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Hometown California tells the Rural California story through the eyes of those who live, work, and play in the rural communities of the Golden State. Hometown California is a production of the Rural County Representatives of California (RCRC), a thirty-seven member county strong organization, advocating on behalf of California’s rural counties for nearly fifty years.
33 Episodes
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On this episode of Hometown California our host, Paul A. Smith, sits down for a conversation with Jim Ogsbury, Executive Director of the Western Governors Association (WGA). Together, Paul and Jim discuss the work of the WGA, who they are, and the intersection with rural California and the Rural County Representatives of California. With membership that includes the Governors of the 22 western-most states and territories of the United States, including California Governor Gavin Newsom, WGA is largely an instrument of bi-partisan policy development, information exchange, and collective action on mutual interests. Listen in to hear about how Executive Director Jim Ogsbury came to lead an organization of twenty-two elected Governors, how the organization operates, and how such an ideologically diverse group of members come together to develop policies that drive the organization forward, Find out about some of WGA's successes influencing federal policymaking in the areas of forest and federal lands management, endangered species, and more. And learn what is on the horizon as WGA continues to collaborate on issues impacting the western United States, Find out more about WGA: On the websiteFollow on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn
In the latest episode of Hometown California, our host, Paul A. Smith, sits down for a conversation with California State Assembly Member, Jim Wood. Learn about his path to politics-- from dentistry to the State Assembly— and how his experiences in rural California have influenced his priorities in the Legislature. Listen as Assembly Member Wood discusses healthcare, cannabis, vegetation management, wildfire, and so much more.
In this episode of Hometown California, our host, Paul A. Smith, speaks with Rich Gordon, President and CEO of the California Forestry Association (soon-to-be retired). Aside from being at the CA Forestry Association, Mr. Gordon has a long history service in California. Back to the early days of his political career when he was elected to the San Mateo County Board of Education, what sparked his interest in getting involved with public education and public policy making?After 13 years on the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors, find out why Rich still describes it as "the best electoral job in California." And, find out what motivated him to become President of the statewide association, a sister organization of RCRC, the California State Association of Counties (CSAC), and hear about highlights of his leadership years.Listen to learn how Rich fell in love with rural California, went on to serve in the California State Assembly, and so much more. His fascinating journey, from his first elected position nearly 20 years ago to his current role, will give you a glimpse of how his experiences have impacted Rich Gordon's understanding of California’s rural counties.Find out more about the California Forestry Association On the Web: calforests.orgFollow on Twitter: @CalForestsFind on Facebook: @CalForestsCFA
In this episode, our host, Paul A. Smith, sits down for a conversation with Patrick "Pat" Blacklock, the new President and CEO of RCRC. Learn how Pat's journey in the county family began, what led him to RCRC, and his vision for RCRC's advocacy and support of rural counties. At what Californians hope may be the tail end of pandemic shutdowns, in a redistricting year with new challenges brought about by the pandemic, and with a gubernatorial recall election on the horizon, hear how Pat is looking toward the future as he begins to lead RCRC in these unique times.Having worked as CAO of both Amador and Yolo counties, Pat shares his perspective on the similarities and differences of rural California counties. Listen in to hear what Pat sees as priorities for RCRC, his plans for setting the organization’s path for the future, and his secret to maintaining work/life balance when counties run 24/7.Find RCRC on the Web: rcrcnet.orgon Twitter: @ruralcounties on Facebook: @ruralcountieson Instagram: @ca_ruralcountiesRedistricting webinar recordings and other resources
