Looking to volunteer this Thanksgiving? Here's just a few organizations that could use some volunteer help this week.

Food on Foot

BIG Thanksgiving Celebration
Thursday (11/22) from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
1625 N. Schrader Avenue, Hollywood, California
For more info, visit the website or contact: Jay Goldinger, Founder (310) 442-0088

Westside Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving Day
Wednesday (11/21) from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Thursday all day.
Santa Monica Civic Auditorium, 1855 Main Street
For more info, visit the website or call: (310)394-3153

Los Angeles Mission

Thanksgiving
Wednesday (11/21) and Thursday (11/22) all day
Los Angeles Mission, 303 East 5th Street, Los Angeles
For more info, visit the website or call: (213) 629-1227

Union Rescue Mission

Thanksgiving Celebration
Wednesday (11/21), 11 a.m.
545 San Pedro St, Los Angeles, CA 90013
For more info, visit the website or call: (213) 347-6300 

Gobble Gobble Give

Thanksgiving
Thursday (11/22) setup begins at 7 a.m., event begins at 10 a.m.
The Echo Nightclub - 1822 W Sunset Blvd, LA, CA 90026
For more info, visit the website or contact: turkeycrew@gobblegobblegive.org

Fred Jordan Missions

Banquet in the streets of Skid Row
Thursday (11/22)
For more info, visit the website or call: (626) 915-1981

Fruit Gallery

Feed the Beach
Thanksgiving day (11/22)
1 Westminster Avenue, Venice, CA 90291
For more info, visit the website or call: (310) 452-3034

Union Station Homeless Serv.

Dinner in the Park
Thursday (11/22) at 10 a.m.
Pasadena’s Central Park, 275 S. Raymond Avenue, Pasadena
For more info, visit the website or contact: dinnerinthepark@unionstationhs.org

Elected and Community Leaders Choose Greuel As Best Candidate for Mayor

LOS ANGELES — Today Wendy Greuel announced that she has been endorsed by a broad group of Latino leaders from across Los Angeles, including some of the most well-respected community and elected leaders in the city.

Joining Latino civil rights icon Dolores Huerta and a growing list of endorsers are City Councilmember and Congressmember-elect Tony Cardenas, State Sen. Alex Padilla, City Councilmember José Huizar, Assemblymember Felipe Fuentes, LAUSD Board Member Nury Martinez, and Assemblymember-elect Raul Bocenegra.

Also endorsing Greuel were more than 50 community leaders and activists such as Gisselle Acevedo Franco, former President and CEO of Para Los Niños; Tania Aguilar, Editor of La Voz Libre; Ruben Guerra, Chairman of the Latin Business Association; Martha Diaz-Aszkenazy, Chair of the Economic Alliance of the San Fernando Valley; Irma Munoz, founder and President of Mujeres de la Tierra; Michael Nogueira, President of the Eagle Rock Chamber of Commerce; Maria Casillas, former president of Families in School; Mary Garcia, president of the Mid-Town North Hollywood Neighborhood Council; Ana Perez, president of the National Latina Business Women Association - Los Angeles; Alex Guerrero, a Valley Industry and Commerce Association Board Member; Ari Ruiz, political vice-president at Stonewall Young Democrats; Dina Cervantes, president of San Fernando Valley Young Democrats; and Anthony Duarte, a California Democratic Party Regional Director*.

To view the full list, CLICK HERE.

"As a colleague, as a neighbor, and even as a former political rival, I am proud to support Wendy Greuel for Mayor for the City of Los Angeles. I have worked with Wendy as a Councilmember and as a Controller, and while we did not agree on every issue I can tell you she always brought integrity and intelligence to the discussion. I know that she is the candidate who will provide the leadership and fiscal responsibility we need to move our City forward, " said Cardenas, who will represent parts of the San Fernando Valley in Congress. "Wendy Greuel has always embraced the rich diversity of our City. Her election gives our city a historic opportunity and I know she will do an exceptional job representing the needs of all Angelenos when she becomes our City's leader."

"Wendy Greuel has a decades-long record of leadership and public service. From her time working with Mayor Bradley to her time in the Clinton Administration, Wendy has always delivered for the Valley and the City," said Padilla, who also represents the Valley. "And her experience in the private sector gives her a valuable perspective on job creation and one of the city's most important economic engines."

“I worked with Wendy on the City Council and whether it was making the City more business friendly or fixing our streets, she has shown that she knows how to get Los Angeles back on track,” said Huizar, whose district includes Downtown, Boyle Heights, El Sereno, Highland Park and Eagle Rock.

"I was proud to work with Wendy Greuel to extend California's Film Tax Credit and ensure that we're keeping jobs here in Los Angeles. For years, she's fought to help businesses across the city and get folks working again," said Fuentes.

"Wendy Greuel has a deep commitment to ensure our schools prepare children for the future," Martinez said. "Wendy knows first-hand the challenges our schools face, because she is an active parent who sends her son to their neighborhood public school. As moms with a personal stake in the quality of our schools, Wendy and I have worked together to get more resources to the classroom."

"Wendy Greuel has fought to bring economic investment to the Valley and bring accountability and transparency to government. I'm confident she'll be able to give Los Angeles' economy the spark it needs," said Bocanegra.

“I am honored to receive the support of so many leaders in the Latino community,” Greuel said. “Like all Angelenos, these leaders want to create good schools, safe neighborhoods, and good, family wage jobs. I look forward to continuing to fight for our shared values.”

