Ann King comment-62162 2012-01-12T00:08:41Z 2012-01-12T00:08:41Z MAD love and much respect for these hardworking k9s and their human handlers. My pack of misfits and I only wish we could be so cool. :) Ann King 2012-01-12T00:08:41Z Casey Kirk comment-62029 2012-01-09T23:24:48Z 2012-01-09T23:24:48Z Love seeing those dogs getting some much-deserved TLC from the kids and officers! The bond between the dog and its officer is really special. Casey Kirk 2012-01-09T23:24:48Z Kati Garner comment-61526 2011-12-20T21:50:52Z 2011-12-20T21:50:52Z Good catch Ed! Kati Garner 2011-12-20T21:50:52Z dornbiker comment-61495 2011-12-20T17:14:42Z 2011-12-20T17:14:42Z Happily that's a mostly vacant retail stretch, so there weren't any pedestrians to run over. Not that she'd be charged or anything. It seems the Sac PD excuses any motorist who kills or injures a pedestrian, rarely filing a charge, it's just an accident. It just "happens". dornbiker 2011-12-20T17:14:42Z Chris Fryer comment-61347 2011-12-14T21:00:05Z 2011-12-14T21:00:05Z Hey look! A payphone! Chris Fryer 2011-12-14T21:00:05Z Ed Fogle comment-61287 2011-12-13T20:14:18Z 2011-12-13T20:14:18Z Ah.... correct. That's what happens when you hear someone say "Patio" and it sticks in your head even when it's right in front of your eyeballs... I even had a couple of people check it, so it escaped all of us. lol Thanx for catching that Tony. Ed Fogle 2011-12-13T20:14:18Z Tony Sheppard comment-61286 2011-12-13T19:40:26Z 2011-12-13T19:40:26Z "Patino" Tony Sheppard 2011-12-13T19:40:26Z Rhonda Erwin comment-59726 2011-11-05T02:13:16Z 2011-11-05T02:13:16Z mtsacramento. The reason I was skeptical is because Sadly, I've been to so many different rallys, marches.... and soon they lose momentum.... But looking at the forest through the trees, I am impressed. I think the journey of a thousand miles begins with its first steps. Occupy Sacramento has my support and I hope to one day be able to have the time to learn even more of the efforts.... Heck, Rome was not built in a day. We didn't get in this mess overnight so surely we won't get out of it overnight, a week, a month.... I say take your time and do it right make it last forever:) Many blessings to all in the struggle Rhonda Erwin 2011-11-05T02:13:16Z cogmeyer comment-59710 2011-11-04T21:35:22Z 2011-11-04T21:35:22Z most of the attempts to "discredit at every turn" are actually other informed citizens wondering when Occupy Sacramento will actually make their point. Almost a month ago Occupy Sacramento published the declaration of intent. http://occupysac.com/?p=292 I read this with interest in what they would do next. But in reality the last month has been a waste, as Occupy Sacramento has marched around in circles against non-union hotel maids, against Sac City park ordinances, and even up to the state capital for reasons still unknown. Occupy Sacramento could quell a lot of this "discredit" by picking up their MacBook Air and agreeing on the follow-up to their declaration of intent, and then agreeing on specific directions of pursuit. Name candidates you support (or oppose), laws you want written (or overturned). Name criminals on Wall Street and demand their prosecution. Tell us how much you think rich people should be taxed, or if the rich should be banished to a leper island. Not everybody will agree of course, probably not me. But at some point please lay your cards on the table and stop complaining about park ordinances. cogmeyer 2011-11-04T21:35:22Z mtsacramento comment-59677 2011-11-04T18:48:59Z 2011-11-04T18:48:59Z Good for you - and I agree. I was skeptical early on as well & now I have a great deal of respect for the movement - warts & all. Now my skepticism fall squarely on those who seem to want to discredit it at every turn. mtsacramento 2011-11-04T18:48:59Z Rhonda Erwin comment-59673 2011-11-04T17:13:11Z 2011-11-04T17:13:11Z mtsacramento: yep, i stepped outside the fox news box and read up on it. Sometimes if you wanna change the box you have to step outside the box. Heck they could be called Occupy Outlaw for all i care; I'm following closely now. lol Sometimes if you want to change the law you have to step outside the law. I have a great deal of respect for the heart, spirit, soul, efforts, labor, determination, visibility...... of the Occupy Groups. Job well begun Rhonda Erwin 2011-11-04T17:13:11Z mtsacramento comment-59668 2011-11-04T16:44:56Z 2011-11-04T16:44:56Z Wait, you read up on it?? Why? It's so much easier to just marginalize & make fun of them! mtsacramento 2011-11-04T16:44:56Z Rhonda Erwin comment-59661 2011-11-04T05:37:27Z 2011-11-04T05:37:27Z I just read pages and pages of information on Occupy Wallstreet... Contrary to what some might think or how it might look on the surface their agenda is not ignorant in fact what's not on the surface is pretty darn impressive Rhonda Erwin 2011-11-04T05:37:27Z Rhonda Erwin comment-59648 2011-11-04T01:37:36Z 2011-11-04T01:37:36Z LOL; Now this is where you lost me. Seems, some were already scared so they created Occupy... lol. I don't think Dr King "would have punched guys like that in the nose..." In the words of Dr King, "We are all woven from the same garment what affects one of us directly affects all of us indirectly." Dr King and Malcolm X didn't always agree on techniques... but no punches were exchanged. They both agreed change was possible. Just because someone (or a few) held a black class Warfare banner doesn't mean it's a reflection of the entire group. Heck and even Malcolm started in one direction and towards the end of his life he was addressing it differently. Not to mention Yin/ Yang positive force; negative force both are needed for change. I attend many group forums we don't always agree with one another on how to get from point A to point B and some have their own agenda but we agree on the cause we're addressing. Rhonda Erwin 2011-11-04T01:37:36Z cogmeyer comment-59646 2011-11-03T23:32:31Z 2011-11-03T23:32:31Z Boy I hope Margaret Mead is wrong about the power of a small group of committed people. Because if the small, committed group holding up the giant black "Class Warfare" banner in Oakland last night become the change agents, we should all be scared. We have already seen that movie.. It starred Pol Pot and the Khmer Rouge and ended rather badly. Really, how can any serious movement allow someone to walk aroud with a "Class Warfare" banner? Reverend MLK would have punched guys like that in the nose and told them to never come back. cogmeyer 2011-11-03T23:32:31Z Rhonda Erwin comment-59631 2011-11-03T21:36:56Z 2011-11-03T21:36:56Z In regards to your comment- :Last I checked they were still trying to figure things out." To me that's a good thing. "The best in art and life comes from a center- something urgent and powerful, an idea or emotion that insists on its being. From that insistence, a shape emerges and creates its structure out of passion. If you begin with a structure, you have to make up the passion, and that's very hard to do." Roger Rosenblatt Rhonda Erwin 2011-11-03T21:36:56Z Rhonda Erwin comment-59630 2011-11-03T21:33:20Z 2011-11-03T21:33:20Z The Occupy Sacramento group is standing up for something they strongly believe in and why not do so also in Sacramento at the Capital of California? Heck, if they don't Stand for something they will Fall for anything. I admire people who stand up against the norm or pressure or criticism and stand firm. In my opinion it is impressive. In the words of Margaret Mead, 'Never underestimate the power of a small group of committed people to change the world. In fact, it is the only thing that ever has." I wish them well if i did not have my own battles I would join them on the battlefield. But we're in such a mess, violence, homelessness, unemployment.... heck too many have too many battles but just