On this episode of Hometown California, our host, Paul A. Smith, speaks with Staci Heaton, the Rural County Representatives of California (RCRC) Acting Vice President of Governmental Affairs, about California’s perennial wildfires. As an RCRC advocate for more than 15 years, Staci’s focus has primarily been fire and forestry issues, things involving climate change, and managing the wildfire issues of California. Together, Paul and Staci discuss factors contributing to the ferocity of the fires, and potential solutions to address this growing problem. RCRC has worked tirelessly on the issue of forest management and wildfire prevention for decades. This year, RCRC’s Board of Directors adopted a Wildfire Package, a multipronged collection of legislative proposals, to address the systemic needs forest management and wildfire prevention in the State. Listen in to hear why more state leaders seem to be taking notice, how short-term needs are being addressed, and what more remains to be done. Find Rural County Representatives of CaliforniaOn the web: rcrcnet.orgFacebook: ruralcountiesTwitter: @RuralCountiesInstagram: ca_ruralcounties
In this episode of Hometown California, recorded in Washington D.C., our host, Paul A. Smith, sits down with Sheryl Cohen and Chris Israel of American Continental Group (ACG), to give listeners a deeper look at the early days of the 117th Congress. Together they discuss a myriad of issues, includingthe politics of the recovery package;the twin priorities of infrastructure and climate;politics under the dome: leadership, bipartisanship, and looking ahead to 2022; andthe differences and similarities in the White House under the Biden Administration.Find ACG Advocacy online.Website: https://www.acg-consultants.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/acgconsultants.com/
From Washington D.C., our host, Paul A. Smith, checks in on the political pulse in a conversation with Leah Askarinam of the National Journal, Editor-in-Chief of the Hotline at the National Journal. With a new administration in the White House, a change of control in the U.S. Senate, and a razor-thin margin of control in the U.S. House of Representatives as a result of the last election, Paul and Leah discuss what’s going on in the White House and Congress. Find out more about the politics of the American Rescue Plan, the pandemic and how things are shaping-up for the 2022 General Election - which congressional seats are up for election, who is retiring, who will be facing primary challenges, and how this impacts policy-making at the federal level.National Journal on the Web: nationaljournal.comNational Journal's Hotline on Twitter: @njhotline
Jeremy White, co-writer of Politico's California Playbook, returns to Hometown California to share his insights about the effort to recall California Governor Gavin Newsom. Our host, Paul A. Smith, RCRC Vice President for Government Affairs, dives in to find out how a gubernatorial recall—an idea that was once seen as outlying political chatter — has become a real and present threat to Governor Newsom’s political future.Is this recall going to happen?What are the origins of the recall effort and what makes this effort feel real?Where is the money coming from?Does the Governor have a strategy for overcoming this?What are the political implications if the recall effort is successful?Is this indicative of a national trend, or is this unique to California?Listen as Jeremy shares his insights and predictions about the recall effort. Visit Politico on the web at politico.comFollow Politico California on Twitter @politicocaCalifornia Playbook: Subscribe Here
In this episode of Hometown California, RCRC Senior Vice President for Governmental Affairs, Paul Smith, speaks with Lassen County Sheriff Dean Growdon about the realities of being a peace officer in rural California. In the small and remote County of Lassen, Sheriff Growdon serves as both Sheriff and Coroner, as do many of his counterparts in other rural areas of the State. Home to two state prisons, one federal prison, and a military base, Lassen County has some unique law enforcement challenges. Hear how law enforcement in a rural county-- and particularly in a very, very rural county-- is different than other areas of the State. Sheriff Growdon discusses the importance of mutual aid and explains how customer service and community assistance are keys for successful crime prevention. Listen as Sheriff Growdon talks about the challenges of some state mandates and how COVID-19 has impacted law enforcement and community support in Lassen County during the pandemic.
On this episode, RCRC Senior Vice President for Governmental Affairs, Paul Smith, speaks to State Controller, Betty Yee. Paul and Controller Yee discuss the importance of the relationship between the State and Counties of California and how the two intersect in managing and deploying state resources. With over 35 years in the public sector, learn about how Ms. Yee’s foray into public service began at a very young age. Hear about the role of the Controller’s Office, the audits, and role of the office in financial policy. Hear insights about the financial health of rural California counties and the factors that have influenced the evolving landscape of rural county finances. Listen as Controller Yee speaks of the myriad of pressures on the finances of counties including pension obligations, health and human services, state mandates, and more.
