Sure, the mayor of Pico Rivera ( along with the city manager and many staffers) wanted Measure P to pass. The measure proposed raising the sales tax by one percent to close a $4.8 million budget gap and would allow the city to tackle a library project and parks improvements.

Some even expected it would pass, but most everyone said it would be a nail-biter election. And when I came in to work on Election Night, I was expecting a close race, maybe too close to call before deadlines for the Wednesday newspaper.

Instead, the measure won by a landslide, with 68 percent of voters in support. The measure needed just a simple majority (50 percent plus one) to pass.

Watch the paper this weekend for a story that explains why officials believe the measure did so well, despite the shaky economy and concerns about government spending.

Our story on Prop 8 for tomorrow's paper couldn't possibly include all the quotes from people concerning the issue of Prop 8 and it's victory Tuesday. Here are some of those quotes:


The following quotes are from Alhambra resident Julie Tinney who recently wed her lesbian partner:

"My marriage is legal. My civil marriage is legal. It was performed in good faith and I am ready for a fight."

"I would never try to take away anyone else's civil marriage. Nor would I tell them who they could marry in their church."

"If there is anything that did come out of this, there were a lot of people who were forced to deal with their own homophobia. On a personal note, last night I went down to a neighbors house. I didn't know them very well and I brought them cookies. I said, 'I just wanted you to have cookies because when you put that No on 8 sign in your yard, it felt like a hug.' He opened his arms and gave me a huge hug and said 'I hope we will win.' That was before the results had been announced."

"The reality of all this is that gay marriage has been legal for five months and I would ask, how has their marriage been changed, how has their family been changed in the last five months? The socially acceptable term for people to have committed to one another is civil marriage. It is not a domestic partnership, not a civil union. It is a civil marriage. Society gets that."

The following quotes are from Los Angeles area spokeswoman for "Yes on prop 8" Meg Waters:

"We have to reach out to gay and lesbian couples and help them realize we are all in the same family and this does not diminish their relationship or take anything away from them."

"We have always upheld the right to have civil unions, the right to adopt and equal legal protections under the law. The issue of education for us about teaching very young children, I would think gay and lesbian parents would think the same way. I would feel that way whether I was a straight couple or gay couple - I would. Parents have the right to instruct there own children on matters of sexuality."

"Marriage has been something that is understood by every culture, every religion, every government, every socially connected group of people since the dawn of time. The fundamental nature of a family is between a man and a woman. It doesn't make sense now in the 21st century to undue a concept that has existed for over 10,000 years. We are talking about a really small number of people who are gay and have adopted. I know some who have become parents and have a lovely home. But the foundation of a family, what we have biologically known is between a man and a woman and they create a family. And because there are a handful of people who have a different family structure, doesn't mean you change all of society to redefine marriage to accommodate a few people. You don't upset the whole apple cart for just one or two exceptions."


The following quotes are from Senior Pastor of My Friends House Assembly of God Church Jim Ortiz:

"Marriage in its most basic and understood fashion is a relationship of committed individuals working to have a children. Naturally have children. On that very basic point, same sex marriage can never be equal to heterosexual marriage."

"People's choices of lifestyle are there own. People choose to live that way. I don't have the right to discriminate on a personal level. But when it comes to imposing on a basic historical institution, then it becomes something I have to fight against."

"It is unfortunate that those of us in the religious community have often been portrayed as bigoted and hateful toward those in the gay community. My point of view is how people live is up to them. It is my fundamental understanding that sexual relationships are human choice and human behaviors are always discriminated against. We always discriminate against certain kinds of behavior. Unfortunately, that has always been portrayed as a hate issue, but it is not. We want what is most beneficial for society as a whole, for our families and children."

The following quotes are from Bruce Gray, Rector of St. Matthias in Whittier.

"I think gay marriage is good for society because it gives a good moral standard for society. It promotes lifelong monogamy in sexual relationships."

"I am disappointed with the result, but I was aware going in that this was probably one step of many. We will probably have to work on this issue for years and years to come."

"The church still very much embraces them as god embraces them and we can take inspiration from the presidential election that it may take decades, but the moral right will prevail."

Opponents of Proposition 8 have already submitted a complaint over the recently victorious proposition to ban same-sex marriage to the California Supreme Court.

Filed by Gloria Allred and her firm of Allred, Maroko and Goldberg versus the State of California, the complaint asserts that Proposition 8 would revise a section in the state constitution, rather than amend it. If it is an amendment, it only needs a majority of citizens to approve it.

But Proposition 8 is a "substantial revision" to the Equal Protection Clause of the constitution and instead can only be ratified by a constitutional convention and popular ratification or by legislative submission, according to the complaint. Two thirds of each house of the legislature would be needed to pass those items.

The complaint argues the Equal Protection Clause protects marriage between same sex couples as a fundamental right just as it does for opposite sex couples.

"Thus, under Equal Protection analysis, either both forms of couples should be permitted to marry, or neither form of couple should be permitted to marry and all couples, regardless of composition, should be limited to registered domestic partnership," according to the complaint.

More to come later today.

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger rejected rumors in the blogosphere that he could serve in president-elect Barack Obama's cabinet as Secretary of Energy.

"I will stay here in California until my job is finished because there is a lot of work still ahead of us," he told reporters this morning.

Politico.com has been the main source of the rumor, though others have echoed it. The site listed Schwarzenegger and New Mexico Senator Jeff Bingaman as two potential selections.

Schwarzenegger said he is looking forward to working with Obama.

"I think everyone in the United States, no matter what party affiliation, must support him 100 percent in his administration," he said.

Most major news outlets are calling the battle over Proposition 8 a "yes" victory, but opponents to the measure are still awaiting some three to four million absentee votes to be counted before accepting a decision.

"This was a real grassroots effort and I think once people really starting seeing what was at stake, they realized we needed to preserve traditional marriage," said Los Angeles area spokeswoman for "Yes on Prop 8" Meg Waters. "This is huge."

After two California votes against gay marriage, followed by Arizona and Florida both voting to ban gay marriage, Waters believes that public sentiment is clear.

But opponents to the Proposition are still playing the waiting game. With a close race at about 52% to 48% in favor of the proposition - a separation of about 400,000 votes - "No on Prop 8" supporters still have hopes.

"Given that fundamental rights are at stake, we must wait to hear from the Secretary of State tomorrow about how many votes are yet to be counted as well as where they are from," said Geoff Kors and Kate Kendell of the "No on Prop 8" executive committee in a prepared statement. "Because Prop 8 involves the sensitive matter of individual rights, we believe it is important to wait until we receive further information about the outcome."

.

This from another a.m. press release -- touting Democratic gains in the House of Representatives:

Thank you for your support of Speaker Nancy Pelosi, the DCCC, and Barack Obama! It appears the new House will be 258:176 (a net gain of 23 seats). A special Election will be held on November 18, 2008 to fill the vacancy of the late Stephanie Tubbs Jones.
 
Here are 9 Republican incumbents we have beaten:

Betsy Markey unseated Colorado Rep. Marilyn Musgrave
Jim Himes unseated Connecticut Rep. Chris Shays
Suzanne Kosmas unseated Florida Rep. Tom Feeney
Alan Grayson unseated Florida Rep. Ric Keller
Gary Peters unseated Michigan Rep. Joe Knollenberg
Dina Titus unseated Nevada Rep. Jon Porter
Eric Massa unseated New York Rep. Randy Kuhl
Larry Kissell unseated North Carolina Rep. Robin Hayes
Kathy Dahlkemper unseated Pennsylvania Rep. Phil English
 
9 open seats we captured due to GOP retirements:

Bobby Bright Sr defeated Jay Love in Alabama
Ann Kirkpatrick defeated Sydney Hay in Arizona
Debbie Halvorson defeated Martin Ozinga in Illinois
John Adler defeated Chris Myers in New Jersey
Martin Heinrich defeated Darren White in New Mexico
Harry Teague defeated Ed Tinsley in New Mexico
Michael McMahon defeated Robert Straniere in New York
Dan Maffei defeated Dale Sweetland in New York
Gerry Connolly defeated Keith Fimian in Virginia
49.69%: R Jay Love
4 Seats We Lead in That Have Not Been Called:
Tom Perriello leads Virginia Rep. Virgil H. Goode Jr
Mark Schauer leads Michigan Rep. Tim Walberg
Darcy Burner leads Washington Rep. Dave Reichert
John Boccieri leads Kirk Schuring in Ohio
 
The 4 Democrats unseated by Republicans:
Rep. Tim Mahoney of Florida
Rep. Nancy Boyda of Kansas
Rep. Don Cazayoux of Louisianna
Rep. Nick Lampson of Texas
 
Speaker Nancy Pelosi spoke eloquently last night, stating "We have a great deal of work to do, and we can do some of it right from the start, but the rest of it will take a while". She added, "We must take a very deliberate, steady course for America." She stressed bipartisanship and praised both President-Elect Barack Obama and defeated Republican nominee John McCain.

Here's the first press release of the morning regarding the passage of Proposition 8, the ban on same sex marriages in California. It comes from the law offices of Gloria Allred:

Attorney Gloria Allred and her clients, Robin Tyler and Diane Olson, will hold a news conference today November 5, 2008 at 12:00 noon at 6300 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 1500 L.A. to announce a new lawsuit against Prop. 8. Prop. 8 intended to ban same gender marriages in California. 

Ms. Allred and her law firm represented the couple in their victory before the California Supreme Court. Her clients became the first to marry in Los Angeles County in June. 

Ms. Allred will file the new lawsuit today with the California Supreme Court on behalf of the couple.  The new lawsuit will contain a new and controversial legal argument as to why Prop. 8 is unconstitutional. 

Copies of the lawsuit will be provided to the press at the news conference.

The election you're looking for is probably covered down the list. Click on the "election countdown" banner, and all the entries will appear.

A pair of Assembly races were still relatively close Wednesday morning.

