Millions wasted because the State Assembly and Senate can not decide on a budget. We lose, but the Senators and Assembly get their enhanced pay.
http://cssrc.us/
Friday, August 20, 2010
Monday, August 09, 2010
I am praying for the souls of the medical missionaries who were killed by Taliban in Afghanistan.
The founder of the group had been working as an eye surgeon in Afghanistan for over 30 years, funded by American and other donations. He, along with other physicians, dentists, and aides lived in tents, rode over rough roads, worked in poor conditions without protection, yet, loved their work. Most people who are trained in health care would love to share their knowledge and talents in poor areas, but this medical group had been very successful.
Reasons for the killings vary, but it is clear the Taliban wants to start chasing Americans out before they can leave by their own choice. I suspect the violence will increase and the people of Afghanistan, Pakistan and Iraq will have to fight for their own freedom.
The founder of the group had been working as an eye surgeon in Afghanistan for over 30 years, funded by American and other donations. He, along with other physicians, dentists, and aides lived in tents, rode over rough roads, worked in poor conditions without protection, yet, loved their work. Most people who are trained in health care would love to share their knowledge and talents in poor areas, but this medical group had been very successful.
Reasons for the killings vary, but it is clear the Taliban wants to start chasing Americans out before they can leave by their own choice. I suspect the violence will increase and the people of Afghanistan, Pakistan and Iraq will have to fight for their own freedom.
Wednesday, May 05, 2010
Every year, as we approach the 5th of May, stores and companies begin to promote Cinco de Mayo in their storefronts and through their advertisements. There are office parties, full of festive decorations, and children at school might have the opportunity to take a swing at a piñata. This splendor is to celebrate a date of significance to Mexicans and Mexican-Americans alike.
While this is not Mexican Independence Day (that is on September 16th), it is a date pivotal to the history of Mexico. In 1861, Mexico was bankrupt, and had outstanding debts to Britain, Spain, France and the U.S. While the Monroe Doctrine warned European nations to avoid intrusion into the affairs of the Americas -- France, England and Spain signed the Covenant of London, where they agreed to send troops to collect on those debts. England and Spain came to peaceful agreements with Mexico, while France prepared to attack.
On May 5th, 1862, the French attacked the city of Puebla, but under the leadership of Texas-born Mexican General Ignacio Zaragoza Seguin, the Mexican Army was triumphant in the battle. It brought the country together and helped create a sense of unity.
Interestingly, the first celebrations of Cinco de Mayo started one year later in California, which had recently become part of the United States. According to a paper published last year by the UCLA Center for the Study of Latino Health and Culture, as the French continued to attack Mexico, beginning with a subsequent attack on Puebla just one year after the initial attack, Cinco de Mayo brought together the people of California. The date brought together native-born Californios (individuals from the region prior to annexing by the U.S.); recent immigrants from Mexico, as well as Central and South-America; and the new generation of English-speaking American children. Since 1863, Californians have celebrated the fifth of May, and now people across the U.S. recognize the occasion as well. Yet it is virtually ignored in Mexico. From its inception, Cinco de Mayo has been a day for those with Mexican heritage in our country to celebrate our roots, marked with patriotic speeches and celebrations, displaying both U.S. and Mexican flags.
Another important fact to consider is how this battle played into U.S. history, as the Civil War waged on. France, and other European nations, were concerned about the rapid expansion of the United States, and had an interest in staving off U.S. expansion towards the South. Seeing the young nation split into two less powerful and less threatening nations was an ideal vision of Napoleon III, then ruler of France.
While the Covenant of London was being finalized, General Robert E. Lee was winning battles for the Confederacy. Had the French been victorious in that original Battle of Puebla on May 5th, 1862, they could have continued their influence across the Mexican nation, and would have likely supported the Confederacy in its battle against Union forces. Instead, the French had to regroup their forces and concentrate on their war with Mexico, which was much more united just one year after the first attack. Of course, just fourteen months after the Battle of Puebla, the U.S. Civil War would see a major battle when Union forces claimed victory at Gettysburg and effectively brought a close to the Civil War.
As we attend Cinco de Mayo celebrations, let us take a moment to remember the history behind this event-- significant for its impact on Mexico, its impact on the U.S., and for bringing together those with ties to both countries.
Rep. Joe Baca
While this is not Mexican Independence Day (that is on September 16th), it is a date pivotal to the history of Mexico. In 1861, Mexico was bankrupt, and had outstanding debts to Britain, Spain, France and the U.S. While the Monroe Doctrine warned European nations to avoid intrusion into the affairs of the Americas -- France, England and Spain signed the Covenant of London, where they agreed to send troops to collect on those debts. England and Spain came to peaceful agreements with Mexico, while France prepared to attack.
