November eNews
Hello Again,
Preparedness and prevention, whether it's from wildfires, cancer, or viruses, is essential for all of us. That's why this month's newsletter is focused on how to be ready if illness or disaster strikes.
Also - please be sure to check out the many fun and free events in the district this month!
 IN THIS ISSUE:
A Note from Toni –
When I think about what Thanksgiving means, I focus on coming together as a family and a community. That’s why it’s so important that California was able to reinvest in people this year.
The legislature was able to put a real focus on our residents in the budget. We haven’t been able to do that for more than a decade.
This is really meaningful. When people have their basic needs met – a job, which gives them a reliable income, affordable housing, so they can have a roof over their heads, and health coverage, so they can get quick, effective treatment – they can focus on their loved ones and on living more stable, productive lives.
I’m grateful that we were able to expand health-care access through Covered California so that we could put a doctor’s visit within the reach of people who haven’t had health benefits before or have lost them. We also were able to set aside $165 million for affordable housing, and provide care for veterans through Proposition 41, giving them access to housing and other services as they come home after serving our country.
Then there’s helping people put good food into their bodies. The Assembly invested in senior nutrition programs, which had been hard hit for several years because of federal cutbacks, and in expanding Cal Fresh benefits to make sure people can obtain the nutritious food they need for their families.
The fact that we were able to make a difference and get these benefits for regular Californians shows that the state has turned around. But I’m still reminded that we have more work to do and I’m thankful for the opportunity to be the Speaker of the California State Assembly so I can help get it done.
As I continue to serve constituents not only in the 78th District, but in all of San Diego County, I’m reminded how thankful I am to be in this position. It’s something I never imagined could happen.
For me, the scene on the day I was sworn in, in May, was surreal and incredibly emotional. My sister was there, my mentor and professor from 30 years ago was able to come, as were my mother- and father-in-law. It’s something I’ll never forget.
Thanksgiving, of course, is about the turkey and all the fantastic fixings, but I value it as a time not only for professional, but personal reflections – in other words, I count my blessings. As 2014 starts to wind down, I will enjoy all the celebrations with family and friends and the chance to show my love and gratitude to them. I hope you find joy in the day as well. Happy Thanksgiving!
Warmly,
TONI G. ATKINS
Upcoming Events in the District
Through December 6, 2014
Price: Free
Meyer Fine Art presents the 7th Annual Vintage Poster Exhibit, through December 6, 2014. The exhibition features original first and second printings of Italian and European lithographs by prominent poster artists. A reception will be held Saturday, November 29, 2014, noon – 8 pm, in conjunction with NoLI Natale presented by galleries and artists of the Art and Design District of Little Italy North, and AMEX small business Saturday, Shop Local. This collection of rare 20th to 21st century Vintage Italian [and other European] posters consists of original first and second printings of lithographs by diverse artists including Boccasile, Razzia, etc. Vintage Italian posters from 1895 to 1940, long undervalued and neglected, are today increasingly appreciated and sought after by collectors. For more information, visit:http://meyerfineartinc.com/.
Through February 10, 2015
Price: Free
The series “Material Splendor,” on exhibit through February 10, 2015 at the UCSD Faculty Club, explores the four classical natural elements (earth, water, fire and air) and their manifestations in life: rocks, shells, vapors, liquids, gasses, and all that is visible and tangible. Rita Miglioli's work aims to capture the mental process, philosophical and psychological explorations that create and define the dream-like images in this series. For more information contact: (858) 534-0876.
Through May 31, 2015
Saturdays: from 8:30 a.m. to 7:15 p.m.; Sundays: from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Rooms 207 and 205, Casa del Prado, Balboa Park
Price: Free
San Diego Youth Symphony and Conservatory students start a new season filling Balboa Park's weekends with classical music. All rehearsals during their 69th season are open to the public and scheduled through May 31, 2015.
A visit to an SDYS rehearsal is a wonderful treat to enhance any visit to Balboa Park. The young musicians, ranging in age from 8 to 25 years, are led by talented and passionate conductors. During weekend rehearsals, all 10 ensembles strive to perfect a range of celebrated classical pieces from Beethoven's First Symphony, Sousa's Semper Fidelis, Handel's Messiah and Debussy's Petite Suite, among many others.
Visitors are invited to observe these rehearsals for free and share the musical journey of SDYS' student musicians. For a detailed rehearsal schedule, visitwww.sdys.org/classicalmelodies.
