Blog

On August 24 at 3:20 a.m., the 2014 Napa earthquake shook residents from their beds.  The quake measured 6.0 — the largest in the San Francisco Bay Area since the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake. Significant damage and several fires were reported in the southern Napa Valley area, and there was also damage in the nearby city of Vallejo, in Solano County.

I’ve always been a fan of Next 10’s “California Budget Challenge” because it allows you, the user, to emphasize your priorities and then assess if you can balance the state budget. It gives the average resident insight into the complexity of crafting a $100 billion budget – and how that pie can be eaten up pretty quickly.

I know they are still in the early days of the response and clean up to the Napa Valley earthquake. There may still be bricks in the street, and some people are still in the hospital. Many cannot live in their homes or go to their work place. Schools are just now opening, and the people of Napa County have a lot of recovery work still to do.

Balancing the demands of work, family, and finances can be challenging. It can be difficult to focus on the present, let alone the future. But taking steps now to better manage your future can make a real difference in the quality of life for you and your loved ones.

Unfortunately, the future can change in an instant when you or a loved one suffers a devastating injury or serious illness that requires long-term care, which is the assistance provided when you need help with the activities of daily living, such as eating, bathing, or dressing, due to injury, illness, or aging.

In a scenario that almost reads like the finale from an Ian Fleming novel, the legislature is racing the clock to agree to terms on a Bond, Water Bond, that has a lot of people both shaken and stirred. The old proposal on the ballot in November is for $11 billion dollars, but the Governor, in his recurring role as “Dr. No” is pushing for a much smaller measure—about $6 billion.

The dissolution of redevelopment agencies coupled with the lingering recession has left many seeking new approaches to local economic development. Two new resources from the Institute for Local Government (ILG) provide practical tips on proven techniques that county leaders can use to enhance their communities’ economic prosperity and fiscal health.

Making Prosperity Sustainable

When it comes to building an exhibit for the State Fair, Glenn County has it down to an art. For the second year in a row, Glenn County was named “Best of Show” among the ever-popular County Exhibits. Beyond being honored with “Best of Show,” Glenn County walked away with the “Best Craftsmanship” Award.