In the 59th District race, Anthony Adams, R-Claremont, led Don Williamson, D-Highland 50.8 percent to 41.3 percent. At 8 a.m., 30 percent of votes still needed to be counted, according to data published by the state.

And in the 60th District race, Chino HIlls Mayor Curt Hagman seemed poised to beat out Diane Singer, D-Anaheim Hills. With 10 percent of precincts not reported, Hagman, a Republican, let 55.9 percent to 44.1 percent.

Other races were not close.

Mike Eng, D-El Monte, was unchallenged in the 49th District.

In the 44th District race, incumbent Anthony Portantino, D-La Canada-Flintridge, had 64.4 percent of the vote compared to 29.8 percent for Brian Fuller, R-Altadena and 5.8 percent for Thomas Logan, a Libertarian.

Incumbent Ed Hernandez, D-West Covina had a 66.7-33.3 percent lead on Victor Saldana, R-Baldwin Park for the 57th District Seat.

For the 58th District seat, incumbent Charles Calderon, D-Industry, had a big 70.9-29.1 percent lead against Carlos Gettino, R-Downey.

 

Bob Huff, R-Diamond Bar and Carol Liu, D-La Cañada Flintridge, won state senate seats, according to election results published Wednesday.

Huff gave up his Assembly seat to try for the 21st District Senate seat vacated by Bob Margett, who was termed out. Huff was challenged by Democrat Joe Lyons, a medical researcher at City of Hope National Medical Center in Duarte, and Libertarian Jill Stone of Temple City.

He captured 54.4 percent of the vote, compared to 39 percent for Lyons and 6.6 percent for Stone.

Liu was challenged for the 29th District seat by Republican Teddy Choi, a real estate agent from Pasadena, and Libertarian candidate Steve Myers, a computer programmer from Los Angeles, in her bid to succeed termed-out Sen. Jack Scott, D-Altadena.

 

With about 95 percent of votes counted:

Prop. 1A, high speed train: 52.3 percent - passed

Prop. 2, confining farm animals: 63 percent - passed

Prop. 3, children's hospital: 54.8 percent - passed

Prop. 4, parental notification: 47.2 percent - failed

Prop. 5, non-violent offender: 40 percent - failed

Prop. 6, law-enforcement funding: 30 percent - failed

Prop. 7, clean energy: 34.5 percent - failed

Prop. 8, same-sex marriage ban: 52.1. percent - passed

Prop. 9, vicim's rights: 53.1 percent - passed

Prop. 10, renewable energy bond: 39.4 percent- failed

Prop. 11, redistricting: 50.6 percent - too close to call

Prop. 12, veterans' bond, 63 percent - passed

Across the San Gabriel Valley voters gave their strong approval to bond measures that raise money for school improvements. The bond money will pay for new classrooms, security upgrades, technological improvements, and heating and cooling upgrades in schools throughout the region.

Eight measures that allow school districts to issue bonds repaid by property taxes passed, mostly by wide margins. All needed 55 percent approval to pass.

Measure AB in the Bonita Unified School District was the closest of the school bond measures. It passed 61 percent to 39 percent. The measure is a $83.5 million bond that will increase property taxes approximately $35 per $100,000 of assessed property value.

Measure O in the Rosemead School District passed 76 percent to 24 percent. The measure is a $30 million bond that will increase property taxes approximately $30 per $100,000 of assessed property value.

Measure MM in the Alhambra Unified School District passed 75 percent to 25 percent. The measure is a $50 million school bond that will increase property taxes approximately $16 per $100,000 of assessed property value.

Measure TT in the Pasadena Unified School District also passed 75 percent to 25 percent. The measure is a $350 million bond that will increase property taxes approximately $46 per $100,000 of assessed property value.

Measure W in the Whittier Union High School District passed 72 percent to 28 percent. The measure is expected to generate $75 million. It will maintain existing tax rates for a school improvement bond in the district, but extend the repayment period by 10 years.

Measure KC in the El Monte City School District passed 72 percent to 28 percent. The measure is a $75 million bond that will increase property taxes approximately $30 per $100,000 of assessed property value.

Measure D in the El Monte Union High School District passed 74 percent to 26 percent. The measure is a $148 million bond that will increase property taxes approximately $30 per $100,000 of assessed property value.

Voters also gave their approval to a bond measure for infrastructure improvements at Mount San Antonio College, Measure RR, by a vote of 70 percent to 30 percent. The measure is an extension of Measure R, which passed in 2001. With it the college can raise another $353 million bond. It will increase property taxes approximately $25 per $100,000 of assessed property value.

ROSEMEAD - Voters widely rejected a proposal to make Rosemead a charter city rather than a general law city.

Measure CC, as the initiative is known, failed 63 percent to 37 percent.

The measure would have given the city council greater autonomy from the state legislature in local regulations.

It also would have set term limits for city council members of three, four-year terms, or 12 consecutive years.

Supporters said it would have put more power in the hands of Rosemead residents.

Opponents charged it was unnecessary and would have allowed city council members to set their own salaries.

Rosemead will remain a general law city, meaning it is bound by the state's general law, regardless of whether the law concerns a municipal affair.

Term limits for councilmen could be implemented through other means.

SAN GABRIEL -- City voters passed Measure SG Tuesday, which would raise a municipal tax on utilities from 6 percent to 8 percent and use the additional funding to improve infrastructure and emergency services.

City officials proposed the utility tax increase as a way to fund needed street improvements, boost fire and police services and to construct a new police station. With dwindling revenue coming in from the state, officials said Measure SG was the most viable way to raise money to pay for the projects.

The tax hike would generate between $1.2 million and $1.3 million annually, according to the city's projections.

If Measure SG passes, the average household would see a $6-per-month increase in on its utility bill. For most families, utility bills would increase from an average of about $17.60 a month to about $23.40 a month.

Without the tax hike, officials had warned, San Gabriel's budget could face a projected deficit of about $600,000 next fiscal year.

A survey that went out to voters earlier this year -- and telephone polls conducted by City Hall staffers -- found that a majority of residents would support increasing the tax, if the money were used to fix streets, bolster emergency services and build a new police station.

Voters in Pico Rivera Tuesday overwhelmingly approved a sales tax increase from 8.25 to 9.25 percent for each purchase made in the city. The measure garnered 68 percent of the vote, leading 11,854 to 5,493.

"I'm pretty excited about it," said Mayor Ron Beilke, who chaired the committee in favor of the measure. "It's a really good sign that people appreciate all that we've accomplished together."
The money from the tax, estimated by city officials to be about $6 million, would help close a $4.8 million structural deficit in Pico Rivera's annual budget, build a new library and complete a long-shelved parks master plan.

"We're looking at long-term sustainability," City Manager Chuck Fuentes said about the reason the tax was proposed. Money spent on groceries and prescriptions would not be taxed under the law, nor would money for personal services, like getting a haircut.
Fuentes said without the tax, "draconian" cuts would be implemented to balance the budget. This would mean the loss of parks and recreation programs, firing city staff and giving up on street repair projects and parks improvements, he said.

In order to get the measure on the ballot, the City Council had to vote unanimously that Pico Rivera was in a state of fiscal emergency. Councilman David Armenta, who opposes the tax, voted against the state of emergency. However, his four other colleagues on the council brought it back for a second vote while Armenta was on vacation a few weeks later and unanimously approved it.

Voters chose a mix of incumbents and challengers to represent them on water districts throughout the San Gabriel Valley.

In the Upper San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District, voters elected Charles Trevino, former director of the Central Basin Water District, over incumbent Frank Forbes and two other candidates to represent Division 2, which covers Rosemead, Arcadia, Temple City, South Pasadena and San Gabriel.

Trevino, who now works for the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, received 44 percent of the vote, to Clarence Wong's 26 percent, Forbes' 20 percent and Arthur James Munoz's 9 percent.

In the race to represent the Upper San Gabriel district's Division 3, which covers Hacienda Heights, Bassett, Valinda, La Puente and Industry, incumbent Leon Garcia also lost to a newcomer. Teacher and former assemblyman Ed Chavez received 53 percent of the vote, while Garcia received 35 percent and Lizet Angulo received 12 percent.

In Division 4, incumbent William "Bill" Robinson will return to the board. Voters gave him 46 percent of the vote, while they gave developer Andrew McIntyre 32 percent of the vote, and West Covina planning commissioner Royall Brown 22 percent. Division 4 represents West Covina, Covina, Glendora and Irwindale.

Voters in the Three Valleys Municipal Water District looked for new blood as well. Challenger John Mendoza, a carpenter, edged out incumbent John W. "Fred" Lantz 56 percent to 44 percent.

Voters in the Central Basin Water District chose incumbents over challengers.

Incumbent Ed Vasquez will return as the representative for Division 1. He beat challenger Yvette Silva 69 percent to 31 percent.

In Division 4, incumbent Rudy Montalvo won a close race with Leticia Vasquez. Montalvo, receiving 51 percent of the vote to Vasquez's 49 percent.

And in Division 5, incumbent Phillip Hawkins received 64 percent of the vote to beat challenger Mason Buchanan Inocentes.

Voters in the San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District also chose the incumbent over the challenger. Longtime board member Joseph Reichenberger won 56 percent of the vote, while challenger John Wong, a real estate broker, received 44 percent.

In the Water Replenishment District of Southern California, incumbent Albert Robles overwhelmingly won a fifth term. Robles received nearly 50 percent of the vote in defeating Linda Unruh-Fuentes, the daughter of the late legendary Assembly Speaker Jesse M. Unruh, as well as Steve Castellanos, La Habra public works director, and Ralph Helm, a Whittier broker. Fuentes received about 24 percent of the vote, Castellanos, 19 percent, and Helm, 7 percent.

