Recently, I have talked to members of the local Democratic Party, Lincoln Club, local Republican Party and a union activist over the San Diego City Attorney race. I walked away from all those conversations with the Oh My Gosh moment. GOP has only have two choices come November, Scott Peters or Mike Aguirre.
We all know Mike will make the general election, the polls, the talk from the San Diego downtown establishment and the party insiders all know it. So, the second name on the ballot will make the difference on who will beat or lose to Mike.
Scenario 1 – Scott Peters wins the second spot. The unions support Scott, along with the downtown interests, developers and the Democratic Party. The GOP and Lincoln Club stays neutral. Mike won't get his party's endorsement again, is blocked from large contributions and can't mount a major campaign. Mike doesn't get many major endorsements to boost his case, except for maybe the likes of Donna Frye. Mike has no volunteer base, no money and no chance to beat Scott.
Scenario 2 – Jan takes second place and unions are forced to support Mike over Jan. Mike now gets his party's endorsement, which comes with major money and major endorsements. Mike can now mail, gets on the air and gets a lot of volunteers. Mike calls press conferences weekly about every scandal, or so called possible scandal of the GOP, linking it all to Jan. Lincoln Club and GOP are forced to spend major money on the race or look foolish. There are GOP and Libertians that like Mike, eroding Jan's base and the Dems vote and do it as a vote against Jan. Mike will win it.
Scenario 3 – Brian takes second place, the unions might do what they just did in the mayor's race and endorse in name only at the last minute. However, the Democratic Party now is forced to endorse Mike. Mike can now mail, gets on the air and gets a lot of volunteers. Mike calls press conferences weekly about every scandal, or so called possible scandal of the GOP, linking it all to Brian, including the pension underfunding. Lincoln Club and GOP are forced to spend major money on Brian who they really don't like in the race or look foolish. There are GOP that like Mike and hate Brian, eroding Brian's possible base, many Libertians vote for Mike over Brian and the Dems vote and do it as a vote against Brian. Mike will win it.
GOP make your choice Mike or Scott.
Off the topic, but can't help but say, if Mike McSweeney had won the San Diego Unified School District seat two years ago, then he would never had taken a job for the mayor, been the scapegoat for Tom Shepard as so many others have done before and now have his public political career ruined.
Saturday, May 24, 2008
Friday, May 23, 2008
Eric Bidwell Is My Homeboy
Just when I thought I had seen it all from local Republican candidates comes the mother of all bonehead moves.
Voice has reported that Mayor Sanders' campaign manager and local GOP vice chair Mike McSweeney has resigned after Mayoral Candidate Eric Bidwell alleges that McSweeney tried to persuade him to read a statement bashing Steve Francis.
My questions is why would anyone think the anti-establishment, dreadlock wearing, "in a van down by the river" Bidwell would gladly sell out and join forces with the GOP and mayor's handlers?
This move reeks of stupidity, arrogance and being out of touch with reality. Smooth move.
Voice has reported that Mayor Sanders' campaign manager and local GOP vice chair Mike McSweeney has resigned after Mayoral Candidate Eric Bidwell alleges that McSweeney tried to persuade him to read a statement bashing Steve Francis.
My questions is why would anyone think the anti-establishment, dreadlock wearing, "in a van down by the river" Bidwell would gladly sell out and join forces with the GOP and mayor's handlers?
This move reeks of stupidity, arrogance and being out of touch with reality. Smooth move.
Monday, May 19, 2008
Núñez for Mayor?
Departing Assembly Speaker Fabian Núñez spoke with the U-T today about his time in the Assembly and his future plans. Of particular note was the notion of Núñez returning to San Diego for a run at mayor:
Now, the U-T gives this quote most of its context, so who really knows if this is at all a real possibility. But even so, it's interesting to contemplate, as there seems to be plenty on both sides of the pro/con ledger to consider.
On the con side, Núñez left San Diego 20 years ago, and has spent his entire professional and political life based out of Los Angeles which would make him a carpetbagger of sorts despite being raised in San Diego. Also, in spite of many accomplishments during his tenure at Speaker, the past year particularly has seen a bitter and divisive series of battles with organized labor in the state over gaming compacts and health care. Finally, in a town that desperately needs to be "cleaned up" at city hall (still- thanks Mayor Sanders), Núñez has had several brushes with questionable-if-legal ethics probes. And four years from now, will there be some homegrown talent ready to step up to the Mayor's office that would better serve the strength of the party?
All that said, the San Diego Democratic Party is rather lacking candidates at the top. If Floyd Morrow is the highest-profile Democrat available to run against a Mayor with a spotty record, well, there's room for a heavyweight to get a few things done. And Núñez certainly knows how to organize and fundraise, two skills that you can never get enough of when rebuilding a party. Also, while there are some legitimate points of contention in his legislative record, better environmental standards, higher minimum wage, and other successes have come through under his watch. While it presumably wouldn't hurt that San Diego is a softer target than Los Angeles for a profile-boosting Mayoral gig, if it takes overpaying for an attendance-boosting free agent to re-legitimize the franchise that is Democratic Party in San Diego, it could be worth it.
Ultimately, I'm not sure who else I'm waiting or hoping for in the next mayor's race, so this is a possibility I'd at least be open to. There are a number of locals who have gotten off to promising starts, but that doesn't mean they'll keep going. And if there's a glut of mayoral candidates next time who didn't get to be, say, City Attorney this time around, it could be a tough field to crack if you don't have Núñez-level weight behind you. So heck, who knows? But given where things are in this city right now, I'm open to anything.
After an expected stint in the private sector, he could choose from an array of political options, including perhaps a bid for mayor of his hometown, Núñez said in an interview.
“I have deep roots in San Diego. I have a lot of friends there, and San Diegans have been great to me,” said Núñez, 41. “It's a city that has so much potential. With a strong leader, there is so much that could be done.”
Now, the U-T gives this quote most of its context, so who really knows if this is at all a real possibility. But even so, it's interesting to contemplate, as there seems to be plenty on both sides of the pro/con ledger to consider.
On the con side, Núñez left San Diego 20 years ago, and has spent his entire professional and political life based out of Los Angeles which would make him a carpetbagger of sorts despite being raised in San Diego. Also, in spite of many accomplishments during his tenure at Speaker, the past year particularly has seen a bitter and divisive series of battles with organized labor in the state over gaming compacts and health care. Finally, in a town that desperately needs to be "cleaned up" at city hall (still- thanks Mayor Sanders), Núñez has had several brushes with questionable-if-legal ethics probes. And four years from now, will there be some homegrown talent ready to step up to the Mayor's office that would better serve the strength of the party?
All that said, the San Diego Democratic Party is rather lacking candidates at the top. If Floyd Morrow is the highest-profile Democrat available to run against a Mayor with a spotty record, well, there's room for a heavyweight to get a few things done. And Núñez certainly knows how to organize and fundraise, two skills that you can never get enough of when rebuilding a party. Also, while there are some legitimate points of contention in his legislative record, better environmental standards, higher minimum wage, and other successes have come through under his watch. While it presumably wouldn't hurt that San Diego is a softer target than Los Angeles for a profile-boosting Mayoral gig, if it takes overpaying for an attendance-boosting free agent to re-legitimize the franchise that is Democratic Party in San Diego, it could be worth it.
Ultimately, I'm not sure who else I'm waiting or hoping for in the next mayor's race, so this is a possibility I'd at least be open to. There are a number of locals who have gotten off to promising starts, but that doesn't mean they'll keep going. And if there's a glut of mayoral candidates next time who didn't get to be, say, City Attorney this time around, it could be a tough field to crack if you don't have Núñez-level weight behind you. So heck, who knows? But given where things are in this city right now, I'm open to anything.
Friday, May 16, 2008
Friday - Quick Hits
Environmental and human rightsd groups join forces in opposing the border fence project that will fill in canyon. UT
The S&P restores San Diego's credit rating. UT
Oceanside city council agrees to talks with private firms over airport operation. UT
Now that Oceanside has approved project, developer claims it is not in a hurry to start building. UT
The S&P restores San Diego's credit rating. UT
Oceanside city council agrees to talks with private firms over airport operation. UT
Now that Oceanside has approved project, developer claims it is not in a hurry to start building. UT
Thursday, May 15, 2008
70 Hours and Counting: Where’s Jerry Sanders?
Even though blue-collar city workers from AFSCME Local 127 agreed to resume bargaining the moment Jerry Sanders’ poverty pension proposal was shot down late Monday night, Jerry Sanders has yet to sit down to the bargaining table 70 hours later.
Lorena Gonzalez, secretary-treasurer of the San Diego-Imperial Counties Labor Council, called on Mayor Jerry Sanders to return to the negotiating table.
“We believe Jerry Sanders’ announcement to meet and confer by ballot box is another stunt by his political operation to scapegoat city employees in order to deflect attention from his inability to find solutions to our city’s challenges.
“Late Monday, when he made the political calculation that he didn’t have support for his pension experiment, Jerry Sanders – aided and abetted by Mike Aguirre – delivered a last-minute substitute that had never been formally offered before in order to save face.
“This offer was presented about 9 p.m. at night and away from public view. Had it been adopted, an average blue-collar city worker who had worked for 30 years would retire with an $18,500 annual pension with no social security benefits and no SPSP. On its face, the Jerry Sanders’ plan would have left hard-working employees to retire into poverty. Regardless of the proposal’s merits, the unethical tactics of Jerry Sanders and Mike Aguirre run contrary to the rules that they agreed to back when negotiations started months ago.
“The attempt by Jerry Sanders and Mike Aguirre to make a late-night switcheroo was aimed to unfairly shove down our workers’ throats a proposal that had never been discussed prior and was never and still has not been put into the public record of the City.
“Now, Jerry Sanders is trying to force his campaign timeline onto the hard-working blue-collar employees of this city, but it’s clear he’s the one on the clock. Over 70 hours have passed since the City Council shot down this half-cooked pension proposal, and he has yet to come back to the table.
“Instead, Jerry Sanders wants to put a pension proposal in front of voters, but AFSCME Local 127 has said they’re ready to bargain now. I’m calling on Jerry Sanders to end these shameless campaign tactics, for him and Mike Aguirre to stick to the rules he agreed to, and return to the table so the city can move forward.
“Clearly, San Diegans are tired of the bickering at City Hall. San Diego’s working families deserve a Mayor who is committed to moving things forward in cooperation with our City’s employees. Jerry Sanders is failing with every passing hour.
“The public has had enough of the excuses, half-truths and rhetoric of Jerry Sanders and Mike Aguirre. Now is as good of a time as ever for them to start working toward solutions instead of their next excuse.”
Lorena Gonzalez, secretary-treasurer of the San Diego-Imperial Counties Labor Council, called on Mayor Jerry Sanders to return to the negotiating table.
“We believe Jerry Sanders’ announcement to meet and confer by ballot box is another stunt by his political operation to scapegoat city employees in order to deflect attention from his inability to find solutions to our city’s challenges.
“Late Monday, when he made the political calculation that he didn’t have support for his pension experiment, Jerry Sanders – aided and abetted by Mike Aguirre – delivered a last-minute substitute that had never been formally offered before in order to save face.
“This offer was presented about 9 p.m. at night and away from public view. Had it been adopted, an average blue-collar city worker who had worked for 30 years would retire with an $18,500 annual pension with no social security benefits and no SPSP. On its face, the Jerry Sanders’ plan would have left hard-working employees to retire into poverty. Regardless of the proposal’s merits, the unethical tactics of Jerry Sanders and Mike Aguirre run contrary to the rules that they agreed to back when negotiations started months ago.
“The attempt by Jerry Sanders and Mike Aguirre to make a late-night switcheroo was aimed to unfairly shove down our workers’ throats a proposal that had never been discussed prior and was never and still has not been put into the public record of the City.
“Now, Jerry Sanders is trying to force his campaign timeline onto the hard-working blue-collar employees of this city, but it’s clear he’s the one on the clock. Over 70 hours have passed since the City Council shot down this half-cooked pension proposal, and he has yet to come back to the table.
“Instead, Jerry Sanders wants to put a pension proposal in front of voters, but AFSCME Local 127 has said they’re ready to bargain now. I’m calling on Jerry Sanders to end these shameless campaign tactics, for him and Mike Aguirre to stick to the rules he agreed to, and return to the table so the city can move forward.
“Clearly, San Diegans are tired of the bickering at City Hall. San Diego’s working families deserve a Mayor who is committed to moving things forward in cooperation with our City’s employees. Jerry Sanders is failing with every passing hour.
“The public has had enough of the excuses, half-truths and rhetoric of Jerry Sanders and Mike Aguirre. Now is as good of a time as ever for them to start working toward solutions instead of their next excuse.”
Thursday - Quick Hits
Blackwater permits cannot be appealed claims a city official. UT
City to use state bond funds to repair roads. UT
Campaign over height limit initiative in Chula Vista is becoming heated. UT
Port leases land from Navy so hotel project can move forward. UT
Despite city council opposition growth initiative in San Marcos qualifies for November ballot. UT
City to use state bond funds to repair roads. UT
Campaign over height limit initiative in Chula Vista is becoming heated. UT
Port leases land from Navy so hotel project can move forward. UT
Despite city council opposition growth initiative in San Marcos qualifies for November ballot. UT
FDR Dem Club Announces Endorsements
The Franklin D. Roosevelt Democratic Club has announced the following endorsements:
California State Senate
39th District - Christine Kehoe
California State Assembly
76th District - Lori Saldaña
78th District – Marty Block
80th District – Greg Pettis
San Diego City Attorney
Scott Peters
San Diego City Council – District 1
Sherri Lightner
San Diego City Council – District 3
Todd Gloria
Stephen Whitburn
San Diego City Council – District 5
George George
San Diego City Council – District 7
Marti Emerald
San Diego Community College District
Area B - Bill Schwandt
Area D - Dwayne Crenshaw
San Diego County Board of Education
District 2 - Jose Preciado
District 4 - Mark Anderson
San Diego School Board
Richard Barrera
John Lee Evans
Shelia Jackson
City of San Diego Propositions
A – Yes
B – Yes
C – Yes
State Ballot Measures
Proposition 98 - NO
Proposition 99 – YES
The FDR Club was founded on the principles of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s “Economic Bill of Rights” from his 1944 State of the Union Address.
