LAVoice.org

The Pat Brown Institute of Public Affairs Announces New Website Design

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 09:24:31 -0800

RELEASE Tuesday, February 17, 2009 For Immediate ReleasePBI Contact � Jacqueline Ruiz, 323.343.3770
Media Contact � Edward Headington, 818.720.7181
Website � http://www.patbrowninstitute.org/

The PBI Continues to Innovate and Engage as it Serves as a Standard Bearer for the Legacy of its Namesake

LOS ANGELES, CA � For nearly three decades, the Edmund G. �Pat� Brown Institute of Public Affairs at California State University, Los Angeles (PBI) has focused on state and community issues and been a standard bearer for the legacy of its namesake. The PBI is dedicated to the quest for social justice and equality of opportunity, enlightened civic engagement, and enhancing the quality of life for all Californians. An ambitious �09 lineup of events will soon be announced�including this Thursday�s California Agenda Series kick-off with Assemblymember Hector De La Torre�but it was unveiled today that the PBI has re-designed their website (http://www.patbrowninstitute.org/) to better serve their audience and engage the online community.

�We are very excited to unveil the new site,� said PBI Executive Director, Dr. Jaime Regalado. �Beyond the color scheme and logo update, it�s now much easier to navigate and we have more information and news available.�

The website redesign comes on the heels of last year�s effort to engage Angelenos in both traditional and new media platforms�including PBI�s own Facebook and Twitter pages, LinkedIn group and secondary website �My Pat Brown Institute.� The results were increased attendance, more youth involvement and a reiteration that the PBI was the place to be when it came to public affairs and issues affecting Californians.

�It is both an honor and a privilege to keep the Pat Brown legacy alive in 2009,� said Regalado. �Over 40 years have passed since he was in office but he is still one of our most beloved California governors. Through our new website design, ambitious lineup of events, and new media approaches, we will not only keep Governor Brown fresh and relevant for our time but also build upon the ongoing work of social justice and equality of opportunity, enlightened civic engagement, and enhancing the quality of life for all Californians.�

A few of the new features include a Spotlight box with photos from recent events, a PBI In the News box with links to articles where PBI is mentioned, and easier viewing and downloading of its publications (i.e. the Digital Equity report).

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The Edmund G. �Pat� Brown Institute of Public Affairs, a presidentially chartered institute at California State University, Los Angeles, is a non-partisan public policy center dedicated to sustaining vision and legacy of former California Governor Edmund G. "Pat" Brown through convening public policy forums, engaging multi sector stakeholders and diverse communities, and conducting timely policy research and community driven initiatives. For more information, go to http://www.patbrowninstitute.org/.

The California Agenda is a component of the PBI�s Public Policy Education Program and is hosted this year by Southern California Edison and Wells Fargo. It was created to educate and engage leaders and individuals across the sectors on significant state, regional and local public policy issues.

LABJ�s Deborah Crowe to Moderate BREATHE LA Green Salon on AB 32/ Global Warming

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 09:24:17 -0800

ADVISORY

Monday, February 16, 2009 For Immediate ReleaseBREATHE LA Contact � Julia Robinson Shimizu 323.935.8050x233, jrobinsonshimizu@breathela.org Green Salon Series Contact � Edward Headington 818.720.7181, Edward@HeadingtonMedia.com Three experts will be speaking on the Implementation, Costs and Concerns of AB 32, including DWP CEO and General Manager, David Nahai

Los Angeles, CA � BREATHE California of Los Angeles County (BREATHE LA) announced the 2009 Green Salon Series at City Hall last month to much acclaim. Sponsored by Union Bank of California, the series begins this Wednesday morning, February 18th, with a panel discussion on AB 32, the Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006. A full panel of experts and a journalist moderator have been confirmed as well as a special welcome by Los Angeles Councilmember Jos� Huizar. Please join BREATHE LA and others for this free and open �green� forum.

WHO � Welcome by Los Angeles City Councilmember, District 14, Jos� Huizar (to be introduced by BREATHE LA Board Member, Bob Berliner) Moderator � Deborah Crowe, Staff Reporter and Web Editor for the Los Angeles Busines Journal Panel of Experts � Carolyn Casavan, Valley Industry Commerce Association Environment & Energy Committee Co-Chair and CEO of West Coast Environmental & Engineering; Anita Mangels, Project Director for Woodward & McDowell and Member of the AB 32 Implementation Group; and David Nahai, CEO and General Manager for the Los Angeles Department of Water & Power WHAT � Green Salon on the �Global Warming Solutions Act (AB 32) Update: Implementation, Costs & Concerns� WHEN � Wednesday, February 18, 2009 from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. WHERE � The California Endowment @ 1000 N. Alameda Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012 (Parking is hosted; 2 blocks from the Union Station Metro exit) WHY � Hear from some of the top experts on AB 32 and its ramification; engage in Q&A; learn about BREATHE LA�s Global Warming & Asthma Report. FYI � Free and open �green� public forum. R.S.V.P. to Edward@HeadingtonMedia.com or 818.720.7181. Sponsored by:

### BREATHE California of Los Angeles County (BREATHE LA) is a non-profit, public benefit organization dedicated to clean air and healthy lungs in Los Angeles County. BREATHE LA first established in 1903 to fight then-epidemic Tuberculosis is now part of BREATHE California, a statewide organization http://www.breathela.org/. The BREATHE LA Green Salon Series, now in its second year of operation, engages all stakeholders around clean air, the environment and healthy living. An elected official delivers the welcome for each salon and a local journalist serves as moderator for panels of �green� experts. Sponsored by Union Bank of California, there will be six salons in 2009 (February 18th, April 15th, June 17th, August 20th, September 16th and November 19th). For more information, go to http://www.greensalonseries.com/.

West LA Community Plan Workshops

Mon, 16 Feb 2009 08:27:31 -0800

COMMUNITY PLANNING WORKSHOPS FOR WEST LOS ANGELES

You are invited to help create a more livable West L.A. This is your opportunity to learn about the community planning process, hear the latest updates and provide your opinion on design and streetscape improvements, mobility plans, parks and community services. These events are coordinated by the Los Angeles Department of City Planning.

Kick-off Meeting
Thursday, March 5th, 6 � 8 pm
Henry Medina West Los Angeles
Parking Enforcement Facility, 2nd Floor
11214 W. Exposition Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90064

Neighborhood Walking Tours & Workshops

Each of the following workshops will begin with a walking tour of the neighborhood�s favorite commercial streets, a fun and interactive opportunity for you to help us identify solutions for improving the street environment, open space and parking opportunities, and envision the form and scale of future development around commercial corridors and centers in your neighborhood. Come for the walk, the workshop, or stay for both. For Saturday workshops, you are free to get lunch on your own before reconvening at the workshop location. Light refreshments will be provided at all workshops.

Workshop #1
Saturday, March 7, 2009
Neighborhood Walk: 10 am - 12 pm
Workshop: 1 pm � 3pm
West Los Angeles Regional Branch Library
11360 Santa Monica Blvd., 90025

Workshop #2
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Neighborhood Walk: 10 am - 12 pm
Workshop: 1:30 pm � 3:30 pm
Westside Family YMCA
11311 La Grange Ave., 90025

Workshop #3
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Neighborhood Walk: 10 am - 12 pm
Workshop: 1 pm � 3pm
Westside Pavilion Community Room A
(3rd floor behind the food court)
10800 W. Pico Blvd., 90064

Workshop #4
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Neighborhood Walk: 10 am - 12 pm
Workshop: 1 pm � 3pm
B�nai David-Judea Congregation
8906 W. Pico Blvd., 90035

Your participation is key to developing a new Community Plan that meets the needs of current and future community members. Please distribute widely and share this information with your friends and neighbors. More information is available on the West L.A. Community Plan website, http://sites.google.com/site/wlancp.

For more information, please contact:
Michelle Sorkin, Los Angeles Department of City Planning
(213) 978-1199 or Michelle.Sorkin@lacity.org

LA Press Club �Jobs After Journalism� Panel on Feb. 26th!

Mon, 16 Feb 2009 08:27:06 -0800

Serving Southern California since 1913, the Los Angeles Press Club is the only Southern California journalism group that speaks for all journalists working for daily and weekly newspapers, radio & TV, magazines, documentary films and online.

ADVISORY
Friday, February 13, 2009 For Immediate Release Contact � Edward Headington, Publicist (323) 669-8081 or Edward@LAPressClub.org

What to do After You Leave Your Job in Journalism The panel discussion will be moderated by Jill Stewart, L.A. Weekly News Editor, Press Club Board Member and veteran print and broadcast journalist Hollywood, CA. The Los Angeles Press Club is hosting another great panel discussion next Thursday night at the Steve Allen Theater called �What to Do After You Leave Your Job in Journalism.� Two well-known Los Angeles journalists who have made the leap into new careers will join two job experts to offer practical advice for Southern California journalists who have left, or expect to be leaving, their jobs. WHO � Moderated by Jill Stewart, L.A. Weekly news editor and veteran print and broadcast journalist. Brent Hopkins: Award-winning former reporter for the Los Angeles Daily News, who specialized in urban affairs, crime and government. Brent is now an officer trainee with the Los Angeles Police Department, and in his off hours has been "on assignment" for the Press Club gathering personal stories from other L.A. journalists who, like Brent, have recently left journalism. Ken Mandler: Sacramento's leading trainer in how to land a good job in government in any city that has state agencies (like L.A.). He will explain state job opportunities for journalists, ranging from policy research to human services to management, and he will show how a 50-something person can still work their way to a state pension. Ken says that despite the unfolding budget disaster, California is hiring, because there always openings in the 300,000-plus workforce.

Gayle Pollard-Terry: Award-winning reporter and editorial writer for the Los Angeles Times, Gayle specialized for many years in education coverage. She is now the Deputy Director of Media and Communications at Los Angeles Unified School District. She will talk about her choice to jump the fence, and what it is like to become a spokeswoman for the people she once wrote about.

Career consultant, TBA: From a major, nationally known firm that specializes in how to make mid-career switches, create new career paths, and acquire extra skills or education. Name of panelist to be announced.

WHAT � Moderated Panel Discussion on �What to Do After You Leave Your Job in Journalism� WHEN � Thursday, February 26, 2009; 7 p.m. WHERE � The Steve Allen Theater at the LA Press Club; 4773 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 90027; Plenty of free parking behind the building (enter off of Berendo Street); Click here for a map; Metro: Red line, Sunset/Vermont station WHY � With L.A. journalists facing serious downsizing, the panelists will offer their sometimes-upbeat and sometimes-harrowing personal stories, woven together with no-nonsense rules for pursuing a post-media career. Come prepared to hear a few myths burst, and to learn some positive, useful ideas for what to do next. FYI: Free to press club members (R.S.V.P. here). All others: $10 prepaid or $20 at the door. Students $5. Includes all drinks and appetizers.

