Tag Archives: Sacramento Business

Comedians with Disabilities Act Announces Spring 2026 Tour Across Montana, California and Oregon

Tour Raises Funds for Upcoming Comedy Docu-Special - 'Comedians with Disabilities Act: Going Beyond the Punchlines'

SACRAMENTO, Calif., March 4, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — The Comedians with Disabilities Act (CWDA), the groundbreaking comedy troupe that has been challenging perceptions and redefining humor since 2010, has announced its 2026 Spring Tour with stops in Montana, California, and Oregon.

Image caption: Photo of the headliners for the Comedian with Disabilities Act Spring program. Comedians include: Michael Beers, Mean Dave, Serena Gamboa, Nina G and Jade Theriault.

Originally assembled in Northern California to showcase a comedic perspective long ignored by mainstream entertainment, CWDA has performed for thousands of audiences of all abilities at colleges, comedy clubs, corporate events, and everywhere in between. Now, they’re hitting the road once again — bringing laughter, insight, and bold storytelling to three states while raising funds for their upcoming comedy docu-special titled “Comedians with Disabilities Act: Going Beyond the Punchlines.”

The film will spotlight 10 comedians with a variety of disabilities, capturing both their on-stage brilliance and the real-life experiences behind the humor. Several of the featured comedians will be performing live during this spring run, offering audiences a preview of the powerful voices and unforgettable personalities that will appear in the documentary.

This Springs tour weaves theaters, colleges and community venues to showcase the talents of 11 comedians, many of whom are in the docu-special, across 7 venues (with even more to come!). Disability representation for this season’s tour includes a diverse group of comedians and perspective from lived experiences as individuals with visible and nonapparent disabilities.

MONTANA TOUR DATES

March 20, 2026
Zootown Arts Community Center (filming of docu-special)
Headliner: Michael Beers
Featuring: Loren Kraut, Adam Keys, Nina G, Mean Dave

March 21, 2026
Covellite Theatre and Uptown Lounge (filming of docu-special)
Headliner: Mean Dave
Featuring: Loren Kraut, Adam Keys, Nina G, Michael Beers

CALIFORNIA TOUR DATES

March 26, 2026
San Diego State University
Featuring: Steve Danner, Nina G, Mean Dave, Michael Beers

May 2, 2026
Cinco De Mayo Show
VFW Post #67
Headliner: Serena Gamboa
Featuring: Mean Dave, Elvin Maglinte, Veronica Arent, Armando Hernandez

May 26, 2026
Moksa Brewing Company
Headliner: Jade Theirault
Featuring: Nina G, Mean Dave

OREGON TOUR DATES

May 20, 2026
Mt. Hood Community College
Headliner: Mean Dave
Featuring: Loren Kraut, Serena Gamboa, Nina G

May 21, 2026
Curious Comedy Theater
Headliner: Nina G
Featuring: Loren Kraut, Serena Gamboa, Mean Dave

The May 21 performance at Curious Comedy Theater will serve as a key fundraising event supporting production of “Comedians with Disabilities Act: Going Beyond the Punchlines.” The documentary explores how comedy can dismantle stereotypes, amplify underrepresented voices, and bring audiences together through laughter.

Known for sharp wit, fearless storytelling, and an ability to connect across differences, CWDA performers don’t just tell jokes — they shift perspectives. Their work highlights that disability is not a limitation to humor, but a rich source of lived experience that deepens it.

Media outlets in Montana, California, and Oregon are invited to cover performances and interview performers.

HEADLINER BIOS:

:: MICHAEL BEERS is a comedian and professional speaker headlining Missoula, MT. He won the Norman G. Brooks Comedy Competition at the Hollywood Improv in 2005. He was also the previous winner of Funny Fest (Calgary Comedy Festival) and has opened for comedians like Gilbert Gottfried. He is a sought-after keynote speaker on topics like humor, disability advocacy, education and community building.

:: MEAN DAVE, a San Francisco Bay Area favorite headlines Butte, MT. He has opened for comedians like Josh Blue, Big Jay Oakerson and Jay Mohr and has performed at colleges across the US. Dave is nine years in recovery from addiction, which he weaves into his humor. “Not a lot of people know that being an addict in recovery is covered under the Americans with Disabilities Act.” Mean Dave’s role in the Comedians with Disabilities Act helps to bring this message to audiences.

:: SERENA GAMBOA, “The Spicy Latina” born and raised in the Central Valley. 3-time winner of the Modesto Area Music Award for “Best Comedy”. She headlines in Sacramento in May. Her show “Comedy For Vets” was featured on MYTV26 in 2018. Serena was diagnosed with epilepsy in 2014. She uses her comedy to raise awareness about epilepsy. She has opened for Joey Medina, JP Sears, Mike E Winfield, Nikki Carr, and the late Kabir Singh. Serena headlines the pre-Cinco De Mayo show in Sacramento.

:: NINA G is a comedian, professional speaker, filmmaker and author of Stutterer Interrupted: The Comedians Who Almost Didn’t Happen, Bay Area Stand-Up Comedy: A Humorous History. Her first special, Nina G: Stutterer Interrupted debuted in 2024. Nina has been featured in/on everything from HuffPost’s Culture Shifters, Variety, NPR’s 51%, BBC’s Ouch, Psychology Today, Tedx, KQED radio and multiple day time talk shows and podcasts. Nina headlines the show in Portland the week following Stuttering Awareness Week!

:: JADE THERIAULT is a Forbes-recognized comedian who combines provocative thought with moving furniture. Jade, a Bay Area native and is a regular at The Punchline, Cobbs Comedy Club, Tommy T’s, and the San Jose Improv where she opened for Jesus Trejo. Festival credits include SF Sketchfest, The Art of Female Comedy Festival (Wichita, KS), Palm Springs International Comedy Festival and the Westside Comedy Festival in Santa Monica, where she was honored for Best Joke of the Night. Jade starred in Malic Almaya’s “RUN!” (2018), featured in Jeff Giordano’s “Romantic Chorus” (2021), and was on an episode of MTV “Decoded” (2018). Jade headlines May’s Sacramento show.

Follow the tour and documentary updates at:
https://comedianswithdisabilitiesact.com/

MULTIMEDIA

IMAGE link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/26-0304-s2p-cwda26-300dpi.webp

Image caption: Photo of the headliners for the Comedian with Disabilities Act Spring program. Comedians include: Michael Beers, Mean Dave, Serena Gamboa, Nina G and Jade Theriault.

MEDIA ONLY CONTACT
Nina G
The Comedians with Disabilities Act (CWDA)
Ninagbooking@gmail.com

NEWS SOURCE: Comedians with Disabilities Act

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (Comedians with Disabilities Act), who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. Image, if any, was provided by the news source and not this website or the wire service. Information is believed accurate, as provided by the news source, but is not guaranteed.

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/comedians-with-disabilities-act-announces-spring-2026-tour-across-montana-california-and-oregon/

Petco Love Invests $15,000 in Sacramento SPCA to Save and Improve the Lives of Pets in Sacramento

SACRAMENTO, Calif., Feb. 26, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — The Sacramento SPCA received a $15,000 grant investment from national nonprofit Petco Love in support of their lifesaving work for pets in Sacramento. For nearly 30 years, the Sacramento SPCA has operated a low-cost spay and neuter clinic dedicated to reducing pet overpopulation. Today, the shelter’s Zoe K. McCrea Animal Health Center ranks in the nation’s top five clinics performing high-volume spay and neuter surgeries at a single location, providing high-quality care at scale in South Sacramento.

Photo caption: A litter of puppies who were recently spayed and neutered at the Sacramento SPCA.

“This investment by Petco Love allows us to continue providing affordable spay and neuter services for our community, reducing pet overpopulation across shelters throughout our region and saving more lives,” said Jennifer Brent, CEO of the Sacramento SPCA.

In 2025, the shelter altered 21,733 animals, including more than 6,800 community cats, catapulting the shelter past a 350,000-surgery milestone. In addition, the clinic received four national Snippy Award nominations for their lifesaving leadership in high-volume spay and neuter, vaccinations, microchips, and being a champion for community cats.

Petco Love is a national nonprofit leading change for pets by harnessing the power of love to make communities and pet families closer, stronger, and healthier. Since its founding in 1999, Petco Love has invested more than $430 million in adoption and other lifesaving efforts. And Petco Love helps find loving homes for pets in partnership with Petco and more than 4,000 organizations — like ours — across North America, with more than 7.1 million pets adopted and counting.

“Our investment in the Sacramento SPCA is part of more than $12M in investments recently announced by Petco Love to power local organizations across the country as part of our commitment to create a future in which no pet is unnecessarily euthanized,” said Chelsea Staley, President of Petco Love. “Our local investments are only part of our strategy to empower animal lovers to drive lifesaving change right alongside us. We launched Petco Love Lost, a free national lost and found database that uses photo-matching technology to simplify the search for lost pets.”

“As the region’s only full-service, 100% nonprofit animal shelter, we are honored to be a national leader in providing low-cost and no-cost spay and neuter services to those who need them most in Sacramento—serving the public, partner shelters, rescue organizations, and community cat advocates,” said Brent. “We are deeply grateful for the support of our community—individuals, local businesses, and foundations—who make this lifesaving care possible for pets and the people who love them.”

ABOUT THE SACRAMENTO SPCA

Founded in 1892, the Sacramento SPCA has been providing homeless animals with individual comfort, shelter, and love for more than 134 years. We provide compassionate medical care to tens of thousands of animals annually and offer a variety of programs and services designed to keep people and pets together for life. Visit https://www.sspca.org/ for more information and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, and LinkedIn.

ABOUT PETCO LOVE

Petco Love is a life-changing nonprofit organization that makes communities and pet families closer, stronger, and healthier. Since our founding in 1999, we’ve empowered animal welfare organizations by investing more than $430 million in adoption and other lifesaving efforts. We’ve helped find loving homes for more than 7.1 million pets in partnership with Petco and organizations nationwide. Our love for pets drives us to lead with innovation, creating tools animal lovers need to reunite lost pets, and lead with passion, inspiring and mobilizing communities and our more than 4,000 animal welfare partners to drive lifesaving change alongside us. Is love calling you? Join us. Visit https://petcolove.org/ or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X, Threads, and LinkedIn to be part of the lifesaving work we lead every day.

MULTIMEDIA:

Photo link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/26-0226-s2p-sspcapups-300dpi.webp

Photo caption: A litter of puppies who were recently spayed and neutered at the Sacramento SPCA.

NEWS SOURCE: Sacramento SPCA

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (Sacramento SPCA), who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. Image, if any, was provided by the news source and not this website or the wire service. Information is believed accurate, as provided by the news source, but is not guaranteed.

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/petco-love-invests-15000-in-sacramento-spca-to-save-and-improve-the-lives-of-pets-in-sacramento/

US Kidney Research Corp Advances Toward Implantable Artificial Kidney

Waterless technology can replace dialysis and transform kidney treatment

ROSEVILLE, Calif., March 13, 2025 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — US Kidney Research Corporation (USKRC) is creating the world’s first waterless blood purification device, a pioneering technology with the capability to replace traditional dialysis machines worldwide. A recent groundbreaking discovery in the design of the device’s ion transport system, a critical component responsible for removing excess ions from the bloodstream, restoring ion balance, and directing these excess elements to the urine, is significantly accelerating progress and bringing the device closer to completion.

Image caption: University of Arkansas Lab – Device CAD Image.

The ion transport system plays a vital role in maintaining essential physiological functions. For individuals with kidney disease, the kidneys often fail to filter out excess ions such as sodium, potassium, and phosphorus, causing dangerous imbalances that can lead to serious health issues.

Reaching this milestone brings US Kidney Research Corporation closer to its ultimate goal of developing an implantable artificial kidney. A waterless device is crucial for the development of an implantable artificial kidney. Dialysis’s reliance on a constant water and dialysate supply makes miniaturization and implantation within the body impossible.

This achievement marks a historic milestone as the first successful development of a waterless ion transport system for a medical blood purification device, something that has never been accomplished before.

CEO Roland Ludlow stated, “Creating an ion transport system is an extremely complex scientific challenge. After years of research and extensive experimentation, our scientists have discovered the method needed to complete the task. Breaking through this barrier is a major leap forward.”

Waterless Advantages: In contrast to traditional dialysis systems that depend on water, disposable components like dialyzers and dialysate solutions, as well as a separate water purification infrastructure, the waterless blood purifying device eliminates the need for these costly items, offering significant savings for healthcare providers. Additionally, the device will incorporate innovative technology, such as real-time patient monitoring and precise control over electrolyte, urea, and fluid removal, ensuring greater accuracy and better outcomes for patients.

Ecological Benefits: The waterless blood purifying device addresses environmental challenges by reducing the carbon footprint. It will greatly reduce the billions of gallons of contaminated water generated by dialysis, minimize dialyzer plastic waste, and lower transport and energy costs associated with production.

MISSION & GOALS

US Kidney Research Corporation is dedicated to:

Completing its flagship waterless blood purifying device to replace outdated dialysis machines.
Developing an implantable artificial kidney using the same waterless technology.
Progressing several related renal care products currently in development.

EXPERT COLLABORATION

US Kidney Research Corporation’s innovations are backed by a distinguished research team from the University of Arkansas (UA) and Dr. Ira Kurtz, the Chief of Nephrology at UCLA, who serves as the Corporation’s science/medical advisor and active board member. Dr. Kurtz, a leading expert in kidney disease, works alongside Dr. Jamie Hestekin and the UA team to drive progress toward a viable, long-term solution for kidney disease patients.

ABOUT US:

US Kidney Research Corporation (USKRC) is at the forefront of artificial kidney research and development. Acknowledged by leading organizations such as the American Society of Nephrology (ASN), KidneyX, and the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), USKRC is transforming the future of kidney care. By pioneering new standards in treatment, USKRC is bringing hope for a future beyond dialysis. Established in 2015, USKRC is registered as a C-Corporation in Delaware.

Learn more: https://www.uskidneyresearchcorp.com/

MEDIA CONTACT:
Roland Ludlow
US Kidney Research Corporation
EMAIL: contact@uskidneyresearchcorp.com
PHONE: 1-800-674-8904

NEWS SOURCE: US Kidney Research Corporation

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (US Kidney Research Corporation), who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. Image, if any, was provided by the news source and not this website or the wire service. Information is believed accurate, as provided by the news source, but is not guaranteed.

