Insurance Commissioner Dave Jones Endorses Lorena Gonzalez for Assembly

Pro-Jobs Democrat Earns The Support of California's Top Insurance Watchdog

SAN DIEGO – (Tuesday, March 19, 2013) – California State Insurance Commissioner Dave Jones has endorsed pro-jobs Democrat Lorena Gonzalez's campaign for the 80th Assembly District, her campaign announced today.


As Insurance Commissioner, Jones is the chief executive for the state's largest consumer protection agency. Jones has been at the forefront of securing crucial victories for consumers in health care and insurance coverage during his service in the Insurance Commissioner's office and the California State Assembly before that. 



"As California works to implement federal healthcare reform, we need our state leaders to look out for the best interests of consumers. Lorena has fought to make healthcare affordable and accessible for all San Diego County residents and I know she will continue to be a strong voice for consumers in the State Capitol," Jones said.

Lorena is a candidate to replace State Senator-elect Ben Hueso in the 80th Assembly District, which includes Chula Vista, National City and the City of San Diego neighborhoods of San Ysidro, City Heights, Barrio Logan, Sherman Heights, Otay Mesa, Paradise Hills and Golden Hill.

Learn more about Lorena’s campaign at www.VoteLorena.com  or by e-mail VoteLorena@gmail.com.

Chair Francine Busby's Statement on Republican "Post-Mortem"

Today the Republican National Committee released a report reviewing the Party’s failures in 2012 and promising “a path forward” to win future elections. San Diego County Democratic Party Chair Francine Busby issued this statement in response:


"After losing seats in both houses of Congress last year and losing the presidency by an electoral vote landslide, the Republican Party had a chance to honestly reexamine its extremist policies and commit to representing the whole country, not just the conservative base.

"But the only thing today’s report gets right is the assessment of the Republican Party by its own focus groups, who called it 'out of touch,' 'narrow-minded,' and a Party of 'stuffy old men.'

"Last year the Republicans actually made their platform even more extreme, calling for a constitutional amendment banning gay marriage and the criminalization of abortion with no exceptions for rape, incest, or a mother’s safety.

"As long as the Republican Party continues to oppose reproductive rights, same-sex marriage, climate science, and policies that respect America's diversity, its plans for a multimillion-dollar marketing campaign to women, youth, and people of color won’t accomplish a thing.

"The Republicans’ fundamental problem isn’t style. It’s substance. Growing majorities of Americans don’t want to buy what they’re selling, no matter how it’s packaged.

"That’s why President Barack Obama has won a majority here in San Diego County two elections in a row. And that’s why Democrats outnumber Republicans in our county by a greater margin now than any in decades.

"San Diego Democrats will continue to earn that vote of confidence, build on it, and translate it into electoral successes at every level. We don't need a focus group to know why we're the Party of the present -- and of the future."

ATKINS CALLS FOR EXPANSION OF VETERANS COURT SYSTEM

(Sacramento)  Assembly Majority Leader Toni Atkins today introduced ACR 36 which calls for the expansion of a court system that offers rehabilitative solutions for former service members.   Known as the Veterans Treatment Review Calendar (VTRC,) or Veterans Court, this special court program assists veterans who have unaddressed behavioral health problems and resulting legal issues, which adversely impact their ability to relate to family, obtain a stable job or keep from becoming homeless. The first pilot VTRC was in Atkins’ San Diego district and currently only thirteen counties in the state have similar programs, which have been shown to dramatically improve outcomes for these veterans.

“We owe it to our returning warriors to help them re-establish productive civilian lives,” says Atkins.  “Veterans Courts are a proven success that pay off in the long run for veterans, their families, and their communities.”

The cases most commonly heard in current Veterans Courts are first-time offenses that are eligible for probation. The program typically requires each veteran to undergo a three-phase treatment program that lasts from 12 to 18 months and is tailored to address the individual’s needs and challenges.  Following each phase, the veteran must submit a letter to the judge, requesting permission to advance to the next level, where he or she is given another set of goals to accomplish.  At completion, the judge may waive court or criminal fees, commute felonies or even, under a new provision in the California Penal Code, expunge charges completely.

At approximately two million, California has the largest veteran population of any state, 160,000 of whom are combat veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan.  Thirty thousand combat veterans are expected to return every year for the foreseeable future.  As many as 20% of these returning veterans show signs of mental health problems, with post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury, depression, anxiety, and acute stress being common. Many of these veterans turn to drugs and alcohol in order to self-medicate and many end up homeless.

