The city of Sacramento has evolved over recent years and features two large universities, a thriving riverfront area with harbor, a number of notable museums, top restaurants, jazz nightspots, impressive theaters, more than 100 parks, scenic trails by the American River Parkway, and some striking architecture, including the magnificent California State Capitol building. The Department of Veterans Affairs performs pre-employment reference checks as an assessment method used in the hiring process to verify information provided by a candidate (e.g., on resume or during interview or hiring process); gain additional knowledge regarding a candidates abilities; and assist a hiring manager with making a final selection for a position.