On May 5th, 1862, the French attacked the city of Puebla, but under the leadership of Texas-born Mexican General Ignacio Zaragoza Seguin, the Mexican Army was triumphant in the battle. It brought the country together and helped create a sense of unity.
Interestingly, the first celebrations of Cinco de Mayo started one year later in California, which had recently become part of the United States. According to a paper published last year by the UCLA Center for the Study of Latino Health and Culture, as the French continued to attack Mexico, beginning with a subsequent attack on Puebla just one year after the initial attack, Cinco de Mayo brought together the people of California. The date brought together native-born Californios (individuals from the region prior to annexing by the U.S.); recent immigrants from Mexico, as well as Central and South-America; and the new generation of English-speaking American children. Since 1863, Californians have celebrated the fifth of May, and now people across the U.S. recognize the occasion as well. Yet it is virtually ignored in Mexico. From its inception, Cinco de Mayo has been a day for those with Mexican heritage in our country to celebrate our roots, marked with patriotic speeches and celebrations, displaying both U.S. and Mexican flags.
Another important fact to consider is how this battle played into U.S. history, as the Civil War waged on. France, and other European nations, were concerned about the rapid expansion of the United States, and had an interest in staving off U.S. expansion towards the South. Seeing the young nation split into two less powerful and less threatening nations was an ideal vision of Napoleon III, then ruler of France.
While the Covenant of London was being finalized, General Robert E. Lee was winning battles for the Confederacy. Had the French been victorious in that original Battle of Puebla on May 5th, 1862, they could have continued their influence across the Mexican nation, and would have likely supported the Confederacy in its battle against Union forces. Instead, the French had to regroup their forces and concentrate on their war with Mexico, which was much more united just one year after the first attack. Of course, just fourteen months after the Battle of Puebla, the U.S. Civil War would see a major battle when Union forces claimed victory at Gettysburg and effectively brought a close to the Civil War.
As we attend Cinco de Mayo celebrations, let us take a moment to remember the history behind this event-- significant for its impact on Mexico, its impact on the U.S., and for bringing together those with ties to both countries.
Rep. Joe Baca
INVEST IN EDUCATION-NOT PRISONS
STATE LEGISLATORS FAIL US AGAIN
On Tuesday I attended a forum to discuss the pending pre-parole 500 bed state prison optioned to be built in Madera.
The state says there is no money for schools, education, transportation, yet has millions to pour into additional correctional facilities and criminal healthcare. An inmate hospital is being built is Stockton. Our correctional health care is in receivership due to alleged poor care and bad decisions. Having a receiver costs millions of dollars.
The decision to invest in prisons over child safety and schools continues on the path of bad decisions. First, there is no significant rehabilitation in the correctional system. Inmates are warehoused and released. Any inmates housed in the new Madera prison facility would be released in the same condition as they were when they were transferred to Madera. Second, recidivism is around 80 % and the inmates are mentally institutionalized, so they at some level like to return to prison-but they must commit a crime to get there. We will be the victims. Third, currently the valley has an approximate 20% unemployment rate and an even higher under-employment rate. There is no evidence that Madera will have any jobs for released felons who had previously spent years in Soledad, Pelican Bay, or Folsom. Yet, county supervisors want to risk exposing our youth to felons who would be coming to the facility on a daily basis.
Once these felons are discharged all state health care and support payments stop and there would be an increase in Medicare and ER hospital usage, an increase in welfare and an increase in crime and gangs. We do not have drug rehabilitation services now in Madera due to state budget cuts. If these inmates are already due to be released, then just release them to their home areas and release the allotted money for use by the cities for educational services, transportation, teachers, after-school programs, summer programs and police.
It is unadvisable to locate this facility in a residential area where citizens are striving for a better lifestyle. If you want to share our vision for a better Madera, join us in keeping this facility away from our schools, parks, and housing areas. I can be contacted by email at: saveourvalley@hotmail.com
Dr. Loraine Goodwin, M.D., J.D.
Madera Unified Trustee and Candidate for Congress CD 19
STATE LEGISLATORS FAIL US AGAIN
On Tuesday I attended a forum to discuss the pending pre-parole 500 bed state prison optioned to be built in Madera.
The state says there is no money for schools, education, transportation, yet has millions to pour into additional correctional facilities and criminal healthcare. An inmate hospital is being built is Stockton. Our correctional health care is in receivership due to alleged poor care and bad decisions. Having a receiver costs millions of dollars.
