June 2021 California Department of Fish and Wildlife Calendar

All calendar items are subject to change as we navigate the COVID-19 pandemic. Please continue to adhere to all safety protocols including physical distancing, wearing masks and frequent hand washing.

Wildlife areas, ecological reserves and other properties may be closed due to wildfire damage. Hunters and outdoor enthusiasts are strongly encouraged to check for closures before leaving on any recreational trip.

Various Days — Bat Talk and Walk Events, Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area, 45211 County Road 32 B, Davis (95618). Did you know that an estimated 250,000 bats live under the Yolo Causeway during the summer? Yolo Basin Foundation hosts popular Bat Talk and Walk events where you can learn all about these amazing and beneficial animals and watch the “flyout” of the largest urban colony of Mexican free-tailed bats in California! This summer, the talk portion will be held via Zoom and the walk portion will be an in-person event to view the flyout from under the Yolo Causeway at sunset. These events are held on various dates from June to September. For more information and to register, please visit www.yolobasin.org/bats2021.

Various Days — Nimbus Hatchery Virtual Tot Time, 10 to 10:30 a.m. June 8, 15, 22 and 29. The popular story time program hosted by Nimbus Hatchery is back in a virtual format! Join us for nature-themed stories, songs, dancing and more! These free events are designed for ages 3-5. To register, please visit us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_z6vFhcBFRZ2QMTD4yLlOPQ. For more information, please contact Stephanie Ambrosia at stephanie.ambrosia@wildlife.ca.gov or (916) 597-7752. 

1 — Commercial Dungeness Crab Season Closes Statewide, pursuant to the Risk Assessment and Mitigation Program (Section 132.8, Title 14, CCR). All commercial Dungeness crab gear must be removed from ocean waters by 12 p.m. (noon) on June 1. This closure does not apply to other commercial crab fisheries (e.g., rock crab) or to the recreational crab fishery. More information is available at wildlife.ca.gov/conservation/marine/whale-safe-fisheries.

1 — California Grunion Season Opens. For more information, please visit wildlife.ca.gov/fishing/ocean/grunion.

1 & 3 — Bat Talk and Walk Volunteer Training. You can get involved as a volunteer and view the bats of the Yolo Causeway several times throughout your summer! There are various volunteer positions available, both in-person and from home, and trainings to prepare you. Please visit www.yolobasin.org/volunteer to apply to volunteer.

2 — Big Game Drawing Deadline. The deadline to submit applications for elk, pronghorn, bighorn sheep and premium deer tags is June 2. Sales transactions must be completed before midnight. Hunters may apply at a CDFW license agent, online at www.ca.wildlifelicense.com/internetsales or through telephone sales at (800) 565-1458. For more information, please visit wildlife.ca.gov/licensing/hunting/big-game.

5 — Discovery Lab: Seeds! 1 to 2 p.m. Explore seeds up close in this virtual, livestreamed microscope lab. Reserve naturalists will share a sampling of native and invasive seeds found in California and highlight their unique adaptations for survival. This event is free and will be livestreamed to the Elkhorn Slough Reserve Facebook page. For details on how to view, please visit www.elkhornslough.org/events/discovery-lab-seeds.

5-13 — California Invasive Species Action Week. Everyone can help stop the spread of invasive species that damage California’s natural resources and economy. While most activities remain virtual this year, there is a schedule of lunchtime webinars and opportunities at wildlife.ca.gov/conservation/invasives/action-week to learn about actions you can take all year long. Students in grades 8 and higher can visit the Back Bay Science Center’s website at www.backbaysciencecenter.org/invasive-species-lesson to participate in a Citizen Science project and virtual activity on aquatic invasive species. Watch CDFW’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/CaliforniaDFW all week for more information and helpful tips.

6 — Great Yolo Causeway Bat Count, Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area, 45211 County Road 32 B, Davis (95618). Would you like to volunteer to help with this annual daytime count of one of the largest bat roosts in California? Your efforts will build on our population monitoring program and increase our knowledge of the ecology of this colony of insect-eating Mexican free-tailed bats (Tadarida brasiliensis). All activities will be outdoors. Updates and logistical details will be sent to participants in the coming weeks and the tasks and teams will be finalized as the date draws closer. Several Zoom orientations will be offered in advance to make sure all your questions are answered. Please visit https://bit.ly/2RVeLbV to sign up.

