Newest articles on The Sacramento Press tagged as "roger niello"

Arena, green tech, education: State of the City highlights

2012-01-31T02:20:44Z

A new program to raise $10 million for arena financing and turning Sacramento into an “Emerald Valley” were two key points in Mayor Kevin Johnson’s State of the City address Monday.

Johnson’s speech focused on boosting the local economy in three areas: building an entertainment and sports complex, green-sector jobs and reforming public schools to create a more competitive workforce.

“The economy is bad everywhere, but it’s worse here,” Johnson told the nearly 1,000 people in the audience.

“We have to take bold actions,” Johnson said. “We have to make the impossible possible.”

The mayor delivered the 20th annual speech at the Sacramento Convention Center in an event hosted by the Sacramento Metro Chamber of Commerce.

Johnson introduced a new program aimed at raising $10 million toward the cost of building the entertainment and sports complex.

The “Brick-by-Brick” program will allow individual supporters to buy bricks with their names engraved on them to be placed in the entryway of the new complex.

Johnson said after the event that the program is in the early stages and costs for the bricks have not yet been determined.

The first three honorary bricks were given to City Councilman Steve Cohn and two young Kings fans, Jack O’Brien, 11 and Gil Vechner, 12. The two boys caught Johnson’s attention when they started a lemonade stand last year to raise money for the arena.

“It’s time to finish what we started. It’s crunch time,” Johnson said, referring to the March 1 financing plan deadline to prevent the Kings from relocating.

Johnson turned the discussion to employment concerns, saying he believes one of the biggest problems Sacramento faces is a dependence on state government and real estate for jobs and revenue.

“This sets us up to be the hardest hit in a financial crisis,” Johnson said.

Bringing green technology and green industry jobs to the region is one solution to that problem, Johnson said.

Among the goals Johnson outlined for 2012 are plans to raise $100 million to retrofit schools to make them more energy-efficient and “green,” and joining the Edible Schoolyard Program to bring school gardens, cooking classes and healthy eating to local schools.

“Becoming the Emerald Valley is within our grasp,” Johnson said.

Although he doesn’t have a direct relationship to local schools as the mayor, Johnson said improving education has long been a focus for him – and it should be a focus for the city, he said.

As a way to keep schools accountable to parents – and to make it easier for parents to decide which schools are best for their kids based on performance – Johnson said he is working to establish “report cards” for local schools.

The new rating system will assign a letter grade to every school in the county based on a range of performance criteria including student test scores and whether the schools are meeting academic standards.

Johnson said his office will not be responsible for consequences to a school for getting a low grade – the consequences will come from parents who withdraw their students or choose not to enroll them in low-grade schools.

Some business and civic leaders at the event had a positive reaction to the mayor’s address – former State Assemblyman and current president of the Sacramento Metro Chamber Roger Niello said it was “completely on point,” and County Supervisor Don Nottoli said it was “very well-delivered.”

“I think (Johnson) was absolutely right about the region needing to diversify its economic base,” County Supervisor Roberta MacGlashan said after the event.

“I think that’s the most important point he made,” she added.

Michael Ault, Executive Director of the Downtown Sacramento Partnership, said the mayor did a good job of breaking down what needs to be done for the city into smaller, achievable goals.

“You just can’t have 30 priorities for the coming year. We have to narrow it to a few legitimately reachable goals,” Ault said.

“The sports and entertainment complex is clearly something we think needs to be accomplished in the short term and I think the mayor really highlighted that,” he added.

The current city charter does not require the mayor to give a state of the city address. Johnson has delivered the speech each year he’s been in office – four times.

If the mayor’s charter reform proposal gets on the ballot and is passed by voters, an annual state of the city address would become a requirement for future Sacramento mayors.

Melissa Corker is a staff reporter for The Sacramento Press. Follow her on Twitter @MelissaCorker.

New Metro Chamber CEO brings business, political experience

2011-11-04T00:25:34Z

Former Assemblyman Roger Niello will be the new CEO of the Sacramento Metro Chamber starting Jan. 1, coming back to an organization he led in the 1990s as the area struggles to come out of the recession.

“For me, it’s sort of coming full circle, and I find it very exciting that way,” Niello said. “The chamber in a way was sort of my launchpad into politics, and now I’m coming back, still with my business roots, and will be working with the leadership to expand business.”

Niello, who spent a quarter century running retail and auto dealerships with his family’s business, the Niello Auto Group, was elected to the Sacramento County Board of Supervisors in a special election in 1999, where he served until November 2004. From 2004-2010, he served as a state assemblyman.

