Mariko Yamada, Democrat for State Assembly

Looking at the California Budget - Closing the Gap
While out walking I get asked a lot about why I would want to get involved with the Assembly during these hard budget times. The answer? I've never shied away from tough problems.

There is no question that the Governor's proposed budget - built around "cuts alone" is destructive to our schools.

While I have long held the position that new taxes should be voter-approved, we face an emergency circumstance where that may simply not be possible.

California's budget this year is in desperate need of revenue. The Governor's approach of "cuts alone" will be immensely destructive to public education. It is only sensible to try and solve the problem with some combination of cuts and new revenue - and if such a proposal were put to voters, I'm sure they would agree.

The time crunch is dire. The ballot for June is fixed and the State runs out of cash in August. Under these circumstances, if I were a sitting member of the Legislature, I would support a package that included new taxes along with non-essential cuts to help solve the budget problem.

**ATTENTION Fairfield!**
This Saturday Mariko will be hosting a morning coffee to meet voters. As invitations were late getting out, please spread the word about this opportunity for voters to meet Mariko and learn about her qualifications for the Assembly.

Upcoming Events
As we enter the home stretch, the calendar is more and more crowded with voter events, fundraisers and a need for volunteers. Please join us:

• APRIL 5TH, 10:00 A.M. FAIRFIELD - Free Voter Outreach Event at Community Center Lakeside Suite
• April 12th 10:00 A.M. WOODLAND - Free Voter Outreach Event at Fat Cat Café
• April 29th - Fundraiser hosted by Phil Angelides and Dave Jones at Thomas Enterprises in Sacramento

VOLUNTEER WALKERS NEEDED:
Mariko's done a terrific job so far meeting voters one-on-one throughout the district. Please help her reach even more households by volunteering to walk a precinct!

Contact Don Lowrie at Don@marikoyamada.net for more information or call 707-386-4282.

If you'd like a different assignment - there are plenty of opportunities to help out. Please let us know if you'd prefer to phone bank or help with mailings.

Web Site Updates

We've added a new photo gallery to our web site with high-resolution pictures of Mariko at work at the Board of Supervisors as well as out in the community with voters, friends and family. Please enjoy these new images

Lawn Signs Are On Their Way!

We've had a lot of calls for lawn signs, and thanks specifically to your internet donations we've placed an order to make sure you get your Mariko sign. This order would not have been possible without those of you who responded to our request for $100 donations over the last two weeks.

If you haven't had a chance to donate yet, please use the button below to ensure Mariko's name can be seen on lawns throughout the district!

Request a lawn sign

They won't be delivered for another week, but sign-up for your lawn sign early by emailing Don Lowrie at Don@marikoyamada.net. Don't forget - we'll need your address to make sure you get your sign.