These principles include:
• The right to a useful and remunerative job in the industries or shops or farms or mines of the nation;
• The right to earn enough to provide adequate food and clothing and recreation;
• The right of every farmer to raise and sell his products at a return which will give him and his family a decent living;
• The right of every businessman, large and small, to trade in an atmosphere of freedom from unfair competition and domination by monopolies at home or abroad;
• The right of every family to a decent home;
• The right to adequate medical care and the opportunity to achieve and enjoy good health;
• The right to adequate protection from the economic fears of old age, sickness, accident, and unemployment;
• The right to a good education.
California State Senate
39th District - Christine Kehoe
California State Assembly
76th District - Lori Saldaña
78th District – Marty Block
80th District – Greg Pettis
San Diego City Attorney
Scott Peters
San Diego City Council – District 1
Sherri Lightner
San Diego City Council – District 3
Todd Gloria
Stephen Whitburn
San Diego City Council – District 5
George George
San Diego City Council – District 7
Marti Emerald
San Diego Community College District
Area B - Bill Schwandt
Area D - Dwayne Crenshaw
San Diego County Board of Education
District 2 - Jose Preciado
District 4 - Mark Anderson
San Diego School Board
Richard Barrera
John Lee Evans
Shelia Jackson
City of San Diego Propositions
A – Yes
B – Yes
C – Yes
State Ballot Measures
Proposition 98 - NO
Proposition 99 – YES
The FDR Club was founded on the principles of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s “Economic Bill of Rights” from his 1944 State of the Union Address.
These principles include:
• The right to a useful and remunerative job in the industries or shops or farms or mines of the nation;
• The right to earn enough to provide adequate food and clothing and recreation;
• The right of every farmer to raise and sell his products at a return which will give him and his family a decent living;
• The right of every businessman, large and small, to trade in an atmosphere of freedom from unfair competition and domination by monopolies at home or abroad;
• The right of every family to a decent home;
• The right to adequate medical care and the opportunity to achieve and enjoy good health;
• The right to adequate protection from the economic fears of old age, sickness, accident, and unemployment;
• The right to a good education.
This Week's CityBeat Cover
As an homage to the Weekly World News, CityBeat's cover this week is a classic. There's no bat boy or alien endorsements, but there should be given the unreal nature of our local elections.
I especially like the "Hartley and Environment" bit at the bottom.
Check it out. It's a hoot.
I especially like the "Hartley and Environment" bit at the bottom.
Check it out. It's a hoot.
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Wednesday - Quick Hits
It is all about leadership on the school board. Article illustrates that schools don't necessarily have to cut layoff teachers in response to budget cuts. UT
Campaign for re-election twisting in the wind, as Mayor Sanders decides to place city workers pension reform on November ballot. UT
Why don't the Padres pay for it? Council approves money to build a pedestrian bridge over Harbor Drive from parking garage to Petco Park. UT
Carlsbad city council took a position to oppose new power plant to be located west of I-5. UT NCTimes
City of Vista drops neighborhoods from its massive expansion of its redevelopment zone. NCTimes
Campaign for re-election twisting in the wind, as Mayor Sanders decides to place city workers pension reform on November ballot. UT
Why don't the Padres pay for it? Council approves money to build a pedestrian bridge over Harbor Drive from parking garage to Petco Park. UT
Carlsbad city council took a position to oppose new power plant to be located west of I-5. UT NCTimes
City of Vista drops neighborhoods from its massive expansion of its redevelopment zone. NCTimes
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Tuesday - Quick Hits
At a PUC hearing in Borrego Springs last night hundreds showed up to protest the Sunrise Powerlink. UT
Council and mayor cannot agree on labor contract, so it is headed to the voters. UT
Court ruling is forcing County Medical Services to cover a larger share of the uninsure. UT
MTS and bus driver union reach an agreement on a five-year contract. UT
County board to consider the merger of two East County fire districts. UT
Council and mayor cannot agree on labor contract, so it is headed to the voters. UT
Court ruling is forcing County Medical Services to cover a larger share of the uninsure. UT
MTS and bus driver union reach an agreement on a five-year contract. UT
County board to consider the merger of two East County fire districts. UT
Monday, May 12, 2008
Carl DeMaio Not Playing Nice with Others!
According to the UT, Carl DeMaio and some of his campaign flunkies didn't like the idea that D-5 candidate George George has a 4ft by 8ft on his property. This video illustrates, how first some of the classy DeMaio campaign workers tried to place some signs next to George's. When that apparently didn't try to take the sign down. Is George's candidacy really that big of a threat to DeMaio?
Monday - Quick Hits
New and improved Steve Francis cites his passion for his success. UT
City selects oak trees to replace eucalyptus trees as part of Balboa Park's reforestation plan. UT
In its typical fashion, UT carries water for pro-city charter position up in Carlsbad. UT
City of Oceanside to hear presentation from developer regarding the largest deployments in the city's history. NCTimes
City selects oak trees to replace eucalyptus trees as part of Balboa Park's reforestation plan. UT
In its typical fashion, UT carries water for pro-city charter position up in Carlsbad. UT
City of Oceanside to hear presentation from developer regarding the largest deployments in the city's history. NCTimes
The Republican Justice League?
I ask after a neighbor supplied me with their voter guide sent out by the local GOP.
It talks about some “Reform Team”, made up of Jerry Sanders, Carl DeMaio, Jan Goldsmith, and April Boling, that needs to be sent to City Hall in order to thwart the interests of “special interest union bosses” that “have created a financial crisis with gold-plated pension benefits.”
I realize that a steady diet of FOX and wanting to believe that Bush was the right choice in 2004 lends itself to cognitive dissonance but I can’t think of any reality-based rational for labeling these four a “reform team.”
SANDERS
Oh please. Reform? We’ve had four years and all I’ve seen a poll-driven popularity seeker. People in his own party should remind him that “fees” can be interpreted as “taxes” and, like Golding before him, he’s not making any real changes lest he be responsible for a dip in his popularity numbers. Changes need to happen and the last four years seem to show a pattern of avoiding any meaningful reform beyond the cosmetic.
DEMAIO
Neo-libertarianism is not reform. DeMaio’s style of reform would have farmed out our police to Blackwater. That was an extreme example but a guy who started out feeding from the government trough has no right to bash it. Wanting to make a living again from the government while selling it off is not governing. I guess it is reform for those who liked Newt and Reagan.
GOLDSMITH
Yes, he is not Mike so that is reform of a sort. I just don’t see Jan doing much other that being another Casey Gwinn. His tenure in the State Assembly has become forgettable and I’m still not sure what a guy like him is doing in a race like this. His plans read more like a PowerPoint slide than a guide to action. If the GOP wanted a warm body to run, they could have done better.
BOLING
Out of many issues, I’ll choose one: Mayor Murphy’s Blue Ribbon Commission. If your idea of reform is downplay the severity of the problems in which you were tasked to address because they might be really bad, then you’re better off in the fantasyland of your mind. For a CPA to take part in this deception is beyond the pale. She’s been on just about every Republican campaign as an accountant so she has plenty of chits to call in. You have an idea of how reform minded she’ll be.
I just don’t see this GOP Justice League hanging out socially let alone reforming the city in a positive fashion.
It talks about some “Reform Team”, made up of Jerry Sanders, Carl DeMaio, Jan Goldsmith, and April Boling, that needs to be sent to City Hall in order to thwart the interests of “special interest union bosses” that “have created a financial crisis with gold-plated pension benefits.”
I realize that a steady diet of FOX and wanting to believe that Bush was the right choice in 2004 lends itself to cognitive dissonance but I can’t think of any reality-based rational for labeling these four a “reform team.”
SANDERS
Oh please. Reform? We’ve had four years and all I’ve seen a poll-driven popularity seeker. People in his own party should remind him that “fees” can be interpreted as “taxes” and, like Golding before him, he’s not making any real changes lest he be responsible for a dip in his popularity numbers. Changes need to happen and the last four years seem to show a pattern of avoiding any meaningful reform beyond the cosmetic.
DEMAIO
Neo-libertarianism is not reform. DeMaio’s style of reform would have farmed out our police to Blackwater. That was an extreme example but a guy who started out feeding from the government trough has no right to bash it. Wanting to make a living again from the government while selling it off is not governing. I guess it is reform for those who liked Newt and Reagan.
GOLDSMITH
Yes, he is not Mike so that is reform of a sort. I just don’t see Jan doing much other that being another Casey Gwinn. His tenure in the State Assembly has become forgettable and I’m still not sure what a guy like him is doing in a race like this. His plans read more like a PowerPoint slide than a guide to action. If the GOP wanted a warm body to run, they could have done better.
BOLING
Out of many issues, I’ll choose one: Mayor Murphy’s Blue Ribbon Commission. If your idea of reform is downplay the severity of the problems in which you were tasked to address because they might be really bad, then you’re better off in the fantasyland of your mind. For a CPA to take part in this deception is beyond the pale. She’s been on just about every Republican campaign as an accountant so she has plenty of chits to call in. You have an idea of how reform minded she’ll be.
I just don’t see this GOP Justice League hanging out socially let alone reforming the city in a positive fashion.
Friday, May 9, 2008
Friday - Quick Hits
Republican corporate welfare at work. Westfield seeks to expand its North County Fair shopping center and wants to extend the lease by 55 years and the city of Escondido isn't considering raising the rent? UT
State tentatively approves $100 million for Santee women's jail. UT
State seeks to delay Federal judge order regarding Rincon Indians. UT
Lindbergh Field authorities and state Attorney General office announce agreement to curb greenhouse emissions. UT
What a surprise, Supervisor Bill Horn's credibility at question again! NCTimes
State tentatively approves $100 million for Santee women's jail. UT
State seeks to delay Federal judge order regarding Rincon Indians. UT
Lindbergh Field authorities and state Attorney General office announce agreement to curb greenhouse emissions. UT
What a surprise, Supervisor Bill Horn's credibility at question again! NCTimes
Thursday, May 8, 2008
Thursday - Quick Hits
Budget issues are taking top priority in Chula Vista city council races. UT
Eight arraigned from SDSU drug raid yesterday. UT
In District-3 race crime appears to be top issue for voters. UT
Downtown redevelopment proposal moves to Oceanside city council for approval. UT
Looming environmental disaster as Feds move forward with building border fence through Smuggler's Gulch. UT
Escondido city council sharply divided over pending budget cuts. NCTimes
Eight arraigned from SDSU drug raid yesterday. UT
In District-3 race crime appears to be top issue for voters. UT
Downtown redevelopment proposal moves to Oceanside city council for approval. UT
Looming environmental disaster as Feds move forward with building border fence through Smuggler's Gulch. UT
Escondido city council sharply divided over pending budget cuts. NCTimes
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
Wednesday - Quick Hits
Higher education, 96 SDSU students arrested in drug raid. UT NCTimes
Board of Supervisors votes unanimously to lease 3 firefighting planes. UT
One of Aguirre's top lieutenants is leaving office for another job that pays $25K less. UT
City of Oceanside begins looking at $120 million city budget. UT
For the department of the ridiculous, Riverside DA files 47-page appeal to a $5.00 fine! UT
Board of Supervisors votes unanimously to lease 3 firefighting planes. UT
One of Aguirre's top lieutenants is leaving office for another job that pays $25K less. UT
City of Oceanside begins looking at $120 million city budget. UT
For the department of the ridiculous, Riverside DA files 47-page appeal to a $5.00 fine! UT
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
Boling's Hands in All the Cookie Jars
I paid a visit to the Registar's office this morning to take a look into the sources of Jan Goldsmith's fundraising. Before I got more than a couple pages in, April Boling's name caught my eye as "Mr. Ferret's" treasurer. Today, Voice casually mentioned that Boling supports Goldsmith's campaign. We'll I'd hope so since she is on his payroll.
Intrigued by her ability to be the treasurer for her own campaign as well as another race at the same time, I decided to look into all the campaigns Boling has treasured.
The list is pretty impressive, and serves as a who's who of Downtown insiders. Just since 2004, Boling has worked for:
1. Kevin Faulconer for City Council
2. Brian Maienschein for City Council
4. San Diego County Republican Party Central Committee
5. Shirley Horton for Assembly
6. John McCann for Assembly
7. Garrick for Assembly
8. Friends of Paul Hegyi
9. Associated Builders and Contractors PAC
10. Associated General Contractors PAC
11. Anesthesia Service Medical Group PAC
12. Building Industry Association
13. Gen-Probe International
14. Hispanic 100
15. New Car Dealers Association
16. BIOCOM
17. San Diego County Taxpayers Association PAC
18. San Diego Lodging Industry Association PAC
19. San Diego Restaurant and Beverage Association PAC
20. Richman for Treasurer
21. Rancho Santa Fe Taxpayers for Fiscal Responsibility – No on H
22. Lincoln Club of San Diego County
23. Rogan for Congress
24. Jan Goldsmith for City Attorney
25. David Bejarano for Assembly
26. TaxpayerAdvocate.org
27. 21st Century PAC
28. Zettel for Senate
29. Stirling for Senate
30. Tricia Hunter for Assembly
31. California Republican League of One Hundred
32. Taxpayers for Shirley Horton
33. Barnett for School Board
34. Brannigan for Judge
35. Abbott for Assembly
36. Clyde Fuller for School Board
37. San Diegans for Congestion Relief – Yes on A
38. Reff for School Board
39. Independent Grocers and Convenience Stores PAC
40. Friends of Bob Watkins
41. Women for Arnold – sponsored by the Republican Pro-Choice Coalition
42. April Boling for City Council
43. Friends of Dick Murphy
44. Phil Thalheimer for City Council
45. Leslie Devaney for City Attorney
Intrigued by her ability to be the treasurer for her own campaign as well as another race at the same time, I decided to look into all the campaigns Boling has treasured.