### The Los Angeles Press Club stands as an organization devoted to improving the spirit of journalism and journalists, raising the industry�s standards, strengthening its integrity and improving its reputation all for the benefit of the community at large. For more information, go to http://www.lapressclub.org/ and/or www.myspace.com/lapressclub. PR Newswire, co-sponsor for all Los Angeles Press Club events, is the global leader in news and information distribution services for professional communicators. For more information, go to http://www.prnewswire.com/. Headington Media Group is a full-service communications firm dedicated to promoting public affairs in Southern California, specializing in image management, branding and public relations. For more information, go to http://www.headingtonmedia.com/ and/or visit http://www.headingtonmediacenter.org/.

Coro Continues to Build its Leadership Team with Sam Filler

Thu, 12 Feb 2009 15:02:37 -0800

Coro Southern California � Center for Civic Leadership

Coro Alumnus Sam Filler to play key role at the Coro Southern California Center for Civic Leadership
LOS ANGELES, CA. Coro Southern California continues to build its leadership team and has announced the addition of Sam Filler. The news comes on the heels of recent news of Jessica Lall leading the sponsorship and development effort and Amir Hemmat directing the Coro Health Initiative.

�Coro continues to land some of the top talent in Los Angeles,� said Don Pierro, President and CEO of Coro Southern California. �Sam will play key roles throughout all of our programming and I am very excited to have him on board.�

An alumnus of both CityYear and the Coro Fellowship Program in Public Affairs, Filler has a strong public policy background. He has been an active member of the Los Angeles community through his extensive work experience which stems from his fellowship as a Coro Fellow in Public Affairs from 2006 � 2007 in which he worked with the International Brotherhood of Teamsters Port Division, ran a city council campaign in Santa Monica, interned with the Los Angeles Chamber of Commerce in their policy department, served as a community organizer with Green Dot public schools, facilitated a community planning process in Leimert Park, and served as a field deputy for Los Angeles Councilmember Tom LaBonge. Following Coro, he led the Transportation and Land Use Collaboration as the Director of Programs and oversaw their community outreach initiatives for General Plan Update processes in the Cities of Coachella, El Monte, and South Gate.

National service through projects at the local level has grown in popularity but has always been at the heart of Coro Southern California. The venerable leadership development organization has provided that service to Los Angeles for over half a century and will continue to do so�through good times and bad, and the recruitment of top public affairs professionals.

�I am looking forward to having one of our best years ever at Coro and continuing to provide world-class experiences for all of our participants,� said Pierro. �On a week of national renewal and hope, it was also exciting to see Coro alumna, U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein, serve as our Inauguration emcee.�

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Coro Southern California and its six affiliated centers nationwide shape resilient civic leaders for effective roles in public affairs. Coro graduates are teachers, investment bankers, union leaders, corporate directors, activists, lawyers, journalists, and elected officials, among other professions. No matter where they work or what job titles they hold, they have learned how to challenge themselves and others to be more ethical and effective leaders. Coro runs programs in San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York, St. Louis, Pittsburgh, Kansas City and Cleveland. For more information, go to http://www.corola.org/.

LinkedIn bio for Sam Filler.

L.A. City Leaders Laud BREATHE LA Green Salon Series @ City Hall

Thu, 12 Feb 2009 15:02:25 -0800

For Immediate Release BREATHE LA Contact � Julia Robinson Shimizu, 323.935.8050x233 jrobinsonshimizu@breathela.org Green Salon Series Contact � Edward Headington, 818.720.7181 Edward@HeadingtonMedia.com
Los Angeles, CA � BREATHE California of Los Angeles County (BREATHE LA) announced the 2009 Green Salon Series last week at a press conference at City Hall. Conference speakers included Ray Gonzales, BREATHE LA Board Member and former KTLA Channel 5 host; Carl Ballton, President of The Union Bank Foundation; and Los Angeles City Councilmembers Hon. Jos� Huizar; Hon. Wendy Greuel and Hon. Jan Perry, Chair of the Energy & Environment Committee and South Coast AQMD Board Member. �I think future generations will judge us for what we did or didn�t do to fight Global Warming,� said Councilmember Jos� Huizar. �As the second-largest city in the country, we have to rise to that challenge. Something as serious as Global Warming requires deep, deliberate and thoughtful discussion, which the Breath LA salon series provides.� The announcement of the series comes on the heels of a successful inaugural year that brought together journalists, elected officials and their staff, experts, policy analysts, thought leaders, neighborhood councilmembers, and other community stakeholders. �For over a hundred years, BREATHE LA has been protecting the �Breathe of Life� in Los Angeles. The Green Salon Series is but one of our programming commitments,� said BREATHE LA President and CEO Enrique Chiock. �Due to the success of our 2008 Pollution & Solution Salon Series and a desire to respond to the enthusiasm and demand for more, our 2009 Green Salon Series offers an ambitious line-up of topics and expertise. We thank our sponsor, Union Bank of California, and other event partners.� Six salons were held in 2008 and Councilmember Perry invited BREATHE LA to submit their findings for the public record at the Energy & Environment committee she chairs. Six Green Salons have been announced for 2009 starting with An AB 32 Update on February 18th at the California Endowment where BREATHE LA will present a Global Warming and Asthma Report.

For more information on the series and to confirm your attendance, please contact Edward@HeadingtonMedia.com or call 818.720.7181. For information regarding BREATHE LA and its many programs, please contact Julia Robinson Shimizu at the email or number listed above.

### BREATHE California of Los Angeles County (BREATHE LA) is a non-profit, public benefit organization dedicated to the future of clean air and healthy lungs in Los Angeles County. BREATHE LA was established in 1903 and has over a century of accomplishments. First established to fight then-epidemic Tuberculosis, BREATHE LA has long been a leader in efforts to improve air quality and lung health in Los Angeles. Now part of BREATHE California, a statewide organization, BREATHE LA is dedicated to service in our local communities. For more information, visit http://www.breathela.org/.

Global Warming (AB 32 Salon) with David Nahai & Hon. Jos� Huizar on Feb. 18th

Thu, 12 Feb 2009 15:02:12 -0800

ADVISORY

Tuesday, February 10, 2009 For Immediate Release BREATHE LA Contact � Julia Robinson Shimizu 323.935.8050x233, jrobinsonshimizu@breathela.org Green Salon Series Contact � Edward Headington 818.720.7181, Edward@HeadingtonMedia.com Release of the BREATHE LA Global Warming & Asthma ReportLos Angeles, CA � BREATHE California of Los Angeles County (BREATHE LA) announced the 2009 Green Salon Series at City Hall last month to much acclaim. Sponsored by Union Bank of California, the series will begin February 18th with a panel discussion on AB 32, the Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006. A full panel of experts and a journalist moderator have been confirmed as well as a special welcome by Salon Series supporter and city leader, the Honorable Jos� Huizar. Please join BREATHE LA and others for this free and open public forum. WHO � Welcome by Los Angeles City Councilmember, District 14, Jos� Huizar (to be introduced by BREATHE LA Board Member, Bob Berliner) Moderator � Claudia Peschiutta,* KNX 1070 AM Reporter and Society of Professional Journalists-Los Angeles Officer Panel of Experts � Carolyn Casavan, Valley Industry Commerce Association Environment & Energy Committee Co-Chair and CEO of West Coast Environmental & Engineering; Anita Mangels, Project Director for Woodward & McDowell and Member of the AB 32 Implementation Group; and David Nahai, General Manager for the Los Angeles Department of Water & Power WHAT � Green Salon on the �Global Warming Solutions Act (AB 32) Update: Implementation, Costs & Concerns� WHEN � Wednesday, February 18, 2009 from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. WHERE � The California Endowment @ 1000 N. Alameda Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012 (Parking is hosted; 2 blocks from the Union Station Metro exit) WHY � Hear from some of the top experts on AB 32 and its ramification; engage in Q&A; learn about BREATHE LA�s Global Warming & Asthma Report. FYI � Free and open �green� public forum. R.S.V.P. to Edward@HeadingtonMedia.com or 818.720.7181. Sponsored by:

Coro CrossTalk on Healthcare Returns with Jim Lott on February 20th!

Thu, 12 Feb 2009 15:01:43 -0800

ADVISORY

Tuesday, February 10, 2009
For Immediate Release
Contact: Edward Headington
E-mail: EHeadington@Coro.org
Direct: 818.720.7181

Coro Southern California � Center for Civic Leadership The Executive Vice President of the Hospital Association of Southern California will speak to the �State of the State of Healthcare Reform�

LOS ANGELES, CA. Coro CrossTalk on Healthcare returns for its second year with Coro Health Leadership Program (HLP) booster, presenter and mentor, Jim Lott. CrossTalk is a boundary-crossing healthcare speaker series that features and engages industry heads, thought-leaders, HLP alumni and journalists. This month�s program will be moderated by Coro Health Initiative Director, Amir Hemmat, and a number of past Coro Health Fellows are expected to be in attendance.

WHO: Coro Health Leadership Network�including past Health Fellows�and the broader public affairs community

WHAT: Coro CrossTalk on Healthcare � �State of the State of Healthcare Reform� with Jim Lott (moderated by Amir Hemmat)

WHEN: Friday, February 20, 2009; 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m.

WHERE: The California Endowment, 1000 N. Alameda Street, 2nd Floor � Conference Room C, Los Angeles, CA; Parking is hosted and Union Station is just 2 blocks away (for Metro riders)

HOW: Seating is limited to 25. Please R.S.V.P. to Edward Headington at EHeadington@Coro.org. Friends, colleagues and peers are welcome and will be accommodated so long as space is available. A light breakfast (of yogurt, granola, bagels and fruit) and coffee/juice will be served.

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Coro Southern California and its six affiliated centers nationwide shape resilient civic leaders for effective roles in public affairs. Coro graduates are teachers, investment bankers, union leaders, corporate directors, activists, lawyers, journalists, and elected officials, among other professions. No matter where they work or what job titles they hold, they have learned how to challenge themselves and others to be more ethical and effective leaders. Coro runs programs in San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York, St. Louis, Pittsburgh, Kansas City and Cleveland. For more information, go to http://www.corola.org/.