Robles will represent Division 5, which includes Bellflower, Carson, Compton, Downey, La Habra Heights, Norwalk, Paramount, Pico Rivera, Santa Fe Springs and Whittier. The Water Replenishment District of Southern California manages groundwater for nearly 4 million residents in 43 cities in Southern Los Angeles County.

ALHAMBRA - Incumbent City Councilman Steven Placido easiily won a seat for the city's Fourth District against challenger Efren Moreno.

Placido captured 57.8 percent of the vote.

The two carried out a heated campaign, with the Alhambra Police Officers Association distributing fliers accusing Placido of unethical behavior. Moreno did not distribute the fliers, he said.

Placido was accused of being lax on public safety, of practicing dentistry without a license - even of being caught driving with expired registration tags.

Placido said he has never practiced dentistry without a license. Rather, he said, he was late making a renewal payment for his license. He admitted to driving with expired registration tags, but said that has no reflection on his council performance.

This is the third time the two have vied for the same seat, with Moreno winning in 2000 and Placido in 2004.

Councilman Gary Yamauchi had no challenger for the Third District seat and was re-elected.

 

SOUTH PASADENA - Voters approved Measure SP in South Pasadena, which ratified the city's downtown development plan.

The measure received "yes" votes from 55.6 percent of voters. It needed a simple majority to pass.

Measure SP sought to clarify ambiguous language in the city's Downtown Revitalization Plan, but many viewed it as a largely symbolic vote for or against the plan.

Supporters maintain the plan will create an attractive downtown. They also criticized opponents' claims that the plan was forced on residents, citing the nearly 80 community meetings city officials held to garner public input before the council approved the final plan in May.

Councilman Mike Ten, a supporter, remained optimistic as early results rolled in Tuesday night.

"I feel hopeful. I would believe that we would have a 60 percent or better yes-vote," he said a few hours before the final tally was reported. "I think all of our citizens got all the info they needed to make a decision, and hopefully they got through all the differing opinions and misinformation."

Opponents complained about the size and scope of the project and its potential to increase traffic and pollution.

The opponents also feared the project's housing component would put a strain on local schools and other resources. They favor a scale-down version.

The downtown plan calls for the construction of seven new buildings housing 10 to 15 new retail stores, three restaurants, a bowling alley and 60 condominiums.

The project area is bounded by Mission Street on the north, Fair Oaks Avenue on the east, Mound Avenue on the west, and Oxley Street on the south.

Voters passed by a wide margin a law that lowered a utility tax for unincorporated communities but added cell phones to the list of taxable utilities. 

With all precincts reporting, 62.46 percent of voters approved Measure U. It needed a simple majority to pass.

The law reduces a utility tax for unincorporated neighborhoods from 5 percent to 4.5 percent.

But modern devices, such as cell phones, can now be taxed.

"When the tax was first passed, cell phones and text messaging weren't around," said Matthew McGloin, principal analyst for Los Angeles County. "The ordinance is being updated to reflect technology improvements."

The utility users tax was originally imposed on residents in 1991, after the Board of Supervisors approved a 5-percent levy.

 

EL MONTE - Voters agreed to increase the sales tax in El Monte by a half-cent, from 8.25 percent to 8.75 percent, for five years to generate funds for the city.

Voters approved Measure GG by a wide margin, with 71 percent of voters voting yes.

Measure GG is expected to raise $4.4 million a year. The funds will be used to help the city maintain infrastructure and fire and police safety, according to city officials. Tax revenues will also be used to help rebuild the city's emergency reserves depleted by a $400,000 budget deficit.

Opponents, including councilwoman Patricia Wallach, argued that city officials did not do everything they could to cut spending before asking residents to pay more taxes.

The "transactions and use tax," as it is known, will not apply to grocery food or prescription medication.

Measure R, a half-cent sales-tax increase, has the two-thirds vote it needs to become law, according to preliminary results from the County of Los Angeles Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk's office.

With all precincts reporting, 67.41 percent voted to approve the measure.

The tax raises an estimated $40 billion over 30 years for Los Angeles County transit projects.

The projects would include light rail and subway expansion, freeway improvements, and funds for local cities to work on their own transportation infrastructure.

The increased sales tax would cost each county resident about $25 a year, and each family about $80, according to a study by the Los Angeles Economic Development Corp.

Proponents of the measure include transit advocates, labor groups, environmental groups, and business groups.

The opposition has come mainly from politicians and city officials from outside of the city of Los Angeles and its immediate neighbors to the west, with substantial opposition coming from the San Gabriel Valley.

Other opponents include taxpayer rights groups and the Bus Riders Union, a longtime Metropolitan Transportation Agency opponent, which contends that the plan does very little to expand bus service in the county.

Local opponents of the measure have complained that it does not provide adequate funding for a proposed 24-mile extension of the Gold Line that would run to Claremont, and that San Gabriel Valley projects in general are under-funded.

WHITTIER - In a close election, longtime incumbent Fred Schambeck and teacher James Najera have been elected to the two open seats on the Lowell Joint School District board of trustees.

They beat out incumbent Gene Dunford and attorney Bill Hinz.

With all precincts reporting in both Los Angeles and Orange counties, Schambeck received 27.5 percent of the vote, Najera received 26.8 percent, Hinz received 23.8 percent, and Dunford receivied 21.9 percent.

This was the first time in 14 years that Lowell Joint had seen a contested school board election. Najera, a Nogales High School teacher who has a master's degree in finance and marketing, said the board needs fresh ideas.

From staff and wire reports
Incumbent Albert Robles overwhelmingly won a fifth term on the Water Replenishment District of Southern California. Robles received nearly 50 percent of the vote in defeating Linda Unruh-Fuentes, the daughter of the late legendary Assembly Speaker Jesse M. Unruh, as well as Steve Castellanos, La Habra public works director, and Ralph Helm, a Whittier broker. Fuentes received about 24 percent of the vote, Castellanos, 19 percent, and Helm, 7 percent.

An attorney, Robles had billed himself as "a non-stop advocate for lower water rates" and "the only candidate with the experience and education background" to serve as a director.
Fuentes, an attorney who also is the wife of Pico Rivera City Manager Chuck Fuentes, pledged to fight to assure honesty and integrity in district operations and be a watchdog against fraud and wasteful spending.

The elder Unruh was an assemblyman from 1954 to 1970 and the body's speaker from 1961 to 1969. He is credited with professionalizing the Legislature and was the author of the groundbreaking Unruh Civil Rights Act of 1959, which banned discrimination by businesses offering service to the public. Following unsuccessful campaigns for governor in 1970 and mayor of Los Angeles in 1973, Unruh was elected state treasurer in 1974, serving until his death in 1987.

Castellanos said he would try to seek multiple benefits from each of the district's projects if elected. Helm, a Whittier real estate broker, said he would support raising taxes to pay for more recycled water projects and to deal with a water shortage.

The four candidates were seeking the seat representing Division 5, which includes Bellflower, Carson, Compton, Downey, La Habra Heights, Norwalk, Paramount, Pico Rivera, Santa Fe Springs and Whittier. The Water Replenishment District of Southern California manages groundwater for nearly 4 million residents in 43 cities in Southern Los Angeles County. It is responsible for ensuring that a reliable supply of high quality groundwater, water found underground in porous rock strata and soils, is available through its clean water projects, water supply programs and effective management principles.

All three Whittier-area congressional members were easily re-elected Tuesday or on their way to it. Reps. Grace Napolitano, D-Norwalk, and Linda Sanchez, D-Lakewood, won by a 2-1 margin, while Rep. Gary Miller, R-Brea led by a 61-39 percent margin. In Miller's race, 84 of the 98 precincts in San Bernardino County remained uncounted and numbers won't be released until 6 a.m. or later.

All three of their opponents didn't live in their districts and thus couldn't vote for themselves. Federal law only requires congressional candidates to live in the state.

Napolitano led Libertarian Christopher Agrella of Montclair by an 82-18 percent margin.
Sanchez led Republican Diane Singer of Seal Beach by a 70-30 percent margin. Miller was defeating Democrat Ed Chau of Montebello.

Two Assembly incumbents were re-elected, while Chino Hills Mayor Curt Hagman appeared on his way to victory in Whittier-area state legislative races.
Assemblymen Charles Calderon, D-Whittier, and Tony Mendoza, D-Norwalk, easily won second terms. Calderon defeated Carlos Getino of Downey with by a 71-29 percent margin.
Mendoza defeated Roger Garrett of Cerritos by a 68-32 percent margin.

"I'm excited to go back again," Mendoza. "It's going to be a very busy legislative year."
On top of the agenda figures to be the budget for all three. Mendoza said he thinks the election of Barack Obama will help. "He will turn the economy around," Mendoza said. "I'm hopeful by the next year that the economy will be on its way to improving." Mendoza said he also wants to see the two-thirds rule for approval of a budget pass.

Going to Sacramento for the first time most likely will be Hagman, who appeared to be defeating Diane Singer, an Anaheim Hills businesswoman. He relied on a nearly 14,000-vote edge in Orange County for his substantial lead. In Los Angeles County, Singer narrowly defeated Hagman by about 1,000 votes. Only vote-by-mail results were available for the San Bernardino portion (Chino Hills) of the district. Those results aren't expected to be available until at least after 6 a.m.

Hagman said he wants to work on what he calls "structural problems" in the way the state does business. "That's what I've done locally," he said. "That's what I hope to do up there. We need to take apart the system and see if we can do more with less." Hagman said he remains opposed to raising taxes as a way to solve the state's budget problems. "Until I'm convinced we've done everything else, I would be opposed to a tax increase."

Voters in Pico Rivera Tuesday overwhelmingly approved a sales tax increase from 8.25 to 9.25 percent for each purchase made in the city. The measure garnered 68 percent of the vote, leading 11,854 to 5,493.

"I'm pretty excited about it," said Mayor Ron Beilke, who chaired the committee in favor of the measure. "It's a really good sign that people appreciate all that we've accomplished together."
The money from the tax, estimated by city officials to be about $6 million, would help close a $4.8 million structural deficit in Pico Rivera's annual budget, build a new library and complete a long-shelved parks master plan.

