ATKINS HONORS WOMEN IN PUBLIC SERVICE

(San Diego)  In honor of Women’s History Month, Assembly Majority Leader Toni Atkins has recognized eight women from the 78th Assembly District who exemplify commitment to public service.  The women were honored at a reception in the Majority Leader’s San Diego district office.

“The women I am honoring today have worked tirelessly to improve their communities and the lives of others,” says Atkins.  “They are ideal role models for both young women and young men who aspire to make a difference through service.  I thank them all for helping to make the 78th Assembly District a vibrant, diverse, and outstanding place to live.”

The eight honorees are:

The Honorable Lee M. Haydu
Ms. Haydu’s service includes the San Dieguito Lagoon Committee, Del Mar Heights Elementary Site Council, Vice President and President of the PTA.  She is currently serving on the Del Mar City Council.
 
The Honorable Mary C. Herron
Ms. Herron was mayor of the City of Coronado in 1988, after having first been elected a City of Coronado Councilmember in 1978.  She has worked to end homelessness.

The Honorable Carrie A. Downey
Ms. Downey has been involved in League of Cities, Village Elementary PATT, Coronado Lion’s Club, Coronado Junior Woman’s Club, and Coronado Chamber of Commerce. She also served 8 years on the Coronado City Council.
 
Ms. Sara F. Moser 

Ms. Moser is a long-time supporter of Planned Parenthood and family planning.

Dr. Delores A. Jacobs 

As Chief Executive Officer of The San Diego Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) Community Center, Dr. Jacobs manages one of the oldest, largest and most dynamic LGBT community centers in the country.

The Honorable Lesa Heebner 

A long-time resident of Solana Beach, Ms. Heebner worked to upgrade and revitalize the city and was involved in the Coastal Rail Trail, the Solana Beach View Assessment Committee and served on several Ad Hoc Committees for infrastructure improvements. She currently serves on the Solana Beach City Council and also served as Mayor.

The Honorable Patricia McCoy
Serving 12 years on the Imperial Beach City Council, this long-time IB resident played an integral role in the wildlife preservation movement and is credited with creating a refuge to protect some of the last coastal wetlands in California and ensuring the establishment of what is now known as the Tijuana Slough National Wildlife Refuge, the San Diego Bay Wildlife Refuge, and the Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve

The Honorable Diane Rose
A long-time resident of Imperial Beach, Ms. Rose served 12 years on the City Council and as Mayor.  She also served on the San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG,) the Metropolitan Transit System, the California League of Cities, and the federal board advising President Clinton and Congress on U.S.-Mexico border issues.  Rose has been dedicated to the preservation and improved quality of life that transformed Imperial Beach.

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Longtime Chula Vista Police Chief Strongly Endorses Steve Castaneda for Assembly

Public Safety and Commitment to Children in the Community Matters

CHULA VISTA, Calif. – Protecting public safety and an outstanding commitment to children are two major reasons retired Chula Vista Police Chief Bill Winters proudly supports Steve Castaneda for Assembly.

Winters, a resident of the 80th Assembly District, served as Chula Vista Police Chief from 1965 to 1992. Since his retirement from the police department, he has been heavily involved with South Bay Little League Baseball.

“I am proud to endorse Steve Castaneda for Assembly because I know that his dedication to public safety is unmatched,” said Bill Winters, Chula Vista’s Police Chief for 26 years. “Not only is Steve’s commitment to the residents of the 80th Assembly District unwavering, but his proven record of improving the lives of our kids is well documented.

“We’ve worked together on many things in the long time I’ve known him, but a perfect example of Steve’s ability to get things done for our community was when he took the lead in helping to repair a youth baseball facility in south Chula Vista.” 

Winters says that Castaneda is the best choice for the 80th Assembly District in the upcoming June 2013 special election.       

About Steve Castaneda for State Assembly

Steve Castaneda, a fiscally conservative Democrat, is a small business owner and former two-term Chula Vista councilmember. He is the father of two sons and is married to his beautiful and talented wife, Tanya Mannes Castaneda. The 80th Assembly District is located in southwest California, encompassing portions of Chula Vista, San Diego and National City. The 80th District special election is a result of an impending vacancy created by Assemblyman Ben Hueso's election to the California State Senate and will be held in early June 2013.

For more information, visit www.castanedaforassembly.com. Join our online communities on FaceBook and Twitter for campaign updates.

Community Rally to Protect Saturday Mail Delivery

March 24th Day of Action highlights need to protect six day postal delivery

[SAN DIEGO] – Concerned citizens will rally on Sunday, March 24 to protect Saturday mail delivery and demand that Congress deliver a better plan to strengthen the Postal Service for the future. The rally will take place at the Downtown Post Office, 815 E Street on March 24 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. All members of the community are invited to attend.