The endorsements give Greuel a boost in a mayoral race where Greuel holds a lead in most public polls. Today's endorsers join a host of leaders who are already supporting Greuel, including City Councilmember Bill Rosendahl and former City Controllers Laura Chick and Rick Tuttle, former Assembly Speaker Bob Hertzberg, civil rights and labor icon Dolores Huerta, civil rights trailblazer John Mack, and State Sen. Fran Pavley.

For more information about the Wendy Greuel for Mayor campaign, click here.

• Titles for identification purposes only.

Greuel Wins Key Endorsement

Los Angeles, CA — Today Wendy Greuel announced that she has earned the support of U.S. Sen. Barbara Boxer in her bid to be Los Angeles’ next mayor.

“I've known Wendy Greuel for two decades. Wendy is a proven leader who will focus on revitalizing our economy and creating jobs. I look forward to working with Wendy on priorities such as continuing to build a world class transportation system for the people of Los Angeles,” said Boxer.

“This year, we made history by electing unprecedented numbers of women to the House and Senate. Next year, Angelenos can make history by electing Wendy Greuel as the first woman to serve as Mayor of Los Angeles."

“I am extremely grateful for Senator Boxer’s support of my campaign,” said Controller Greuel. “Senator Boxer is one of our state’s most respected and accomplished leaders, and she's been a trailblazer on so many issues, including her tireless efforts to create a modern and seamless transportation system across Los Angeles and California. I look forward to working with her in this campaign and beyond to stimulate job growth and expand our economy, fix our schools, and rebuild our infrastructure.”

Boxer enjoys strong support in the city of Los Angeles, winning 70.3% of the vote in her 2010 reelection bid. Boxer was first elected to the Senate during 1992's "Year of the Woman," after serving 10 years in the House of Representatives. Boxer rose to become the first woman to chair the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, which oversees a wide range of infrastructure and environmental policy, including transportation programs and air and water quality issues. She also chairs the Senate Select Committee on Ethics and is a senior member of the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee and the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

Boxer joins a host of leaders who are already supporting Greuel, including Los Angeles City Councilmembers Tony Cardenas, Bill Rosendahl and Jose Huizar, State Senators Fran Pavley and Alex Padilla, Assemblymembers Bonnie Lowenthal, Felipe Fuentes, Nancy Skinner and Betsy Butler, former City Controllers Laura Chick and Rick Tuttle, former Assembly Speaker Bob Hertzberg, civil rights and labor icon Dolores Huerta, civil rights trailblazer John Mack and New York Governor Andrew Cuomo.

More than 500 women have joined Women with Wendy, the grassroots effort to mobilize women to elect Greuel as the first woman Mayor of Los Angeles. That list can be found HERE.

For more information about the Wendy Greuel for Mayor campaign, click HERE.

Greuel Picks Up Major Labor Endorsement in Campaign for Mayor

LOS ANGELES — Propelling her Mayoral campaign forward with a big boost of energy for the final months of 2012, today Los Angeles City Controller Wendy Greuel won a coveted labor endorsement from the Painters and Allied Trades District Council 36.

“We are pleased to strongly and enthusiastically endorse Wendy Greuel for Mayor,” said Robert Smith, Political Director of the Painters and Allied Trades District Council 36. “It’s time for a major overhaul and a real transformation of our city government, and there is nobody better suited to lead that movement than Wendy. Her broad resume of experience working in government and in the private sector, coupled with her comprehensive understanding of our local economy provides her with the necessary knowledge and skills needed from our next Mayor to help spur economic growth and create more good paying middle class jobs in Los Angeles. We are confident that she’ll be an outstanding Mayor and a strong voice for the residents of our city.”

“I am deeply honored to have such an important and early endorsement from the Painters and Allied Trades District Council 36,” said Controller Greuel. “Their endorsement illustrates my commitment to working people and to helping to grow the middle class in Los Angeles. It also shows my dedication to taking my experience as our city’s Controller, fighting to root-out waste, fraud, and abuse in government, along with my background of creating jobs through my work as a Councilwoman and in the private sector, to once again make our city a hub for economic innovation and growth.”

The Painters and Allied Trades District Council 36 represent more than 11,000 working men and women in Southern California who work in finishing trades and include Painters, Drywall Finishers, Glaziers, Floor-layers, and Tradeshow and sign-craft workers.

Wow! The response to Senator Boxer’s endorsement of our campaign has been fantastic!

Here are just a few of the positive notes I received:

Sherri A. So thrilled that Barbara Boxer has endorsed Wendy Greuel! Can't wait for more of my friends to meet her and share my commitment to having Wendy elected as our next Mayor!

Don S. Good for Barbara Boxer. She sees in you what Prudy and I see. You WILL be the first woman Mayor for the City of Los Angeles, and Los Angeles will be far better off once you take office in that capacity.

Pamela A. I am very happy about Senator Boxer's endorsement of you for Mayor! I am already verbally working for you in my neighborhood. We need Mayor Wendy Greuel.

Julie R. You are the best candidate without a doubt! I hope every man and woman in L.A. recognizes your healing powers to make this city work and at the same time be honest and fair all along the way. This is a rare combination and you are the only one that can do this.

Arlene M. That's fantastic Wendy! I love Barbara Boxer and her endorsement is wonderful for you... YOU'VE GOT MY VOTE!!!

With your support, we will win this election in just 95 days.

Join Senator Boxer and the many other members of Team Wendy – please endorse my campaign today.

Let’s rebuild and revitalize our great city – together.

Thanks,

Wendy

What a week! With just over three months until Election Day and thanks to your support, Wendy’s campaign has the momentum in this race.