The list is pretty impressive, and serves as a who's who of Downtown insiders. Just since 2004, Boling has worked for:
1. Kevin Faulconer for City Council
2. Brian Maienschein for City Council
4. San Diego County Republican Party Central Committee
5. Shirley Horton for Assembly
6. John McCann for Assembly
7. Garrick for Assembly
8. Friends of Paul Hegyi
9. Associated Builders and Contractors PAC
10. Associated General Contractors PAC
11. Anesthesia Service Medical Group PAC
12. Building Industry Association
13. Gen-Probe International
14. Hispanic 100
15. New Car Dealers Association
16. BIOCOM
17. San Diego County Taxpayers Association PAC
18. San Diego Lodging Industry Association PAC
19. San Diego Restaurant and Beverage Association PAC
20. Richman for Treasurer
21. Rancho Santa Fe Taxpayers for Fiscal Responsibility – No on H
22. Lincoln Club of San Diego County
23. Rogan for Congress
24. Jan Goldsmith for City Attorney
25. David Bejarano for Assembly
26. TaxpayerAdvocate.org
27. 21st Century PAC
28. Zettel for Senate
29. Stirling for Senate
30. Tricia Hunter for Assembly
31. California Republican League of One Hundred
32. Taxpayers for Shirley Horton
33. Barnett for School Board
34. Brannigan for Judge
35. Abbott for Assembly
36. Clyde Fuller for School Board
37. San Diegans for Congestion Relief – Yes on A
38. Reff for School Board
39. Independent Grocers and Convenience Stores PAC
40. Friends of Bob Watkins
41. Women for Arnold – sponsored by the Republican Pro-Choice Coalition
42. April Boling for City Council
43. Friends of Dick Murphy
44. Phil Thalheimer for City Council
45. Leslie Devaney for City Attorney
Tuesday - Quicks Hits
Mayor Sanders trying desperately to cover his rear in Blackwater fiasco. UT
Steve Francis nets Sierra Club and union endorsement. UT
Humanitarian group claims Enrique Morales is wrongly taking credit for their work. UT
Supervisor Bill Horn and environmentalists seek Federal help in purchasing Rancho Guejito. NCTimes
Federal agency rolls over and says proposed toll road won't cause any wildlife extinctions. NCTimes
Steve Francis nets Sierra Club and union endorsement. UT
Humanitarian group claims Enrique Morales is wrongly taking credit for their work. UT
Supervisor Bill Horn and environmentalists seek Federal help in purchasing Rancho Guejito. NCTimes
Federal agency rolls over and says proposed toll road won't cause any wildlife extinctions. NCTimes
Campaigns that will proceed in spite of themselves
All three of the following campaigns have one thing in common, IMHO, which is a floor of support. As any political science professor and advertising staffer will tell you, name ID is key in a campaign and these three have it. It may be because of name ID that they actually make it past June:
Marti Emerald
Anyone with a TV set in San Diego knows who she is. The local Dem Party is turning people out. Labor is turning people out. As for her campaign, it seems to be turning people off.
If the volunteer coordinator can’t get volunteers and the campaign manager never emerges to promote her candidate, what is the point of having them there?
In another question, what does it take to turn a 20 year TV personality into Juan Vargas-lite? Apparently Juan’s consultant. Remer dropped two mail pieces that were ostensibly pro-Marti. I say that because they seemed to be wastes of resources rather than an effective use of them.
First off, the pieces are swathed in yellow. For a campaign that has chosen the color green as an identifier, you make the call as to what’s wrong. Next, there is a list of supporters which would be fine if people didn’t know who she was and needed names to legitimize her candidacy. Also wasting space are the photos that show Marti in people’s homes and not troubleshooting. I admit it took me a good minute to figure out what the message was here. I think I got it; that she’s not an interior designer but running for something.
The second piece, with screen shots, could have been done better. Again washed in yellow, it reads like a newscaster just moved in and is introducing themself to you. Not “I’m a problem solver here to help.” At least to didn’t have Marti on a bulldozer mowing down a crack house every election cycle like Juan Vargas.
Thankfully, Marti may pull this out in spite of her own “campaign”, if it can be called that.
Hartley
Were this LA, Hartley would be roadkill. His tale would still be making the late night talk show circuit and the “apology” mailer (Remer again) would have been lampooned for weeks. However, because the news media in San Diego would rather cover panda births instead of campaigns Harley will survive to run again.
The Whitburn-Gloria match-up is being seen as an intramural fight within the LGBT community which (surprise) isn’t a majority of the voters in the 3rd. Hartley has walked the district, on and off, for nearly 20 years and been on the ballot more times than Stephen or Todd combined.
As such, Hartley makes the run-off. And, as a final bit of advice to the Hartley campaign, stop it with the phallic imagery, such as open hands on the mail piece or “being caught in a pickle.“
Aguirre
All Mike has to do is lay low and the campaign will take care of itself. Mike’s appeal lies in the “they’re all a bunch a bums” mentality that Republicans have fostered since Reagan and that “government can’t be trusted” mentality that keeps getting Donna elected. There is a sliver of truth in each perspective, but in San Diego, they go unchallenged so they prevail.
Hell, all he has to do is put a few signs up and let his challengers do eachother in. No one wants to give to the challengers for fear of being targeted by Mike, yet no one wants to give to Mike lest they be targeted by his opponents. Such a vicious circle only benefits the status quo, which has Mike as top dog.
Therefore, all his campaign staff needs is a pulse to collect their check. Mike and the nature of San Diego politics have seen to the rest. He makes the run-off hands down
Marti Emerald
Anyone with a TV set in San Diego knows who she is. The local Dem Party is turning people out. Labor is turning people out. As for her campaign, it seems to be turning people off.
If the volunteer coordinator can’t get volunteers and the campaign manager never emerges to promote her candidate, what is the point of having them there?
In another question, what does it take to turn a 20 year TV personality into Juan Vargas-lite? Apparently Juan’s consultant. Remer dropped two mail pieces that were ostensibly pro-Marti. I say that because they seemed to be wastes of resources rather than an effective use of them.
First off, the pieces are swathed in yellow. For a campaign that has chosen the color green as an identifier, you make the call as to what’s wrong. Next, there is a list of supporters which would be fine if people didn’t know who she was and needed names to legitimize her candidacy. Also wasting space are the photos that show Marti in people’s homes and not troubleshooting. I admit it took me a good minute to figure out what the message was here. I think I got it; that she’s not an interior designer but running for something.
The second piece, with screen shots, could have been done better. Again washed in yellow, it reads like a newscaster just moved in and is introducing themself to you. Not “I’m a problem solver here to help.” At least to didn’t have Marti on a bulldozer mowing down a crack house every election cycle like Juan Vargas.
Thankfully, Marti may pull this out in spite of her own “campaign”, if it can be called that.
Hartley
Were this LA, Hartley would be roadkill. His tale would still be making the late night talk show circuit and the “apology” mailer (Remer again) would have been lampooned for weeks. However, because the news media in San Diego would rather cover panda births instead of campaigns Harley will survive to run again.
The Whitburn-Gloria match-up is being seen as an intramural fight within the LGBT community which (surprise) isn’t a majority of the voters in the 3rd. Hartley has walked the district, on and off, for nearly 20 years and been on the ballot more times than Stephen or Todd combined.
As such, Hartley makes the run-off. And, as a final bit of advice to the Hartley campaign, stop it with the phallic imagery, such as open hands on the mail piece or “being caught in a pickle.“
Aguirre
All Mike has to do is lay low and the campaign will take care of itself. Mike’s appeal lies in the “they’re all a bunch a bums” mentality that Republicans have fostered since Reagan and that “government can’t be trusted” mentality that keeps getting Donna elected. There is a sliver of truth in each perspective, but in San Diego, they go unchallenged so they prevail.
Hell, all he has to do is put a few signs up and let his challengers do eachother in. No one wants to give to the challengers for fear of being targeted by Mike, yet no one wants to give to Mike lest they be targeted by his opponents. Such a vicious circle only benefits the status quo, which has Mike as top dog.
Therefore, all his campaign staff needs is a pulse to collect their check. Mike and the nature of San Diego politics have seen to the rest. He makes the run-off hands down
Monday, May 5, 2008
Labor Council Announces Open Endorsement in Mayor’s Race
The San Diego-Imperial Counties Labor Council announced an open endorsement in the race for San Diego Mayor, allowing individual unions to proceed with an endorsement should they choose to support a candidate.
“While no candidate garnered enough support to win the endorsement of the 120,000 working families that this Labor Council represents, it was clear that individual unions will want their voices heard in this very important election,” said Lorena Gonzalez, secretary-treasurer of the Labor Council. “We will use this opportunity to educate all of our members about the candidates, their positions and their individual union endorsements.”
Other endorsements for the June primary can be viewed here.
“While no candidate garnered enough support to win the endorsement of the 120,000 working families that this Labor Council represents, it was clear that individual unions will want their voices heard in this very important election,” said Lorena Gonzalez, secretary-treasurer of the Labor Council. “We will use this opportunity to educate all of our members about the candidates, their positions and their individual union endorsements.”
Other endorsements for the June primary can be viewed here.
Monday - Quick Hits
Pipe bomb damages Federal Courthouse early Sunday morning. UT
Southbay toll road is meeting its expectations since opening. UT
County Board of Supervisors set to debate the leasing of three firefighting aircraft tomorrow. Debate more lead to broader firefighting policy? UT
City of Carlsbad to consider a smoking ban at all city parks and beaches. NCTimes
Southbay toll road is meeting its expectations since opening. UT
County Board of Supervisors set to debate the leasing of three firefighting aircraft tomorrow. Debate more lead to broader firefighting policy? UT
City of Carlsbad to consider a smoking ban at all city parks and beaches. NCTimes
Whatever, Donna
In today’s Voice of San Diego, SLOP has a bit about Donna Frye getting bent out of shape because she was on a mailer sent out by local labor. She claims that it gives the impression that she is supporting Perters for City Attorney:
"It gives the false impression that I am endorsing Scott Peters for city attorney and that's absolutely false and extremely offensive," Frye said. "I'm getting phone calls from people asking about it and I don't appreciate it."
Frye said she doesn't plan to endorse any candidate in the city attorney or mayor's race.
Fine. What isn’t cool is Donna, once again, making this all about her. We received the mailer and it looked like a “thank you to our supporters on the City Council.” Scott is the presiding officer so it makes sense that he would get top billing.
Frye and Peters haven’t been the best of friends, but at least Scott knows how to work with people. With Donna, it’s either her way or no way. There isn’t room for compromise and when there is, she wants it to be in her court. An example would be the “compromise” she proposed to work out with Mayor Sanders after she gutted the big box ordinance last year. Only Donna knew about such an alternative and it has gone nowhere.
Why? Because, were I Jerry, I would have responded with “You and what army is going to move me on this? You just screwed your allies, so why should I trust you?”
Not that it matters to Donna or her followers. Frye decries the “system” yet she’s a part of it. She brings up valid points but then does little to resolve them because you need to work with your other councilmembers to legislate and she has a poor record of this.
She's offended by a thank you piece because it might send the wrong message. If she doesn't want to endorse in this race, she should say so. But I don't see her taking that step. It may offend the Mike supporters and Donna needs to remain "the outsider fighting the establishment."
I contact downtown told me that they’d never seen anyone go from selfless to selfish as fast as Frye had after her initial election. After six years, it’s sad to see that this self appointed voice of the people cannot see past her own ego to make real change happen.
"It gives the false impression that I am endorsing Scott Peters for city attorney and that's absolutely false and extremely offensive," Frye said. "I'm getting phone calls from people asking about it and I don't appreciate it."
Frye said she doesn't plan to endorse any candidate in the city attorney or mayor's race.
Fine. What isn’t cool is Donna, once again, making this all about her. We received the mailer and it looked like a “thank you to our supporters on the City Council.” Scott is the presiding officer so it makes sense that he would get top billing.
Frye and Peters haven’t been the best of friends, but at least Scott knows how to work with people. With Donna, it’s either her way or no way. There isn’t room for compromise and when there is, she wants it to be in her court. An example would be the “compromise” she proposed to work out with Mayor Sanders after she gutted the big box ordinance last year. Only Donna knew about such an alternative and it has gone nowhere.
Why? Because, were I Jerry, I would have responded with “You and what army is going to move me on this? You just screwed your allies, so why should I trust you?”
Not that it matters to Donna or her followers. Frye decries the “system” yet she’s a part of it. She brings up valid points but then does little to resolve them because you need to work with your other councilmembers to legislate and she has a poor record of this.
She's offended by a thank you piece because it might send the wrong message. If she doesn't want to endorse in this race, she should say so. But I don't see her taking that step. It may offend the Mike supporters and Donna needs to remain "the outsider fighting the establishment."
I contact downtown told me that they’d never seen anyone go from selfless to selfish as fast as Frye had after her initial election. After six years, it’s sad to see that this self appointed voice of the people cannot see past her own ego to make real change happen.
Friday, May 2, 2008
Friday - Quick Hits
Class act they are running over there at city hall. City finally releases e-mail from mayor's office containing swears in it. UT
Airport Board approves master plan from Lindbergh Field that includes the building of a 5-story parking garage. UT
Mayoral candidate in Oceanside has an inaccurate list of supporters on his website. UT
Panel endorse county plan to lease three firefighting plans. NCTimes
Airport Board approves master plan from Lindbergh Field that includes the building of a 5-story parking garage. UT
Mayoral candidate in Oceanside has an inaccurate list of supporters on his website. UT
Panel endorse county plan to lease three firefighting plans. NCTimes
Filner Calls for City Investigation of Blackwater Contract
From a Press Release dated yesterday
Congressman Bob Filner today requested City of San Diego Mayor Jerry Sanders to investigate the permit that Blackwater received as a “vocational trade school.” Filner also asked for Mayor Sanders’ support in preventing Blackwater’s presence in San Diego. Attached is a copy of the letter, which was also sent to all eight San Diego City Council Members and the City Attorney.
Filner wrote, “The secrecy under which Blackwater contracted its facility in Otay Mesa causes great suspicion and distrust among community members in my District. The lack of transparency in their plans forces me to question their intent to develop a ‘vocational trade school.’ Blackwater is a company that profits from war, and they will not hesitate to profit from insecurity in our sensitive border region. Developing a paramilitary training facility, less than one mile from our international border, would send a dangerous message to Mexico and would hurt business and diplomatic relations. A positive relationship with Mexico has never been more critical to our National Security, and we must not take any action that would jeopardize that bond.”
“As you know, Blackwater has been under investigation for the shooting of 17 innocent Iraqi civilians on September 16, 2007. Since this event, Blackwater has been investigated by Congress, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of State. More specifically, Congress filed an investigation of tax, small business and labor law violations,” added Filner. “As a private company hired by the federal government, Blackwater lacks accountability to government agencies. Once in operation, there would be very little or no oversight governing Blackwater’s operations in our border region.”
Congressman Filner concluded, “Blackwater does not exhibit any of the signs of a good neighbor or a productive business partner. We cannot allow a company with their reputation to do business in our community – the cost is too high.”
