In this Issue:
- A Message From Marty
- Budget Update
- Legislative Update
- Fighting For San Diego State Local Students
- News Around The Block
- Recent District Events
- Upcoming District Events
- Inviting Assemblymember Block to Speak to Your Group
- District Services Available in South County
- Important Program News
A MESSAGE FROM MARTY
It has been a very busy summer! I am pleased to have had the opportunity to meet and interact with many residents from the 78th Assembly District. Over the last month and a half, we have worked hard to highlight some of the important issues affecting San Diego and the greater challenges that we face as a state.
August is National Back to School Month. This is a time to recognize the importance of education in our communities and to build involvement and support for our schools. Students today face a breadth of new opportunities that will give them the chance to excel. In our school districts we are seeing how some of these opportunities also provide new challenges.
California classrooms are experiencing severe cuts and diminished resources as teachers look for new and creative ways to teach our children. Yet in these tough times, we know that the best resource is a supportive network where parents and community groups partner with teachers and school administrators to improve our children’s education.
I encourage all of you in the 78th District to get involved and help our youth go back to school this fall. Whether you volunteer in a classroom, tutor kids in the neighborhood or coach a youth sports team, your service will enrich a child’s learning and promote better awareness of the benefits of family and community involvement to help our students achieve more.
I will also be going-back-to-school, in a sense, as I continue to serve you in Sacramento. In addition to fighting for education, I will continue to focus on job creation, economic stimulus and reaching out to California’s community of veterans. I look forward to your involvement and hearing your thoughts and suggestions for how we can improve the status quo and make San Diego a better place to live.
Enjoy the last few weeks of fun in the sun!
BUDGET UPDATE
At the Capitol, the Legislature and Governor continue to discuss ways to close a $19 billion budget deficit and address some of the toughest fiscal challenges our state has ever seen. Six weeks into the new fiscal year and we are still left without resolution.
Legislative Democrats, Republicans and the Governor remain divided on how best to solve our financial troubles, while still providing a framework that promotes job creation, prioritizes education, contributes to California’s economic recovery and also protects our most vulnerable populations. Unfortunately, there are no easy choices. Whether we cut spending, try to increase revenue or look for a compromise solution, our economy, services, and programs will be impacted. While these choices may appear daunting, inaction is by far the worst option out there and a choice that Californians cannot afford.
Despite the Legislative leaders and the Governor having not reached a full agreement, the ongoing discussions are productive. They are making strides and seeing some progress. Assemblymember Block is confident that all sides will come to an agreement that is in the best interest of all Californians: a solution that closes the deficit without sacrificing jobs and reflects a strong commitment to education and the long-term economic recovery of our state.
LEGISLATIVE UPDATE
As we enter the final leg of the legislative session, Assemblymember Block has several important bills that will be voted on in the Senate this month. The bills will then go to Governor Schwarzenegger for his consideration.
To ensure that school districts across California have the resources they need to educate our neediest student populations, he recently introduced AB 184. This bill provides the authority needed for the Department of Education (CDE) to give school districts their 2009-10 Special Disabilities Adjustment funds. This action would prevent CDE from taking back prior year special education funds that school districts have already received and used to meet the needs of the students in their classrooms. San Diego County receives 25% of the $70 million total funds allocated statewide each year.
Another measure, AB 2314 would make sure our veterans returning from harms way receive tax breaks if they are declared 100% disabled. Finally, AB 2058 would assist those who are out of work, on unemployment and looking for jobs with retraining so they can become more competitive in the job market.
Assemblymember Block’s Bills Signed Into Law in July By Governor Schwarzenegger:
- AB 2619 protects victims of elder financial abuse and was inspired by senior citizens in our district who brought their situation to the attention of Assemblymember Block. They were victims of financial abuse and unable to collect on a judgment in their favor. The new law, written by Assemblymember Block allows victims who have won restitution in court to receive priority payment when an employer is served with multiple earning withholding orders in the same period. This is similar to the way that spousal and child support orders have priority over all other earning withholding orders.
- AB 2674 is a victims’ rights bill that protects the assets of a husband or wife during divorce proceedings from their spouse that has tried to solicit their murder. This bill closes a loophole that allowed the offending spouse to continue to reap financial benefits such as community property in retirement and pension benefits from the injured spouse. This bill is based upon the personal experience of Detective John Pomroy of the Pomona Police Department who was forced to turn over part of his CalPERS retirement and deferred compensation proceeds to his former wife convicted of soliciting his murder.
FIGHTING FOR SAN DIEGO STATE LOCAL STUDENTS
In his efforts to address recent policy choices by San Diego State University (SDSU) that caused 1,740 qualified, local students to be rejected for admission, Assemblymember Marty Block (AD-78) joined with students, educators and community leaders to advocate for passage of AB 2402 and AB 2401. This package of legislation calls for increased transparency when California State University (CSU) campuses make changes to their admissions policies that affect local student populations, and would also formally recognize and reinstate local admissions priority for CSU campuses to students in the region that meet the admissions requirements.