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/us-kidney-research-corp-advances-toward-implantable-artificial-kidney/

Sacramento-Based Photographer to Lead Workshop at Imaging USA 2025 in Dallas

Sacramento Photographer Glynns Thomas to Present Workshop at Premier Industry Event About Marketing Company Headshots

SACRAMENTO, Calif., Jan. 3, 2025 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Glynns Thomas, founder of Sacramento’s renowned headshot photography business Glynns Thomas Headshots, has been selected to present at Imaging USA 2025. This prestigious conference, dedicated to photography and imaging professionals, will take place in Dallas, Texas, from February 2-4, 2025.

Photo caption: Sacramento Headshot Photographer, Glynns Thomas.

Ahead of the main event, Thomas will lead a pre-convention class on February 1, titled “How to Book Headshots for Teams of 5-100 People.” Her workshop will focus on the business strategies and marketing approaches that have driven her success, providing attendees with actionable insights to build and grow their headshot services.

Learn more: https://imagingusa.com/schedule/how-to-book-headshots-for-teams-of-5-100-people

“Speaking at Imaging USA is a wonderful opportunity to give back to a community that has been instrumental in my career,” said Thomas. “I’m excited to share the tools and strategies that have helped my business thrive and to help others elevate their work in this competitive industry.”

Glynns Thomas Headshots is recognized as Sacramento’s go-to provider for professional, polished team headshots. Known for her ability to bring out her clients’ professionalism and personality, Thomas has worked with businesses of all sizes, from small teams to large organizations.

Imaging USA, one of the largest photography conferences in the world, will feature over 90 expert instructors and attract thousands of professionals from across the globe. Thomas’ workshop is part of an extensive program covering diverse topics, from portrait photography and business practices to the latest innovations in digital imaging and technology.

The three-day event will also include a trade show, where attendees can explore cutting-edge equipment and products, as well as North America’s largest annual photographic exhibit, open to the public.

About Imaging USA

Established in 1868, Imaging USA is the longest-running photography convention in the United States. Hosted annually by Professional Photographers of America (PPA), the event unites professionals for education, networking, and inspiration. Learn more at https://imagingusa.com/.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Glynns Thomas
Glynns Thomas Headshot Photography
Phone: (916) 294-7926
Email: hello@glynnsthomas.com

Website: https://www.glynnsthomas.com/

MULTIMEDIA:

Photo link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/25-0103-s2p-gthomas-300dpi.jpg

Photo caption: Sacramento Headshot Photographer, Glynns Thomas

NEWS SOURCE: Glynns Thomas Portraits LLC

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (Glynns Thomas Portraits LLC), who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. Image, if any, was provided by the news source and not this website or the wire service. Information is believed accurate, as provided by the news source, but is not guaranteed.

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/sacramento-based-photographer-to-lead-workshop-at-imaging-usa-2025-in-dallas/

The Sacramento SPCA Welcomes Jennifer Brent as the New Chief Executive Officer

SACRAMENTO, Calif., Oct. 17, 2024 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — The Sacramento SPCA announced today the appointment of Jennifer Brent as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective October 14, 2024. Brent joins the Sacramento SPCA with more than 16 years of leadership experience in the nonprofit and animal welfare sectors, serving the past 8 years as Executive Director of The California Wildlife Center (CWC), a Southern California nonprofit dedicated to rescue and rehabilitation of native California animals.

Photo caption: New Sacramento SPCA CEO, Jennifer Brent, pictured with Beau, a dog currently receiving specialized care at the shelter.

Prior to CWC, Brent held executive leadership roles at two private foundations supporting the needs of companion animals through spay/neuter and adoption and served as a Commissioner to the Department of Animal Care and Control for the City of Los Angeles.

“We are thrilled to welcome Jennifer to our lifesaving team,” said Susan Gray, Sacramento SPCA Board President. “She has a proven track record of effective leadership and a deep passion for helping animals and people. We are confident that her vision and expertise will guide us into the next chapter of lifesaving work in our community.”

Brent recently moved from Southern California to take on the leadership role at the Sacramento SPCA, a nationally recognized leader for delivering high-quality, low-cost spay/neuter surgeries, along with adoption, wellness, and outreach programs that positively impact more than 40,000 animals each year.

“I am honored to join the Sacramento SPCA and work alongside such a dedicated team,” said Brent. “I look forward to learning more about the needs of animals and people in Sacramento and building on the strong foundation already in place to save more lives.”

Recognizing the vital role of community engagement in the Sacramento SPCA’s work, Brent is eager to gather insights and build collaborative partnerships that enhance the organization’s lifesaving impact.

As the only full-service 100% nonprofit animal shelter in the Sacramento region, the Sacramento SPCA relies on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to support their lifesaving work. They are local, independent, and not affiliated with any other SPCA or humane society, including the ASPCA. All funds stay right here in the Sacramento region – helping animals – and the people who love them – in our own communities.

About the Sacramento SPCA:

Founded in 1892, the Sacramento SPCA has been providing homeless animals with individual comfort, shelter, and love for more than 132 years. They provide compassionate medical care to tens of thousands of animals annually and offer a variety of programs and services designed to keep people and pets together for life.

Visit https://www.sspca.org/ for more information and follow on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, and LinkedIn.

NEWS SOURCE: Sacramento SPCA

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/the-sacramento-spca-welcomes-jennifer-brent-as-the-new-chief-executive-officer/

California Legislature Approves Landmark IVF Bill to Require Insurance Coverage for Fertility Healthcare, Sending Measure to Governor Newsom

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The California State Legislature approved Senate Bill 729, authored by State Senator Caroline Menjivar (D-San Fernando Valley) and sponsored by California State Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara, with bipartisan support today sending the measure to Governor Newsom's desk with votes of 55-0 in the Assembly and 30-8 in the Senate.

SB 729 requires large group health plans to provide coverage for fertility care, including treatment for infertility and in vitro fertilization (IVF) - expanding access and removing economic barriers for 10 million eligible Californians. Fourteen other states have enacted similar insurance laws.

"For almost 30 years the archaic and discriminatory Knox-Keene Act has blocked the pathway to family building for Californians without the financial means and has deplorably excluded LGBTQ+ folks from fertility treatment coverage. The current mandate to offer fertility care is toothless and does not include IVF, one of the most successful modern advancements available," said Senator Menjivar. "IVF has become a national topic, and as other states look to restrict access the California Legislature has affirmed we are the torch bearers of reproductive freedom by sending SB 729, mandating fertility treatment coverage in large group insurance plans, to the Governor. Never before have we been so close to victory over this barrier to reproductive justice, and I urge Governor Newsom to live up to his claim to be a reproductive rights champion by signing SB 729 into law."

"As Insurance Commissioner, my role is to protect consumers and ensure they receive the best value from their coverage. This measure is one way we are achieving this goal," said Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara. "California has led the nation in safeguarding access to reproductive healthcare, yet we still have significant work to do. The safest and most reliable methods of fertility care have been out of reach for most Californians, with rates of access the lowest for Black and Latina women, as well as the LGBTQ+ community. SB 729 is a powerful reminder of how we define family and how we can help Californians build theirs by being a leader in reproductive healthcare."

SB 729 is in alignment with model legislation created in 2020 by RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association as it provides equitable access to the LGBTQ+ community and unpartnered individuals by expanding the definition of "infertility" to include anyone seeking to build a family - regardless of relationship status or sexual preference. The American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) published a similar more inclusive definition of infertility in October 2023, further establishing that every person deserves equal access to reproductive medicine.

"With the overwhelming support of SB 729, our legislature sent a clear message - we need to bring California out of the dark ages on fertility care," said State Assemblymember Buffy Wicks (D-Oakland). Wicks co-authored SB 729 and has introduced several measures since 2019 to address this issue. "California's current law not only leaves out coverage for IVF, it also defines infertility in such a narrow way as to exclude the LGBTQ+ community and single people needing medical intervention to build their families. We must address this gap in our healthcare system."

SB 729 ensures cancer patients are eligible for IVF insurance to continue their family building after preserving their eggs, sperm or embryos under SB 600. In 2019, Governor Newsom signed SB 600 into law requiring insurers to cover the cost of fertility preservation for patients facing chemotherapy and radiation.

"SB 600 gave cancer patients access to emergency services to prevent imminent sterility and infertility as a side effect of cancer treatments. This is the critical first step in the IVF process" said State Senator Anthony Portantino (D-Burbank), who introduced SB 600. "But SB 729 is an essential next step that would allow these survivors to use their frozen tissues to realize their family-building dreams."

"I can attest to the adverse consequences of California's outdated law and the downstream health issues and costs when patients cannot access or afford fertility care due to lack of health insurance coverage," said Dr. Marcelle Cedars, the Immediate Past President of American Society for Reproductive Medicine and Director of UCSF Center for Reproductive Health. "When fertility services including IVF are covered, physicians can tailor care to provide the most medically and cost-effective treatment, sparing families unnecessary health risks and costs."

"Our state is a leader in reproductive freedom, but we're lagging behind when it comes to ensuring that all people who want to have children are able to do so," said Reproductive Freedom for All Director of State Campaigns Caroline Mello Roberson. "California's existing law is grossly inadequate; coverage for fertility and infertility treatment is the only element of reproductive care excluded from insurance coverage. By excluding IVF alone, it leaves out the most effective treatment for infertility."

"With the financial burden of fertility treatments being simply insurmountable for most, SB 729 is a long overdue bill that will finally make IVF and other treatments more affordable and accessible in California. The bill also addresses the outdated and discriminatory definitions that have shut out too many LGBTQ+ couples from accessing the care they need to start a family," said Equality California Executive Director Tony Hoang. "We commend the Legislature for recognizing the importance of inclusive fertility care and for taking bold action to support all families. It's time that we join the growing list of states that have already guaranteed this essential coverage. We urge Governor Newsom to sign SB 729 into law and solidify California's role as a leader in reproductive freedom and LGBTQ+ rights."

"How much should equality cost California?" said Our Family Coalition Executive Director Mimi Demissew. "Passing SB 729 will finally bring an end to California's bigoted law and bring California closer to standing on the right side of history by supporting the human right of wanting to and having children. I trust that Governor Newsome will not stand in the way of progress and am hopeful that he will sign SB 729 into law. Like our former First Lady, Michelle Obama, for many Californians medically assisted fertility treatment is the only way to have children."

SB 729 is cosponsored by Insurance Commissioner Lara, RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association; Reproductive Freedom for All California; The Alliance for Fertility Preservation; Equality California; American Society for Reproductive Medicine; Our Family Coalition; and the Service Employees International Union (SEIU).

SB 729 has received the endorsement of more than 75 non-profits, associations, and organizations across the state, as well as thousands of advocate letters to lawmakers voicing support for the bill.

Learn more about Senator Caroline Menjivar (D-San Fernando Valley) at: https://sd20.senate.ca.gov/

Image of senator for media: https://sd20.senate.ca.gov/sites/sd20.senate.ca.gov/files/website/sd20_headshot.jpg

RELATED LINKS:

https://asrmcongress.org/asrm-publishes-a-new-more-inclusive-definition-of-infertility/

The California State Legislature approved Senate Bill 729, authored by State Senator Caroline Menjivar (D-San Fernando Valley) and sponsored by California State Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara, with bipartisan support today sending the measure to Governor Newsom's desk with votes of 55-0 in the Assembly and 30-8 in the Senate.

Related link: https://sd20.senate.ca.gov/

Grey Muzzle Grant Gives Senior Dogs at The Sacramento SPCA a Second Chance

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- There's good news for old dogs this summer as The Grey Muzzle Organization announces the recipients of its annual grants, and dogs at the Sacramento SPCA are among the winners.

The Sacramento SPCA is one of 100 animal welfare groups chosen from nearly 400 applicants to receive a grant to help local senior dogs and the people who love them. The winning groups are sharing more than $1 million in grants to help save and improve the lives of at-risk old dogs in their communities.

"This grant will help us give senior dogs like 12-year-old Keanan the veterinary care they need to live happy and healthy lives with loving families," said Dawn Foster, Sacramento SPCA Director of Marketing & Communications. "No one is more grateful or loving than an old dog, and we're looking forward to helping more senior dogs get the second chance they all deserve."

Over the past 16 years, the national nonprofit Grey Muzzle Organization has provided more than $5.7 million in grants to support its vision of "a world where every senior dog thrives, and no old dog dies alone and afraid."

"Thanks to the generosity of our donors, we're delighted to help deserving organizations like the Sacramento SPCA make a positive difference in the lives of dogs and people in their communities," Grey Muzzle's Executive Director Lisa Lunghofer said. "Many senior dogs in the Sacramento region are enjoying their golden years in loving homes thanks to the lifesaving work of the Sacramento SPCA."

As the only full-service 100% nonprofit animal shelter in the Sacramento region, the Sacramento SPCA relies on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to support their lifesaving work. They are local, independent, and not affiliated with any other SPCA or humane society, including the ASPCA. All funds stay right here in the Sacramento region - helping animals - and the people who love them - in our own communities.

About the Sacramento SPCA:

Founded in 1892, the Sacramento SPCA has been providing homeless animals with individual comfort, shelter, and love for more than 132 years. They provide compassionate medical care to tens of thousands of animals annually and offer a variety of programs and services designed to keep people and pets together for life.

Visit https://www.sspca.org/ for more information and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, and LinkedIn.

About The Grey Muzzle Organization:

The national nonprofit The Grey Muzzle Organization improves the lives of at-risk senior dogs by providing funding and resources to animal shelters, rescue organizations, sanctuaries, and other nonprofit groups nationwide. For details, please visit https://www.greymuzzle.org/.

There's good news for old dogs this summer as The Grey Muzzle Organization announces the recipients of its annual grants, and dogs at the Sacramento SPCA are among the winners. The Sacramento SPCA is one of 100 animal welfare groups chosen from nearly 400 applicants to receive a grant to help local senior dogs and the people who love them.

Related link: https://www.sspca.org/

Restrictive Policies Contribute to California’s Low Construction Employment Ranking

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The construction unemployment rate in California stands at 3.9% through June 2024. While this marks a decrease in a year, a deeper review of the numbers shows that only 7 states have seen their unemployment rates improve slower than California, according to a state-by-state analysis of U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data released today by the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC). "While the industry is pleased with a relatively low unemployment rate, we wonder how much lower it could be if we simply adopted policies consistent with the rest of the nation," said John Morris, President and CEO, ABC Northern California Chapter (ABC NorCal).