Blackwater recently announced that they plan to open an indoor training center in Otay Mesa to train Navy personnel. Blackwater will operate a 61,600-square-foot building, including an enclosed shooting range, in a business park on Siempre Viva Road, just south of Brown Field. The building has been permitted for use as a vocational trade school.
Congressman Bob Filner today requested City of San Diego Mayor Jerry Sanders to investigate the permit that Blackwater received as a “vocational trade school.” Filner also asked for Mayor Sanders’ support in preventing Blackwater’s presence in San Diego. Attached is a copy of the letter, which was also sent to all eight San Diego City Council Members and the City Attorney.
Filner wrote, “The secrecy under which Blackwater contracted its facility in Otay Mesa causes great suspicion and distrust among community members in my District. The lack of transparency in their plans forces me to question their intent to develop a ‘vocational trade school.’ Blackwater is a company that profits from war, and they will not hesitate to profit from insecurity in our sensitive border region. Developing a paramilitary training facility, less than one mile from our international border, would send a dangerous message to Mexico and would hurt business and diplomatic relations. A positive relationship with Mexico has never been more critical to our National Security, and we must not take any action that would jeopardize that bond.”
“As you know, Blackwater has been under investigation for the shooting of 17 innocent Iraqi civilians on September 16, 2007. Since this event, Blackwater has been investigated by Congress, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of State. More specifically, Congress filed an investigation of tax, small business and labor law violations,” added Filner. “As a private company hired by the federal government, Blackwater lacks accountability to government agencies. Once in operation, there would be very little or no oversight governing Blackwater’s operations in our border region.”
Congressman Filner concluded, “Blackwater does not exhibit any of the signs of a good neighbor or a productive business partner. We cannot allow a company with their reputation to do business in our community – the cost is too high.”
Blackwater recently announced that they plan to open an indoor training center in Otay Mesa to train Navy personnel. Blackwater will operate a 61,600-square-foot building, including an enclosed shooting range, in a business park on Siempre Viva Road, just south of Brown Field. The building has been permitted for use as a vocational trade school.
Thursday, May 1, 2008
Tell Jerry Sanders: Block Blackwater
Full disclosure: I work for the Courage Campaign and cross posted at Calitics
Mayor Jerry Sanders got what he asked for when he was elected in 2005. Not just the office, but unprecedented "strong mayor" control over the city's operation. He's had two and a half years, and as he runs for reelection, we have to ask whether he's lived up to the responsibility.
At a recent debate, Mayor Sanders let his frustration get the best of him over the substance, or perceived lack thereof, in the current campaign. Well if he wants to talk about issues, Blackwater is a good one. Steve Francis, a leading contender for mayor, has accused Jerry Sanders of "presiding over the largest pay-to-play system the city has ever seen." If Mayor Sanders wants to get substantive and prove that the good of the community is is his top priority, it's time he get involved in the absurd permit process that has- thus far- allowed Blackwater to waltz into the city and start unpacking within spitting distance of the border.
Earlier today, Courage Campaign partnered with Jess Durfee, the Chair of the San Diego Democratic Party, to introduce a petition calling on Mayor Sanders to launch a full investigation into the questionable process that's brought Blackwater to the City of San Diego. He asked for this responsibility- he still wants this responsibilty. It's time to deliver.
You can read the email that Jess Durfee sent to Courage Campaign's San Diego members today at the Courage Campaign blog cross post
Senator Max Cleland: "Reporting for Duty"
Please Join U.S. Senator Max Cleland and Navy SEAL Commander (Ret.) Mike Lumpkin for a very special veterans' benefit:
Operation True Blue: Veteran for Veterans
Friday, May 2, 2008
8:00 am - 10:00 am
American Legion Post #282
8118 University Ave., La Mesa, CA 91941
Questions contact Chris Young at 760-525-5071 or chris@lumpkinforcongress.com
Thursday - Quick Hits
Yeah right! State agency finds no wrong doing in lottery at Liberty Station. UT
Rincon tribe scores big win against governor regarding gaming deal. UT
City council votes to make Redevelopment Division into its own agency. UT
No f-bombs this time, as Mayor Sanders and Steve Francis shake hands following candidate forum. UT
Must be a Republican appointed judge, as he rules in favor of Manchester regarding the Navy Broadway complex. UT
City of Oceanside to decide this month on an operator for its municipal airport. UT
Mayoral race in Oceanside starting to take shape. NCTimes
Rincon tribe scores big win against governor regarding gaming deal. UT
City council votes to make Redevelopment Division into its own agency. UT
No f-bombs this time, as Mayor Sanders and Steve Francis shake hands following candidate forum. UT
Must be a Republican appointed judge, as he rules in favor of Manchester regarding the Navy Broadway complex. UT
City of Oceanside to decide this month on an operator for its municipal airport. UT
Mayoral race in Oceanside starting to take shape. NCTimes
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Wednesday - Quick Hits
Social Justice groups to march on May Day for immigration reform. UT
Political opportunist council member Kevin Faulconer leads group in protest to proposed garage at Lindbergh Field. UT
The GJ's investigation in Sunroad controversy recommends better land use policy and employee training for city. UT
As drug gang war continues in Tijuana, Mexican officials vow combat the violence. UT
In Riverside County foreclosures during Q1 tripled from the number same period last year. UT
Scripps Encinitas is trying to break the nurses union. NCTimes
Political opportunist council member Kevin Faulconer leads group in protest to proposed garage at Lindbergh Field. UT
The GJ's investigation in Sunroad controversy recommends better land use policy and employee training for city. UT
As drug gang war continues in Tijuana, Mexican officials vow combat the violence. UT
In Riverside County foreclosures during Q1 tripled from the number same period last year. UT
Scripps Encinitas is trying to break the nurses union. NCTimes
Carl DeMaio is Unacceptable
From a Press Release dated Monday, April 28, 2008
(San Diego) - The San Diego Democratic Club (SDDC), the chartered Democratic club serving San Diego County's lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community, announced today that it has rated Carl DeMaio, an openly gay candidate for the San Diego City Council in District Five, as "unacceptable." As the SDDC's lowest possible rating, its use is rare in any election cycle and reserved for candidates that are antithetical to LGBT and progressive rights in San Diego. Its use for a gay candidate is unprecedented in the club's 32-year history.
SDDC President Andrea Villa said that the primary reason for the rating was DeMaio's overwhelming incompatibility as a candidate with the SDDC's mission, which is to elect LGBT and LGBT-friendly Democrats to office. While DeMaio, an openly gay registered Republican who is running for a non-partisan race, was eligible for an "acceptable" rating (the club's highest recommendation for a Republican), he instead earned the lowest possible rating given by the SDDC, that of "unacceptable."
"We have serious questions about whether Carl DeMaio, an openly gay man, will support issues of the most basic importance to his own community if he is elected to the San Diego City Council," Villa stated. "We are especially concerned by the fact that one of his campaign's biggest supporters has bankrolled the latest attempt to permanently prevent Mr DeMaio's own LGBT community from obtaining basic human rights here in California."
DeMaio's first campaign fund raiser was held last year at the home of San Diego developer Doug Manchester and his wife, Elizabeth. Doug and Elizabeth Manchester have donated the maximum amount allowed to DeMaio's city council campaign. This year, Manchester has donated as much as $125,000 to ProtectMarriage.com, the political committee that has been collecting signatures to place a proposition on this fall's state ballot that would insert a ban on same-sex marriage into the California constitution.
Last week the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD), PlanetOut and the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) all canceled events planned to be held at the Manchester Hyatt during San Diego LGBT Pride Week in late July.
"We believe it is telling that these national LGBT rights organizations have so quickly disaffiliated themselves from any dealings, regardless how inadvertent they may have been, with Mr. Manchester - something that Mr. DeMaio, as a gay man in San Diego, should have done long ago," Villa said.
(San Diego) - The San Diego Democratic Club (SDDC), the chartered Democratic club serving San Diego County's lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community, announced today that it has rated Carl DeMaio, an openly gay candidate for the San Diego City Council in District Five, as "unacceptable." As the SDDC's lowest possible rating, its use is rare in any election cycle and reserved for candidates that are antithetical to LGBT and progressive rights in San Diego. Its use for a gay candidate is unprecedented in the club's 32-year history.
SDDC President Andrea Villa said that the primary reason for the rating was DeMaio's overwhelming incompatibility as a candidate with the SDDC's mission, which is to elect LGBT and LGBT-friendly Democrats to office. While DeMaio, an openly gay registered Republican who is running for a non-partisan race, was eligible for an "acceptable" rating (the club's highest recommendation for a Republican), he instead earned the lowest possible rating given by the SDDC, that of "unacceptable."
"We have serious questions about whether Carl DeMaio, an openly gay man, will support issues of the most basic importance to his own community if he is elected to the San Diego City Council," Villa stated. "We are especially concerned by the fact that one of his campaign's biggest supporters has bankrolled the latest attempt to permanently prevent Mr DeMaio's own LGBT community from obtaining basic human rights here in California."
DeMaio's first campaign fund raiser was held last year at the home of San Diego developer Doug Manchester and his wife, Elizabeth. Doug and Elizabeth Manchester have donated the maximum amount allowed to DeMaio's city council campaign. This year, Manchester has donated as much as $125,000 to ProtectMarriage.com, the political committee that has been collecting signatures to place a proposition on this fall's state ballot that would insert a ban on same-sex marriage into the California constitution.
Last week the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD), PlanetOut and the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) all canceled events planned to be held at the Manchester Hyatt during San Diego LGBT Pride Week in late July.
"We believe it is telling that these national LGBT rights organizations have so quickly disaffiliated themselves from any dealings, regardless how inadvertent they may have been, with Mr. Manchester - something that Mr. DeMaio, as a gay man in San Diego, should have done long ago," Villa said.
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Labor Council Announces Endorsements for Chula Vista City Council, Community College Board and Carlsbad's Prop. D
The membership of the San Diego-Imperial Counties Labor Council announced its endorsement of Pamela Bensoussan for the Chula Vista City Council.
Bensoussan’s strong ties to the community and record promoting citizen involvement in responsible development were cited as reasons for her endorsement.
“As Chula Vista sees more redevelopment, it is important that the City’s leaders realize the community should have input,” Labor Council Secretary-Treasurer Lorena Gonzalez said. “During her service on the Chula Vista Planning Commission and Redevelopment Advisory Committee, Pamela proved that she cares about including the community in all city decisions.”
Gonzalez also noted Bensoussan’s involvement in community groups, such as the Third Avenue Village Association and the Historic Preservation Advisory Committee, show her commitment to the people of Chula Vista.
The Labor Council also granted a dual endorsement for Dwayne Crenshaw and Mary Graham for San Diego Community College District Board of Trustees Area D and elected to oppose Proposition D in Carlsbad.
“San Diego’s working families are lucky to have two great candidates,” Gonzalez said of Crenshaw and Graham. “Community colleges are often a first step towards higher education for working families. As trustees, both Dwayne and Mary would ensure that community colleges remain an affordable and accessible option for all San Diegans.”
In opposition to Carlsbad’s Proposition D, Gonzalez cited a need to ensure proper protections before proceeding with the creation of a city charter.
“Cities that adopt charters are exempt from many important state laws including prevailing wage and on the job safety regulations,” Gonzalez said. “Before moving ahead with the creation of a charter, Carlsbad should ensure that those important protections are in place.”
Bensoussan’s strong ties to the community and record promoting citizen involvement in responsible development were cited as reasons for her endorsement.
“As Chula Vista sees more redevelopment, it is important that the City’s leaders realize the community should have input,” Labor Council Secretary-Treasurer Lorena Gonzalez said. “During her service on the Chula Vista Planning Commission and Redevelopment Advisory Committee, Pamela proved that she cares about including the community in all city decisions.”
Gonzalez also noted Bensoussan’s involvement in community groups, such as the Third Avenue Village Association and the Historic Preservation Advisory Committee, show her commitment to the people of Chula Vista.
The Labor Council also granted a dual endorsement for Dwayne Crenshaw and Mary Graham for San Diego Community College District Board of Trustees Area D and elected to oppose Proposition D in Carlsbad.
“San Diego’s working families are lucky to have two great candidates,” Gonzalez said of Crenshaw and Graham. “Community colleges are often a first step towards higher education for working families. As trustees, both Dwayne and Mary would ensure that community colleges remain an affordable and accessible option for all San Diegans.”
In opposition to Carlsbad’s Proposition D, Gonzalez cited a need to ensure proper protections before proceeding with the creation of a city charter.
“Cities that adopt charters are exempt from many important state laws including prevailing wage and on the job safety regulations,” Gonzalez said. “Before moving ahead with the creation of a charter, Carlsbad should ensure that those important protections are in place.”
Tuesday - Quick Hits
Gun range owner cuts his ties to Blackwater. UT
New ROV web site tool, allows voters to check their registration party affiliation. UT
UT begins profiles of candidates in City Attorney's race. Today it is incumbent Mike Aguirre. UT
Officials are concerned with the upcoming fire season. UT
Corporate welfare at its finest. City of Escondido agrees to pay an additional $2 million to developer for Marriott Hotel project. NCTimes
New ROV web site tool, allows voters to check their registration party affiliation. UT
UT begins profiles of candidates in City Attorney's race. Today it is incumbent Mike Aguirre. UT
Officials are concerned with the upcoming fire season. UT
Corporate welfare at its finest. City of Escondido agrees to pay an additional $2 million to developer for Marriott Hotel project. NCTimes
Monday, April 28, 2008
Maienschein Mail and Mike
Until now, I haven’t seen much of Brian Maienschein’s campaign. Then it landed in our mailbox. A double Dem household gets its first piece for the City Attorney race from the Councilman from the 7th district.
The piece itself is OK as far as pieces go, but I began to speculate that Brian could be the stealth candidate in this race. He’s got enough money to compete, is solid in his district, and unlike Goldsmith, isn’t running his campaign from inside a bubble.
Goldsmith is running like a near incumbent with the GOP establishments support but it hasn’t translated into dollars yet. As a judge and a former State Assemblymember, he hasn’t had to throw down in a street fight. Mike can bring it. So can Brian. And so can Scott.
Brian has the drive and the knowledge to pull this one out. He may just be looking for a job, but he’s going to make sure that Jan and the local GOP feel it. Brian’s network is made up of not-the-usual-suspects. As such, prepare for a surprise
Scott hasn’t gotten out of the gate yet and Amy is still skipping along. Until these two play their hands, I’m going to reserve judgment on the final outcome, but I will say that Jan had best watch his flank because Brian can pull the race from him.