The decision to invest in prisons over child safety and schools continues on the path of bad decisions. First, there is no significant rehabilitation in the correctional system. Inmates are warehoused and released. Any inmates housed in the new Madera prison facility would be released in the same condition as they were when they were transferred to Madera. Second, recidivism is around 80 % and the inmates are mentally institutionalized, so they at some level like to return to prison-but they must commit a crime to get there. We will be the victims. Third, currently the valley has an approximate 20% unemployment rate and an even higher under-employment rate. There is no evidence that Madera will have any jobs for released felons who had previously spent years in Soledad, Pelican Bay, or Folsom. Yet, county supervisors want to risk exposing our youth to felons who would be coming to the facility on a daily basis.
Once these felons are discharged all state health care and support payments stop and there would be an increase in Medicare and ER hospital usage, an increase in welfare and an increase in crime and gangs. We do not have drug rehabilitation services now in Madera due to state budget cuts. If these inmates are already due to be released, then just release them to their home areas and release the allotted money for use by the cities for educational services, transportation, teachers, after-school programs, summer programs and police.
It is unadvisable to locate this facility in a residential area where citizens are striving for a better lifestyle. If you want to share our vision for a better Madera, join us in keeping this facility away from our schools, parks, and housing areas. I can be contacted by email at: saveourvalley@hotmail.com
Dr. Loraine Goodwin, M.D., J.D.
Madera Unified Trustee and Candidate for Congress CD 19
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Letter to Editor of MADERA TRIBUNE from Candidate Congress DC 19 Loraine Goodwin
I am writing to correct the review of the Chowchilla candidate’s forum last Wednesday by Mr. Coate. First the headline that all “13 touted their conservatism” is in error because I am certainly not a conservative, I consider myself a moderate Central Valley mom. Second, his statement that I said the U.S. Constitution was not meant for minorities when it was created leaves an air of incompleteness which I need to clarify.
Article !, Section 2 of the Constitution states the Constitution only considered free Persons and those bound to Service for a Term of Years. Indians were excluded and Blacks, who were considered property, were only counted as three fifths of all other Persons.
During the debate I emphasized that, I know the Constitution had flaws, because Blacks were not considered whole Persons. At the debate, I stated we can, as Americans, change and correct those original flaws through amendments and judicial review. I said this for the education of the students present. (I am also a teacher). Considering Blacks as only property, was corrected by the Fourteenth Amendment. The original error in denying women the right to vote was corrected by the 19th Amendment. Equal protection and rights under American law was not given to minorities and women until the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Women were not given the right to equal pay until President Obama signed the Lily Ledbetter Fair Pay Act of 2009.
As a member of the Madera Unified School Board I pledged my faith to the US. Constitution and the State of California and to abide by all laws. As an attorney and a licensed California physician, I am also strictly bound by the U.S. Constitution and the laws of California. The Constitution was and is the basic framework for our country, but it was not a perfect document, because it was created by men.
I just wanted to clear up the ambiguous statement from the Saturday paper because many fear minorities are un-American. I have many veterans in my family and my family farming traces back generations into days of slavery. I am wholly American - native American - and the U.S. is my only country. Let there be no confusion. ‘Nuff said.
Dr. Loraine Goodwin, Md.D. J.D.
I am writing to correct the review of the Chowchilla candidate’s forum last Wednesday by Mr. Coate. First the headline that all “13 touted their conservatism” is in error because I am certainly not a conservative, I consider myself a moderate Central Valley mom. Second, his statement that I said the U.S. Constitution was not meant for minorities when it was created leaves an air of incompleteness which I need to clarify.
Article !, Section 2 of the Constitution states the Constitution only considered free Persons and those bound to Service for a Term of Years. Indians were excluded and Blacks, who were considered property, were only counted as three fifths of all other Persons.
During the debate I emphasized that, I know the Constitution had flaws, because Blacks were not considered whole Persons. At the debate, I stated we can, as Americans, change and correct those original flaws through amendments and judicial review. I said this for the education of the students present. (I am also a teacher). Considering Blacks as only property, was corrected by the Fourteenth Amendment. The original error in denying women the right to vote was corrected by the 19th Amendment. Equal protection and rights under American law was not given to minorities and women until the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Women were not given the right to equal pay until President Obama signed the Lily Ledbetter Fair Pay Act of 2009.