7 — Lost or Abandoned Commercial Dungeness Crab Trap Gear Retrieval Program Begins. Pursuant to the CDFW Director’s May 18, 2021 declaration, lost or abandoned commercial Dungeness crab trap gear can be retrieved under the Trap Gear Retrieval Program (Section 132.7, Title 14, CCR) beginning at 12 p.m. (noon) on June 7, 2021 until September 30, 2021. CDFW is currently accepting applications from qualified entities (sport or commercial fishing associations, harbors, port districts and non-profits). Program participants can receive compensation for retrieved gear from either the original owner or CDFW. More information is available at wildlife.ca.gov/conservation/marine/whale-safe-fisheries.

10 — Invasive Species Webinar, 10 to 10:45 a.m. Find out what an invasive species is and how to fight back against its spread in this free Zoom webinar presented by the Nimbus Hatchery. To register, please visit us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_HeWVG24cQruDD3qAgkvkUg. For more information, please contact Stephanie Ambrosia at stephanie.ambrosia@wildlife.ca.gov or (916) 597-7752. 

16— Shared Habitat Alliance for Recreational Enhancement (SHARE) Access Permit Applications on Sale for Fall Elk Hunts. Ninety-two SHARE elk tags will be available during 60 elk hunts offered through the SHARE program. An $11.50 non-refundable application fee (plus handling fees) will be charged for each hunt choice. For more information, please visit wildlife.ca.gov/hunting/share.

16-17 — California Fish and Game Commission Meeting, time to be determined. The meeting is to be held via webinar/teleconference due to health and safety concerns related to COVID-19. For more information, please visit fgc.ca.gov.

26 — Recreational Ocean Salmon Season Opens from Point Arena to Pigeon Point. For more information, please visit the Ocean Salmon webpage at wildlife.ca.gov/fishing/ocean/regulations/salmon or call either the CDFW Ocean Salmon Regulations Hotline at (707) 576-3429 or the National Marine Fisheries Service Ocean Salmon Regulations Hotline at (800) 662-9825.

26 — Aquatic WILD Virtual Workshop, 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. This one-day workshop for elementary school teachers takes a deep dive into aquatic habitats and their animals! Participants leave with the Aquatic Wild guide to hundreds of fun and engaging lessons and activities and skills to lead field investigations at their school or on the Elkhorn Slough Reserve. This workshop is free, but registration is required. For more details and to register, please visit www.elkhornslough.org/events/aquatic-wild-teacher-workshop-210626.

29 — Recreational Ocean Salmon Season Opens from the Oregon/California State Line to Point Arena. For more information, please visit the Ocean Salmon webpage at wildlife.ca.gov/fishing/ocean/regulations/salmon or call either the CDFW Ocean Salmon Regulations Hotline at (707) 576-3429 or the National Marine Fisheries Service Ocean Salmon Regulations Hotline at (800) 662-9825.

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Media Contact: Amanda McDermott, CDFW Communications, (916) 322-8907

Diving Into Summer: DEM Offering a Variety of Summer Programs for Adults, Families and Youth

PROVIDENCE – Looking for fun outdoor activities this summer? The Department of Environmental Management’s (DEM) Division of Fish and Wildlife has you covered! From fishing days and archery lessons to hunter education and virtual wildlife conservation programs, there’s something for everyone. DEM’s Aquatic Resource Education, Hunter Education, and Wildlife Outreach program staff have planned a summer full of opportunities for youth and adults to learn about Rhode Island’s fish and wildlife resources or try out a new outdoor skill.

“Summer is the perfect time to get outside and try out a new outdoor activity,” said Emily George, supervising biologist and member of the Division of Fish and Wildlife’s outreach and education staff. “However, sometimes starting a new activity can be hard. Diving into activities like archery, clamming, or fishing can be a big step and like myself, not everyone grew up engaged in these activities.”