because more have not joined in doesn't mean more do not support and appreciate their efforts and labor Rhonda Erwin 2011-11-03T21:33:20Z thsas comment-59627 2011-11-03T20:54:55Z 2011-11-03T20:54:55Z How long will they prefer to do this, and not look for a job? thsas 2011-11-03T20:54:55Z Jose Galvan comment-59621 2011-11-03T20:07:26Z 2011-11-03T20:07:26Z "the whole world is watching" not when I'm asleep ! Go home, and then show up early and try again tomorrow. Do these people even have an agenda yet? Last I checked they were still trying to figure things out. Jose Galvan 2011-11-03T20:07:26Z cogmeyer comment-59614 2011-11-03T19:09:07Z 2011-11-03T19:09:07Z ... and piddling around Sac City Council chambers while ignoring the culprits on Wall Street (and K. Street Washington DC). cogmeyer 2011-11-03T19:09:07Z Lee Middleton comment-59607 2011-11-03T18:26:31Z 2011-11-03T18:26:31Z “The liberty of democracy is not safe if the people tolerate the growth of private power to a point where it comes stronger than their democratic state itself. That, in its essence, is fascism – ownership of government by an individual, by a group.” ~ President Franklin D. Roosevelt Bottom line: People are no longer willing to tolerate the abusive growth of others. There are those who lack the power and have been supporting the growth of the abusers and received very little in return. And those that are being abused are now occupying the streets and rightfully displaying their dissatisfaction. Lee Middleton 2011-11-03T18:26:31Z cogmeyer comment-59602 2011-11-03T17:27:53Z 2011-11-03T17:27:53Z This is one of those rare occasions where I actually have sympathy for our Sac City Council having to listen to this garbage. cogmeyer 2011-11-03T17:27:53Z thsas comment-59317 2011-10-30T22:19:27Z 2011-10-30T22:19:27Z I have heard several complaints of theft in the park. It must be hard to complain about a loss though, when someone is just redistributing your wealth. thsas 2011-10-30T22:19:27Z cogmeyer comment-59188 2011-10-26T20:39:52Z 2011-10-26T20:39:52Z What is going on at Occupy Sac? Accusations of rape as well as a coverup by one of the lead organizers, resulting in a group that has formed a splinter Occupy Sac group in protest. This seems like a news story worth reporting, but so far it hasnt. Weird. http://occupysac.com/?cat=14 http://www.indybay.org/newsitems/2011/10/22/18694581.php ======================================= Addressing Saturday’s GA. There were 5 members of the Community Outreach Committee that issued a BLOCK on the Security Team for keeping information regarding an alleged rape secret. The BLOCK initiated a large and heated argument and has been discussed in detail for four days now. The 5 people who initiated the block have decided to start their own occupation movement called Occupy Yourself due to the disagreements. !!end section!! ======================================================== cogmeyer 2011-10-26T20:39:52Z Curmudgeon comment-58829 2011-10-19T03:49:22Z 2011-10-19T03:49:22Z Or the wrongdoers in Washington. Funny how they ignore those. Proof, if any was needed, how staged this all is. Curmudgeon 2011-10-19T03:49:22Z cogmeyer comment-58779 2011-10-18T06:10:47Z 2011-10-18T06:10:47Z Last week going after City Hall. This week Columbus Day and the Bureau of Indian Affairs. The Sac Occupy folks seems to be going in all directions except after the wrongdoers on Wall St. Funny that the guy speaking in the video seems to think that North America was violence free until Columbus arrived. cogmeyer 2011-10-18T06:10:47Z Casey Kirk comment-57855 2011-09-26T18:37:02Z 2011-09-26T18:37:02Z JimMichael Thanks for your feedback! Yes, as Ed pointed out, we do have a disclosure field that all writers are encouraged to fill in on the Writer's Dashboard. We do not have an "Opinion" section but contributors often write op-ed pieces and are given the option of including this in their headline (which they also write) or tagging their article accordingly. If you ever have any concerns about a specific article, please don't hesitate to email us at support@sacramentopress.com. Casey Kirk 2011-09-26T18:37:02Z Ed Fogle comment-57853 2011-09-26T08:36:01Z 2011-09-26T08:36:01Z I don't know why I'm replying to this, but I guess the obvious isn't so obvious: Notice the "Disclosure" at the end of the article that has been there since the creation of the article. In addition, this article has nothing to do w/ KJ, it's not opinion, it's facts of an event for public information. For the rest of our "commentors", in the future, we'll continue to post informational articles about our findings to alert and inform the public as we remain on watch. We will no longer come and play in your sandbox of rhetoric, we'll let you kids play by yourselves. For the few of you that we did come here and play with, there's hundreds that are elated and very grateful for our efforts, there's no reason for us to come here and feed ammo to a few malcontents who twist even the simplest well intended words into something else. -Enjoy Ed Fogle 2011-09-26T08:36:01Z JimMichael comment-57810 2011-09-24T19:21:09Z 2011-09-24T19:21:09Z I wish Sacramento Press would put disclosure statements on "articles" like these. This is more of an opinion piece. The author of this "article" is an active KJ supporter. Sac Press I don't mind these articles, but PLEASE disclose who the authors are. Or simply put a piece like this under opinion. JimMichael 2011-09-24T19:21:09Z Rhonda Erwin comment-57807 2011-09-24T07:15:58Z 2011-09-24T07:15:58Z This news weighs heavily on my mind. I like both Bonnie Pannell and Betty Williams personally but this is not personal it is business. I can't believe Betty Williams is running against Bonnie Pannell??? I live in District 8 and I have lots to say on whose leadership is stronger and who I will vote for to represent the district I live in.... not to mention the crime in district 8, which regardless of statistics, I have seen go down under Pannell's leadership. For goodness sake the endorsements listed well, I have two cents on that subject also. Rhonda Erwin 2011-09-24T07:15:58Z Davi Rodrigues comment-57803 2011-09-24T05:56:16Z 2011-09-24T05:56:16Z those same nations and people may have still gone to war without religion as an excuse or instigator. Take away religion and people still fight. And on the other issue, that's kinda the point I was making. there's alot of people who aren't going to turn to the mormons, the catholic, and the capitol christian center for help with faith now. The church could have easily denied gays marriage services, or use of the church for gay related services, but instead, they wanted their reach to extend beyond the confines of the church, and into political policy and law making. I think it's bad mojo, and distracts from the main agenda of the faith. Did it increase the popularity of the faith....no. Was the public more trusting of the church....I doubt it. Did it limit the ability of the clergy to teach the faith...I'll bet it did. I certainly don't think any of them are any closer to stamping out homo-ism after spending all that capitol, both monetary and human, but they sure got a black eye for it in many circles. these pastors may just encounter the same results also. I doubt every single person within their hopeful parish feels the same way they do about the redistricting. I wonder if they are considering coming to church sunday. I should add that I might be a little homophobic too, but I don't let that get in the way of my management of our non-profit, 'cause it is not in our statement. Davi Rodrigues 2011-09-24T05:56:16Z Rhonda Erwin comment-57801 2011-09-24T05:41:04Z 2011-09-24T05:41:04Z wow, I enjoyed reading all the comments. Wow, I enjoyed reading the article. I will continue when i have both the time and energy quite