“These students played by the rules and fulfilled the requirements for admission, yet they have been disenfranchised by their local public university. It is deplorable that SDSU’s administration changed its admission policy at the last minute, without public input and no regard for the students whose college careers have now stalled before they’ve even begun,” said Assemblymember Block. “To stand up for these students and prevent this situation from reoccurring in the future, I have proposed legislation that will provide greater transparency measures when admissions policy changes are made that affect local students, and ensure that qualified students who are place-bound are able to pursue higher education at their local CSU campus.”
Limiting the higher education opportunities for local students negatively affects their academic careers and has an impact on San Diego’s local economy and the region’s ability to create a strong, capable workforce ready to take on the jobs of tomorrow. AB 2401 and AB 2402 remain in the State Senate as of this writing.
NEWS AROUND THE BLOCK
Assemblymember Block Fights to Restore Solar Financing Programs
Assemblymember Block joined with Attorney General Jerry Brown to announce a lawsuit against Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac who have suspended a popular program aimed at helping homeowners afford home solar electricity installation. The agencies have no timeline or announced plan to resolve their issues and lift the suspension. The Property Assessed Clean Energy, or PACE, programs were suspended nationwide which may impact over 20,000 green jobs in California – many based here in San Diego.
“Now is the time to stand up and put a stop to the regulatory giants like Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae, who are unconscionably putting roadblocks in the way of a successful clean energy program that actually creates jobs, builds our economy and makes cities like San Diego more energy efficient,” said Assemblymember Block.
Assemblymember Block Partners with Barona to Provide Education Grant
Mount Miguel High School was recently awarded a $5,000 grant from the Barona Band of Mission Indians to purchase much-needed books and other materials for the school’s library. Assemblymember Block offered his support for the grant, stating that the career and college materials available to students from this grant will inspire them to continue their education beyond high school. With the state’s emphasis on core curriculum areas, up-to-date materials to support English, science, and social science classes will be a significant help to both the students and their teachers.
Assemblymember Block Sponsors Assistance at Veterans Stand Down
The 23rd Annual Stand Down, a community-based intervention program designed to help our region’s homeless veterans combat life on the streets, was held in July 2009 near Balboa Park. This year, hundreds of homeless veterans were provided a wide range of assistance including clothing, showers, haircuts, medical and dental care, along with counseling, veteran benefits, employment and job counseling, shelter information, and religious services. Assemblymember Block, a member of the Assembly Veterans Committee, recognizes the life-changing support offered at this event and sponsored a tent to help provide these services to our veterans. He praised the thousands of volunteers and numerous organizations throughout the county who provided a hand to carry out this inspiring service to our veterans.
Assemblymember Block speaks with Stand Down executive director Phil Landis about how to generate community awareness for the plight of homeless veterans and solutions provided by Veterans Village of San Diego.
RECENT DISTRICT EVENTS
Assemblymember Block and State Controller John Chiang Sponsor Small Business Tax Seminar
Small businesses in the 78th District got a big boost when over one hundred small business owners attended a “small business tax tips” seminar on July 15 at the Lemon Grove Community Center. The event, presented in partnership with State Controller John Chiang, included presentations by the Franchise Tax Board on enterprise zones which can reduce the tax load of businesses who hire local workers as well as other state and federal tax issues. A representative of the Board of Equalization provided valuable information about sales and use tax issues for small business owners as well as information about the state payroll. The Small Business Development and International Trade Center provided vital information on starting, growing and succeeding as a small business owner.
“Small businesses are the backbone of California's financial engine, and I believe that small business entrepreneurs will lead the state out of our economic crisis,” said Assemblymember Block. “That is why I will continue to bring experts together to best inform you of current state regulations and opportunities.”
Assemblymember Block Joins in Celebration of San Diego Pride Week
Assemblymember Block joined with 200 parade participants in the 36th annual San Diego Pride Parade on July 16th. 140,000 spectators enjoyed this year’s parade, which is the fifth largest in the country. “’One Heart, One World, One Pride’ was the theme this year, and the message of inclusion is indeed universal,” said Assemblymember Block.”
Senior 411 Health Series Continues to Help District Seniors and Resource Providers
Assemblymember Block continued his Senior 411 series to provide information and resources to seniors and their caregivers through seminars at Alvarado Hospital and Sharp Chula Vista. Dozens of attendees learned about daily and long-term care needs, 211 San Diego, Advanced Directives, and Emergency Care. If you missed the recent opportunity, look for additional Senior 411 seminars to be held in the district this fall.
Assemblymember Block Attends Groundbreaking Ceremony of City of San Diego Central Library
Assemblymember Marty Block, a member of the State Public Library Construction and Renovation Board—which secured $20 million for new downtown central library--was on hand to celebrate its long awaited groundbreaking.
“I applaud the local progressive effort to improve our community,” commented Assemblymember Block. “With the San Diego Unified School District agreeing to incorporate a charter high school on the sixth and seventh floors of the proposed library project, and a number of generous private donors, the resources are in place for the project to begin. This library will be an extraordinary addition to our region and will symbolize our commitment to learning.”