As a member of the Madera Unified School Board I pledged my faith to the US. Constitution and the State of California and to abide by all laws. As an attorney and a licensed California physician, I am also strictly bound by the U.S. Constitution and the laws of California. The Constitution was and is the basic framework for our country, but it was not a perfect document, because it was created by men.
I just wanted to clear up the ambiguous statement from the Saturday paper because many fear minorities are un-American. I have many veterans in my family and my family farming traces back generations into days of slavery. I am wholly American - native American - and the U.S. is my only country. Let there be no confusion. ‘Nuff said.
Dr. Loraine Goodwin, Md.D. J.D.
Friday, April 02, 2010
One of my biggest passions is the fight against domestic violence and abuse of women and children. I have been focused on these problems for many years and speak out against the violence and abuse whenever the topics arise.
When I worked with inmates I saw many women who were incarcerated because they lived in violent relationships and experienced abuse on a regular basis. Emotions got high and, for the inmates; this led to death or injury of the partner/spouse. Some women think arguing and fighting is a normal part of an intimate relationship. We need to teach our kids that disagreements should never become violent and that, if all else fails, there are many alternatives.
I became even more focused and upset by the Scott Peterson case. Scott thought Lacey was "trash: and threw her and the baby out. He had a girlfriend.
As your Congresswoman, I will work daily to enforce zero tolerance for domestic violence and child abuse. This is not a campaign promise...but my passion...and I will work with all groups who want to participate.
When I worked with inmates I saw many women who were incarcerated because they lived in violent relationships and experienced abuse on a regular basis. Emotions got high and, for the inmates; this led to death or injury of the partner/spouse. Some women think arguing and fighting is a normal part of an intimate relationship. We need to teach our kids that disagreements should never become violent and that, if all else fails, there are many alternatives.
I became even more focused and upset by the Scott Peterson case. Scott thought Lacey was "trash: and threw her and the baby out. He had a girlfriend.
As your Congresswoman, I will work daily to enforce zero tolerance for domestic violence and child abuse. This is not a campaign promise...but my passion...and I will work with all groups who want to participate.
Monday, September 14, 2009
Written in response to Madera Tribune Letter to Editor 9/12/2009
Faith and religion require trust and belief systems that are not based on hard facts. I say Mr. Michael Harris and Mr. Lou Pritchett are impeded by fear and can not grow. Fear blocks the ability to be rational and to truly accept religion and religious beliefs.
A Non-Believer may say that Jesus had an education, but has never said how he paid for it or how he made money.
A Non-Believer may say that neither Jesus nor God ever ran a business or met a payroll -so they should be feared.
A Non-Believer may say, neither Jesus, God, the Pope, Mother Theresa, etc., ever had military experience and did not understand military logistics, so we should fear them and they should not lead.
A Non-Believer may say that churches give a "free pass" to God, Jesus, the Pope, Mother Theresa, etc., on everything they do.
You can continue this for all of your expressed fears, as published in the Madera Tribune.
As you can easily see, this thinking is abnormal and neither Mr. Michael Harris nor Mr. Lou Pritchett should be followed. I can see why Procter and Gamble got rid of Mr. Pritchett.
Being a religious person requires a leap of faith. One must be able to look a man in the eyes, hear his words, watch his actions and judge the man not by the color of his skin or your race-based fears, but by the content of his character. I see nothing to fear in President Obama. He speaks the facts as they are presented to him and jointly, with multiple professional inputs, draws a "best conclusion." Mr. Harris and Mr. Pritchett would make horrible leaders, because they are drowning in irrational fears. Hate-mongers like Limbaugh feed on fear and make a tidy profit by feeding fear "of the unknown." Rush Limbaugh has no children and divorced his wife and business partner. Honest disagreement and discussion is great, but “Crazy Joe Wilson’s’” outburst was irrational and dishonest. The people who want America to fail are/were the banks, securities firms, mortgage businesses, automobile industries, etc., who led for greed and continue to do so, nonresponsive to American needs.
President Obama is a role model for America's future - an ordinary guy doing an extraordinary job. Fathers often abandon their family obligations, so I applaud President Obama for being a male role-model – father, husband, leader -which others may choose to follow. America needs more nuclear families that can raise rational, well-adjusted children - ready to learn.
Open your eyes and join the world of rational people who love America and want the best for our AmeriCAN and world future. Join the world of people who are thankful that President Obama took advantage of his opportunities for an advanced education, and can now give back to those who were not able to succeed in academics. Join the people who are happy to see a real father and loving family in the White House - spreading family values and enjoying the beauty of nature in our American parks and historic sites. Join the world of people that appreciate that our current national leaders are not making "French" jokes, as Bush staff did - but can get along with the various world leaders and respect cultural and personal differences. Hope is alive and doing well. Life is fragile and we need to nurture or minds and unify as AmieriCANS for a better America.