frankly i have too much to say, on this subject, in a simple post. Thank you for the article and thank you for the comments. I especially enjoyed Ed Fogle and the Rev Rhonda Erwin 2011-09-24T05:41:04Z Rhys02 comment-57796 2011-09-24T04:36:02Z 2011-09-24T04:36:02Z Keep in mind more nations have gone to war and people died because of religion.. May sound hyperbolic in this context but there is a reason for separation of church and state. Where was all the rage when the Mormons, Catholics and Cap Christian Ctr were injecting their homophobic hate views into civil law?. Rhys02 2011-09-24T04:36:02Z Tony Sheppard comment-57773 2011-09-23T22:24:09Z 2011-09-23T22:24:09Z At the point that you get paid by others for your calling, it's a profession - whether you're preaching, painting, teaching, acting.... Tony Sheppard 2011-09-23T22:24:09Z Tony Sheppard comment-57766 2011-09-23T21:49:37Z 2011-09-23T21:49:37Z I don't think your last point is either accurate or fair. Speaking about one politician's perceived wrong actions and speaking about another politician's perceived right actions are, generally, the same thing as they tend to be two sides of the same coin. And it isn't that somebody is stripping a group of their rights, it's that as a group members of the clergy and their churches agree in advance to behave a certain way in return for a very special set of tax benefits that most of us don't receive. It's a known tradeoff that they willingly undertake. So when I see a group of people who are identified not as citizens but repeatedly (almost twenty times in a single article, including the title of that article) as pastors interviewing potential candidates and targeting other sitting politicians, as opposed to speaking purely on issues, I don't think it's unfair to question their actions in the context of the agreement they voluntarily undertook. I would think the same thing regardless of whether or not I agreed with who they did or didn't like - that to me is entirely irrelevant. If I was campaign manager for Candidate X and they stood up in their professional capacity and campaigned for Candidate X, I would still be concerned and question that action because it would still violate their contract with the IRS (essentially with all of the rest of us as taxpayers). The rest of us have said, you can have these tax benefits, but only if you behave within a certain set of narrowly defined parameters. It has nothing to do with picking sides, it's the underlying principle that I'm addressing. Tony Sheppard 2011-09-23T21:49:37Z TheRev comment-57762 2011-09-23T20:46:36Z 2011-09-23T20:46:36Z Every citizen should be a "watchmen". In the past 4 weeks if more of us had been actively involved and watching the things happening downtown we would not be here. Now that a certain segment of society has finally stepped up...late as it may be...we try to find a way to shoot them down. Hmmmmmm...very peculiar. Everyone is entitled to their "opionion" that is their/our right. The "GROUP" as it was so disrespectfully referred to are citizens. That usage of "The Group" took my mind back to when Presidential Candidate Cain while debating then Presidential Candidate Obama as "That One!" Should the fact that they are Pastors/Clergy deny them the right to discuss the issues. It is to them that those they oversee come to for answers...even political. It is to them when people seek to be married that they go to. It is to them when someone dies they seek to help them through their pain. What makes the argument so pathetic is as long as we praise or acknowledge the "good" of a politician NO ONE cries about IRS violations. But if as individuals we speak to the wrong of a politicians we call up IRS violations. Their version of the "race card" against clergy. TheRev 2011-09-23T20:46:36Z Davi Rodrigues comment-57761 2011-09-23T20:45:12Z 2011-09-23T20:45:12Z the church, their flock, and their message are thiers to lose. Examples abound. Jesse Jackson, Al Sharpton are both getting to be seen as poverty pimps and race hustlers. How many even know they were clergy now? How many souls are they saving now? Justice is not a mission of faith. Politics especially no. Matin Luther King Jr began his crusade, and soon after, churches were bombed. Not saying that the faithful cannot fight for justice and equality, but here I believe is where the separation of church and state really matters. The church isn't going to be much of a sanctuary if it chooses up political sides. By the way Ed; I'm not entirely immune to patronizing, but c'mon now.. Davi Rodrigues 2011-09-23T20:45:12Z Ed Fogle comment-57760 2011-09-23T20:33:01Z 2011-09-23T20:33:01Z ;-) Ed Fogle 2011-09-23T20:33:01Z Tony Sheppard comment-57758 2011-09-23T19:30:59Z 2011-09-23T19:30:59Z And who will rescue you from your "snaps, snarls and bites?" The high horse suits neither you nor your role. Tony Sheppard 2011-09-23T19:30:59Z YouWantWhat comment-57757 2011-09-23T19:29:58Z 2011-09-23T19:29:58Z More reading for the less informed... http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p1828.pdf pgs 5-13 in particular Tax Guide For Churches and Religious Organizations the operative search term being "minister" Here's but one example "Individual Activity by Religious Leaders" The political campaign activity prohibition is not intended to restrict free expression on political matters by leaders of churches or religious organizations speaking for themselves, as individuals. Nor are leaders prohibited from speaking about important issues of public policy . However, for their organizations to remain tax exempt under IRC section 501(c)(3), religious leaders cannot make partisan comments in official organization publications or at official church functions . To avoid potential attribution of their comments outside of church functions and publications, religious leaders who speak or write in their individual capacity are encouraged to clearly indicate that their comments are personal and not intended to represent the views of the organization " BTW, my family has been very active in our Congregation. Both my father and I served as Deacons and additionally my father was on the board of trustees. I even grew up with one of our pastors being a next door neighbor...for what's it's worth. and to fstephens & Ed Fogle don't misstate what I write. Ed, I never said your group supported...I said members of your group supported, Reverend Heath to name but one. In the words of Tim McGuire from his "At Work" column in 2005 http://m.spokesman.com/stories/2005/feb/23/dont-be-deceived-a-lie-is-a-lie/ "That means do not lie, do not cheat, do not make things up, do not hide your actions to avoid consequences, do not trick, do not purport to be something you are not, do not falsify information, do not misrepresent, do not keep two sets of books, and do not mislead. It means do not deceive." Somehow this campaign season is shaping up to be a lot about deception and wrong priorities. YouWantWhat 2011-09-23T19:29:58Z Tony Sheppard comment-57756 2011-09-23T19:28:15Z 2011-09-23T19:28:15Z I agree that pastors can act as citizens on their own time and that pastors (who also happen to be citizens, assuming they are) are citizens too with the rights of citizens. But this isn't a group that is referred to as citizens who also happen to be pastors in their day jobs. This is a group that is specifically referred to as pastors - i.e, being identified primarily by their church-related role. The title introduces them that way, as do seven photo captions, and at least ten uses of the word in the body of the text (plus two in your own disclaimer). Meanwhile I don't see them ever described as citizens or concerned citizens. And they are interviewing/screening potential political candidates because they don't like existing politicians. That's activity