pleitezforla-blog

[pleitezforla-blog]

Emanuel Pleitez Makes Endorsement for LA Mayor: Vote Eric Garcetti

On May 21st, Emanuel Alberto Pleitez, former mayoral candidate for Los Angeles, will cast his ballot in support of Eric Garcetti for LA Mayor. Putting aside all political rivalries, Pleitez chose the candidate with the best qualities and experience to lead Los Angeles forward to prosperity. Eric Garcetti's strong beliefs in technological innovation, pension reform, and his strong base of grassroots support best represents the spirit and mission of the Emanuel Pleitez for LA Mayor 2013 primary campaign. Angelinos-- Vote May 21st for Eric Garcetti!

[pleitezforla-blog]

Pleitez & staff see best & worst of LA, prove LA is owed more

Today was a true test of what one man’s determination and dedication can do. Not only did Emanuel Alberto Pleitez put in 21 miles over his 100 mile goal, but he also gathered a group of leaders to run and bike with him across the city of Los Angeles. 

Emanuel and the run team showed up for Day Six of Emanuel’s 100 mile race across Los Angeles with a look of determination on their faces. Before the 1:00 P.M. run-start the staff talked to voters, trained volunteers on the how-tos of GOTV, and prepped for Election Day. 

Now that Day Six is done, the ebbs and flows of the trip represent Los Angeles to a tee. Some days were easy, with sunny skies, a fresh breeze and smiles all around... the kind of days where the side of Los Angeles where potential turns into execution and where the community and individual are one. 

Other days were tough, harsh, and even painful. The broken-down sidewalks shocked the run teams’ ankles. Some residential areas lacked sidewalks all together. A lot of people were shocked that a group of people was simply interested in informing them and finding out what issues mattered to them. The fact that folks in this city can be so confused, some even aggressive, by someone asking “what can the city do for you?” shows the type of leadership Los Angeles has at present. One that is distant, detached, and blind to how challenging life can be for most of the people it serves. 

We can’t continue down this path of ignorance. You not only deserve better, but you are owed better.

Please support the one person on that ballot that literally poured blood, sweat, and heart into all of his efforts to meet the residents of Los Angeles. Support the person who is doing this because LA deserves better and because LA deserves to be inspired. 

Learn about Emanuel Alberto Pleitez’ vision for Los Angeles at www.pleitezforla.com/issues and about him at www.pleitezforla.com/about_emanuel. 

Blog written by Juan Vasquez, Field Organizer and Fellow for the Emanuel Pleitez for Los Angeles Mayor 2013 campaign.

Emanuel Alberto Pleitez is a progressive Los Angeles native, he’s committed to uniting, serving, and inspiring his community. Son of Mexican and Salvadoran immigrants, and experienced in the private and public sector, he hopes to re-energize Los Angeles with a grassroots campaign the likes of which the city has never seen before.

Elections for the next mayor of Los Angeles are March 5th, 2013. Top candidates are Emanuel Alberto Pleitez, Councilman Eric Garcetti, City Controller Wendy Greuel, Councilwoman Jan Perry and conservative radio personality Kevin James.

Paid for by Emanuel Pleitez for Los Angeles Mayor 2013, 1972 E Cesar E Chavez Ave., Los Angeles CA 90033. Additional information is available at ethics.lacity.org

[pleitezforla-blog]

Pleitez Passes 100-mile Goal on Day 5, Dances With Wife Becca, Finishes at Watts Towers

Sometime around the 10-mile marker, Emanuel Pleitez, candidate running for mayor, stopped in his tracks, grabbed his wife Rebecca, and started dancing in front of a cantina in Crenshaw. Day Five of Pleitez' 100-mile journey on foot and bike across LA sent him from Loyola Marymount University to Watts Towers, across most of South Los Angeles. 

On his way to Watts Towers Emanuel, his staff, and volunteers had a chance to talk with families and to inform voters who did not know they had options outside of current City Hall members. As the run/bike team moved down Crenshaw Avenue, passing cars honked and cheered in support, with most turning around to pick up signs and posters from the Pleitez Run Van. Hundreds of posters, signs, and pins have been donated by supporters over the past weeks. 

Emanuel racked up 15 miles running and three miles on the bike during his Day 5 trip, which pushed him over the 100-mile goal. Emanuel has biked 28 miles and ran 75, for a grand total 103 miles at the end of Day Five. 

Staff members ran and biked alongside and ahead of Emanuel, asking people to use their right to vote as a way to tell the city what they'd like to see in the coming years. The staff and volunteer team put in close to 45 miles combined. 

For Day Six, the last leg of the race on the day before the March 5th election, Emanuel will tackle 13 miles on the bike and 5.3 by foot. 

Join Emanuel today, Monday, March 4th, for the last leg of the city-wide race. The Run Van will be leaving the Pleitez HQ in Boyle Heights at noon, the run will start at Athens Park, and will end at the San Pedro Fish Market at 4:15 P.M. Click here for more details. 

Blog written by Juan Vasquez, Field Organizer and Fellow for the Emanuel Pleitez for Los Angeles Mayor 2013 campaign.