If it’s Brain vs. Mike, or Brian vs. Scott, or even Brian vs. Jan, I wouldn’t discount Brian. He’s a player in this and won’t be taken as a token.
Yet I still am baffled as to why none of these challengers has even attempted to take Mike on at their debates and forums. It’s all too cordial for my taste. Especially when Mike would rip Jan apart on a one-on-one. Mike is dangerous in a two person race. If nothing else, his challengers should be united in taking Mike out of the Primary.
Speaking of Mike, check out this video:
http://youtube.com/watch?v=TxtKl7hN1ao
A contact turned me on to it and I think it speaks volumes.
The piece itself is OK as far as pieces go, but I began to speculate that Brian could be the stealth candidate in this race. He’s got enough money to compete, is solid in his district, and unlike Goldsmith, isn’t running his campaign from inside a bubble.
Goldsmith is running like a near incumbent with the GOP establishments support but it hasn’t translated into dollars yet. As a judge and a former State Assemblymember, he hasn’t had to throw down in a street fight. Mike can bring it. So can Brian. And so can Scott.
Brian has the drive and the knowledge to pull this one out. He may just be looking for a job, but he’s going to make sure that Jan and the local GOP feel it. Brian’s network is made up of not-the-usual-suspects. As such, prepare for a surprise
Scott hasn’t gotten out of the gate yet and Amy is still skipping along. Until these two play their hands, I’m going to reserve judgment on the final outcome, but I will say that Jan had best watch his flank because Brian can pull the race from him.
If it’s Brain vs. Mike, or Brian vs. Scott, or even Brian vs. Jan, I wouldn’t discount Brian. He’s a player in this and won’t be taken as a token.
Yet I still am baffled as to why none of these challengers has even attempted to take Mike on at their debates and forums. It’s all too cordial for my taste. Especially when Mike would rip Jan apart on a one-on-one. Mike is dangerous in a two person race. If nothing else, his challengers should be united in taking Mike out of the Primary.
Speaking of Mike, check out this video:
http://youtube.com/watch?v=TxtKl7hN1ao
A contact turned me on to it and I think it speaks volumes.
Monday - Quick Hits
Candidates for judgeship have differing views of the role. UT
Despite Sacramento's total capitulation on the health reform in January, polls finds that health cares top the list priorities among voters. UT
The District Attorney office Public Integrity unit rightly comes under criticism for recent cases. UT
Full employment for attorneys, as California tribes and the state head to court over security issues related to gaming. UT
Despite Sacramento's total capitulation on the health reform in January, polls finds that health cares top the list priorities among voters. UT
The District Attorney office Public Integrity unit rightly comes under criticism for recent cases. UT
Full employment for attorneys, as California tribes and the state head to court over security issues related to gaming. UT
Friday, April 25, 2008
Friday - Quicks Hits
So much for the 760. County to get new area code. UT NCTimes
La Mesa city council votes to bury the report on Mayor Art Madrid's drunk driving incident. UT
Effects of world food crisis having an impact among the poor here in San Diego. UT
Water Authority grants approval to increase the size of the San Vicente reservoir. UT
Tri-city looks to reduce the size of bond measure to make it more palatable for voters. UT
La Mesa city council votes to bury the report on Mayor Art Madrid's drunk driving incident. UT
Effects of world food crisis having an impact among the poor here in San Diego. UT
Water Authority grants approval to increase the size of the San Vicente reservoir. UT
Tri-city looks to reduce the size of bond measure to make it more palatable for voters. UT
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Rally to Block Blackwater Friday Morning
Full disclosure: I work for the Courage Campaign
When nobody was paying attention, Blackwater found another way into San Diego. After watching every friendly politician in Potrero get recalled handily in February, Blackwater West quietly started pursuing permits to open a facility in the City of San Diego just three blocks from the U.S/Mexico border. 61,600 square feet, zoned for a vocational school but which Blackwater plans to use for training Navy personnel in terrorism response. To echo recent comments by Councilmember Ben Hueso to local news, Blackwater has no business in the City of San Diego unless and until someone can say definitively what laws they are bound by. And certainly, setting up shop *on* the border raises all sorts of extra red flags.
The local response has been fast and furious this week. And thanks to leadership from Congressman Bob Filner, there will be a rally at the proposed site of the new Blackwater facility tomorrow (Friday) morning. Rep. Filner will be joined by Councilmember Ben Hueso, San Diego City Council President Scott Peters, Carol Jahnkow of the Peace Resource Center, Raymond Lutz of Citizens' Oversight Projects, and Sierra Club's Jeanette Hartman at 10:45am at 7685 Siempre Viva Road in Otay Mesa in opposition to Blackwater's latest shady dealings. Blackwater discovered once that San Diego isn't friendly territory. They're sticking around for a reason, and best guess is, it's not just for a Navy subcontract.
Among other organizations, the Courage Campaign is encouraging all local San Diegans to attend if they're able. If you want to read the email from Rick Jacobs, you can check it out here.
When nobody was paying attention, Blackwater found another way into San Diego. After watching every friendly politician in Potrero get recalled handily in February, Blackwater West quietly started pursuing permits to open a facility in the City of San Diego just three blocks from the U.S/Mexico border. 61,600 square feet, zoned for a vocational school but which Blackwater plans to use for training Navy personnel in terrorism response. To echo recent comments by Councilmember Ben Hueso to local news, Blackwater has no business in the City of San Diego unless and until someone can say definitively what laws they are bound by. And certainly, setting up shop *on* the border raises all sorts of extra red flags.
The local response has been fast and furious this week. And thanks to leadership from Congressman Bob Filner, there will be a rally at the proposed site of the new Blackwater facility tomorrow (Friday) morning. Rep. Filner will be joined by Councilmember Ben Hueso, San Diego City Council President Scott Peters, Carol Jahnkow of the Peace Resource Center, Raymond Lutz of Citizens' Oversight Projects, and Sierra Club's Jeanette Hartman at 10:45am at 7685 Siempre Viva Road in Otay Mesa in opposition to Blackwater's latest shady dealings. Blackwater discovered once that San Diego isn't friendly territory. They're sticking around for a reason, and best guess is, it's not just for a Navy subcontract.
Among other organizations, the Courage Campaign is encouraging all local San Diegans to attend if they're able. If you want to read the email from Rick Jacobs, you can check it out here.
Eff It
The Jerry Sanders F-bomb saga made it all the way to the Sacramento Bee and I'm not convinced it's done spreading. So it's probably worth noting that Jerry Sanders has a pretty good point: so far this race ain't about the issues. The blame doesn't lie anywhere in particular, since for every fluff media story you can find a substantive one that everyone ignored and you can probably find a fluffy press release from the Mayor's office. For every substance-less maneuver by Steve Francis, you can find a substantive issue that Mayor Sanders would presumably rather not discuss (crumbling infrastructure, reductions in city services, catastrophic fire, Sunroad, Sunrise, City Charter, etc.).
If Sanders is frustrated by a perceived political superficiality in San Diego, I'm happy to welcome him to the party. But I'd also note that he's waking up in a bed he helped make. The Sanders years have done little to assuage the sense of distrust held validly by many in this city. His development plans have disrupted the development of neighborhoods, his backroom dealings and cronyism have fanned the flames of cynicism, and his transparent attempts to consolidate power undermine his credibility as a noble or honest broker.
He may be frustrated by the recent superficiality, petty behavior and lack of engagement around town, but if he's going to start throwing around the blame, he should remember to check the mirror too.
If Sanders is frustrated by a perceived political superficiality in San Diego, I'm happy to welcome him to the party. But I'd also note that he's waking up in a bed he helped make. The Sanders years have done little to assuage the sense of distrust held validly by many in this city. His development plans have disrupted the development of neighborhoods, his backroom dealings and cronyism have fanned the flames of cynicism, and his transparent attempts to consolidate power undermine his credibility as a noble or honest broker.
He may be frustrated by the recent superficiality, petty behavior and lack of engagement around town, but if he's going to start throwing around the blame, he should remember to check the mirror too.
Thursday - Quick Hits
Total defeat to District Attorney Bonnie Dumanis, as Chula Vista Coucil member Steve Castaneda is acquitted on 6 of 10 perjury charges, with the other 4 declared a mistrial. UT
Mayor Sanders appointment of former State Senator Steve Peace to the Airport Regional Policy Committee cause SANDAG chairwomen Mary Sessom to walk out in protest. UT
La Mesa police officers didn't violate department rules in the Art Madrid case back in February according to a consultant. UT
City Attorney Mike Aguirre will not sign off on city's $103 million bond sale. UT
City of Escondido, decides to pay developer additional $2 million for a Marriott hotel in downtown Escondido. UT
Mayor Sanders appointment of former State Senator Steve Peace to the Airport Regional Policy Committee cause SANDAG chairwomen Mary Sessom to walk out in protest. UT
La Mesa police officers didn't violate department rules in the Art Madrid case back in February according to a consultant. UT
City Attorney Mike Aguirre will not sign off on city's $103 million bond sale. UT
City of Escondido, decides to pay developer additional $2 million for a Marriott hotel in downtown Escondido. UT
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
What Vocation is Blackwater Peddling?
Full disclosure: I work for the Courage Campaign
Cross posted at the Courage Campaign blog
The Union-Tribune's Anne Krueger is back with a command performance from the stenography pool today, delivering the latest "news" on Blackwater's Otay Mesa facility. Yet even she couldn't avoid the awkward break in logic that the various pieces of today's puzzle delivered:
addition: Brian Bonfiglio explicitly states that this facility will provide military, not civilian training in the article: "Already in place was a ship simulator – a miniature version of a Navy ship – that Bonfiglio said will be used to train sailors for crisis situations at sea...Although the facility has a shooting range, it will emphasize training Navy personnel to be better prepared for terrorist attacks, Bonfiglio said."
So as long as they're training future police or security guards it's vocational. But they're training Navy personnel to perform Navy duties. American Shooting Center (if you want to visit their website by the way, it's www.gotammo.com *ahem*), for its own part, is not new to shady training facilities. Last year, ASC tried to open a training facility near Cleveland National Forest without permits and was shut down by the Board of Supervisors. At the time, owner Marc Halcon complained about getting lumped in with Blackwater and
So Halcon's subcontract with Blackwater was due to end September of last year. And the contract was, even then, "to train military personnel at his Kearny Mesa shooting center." And now Blackwater is saying its new facility is for training those people. Did the contract get renewed/extended? If so, I guess it was changed to reflect a change of venue for the training, even though Blackwater had no facility lined up last fall. Going further, neither last year's article nor the new coverage suggests that the training of Navy personnel is to ease their transition into private-sector security jobs- quite the opposite. Given that Halcon was careful to note the differences between military, police and private training, it seems odd that it would consistently be referred to as training of military personnel unless it's exclusively is training of military personnel for military purposes. Which would not be a vocational or trade school. At all.
In this scenario, the only way around that rather major problem would be if Kelly Broughton's statement- "if they're training future police or security guards"- is given incredible latitude. I mean, Navy personnel may very well become police officers or security guards eventually. And those who do would likely utilize weapon and other combat training as part of their job. But that's a far leap from the notion that training military personnel to perform military tasks is the same as training them to be police or security professionals.
And while we're on the subject of what constitutes vocational training, Ray Lutz went ahead and checked the Yellow Pages, where Blackwater Worldwide is indeed listed under Industrial, Technical & Trade Schools (received via email). He also too the time to note the other businesses listed under the same heading:
A Academy of Bartending
California College For Health Sciences
Center for The Communications Arts
College of English Language
Contractor Schools Golden State
Contractors License Of California
Devry Univ. San Diego http://www.devry.edu/ (career-oriented majors)
Foundation for Educational Achievement
ITT Tech
Language Studies International
Law School of National Univ.
Occupational Training Services
Pattie Wells Dancetime Center
Reliable Communications Incorporated
Schrader & Associates
Southwestern College
California College For Health Sciences
Seeds of Success Intl. Inc.
Comprehensive Training Systems
International Center for American English
Valley Career College
Advanced Training Associates
Wow Performance Coaching
Barrera Rick & Associates
Tomorrow's Communications Inc.
Vitality Inc
Palomar College
Healing Hands School of Holistic Health
Welsh Sales Group
Miracosta College
Spartan College Of Aeronautics & Technology
At Your Home Familycare Learning Academy
Beauty Boutique Colleges of Beauty
Dental Assisting Institute
Not so much shooting ranges or mercenary training. More...training for jobs that actually contribute positively to society. One wonders how long it'll be before the U.S. government will finally break down and start classifying the nation's military as just an exceptionally well-funded jobs program. I'm kinda surprised the Bush administration hasn't seized on this as their version of the New Deal. Maybe it's cause nobody will sign up...
Cross posted at the Courage Campaign blog
The Union-Tribune's Anne Krueger is back with a command performance from the stenography pool today, delivering the latest "news" on Blackwater's Otay Mesa facility. Yet even she couldn't avoid the awkward break in logic that the various pieces of today's puzzle delivered:
“As long as it was an educational facility, if they're training future police or security guards, that would be considered a vocational trade,” Broughton said.
Bonfiglio said Blackwater has had a contract to train Navy personnel since 2002 through a subcontractor, American Shooting Center in Kearny Mesa. The training will be transferred to the Otay Mesa site once Navy inspectors give their approval to the new facility, he said.
Bonfiglio said Blackwater hasn't determined whether American Shooting Center would assist with training in Otay Mesa.
“We want to improve on the curriculum. We want to improve on the teaching,” Bonfiglio said. “We want to improve on the facilities.”
Bonfiglio said other agencies may use the facilities occasionally if it doesn't interfere with the Navy's training. He emphasized that no independent contractors working for Blackwater would be trained there.
addition: Brian Bonfiglio explicitly states that this facility will provide military, not civilian training in the article: "Already in place was a ship simulator – a miniature version of a Navy ship – that Bonfiglio said will be used to train sailors for crisis situations at sea...Although the facility has a shooting range, it will emphasize training Navy personnel to be better prepared for terrorist attacks, Bonfiglio said."