I’m sure you saw the big endorsement from Senator Barbara Boxer, but that’s not all that happened last week.

Here are just a few of the highlights:

• Wendy earned the endorsement of prominent Latino elected leaders: City Councilmember and Congressmember-elect Tony Cardenas, State Senator Alex Padilla, City Councilmember José Huizar, Assemblymember Felipe Fuentes, LAUSD Board Member Nury Martinez, Assemblymember-elect Raul Bocenegra and dozens of community leaders.
  
  These leaders joined civil rights icon Dolores Huerta to kick off Latinos With Wendy. Learn more about these endorsements and endorse Wendy.

• Wendy won the endorsement from the Painters and Allied Trades District Council 36. Their support highlights her commitment to creating family-wage jobs and rebuilding LA’s economy.

• And, today, a new poll was released in the Mayor’s race that shows Wendy winning a general election runoff against Eric Garcetti.
  
  This poll shows what we already know, and why your support right now is critical: this race will go down to the wire. The November poll, by the Center for the Study of Los Angeles, shows Wendy winning with 50.6% of the voters.

Wendy has momentum, but we need to keep it up to win in March. Join Team Wendy today – endorse her for Mayor right now.

Already on the team? Share your endorsement with your friends and family on Facebook– tell them you’re supporting Wendy Greuel for Mayor of Los Angeles.

Let’s win this.

Thanks,

Rose KapolczynskiWendy Greuel for Mayor

The Latina Lawyers Political Action Committee (LLPAC) announced today that it will endorse Wendy Greuel in her candidacy for the Mayor of Los Angeles.

LLPAC was founded in 2002 with the goal to support and elect public officials who advocate the need to hire, promote, and retain Latinas in all professions. LLPAC seeks to influence good public policy and the election of public officials who will improve the City of Los Angeles and the communities across the City for all of its residents.

“LLPAC supports Wendy’s vision to make Los Angeles, once again, the world leader in business and technology. More importantly, as Latinas, we believe Wendy recognizes the critical role Latinas must play in that effort and we are proud to give her our endorsement,” said President Cristina Perez Gonzalez.

“It’s an honor to receive the endorsement of the LLPAC,” said Controller Greuel. “They are dedicated and committed to the advancement of their profession and community, and their leadership is so important to Los Angeles. I look forward to working with them to improve this City.”

Greuel’s campaign has growing support in the Latino community and across the City. She was recently endorsed by a broad group of elected and community leaders, including: civil rights and labor icon Dolores Huerta, City Councilmember and Congressmember-elect Tony Cardenas, State Senator Alex Padilla, City Councilmember José Huizar, Assemblymember Felipe Fuentes, LAUSD Board Member Nury Martinez, Assemblymember-elect Raul Bocenegra, City Councilmember Bill Rosendahl, State Senator Fran Pavley, former City Controller Laura Chick and former City Controller Rick Tuttle, former Assembly Speaker Bob Hertzberg, and civil rights trailblazer John Mack.

Greuel Earns Major Endorsement

Los Angeles, CA — Today Wendy Greuel announced that Supervisor Gloria Molina has endorsed her campaign to be Los Angeles' next mayor.

"I know that Wendy Greuel will be a leader for all of Los Angeles as Mayor and that's why I'm endorsing her today. Wendy Greuel will focus on creating jobs, reducing traffic congestion, and strengthening our public schools," said Supervisor Molina. "As Controller, she's been the taxpayer's watchdog, uncovering waste, fraud and inefficiency. I was proud to make history by being the first Latina elected to the Assembly, the LA City Council and the Board of Supervisors. I urge Angelenos to join me in making history once again and electing Wendy Greuel as Mayor of Los Angeles."

"It is such an honor to receive this endorsement from Supervisor Molina," said Greuel. "She has been an inspiration to me just as has she has been to people across Los Angeles. She is the model of what an elected leader should be: A champion for her community and her constituents. Whether it has been building hospitals, creating parks, expanding public transportation or working to end homelessness, she has become one of Los Angeles' most effective leaders. I look forward to working with her to confront the many challenges facing L.A."

Molina was elected as a State Assemblymember in 1982 and a Los Angeles City Councilmember in 1987 before being elected to the Board of Supervisors, and in all three cases she was the first Latina to hold the office. Molina is widely seen as an successful reformer whose efforts have brought real change to the areas she represents. She has secured parks and open space in urban areas across her district including the new Grand Park in Downtown Los Angeles, scored funding for the major Metro Gold Line extension, and was key to building the County-USC Medical Center. She has been reelected as Supervisor five times.

Molina's is the latest high-profile leader to endorse Greuel's campaign. Greuel recently received endorsements from U.S. Sen. Barbara Boxer, the Latina Lawyers PAC and elected and community Latino leaders across the city including civil rights icon Dolores Huerta. Her growing list of supporters include Los Angeles City Councilmembers Tony Cardenas, Bill Rosendahl and Jose Huizar, State Senators Fran Pavley and Alex Padilla, Assemblymembers Bonnie Lowenthal, Felipe Fuentes, Nancy Skinner, former City Controllers Laura Chick and Rick Tuttle, former Assembly Speaker Bob Hertzberg, civil rights trailblazer John Mack and New York Governor Andrew Cuomo.

More than 500 women have joined Women with Wendy, the grassroots effort to mobilize women to elect Greuel as the first woman Mayor of Los Angeles. That list can be found HERE. And the full list of Latinos with Wendy, a broad group of elected, community, business and education leaders from around the city, can be found HERE.

For more information about the Wendy Greuel for Mayor campaign, click HERE.