Most veterans who participate in the VTRC program succeed in overcoming their substance abuse and homelessness and are able to move forward to productive post-military lives.  ACR 36 calls on California’s superior courts to establish Veterans Courts tailored to local needs.

Controller John Chiang Endorses Lorena Gonzalez for Assembly

Pro-Jobs Democrat Earns The Support of California's Chief Fiscal Officer

SAN DIEGO – (Monday, March 18, 2013) – California State Controller John Chiang has endorsed pro-jobs Democrat Lorena Gonzalez's campaign for the 80th Assembly District, her campaign announced today.

As Controller, Chiang serves as the state's chief fiscal officer and serves on the Board of Equalization, State Lands Commission and numerous other state boards. Chiang has used his independent auditing powers to expose over $2.4 billion in government waste, fraud and inefficiency and has helped Californians recover more  than $1 billion in previously unclaimed property and assets.

Lorena is a candidate to replace State Senator-elect Ben Hueso in the 80th Assembly District, which includes Chula Vista, National City and the City of San Diego neighborhoods of San Ysidro, City Heights, Barrio Logan, Sherman Heights, Otay Mesa, Paradise Hills and Golden Hill.

Learn more about Lorena’s campaign at www.VoteLorena.com  or by e-mail VoteLorena@gmail.com.

ASSEMBLYMEMBER SHIRLEY WEBER TO SALUTE WOMEN LEADERS IN CALIFORNIA’S 79TH DISTRICT

San Diego, CA: Assemblymember Shirley N. Weber (D-San Diego) will pay tribute to outstanding women in honor of Women’s History Month TODAY Sunday, March 17, 2013, 3:30 p.m. at San Diego State University’s Parma Payne Alumni Center.  “There are many unsung ‘SHeroes’ in the 79th District deserving recognition for their work as women leaders. I am excited to host this Inaugural Salute in the 79th District to highlight their efforts,” she said. Women’s History Month was established in 1987 and is celebrated throughout the month of March to honor women’s contribution to society.

To qualify, nominees must be work or attend school in the 79th District, which includes the communities in the City of San Diego, Lemon Grove, La Mesa, National City, Chula Vista, Bonita and a small part of Spring Valley. The nominee must also perform extraordinary service in the Arts, Business, Community Activism, Education, Government, Health Sciences or Social Services.

Joining in the celebration will be poetry artist Kendrick Dial of Collective Purpose, singer Alyssa Mae Servenas and the Morse High School Pacific Islander Association culture. For more information, please contact JoAnn Fields via cellphone at (619)884-9886.

San Diego City Firefighters Endorse Lorena Gonzalez

Pro-Jobs Democrat’s Longtime Advocacy For Public Safety In San Diego’s Neighborhoods Earns Endorsement From First Responders in 80th Assembly District Race

SAN DIEGO – (Wednesday, March 13, 2013) – The San Diego City Firefighters have endorsed pro-jobs Democrat Lorena Gonzalez in the Assembly District 80 special election, the firefighters announced today.

San Diego City Firefighters Local 145 represents about 800 firefighters and other first responders working in the City of San Diego’s Fire-Rescue Department. The firefighters said they support Lorena for her tireless advocacy to restore public safety services to the residents of San Diego.

"When some city leaders tried to cut firefighter and emergency response resources that led to fire station brown-outs and longer response times, Lorena stood with us to fight back," said Frank DeClercq, President of San Diego City Firefighters Local 145. "We need Lorena's leadership and her courage to do what's right in the State Capitol."

Lorena is a candidate to replace State Sentor-elect Ben Hueso in the 80th Assembly District, which includes Chula Vista, National City and the City of San Diego neighborhoods of San Ysidro, City Heights, Barrio Logan, Sherman Heights, Otay Mesa, Paradise Hills and Golden Hill.

Learn more about Lorena’s campaign at www.VoteLorena.com  or by e-mail VoteLorena@gmail.com.

ASSEMBLYMEMBER SHIRLEY WEBER TO SALUTE WOMEN LEADERS IN CALIFORNIA’S 79TH DISTRICT

San Diego, CA: Assemblymember Shirley N. Weber (D-San Diego) will pay tribute to outstanding women in honor of Women’s History Month on Sunday, March 17, 2013, 3:00 p.m. at San Diego State University’s Parma Payne Alumni Center.  “There are many unsung ‘SHeroes’ in the 79th District deserving recognition for their work as women leaders. I am excited to host this Inaugural Salute in the 79th District to highlight their efforts,” she said. Women’s History Month was established in 1987 and is celebrated throughout the month of March to honor women’s contribution to society.