California's ranking in the bottom 15% of the nation is reflective of the state's regulatory complexities and policies which increase project costs and reduce opportunities for more construction projects and economic growth. The analysis by ABC underscores the critical need to address the policies contributing to California's low position relative to the rest of the country.

Morris added, "California policies like project labor agreements and the frivolous lawsuits imposed by the California Environmental Quality Act reduce the amount of construction projects and increase the unemployment rate of skilled trades workers. ABC NorCal is committed to working with industry leaders and policymakers to create solutions that will enhance career opportunities and overall economic growth while reducing our state's deficit and unemployment rates."

ABC is the voice of the construction industry in Northern California, representing over 83,000 workers.

Click here to view graphs of U.S. and state overall unemployment rates (Tab 1) and construction unemployment rates (Tab 2) showing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, including a graphing tool that creates a chart for multiple states (XLSX FILE): https://www.abc.org/Portals/1/CEU/State%20Construction%20UR%20Tables_ABC_Jun%202024%20Data.xlsx?ver=4RdjC4twmDrHpA8vg4EiJQ%3d%3d.

To better understand the basis for calculating unemployment rates and what they measure, check out the Background on State Construction Unemployment Rates: https://www.abc.org/News-Media/News-Releases/background-on-state-construction-unemployment-rates.

Visit https://www.abc.org/News-Media/News-Releases?Category=construction-economics for the Construction Backlog Indicator and Construction Confidence Index, plus analysis of spending, employment, job openings and the Producer Price Index.

About ABC:

ABC, established in 1950, is a national construction industry trade association with 68 chapters representing more than 23,000 contractor members and millions of workers. Founded on the merit shop philosophy, ABC helps members develop construction jobs, win work, and deliver that work safely, ethically and profitably.

Visit us at https://abcnorcal.org/.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Matthew Estipona, ABC | (415) 235 - 2853 | matthew@abcnorcal.org

ABC press room: https://abcnorcal.org/press-room/.

The construction unemployment rate in California stands at 3.9% through June 2024. While this marks a decrease in a year, a deeper review of the numbers shows that only 7 states have seen their unemployment rates improve slower than California, according to a state-by-state analysis of U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data released today by the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC). "While the industry is pleased with a relatively low unemployment rate, we wonder how much lower it could be if we simply adopted policies consistent with the rest of the nation," said John Morris, President and CEO, ABC Northern California Chapter (ABC NorCal).

Related link: https://abcnorcal.org/

National Nonprofit Petco Love Invests in Sacramento SPCA to Save and Improve the Lives of Pets in the Sacramento Region

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Sacramento SPCA was awarded a $15,000 grant investment from national nonprofit Petco Love in support of their lifesaving work for animals in the Sacramento region.

Over the past several years, there has been an increase in pets entering the Sacramento SPCA's care with preexisting behavior challenges. To meet the needs of every pet and ensure they are adopted as quickly as possible, the Sacramento SPCA's Behavior and Adoptions Teams developed new programs to provide these pets with the extra support they need while in the shelter and resources they can go home with as they adjust to life with their new families.

Thanks to the lifesaving investment from Petco Love, both dogs and cats needing extra behavior support will benefit from these new programs. Funds will purchase materials for their in-shelter enrichment as well as items for an "Adoption Success Kit" that will go home with them when they are adopted.

"We are incredibly grateful for Petco Love's continued investment in our lifesaving work," said Sarah Haney, Interim Chief Executive Officer. "Their partnership will allow us to provide customized care for pets needing extra behavior support. With this initiative, the Sacramento SPCA can continue to be a resource for adopters in our community, reduce the number of pets returned to our care for behavioral reasons, and keep as many families together as possible."

Petco Love is a national nonprofit leading change for pets by harnessing the power of love to make communities and pet families closer, stronger, and healthier. Since its founding in 1999, Petco Love has invested nearly $400 million in adoption and other lifesaving efforts. And Petco Love helps find loving homes for pets in partnership with Petco and more than 4,000 organizations - like ours - across North America, with 6.8 million pets adopted and counting.

"Our investment in the Sacramento SPCA is part of more than $15M in investments recently announced by Petco Love to power local organizations across the country as part of our commitment to create a future in which no pet is unnecessarily euthanized," said Susanne Kogut, president of Petco Love. "Our local investments are only part of our strategy to empower animal lovers to drive lifesaving change right alongside us. We launched Petco Love Lost, a national lost and found database that uses patented image-recognition technology to simplify the search for lost pets."

As the only full-service 100% nonprofit animal shelter in the Sacramento region, the Sacramento SPCA relies on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to support their lifesaving work. They are local, independent, and not affiliated with any other SPCA or humane society, including the ASPCA. All funds stay right here in the Sacramento region - helping pets - and the people who love them - in our own communities.

For more information about the Sacramento SPCA visit https://www.sspca.org/.

Learn more about Petco Love here: https://petcolove.org/.

About the Sacramento SPCA:

Founded in 1892, the Sacramento SPCA has been providing homeless animals with individual comfort, shelter, and love for more than 132 years. They provide compassionate medical care to tens of thousands of animals annually and offer a variety of programs and services designed to keep people and pets together for life. Visit sspca.org/ for more information and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, and LinkedIn.

About Petco Love:

Petco Love is a life-changing nonprofit organization that makes communities and pet families closer, stronger, and healthier. Since our founding in 1999 as the Petco Foundation, we've empowered animal welfare organizations by investing nearly $400 million in adoption and other lifesaving efforts. We've helped find loving homes for more than 6.8 million pets in partnership with Petco and organizations nationwide. Our love for pets drives us to lead with innovation, creating tools animal lovers need to reunite lost pets, and lead with passion, inspiring and mobilizing communities and our more than 4,000 animal welfare partners to drive lifesaving change alongside us. Is love calling you? Join us. Visit PetcoLove.org or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X, Threads, and LinkedIn to be part of the lifesaving work we lead every day.

MULTIMEDIA:

Image link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/24-0718-s2p-sacspca-300dpi.jpg

Photo Caption: Staff from the Sacramento SPCA gather with pets and the Adoption Success Kits they will take home in the shelter's Adoption Center.

The Sacramento SPCA was awarded a $15,000 grant investment from national nonprofit Petco Love in support of their lifesaving work for animals in the Sacramento region.

Related link: https://www.sspca.org/

California IVF Fertility Center Awarded on Newsweek’s America’s Best Fertility Clinics 2024 List

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- California IVF Fertility Center has been awarded on the Newsweek list of America's Best Fertility Clinics 2024. This prestigious award is presented by Newsweek and Statista Inc., the world-leading statistics portal and industry ranking provider. The award list was announced on April 17, 2024, and can be viewed on Newsweek's website. In honor of Fertility Awareness, California IVF will give away a free IVF package.

The second edition of America's Best Fertility Clinics ranking awards the nation's leading fertility clinics. Facilities defined as fertility clinics and ART Providers by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) were considered.

The evaluation is based on four pillars:

* Nationwide Online Survey

* Quality metrics

* Accreditation Data

* Patient satisfaction

Each fertility clinic is analyzed and scored and the final rank is the result of the weighted sub-scores. Based on the results of the study, California IVF Fertility Center is proud to be recognized as number 27 on Newsweek's list of America's Best Fertility Clinics 2024.

Statista publishes hundreds of worldwide industry rankings and company listings with high-profile media partners. This research and analysis service is based on the success of statista.com, the leading data and business intelligence portal that provides statistics, relevant business data, and various market and consumer studies and surveys.

Dr. Ernest Zeringue, founder and fertility specialist at California IVF Fertility Center adds: "I am very proud of our team for receiving this recognition two years in a row. We have always been committed to offering the highest level of infertility treatments. We have an outstanding team of providers and staff that are very deserving of this recognition."

California IVF Fertility Center offers male and female fertility treatments to patients in the Northern California region, as well as being a destination for patients from other states and other countries.

About California IVF:

Founded in 2004, California IVF Fertility Center is a local fertility clinic of choice for many infertility and LGBTQ patients in the Greater Sacramento, Roseville, San Francisco Bay Area and from other states and countries. Advanced infertility services such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), donor sperm and donor eggs, egg freezing or cryopreservation, ICSI, and other treatments for both male and female infertility are offered at its Northern California fertility center. The California Conceptions Donor Embryo program (www.californiaconceptions.com) provides an egg donor and adoption alternative to patients from around the world who have failed IVF.

Tubal ligation reversal surgeries are performed on location in a fully accredited operating room. The staff includes a team of Sacramento fertility doctors and experienced embryologists who are skilled at performing pre-implantation genetic diagnosis testing of embryos (PGT-A, PGS, PGD). California IVF offers affordable package pricing that allows many people the opportunity to do 2 or 3 IVF cycles for the cost of one cycle at many other clinics. For more information about infertility and California IVF, please visit https://www.californiaivf.com/.

In celebration of this prestigious award and in recognition of Fertility Awareness month, California IVF Fertility Center is offering a free multi-cycle IVF package to one selected recipient, or couple that is affected by infertility. Additionally, California IVF Fertility Center will offer a free platelet rich plasma treatment to one selected recipient with diminished ovarian reserve. Contest details at https://www.californiaivf.com/awareness2024/.

"As fertility treatments become more common and more acceptable to the 1 in 8 couples affected, there is still a lack of understanding and overall awareness about what causes infertility and what options are available," said Dr. Ernest Zeringue, founder and medical director, who is determined to change that. "We want to raise awareness about available services and make sure people know they are not alone!"

The doctors and staff are excited to continue the awareness campaign and extend the opportunity for more people to share their journey and experiences with fertility treatment through the California IVF Fertility Awareness 2024 campaign. #CIVFAwareness2024

California IVF Fertility Center has been awarded on the Newsweek list of America's Best Fertility Clinics 2024. This prestigious award is presented by Newsweek and Statista Inc., the world-leading statistics portal and industry ranking provider. The award list was announced on April 17, 2024, and can be viewed on Newsweek's website. In honor of Fertility Awareness, California IVF will give away a free IVF package.

Related link: https://www.californiaivf.com/

The California Association of Veteran Service Agencies (CAVSA) Annual Report Unveils Progress and Continued Challenges for the Golden State’s 1.38 Million Veterans

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Today, the California Association of Veteran Service Agencies (CAVSA), a consortium of six non-profit veteran service providers, released its 2023 California Veterans Community Report, providing data and analysis on the current challenges faced by California veterans, highlighting the strides made in the past year, and presenting their advocacy strategy for 2024 and beyond-with a focus on behavioral health and housing initiatives.

Key findings from the CAVSA 2023 report reveal a 9% reduction in veteran homelessness in California, trending with the 11% decrease nationally. Despite this progress, 71% of homeless veterans in California are unsheltered, compared to 40% nationally. Alarmingly, veteran suicides have seen a 27% increase in California, with PTSD and self-injury behaviors marking critical areas for intervention.

"CAVSA and its member agencies are dedicated to improving the health and well-being of California's veterans and veteran families and continuously advocate at the state and local level through policy, program, and budgetary initiatives," said Stephen Peck, CAVSA Board President and U.S. VETS President and CEO. "We are proud of the progress made by all those in California working to improve the lives of veterans, yet there is much work to be done. A top priority is the passage of Proposition 1, which includes over $1 billion to house veterans facing behavioral and substance abuse challenges."

With the largest veteran population in the nation, California's 1.38 million veterans represent a significant and diverse community. The CAVSA report is a crucial tool for stakeholders across the state, from policymakers to local leaders, to grasp the multifaceted issues facing veterans and to champion their cause.

CAVSA 2023 report highlights include:

* The number of veterans experiencing homelessness in California decreased 9% from 11,401 in 2020 to 10,395 in 2022. Nationally, it decreased 11%.

* Roughly 33% of the nation's veterans experiencing homelessness are in California.

* In California, about 71% of homeless veterans are unsheltered compared to 41% nationally.

* Los Angeles City and County have the highest number of unsheltered homeless veterans by a significant margin at 2,721, with San Jose/Santa Clara City and County following with 520 veterans.

* In California, the number of veterans who died by suicide increased 27%, from 439 in 2020 to 559 in 2021.

* Roughly 4.2% of veterans nationally report an incidence of nonsuicidal self-injury in their lifetime. Applied in California, an estimated 57,960 veterans have performed self-harming behavior.

* An estimated 96,600 California veterans will experience Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in their lifetime.

In 2022, CAVSA's six member agencies pulled in over $81 million to the state from federal agencies such as the Department of Housing and Urban Development, Department of Labor, Department of Veteran Affairs, Department of Health and Human Services, Department of Homeland Security, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency. CAVSA members also secured an additional $77 million from multiple sources - federal, state, local, and private - specifically to build housing and service sites.

"CAVSA member agencies understand veterans and the root causes of homelessness in this community-disability, poverty, unemployment, mental health, and substance use are just a few barriers to stability and are all more common among veterans diagnosed with traumatic brain injury or PTSD," said Chuck Helget, Executive Director of CAVSA. "We know what they go through, which is exactly why we advocate for increased funding for veteran mental health, support services, housing, and other resources."

Looking forward, CAVSA will use the data and research provided in this report to advocate for:

* The passage of Proposition 1, the Behavioral Health Infrastructure Bond, which includes over $1 billion to house veterans who have behavioral health needs or substance use disorders.

* Increased general funding and allocation of Behavioral Health Services Act (BSHA) funding for veterans' mental health, substance abuse treatment, and suicide prevention.

* Expanded state and federal funding supportive services for veterans experiencing or exited from homelessness, especially to improve utilization of HUD-VASH vouchers.

* Increased resources and services for aging veterans, including the Veterans Support to Self-Reliance (VSSR) program.

* Enhanced veteran suicide prevention measures.

* Increased local advocacy and engagement to raise awareness and funding and increase local impact.

A full copy of the annual report, which includes additional data, CAVSA member efforts, and veteran success stories, can be accessed here: https://californiaveterans.org/about/2023-annual-report/.

About California Association of Veteran Service Agencies (CAVSA):

Founded in 1995, the California Association of Veteran Service Agencies (CAVSA) is a consortium of six non-profit veteran service providers working in partnership to address the needs of California's veterans. Partner organizations include U.S. VETS, Swords to Plowshares, Nation's Finest, California Veterans Assistance Foundation, Veterans Village of San Diego, and New Directions for Veterans. Learn more: https://californiaveterans.org/.