The Coro Health Leadership Program (HLP) is a boundary-crossing leadership program for healthcare professionals. Its mission is to develop and sustain a productive network of exemplary leaders in the business, government and community sectors to take on the critical healthcare challenges facing the Southern California region.

Coro CrossTalk on Healthcare is a lively and engaging speaker series on the issues of healthcare and leadership. It continues in the boundary-crossing tradition of the HLP and also serves to engage the larger public affairs community. Each month, a new issue or aspect of healthcare is explored by a speaker or panel discussion representing a diversity of opinion and experience. For more information, go to http://www.corocrosstalk.com/.

Community Partners accelerates ideas into action to advance the public good. CP envisions communities that recognize, invest in and celebrate the critical role engaged people and groups play in achieving a just, equitable society. Its goals are to: Promote Readiness, Support Civic Action, Open Doors, Share Strategically, Reflect Routinely, and Build a Strong Core. For more information, go to http://www.communitypartners.org/.

Jim Lott is the Executive Vice President of the Hospital Association of Southern California, where he is responsible for health care policy development, advocacy, and association communications for hospitals serving Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino, Riverside, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties. He is the chairman of the L.A Care Health Plan Board of Governors, and he serves on the boards of the Los Angeles Area Economic Development Corporation, Insure the Uninsured Project, the Claremont University Consortium, and the Citizens Financial Accountability Oversight Committee for stem cell research in California.

Prior to his move to Los Angeles, he served a five-year stint as the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Hospital Council of San Diego and Imperial Counties, a trade association representing the hospitals and health systems in the southern-most region of California.

Prior to San Diego, Jim served for nine years as Staff Director and Chief Consultant to the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services of the California Legislature. He also held various administrative, policy development and advocacy positions with the Los Angeles County Health Department over a six-year period.

Jim received his undergraduate education at Cal State L.A. and his MBA degree from the University of Redlands. Also, he teaches health care policy and administration courses at Cal State Long Beach.

Because of his extensive and productive history in influencing health policy in California, and because of the numerous articles he has written on the subject, Jim is a sought after source by the print and electronic media for analysis and commentary on current health policy issues. For more information, go to http://www.hasc.org/.

Amir Hemmat, B.A., MPH, is an entrepreneur and community advocate. He is the founder of social entrepreneurial ventures like SABEResPODER, a Spanish-language media company, and Catalyst Consulting, a venture management firm focused on the �double bottom-line� of doing good and doing well. A graduate of both UCLA and USC, Hemmat hails from San Pedro and continues to serve the community through his healthcare advocacy and business portfolio. In late 2008, he became Director of the Coro Health Leadership Initiative and is the creator of the Coro Health Leadership Program. For more information, go to http://www.linkedin.com/in/amirhemmat.

Assemblymember Hector De La Torre to Speak on �Foreclosing on the American Dream

Sun, 08 Feb 2009 17:48:10 -0800

ADVISORY
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
For Immediate Release
PBI Contact � Jacqueline Ruiz, 323.343.3770
Media Contact � Edward Headington, 818.720.7181
Website � http://www.patbrowninstitute.org/

Assemblymember Hector De La Torre to Speak on �Foreclosing on the American Dream�

Last year�s PBI Public Servant of the Year honoree will headline the February 19th kick-off event for the 2009 California Agenda Series

LOS ANGELES, CA � For nearly three decades, the Edmund G. �Pat� Brown Institute of Public Affairs at California State University, Los Angeles (PBI) has focused on state and community issues and been a standard bearer for the legacy of its namesake. Home ownership has long been promoted as the cornerstone of the American Dream and an important vehicle for building the personal assets of Californians. However, given California�s current economic environment and the growing number of home foreclosures across the state, Assemblymember Hector De La Torre will address a number of questions: Is the American dream being significantly deferred? How do we effectively deal with this issue? What role can government play?

WHO � Assemblymember Hector De La Torre (chair of California State Assembly Committee on Accountability and Administrative Review, committee member of the Committee on Housing and Community Development Budget and the Committee on Budget )

WHAT � California Agenda discussion on �Foreclosing on the American Dream�

WHEN � Thursday, February 19, 2009; 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

WHERE � California State University, Los Angeles in the University Student Union (Los Angeles Room 308A); 5154 State University Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90032

WHY � The discussion will touch upon the social and political dynamics that brought us to this economic moment in American and California histories, as well as focus on what we can learn from this crisis moving forward. Assemblymember De La Torre will speak to best practices and policy solutions to navigate us out of the quagmire.

FYI � Parking available on campus at Parking Structure C (only costs $2 for the two hours). This is a free event open to the public. Please R.S.V.P. at 323.343.3770 or jruiz@cslanet.calstatela.edu.

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The Edmund G. �Pat� Brown Institute of Public Affairs, a presidentially chartered institute at California State University, Los Angeles, is a non-partisan public policy center dedicated to sustaining vision and legacy of former California Governor Edmund G. "Pat" Brown through convening public policy forums, engaging multi sector stakeholders and diverse communities, and conducting timely policy research and community driven initiatives. For more information, go to http://www.patbrowninstitute.org/.

The California Agenda is a component of the PBI�s Public Policy Education Program and is hosted this year by Southern California Edison and Wells Fargo. It was created to educate and engage leaders and individuals across the sectors on significant state, regional and local public policy issues.

Los Angeles Press Club Extends Entry Deadline for the 2009 NEJ Awards

Sun, 08 Feb 2009 17:47:45 -0800

RELEASE
Wednesday, February 5, 2009 For Immediate Release Contact � Edward Headington, Publicist (323) 669-8081 or Edward@LAPressClub.org Pulitzer prize-winning film critic, Joe Morgenstern, to receive the top NEJ Award at special awards ceremony

Hollywood, CA -- The best work by writers, broadcasters, bloggers and critics is being sought for this year's National Entertainment Journalism (NEJ) Awards, the Los Angeles Press Club has announced. Entry forms and rules are available at http://www.lapressclub.org/ and the deadline to enter has been extended to February 13, 2009. The awards honor the top work of 2008 by those who cover show business without regard to genre�whether it is work about film, television or local performances. Awards and runners up will be given for best entertainment news story, best feature story and critic of the year in the categories of print, online, television and radio. "For years, the entertainment world has recognized its best performances. This year, the Los Angeles Press Club will again pay homage to the journalists who cover the industry," said Chris Woodyard, Los Angeles Press Club President and USA Today reporter. It was announced earlier this month that celebrated film critic, Joe Morgenstern, will be honored with the top NEJ Award for his contributions to the field of entertainment criticism. Morgenstern is a film critic for the Wall Street Journal and KCRW, and is the co-founder of the National Society of Film Critics. He is one of only three film critics to be awarded the Pulitzer Prize for his work. �We are particularly pleased to be honoring Joe Morgenstern,� said Woodyard. �His contribution to film criticism is unparalleled and as a Pulitzer prize winner and founding member of the National Society of Film Critics, he is truly a national treasure.� The awards will be judged by the club and the winners announced at a gala in the spring. Entries last year came a diverse list of some of the nation's top media organizations like the Baltimore Sun, Financial Times and Bloomberg, to broadcasters like KDAF/Kansas City, WGCU/Fort Myers and public radio.

The Los Angeles Press Club is a thriving, non-profit organization devoted to quality journalism located in the nation's entertainment capital. For over half a century, the club has produced the Southern California Journalism Awards and now welcomes the 2nd Annual National Entertainment Journalism Awards.

Barack Obama and the Mass Transit Revolution

Mon, 02 Feb 2009 08:01:10 -0800

In our society, certain goals are acknowledged to be necessary for achieving ecological as well as economic sustainability, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions and reducing petroleum consumption. Reducing petroleum consumption would reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and since 99% of the fuel that powers American vehicles is oil according to the Department of Energy, transforming the transportation system of the society is fundamental for achieving these goals, as well as other quality of life goals such as reducing traffic and reducing smog.

Los Angelenos are intimately familiar with the undesirable results of compelling the vast majority of the population to drive in order to achieve an adequate level of mobility. They have also taken action: 67.9% of Los Angeles county residents recently voted for a measure(R) that will increase their local sales tax by 0.5% and contribute 65% of the revenue to mass transit. On a statewide level, Californians approved $9.95 billion of bonds to begin the construction of a bullet train that will connect Los Angeles to San Francisco in 2 1/2 hours(Prop 1A). In contrast to this, Californians rejected $3.425 billion of bonds to subsidize the purchase of high fuel economy or alternative fuel vehicles(Prop10).While politicians have railed against foreign oil dependence over the last few years, overall U.S. oil consumption barely diminished until very recently. According to the Energy Information Administration, in 2007 American oil consumption dropped by 0.0003% from the previous year. According to the BP Statistical Review of World Energy, whose statistics regarding the U.S. are virtually identical to the EIA's, yet also contains statistics for most countries and all of the continents, and thus composes a global portrait, the total share of the world's oil which Americans consumed in 2007 was 23.9%. The disproportionate consumption of this vital resource by the U.S. is a fact which is becoming increasingly well known, referenced by everyone from Barack Obama to Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez. Although American oil consumption has been steadily rising since 1984 with a slip here and there, in November the Energy Information Administration projected that U.S. oil demand would drop by 5.4% in 2008 due to the U.S. economic downturn, the largest drop since 1980.

Barack Obama has declared that energy is the most important issue that our future economy will face. While his energy plan proposes to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 80 percent below 1990 levels by 2050 through a cap and trade system, it sets no explicit goal for how much the U.S. will reduce its consumption of one of the two biggest sources of greenhouse gas emissions, and what the Department of Energy refers to as "the lifeblood of America's economy," i.e, oil, in the short or long term.

A numerical figure for how much the U.S. will reduce its consumption of oil under his plan must be deduced from his pledge which he has declared on numerous occasions to eliminate Middle Eastern and Venezuelan oil imports within 10 years. The goal in itself is an appeal to the ignorance and prejudice of Americans, and an analysis of his energy plan reveals means towards achieving it, and the greater goal of greenhouse gas emission reductions, which are contradictory, while it largely ignores the most fundamental solution which could have the most profound impact on many parts of the country, including California.

To begin with, the declaration promotes the misconception that the U.S. is dependent on the Middle East for oil, which is not the case. The United States imports more oil from the single country of Canada than it does from the Middle East. It imports more oil from South America than it does from the Middle East, and more oil from Africa than it does from the Middle East. Middle Eastern oil imports, at 2,208 thousand barrels daily, account for 16.4% of total U.S. oil imports according to the EIA. Regarding the "rogue" state of Venezuela, as Barack Obama likes to refer to it, at 1,361 thousand barrels daily, Venezuelan imports represent 10.1% of our oil imports according to the EIA. Such figures would add up to a reduction of roughly 26.1% of our total imports.