defined by candidate(s) not activity defined by an issue or cause. If we had heard about this group of "concerned citizens" undertaking this activity and only after x articles on their actions did we happen to find out, by chance, that they were all pastors, it would be quite different in both tone and context, and most likely also in perceived legality or appropriateness. But that's not the case. And as for the wonderfully charitably finger-pointing Pastor Fogle, the reason I'm not registered to vote is because I'm not eligible to vote. I have lived in this country for over 20 years and in Sacramento for 14, I'm an active and concerned member of the community - as much as you are, I have paid taxes "religiously' throughout my time here (a lot of taxes), I serve in multiple unpaid capacities for the City, but I am not a US citizen and so I am not permitted to vote. I do, however, believe that I have more than earned my right to voice my opinion on matters such as this, aside from having my own right to speech. And the right to vote in this country, for citizens, is a right to vote not a requirement to vote. So even citizens who, for whatever personal set of reasons choose not to vote or to register to vote, have the same rights as you do to speak on these matters. You may choose not to listen to them, for valid reasons or not, just as they may choose to listen to or to ignore you. Similarly, non-citizens, including legal residents such as myself, have a right to speech even if we are disenfranchised at the voting booth. Tony Sheppard 2011-09-23T19:28:15Z PocketGOPer comment-57754 2011-09-23T19:07:38Z 2011-09-23T19:07:38Z It is totally proper and legal for these religious leaders in their individual capacities to evaluate local political candidates. Sheedy, R. Fong, McCarty and Pannell have to go. PocketGOPer 2011-09-23T19:07:38Z Ed Fogle comment-57753 2011-09-23T19:00:29Z 2011-09-23T19:00:29Z Now that I can respect Mark. And for the record, you're right, it's not a "profession", it's a calling... and I understanding your feelings toward the "profession". ...got a go, heard some barking! ;-) Ed Fogle 2011-09-23T19:00:29Z Mark comment-57752 2011-09-23T18:58:23Z 2011-09-23T18:58:23Z Be self-appointed watch dogs if want. We need them. But realize that just because you feel your cause is just doesn't make it so. I don't care what you call yourself- a pastor or dog catcher it's all the same to me. I don't acknowledge pastor/preacher as a legit profession (it's like being a snake oil salesman and pseudo counselor) so to me they are just citizens exercising their right of free speech.. and I totally support their right. Mark 2011-09-23T18:58:23Z fstephens comment-57750 2011-09-23T18:26:44Z 2011-09-23T18:26:44Z It would appear neither Tony or YouWant are very educated about what churches and pastors can do in the political arena. Well established case law and IRS guidelines do not deny, as both of you allege, pastors their Constitutional rights to participate in the political arena. While pastors cannot publicly endorse candidates -- I believe from the article they made it clear that is not their intent -- pastors may apart from their church privately endorse a candidate if they desire. Pastors can participate fully in political committees that are independent of the church for which they work -- I believe they are doing exactly that. In fact, Tony and YouWant, you need to know that churches may legally educate members of the congregation about pending legislation. Church leaders an NOT prohibited from speaking about important issues of public policy, according to the IRS. Just thought you guys would want to know. fstephens 2011-09-23T18:26:44Z Ed Fogle comment-57749 2011-09-23T18:19:03Z 2011-09-23T18:19:03Z It's well known that when people are hurting, they manifest their hurt in anger and lashing out most often at those who are trying to help. Likewise, preachers are known for their longwindedness and analogies, so let me not disappoint here: when a dog is injured and hurting, all it knows is that it is injured and hurting. Well meaning human rescuers often get snapped and snarled at, even bit pretty good while hazarding rescue efforts, but it typically does not deter the rescuers from their efforts. Davi, Tony, "You Want What"... make no mistake, your snaps, snarls and bites here will not deter the pastors from what they know they're God given mission is. They will continue to stand, they will continue to remain on watch, they will continue to sound the alarm and even move with haste to rescue you even though you don't realize you need rescuing and are ungrateful. We are used to it and we did sign up for it. So here we are, here we stand and here we will remain. As I recall, there is another citizen watchman on a very strong mission to sound the warning alarm to his community... something about bootleg vendors? I believe this watchman is even taking the time to secretly video tape and post the infractions and fight for what is right, invoke his first amendment rights as a citizen and even using SacPress and Youtube to get the message out. My hat is off to that man, he's in the battle just like the pastors are. http://www.sacramentopress.com/headline/57609/Bootleg_Banquet Ed Fogle 2011-09-23T18:19:03Z Davi Rodrigues comment-57747 2011-09-23T17:45:40Z 2011-09-23T17:45:40Z Religious leaders often lose their own faith, and turn to politics or other mortal pursuits, but still cling to the cloth for recognition. People spreading their faith have been welcomed and even shielded all across the globe, even in very hostile locations, because they confine their activities to the administration of their faith. It is most often when they stray from that and meddle or influence the political spectrum that they come to harm, and taint the message, the faith, and the organizations that they represent. Davi Rodrigues 2011-09-23T17:45:40Z Ed Fogle comment-57746 2011-09-23T17:39:14Z 2011-09-23T17:39:14Z ;-) Ed Fogle 2011-09-23T17:39:14Z Davi Rodrigues comment-57745 2011-09-23T17:36:01Z 2011-09-23T17:36:01Z I see Ed, What do you call someone who spouts useless ignorant rhetoric when they use their real name? Davi Rodrigues 2011-09-23T17:36:01Z Ed Fogle comment-57744 2011-09-23T17:32:49Z 2011-09-23T17:32:49Z There is a very large difference my friend between a "Pen Name" such as Samuel Langhorne Clemens used to write his masterpieces and classics that we enjoy even today, and hiding behind a "User Name" to spout senseless, ignorant rhetoric. Let's not confuse the two. Ed Fogle 2011-09-23T17:32:49Z TheRev comment-57740 2011-09-23T17:17:49Z 2011-09-23T17:17:49Z It is always amazing how people want to limit the influence of religious leaders...but when a need arises it to those same leaders that they go. During the time of elections, when people need votes and such, who do the politicians, "THAT GROUP," go to solicit votes, even try to buy off for favors. When a particular project needs support..."THAT GROUP" and others have no problem with seeking the help of the Pastors and other religious leaders. But if and when they assert THEIR first amendment right as citizens of this great nation...we try to shut them down with threats and fear. People forget often that Pastors are CITIZENS also. The Pastors that have spoken up and out over the past month or so have as much right to speak personally or even as a group of citizens who happen to be pastors as anyone else. Fear is an amazing thing...it is a great tool to try to cripple people. I concur with Bro. Fogle in asking why didn't the one who was so kind to share the tax code also share the Code of Conduct for City Council. Why did they not also share the penalties for breaking Redistricting Laws, the law against using Gerrymandering tactics, violating the Brown Act, or violating Civil Rights