Former CEO Matt Mahood left the Metro Chamber in June. The chamber announced in August that Pat Fong Kushida would be the new CEO, but she never started the position.

Niello said the biggest challenge facing him and the Metro Chamber over the next several years is the economy.

“I wouldn’t say it’s any one particular issue (in the economy),” he said. “We have to look at the shape of the economy and work with other groups in the region in the private sector and the public sector at both the local and state levels.”

A study is currently under way called Next Economy, a public/private revitalization project with the Metro Chamber, the Sacramento Area Regional Technology Alliance (SARTA) and Valley Vision, all nonprofit organizations focused on economic growth.

“The effort is to study the economy, but not so much the study itself as understanding the details of the shape it’s in and getting ideas to take action on growing and expanding businesses,” Niello said. “We need to keep an eye toward small businesses in particular, because that’s where the real growth of the economy comes.”

SARTA CEO Meg Arnold said Thursday that she thinks Niello was a good choice for the position.

“I am really excited and enthusiastic about it,” she said. “He brings a whole range of attributes to the position. Obviously his business experience and his connections in the region and his political experience, but he is also really geared toward partnerships, and that’s what we need – to work together.”

Arnold said she expects to see stronger collaboration between nonprofit organizations, government organizations and businesses going forward.

Martha Lofgren, interim CEO of the Metro Chamber, said Niello’s business experience was “first and foremost” in his selection.

“He’s been a business owner in the Sacramento area for about three decades,” she said. “He obviously has a lot of experience in politics at the local and state levels, and the Metro Chamber always looks at how government affects business.”

She said his history with the organization – serving as president in 1995 – is also a plus.

Niello’s salary was not disclosed, but Lofgren said it is competitive with similar positions in other like-sized nonprofit organizations in the area.

The Metro Chamber has nearly 2,200 member organizations and businesses.

“The chamber is much stronger now than it was in ’95 in all respects,” Niello said, adding that he wants to draw more job diversity to the region. “Government jobs are good, but the percentage we have here is too high, and bringing in more jobs relying on government subsidies, like some of the green industry, isn’t the answer. We need to bring those in, yes, but we also need to grow our smaller businesses, because that’s where wealth comes from.”

Brandon Darnell is a staff reporter for The Sacramento Press. Follow him on Twitter @Brandon_Darnell.

Niello Concours at the Capitol

2011-05-02T22:12:41Z

The Niello Concours at the Capitol took place across on the street facing the State Capitol west steps on Saturday, April 30, 2011. The show benefitted the 2011 March of Dimes, March for Babies walk. A large gathering came together at the west steps of the Capitol and dozens of informational and vendor booths were on hand to disseminate educational and informational materials for the March of Dimes.

The 2011 Concours d'Elegance, held at the State Capitol saw a gathering of motor cars, auto enthusiasts, walk participants and the general public to this all ages event. Niello and the Premier Concours Promotions participated in this year’s March for Babies walk which is the longest-running and most widely recognized walking event in the nation. This walk has generated more than $1.5 billion for the March of Dimes over its 41-year history.

This 2011 Concours inaugural event showcased dozens of collectible and luxury vehicles from many exotic car collectors in northern California. Prizes were awarded at the end of the exhibition for the Best of Show Competition. For this event, Best of Show was awarded to the entrant who raised the most money for March of Dimes.

The Niello Company joined forces with Premier Concours Promotions, producers of Niello Concours at Serrano. Several of the vehicles showcased were owned by the Niello Company including a 1959 Porsche Convertible D, a 1948 Cadillac Convertible, and a 1935 Packard Convertible as well as other classic and new vehicles. As it was said, the real winner of this competition was the March of Dimes.

March for Babies gives hope to the more than half a million babies born too soon each year. Money raised by hundreds of walkers at the Capitol supports programs in our communities and helps moms have healthy, full-term pregnancies. Many volunteers and staff were on hand to encourage and support the walkers. Volunteers, sponsors and entertainers created a fun and rewarding atmosphere and most of the participants enjoyed great weather and great company for this worthwhile event.

Michele Moore, Marketing Director Niello Concours at Serrano, was on hand to talk with vehicle owners and guests. Michele feverishly worked to coordinate the event and could be seen talking to the showcase automobile owners, March of Dimes coordinators, event photographers and guests.

