POA and FFA Independent Expenditures in 2010 Campaign

I just learned what was spent by the LB Police Officer's Association (POA) and the Long Beach Firefighters Association (FFA) on independent expenditures during the last 2010 campaign for council, City Prosecutor, City Attorney and Mayor.

An independent expenditures means just that -- independent of the candidate's campaigns.

I knew the Firefighters had paid @ $1440 to have campaign signs printed for my campaign -- because they brought a stack of them after they had distributed them to their members.

I did not know however, (until I read the report today) that the POA spent @$1,200 to place my name on two slate mailers which go out to high propensity voters (voters most likely to vote in a city election).

So here are the links if you want to read the entire reports on what was given in 2010.
Firefighters Expenditures

POA Expenditures

Working with Traffic Engineering and Police on 7th Street Closure

I met with the city Traffic Engineer and a representative from OCTA yesterday to discuss what I observed as impact of the closure of the 7th Street bridge by OCTA. The signage is confusing both on the freeway and on our city streets. This will be corrected.

Additionally, we need police in the morning and the evening to help guide drivers until they become accustomed to the closures.

I also requested a no u-turn sign at Willow and Palo Verde to discourage drivers unfamiliar with the area to turn around after they get off the 405.

Several problems occurred yesterday -- CSULB came back to school and there was a police action at Bellflower and 7th -- greatly causing congestion. Additionally, some drivers apparently thought that the 604 north bound was also closed and it was not.

This closure will take some time for adjustment. I want to assure readers that the City traffic department, the LBPD and OCTA are working together to make this situation as painless as possible.

Yes, my life flashed before my eyes...

Ok. I admit it. I hate fast cars and rollercoasters so it was amazing that I said yes last week when I was invited to take a spin in a race car in front of the students at Cubberly Elementary. I will spare you the impact the short ride had on me...but yes, my life indeed flashed before my eyes as the driver took me around two laps in the parking lot.