DEM’s Fish and Wildlife outreach team is here to help and has crafted a menu of summer programs for both aspiring and avid outdoor enthusiasts and their families. Opportunities are available to try a new outdoor adventure, fine tune your current skill set, tune in virtually to learn about local conservation projects, or sign up to volunteer in community science projects. Most of the programs offered this summer are free of charge and family friendly. A list of programs and registration information is below. For a complete list of up to date programs, you can also visit http://www.dem.ri.gov/programs/fish-wildlife/.

Aquatic Resource Education Programs Family Learn to Fish Events (Ages 5+, parent or legal guardian must be present) New to fishing? Enjoy a private fishing lesson with your family at our pond! Dates: June 2, 9, 16, & 23 Times: One family per hour, by appointment; 9 a.m., 10 a.m. or 11 a.m. Location: DEM Division of Fish and Wildlife Outdoor Education Office, 1B Camp E-Hun-Tee Place, Exeter Registration: Contact dana.kopec.ctr@dem.ri.gov Cost: Free

Come Clam with Me 101 (All ages, parent or legal guardian must be present) Learn how to dig for clams, equipment needed, and the management strategies that have kept Rhode Island in the quahogging industry. Commercial quahogger Jody King will instruct people of all ages about the ins and outs of recreational clamming. Dates, Times, & Locations:

• June 25, 1 – 4 p.m., North Kingstown Town Beach

• July 23, 12 – 3 p.m., Colt State Park

• July 26, 2 – 5 p.m., Rocky Point State Park

• August 10, 2 – 5 p.m., Rocky Point State Park

• August 23, 1 – 4 p.m., Colt State Park

Registration: Space is limited. Registration required. Contact kimberly.sullivan@dem.r.gov to register. Cost: $5/person for registrants 8 years of age and older.

Hunter Education Programs Tree Stand Safety Workshop (Ages 10+, parent or legal guardian must be present) Get ready for fall by learning how to safely set up and hunt from your tree stand with our instructors. Date: June 13 Time: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Location: DEM Division of Fish and Wildlife Outdoor Education Office, 1B Camp E-Hun-Tee Place, Exeter Registration: https://forms.gle/j4x1WdnViqXGcMMx9 Cost: Free

Hunter Safety Education (All ages, parent or legal guardian must be present) New to hunting? You are required to take this basic safety course in order to purchase your hunting license and tags. Dates: June 26 & 27 (must attend both sessions) and August 4, 5, & 6 (must attend all 3 sessions) Time: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Location: DEM Division of Fish and Wildlife Outdoor Education Office, 1B Camp E-Hun-Tee Place, Exeter Registration: https://forms.gle/nzsYoZ1nEkcwtMRs7 Cost: Free

Archery 101 (Ages 10+, parent or legal guardian must be present) If you have never tried archery or are new to the sport, this is the perfect workshop for you! Learn the basics of archery with our staff in a relaxed setting. All equipment provided. Dates: July 8, 15, 22, 29, August 19 & 26 Time: 6 students per hour, by appointment; 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 12 p.m. Location: DEM Division of Fish and Wildlife Outdoor Education Office, 1B Camp E-Hun-Tee Place, Exeter Registration: Contact dana.kopec.ctr@dem.ri.gov Cost: Free

Bowhunter Education (All ages, parent or legal guardian must be present) This course is required if you plan to purchase an archery deer tag in Rhode Island. Dates: July 11 Time: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Location: RIDEM Division of Fish and Wildlife Outdoor Education Office, 1B Camp E-Hun-Tee Place, Exeter Registration: https://forms.gle/YxEwkV9spXaDvkZWA Cost: Free

Land Navigation Course (Ages 10+, parent or legal guardian must be present) Whether you are a hunter, hiker, or just spend a lot of time in the outdoors, this is the class for you! On day one, learn how to navigate with a compass and topographic map and take a pace count; on day two, test your skills at our outdoor land navigation course. Dates: July 17 & 18 (must attend both sessions) Time: 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. Location: DEM Division of Fish and Wildlife Outdoor Education Office, 1B Camp E-Hun-Tee Place, Exeter Registration: https://forms.gle/68223t4RhhS6tyLc7 Cost: Free

