THE TARNISHING OF THE GOLDEN STATE

Rush Limbaugh discussed the recall of Governor Davis, and the continuing spiral of unfavorable conditions driving businesses out of the state of California. The same conditions also discourage new or expanding commercial enterprises from seeking locations anywhere within our state. He hit all the hot buttons, among which are over-regulation of commercial enterprises, high costs associated with employees, high taxes, high insurance rates of all types, run-away costs of workman’s compensation, and the state’s abominable financial condition. He pointed out that our poor financial condition not only affects the state, but also the entire United States as a result of our dominant position as one of the largest economies in the world.

On Father’s Day I got a personal taste of the tarnishing of the Golden State. While sitting by the pool with my son Joe Sullivan, watching my granddaughter Kati, soon to be a teen-ager, and my ten year old grandson Joe Sullivan (Tad) play in the water, my son said, “Pop, we’re leaving California, moving to Tennessee. I can’t afford to live in California any longer.”

To understand the impact of that statement, you have to know “The rest of the story.” Over 18 years ago, my son managed a Ryder Rental and Repair Depot in Maryland. As a result of repeated visits to us, he fell in love with California, and in 1988 took a voluntary downgrade to a “wrench twister” at the Ryder West Sacramento Depot to get here. While living in the City of Sacramento both Kati and Tad were born, and later began their education in the City Unified School District. A few years ago, he, Suzi, and the grandchildren moved to Cameron Park in El Dorado County. In the interim son Joe became one of four Ryder employees responsible for computer programming of logistic management, and maintenance training of Ryder personnel throughout the United States and Canada. His office is in his home, and he reports to Corporate Headquarters in Miami, Florida. His decision to move makes sense as he can literally halve his living costs; as two-thirds of his work is along the east coast; greatly reduce much of his travel time; and at the same time save his employer money.

What California is about to lose is a highly trained, skilled, very well paid citizen and community volunteer, who has watched his state degrade to the point that it no longer is a desirable place for he and his family to live. And Kay and I lose my son, his wife, and two of my lovely grandchildren. So much for the Golden state that used to be the envy of all living outside its’ boundaries.

Joe Sullivan

MEA CULPA

Last month I told the story about receiving mistaken telephone calls at the League Office for the Sacramento County Assessors Office, and referring callers to telephone number 874-5231. I received a call from County Assessor Ken Stieger telling me that not only has he moved into new quarters, but also that the Assessor’s Office new telephone number is 875-0700. My mistake, and I apologize Ken.

Joe Sullivan