"We're looking at long-term sustainability," City Manager Chuck Fuentes said about the reason the tax was proposed. Money spent on groceries and prescriptions would not be taxed under the law, nor would money for personal services, like getting a haircut.
Fuentes said without the tax, "draconian" cuts would be implemented to balance the budget. This would mean the loss of parks and recreation programs, firing city staff and giving up on street repair projects and parks improvements, he said.

In order to get the measure on the ballot, the City Council had to vote unanimously that Pico Rivera was in a state of fiscal emergency. Councilman David Armenta, who opposes the tax, voted against the state of emergency. However, his four other colleagues on the council brought it back for a second vote while Armenta was on vacation a few weeks later and unanimously approved it.

Proponents of the measure said it will preserve vital city services at a cost of just one penny on the dollar. Opponents said it will hurt Pico Rivera businesses and those who shop in the community.

Armenta said he has spoken to business owners who may leave the city, because they may lose their competitive edge on big-ticket items such as cars, refrigerators and the like. He said he also believes the other City Council members intend to borrow as much as $60 million through bonds, using the projected $6 million revenue. The city already has about $100 million in redevelopment debt.

But the rest of the council said the tax may be the only way to build a new library, preserve city services, and keep improving law enforcement.

The Whittier Union High School District's $75 million Measure W bond initiative enjoyed resounding success at the polls Tuesday, as election results show it easily won passage among local voters.

According to the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder's Office, more than 70 percent of voters cast ballots in favor of Measure W --  well above the 55 percent it needed to pass.

Measure W will help pay for new vocational/career-technical education classrooms at the district's five comprehensive high schools.

It also calls for  upgrades on the heating/air-conditioning systems, security, safety lighting, irrigation, landscaping, playing fields and stadiums, as well as improve handicapped access to school facilities.

It won't raise taxes, officials said, but it will extend the repayment period for the $98 million Measure C bond approved by voters in 1999 for an extra seven years.

Measure C has paid for major renovations at each school, as well as numerous new-construction projects throughout the district.

SAN GABRIEL -- City voters passed Measure SG Tuesday, which would raise a municipal tax on utilities from 6 percent to 8 percent and use the additional funding to improve infrastructure and emergency services.

City officials proposed the utility tax increase as a way to fund needed street improvements, boost fire and police services and to construct a new police station. With dwindling revenue coming in from the state, officials said Measure SG was the most viable way to raise money to pay for the projects.

The tax hike would generate between $1.2 million and $1.3 million annually, according to the city's projections.

If Measure SG passes, the average household would see a $6-per-month increase in on its utility bill. For most families, utility bills would increase from an average of about $17.60 a month to about $23.40 a month.

Without the tax hike, officials had warned, San Gabriel's budget could face a projected deficit of about $600,000 next fiscal year.

A survey that went out to voters earlier this year -- and telephone polls conducted by City Hall staffers -- found that a majority of residents would support increasing the tax, if the money were used to fix streets, bolster emergency services and build a new police station.

Measure R is barely headed toward approval, with 90 percent of precincts reporting.

The measure needs two-thirds approval by voters. With 4,408 of 4,883 precincts reporting, 67.3 percent of voters have voted yes and 32.7 percent have voted no.

The initiative would raise the sales tax rate in Los Angeles County by half-cent for 30 years to pay for transit projects.

Leaders throughout the San Gabriel Valley widely opposed Measure R because they said it would not direct enough money to projects in the eastern part of the county.

In early election results Tuesday night, Carol Liu was leading in the 21st state Senate District, while Assemblyman Bob Huff was ahead in the 29th District.

Liu, a Democrat and former Assemblywoman from La Cañada Flintridge, was challenged by Republican Teddy Choi, a real estate agent from Pasadena, and Libertarian candidate Steve Myers, a computer programmer from Los Angeles, in her bid to succeed termed-out Sen. Jack Scott, D-Altadena.

With 84 percent of precincts reporting, Liu was leading with 67 percent of the vote. Choi was trailing with 25 percent.

From the Pasadena United Democratic Headquarters event at the Pasadena Hilton, Liu said she hadn't so much doubted the outcome as she had worried about voter turnout.

"It is really wonderful. One of 40 (state senators) is a very small club, and we have a lot of work to do," she said. "The state's got budget problems, infrastructure problems -- it's got lots of issues that we need to work on."

After serving in the La Cañada Flintridge City Council from 1992-2000, Liu, a former school teacher, served two terms in the 44th Assembly District from 2000-2006.

Her platform emphasized a reassessment of the education system and structural reform of the state's budget.

In the 29th District, returns showed Huff leading Democratic challenger Joseph Lyons, a medical researcher from Claremont, and Libertarian Jill Stone, a Temple City insurance agent.
The three were vying for the seat of former 29th District Sen. Bob Margett, R-Arcadia, who like Scott was also termed out.

With 76 percent of precincts reporting districtwide, Huff was ahead with 55 percent of the vote. Lyons was behind with 38 percent.

Huff has served two terms in the Assembly and was formerly a council member in Diamond Bar. He has consistently opposed tax-increase proposals, and he has also advocated restrictions on illegal immigration and government services to illegal immigrants.

Huff said he felt "relieved" by the results.

"There's an old saying: You either run unopposed or you run scared. I'm of the school you run scared," he said.

"We have the ability to incentivize businesses to invest in equipment, to hire workers -- those are the things I'll be working on as opposed to raising taxes," he said.

With 87 percent of precincts reported, Pasadena Unified's $350 million Measure TT had nearly 74 percent of the vote. The bond measure needs  55 percent approval to pass.

The largest facilities improvement bond in PUSD history will raise that amount by increasing residential property taxes by $44.63 for every $100,000 of assessed property value.

Superintendent Edwin Diaz, who came to PUSD in March 2007, had pushed for the bond after he toured school sites last year and found numerous deficiencies.

District officials touted the bond as a way to complete campus improvement projects that went unfinished after funds from an early bond -- 1997's $240-million Measure Y -- ran out.

In the final weeks of the campaign, supporters sought to quell concerns about oversight and accountability issues that plagued Measure Y.

The questions raised by residents were less about the specifics of the bond and more about how the district would ensure the money would be spent wisely, Diaz said.

Last month, district officials revealed they filed a criminal complaint with the Pasadena Police Department after an internal audit uncovered $80,000 missing from Measure Y funds slated for improvements at the Washington Middle School.

The Los Angeles District Attorney's Office reviewed the case, but in June 2005, prosecutors declined to file charges. DA officials said the district's records were so confusing, it was difficult for them to tell whether there was any evidence of criminal conduct linked to the missing $80,000.

Across the San Gabriel Valley voters have given their approval to bond measures to raise money for school improvements.

Eight measures that allow school districts to issue bonds repaid by property taxes appear poised for approval.

Measure AB in the Bonita Unified School District is the closest of the school bond measures. With 25 of 47 precincts reporting, it is ahead 60 percent to 40 percent.

Measure O in the Rosemead School District was approved by voters 76 percent to 24 percent.

Measure MM in the Alhambra Unified School District is ahead 75 percent to 25 percent with 51 of 58 precincts reporting.

Measure TT in the Pasadena Unified School District is ahead 74 percent to 26 percent with 107 of 129 precincts reporting.

Measure W in the Whittier Union High School District is ahead 72 percent to 28 percent with 122 of 129 precincts reporting.

Measure KC in the El Monte City School District is ahead 72 percent to 28 percent with 36 of 37 precincts reporting.

Measure D in the El Monte Union High School District is ahead 74 percent to 26 percent with 79 of 83 precincts reporting.

Voters have also given their approval to a bond measure for infrastructure improvements at Mount San Antonio College. With 351 of 392 precincts reporting, 70 percent of votes have approved the measure, and 30 percent have voted against it.

Incumbents in the 44th and 59th state Assembly districts are leading their challengers in early election results Tuesday night.

In the 44th District, incumbent Anthony Portantino, D-Pasadena, is leading Republican challenger Brian Fuller, a small businessman from La Cañada Flintridge, and Libertarian candidate Maureen Keedy, an educator from San Bernardino.

With 13.8 percent of District 87.2 precincts reporting, Portantino leads with 63.5 percent of the vote. Fuller is behind with 30.8 percent.

"It's a cautious optimism at this point and I'm very proud and appreciative of the district for giving me an opportunity to work on the issues I care about," Portantino said by phone Tuesday night.

Portantino said education will remain his signature issue.

"I think the single most important thing we can do is to provide the opportunity for all of our children to succeed," said Portantino, who serves as chairman of the Assembly's committee on higher education.

After serving two terms as mayor of La Cañada Flintridge, the New Jersey native won election to the Assembly in 2006.

In the 59th Assembly District, voters appear to favor incumbent Anthony Adams, R-Claremont, over Democrat Donald Williamson of Highland and Libertarian Thomas Logan, a college student from Los Angeles, according to the early returns.

Adams' district stretches across San Bernardino and Los Angeles counties; the assemblyman held a considerable lead in both.

Adams leads the 59th district with 50.8 percent of the vote in Los Angeles County, with 52.5 percent of precincts reporting. Williamson trails with 41.5 percent. Adams holds a double-digit lead over Williamson in San Bernardino County as well.

"We're doing exceptionally well in both," Adams said. "Unless something dramatic changes over the course of the evening, it looks like we're going to be re-elected, and I'm very, very honored by that."

Adams won election to the Assembly in 2006, after a stint as director of legislative affairs for San Bernardino County. He is the vice-chairman of the Assembly Elections and Redistricting Committee and sits on the Rules and Judiciary committees.

While the state budget crisis remains his top priority, Adams said he will focus his second term on environmental issues and improving foster care, education and transportation.