Emanuel Alberto Pleitez is a progressive Los Angeles native, he’s committed to uniting, serving, and inspiring his community. Son of Mexican and Salvadoran immigrants, and experienced in the private and public sector, he hopes to re-energize Los Angeles with a grassroots campaign the likes of which the city has never seen before.

Elections for the next mayor of Los Angeles are March 5th, 2013. Top candidates are Emanuel Alberto Pleitez, Councilman Eric Garcetti, City Controller Wendy Greuel, Councilwoman Jan Perry and conservative radio personality Kevin James.

Paid for by Emanuel Pleitez for Los Angeles Mayor 2013, 1972 E Cesar E Chavez Ave., Los Angeles CA 90033. Additional information is available at ethics.lacity.org. 

[pleitezforla-blog]

Pleitez Motivates Eastside of LA While Volunteers Pump Mayoral Campaign Full Of Support

What kicked off in Emanuel's childhood El Sereno home and an interview with Univision, turned into a fun day with families in a Ramona Garden's farmers market and watching the sunset during a 22-mile bike ride.

Mayoral candidate Emanuel Pleitez, his staff, and a group of volunteers ran 4 miles from his El Sereno home, across Ramona Gardens, and ending at the campaign's HQ in Boyle Heights.

Aside from a few inteviews during the day, Emanuel attended a house meeting in Pico-Union. In front of a crowd of about 30, he explained why the city's leadership cuts education everytime the budget shrinks, why he decided to run for mayor, and how he will tackle the city's issues. The great discussion was topped off by perfect carne asada and chicken drumsticks with homemade guacamole and rice on the side.

Looking at the fine details of the day, Emanuel and the run team sat around picnic tables and talked to local merchants in Ramona Gardens. Emanuel even met a fellow Wilson High Alum who played running back for the schools - Emanuel was starting QB and captain a few years later.

While biking to Venice Beach, the bike group picked up a new supporter who was biking around his neighborhood. He was excited to see a mayoral candidate who simply wanted to energize and inform voters.

You can visit http://www.pleitezforla.com/run for daily updates or stay in touch on Twitter at @PleitezForLA. Also, text the word RunEP to 90561 for text alerts on where you can join him (Standard message and data rates apply).

Blog written by Juan Vasquez, Field Organizer and Fellow for the Emanuel Pleitez for Los Angeles Mayor 2013 campaign.

Emanuel Alberto Pleitez is a progressive Los Angeles native, he’s committed to uniting, serving, and inspiring his community. Son of Mexican and Salvadoran immigrants, and experienced in the private and public sector, he hopes to re-energize Los Angeles with a grassroots campaign the likes of which the city has never seen before.

Elections for the next mayor of Los Angeles are March 5th, 2013. Top candidates are Emanuel Alberto Pleitez, Councilman Eric Garcetti, City Controller Wendy Greuel, Councilwoman Jan Perry and conservative radio personality Kevin James.

Paid for by Emanuel Pleitez for Los Angeles Mayor 2013, 1972 E Cesar E Chavez Ave., Los Angeles CA 90033. Additional information is available at ethics.lacity.org.

[pleitezforla-blog]

Pleitez Runs Alongside New Friends While Running Into Life-long Ones

Today a very valuable lesson was learned: a few oranges and bananas, sunblock, and a whole lot of motivation makes an 15-mile run and 3-mile bike-ride from Giffith Park to El Sereno one of the best adventures an Angeleno can have. 

Emanuel Pleitez, candidate running for mayor of Los Angeles, his staff, and volunteers started Day 3 of his 100-mile city wide race at Griffith Park at 7:00 AM. From the very beginning of the day the Pleitez run team saw support from the community. Anthony, a Hollywood resident disilusioned by the city's leadership and City Hall's corruption, joined for the first three miles of the run.

Right after finishing the 3-mile bike ride to El Sereno and in the middle of the 1.5-mile stretch to his house, Emanuel ran into one of his neighbors from his childhood days. "Me acuerdo cuando era chiquitico (I remember when we was a young boy)", she mentioned. 

Soon after wrapping up today's 18-mile race, Emanuel showered and headed back to the office. He will be appearing in tonight's KCAL9/CBS2 Mayoral Debate. It will be the last televised debate before the March 5th primaries, so tune in at 8:00 PM. 

The city wide run is a continuation of the campaign's efforts, which started on July 3rd of last year. It comes down to engaging the community, learning about all parts of the city, and getting a better understanding of the specific needs for each region. 

On top of that, the 100-mile, 6-day race follows suit with the campaign's innovative tactics to engage voters all around. The Pleitez campaign wants to prove that money does not have to rule politics. The city's leadership actually needs to put effort into driving dialogue with the city's residents and engaging all areas of the city. Emanuel is doing this with sweat, hard work, and a few blisters along the way. 

Pleitez staff and volunteers did an excellent job today, putting in a combined 65 miles. These 65 miles represent the team's love, commitment, and desire to make a positive impact in the city of Los Angeles. 

This race is not just a great way to inform voters about their choices for the upcoming elections. It is also a testament to Emanuel's dedication and desire to help this city. After three days he has already crossed the halfway mark with 53 miles. Come Monday, he will have covered over 100 miles trekking across Los Angeles.

Blog written by Juan Vasquez, Field Organizer and Fellow for the Emanuel Pleitez for Los Angeles Mayor 2013 campaign.

