1966
Do you remember the events of 1966?
- The Vietnam War was ongoing
- The Supreme Court ruled on Miranda v. Arizona, stating police must inform suspects of their rights before questioning them.
- The Beatles released “Revolver”
- Actor Ronald Reagan was elected Governor of California
- “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” was shown on TV for the first time
- Dow Jones hit a high of 950
- A gallon of gas cost $0.32
- My sister Kate was born
- Air conditioning was installed in the Capitol Building in Sacramento
- The California legislature went full time
Air conditioning a notable event? Well for those of us who don’t have air conditioning right now, 101°F today, it would definitely be a big event. Even more importantly, is what followed in our state Capitol. The heat of Sacramento no longer limited the Legislatures desire to be there in the summer. Instead of having a limited session, our “leaders” were able to stay in Sacramento and create mischief and mayhem longer. While there are a few stars, Senator Mimi Walters to name one, who stand on principle and do the right thing, the vast majority of politicians have made a career out of politics. Decisions based not on what is a good for the state, but what will get them more financial support for their next election. (Or in some cases, the less nefarious but still troubling less financial opposition for their next election!)
I am intrigued by a new movement a foot to return our legislature to pre-1966 format. Citizens for California Reform (www.reformcal.com) led by Gabriella Holt is collecting signatures to put a measure on the ballot next year to return California back to a part time legislature. The website, especially the Learn More section with a history of CA government structure is worth a perusal. (One of my favorites, in 1911, each member of the legislature could only propose 2 bills a session!) Is this the right approach? I don’t know, but if I am on a diet, I try to stay out of the kitchen. Seems like it might work for the politicians too.
My Best,
Mary