November 7, 2014 – November 9, 2014
Friday and Saturday: 7 p.m.; Sunday at 2 p.m.
Price: $10
The tour of All’s Well That Ends Well concludes with three performances at the Old Globe’s Hattox Hall, Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. Those who arrive early will be treated to a one-hour workshop to introduce the audience to the Bard.
November 8, 2014
6 p.m.
Price: Free
Come and visit North Park’s eclectic Art & Culture neighborhood and be inspired by all the creative energy from local and nationally known artists. Ray @ Night is San Diego’s largest and longest-running monthly art walk. It is held on the second Saturday of every month from 6 to 10 p.m. Come enjoy art by local and nationally known artists displaying their work in 15 galleries and business venues. Live street performances and local food vendors will be on site to make for a fun & unique Saturday evening in North Park! Please visit:www.rayatnight.com.
November 9, 2014
10 a.m.
Price: Free
On Sunday, November 9, we invite you to experience Hillcrest sans cars at San Diego's third CicloSDias. From 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., particular streets in Hillcrest will close to automobiles and open for everyone to roll, skate, bike, scoot, stroll and dance in one of San Diego’s most lively neighborhoods. Without the stress of car traffic and the hassle of parking, San Diegans from all over the region have the opportunity to rediscover these streets and enjoy them in a new way! Whether that means trying a new local restaurant or coffee shop or simply walking and chatting with new friends or neighbors, CicloSDias has something for everyone to enjoy. For more information visit www.ciclosdias.com or email info@ciclosdias.com
11 a.m.
Price: Free
It’s a Sunday fun-day for the entire family at the 14th Annual Fall Back Festival in the Gaslamp Quarter! On November 9, 2014 from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. we will be falling back in time, celebrating the end of daylight savings time and kicking off the autumn season with the Fall Back Festival! Enjoy this adventure back to the 1880s, where three blocks of the Gaslamp Quarter are transformed into an Old West town, with traditional western storefronts, a Sarsaparilla Saloon and the town jail. Ladies and gentlemen stroll the streets dressed in Victorian garb, the Alpine Outlaws have a high-noon shootout, and there are FREE activities galore for the kids. Some activities such as the carnival rides will require a minimal charge. Fall Back is produced by the Gaslamp Quarter Historical Foundation, and helps to advance our mission of preserving the history and culture of the Gaslamp Quarter. For more information, please call (619) 233-5008 or (619) 233-4692, or visit www.gaslampquarter.organd www.mcfarlanepromotions.com.
November 11, 2014
Veterans Day Memorial Service
11 a.m.
Price: Free
The City of Solana Beach and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5431 host a Veterans Day Ceremony at La Colonia Park, 715 Valley Ave. in Solana Beach. The ceremony will take place from 11 a.m. until noon. Some highlights include: the Camp Pendleton Young Marines as Color Guard, “Feathers from Heaven” Doves, the Santa Fe Christian School Band, and guest speaker, County Supervisor Dave Roberts. The event will conclude with a groundbreaking for the new “Veterans Honor Courtyard” venue. City dignitaries and representatives from all branches of the Armed Forces will be present. Light refreshments will be served. More information: (858) 720-2453.
November 12, 2014
Reopening of Del Mar Shores Public Stairs
4 p.m.
Price: Free
The City of Solana Beach will re-open the stairs for a new beach access stairway at Del Mar Shores. The 40-plus-year-old concrete stairs were severely deteriorated due to normal wear and tear and the harsh marine environment. The new stairs are designed with pressure treated glue-lam timbers and high-grade stainless steel handrails and hardware. The exposed portions of the columns, and all other exposed concrete used on the project, are colored to match the surrounding bluff.
November 21, 2014
Presented by Coronado Public Library
640 Orange Avenue, Coronado
Price: Free
Friday at noon there will be a piano concert in the Winn Room. Attendees are invited to bring their own lunch or purchase drinks and snacks from Oti’s Place, the coffee cart in front of the library.
November 22, 2014
8:30 a.m.