Emanuel Alberto Pleitez is a progressive Los Angeles native, he’s committed to uniting, serving, and inspiring his community. Son of Mexican and Salvadoran immigrants, and experienced in the private and public sector, he hopes to re-energize Los Angeles with a grassroots campaign the likes of which the city has never seen before.

Elections for the next mayor of Los Angeles are March 5th, 2013. Top candidates are Emanuel Alberto Pleitez, Councilman Eric Garcetti, City Controller Wendy Greuel, Councilwoman Jan Perry and conservative radio personality Kevin James.

Paid for by Emanuel Pleitez for Los Angeles Mayor 2013, 1972 E Cesar E Chavez Ave., Los Angeles CA 90033. Additional information is available at ethics.lacity.org.  

[pleitezforla-blog]

Pleitez inspires 16-mile stretch of LA while staff covers the Valley

Emanuel Alberto Pleitez completed his second day of the 6-day long, 100-mile trek across Los Angeles. Covering a total of 16 miles, Emanuel started at the Lakeview Terrace Library in Sylmar and ended at the Chinese Theater in Hollywood. The native Angeleno crossed most of the Valley and other portions of Hollywood in the process. 

After only two days Emanuel has completed a little more than a third of his 100-mile goal - crossing the 36 mile mark earlier today.

Before today's journey, Emanuel was interviewed on KFWB News Radio 980AM and then was the keynote speaker at a Latin/African American Chaplains Association (L.A.C.A.) event, where he also received the organization's endorsement.

Emanuel's 100-mile effort focuses on breaking down the physical barriers in Los Angeles while engaging all types of individuals. This ties back to his goal of re-energizing Los Angeles by engaging more voters and finding innovative solutions for the city's problems.

At 30 years old, Emanuel is the youngest candidate on the ballot and possesses the most diverse skill set and amount of experience. His goal of almost four marathons spread out over six days is indicative of how much energy Emanuel has and is ready to pump right back into the city.

Follow Emanuel along on his city-wide journey across Los Angeles on Twitter, Facebook, and through text alerts by texting the word RunEP to 90561 (Standard message and data rates apply).

Blog written by Juan Vasquez, Field Organizer and Fellow for the Emanuel Pleitez for Los Angeles Mayor 2013 campaign.

Emanuel Alberto Pleitez is a progressive Los Angeles native, he’s committed to uniting, serving, and inspiring his community. Son of Mexican and Salvadoran immigrants, and experienced in the private and public sector, he hopes to re-energize Los Angeles with a grassroots campaign the likes of which the city has never seen before.

Elections for the next mayor of Los Angeles are March 5th, 2013. Top candidates are Emanuel Alberto Pleitez, Councilman Eric Garcetti, City Controller Wendy Greuel, Councilwoman Jan Perry and conservative radio personality Kevin James.

Paid for by Emanuel Pleitez for Los Angeles Mayor 2013, 1972 E Cesar E Chavez Ave., Los Angeles CA 90033. Additional information is available at ethics.lacity.org. 

[pleitezforla-blog]

Pleitez runs/bikes across LA - Day 1

Emanuel Alberto Pleitez, candidate running for mayor of Los Angeles, completed the first of his 6-day trek as he runs and bikes across Los Angeles. 

Emanuel started at Canoga Park and ran across Winnetka, Reseda, Lake Balboa, Van Nuys, Panorama City, North Hills and Mission Hills, ending at Mestizo Restaurant, for a total of 20.9 miles. The original plan called for 15 miles for Day 1, however Emanuel raised the bar and added 5 more. 

Volunteers and #TeamPleitez staffers run alongside Emanuel. Rebecca Pleitez, top-notch organizer and future first lady of LA, put in an impressive 13 miles. 

As the day progressed Emanuel's dedication to cover the city of Los Angeles drew support and from community members, media outlets, and organizations. 

We encourage people from all across Los Angeles to join in with Emanuel's effort to cover Los Angeles. 

You can visit http://www.pleitezforla.com/run for daily updates or stay in touch on Twitter at @PleitezForLA. Also, text the word RunEP to 90561 for text alerts on where you can join him (Standard message and data rates apply).View pictures of Emanuel's first day literally running for mayor.

Check out everything that was happening on our social media channels below:

[pleitezforla-blog]

Pleitez gives specifics at LALWV, ABC7 mayoral debate

Emanuel Pleitez, candidate running for mayor of LA, participated in the Los Angeles League of Women Voters on February 18th, 2013. He started strong, "I want to be mayor because I'm tired of the status quo."

Emanuel wants to capitalize on our potential - creativity, diversity, technology, hard working people - so that we can be as innovative and foreward thinking as we should be. 

The debate opened up with the sales tax increase, which Emanuel opposes. Band-aid solutions like this affect low-income individuals. His plan to bridge the gap is to expand the tax base by creating more educational, skill-building, and business opportunities so that everyone can contribute. 

In regards to city employee contract renegotiations, Emanuel proposes a pension buy-out plan so that  can have money now as opposed to nothing later. The leaders in city hall have lacked the back-bone to make the tough decisions

The pension buy-out also ties into infrastructure. It will create revenue over the first year, which he will use on programs that make an immediate impact, like bike-sharing programs. Long-term vision is also important, which is why Emanuel will create a position for a Deputy Urban Planner. 