To qualify, nominees must be work or attend school in the 79th District, which includes the communities in the City of San Diego, Lemon Grove, La Mesa, National City, Chula Vista, Bonita and a small part of Spring Valley. The nominee must also perform extraordinary service in the Arts, Business, Community Activism, Education, Government, Health Sciences or Social Services.

Joining in the celebration will be poetry artist Kendrick Dial of Collective Purpose, singer Alyssa Mae Servenas and additional cultural dance presentations. Deadline to RSVP is Thursday, March 14. To RSVP or for more information, please contact LaShae Collins at (619)462-7878 or LaShae.Collins@asm.ca.gov.

Weber Gets Appointed to Various Select Committees by Speaker of the Assembly

SACRAMENTO, CA- Today Assemblymember Shirley N. Weber (D-San Diego) announced her appointments to the following Assembly Select Committees by Speaker John A. Pérez:

·         Select Committee on Agriculture and the Environment—Chaired by Assemblymember Marc Levine

·          Select Committee on Biotechnology-Chaired by Assemblymember Kevin Mullin

·         Select Committee on California’s Clean Energy Economy-Chaired by Assemblymember Nancy Skinner

·         Select Committee on California/Mexico Bi-National Affairs-Chaired by Assemblymember Ben Hueso

·         Select Committee on Community and Neighborhood Development-Chaired by Assemblymember Ken Cooley

·         Select Committee on Domestic Violence-Chaired by Assemblymember Jimmy Gomez

·         Select Committee on Increasing the Integration of Science, Technology and Engineering in California K-12 Schools-Chaired by Assemblymember Susan Bonilla

·         Select Committee on Out of School, Unemployed Youth-Chaired by Assemblymember Raul Bocanegra

·         Select Committee on Regional Approaches to Addressing the State’s Water Crisis-Chaired by Assemblymember Rudy Salas

·         Select Committee on Regional Transportation Solutions-Chaired by Assemblymember Quirk-Silva

·         Select Committee on Women of color-Engagement, Opportunity and Progress-Chaired by Assemblymember Cristina Garcia

“I am excited and eager to represent the 79th Assembly District and thank Speaker John Pérez for appointing me to these very important committees,” said Assemblymember Weber.” These assignments will allow me to work with my fellow legislative colleagues on a diverse range of issues affecting San Diego County and the State of California in general" she said.

At the beginning of the two-year legislative session, the Assembly Speaker Assembly appoints legislators to Chair or serve as Members of various Assembly policy, fiscal, and select committees.  In addition to her assignments above, Assemblymember Weber is Chair of the Assembly Select Committee on Higher Education in San Diego County. She also serves as a Member of the Appropriations, Banking and Finance, Education, Higher Education and Rules Committees of the California State Assembly.

Chula Vista Democratic Club Endorses Lorena Gonzalez

Pro-Jobs Democrat’s Longtime Work in South Bay Earns Her Second Endorsement By A Local Democratic Club in AD 80 Race

CHULA VISTA – (Thursday, February 28, 2013) – The Chula Vista Democratic Club has endorsed pro-jobs Democrat Lorena Gonzalez in the Assembly District 80 special election, the club announced this evening.

The Chula Vista Democratic Club is the second Democratic club to endorse Lorena’s campaign, following the San Diego County Young Democrats’ vote to endorse her at their Tuesday meeting.

Every Democratic elected official in the South Bay who has endorsed in the race has pledged support for Lorena, including San Diego Mayor Bob Filner, Congressman Juan Vargas, Assemblyman Ben Hueso and dozens of city councilmembers, school board members and other elected Democrats.

Registered Democrats in Chula Vista will make up the largest voting bloc in the upcoming special election.

Chula Vista Democratic Club President Jose Preciado said the club is excited to campaign hard for Lorena in Chula Vista.

“Chula Vista Democrats support Lorena because of her longtime work to jumpstart redevelopment of the bayfront, preserve the natural resources of the South Bay, and stand up for living wage jobs and good careers for local workers,” Preciado said. “We are supporting Lorena because she has delivered for Chula Vista.”

Throughout her professional career, Lorena has worked on the preservation of the South Bay wildlife refuge;advocating for the decommissioning of the now-defunct South Bay Power Plant; and organized agreements between business, labor, environmentalists and government agencies that have paved the way for the redevelopment of Chula Vista’s bayfront.

“Chula Vista Democrats expect results and aren’t going to crown candidates just because they’ve held office before or recognize their name,” Lorena said. “I am very proud to have won the endorsement tonight and appreciate the club's confidence in my track record."