Today, the California Association of Veteran Service Agencies (CAVSA), a consortium of six non-profit veteran service providers, released its 2023 California Veterans Community Report, providing data and analysis on the current challenges faced by California veterans, highlighting the strides made in the past year, and presenting their advocacy strategy for 2024 and beyond-with a focus on behavioral health and housing initiatives.

Related link: https://californiaveterans.org/

Tom Watson and his Kansas City-based Watson Links program announce national expansion with First Tee – Greater Sacramento

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Eight time Major Champion, Tom Watson and his Watson Links™ program, which was inspired to pave the road for the next generation of lifetime golfers, is expanding beyond its Kansas City base for the first time. Partnering with First Tee - Greater Sacramento, the program will offer free tee times to junior golfers who are connected with mentors on courses in the Sacramento area.

Watson Links matches groups of three players with a mentor to play nine holes at a local golf course at no cost to them. These social rounds take young players beyond lessons on driving ranges to the fun of the game on an actual course with enthusiastic mentors who share their passion for golf.

First Tee - Greater Sacramento will be launching a pilot Watson Links program throughout the month of October and a full season of play beginning in February 2024.

"It is a celebration to collaborate with the committed team at First Tee Greater Sacramento in the expansion of our program," said Watson. "Together we look forward to seeing kids on golf courses in the area as they begin what I hope will be a lifetime journey with a sport which has meant to the world to me. I expect lots of life lessons, laughter and memories to be made among the new players and their mentors too. Golf is a special game and First Tee Greater Sacramento is creating real opportunity for the next generation of lifelong golfers."

"We are pleased to be the first organization to join the national Watson Links program - a program created and envisioned by all-time PGA great Tom Watson. Watson Links provides a vehicle for youth to play golf at no charge and to spend valuable time with mentors to learn life skills though golf. This program is consistent with the vision, goals and objectives of the First Tee - to provide opportunities for kids to learn and play the game of golf with mentors who help these golfers with learning life skills and values," said Mike Rockenstein, Chair of the Board First Tee - Greater Sacramento.

True to Watson's intent, the program emulates his own childhood experience as young player with access to golf in giving junior golfers, ages 10 to 18, free access to select golf courses, accompanied by an adult mentor who shows them the ropes as they play, sharing insights on every aspect of the game, from chipping and putting to etiquette and strategy. Every mentor undergoes a thorough background check before being paired with a junior, and tee times are provided by First Tee - Greater Sacramento.

About Watson Links:

Watson Links is the inspired initiative of 8-time Major Champion, Tom Watson, a lifelong advocate opportunities in junior golf. Looking back on his own storied journey with the sport, Watson realized one simple fact: it all began with the question of a father to a son. Tom Watson's father, Ray, was a club golfer with access and an invitation he shared in a simple question; "Do you want to play golf?" It continued with the extension of time, valuable conversation and the connection built playing a game that delivers all the complexities of competition, the simplicity of bettering your best, the benefits of finding forever friendships and the magic of flat-out fun. The program now hosts young players through First Tee Greater Kansas and First Tee Greater Sacramento.

Learn more: https://www.watsonlinks.com/

About First Tee - Greater Sacramento:

First Tee - Greater Sacramento has positively impacted the young people in Sacramento for 40 years, since 1983. They are a unique youth development organization engaging children with an opportunity to learn positive life skills that include self-management, interpersonal communication, mentoring, goal setting, and effective conflict resolution. First Tee is focused on delivering programs that provide results for our youth and community including Outreach Programs in partnership with other youth serving providers, First Tee School Program, Junior Programs at area golf courses, and programs for individuals with disabilities.

First Tee - Greater Sacramento has successfully grown their program over the last several years. In 2005, they reached 1,500 young people annually. Today, First Tee - Greater Sacramento is impacting over 58,000 youth and individuals with disabilities in the greater Sacramento area with 56,000 participating free of charge each year.

Learn more: https://firstteesacramento.org/

Eight time Major Champion, Tom Watson and his Watson Links™ program, which was inspired to pave the road for the next generation of lifetime golfers, is expanding beyond its Kansas City base for the first time. Partnering with First Tee - Greater Sacramento, the program will offer free tee times to junior golfers who are connected with mentors on courses in the Sacramento area.

Related link: https://www.watsonlinks.com/

Glynns Thomas Portraits Adds New Studio Location in Downtown Sacramento

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Glynns Thomas Portraits, a leading provider of professional headshot and brand photography services, is excited to announce the opening of its second studio location at 717 K Street in Sacramento, CA. This strategic expansion positions them in the vibrant heart of downtown Sacramento, directly across from the Downtown Commons (DOCO) and the world-renowned Golden 1 Center.

"Adding this second studio location is an exciting milestone for our company," Glynns Thomas, founder and lead photographer, says. "We're thrilled to bring our unique approach to professional headshots to this vibrant urban setting, just steps away from the energy and excitement of the Golden 1 Center. This expansion allows us to better serve the diverse needs of our clients and to provide a convenient, top-notch photography experience."

Glynns Thomas Portraits has earned a stellar reputation for delivering high-quality corporate headshots and executive portraits that help individuals and businesses present their best professional image. Whether clients are seeking individual headshots, team headshots, or editorial/media kit images for executives, the new location offers modern and professional looks alike.

Just like their El Dorado Hills Studio, the new studio at 717 K Street has state-of-the-art photography equipment in a comfortable and welcoming environment. The space is designed to make clients feel comfortable and relaxed during their headshot sessions.

Additionally, Glynns Thomas Portraits will continue to offer on-location photography services throughout California which provides even more client flexibility and convenience.

About Glynns Thomas Portraits LLC:

Glynns Thomas Portraits specializes in creating professional headshots that present its clients as first-rate, welcoming experts. Founded by Glynns Thomas, a former corporate-marketer-turned-photographer, she understands what makes a top-class corporate headshot.

MORE INFORMATION:

Website: https://www.glynnsthomas.com

High-resolution images and interviews with Glynns Thomas are available upon request.

Glynns Thomas Portraits, a leading provider of professional headshot and brand photography services, is excited to announce the opening of its second studio location at 717 K Street in Sacramento, CA. This strategic expansion positions them in the vibrant heart of downtown Sacramento, directly across from the Downtown Commons (DOCO) and the world-renowned Golden 1 Center.

Related link: https://www.glynnsthomas.com/

Petco Love Invests $25,000 in Sacramento SPCA to Save and Improve the Lives of Pets in the Sacramento Region

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Sacramento SPCA announced today that they received a $25,000 grant investment from national nonprofit Petco Love in support of their lifesaving work for animals in the Sacramento region.

The Sacramento SPCA has positioned itself as a lifesaving resource for animals in need, regardless of the animal's age, breed, health, and behavior. When the Sacramento SPCA began noticing an increase in both the number of animals entering the shelter with existing behavior challenges and the average length-of-stay for dogs, particularly large breeds, Behavior staff jumped into action piloting a new program to support these animals and their new families.

Customized take-home kits were created to support adopters and animals showing preexisting behavior conditions. Thanks to the lifesaving investment from Petco Love, adopters will receive an "Adoption Success Kit" containing items such as a Sensi harness, Kong, clicker, snuffle mat, and a training manual. For dogs needing even further support, adopters will also receive training vouchers for either a digital or in-person session with an external training organization.

"We are incredibly grateful for our partnership with the Folsom Petco Pet Care Center and for Petco Love supporting our lifesaving work," said Altine. "With this $25,000 lifesaving investment, we can support new adopters, reduce the number of animals returned to our care for behavior reasons, and keep as many families together as possible."

Petco Love is a national nonprofit leading change for pets by harnessing the power of love to make communities and pet families closer, stronger, and healthier. Since its founding in 1999, Petco Love has invested $350 million in adoption and other lifesaving efforts. And Petco Love helps find loving homes for pets in partnership with Petco and more than 4,000 organizations - like ours - across North America, with 6.7 million pets adopted and counting.

"Our investment in the Sacramento SPCA is part of more than $15M in investments recently announced by Petco Love to power local organizations across the country as part of our commitment to create a future in which no pet is unnecessarily euthanized," said Susanne Kogut, president of Petco Love. "Our local investments are only part of our strategy to empower animal lovers to drive lifesaving change right alongside us. We recently launched Petco Love Lost, a national lost and found database that uses patented image-recognition technology to simplify the search for lost pets."

As the only full-service 100% nonprofit animal shelter in the Sacramento region, the Sacramento SPCA relies on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to support their lifesaving work. They are local, independent, and not affiliated with any other SPCA or humane society, including the ASPCA. All funds stay right here in the Sacramento region - helping animals - and the people who love them - in our own communities.

For more information about the Sacramento SPCA visit https://www.sspca.org/.

Learn more about Petco Love here: https://petcolove.org/.

About the Sacramento SPCA:

Founded in 1892, the Sacramento SPCA has been providing homeless animals with individual comfort, shelter, and love for more than 131 years. They provide compassionate medical care to tens of thousands of animals annually and offer a variety of programs and services designed

to keep people and pets together for life. Visit sspca.org for more information and follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn.

About Petco Love:

Petco Love is a life-changing nonprofit organization that makes communities and pet families closer, stronger, and healthier. Since our founding in 1999 as the Petco Foundation, we've empowered animal welfare organizations by investing $350 million in adoption and other lifesaving efforts. We've helped find loving homes for more than 6.7 million pets in partnership with Petco and organizations nationwide.

Our love for pets drives us to lead with innovation, creating tools animal lovers need to reunite lost pets, and lead with passion, inspiring and mobilizing communities and our more than 4,000 animal welfare partners to drive lifesaving change alongside us. Join us. Visit petcolove.org or follow on Facebook Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn to be part of the lifesaving work we lead every day.

The Sacramento SPCA announced today that they received a $25,000 grant investment from national nonprofit Petco Love in support of their lifesaving work for animals in the Sacramento region.

Related link: https://www.sspca.org/

Senate Bill 729 to Increase Access to Fertility Care for Millions of Californians Postponed to 2024 by Assembly Appropriations Committee

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- State Senator Caroline Menjivar's (D-San Fernando Valley) Senate Bill 729, sponsored by California State Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara, was converted to a two-year bill by the California State Assembly Appropriations Committee on Friday. The bill can be considered again as early as January 2024. SB 729 would require large group health plans to provide coverage for fertility care, including treatment for infertility and in vitro fertilization (IVF) - expanding access, improving care, and removing economic barriers for millions of eligible Californians.

SB 729 passed the state Senate in May by a large margin of 31-3 and advanced out of the Assembly Health Committee in August. Fourteen states have passed IVF insurance laws.

"A two year bill is not the outcome we hoped for, but it does allow us to continue our fight," said Senator Menjivar. "SB 729 progressed farther in the legislative process than any similar bills attempting to decrease inequities in fertility care coverage, which is why I am optimistic and will not give up. Californians who wish to build a family deserve equity and justice, not the current discriminatory law that withholds the safest and most reliable methods of fertility care from many of them. Soon, we will make California the true leader in reproductive justice."

According to a recent report, the World Health Organization estimates 1 in 6 people globally experience infertility. Lack of insurance coverage for fertility services is the most significant barrier to creating a family.

"Infertility affects people of all socioeconomic levels, racial identities, ethnic backgrounds, sexual orientations, gender identities, and religious beliefs," said Insurance Commissioner Lara. "As someone who has fought for affordable and more equitable access to healthcare services during my time in the California State Legislature and as Insurance Commissioner, I am proud to co-sponsor SB 729 to ensure fair and equal access to fertility treatments."

"I remain committed to this important issue that unfairly impacts so many Californians," said State Assemblymember Buffy Wicks (D-Oakland), who has introduced several pieces of legislation since 2019 to address this issue. "Paying out of pocket for infertility treatment imposes an insurmountable financial burden on the LGBTQ+ population and others whose insurance does not cover this medically-necessary care. We must address this gap in our healthcare system."

In addition to protecting against exclusionary insurance coverage for infertility, SB 729 ensures cancer patients are eligible for IVF insurance to complete their family building after preserving their eggs, sperm, or embryos under SB 600. In 2019, SB 600 passed to provide insurance coverage for fertility preservation for patients with medical indications.

"Nobody should be faced with the heartbreaking choice of deciding whether to have a child or to get lifesaving treatment such as chemotherapy and radiation, which can impact fertility," said State Senator Anthony Portantino (D-Burbank), who introduced SB 600. "SB 600 helped give cancer patients a path to preserve their fertility. SB 729 is the crucial next step in our fight for California families."

"Infertility is recognized as a disease by the World Health Organization, the American Medical Association, and The American Society for Reproductive Medicine," said Dr. Marcelle Cedars, the Immediate Past President of American Society for Reproductive Medicine and Director of UCSF Center for Reproductive Health. "Yet California continues to set infertility apart from other diseases in one basic, shameful way - by allowing insurance companies to diagnose but not to comprehensively treat."

"Our state is a leader in reproductive freedom, but we're lagging behind when it comes to ensuring that all people who want to have children are able to do so," said NARAL Pro-Choice California Director Shannon Olivieri Hovis. "California's existing law is grossly inadequate; coverage for fertility and infertility treatment is the only element of reproductive care excluded from insurance coverage. By excluding IVF alone, it leaves out the most effective treatment for infertility."

"No one should have to choose between their livelihood and their aspiration to become a parent, including members of the LGBTQ+ community," said Equality California Executive Director Tony Hoang. "SB 729 is a long overdue step to expand access to fertility coverage for all Californians and remove discriminatory language from our state's insurance laws. We are grateful to Senator Menjivar for being such a fierce champion for LGBTQ+ families and look forward to continuing this fight with her next year."

In addition to Insurance Commissioner Lara, the bill is cosponsored by RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association; NARAL Pro-Choice California; The Alliance for Fertility Preservation; Equality California; American Society for Reproductive Medicine; and Our Family Coalition. SB 729 has received the endorsement of more than 65 non-profits, associations, and organizations across the state, as well as thousands of advocate letters to lawmakers voicing support for the bill.

Learn more about Senator Caroline Menjivar (D-San Fernando Valley) at: https://sd20.senate.ca.gov/

CITATIONS:

https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/978920068315

State Senator Caroline Menjivar's (D-San Fernando Valley) Senate Bill 729, sponsored by California State Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara, was converted to a two-year bill by the California State Assembly Appropriations Committee on Friday. The bill can be considered again as early as January 2024.