When it comes to racial injustice from and within LAPD, Emanuel will ensure departments follow through with investigations in a timely manner. He will execute this with a culture of collaboration, starting with an organizing fellowship that grows the public safety department by getting community members involved.

Fellowship programs improve the relationships between LAPD and local communities, while giving skills to work with and build on for the people of Los Angeles. 

On education and skill-building, Emanuel knows it's not about authority but about service delivery. Intervention when a student is drifting is key, as is opening up doors for people of all ages to learn more and to pick up the skills necessary to get jobs they deserve. 

Emanuel's pespective on medicinal marijuana comes from real life experience. It's easy to get on the street and illegal marijuana sales hurts our community. We need to provide guidance to our young people so that they understand the dangers of drug use.

Balance is key and safe access is important, which is Emanuel will ask for input from the actual communities to decide how dispenseries fit within them. He wants to create a market that can actually be regulated while benefiting the city. 

Meeting the future water needs of a growing population can be solved by growing public-private partnerships to capitalize on new technology while creating jobs. Low-flow toilets, better technology to clean our water, and rain-water capture are solutions that need to be explored. 

Students also had an opportunity to get involved in the debate. On engaging young voters, Emanuel has a track record of leadership and mentorship programs, Emanuel's fellowship programs not only provide job opportunities for young people but also gives them a input into the policy-making process while getting them involved in the community. 

Two great examples are Voto Latino and the Latinos On Fast Track. Emanuel was Voto Latino's first volunteer and created their online platforms. While working with the Hispanic Heritage Foundation, Emanuel started the LOFT Network, a nation-wide program that creates opportunities and connects young professionals. 

Emanuel was asked why he deserves to be mayor of Los Angeles, considering he is only 30 years old. His response was simple and truthful - Los Angeles needs someone new with energy and innovative thinking. Experienced, career politicians turned LA into the nation's metropolitian city with the highest unemployment rates, lowest graduation rates, and highest drop-out rates. Emanuel has cross-sector experience, worked on the economy at the national level, and has unmatched technological know-how.

The debate was moderated by ABC7's Marc Brown and was sponsored by the League of Women Voters of Los Angeles and the Pat Brown Institute of Public Affairs at California State University, Los Angeles.

[pleitezforla-blog]

Pleitez Meets Author Ron Moss While Canvassing, Reaffirms Focus on Education

The concept of community fails without communication, empowerment, and action. Emanuel Alberto Pleitez, candidate running for mayor of Los Angeles understand this reality. He has dedicated his campaign to providing a platform for all citizens of Los Angeles to express their concerns and desires by personally door-to-door canvassing, phone banking, and visiting local businesses and organizations throughout the city.

In early February, while reaching out to Arleta residents, Emanuel was fortunate enough to cross paths with Mr. Ron Moss - a published writer and local community activist. For sure, the city is short of everything except writers. Not too many of them, if any, have published a book as a functioning illiterate.

“Not too many authors hate reading and writing,” says Moss. Growing up in Norfolk, Virginia, he struggled mightily in keeping up with fellow classmates, progressing through grade school as an undiagnosed severe dyslexic.

“I passed my classes by protecting those who were unable to protecting themselves; they would tutor me in return,” Moss said. A high school football player, Moss realized at an early age how his status as a popular student could work to curtail bullying. 

One day on the school bus, Moss slapped one of the ‘nerds’ in the back of the head, receiving approval from his fellow jocks. The offended student, instead of cowering, told Moss that he expected more out of him. “This changed my life,” says Moss.

Following this experience, Moss decided to stand up against any bullying he saw. His protection was met with tutelage, and he graduated alongside his classmates. From there, he became one of the too many functioning illiterates in the United States.

In a circumstance that limits the ambitions of most, Ron dared to dream. He moved to California in the early 80s, where he met his wife and gained employment, working as ‘B.A.’ of ‘The A-Team’ for the Universal Studios Live Action team. During this time, when Moss realized he needed to raise more income for his wife and newborn daughter, he self-published his first book - a collection of love poems written by men throughout the United States to their respective admirations. This book would eventually reach the staff of The Oprah Show, who desired bios from Moss on a few of the loving scribers from his collection.

Unfortunately, Ron was not able to do so. The show pulled its interest, and Ron lost an incredible opportunity. At a time when Ron’s wife had also recently miscarried and was again pregnant, Moss was devastated; but not defeated. This was the first time his illiteracy limited his success. Moss was determined to make it the last. 

Moss taught himself how to read and write with a newspaper, sitting at his kitchen table into the late hours of many, many long nights. Working a second job in security with Farmers’ Insurances, where he published his first book, Moss began writing his first novel - ‘The Wizard Next Door’. 

Describing the effort as an “American ‘Harry Potter’” of sorts, the novel is the only book involving wizards and witches to receive blessings from any religious institution. With an audience that includes readers between the ages of ten and seventy, Moss’ creation speaks to bullying in American schools, promoting a ‘no man left behind’ message - one today’s generation, witnessing much ridicule and violence, desperately needs.

He sells the book on his website, www.thewizardnextdoor.com, for only one dollar,  and offers free checkouts on Amazon’s website. He believes the message behind the work is more important than profits.