Greuel Builds Momentum Among Working Men and Women

Los Angeles, CA — The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers District Lodge 947 announced today that it will endorse Wendy Greuel in her campaign for Mayor of Los Angeles, becoming the 10th union to endorse her campaign and helping her pull away from the other mayoral candidates in labor support.

"Wendy Greuel has been a friend to working men and women her entire career, and she'll be a tough fighter of all of Los Angeles as the city's next mayor," said District Lodge 947 business representative Janet Schabow. "She has fought to make government more accountable, to stimulate our economy and help businesses thrive, and along the way she's stuck up for our values — protecting workers' rights, keeping good paying jobs here in LA, protecting collective bargaining and ensuring access to affordable healthcare. She has our enthusiastic support."

"I am so pleased to have the endorsement of IAM District Lodge 947. They literally keep our city running, and I'm proud they have joined our broad coalition to get LA working again," Greuel said. "Jumpstarting our economy begins with making sure our workers are treated fairly, and I'm excited to partner with District Lodge 947 and the many other unions that have endorsed me to confront the challenges facing our city."

Machinists and Aerospace Workers District Lodge 947 represents six local lodges and workers in a variety of industries across Los Angeles. They are the latest in a growing list of unions to endorse Greuel. Other union endorsements include the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, Moving Picture Technicians, Artists and Allied Crafts (IATSE), United Steel Workers (USW), International Longshore & Warehouse Union (ILWU) Southern California District Council, International Longshore & Warehouse Union (ILWU) Local 63 Marine Clerks, Painters and Allied Trades District Council 36, the Utility Worker of America Local 132, Transportation Communications Union (TCU) Local 1315, Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 1277, and the Operating Engineers Local 501.

Greuel also has growing support from elected and community leaders around the city, including endorsements from U.S. Sen. Barbara Boxer, Supervisor Gloria Molina, civil rights icon Dolores Huerta, Los Angeles City Councilmembers Tony Cardenas, Bill Rosendahl and Jose Huizar, State Senators Fran Pavley and Alex Padilla, Assemblymembers Bonnie Lowenthal, Felipe Fuentes and Nancy Skinner, former City Controllers Laura Chick and Rick Tuttle, former Assembly Speaker Bob Hertzberg, and civil rights trailblazer John Mack.

For more information about the Wendy Greuel for Mayor campaign, click here.

Powerful Endorsement from Influential & Celebrated Congresswoman Helps Greuel in Harbor Community

Los Angeles, CA — Wendy Greuel announced today that she has earned the endorsement of U.S. Congresswoman Janice Hahn. Congresswoman Hahn was recently re-elected to Congress to represent California’s new 44th Congressional District, which stretches from South Gate and Watts down to San Pedro. 

Coming off of her resounding success in her re-election campaign, Congresswoman Hahn's endorsement carries significant clout among voters in the Harbor community, particularly in San Pedro, where Hahn won 81% of the vote, and in Wilmington, where she garnered 79% of the vote.

Previously, Congresswoman Hahn represented California’s old 36th Congressional District, and before then, she served on the Los Angeles City Council and represented the 15th Council District for over a decade. In Congress, Hahn has been instrumental in creating the bipartisan PORTS Caucus in Congress, which puts a spotlight on creating jobs at American ports, port security, and expanding international trade.

"I've known Wendy Greuel for close to 15 years and I know that as mayor she will stand up for Angelenos all across the city," said Congresswoman Hahn. "Her entire career she's fought for the issues important to San Pedro, Wilmington, the Harbor Gateway and all of LA: creating jobs, making government more accountable, turning Los Angeles into a sustainable city with a modern transportation system, and having a world-class port that is the nation's busiest — and its most environmentally conscious. Let's help her make history by becoming Los Angeles' first woman mayor, it's about time."

"Janice Hahn is one of Los Angeles' most accomplished leaders, and I'm honored to have her support," said Greuel. "As a Councilwoman and now as a Congresswoman, she has cleaned up America's busiest port and protected the environment in and around LA, and she has stood with working families over and over again. I look forward to partnering with her to make Los Angeles a green city with good paying jobs for all Angelenos."

Hahn is the latest in a string of key elected and community leaders to endorses Greuel, and adds to Greuel's growing coalition in communities all across Los Angeles. Greuel recently earned support from U.S. Sen. Barbara Boxer, Supervisor Gloria Molina, civil rights icon Dolores Huerta, Congressman-elect Tony Cardenas, City Councilmembers José Huizar and Bill Rosendahl, State Senators Fran Pavley and Alex Padilla, State Assemblymembers Bonnie Lowenthal, Felipe Fuentes and Nancy Skinner, former City Controllers Laura Chick and Rick Tuttle, former Assembly Speaker Bob Hertzberg, and civil rights trailblazer John Mack.

More than 500 women have joined Women with Wendy, the grassroots effort to mobilize women to elect Greuel as the first woman Mayor of Los Angeles. That list can be found here.

For more information about the Wendy Greuel for Mayor campaign go to www.wendygreuel.org

LOS ANGELES, CA — Today Los Angeles City Controller Wendy Greuel announced that she has earned the support of California’s top legislative leader Assembly Speaker John A. Pérez in her bid to become Mayor of Los Angeles.

“I have known Wendy for more than a decade and I know she understands how to get things done,” said Speaker Pérez, whose district includes Downtown, Koreatown, and parts of East and South Los Angeles. “Throughout her career Wendy Greuel has fought to create jobs, return million of dollars to small businesses, and improve Los Angeles’ streets and public transit system. Wendy understands the needs of working people and of business owners alike and can bring them together to rebuild our economy. Wendy will be a fighter for Angelenos across the city and she has my enthusiastic support."