Lorena is a candidate to replace Assemblyman Ben Hueso in the 80th Assembly District, which includes Chula Vista, National City and the City of San Diego neighborhoods of San Ysidro, City Heights, Barrio Logan, Sherman Heights, Otay Mesa, Paradise Hills and Golden Hill.

Learn more about Lorena’s campaign at www.VoteLorena.com  or by e-mail VoteLorena@gmail.com.

Labor Council Approves Resolution Supporting Roadmap to Citizenship for Aspiring Americans

SAN DIEGO - San Diego Labor Council Secretary-Treasurer Lorena Gonzalez made the following statement after Labor Council delegates approved a resolution supporting a roadmap to citizenship:

“Tonight, the San Diego & Imperial Counties Labor Council passed a resolution that makes it loud and clear:  We will be at the forefront of demanding common-sense, comprehensive immigration reform that includes a clear pathway to citizenship for all aspiring citizens who have worked hard and played by the rules.

“The working families of San Diego and Imperial Counties know that all American workers will benefit when 12 million immigrants can finally come out of the shadows and assert their rights to a fair wage and a voice in the workplace.

“Locally, we will continue working with political, business, faith, and community leaders to make the vision of our members a reality, and guarantee that we achieve common sense reforms while remaining inclusive of everyone in our communities.”
The full text of the approved resolution states:

San Diego and Imperial Counties Labor Council, AFL-CIO Resolution 
Supporting a Road map to Citizenship for Aspiring Americans

WHEREAS: 

Every day, more than 11 million immigrant aspiring citizens contribute to our communities, our economy and our country—yet they are denied a voice in the workplace and essential rights in our society;

WHEREAS: 

A strong and vibrant democracy cannot function unless all men and women, regardless of their skin color or where they were born, can participate meaningfully in the political process with full rights and equal protections;

WHEREAS: 

The union movement recognizes that the way we treat new immigrants reflects our commitment to the values that define us;

WHEREAS: 

Working people are strongest when working together and the union movement is strongest when it is open to all workers, regardless of where they come from;

WHEREAS: 

The creation of a road map to citizenship for aspiring Americans would improve wages and labor standards for all workers by giving immigrant workers a voice in the workplace and halting employers who take advantage of our failed immigration policies to pursue a race to the bottom;

WHEREAS: 

The dreams of young immigrants to have access to quality education and the hopes of millions of immigrants to reunify their families reflect core American values;

WHEREAS: 

America’s unions remain committed to working together on the side of justice for all, along with our community partners, including civil rights, human rights, faith and immigrant rights organizations, to pass fundamental reform that encompasses these principles;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED: 

That the San Diego and Imperial Counties Labor Council AFL-CIO, which represents the voices of more than 200,000 working families in Southern California, calls upon Congress to pass common-sense immigration reform that includes a practical and inclusive road map to citizenship and that reflects the principles outlined in the unified union movement’s framework for comprehensive immigration reform, “Immigration for Shared Prosperity: A Framework for Comprehensive Immigration Reform”;

AND BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED: 

The San Diego and Imperial Counties Labor Council, AFL-CIO will continue to work with allies to promote comprehensive immigration reform based on the principles outlined in this resolution and will communicate this position to [State]’s congressional delegation.

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San Diego-Imperial Counties Labor Council
The San Diego and Imperial Counties Labor Council, AFL-CIO includes 135 affiliated labor groups in the region with a membership of more than 200,000 working families.  Founded in 1891, the Labor Council advocates for more jobs, better jobs and better lives for all of San Diego’s workers – union and non-union.
www.unionyes.org

Assemblymember Shirley N. Weber (D-San Diego) will convene a public forum to discuss the impact of AB 109, the California Public Safety Realignment Act, on San Diego County

(SACRAMENTO, CA) - Assemblymember Shirley N. Weber (D-San Diego) will convene a public forum to discuss the impact of AB 109, the California Public Safety Realignment Act, on San Diego County as well as explore programs that help former offenders reintegrate back into the community.  The event, which will include input from law enforcement professionals, re-entry specialists, community leaders and other stakeholders, will take place on Friday, March 1st from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. in the conference room of the La Mesa Police Department (8085 University Avenue, La Mesa, 91942). 

"The implementation of criminal justice realignment has been underway for about a year, so it is important for us to engage in structured dialogue  on its challenges and opportunities so that we are proactive in achieving greater efficiency and better outcomes, " said Assemblymember Weber. "It is also important to continue collaboration and communication between elected officials, law enforcement agencies, and the community so that we are as supportive as possible as we execute our varying roles," she said.