Laws. Where was the dissertation on Council Members violating ethics, and such. We appreciate the reminder of our and/or anyone's limitations as nonprofits...if that is what we as citizens were..but the Pastors, who were so flippantly called "The Group," are citizens of America, Califorinia, and Sacramento and are no different than any other citizen. They are afforded the same RIGHTS to speak, protest, and support just like any other citizen...if not, someone owes me/us a lot of tax money back! So when you refer to the tax law/code remember it is speaking of "churches and charities"...not individual citizens. Pastors are citizens...just as politicians, law enforcement, teachers, car washers, etc..etc. This "GROUP" of Pastors, and not just Pastors just for your knowledge are fed up, tired of, and sick of the corrupt and suspect conduct of people that THEY also voted for as citizens...which by the way is ALSO a right...are free to exercise the same freedoms that other citizens are afforded. TheRev 2011-09-23T17:17:49Z Davi Rodrigues comment-57719 2011-09-23T16:54:56Z 2011-09-23T16:54:56Z Commenters do not necessarily have shilling motivations for having a user name. Mark Twain was not hiding was he? Davi Rodrigues 2011-09-23T16:54:56Z Ed Fogle comment-57715 2011-09-23T11:06:34Z 2011-09-23T11:06:34Z Thank you for locating this section of the IRS code (I would address you respectfully by name if you weren't hiding behind a user name). First let me address your first statement: "THIS GROUP" just formed a couple of weeks ago during the redistricting process. So "THIS GROUP" has not addressed the "SMI Initiative". Furthermore, let me highlight paragraph four which is the information I was referring to in a previous comment as to what churches and non-profits can and can not do: "The IRS has published Revenue Ruling 2007-41, which outlines how churches, and all 501(c)(3) organizations, can stay within the law regarding the ban on political activity. Also, the ban by Congress is on political campaign activity regarding a candidate; churches and other 501(c)(3) organizations can engage in a limited amount of lobbying (including ballot measures) and advocate for or against issues that are in the political arena. The IRS also has provided guidance regarding the difference between advocating for a candidate and advocating for legislation." "THIS GROUP" is functioning within the legal parameters and have not even come close to the boundaries of such. Don't think that out of 20 pastors, that we do not have effective and well versed legal representation and advisers. So the real question is, what is your real issue? No pastor in 'THIS GROUP" has campaigned for any candidate, initiative or ballot issue. The only thing "THIS GROUP" of pastors has done has acted as a group of concerned citizens holding our local government accountable, making sure they treat you right and fairly. I'm failing to see the issue. What you should take exception and issue with is the obvious, blatant and dishonest back door politics that have taken place by your city council. What you should take up issue with is a city council that literally refuses to work together, and literally told pastors that they don't care what "The People" think or want in a meeting with the pastors. You have council members in office right now who's only agenda (no matter what is right for you) is to appose your Mayor, and that is known fact. With that, let me encourage you to turn this energy you have to oppose, to the direction of your City Council which you should be holding accountable. The pastors are simply being "watchmen" and shedding light and warnings when necessary. For the life of me, I can not see why any American would have any issue with that. Ed Fogle 2011-09-23T11:06:34Z YouWantWhat comment-57714 2011-09-23T10:25:50Z 2011-09-23T10:25:50Z Charities, Churches and Politics "which does not participate in, or intervene in (including the publishing or distributing of statements), any political campaign on behalf of (or in opposition to) any candidate for public office." I also recall certain members of this group, Ed, being vocal about their support of the unconstitutional SMI initiaitve. From The IRS http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=161131,00.html The ban on political campaign activity by charities and churches was created by Congress more than a half century ago. The Internal Revenue Service administers the tax laws written by Congress and has enforcement authority over tax-exempt organizations. Here is some background information on the political campaign activity ban and the latest IRS enforcement statistics regarding its administration of this congressional ban. In 1954, Congress approved an amendment by Sen. Lyndon Johnson to prohibit 501(c)(3) organizations, which includes charities and churches, from engaging in any political campaign activity. To the extent Congress has revisited the ban over the years, it has in fact strengthened the ban. The most recent change came in 1987 when Congress amended the language to clarify that the prohibition also applies to statements opposing candidates. Currently, the law prohibits political campaign activity by charities and churches by defining a 501(c)(3) organization as one "which does not participate in, or intervene in (including the publishing or distributing of statements), any political campaign on behalf of (or in opposition to) any candidate for public office." The IRS has published Revenue Ruling 2007-41, which outlines how churches, and all 501(c)(3) organizations, can stay within the law regarding the ban on political activity. Also, the ban by Congress is on political campaign activity regarding a candidate; churches and other 501(c)(3) organizations can engage in a limited amount of lobbying (including ballot measures) and advocate for or against issues that are in the political arena. The IRS also has provided guidance regarding the difference between advocating for a candidate and advocating for legislation. See political and lobbying activities. Earlier this year, the IRS released the results of its 2006 Political Activity Compliance Initiative which investigated allegations of political campaign activity by 501(c)(3) organizations during the 2006 campaign season. For the 2006 election cycle, the IRS received 237 referals and selected 100 (44 churches, 56 nonchurches) for examination. More than half of these cases are still under investigation. However, the IRS did substantiate improper political activity in 26 cases and issued written advisories. So far, there are no revocation recommendations. (In 2004, the IRS selected 110 cases for examination, issued 69 written advisories, revoked the tax-exempt status of five organizations and proposed revocation for two others.) Politics plays absolutely no role in audits. A team of career IRS employees review complaints submitted by the public and determine which allegations merit further review. An independent review confirmed that political considerations played no role in IRS decisions to further investigate allegations of political campaign activity. You can read the report here. Each election cycle, the IRS reminds 501(c)(3) exempt organizations to be aware of the ban on political campaign activity. The IRS published its most recent reminder in a public news release which you can read here. The division within the IRS responsible for overseeing churches and charities is the Tax Exempt and Government Entitities Division. TEGE has created a Web page entitled Charities, Churches, and Educational Organizations - Political Campaign Intervention. It is dedicated to the IRS most recent activities related to 501(c)(3) and political activity. A definitive court case on the issue of free speech and political expression is Branch