Dr. Loraine Goodwin, MD, JD
Faith and religion require trust and belief systems that are not based on hard facts. I say Mr. Michael Harris and Mr. Lou Pritchett are impeded by fear and can not grow. Fear blocks the ability to be rational and to truly accept religion and religious beliefs.
A Non-Believer may say that Jesus had an education, but has never said how he paid for it or how he made money.
A Non-Believer may say that neither Jesus nor God ever ran a business or met a payroll -so they should be feared.
A Non-Believer may say, neither Jesus, God, the Pope, Mother Theresa, etc., ever had military experience and did not understand military logistics, so we should fear them and they should not lead.
A Non-Believer may say that churches give a "free pass" to God, Jesus, the Pope, Mother Theresa, etc., on everything they do.
You can continue this for all of your expressed fears, as published in the Madera Tribune.
As you can easily see, this thinking is abnormal and neither Mr. Michael Harris nor Mr. Lou Pritchett should be followed. I can see why Procter and Gamble got rid of Mr. Pritchett.
Being a religious person requires a leap of faith. One must be able to look a man in the eyes, hear his words, watch his actions and judge the man not by the color of his skin or your race-based fears, but by the content of his character. I see nothing to fear in President Obama. He speaks the facts as they are presented to him and jointly, with multiple professional inputs, draws a "best conclusion." Mr. Harris and Mr. Pritchett would make horrible leaders, because they are drowning in irrational fears. Hate-mongers like Limbaugh feed on fear and make a tidy profit by feeding fear "of the unknown." Rush Limbaugh has no children and divorced his wife and business partner. Honest disagreement and discussion is great, but “Crazy Joe Wilson’s’” outburst was irrational and dishonest. The people who want America to fail are/were the banks, securities firms, mortgage businesses, automobile industries, etc., who led for greed and continue to do so, nonresponsive to American needs.
President Obama is a role model for America's future - an ordinary guy doing an extraordinary job. Fathers often abandon their family obligations, so I applaud President Obama for being a male role-model – father, husband, leader -which others may choose to follow. America needs more nuclear families that can raise rational, well-adjusted children - ready to learn.
Open your eyes and join the world of rational people who love America and want the best for our AmeriCAN and world future. Join the world of people who are thankful that President Obama took advantage of his opportunities for an advanced education, and can now give back to those who were not able to succeed in academics. Join the people who are happy to see a real father and loving family in the White House - spreading family values and enjoying the beauty of nature in our American parks and historic sites. Join the world of people that appreciate that our current national leaders are not making "French" jokes, as Bush staff did - but can get along with the various world leaders and respect cultural and personal differences. Hope is alive and doing well. Life is fragile and we need to nurture or minds and unify as AmieriCANS for a better America.
Dr. Loraine Goodwin, MD, JD
Friday, September 04, 2009
Preventive Medical Care Works
I support President Obama and his quest for healthcare reform. Seniors already enjoy the benefits of government healthcare in the form of Medicare. Unfortunately, many seniors have not practiced prevention and wellness over the years, and enter into the Medicare system with on-going illnesses, which could have been prevented or minimized.
School-based health centers provide access to medical care in communities struggling to offer such services. Reimbursement is usually through MediCal, another government medical program intended for low-income individuals, mainly women and children. By keeping the population healthier and promoting prevention, we all enjoy economic savings and contribute to a better community. Our students will be healthier and more productive with fewer “sick days.” Treatment for most routine health complaints could be done onsite-at school with a focus on prevention, wellness and living a healthier more productive life. By emphasizing preventive care, we can reduce the number of inappropriate emergency room visits, reduce hospitalizations, reduce chronic illness, and reduce drug and alcohol abuse
School-based health centers have also been shown to increase students’ time in class and lessen health concerns and complications. This school-based care can also reduce healthcare disparities, allowing students to care for some health concerns via the school nurse and allowing an opportunity for preventive interventions.
I wholly support President Obama’s attempts to establish a National Prevention and Wellness Strategy for providing prevention interventions and timely medical care.
Dr. Loraine Goodwin, M.D., J.D.
Candidate for Congress CD 19
I support President Obama and his quest for healthcare reform. Seniors already enjoy the benefits of government healthcare in the form of Medicare. Unfortunately, many seniors have not practiced prevention and wellness over the years, and enter into the Medicare system with on-going illnesses, which could have been prevented or minimized.