Assembly Bill 109 shifts housing for lower level offenders from prison to local jail, and transfers supervision of designated parolees from the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation to local probation departments. This shift requires counties statewide to more effectively and efficiently manage offenders while maintaining high standards of public safety.
Panelists participating in the discussion will include Bill Gore, San Diego County Sheriff; Bonnie Dumanis, San Diego County District Attorney; Mack Jenkins, San Diego County Chief Probation Officer; Susan Bower, Director of Operations, Behavioral Health Division, San Diego County Department of Health and Human Services.  Also participating is Kevin Henderson, a former Commissioner of the City of San Diego’s Gang and Intervention Commission, who founded Leaders of Change, a program that works with community members and youth who have transitioned out of gang life. Time will also be provided for public comment.

For information and to RSVP, please contact George Gastil or Lee Hernández at (619)462-7878 or via email: George.Gastil@asm.ca.gov or Lee.Hernandez.asm.ca.gov.

Assemblymember Weber’s Legislative Package for the 2013 Legislative Year

SACRAMENTO, CA- Today, Assemblymember  Shirley N. Weber (D-San Diego)  announced her legislative bill package for the 2013 legislative year. The package, developed in the State Capitol over the past few months, reflects the Member's dedication to education as a 40 year educator, her unwavering dedication to community advocacy, and commitment to being an agent for social justice.  Her bills cover a variety of topics including: economic development, government efficiency, small business and microbusiness expansion, education, and public safety.

LEGISLATION 2013
AB 56 Carbon Monoxide Detectors in K-12 Schools-Would require new and retrofitted K-12 schools to install carbon monoxide detectors to ensure school safety.  This bill also encourages schools built prior to January 1, 2013 to install carbon monoxide detectors.

AB 149 Inform Former Offenders of Voting Rights-Ensures that individuals who have completed parole or probation are made aware of their voting rights.

AB 172 Increased Preferences for Microbusinesses- The State has adopted several mandates to ensure these businesses, which are driving California’s economy, are awarded a fair share of public contracts.  This measure ensures microbusinesses, that are typically owned by ethnic minorities and women, are awarded a fair share of public contracts.

AB 173 Small Business Procurement Act for Universities and Colleges- This measure streamlines the award of contracts for goods and services applicable to the University of California, the California State University, and the California Community Colleges.  Called the “SB/DVBE Option,” these contracts only require two quotes from either small businesses or Disabled Veteran Business Enterprises.  The SB/DBVE option authorizes for contracts valued under $250,000, that State agencies may exempt themselves from formal contracting requirements of advertising, protests, and bidding.  This bill simply allows universities and colleges to utilize this SB/DBVE option.

AB 785 Unions Blind Mailing- This bill would authorize an organization that provides employee representation or membership services to members of CalPERS to submit a request to the board for assistance in performing direct mailing. The bill would require the board, upon receiving a request, to provide a direct mailing to the annuitants of the system who are members of the organization or eligible to become members of the organization.

AB 832 Electronic Benefit Transfer Cards at Universities and Campuses-The purpose of this legislation is to ensure that low income students at universities are able to utilize all their financial benefits, which includes the use of Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards to purchase food while on campus. This bill will reduce discrimination on the low-income student who has been denied access to use their stipends on campus and increase revenue for the school.

AB 899 English Second Language Common Core Standards- California has taken several steps to revise its K–12 accountability program. Beginning in 2014, the state will switch to the Common Core State Standards (CCSS), a set of high-quality standards in subject areas like English and mathematics developed by and for the states. California recently joined a number of other states in adopting the Common Core State Standards for English and math.  Under this legislation, California will adopt the Common Core Standards for English as a Second Language (ESL) and ensures that students are receiving a high quality education consistently, from school to school and state to state.

AB 938 Realignment Offenders Voting Rights-Ensures that former offenders who have satisfied their jail or prison term and are under the new classification post release community supervision established as a result realignment are able to vote. The bill would also require courts to provide more information to county elections officers to prevent these individuals from accidently being purged out of the system.

AB 979 Port of San Diego Peace Officers-This bill would help to ensure the safety of our ports and provide adequate training of peace officers whose jurisdiction includes a port or other waterborne environment.

AB 1238 Cal-YOR Program-Assembly Bill 1238 would provide authorization for the continued operation of a cost-effective, innovative program that targets youthful offenders who are reentering society, the California Youth Offender Re-Entry Program.

