The coalition is a broad-based group of industries, companies and trade associations, including Southern California Edison, Boeing, oil refiners, asphalt plants, aggregate producers and other business interests.

Periodically, the SCAQMD prepares an overall plan Air Quality Management Plan (AQMP) update to meet the federal requirements and to incorporate the latest technical planning information.  Each iteration of the plan is an update of the previous plan.

Part of the plan includes the Regional Clean Air Incentives Market (RECLAIM) program covering nitrogen oxide and sulfur oxide emissions. Some facilities participate based on the calendar year (January 1 through December 31); others based on the fiscal year (July 1 through June 30).

CalAPA recently joined the RECLAIM Coalition that is monitoring the SCAQMD as they proceed with the rule-making process and their proposed "shave" to the credits set out in the 2012 Plan.

The companies in the  RECLAIM Program make up about 5 percent of the NOx emissions in the region yet they are taking the brunt of this new proposal that is being put forward as part of the rule-making process for the 2016 Air Pollution Control Plan. Approximately 10 CALAPA member companies are affected by this proposal.   

To learn more about the RECLAIM Program, click HERE. For questions about CalAPA's participation, contact CalAPA Deputy Executive Director Tony Grasso at (909) 362-9192.

Bob Pieplow

"I have been fortunate to have many opportunities at Caltrans, to  work with and learn from outstanding people," he wrote. "It has all been an incredible experience, with memories to last a lifetime. I will miss the Caltrans family but look forward to what the future holds."

The Southern California Contractors' Committee is once again hosting

California Chrome (pictured) chased triple crown glory last year after racing at Del Mar, and American Pharoah is doing the same this year.

this gala event on opening weekend at beautiful Del Mar Race Track in Del Mar, Calif.

The historic venue, "where the turf meets the surf," is where a bargain-basement colt named California Chrome tested his mettle in 2013 before going on to win the 2014 Kentucky Derby and the Preakness, becoming a global phenomenon in the process.

This year's four-footed sensation, American Pharoah, also raced at Del Mar before making a run at triple-crown glory.

The association has reserved a luxury suite at the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club on Saturday, July 18, which is the opening week of the horse-racing season at the seaside track, which is celebrating its 77th anniversary. The "Star Fiddle Skyroom" boasts panoramic views from a private balcony close to the finish line, with its own betting windows, access to grounds, a fabulous lunch buffet, snacks and a no-host bar. Tickets are $109 and must be purchased in advance via the CalAPA website. Click HERE to order. 

Del Mar is not only one of the most scenic race tracks in the world,

American Pharoah trainer Bob Baffert (left) trained the winner of last year's CalAPA-sponsored race at Del Mar, Lord Nelson (right) with jockey Martin Garcia aboard.

it's also rich with history, with new and exciting chapters being written each year. Last year, the CalAPA-sponsored 1st Race was won by Lord Nelson, a 2-year-old thoroughbred trained by legendary trainer Bob Baffert, who joined CalAPA representatives Holly Mendell and John Michaik from California Commercial Asphalt in the Winner's Circle. Baffert is the trainer of this year's star thoroughbred, American Pharoah.

Bring your spouse, favorite customer or best friend to our "Day at the Races" and perhaps you'll see the next California Chrome or American Pharoah in action.

"It's harder to conceal ignorance than to acquire knowledge."