Deer Hunting Workshop (Ages 10+, parent or legal guardian must be present) If you are new to deer hunting or just need a refresher, this is a great place to get started. Instructors will cover topics such as appropriate camouflage, following a blood trail, game signs, deer habits and habitat. Dates: August 22 Time: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Location: DEM Division of Fish and Wildlife Outdoor Education Office, 1B Camp E-Hun-Tee Place, Exeter Registration: https://forms.gle/whUNApfoAgk27hjPA Cost: Free

Wildlife Outreach Programs Snake Safari (All ages) Join us for a live search for snakes in the wild! Learn about wildlife habitat, the benefits of snakes in the ecosystem, and how you can get involved as a reptile and amphibian community scientist. Date: June 12 Time: 10 – 11 a.m. Location: Virtual Registration: https://forms.gle/ofoRfstB4Gz7nGdJ6 Cost: Free

Wildlife Conservation Q&A (Ages: Adults) Do you have a burning question about Rhode Island’s diverse wildlife? Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be a wildlife biologist? Are you interested in learning about wildlife conservation in Rhode Island? Join the DEM Division of Fish and Wildlife for a virtual Q&A session with our staff. Date: June 17 Time: 6 – 7 p.m. Location: Virtual Registration: https://forms.gle/8hw4ipkigBiNbEpq7 Cost: Free

Wildlife Solutions: Vegetable Vandals (Ages: Adults) RABBITS, GROUNDHOGS and DEER: The bane of many gardeners’ existence are these three critters. As frustrating as these fuzzy felons may be, they are important to Rhode Island’s ecosystem, acting as valuable natural resources in our state. This session will give you tools to protect your crops and cover the rules and regulations for hunting and trapping on private property and highlight the New England Cottontail Project and deer program. Date: July 7 Time: 7 – 8:30 p.m. Location: Virtual Registration: https://forms.gle/XSwxijcM6eBLA92R9 Cost: Free

Bird Basics (Ages: 12+) Join us for an informative virtual program on birds. Learn about Rhode Island bird conservation work, ways to welcome birds to your backyard, and some easy-to-use resources to help you begin your journey as a bird nerd. Date: July 13 Time: 6 – 7 p.m. Location: Virtual Registration: https://forms.gle/vBYNKex8dz4dev2A9 Cost: Free

Community Science: Easy as Survey123(All Ages) Have you seen a mother deer with her fawns recently? How about a turkey with some little poults running around? Report your sightings to biologists quickly and securely with the tap of your finger using an app on your smartphone or PC! Tune in to explore the fun and simple ways you can help monitor wildlife in the state with the DEM Division of Fish and Wildlife. This program will be filled with fun facts and trivia on turkeys and deer and will grant you the power to contribute to community science through your fingertips! Date: August 10 Time: 6 – 7 p.m. Location: Virtual Registration: https://forms.gle/UwZgmGHH1XQr7Ee88 Cost: Free

Rhode Island’s Owls (All ages) DEM Division of Fish and Wildlife and the Audubon Society of Rhode Island are teaming up for this fun event on owls! DEM staff will be sharing information about our state’s owls and the data collected by volunteers during the RI Breeding Bird Atlas 2.0, followed by a meet and greet with one of Audubon’s ambassador owls. Date: August 12 Time: 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. Location: Virtual Registration: https://forms.gle/r9cVQvTeVZz2QYWg8 Cost: Free

Volunteer Program The DEM Division of Fish & Wildlife offers a wide range of volunteer opportunities throughout the year, connecting the community with meaningful, wildlife-related projects. Volunteers assist state biologists with wildlife surveys, habitat maintenance, disease monitoring and much, much more! Request to join our volunteer email list to receive information on new and upcoming opportunities by emailing: DEM.DFWvolunteer@dem.ri.gov.

For more information on the DEM Division of Fish and Wildlife, visit http://www.dem.ri.gov/programs/fish-wildlife/.

Follow the Division of Fish and Wildlife on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/RIFishwildlife/ and Instagram (@RI.FishandWildlife) for timely updates.

