— by Marla Turner, NSDP Secretary
President Obama delivers his State of the Union address this Tuesday evening. Watch parties are taking place all across the state. If you are not already hosting a party, why not join one near you? Click here to see a list of events taking place that night.
In other news……
Senator Reid on Reauthorization Of The Violence Against Women Act
Last Monday, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid spoke on the Senate floor regarding the Republicans’ refusal to reauthorize the Violence Against Women Act. Read his remarks here.
Democratic Voter Registration Maintains Strong Lead in Nevada
Secretary of State Ross Miller issued a statement last week saying that 2,000 new voters were registered during January. Statewide, there are 42% Democrats, 34% Republicans, 17.5 % Nonpartisans, 4.68% Independent American Party, and 1.33% (17,269) are members of the Libertarian or other minor parties.
Building a Better Nevada
The NV Democratic Assembly and Senate launched “Building a Better Nevada” website last Monday. Nevadans can now share their vision on how to build a better Nevada, keep up to date on important issues during session, and learn about various members and issues in the spotlight section. The website will display plans that are common sense ideas to make sure our state is on the right path for generations to come.
2013-2014 Nevada Legislative Guide
The new guide is out. Lots of historical information for political junkies as well as current info on this session’s legislature.
Legislative Reports
- The Bulletin for the Allocation of Money Distributed from the Local Government Tax Distribution Account can be viewed at the following link: Bulletin No. 13-04
- A report for the New Method for Funding Public Schools can be viewed at the following link: Committee to Study a New Method for Funding Public Schools Bulletin.
- The Legislative Committee on Health Care’s Task Force to Develop a State Plan to Address Alzheimer’s Disease has a new report available. Please view The Nevada State Plan to Address Alzheimer’s Disease.
Nevada Stonewall Chairman Steps Down
Derek Washington, Chair of the Nevada Stonewall Democratic Caucus and the Stonewall Democrats of Southern Nevada, resigned last week to pursue other interests. We thank him for his service to our state and wish him all the best going forward. New officer elections will be held later this month.
We Are Nevada Radio Show Launched
We Are Nevada is a coalition of public employee unions and community partners standing up for middle class values. This coalition, representing 250,000 Nevadans, includes SEIU, AFL-CIO, NSEA, AFSCME, firefighters, police, PLAN, ProgressNow Nevada and Si Se Puede. They launched a weekly radio show that airs every Friday at 6:00 p.m. for one hour. Tune in on KLAV AM1230 or online. The show features legislative updates, labor history, progressive guests and the defense of middle class values.
Environmental Grassroots Lobby Days
Mark your calendars – the Nevada Conservation League will host an environmental community grassroots lobby day on April 25th. More information will be forthcoming.
Nevada Drug Card
Nevadans can save up to 75% on medications, lower the cost of hearing and vision checkups, LASIK procedures and even some pet medicines through the Prescription Assistance Program. The card is free to all Nevada residents regardless of age, income, or current health coverage. Many of Nevada’s cities and counties are distributing the card. You can also request one online.
Tax Preparation Help From VITA Program
Volunteers from AARP and the Internal Revenue Service Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA) will once again offer residents free assistance with personal income tax form preparation and electronic filing now through April 11. Income restrictions will apply to qualify for assistance. Advance appointments are required at all locations. Find a location near you.
UNLV Journalism Scholarship Applications
The Hank Greenspun School of Journalism and Media Studies at UNLV is now accepting scholarship applications. The deadline to apply is March 1, 2013. Click here for more.
International Youth Soccer Tournament in Las Vegas
The largest international youth soccer tournament in the country will take place in Las Vegas Presidents’ Day weekend, Feb. 16-18. The Las Vegas Mayor’s Cup International Soccer Showcase is expected to bring more than 7,000 youths to the city and pump >$10 million into the local economy.
Applications Now Accepted for NLV Youth Scholarships
The City of North Las Vegas invites high school seniors who live in North Las Vegas to apply for the Nevada League of Cities and Municipalities Youth Award Scholarship. This $1,000 scholarship recognizes students who have performed public or community services and have encouraged others to become involved in their communities. Applications can be obtained online, from counselors at high schools in North Las Vegas or at City Hall, 2250 Las Vegas Boulevard North. The application deadline is 5 p.m. on April 3, 2013.
Summer Youth Jobs
- Clark County Parks and Recreation is currently recruiting to fill positions for the 2013 pool season. Positions are available for those 15 ½ and older from $9 to $15 per hour based on experience and certifications. The County’s Aquatics Department is seeking applicants to fill cashier, lifeguard, water safety instructor and management positions. Click here for more info.
- Youth ages 17 to 21 may qualify for assistance with job training, job placement and continued education through the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) program offered through HELP of Southern Nevada. In Nevada, the WIA is funded by Workforce Connections. For more information, contact Madelyn Oropeza at (702) 369-4357 ext. 1861 or email her at moropeza@helpsonv.org.
Best of luck to all the candidates running for office with the UNR Young Democrats this week!
Have a great week, and as always, be well and do good.