However, it is important to place these figures in context. The United States is the third largest oil producer in the world, producing 8.0% of the world's total, second only to Saudi Arabia and the Russian Federation which each produce 12.6%. The U.S. produces more oil than Canada and Mexico combined. It produces more oil than the entire Central and South American region, and it produces more than 2.5 times more oil than the country of Venezuela. This means that eliminating 26.1% of our oil imports over 10 years, only translates into reducing our overall oil consumption by 17.3% over 10 years.

To give greater perspective to this figure let us compare it to what other industrialized countries which already had lower per capita oil consumption rates accomplished during the same period of time in which the U.S. reduced its total oil consumption by 0.0003%. The United Kingdom reduced its oil consumption by 5%, driving its per capita oil consumption rate down to 40.9% that of the U.S. Switzerland reduced its oil consumption by 9.9%, driving its per capita oil consumption rate down to 47.9% that of the U.S. Germany reduced its oil consumption by 9.0%, driving its per capita oil consumption rate down to 44% that of the U.S. What these figures demonstrate, as well as the recent downturn in U.S. oil consumption, is that to propose in a costumed manner that the U.S. reduce its oil consumption by 17.3% over 10 years is hardly an ambitious goal. It is emphatically incommensurate with the larger goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 80% below 1990 levels by 2050.

While some of his plan's proposals can work towards achieving his goal such as increasing fuel economy standards by 4 percent per year, other proposals will be largely inane within the timeframe of 10 years; such as getting 1 million plug-in hybrid cars on the road by 2015, which means that there will still be in excess of 250 million conventional cars on the road, and creating a $7,000 tax credit for purchasing an advanced vehicle. Regarding increasing fuel economy standards by 4 percent per year, this proposal is largely redundant because corporate average fuel economy(CAFE) standards have been legislated to increase to 35 mile per gallon by 2020 for cars and light trucks.

The primary goals embedded in Barack Obama's energy plan are to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, reduce petroleum consumption, and provide economic relief to Americans. Eliminating Middle East and Venezuelan oil imports obliquely serves the goal of reducing petroleum consumption, but does not serve the other two goals as one might imagine. The top five oil exporters to the U.S. are Canada, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, Venezuela, and Nigeria. Eliminating Middle East and Venezuelan oil imports would leave as the U.S.'s primary sources of oil imports Canada, Mexico, and Nigeria. Nigeria is a country that has lived with constant political instability which would make the U.S. economy more vulnerable to a price surge; Mexico is a country with diminishing proved oil reserves, which now stand at 9.6 years of production; and Canada whose proved oil reserves stand at 22.9 years of production, presents a dilemna: oil extracted from Canada's tar sands creates 3 times the greenhouse gases which conventional oil extraction creates. The U.S.'s own proved reserves to production ratio stands at 11.7 years. Potential new sources of oil such as that extracted from shale may create as much as 4 times the greenhouse gases as conventional oil extraction creates. According to Barack Obama's energy plan, he wishes to expedite such a process.

Achieving all of the primary goals outlined in Barack Obama's energy plan is improbable because while he makes proposals to relieve economic pressure, these very same proposals stimulate consumption, such as, stimulating and expediting domestic production. Providing a $1,000 emergency energy rebate to American families from a windfall tax profits tax on oil companies will relieve economic pressure, but increase consumption. Swapping oil from the strategic petroleum reserve to drive down prices, would increase consumption.

The plan also calls for phasing in 60 billion gallons of advanced biofuels into the fuel supply by 2030. A proposal that will make little difference in reducing oil consumption within a 10 year time frame, but has moderate potential in the mid to long term. Total U.S. gasoline consumption in 2007 was 142 billion gallons according to the Energy Information Administration. Diesel fuel accounted for another 64 billion gallons. We cannot assume that the price of such advanced biofuels will be lower than what the current price of gasoline is now or was several months ago.

Only at the very end of his energy plan, does Barack Obama dedicate one paragraph under the title, "Build More Livable and Sustainable Communities," to the concept that if the vast majority of the population was not compelled to drive everywhere, we would not consume nearly a quarter of the world's oil.

"Over the long term, we know that the amount of fuel we will use is directly related to our land use decisions and development patterns. For the last 100 years, our communities have been organized around the principle of cheap gasoline...They(Barack Obama and Joe Biden) believe that we must devote significantly more attention to investments that will make it easier for us to walk, bicycle and access other transportation alternatives. They are committed to reforming the federal transportation funding and leveling employer incentives for driving and public transit."

The emphasis of his plan is essentially inverted, and building more livable and sustainable communities should be a greater priority than increasing consumption. His plan does not provide details, yet Barack Obama will have the opportunity to demonstrate what he means by "reforming federal transportation funding," soon enough. A federal commission created by congress has recommended that the federal gasoline tax be raised by 10 cents and eventually by 40 cents over 5 years in order to maintain the solvency of the Federal Highway Trust Fund which funds the nations roads and highways, as well as mass transit. This is a far cry from the manner in which Hillary Clinton and John McCain appealed to the ignorance of Americans by suggesting that the federal gasoline tax be repealed, albeit in a temporary manner. Barack Obama, to his credit, did not participate in this, but according to the Associated Press, Barack Obama has expressed concern about raising fuel taxes in our current economic climate. Should one assume that Barack Obama would rather see the Federal Highway Trust Fund go bankrupt within the next couple of years than increase the federal gas tax by 10 cents?

The commission also recommended that states raise their gasoline taxes and that the government devise a different method for funding the construction and maintenance of the nation's highways. While building more highways and roads is often seen as way to relieve traffic congestion, Americans need to consider the value of constructing more roads when our society has reached a stage where dozens of millions of Americans are economically challenged by inevitably high gasoline prices, and dozens of millions of Americans can no longer afford to purchase new vehicles because of the financial crisis and the effects it has had on our economy. Moreover, the state of the economy is directly related to the disproportionate consumption of oil of our society. As the price of gasoline and diesel rose, so did the price of goods and services across the economy, straining American consumers and businesses. Conversely, as the price of gasoline rose, the value of homes in the exurbs, places which are remotely located from other population centers, began to drop. These are symptoms of an exorbitantly expensive transportation model which Americans have done very little to change.

Instead, our society has embarked on a race to develop alternative fuels and high fuel economy vehicles, before dozens of millions of Americans become trapped in their urban and suburban ghettos. Up until now, our society has achieved limited results, and based on Barack Obama's proposals and readily observable realities, we are likely to achieve limited results in the short and mid term future. Yet, there is also the opportunity for transformation. An increase in the federal gasoline tax will automatically make more money available for mass transit because 20% of the revenue is apportioned for mass transit. If the stated goals of our society are to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, reduce petroleum dependence, and improve the economy, a greater share of federal gasoline tax revenue should be apportioned for mass transit. Here, Barack Obama will have an opportunity to demonstrate how superficial or how profound the change he has proposed for America is.

Some of the cuts in oil consumption in other industrialized nations may be attributable to a slowdown in economic activity, but what is inescapable is the fundamental role which mass transit systems play in these societies. Mass transit allows these societies to maintain lower oil consumption rates and when the price of oil and its refined products climb, the citizens of the urban areas of these societies have the option to consume less, while still maintaining an adequate level of mobility. In the U.S., vast portions of its citizens simply don't have this option, our demand is inelastic. It is illustrative to point out that within the U.S., the state which has the lowest per capita gasoline consumption rate is New York. What is also inescapable, is that when the price of oil climbs, it disproportionately adversely affects the U.S. economy.

The path towards reducing petroleum dependence outlined by Barack Obama has already been traveled by California, without much success, and in other instances, such as with the aformentioned propositon 10, and in 2006 with proposition 87, which would have imposed $4 billion of taxes on oil producers to research alternative energy, rejected by California voters.

In 2000, the state legislature passed Assembly Bill 2076 which required the California Energy Commission and the California Air Resources Board to examine ways that California could reduce its dependence on petroleum. The agencies published a report in 2003 titled, "Reducing California�s Petroleum Dependence." The 19 page report does not discuss mass transit. Its main recommendation was that California reduce its gasoline and diesel consumption by 15% below the 2003 level by 2020 and maintain that reduction for the foreseeable future, relying primarily on vehicle efficiency improvements and the introduction of alternative fuels to petroleum.

From 2003 to 2007 gasoline sales generally increased and the difference between the two years was an increase of .0007% by 2007 in California. The Board of Equalization has not yet reported sales for the fourth quarter of 2008, but for the first three quarters of 2008, gasoline sales dropped by 3.8% compared to the first three quarters of 2007, and dropped 3.3% compared to the first three quarters of 2003. Regarding diesel sales in California, from 2003 to 2007, they increased by 15.5%. For the first three quarters of 2008 compared to the first three quarters of 2003, diesel sales increased by 8%.

The recent drop in petroleum consumption is largely due to the dire effects that $3.50 an $4.00 per gallon gasoline has had on our economy. Which is why recommending that California reduce its petroleum consumption by 15% below 2003 levels by 2020 in 2003 was a recommendation that did not seem to have much of a practical application to reality. What is the point of reducing petroleum dependence by 15% below 2003 levels by 2020 if our economy will have collapsed by then, from the weight of that petroleum dependence? The authors of these studies are no doubt experts at making calculations and figuring out what can be produced with available resources and assumed to be available resources, but not everybody can know everything. I doubt that they had the predictive ability to have anticipated the burst of the housing bubble, the financial crisis, that American car companies would be on the verge of bankruptcy, the degree or severity with which climate change occurs, the record high unemployment figures, the degree to and pace at which oil demand increases in Asia and Latin America and the inevitable economic squeeze this creates for the radically car dependent American population. Otherwise, their recommendation would not be logical. Not considering mass transit as a viable option towards reducing petroleum consumption and not pursposefully creating a more sustainable environment was, and is, willful ignorance.

As examples of this willful ignorance consider the responses which I received in 2005 from some of the principle authors of the aforementioned report. Susan Brown wrote, "Based on available research, and our analysis of the potential for public transit in the technical appendices to the AB 2076 Report, we concluded that even doubling use of public transit in California, would have a minor(as I recall about 2 percent effect) on reducing petroleum demand."

Yes, if vehicle miles traveled by mass transit are 1% of total vehicle miles traveled in California, as was determined by the authors in the appendices, doubling use of mass transit would only reduce petroleum dependence by 2 percent or some other small figure, assuming that doubling the use of mass transit would bring total vehicle miles traveled by mass transit to a whopping 2%. Yet, imagine a mass transit revolution that created the type of mass transit systems that Europeans enjoy. California is the 8th largest economy in the world and Californians spent nearly $60 billion on gasoline and diesel in 2007. What is lacking is not resources, but will and imagination.