“Speaker Pérez is one of our state’s most influential leaders and I am honored to receive his support,” said Greuel. “ He has worked tirelessly to ensure California's economy recovers and grows, making tough decisions that helped bring the state's fiscal house in order, fighting to increase college affordability and opportunity, and jumpstarting efforts to bring new business and jobs to California. Speaker Pérez has been a tremendous leader for our city and our state, and I am delighted to have his support for our efforts to make Los Angeles an even greater place to live, work and do business.”

Speaker Pérez has overseen a historic turnaround in the state's finances, eliminating multi-billion dollar budget deficits while saving hundreds of thousands of jobs and preserving essential services for Californians. Under his leadership Democrats gained a two-thirds majority in the Assembly in November for the first time in more than 30 years. Pérez has worked with business and labor leaders to pave the way for a deal to build an NFL stadium in Downtown Los Angeles, a project expected to create more than 20,000 jobs. He authored legislation to create California’s first-in-the-nation Health Benefits Exchange and to establish GO-Biz, a central point of contact for California businesses to help spur jobs and investment. Pérez was the first openly gay person elected to the position of Assembly Speaker in the country, and has long been an advocate for the LGBT community. Pérez has been active in Los Angeles in the fight against HIV/AIDS, and served both President Bill Clinton and President George W. Bush on the President's Advisory Council on HIV/AIDS.

Today’s endorsement comes on the heels of recent endorsements from U.S. Senator Barbara Boxer, Los Angeles County Supervisor Gloria Molina, and Congresswoman Janice Hahn. Other elected officials and community leaders already supporting Greuel include: civil rights and labor icon Dolores Huerta, Congressman-elect and Los Angeles City Councilmember Tony Cardenas, Los Angeles City Councilmembers Bill Rosendahl and José Huizar, State Senators Fran Pavley and Alex Padilla, Assemblymembers Bonnie Lowenthal, Felipe Fuentes and Nancy Skinner, former City Controllers Laura Chick and Rick Tuttle, former Assembly Speaker Bob Hertzberg, civil rights trailblazer John Mack and New York Governor Andrew Cuomo.

For more information about the Wendy Greuel for Mayor campaign, go to www.wendygreuel.org.

Greuel Leading the Field in Endorsements From Working Men and Women

Los Angeles, CA — The United Association of Plumbers Local 78 announced that they will endorse Wendy Greuel for mayor, adding to Greuel's strong support from working men and women across Los Angeles.

"Wendy Greuel has stood up for working men and women over and over again, and she has the experience and the vision to get Los Angeles' economy moving again and create good-paying jobs," said UA 78 business manager Gary Cook. "She'll be a great mayor for all of Los Angeles by creating a modern public transit system, improving our schools, and making sure jobs are staying here in LA. She has our complete support."

"It's an honor to be endorsed by UA Plumbers Local 78," said Greuel. "They are some of the hardest working men and women in the city, and they know what it takes to keep a LA running. Creating and keeping good jobs here in Los Angeles starts with partnering with working men and women across the city, and I'm excited to work with UA Plumbers Local 78 to make LA a place of opportunity for workers and families all over the city."

UA 78 represents plumbers across the city. They are the latest in a growing list of unions to endorse Greuel. Other union endorsements include the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, Moving Picture Technicians, Artists and Allied Crafts (IATSE), United Steel Workers (USW), International Longshore & Warehouse Union (ILWU) Southern California District Council, International Longshore & Warehouse Union (ILWU) Local 63 Marine Clerks, Painters and Allied Trades District Council 36, the Utility Worker of America Local 132, Transportation Communications Union (TCU) Local 1315, Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 1277, the Operating Engineers Local 501, and Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) District Lodge 947.

Greuel also has growing support from elected and community leaders around the city, including endorsements from U.S. Senator Barbara Boxer, Congresswoman Janice Hahn, Los Angeles County Supervisor Gloria Molina, Assembly Speaker John A. Pérez, State Senators Fran Pavley and Alex Padilla, Assemblymembers Bonnie Lowenthal, Felipe Fuentes and Nancy Skinner, Congressman-elect and Los Angeles City Councilmember Tony Cardenas, Los Angeles City Councilmembers Bill Rosendahl and José Huizar, former City Controllers Laura Chick and Rick Tuttle, former Assembly Speaker Bob Hertzberg, civil rights icon Dolores Huerta, and civil rights trailblazer John Mack.

For more information about the Wendy Greuel for Mayor campaign, go to www.wendygreuel.org.

As I learned of the news from Connecticut yesterday, my heart broke.

My heart broke for the children and teachers who were killed; for the families that were crushed; and for those who knew the perpetrator, who will be forever haunted wondering if they could have seen it coming.

As a mother of a nine-year-old in public school, I wanted to do nothing more than to hug my son, knowing that he was safe.

As a leader in our community, I know that we can do better. As a longtime supporter of Women Against Gun Violence here in LA, we can do more to stop gun violence. We can do more to save lives and prevent needless suffering.

It's time for Congress to take action. A good start would be passing legislation renewing Senator Dianne Feinstein's ban on assault weapons and a ban on high capacity ammunition magazines.

I'm proud to support New York's Mayor Michael Bloomberg and the Mayors Against Illegal Guns in demanding common-sense gun laws that close the loopholes that put these dangerous weapons in the wrong hands. As your Mayor, I will join these Mayors across the country and play an active role in pushing Congress to act.