Related link: https://sd20.senate.ca.gov/

Sacramento SPCA Performs 300,000th Spay and Neuter Surgery

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Sacramento SPCA announced today that they hit a spay and neuter surgery milestone - altering the 300,000th animal in Sacramento since 2007. That's an average of nearly 19,000 animals a year - making the Sacramento SPCA one of the top clinics in the nation.

"Spaying and neutering is the most effective way of reducing pet overpopulation and the number of pets entering our region's shelters," said Kenn Altine, Sacramento SPCA CEO. "That's why the Sacramento SPCA opened the Zoe K. McCrea Animal Health Center in 2021 - to immediately expand access to the public and our animal welfare partners in a time when all facets of animal welfare in our region and across the nation are struggling to keep up with demand."

The 300,000th animal to receive surgery at the Sacramento SPCA was "Mama Goose" - a feral cat who had given birth and raised kittens in a yard in Sacramento. She was trapped and brought to the Zoe K. McCrea Animal Health Center at the Sacramento SPCA through the weekday Community Cat Clinic. Thanks to the Feline Spay and Neuter Fund, she was spayed at no cost to her trapper, and returned home.

The Sacramento SPCA serves the Sacramento region and beyond as a premier provider of low-cost spay and neuter services, collaborating with local rescue groups, feral and community cat caregivers, those in need, and the public to alter 20,000 animals annually.

The Zoe K. McCrea Animal Health Center dedicates every Sunday to the health and welfare of community cats, providing free surgeries to more than 70 cats in Sacramento County each week. The shelter also offers 10 surgical slots for Sacramento County cats Monday through Saturday at no cost, thanks the Sacramento SPCA's Feline Spay and Neuter Fund. In collaboration with and funded by Zoe K. McCrea, Kathy Lelevier & Richard Rose, Dr. Nancy T. Field, and Mary & Kevin Clark, this initiative was launched in August of 2022 to provide more spay/neuter surgery appointments for community cats outside of the Sunday clinics.

Thanks to the fund, the Sacramento SPCA has altered more than 4,000 community cats so far this year, 500 more cats than this time last year. Since 2007, more than 50,000 cats have been altered, vaccinated, and received flea/ear mite treatments through the shelter's trap, neuter, and return (TNR) program.

As the only full-service 100% nonprofit animal shelter in the Sacramento region providing no-cost spay/neuter services to feral and community cats 7 days a week, the Sacramento SPCA relies on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to support their lifesaving work. The Sacramento SPCA is local, independent, and not affiliated with any other SPCA or humane society, including the ASPCA. All funds stay right here in the Sacramento region - helping animals - and the people who love them - in our own communities.

To join the lifesaving efforts and support of the Feline Spay and Neuter Fund, visit https://www.sspca.org/ or contact Sarah Haney, Chief Development Officer, at 916-504-2805 or shaney@sspca.org.

About the Sacramento SPCA:

Founded in 1892, the Sacramento SPCA has been providing homeless animals with individual comfort, shelter, and love for more than 131 years. The Sacramento SPCA provides compassionate medical care to tens of thousands of animals annually and offer a variety of programs and services designed to keep people and pets together for life. Visit https://www.sspca.org/ for more information and follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn.

The Sacramento SPCA announced today that they hit a spay and neuter surgery milestone - altering the 300,000th animal in Sacramento since 2007. That's an average of nearly 19,000 animals a year - making the Sacramento SPCA one of the top clinics in the nation.

Related link: https://www.sspca.org/

California’s Sacramento River Trail and Rail Trail Inducted into Rails-to-Trails Conservancy’s Hall of Fame

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Rails-to-Trails Conservancy (RTC), the nation's largest trails advocacy organization, today announced that California's Sacramento River Rail Trail and Sacramento River Trail will be inducted to its iconic Hall of Fame.

Nestled beneath the Cascade and Trinity mountains, the trails provide 21 miles of transportation and recreation along California's largest river. The trail pair was selected for outstanding merits, including RTC's expanded eligibility criteria this year, which prioritizes multiuse trails that deliver exceptional accessibility and user experience, and contributions to the connectivity of regional trail and active transportation systems.

"Across the country, connected trail systems are proving their significance as essential community assets-creating safe space for people to be active outside, connecting neighbors and neighborhoods, and creating more transportation and mobility options for entire regions," said Ryan Chao, president of RTC. "This year's Hall of Fame nominees were examples of exceptional trails that are fundamental to our vision of a future where trails connect everyone, everywhere. The Sacramento River Rail Trail and Trail stand out by illustrating the impact of connecting trails in ways that provide opportunities for recreation, transportation and intimate connections to the history and nature steeped in place."

Once serving as a travel and trade route for indigenous peoples, then later by a subsidiary of the Central Pacific Railroad, the Sacramento River Rail Trail and Sacramento River Trail provide opportunities for the community to be active, access the outdoors, and connect to neighborhoods and destinations in and around the City of Redding, including the Shasta Lake Recreation Area and the Whiskeytown National Recreation Area. The trails also serve as a backbone for a developing regional trail system that encompasses more than 250 miles and will eventually stretch from the Shasta Dam to Redding's southern neighbor, Anderson, and beyond.

"We are excited to share with the world that the Sacramento River Rail Trail and Trail are indeed Hall of Fame worthy. We are grateful for our many partners who have collaborated on the development and expansion of the trails and our many users and support organizations who make the trails better every day. We invite you to visit and experience these world-class trails and scenic river," said Kimberly Niemer, director of community services for the City of Redding.

The trails are home to the Sundial Bridge, an awe-inspiring feature that links both sides of the Upper Sacramento River. The 700-foot-long, cable-stayed, glass and steel working sundial spanning the Sacramento River attracts an estimated 100,000 global visitors each year.

The bridge, park and Redding's vast network of trails-built in phases over the past three decades - have helped transform the region. The vast regional system of trails is a product of a partnership managed by the City of Redding, the Bureau of Land Management and the National Park Service with the support of local groups, foundations, other agencies and community members.

"We are proud to partner with the City of Redding and other groups in managing these trails that improve the quality of life for residents of our area, while offering destination-worthy opportunities for outdoor recreation," said Jennifer Mata, manager of the BLM's Redding Field Office.

The trail pair was among three nominees voted on by the public between Jul. 31 and Aug. 7, 2023, securing nearly 48% of the vote. The Sacramento River Rail Trail and Trail duo is the 37th inductee in RTC's Hall of Fame, joining an exemplary list of trails recognized for their outstanding scenic value, use, amenities, historical significance and community benefit. More than 30,000 votes were cast in the 2023 Hall of Fame contest. The other nominees were the Hennepin Canal State Trail in Illinois and the Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail network in South Carolina.

For more information about the Hall of Fame, visit railstotrails.org.

Rails-to-Trails Conservancy is the nation's largest trails organization - with a grassroots community more than 1 million strong - dedicated to building a nation connected by trails, reimagining public spaces to create safe ways for everyone to walk, bike and be active outdoors.

Connect with RTC at https://www.railstotrails.org and @railstotrails on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

MEDIA CONTACT: Patricia Brooks, Patricia@matchmapmedia.com, 202.351.1757

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/y6U-Re1nKRM

RELATED LINKS:

https://www.traillink.com/trail/sacramento-river-rail-trail/

https://www.cityofredding.org/departments/parks-and-recreation/parks

https://www.railstotrails.org/trailblog/2013/september/12/the-road-to-a-thousand-wonders/

https://www.railstotrails.org/our-work/trail-promotion/rail-trail-hall-of-fame/

Rails-to-Trails Conservancy (RTC), the nation's largest trails advocacy organization, today announced that California's Sacramento River Rail Trail and Sacramento River Trail will be inducted to its iconic Hall of Fame.

Related link: https://www.railstotrails.org/

Senior Dogs at Sacramento SPCA Fetch Grant

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Old dogs have something to wag about this summer, as The Grey Muzzle Organization announces the recipients of its annual grants, and dogs at the Sacramento SPCA are among the winners. The Sacramento SPCA is one of 90 animal welfare groups chosen from 370 applicants to receive a grant to help local senior dogs. The winning groups received $848,000 in grants to help save or improve the lives of at-risk old dogs in their communities.

"This grant will help us give senior dogs like 13-year-old Roxie the veterinary care they need to live happy and healthy lives with loving families," said Dawn Foster, Sacramento SPCA Director of Marketing & Communications. "No one is more grateful or loving than an old dog, and we're looking forward to helping more senior dogs get the second chance they all deserve."

Over the past 15 years, the national nonprofit Grey Muzzle Organization has provided more than $4.6 million in grants to support its vision of "a world where no old dog dies alone and afraid."

"Thanks to the generosity of our donors, we're delighted to help deserving organizations like the Sacramento SPCA make a difference in the lives of dogs and people in their communities," Grey Muzzle's Executive Director Lisa Lunghofer said. "Many senior dogs in the Sacramento region are enjoying their golden years in loving homes thanks to the wonderful work of the Sacramento SPCA."

As the only full-service 100% nonprofit animal shelter in the Sacramento region, the Sacramento SPCA relies on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to support their lifesaving work. They are local, independent, and not affiliated with any other SPCA or humane society, including the ASPCA. All funds stay right here in the Sacramento region - helping animals - and the people who love them - in our own communities.

For more information about the Sacramento SPCA visit https://www.sspca.org/.

Learn more about The Grey Muzzle Organization here: https://www.greymuzzle.org/.

About the Sacramento SPCA:

Founded in 1892, the Sacramento SPCA has been providing homeless animals with individual comfort, shelter, and love for more than 131 years. They provide compassionate medical care to tens of thousands of animals annually and offer a variety of programs and services designed to keep people and pets together for life. Visit sspca.org for more information and follow on Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter) and LinkedIn.

About The Grey Muzzle Organization:

The national nonprofit The Grey Muzzle Organization improves the lives of at-risk senior dogs by providing funding and resources to animal shelters, rescue organizations, sanctuaries, and other nonprofit groups nationwide. For details, please visit https://www.greymuzzle.org/.

Old dogs have something to wag about this summer, as The Grey Muzzle Organization announces the recipients of its annual grants, and dogs at the Sacramento SPCA are among the winners. The Sacramento SPCA is one of 90 animal welfare groups chosen from 370 applicants to receive a grant to help local senior dogs.

Related link: https://www.sspca.org/

US Kidney Research Corp Unveils Breakthrough Ultrafilter Membrane for Dialysis

ROSEVILLE, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- US Kidney Research Corporation (USKRC) is delighted to announce new groundbreaking research as part of a contract with the University of Arkansas (U of A) resulting in the development of an ultrafiltration membrane with diverse filtering applications for medical and non-medical devices. This remarkable membrane represents a significant advancement, particularly in the field of dialyzers, the filtration device used in hemodialysis machines to remove toxins, promising improved dialysis performance and enhanced ultrafiltration flux.

The recently published research in Scientific Reports (https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-023-37765-y) unveils a novel membrane created through a tempo cellulosic oxidation process and cast using ionic liquids. Notably, the membrane showcases exceptional biocompatibility, the ability to clear potential uremic toxins, and excellent stability. Its unique structure, characterized by the alignment of fibers after casting, leads to an extraordinarily high flux and substantial BSA rejection in ultrafiltration mode, surpassing the performance of traditional dialysis membranes.

"We were highly impressed by the membrane's behavior and performance; the fiber alignment in the final structure allows for superior functionality compared to conventional dialysis membranes," expressed Jamie Hestekin, one of the lead researchers at U of A.

As part of this concerted effort, USKRC has secured worldwide rights for the patented U of A membrane in all biomedical applications. USKRC's founder and CEO Roland Ludlow, revealed that the corporation intends to explore sublicensing partnerships both domestically and internationally, with the aim of expediting the introduction of this cutting-edge membrane technology to the market, enabling its use in dialysis and other relevant applications.

Dr. Ira Kurtz, Chief of Nephrology at UCLA, who is an author on the Scientific Reports paper and serves as the lead medical/scientific advisor to USKRC commented, "This new membrane chemistry could be a game changer in the care of renal patients."

USKRC is actively engaged in several other research projects, including the development of a waterless portable blood purifying device that could potentially replace current dialysis machines, an implantable artificial kidney, and a coating to prevent blood coagulation within medical device tubing and catheters. The company has solidified its position as a leader in renal therapy research, earning prestigious recognition as a two-time winner of the KidneyX contest, sponsored by the American Society of Nephrology and the US Department of Health and Human Services. Monetary awards for KidneyX were generously provided by the US Congress and the American Society of Nephrology.

About US Kidney Research Corporation:

US Kidney Research Corporation (formerly Curion Research Corporation), is an award-winning company incorporated in Delaware (C-Corp), founded in June, 2015. The company is creating the world's first waterless blood purification technology for use in a portable device and ultimately an implantable artificial kidney, as well as other novel technologies to improve the lives of patients with end stage renal disease (ESRD) or acute kidney injury (AKI). US Kidney Research Corporation has patents for its waterless blood purifying technology in USA, Japan, India, S. Korea, China, along with 17 European Unitary patent member countries.

More information: https://www.uskidneyresearchcorp.com/

US Kidney Research Corporation (USKRC) is delighted to announce new groundbreaking research as part of a contract with the University of Arkansas (U of A) resulting in the development of an ultrafiltration membrane with diverse filtering applications for medical and non-medical devices.

Related link: https://www.uskidneyresearchcorp.com/

RMS announces California Lottery® could offer its first game option for SuperLotto Plus®, Powerball®, and Mega Millions®, increasing funding for schools

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Relationship Marketing Systems, LLC ("RMS") is pleased to announce that its patented option for jackpot draw games has been submitted for approval to the California Lottery. If adopted, it would be California's first draw game add-on option. Currently, California has no game options due to the state's pari-mutuel statutes. Additionally, California would be the first state in the nation to offer this add-on, which has received high favorability among players.

The option is a lottery pool akin to traditional pooling. Integrated with the current lottery system, pooling will be easier and more accessible to players.

Much like "office pools" where people pool their money together to get multiple chances to win and share any winnings, this add-on would be available to players at the point of sale just like any other ticket. This is achieved through existing lottery infrastructure. Players would buy their own pooling ticket and collect their own share of winnings from their retailer, just as they do today. With this option, players do not need to organize people, trust in money collection or disbursement of winnings.