School-based health centers provide access to medical care in communities struggling to offer such services. Reimbursement is usually through MediCal, another government medical program intended for low-income individuals, mainly women and children. By keeping the population healthier and promoting prevention, we all enjoy economic savings and contribute to a better community. Our students will be healthier and more productive with fewer “sick days.” Treatment for most routine health complaints could be done onsite-at school with a focus on prevention, wellness and living a healthier more productive life. By emphasizing preventive care, we can reduce the number of inappropriate emergency room visits, reduce hospitalizations, reduce chronic illness, and reduce drug and alcohol abuse
School-based health centers have also been shown to increase students’ time in class and lessen health concerns and complications. This school-based care can also reduce healthcare disparities, allowing students to care for some health concerns via the school nurse and allowing an opportunity for preventive interventions.
I wholly support President Obama’s attempts to establish a National Prevention and Wellness Strategy for providing prevention interventions and timely medical care.
Dr. Loraine Goodwin, M.D., J.D.
Candidate for Congress CD 19
PAROLE BOARD DECIDES ATKINS WRONG 9/3/09
It is clear the California Parole Board has no fiscal responsibility when they decide parole issues. In the recent case of inmate Sharon Atkins, the Parole Board had an opportunity to cut thousands of dollars in costs to an already broken correctional budget. Instead, the parole board chose to forge ahead.Susan Atkins appeared before the parole board Wednesday for a Compassionate Release Hearing. The hearing took about 7 hours according to news reporters. Susan was incarcerated around 40 years ago for brutally stabbing an actress after breaking into her home. A horrible crime that deserves a life, if not a death, sentence. Now, years later, inmate Atkins is unable to walk and can hardly speak. She has terminal brain cancer and, by news reports, can not move 85% of her body. Custody officers wheeled inmate Atkins into the Parole Hearing on a gurney, she can not sit in a wheelchair.
During the hearing, the family of the slain actress stressed that society would not be safe if this inmate was paroled and that inmate Atkins deserved to die in prison. I understand the family’s statements.
However, it is the duty of the Parole Board to put the whole picture together and do what is best for society and the correctional system. Realistically, this inmate is not going to terrorize society if paroled. She can’t move. Pictures of inmate Atkins at the hearing showed her appearing to doze off during the hearing. She certainly appeared terminal.
So, what is the risk if inmate Atkins is paroled? As I see it, none to society. She has a husband. He could provide end-of-life care – but I doubt he would commit crimes because she was paroled.
What does the state gain or lose by paroling inmate Atkins? Mainly, they lose additional medical costs. Her medications, nursing, hospital trips, special custody costs and special correctional housing in the skilled nursing facility add thousands of dollars per week to the correctional budget. Since the governor is trying to squeeze financial savings for the state budget, this is an area that needs to be re-evaluated.
Loraine Goodwin, MD, JD
Candidate for Congress CD 19
It is clear the California Parole Board has no fiscal responsibility when they decide parole issues. In the recent case of inmate Sharon Atkins, the Parole Board had an opportunity to cut thousands of dollars in costs to an already broken correctional budget. Instead, the parole board chose to forge ahead.Susan Atkins appeared before the parole board Wednesday for a Compassionate Release Hearing. The hearing took about 7 hours according to news reporters. Susan was incarcerated around 40 years ago for brutally stabbing an actress after breaking into her home. A horrible crime that deserves a life, if not a death, sentence. Now, years later, inmate Atkins is unable to walk and can hardly speak. She has terminal brain cancer and, by news reports, can not move 85% of her body. Custody officers wheeled inmate Atkins into the Parole Hearing on a gurney, she can not sit in a wheelchair.
During the hearing, the family of the slain actress stressed that society would not be safe if this inmate was paroled and that inmate Atkins deserved to die in prison. I understand the family’s statements.
However, it is the duty of the Parole Board to put the whole picture together and do what is best for society and the correctional system. Realistically, this inmate is not going to terrorize society if paroled. She can’t move. Pictures of inmate Atkins at the hearing showed her appearing to doze off during the hearing. She certainly appeared terminal.
So, what is the risk if inmate Atkins is paroled? As I see it, none to society. She has a husband. He could provide end-of-life care – but I doubt he would commit crimes because she was paroled.
What does the state gain or lose by paroling inmate Atkins? Mainly, they lose additional medical costs. Her medications, nursing, hospital trips, special custody costs and special correctional housing in the skilled nursing facility add thousands of dollars per week to the correctional budget. Since the governor is trying to squeeze financial savings for the state budget, this is an area that needs to be re-evaluated.