In the latest episode of Hometown California, RCRC’s Senior Vice President for Governmental Affairs, Paul A. Smith, holds a conversation about political reform, the state of California politics, and influential ballot measures in an interview with Bob Stern, J.D., a man with a long history of influence in California politics.Bob Stern made his mark on California politics In the 1970's, as the co-author of California's Political Reform Act (1974). And, his influence doesn't stop there. When former Governor Jerry Brown was Secretary of State, Stern served as his Elections Counsel. He also became the first General Counsel of the California Fair Political Practices Commission, and was the former President of the Center for Governmental Studies (a non-profit research organization). He has been a mover-and-shaker of California politics for many decades. Listen in as Paul and Bob discuss the impact of political reform in California, what's working, and what could be better. Hear Bob's insights about influential ballot measures of the past, as well as the present. And, listen as Bob shares his thoughts about the impact COVID-19 is having on the state, and about the political divisions-- both in the state and the nation-- that have become prominent in recent years.
Our host, Paul A. Smith, sits down for a conversation with the 2021 Chair of RCRC, Mono County Supervisor Stacy Corless. After facing a year of devastating wildfires, a global pandemic, and the resulting changes to everyday life, we enter 2021 with new resolve and hope. Although uncertain what the immediate future holds, Supervisor Corless is focused on the comprehensive wildfire response and long-term recovery necessary for rural California and its communities to survive and thrive. In this episode, get a glimpse of the inspiration that drives Supervisor Corless as a leader in one of California’s smallest counties. Hear about her experience as a county leader through what was arguably one of the toughest years in recent history, and about her vision for RCRC in the year ahead.
In this episode, our host, Paul A. Smith speaks with the Dr. Michael V. Drake, the 21st President of the University of California about the intersection of the UC and rural communities of the Golden State. For many rural communities, the significance of the UC goes beyond the education, licensing, and credentialing it provides. Partnerships between the UC and rural communities have a considerable impact as well. One of the most important UC programs involved in rural communities is the Agriculture and Natural Resources (UCANR) Cooperative Extension. Listen in, as Paul and Dr. Drake discuss the funding and the future of that program as well as other topics such as enrollment trends, distance learning and broadband deployment, and how the pandemic has impacted the University as a whole.Check out these helpful links to learn more about the University of California and get connected:UC HomepageUCANR Cooperative ExtensionMore ways to connect with UC ANRConnect on FacebookFollow on Twitter @ucanrFollow On InstagramSubscribe to the YouTube Channel
California voters decided the fate of twelve ballot measures during the 2020 General Election this year. In August, our host, Paul A. Smith, spoke with Jeremy B. White of Politico in a two-part series during which we looked at each ballot measure, what each proclaimed to do, and where the money was coming from. There was special emphasis on what each measure would mean for rural counties, and a look at the position taken on each measure by the Board of Directors of the Rural County Representatives of California (RCRC). In this episode, Jeremey B. White of Politico returns for an examination of how each measure faired when put before the voters. In a conversation with our host, Paul A. Smith, Jeremy shares his insights about what may have contributed to the wins and losses, what we can ascertain about the California electorate, and which measures we can expect to see before the voters again in the future. If you missed the original series, you can catch up now to hear how the conversation began.Episode 5- Propositions 14 through 18 (English or Spanish)Episode 6- Propositions 19 through 25 (English or Spanish)Visit Politico on the web at politico.comFollow Politico California on Twitter @politicocaCalifornia Playbook: Subscribe Here
In this episode, our host, Paul A. Smith, sits down with Assembly Member Frank Bigelow for a conversation about his experience being a representative for rural California in the State Legislature. Assembly Member Bigelow shares about his transition from local government to state politics, the challenges of being in the political minority in the California State Legislature, and how he builds relationships and stays focused on common ground to be an effective voice for rural California. He opens up about the personal impact of this year's devastating wildfires and the global pandemic that has created unique challenges for rural areas. Elected to the Madera County Board of Supervisors in 1998, Bigelow was later elected to the California State Assembly where he currently represents California Assembly District 5. The district is comprised of the RCRC member counties of Alpine, Amador, Calaveras, El Dorado, Madera, Mariposa, Mono, Tuolumne, and a bit of Placer.