Gerry Bemis provided me an equally obtuse response: "The Energy Commission sees mass transit as providing only a modest reduction in petroleum demand, maybe 5% or so. Not every city has an efficient transit system�Much of Sacramento is not well served by our transit system due to the length of trips and/or need for multiple transfers."

While California's official policies remain heavily biased and weighted towards alternative fuels, policy makers have opened their minds to the role that mass transit can and will have to play. In response to Assembly Bill 1007, passed in 2005, the CEC and CARB published in 2007 a report titled, "State Alternative Fuels Plan." The plan proposes that a five part strategy is needed to meet California's greenhouse gas emission and petroleum consumption reduction goals. Part of that strategy is to "maximize the use of mass transit, encourage smart growth and land use planning to help reduce vehicle miles traveled and vehicle hours traveled."

In discussing California's gasoline and diesel consumption which has increased nearly 50 percent since 1986, the report cites, "lack of mass transit" among the reasons for this increase.

The report also acknowledges that "alternative fuels alone will not be sufficient to meet California's aggressive 2050 GHG emissions reduction goal." It states that reducing green house gas emissions by 80 percent below 1990 levels by 2050 could occur by, among other things, "Increasing use of mass transit and public transportation, as an alternative to personal motor vehicle use."

The strategy that California is pursuing is likely over dependent on alternative fuels, and does not emphasize conservation enough. According to the report, "The transportation fuel market is enormously complex...To understand the magnitude of this undertaking, increasing the use of non-petroleum fuels to 20 percent of on-road fuel demand by 2020 is equivalent to 4.8 billion gallons of non-petroleum fuels. Achieving this goal will require the introduction and use of an additional 370 million gallons of new non-petroleum fuel supplies into the California transportation market each year, or about 1 million gallons of new supply each day for the next 12 years."

If California's plan as outlined in the report is successfully executed, it would mean that by 2020, largely due to inevitable population growth, Californians will consume 19.2 billion gallons of petroleum based fuels. This is a small increase in demand on our part, while there may be less supply on the the world market, at the same time that demand in diverse parts of the world will have increased. Based on the observable effects of maintaining such a high volume of consumption in current economic conditions, it is remotely possible that consuming nearly 20 billion gallons of petroleum based fuels in the near future is even sustainable. It is apparent more than ever that mass transit is an absolute economic necessity, apart from being an ecological and cultural one as well.

Since 2003 when "Reducing California's Petroluem Dependence" was published, the state of California has consumed roughly 88 billion gallons of gasoline. Increased taxation of 20 cents per gallon would have resulted in $17.6 billion that could have been partially or completely spent to fund the world class mass transit California direly needs. If, according to the State Alternative Fuels Plan, "by enacting AB 1007, the Governor and Legislature have established that it is now the clear and unambiguous policy of the State of California to move decisively away from petroleum fuels," then it is logical to discourage the widespread indiscriminate consumption of petroleum fuels, particularly because of the profound ecological damage which they cause. Increased taxation nominally raises the cost, yet over time it can reduce and moderate prices by moderating demand, if such taxes were to be invested in mass transit. Thus, increased petroleum fuel taxation is completely logical.

Standing in the way of this, are Republicans who are philosophically against any and all tax increases, and in the midst of California's budget crisis have signed a pledge not to raise taxes. Due to the fact that a two thirds majority of the legislature is required in California to raise taxes or pass a budget, Republicans, who hold slightly more than one third of legislative seats, can hold the state hostage and impede progress.

Over the years, Democrats have for the most part been ineffective in challenging the absolute irrationality of the Republican position. Among their recent proposals is to eliminate the gasoline tax and replace it with a per gallon fee which would be 13 cents higher than the current tax. As the Los Angeles Times explains, this scheme threatens funding for mass transit on the part of the state of California. Yet, according to the L.A. Times editorial board, Democrats feel compelled to do this because of the absolute refusal of Republicans to consider any tax increase in order to balance the state's budget. Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, in an acute contradiction to AB 1007 and AB 32, and the general perception of him as a "green" politician, has cut funding for mass transit by billions of dollars while in office. The governor and Republican legislators are part of the American mindset which simply does not see value in mass transit and condemns our society to disproportionate oil consumption and ecological destruction.

Under the current manner which the gasoline tax is apportioned, 20% of the revenue goes to mass transit. Yet, to be consistent with our official goals and laws, it should be higher than this. Mike Fueur who authored AB 2321 which authorized placing Measure R on the Los Angeles county ballot, proposed in a Los Angeles Times op-ed piece in 2007 that the state legislature could give priority to mass transit or at least establish parity between mass transit and highway construction and maintenance with a 2/3 majority vote of the legislature. Perhaps Californians will have to recall the current governor or certain Republican legislators, wait to achieve a Democratic super majority in the legislature, use the initiative process, or hope that several Republican legislators see the light.

Los Angelenos have already voted to invest 26 additional billion dollars(65% of the expected 40 billion from Measure R)over the next thirty years to fund mass transit in Los Angeles, yet they can also have a decisive influence on statewide policy, thus generating greater investment in mass transit in Los Angeles. Los Angeles county is neither the most conservative, nor the most liberal county in the state. This, combined with the fact of it being the most populous county perfectly positions it to shift the weight of the state in whatever direction it sways. We have the opportunity to transform our society in a profound manner.

The primary goals which Barack Obama has outlined in his energy plan will be achievable if mass transit plays a far greater role in his plan. When I look out upon the freeways of Los Angeles, a city of nearly 4 million people which has the worst traffic and air quaility in the country, and is part of a county of 10 million people, which in itself is the 17th largest economy in the world, what occurs to me is that what is fundamentally wrong with our society is not Middle Eastern or Venezuelan oil imports, what is fundamentally wrong is that the car is the primary mode of transportation. Ignoring such a fundamental solution leaves Barack Obama chasing ghosts and bogeymen, illustrated by his pledge to "crack down on excessive energy speculation."

The fiscal year 2009 budget of the main local transit agency, the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transit Authority, was $3.408 billion. Out of this figure, $397 million or 11.6% came from the federal government, $974 million or 28.6% came from the state, but the largest part of the budget, $1.561 billion or 45.8%, came from Propositions A and C, which each represent a half cent of the local county sales tax, and were approved in previous decades. If the amount of money which the federal government contributes to the budget of the LACMTA does not significantly increase under the Barack Obama administration, with complete justification we will be able to declare that Barack Obama is a farce.

Local officials, expect a better performance from Barack Obama than George Bush. Los Angeles mayor Antonio Villaraigosa's press secretary Matt Szabo told the L.A. Times, "We have for the first time in Washington an administration that intends to invest in public transportation." How much remains to be seen. California is experiencing it's worst budget crisis ever, the American economy threatens to collapse, the new President makes public statements that can't be believed; in the midst of all this, there remains, the opportunity to create a mass transit revolution that will not only transform the transportation system, but can also be the foundation of a vast transformation of the socio-economic structure of the society.

Los Angeles Press Club Event with NBC News' Chuck Todd this Friday!

Thu, 15 Jan 2009 15:57:43 -0800

ADVISORYTuesday, January 13, 2009 For Immediate Release Contact � Edward Headington, Publicist (323) 669-8081 or Edward@LAPressClub.org LA Press Club Evening this Friday with NBC News White House Correspondent, Political Director and On-Air Analyst, Chuck Todd Press Club Board Member and L.A. Weekly News Editor, Jill Stewart, will be moderating this special event. Hollywood, CA. The Los Angeles Press Club is hosting a special event this Friday evening with NBC News White House Correspondent, Political Director and On-Air Analyst, Chuck Todd. It is being co-sponsored by PR Newswire and open to the public. R.S.V.P. today! WHO � The Los Angeles Press Club Members and Supporters; Moderated by Press Club Board Member and L.A. Weekly News Editor, Jill Stewart; Special guest Chuck Todd, NBC News White House Correspondent, Political Director and On-Air Analyst WHAT � �An Evening with NBC�s Chuck Todd� WHEN � Friday, January 16, 2009; 7 p.m. WHERE � The Steve Allen Theater at the LA Press Club; 4773 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 90027; Plenty of free parking behind the building (enter off of Berendo Street); Click here for a map; Metro: Red line, Sunset/Vermont station WHY � Todd is co-author of the new book "How Barack Obama Won: A State-by-State Guide to the Historic 2008 Presidential Election." He is expected to talk about his book, the recent presidential race, the Obama presidency and how he plans to cover it. As NBC News' Political Director, Todd set himself apart from others through his insightful analysis during the presidential race and in the process developed a loyal band of viewers�known as "Chuckolytes." Before joining NBC News, Todd was the Editor-in-Chief of National Journal�s �The Hotline,� Washington�s premier daily briefing on American Politics.

FYI � Free to Press Club members: $15 for pre-paid guests or $20 at the door. Students pay $5. Click here to R.S.V.P. Ticket price includes all drinks and appetizers. For more information, call 323.669.8081 or email info@lapressclub.org. ### The Los Angeles Press Club stands as an organization devoted to improving the spirit of journalism and journalists, raising the industry�s standards, strengthening its integrity and improving its reputation all for the benefit of the community at large. Serving the Southland since 1913, it is the only Southern California journalism group that speaks for all journalists working for daily and weekly newspapers, radio & TV, magazines, documentary films and online. For more information, go to http://www.lapressclub.org/ and/or www.myspace.com/lapressclub. PR Newswire, co-sponsor for all Los Angeles Press Club events, is the global leader in news and information distribution services for professional communicators. For more information, go to http://www.prnewswire.com/. Headington Media Group is a boutique communications firm that promotes public affairs in Southern California, specializing in image management, branding, messaging and public relations. For more information, go to http://www.headingtonmedia.com/ and/or visit http://www.headingtonmediacenter.org/.

Advisory � SPJ-LA January Mixer with Budget Expert Daniel J. B. Mitchell

Thu, 15 Jan 2009 15:57:31 -0800

For Immediate Release January 14, 2009 Contact: Claudia Peschiutta, SPJ-LA, 323.228.8230

SPJ-LA January Mixer with Daniel J.B. MitchellRing in the New Year with SPJ-LA�s 1st Mixer of 2009

Los Angeles, CA � It's a new year but the big California story hasn't changed: the state's growing budget deficit. It's a complicated issue, so get yourself a drink and get your questions answered at the Society of Professional Journalists' first mixer of the year.

