It is hard to believe we are moving toward the end of the year. The holidays will be here before we know it. But before we get too caught up in the end of year celebrations, I want to make you all aware of a very important trip coming up right after the holidays. 

Every January, the California Contract Cities Association travels to Sacramento. We do this for a very important reason: to connect with the legislators in the first week of the legislative session when, in some cases, they are brand new to their positions. Members of this organization meet with legislators and other constitutional officers to ensure that they know right from the start the values and priorities of our contract cities. We represent the collective voice of our communities in the State Capitol, and your presence is critical. This year, we will once again be joined by our friends at ICA. Our Legislative Committee, under the leadership of Jorge Morales, is working hard to make our 50th Annual Sacramento Legislative Orientation Tour this January 9th through the 11th the most effective we have ever had. To secure your spot, contact our staff at (562) 622-5533. 

On November 5, 2016, a retirement dinner to honor Sam and Sharon Olivito for their many years of service will be held at the Millenium Biltmore Hotel in Los Angeles. For tickets, sponsorships or more information on this event, please contact event chair Mark Waronek at mark@ek-sunkin.com. 

I've greatly enjoyed seeing many of you in Catalina and at the League conference, and I look forward to seeing you over the holidays. I hope you will join us for our All Cities Holiday Reception on December 1st at 6 pm at the California Club. 

I wish you all the best as we head into the last leg of this long election season.