If both incumbents win re-election, they will be called to Sacramento by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger Thursday to discuss the state's growing budget deficit.

Adams said last week that the meeting would be the beginning of a "colossal fight" over budgetary decisions. He has already stated his opposition to any tax increases.
 
Portantino said last month that Californians may support tax hikes -- if they have confidence that the legislature will invest the money wisely.

Longtime Republican incumbent Rep. David Dreier was reelected Tuesday night with over 53 percent of the vote.
.
"I pledge to work with (President-elect Obama) to pursue shared goals, and continue to work in a bipartisan way with my colleagues in Congress to tackle the challenges we face," Dreier, R-San Dimas, wrote in an e-mail. "My top priority is to get our economy back on track."

Opposing Dreier was Democrat Russ Warner, a businessman from Rancho Cucamonga. While Dreier has safely held the seat since 1980, Warner fielded a much better funded campaign than other recent challengers.

Warner said early in the evening he was expecting a close race, but was not available for comment after the final results were in.

"We knew our's would be a close race and a long night, because we worked hard to educate the public about David Dreier's voting record," Warner wrote in an e-mail.

The 26th District had traditionally been solidly Republican, with GOP voters outnumbering Democrats 42 percent to 35 percent. However, the number of Republicans has declined by 5 percent since 2001.

Warner counted on independent voters to close that gap. About 19 percent of voters in the district listed "declined to state" on registration forms.

Also vying for Dreier's seat was Libertarian candidate Ted Brown of Pasadena, who did not raise any money for his campaign. He did campaign, however, appearing at community meetings.

The candidates differed on the issues. Dreier voted in favor of the government's $700 billion economic bailout package, but both Warner and Brown criticized him for his vote.

Warner said he, too, would have voted for the bailout bill. But he criticized Dreier for advocating against corporate bailouts right up until he voted for the bill. He also believes that while the bailout was essential, the government should pursue criminal investigations against certain corporate executives responsible for the crisis.

Warner also favored an economic stimulus package to invest in local infrastructure projects and research institutions like Caltech and Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

All three candidates advocated a withdrawal from Iraq, although Dreier, who supported the war from the beginning and voted for the 2007 troop surge, said it is only recently that the country has made enough progress for troops to leave.

With about 77 percent of votes counted

Prop. 1A, high speed train: 52.1 percent

Prop. 2, confining farm animals: 63 percent

Prop. 3, children's hospital: 53.9 percent

Prop. 4, parental notification: 47.2 percent

Prop. 5, non-violent offender: 40 percent

Prop. 6, law-enforcement funding: 30 percent

Prop. 7, clean energy: 34.5 percent 

Prop. 8, same-sex marriage ban: 51.9 

Prop. 9, vicim's rights: 53.1

Prop. 10, renewable energy bond: 39.4

Prop. 11, redistricting: 50.9

Prop. 12, veterans' bond, 63 percent

ROSEMEAD - An initiative that is expected to generate $30 million for infrastructure in the 128-year-old Rosemead School District was strongly approved by voters.

With all precincts reporting, voters approved the measure 76 percent to 24 percent. The measure needed 55 percent approval to pass.

Measure O will allow the school district to issue $30 million in bonds that will be repaid by property taxes. Property owners will pay an estimated $30 annually for every $100,000 in property value.

Voter turnout in Los Angeles County was between 82 and 83 percent of registered voters, according to Dean Logan, Registrar Recorder/County Clerk

This approaches the record set in 1968 of 86 percent voter turnout and surpasses the turnout in 1976 of 81 percent.

In 2004, turnout was 79 percent.

SAN GABRIEL -- With 18 of 20 precincts reporting, voters support the city's Measure SG by 66 percent.

The measure would raise the city's utility users tax from 6 to 8 percent.

SOUTH PASADENA -- With 10 of 18 precincts reporting, Measure SP leads with 55 percent of the vote.

The measure would ratify language in a written plan to revitalization the city's downtown. Though a small issue, it carries symbolic weight as to whether or not residents support the downtown project.

Incumbents in the 44th and 59th state Assembly districts are leading their challengers in early election results Tuesday night.

In the 44th District, incumbent Anthony Portantino, D-Pasadena, is leading Republican challenger Brian Fuller, a small businessman from La Cañada Flintridge, and Libertarian candidate Maureen Keedy, an educator from San Bernardino.

With 63.6 percent of District 44 precincts reporting, Portantino leads with 61.8 percent of the vote. Fuller is behind with 32.6 percent.

"It's a cautious optimism at this point and I'm very proud and appreciative of the district for giving me an opportunity to work on the issues I care about," Portantino said by phone Tuesday night.

Portantino said education will remain his signature issue.

"I think the single most important thing we can do is to provide the opportunity for all of our children to succeed," said Portantino, who serves as chairman of the Assembly's committee on higher education.

After serving two terms as mayor of La Cañada Flintridge, the New Jersey native won election to the Assembly in 2006.

In the 59th Assembly District, voters appear to favor incumbent Anthony Adams, R-Claremont, over Democrat Donald Williamson of Highland and Libertarian Thomas Logan, a college student from Los Angeles, according to the early returns.

Adams' district stretches across San Bernardino and Los Angeles counties; the assemblyman held a considerable lead in both.

Adams leads the 59th district with 52.2 percent of the vote in Los Angeles County, with 38.3 percent of precincts reporting. Williamson trails with 40.3 percent. Adams holds a double-digit lead over Williamson in San Bernardino County as well.

"We're doing exceptionally well in both," Adams said. "Unless something dramatic changes over the course of the evening, it looks like we're going to be re-elected, and I'm very, very honored by that."

Adams won election to the Assembly in 2006, after a stint as director of legislative affairs for San Bernardino County. He is the vice-chairman of the Assembly Elections and Redistricting Committee and sits on the Rules and Judiciary committees.

While the state budget crisis remains his top priority, Adams said he will focus his second term on environmental issues and improving foster care, education and transportation.

If both incumbents win re-election, they will be called to Sacramento by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger Thursday to discuss the state's growing budget deficit.

Adams said last week that the meeting would be the beginning of a "colossal fight" over budgetary decisions. He has already stated his opposition to any tax increases.
 
Portantino said last month that Californians may support tax hikes -- if they have confidence that the legislature will invest the money wisely.

ALHAMBRA -- With 32 precincts reporting, incumbent City Councilman Steven Placido leads challenger Efren Moreno with 57 percent of the vote for the district four council seat.

ROSEMEAD - Voters widely rejected a proposal to make Rosemead a charter city rather than a general law city.

With 100 percent of precincts reporting, Measure CC, as the initiative is known, failed with 63 percent voting no to 37 percent voting yes.

The measure would have given the city council greater autonomy from the state legislature in local regulations.

It also would have set term limits for city council members of three, four-year terms, or 12 consecutive years.

Supporters said it would have put more power in the hands of Rosemead residents.

Opponents charged it was unnecessary and would have allowed city council members to set their own salaries.

Rosemead will remain a general law city, meaning it is bound by the state's general law, regardless of whether the law concerns a municipal affair.

Term limits for council members could be implemented through other means.

SAN GABRIEL -- With 15 of 20 precincts reporting, voters favor the city's Measure SG by 66 percent.

The measure would raise the city's utility users tax from 6 to 8 percent.

By STEVE LAWRENCE
Associated Press Writer

With half the votes counted, Proposition 8, which bans same-sex marriage, is leading by 3 percent, according to the Secretary of State's office.l

With 26 of 34 precincts counted, Measure P in Pico Rivera appears to be on its way to an easy victory.The measure, which would increase the city's sales tax from 8.25 to 9.25 percent for each purchase made in Pico Rivera, has a commanding 2-1 lead.
It's leading 8,831 to 4,102.

Dems United, the Whittier-area's newest and probably youngest political group, celebrated Barack Obama's big win tonight at Sage Restaurant in Whittier. More than 100 people were present, said Louis Reyes, who helped found it.

"It was so enthusiastic," Reyes said of the moment at 8 p.m. when it was announced that Obama had won. "People cheered and they were just amazed. It happened so fast."

People came to the party for different reasons.
For Maritza Romero, 28, of South Gate and Will Martinez, 23, of Downey, it was because they couldn't get into the California Democratic Party's  shindig at Century City.
"We should have come here originally," Romero said.
The two were in Century City at 8 p.m.
"It was like New York and Las Vegas brought to Los Angeles," Martinez said. "The horns were honking and people were high-fiving each other."

Michelle Gonzalez, 38, of Whittier, said she came to the Whittier party in order to be part of history.

The party also drew a number of local elected officials including Pico Rivera Councilman Bob Archuleta, Whittier City school board member Jennifer DeBaca, Santa Fe Springs Councilman Louie Gonzalez, Little Lake City school board member Ronald Gonzales-Lawrence and  Assemblyman Tony Mendoza, D-Norwalk.

Other hosts of the event included state Democratic Party Region 15, Southeast Los Angeles County Young Democrats and Hubert Humphrey Democratic Club.

The verdict is in!

Longtime incumbent Fred Schambeck and challenger James Najera have won the two open seats on Lowell Joint School District's board of trustees.

With 100 percent of all precincts in both Los Angeles and Orange counties reporting, results show businessman Schambeck was the top votegetter in Tuesday's election, followed closely by Najera, a high-school teacher.

Challenger William Hinz ended up in third place while incumbent Gene N. Dunford, who was appointed to the panel in December, wound up in fourth place.

It was the first contested school board election in 14 years for the 3,100-student Lowell Joint district. Up until this year, incumbents had enjoyed automatic re-election because no challengers filed to run against them.

Incumbent Rep. Adam Schiff was reelected Tuesday night in the 29th Congressional District with almost 70 percent of the vote.  .

Reached by phone  Schiff, D-Pasadena, said he was excited about the chance to work with President-elect Barack Obama.

"I am thrilled to have the chance to work with the president-elect," said Schiff, an early Obama supporter. "This is a historic moment for the nation."