Ministries Inc. versus Rossotti. In that case, the court upheld the constitutionality of the ban on political activity. The court rejected the plaintiff church's allegations that it was being selectively prosecuted because of its conservative views and that its First Amendment right to free speech was being infringed. The court wrote: "The government has a compelling interest in maintaining the integrity of the tax system and in not subsidizing partisan political activity, and Section 501(c)(3) is the least restrictive means of accomplishing that purpose." Updated July 12, 2007 YouWantWhat 2011-09-23T10:25:50Z Ed Fogle comment-57713 2011-09-23T09:07:42Z 2011-09-23T09:07:42Z Tony, it wasn't ment as a personal attack, and I'm sorry you took it that way. Allow me to bring the very real relevance to it: Your "no" answer makes your initial question/statement completely irrelevant. ...and in kind (to quote you) "...I'll let you ponder the reason why...." From here, as a pastor and voting American, believe me I want to make my next remarks VERY personal, but out of respect for the guidelines, the intended purpose of SacPress and its incredible staff, I will refrain. Let's agree to disagree at this point and move on. Ed Fogle 2011-09-23T09:07:42Z Tony Sheppard comment-57708 2011-09-23T07:06:00Z 2011-09-23T07:06:00Z How does that represent accountability? Unless I'm running around berating people for not registering to vote, and/or basing some kind of campaign on the need to register to vote, that has no bearing on anything. Let me answer your direct, entirely irrelevant, inaccurately characterized, and at least borderline rude question by saying no. And I'll let you ponder the reason why not. Tony Sheppard 2011-09-23T07:06:00Z Ed Fogle comment-57706 2011-09-23T06:46:14Z 2011-09-23T06:46:14Z Pastors, churches, non-profits, etc may allocated a percentage of funds and time promoting specific political isues and agendas... that they can not at all is a false impression proppigated by those who fear non-profits and churches. Much like the falsity of "separation of church and state". Those who know their history know that phrase is ment for government not to control churches, not visa versa. Both of which are mute points here anyway Tony, because these pastors are simply keeping accountability... pure and simple. They have not supported any candidates, they have not told their congregations how to vote, etc. But thanks for your concern Tony, the pastors appreciate community members as yourself looking out for their best intrest as they do that for you at council meetings and direct accountability meetings with councilmembers. In fact, I hear they will be at city hall this week knocking on council members doors who have not met with them, on yours and the rest of the communities behalf. By the way, speaking of accountability, Tony, have you registered to vote? Ed Fogle 2011-09-23T06:46:14Z Tony Sheppard comment-57705 2011-09-23T06:07:48Z 2011-09-23T06:07:48Z Are all these pastors, who are engaged in this overt political activity, also renouncing their churches' tax exempt statuses? Tony Sheppard 2011-09-23T06:07:48Z Phillip Kampel comment-56721 2011-09-06T20:48:56Z 2011-09-06T20:48:56Z Whether or not the Mayor made a profit on the land is irrelevant. The fact that he held it until there was a good fit for the community is not only relevant, it gives him the right to share the credit for bringing the store to Oak Park. Residents also deserve to have a choice. Just because the co-op is in the vicinity, it doesn't mean anyone in particular should have to shop there. By the way, 5 blocks is about a half mile, which may in fact add more distance than some people can successfully negotiate. Phillip Kampel 2011-09-06T20:48:56Z Ed Fogle comment-56581 2011-09-03T20:14:58Z 2011-09-03T20:14:58Z Wow!! Thanks Ben! Every contributor, every article, (almost) every comment, every reader, intern and staff member is what makes this whole thing tic. Congratulations to everyone! I'm definitely honored to have the 10,000th milestone contribution, but that honor belongs to every single person who's finger (click) print has graced this creation. What is also moving to me is that the 10,000th article isn't just another contribution, it's about a community in renascence, a community that has fought long and hard, more than most of us can realize or imagine, and the fruits of their literal blood, sweat and tears is coming to fruition. I've stayed behind my camera, capturing the history, emotion and true community effort during this redistricting fight; I haven't written on it because I'm to close to the story and very biased, but I believe the images tell it all. So, congratulations Oak Park! Keep up the fight! This article and 10,000th milestone post is dedicated to you. Ed Fogle 2011-09-03T20:14:58Z Dustin L. Littrell comment-56542 2011-09-02T23:37:11Z 2011-09-02T23:37:11Z I believe it sold for $1m several years ago Dustin L. Littrell 2011-09-02T23:37:11Z clm12 comment-56538 2011-09-02T21:04:11Z 2011-09-02T21:04:11Z This is pretty cool, but it is disingenuous of the mayor to claim credit for helping Oak Park residents have better access to food when the new store is (a) only 5 blocks from the Sacramento Co-op (b) barely in Oak Park (c) on land he likely profited from the sale of. clm12 2011-09-02T21:04:11Z Craig Powell comment-56537 2011-09-02T20:16:07Z 2011-09-02T20:16:07Z That's just awesome, Ben. Congratulations on a real milestone! Craig Powell 2011-09-02T20:16:07Z Ben Ilfeld comment-56530 2011-09-02T18:46:59Z 2011-09-02T18:46:59Z Whoa! This is the 10,000th article on The Sacramento Press (excluding everything that we had to take down for some reason). Yay! Congrats Ed. Ben Ilfeld 2011-09-02T18:46:59Z Ed Fogle comment-56451 2011-09-01T17:43:09Z 2011-09-01T17:43:09Z Hmmm....could be. Ed Fogle 2011-09-01T17:43:09Z JimMichael comment-56446 2011-09-01T16:53:19Z 2011-09-01T16:53:19Z How much money did KJ make selling or leasing this property? JimMichael 2011-09-01T16:53:19Z newguyinsac comment-56445 2011-09-01T16:18:16Z 2011-09-01T16:18:16Z It's a non-union store, so it will be interesting to see how long before the UFCW and other unions go on the attack. In fact they've already tried to do so with Asw. Fiona Ma's proposed bill that would prohibit grocery stores from selling alcohol through self-serve checkouts, which is the Fresh and Easy model. newguyinsac 2011-09-01T16:18:16Z Tony Sheppard comment-56426 2011-09-01T08:47:02Z 2011-09-01T08:47:02Z In looking at their site - I started to wonder if the higher count included the planned locations as well as the open locations. Tony Sheppard 2011-09-01T08:47:02Z Ed Fogle comment-56420 2011-09-01T08:03:17Z 2011-09-01T08:03:17Z Just an FYI: those numbers were directly from their press release emailed to me. I probably should have cited my source on that. My bad. ;-) Ed Fogle 2011-09-01T08:03:17Z Tony Sheppard comment-56419 2011-09-01T07:48:49Z 2011-09-01T07:48:49Z Fresh & Easy based in California? Yes, technically, but they're a subsidiary of Tesco, an English company and the second most profitable retailer in the world after Wal-Mart. Not that there's anything wrong with that. Also, according to wikipedia (accuracy?) the current number of Fresh & Easy stores is 177 - 128 in CA, 28 around Phoenix, AZ, and 21 around Las Vegas, NV. (It's hard to tell from the company site what the correct number is without counting flags on a map.) Tony Sheppard 2011-09-01T07:48:49Z Rhys02 comment-56415 2011-09-01T04:01:39Z 2011-09-01T04:01:39Z While KJ and the Council were preening for the cameras for a project they had nothing to do with, a construction crew was and has been busy for some weeks at least the Watt Ave site. The construction crew for the Oak Park site remained unemployed while the politicians arranged their