Price: Free
Get ready for a tail waggin' good time at the San Diego DogFest Walk 'n Roll, the national event of Canine Companions for Independence! It is an activity-filled day featuring a wheel friendly walk culminating with a festival at the finish. Grab a leash and join us at NCT Park/Liberty Station as we raise money to provide highly trained assistance dogs for people with disabilities. All community members are invited to attend and there is no fee to participate. Participants do have the opportunity to register for the event in advance as an individual or as part of a team, raise money and earn incentive prizes. Go tohttp://www.cci.org/dogfestSanDiego for more details.
November 23, 2014
Habitat Restoration
9:30 a.m.
Price: Free
Come help manage invasive plants in Mission Bay to protect endangered birds! We will be working to remove invasive plants from Stony Point. We’re doing this to promote nesting by the California Least Tern (an endangered species) and create space for native coastal dune plants.
The event will be from 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. The meeting location will be on the west side of Fiesta Island in Mission Bay. Enter through the dog park and continue walking west with the water on your right. Continue west through a second fence until reaching San Diego Audubon CA Least Tern Nesting Site signs.
See http://goo.gl/maps/8IKdN for Google Map walking directions from Fiesta Island Road to the meeting location. Volunteers should wear long pants and sturdy shoes, and sun/rain protection as weather indicates. Work gloves will be provided, but volunteers are encouraged to bring their own. We’ll have water, but don't forget to bring a reusable water bottle for refills! Questions/Directions/RSVP: Call our Conservation Program Intern, Christina (858) 273-7800. For a full listing of San Diego Audubon events, go to our website:www.sandiegoaudubon.org
November 29, 2014
6 p.m.
Price: Free
Held the second Friday of every month from 6 to 9 p.m.; Kettner Nights in Little Italy North has become the place to be for the arts and design crowd. In Little Italy North; the art has as much flavor as the espresso or a tantalizing marinara. The Art and Design District of San Diego’s Little Italy was modeled after New York City’s SoHo and Chelsea districts, offering art lovers and design patrons diverse resources. Come explore this ever-growing distinctive neighborhood with a walk filled with art, design, antiques, food and cocktails on Kettner Boulevard and India Street from W. Grape to W. Laurel Streets. Valet parking is available on W. Kalmia Street between India Street & Kettner Boulevard (next to El Camino) for $8.00 a vehicle and operates from 6 p.m. to 1 a.m. For more information, call Meyer Fine Art at 619-358-9512.
November 30, 2014
6 p.m.
Grape Street Square, on Grape Street and Fern Street
Price: Free
Luminaria is South Park's very own season of lights! From mid-November to New Years Day, come experience the sparkling tree-lined streets in our business community and celebrate the holidays with your favorite local businesses! Tree Lighting is at 6:30 pm.
What You Should Know About Ebola
- At the present time, no confirmed cases of Ebola have been identified in California.
- Ebola is an infectious disease caused by the Ebola virus. Symptoms may appear anywhere from two to 21 days after exposure and include fever, headache, joint and muscle aches, weakness, diarrhea, vomiting, stomach pain and abnormal bleeding.
- The risk of the spread of Ebola in California is extremely low, and current science shows that people cannot get Ebola through the air, food or water.
- The Centers for Disease Control is working with other U.S. government agencies, the World Health Organization, and other domestic and international partners, and has activated its Emergency Operations Center to help coordinate technical assistance and control activities
- The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has been monitoring the Ebola outbreak in West Africa since August. CDPH, the Office of Emergency Services, and the Department of Industrial Relations are coordinating with other federal, state and local agencies as well as private sector elements of the health care system, to ensure the safety of health care workers, first responders and the public in the unlikely event of an outbreak in California.
- With the situation changing daily as new information is developed, these agencies are working in a coordinated and timely manner to ensure proper precautions are in place.
- The Ebola virus is transmitted through direct contact with the blood or bodily fluids of an infected symptomatic person or though exposure to objects (such as needles) that have been contaminated.
- Persons are not contagious until they develop symptoms.
- Persons at highest risk for Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) include healthcare workers and family and friends of infected patients.
- Early identification of cases is crucial.
- Effective isolation of patients and appropriate infection control measures applied to any suspected EVD patient would contain any potential spread.
- More information is available at cdph.ca.gov and cdc.gov or by calling the local hotline, (619) 692-8499.
Honoring Our Heroes
Fifteen new names have been added to the California Firefighters Memorial in Sacramento and two local firefighters are among those who were honored for their long-time public service and sacrifice.
Samuel Escalante of the Chula Vista Fire Department died June 21st and Michael James Hicks of the National City Fire Department died April 23rd.