The largely Democratic district gave the party's last presidential candidate, John Kerry, 61 percent of the vote in 2004.

Schiff's Republican opponent, Charles Hahn, a financial advisor from Burbank, ran heavily on his opposition to the $700 billion financial bailout bill, which Schiff voted for.

He also advocated eradicating inheritance taxes and reforming Social Security to give more retirement money to teachers. If elected, he vowed, he also would push for tort reform to make it harder for patients to sue health-care providers.

But Hahn might have alienated Armenian Americans in the district after receiving campaign contributions from a group that has criticized Schiff for pushing federal legislation to officially recognize the Armenian genocide.

Also running was Libertarian candidate Alan Pyeatt, who carried the banner for traditional Libertarian positions -- protecting civil liberties, minimizing military commitments abroad, and cutting government spending.

With 60 percent of precincts reporting, Alhambra Unified's Measure MM is still leading with nearly 74 percent of the vote. The $50 million bond measure needs a 55 percent approval to pass.

The county transit measure needs 66.7 percent of the vote to win.  It has 66.3 percent.  Looks like it is going to be a close one

With 12 of 40 precincts reporting, Steven Placido is leading Efrain Moreno 58 percent to 42 percent.

With more than 80 percent of 129 precincts reporting, the Whittier Union High School District's $75 million Measure W bond initiative seems headed for a victory tonight.

According to the latest update from the county registrar's office, Measure W has garnered nearly 71 percent of the vote so far -- well above the 55 percent it needs to pass.

The bond initiative, which doesn't translate into a tax increase, would help pay for new vocational/career-technical education classrooms at the district's five comprehensive high schools.

It would also pay for upgrades on the heating/air-conditioning systems, security, safety lighting, irrigation, landscaping, playing fields and stadiums, as well as improve handicapped access to school facilities.

We're almost there -- check in soon for the final results.

SOUTH PASADENA -- With nine precincts reporting, the city's Measure SP, which would ratify a city plan to revitalize downtown South Pasadena with a retail and housing development, continues to lead.

At just after midnight, 55.74 percent of voters are now supporting the measure.

Lucia Wiltrout, who helped spearhead the drive against the downtown project, was optimistic.
"If Obama won, anything can happen. So I don't know for sure, but I'm pretty optimistic," she said. "I just have to wait and see what happens."

Measure SP sought to clarify ambiguous language in the city's Downtown Revitalization Plan, but many viewed it as a largely symbolic vote for or against the plan.

The downtown plan calls for the construction of seven new buildings housing 10 to 15 new retail stores, three restaurants, a bowling alley and 60 condominiums.

The project area is bounded by Mission Street on the north, Fair Oaks Avenue on the east, Mound Avenue on the west, and Oxley Street on the south.

Tuesday's vote on Measure SP culminated a months-long public debate. Supporters argued that a revitalizing downtown is needed to draw business to the area and provide local shopping outlets for residents. Opponents complained about the size and scope of the project and its potential to increase traffic and pollution.

The opponents also feared the project's housing component would put a strain on local schools and other resources. They favor a scale-down version.

Supporters maintained the plan will create an attractive downtown. They also criticized opponents' claims that the plan was forced on residents, citing the nearly 80 community meetings city officials held to garner public input before the council approved the final plan in May.

Councilman Mike Ten, a supporter, remained optimistic as early results rolled in Tuesday night.

"I feel hopeful. I would believe that we would have a 60 percent or better yes-vote," he said. "I think all of our citizens got all the info they needed to make a decision, and hopefully they got through all the differing opinions and misinformation."

In early election results Tuesday night, Carol Liu was leading in the 21st state Senate District, while Assemblyman Bob Huff was ahead in the 29th District.

Liu, a Democrat and former Assemblywoman from La Cañada Flintridge, was challenged by Republican Teddy Choi, a real estate agent from Pasadena, and Libertarian candidate Steve Myers, a computer programmer from Los Angeles, in her bid to succeed termed-out Sen. Jack Scott, D-Altadena.

With 84 percent of precincts reporting, Liu was leading with 67 percent of the vote. Choi was trailing with 25 percent.

From the Pasadena United Democratic Headquarters event at the Pasadena Hilton, Liu said she hadn't so much doubted the outcome as she had worried about voter turnout.

"It is really wonderful. One of 40 (state senators) is a very small club, and we have a lot of work to do," she said. "The state's got budget problems, infrastructure problems -- it's got lots of issues that we need to work on."

After serving in the La Cañada Flintridge City Council from 1992-2000, Liu, a former school teacher, served two terms in the 44th Assembly District from 2000-2006.

Her platform emphasized a reassessment of the education system and structural reform of the state's budget.

In the 29th District, returns showed Huff leading Democratic challenger Joseph Lyons, a medical researcher from Claremont, and Libertarian Jill Stone, a Temple City insurance agent.
The three were vying for the seat of former 29th District Sen. Bob Margett, R-Arcadia, who like Scott was also termed out.

With 74 percent of precincts reporting districtwide, Huff was ahead with 55 percent of the vote. Lyons was behind with 38 percent.

Huff has served two terms in the Assembly and was formerly a council member in Diamond Bar. He has consistently opposed tax-increase proposals, and he has also advocated restrictions on illegal immigration and government services to illegal immigrants.

Huff said he felt "relieved" by the results.

"There's an old saying: You either run unopposed or you run scared. I'm of the school you run scared," he said.

"We have the ability to incentivize businesses to invest in equipment, to hire workers -- those are the things I'll be working on as opposed to raising taxes," he said.

COVINA -- Democrats, including two area city council members, met at a restaurant to watch the election results come in and celebrate a historic election.

Baldwin Park City Councilwoman Marlen Garcia and Irwindale City Councilman Mark Breceda were among the attendees, which restaurant employees said packed the Casa Moreno Mexican Grill, 223 N. Citrus Avenue.

"I'm ecstatic," San Gabriel Valley Democratic Center President Jorge Marquez said. "This was a long time coming. We're just speechless."

Campaign volunteer Matt Johnson said the hundreds of volunteers gathered at the restaurant when Obama's victory was announced rattled the windows. "It was insanity."

While Johnson said he was thrilled about Obama's victory, he also had some kind words for McCain.

"He was very, very gracious in his defeat," he said.

"It's just euphoric," Councilwoman Garcia said. "It's one of those moments when you get chills all over your body because it's history in the making."

She said she believes Obama's victory came as a result of his ability to inspire young and old alike. "His message resonated with different generations."

Councilman Breceda said he was not only excited to see a Democratic victory, but also was pleased and encouraged to see the election of the nation's first black president.

"I honestly believe the time was due," he said. "It's a beautiful thing."

He added he believes Obama is an exemplary statesman. "He reminds me of a Kennedy."

Breceda said Obama's election illustrates what America is all about. "That's the beauty of this country. You can be whoever you want to be. I love it. It's bigger than the dream."

Marquez said the end of the 2008 presidential election doesn't mean he and his volunteers plan to slow down. Instead, they will turn their attention to elections for local offices such as city councils and school boards.

"We've got an excellent foundation for local campaigns coming up in 2009," he said.

EL MONTE - Facing a $400,000 budget deficit and worried about the economy, the city asked residents to approve a half-cent sales tax increase to raise $4.4 million per year.

Early returns showed the measure winning by a wide margin.

"It's good news for the city," Councilman Art Barrios said. "It will help our finances."

Councilwoman Patricia Wallach, a vocal opponent of the measure, didn't think El Monte made an effort to cut costs before turning to a tax increase.

"The city has been taxing people enough," she said. "If it goes through, I want to make sure that it does not go to exorbitant salaries, which we already have."

PASADENA -- In early returns Tuesday night, voters in the Pasadena Unified School District appeared to be favoring Measure TT, a $350 million bond to renovate schools.

The largest facilities improvement bond in PUSD history will raise that amount by increasing residential property taxes by $44.63 for every $100,000 of assessed property value. It needed a 55 percent approval to pass.

Superintendent Edwin Diaz said he "was encouraged" by the early results but also cautiously optimistic.

"It is still kind of early, but once we get more returns I hope we can hold or get better," he said.

Diaz, who came to PUSD in March 2007, had pushed for the bond after he toured school sites last year and found numerous deficiencies.

District officials touted the bond as a way to complete campus improvement projects that went unfinished after funds from an early bond -- 1997's $240-million Measure Y -- ran out.

Tom Selinske, PUSD School Board president, attributed the early election gains Tuesday to residents of Pasadena, Sierra Madre and Altadena recognizing schools as a high priority.

The calls for upgrading schools goes back more than 10 years, Selinske said. Measure TT "is a natural next step for growing to the next level in investing in things that accelerate student success."

In the final weeks of the campaign, supporters sought to quell concerns about oversight and accountability issues that plagued Measure Y.

The questions raised by residents were less about the specifics of the bond and more about how the district would ensure the money would be spent wisely, Diaz said.

Last month, district officials revealed they filed a criminal complaint with the Pasadena Police Department after an internal audit uncovered $80,000 missing from Measure Y funds slated for improvements at the Washington Middle School.

The Los Angeles District Attorney's Office reviewed the case, but in June 2005, prosecutors declined to file charges. DA officials said the district's records were so confusing, it was difficult for them to tell whether there was any evidence of criminal conduct linked to the missing $80,000.

ROSEMEAD - A plan to reorganize City Hall and institute term limits appeared headed to defeat Tuesday night, according to early election returns provided by the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder's Office.

If passed, Measure CC would make Rosemead a charter city instead of a general law city, it would also put term limits in place and create a separate mayoral election.

City Councilwoman Maggie Clark said the measure would take too much power out of the hands of residents and give it to elected leaders.

"I worked very hard against it," she said. "It gives power way beyond what three people should be able to do."

