Trip to Sacramento Proves Enlightening for Leadership Stockton Class  

June 2007 -- 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 learning about the legislative process in Sacramento and its relationship with our region.

The class departed Stockton by a Delta Charter Service bus and arrived in Sacramento at 9:00 am. Our home for the day was a hearing room on the first floor, graciously arranged by Assemblymember Cathleen Galgiani’s office, which we had to ourselves.

To kick off the day, the class began observing lawmaking in action, as the class spent the next  90 minutes watching the Assembly in action (the Senate was not is session). The process was eye-opening and a great learning experience for all.

To bring what the class had seen into perspective, Gail Delihant, Legislative Director/Senior Aide for Assembly member Greg Aghazarian provided the class with an overview of the lawmaking process.

After being passed through many hands and a number of steps that costs taxpayers approximately $9,000, an idea becomes a bill up for discussion by the legislature. Delihant’s 19+ 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, Aghazarian 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.

The remainder of the day 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 Gene Acevedo and Erica Stacy from Assemblymember Cathleen Galgiani’s office.

See us here next month as we recap our final session and graduation to be held on June 7th.

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

Application Deadline Looms

Leadership Stockton is preparing the next generation of men and women who will assume leadership roles in the greater Stockton community and is accepting applications for the 2007-2008 year. 

This eleven month community leadership program offers participants an opportunity to increase their community knowledge, civic network, and service to the community. The application deadline is June 15, 2007.

Selection involves a written application and personal interview. The selection process will identify approximately 26 applicants to be chosen to attend the program; representing a cross-section of the greater Stockton community. Tuition is $900. For information or application visit www.leadershipstockton.com or call Wes Rhea at 547-2770 or email leadership@stocktonchamber.org.