Awards were given to participants of the Niello Concours Capitol. Michelle started off by announcing the winners saying, “We’re so thrilled to be here today. We’ve had so much fun with the Niello Concours Capitol. I would like to give out the award for the Ambassador Family for March of Dimes 2011. The Studder family chose their favorite car and they chose a 1935 REO Speed Wagon Pickup, Mr. Van Steyn is the winner.” Michele asked Pete Van Steyn to say a few words, “It’s an honor to be here and to have a 1935 REO, there’s only 4 or 5 in the world.” said Van Steyn indicating that it took him 4-5 years to remodel.

“Now for our Best of Show award we are very excited because we came up the idea that whichever entrant in the show raised the most money on behalf of their car would win best of show. We are so excited because the gentleman that won is a March of Dimes baby. He was born with polio and he was helped by March of Dimes for 14 years and I’m proud to announce that Geoffrey Horton with a 1955 Jaguar XK 140 won.”

Mr. Horton came up to the microphone saying, “I’ll like to thank the March of Dimes the Niello family and Brian and Michele for putting on a great event and for helping my family years ago.” He gave heartfelt thanks.

Rick Niello also came to the microphone to say, “On behalf of the Niello family I’ll like to thank you very much for attending and I’d like to thank the winners. It was a very special day, thank you.

Michele ended by saying “Thank you for making this inaugural event so great we love your enthusiasm so we hope to see you next year and we’ll have more cars. Thank you so much.”

The Ryan Hernandez Band who had been playing prior to the Niello Concours at the Capital winners were announced came back to the stage to continue playing. They played great covers songs and for a while dancers moved in front of the stage as the music played on.

Volunteers soon began to clean up and put equipment away. They were very well organized and March of Dimes and Niello Concours were lucky to have such great and enthusiastic volunteers on hand.

Premier Concours Promotions presents several Concours d'Elegance events throughout the year. The 8th annual Niello Concours at Serrano will be held on Sunday, October 2 this year. Log on to their website to see other Concours events.

Three Stages at Folsom Lake College

2011-02-07T09:22:51Z

(Three Stages at Folsom Lake College)

Folsom City College was the site of a ribbon cutting ceremony and an open house celebrating the new Three Stages building. The performing arts facility has been in the building stages since groundbreaking took place on August 18, 2008 at a cost of approximately $50 million. A State Educational Facilities General Obligation Bond was voted for by the citizens of Folsom several years ago which started the project. Other donations and district resources also helped to bring the facility to Folsom

The first performance will take place this Friday, February 11 with A Chorus Line. Tickets have been selling fast and many of those who attended the Open House took advantage to purchase tickets for individual events. A Chorus Line will play on February 11 through the 13 however the February 11 performance and grand opening gala has sold out. Two shows each for Saturday and Sunday still had tickets available.

This state-of-the-art building offers 80,000 square feet of entertainment and educational space. It has three theatres along with an Art Gallery, Rehearsal Space, Recording Studio, Practice Room and Lecture Halls. The Main Theatre has a sitting facility for 800. A Director’s Theatre seats 200 and the Recital Hall sits 100.

The Open House held on Friday allowed guests to visit the three stages and tour the Main Theatre's back stage. It is expected that national and international touring companies will take advantage of the Folsom facility in the years to come. Many events have already been scheduled up to the end of May.

As guests arrived for the Open House and Ribbon Cutting ceremonies they were directed to the Main Theatre (Stage 1). Upon entering the theatre people sat where they wanted for a series of speeches and where the first ribbon cutting ceremony was going to take place. It was decided that ribbon cutting at each of the stages would show guests where each stage was situated. The open house self-guided tours followed.

Several dignitaries were on hand to welcome the audience and thank those that made significant contributions and making things possible. Dr. Thelma Scott-Skillman, President, Folsom Lake College started off by announcing the Color Guard which was the El Dorado Hills Boy Scout troop 645.

Dr. Scott-Skillman started off by saying, “Thank you for coming, I’d like to thank each and every one of you to the Three Stages at Folsom Lake College. It’s very exciting to be able to open up the brand new venue of Three Stages Performing Arts Center that’s going to literally transform not only this region but the lives of many individuals throughout this region over the next several decades to come.” She went on to thank everybody that she could think of that was involved in the project.

(Dr. Thelma Scott-Skillman)

Dr. Brice Harris, Chancellor, Los Rios Community College District (LRCCD) was introduced and he said a few words. He started off by saying, “On behalf of Los Rios, welcome.” He introduced other people who were sitting in the audience and up on stage. “I’d like to thank all of you.” Dr. Harris said to the audience. He continued, “It was through you at the ballot box and for supporting our local bonds. It was through your support that this facility is here today.”