Escalante, 43, a fire investigator known as Sam, was a married father of three who joined the Chula Vista department in 2006 after leaving the Navy. He died after suffering what was described as a “job-related heart attack.”
Hicks, 70, who had been with the National City department for three decades, was credited with being calm despite the most dire of conditions. He died of cancer.
Escalante’s and Hicks’ names were added to the wall October 11th, joining the names of the 1,200 others who have been honored. The Memorial was dedicated on the State Capitol grounds in April 2002 and has embodied the honor and sacrifice of those firefighters and first responders who have been lost while serving California.
I supported Assembly Concurrent Resolution 102, remembering Samuel Escalante, Michael Hicks and their colleagues as brave public servants, by setting aside October 11th, 2014 as California Firefighters Memorial Day.
Fire Safety
It’s time to change your clocks again. So, don’t forget to “fall back” on November 2nd!
Aside from the days getting shorter, though, the time change has become an opportunity for fire officials to remind residents to check their smoke alarms and make sure the batteries are in working order. But here’s one thing to consider if you’re in the market for a new alarm – as of July 1st, all of the devices approved for sale by the State Fire Marshal must have non-removable batteries that will last for a minimum of 10 years.
In addition, as of next year, they also must be labeled with the date of manufacture and allow room for a note so users can jot down what date the alarm was installed. One other new feature smoke detector owners might be thrilled by is a “hush” mechanism that allows them to silence the devices when the chirping noise activates for minor issues like burning your casserole.
Emergency officials say the changes could save lives. The problem with old smoke detectors, they argue, is not that they don’t work, but that people take the batteries out and fail to replace them. According to California Safe Homes, 60 percent of homeowners have smoke detectors without a functioning battery.
“It’s human nature that stops these things from working, not technology, and the weak link was the battery,” San Diego fire marshal Doug Perry told NBC San Diego.
And remember, wildfire season is not over. For more information on keeping your family safe, please see the San Diego Fire-Rescue guide, created with help from the International Association of Fire Chiefs. It’s called the “Ready, Set, Go! Wildland Fire Action Guide,” and you can download it here.
Movember – It's Not a Typo
One in two men will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetimes. One in seven men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetimes and one in 36 of those men will die of the affliction. Men’s health is a serious issue, yet little action has been taken to raise awareness about the problem.
This month is a great opportunity for men and women of all ages to support the changing face of men’s health. Designated as ‘Movember’ by the Movember Foundation, volunteers who dub themselves Mo Bros and Mo Sistas use the month of November to focus awareness on men’s health.
Mo Bros and Mo Sistas will begin the month clean-shaven. Mo Bro’s will grow their moustaches while Mo Sistas wear fake moustaches to spark the conversation and to raise funds for men’s health.
These funds go to the Movember Foundation, which argues that the poor state of men’s health is largely due to a lack of information and awareness, and men’s unwillingness to take action when they find themselves in poor physical or mental health.
So shave the date! Find a Movember Party and help the Movember Foundation, which has raised $559 million, founded more than 820 programs in 21 countries, and inspired the growth of nearly 4 million moustaches in the fight against testicular and prostate cancer, and poor mental health.
Men and women can sign up at Movember.com to become Mo Bros and Mo Sistas and begin the campaign for men’s health.
Creating Power Together
Last month, my office took part in a roof-top project that combined three of my favorite things: affordable housing, women in power and clean energy.
In just two days, working with the outstanding folks at GRID Alternatives, SunEdison and the National Women in Solar Initiative, our team installed enough solar panels in a needy neighborhood to cut the cost of power and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The panels are expected to save more than $22,000 over their lifetime, and they’ll prevent the creation of 70 tons of greenhouse gases.
GRID Alternatives is a non-profit organization dedicated to making solar power practical and accessible for low-income communities. Working with SunEdison and the National Women in Solar Initiative, GRID hopes to create a mentoring atmosphere in which female students can start building their career networks while helping low-income individuals achieve long-term energy savings.
Solar jobs are growing by 20 percent a year and more women are needed in the industry. The National Women in Solar Initiative is an exciting way to meet that goal and support women in their professional advancement. My office certainly found this to be true. San Diego has benefitted from GRID Alternative projects before and I hope to see more opportunities for similar projects in the future.