AB 1241 Cal Grant Extended Years of Eligibility-This bill would extend the period of eligibility a high school student has to apply for the Cal-Grant Entitlement Programs by 3 years. Students would be required to submit a complete financial aid application no later than March 2 of the 4th academic year after his or her high school graduation or its equivalent for an award the academic year following the application.

Real Questions Produce Real Answers: Polling Shows Lorena Gonzalez with 32-point Lead Over Opponent

SAN DIEGO – (Monday, February 25, 2013) – Pro-jobs Democrat Lorena Gonzalez leads opponent Steve Castaneda by 32 points in polling conducted in the Assembly District 80 special election.

When provided summaries of the two candidates’ biographies and asked which candidate they prefer, respondents of a survey conducted by Anzalone Liszt Grove Research, Inc. preferred Lorena over her opponent by a 49-17 margin.

“Anyone that assumes that name identification alone will determine the outcome of this election several weeks before voter contact begins is barking up the wrong tree,” said Evan McLaughlin, campaign manager for the Lorena Gonzalez for Assembly campaign. “The impacts of a well-resourced campaign, the strong support from local leaders and organizations that have endorsed our campaign, and the natural appeal of Lorena’s experience to voters are going to matter more than whether Steve Castaneda is better known in Chula Vista than Lorena in February."

The poll, conducted Feb. 1-4 from 350 likely special election voters in the 80th Assembly District, included the following question:

“I am going to read you some additional information about the candidates for state Assembly and get your reaction.

“Lorena Gonzalez is a non-profit C-E-O and mother of two. The daughter of an immigrant farmworker and a nurse, Gonzalez learned the value of hard work at an early age. She worked her way through Stanford University and UCLA Law School, and as a labor leader where she has helped find compromise between businesses and workers. Because of this, she is endorsed by both the labor community and members of the business community, and respected leaders like Congressman Juan Vargas and Mayor Bob Filner. In the legislature, Gonzalez will bring a pragmatic approach to solving problems like improving education and creating jobs.

“Steve Castaneda is a Chula Vista city councilmember, small businessman and father of two. Castaneda is a moderate voice, working to make our communities safer and healthier. As a former police officer, Castaneda says public safety is his highest priority, and has been a fighter against domestic violence. And, he is working with state and local officials to reduce childhood obesity and ban tobacco use in public places. In the legislature, Castaneda will bring his successes in Chula Vista to state government, balancing the budget and making the economy stronger.

“Now that you have heard more information, if the special primary election for state assembly were held today, for whom would you vote: Democrat Lorena Gonzalez, Democrat Steve Castaneda, or another candidate?

Lorena Gonzalez ....................................................................................................................... 45%
Lean Gonzalez ............................................................................................................................ 4%
Total Gonzalez .........................................................................................................................49%
Steve Castaneda ........................................................................................................................ 16%
Lean Castaneda ......................................................................................................................... 1%
Total Castaneda ......................................................................................................................17%
Another candidate or undecided...........................................................................................34%

Lorena is a candidate to replace Assemblyman Ben Hueso in the 80th Assembly District, which includes Chula Vista, National City and the City of San Diego neighborhoods of San Ysidro, City Heights, Barrio Logan, Sherman Heights, Otay Mesa, Paradise Hills and Golden Hill.

Learn more about Lorena’s campaign at www.VoteLorena.com  or by e-mail VoteLorena@gmail.com.

COASTAL PROTECTIONS STRENGTHENED BY ATKINS BILL

(Sacramento)  Assembly Majority Leader Toni Atkins today introduced legislation that will give the California Coastal Commission the power to levy penalties against those who disregard orders to stop violating the California Coastal Act. AB 976 will bring Coastal Commission authority in line with most other state agencies tasked with enforcing environmental laws.

“California’s coastline is one of our most precious resources.  It provides recreation, jobs, beautiful vistas, a buffer against tides and weather, and is home to a complex ecosystem,” says Atkins.  “It is our responsibility to be good stewards of the coast by providing a workable system for enforcing legal protections against those who would defile it.”

Violations of the Coastal Act can include blocking public access to beaches, damaging environmentally sensitive habitats, or unauthorized development. Currently, the Commission can issue cease and desist orders to violators, but must pursue litigation through the California Attorney General’s office in order to enforce those orders if they are ignored, a costly and time-consuming process.  AB 976 would allow the Coastal Commission to fine violators in much the same way as other environmental agencies, such as the State Water Board and the Air Resources Board.  AB 976 will also ensure opportunities to challenge fines and rigorous due process protections.