So as long as they're training future police or security guards it's vocational. But they're training Navy personnel to perform Navy duties. American Shooting Center (if you want to visit their website by the way, it's www.gotammo.com *ahem*), for its own part, is not new to shady training facilities. Last year, ASC tried to open a training facility near Cleveland National Forest without permits and was shut down by the Board of Supervisors. At the time, owner Marc Halcon complained about getting lumped in with Blackwater and
Halcon said he has had a subcontract with Blackwater since 2002 to train military personnel at his Kearny Mesa shooting center, though he said none of that training took place at Covert Canyon. He would not say how much he is being paid for the contract, which is due to end in September.
So Halcon's subcontract with Blackwater was due to end September of last year. And the contract was, even then, "to train military personnel at his Kearny Mesa shooting center." And now Blackwater is saying its new facility is for training those people. Did the contract get renewed/extended? If so, I guess it was changed to reflect a change of venue for the training, even though Blackwater had no facility lined up last fall. Going further, neither last year's article nor the new coverage suggests that the training of Navy personnel is to ease their transition into private-sector security jobs- quite the opposite. Given that Halcon was careful to note the differences between military, police and private training, it seems odd that it would consistently be referred to as training of military personnel unless it's exclusively is training of military personnel for military purposes. Which would not be a vocational or trade school. At all.
In this scenario, the only way around that rather major problem would be if Kelly Broughton's statement- "if they're training future police or security guards"- is given incredible latitude. I mean, Navy personnel may very well become police officers or security guards eventually. And those who do would likely utilize weapon and other combat training as part of their job. But that's a far leap from the notion that training military personnel to perform military tasks is the same as training them to be police or security professionals.
And while we're on the subject of what constitutes vocational training, Ray Lutz went ahead and checked the Yellow Pages, where Blackwater Worldwide is indeed listed under Industrial, Technical & Trade Schools (received via email). He also too the time to note the other businesses listed under the same heading:
A Academy of Bartending
California College For Health Sciences
Center for The Communications Arts
College of English Language
Contractor Schools Golden State
Contractors License Of California
Devry Univ. San Diego http://www.devry.edu/ (career-oriented majors)
Foundation for Educational Achievement
ITT Tech
Language Studies International
Law School of National Univ.
Occupational Training Services
Pattie Wells Dancetime Center
Reliable Communications Incorporated
Schrader & Associates
Southwestern College
California College For Health Sciences
Seeds of Success Intl. Inc.
Comprehensive Training Systems
International Center for American English
Valley Career College
Advanced Training Associates
Wow Performance Coaching
Barrera Rick & Associates
Tomorrow's Communications Inc.
Vitality Inc
Palomar College
Healing Hands School of Holistic Health
Welsh Sales Group
Miracosta College
Spartan College Of Aeronautics & Technology
At Your Home Familycare Learning Academy
Beauty Boutique Colleges of Beauty
Dental Assisting Institute
Not so much shooting ranges or mercenary training. More...training for jobs that actually contribute positively to society. One wonders how long it'll be before the U.S. government will finally break down and start classifying the nation's military as just an exceptionally well-funded jobs program. I'm kinda surprised the Bush administration hasn't seized on this as their version of the New Deal. Maybe it's cause nobody will sign up...
Wednesday - Quick Hits
They're back! After being rejected by the people in Potero, Blackwater now tries to setup an indoor training center in Otay Mesa. UT
National credit crisis hits San Diego County as they are forced to pay more interest on pension bonds. UT
Three PUC commissioners expected to attend next haring regarding controversial Sunrise Powerlink. UT
Oceanside councilman Rocky Chavez announces his intention to run for mayor. UT
National Gay rights organization withdrawals from schedule July event at Manchester Hyatt, because of Doug Manchester's financial support ban on same-sex marriage initiative. UT
Report on Art Madrid to be discussed tomorrow night before La Mesa city council. UT
National credit crisis hits San Diego County as they are forced to pay more interest on pension bonds. UT
Three PUC commissioners expected to attend next haring regarding controversial Sunrise Powerlink. UT
Oceanside councilman Rocky Chavez announces his intention to run for mayor. UT
National Gay rights organization withdrawals from schedule July event at Manchester Hyatt, because of Doug Manchester's financial support ban on same-sex marriage initiative. UT
Report on Art Madrid to be discussed tomorrow night before La Mesa city council. UT
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Blackwater is Back and Badder Than Ever
Full disclosure: I work for the Courage Campaign
Cross posted at the Courage Campaign blog
Just when we thought we had won, Blackwater snuck in the back door and set up shop in San Diego with hardly anyone noticing. Citizen Oversight Projects started spreading the word today that Blackwater will be opening a 61,600 square foot training facility in Otay Mesa, just a block from the U.S./Mexico border. It's also about 4 miles from the Otay Mesa border crossing and about 6.5 miles from the San Ysidro border crossing. This is an indoor facility and obviously much smaller than the 824-acre project Blackwater had pursued in Potrero, but no less nefarious.
This comes at a time when national legislation to block Blackwater and other mercenaries is gaining steam. And perhaps this incident demonstrates that without a major shift at the federal level, we'll just be chasing Blackwater around in macabre version of whack-a-mole into eternity.
Ray Lutz, one of the key figures in the defeat of Blackwater in Potrero, visited the new site and reported back with pictures, impressions and particular points of concern. He notes 20 truck bays and its position not only near two major border crossings but also the Tijuana International Airport. And if there's any doubt about the facility being used to train more mercenaries (and pretty clearly in the art of desert AND border tactics), note the word from Kelly Broughton, director of the city of San Diego's development services department:
Vocational trade school. That's what we're calling it. If ITT Tech and a career in medical transcription isn't for you, check out Blackwater West. However, I don't think I'd have the same concerns about a bunch of crazy dental-assistants-in-training being planted within four miles of five schools (including three elementary schools) as I do about mercenaries.
The new facility is within the City of San Diego proper, which means that city regulations- not just county regulations- are potentially at play. And that, of course, brings into the mix a number of political figures who might actually be moved on this issue. The site of the facility is in the 8th District represented by Councilmember Ben Hueso. The City Council President is Scott Peters who is termed out and in the middle of a contentious race for City Attorney. Councilmember Brian Maienschein is also termed out and running for City Attorney. Mayor Jerry Sanders has a heckuva battle brewing for re-election against Steve Francis [name corrected], a Republican dressing himself in progressive clothing to run from both directions. And that's before we (potentially) get Donna Frye agitated.
At this point though, the permit has already been applied for and granted (more than a month ago). Which means that opportunities for local recourse is likely limited unless and until something can be placed on the ballot. That is, what worked last time (wildly successful recall) is unlikely to be at play this time. What's particularly interesting about this process though is that Blackwater submitted its application for this Otay Mesa facility in February but didn't pull out of Potrero until March 9. So, at least in principle, it was after both spots at the same time. Or, more likely, it knew that the ship had sailed on Potrero weeks before actually pulling out, and dragged the process along in order to distract from its move on Otay Mesa.
The history of Blackwater and government-funded mercenaries doesn't need a full rehash here, we know the score. What we're getting here are better trained, federally funded Minutemen living in the shadow of the border fence and a couple minutes from the busiest land border crossing in the world. They're here to operate with impunity outside of the government doing the things this administration wishes it could be doing itself. And it won't stop unless and until we get the sort of systemic changes that can only come from the federal level. This battle of local citizens vs. the mercenaries funded by our own tax dollars isn't sustainable. Local action won in Potrero but here we are again. We'll mount up and take the fight to them again, but real change won't happen until this country dumps Blackwater and those like it once and for all.
Cross posted at the Courage Campaign blog
Just when we thought we had won, Blackwater snuck in the back door and set up shop in San Diego with hardly anyone noticing. Citizen Oversight Projects started spreading the word today that Blackwater will be opening a 61,600 square foot training facility in Otay Mesa, just a block from the U.S./Mexico border. It's also about 4 miles from the Otay Mesa border crossing and about 6.5 miles from the San Ysidro border crossing. This is an indoor facility and obviously much smaller than the 824-acre project Blackwater had pursued in Potrero, but no less nefarious.
This comes at a time when national legislation to block Blackwater and other mercenaries is gaining steam. And perhaps this incident demonstrates that without a major shift at the federal level, we'll just be chasing Blackwater around in macabre version of whack-a-mole into eternity.
Ray Lutz, one of the key figures in the defeat of Blackwater in Potrero, visited the new site and reported back with pictures, impressions and particular points of concern. He notes 20 truck bays and its position not only near two major border crossings but also the Tijuana International Airport. And if there's any doubt about the facility being used to train more mercenaries (and pretty clearly in the art of desert AND border tactics), note the word from Kelly Broughton, director of the city of San Diego's development services department:
Broughton said the building was already permitted for use as a vocational trade school, and Blackwater's training activities would fall within that category.
Vocational trade school. That's what we're calling it. If ITT Tech and a career in medical transcription isn't for you, check out Blackwater West. However, I don't think I'd have the same concerns about a bunch of crazy dental-assistants-in-training being planted within four miles of five schools (including three elementary schools) as I do about mercenaries.
The new facility is within the City of San Diego proper, which means that city regulations- not just county regulations- are potentially at play. And that, of course, brings into the mix a number of political figures who might actually be moved on this issue. The site of the facility is in the 8th District represented by Councilmember Ben Hueso. The City Council President is Scott Peters who is termed out and in the middle of a contentious race for City Attorney. Councilmember Brian Maienschein is also termed out and running for City Attorney. Mayor Jerry Sanders has a heckuva battle brewing for re-election against Steve Francis [name corrected], a Republican dressing himself in progressive clothing to run from both directions. And that's before we (potentially) get Donna Frye agitated.
At this point though, the permit has already been applied for and granted (more than a month ago). Which means that opportunities for local recourse is likely limited unless and until something can be placed on the ballot. That is, what worked last time (wildly successful recall) is unlikely to be at play this time. What's particularly interesting about this process though is that Blackwater submitted its application for this Otay Mesa facility in February but didn't pull out of Potrero until March 9. So, at least in principle, it was after both spots at the same time. Or, more likely, it knew that the ship had sailed on Potrero weeks before actually pulling out, and dragged the process along in order to distract from its move on Otay Mesa.
The history of Blackwater and government-funded mercenaries doesn't need a full rehash here, we know the score. What we're getting here are better trained, federally funded Minutemen living in the shadow of the border fence and a couple minutes from the busiest land border crossing in the world. They're here to operate with impunity outside of the government doing the things this administration wishes it could be doing itself. And it won't stop unless and until we get the sort of systemic changes that can only come from the federal level. This battle of local citizens vs. the mercenaries funded by our own tax dollars isn't sustainable. Local action won in Potrero but here we are again. We'll mount up and take the fight to them again, but real change won't happen until this country dumps Blackwater and those like it once and for all.
Tuesday - Quick Hits
City Salary Setting Commission releases list of over 3000 city employees who make more than city council members. UT
Solana Beach mayor leads effort to change the auto allowance law. UT
PB church is allowed to continue its food-for-the-needy program without permit. UT
Two more city council members say they will stop using the auto allowance. UT
MiraCosta college trustees agree to faculty group pay structure. UT
City of Oceanside sued over concrete plant expansion. UT NCTimes
Solana Beach mayor leads effort to change the auto allowance law. UT
PB church is allowed to continue its food-for-the-needy program without permit. UT
Two more city council members say they will stop using the auto allowance. UT
MiraCosta college trustees agree to faculty group pay structure. UT
City of Oceanside sued over concrete plant expansion. UT NCTimes
Monday, April 21, 2008
Reminder of Republican Campaigns: 7th City Council
Just a reminder at how predictable the Republican game plan has become. It will be as follows:
1) Bank as many absentees votes as possible
This has been the margin of victory for every close election and this race is no exception. Expect reliable GOP voters to be voting ASAP for April via mail
2) After the deadline for absentees has passed, go hyper negative
This depresses turnout across the board because it fits the narrative of “they’re all bad.” More to the point, it turns off Democrats who won’t bother showing up to vote because “they’re all bad.” Republicans don’t matter because they’ve already voted or, like cylons, will do as they’re told.
3) On election night, the Republicans have a massive absentee lead that shrinks but not enough to turn the election
This is the inevitable result. Barring significant shifts in the electorate, this has been the San Diego Story for years.
So there you have it. What this means is that, in the 7th, April will play nice until the absentee deadline has passed and then get to accusing Marti of being in league with Lucifer.
As the night follows the day, expect this from our brethren on the other side of the aisle. Let’s face it; they’re not known for innovation and are, by nature, conservative.
Beside, why mess with a winning formula?
1) Bank as many absentees votes as possible
This has been the margin of victory for every close election and this race is no exception. Expect reliable GOP voters to be voting ASAP for April via mail
2) After the deadline for absentees has passed, go hyper negative
This depresses turnout across the board because it fits the narrative of “they’re all bad.” More to the point, it turns off Democrats who won’t bother showing up to vote because “they’re all bad.” Republicans don’t matter because they’ve already voted or, like cylons, will do as they’re told.
3) On election night, the Republicans have a massive absentee lead that shrinks but not enough to turn the election
This is the inevitable result. Barring significant shifts in the electorate, this has been the San Diego Story for years.
So there you have it. What this means is that, in the 7th, April will play nice until the absentee deadline has passed and then get to accusing Marti of being in league with Lucifer.
As the night follows the day, expect this from our brethren on the other side of the aisle. Let’s face it; they’re not known for innovation and are, by nature, conservative.
Beside, why mess with a winning formula?
Monday - Quick Hits
County planning on leasing three planes for firefighting. UT
Mayoral candidate Steve Francis is spending very generously on television ads. UT
All candidates for City Attorney agree on the role and functions for the office. UT
Thousands showed up to Balboa Park yesterday to celebrate Earth Day. UT
Day laborers are finding a harder time getting hired. NCTimes
Mayoral candidate Steve Francis is spending very generously on television ads. UT
All candidates for City Attorney agree on the role and functions for the office. UT
Thousands showed up to Balboa Park yesterday to celebrate Earth Day. UT
Day laborers are finding a harder time getting hired. NCTimes
Friday, April 18, 2008
Save our Schools!
MARCH & PROTEST
Saturday, April 19, 2008,9:15 am
Saturday, April 19, 2008,9:15 am
- March from Balboa Park to the State Building, Downtown San Diego to PROTEST PROPOSED CUTS TO EDUCATION!
- Meet on the grass at the corner of Park Ave and Presidents way, Balboa Park
- Bring Family, Friends and anyone who cares about the education of our children
- Make signs, wear your school t-shirt and be ready to make a statement!