On Thursday, as election votes were being counted, our host, Paul A. Smith, spoke with National Journal Hotline Editor-in-Chief, Leah Askarinam about what we reliably know, what is expected based on trends and counts so far, and what still hangs in the balance. Listen as Paul and Leah breakdown the early return dynamics in this latest episode of the Hometown California 2020 Election series. Why is the Presidential Race so much closer than most pundits expected?But for the personality of Donald Trump, would Republicans have easily won this election?How has the anticipated realignment of the national electorate played out?Who’s going to control the U.S. Senate and what’s going on in California’s key House Races? And the question on everyone’s mind….How are the results shaping up against Paul’s election predictions?As the nation waits, listen in to gain timely insights.National Journal on the Web: nationaljournal.comNational Journal's Hotline on Twitter: @njhotline
Just days before the 2020 Election, our host Paul A. Smith, speaks with Leah Askarinam of the National Journal to take one last look at polling and trends leading up to Election Day. With early voting well underway in many states, Leah and Paul discuss the hottest races in California and across the nation. Leah is the Editor-in-Chief of the Hotline at the National Journal and has been a guest on previous episodes of Hometown California, providing her insight about the Presidential race and key congressional races.In this episode:Will Donald Trump hold on to the White House?Will this election flip the balance of power in the U.S. Senate? What will the House of Representatives look like when the dust settles?Listen in to the conversation, and catch the predictions in this episode of Hometown California.And be on the lookout for a post-election wrap up when Paul and Leah examine the outcome in the days following what promises to an unforgettable race.Previous episodes in the November 2020 Election series with Leah Askarinam:Episode 08- The Presidential Election 2020 (The Race for the White House)Episode 09- The Battle for the U.S. Senate 2020Episode 10- U.S. House Races 2020Episode 11- Election Check-InNational Journal on the Web: nationaljournal.comNational Journal's Hotline on Twitter: @njhotline
Our host, Paul A. Smith, speaks with Randy Moore, head of the Pacific Southwest Region (Region 5) of the U.S. Forest Service, about the work of managing California's forests and wildlands in these trying times of record-setting wildfires amid a global pandemic. In this episode:How is the U.S. Forest Service structured for managing forests nationally and forest-by-forest?How does the Shared Stewardship Agreement between the U.S. Forest Service and CAL FIRE impact rural communities and the future of California's National Forests?How is the U.S. Forest Service partnering with RCRC's Golden State Natural Resources (GSNR) to benefit and protect rural communities?How has COVID-19 impacted the activities of the U.S. Forest Service?How could the outcome of the Presidential election impact forest service policy and the initiatives underway?Find out more about the Pacific Southwest Region of the U.S. Forest Service:Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/r5Twitter: @usfs_r5Facebook: @usforestserviceYouTube: usdaForestService
During a visit to Washington D.C. in early October, our host, Paul A. Smith, sat down with Matt Chase, CEO and Executive Director of the National Association of Counties (NACo), RCRC's national advocacy partner, for a conversation about the important work NACo does on behalf of and in partnership with counties across the nation.NACo represents counties as intergovernmental partner, driving federal policy on behalf of America's counties. Beyond federal advocacy, NACo addresses national policy trends and works with county governments as policymakers to meet the needs of communities. Listen in to learn more.What is NACo and how is the organization structured?What is the role of NACo with California and rural California?What are NACo's advocacy priorities, and how does NACo work in partnership with local and federal governments to find solutions to long term problems?How can listeners get involved?Check out NACo on the web: naco.orgFollow NACo on Social Media: Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn
In a typical election year, Congress would break by October 1st, as members hit the campaign trail. But 2020 has proved again and again to be anything but typical. Our host, RCRC's Paul A. Smith, sits down with two of the most respected advocates on the Hill, Sheryl Cohen of the American Continental Group (ACG) and Kevin Eastman of PACE LLP., for a discussion about the closing weeks of the 116th Congress.Recorded in Washington D.C. on the day President Trump's coronavirus diagnosis was announced, Kevin and Sheryl share their insights about the successes and failures of the 116th, the vacancy on the Supreme Court due to the passing of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and what to expect in a Lame Duck and the 117th Congress.About ACG: acg-consultants.comAbout PACE LLP: pacellp.com
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