The pooling option would give players 10 lines of play for the same price as a single play. In return, they would receive 10% of all winnings. For example, if the last $2 billion jackpot won in California was from a pooled line of play, California would have had 10 $200 million dollar winners. Consider when the jackpot is lower, say $50 million -- even at this level, a pooled winning ticket would produce 10 $5 million dollar winners. This is still a windfall, life-changing amount of money.

Player options = more revenues.

Players like having options. Research studies show an average increase in draw game sales from pooling to be 25%. For California, if this option was available in FY2022, this would have produced an additional $341 Million dollars in sales revenues, resulting in over $115 Million dollars to California public schools, the lottery's primary beneficiary.

California's looming budget deficit will negatively impact statewide programs. This option can boost lottery benefits to public schools and help mitigate funding reductions therein.

This sample state lotto ticket shows 1 personal play for $1 and the add-on of 1 pool consisting of 10 more plays for an extra $1. In this example, the player would receive 100% of any winnings from their personal play and 10% of all winnings from the pool of 10 plays.

There is no financial risk to the California Lottery.

The uniqueness of the pooling option is that it doesn't introduce any new prize liability like that of other games. Every pooled ticket contributes to the current prize fund and every winning prize share is paid for from the same prize fund. Since it's not a new game, rather an add-on, player education and marketing incur virtually no cost with simple measures like ticket messaging and social media.

"The PoolingPLUS option brings new excitement to the games, producing more winning experiences while generating more funding for education," said Andy Amada, President of RMS, LLC.

SUPPORT "Pools for Schools," as some call it:

Send an email to your state representative or the California Lottery at: customerservice@calottery.com

ABOUT RMS:

PoolingPLUS™ by Relationship Marketing Systems, LLC ("RMS").

RMS designs products and solutions for state lotteries, players and stakeholders. To learn more, visit: https://www.poolingplus.com/ or email: info@poolingplus.com.

Relationship Marketing Systems, LLC ("RMS") is pleased to announce that its patented option for jackpot draw games has been submitted for approval to the California Lottery. If adopted, it would be California's first draw game add-on option. Currently, California has no game options due to the state's pari-mutuel statutes. Additionally, California would be the first state in the nation to offer this add-on, which has received high favorability among players.

Related link: https://www.poolingplus.com/

Scorecard Ranks States for Water Efficiency and Sustainability Policies – California Ranks #1

SACRAMENTO Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Today the Alliance for Water Efficiency (AWE) released the 2022 U.S. State Policy Scorecard for Water Efficiency and Sustainability (Scorecard), which ranked each U.S. state based on its adoption of laws and policies that advance water efficiency, conservation, sustainability, and affordability. California was the top-ranked state in the nation and in the Colorado River Basin region, scoring 72.5 out of 89 possible points.

"California continues to lead the nation in water efficiency and conservation. As our state faces a dwindling snowpack and intense, sustained drought, the Scorecard confirms that California's water managers are working hard to ensure conservation is a California way of life," said Tia Fleming, Co-Executive Director of the California Water Efficiency Partnership, which is a state chapter of AWE.

In the western U.S., a prolonged drought fueled by climate change has contributed to significant water supply shortages. The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation has called for states in the Colorado River Basin (CRB) to significantly reduce water demand, but negotiations have not resulted in an agreement. AWE found numerous opportunities for policy improvement among the seven CRB states - which averaged 37 points out of 89 possible points - such as adopting plumbing efficiency standards, limiting water loss from utility distribution systems, and funding water reuse and recycling.

While some states improved since AWE's previous Scorecard was released in 2017, the analysis found little progress overall, even as droughts and other climate change impacts increasingly undermine affordable, reliable water services. The average state score was only 23 out of 89 possible points.

"Providing sustainable water services is increasingly costly and complicated because of climate change and other factors," said Ron Burke, President and CEO of AWE. "It's important that states, as well as the federal government, support local efforts to reduce water use with financial assistance, policies that drive best practices, and planning that facilitates cooperation across water sheds."

A common misconception is that water efficiency and conservation in the U.S. are only important in the Southwest where a prolonged drought has created a severe water crisis in the region. However, drought is increasingly common across the nation, with nearly every state experiencing drought in 2022. In addition, the benefits of reducing water use go beyond preventing water shortages. That is reflected in the geographic diversity of the top ten ranked states, with representation from the West but also the South, Midwest and East.

"Water efficiency and conservation are typically the fastest and least expensive ways to save water while also lowering water bills, reducing energy use and greenhouse gas emissions, protecting rivers and lakes, and enhancing resilience to extreme weather events," said Burke.

Effective state-level water conservation policies are even more important now that the U.S. Congress has authorized billions of dollars in loans and grants for water services as part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the Inflation Reduction Act. Many of these funds will be administered by states and can only be maximized with good state policies in place.

Texas ranked second behind California with 54.5 points. The remaining top ten highest-ranked states, in order, are: Arizona, Georgia, Washington, New York, Nevada, New Hampshire, Colorado, Minnesota.

Key findings include:

* Connecticut was the only state that reported using its own funds to support customer water bill assistance

* California is the only state that requires water utilities to plan for climate change

* 18 states use their own revenues to fund water efficiency and conservation

* 16 states provide funding for water reuse.

* 13 states require rate structures that encourage water efficiency

* 19 states require coordination between local land use and water planning agencies.

Despite the low scores, there were some bright spots, including ten states adopting point-of-sale plumbing efficiency requirements since 2017 that go beyond federal standards, for a current total of 15 states (including California) plus the District of Columbia.

To download the full report and access individual state scorecards, click here: https://www.allianceforwaterefficiency.org/2022scorecard

About the Alliance for Water Efficiency:

The Alliance for Water Efficiency (AWE) is a nonprofit organization with more than 500 organizational members dedicated to the efficient and sustainable use of water across North America. AWE provides training, research, and other resources for water efficiency professionals, and we encourage the public to conserve water through tools like our Home Water Works Calculator. In addition, AWE advocates for products, programs and policies that advance water efficiency.

Today the Alliance for Water Efficiency (AWE) released the 2022 U.S. State Policy Scorecard for Water Efficiency and Sustainability (Scorecard), which ranked each U.S. state based on its adoption of laws and policies that advance water efficiency, conservation, sustainability, and affordability. California was the top-ranked state in the nation and in the Colorado River Basin region, scoring 72.5 out of 89 possible points.

Don’t Just Wash Your Clothes, Disinfect and Sanitize Them – Now at Both Paradise Laundry Locations

CITRUS HEIGHTS, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Paradise Laundry has recently added a state-of-the-art new feature to their Citrus Heights laundromat. The pandemic has demonstrated the importance of cleanliness resulting in multiple methods being used to kill bacteria i.e., antibacterial soap, hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes. With the addition of the Ozone Laundry System to the Citrus Heights store, customers can now disinfect and sanitize their clothing and linens at both Paradise Laundry locations.

Deborah Dower, owner of Paradise Laundry explains: "Ozone, commonly referred to as 'nature's sanitizer,' is a natural atmosphere-purifying gas made by combining oxygen and electricity. You may have smelled it in the air after a lightning storm. Ozone is the strongest reproducible sanitizer known to man and is an extremely effective disinfectant against germs that can cause sickness. Scientists have confirmed ozone kills viruses such as HIV, MRSA, SARS and COVID-19."

Deborah went on to say, "Historically, ozonated water systems have been used for commercial laundry, typically in hospitals and hotels. However, recently, Ozone Laundry Systems have become available for laundromats and even residential use. Unfortunately, the up-front costs are significant which prohibits most homes and businesses from investing in the system. We are excited to provide this benefit to our customers at no additional charge."

When asked how the system works Deborah replies: "The new system generates ozone, which is then injected into the cold water where it rapidly oxidizes organic materials, purifying the water and reducing odors. As with our Roseville location, we have a display in the customer area where the generator can be seen in action. When a washer calls for cold water, the display lights up blue and the 'fish' start to swim signaling that the ozone generator has kicked on. During the rinse cycles, which use cold water, the laundry is disinfected and sanitized. In fact, we encourage customers to select a less expensive Cold-Water wash in order to get the benefits of sanitizing and disinfecting from beginning to end. In addition to providing our customers with the cleanest laundry possible, the clothes smell fresher and feel softer. An added bonus is that our washers are also sanitized each time they are used."

ABOUT PARADISE LAUNDRY:

Paradise Laundry is an industry leader in the use of laundromat technology, always striving to provide customers with cutting edge features to enhance their laundromat experience and make the chore of doing laundry easier. They were the first self-serve coin laundry in the area to implement the added convenience of accepting credit cards, Apple Pay and Google Wallet directly on the washer and dryers.

As Sacramento's 1st Eco-friendly Laundromat, their mission in 2010 was to protect the environment and started with the investment in large energy efficient, water saving machines which also reduce dry time. Adding an Ozone Laundry System furthers that commitment as well as provides an added benefit to customers.

Paradise Laundry in Citrus Heights is located at 7601 Sunrise Boulevard near the intersection of Sunrise and Old Auburn behind Safe Credit Union.

For more information call 916-933-9753 or visit the website at: https://paradiselaundry.com/disinfect-sanitize/

Paradise Laundry has recently added a state-of-the-art new feature to their Citrus Heights laundromat. The pandemic has demonstrated the importance of cleanliness resulting in multiple methods being used to kill bacteria i.e., antibacterial soap, hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes. With the addition of the Ozone Laundry System to the Citrus Heights store, customers can now disinfect and sanitize their clothing and linens at both Paradise Laundry locations.

Related link: https://www.paradiselaundry.com/

Employers Must Invest in Wellness to Stay Competitive

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The California Employers Association (CEA) has been receiving an uptick in requests on training programs, specifically those which prepare new managers on how to address the topic of employee wellbeing. Employers are beginning to understand that employee wellbeing is a critical component to their company's success and a necessary ingredient to retaining and attracting top talent.

Daniela Devitt, Vice President, Training and Development, stated that "The events of the past few years have seen more employers promoting internally for new leaders and leveraging their employee wellbeing programs to address the unique challenges created by the pandemic." This has led CEA to develop a new training series to prepare the leaders of tomorrow, today.

Kim Gusman, President of CEA, recently spoke at a business roundtable on how the past few years has taken a toll on everyone. She stated "The pandemic has been a unique event that has negatively impacted everyone on the planet, at the same time. As human beings, we've shared the collective trauma of surviving COVID, living with a pandemic, and dealing with the exhaustion from a high degree of uncertainty and unanswered questions for the past 3 years. One of the positive things that has come from all this stress is a general feeling of empathy for one another in the workplace."

CEA's Advanced LEAD virtual training series includes new ideas and resources on how employers can bring wellness into the workplace. The new series starts December 1.

For more information: https://www.employers.org/events/virtual-events/advanced-lead-series-class-1-leading-for-wellbeing-and-tackling-turnover/12/01/2022/

About the CEA:

California Employers Association (CEA) is a not-for-profit employers association founded in 1940, serving more than 15,000 businesses in a wide variety of industries throughout California. Our mission is to provide employers peace of mind with human resources compliance solutions, virtual and on-site trainings and recruiting services. CEA and its advisors do not provide legal representation or legal advice to members. The information provided in this release and from our team is educational and informational in nature.

Learn more about CEA at https://www.employers.org/ or by calling 800.399.5331.

The California Employers Association (CEA) has been receiving an uptick in requests on training programs, specifically those which prepare new managers on how to address the topic of employee wellbeing. Employers are beginning to understand that employee wellbeing is a critical component to their company's success and a necessary ingredient to retaining and attracting top talent.

Related link: https://www.employers.org/

Turning Unwanted Vehicles into Lifesaving Opportunities: How Vehicle Donations Help the Sacramento SPCA Save Animals’ Lives

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- With gas prices still hovering above $5.30 per gallon and many people leaving their "gas guzzlers" in the driveway, the Sacramento SPCA is reminding the community that it's the perfect time to donate their unwanted vehicle to benefit the animals.

Since 2017, the Sacramento SPCA has partnered with CARS, Inc. to accept vehicle donations at no cost to donors, regardless of whether the vehicle is running or not. Proceeds from sales of the used cars, trucks, boats, RVs, and motorcycles donated help the Sacramento SPCA provide care to more than 40,000 animals that enter their doors each year.

"Unfortunately, we've seen vehicle donations decline by 33% in 2022," said Kenn Altine, Sacramento SPCA CEO. "This has occurred as new vehicle sales also decreased in 2022, due to rising vehicle prices and less inventory."

The average vehicle donation to the Sacramento SPCA is approximately $1,500 - which can provide lifesaving surgeries for three animals or cover the cost of microchips and vaccines for fifteen animals.

Donating a vehicle to the Sacramento SPCA is as easy as filling out the online vehicle donation form or picking up a phone and speaking to a live donor support representative - and every donation helps save animals' lives. The partners at CARS, Inc. will tow the vehicle at no cost to the owner (regardless of whether it's running or not), and donors will receive a donation receipt.

As the only full-service 100% non-profit animal welfare organization in the Sacramento region, the Sacramento SPCA relies on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to support their lifesaving work. They are local, independent, and do not receive funding from state or local government agencies.

For more information about how to donate your vehicle to the Sacramento SPCA, visit https://www.sspca.org/vehicle or call 844-700-GIVE today.

About the Sacramento SPCA:

Founded in 1892, the Sacramento SPCA has been providing homeless animals with individual comfort, shelter, and love for more than 130 years. They provide compassionate medical care to tens of thousands of animals annually and offer a variety of programs and services designed to keep people and pets together for life. Visit http://sspca.org/ or follow at Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn.

With gas prices still hovering above $5.30 per gallon and many people leaving their "gas guzzlers" in the driveway, the Sacramento SPCA is reminding the community that it's the perfect time to donate their unwanted vehicle to benefit the animals.

Related link: https://www.sspca.org/

Petco Love Invests $12,500 in the Sacramento SPCA to Expand Lifesaving Support for Pets Affected by Disaster

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Sacramento SPCA announced today that they received a $12,500 grant investment from national nonprofit Petco Love, to expand their lifesaving support for animals affected by disaster in Northern California. A special check celebration was held at the Petco retail store located at 855 E. Bidwell Street in Folsom, Calif., on Thursday, June 23, 2022, at 2 p.m.

The Sacramento SPCA has positioned itself as a lifesaving resource for animals in need as devastating wildfires have continued to affect regions all over Northern California.