The Postal Service’s plan to shrink the Postal Service by ending six-day service is an attack on the future of this great institution, on the customers who need it and on the employees who support it. Many Americans — especially small-business owners, senior citizens and rural residents — would suffer if the strength and reach of our Postal Service is compromised. In addition, cutting Saturday mail delivery would delay important household and business transactions, including bills, invoices and personal communications, and may force customers to shift to high-cost competing services.

The U.S. Postal Service is America’s only universal communications network, reaching every address in America six days a week. Established by the Constitution and using no taxpayer funding for its operations, the Postal Service is a vital public institution that California cannot afford to see reduced or dismantled.

To learn more about the rally visit: http://action.deliveringforamerica.com/RallyforSixDay

WHEN:           11 a.m. – 2 p.m., Sunday, March 24, 2013

WHERE:         Downtown Post Office, 815 E Street San Diego, CA 92101

Assembly Education Committee Passes Weber’s Bill Requiring Carbon Monoxide Detectors in California Schools

SACRAMENTO, CA- Assemblymember Shirley N. Weber’s (D-San Diego) AB 56 which would require carbon monoxide detectors in new and modernized school buildings, passed the Assembly Education Committee on Wednesday, March 20, 2013 with a 6-0 bipartisan vote.

Sponsored by the California State Firefighters Association, AB 56 requires all California K-12 public and private schools built on or after January 1, 2014 that have fossil fuel burning furnaces, to install carbon monoxide (CO) detectors. The bill also encourages public and private schools constructed before January 1, 2014 to install carbon monoxide detectors.

“The Legislature has recognized the necessity for carbon monoxide detectors to be installed in apartments, hotels, and new home developments,” said Assemblymember Weber. “We have to do everything in our power to be sure that we are creating the safest and healthiest environment in our schools for children. Installing carbon monoxide detectors in our schools is a no-brainer,” she said.
On December 3, 2012, 43 students and 10 adults from Finch Elementary School in Atlanta, Georgia were evacuated and taken to the local hospital after firefighters discovered a carbon monoxide leak from the school’s furnace, causing it to work overtime and leak high levels of CO into the public areas and classrooms.

Assemblymember Weber hopes the proposal will protect California students from the deadly effects of carbon monoxide gas, known as the “silent killer” and prevent an incident, such as the one in Atlanta, from happening here.

Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that can cause sudden illness and death, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The most common symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain and confusion.  Each year more than 400 Americans die from unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning, more than 20,000 visit the emergency room, and more than 4,000 are hospitalized.

Currently, only the states of Connecticut and Maryland require schools to have carbon monoxide detectors.  The states of Georgia and New Jersey are pursuing similar measures.

AB 56 is supported by the California State Firefighters Association; California Coalition for Children’s Safety and Health; American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, and California School Employees Association. The legislation will next be heard in the Assembly Appropriations Committee in the month of April.

Legendary Navy Leader Proudly Endorses Steve Castaneda for Assembly

Proven Leadership Matters in the Community and in the Capitol

CHULA VISTA, Calif. – Knowing a thing or two about the importance of steady leadership skills, retired Rear Adm. José Betancourt endorses Steve Castaneda for Assembly.

Betancourt, a Chula Vista resident and maritime small business owner, worked his way up the ranks during his more than 30 years of military service. Affectionately known as San Diego’s Navy Mayor, he served as commander of the Navy’s Southwest Region prior to his retirement and was one of the highest ranking officials in the United States Navy.

“I am so very honored and humbled to receive the support of one of the most decorated and respected Navy commanders to ever serve in this country’s military,” said Steve Castaneda, candidate for 80th Assembly District. “Whether serving in the line of duty as a City of San Diego police officer, protecting the public interests of all Chula Vista residents as a two-term councilman, or contributing to my local community as a family man and small business owner, I have always respected and held our military in the highest regard.

“That is why I am proud to have the support of retired Navy hero Rear Admiral Betancourt because he knows that I can get things done.”

Castaneda eagerly looks forward to being a voice for all brave men and women who serve or have served in America’s armed forces.

The San Diego region’s extensive history and valuable relationship with the U.S. Navy and its families will have no bigger supporter in Sacramento than Castaneda.
About Steve Castaneda for State Assembly

Steve Castaneda, a fiscally conservative Democrat, is a small business owner and former two-term Chula Vista councilmember. He is the father of two sons and is married to his beautiful and talented wife, Tanya Mannes Castaneda. The 80th Assembly District is located in southwest California, encompassing portions of Chula Vista, San Diego and National City. The 80th District special election is a result of an impending vacancy created by Assemblyman Ben Hueso's election to the California State Senate and will be held in early June 2013.

For more information, visit www.castanedaforassembly.com. Join our online communities on FaceBook and Twitter for campaign updates.

The Conscious of the Council.

It has been said that nature abhors a vacuum and in 2010 when Donna Frye left the San Diego City Council a chasm was created. Since her time on the Council, Donna was almost always the consistent voice of leadership and conviction on the council. Sometimes she would irk her supporters from time to time but over all she was seen as someone who would always do what she thought was right and became the voice for those who felt left out of the Downtown power plays and would remind the Council, time and again that there was more to San Diego than Downtown and that there were other issues than redevelopment and the Convention Center.