Please join me in calling on Congress to take immediate action. We must not delay. We must not wait until another community is devastated by gun violence.

~ Wendy

Greuel Leading the Field in Endorsements From Working Men and Women

Los Angeles, CA — The United Association of Plumbers Local 78 announced that they will endorse Wendy Greuel for mayor, adding to Greuel's strong support from working men and women across Los Angeles.

"Wendy Greuel has stood up for working men and women over and over again, and she has the experience and the vision to get Los Angeles' economy moving again and create good-paying jobs," said UA 78 business manager Gary Cook. "She'll be a great mayor for all of Los Angeles by creating a modern public transit system, improving our schools, and making sure jobs are staying here in LA. She has our complete support."

"It's an honor to be endorsed by UA Plumbers Local 78," said Greuel. "They are some of the hardest working men and women in the city, and they know what it takes to keep a LA running. Creating and keeping good jobs here in Los Angeles starts with partnering with working men and women across the city, and I'm excited to work with UA Plumbers Local 78 to make LA a place of opportunity for workers and families all over the city."

UA 78 represents plumbers across the city. They are the latest in a growing list of unions to endorse Greuel. Other union endorsements include the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, Moving Picture Technicians, Artists and Allied Crafts (IATSE), United Steel Workers (USW), International Longshore & Warehouse Union (ILWU) Southern California District Council, International Longshore & Warehouse Union (ILWU) Local 63 Marine Clerks, Painters and Allied Trades District Council 36, the Utility Worker of America Local 132, Transportation Communications Union (TCU) Local 1315, Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 1277, the Operating Engineers Local 501, and Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) District Lodge 947.

Greuel also has growing support from elected and community leaders around the city, including endorsements from U.S. Senator Barbara Boxer, Congresswoman Janice Hahn, Los Angeles County Supervisor Gloria Molina, Assembly Speaker John A. Pérez, State Senators Fran Pavley and Alex Padilla, Assemblymembers Bonnie Lowenthal, Felipe Fuentes and Nancy Skinner, Congressman-elect and Los Angeles City Councilmember Tony Cardenas, Los Angeles City Councilmembers Bill Rosendahl and José Huizar, former City Controllers Laura Chick and Rick Tuttle, former Assembly Speaker Bob Hertzberg, civil rights icon Dolores Huerta, and civil rights trailblazer John Mack.

For more information about the Wendy Greuel for Mayor campaign, go to www.wendygreuel.org.

Community Leaders From Across Los Angeles Choose Greuel As Best Candidate for Mayor

LOS ANGELES — Today Wendy Greuel announced that she has been endorsed by a broad group of Armenian leaders from across Los Angeles.

The leaders include some of the most well-respected voices in the Armenian community and will form an "Armenians with Wendy" committee. The supporters include former California Supreme Court Justice Armand Arabian, California Courier publisher Harut Sassounian, Michael Mahdesian, Natalie Mahdesian, Lily Balian, Pacific Horizon Bancorp owner Houry Aposhian, EDN Aviation Vice President Nishan Bostanian, Sherman Oaks Chamber of Commerce Past President Carrie E. Konjoyan, Reverend Joe Matossian, attorneys Ara and Sandy Bedrosian, Raffy Astvasadoorian, Esq., and Vahe Karapetian.

To view the full list, CLICK HERE.

"Wendy Greuel has demonstrated that she will be a Mayor for all of Los Angeles," said former California Supreme Court Justice Armand Arabian. "Right now we need a mayor who is going to do whatever it takes to get our economy back on track and make city government accountable to the people. Wendy is a true leader, and I'm proud to endorse her for mayor."

"I've worked with Wendy Greuel for years on issues important to the Armenian community and to people across Los Angeles. I know she will continue her work to be a fiscal watchdog and make sure we root out waste, fraud and abuse," said Harut Sassounian, publisher of The California Courier newspaper and a respected community leader. "Wendy has always celebrated Los Angeles' diversity, and she'll do a great job making sure no part of the city is left behind."

"To revitalize our economy needs bold leadership. Wendy Greuel has the leadership and experience to make the city's economy thrive again, " said Michael Mahdesian. "She knows that most new jobs are created by small businesses and wants to eliminate the business tax completely. She has my full support for mayor."

"Wendy Greuel is a lifelong Angeleno who has worked her whole career to create jobs, cultivate entrepreneurship and promote small business growth," said Lily Balian. "She'll bring a background of working in both the private and public sectors, and she has the experience to improve our schools and streets and make sure we have parks and clean air in every part of LA. She'll be a great mayor for the whole city."

"It's such an honor to receive the support of so many leaders in the Armenian community," Greuel said. "As Mayor, I'll work for a stronger economy that supports small businesses and creates jobs, a transportation system that is modern and efficient, schools that prepare our kids for the jobs of the 21st century, and a city government that is transparent and accountable to the taxpayers it serves. I'm excited to work with all of my Armenian supporters in this campaign."

The endorsements give Greuel a strong base of support in communities across the city. Today's endorsers join a host of leaders who are already supporting Greuel including U.S. Senator Barbara Boxer, Congresswoman Janice Hahn, Assembly Speaker John A. Pérez, State Senators Fran Pavley and Alex Padilla, Assemblymembers Bonnie Lowenthal, Felipe Fuentes and Nancy Skinner, Los Angeles County Supervisor Gloria Molina, Congressman-elect and Los Angeles City Councilmember Tony Cardenas, Los Angeles City Councilmembers Bill Rosendahl and José Huizar, former City Controllers Laura Chick and Rick Tuttle, former Assembly Speaker Bob Hertzberg, civil rights icon Dolores Huerta, and civil rights trailblazer John Mack.