This is where Emanuel Pleitez and Ron Moss’ encounter appears to be anything but coincidental. During their conversation, Ron expressed to Emanuel his frustrations with the city’s public school system, stating his attempts to visit local schools and provide mentorship for youth through his experiences and literature have been denied, because he doesn’t own a degree in education. In a time when the city’s resources are stretched thinly, the concept of rejecting voluntary efforts of concerned citizens, especially as it relates to youth outreach, is perplexing. 

“We have so many great minds and resources here in Los Angeles; it is time for us all, as one community, to work together in pursuit of optimizing the education our children receive. We have to take advantage of our resources, “ Pleitez believes. “Mr. Ronald Moss is a keen example of such reserves; it’s high time we take advantage”. 

With high school graduation rates sitting at fifty percent, and both African-American and Latino males experiencing sub-fifty percent graduation rates, the need for positive mentorship is evident. Other school districts, such as Union City in New Jersey, have enjoyed much improvement after adopting the concept of community in educating their children, dramatically raising graduation rates in an area once dangerously close to having its school district overtaken by the state. 

While some point to a strong education budget, the power of producing and sustaining an atmosphere of family and togetherness as it relates to student and community engagement should not be understated. 

Emanuel believes Los Angeles is capable of providing the same improvement for its children, and wishes to pour much needed funding into upgrading technology, expanding after-school programs to level the playing field for those who come from lower income households, and ensuring that skill building opportunities are available for children and adults alike. “We must ensure all Angelenos, current and future, are allowed to compete in an evolving employment arena,” says Pleitez.

Following their conversation, Mr. Moss has chosen to back Emanuel Pleitez for Mayor of Los Angeles. “In my thirty years (as a Los Angeles resident), I’d never had any actual candidate for Mayor at my door, prior to Mr. Pleitez’ visit,“says Moss. “His campaign is bringing about a new definition of care in politics. I support him with confidence, because I feel like I know him - more so than any commercial or radio advertisement allows anyone to say. Pleitez is legit.” 

Citizens like Mr. Ron Moss, willing to answer the call to community, comprise the qualities needed to provide a better quality of life for our youth and establish the togetherness the Emanuel stands for and envisions. For more information on Emanuel Pleitez’ platform, visit http://www.pleitezforla.com/issues and to learn about his vision for education in Los Angeles visit http://www.pleitezforla.com/education.

Blog written by Sean Kornegay, Field Organizer and Fellow for the Emanuel Pleitez for Los Angeles Mayor 2013 campaign.

Emanuel Alberto Pleitez is a progressive Los Angeles native, he’s committed to uniting, serving, and inspiring his community. Son of Mexican and Salvadoran immigrants, and experienced in the private and public sector, he hopes to re-energize Los Angeles with a grassroots campaign the likes of which the city has never seen before.

Paid for by Emanuel Pleitez for Los Angeles Mayor 2013, 1972 E Cesar E Chavez Ave., Los Angeles CA 90033. Additional information is available at ethics.lacity.org.

[pleitezforla-blog]

"Which?": Kevin James TV Commercial to Air from Special Interest SuperPAC

Better Way LA, the SuperPAC backing conservative radio personality Kevin James in his bid for Los Angeles mayor, is slated to air a TV advertisement called "Which?" The premise of the video commercial is that the city's impending bankruptcy is due to the poor decisions made by Councilman Eric Garcetti, Controller Wendy Greuel, and Councilwoman Perry in their years on the inside of LA City Hall.

The advertisement claims that “only Kevin James” can solve the city’s financial woes to prevent bankruptcy. In fact, Emanuel Pleitez is the only candidate running for mayor with the business executive and economic policy experience to solve LA’s economic problems. He is the only candidate with a policy driven plan to reform pension and rescue the city from the brink of bankruptcy. Read his plan here: http://bit.ly/EPbudgetand http://bit.ly/EPpensions.

Who do you trust more, a candidate with a grassroots campaign or a special interests driven campaign?

Watch Emanuel Pleitez and his team:

Watch Better Way LA’s commercial for Kevin James, “Which?”:

Blog written by staff for the Emanuel Pleitez for Los Angeles Mayor 2013 campaign.

Emanuel Alberto Pleitez is a progressive Los Angeles native, he’s committed to uniting, serving, and inspiring his community. Son of Mexican and Salvadoran immigrants, and experienced in the private and public sector, he hopes to re-energize Los Angeles with a grassroots campaign the likes of which the city has never seen before.

Paid for by Emanuel Pleitez for Los Angeles Mayor 2013, 1972 E Cesar E Chavez Ave., Los Angeles CA 90033. Additional information is available at ethics.lacity.org.

[pleitezforla-blog]

Mayoral candidate Garcetti backed by SuperPAC

It wasn’t long ago that Councilman Garcetti asked Controller Greuel and James to sign the People’s Pledge, which asks candidates to donate 50% of outside fundraising to a charity. Since they didn’t sign it, he did not either. 

Now, with three weeks left before the March 5th primaries, Councilman Garcetti is backed by a SuperPAC of his own. 

Sadly, the outside expenditures simply blur and dilute the essence of what municipal politics should be about – voter outreach, coming up with innovative solutions, and engaging the community. 