"This bill addresses a long-standing gap in the Commission's ability to protect California's coastal resources and public access. It will deter Coastal Act violations, avoid litigation, save taxpayer dollars and make sure that people who comply with the Coastal Act are treated fairly," says Charles Lester, executive director of the Coastal Commission, which backs Atkins’ bill.

The California Coastal Commission was created by California voters in 1972, through their approval of Proposition 20, and later made permanent by the California Coastal Act of 1976.   The Coastal Act protects beaches, wetlands, water quality, and wildlife in an area of land and water larger than the State of Rhode Island.

ASSEMBLY MEMBER SHIRLEY WEBER TO SALUTE WOMEN LEADERS IN CALIFORNIA’S 79TH DISTRICT

San Diego, CA: Assembly Member Shirley N. Weber (D-San Diego) will pay tribute to outstanding women in honor of Women’s History Month on Sunday, March 17, 2013, 3:00 p.m. at San Diego State University’s Parma Payne Alumni Center.  “There are many unsung ‘SHeroes’ in the 79th District deserving of recognition for their work as women leaders, and “I am excited to host this Inaugural Salute in the 79th District to highlight their efforts,” she said.  Women’s History Month was established in 1987 and is celebrated throughout the month of March to honor women’s contribution to society.

To quality, nominees must be work or attend school in the 79th District, which includes the communities in the City of San Diego, Lemon Grove, La Mesa, National City, Chula Vista, Bonita and a small part of Spring Valley.  Nominations will be accepted Friday, March 1, 2013. The nominee must also perform extraordinary service in the Arts, Business, Community Activism, Education, Government, Health Sciences and Social Services.

Joining in the celebration will be poetry artist Kendrick Dial of Collective Purpose, singer Alyssa Mae Servenas and additional cultural dance presentations. For more information, please contact LaShae Collins at (619)462-7878 or LaShae.Collins@asm.ca.gov.

ATKINS ASKS PUC NOT TO CHARGE SDG&E CUSTOMERS FOR SAN ONOFRE

Says Ratepayers Should Not Pay While They Receive No Electricity

(San Diego) In a letter sent yesterday to the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), Assembly Majority Leader Toni Atkins called on the Commission to relieve customers of Southern California Edison (SCE) and San Diego Gas and Electric (SDG&E) from having to pay for San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station (SONGS), which has been shut down for a year due to safety concerns.

“Forcing Southern Californians to continue to pay for a non-functioning power plant is like making someone pay rent on an apartment in which they no longer live,” says Atkins.  “It defies logic and is just plain unfair.”

Customers of SCE and SG&E are currently paying $54 million per month for shareholder returns, operation and maintenance for a non-functioning power plant.  Atkins’ letter asks that SONGS be removed from the rate base for these utility customers as it has “stopped generating electricity and has not been providing any ongoing benefit to customers.” Atkins also asks the CPUC to  ensure that their economic analysis of SONGS operations includes the cost of ensuring plant safety, including seismic studies, elimination of once-through cooling plants and managing the long-term storage of spent uranium onsite.

The CPUC will take public testimony today in Costa Mesa at a hearing regarding how much utility customers should continue to pay for the idled nuclear plant.  Another hearing, yet to be scheduled, will be held in San Diego County.

Earlier this week, Atkins called upon the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to obtain and make public an uncensored version of a Mitsubishi Heavy Industries report that is reported to indicate that flaws in replacement steam generators were known before they were installed.  Excessive wear in these replacement generators led to the shutdown of the plant in January 2012.

Official Statement by the San Diego Labor Council on Shared Principles for Immigration Reform by U.S. Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Thomas J. Donohue & AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka

SAN DIEGO - San Diego Labor Council Secretary-Treasurer Lorena Gonzalez made the following statement in response to today’s announcement of Shared Principles for Immigration Reform by U.S. Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Thomas J. Donohue & AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka:

“The San Diego Labor Council is excited that the national AFL-CIO has come together with leaders of the business community to agree on a set of principles for comprehensive immigration reform. This is more encouraging progress towards a successful reform effort.

“Locally, we have already begun working with business, faith, and community leaders in the San Diego region on the issue of immigration reform, and look forward to continuing our joint fight for common sense, comprehensive, immediate immigration reform providing protection and transparency for all workers.”

