alerts are in effect from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. each day.
CAISO highlighted three simple actions individuals and businesses can take to reduce energy consumption:
- Set your thermostat to 78° or higher between 3 and 10 P.M.
- Refrain from major appliance use between 3 and 10 P.M.
- Turn off unnecessary lights and appliances
Additional steps and guidance for individuals & businesses:
- Adjust Your Thermostat
- During peak hours or when you’re not home, remember to set your thermostat at 78° or higher. Setting your air conditioner 5° higher can save up to 20 percent on cooling costs.
- Pre-cool your home by running air conditioning at 72 degrees in the early part of the day (when it is more efficient) then turn your system to 78 or higher during the hottest part of the day when demand is the highest.
- Use smart or programmable features to help maintain energy savings when you’re not home.
- Close Windows and Doors
- Keep windows and doors closed to prevent the loss of cooled or heated air.
- On summer nights, open windows to let cooler air in when safe. In the morning before the day starts to heat up, close windows and blinds to keep warm air out.
- Tilt blinds up and close drapes and shades on windows that receive direct sunlight.
- Smart Energy Use
- Turn off unnecessary lighting and use task or desktop lamps with LEDs instead of overhead lights.
- Enable “power management” on all computers and turn off when not in use.
- Unplug phone charges, power strips (those without a switch) and other equipment when not in use. Taken together, these small items can use as much power as your refrigerator.
- Access and Functional Needs
- Check in on neighbors, friends and family who may be at risk.
- Charge medical devices in off hours and have back up plan for if the power goes out.
- In addition to traditional community support channels, individuals with access and functional needs should reach out to local government for assistance.
- Contact local utilities companies if you are dependent on power for assistive devices.
- Major Appliance Use
- Postpone using major appliances like the oven, dishwasher, clothes washer, and dryer until cooler times of the day to avoid heating up your home.
- Run your dishwasher and clothes washer only when full. Wait until after 9 p.m. to use these and other major appliances.
- When possible, wash clothes in cold water. About 90 percent of the energy used in a clothes washer goes to water heating.
- Clean or Replace Your Filters
- A dirty filter forces your air conditioner and furnace to work harder, wasting money, using more energy or natural gas.
- Adjust Your Water Heater
- Turn your water heater down to 120° or the “normal” setting. Water heating accounts for about 13 percent of home energy costs.
- Conservation Programs
- Consider participating in your utility’s demand response program. These voluntary programs are short, temporary measures to reduce energy consumption when power supplies are critically low and a Flex Alert has been issued. Contact your local electric utility to learn about your utility’s program and incentives they may offer to participate.
|
|
Midtown Association to Present “Wednesdays at Winn”
SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) – The Midtown Association is proud to present “Wednesdays at Winn,” a new, year-round certified farmers’ that debuts Wednesday, August 19, 2020 at Winn Park (1616 28th Street). Sponsored by Midtown Parks and Sutter Health, “Wednesdays at Winn” will operate from 3 to 7:30 p.m. until November when market hours adjust slightly to end at 7 p.m. The market will feature 30+ open air booths filled with organic produce, flowers, and farmers’ market grocery items along with additional elements such as free fitness classes and eye-catching artistry.
“First and foremost, the purpose of this new certified farmers’ market is to provide more open-air fresh food access to the entire community,” said Emily Baime Michaels, Executive Director of the Midtown Association. “In addition to that essential service, we encourage Midtown residents and guests to frequent the evolving park to watch how the new activation and continuing work on the historic central building transform the park into another vibrant gathering spot in the district. Increased visitation to the area will also drive more guests to nearby Sutter District businesses such as INK Eats & Drinks, Paragary's Midtown, and others.”
Open air markets such as “Wednesdays at Winn” play a critical role in the community by helping to maintain fresh food access to shoppers of all income levels while also providing additional safety aspects given the outdoor environment. Starting in September, the market will accept EBT, enabling CalFresh recipients to buy fresh, healthy, local produce. In line with all state and city guidelines, masks are mandatory, vendors are spaced at least 6’ apart, hand sanitizers, gloves and masks are available for use by vendors or shoppers, and numerous social distancing reminder signs are posted in at the park.
Also, special artwork will be added to the electrical boxes at Winn Park by local artist Brandon Gastinell. Brandon will be designing creative designs that will saturate the scene with modern pop culture and bright, bold colors and contrast. A Sacramento native, 2020 marks the first year that Brandon will be participating in the annual Wide Open Walls mural festival.
Open to everyone, free fitness and wellness classes will also be offered during “Wednesdays at Winn.” This free series of classes are provided for Midtown residents and visitors from May to October each week during “Wednesdays at Winn.” The classes are aimed at encouraging an active lifestyle and social interaction (with physical distancing in place), all of which are critical to the health of a community. Classes include yoga, meditation, and movement and some classes may require participants to bring a mat or towel. Class sizes are limited, and registration is required; registration will open each week and a link will be posted online.
