Lamorinda Republican Women luncheon features Fred LaCosse, Sept 18
August 22, 2008
The speaker for the September 15th Lamorinda Republican Women Federated Luncheon will be Fred LaCrosse. LaCosse will speak on “Your American Freedoms: Protect Them or Lose Them.” The luncheon will take place at the Orinda Country Club beginning at 11:30 a.m. with luncheon at noon and speaker at 12:30 p.m. Cost is $25.00/$15.00 (speaker only).
CoCo Tax meets Aug 22, to discuss County budget and November ballot issues
August 13, 2008
View Larger Map The Contra Costa Taxpayers Association will meet on Friday morning, August 22, when it discuss and take positions on the issues of interest to CoCoTax on the November ballot. Updates on the County and state budgets
will also be discussed. The breakfast buffet and discussion begins at 7:45 a.m., at the recently updated(sic) Greenery, located at 1551 Marchbanks, in Walnut Creek, off Ygnacio Valley at the Diablo Hills Golf Course. $20 includes full breakfast and program. Make reservations by calling
925-228-5610, or by e-mailing krishunt@cocotax.org
Diablo Dems celebrate Walnut Creek headquarters with Ice Cream Social, Aug 23
August 7, 2008
The Diablo Valley Democratic Club will celebrate the opening of the United Democratic Campaign Office with a Sweet Treat Social at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 23, at the campaign headquarters, 1501-A N. California Blvd., at Bonanza, Walnut Creek. Guests will enjoy sweet refreshments, meet neighbors, learn about the club from its officers and acquaint themselves with the activities of the headquarters during the upcoming election 200 campaign season. Read more
Congressman George Miller to hold Townhall Meetings, Aug 12-13
August 4, 2008
Congressman George Miller (D-Martinez) will hold Townhall Meetings in Contra Costa County on August 12 and 13. Join the Congressman for a lively discussion about offshore drilling, energy prices, and other issues important to you. The August 12 meeting in Richmond will be held from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., at the Plaza Two Building (Hilltop), located at 3620 Blume Drive. The following evening, Miller and his staff will invade Tauscher country and meet at the Clayton City Council Chambers in the Endeavor Hall located at 6000 Heritage Trail, from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. For ADA or more information call 925-602-1880.
Citizens must—and can—take back local government
August 2, 2008
Jeff Rubin argues that Citizens can take back local government from cronies, cabals, and crybabies. He cites the experience of the Pinole Recall that dethroned three out of touch and out of control Councilmembers earlier this year, including Maria Alegria. The Pinole Recall won by 58% of the vote even though, “The Pinole recall was opposed by every labor and special interest group, Congressman George Miller, state Assemblyman Mark DeSaulnier, state Sen. Tom Torlakson, and the Democratic Central Committee. Even the Times told people to vote “no” on the recall.” Rubin is a member of the Concerned Citizens of Pinole, a grass-roots group of Pinole citizens who organized the recall of Maria Alegria, Stephen Tilton, and David Cole.
Concord Council opposes California legislators taking local funds for quick budget fix
July 31, 2008
Concord Councilman and Economic Development Director for the City of Antioch, Guy Bjerke, writes in his blog that the Legislature and Governor should balance California’s budget with State funds and not rob from local governments, redevelopment agencies, and voter-approved transportation funds. He refers to a letter Mayor Shinn sent to representatives in the Legislature opposing such a move. Bjerke says he trusts Assemblyman DeSaulnier and Senator Torlakson to “do the right thing,” and vote against quick fixes that do not offer any structural reform. We’ll see.
SB-16 proposes elimination of California First Five Commissions
July 31, 2008
Just how does California’s Prop 10 tobacco tax monies become funding for child obesity programs that end up banning fast food restaurants in South Los Angeles and Trans Fats in California Restaurants but not in packaged goods? See the CBO Center’s policy blog Liz Callahan, executive director, posted an update concerning some legislation concerning funding for First Five. The claim that the local First Five Commission is not political is an interesting observation, to say the least. Read more
Sol Henik announces candidacy for Walnut Creek Council
July 24, 2008
Sol Henik announced today he will declare his candidacy for Walnut Creek City Council. Sol narrowly missed winning a seat on the council in 2006. According to his campaign, Sol is “determined and focused to get his message out and earn a seat on the council where his energy and passion can be put to work to better the City of Walnut Creek. As a local teacher and administrator Sol will bring a much needed change to the council and will work to represent the citizens of Walnut Creek.” Visit Sol’s site for more information at http://www.vote4sol.com/
Joe Canciamilla on California budget stalemate
July 14, 2008
By Joe Canciamilla
For years California’s political leaders have been able to temporarily keep the State’s fiscal house of cards from collapsing. As someone who voted for and against a few of those budgets I know it took more than a few tricks to keep things afloat and to make a real solution more difficult to accomplish. Read more