In addition, Greuel's campaign has formed Latinos with Wendy, Women with Wendy, Valley Leaders with Wendy, and Conservationists with Wendy committees.

For more information about the Wendy Greuel for Mayor campaign, go to www.WendyGreuel.org.

• Titles for identification purposes only.

My heart is saddened by the loss of a true American Hero, Senator Daniel K. Inouye.

As our nation pauses to mourn his passing while he lies in state at the Capitol Rotunda, I am reminded of the significant contributions that he has made to our country. Senator Inouye was the second longest serving Senator in U.S. history and the first Japanese-American to serve in the U.S. Congress, and he led what became the most decorated infantry regiment in United States Army history.

His bravery in World War II cost him his arm but saved the lives of his platoon, and he was awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroism. That same passion and devotion to his country inspired him as a Senator to co-sponsor the Employment Non-Discrimination Act and other pro-equality legislation.

The Senator had deep roots in Los Angeles where he served on the Board of Governors for the Japanese American National Museum, an affiliate of the Smithsonian. His wife Irene Hirano Inouye served as its President and CEO from 1988-2009. Senator Inouye inspired many Asian American youth to find their voices, embrace their history and become activists and public servants. These contributions among others are just a few examples of his outstanding commitment and unwavering dedication to the United States. It seems fitting that his final word was “Aloha”. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and his wife Irene. Senator Inouye will be deeply missed, but his contributions and legacy will continue for generations to come.

Community Leaders From Key Constituency Rally Behind Greuel

LOS ANGELES — Further demonstrating her wide-ranging support among diverse communities across Los Angeles, today Wendy Greuel announced endorsements from more than 30 prominent Korean American community leaders in her Mayoral bid.

Included on the list are members of the Korean American Chamber of Commerce*, Korean American Democratic Committee*, Korean American Bar Association*, Korean American Federation*, Wilshire Center-Koreatown Neighborhood Council*, and the Koreatown Immigrant Workers Alliance*.

To view the full list, click HERE.

"Wendy is honest, smart, hard working and the exact person we need as our next Mayor," said Grace Yoo, Executive Director, Korean American Coalition*. "Wendy's driven to make LA a fiscally sound City. I know I can trust Wendy as she has always kept her word. I have the utmost respect for her and her integrity to serve the interests of all Angelenos."

"I support Wendy and her vision for a city where no one is left behind. Wendy has been active in the Korean community for years and has shown her leadership and support on the issues important to Korean Americans and all Angelenos," said Hyepin C. Im, President of the Korean Churches for Community Development*. "As Controller, Wendy has demonstrated her capacity to be a fiscal watchdog who can root out waste, fraud and abuse. Her past work in the city and federal levels of government, as well as the private sector, will be a major asset to Los Angeles. I look forward to working with her in building a city where all communities can be lifted up."

“For far too long, our community has been marginalized and virtually shut out of the political process in Los Angeles,” said Richard Kim, a Deputy Los Angeles City Attorney*, President of the Wilshire Center-Koreatown Neighborhood Council*, and former President of the Korean American Democratic Committee*. “That’s why we decided to band together and get behind Wendy Greuel. We know that as Mayor, she’ll be a bold voice for our community."

"I support Wendy Greuel as the mayor of Los Angeles because she'll be a leader for the whole city, and is someone who can manage Los Angeles and confront the city's challenges," said William Min, an attorney respected throughout the community. "I am confident that as Mayor, Wendy Greuel will be fair to all communities and she will represent the voice of everyone, not just a few."

“I am sincerely thankful for the support of so many Korean American leaders,” said Greuel. “I'm excited to work with all of these leaders to revitalize our economy and create jobs, improve our schools and increase park space across the city. I look forward to having this group of key leaders helping to build more and more support in the Korean American community in the coming months.”

The endorsements add to Greuel's strong support in every corner of the city. Today's endorsers join a host of leaders who are already supporting Greuel including U.S. Senator Barbara Boxer, Congresswoman Janice Hahn, Assembly Speaker John A. Pérez, State Senators Fran Pavley and Alex Padilla, Assemblymembers Bonnie Lowenthal, Felipe Fuentes and Nancy Skinner, Los Angeles County Supervisor Gloria Molina, Congressman-elect and Los Angeles City Councilmember Tony Cardenas, Los Angeles City Councilmembers Bill Rosendahl and José Huizar, former City Controllers Laura Chick and Rick Tuttle, former Assembly Speaker Bob Hertzberg, civil rights icon Dolores Huerta, and civil rights trailblazer John Mack.

In addition, Greuel's campaign has formed Latinos with Wendy, Women with Wendy, Armenians with Wendy, Valley Leaders with Wendy, and Conservationists with Wendy committees. Greuel has also earned support from 11 labor unions.

For more information about the Wendy Greuel for Mayor campaign, go to www.wendygreuel.org.

*Titles for identification purposes only.

History-Making Leader Declares Greuel is Best Choice for Mayor

LOS ANGELES — Annise Parker, Houston's popular two-term mayor, announced today that she is endorsing Wendy Greuel for mayor of Los Angeles.

Parker, who was first elected in 2009, has won broad praise for steering Houston through the economic recession. Houston has led the nation in job growth under her tenure, and Parker also successfully balanced Houston's budget while implementing a broad public infrastructure investment program. Before being elected mayor Parker served as Houston's City Controller.