schedules. Rhys02 2011-09-01T04:01:39Z Imnobody comment-53244 2011-07-12T20:42:06Z 2011-07-12T20:42:06Z Hmm. Inflammatory and sarcastic. I believe I answered your questions to the best of my ability. I also directed you to the fire dept. for answers, not just the union. Maybe you could call the city council or mayors office? Imnobody 2011-07-12T20:42:06Z cogmeyer comment-53204 2011-07-12T04:15:19Z 2011-07-12T04:15:19Z I thought this was interesting comment coming from our local Socialist Cap Public Radio on Sac FD cuts. Regarding Sac FD cuts to water rescues, Cap Radio sez: "Sac Metro Fire did not cut its special ops programs, in part because it does not pay the special incentive pay Sac Fire pays its firefighters." http://www.capradio.org/articles/2011/07/05/fire-department-special-ops-budget-cut Is this one of those examples where I should not believe what the media reports, and only get my info from union card holders? cogmeyer 2011-07-12T04:15:19Z cogmeyer comment-53203 2011-07-12T04:09:58Z 2011-07-12T04:09:58Z You made it very clear that I was uninformed, which implies that you are informed. So inform me. It sounds like you know the story, but you are giving it out in dribs and drabs. Very recently there was a 2nd company of firefighters fully trained and equipped to respond to Hazmat incidents, now they are gone. But the firefigthers are still there with the same Hazmat response knowledge that they had 6 months ago. Did the fire department sell the 2nd companies Hazmat equipment? Or is this simply a matter of the fire department not renewing the annual cert training? And is this one of those retalliation things where the fire department cuts a relatively low cost training cert to make a point to the city council on all the bad things that happen when budgets get cut. Or did cutting the 2nd Hazmat company (whatever cutting means when the employees haven't been laid off) actually save substantial dollars? cogmeyer 2011-07-12T04:09:58Z Imnobody comment-53200 2011-07-12T02:16:59Z 2011-07-12T02:16:59Z You think you know something just because you read what the media wanted you to read. Rather than keep going at it here, call them ( local 522 and the fire dept.) and get the answers for yourself instead of making uninformed comments on this site. Please don't take offense, no sarcasm here. Sometimes the verbage in these posts can be misinterpreted. Special programs were cut in the PD and the fire dept. They had two hazmat companies and are now down to one. Fire was already short 50 positions. And now four fire companies per day are closed. As I stated in other posts, how could they lay anyone off? Imnobody 2011-07-12T02:16:59Z cogmeyer comment-53160 2011-07-11T17:16:34Z 2011-07-11T17:16:34Z I just read the article above again with my own two eyeballs, which includes Niko King's "stern" statement: “What’s unique about this, Sacramento Fire department just experienced some budget cuts; it cut our hazmat team right in half" King stated sternly If they were not laid off, where did the other half of our former hazmat team go? cogmeyer 2011-07-11T17:16:34Z Imnobody comment-52991 2011-07-07T20:18:43Z 2011-07-07T20:18:43Z What cogmeyer seems to be misinformed about is that the fire department did not lay anyone off. And that the union is in good faith negotiations with a city that is willing to fund an arena and redevelop a portion of K St. with taxpayer dollars instead of funding crucial city services. The members of local 522 deferred raises a couple of years ago so the least senior members would not get laid off. Imnobody 2011-07-07T20:18:43Z cogmeyer comment-52939 2011-07-07T16:32:13Z 2011-07-07T16:32:13Z “What’s unique about this, Sacramento Fire department just experienced some budget cuts; it cut our hazmat team right in half,” Niko King seems to have forgotten that it is the firefighter union itself that chose to respond to the budget cuts by laying off staff. It is also the Local 522 that chose to "eat their young" by laying off firefighters based on seniority and not merit, causing a staff reduction that is disproportionately larger than the budget reduction. There is enough blame to go around for this budget mess, and the firefighters need to also look in the mirror at themselves on this one. cogmeyer 2011-07-07T16:32:13Z Ed Fogle comment-52928 2011-07-07T04:39:57Z 2011-07-07T04:39:57Z Around 5PM, the trailer did catch fire putting huge black plumes of smoke in the air. KCRA3's helicopter got some great shots. Check it out: http://www.kcra.com/slideshow/news/28463177/detail.html Ed Fogle 2011-07-07T04:39:57Z Ed Fogle comment-52628 2011-06-25T19:57:47Z 2011-06-25T19:57:47Z Team SacPD crossed the finish line Saturday evening. Recap and photos to come. Ed Fogle 2011-06-25T19:57:47Z Ed Fogle comment-52449 2011-06-22T06:46:41Z 2011-06-22T06:46:41Z Rhys02, just to put your mind at ease, we did check and our embedded photographer w/ the team confirmed all officers on the race are on personal vacation time. Ed Fogle 2011-06-22T06:46:41Z Rhys02 comment-52340 2011-06-19T02:55:27Z 2011-06-19T02:55:27Z If these officers are taking personal time, then best of luck...otherwise, they need to get back to their duties and whoever authorized official time at a minimum should receive a disciplinary action.. To often law enforcement is using official time and taxpayer equipment to show up at far flung funerals (which now out-dazzle a President's funeral) and monument dedications. Rhys02 2011-06-19T02:55:27Z Ed Fogle comment-52336 2011-06-18T21:58:45Z 2011-06-18T21:58:45Z We got word that the race just started and the team is off and pedaling through Oceanside, CA. You can follow the team's GPS: http://www.myathletelive.com/storage/races/201125/index.html Ed Fogle 2011-06-18T21:58:45Z Kati Garner comment-51077 2011-05-24T14:25:25Z 2011-05-24T14:25:25Z Good shots, Andrew!!! Kati Garner 2011-05-24T14:25:25Z hello comment-51064 2011-05-24T05:30:54Z 2011-05-24T05:30:54Z this is hard to believe that one person can do so much damage.. hello 2011-05-24T05:30:54Z Casey Kirk comment-50947 2011-05-22T02:29:24Z 2011-05-22T02:29:24Z From the press release: "The world’s fastest riders and the world’s most prestigious motocross championship will kick off the 2011 Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship in just over one week with the 43rd Annual Rockstar Energy Hangtown National from Prairie City SVRA in Rancho Cordova on Saturday, May 2" Casey Kirk 2011-05-22T02:29:24Z Ed Fogle comment-50945 2011-05-22T01:07:20Z 2011-05-22T01:07:20Z According to Weigandt in the press conf. Ed Fogle 2011-05-22T01:07:20Z CCC comment-50940 2011-05-21T23:15:32Z 2011-05-21T23:15:32Z Hangtown is in Rancho? CCC 2011-05-21T23:15:32Z Geoff Samek comment-49334 2011-04-19T18:46:35Z 2011-04-19T18:46:35Z I am rarely more proud of this publication than when I see articles and conversations such as these. It's fantastic to see the community participate in an online discussion like this. Glad to see some new voices, great comments, great short article, good job all around! Geoff Samek 2011-04-19T18:46:35Z LAproud comment-49326 2011-04-19T05:13:45Z 2011-04-19T05:13:45Z Hi my name is Anastasia and I'm also a Lavender Angel and proud to be one . Every job has it's risk but I go home every Friday night knowing that I made a difference and helped a few people or as it happened last Friday catching someone that was destroying property.I don't want to be labeled a hero just want to help out and make this world a better place with fewer people caring about others I try to make a difference. LAproud 2011-04-19T05:13:45Z LavAngel comment-49324 2011-04-19T03:12:42Z 2011-04-19T03:12:42Z Thanks Ash... and I should also mention that Aja, of the MBA, not only puts up the money to help us get medical supplies etc... but she also comes out here and spends a night