Loraine Goodwin, MD, JD
Candidate for Congress CD 19
Thursday, September 03, 2009
MICHAEL JACKSON MAUSOLEUM
Michael Jackson will be put ito a special mausoleum at Forest Lawn today There are stained glass windows and lots of statues in the building. The doors lock to keep everyone out-except family. No fans can get near.
This is very anti-Michael because he loved his fans. Except for his children and some special friends, Michael was energized buy having fans near. Fans kept his name alive - long after family had started to ignore him. Fans asked for help for Michael - while family denied he had any problems and could not see his drug use signs.
Michael is better in public. His children have a trust fund which requires income for posterity. Michael's children could enlarge their inheritance by having the public visit a more public grave site. The public would like to periodically visit the man who sang them through hard times from 1960 to 2009. Always bringing a smile.
Michael hated to sleep alone. He always wanted someone near when he slept. A childhood fear? He would not like to rest forever without the protection of his fans and friends. He would like to be observed.
The Jackson family bought 12 of these super expensive grave tombs with trust funds. Why? This is a waste of the kid's trust funds. Only Michael is a superstar. Michael's kids and their spouses may want spots. So, who will be in the other tombs? Joe Jackson - to haunt Michael forever? LaToya and her wild friend? Jermaine? The court should decide if this is a waste of the kid's trust funds. I believe it is.
Michael Jackson will be put ito a special mausoleum at Forest Lawn today There are stained glass windows and lots of statues in the building. The doors lock to keep everyone out-except family. No fans can get near.
This is very anti-Michael because he loved his fans. Except for his children and some special friends, Michael was energized buy having fans near. Fans kept his name alive - long after family had started to ignore him. Fans asked for help for Michael - while family denied he had any problems and could not see his drug use signs.
Michael is better in public. His children have a trust fund which requires income for posterity. Michael's children could enlarge their inheritance by having the public visit a more public grave site. The public would like to periodically visit the man who sang them through hard times from 1960 to 2009. Always bringing a smile.
Michael hated to sleep alone. He always wanted someone near when he slept. A childhood fear? He would not like to rest forever without the protection of his fans and friends. He would like to be observed.
The Jackson family bought 12 of these super expensive grave tombs with trust funds. Why? This is a waste of the kid's trust funds. Only Michael is a superstar. Michael's kids and their spouses may want spots. So, who will be in the other tombs? Joe Jackson - to haunt Michael forever? LaToya and her wild friend? Jermaine? The court should decide if this is a waste of the kid's trust funds. I believe it is.
Saturday, April 19, 2008
CENTRAL VALLEY CRIME VERY HIGH
BEWARE!! CENTRAL VALLEY CRIME VERY HIGH. More thieves, crooks, thugs, murderers living in the Fresno / Merced area than anywhere else in California.
Yes, so say government statistics today. This means be cautious with the safety of you and your family. Fresno was thirteenth in the COUNTRY!!! Out of all those thousands of US cities, Fresno is the thirteenth most dangerous place in the US.
We are the home of Scott Peterson, one of the most notorious murderers of all time. A man who wanted to get rid of his wife and his in-utero baby... so he, believing she was disposable, killed her while she slept, put her in a plastic bag and dumped her into the San Francisco bay. After all, he had a girlfriend and wanted to move on as a single man.
BEWARE!! CENTRAL VALLEY CRIME VERY HIGH. More thieves, crooks, thugs, murderers living in the Fresno / Merced area than anywhere else in California.
Yes, so say government statistics today. This means be cautious with the safety of you and your family. Fresno was thirteenth in the COUNTRY!!! Out of all those thousands of US cities, Fresno is the thirteenth most dangerous place in the US.
We are the home of Scott Peterson, one of the most notorious murderers of all time. A man who wanted to get rid of his wife and his in-utero baby... so he, believing she was disposable, killed her while she slept, put her in a plastic bag and dumped her into the San Francisco bay. After all, he had a girlfriend and wanted to move on as a single man.
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Madera and Merced are highest rated areas for identity theft according to the Consumer Sentinel, a complaint database maintained by the Federal Trade Commission. Around 3 in 10 families find fraud by missing money in accounts or other monetary losses.
Dwight McPherson, a patient admissions rep on the night shift at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center in New York, allegedly sold information on about 2,000 patients for a total of $1,350, according to federal court documents cited by the New York Post.