For more information about DEM divisions and programs, visit www.dem.ri.gov. Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RhodeIslandDEM or on Twitter (@RhodeIslandDEM) for timely updates.

Miller & Miller’s online Watches & Jewelry auction, June 12, features watches by Patek Philippe, Rolex, Tag Heuer, Omega

Patek Philippe Reference 3940 perpetual calendar men’s watch with 18kt white gold case and clasp, originally purchased in 1999 from Tourneau (N.Y.) (est. CA$35,000-$45,000).

Rolex Reference 1680 red Submariner Date men’s watch from 1972 with stainless steel case and band, mechanically functioning, with recent service records (est. CA$25,000-$30,000).

Dazzling diamond solitaire ring with 1.99-carat center stone, 14kt white gold band, a fabulous investment-grade natural diamond, F color, VS2 clarity (est. CA$18,000-$20,000).

Tag Heuer Autavia GMT 2446C watch from 1972 featuring an amazing Pepsi bezel (the color of which still pops) and original pushers and crown (est. CA$18,000-$20,000).

Rare Omega Speedmaster Pre-Moon watch from 1968, Reference 145.022-68, utilizing cal. 861, with correct applied Omega logo and indices (est. CA$14,000-$16,000)

Internet bidding for the 299-lot auction will be facilitated by LiveAuctioneers.com as well as the Miller & Miller website: www.MillerandMillerAuctions.com.

NEW HAMBURG, ONTARIO, CANADA, May 28, 2021 /EINPresswire.com/ — A Patek Philippe Reference 3940 perpetual calendar men’s watch with 18kt white gold case and clasp, a Rolex Reference 1680 red Submariner Date men’s watch from 1972 with stainless steel case and band, and a VS2 diamond solitaire ring with a 1.99-carat center stone and 14kt white gold band are a few expected highlights in Miller & Miller Auctions, Ltd.’s online-only Watches & Jewelry auction slated for Saturday, June 12th.“This sale, starting at 9 am Eastern time, contains a generous offering of railroad grade and early pocket watches, as well as a curated selection of vintage wrist watches,” said Justin Miller of Miller & Miller Auctions, Ltd. “With demand for 1970s sports model watches from Tag Heuer, Rolex and Omega at all-time highs, we’re pleased to include a diverse offering in this auction.”

Mr. Miller added, “This past year has confirmed that the right vintage wrist watches have earned a place not just in collectors’ portfolios, but serious investor portfolios as well. This sale will prove to be an opportunity for both the collector and the investor. Our Watches & Jewelry auctions are already highly anticipated annual events, and this year brings great expectations.”

The catalog is filled with a generous offering of pocket watches unlocked from longtime collections; railroad grade pocket watches from Waltham, Elgin, E. Howard Co., Ball Watch Co., Hamilton, Illinois, and many more; vintage and modern wristwatches from luxury brands such as Rolex, Patek Philippe, Omega, Longines and others; and a select jewelry offering of rings, necklaces, bracelets and many other investment-grade pieces.

The Patek Philippe Reference 3940 is one of the most iconic perpetual calendar wrist watches available today. It’s mostly found in yellow gold, with far fewer examples in 18K white gold, making the example in the sale that much more desirable. Originally purchased in 1999 from Tourneau in New York, it has an estimate of $35,000-$45,000.

All estimates quoted in this report are in Canadian dollars.

The Rolex Reference 1680 red Submariner Date watch produced in 1972 is mechanically functioning, with recent Rolex service records. The watch is marked, “Montres Rolex S.A Geneva Switzerland Patented Stainless Steel 1680″ on the inner case-back. It’s fitted to a modern, solid link Rolex oyster band. The Rolex box is included (est. $25,000-$30,000).

The diamond solitaire ring with a 14kt white gold band features an impressive center stone weighing 1.99 carats by scale, a truly fabulous, investment-grade natural diamond of F color and VS2 clarity. Included are 18 0.015-carat shoulder diamonds. The ring, which comes with a certificate of appraisal, should change hands for $18,000-$20,000.

