Older adults are the fastest-growing segment of society, which poses challenges, and opportunities, from health care to employment to Social Security. I am eager to meet these and other 21st-century issues head-on as I continue my efforts on behalf of seniors in the State Assembly.

During me tenure on the City Council, I:

• Spearheaded the expansion and improvement of Santa Clara's award-winning Senior Center, which opened on time and under budget. Any Santa Claran over 50 can use the facility for free.
• Fought to prevent the privatization of Social Security.
• Supported programs uniting youths and seniors, including Santa Clara's annual intergenerational dance.

As a teacher at Santa Clara High School, I implemented the Stories of Service Program, which pairs students with World War II veterans in telling our heroes' stories on the Internet.

In Sacramento, I will fight for the issues that matter most to seniors, including health-care reform with a prescription drug benefit; dignified retirement through a fortified Social Security system; and job creation & retention for those who want to keep putting their talent and experience to use.

* Affiliation listed for identification purposes only.