regularly working with the Lavender Angels. And, she goes to briefings with the police and meets with community members. I am very proud that we have a partner that is as dedicated to our community as the MBA is. I guess the question is... problems exist and people deal with them two ways: by trying to fix them using whatever means are available to them, or those who are a part of the problem either through active involvement or through their passive lack of action. See a problem -- fix it. But please do not have the temerity to criticize those who are working to do what you cannot... or will not. LavAngel 2011-04-19T03:12:42Z LavenderAngelGirl112 comment-49323 2011-04-19T02:13:40Z 2011-04-19T02:13:40Z I'm Ashley the one in this article. I am an active community member, and I am PROUD to be a Lavender Angels. At Lisa and NewGuy- The city is laying off law enforcement left and right, the recession is bringing on more crime with less authority. We go through proper training and are welll equipped to deal with the crime that goes on in Midtown. Why do we need "Paid Security". If their are people, like myself, who are throughly trained and more than capable of dealing with these types of incidents, with out getting paid for it! I volunteer about 30 hours a week to Lavender Angels, and I enjoy it!!! I know I am making a difference in my community. I go to sleep at night proud that I am volunteering and trying to make a change. Can you say that? It isnt about money its about pride and hope! LavenderAngelGirl112 2011-04-19T02:13:40Z LavAngel comment-49320 2011-04-18T21:40:16Z 2011-04-18T21:40:16Z Lisa and Newguy... night-time entertainment venues are a part of every metropolitan landscape. Yes, they cause some problems, but they also bring a lot of good things to an area such as revenue, visitors who come to the area, etc... I don't think we would be a metropolitan city without them. Yes, it is nice to think of our town as a small, sleepy town, but it is not... that was twenty years ago... and it was not a golden hamlet back then -- down and mid-town have come a long ways towards being a better place to live since then. And as for our Lavender Angels, we are community members period. Yes, we have jackets and manuals and we go through training... but we are just citizens standing up for our community. If it were not for Midtown, we would still be out here... just without some of the financial backing for supplies that we have with them on our side. It's very easy to point the finger and call for change, it is something else to stand up and try to make it happen. All my fellow Angels out there... yes, they risk their lives at times and they are volunteer, but all of them do it for the right reason... because this is THEIR community and their family and as such... all of us with wings feel responsible for doing our level best to make it better. And we may make mistakes now and again and have to learn things on the fly... but we are doing our best to stand up and protect our community against harm. And both SacPD and the MBA support what we are doing and are training us. LavAngel 2011-04-18T21:40:16Z newguyinsac comment-49306 2011-04-18T17:14:26Z 2011-04-18T17:14:26Z i agree with Lisa. The first time one of the Angels (Guardian or Lavender) gets injured or God-forbid killed, this whole thing is going to explode. If the Midtown Business Association wants security, they should provide it. And it shouldn't be done through additional taxes in the area - they should pay for it themselves. newguyinsac 2011-04-18T17:14:26Z Ed Fogle comment-49304 2011-04-18T09:45:46Z 2011-04-18T09:45:46Z Hi Lisa... I could be way off base, but I don't think any of the Lavender Angels or the community are complaining. The gist I get is that the Angels love what they do and they and the community they serve wouldn't have it any other way. I guess the key word here is "volunteer". There must be a lot of "absurd" thinking individuals because both the Lavender Angels and the Guardian Angels are pretty active groups. Both seem to be quite effective and enjoy what they do. Like I said... I could be way off base so any Midtowners or Angels feel free to jump in here and help us out. Ed Fogle 2011-04-18T09:45:46Z naga comment-49293 2011-04-18T00:34:51Z 2011-04-18T00:34:51Z current city leaders have no confidence in central Sacramento as a "destination" unless it's to get wasted and suck up as much legal/expensive drug as possible. naga 2011-04-18T00:34:51Z LisaB23 comment-49284 2011-04-17T17:19:29Z 2011-04-17T17:19:29Z I commend the Lavendar Angels but we need paid security staff in midtown - period. Suck it up Midtown Business Association and pay for a night time security presence. You want the bars and clubs and these are the consequence. You must be held accountable for what you have created. Asking volunteers to take on this kind of risk is absurd. And asking taxpayer provided police who are here to protect the entire city to act as your private security force is absurd as well. You broke it -you pay for it. LisaB23 2011-04-17T17:19:29Z LisaB23 comment-49283 2011-04-17T17:15:05Z 2011-04-17T17:15:05Z I hope the two critically injured people recover. The irony of this happening at City Hall is not lost of us - but sadly no one in city leadership will even notice or care. This is what they want - a downtown entertainment district - so expect more of this. I am infuriated that the people in the cab - likely out having a good time - did the the right thing not driving after drinking and then have this horrible accident happen by someone not doing the right thing. We can only hope now that the legal system deliver its justice. LisaB23 2011-04-17T17:15:05Z Rhonda Erwin comment-49259 2011-04-17T06:23:59Z 2011-04-17T06:23:59Z Thanks Ed. I appreciate your response. And I appreciate your article. The police report states his BA was over the alcohol limit.... I looked him up on the court site once I never heard anything to see if their was a pending court date. That's when I learned he wasn't charged and when I saw all the previous priors for both DUI and drug arrests. I have a copy of the police report that's when I saw he was not arrested that night... I think the only medical condition he had that night was that he was allergic to sobriety and his medication was over the liquor counter alcohol. (I know it’s not funny I’m just trying to make light of a situation which angers me still) When I came home from work that day I asked where my son was and I was told of the accident and that he was at the store and an ambulance and officers were coming. I immediately drove there. Heck, I was so happy to see he was alive since it was not too far from the area where a friend of mines daughters, grandson and friend were killed by a drunk driver.... I stepped back and let the officers do their job... Since I've seen youth sober and rounded up when jay walking on that street I just knew a DUI driver, reckless driving, injuries and property damage would result in an arrest. But I was wrong. Thanks again. I probably could have press the matter but I had bigger fish to fry with misconduct within the DA office and I was overwhelmed at that time with a federal appeal.....Sometimes we have to pick and chose our battles and sometimes we have to throw the little fish back in hopes of catching a bigger one. Thanks again for letting me vent this out. Much respect. Rhonda Erwin 2011-04-17T06:23:59Z Ed Fogle comment-49258 2011-04-17T06:03:19Z 2011-04-17T06:03:19Z Wow... that is definitely a very scary situation. Rhonda... was it ever proven that the driver was actually drunk. This question comes from my experience as a former paramedic/firefighter and photo journalist who sees this day in and out: Is it possible that there was actually a medical condition? Ed Fogle 2011-04-17T06:03:19Z