WHO: The Greater Los Angeles Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists Members and Supporters; Featured Guest � Daniel J.B. Mitchell WHAT: SPJ-LA Mixer with UCLA Management & Public Policy Professor Daniel J.B. Mitchell WHEN: Monday, January 19, 2009; No-host cocktails begin at 6:30 p.m. WHERE: Meet in the back room at the Redwood Bar and Grill, 316 W. 2nd Street in Downtown L.A; 213-680-2600. Street and lot parking is available in the area. It is close to the Civic Center Red Line Metro stop. WHY: Hear from one of the preeminent budget experts. UCLA management and Public Policy Professor, Daniel J. B. Mitchell, comments regularly on state budget issues and has written extensively about California's boom-and-bust cycles. FYI: It's free fun for all! (You'll have to buy your own drinks. Happy hour ends at 7 p.m. so get your drinks early!) Please R.S.V.P. to spjlosangeles@gmail.com ###

Founded in 1909 as Sigma Delta Chi, the Society of Professional Journalists promotes the free flow of information vital to a well-informed citizenry; works to inspire and educate the next generation of journalists; and protects First Amendment guarantees of freedom of speech and press. For more information, go to http://spjla.wordpress.com/. Headington Media Group is a boutique communications firm that promotes public affairs in Southern California, specializing in image management, branding, messaging and public relations. For more information, go to http://www.headingtonmedia.com/ and/or visit http://www.headingtonmediacenter.org/.

AN EVENING OF ART

Tue, 13 Jan 2009 08:50:16 -0800

A Fine Art Sale featuring the art of 100 Local Artists
benefiting the Neighborhood Nursery School in Silverlake
(a non-profit co-operative pre-school)
$15. admission includes wine, appetizers and music by pioneering DJ legend Mike Messex
January 24, 2009 Saturday
4 :00 pm to 8:00 pm

Barnsdall Art Park
Los Angeles Municipal Art Gallery
4800 Hollywood Blvd.
Hollywood, CA 90027
(corner of Hollywood Blvd. and Vermont Ave.)
Free Parking

For more information and to preview and purchase art before the show go to www.neighborhoodnursery.org

ABOUT THE EVENING

In its fifth year an Evening of Art is truly a
community event benefiting the school, local artists
and the community. Over 100 local artists
participate, and over 500 people attend each year to
shop and view the work while enjoying the wonderful
historic ambiance of Barnsdall Art Park.

ABOUT NEIGHBORHOOD NURSERY SCHOOL

The Neighborhood Nursery School has been serving young
Los Angeles Families for half a century beginning in
1952. The school is located on the North end of the
Silver Lake Reservoir. It is a non-profit cooperative
owned and operated by the parents of it�s students.
Parents work as teaching assistants in conjunction
with the long standing certified teachers. They
maintain the buildings and grounds, and organize fund
raisers including the January Art Show and the Annual
Spring Fair which has become a Silver Lake community
tradition.

The curriculum is designed to help children ages 3 to
5 to become enthusiastic learners, active and creative
explorers not just in preschool but throughout their
lives.

www.neighborhoodnurseryschool.org

Singer Raises Her Voice to Raise Money for Foster Care Children

Fri, 09 Jan 2009 16:47:32 -0800

(PASADENA, CA) � You�ll laugh, you�ll cry and you�ll help raise money for foster care children in Los Angeles County during �An Evening with Lisa Donahey,� a fundraiser for the Hillsides, on January 17, 2009 at 7:00 pm. This special event is being held in the Georgian Ballroom at the Langham Huntington Resort & Spa Hotel in Pasadena (formerly the Ritz Carlton Hotel).Remarkable vocalist, Donahey has been thrilling audiences for years with her live theatrical performances, television work and recordings. Working with distinguished songwriters and film scorers, this Berklee College of Music graduate has received many accolades, including being chosen to sing a musical tribute to pop singer Sting, jazz legend Nancy Wilson and The Manhattan Transfer. In 2008 Donahey sang the National Anthem in front of over 50,000 people at the Revlon Run/Walk in Los Angeles and shared the stage with musicians Jesse McCartney and Melissa Manchester and honorary hosts Halle Berry and Tom Selleck.

However, Donahey is not only passionate about music, she�s passionate about making a difference. As an avid Disney VoluntEAR and a long-time Hillsides Volunteer Network member, Donahey is thrilled to combine her love of music with her love of community to raise money and awareness for the Hillsides in Pasadena -- a foster care children�s charity serving Los Angeles County.

�Hillsides provides a warm, nurturing environment where children can flourish,� explains Donahey. �I am honored and delighted to help support this worthy mission through my music.�

During the evening, Donahey will performing such classics as �Over The Rainbow,� �That Old Black Magic� and �Cry Me A River,� among others. The evening will be punctuated with Donahey�s dynamic personality and special way of interacting with the audience, heightening this unique entertainment experience.

All of the money raised during �An Evening with Lisa Donahey� will benefit the children�s charity in Los Angeles County. Advance ticket sales start at $40. Special VIP tickets are available for $100 each and include reserved premium seating, special one-year Hillsides Volunteer Network membership, copy of Donahey�s debut album �Lisa Donahey: She�s Got It Covered� and more. For tickets, information or to make a donation to the foster care children�s charity, please contact Hillsides at (323) 255-9005 or www.hillsides.org.

###
PRESS RELEASE
January 9, 2009
Contact: Marisol Barrios-Jordan, Hillsides
Office: (323) 254-2274 ext. 274
Cell: (310) 713-8567
E-mail: mbarriosjordan@hillsides.org

Power of Community: How Cuba Survived Peak Oil - in Pasadena Jan. 17th, 7:00 PM

Thu, 08 Jan 2009 12:48:54 -0800

The Converging Storms Action Network presents the The Power of Community: How Cuba Survived Peak Oil in Pasadena on Saturday, January 17th, 7:00 PM.

Climate change and peak oil challenge us to to change how we live in ways that are hard to imagine. How will we respond, and what systems are possible to help us adapt to radically changing conditions? One powerful model we can learn from is Cuba.When the Soviet Union collapsed in the early 1990s Cuba experienced the sudden loss of trade and over 50 percent of their oil imports. Cuba's Gross Domestic Product dropped by more than one third, transportation halted and food became scarce - on average Cubans lost 20 pounds during the first 3 years of the economic crisis. Yet Cubans triumphed over adversity through local solutions. The film visits urban gardens and organic farms, explains the relationship between food and fossil fuels, and shows how a society can change from an industrialized, global focus to a local, community based one. It is a rare view into this island culture, using firsthand reporting that focuses on what Cuban's have learned and can share about adapting to living with less.

Film's website: www.powerofcommunity.org

7:00 PM - Gather, refreshments & snacks
7:30 PM � Screening
8:30 PM - Discussion � implications to our local community and positive actions we can take.

Please consider biking, walking, taking public transportation (www.mta.net) or carpooling to this event. Suggested voluntary donation of $5. For more information call 714-906-8686 or email info@convergingstorms.org

More information can be found at oilawareness.meetup.com/1/

New LA Press Club Board Announced

Thu, 08 Jan 2009 12:48:41 -0800

RELEASE Monday, January 5, 2009 For Immediate Release Contact � Edward Headington, Publicist (323) 669-8081 or Edward@LAPressClub.org The Results Are In! The Los Angeles Press Club Elects New Board Members

Los Angeles, CA. The Board of Directors for the Los Angeles Press Club (LAPC) is comprised of 14 Board Members that serve two-year terms. Every year, half of the seats are up for election and this year brought in some new and old faces. Day-to-day operations are still run by working international journalist and LAPC Executive Director, Diana Ljungaeus, and USA reporter, Chris Woodyard is the President of its Board of Directors. �At a time when top-quality journalists are becoming a rarer breed, the Press club is blazing into 2009 with one of the strongest and most qualified boards yet,� said Chris Woodyard, Press Club President. �Appreciation goes out to all of the members who voted and special thanks to outgoing Board members, Michael Collins and Jahan Hassan, for their service to the organization.� Current board members Ezra Palmer, Anthea Raymond, Jon Regardie, George White and Adam Wilkenfeld were voted in for new two-year terms. Diana Ljungaeus was also elected as was Carolina Garcia, Executive Editor of the Los Angeles Daily News. Others still serving on the Board but not up for election included Jon Beaupre, Jane Engle, Rory Johnston, Will Lewis, Fred Mamoun, Jill Stewart and Chris Woodyard.

LA's Community College--Need Fixin'

Fri, 02 Jan 2009 08:33:35 -0800

In March, 2009, the voters get to vote for 4 (four) trustees on the
LA Community College Board. In the last election for LACC's Board, only 5% of the voters turned out. What a travesty! Surely, people must care!

Let's get out there and elect four (4) NEW
board members. They stand for CHANGE!
We need committed, non-bought board members and not the
present board members. They are in the hip-pocket of the unions, the lawyers, the contractors, etc--ALL THOSE WHO MILK US TAXPAYERS TO THE HILT.

LET'S VOTE THE RASCALS OUT AND THE CARING PEOPLE IN!
IT'S ABOUT TIME & IT'S LONG OVERDUE!

And, no more bond issues, PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE!

We're on the road to the poor house and Measure J will take us there.

Children�s Charity Needs Help with Adopt-a-Family Program

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 08:27:06 -0800

Clients of Hillsides, a Pasadena children�s charity, the Sanchez* children will have a difficult time appreciating and enjoying the Christmas spirit this year. Last year, just days before Christmas, they were separated from their mother who was sent to jail. At the time, the six children believed she would only be gone for a short while and that the family would soon be reunited.

Fast forward to almost a year later and the Sanchez children still do not have their mother by their side. They will actually be without her for quite some time. The Sanchez family was referred to Hillsides Family Center, the Pasadena children�s charity that serves families in Los Angeles County, shortly after the mother�s arrest.
Their maternal grandmother, Maria*, had taken over care of the children and was overwhelmed by the immense pressure of looking after all six of them, ages 2 to 17, by herself. Many of the children were underperforming at school and were not well supervised.

�With the dedicated therapists and the generosity of our donors, we were able to assist Maria in getting temporary guardianship and assistance so the children would not go into the already inundated foster care system,� said Janis Reid, Hillsides Family Center school-based mental health coordinator.

The children participate in individual and family counseling to adjust to the changes, promote education, and deter them from a life of deviance, according to Reid. In addition, the family has found success in the program and Ray*, the oldest child, has earned a high school diploma, enrolled in community college, and has a part-time job to help grandma out with expenses.