Tie One on For Safety
Mothers Against Drunk Drivers is gearing up for the holiday season and asking people to be on their best behavior while they enjoy their Thanksgiving, Christmas and Hanukkah revels.
The MADD campaign, called “Tie One on For Safety,” is the organization’s longest running effort against drunk driving. The group calls on supporters to display a red ribbon magnet or decal on their cars to remind people that as fun as the holidays are, it’s still crucial to designate a driver before celebrating to make sure everyone gets home safely.
MADD also has “Tie One on For Safety” buttons available for social media fans who want to post them on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram, or get the word out by using them as their avatars.
Here are some basic rules for partying safely and avoiding drinking and driving:
- Have “mocktails” for designated drivers, so they can feel festive without drinking alcohol.
- Offer alternative modes of transportation for those who overindulge, from hiring a car service for the night to having local taxi numbers handy or Uber or Lyft accounts your guests can use.
- Close the bar 90 minutes before the party ends to give people time to sober up.
- Serve a late dessert course to encourage people to have a little more food before they go.
Reminder: Covered California Open Enrollment
Covered California’s 2015 open enrollment period starts November 15th, 2014, and ends February 15th, 2015.
If you’re applying for new coverage or if you’re looking to change your policy, you’ll need to wait until that period begins. But if you simply need to renew your policies, you can do so now. Policies will be automatically renewed by December 15th if you don’t specify changes to your plan. Be aware, though – plans have changed so you should check yours for any updates.
Covered California is the state’s health care marketplace that opened last year under the Affordable Care Act. During the first open enrollment period, 1.4 million Californians signed up for health care, indicating that the system is working and the demand and need for affordable health care is strong.
Covered California officials hope to increase enrollment, fix issues that consumers faced during the first open enrollment period and simplify the renewal process.
To learn more or apply for coverage, please visit www.coveredca.com today. The website contains a wealth of information on plan options, community organizations that can assist you with enrolling, and costs.
Around the Capitol
"The Public Policy Institute of California luncheon, where I took questions along with Senate President Pro-tem Kevin de León, was a great opportunity for us to offer insights about the upcoming legislative session, which begins December 1st. To watch our session of the Speaker’s Series, click here."
“I met with Australia’s Consul-General, Karen Lanyon. We talked about the drought and the measures Australia used when facing its own water crisis, including mandatory conservation. I also gave her a gift, a book of Ansel Adams’ photographs, so she can experience some of California’s most beautiful wonders.”
Around the District
Emcor’s annual pink hard hat ribbon event kicked off National Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October. This year’s theme was “Protect Yourself. Get Screened Today.”
The Barona Band of Mission Indians is making a real difference for California schools by offering education grants. At Normal Heights Elementary School, that difference comes in the form of new Apple computers to help students stay up-to-date with the technology they need to succeed.
Mobile Office Hours
Wednesday, November 5
6 to 7 p.m.
University Heights Library
4193 Park Blvd.
San Diego, CA 92103
Wednesday, November 12
1 to 2 p.m.
North Park Library
3795 31st Street
San Diego, CA 92104
Thursday, November 13
10 to 11 a.m.
Solana Beach County Library
Earl Warren Middle School
157 Stevens Ave.
Solana Beach, CA 92075
Thursday, November 13
11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Del Mar County Library
1309 Camino Del Mar
Del Mar, CA 92014
Friday, November 14
5 to 6 p.m.
No. University City Library
8820 Judicial Drive
San Diego, CA 92122
Tuesday, November 18
4 to 5 p.m.
University Community Branch Library
4155 Governor Drive
San Diego, CA 92122
Tuesday, November 18
5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Pacific Beach Library
4275 Cass Street
San Diego, CA 92109
Wednesday, November 19
12:30 to 1:30 p.m.
Pt. Loma/Hervey Library
3701 Voltaire Street
San Diego, CA 92122
Thursday, November 20
4 to 5 p.m.
La Jolla/Riford Library
7555 Draper Avenue
La Jolla, CA 92037
Friday, November 21
3:30 to 4:30 p.m.
Coronado Library
640 Orange Ave.
Coronado, CA 92118
Friday, November 21
5 to 6 p.m.
Imperial Beach County Library
810 Imperial Beach Blvd.
Imperial Beach, CA 91932
Warmly,
Toni G. Atkins
Speaker of the Assembly
78th Assembly District |
No comments:
Post a Comment