The full statement issued by Donohue and Trumka can be read here: http://www.aflcio.org/Press-Room/Press-Releases/Joint-Statement-of-Shared-Principles-by-U.S.-Chamber-of-Commerce-President-and-CEO-Thomas-J.-Donohue-AFL-CIO-President-Richard-Trumka

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San Diego-Imperial Counties Labor Council
The San Diego and Imperial Counties Labor Council, AFL-CIO represents more than 200,000 union workers in the region and advocates for an economy with more jobs, better jobs and better lives for all workers in the region - union and non-union.
www.unionyes.org

Democrats Endorse Myrtle Cole for City Council

Fourth District Candidate Lauded for Her Longtime Commitment to Community

The San Diego County Democratic Party has endorsed Myrtle Cole in the special election for San Diego Council, distinguishing her among a crowded field of candidates to replace Tony Young in the Fourth District seat.

A former police officer and City Council aide who currently works on behalf of low-income seniors and children at the United Domestic Workers, Cole also has the endorsements of Senators Christine Kehoe (ret.) and Marty Block, Assemblymembers Toni Atkins and Ben Hueso, City Councilmember David Alvarez, and many other local leaders.

“There are several good Democrats running, but with her 20 years of experience serving the community, Myrtle Cole is the right candidate for this job,” said Francine Busby, Chair of the San Diego County Democratic Party.

“From day one she will be ready to protect public safety, fight for infrastructure, and work with both business and labor to bring jobs to the Fourth District. We are proud to support her.”

Nine candidates qualified for the March 26 election, in which early voting will begin next Monday, February 25. The district is the most heavily Democratic in San Diego, with nearly 53% of voters registered as Democrats, 24% as independents, and just 19% as Republicans. 

MAJORITY LEADER ATKINS CALLS ON NRC TO GIVE THE PUBLIC COMPLETE INFORMATION ABOUT EARLY KNOWLEDGE OF SAN ONOFRE FLAWS

(San Diego)  California Assembly Majority Leader Toni Atkins of San Diego has sent a letter to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) asking that the commission obtain and release to the public an unredacted copy of a document that appears to reveal that flaws in steam generators at San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station (SONGS) were known prior to their installation and that they were ignored in order to avoid a comprehensive review of the plant’s operations and license.  Atkins’ letter emphasizes that the public has the right to know about problems associated with the troubled and controversial nuclear plant.

“More than 8 million Southern Californians, many of whom are my constituents, live within a fifty mile radius of SONGS and they are entitled to know whether they are safe,” says Atkins.  “Southern California residents are understandably concerned by indications that Southern California Edison and Mitsubishi may have circumvented regulatory requirements.  The release of the full, uncensored, report on this matter would help clear the air and restore confidence in the NRC’s processes.”

The NRC has indicated that it has requested and plans to release a redacted version of Mitsubishi Heavy Industry’s (MHI) 2012 “Root Cause Analysis Report.”  MHI manufactured and installed the hydrogen tubes whose excessive wear led to a year-long shutdown of two of SONGS’ steam generators. A previous letter to the NRC from Senator Barbara Boxer and Congressman Edward Markey, who have seen the report, indicates that it raises troubling questions about whether NRC procedures were properly followed and whether such a circumvention of the process has safety or other regulatory implications.

Media reports indicate that Mitsubishi employees were aware of the design flaw in hydrogen tubes, but that a decision was made to keep that knowledge internal in order to avoid triggering a comprehensive safety and licensing review of the controversial nuclear plant.  The NRC has announced that it will be investigating the matter, although no time has been set for that review.

Assembly Member Shirley Weber appointed to the Education Commission of the States

(SACRAMENTO, CA) -  Assembly Speaker John A. Pérez (D-Los Angeles) recently appointed Assembly Member Shirley N. Weber (D-San Diego) to serve as the California State Assembly’s representative on the national Education Commission of the States (ECS).

“As an educator of over four decades, I am extremely thankful to the Speaker for allowing me the opportunity to serve as a Commissioner of this important organization,” stated Assembly Member Weber.  “The Commission has a storied history of positively shaping education policy in our country, and I’m elated to now have a role in that process,” she said.

The ECS was founded through the establishment of the Compact for Education, a nation-wide, non-partisan, interstate compact approved by Congress in 1965.  It is an organization that is committed to providing assistance to states seeking to develop effective policy and practice for public education by providing data, research, analysis, and leadership, and by facilitating collaboration among the states.

“I’m eager to serve and look forward to meeting and working with all of my new colleagues on the Commission to highlight important education policy and fiscal issues effecting schools nationally,” she expressed.

ECS’ core purpose is to enlighten, equip, and engage key education leaders – governors, legislators, chief state school officers, higher education officials, business leaders and others – to work side by side to improve education across 50 states and U.S. territories.

Assembly Member Weber’s status as a Commissioner is effective February 13, 2013, the day that she was appointed.