- Be respectful, obey traffic rules and no profanity
Organized by San Diego Public School Teachers
CRAFTwork
According to yesterday’s Sacramento Bee and the LA Times the day before, a group of GOP honchos with money to burn have created California Republicans Aligned for Tomorrow (CRAFT) whose purpose is to find “candidates that can win elections” to quote Pete Wilson.
I cite this because Larry Dodge, who offered to help dig the CRP out of the financial mess San Diego’s own Ron Nehring has presided over, is a founding member of CRAFT.
Citing “a lack of professional management” at the California Republican Party, he is tuning over his money to this new group which will find and run candidates for statewide office.
I would call it a duplication of efforts, but if the CRA keeps hiring illegals and spending it’s political capital on whining about the Governor’s lack of support, I think CRAFT may have an opening.
It remains to be seen if such a body can find candidates “slick” enough to pass through their own party’s gauntlets at the primary level.
Either way, it looks like another big no confidence vote in the leadership Ron Nehring has brought to the state GOP,
I cite this because Larry Dodge, who offered to help dig the CRP out of the financial mess San Diego’s own Ron Nehring has presided over, is a founding member of CRAFT.
Citing “a lack of professional management” at the California Republican Party, he is tuning over his money to this new group which will find and run candidates for statewide office.
I would call it a duplication of efforts, but if the CRA keeps hiring illegals and spending it’s political capital on whining about the Governor’s lack of support, I think CRAFT may have an opening.
It remains to be seen if such a body can find candidates “slick” enough to pass through their own party’s gauntlets at the primary level.
Either way, it looks like another big no confidence vote in the leadership Ron Nehring has brought to the state GOP,
Friday - Quick Hits
Ex-aide to Mayor Sanders sues city over wrongful termination. UT
The nanny state has reached the ballpark now. Padres are selling overpriced 3.2 beer at Petco Park. UT
Stating the obvious, Baja Governor claims that water and energy projects will be the key to Baja's future development. UT
Sales tax legislation for San Diego County moves it way State Senate. UT
Fare increases and service cutbacks in the future for North County residents who use NCTD. UT
Crowd of 250 hear Cindy Sheehan speak at CSUSM last night. NCTimes
The nanny state has reached the ballpark now. Padres are selling overpriced 3.2 beer at Petco Park. UT
Stating the obvious, Baja Governor claims that water and energy projects will be the key to Baja's future development. UT
Sales tax legislation for San Diego County moves it way State Senate. UT
Fare increases and service cutbacks in the future for North County residents who use NCTD. UT
Crowd of 250 hear Cindy Sheehan speak at CSUSM last night. NCTimes
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Thursday - Quick Hits
Profile in courage, Mayor Sanders vetoes pay increase for council and himself. UT
More profiles in courage, Peters and Hueso change their minds on 24% pay increase for council. UT
Ever heard of Norton Utilities? County Superior court computers hit with a virus. UT
More signs of the housing crisis, home building permits off 63% from last year. NCTimes
San Diego near the top for nation in broadband access. UT
Sign of the times, "Wings over Gillespie" cancelled due to high cost of fuel. UT
City of Oceanside in talks with Natural History Museum on the possibility of a North County satellite location. UT
More profiles in courage, Peters and Hueso change their minds on 24% pay increase for council. UT
Ever heard of Norton Utilities? County Superior court computers hit with a virus. UT
More signs of the housing crisis, home building permits off 63% from last year. NCTimes
San Diego near the top for nation in broadband access. UT
Sign of the times, "Wings over Gillespie" cancelled due to high cost of fuel. UT
City of Oceanside in talks with Natural History Museum on the possibility of a North County satellite location. UT
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
A Mailer?
Let’s say you’re running for public office and get caught urinating and masturbating in public. Let’s also say that, after being caught, you say nothing for a weekend and plead no contest (a.k.a. the prosecution makes their case and wins because you’d rather not plead guilty and fight). Because your consultant, not you, is saying you want to remain in the race, how would you move your campaign forward?
Some would drop out. Other more media-centric types would call a press conference and kill the issue outright.
Not our Larry Remer, consultant to John Harley. His solution is to mail to the district that his candidate was “taking a leak.” So, if you missed it in the news, the mail will announce that a man seeking your vote was caught up in something that is less than becoming for a candidate.
Now, I don’t know it was Remer’s decision. I just assumed because he makes a killing from mail (ask any resident of District 8 about the deluge of mailings of THE SAME PIECE for days before the election) that he would defer to such a “soft” touch rather than go before the cameras and slay the dragon.
IMHO mail is of limited use. It’s costly for campaigns to do so mail should be done with a precise target on a precise issue that HELPS YOUR CANDIDATE. Reminding and / or informing them of what happened isn’t help in my book, unless you’re collecting the check.
Speaking of check, while Remer was away on Hartley duty, Marti got hit on the Hedgecock show. Where was her consultant on this one? Can we expect a mailing to explain away this issue also?
Some would drop out. Other more media-centric types would call a press conference and kill the issue outright.
Not our Larry Remer, consultant to John Harley. His solution is to mail to the district that his candidate was “taking a leak.” So, if you missed it in the news, the mail will announce that a man seeking your vote was caught up in something that is less than becoming for a candidate.
Now, I don’t know it was Remer’s decision. I just assumed because he makes a killing from mail (ask any resident of District 8 about the deluge of mailings of THE SAME PIECE for days before the election) that he would defer to such a “soft” touch rather than go before the cameras and slay the dragon.
IMHO mail is of limited use. It’s costly for campaigns to do so mail should be done with a precise target on a precise issue that HELPS YOUR CANDIDATE. Reminding and / or informing them of what happened isn’t help in my book, unless you’re collecting the check.
Speaking of check, while Remer was away on Hartley duty, Marti got hit on the Hedgecock show. Where was her consultant on this one? Can we expect a mailing to explain away this issue also?
Wednesday - Quick Hits
Peace activist Cindy Sheehan to speak at CSUSM on Thursday. NCTimes
District-3 candidate John Hartley explains his arrest in campaign mailer. UT
With pay raise vote, council also increased their pensions. UT
Council decides not to hire special prosecutor to look into Sunroad Building, instead kicks the can over the the ethics commission. UT
Witnesses testified for the prosecution in the Castaneda perjury trial. UT
Sign of worsening budget crisis, school districts considering closing schools in an attempt to save money. UT
District-3 candidate John Hartley explains his arrest in campaign mailer. UT
With pay raise vote, council also increased their pensions. UT
Council decides not to hire special prosecutor to look into Sunroad Building, instead kicks the can over the the ethics commission. UT
Witnesses testified for the prosecution in the Castaneda perjury trial. UT
Sign of worsening budget crisis, school districts considering closing schools in an attempt to save money. UT
ONE STOP CANDIDATE SHOP
"Get to Know Your Candidates"
(20 Confirmed Candidates)
Progressive San Diego invites you to our one-on-one candidate mixer.
Thursday, April 17th
6-8pm
Home of Linda and Carlos LeGerrette
1359 Grove St. | San Diego, CA 92102 (Corner of Grove and Ash in Golden Hill)
The event will feature ALL PSD endorsed candidates and ALL City Attorney candidates. Our event is open to members and friends of PSD that would like to have some one-on-one face time with the candidates.
Scott Lewis, executive editor of the Voice of San Diego will emcee the event.
Councilmember Donna Frye will be our special guest speaker to discuss the No on Proposition C campaign for June 3rd.
Confirmed Candidates to Speak: Mike Aguirre, Scott Peters, Brian Maienschein, Jan Goldsmith, Amy Lepine, Richard Barrera*, John Lee Evans*, Sherri Lightner*, Arlie Ricasa*, Marty Block*, and Marty Emerald*.
Confirmed Candidates to Mix & Mingle: Shelia Jackson, Todd Gloria, Stephen Whitburn, Lori Saldana, Jose Preciado, Steve Francis, Mike Copass, Rudy Reyes and Marjorie Watson Thomas.
Hosts: Linda and Carlos LeGerrette, Brian Polejes and Jose Preciado.
RSVP to: Tommie.Watson@ProgressiveSD.org
Suggested Donation: $20.00 | Host Committee: $75.00
*PSD Endorsed Candidates
(20 Confirmed Candidates)
Progressive San Diego invites you to our one-on-one candidate mixer.
Thursday, April 17th
6-8pm
Home of Linda and Carlos LeGerrette
1359 Grove St. | San Diego, CA 92102 (Corner of Grove and Ash in Golden Hill)
The event will feature ALL PSD endorsed candidates and ALL City Attorney candidates. Our event is open to members and friends of PSD that would like to have some one-on-one face time with the candidates.
Scott Lewis, executive editor of the Voice of San Diego will emcee the event.
Councilmember Donna Frye will be our special guest speaker to discuss the No on Proposition C campaign for June 3rd.
Confirmed Candidates to Speak: Mike Aguirre, Scott Peters, Brian Maienschein, Jan Goldsmith, Amy Lepine, Richard Barrera*, John Lee Evans*, Sherri Lightner*, Arlie Ricasa*, Marty Block*, and Marty Emerald*.
Confirmed Candidates to Mix & Mingle: Shelia Jackson, Todd Gloria, Stephen Whitburn, Lori Saldana, Jose Preciado, Steve Francis, Mike Copass, Rudy Reyes and Marjorie Watson Thomas.
Hosts: Linda and Carlos LeGerrette, Brian Polejes and Jose Preciado.
RSVP to: Tommie.Watson@ProgressiveSD.org
Suggested Donation: $20.00 | Host Committee: $75.00
*PSD Endorsed Candidates
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Tuesday - Quick Hits
It can only happen in San Diego. As the city is deciding to cut budget, council votes itself a 24% pay increase. UT
Steve Francis rightly criticizes mayor Sanders proposed budget. UT
Enough already! Mount Soledad cross begins another round of court battles. UT
UCSD admits 40% of those who applied to the university. UT
Student at Vista High School diagnosed with TB. UT
New group steps forward to file suit against proposed Wal-Mart expansion in Vista. NCTimes
Steve Francis rightly criticizes mayor Sanders proposed budget. UT
Enough already! Mount Soledad cross begins another round of court battles. UT
UCSD admits 40% of those who applied to the university. UT
Student at Vista High School diagnosed with TB. UT
New group steps forward to file suit against proposed Wal-Mart expansion in Vista. NCTimes
Carl DeMaio Asked to Remember That Tax Day Applies to Everyone
As millions of Americans fulfill their patriotic duty and file their income taxes, the San Diego-Imperial Counties Labor Council is forced to remind Carl DeMaio to send in his tax return by the end of the day.
In the past five years, DeMaio and his Virginia-based think tank have been penalized several times for failing to file taxes in a timely manner. DeMaio’s behavior has resulted in penalties, liens and the suspension of the corporate status of his company, Performance Events.
Members of the Labor Council will be at the Margaret Sellers Postal Center in Carmel Mountain Ranch to ask taxpayers to remind DeMaio of the April 15 filing deadline if they see him.
“It is a slap in the face to hard-working and honest citizens that Carl DeMaio struggles to follow the same tax laws that we all observe,” said Labor Council Secretary-Treasurer Lorena Gonzalez. “For a so-called ‘watchdog,’ he certainly seems to have trouble following the rules.”
DeMaio’s Performance Events, an organization that guides companies towards taxpayer-funded government contracts, remains suspended for failure to pay taxes to California’s Franchise Tax Board.
“The irony of a company that relies on taxpayer dollars to operate failing to pay its taxes is shocking,” Gonzalez said. “On the one hand, he wants to line his pockets with taxpayer money. Yet on the other, he hasn’t followed tax rules.”
In addition to corporate failures, DeMaio has struggled to pay property taxes on his two San Diego properties.
More information on Carl DeMaio’s history of missed tax deadlines can be found at www.dirtydemaio.com.
The San Diego-Imperial Counties Labor Council is a coalition of 119 local unions that represent 120,000 working families in the region. The Labor Council strives to ensure that all workers in the region earn a fair wage and health care for their families.
In the past five years, DeMaio and his Virginia-based think tank have been penalized several times for failing to file taxes in a timely manner. DeMaio’s behavior has resulted in penalties, liens and the suspension of the corporate status of his company, Performance Events.
Members of the Labor Council will be at the Margaret Sellers Postal Center in Carmel Mountain Ranch to ask taxpayers to remind DeMaio of the April 15 filing deadline if they see him.
“It is a slap in the face to hard-working and honest citizens that Carl DeMaio struggles to follow the same tax laws that we all observe,” said Labor Council Secretary-Treasurer Lorena Gonzalez. “For a so-called ‘watchdog,’ he certainly seems to have trouble following the rules.”
DeMaio’s Performance Events, an organization that guides companies towards taxpayer-funded government contracts, remains suspended for failure to pay taxes to California’s Franchise Tax Board.
“The irony of a company that relies on taxpayer dollars to operate failing to pay its taxes is shocking,” Gonzalez said. “On the one hand, he wants to line his pockets with taxpayer money. Yet on the other, he hasn’t followed tax rules.”
In addition to corporate failures, DeMaio has struggled to pay property taxes on his two San Diego properties.
More information on Carl DeMaio’s history of missed tax deadlines can be found at www.dirtydemaio.com.
The San Diego-Imperial Counties Labor Council is a coalition of 119 local unions that represent 120,000 working families in the region. The Labor Council strives to ensure that all workers in the region earn a fair wage and health care for their families.
Monday, April 14, 2008
Monday - Quick Hits
Trade Unions set to appeal court decision on City of Vista's charter case. NCTimes
Mayor Sanders has decided that parks and libraries are to have their budgets trimmed, while he increases city spending 13%. UT
I'm shocked! Possible conflict of interest among city advisory board members. UT
City council to consider pay raise for mayor and themselves again. UT
San Diego City College to receive the Recycler-of-the year award from city council. UT
Democrats gathered statewide to select their delegates to the Democratic Convention in Denver late this summer. NCTimes
Mayor Sanders has decided that parks and libraries are to have their budgets trimmed, while he increases city spending 13%. UT
I'm shocked! Possible conflict of interest among city advisory board members. UT
City council to consider pay raise for mayor and themselves again. UT
San Diego City College to receive the Recycler-of-the year award from city council. UT
Democrats gathered statewide to select their delegates to the Democratic Convention in Denver late this summer. NCTimes
Filner to Host Fundraiser for Pamela Bensoussan
Congressman Bob Filner Welcomes you to a Benefit for Pamela Bensoussan, Candidate Chula Vista City Council Seat 3 Join us for a Poolside Sunday Brunch at the home of Jill & Victor Galvez.