“Access to fresh food along with a focus on fitness, wellness and social interaction all help to make for a healthy, well-rounded community,” added Baime Michaels. “Especially during these extraordinary times, we think ‘Wednesdays at Winn,’ will fulfill a midweek need for fresh food and new experiences.”
For more detailed information about “Wednesdays at Winn,” including sponsorship opportunities, to inquire about how to be a vendor, or to sign up for an exercise class, please visit www.wednesdaysatwinn.com. For ongoing updates and to stay informed on the program, the community is invited to follow along on Instagram at @wednesdaysatwinn.
Parking is available in nearby garages, bike valet is available on-site during warm weather months, and attendees are encouraged to take SacRT light rail and exit at the 29th Street stop. The market will operate year-round apart from weather interruptions due to strong winds or rain, and will be closed on Wednesday, December 30. “Wednesdays at Winn” is owned and managed by the Midtown Association and is in addition to the thriving Midtown Farmers Market that takes place on Saturdays on 20th Street between J and L Streets.
Midtown Sacramento is walkable and bike/scooter/car-share friendly with plenty of parking available in garages located at 1801 L Street or the East End Garage on 17th Street between L & Capitol, valet parking in the Handle District plus various lots throughout Midtown. For additional transportation information, visit www.easeintomidtown.com. For more information about Midtown Sacramento in general, please visit www.exploremidtown.org or follow on social media – Facebook at www.facebook.com/exploremidtown/ and @ExploreMidtown on Instagram and Twitter.
Midtown Association: The mission of the Midtown Association (MA) is to create a center for culture, creativity, and vibrancy in Sacramento’s urban core. For more information about MA, call 916-442-1500 or visit www.exploremidtown.org.
WASHINGTON, DC (MPG) - The U.S. Census Bureau continues to evaluate its operational plans to collect and process 2020 Census data. We are announcing updates to our plan that will include enumerator awards and the hiring of more employees to accelerate the completion of data collection and apportionment counts by our statutory deadline of December 31, 2020, as required by law and directed by the Secretary of Commerce. The Census Bureau’s new plan reflects our continued commitment to conduct a complete count, provide accurate apportionment data, and protect the health and safety of the public and our workforce.
Complete Count: A robust field data collection operation will ensure we receive responses from households that have not yet self-responded to the 2020 Census.
We will improve the speed of our count without sacrificing completeness. As part of our revised plan, we will conduct additional training sessions and provide awards to enumerators in recognition of those who maximize hours worked. We will also keep phone and tablet computer devices for enumeration in use for the maximum time possible.
We will end field data collection by September 30, 2020. Self-response options will also close on that date to permit the commencement of data processing. Under this plan, the Census Bureau intends to meet a similar level of household responses as collected in prior censuses, including outreach to hard-to-count communities.
Accurate Data and Efficient Processing: Once we have the data from self-response and field data collection in our secure systems, we plan to review it for completeness and accuracy, streamline its processing, and prioritize apportionment counts to meet the statutory deadline. In addition, we plan to increase our staff to ensure operations are running at full capacity.
Flexible Design: Our operation remains adaptable and additional resources will help speed our work. The Census Bureau will continue to analyze data and key metrics from its field work to ensure that our operations are agile and on target for meeting our statutory delivery dates. Of course, we recognize that events can still occur that no one can control, such as additional complications from severe weather or other natural disasters.
Health and Safety: We will continue to prioritize the health and safety of our workforce and the public. Our staff will continue to follow Federal, state, and local guidance, including providing appropriate safety trainings and personal protective equipment to field staff.
The Census Bureau continues its work on meeting the requirements of Executive Order 13880 issued July 11, 2019 and the Presidential Memorandum issued July 21, 2020. A team of experts are examining methodologies and options to be employed for this purpose. The collection and use of pertinent administrative data continues.
We are committed to a complete and accurate 2020 Census. To date, 93 million households, nearly 63 percent of all households in the Nation, have responded to the 2020 Census. Building on our successful and innovative internet response option, the dedicated women and men of the Census Bureau, including our temporary workforce deploying in communities across the country in upcoming weeks, will work diligently to achieve an accurate count.
We appreciate the support of our hundreds of thousands of community-based, business, state, local and tribal partners contributing to these efforts across our Nation. The 2020 Census belongs to us all. If you know someone who has not yet responded, please encourage them to do so today online at 2020census.gov, over the phone, or by mail.
The U.S. Constitution mandates a census of the population every 10 years. The 2020 Census counts everyone who lives in the U.S. on April 1, 2020. Census statistics help determine the number of seats each state holds in the U.S. House of Representatives and how billions of dollars in federal funds will be allocated by state, local, and federal lawmakers every year for the next 10 years.