Presently, Maria is still doing all she can to take care of her grandchildren, relying solely on what little income she and Ray earn. The holiday season is not as joyous for the Sanchez family for they are not able to splurge on gifts or a traditional holiday meal for everyone. Memories of their missing mother also come back to sadden their spirits.

�During these times, it is important that the family knows that people support and recognize their efforts and that they have not been forgotten, when all around they see images of perfect families having perfect holidays,� said Reid. �It is also meaningful to have that little extra help with food, clothing and toys at a time when resources barely cover the necessities.�

Families living in Los Angeles County like the Sanchez�s rely on the generous support from the community through the Pasadena children�s charity adopt-a-family program. To learn more how you can help families experiencing crisis this holiday season, contact Laura Kelso, the children�s charity director of community resources, at 323-254-2274.
# # #
*Names of clients have been changed to protect their identities.

About Hillsides: As a Pasadena foster care charity founded in 1913, Hillsides creates safe places for children at risk and their families by providing residential care, mental health services to break the cycle of domestic violence, special education, and advocacy. To learn more about Hillsides, visit www.Hillsides.org.

Help Fulfill Holiday Wishes for Teens At Risk

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 08:26:11 -0800

WHO: Hillsides� children and youth in crisis, who suffer from severe emotional disturbances, need your help in fulfilling special wishes. Items for teenagers are especially needed this holiday season.

Hillsides, a Pasadena foster care children�s charity that creates safe places for children at risk and their families, is able to meet the holiday needs of children in their care and families in need because of generous community support.

WHAT: The teens� special wishes include: Hygiene items and hair accessories; perfumes, colognes; small purses, teen type and wallets; trendy tee shirts-Quicksilver, Gotcha, Roxy, Fubu-adult men and women sizes; gift certificates to fast food restaurants, movie theatres, music stores, and retail stores like Target, Wal-Mart, Sport Chalet, Chick�s, Macy�s; watches and other teen jewelry; small electronic handheld games; and sports memorabilia. For an ongoing holiday wish list, visit www.Hillsides.org

If you wish to underwrite a winter outing for the children, contact Laura Kelso, Director of Community Resources, at (323) 254-2274, ext. 251.

WHY: During the holidays, children who have lived through traumatic experiences reflect on their losses and abandonment. They exhibit profound depression, stress and anxiety recalling the fear, pain and confusion before they came to a safe and non-threatening place like Hillsides. Individuals in the community can make a difference by fulfilling a special wish and making the holiday season memorable.

WHEN: Bring deliveries to Hillsides by December 19 at 940 Avenue 64 in Pasadena.

WHERE: For information, call Laura Kelso, (323) 254-2274, ext. 251, or visit www.hillsides.org.

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USC Unruh Institute of Politics Announces Post-Election Conference Agenda

Fri, 21 Nov 2008 09:01:11 -0800

ADVISORY Wednesday, November 19, 2008 For Immediate Release Media Contact � Edward Headington, 818.720.7181 or Edward@HeadingtonMedia.com Unruh Contact � Kerstyn Olson, 213.740.8964 or Kerstyn@USC.edu

�Election �08: Deconstructing the Campaign and What it Means for the Future�

Co-Sponsored by POLITICO, this conference will feature top strategists from the Obama and McCain Presidential campaigns WHO � Panelists will include top strategists from the Obama and McCain campaigns as well as POLITICO journalists, prominent political reporters and observers, elected officials and the USC Community. WHAT � 2-Day Post-Election Conference: �Election �08: Deconstructing the Campaign and What it Means for the Future� WHEN � November 21-22, 2008; Friday � 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; Saturday � 9:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. WHERE � The USC Davidson Conference Center @ 3415 S. Figueroa St., Los Angeles, CA, 90089 WHY � The conference will feature panel discussions consisting of representatives from each campaign�moderated by POLITICO reporters and editors, concentrating on the primary and general election seasons. Conference attendees will also participate in a national media panel discussion as well as the role of technology and new media in the recent electoral contest. FYI: There is little or no cost to attend this conference but space is limited so RSVP today. USC students � Free with RSVP; USC Faculty/Staff/Alumni, Senior Citizens and non-USC students - $15; and General Public � $25. Journalists can attend for free but need to register and show media credentials.

AGENDA Friday, November 21st 9 a.m. � Registration & Buffet Breakfast 10 � 10:15 am � Welcome by USC Unruh Institute Director Dan Schnur 10:15 � 11:15 a.m. "Campaign 2008: The Primaries, The Conventions & The Running Mates" � Moderators: o John F. Harris, Editor-in-Chief, POLITICO o Ben Smith, Senior Political Reporter, POLITICO o USC Daily Trojan Reporter � Participants: o Steve Hildebrand, Former Deputy Campaign Manager � Obama for America 2008 o Linda Douglass, Former Senior Advisor � Obama for America 2008 o David Binder, Pollster � Obama for America 2008 o Michael DuHaime, Political Director � McCain/Palin 2008 o Todd Beyer, President, Beyer Communications, Inc. & Partner, Corp. Pol. Strategies, LLC o Adam Mendelsohn, Partner � Mercury Public Affairs o Adam Weissman, Los Angeles Regional Field Organizer � USC Students for Barack Obama o Josh Sharp, Co-Chair � USC Students for John McCain 11:30 a.m. � 12:30 p.m. "Campaign 2008: The Debates, The Wall Street Crisis & The Home Stretch" � Moderators: o Jonathan Martin, Senior Political Reporter, POLITICO o Jim VandeHei, Executive Editor, POLITICO o USC Daily Trojan Reporter � Participants: o Steve Hildebrand, Former Deputy Campaign Manager � Obama for America 2008 o Linda Douglass, Former Senior Advisor � Obama for America 2008 o Andre Pineda, Pollster � Obama for America 2008 o Michael DuHaime, Political Director � McCain/Palin 2008 o Greg Strimple, Partner � Mercury Public Affairs - McCain/Palin 2008 o Greg Jenkins, Senior Advisor � McCain/Palin 2008 o Bret VandenBos, President � USC Students for Barack Obama o Allison Huff, Co-Chair � USC Students for John McCain 12:45 � 2 p.m. Lunch Panel "California Politics: Schwarzenegger and Beyond" � Moderators: o Dan Schnur, Director, USC Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics o USC Daily Trojan Reporter � Participants: o John Marelius, San Diego Union Tribune o Amy Chance, Sacramento Bee o Cathy Decker, Los Angeles Times o Steve Harmon, Contra Costa Times/MediaNews o Anthony York, Capitol Weekly 2:15 - 3:45 p.m. "Insights and Analysis: Leading National Political Reporters Discuss the Campaign" � Moderators: o John F. Harris, Editor-in-Chief, POLITICO o Jim VandeHei, Executive Editor, POLITICO � Participants: o Mark Halperin, Editor-at-Large & Senior Political Analyst, TIME Magazine o John Heilemann, National Political Columnist, New York Magazine o Mark Barabak, Political Writer, Los Angeles Times o Mike Allen, POLITICO o USC Daily Trojan Reporter Saturday, November 22nd 9:45 � 10:15 a.m. Buffet Breakfast 10:15 � 11:15 a.m. "Challenges for the New Administration and the Two Parties: POLITICO Editors and Reporters Look to the Future" � Moderators: o Dan Schnur, Director, USC Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics o John F. Harris, Editor-in-Chief, POLITICO � Participants: o Mike Allen, POLITICO o Jim VandeHei, Executive Editor, POLITICO o Jonathan Martin, Senior Political Reporter, POLITICO o Ben Smith, Senior Political Reporter, POLITICO 11:15 a.m. � 12:15 pm "Technology in Politics: How Campaigns Use the Internet to Talk to Voters" � Moderators: o Dan Schnur, Director, USC Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics o Mike Allen, POLITICO � Participants: o Joe Rospars, Obama for America o Becki Donatelli, McCain/Palin 2008 o Jonathan Martin, Senior Political Reporter, POLITICO o Ben Smith, Senior Political Reporter, POLITICO o Kurt Weinsheimer, Spot Runner 12:15 p.m. Lunch & Close of Conference

### The Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics motivates USC students to become active in the world of politics and encourages public officials to participate in the daily life on campus. For more information, go to http://college.usc.edu/unruh. Boasting some of the top journalists in America, POLITICO focuses on three arenas in national politics: We will focus on three arenas: (1) Congress and the constant flow of agendas, personalities and power struggles that define daily life on Capitol Hill; (2) the historic 2008 presidential campaign; and (3) lobbying and advocacy, a part of the capital economy undergoing rapid growth and change. It is a business alive with interesting and influential characters whose impact is dimly understood and insufficiently covered. For more information, go to http://www.politico.com/.

LA Press Club Panel on Oscar Campaigning - December 11th

Fri, 21 Nov 2008 09:00:59 -0800

The Spin and the Spun: True Tales from the Oscar Campaign Trail at the Press Club on December 11th

The only Southern California journalism group that speaks for all journalists working for daily and weekly newspapers, radio & TV, magazines, documentary films and online. RELEASE Tuesday, November 18, 2008 For Immediate Release Contact � Edward Headington, Publicist (323) 669-8081 or Edward@LAPressClub.org Hollywood, CA. HOLLYWOOD, CA. � The Los Angeles Press Club will host �The Spin & the Spun: True Tales from the Oscar Campaign Trail� next month in the Steve Allen theater. Moderated by show business historian Alex Ben Block, the panel will feature journalists and publicists on the front lines of the movie biz talking about how movies win awards.

The presidential election may be over but Oscar campaigning is just heating up. Each year, high profile, high cost marketing efforts push major movies for Oscars, Golden Globes, SAG Awards and other honors. It is an annual rite for studio marketers, publicists and entertainment journalists, who each have a role�whether it is creating publicity campaigns or providing coverage that can shape a movie�s profile.

The Press Club will provide a rare behind-the-scenes look at how the Hollywood publicity machine works. These members of the media, marketers and publicists will share stories about how the big movies of recent years were promoted, as well as how the battle is shaping up for the 2008-2009 awards season�which culminates in the presentation of the 81st annual Academy Awards next February in Hollywood.

�If you have ever wondered why certain movies are Oscar contenders and others are not, here is the answer,� says Block, a show business historian and Editor-at-Large of The Hollywood Reporter. �We�ll be providing an insider�s view of how things really work in Hollywood.�

This lively panel discussion will be presented by the Los Angeles Press Club in the Steve Allen Theater on Thursday, December 11, 2008 beginning at 7:30 pm. There will be a networking reception an hour immediately before and after the event. Admission is free for Los Angeles Press Club members; all other pay $10 prepaid in advance or $20 at the door.