Other Rolexes in the sale include a 1969 Reference 5513 Submariner that can be worn for sport and scuba diving or used as a tool watch (buzzwords surrounding it include meters first, matte dial with white text and calibre 1530); and a 1978 Reference 1680 model with the dial signed with, “Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Submariner 600 ft – 200m Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified Swiss – T 25” (both are estimated at $15,000-$18,000).

A Patek Philippe Reference 3611/1 Calavatra watch made in 1975 with case and bracelet both solid 18kt yellow gold, the timeless design inspired by the minimalist principles of the Bauhaus School, is expected to bring $16,000-$18,000; while a Tag Heuer Autavia GMT 2446C watch from 1972 featuring an amazing Pepsi bezel (the color of which still pops), original pushers and crown, plus compressor case, should go for $18,000-$20,000.

A rare Omega Speedmaster Pre-Moon watch from 1968, Reference 145.022-68, utilizing cal. 861, with correct applied Omega logo and indices and hands showing an appealing patina, carries an estimate of $14,000-$16,000; while a simple yet refined Vacheron & Constantin Reference 7390 watch from 1970, with an 18kt white gold, 32mm cushioned case and two straps (alligator and 18kt white gold mesh) should rise to $12,000-$15,000.

A Tudor Ref. 7928/0 Oyster-Prince Submariner watch, produced for just one year (1967), very rare and boasting an open minute track that extends all the way to the outer flange of the dial, has an estimate of $12,000-$15,000. Also, a 1940s International Watch Company Scharffhausen dress watch with a 14kt yellow gold case, a two-tone dial set against blued steel hands, plus a characteristic Art Deco pointed bow, should command $2,500-$3,000.

An artfully assembled Vacheron & Constantin ladies’ dress watch features an extra-wide and elegant 18kt gold bracelet with a small dial surrounded with a halo of high-quality diamonds, with an 18kt yellow gold case and band (est. $7,000-$9,000). Also, an 18kt white gold and diamond tennis bracelet, boasting 49 round brilliant cut diamonds having a total weight of 4.00 carats, SI1 clarity and FGH color, should reach $3,000-$4,000.

Two watches, one English and one French, have identical estimates of $2,500-$3,000. A George Prior (London, 1812) verge fusee watch has an outer case of metal, a second case of tortoise shell and third and fourth cases of silver. A French Breguet et Fils (Paris) repeater “clock watch” has a 56mm silver case, on demand strike and quarter repeating.

Internet bidding for the 299-lot auction will be facilitated by LiveAuctioneers.com, as well as the Miller & Miller website: www.MillerandMillerAuctions.com. Bidders can tune in to the live webcast on June 12th to watch lots close in real time. Phone and absentee bids will also be taken.

Miller & Miller Auctions is Canada’s trusted seller of high-value collections and is always accepting quality consignments. The firm specializes in watches and jewelry, art, antiques and high-value collectibles. Its mission is to provide collectors with a trusted place to buy and sell.

To consign a single piece, an estate or a collection, you may call them at (519) 573-3710; or, you can e-mail them at info@millerandmillerauctions.com. To learn more about Miller & Miller Auctions, Ltd. and the Watches & Jewels auction scheduled for Saturday, June 12th at 9 am Eastern time, please visit www.MillerandMillerAuctions.com. Updates are posted frequently.

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p class=”contact c9″ dir=”auto”>Justin Miller
Miller & Miller Auctions, Ltd.
+1 519-573-3710
email us here

OpEd: ‘Sweet Swag’ A Gross Reward for Mocking Philly Gun Violence Deaths

OpEd by Senator Sharif Street

Every day in America over three hundred people are shot.  On Tuesday night 18-year-old Nasir Marks was fatally shot multiple times in West Philadelphia at around 7:30 p.m. A half-hour later, just before 8 p.m., a 15-year-old boy was shot and killed in my district in North Philadelphia. On Wednesday morning a mass shooting left a total of 10 people dead in California. Gun violence dominates the news cycle and threatens to numb us to routine reporting of loss of life comparable only to the pandemic in its infancy.