Postal inspectors searching an identity-theft ring in Atlanta found 221 documents that had come from New York-Presbyterian Hospital, the Post reported. Hospital officials found McPherson used his computer login to improperly access the files of 49,841 patients. The stolen documents included patients’ names, phone numbers and Social Security numbers.
The Fresno Chamber of Commerce states it requires social security numbers and a credit check before they will endorse a candidate in an election. The Chamber promises only a few people see the information and the information is shredded afterwards. I believe this is an abuse of power by a Chamber of Commerce. There is no reason for the disclosure to be made. Should the candidates be able to do credit checks on the Chamber officers, to ensure they are of good character also?
Everyone wants your private data. Younger people are much more likely to give it out without much question, since all of their data has been put into computers years ago. I urge everyone to keep some part of your identity private. The only people who need your correct birthdate and social security number are the government ([IRS, DMV, Passport Office, Medical Office (if your using insurance) etc.], your employer, the bank and other related financial groups that report to the IRS, and even then many use Employer Identification Numbers etc.. Don’t give this info to lay businesses or others who may request it.
Consumers reported losses of nearly $1.2 billion from fraud. Don’t let businesses automatically withdraw funds from your bank accounts. If you allow a business to withdraw money automatically from your credit card, you must get rid of that card – report it as lost to the credit card company – and tell them no charges on a new card. Do not let AOL get your checking information. They will be stealing from your account for years after you have tried to stop them. Again, you may have to close the bank account to get them out of your money.
You are entitled to a free annual credit report. Annualcreditreport.com Credit reporting companies often have incorrect information in their files. Unfortunately mant businesses use credit reports when hiring new employees, so get your free annual report. Insist that corrections be made – and you can insert a letter of explanation if they refuse. You can take them to court if they are continuing to distribute false information about you and you are suffering negative repercussions.
Madera police have historically not done much about home and vehicle burglaries. So, for many years this type of crime has been, and continues to be, an open and lucretive endeavor for many. Backpacks in cars, purses at home and in cars, personal papers lying about are all fair game for fraud. Even if you are in your home garden, or other spot nearby, the thieves will enter your home, hoping they will not be seen, and take what they can - which can be alot.
Dwight McPherson, a patient admissions rep on the night shift at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center in New York, allegedly sold information on about 2,000 patients for a total of $1,350, according to federal court documents cited by the New York Post.
Postal inspectors searching an identity-theft ring in Atlanta found 221 documents that had come from New York-Presbyterian Hospital, the Post reported. Hospital officials found McPherson used his computer login to improperly access the files of 49,841 patients. The stolen documents included patients’ names, phone numbers and Social Security numbers.
The Fresno Chamber of Commerce states it requires social security numbers and a credit check before they will endorse a candidate in an election. The Chamber promises only a few people see the information and the information is shredded afterwards. I believe this is an abuse of power by a Chamber of Commerce. There is no reason for the disclosure to be made. Should the candidates be able to do credit checks on the Chamber officers, to ensure they are of good character also?
Everyone wants your private data. Younger people are much more likely to give it out without much question, since all of their data has been put into computers years ago. I urge everyone to keep some part of your identity private. The only people who need your correct birthdate and social security number are the government ([IRS, DMV, Passport Office, Medical Office (if your using insurance) etc.], your employer, the bank and other related financial groups that report to the IRS, and even then many use Employer Identification Numbers etc.. Don’t give this info to lay businesses or others who may request it.
Consumers reported losses of nearly $1.2 billion from fraud. Don’t let businesses automatically withdraw funds from your bank accounts. If you allow a business to withdraw money automatically from your credit card, you must get rid of that card – report it as lost to the credit card company – and tell them no charges on a new card. Do not let AOL get your checking information. They will be stealing from your account for years after you have tried to stop them. Again, you may have to close the bank account to get them out of your money.
You are entitled to a free annual credit report. Annualcreditreport.com Credit reporting companies often have incorrect information in their files. Unfortunately mant businesses use credit reports when hiring new employees, so get your free annual report. Insist that corrections be made – and you can insert a letter of explanation if they refuse. You can take them to court if they are continuing to distribute false information about you and you are suffering negative repercussions.
Madera police have historically not done much about home and vehicle burglaries. So, for many years this type of crime has been, and continues to be, an open and lucretive endeavor for many. Backpacks in cars, purses at home and in cars, personal papers lying about are all fair game for fraud. Even if you are in your home garden, or other spot nearby, the thieves will enter your home, hoping they will not be seen, and take what they can - which can be alot.
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