7 Cresta Way
Chula Vista, 91910
Sunday, April 27, 11:30 – 1:30 p.m.
Requested Contribution:
Guest $50 - Host $150 - Sponsor $300
Don’t miss this great opportunity to meet our Congressman and help elect Pamela!
Please Contribute or RSVP now online at www.ElectPamela.com.
Or mail check to Pamela for City Council c/o Georgie Stillman, Treas.
580 Twin Oaks Avenue
Chula Vista, CA 91910
Or call Georgie at (619)420-0610
Campaign Committee
Pamela Bensoussan for City Council, ID#1299632
www.ElectPamela.com
Note: Ordinance No. 2955 of the City of Chula Vista limits contributions to campaigns for City elective office, either to candidate controlled committees or to regulated independent expenditure committees, to three hundred dollars ($300.00) per contributor. (Ord. 2955 § 1, 2004). Printed in-house and paid for by Pamela Bensoussan for City Council, I.D. No.1299632. Campaign Treasurer Georgie Stillman, 580 Twin Oaks Ave, Chula Vista, CA 91910
7 Cresta Way
Chula Vista, 91910
Sunday, April 27, 11:30 – 1:30 p.m.
Requested Contribution:
Guest $50 - Host $150 - Sponsor $300
Don’t miss this great opportunity to meet our Congressman and help elect Pamela!
Please Contribute or RSVP now online at www.ElectPamela.com.
Or mail check to Pamela for City Council c/o Georgie Stillman, Treas.
580 Twin Oaks Avenue
Chula Vista, CA 91910
Or call Georgie at (619)420-0610
Campaign Committee
Pamela Bensoussan for City Council, ID#1299632
www.ElectPamela.com
Note: Ordinance No. 2955 of the City of Chula Vista limits contributions to campaigns for City elective office, either to candidate controlled committees or to regulated independent expenditure committees, to three hundred dollars ($300.00) per contributor. (Ord. 2955 § 1, 2004). Printed in-house and paid for by Pamela Bensoussan for City Council, I.D. No.1299632. Campaign Treasurer Georgie Stillman, 580 Twin Oaks Ave, Chula Vista, CA 91910
Friday, April 11, 2008
Now There is Leadership
Voice of San Diego reported that the City Workers may strike. If this is true, it seems like it would be a huge issue for our city.
But how did our mayor respond? See below... You've got to do what you've got to do. Now that's leadership.
This Just In
City Workers May Strike
I just got off the phone with Joan Raymond, president of City Hall's blue collar workers union, Local 127.
Raymond confirmed that certain city workers could be lining up for a strike.
Raymond said the union, which is currently in contract talks with the Mayor's Office, has taken a vote to give its negotiating committee the right to ask for a strike. It has also asked the San Diego-Imperial Counties Labor Council to give its support to a strike, should one be necessary.
"We're not on strike, but we're setting the stage," Raymond said. "There's certain permission we need to get."
Raymond said the workers who might strike would be sanitation drivers, water department crews and mechanics at the Fire-Rescue Department. She said any strike would be the first strike since 1969.
And Raymond told me why the specter of a strike has risen:
"People have become very demoralized in the last few years and it's recently come to a head. They've become so upset and so angry that they've started to talk about striking."
Fred Sainz, spokesman for Mayor Jerry Sanders, said the mayor is urging the city's blue collar workers that striking is not in their best interests or in the best interests of the city, but he said if the workers choose to strike, that's their prerogative, Sainz said.
"You've got to do what you've got to do," he said.
But how did our mayor respond? See below... You've got to do what you've got to do. Now that's leadership.
This Just In
City Workers May Strike
I just got off the phone with Joan Raymond, president of City Hall's blue collar workers union, Local 127.
Raymond confirmed that certain city workers could be lining up for a strike.
Raymond said the union, which is currently in contract talks with the Mayor's Office, has taken a vote to give its negotiating committee the right to ask for a strike. It has also asked the San Diego-Imperial Counties Labor Council to give its support to a strike, should one be necessary.
"We're not on strike, but we're setting the stage," Raymond said. "There's certain permission we need to get."
Raymond said the workers who might strike would be sanitation drivers, water department crews and mechanics at the Fire-Rescue Department. She said any strike would be the first strike since 1969.
And Raymond told me why the specter of a strike has risen:
"People have become very demoralized in the last few years and it's recently come to a head. They've become so upset and so angry that they've started to talk about striking."
Fred Sainz, spokesman for Mayor Jerry Sanders, said the mayor is urging the city's blue collar workers that striking is not in their best interests or in the best interests of the city, but he said if the workers choose to strike, that's their prerogative, Sainz said.
"You've got to do what you've got to do," he said.
Friday - Quick Hits
Tri-city Hospital workers agree to unionize. NCTimes
I wonder if Carl DeMaio with be attending? Sanders praised as he give opening remarks at national Log Cabin Republicans meeting here in San Diego. UT
Will council vote to cut off legal fees for ex-city officials? UT
Coastal Commission gave approval for redevelopment of Imperial Beach hotel. UT
State commission approves spending $400 million on transit project in the Otay/ San Ysidro border crossing region. UT
Toll road agency mislead Feds regarding Army Corps of Engineers support of project. UT
I wonder if Carl DeMaio with be attending? Sanders praised as he give opening remarks at national Log Cabin Republicans meeting here in San Diego. UT
Will council vote to cut off legal fees for ex-city officials? UT
Coastal Commission gave approval for redevelopment of Imperial Beach hotel. UT
State commission approves spending $400 million on transit project in the Otay/ San Ysidro border crossing region. UT
Toll road agency mislead Feds regarding Army Corps of Engineers support of project. UT
500 Workers at Tri-City Medical Center Unionize
From the North County Times:
More
More than 500 workers ---- mostly medical technicians ---- at Tri-City Medical Center have joined the United Healthcare Workers union, increasing the percentage of the hospital's work force exercising its collective bargaining rights.
Doreen Sanderson, the hospital's vice president of human resources, confirmed that 60 percent, or about 300, of the 500 workers signed union cards, surpassing the 50 percent threshold needed to join the union. She said the hospital will meet with union representatives to begin a discussion on wages and benefits for the represented employees.
More
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Thursday - Quick Hits
Must be an election year, mayor Sanders moves to close controversial pension program. UT
Police officers agree to a 6% pay raise. UT
Chula Vista councilman Steve Castaneda to testify in his trial. UT
Mayor Sanders steals an idea from Steve Francis, and wants the CCDC to help pay for the bonds that built Petco Park. UT
Carlsbad Desal plant gets a conditional go-ahead from San Diego County Water Resources Board. UT
Ports seeks to fight developer sponsored ballot proposal aimed at turning 10th Ave. Terminal into a stadium. VOSD
Police officers agree to a 6% pay raise. UT
Chula Vista councilman Steve Castaneda to testify in his trial. UT
Mayor Sanders steals an idea from Steve Francis, and wants the CCDC to help pay for the bonds that built Petco Park. UT
Carlsbad Desal plant gets a conditional go-ahead from San Diego County Water Resources Board. UT
Ports seeks to fight developer sponsored ballot proposal aimed at turning 10th Ave. Terminal into a stadium. VOSD
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Wednesday - Quick Hits
City Attorney Aguirre skips last night's debate, doubtful for tonight's debate. UT
Mayor Sanders seeks council approval of $574 million in capital upgrades to the city. UT
Chula Vista councilman Steve Castaneda perjury trial begins today. UT
Sen. Ducheny's attempt to gut the California Coastal Commission fails in State Senate. UT
Councilman Scott Peters seeks to table parking meters proposal for La Jolla. UT
PUC heard testimony yesterday regarding the fire danger that Sunrise Powerlink poses. UT
Housing crisis continues as March was the worst month yet for home sales in county. NCTimes
Mayor Sanders seeks council approval of $574 million in capital upgrades to the city. UT
Chula Vista councilman Steve Castaneda perjury trial begins today. UT
Sen. Ducheny's attempt to gut the California Coastal Commission fails in State Senate. UT
Councilman Scott Peters seeks to table parking meters proposal for La Jolla. UT
PUC heard testimony yesterday regarding the fire danger that Sunrise Powerlink poses. UT
Housing crisis continues as March was the worst month yet for home sales in county. NCTimes
RSVP "Get to Know Your Candidates" Forum
Get to Know Your Candidates
(Not Your Typical Candidate Forum)
Progressive San Diego invites you to our one-on-one candidate mixer on
Thursday, April 17th
6:00pm - 8:00pm
1359 Grove Street
San Diego, CA 92102
The event will feature PSD's endorsed candidates and City Attorney candidates. Our event is open to members and friends of PSD that would like to have some one-on-one face time with the candidates.
Donna Frye
will be our special guest speaker to discuss the No on Proposition C campaign for June 3rd.
Confirmed Candidates So Far
Mike Aguirre, Scott Peters, Brian Maienschein, Jan Goldsmith, Amy Lepine, Richard Barrera*, John Lee Evans*, Sherri Lightner*, Arlie Ricasa*, Sheila Jackson, Todd Gloria, Stephen Whitburn
RSVP to: Tommie Watson@ProgressiveSD.org or (617) 365-6788
Suggested Donation: $20.00
Host Committee: $75.00
*PSD Endorsed Candidates
(Not Your Typical Candidate Forum)
Progressive San Diego invites you to our one-on-one candidate mixer on
Thursday, April 17th
6:00pm - 8:00pm
1359 Grove Street
San Diego, CA 92102
The event will feature PSD's endorsed candidates and City Attorney candidates. Our event is open to members and friends of PSD that would like to have some one-on-one face time with the candidates.
Donna Frye
will be our special guest speaker to discuss the No on Proposition C campaign for June 3rd.
Confirmed Candidates So Far
Mike Aguirre, Scott Peters, Brian Maienschein, Jan Goldsmith, Amy Lepine, Richard Barrera*, John Lee Evans*, Sherri Lightner*, Arlie Ricasa*, Sheila Jackson, Todd Gloria, Stephen Whitburn
RSVP to: Tommie Watson@ProgressiveSD.org or (617) 365-6788
Suggested Donation: $20.00
Host Committee: $75.00
*PSD Endorsed Candidates
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Darrell Issa has a Better Idea
Hammering on this a lot, but it just keeps getting more ridiculous
So Darrell Issa finds it inappropriate for the federal government to be funding medical care for sick 9/11 rescue workers. Says Rep. Issa, "I have to ask ... why the firefighters who went there and everybody in the city of New York needs to come to the federal government for the dollars versus this being primarily a state consideration."
So as to prove that he's not just running off incoherently about hating rescue workers, Issa wants you to know he's proud of his alternative plans for spending federal funds. To that end, he's triumphantly sent around a press release listing all of his new earmarks (word doc, h/t Chris Reed). So what, you're probably wondering, has Representative Issa chosen to crow about that exemplifies the "local money for local issues, federal money for screw you" spending mantra? Here's the quick list:
Some pretty nice projects in there. But it begs the question: Ahem, why do all these people need "to come to the federal government for the dollars versus this being primarily a state [or local] consideration?" Rep. Issa? Bueller? Bueller?
Lemme just venture one guess. Rescue workers in New York don't vote in Temecula or Oceanside do they? Oh yeah. So only when Issa is trying to hook it up for his own self should federal money be spent on state and local projects. Not only cruel and hateful, but selfish and duplicitous too. He's building himself quite a nice collection of adjectives. Full of crap isn't technically an adjective, but it also applies.
Robert Hamilton is challenging Darrell Issa this year.
Cross posted at Calitics
So Darrell Issa finds it inappropriate for the federal government to be funding medical care for sick 9/11 rescue workers. Says Rep. Issa, "I have to ask ... why the firefighters who went there and everybody in the city of New York needs to come to the federal government for the dollars versus this being primarily a state consideration."
So as to prove that he's not just running off incoherently about hating rescue workers, Issa wants you to know he's proud of his alternative plans for spending federal funds. To that end, he's triumphantly sent around a press release listing all of his new earmarks (word doc, h/t Chris Reed). So what, you're probably wondering, has Representative Issa chosen to crow about that exemplifies the "local money for local issues, federal money for screw you" spending mantra? Here's the quick list:
San Diego Regional Interoperable Computer Aided Dispatch Project -$6 million
San Diego Regional Communications System (RCS) Upgrade -$3.5 million
Gang Prevention Program (City of Oceanside) -$500K
Lake Elsinore Emergency Operations Center -$250K
Murrieta Creek Flood Control Project -$13 million
San Luis Rey Flood Control Project -$7.2 million
Perris II Desalter (Perris, CA) -$2 million
Non-Potable Distribution Facilities and Demineralization/Desalination Recycled Water Treatment and Reclamation Facility Project (Riverside County) -$2 million
Santa Margarita Conjunctive Use Project (Camp Pendleton) -$1 million
San Jacinto & Upper Santa Margarita Watersheds Project -$355K
San Diego County Fire Safety and Fuels Reduction Program -$45 million
Corpsmen/Medics Civilian Nursing Training Program (Oceanside) -$1.6 million
Vista Community Clinic -$1 million
North County Health Project Oceanside Clinic Expansion (Oceanside) -$1 million
Railroad Canyon I-15 interchange project -$8 million
State Route 76 (widen and realign) -$5 million
San Luis Rey Transit Center (Oceanside) -$3.1 million
West Vista Way (City of Vista, widen) -$2 million
French Valley Airport (Temecula) -$1 million
Renovation and expansion of Fallbrook Boys and Girls Club -$500K
Some pretty nice projects in there. But it begs the question: Ahem, why do all these people need "to come to the federal government for the dollars versus this being primarily a state [or local] consideration?" Rep. Issa? Bueller? Bueller?
Lemme just venture one guess. Rescue workers in New York don't vote in Temecula or Oceanside do they? Oh yeah. So only when Issa is trying to hook it up for his own self should federal money be spent on state and local projects. Not only cruel and hateful, but selfish and duplicitous too. He's building himself quite a nice collection of adjectives. Full of crap isn't technically an adjective, but it also applies.
Robert Hamilton is challenging Darrell Issa this year.
Cross posted at Calitics
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