The SuperPAC backing Councilman Garcetti was created by Mary Jane Stevenson and Rick Jacobs. 

In addition to blurring the line between public servitude and money politics, outside fundraising further shows how detached the other mayoral candidates are from everyday Angelenos. 

This city needs someone who does not use outside interest to win an election, but wins it by actually talking with voters, especially those who live in areas all other candidates ignore. 

While the news about Councilman Garcetti’s SuperPAC came out, Emanuel Pleitez and his team were walking the streets of East Los Angeles. 

That’s who you want, the man who will spend his day knocking on doors and letting voters know why he wants to serve them. 

Read more about Emanuel Alberto Pleitez’ vision for Los Angeles at http://bit.ly/EP7points. 

Blog written by staff for the Emanuel Pleitez for Los Angeles Mayor 2013 campaign.

Emanuel Alberto Pleitez is a progressive Los Angeles native, he’s committed to uniting, serving, and inspiring his community. Son of Mexican and Salvadoran immigrants, and experienced in the private and public sector, he hopes to re-energize Los Angeles with a grassroots campaign the likes of which the city has never seen before.

Paid for by Emanuel Pleitez for Los Angeles Mayor 2013, 1972 E Cesar E Chavez Ave., Los Angeles CA 90033. Additional information is available at ethics.lacity.org.

[pleitezforla-blog]

Pleitez' Vision for Los Angeles Combines Impact Investment & Technology

The communities in the South and East sides of LA, and the East Valley have shown the capacity to boom when the proper investment is provided. Los Angeles needs a mayor who not only recognizes this, but has the expertise and feels the urgency to make it happen. In the upcoming Los Angeles mayoral election, you have the opportunity to choose that mayor, and his name is Emanuel Pleitez.

One of the most promising industries to fuel this kind of boom is technology. Talks of a rising “Silicon Beach” have inspired the same kind of hope that the tire and airplane factories once did. Los Angeles has the assets to foster growth in this industry. Academic powerhouses like USC, CalTech, and UCLA can be feeders into tech companies. The entertainment industry can provide a cross-disciplinary and uniquely Angeleno twist to “Silicon Beach”. The creativity and innovation of Angelenos provide fuel and the final piece in this puzzle.

While hubs are developing along the Expo line and on the West Side, barriers remain to reaping the full benefits of a rising technology industry. The restrictive covenants are gone, but Los Angeles schools continue to severely under-serve our youth, as evidenced by a higher drop-out rate than graduation rate from LAUSD high schools. Our business environment remains troublesome with arbitrary taxes and poor infrastructure.

In Emanuel Pleitez, we get a mayor who will eliminate the barriers to Silicon Beach and strategically leverage our assets. Emanuel will balance the city’s budget by addressing our unfunded liabilities, freeing up resources to bring our education, public safety, and infrastructure into the 21st century. Traditional education will be supplemented with skill building in data, technology. Critical thinking and educational opportunities will be provided beyond the final school bell, for all ages. This will give Angelenos from all walks of life the skills necessary to qualify for  good jobs in the technology industry.

In terms of leveraging our assets, Emanuel plans to invest over a billion dollars in designated economic development zones over the next ten years. These areas include South LA, the Eastside, Pico-Union, Westlake, and the East Valley– areas that for too long have been undervalued and overlooked by our city’s political establishment. Entrepreneurship hubs will be created across the city, one for each council district. This will provide the support, consultation, resources, and the “meeting of the minds” necessary for start-ups to be successful.

Lastly, Pleitez will improve Los Angeles’ business environment, getting rid of arbitrary taxes and simplifying regulation to decrease bureaucratic red tape that discourages both start-up investors and small business creators. This will help create an easier platform from which to lobby for investment into our city and for technology companies to come to LA and take advantage of the many resources we have to offer.

The potential of a new tech boom brings jobs, more responsive and efficient services, and new hope for the city, especially in its under-served areas. Imagine the next Google setting up shop in Boyle Heights, Crenshaw, or Pacoima? The tire factories may not be coming back but Silicon Beach as a driver of prosperity does not have to remain a pipe dream. All it needs to become a reality is the right catalyst, and that catalyst is Emanuel Pleitez for Los Angeles Mayor.

Read more about Emanuel Alberto Pleitez’ policy plans for technology and the economy at http://bit.ly/EPtech, http://bit.ly/EPgrowth, and http://bit.ly/EPecon.

http://www.pleitezforla.com

Blog written by Luis Garcia, Fellow and Field Organizer for the Emanuel Pleitez for Los Angeles Mayor 2013 campaign.

Emanuel Alberto Pleitez is a progressive Los Angeles native, he’s committed to uniting, serving, and inspiring his community. Son of Mexican and Salvadoran immigrants, and experienced in the private and public sector, he hopes to re-energize Los Angeles with a grassroots campaign the likes of which the city has never seen before.

Paid for by Emanuel Pleitez for Los Angeles Mayor 2013, 1972 E Cesar E Chavez Ave., Los Angeles CA 90033. Additional information is available at ethics.lacity.org.

[pleitezforla-blog]

Los Angeles Deserves a Spanish Language Mayoral Debate

Los Angeles embodies the ideals of progress, innovation and setting trends. As the second largest city in the country, the city's leadership and its residents have a responsibility to push for a way of life that might not be feasible for other cities. 

