Youth, Interrupted

Youth, Interrupted

Youth, Interrupted Pandemic makes kids grow up faster By Natalie Michaels April 2021 Before the pandemic, Yolanda Melchor was a regular at the 12th and R streets Starbucks. Since lockdown, the sophomore at The Met Sacramento abandoned what was once a frequent stop on...
Not So Fast

Not So Fast

Sacramento city planners say single-family zoning must go. For now, the City Council agrees. Unfortunately, the city has failed to consider the negative impact of this proposal. There’s no fact-based justification for it.

The proposed 2040 General Plan, which takes effect next year, seeks to eliminate single-family zoning. It would allow fourplexes on any single-family lot. Under state law, two Accessory Dwelling Units (or in-law units) are already permitted. This means up to six residential units would be allowed on lots currently zoned for single-family homes.

Call to Action

Call to Action

The Martin Luther King, Jr., Sacramento Region Essay Contest was created to engage youth in King’s legacy, vision and leadership. Reflecting on Congressman John Lewis’ fight for civil rights through peaceful protests, youth writers were asked to (with COVID-19 health guidelines in mind) “describe an injustice that you see in today’s society and what you can do to address the issue and advancement of John Lewis’ call to action.” The contest was open to middle and high school students in Sacramento, Yolo, Placer, El Dorado and Sutter counties. Inside Sacramento is pleased to publish the top two winning essays

Under the Microscope

Under the Microscope

The low profile historically maintained by Sacramento County government has been upended and thrown into the spotlight with accusations of sexism, racism and mismanagement by top leaders.

The county’s chief executive, Nav Gill, was placed on paid administrative leave during a personnel investigation. He became a punching bag for critics who say the county mishandled federal pandemic relief funds. Accusations involving racist and sexist behavior were raised about his performance as the county’s financial watchdog. The Board of Supervisors appointed Ann Edwards as interim county executive. She formerly headed the Department of Human Assistance.

Police Reform

Police Reform

Sacramento Police have begun a monumental overhaul in culture, recruitment, training and response to establish the department as a national leader for progressive law enforcement.

From the trust its officers derive among community members to its reaction to gun violence, protest marches, mental health emergencies and homelessness, the police department is using data-driven research and street experience to reshape its practices and reform the way it does business.

Wilted Dreams

Wilted Dreams

As the owner of a florist shop, I’ve been in the business of emotions for two decades helping folks mark special occasions and milestones. But today those occasions are as scarce as people in Downtown Sacramento. And my emotions revolve around a lifeless and mostly empty Downtown as I struggle with how we can bring it back to its old vibrant self.

I remember how devastated I felt in March when the pandemic shutdown orders were issued. I felt the rug had been pulled out from under my feet. There is nothing worse than experiencing a loss of control over your life and livelihood after years of successfully managing a business.