Budget crisis? Recession? Let's go to Pebble Beach!

It's possible that come May 1, some state employees might be cooling their heels at home on unpaid furloughs to help ease the state's cash crunch.

But one group of Democratic Party insiders will spend that day enjoying a luxurious spa treatment, or a spectacular round of golf at Pebble Beach.

Invitations went out this week for the 12th Annual Speaker’s Cup, a fundraiser to be hosted by Assembly Speaker Karen Bass (D-Los Angeles) for the California Democratic Party on May 1 and 2 in Pebble Beach.

Those who contribute $25,000 will be treated to one hotel night, four spa treaments and four dinners. Those with $60,000 to spare will get "The Ultimate," a package that includes spa treatments and hotel as well as golf for four on Friday and Saturday, dinners for eight and commemorative gifts.

The invitation was making the rounds Friday when the governor announced he would shut many state offices on the first and third Friday of each month so workers can take two unpaid furlough days. Bass and other Democrats have said that there will have to be some payroll cuts, but that any pay reductions or furloughs should be negotiated by the governor with the state employee unions.

Still, Derek Cressman, an activist with California Common Cause, winced at the invitation.

"It looks awful," Cressman said. "You have government officials telling ordinary working folks they have to take cuts while offering luxury services to the well-to-do as part of their fundraising."

Bass spokeswoman Shannon Murphy said the speaker and Democrats have made budget proposals, including tax increases, that would reduce the impact on state workers and programs. "The Speaker supports campaign finance reform, but makes no apologies for doing what it takes to compete and elect more Democrats who will vote for budgets that reflect California’s values," Murphy added.

-- Patrick McGreevy

Photo: Associated Press

Comments

[Chunkdog]

More "do as I say, not as I do" philosophy

[G. Marantz]

How appropriate that the day picked for this party (May 1st.) is May Day, the International Workers Day.

The high rollers that will pay to attend it will be spending money that their employees worked so hard to make for them.

The questions should be asked how many workers were laid off off or took pay cuts so the high rollers lifestyle could continue. Who are they, what business are they in, and are any of them receiving bailout money?

Please have a follow up article asking these questions.

G. Marantz
Victoria BC Canada
Formally from Chatsworth, CA.