Because of this, we ask you to consider one thing - by time March 5th rolls around we will have seen more than 30 mayoral debates. All of them in English. Does that seem innovative, progressive, or trend-setting?

It's time for the city of Los Angeles to embrace its diversity. City, mayoral candidates, and individuals, let's come together and host the first-ever mayoral Spanish-speaking debate. 

Now, we've done our research here at the Pleitez camp, and it seems like a disservice that one of the most diverse cities in the country to offer so much discussion, yet makes no effort to engage those communities who are traditionally ignored. What we're saying is, why hold so many debates if the message is always communicated in the same way? 

Let's look at the hard facts about the people of Los Angeles:

- 49% are Latino (Census, 2010)

- 75% of LAUSD students are Latino (LAUSD data)

- 39% are foreign born (Census, 2007-'11)

- Almost 60% speak a language other than English at home (Census, 2007-'11)

- Less than 10% speak only English

- 20% speak an Asian, Pacific Islander, or European language (Census, 2010)

- It is projected that less than 20% of the electorate will turn out on March 5th

Local politics is about serving the community's needs and meeting people where they are at - but LA's leadership has not done its job to promote this line of thought. More importantly, language should not prevent someone from receiving proper information about his or her city's leadership. 

Also, every mayoral candidate deserves to have his or her message communicated in a that the people he or she will serve can understand.

In addition to making history in LA's political landscape, a Spanish-speaking debate will enagage voters who traditionally don't take part in political dialogue and move the voter-turnout dial from the abismal 20% to a more acceptable number. 

Through technology and interpreters, this game-changing event is not only possible but flat out easy to execute. 

Take action now: sign our petition asking the city to host Los Angeles' first ever Spanish language debate and asking City Councilwoman Jan Perry, City Controller Wendy Greuel, City Councilman Eric Garcetti, and conservative radio personality Kevin James to join in. 

http://bit.ly/EPmultilingual

Blog written by staff for the Emanuel Pleitez for Los Angeles Mayor 2013 campaign. 

Emanuel Alberto Pleitez is a progressive Los Angeles native, he’s committed to uniting, serving, and inspiring his community. Son of Mexican and Salvadoran immigrants, and experienced in the private and public sector, he hopes to re-energize Los Angeles with a grassroots campaign the likes of which the city has never seen before.

Paid for by Emanuel Pleitez for Los Angeles Mayor 2013, 1972 E Cesar E Chavez Ave., Los Angeles CA 90033. Additional information is available at ethics.lacity.org.

[pleitezforla-blog]

Wendy Greuel TV commercial – Every Child – talks education but no financial vision

Below is an excerpt from a blog posted on Emanuel Pleitez' wordpress blog discussing Controller Wendy Greuel's plans to be a mayor for "every school and child" while increasing the size of public safety departments with no specifics as to how either will be financed. 

Controller Greuel, who is backed by SuperPAC and special interest group Working Californians, has boiled down her campaign messaging to being a fiscal watchdog. “Every Child” shares the waste she identified in gas expenses for city vehicles and cell phone bills for city employees. 

Controller Greuel claims she will continue to be a watchdog if elected mayor and that the funds that have been wasted could have gone to schools and libraries. 

Unfortunately for Angelenos, the message in “Every Child” contradicts Controller Greuel’s financial vision for Los Angeles, which she recently shared at a debate. She plans to add 2,000 LAPD officers and 800 firefighters over the next seven years. When asked how this will be financed, Controller Greuel failed to provide a plan. 

The city’s public safety departments already account for close to 70% of the budget. The city’s deficit, which sits at $238 million, is projected to pass the $400 million mark within two years. 

Given the numbers above, it seems irresponsible for Controller Greuel to say she will be a mayor for “every school, every child” given her pledge to beef up our public safety departments without a plan to finance it. 

Angelenos should also consider Controller Greuel’s omission in “Every Child” and most of her campaign messaging of her time as a Councilwoman. City Hall’s poor decision-making put Los Angeles in the situation it’s in – a massive deficit, highest unemployment and dropout rates of any major city, and a community so turned off by city politics that less than 20% of voters are projected to come out on the March 5th election.

Los Angeles needs a mayor who will address issues by going to the root problem and not by using band-aid solutions, like adding staff to public safety departments without tackling the issues that cause crime in the first place.

Emanuel Alberto Pleitez is the right leader for Los Angeles because he has the most diverse experience of any candidate on the ballot, has no special interest ties, and has lived L.A.’s problems firsthand. He is also the breath of young, fresh energy the city’s bleak and outdated leadership needs. 

Learn about Emanuel’s vision for L.A.’s education at http://bit.ly/EPedu and for the city’s budget at http://bit.ly/EPbudget. 

Watch City Controller Wendy Greuel's TV video commercial "Every Child"

http://www.pleitezforla.com

http://www.facebook.com/pleitez

Blog written by staff for the Emanuel Pleitez for Los Angeles Mayor 2013 campaign. 

Emanuel Alberto Pleitez is a progressive Los Angeles native, he’s committed to uniting, serving, and inspiring his community. Son of Mexican and Salvadoran immigrants, and experienced in the private and public sector, he hopes to re-energize Los Angeles with a grassroots campaign the likes of which the city has never seen before.