With 34 percent of precincts reported, voters in the Alhambra Unified School District appeared to passing Measure MM, a $50 million bond to improve the district's elementary school facilities.

The measure needed 55 percent approval to pass. If approved, it would increase property taxes in the district by $15.90 a year for every $100,000 of assessed home value.

Supporters were cautious about the measure's early lead Tuesday night.

"It is a good start, but we have to be reserved and see what happens," said district Superintendent Donna Perez. "We have a long night."

The money would go toward renovating 13 elementary schools. Officials said Measure MM would allow the district to replace "dilapidated" portable classrooms with permanent classrooms.

The funding also would be used to purchase new playground equipment for some schools, while other schools would receive new playing fields.

In light of the economic crisis, district officials pursued a smaller bond to lessen the burden on residents, Perez said.

"Times are tough, and we are not asking people to give a great, great deal," she said. "We are hoping that, even in hard times, people will support this. The schools are a pillar for this city."

Measure MM would allow the district to replace old electrical, plumbing and sewer systems; upgrade school cafeterias; add new security and communications systems at some schools; and install new air-conditioning and heating systems in others.

Early results are staying consistant for Bonita Unified School District's Measure AB.

 

Current results show 57 percent of voters in favor of the measure and 43 percent voting against the measure.

 

School Board President Chuck Coyne is hopeful that the $83.5 million measure will pass.

 

"It's good news so far," Coyne said. "At this point I am cautiously optimistic it will pass."

 

The measure would require property owners to pay $35 per every $100,000 of assessed home value for 25 years to modernize the district.

 

The bond would provide funding for gyms at two middle schools and the expansion of gyms at both high schools. It would also fund a performing arts center that could be used for city and school district programs.

 

"It would be a great opportunity to improve facilities for the students," Coyne said. "The board just really appreciates all the work and effort of so many hard working volunteers to pass the measure if it passes."

SAN GABRIEL -- In early election results Tuesday night, voters seemed to be supporting Measure SG, which would raise a municipal tax on utilities from 6 percent to 8 percent and use the additional funding to improve infrastructure and emergency services.

With eight of 20 precincts reporting, the measure was supported by 64.64 percent of voters.

Commenting on the early results from absentee balloting, Councilman David Guitierrez said the early lead was a good sign for the measure.

"It's my experience that the absentee ballots that are cast are representative of a conservative constituency," he said. "If that is the case, we're very hopeful when it's all said and done that it's going to be successful."

City officials proposed the utility tax increase as a way to fund needed street improvements, boost fire and police services and to construct a new police station. With dwindling revenue coming in from the state, officials said Measure SG was the most viable way to raise money to pay for the projects.

The tax hike would generate between $1.2 million and $1.3<TH>million annually, according to the city's projections.

If Measure SG passes, the average household would see a $6-per-month increase in on its utility bill. For most families, utility bills would increase from an average of about $17.60 a month to about $23.40 a month.

Without the tax hike, officials had warned, San Gabriel's budget could face a projected deficit of about $600,000 next fiscal year.

A survey that went out to voters earlier this year -- and telephone polls conducted by City Hall staffers -- found that a majority of residents would support increasing the tax, if the money were used to fix streets, bolster emergency services and build a new police station.

With about 20 percent of precincts counted, Rep. David Dreier, R-San Dimas, is leading Democratic challenger Russ Warner 57 percent to 37 percent, according to the County of Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk

With 30 percent of L.A. County precincts reporting, Dreier has almost 57 percent of the vote.  His San Bernardino totals are similar.  CNN has called the race in Dreier's favor

Incumbents in the 44th and 59th state Assembly districts are leading their challengers in early election results Tuesday night.

In the 44th District, incumbent Anthony Portantino, D-Pasadena, is leading Republican challenger Brian Fuller, a small businessman from La Cañada Flintridge, and Libertarian candidate Maureen Keedy, an educator from San Bernardino.

With 13.8 percent of District 44 precincts reporting, Portantino leads with 55.7 percent of the vote. Fuller is behind with 39.7 percent.

"It's a cautious optimism at this point and I'm very proud and appreciative of the district for giving me an opportunity to work on the issues I care about," Portantino said by phone Tuesday night.

Portantino said education will remain his signature issue.

"I think the single most important thing we can do is to provide the opportunity for all of our children to succeed," said Portantino, who serves as chairman of the Assembly's committee on higher education.

After serving two terms as mayor of La Cañada Flintridge, the New Jersey native won election to the Assembly in 2006.

In the 59th Assembly District, voters appear to favor incumbent Anthony Adams, R-Claremont, over Democrat Donald Williamson of Highland and Libertarian Thomas Logan, a college student from Los Angeles, according to the early returns.

Adams' district stretches across San Bernardino and Los Angeles counties; the assemblyman held a considerable lead in both.

Adams leads the 59th district with 55.1 percent of the vote in Los Angeles County, with 22.7 percent of precincts reporting. Williamson trails with 37.9 percent. Adams holds a double-digit lead over Williamson in San Bernardino County as well.

"We're doing exceptionally well in both," Adams said. "Unless something dramatic changes over the course of the evening, it looks like we're going to be re-elected, and I'm very, very honored by that."

Adams won election to the Assembly in 2006, after a stint as director of legislative affairs for San Bernardino County. He is the vice-chairman of the Assembly Elections and Redistricting Committee and sits on the Rules and Judiciary committees.

While the state budget crisis remains his top priority, Adams said he will focus his second term on environmental issues and improving foster care, education and transportation.

If both incumbents win re-election, they will be called to Sacramento by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger Thursday to discuss the state's growing budget deficit.

Adams said last week that the meeting would be the beginning of a "colossal fight" over budgetary decisions. He has already stated his opposition to any tax increases.
 
Portantino said last month that Californians may support tax hikes -- if they have confidence that the legislature will invest the money wisely.

ALHAMBRA -- Incumbent City Councilman Steven Placido was leading rival Efren Moreno in early election returns for the fourth district council seat on Tuesday night.

With nine of 40 precincts reporting, Placido had 57.52 percent of the vote.

"I think my support has been broad-based throughout the community and reflects what a good job we've over the last for years it reflects," he said.  "I think (the vote) is moving in the right direction and I suspect my lead will strengthen as the night goes on."

But Moreno, who is also a former council member, said the early results were no reason to declare the battle over. Far from it, he said.

"We're just a little behind, and were hoping that the ground campaign can make up that difference," he said.

Having just watched Barak Obama win the presidential election, Moreno remained optimistic.

"There's been a change in this country, and from top to bottom, we're hoping there will be a change in the White house and a change on this City Council," he said.

 

In addition to its early statewide lead, Prop. 8 is leading in early returns in Los Angeles County.

The ballot measure, which would effectively ban same-sex marriage, leads statewide by a margin of 53 to 47 percent, with 33 percent of precincts reporting.

In L.A. County, the measure is leading by a slightly wider margin of 55 to 45 percent, with 23 percent of precincts reporting.

WALNUT -- Voters appear ready to extend a bond measure for an additional nine years to continue expanding the largest community college in the state.

Measure RR is leading in early election returns. It will raise $353 million for Mount San Antonio College.

 
College President John Nixon said Tuesday night the initial results were promising.
"It's very early and it's a small number of votes but the results are very encouraging," said Nixon. "Those early results are absentee and often times they are more conservative; the pattern is very encouraing."

Nixon and others watched the returns at campaign headquarters on Amar Road, across the street from the campus.

 
The bond measure is an extension of Measure R, a facilities improvement bond, that was approved by voters seven years ago. Measure RR keeps the same tax assessment in place, about $25 per $100,000 assessed value. Instead of the tax ending in 2031, it will last until 2040.

The new bond will provide funding for projects such as a new library, a fire academy, a gymnasium, business-and-computer technology center and a parking structure.

Incumbents from the 44th and 59th State Assembly districts are cruising with large leads, according to early voting data.

With 13.8 percent of District 44 precincts reporting, Anthony Portantino, D-Pasadena, leads with 55.7 percent of the vote. Brian Fuller, R-La Canada Flintridge, is behind with 39.7 percent.

Anthony Adams, R-Claremont, leads the 59th district with 55.1 percent of the vote. Challenger Donald Williamson, D-Highland, trails with 37.9 percent with 22.7 percent of precincts reporting.

Early election returns are favoring multiple school bonds throughout the Valley.

Bond measures in the El Monte High School District, the El Monte City School District, the Rosemead School District and the Bonita Unified School District are all currently leading.

El Monte High School District Board of Trustee Member Tonson Man is excited about Measure D results.

  

"We had very high hopes that the community would support us," Man said. "All the kids so many young people care about the campus. We have to invest in our kids and their future."

Measure J, a $3.5 billion bond for Los Angeles Community College District projects, is leading by a large margin in early returns.

The measure is leading with about 66 percent of the vote. 11 percent of precincts have reported.

The bond would fund construction of new buildings, repairs of old ones, and technology upgrades in classrooms across the district's nine campuses - including East Los Angeles College, which is actually in Monterey Park. ELAC is projected to see at least $400 million of that money, the most of any campus.

The measure affects those who live within the LACCD boundaries, which includes parts of Monterey Park, Montebello, Alhambra, San Gabriel, Rosemead and Pico Rivera, among other cities.

The news is still good for Whittier Union High School District's $75 million Measure W bond initiative.

Newly updated results from the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder's Office show it's still holding a good lead, with about 67 percent of the vote and 37 of 129 precincts reporting.

Measure W, which would not require a tax increase for property owners, would help pay for new vocational/career-technical education classrooms at the district's five comprehensive high schools.

It would also pay for upgrades on the heating/air-conditioning systems, security, safety lighting, irrigation, landscaping, playing fields and stadiums, as well as improve handicapped access to school facilities.

Stay posted for more results as the night goes on.

Looks like board veteran Fred Schambeck is still besting his three opponents in his race for re-election to the Lowell Joint School District board of trustees.