"I know what it takes to confront the big challenges facing a big city, and I believe Wendy Greuel would be a tenacious fighter for all of Los Angeles," said Parker. "Wendy's priorities are creating jobs across the city and getting LA's economy back on track, building better schools, keeping LA neighborhoods safe, and making government more accountable to the people. I was proud to make history when I was elected mayor in Houston, and I'm proud to stand with Wendy Greuel as she tries to make history as Los Angeles' first woman mayor."

"I'm honored to have the endorsement of Mayor Annise Parker," said Greuel. "Mayor Parker has led Houston through the recession with incredible job gains and economic development, all while investing in public infrastructure and sustainability. As the former controller and a former businesswoman, she prioritized fiscal responsibility, balancing the budget while protecting core services and public safety jobs. She is a trailblazer and a role model, and I'm proud that she's supporting our campaign."

Parker made Houston the nation's biggest city to have an openly gay mayor when she was elected in 2009, and is also Houston's second woman mayor.

Parker is the latest high-profile leader to endorse Greuel's campaign. Other supporters include U.S. Senator Barbara Boxer, Congresswoman Janice Hahn, Assembly Speaker John A. Pérez, State Senators Fran Pavley and Alex Padilla, Assemblymembers Bonnie Lowenthal, Felipe Fuentes and Nancy Skinner, Los Angeles County Supervisor Gloria Molina, Congressman-elect and Los Angeles City Councilmember Tony Cardenas, Los Angeles City Councilmembers Bill Rosendahl and José Huizar, former Assembly Speaker Bob Hertzberg, former City Controllers Laura Chick and Rick Tuttle, civil rights icon Dolores Huerta, civil rights trailblazer John Mack and New York Governor Andrew Cuomo.

More than 500 women have joined Women with Wendy, the grassroots effort to mobilize women to elect Greuel as the first woman Mayor of Los Angeles. That list can be found HERE.

For more information about the Wendy Greuel for Mayor campaign, click here: www.WendyGreuel.org

With less than a month until vote-by-mail ballots go out, Wendy’s campaign headquarters here in Van Nuys is bustling with dozens of volunteers calling voters, organizing house parties and mobilizing supporters to turn out for events.

Yard signs are stacked waist high in the front office and more buttons and stickers were delivered today. Our terrific field organizers are organizing volunteers across the city. Wendy will be a Mayor for all of Los Angeles – and our campaign reflects that.

With the campaign moving at full speed, I want to make sure you’ve heard all the latest news:

• This Saturday, we will become the first mayoral campaign to open a field office in Crenshaw, the heart of South L.A. Get all the details, and then join us at the office opening celebration!

• The L.A. League of Conservation Voters has endorsed Wendy for Mayor. As Mayor, she'll fight to create a more sustainable city, with a world-class transit system, more clean energy, and clean air and parks for all of Los Angeles, so no part of the city is left behind.

• Let your friends and neighbors know you’re with Team Wendy! Our campaign now has lawn signs assembled and ready to go. Request a lawn sign today.

As the campaign moves into the stretch run, your volunteer help will make a critical difference and help bring home a victory for Wendy.

Join our team today – sign up to volunteer with Wendy’s campaign for Mayor.

I can’t tell you how exciting it is for all of us at HQ to see volunteers streaming in. I know you’re just as committed as I am to helping Wendy win – and together, we can do it.

Thanks again.

Greuel Closes Strong Quarter By Raising $672,230

LOS ANGELES — The Wendy Greuel for Mayor campaign announced today that it has collected $4.14 million in the race for mayor. Greuel collected $1.33 million in the quarter. She raised $672,230 from a broad coalition across the city, showing that she will be a mayor for all of Los Angeles, and qualified for the maximum in matching funds.

With less than two months before the March 5th primary election, Greuel has $3,259,872 cash on hand.

The totals add to Greuel's growing momentum in the race. Greuel has recently secured dozens of high profile endorsements from prominent elected and community leaders such as U.S. Senator Barbara Boxer, Congressmembers Janice Hahn and Tony Cardenas, Assembly Speaker John A. Pérez and Los Angeles County Supervisor Gloria Molina. Greuel also leads the field of candidates in support from working men and women, and has earned the endorsement of the Los Angeles League of Conservation Voters.

In all, 5,823 individuals have made 7,715 contributions to Greuel's campaign. And she continued to build on her strong support from grassroots donors, with 55% of contributions under $250 for the last quarter.

“I am so grateful to have earned support from every part of Los Angeles. I will be a mayor for all of LA so no part of the city is left behind, and today’s fundraising report is an emphatic signal that Angelenos are ready for a leader with the experience to get the city working again,” Greuel said. “I am humbled by the support of so many individuals who are backing our campaign, and I’m going to work as hard as I can to earn the trust and support of voters across the city.

Greuel has collected $4,141,321.34 total in the race. In the quarter, she raised $672,230.17 and collected $1,339,230.17 in all, including matching funds.

Greuel's broad coalition includes the support of civil rights icons Dolores Huerta and John Mack, State Senators Fran Pavley and Alex Padilla, Assemblymembers Bonnie Lowenthal, Felipe Fuentes and Nancy Skinner, Los Angeles City Councilmembers Bill Rosendahl and José Huizar, former City Controllers Laura Chick and Rick Tuttle, and former Assembly Speaker Bob Hertzberg.

Communities across Los Angeles are rallying behind Greuel. She has formed Latinos with Wendy, Women with Wendy, Korean Americans with Wendy, Armenians with Wendy, Valley Leaders with Wendy, and Conservationists with Wendy committees.

Greuel also announced that she will join community, faith, civic and business leaders to open a field office in South Los Angeles on Saturday.