Terry Cochran, President, LRCCD Board of Trustees took the podium and said a few words. “I’m just going to say thank you to a few people. Brice thanked a lot of people but forgot to thank himself. It was he that came to the board, about 14 years ago, and said ‘You know I have an idea maybe we can put up a community theater not only for education but for our community in Folsom.’ Fourteen years later here we are, we started with a vision and made it into reality and isn’t this wonderful.” Thus the story of how the project began was given. He went on to thank the city of Folsom for helping everything come true.

Roger Niello, former Assemblyman, 5th District for the State of California, came to the microphone to say a few words as well. “I’m here really with the very great honor to make a few comments about this magnificent facility with which I really didn’t have anything to do all.” He got a few laughs and said, “I look at this and we talk about facilities like this and the important features it provides. This is truly a jewel of Folsom.”

Andy Morin, Mayor, City of Folsom followed Roger Niello “I’ll start out by saying and kind of observing these folks up here,” relating to the other people on stage. Morin said, “This is probably the worst performance you’re going to see on this stage.” his humor was appreciated. He thanked those that helped with the project as well and emphasized that the facility will be appreciated by the students on campus which is over 9,000 now. He thanked all the residents in the region not just Folsom and energizes other business in the area.

(City of Folsom Mayor Andy Morin)

The President of the Associated Student Government, Meghan O’Donnell introduced herself as she came to the microphone. “It’s an honor to welcome you on behalf of the students of Folsom Lake College. This is a momentous day for the students, the college and the community.” Meghan went on to emphasize the use by students in helping them showcase their talent. The new art and entertainment facility would also be a platform for artists in the area as well as national and international entertainment.

Larry Metcalf, a faculty member of the Music Department thanked the audience on behalf of the faculty. “Students, faculty and staff will be able to collaborate with professionals with over 400 performances a year,” said Metcalf. “Today we open a new series of stages. Stage 1 is the foundation for commitment to academic excellence and quality education for our students. Stage 2 is the partnership between the community and the college, and finally Stage 3; this unique facility we’re in today is a showcase venue for the capital region in bringing programs of artistic merit to our region.” With this he thanked everyone again for showing up for this celebration.

Bill Altavilla, Executive Board, Folsom Lake College Foundation, thanked donors who had their names, in plaques, on seats around the theatre. He thanked all the businesses around Folsom and individuals who donated and made the vision a reality.

David Pier, Executive Director of Three Stages was the last speaker and after announcing his many thanks directed everyone's attention to the first ribbon cutting ceremony. Ribbon cutting started with the Main Theatre officially opening Stage One. After that the Stage 2 and Stage 3 would also have a ribbon cutting ceremony. Two other ribbon cuttings would take place at the Bank of America Gallery and Wells Fargo Concessions/Café area.

(Bank of America Gallery)

The Bank of America Gallery already had an exhibition going. This gallery opened with a photography exhibit. A “Luces y Sombras” (Lights and Shadows), it featured 38 pieces by world renowned photographers such as Paul Strand and Brett Weston.

The Folsom Lake College Chamber Brass provided some musical entertainment and refreshments were provided for guests free of charge.

All three stages featured state-of-the-art seating and equipment. I’ve regularly passed by Folsom City College since it opened and looked forward to the Performing Arts building to be completed. Three Stages at Folsom Lake College will be a source of pride for the City of Folsom in the years to come.

Log on to the Three Stages web site to view upcoming events and purchase tickets on line. Parking is free on weekends and for those buying tickets in advance. Tickets can also be purchased via phone from the ticket office at 916-608-6888.

Residents from Folsom and surrounding areas look forward to performances from international artists, regional companies and Folsom Lake College productions.

A Closer Look at Local Congressional and Assembly Candidates

2010-05-11T15:27:48Z

With the primary election season in full swing it would be advantageous to talk about some local congressional and assembly races and candidates that the major “fish wraps” seem to be neglecting. On June 8, voters will cast their votes and determine which candidates move on to the general election in November and which candidates close up shop and set their sights on the days to come. The focus of this piece will be to provide information regarding some of the local races and local candidates. Considerations and/or endorsements are the opinion of the author and in no way reflect the views of the Sacramento Press.

