Mariko Yamada, Democrat for State Assembly

October's Bright BLUE Weather

Fall has always been my favorite time of year. September's heat loosens its grip, making way for crisp October mornings. Nature's paintbrush colors the trees in bright yellows, vibrant oranges and fiery reds, framed by brilliant blue skies. These "landscape pictures" always please my eyes.

Unfortunately, amidst all this natural beauty, there is also undeniable human misery staring us in the face. Rising unemployment and crime, families displaced by the mortgage meltdown, a dysfunctional state budget process ending in a repeat assault on the most vulnerable Californians, reductions in basic social services at a time when demand is peaking and providers can simply do no more - is there any end in sight?

The depth and complexity of our problems is simply breathtaking. With California in crisis, we need leaders with common sense, conviction, and the personal independence to work for change in Sacramento.

I cannot promise to solve every problem, but I do promise to focus on these priorities:

• Reforming the state budget process
• Universal, single-payer healthcare for all Californians
• Supporting educators by evaluating against flexible goals rather than "one-size-fits-all" standards
• Food safety and security through "field-to-fork" monitoring
• Tax incentives for small business so that all may thrive
• Front-end investment in crime prevention programs
• Strengthening emergency and disaster preparedness by ensuring that our first responders are fully equipped and protected

Our State also faces the twin explosions of autism and Alzheimer's disease. The services, housing, and transportation needs for families with autistic children, disabled adults and seniors are increasing rapidly, and their caregivers need relief and support. We can improve programs serving these populations and their families by integrating and streamlining services. If we don't, those most in need will suffer even more.

The challenges ahead are enormous and will require great strength, courage, and balance. My commitment to work hard on your behalf is as perennial as fall's fierce colors and October's bright blue skies. As we move forward to Election Day, Tuesday, November 4, I thank you for your encouragement and continuing support!

Help fill in Mariko's Dance Card at Her Birthday Soul Jam 2008!

We'll be groovin' at the Three Oaks Community Center on Saturday, October 4, 2008, 1100 Alamo Drive, Vacaville, CA 95687 from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Join Mariko and the San Francisco "Soul Brothers Band" for an evening of food, fun, and dancing to her favorite R & B and Old School music. Tickets are $25, and may be purchased at the door. Please R.S.V.P. to Chris Jansen at cjansenconsulting@gmail.com or by calling 916-706-1404.

See you there!

Mariko's October Campaign Calendar

We have a busy month coming up with multiple debates and forums throughout the region

WHEN: Wednesday, October 1, 2008
6:30 p.m. Social 7:00 p.m. Debate
WHERE:Woodland Community College, Community Room Building 800
2300 E. Gibson Road, Woodland, CA 95776
WHO: Co-sponsored by Woodland Community College and
Latino Community Council

WHEN: Saturday, October 4, 2008
2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
2-3 General Reception, 3-5 Program, 5-6 VIP Reception
WHERE:Sacramento Asian Sport Foundation
9040 High Tech Court, Elk Grove, CA 95758
WHO: Asian Pacific Islander American Public Affairs Association

WHEN: Saturday, October 11, 2008
9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
10:45 a.m. - 8th Assembly District Candidates
WHERE:Benicia City Council Chambers
250 East L. Street, Benicia, CA 94510
WHO: League of Women Voters, Benicia
American Association of University Women,
Benicia-Vallejo Chapter

WHEN: Wednesday, October 15, 2008
7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
WHERE:Davis Community Chambers
23 Russell Boulevard, Davis, CA 95616
WHO: League of Women Voters, Davis

Hope to see you soon!