Class spends day at the Capital

JUNE 2008 - What happens each day in our State Capitol has an impact on Stockton and San Joaquin County . That is why Leadership Stockton devoted an entire day to looking at the legislative process in Sacramento and it relationship with our region.

The class departed Stockton by bus and arrived in Sacramento at 9 a.m. Our home for the day was a hearing room on the first floor, graciously arranged by Assemblymember Greg Aghazarian’s Office, which we had all to ourselves.

To kick off the day the class began with observing lawmaking in action, as the class spent the next hour and a half observing the Assembly and Senate in action. Some even got a glimpse of Geraldo Rivera who was a guest on the Assembly floor. The process was entertaining, eye-opening and a learning experience for all.

After the visits to both Chambers, the class received an overview of the Office of Emergency Services by Mark Johnson, Interim Regional Administrator, Inland Region. Mark spoke of the mission of the OES as well as how their operations integrate with local emergency response. It is easy to see why California is a leader in this area.

To bring what the class had seen earlier into perspective, Gail Delihant, Legislative Director/Senior Aide for Assemblymember Aghazarian provided the class with an overview of the lawmaking process. We learned how legislation is created and the process works, what the Assemblymember is working on currently in his last year and little bits of information on how things really work in the Capitol. Gail’s 20+ years of experience at the State Capitol was invaluable and her passion for her job was inspiring for all.

During lunch in the Capitol’s basement, Assemblymember Aghazarian stopped by to speak to the class. On his way back to the district, Greg answered questions from the class, spoke about his future and shared his support of the Leadership Stockton program.

Following lunch the class enjoyed a guided tour of the Capitol. From historical places to modern-day politics, the class got an inside look at the inner workings of the Capitol and our legislative system. We were even fortunate enough to enter the Senate chambers and view it from ground level. The history and stories were fascinating.

We wrapped up the day with a briefing from the great legislative aides of Assemblymember Cathleen Galgiani. We got an update on Cathleen’s legislation as well as a look at what her team does day to day.

The last half hour was given to free time, allowing class members time to roam the halls of the Capitol, stop by the gift shop or grab a snack. It turned out to be a great day for Leadership Stockton, and the future community leaders of our region.

I would like to thank the following for their contribution to the success of this session: Greg Aghazarian and his wonderful staff (Gail and Rebecca) for all of their assistance; and the great staff from Assemblymember Cathleen Galgiani’s office.

See us here next month as we recap our final session and graduation to be held on June 12th.

If you would like more info on Leadership Stockton, applying for next years class or wish to sponsor a future session, please contact Wes Rhea at 547-2770 or leadership@stocktonchamber.org or visit www.LeadershipStockton.com