The congressional district 5 republican primary pits Paul Smith against Erik Smitt. Both are relative newcomers to the political arena and will certainly face a “David vs. Goliath” challenge in trying to defeat democrat Doris Matsui in the general election come November. Paul Smith seems to be the odds on favorite to win this primary based upon the fact of name recognition and being a GOP insider. Smith, who runs on an ultra right social agenda, has done an admirable job of putting together radio air time and getting his message out to republican voters. While Smith’s message may resonate well with the fringe right of the GOP, his antics and choice of words such as “anchor babies” will not bode well for him in a heavy democratic district. Enter Erik Smitt. Smitt, a business savvy moderate, has been very quietly chipping away and earning the trust of small business owners and the 80% of the centered Republican Party that does not identify themselves with the fringes of the right wing establishment. Throw in the fact that he has placed great focus on decline to state voters and independents and all of a sudden we see a credible threat to the 35 year Matsui legacy. If the GOP has any chance of dethroning Matsui, it will be because of the level headed and business savvy thinking of Erik Smitt. Advantage Erik Smitt.

In the Assembly district 5 primary contest there are three active Republicans seeking the seat of Roger Niello who is terming out. Among the three are Andy Pugno, Suzanne Jones, and Craig DeLuz. Pugno, who is best known for his work in the Yes on Proposition 8 campaign, is well financed and has the endorsements of Senator Dave Cox and Assemblyman Roger Niello. Suzanne Jones, a strong conservative in her own right, has done an adequate job of campaigning despite limited funding in her campaign. While Jones is certainly an underdog, don’t count her out. Craig DeLuz seemed well on his way to winning his party’s nomination right up until he allowed himself to be caught up in his own drama. It seems as if the DeLuz train was derailed when Cox and Niello came out and endorsed Pugno. Instead of staying on course and delivering what seemed to be a good message, the real DeLuz showed up and began to insinuate that Cox and Niello were advocates of “placism.” While DeLuz is still a strong candidate, the damage he has done to himself is irreparable. Furthermore, as it appears that Pugno is the “chosen one” to succeed Niello, DeLuz’ actions are comparable to “stepping on his own landmine” as far as politics are concerned. DeLuz’ behavior merely suggests that he is not ready for prime time politics. A seasoned politician would have found away to counter Cox and Niello’s endorsement of Pugno, not whine about it like a novice. Advantage Andy Pugno.

In the Assembly district 9 race, some might say that GOP newcomer Rick Redding must be nuts to seek a first time office in a district where democrats outnumber republicans 3 to 1. Redding, a former U.S. Marine combat veteran and high school teacher/football coach, seems to not be phased by the overwhelming odds. In recent candidate forums, Redding has ventured into the “lions den” and taken the fight right to his democratic opponents and earned admiration for being “well versed” on the issues and extremely passionate about doing positive things for the 9th district. While Redding is doing more than most candidates with far less, it may not be enough to overcome the obstacles he faces. Redding should focus on building his name with the intent of “fighting another day.” GOP party leaders at the state and local level should really consider investing in this guy. His upside is tremendous.

In the coming weeks, voters will have some tough decisions to make. With so many people clamoring about the political process and demanding “change” it is incumbent on all of us to do our research, get out to the polls, and VOTE! In today’s political climate it is crucial that we participate in great numbers to ensure that our voices are heard.

Please check back over the next few days and weeks as we take a closer look at the races for Sacramento city council, U.S. Senate, Governor, Lt. Governor, and some propositions.

Slamson comes to City Hall to promote Tyreke Evans

2010-03-03T06:05:36Z

A popular furry beast made a rare appearance Tuesday morning at City Hall.

Slamson, the mascot for the Sacramento Kings, joined with local officials to promote Tyreke Evans as the choice for NBA Rookie of the Year.

Mayor Kevin Johnson, Assemblyman Roger Niello and County Supervisor Jimmie Yee all turned out for the press conference to cheer for Evans.

“Rally for RekeROY Night” will take place March 10 during the game between the Kings and the Toronto Raptors at Arco Arena.

What's happening at the Capitol: November 21

2009-11-21T03:21:22Z

Saturday, Nov. 21

11 a.m. - 3 p.m. California State Sen. George Runner and California State Assemblyman Roger Neillo will team up with the Patriot Defenders Network to sponsor the "Water For Farmlands" forum. The group seeks a temporary waiver of the Endangered Species Act in order to revert water that is currently rehabilitating endangered fish species to Central Valley farmers. About 500 people are expected to attend the forum, which will be held on the Capitol's west steps.

2 - 5 p.m. Aspiranet, a nonprofit that provides social services to foster children, will be holding a National Adoption Day rally on the north steps of the Capitol. About 300 people are expected to participate.

No further events will take place until Wednesday, Dec. 2.