"We realized several fire seasons ago that one of the best services we can provide here in Sacramento is to help clear out the available animals in shelters closest to impacted regions," said Kenn Altine, Sacramento SPCA CEO. In 2021, more than 460 animals were transferred from other shelters to the Sacramento SPCA, including areas affected by the Dixie, Caldor, and Monument Fires.

"We are incredibly grateful for our partnership with the Petco Folsom store and Petco Love to support our lifesaving work," said Altine. "With this $12,500 grant investment, we can provide crates and other emergency supplies to shelters housing displaced animals while people try to put their worlds back together."

Petco Love is a national nonprofit leading change for pets by harnessing the power of love to make communities and pet families closer, stronger, and healthier. Since its founding in 1999, Petco Love has invested $330 million in adoption and other lifesaving efforts. And Petco Love helps find loving homes for pets in partnership with Petco and more than 4,000 organizations - like ours - across North America, with 6.5 million pets adopted and counting.

"Our investment in the Sacramento SPCA is part of more than $15M in investments recently announced by Petco Love to power local organizations across the country as part of our commitment to create a future in which no pet is unnecessarily euthanized," said Susanne Kogut, president of Petco Love. "Our local investments are only part of our strategy to empower animal lovers to drive lifesaving change right alongside us. We recently celebrated the one-year launch anniversary of Petco Love Lost, a national lost and found database that uses pet facial recognition technology to simplify the search for lost pets."

As the only full-service 100% non-profit animal shelter in the Sacramento region, the Sacramento SPCA relies on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to support their lifesaving work. They are local, independent, and do not receive funding from state or local government agencies.

For more information about the Sacramento SPCA visit https://www.sspca.org Learn more about Petco Love here: https://petcolove.org.

About the Sacramento SPCA:

Founded in 1892, the Sacramento SPCA has been providing homeless animals with individual comfort, shelter, and love for more than 130 years. They provide compassionate medical care to tens of thousands of animals annually and offer a variety of programs and services designed to keep people and pets together for life.

Visit https://www.sspca.org/ or follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn.

About Petco Love:

Petco Love is a life-changing nonprofit organization that makes communities and pet families closer, stronger, and healthier. Since our founding in 1999 as the Petco Foundation, we've empowered animal welfare organizations by investing $330 million in adoption and other lifesaving efforts. We've helped find loving homes for more than 6.5 million pets in partnership with Petco and organizations nationwide.

Our love for pets drives us to lead with innovation, creating tools animal lovers need to reunite lost pets, and lead with passion, inspiring and mobilizing communities and our more than 4,000 animal welfare partners to drive lifesaving change alongside us. Join us. Visit https://petcolove.org or follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn to be part of the lifesaving work we lead every day.

LEARN MORE AT:

https://www.sspca.org

https://petcolove.org

The Sacramento SPCA announced today that they received a $12,500 grant investment from national nonprofit Petco Love, to expand their lifesaving support for animals affected by disaster in Northern California. Petco Love is a national nonprofit leading change for pets by harnessing the power of love to make communities and pet families closer, stronger, and healthier.

Related link: https://www.sspca.org/

Ellis Equipment, Inc. Has Premium K-Rail for Sale in the Sacramento Region

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Ellis Equipment, Inc. is pleased to offer quality K-rail construction barriers for job sites in and around the City of Sacramento. For close to 30 years now, this family-owned and -operated company has worked tirelessly to provide construction industry professionals with the dependable equipment they require for their various projects. Operating with the guiding philosophy that they are in the problem solving business rather than just the sales or rental business, the friendly and knowledgeable staff at Ellis strives to offer each client superior customer service from beginning to end.

Ellis Equipment is regarded as one of the leading suppliers of K-rail concrete barriers in California. The multipurpose K-rail they have for sale is in line with Caltrans specifications to help ensure that it functions as required. Clients purchase Ellis' K-rail for a number of important permanent and semi-permanent applications, such as blocking pedestrian and vehicle access to restricted areas, delineating walkways and perimeters, and aiding in general road and freeway construction work.

Ellis has a number of effective K-rail barrier options available for Sacramento area clients, with each size serving distinct functions. As of now, the company offers 5 ft. sticks (2,000 lbs), 10 ft. sticks (4,000 lbs), and 20 ft. sticks (8,000 lbs). These barricades can be situated as individual units, or interlinked for increased traffic control if desired. The company would like to note that with their weight, the K-rail sticks require reach lifts or forklifts to move them.

The incredible team at Ellis Equipment is committed to making the K-rail purchase process as straightforward and hassle-free as possible. With their extensive construction industry experience, they fully understand the importance of being able to secure reliable tools and equipment in a timely manner. Ellis stands behind all of the K-rail they sell in Sacramento and around the county, and greatly appreciates the opportunity to assist all who contact them. They encourage all those that need quality K-rail construction barriers to reach out without delay.

Ellis Equipment, Inc. is located at 1015 E. Burnett St. in Signal Hill, and can be reached at (562) 424-9991. For more information, please contact the business or visit https://www.ellisrents.com/.

Ellis Equipment, Inc. is pleased to offer quality K-rail construction barriers for job sites in and around the City of Sacramento. For close to 30 years now, this family-owned and -operated company has worked tirelessly to provide construction industry professionals with the dependable equipment they require for their various projects.

Related link: https://www.ellisrents.com/

CEA Launches Personal Development Coaching During Mental Health Awareness Month

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The California Employers Association (CEA) is launching a new service, Coaching U, specifically for individuals looking to improve their careers, relationships and life goals. CEA's Personal Development Coaching program is designed to have positive impact on self-confidence, well-being, leadership and work performance.

CEA has been providing member-based Human Resource support for employers for over 80 years. Kim Gusman, CEO stated, "The pandemic has impacted our workforce and their wellness. CEA provides support to individuals as they look to improving their work and life experience. Coaching U is designed to give participants the tools to achieve their goals."

For more information or to schedule a complimentary inquiry call, visit our website https://www.employers.org/pages/personal-coaching or email our trainers at coachingu@employers.org.

About California Employers Association:

California Employers Association (CEA) is a not-for-profit employers association founded in 1940, serving more than 15,000 businesses in a wide variety of industries throughout California. Our mission is to provide employers peace of mind with human resources compliance solutions, virtual and on-site trainings and recruiting services.

CEA and its advisors do not provide legal representation or legal advice to members. The information provided in this release and from our team is educational and informational in nature.

Learn more about CEA at https://www.employers.org/ or by calling 800.399.5331.

The California Employers Association (CEA) is launching a new service, Coaching U, specifically for individuals looking to improve their careers, relationships and life goals. CEA's Personal Development Coaching program is designed to have positive impact on self-confidence, well-being, leadership and work performance.

Related link: https://www.employers.org/

Incrementors Featured In 10 Most Innovative Companies of 2022

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Incrementors has been featured as the Most Innovative Companies in 2022 by popular magazine Industry Era Review. Incrementors has been awarded this title for their persistent work in the field of innovative technologies such as Voice Search SEO, AI and Metaverse marketing.

In the recent video by CEO & Founder Mr. Shiv Gupta, he has shared "5 Actionable Tips For Voice Search SEO": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3UEGvdsdt8k

They have been actively testing Artificial Intelligence (AI) based tools for various Digital Marketing objectives such as Content Curation, Social Media Posting and any repetitive tasks that software is capable enough to handle.

Incrementors also got featured as Fastest Growing Digital Marketing Agency by Business Connect in Nov. 2021 for rapid growth trajectory.

They offer a wide range of services especially SEO and SEM; they offer 100% remote offshore services. They have taken so many innovative steps to use the power of technology to increase efficiency and Amazing offshore SEO services. There are numerous steps that they have taken recently to reduce human dependencies on individual process like creating a streamlined process for project management and client onboarding etc.

Now, they are exploring in the dimension of marketing automations which has quadrupled results in the recent testing. Moreover, they are looking into more robust approach towards new industry like Metaverse with Metaverse Marketing.

That's how Incrementors is getting their feet headed towards innovation. Basically, this innovation is to give an amazing experience to all the current and future clients. Many people think that innovation takes away the job, but Incrementors believes it gives more job opportunities and opportunity to think on a broad level. Innovation takes the human brain on a different level.

Shiv says, "While digital marketing is believed to be limited by the number of strategies an agency could go after, Incremnetors has changed that mindset by constantly developing new products and services that offer customized solutions to small and medium sized businesses."

Industry Era Review helps IT decision-makers identify technologies and strategies to empower workers and streamline business processes.

Learn more: https://www.incrementors.com/

RELATED LINKS:

https://www.incrementors.com/blog/metaverse-marketing/

https://www.incrementors.com/blog/seo-outsourcing-offshore-seo-game-changer-for-your-business/

https://www.industryerareview.com/magazine/10-most-innovative-companies-of-2022/

Incrementors has been featured as the Most Innovative Companies in 2022 by popular magazine Industry Era Review. Incrementors has been awarded this title for their persistent work in the field of innovative technologies such as Voice Search SEO, AI and Metaverse marketing.

Related link: https://www.incrementors.com/

ViewTech’s Video Borescopes Utilized for Inspecting Balconies and Elevated Structures

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- In response to the 2015 deck collapse in Berkeley which caused six fatalities, California legislation signed into law SB 721 and SB 326 requiring periodic inspections of exterior elevated elements (EEE) that structurally rely on wood or wood-based materials, says ViewTech Borescopes.

California Senate Bill 721 relates to apartment complexes with more than three units, while senate bill 326 pertains to condominiums or multi-family housing controlled by residential homeowners' associations (HOAs).

Any entry, decks, porches, stairways, walkways, and other entry structure that are elevated more than six feet above ground level must be checked for cracks, rotting, insect damage, rusted fasteners or connectors, and mold or mildew exposure.

There are many methods, techniques, and types of equipment that can be utilized during these necessary evaluations of EEE, including visual inspection, infrared thermography, destructive testing, and video borescopes. With initial safety investigations needing to be completed by January 1, 2025, ViewTech Borescopes has a multitude of clients that own VJ-3 Far Focus video borescopes specifically for these inspections.

When completing inspections, licensed structural engineers, architects, contractors, or certified building inspectors drill a series of holes through materials and use a ViewTech VJ-3 video borescope to take photos and videos to assist with necessary reports, including photographs of any damage found. ViewTech Borescopes no-cost, no-demo program is available to trial by professionals completing SB 721 or SB 326 inspections.

About ViewTech Borescopes

ViewTech Borescopes, founded as RF System Lab in 2008, is North America's #1 seller of video borescopes. Their first product, the VJ borescope, set a new standard for portability, ergonomics and ease-of-use, with its industry-first mechanical, joystick-controlled articulation.

For more information on VJ-3 Video Borescope: https://www.viewtech.com/

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/qi8Yx7NVVcE

In response to the 2015 deck collapse in Berkeley which caused six fatalities, California legislation signed into law SB 721 and SB 326 requiring periodic inspections of exterior elevated elements (EEE) that structurally rely on wood or wood-based materials, says ViewTech Borescopes.

Related link: https://www.ViewTech.com

Don’t Just Wash Your Clothes, Disinfect and Sanitize Them Too

ROSEVILLE, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Paradise Laundry has recently expanded their location in Roseville and added a state-of-the-art new feature. The pandemic has demonstrated the importance of cleanliness resulting in multiple methods being used to kill bacteria i.e., antibacterial soap, hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes. However, those efforts don't have to stop there; at Paradise Laundry's Roseville location, customers can now disinfect and sanitize their clothing and linens with the addition of an Ozone Laundry System.

Deborah Dower, owner of Paradise Laundry explains: "Ozone, commonly referred to as 'nature's sanitizer,' is a natural atmosphere-purifying gas made by combining oxygen and electricity. You may have smelled it in the air after a lightning storm. Ozone is the strongest reproducible sanitizer known to man and is an extremely effective disinfectant against germs that can cause sickness.

"At Paradise Laundry the new system generates ozone, which is then dissolved in the cold water where it rapidly oxidizes organic materials, purifying the water and reducing odors. As a result, clothes are cleaner, smell fresher and feel softer.

"Ozone has long been used in the food processing industry to kill bacteria and E. coli. If you drink bottled water, there is a good chance the water has been sanitized through ozonization. Scientists have confirmed ozone kills viruses such as HIV, MRSA and SARS and is currently being tested to verify it will have the same destructive effect on COVID-19."

Deborah went on to say, "Historically, ozonated water systems have been used for commercial laundry, typically in hospitals and hotels. However, recently, Ozone Laundry Systems have become available for laundromats and even residential use. Unfortunately, the up-front costs are significant which prohibits most homes and businesses from investing in the system. We are excited to provide this benefit to our customers at no additional charge."

When asked how the system works Deborah replies; "You can see the generator in action on display in the customer area. Because heat and hot water dissipates the ozone, the system is connected to the cold-water line. When a washer calls for cold water, the display lights up blue and the 'fish' start to swim signaling that the ozone generator has kicked on and is injecting ozone into the water. During the rinse cycles, which use cold water, the laundry is disinfected and sanitized. However, we encourage customers to select a less expensive Cold-Water wash in order to get the benefits of sanitizing and disinfecting from beginning to end. In addition to providing our customers with the cleanest laundry possible, our washers are also sanitized each time they are used."

Paradise Laundry is an industry leader in the use of laundromat technology, always striving to provide customers with cutting edge features to enhance their laundromat experience and make the chore of doing laundry easier. They were the first self-serve coin laundry in the area to implement the added convenience of accepting credit cards, Apple Pay and Google Wallet directly on the washer and dryers. As Sacramento's 1st Eco-friendly Laundromat, their mission in 2010 was to protect the environment and started with the investment in large energy efficient, water saving machines which also reduce dry time. Adding an Ozone Laundry System furthers that commitment as well as provides an added benefit to customers.

Paradise Laundry in Roseville is located at 105 Ascot Drive near the intersection of Sunrise and Douglas behind Lorenzo's.

For more information call 916-933-9753 or visit the website at https://www.paradiselaundry.com/disinfect-sanitize

Paradise Laundry has recently expanded their location in Roseville and added a state-of-the-art new feature. The pandemic has demonstrated the importance of cleanliness resulting in multiple methods being used to kill bacteria i.e., antibacterial soap, hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes.