Paid for by Emanuel Pleitez for Los Angeles Mayor 2013, 1972 E Cesar E Chavez Ave., Los Angeles CA 90033. Additional information is available at ethics.lacity.org.

[pleitezforla-blog]

Eric Garcetti TV commercial, "Proven," presents questionable mayoral vision

Councilman Eric Garcetti, who is the past City Hall President and now a candidate for Los Angeles mayor, released his first TV video commercial. In "Proven", he argues that problem solving is more difficult than pointing out problems. 

He lists his accomplishments of neighborhood improvement and job growth, explaining the hard work is already done. Councilman Garcetti, who has spent close to twelve years in City Hall, then presents his focus if elected mayor:

Picking up phones

Filling potholes

Picking up trash

As understandable as small goals may be, don't Angelenos deserve more out a politician who has spent most of his professional life working within City Hall walls? Do we not deserve a vision for public service that reaches higher than the most basic of city services? 

Emanuel Alberto Pleitez started his grassroots campaign for mayor because he felt uninspired and unimpressed by what the establishment candidates can offer in terms of innovation and progress in LA. Quite frankly, Emanuel was also uninspired by the decisions City Hall made over the past decade.

Read Emanuel Pleitez' 7-Point Plan for the bold leadership that the city needs to realize its full potential here: http://bit.ly/EP7points. 

Watch Emanuel Pleitez speak about his campaign to re-energize LA:

Watch Councilman Eric Garcetti's "Proven" promises to the voters of Los Angeles:

Blog written by staff for the Emanuel Pleitez for Los Angeles Mayor 2013 campaign. 

Emanuel Alberto Pleitez is a progressive Los Angeles native, he’s committed to uniting, serving, and inspiring his community. Son of Mexican and Salvadoran immigrants, and experienced in the private and public sector, he hopes to re-energize Los Angeles with a grassroots campaign the likes of which the city has never seen before.

Paid for by Emanuel Pleitez for Los Angeles Mayor 2013, 1972 E Cesar E Chavez Ave., Los Angeles CA 90033. Additional information is available at ethics.lacity.org.

[pleitezforla-blog]

Kevin James' commercial "Outwit the Foxes" plays voters as hens

Instead of rolling out an articulated policy, like Emanuel Pleitez, candidate running for mayor of Los Angeles, SuperPAC-backed Kevin James debuted a sequel, "Outwit the Foxes."  to his last attack video. 

In the second installment of Better Way LA's online video advertisement, called "Outwit the Foxes", James once again figures the trio of City Hall insiders- Councilman Eric Garcetti, Councilwoman Jan Perry, and City Controller Wendy Greuel-- as tricky foxes out for political gain. 

Like "Henhouse", the video commercial mostly relies on a looming voiceover, unfortunate close-up shots of other candidates, and an animal puppet out to get the "hens," which symbolize LA's constituents. One has to ask, does voter engagement, a policy platform, or an actual understanding of what Angeles go through matter? 

Emanuel Alberto Pleitez does not share a view of Angelenos as hens in need of protection-- having grown up in South and East Los Angeles, he respects the intelligence, power, and resolve of everyday hardworking men and women. 

As mayor of Los Angeles, Emanuel Pleitez will bring about meaningful changes to the city to empower Angelenos. Read his cartoon-free policy plan here: http://bit.ly/EP7points.

See the difference for yourself in this campaign video about the purpose of city leadership from Emanuel Pleitez for LA Mayor:

Watch Kevin James' commercial "Outwit the Foxes," paid for by SuperPAC Better Way LA: 

Blog written by staff for the Emanuel Pleitez for Los Angeles Mayor 2013 campaign. 

Emanuel Alberto Pleitez is a progressive Los Angeles native, he’s committed to uniting, serving, and inspiring his community. Son of Mexican and Salvadoran immigrants, and experienced in the private and public sector, he hopes to re-energize Los Angeles with a grassroots campaign the likes of which the city has never seen before.

Paid for by Emanuel Pleitez for Los Angeles Mayor 2013, 1972 E Cesar E Chavez Ave., Los Angeles CA 90033. Additional information is available at ethics.lacity.org.

[pleitezforla-blog]

Latina singer Vicky Cabrera writes "No calles tu voz" for Pleitez campaign

Latina singer Vicky Cabrera wrote the campaign song for Emanuel Alberto Pleitez for Mayor 2013 because this campaign embodies the leadership Los Angeles needs and deserves. 

Don't quiet your voice, please go vote on March 5th, 2013. Watch more videos of Emanuel Pleitez' mayoral campaign at http://bit.ly/PleitezYouTube. 

Blog written by staff for the Emanuel Pleitez for Los Angeles Mayor 2013 campaign. 

Emanuel Alberto Pleitez is a progressive Los Angeles native, he’s committed to uniting, serving, and inspiring his community. Son of Mexican and Salvadoran immigrants, and experienced in the private and public sector, he hopes to re-energize Los Angeles with a grassroots campaign the likes of which the city has never seen before.

Paid for by Emanuel Pleitez for Los Angeles Mayor 2013, 1972 E Cesar E Chavez Ave., Los Angeles CA 90033. Additional information is available at ethics.lacity.org.