I saw a blatant example of this disregard for human life just this week when Philly Weekly dabbled in blood sport, asking readers to guess how many people will be murdered in Philadelphia this year. Even more repulsive, they offered the “winner” of this “contest” a prize described as “sweet swag” if they guess correctly. What a disgusting way to touch on an issue that represents lost lives, devastated families and communities that are living in fear. Nowhere in their coverage did they offer any detail about the communities being affected by this rampant gun violence, factors that are exasperating the issue, or one coherent thought about solutions.

Hundreds of people will be shot today across America, and then tomorrow it will likely happen again. We hear declarations of thoughts and prayers in place of policy and thoughtful deliberate action. Communities struggle to cope with a cycle of trauma while generations are lost to routine violence.

Gun violence is a public health crisis that is plaguing cities nationwide. It is a serious threat to the well-being of our cities and future of our youth. At the end of 2020, Chicago police reported more than 750 murders, a jump of more than 50% compared with 2019. Los Angeles’ 2020 murder rate was up 25% in 2020. In New York City, there was a 97% increase in shooting incidents and 44% increase in murders in 2020.  And here in Pennsylvania, the trends are similar. Philadelphia has surpassed 200 homicides for the year, up 36% from this time last year. Pittsburgh has had a 90% increase in shootings this year.

Most deaths by gun violence happen in black and brown communities. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Black males between the ages of 15 and 34 accounted for 37% of gun homicides, even though they made up 2% of the U.S. population — a rate 20 times that of White males of the same age. The Violence Policy Center’s latest study shows Pennsylvania ranks 7th for Black homicides and that guns accounted for nearly 90% of them.

As a community member, I’m devastated. As a lawmaker, I’m frustrated at the lack of movement on gun reform. As a father and grandfather, I am fearful.  Our communities are in crisis, yet policy in Harrisburg and DC remains stalled or nonexistent. Gun violence does not have to be an inevitable reality of our world. We know there are evidence-based practices as well as common sense legislation that can flip the trend of growing gun violence in our communities. We need to get ghost guns off our streets. We need to remove background check loopholes. And we need to implement red flag laws that can remove guns from the hands of individuals who may cause harm to themselves or others.

Sustainable change also requires us to prioritize prevention efforts, especially among youth. Gun violence rates are largely driven by factors like poverty, addiction, and trauma. Investing in community programs and spaces, gun safety education, and mental health and addiction services will target systemic gaps that ultimately lead to gun violence. Taking a preventative rather than solely reactive approach to the gun violence epidemic can make all the difference for our children and communities.

Collaboration from government, business owners, community leaders, and community members will allow us to address this public health crisis head on. Recently I joined Senator Williams, Governor Wolf and AG Shapiro to meet with law enforcement, local state leaders, community advocates and Mayor Kenney to commit to a coordinated effort at every level of government along with consistent investment in violence prevention advocates to reverse the routine violence our communities face. We have begun the hard quiet work.

The conversation on gun safety and reform often gets muddied with political leanings and “picking a side.” Yet when we hear from Americans, gun law reform is widely supported. A majority of Americans want to see gun laws strengthened.  96% of Americans support universal background checks for gun purchases. 88% of Pennsylvanians support stronger background checks. This is not an issue of Progressive vs. Traditional law enforcement. We see both Democratic and Republican led areas grappling with the growing threat and destruction of gun violence. And Pennsylvania’s own electorate recently rejected the idea Progressive ideals limit a city’s ability to overcome gun violence by electing Larry Krasner as our Democratic nominee for Philadelphia District Attorney.

Let me be clear, the focus of common-sense gun reform is not about banning guns. It’s about getting a better reign on the guns that are out in our communities and who has access to them.

I’m ready to collaborate with all my colleagues in Harrisburg- Democrat, Republican and Independent- as well as community leaders and constituents. Let’s not become numb to the disturbing news and data that continues to reflect the plague of gun violence across our country and in Pennsylvania and condemn grotesque displays like Philly Weekly that trivialize and mock the murder rate of Philadelphians.

Systems are perfectly designed to yield the outcomes they produce. If the results of our system are bad, we need to change it. Enough with the thoughts and prayers. As we saw with the COVID-19 pandemic, responding to a public health crisis requires swift and definitive action. Let’s respond to the gun violence epidemic with that same urgency and community approach to save lives.