"Finally, we're going to hear the real story behind the Oscars," says Los Angeles Press Club President Chris Woodyard. "Veteran Hollywood journalist Alex Ben Block has assembled a top-notch cast of insiders who will dish the dirt on the true story behind the Oscars. Anyone who covers Hollywood or follows the entertainment industry won't want to miss this."

Among those featured on the panel will be Patrick Goldstein, film writer for the Los Angeles Times and author of the column and blog, �The Big Picture;� John Horn, entertainment reporter for the Los Angeles Times; Mark Pogachefsky, Co-founder and co-president of mPRm Public Relations; and Dennis Rice, a veteran marketing guru and publicity expert who has held high level posts at Miramax, October, Walt Disney and United Artists Pictures.

###

The Los Angeles Press Club stands as an organization devoted to improving the spirit of journalism and journalists, raising the industry�s standards, strengthening its integrity and improving its reputation all for the benefit of the community at large. For more information, go to http://www.lapressclub.org/ and/or www.myspace.com/lapressclub.

PR Newswire, co-sponsor for all Los Angeles Press Club events, is the global leader in news and information distribution services for professional communicators. For more information, go to http://www.prnewswire.com/.

Headington Media Group is a full-service communications firm dedicated to promoting public affairs in Southern California, specializing in image management, branding and public relations. For more information, go to http://www.headingtonmedia.com/ and/or visit http://www.headingtonmediacenter.org/.

Next BREATHE LA Salon this Thursday!

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 09:12:42 -0800

ADVISORY

November 17, 2008 For Immediate Release Contact: Edward HeadingtonEdward@HeadingtonMedia.com

WHO: BREATHE LA staff and supporters, residents, consumers, businesses, students, educators, public policy professionals and others Welcome � Office of the Honorable Greig Smith, Los Angeles City Councilmember

Moderator � Jason Schaff, Editor for the San Fernando Valley Business Journal

Panel of Experts � Stuart Waldman, President of the Valley Industry Commerce Association (VICA); Ashwani Vasishth, Director of CSUN�s Institute for Sustainability; and Dr. Richard Barbers, BREATHE LA Board Member, Associate Medical Director of the USC Asthma and Allergy Center and Medical Director of the USC Lung Transplantation Program

Panel of Responders � Enrique Chiock, President & CEO of Breathe California of Los Angeles County; Matthew Dodson, Director of Local Government Relations for the California Grocers Association and Sepand Samzadeh, President of the Valley Recycling Center and Document Shredding Services

WHAT: The BREATHE LA Pollution & Solutions Salon Series is a new and engaging discussion of clean air, the environment and healthy living--launched in June 2008 (This is the closing salon for the year.)

�Healthful Living & Community Wealth: Going Green and Growing the Economy� WHEN: Thursday, November 20, 2008 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. WHERE: California State University, Northridge @ 18111 Nordhoff Street, Northridge, CA 91330 in the Flintridge Room in the CSUN University Student Union

WHY: Climate change is part of the national lexicon and many are trying to find the nexus between �going green� and growing the economy. Hear from some of the top experts and responders while also engaging them around healthful living and community wealth.

FYI: It is open to the public and there is no cost to attend the BREATHE LA salons. Coffee and a light breakfast will be served. For more information and to R.S.V.P., contact Edward Headington at Edward@HeadingtonMedia.com or (818) 720-7181. You may also visit us at http://www.breathela.org/ or www.myspace.com/BCLAC�and/or join our group pages on Facebook and LinkedIn. ### BREATHE California of Los Angeles County (BREATHE LA) is an independent, non-profit organization dedicated to the future of clean air and healthy lungs in Los Angeles County. BREATHE LA was established in 1903 and has over a century of accomplishments. First established to fight then-epidemic Tuberculosis, BREATHE LA has long been a leader in efforts to improve air quality and lung health in Los Angeles. Now part of BREATHE California, a statewide organization, BREATHE LA is dedicated to service in our local communities. For more information, visit http://www.breathela.org/.

Speaker Karen Bass Calls on Federal Government to Address CA�s Budget Shortfall

Fri, 14 Nov 2008 17:42:21 -0800

RELEASE Wednesday, November 12, 2008 For Immediate Release Media Contact(s): Joey Furutani Nakatomi & Associates 310.914.5000, Joey@nakatomipr.com Edward Headington Headington Media Group 818.720.7181, Edward@HeadingtonMedia.com

In Keynote Address at Pat Brown Institute�s 16th Annual California Policy Issues Conference, Bass says Infusion of Cash is Needed to Avoid �Devastating Cuts to Education� LOS ANGELES, CA�In her keynote address today at the Edmund G. �Pat� Brown Institute�s 16th Annual California Policy Issues Conference, Assembly Speaker Karen Bass urged the federal government to address the budget crisis in California and called on President Bush to take action in the final days of his Administration.

The theme is year was �California�s Future on the Horizon: Implications of the 2008 Elections� and Bass said legislative analysts have placed California�s projected budget shortfall at $27.8 billion.

With its large population and economy, �California is really unique,� she said. �Our budget is over $100 billion and approximately one‐third of the nation�s foreclosures occurred in our state. This is not just a California problem, so it can�t just be a California solution.�

Bass called on the federal government to provide an immediate infusion of discretionary cash to California so that legislators can avoid what she termed would be �devastating cuts to education and to health and human services.�

Additionally, to avoid the budget impasse that has become an annual event in California, Bass called for a state Constitutional amendment that would reduce the number of votes required in the legislature to pass a budget from two‐thirds to a simple majority. She also called for an end to term limits in the state legislature, saying they create an environment in which some elected office holders are leery of voting to raise revenues before they run for higher office.

�We suffer from term limits as a state,� she added.

Bass represents the 47th Assembly District. She became Speaker of the Assembly in May 2008.

The Assembly Speaker�s speech was one highlight of a conference that brought together elected officials, civic leaders and experts from the political arena, academia and the business community, to discuss and debate the implications of the Nov. 4, 2008 elections and what they mean for California.

On Election Day, �voters overwhelmingly indicated their willingness to invest in California�s future�an idea our namesake, former Governor Pat Brown, understood so many years ago,� said Dr. Jaime A. Regalado, Executive Director of the Pat Brown Institute of Public Affairs, citing the approval of major infrastructure funding and school bonds statewide.

Attendees heard from experts from the media, voter organizations and local and state government. In one panel on �Youth Organizing, Mobilization and Turnout,� experts discussed social networking tools and their effects on voter turnout. Another panel, on �The Role of Race, Class and Gender in the 2008 Elections,� looked at the significance of these issues and their impact on California.

�Overwhelmingly, panelists agreed that a byproduct of the 2008 elections was an electorate that is engaged and involved like never before,� said Regalado.

Bass echoed that sentiment in her keynote speech, saying she hopes to take advantage of the huge network of voters who mobilized to elect Barack Obama: �As an organizer, I wonder how do I tap all that energy to get and sustain their involvement.�

Held at the Millennium Biltmore Hotel in downtown Los Angeles, the PBI�s 16th Annual Policy Issues Conference was supported by Kaiser Permanente�with additional sponsorship from AT&T, Sempra Energy, the James Irvine Foundation, SEIU Local 721, the State Building and Construction Trades Council of California, Sony Pictures, the California Federation of Teachers, IBEW Local 47, Verizon, Chevron, and the California Faculty Association and Southern California Edison.

For almost three decades, the Edmund G. �Pat� Brown Institute of Public Affairs has focused on state and community issues�dedicated to the quest for social justice and equality of opportunity, enlightened civic engagement, and enhancing the quality of life for all Californians.

###

The Edmund G. �Pat� Brown Institute of Public Affairs, a presidentially chartered institute at California State University, Los Angeles, is a non-partisan public policy center dedicated to sustaining vision and legacy of former California Governor Edmund G. "Pat" Brown through convening public policy forums, engaging multi sector stakeholders and diverse communities, and conducting timely policy research and community driven initiatives. For more information, go to http://www.patbrowninstitute.org/.

L.A. Press Club Panel on �The Future of News�

Thu, 13 Nov 2008 08:28:44 -0800

Featuring controversial Chicago Tribune Ideas Chief, Lee Abrams and former L.A. Daily News editor, Ron Kaye, as panelists and Ezra Palmer as moderator

Serving Southern California since 1913

ADVISORY

Tuesday, November 11, 2008
For Immediate Release
Contact � Edward Headington, Publicist
(323) 669-8081 or Edward@LAPressClub.orgHollywood, CA. The Los Angeles Press Club is hosting another great panel discussion this Thursday night at the Steve Allen Theater in Hollywood . Co-sponsored by PR Newswire, the �Future of News� event will include Tribune innovations chief, Lee Abrams, and former Daily News editor, Ron Kaye�who now runs the RonKayeLA news site. All are welcome.

WHO � The LA Press Club Members and Supporters; Moderated by Ezra Palmer, former editor of Yahoo News and a Wall Street Journal veteran. Panelists include Lee Abrams and Ron Kaye.

WHEN � Thursday, November 13, 2008; 7 p.m.

WHERE � The Steve Allen Theater at the LA Press Club; 4773 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 90027; Plenty of free parking behind the building (enter off of Berendo Street); Click here for a map; Metro: Red line, Sunset/Vermont station

WHY � The Chicago-based Abrams, in his first L.A. appearance, is sure to talk about the changes he recently advocated for the Los Angeles Times and how he would change Tribune's other big property, KTLA-TV. This will be Ron Kaye�s first Press Club appearance since March when he participated in the Herald Examiner Reunion panel (and first since leaving the Daily News).

FYI: Free to press club members (rsvp@lapressclub.org). All others: $10 prepaid or $20 at the door. Students $3 prepaid or $5 at the door. Includes drinks and snacks.

###

The Los Angeles Press Club stands as an organization devoted to improving the spirit of journalism and journalists, raising the industry�s standards, strengthening its integrity and improving its reputation all for the benefit of the community at large. For more information, go to http://www.lapressclub.org/ and/or www.myspace.com/lapressclub.

PR Newswire, co-sponsor for all Los Angeles Press Club events, is the global leader in news and information distribution services for professional communicators. For more information, go to http://www.prnewswire.com/.

Headington Media Group is a full-service communications firm dedicated to promoting public affairs in Southern California, specializing in image management, branding and public relations. For more information, go to http://www.headingtonmedia.com/ and/or visit http://www.headingtonmediacenter.org/.