Related link: https://www.paradiselaundry.com/

The Sacramento SPCA’s 3rd Annual Art Fur Paws Online Auction Opens November 18!

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The 3rd Annual Art Fur Paws Online Auction to benefit the Sacramento SPCA will be live at Witherell's from November 18 to December 2, 2021. Now in its third year, this two-week auction will feature artwork by many of the region's finest artists, as well as antiques, collectibles, and jewelry, all donated by Sacramento SPCA supporters.

One such piece is an original oil painting by the late Gregory Kondos titled "French Irises," created by the artist while in France. One of Northern California's best-known artists, Kondos exhibited this piece in a 2013 show at the Crocker Art Museum.

Watercolors, acrylics, mixed media, ceramics, sculptures, and handmade jewelry are among the many other artworks donated by artists including Terry Pappas, Jill Estroff, Leslie McCarron, Debra Kreck-Harnish, David Peterson, Elaine Bowers, Deladier Almeida, Jim Marxen, Cathryn Rakich, Barbara Dow, Leslie Toms, Joe and Paula Bellacera, Kathy Dana and others.

"I think bidders will be excited to see they have a chance to take home fantastic original art by many of Sacramento's renowned artists in about every medium imaginable," says Sacramento SPCA Board Vice President, Tracy Fairchild. "Since the proceeds from the auction go directly to the shelter, that means more funding for the Sacramento SPCA to provide life-saving care for animals in our community."

Managed by Witherell's auction house of Sacramento, the Art Fur Paws Online Benefit Auction is perfectly timed for holiday shopping and gift giving.

Register to bid at https://www.sspca.org/artfurpaws

As the only full-service 100% non-profit animal shelter in the Sacramento region, the Sacramento SPCA relies on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to support their life-saving work. They are local, independent, and do not receive funding from state or local government agencies.

About the Sacramento SPCA:

Founded in 1892, the Sacramento SPCA has been providing homeless animals with individual comfort, shelter, and love for more than 129 years. They provide compassionate medical care to tens of thousands of animals annually and offer a variety of programs and services designed to keep people and pets together for life.

Learn more at:
https://www.sspca.org/artfurpaws

https://www.facebook.com/artfurpawsauction

https://www.instagram.com/artfurpaws/

RELATED LINK:
https://witherells.com/auction/sacramento-spca-benefit-auction-online-12866

The 3rd Annual Art Fur Paws Online Auction to benefit the Sacramento SPCA will be live at Witherell's from November 18 to December 2, 2021. Now in its third year, this two-week auction will feature artwork by many of the region's finest artists, as well as antiques, collectibles, and jewelry, all donated by Sacramento SPCA supporters.

Related link: https://www.sspca.org/

Teamsters Local 396 Builds Momentum in Contract Campaign to Raise Wages and Working Conditions for Over 2,700 Sanitation Workers in Orange County

SANTA ANA, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- On Tuesday, August 17, 2021, the City of Santa Ana stood up for working people by rejecting the city staff recommendation to replace its unionized waste hauler with a non-union hauler with a track record of union busting, air pollution and paying near poverty wages, Teamsters Local 396 said today. Santa Ana residents are currently serviced by Waste Management, a unionized waste hauler that has serviced the city for over 30 years.

"The Santa Ana open bid process for residential waste services was important to protect consumer rates, hard-earned well-paid jobs, and opening up historically closed bidding processes," said Ron Herrera, Secretary - Treasurer of Teamsters Local 396.

Herrera added, "We are ecstatic Athens Services, a non-union company with a history of worker intimidation and exploitation will NOT be spreading its greedy tentacles in Santa Ana."

This is a huge victory in the first skirmish of the Teamsters Local 396 begins contract bargaining for roughly 2,700 haulers in LA and Orange County. With average wages around $28 an hour and full benefits, waste work is one of the few industries that has lifted workers out of poverty.

"Through organizing, strikes, and bargaining we went from over worked, disrespected and under paid immigrant workers to becoming over worked better paid homeowners who have lifted ourselves out of poverty, can pay college tuition for our kids, and take family vacations. Now we want to join the middle class," said Javier Bonales, Teamsters 396, Vice President and longtime OC waste hauler.

Teamsters Local 396 represents UPS and Sanitation workers in Southern California. The Local Union also serves Members in other miscellaneous industries such as logistics, recycling, and feed delivery services.

Learn more at: https://www.teamsterslocal396.org/

Contact: Adan Alvarez, (323) 404-5939

On Tuesday, August 17, 2021, the City of Santa Ana stood up for working people by rejecting the city staff recommendation to replace its unionized waste hauler with a non-union hauler with a track record of union busting, air pollution and paying near poverty wages, Teamsters Local 396 said today.

Related link: https://www.teamsterslocal396.org/

AMI Expeditionary Healthcare and Maclean Health announce partnership to provide COVID-testing, vaccinations, and other safety measures to help California schools to open safely

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- AMI Expeditionary Healthcare, an international health-care provider with unparalleled experience in responding to global pandemics, and Maclean Health, a renowned Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) healthcare distributor, have teamed up to deliver COVID testing, vaccinations, and healthcare supplies to school districts with the support of California School Boards Association (CSBA).

CSBA brings together school governing boards, and administrators from districts and county offices of education to advocate for effective policies that advance the education and wellbeing of the state's more than 6 million school-age children.

"This approach will ensure cost-effective vaccinations and individual COVID testing and early detection of positive cases enabling California schools to open its doors knowing that its teachers, staff, and students are healthy," said Mike Smith, Executive Vice President, Operations, AMI Expeditionary Healthcare.

AMI has been providing COVID-19 testing services since May 2021 to schools and static sites in the South, West, and Central districts for the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD). AMI currently has 800 employees across 18 locations conducting 250,000 tests per week for on-campus students and staff as wells as homebound special needs individuals.

"We are proud during this ongoing pandemic to be able to help the state of California open its school doors knowing that its students, educators, and staff have the best chance of remaining COVID-free with a robust testing and vaccination solution," said Tony Campos, COO of Maclean Health. "This partnership enables us to apply all preventive measures to make sure that California's students, teachers, school administrators and faculty, as well as communities at large, are safe."

At the end of 2020, Maclean Health was awarded the State of California Face Mask Contract, which is a mandatory contract for all California state agencies. To date, Maclean has delivered large volumes of these critical masks to many California departments and agencies, including the Department of Education, Department of Social Services, Department of General Services, Department of Veterans Affairs, Correctional Health Care Services, CalFire, Department of Health Care Services, and various unified school districts.

This unique partnership will be guided by the experience of AMI's Global Health Director Dr. Thomas Crabtree who brings his experience in helping to eradicate Ebola and Dr. Scott Giberson, a retired Rear Admiral and experienced public health leader.

For more information about AMI Expeditionary Healthcare, please visit https://ami.health/.

For more information about Maclean Health, please visit https://www.macleanhealth.com/.

For any questions, please contact info@macleanhealth.com

AMI Expeditionary Healthcare, an international health-care provider with unparalleled experience in responding to global pandemics, and Maclean Health, a renowned Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) healthcare distributor, have teamed up to deliver COVID testing, vaccinations, and healthcare supplies to school districts with the support of California School Boards Association (CSBA).

Related link: https://ami.health/

Sacramento SPCA Receives Lifesaving Investment from Newly Named Petco Love for the Zoe K. McCrea Animal Health Center

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Sacramento SPCA announced today that they received a $15,000 grant investment from Petco Love, to support their lifesaving work for animals through the newly constructed Zoe K. McCrea Animal Health Center.

A check presentation was held at the Petco retail store located at 855 E Bidwell Street in Folsom, California on Friday, July 9 at 11 a.m.

The Sacramento SPCA applied for the lifesaving investment as part of a year-long fundraising campaign to complete construction of the new state-of-the-art animal hospital located at 6201 Florin Perkins Road in Sacramento.

A remodel of the shelter's administrative office and sick bay building began in May 2020, renovations were complete in January 2021 and the Zoe K. McCrea Animal Health Center performed its first public surgeries in late January.

The expanded facility has allowed the Sacramento SPCA to immediately increase public access to low-cost and no-cost spay/neuter surgeries, vaccinations, and preventative care for animals in the Sacramento region and beyond.

The Kristan Otto Shelter Medicine Program, with species-specific housing for sick and injured animals; an isolation ward for managing contagious diseases; and examination, laboratory, and treatment space, is also located inside the new Zoe K. McCrea Animal Health Center.

"We are incredibly grateful for our partnership with the Petco Folsom store and Petco Love to support our lifesaving work in the new health center," said Kenn Altine, Sacramento SPCA CEO. "With Petco Love's local and national support, we can provide expanded access to low-cost preventative care to our community's pets, help animals get into homes faster and save more lives."

Petco Love is a nonprofit leading change for pets nationally by harnessing the power of love to make communities and pet families closer, stronger, and healthier. Since their founding in 1999 as the Petco Foundation, they've empowered organizations with $300 million invested to date in adoption and other lifesaving efforts. And, they've helped find loving homes for more than 6.5 million pets in partnership with Petco and more than 4,000 organizations, like the Sacramento SPCA, nationwide.

"Today Petco Love announces an investment in the Sacramento SPCA and hundreds of other organizations as part of our commitment to create a future in which no pet is unnecessarily euthanized," said Susanne Kogut, President of Petco Love. "Our local investments are only one component. In April, we also launched the first of our national tools to empower all animal lovers to drive lifesaving change right alongside us."

For more information about the Sacramento SPCA, visit http://sspca.org/. To learn more about Petco Love, visit http://www.petcolove.org/.

About the Sacramento SPCA

Founded in 1892, the Sacramento SPCA has been providing homeless animals with individual comfort, shelter, and love for more than 129 years. They provide compassionate medical care to tens of thousands of animals annually and offer a variety of programs and services designed to keep people and pets together for life. Visit http://sspca.org/ or follow at Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn.

About Petco Love (Formerly Petco Foundation)

Petco Love is a nonprofit changing lives by making communities and pet families closer, stronger, and healthier. Since our founding in 1999 as the Petco Foundation, we've empowered animal welfare organizations by investing nearly $300 million in adoption and other lifesaving efforts. We've helped find loving homes for more than 6.5 million pets in partnership with Petco and organizations nationwide.

Today, our love for pets drives us to lead with innovation, creating tools animal lovers need to reunite lost pets, and lead with passion, inspiring and mobilizing communities and our more than 4,000 animal welfare partners to drive lifesaving change alongside us. Is love calling you? Visit http://www.petcolove.org/ or follow at Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn to be part of the lifesaving work we're leading every day.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Dawn Foster, Sacramento SPCA Marketing & Communications Director, dfoster@sspca.org or (916) 802-0915

Jennifer Perez, Petco Love, media@petcolove.org

he Sacramento SPCA announced today that they received a $15,000 grant investment from Petco Love, to support their lifesaving work for animals through the newly constructed Zoe K. McCrea Animal Health Center. A check presentation was held at the Petco retail store located at 855 E Bidwell Street in Folsom, California on Friday, July 9 at 11 a.m.

Related link: https://www.sspca.org/

Doggy Dash with the Sacramento SPCA on June 5, 2021

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Sacramento SPCA is hosting their annual Doggy Dash on Saturday, June 5, 2021 - and this year is sure to offer more than just another walk in the park.

Now celebrating its 28th anniversary, the Sacramento SPCA's Doggy Dash has grown into Northern California's largest 2K/5K dog walk and pet festival - with a goal this year to raise $150,000 in registrations and donations to support the life-saving programs that help animals and the people who love them in the Sacramento region. Donations from last year's Doggy Dash helped the Sacramento SPCA provide care to the more than 30,000 animals that entered their doors in 2020.

With restrictions still in place for large group events, the Sacramento SPCA is hosting its largest community event and fundraiser of the year virtually for a second year in a row. "Just because we can't walk side by side, doesn't mean we can't still walk together to save lives," said Dawn Foster, Sacramento SPCA Marketing & Communications Director.

An estimated 5,000 animal lovers usually gather at William Land Park for this special event each year, with and without their canine companions - to raise funds for animals at the Sacramento SPCA and enjoy pet-friendly vendors, demonstrations, contests, food trucks, beer garden, local entertainment and more!

Pet enthusiasts living far and wide are encouraged to join the Sacramento SPCA on June 5, 2021 from their homes, neighborhoods, parks and trails for the 2k/5k walk and also connect online to share photos and enjoy the event's live broadcast and pet festival. "By participating in our own communities, people and their dogs (and even cats!) who would not normally be able to participate at William Land Park, can now do so," added Foster.

The virtual event will be broadcast from the shelter's Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/SacSPCA at 9 a.m. on June 5, 2021; participants will hear from Sacramento SPCA CEO, Kenn Altine and GoodDay Sacramento's Courtney Dempsey as they share how the Sacramento SPCA is helping animals and people in the Sacramento region and beyond, followed by a very special tour through the new Zoe K. McCrea Animal Health Center before officially kicking-off the 2k/5k walk.

Doggy Dashers are encouraged to share photos and video of them and their dogs walking and participating in the event's activities throughout the day using the hashtag #SSPCADASH2021.

As the only full-service 100% non-profit animal shelter in the Sacramento region, the Sacramento SPCA relies on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to support their life-saving work. They are local, independent, and do not receive funding from state or local government agencies.

Supporting this year's Virtual Doggy Dash by walking, sharing, or donating will help Sacramento SPCA continue to give more than shelter to the animals who need it most.

To register for the event or donate to help animals in need, visit https://www.sspca.org/dash.

About the Sacramento SPCA:

Founded in 1892, the Sacramento SPCA has been providing homeless animals with individual comfort, shelter, and love for more than 129 years. They provide compassionate medical care to tens of thousands of animals annually and offer a variety of programs and services designed to keep people and pets together for life.

Learn more at:
https://www.sspca.org/dash
https://www.facebook.com/SacSPCA/
https://www.instagram.com/sacramento_spca/
https://www.twitter.com/SacramentoSPCA

MEDIA CONTACT:
Dawn Foster
Sacramento SPCA Marketing & Communications Director
dfoster@sspca.org
or (916) 802-0915

The Sacramento SPCA is hosting their annual Doggy Dash on Saturday, June 5, 2021 - and this year is sure to offer more than just another walk in the park. Now celebrating its 28th anniversary, the Sacramento SPCA's Doggy Dash has grown into Northern California's largest 2K/5K dog walk and pet festival.

Related link: https://www.sspca.org/