The Senate Republican plan contains specific recommendations for cuts or suspension of programs operated by the State Library. In most cases, the Senate Republicans recommend that the majority of the library programs be reduced by 10 percent, not the 5 percent reduction that the Budget Conference Committee ultimately adopted. Specifically, the Senate Republicans are proposing:

The IRS has acknowledged the soaring cost of gas by raising the tax deduction for mileage to 58.5 cents per mile - but the rate for driving by volunteers remains at 14 cents, as it has for 10 years. Susan J. Ellis's article examines this unfair treatment of volunteers and urges a write-in campaign to make some much-needed changes.

What Can We Do? Get involved!

The only way to change the current mileage deduction is through the legislative process. Congress must pass a law and the President must sign it.

Write to your Representatives and Senators, and get everyone you know to write too. You can make a difference. This is the sample letter from her article that can be inserted into an e-mail or printed for a letter.

You can find out who your Representative is and e-mail them by using this form at the U.S. House of Representatives website.

You can e-mail Senator Feinstein from her website.

You can e-mail Senator Boxer from her website.

This is easy to do when you use these links! So tell your friends to come here, use these links, and make a difference.

Get ready for the Round Up!
We're rounding everybody up for the READ/OC 14th Annual Family Picnic and Appreciation Celebration (AFPAC) on Saturday, September 6, 2008. It's sure to be a "Hoot and a Holler" for everyone. We are going to be rustling up some good ole Barbeque in addition to lots of fun and games. So mark your calendar and come on out for some fun, Western style! If you're interested in helping us put this event together, please get in touch with the Recognition Activities Committee We'd love to have you join us!
Save the Date! Saturday, September 6th. (fun, short video)