If the past was any indication of what was to happen in the future then it would be a long time before someone would be that champion again. After all, almost everyone who has been elected to the Council seems to view it as a stepping-stone to a higher political office and seems to position their votes and support with an eye towards that goal of being in the Assembly, State Senate or Congress. So perhaps that saying didn’t apply in San Diego Politics.

Or did it?

In that same year, a small political upset took place when a relatively unknown candidate beat someone who’s family was an institution in the District and was seen as a shoo-in as he had the support of Labor and some big names. Yet even in the face of all those obstacles, David Alvarez was able to beat his opponent, Felipe Hueso by 15%.

During that campaign Alvarez promised that he would serve the full terms and would do his best to provide the District the representation it needed. A promise that resonated with the District but to many political observers it was seen a smart ploy that eventually he would have to reneg on because history was against it.  Possibly only one person served two full terms since 1980’s because either the person moved on to higher political office or had to resign in disgrace.

In his short time, Alvarez has been consistent in his views and his votes that he has fought for his district but, by extension, the communities that have been left out of those Downtown Power Plays. He as been an advocate of stopping needless waste as his efforts with reforming San Diego SAFE program with Lorie Zaph and most importantly was the lone voice against the giveaways to the Convention Center in 2012.

Also he has become a real leader with the other Democratic Councilmembers and yesterday’s meeting at Rules showed that.

It was well known that Alvarez was going to put up a resolution that would support Immigration Reform with a path towards Citizenship to those who have worked and labored in the shadows. With the help of fellow Councilmembers Sherri Lightener and Marti Emerald they were all set to do so but jumping in on the bandwagon for the sake of political survival the four Republicans, with Mark Kersey leading the pack, decided to draft their own resolution, sign it, force it on the docket and blab to the U-T and the media about it and not tell their Democratic Counterparts.

Maybe Kersey thought his watered down, mealy-mouthed resolution would be acceptable to everyone. I mean it calls for “legal status” so maybe he can say he snag some Latino votes in some future City wide run and since it doesn’t say citizenship so he say to the right that they don’t get citizenship. Win-win, right?

Wrong.

Alvarez, at the Rules meeting, called the Republicans out for their attempt at playing politics with their antics of going around the other Councilmembers, drafting a vague resolution and doing so as an act of political survival. He denied Kersey’s attempt to co-opt the resolution he and the other Dems on the Council drafted and so Kersey and Kevin Faulconer voted against the true Immigration Reform resolution and now both go up to the Council for a vote.

So where is Todd Gloria in all this?

You guess is as good as mine.

Will Todd support the sham Republican resolution that in essence would call for a permanent immigrant ambiguous status not fully a part of our society?

Or will he stand with Alvarez, Emerald and Lightner with a resolution that lives up to the creed of this nation and give those who have labored, fought and risked their lives to come to this county a chance to be a part of this country that they have sacrificed so much to be a part of?

I’m not holding my breath…

Nathan Fletcher Endorses Lorena Gonzalez in 80th Assembly District Special Election

Marine Corps Combat Veteran and Author of “Chelsea’s Law” Announces Support for Pro-Jobs Democrat at Wednesday Press Conference

SAN DIEGO – (Wednesday, March 20, 2013) – Former State Assemblyman Nathan Fletcher today announced his endorsement of pro-jobs Democrat Lorena Gonzalez's campaign for the 80th Assembly District.

Fletcher, who served in the California State Assembly from 2008 to 2012, is a Marine Corps combat veteran and the chairman of a broad coalition in support of comprehensive immigration reform.

During his remarks, Fletcher praised Gonzalez for her work in bringing solutions to difficult challenges in the community, mentioning her leadership in:
-- Bringing the teachers union and San Diego Unified School District together to reach an agreement that prevented 1200 teacher layoffs.
-- Working with business leaders and elected officials across the spectrum to work out an agreement on the convention center expansion that requires living wages and local workers get priority employment.

-- Assisting in convening a broad coalition of local business, labor, law enforcement, civil liberties and faith based groups together to forge consensus on immigration reform.

“I served in Sacramento and I know what it takes to be successful. You need someone who is willing to lead, build a coalition and be a part of a solution,” Fletcher said. “I have seen Lorena do this time and again.”

Known as “Chelsea’s Law,” Fletcher authored landmark legislation to increase penalties, parole provisions, and oversight of child predators. Fletcher  is currently the Senior Director of Corporate Development for Qualcomm, Inc. and a professor at University of California, San Diego where he teaches Political Science.

“I am honored to have the endorsement of someone who made such an incredible impact in such a short period of time in the State Capitol,” Gonzalez said. “Nathan Fletcher was a legislator who worked across the aisle to get things done for all of San Diego, and I hope to do the same.”

Gonzalez 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.

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.