UPCOMING DISTRICT EVENTS
Electronic Recycling Event
In partnership with Recycle San Diego, Southwestern College, Sweetwater Union High School District, South Bay Familiy YMCA, and media partners, Assemblymember Marty Block will be hosting a free electronic recycling event for district residents. Recycle your e-waste safely and for free at this community event.
Saturday, September 4, 2010. 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Southwestern College (lot TBD)
900 Otay Lakes Road, Chula Vista
Career Resources Fair
Know someone looking for a job? Join Assemblymember Block, the Educational Cultural Complex, the 2010 Census and over 25 employers to learn about the latest skills needed and opportunities available for jobseekers.
Thursday, September 23, 2010. 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Educational Cultural Complex
4343 Ocean View Blvd, San Diego
Bonita Fest
Bring your family to the largest civic festival in Bonita – the “Wild West” Bonita Fest! Stop by Assemblymember Block’s booth to say hi!
Saturday, September 25, 2010. 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Bonita Village Shopping Center
3030 Plaza Bonita Road, Bonita
WOULD YOU LIKE ASSEMBLYMEMBER BLOCK TO SPEAK TO YOUR GROUP?
With the legislative year ending this month, Assemblymember Block is looking forward to spending more time with you in the district. Do you have an upcoming community event that you would like him to speak at? Please contact Monica to provide scheduling details for the request through email at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or visit his website at http://asmdc.org/members/a78/ for more details on scheduling.
THE SOUTH BAY DISTRICT SATELLITE OFFICE IS OPEN FOR CONSTITUENT SERVICES
Please visit my Satellite Office on Tuesdays at Southwestern College to learn what State services are available to you. For an appointment please call (619) 462-7878.
IMPORTANT PROGRAM NEWS
Appliance Rebate Program Expands
Californians can save money while helping to “green” our state. There are now even more choices for Californians in the “California Cash for Appliances Plus” program. Under the program consumers can obtain rebates of up to $200 when they exchange their old appliances for new, greener energy-efficient appliances. Not only will Californians receive a rebate but they will save energy costs as well as helping to protect our planet. So far the popular program has received more than 80,000 applications for rebates, and there is about $19 million remaining in the fund.
The California Energy Commission program includes rebates for high energy efficient dishwashers, refrigerators, freezers, water heaters, heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, clothes washers and dryers.
You are eligible for a rebate if you purchase a qualified high energy efficient appliance, properly recycle your old appliance, and submit a complete application package within 120 days of the appliance purchase. Visit www.cash4appliances.org for the rebate amounts for all appliances, information on appliance models which are eligible as well as helpful tips on how to properly recycle your old appliance.
SANDAG Announces “511 Taxi” Service
The SANDAG 511 program is the region’s traveler information service, providing everything from real-time traffic conditions, to roadside assistance, to public transit and commuter assistance programs – 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Users access the information for free on the phone or on the web at www.511sd.com.
511 Taxi is the latest addition to the service. Travelers in need of a taxi just dial 511 and say “Taxi” or “Cab” when prompted. They will be connected directly to a dispatcher. No need to look up or remember phone numbers!
If you’ve been drinking, don’t get behind the wheel. Call 511 and take a taxi home. Anyone in the county can use 511 Taxi for any reason – 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Tourists in need of a ride. Passengers on their way to the airport. Travelers looking for a way to close the gaps before and after using transit.
Just call 511 and say “Taxi” or “Cab.”
Southern Caregiver Resource Center provides free assistance to caregivers in the South Bay
Are you caring for a loved one and live in the South Bay? The Southern Caregiver Resource Center provides a variety of free resources for caregivers of family members through their “Partners In Caring” Project. Caregivers are provided with a case manager who provides information on support services like care giving classes, support groups and professional counseling. Additionally, caregivers are provided access to equipment to help them safely care for their loved one at home and given respite care for much needed breaks and errands. When the burden of caring for a loved one gets burdensome, remember that you are not alone. For more information on this free program, call 1-800-827-1008, or www.caregivercenter.org.
CalVet Requests Nominations for Women Veterans of the Year 2010
The California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet) invites the public to nominate local women veterans who have compiled a record of exemplary service as military service members, as veterans, and as outstanding members of the community for recognition as one of two 2010 CalVet Women Veterans of the Year.
These awards are part of CalVet's ongoing effort and commitment to respond to women veterans' issues where women veterans live, work, and enjoy the freedoms of our great country, and to encourage greater participation in the annual women veterans' conferences.
Nominations will be accepted from any California resident. CalVet especially encourages submissions from veterans, Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs), County Veterans Service Officers (CVSOs), and other veterans groups.
Completed nomination forms must be received by September 10, 2010 and are available online at http://www.cdva.ca.gov/Resources/WVConference2010.aspx or by calling (916) 653-2551 to request the forms be emailed, faxed, or mailed to you.