Newly updated election results from Los Angeles and Orange counties show Schambeck and challenger James Najera as the top votegetters in this race so far. There are two open seats available on the five-member board.

Najera is followed by fellow challenger William Hinz and 11-month board incumbent Gene N. Dunford, in third and fourth place, respectively.

Stay tuned for more results.

INDUSTRY -- State assemblyman Bob Huff, R-Diamond Bar, was optimistic Tuesday in his bid for state senate, and with good reason. The early results indicated a healthy lead, with more than 64 percent of votes counted in his favor.

"It ain't over 'til it's over," Huff said, but added, "I think we're OK. We're in good shape."

Huff hosted a low-key gathering with friends, family and supporters at the Red Restaurant in Industry as the results were tabulated.  A Los Angeles County Republican's event was also being held a the restaurant.

Diamond Bar resident and longtime friend of Huff Lydia Plunk said she is happy to see Huff win, and would have been shocked to see anything different.

"He makes me proud to be from Diamond Bar," said Plunk, who first crossed paths with Huff when he replaced her on the Diamond Bar Planning Committee nearly 20 years ago.

"He has strong opinions, but he can be reasoned with," Plunk said. "He's proof that a good man can succeed."

"I'm happy that (the voters) put their confidence in me," Huff said, "and I'll work hard to make sure they haven't placed that trust in error."

"I'm glad the election's over," Huff said, adding that he plans to spend Wednesday relaxing, recovering and taking it easy.

 

The heavy favorites in Pasadena-area state Senate races have unsurprisingly jumped out to big leads in early voting data, with Carol Liu ahead in the 21st state Senate District and Assemblyman Bob Huff leading in the 29th district.

Liu, a Democrat, is ahead in the 21st with 60 percent of the vote, with 4.86 percent of precincts reporting. Republican challenger Teddy Choi is pulling 33 percent.

Bob Huff, a Republican, has 57 percent of the vote with 20 percent of precincts reporting. Democratic challenger Joseph Lyons trails with 38 percent.

Both seats are being vacated by termed-out senators.

Pico Rivera's Measure P is doing even better with the first update from the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder's Office.
Its lead has grown from a 61.5-38.5 percent margin to a 63.6-36.4 percent. The actual votes are 1,489 votes yes and 853 votes no.
The measure would increase the city's sales tax from 8.25 to 9.25 percent for each purchase made in Pico Rivera.

SOUTH PASADENA -- With just one precinct in 18 reporting, opposers of the city's Measure SP are slightly leading the early tallies with 50.32 percent.

Measure SP seeks to clarify ambiguous language in the city's Downtown Revitalization Plan, but both supporters and opponents view it as a largely symbolic vote for or against the plan.

The downtown plan calls for the construction of seven new buildings that will house 10 to 15 new retail stores, three restaurants, a bowling alley and 60 condominiums.

ALHAMBRA -- Incumbent Steven Placido has an early lead over challenger Efren Moreno in the race for the fourth district seat on the City Council.

With just three precincts out of 40 reporting, Placido has about 59 percent of the vote.

This is the third time the two candidates have run against each other.

PICO RIVERA -- Early returns show a sales tax hike in the city passing comfortably, despite a heated battle in the weeks before the election.
Measure P would increase sales tax from 8.25 to 9.25 percent of each purchase made in the city.
On election night, the measure had 61.54 percent of the vote with 20 percent of precincts reporting.
"I'm pretty excited about it," Mayor Ron Beilke, who chaired the committee in favor of the measure, said. "It's a really good sign that people appreciate all that we've accomplished together."
The money garnered from the tax, estimated by city officials to be about $6 million, would help close a $4.8 million structural deficit in Pico Rivera's annual budget, build a new library and complete a long-shelved parks master plan.
"We're looking at long-term sustainability," City Manager Chuck Fuentes said about the reason the tax was proposed.
Money spent on groceries and prescriptions would not be taxed under the law, nor would money for personal services, like getting a haircut.
Fuentes said without the tax, "draconian" cuts would be implemented to balance the budget. This would mean the loss of parks and recreation programs, firing city staff and giving up on street repair projects and parks improvements, he said.

With 10 percent of precincts reporting, Measure R is getting 64 percent of the vote, nearly enough for passage.  The key question is where the reported votes are coming from: the tax is likely to do better in Los Angeles and the Westside cities, which will see a larger percent of project benefits, and probably will do less well in far off parts of the county. 

Still early.

Incumbents from the 44th and 59th State Assembly districts are cruising with large leads, according to early voting data.

With 8.2 percent of District 44 precincts reporting, Anthony Portantino, D-Pasadena, leads with 56.6 percent of the vote. Brian Fuller, R-La Canada Flintridge, is behind with 39.2 percent.

Anthony Adams, R-Claremont, leads the 59th district with 55.3 percent of the vote. Challenger Donald Williamson, D-Highland, trails with 37.8 percent with 21.7 percent of precincts reporting.

There are no surprises so far in the Whittier-area races for state legislature and the U.S. House of Representatives from the early vote-by-mail results.

Five incumbents all are winning and the two Republican who won in open seats in June also are leading so far.

Reps. Grace Napolitano, D-Santa Fe Springs, Linda Sanchez, D-Lakewood, and Gary Miller, R-Brea, all are leading their challengers.

In addition, Chino Hills Councilman Curt Hagman is  leading in his race for the state Assembly, while Assemblyman Bob Huff, R-Diamond Bar, is leading for the state Senate.
Assemblymen Tony Mendoza, D-Norwalk, and Charles Calderon, D-Industry, also are leading.

So far, early election results from both Los Angeles and Orange counties show longtime incumbent Fred Schambeck is leading his opponents in the race for two open seats on the Lowell Joint School District board of trustees.

The results come from both counties because the district includes parts of both counties.

Overall, when combining vote counts in both counties, Schambeck and challenger William Hinz were ahead. Challenger James Najera and incumbent Gene N. Dunford followed closely in third and fourth place, respectively.

Check in later for more local results on this race.

Incumbent Albert Robles took a strong lead in his race for a fifth term on the Water Replenishment District of Southern California Board of Directors in the vote-by-mail returns.
Robles led with 54 percent of the vote or 9,858 votes.
Linda Unruh Fuentes was second with 23 percent or 9,858 votes; Steve Castellanos had 14 percent or 2,528 votes and Ralph Helm had 1,626 votes or 9 percent.

 

It looks like the Whittier Union High School District's $75 million Measure W bond initiative is enjoying an early lead tonight, according to the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder's Office.

With 19 percent of precincts reporting, Measure W has about 62 percent of the vote right now.

The initiative, which would not require a tax increase for property owners, would help pay for new vocational/career-technical education classrooms at the district's five comprehensive high schools.

It would also pay for upgrades on the heating/air-conditioning systems, security, safety lighting, irrigation, landscaping, playing fields and stadiums, as well as improve handicapped access to school facilities.

Measure W Co-Chair Cathy Warner says it's a good sign that it's leading in the absentee ballots because "as the absentee votes go, so goes the election."

Stay posted for more results as the night goes on.

Pasadena and Alhambra Unified School Districts school bond measures are leading in early election returns.

PUSD's Measure TT was leading with about 69 percent of the vote. The $350 million bond would tax homeowners approximately $45 per $100,000 assessed home value. Nine percent of precincts have been reported.

Measure MM, Alhambra Unified's $50 million bond, is leading with about 71 percent of the vote. If passed, homeowners would be taxed approximately $16 per $100,000 assessed home value. Ten percent of precincts have been reported.

By JULIET WILLIAMS
Associated Press Writer

PASADENA -- When the announcement was made on CNN that Obama had won the election, the TV went on mute at the McFarlane home and the music was turned up.

Kevin McFarlane, who attended Harvard University at the same time as the president elect, hosted an intimate gathering at his home on Wigmore Drive along with his wife, Stacey.

Kevin McFarlane said he was thrilled about the Obama victory, not only because he is the first black president, but "because he is who he is. He's incredibly intelligent and articulate."

The historic value of the election, he added, is also important.

"What it says to our kids is is just inspirational," Kevin McFarlane said. "America is fulfilling it's promise, Martin Luther King's promise. It's an awe-inspiring event."

"This is just surreal," said Stacey McFarlane. "My son, he can look up and say he wants to be president, and it's a reality."

 

 

Mt. Sac's Measure RR is leading in early election returns.

About 63 percent of the votes are in favor of the bond while 37 percent voted against it. Fifty-six of the 397 precincts have been reported.

The bond will raise $353 million for Mount San Antonio Campus.

The bond measure is an extension of Measure R, a facilities improvement bond, that was approved by voters seven years ago.

Measure RR keeps the same tax assessment in place, about $25 per $100,000 assessed value. Instead of the tax ending in 2031, it will last until 2040.

The Associated Press is calling an Obama victory if Florida.

By NEDRA PICKLER
Associated Press Writer

LOS ANGELES -- It was a decidedly Obama crowd Tuesday night at Occidental College, where more than 100 students and faculty members gathered to watch election results come in.

It was rumored McCain supporters existed on the campus, but one could not be found.  This isn't too surprising

at a campus where Obama himself attended from 1979 to 1981.

Students cheered loudly with each state that was called for Obama. Students excitedly filled in a map of the U.S. hanging on the wall with blue and red ink as results were announced.

Derek Masseo, the 19-year-old Co-President of the campus Students for Obama club, said he was "cautiously optimistic" about an Obama victory through a big grin. "I think we're in pretty great shape," he said. "I'm really excited about the results."

The club's other Co-President, 19-year-old Amy McDonough, said she and the club had been working on the Obama campaign for more than a year.

"We're just so glad the hard work is paying off," she said,

McDonough added she currently resides in Haines Hall, the same dormitory where Obama lived when he attended Occidental.

"We've been waiting a long time for this night," she said.

"Oxy students are very politically active," Professor of Diplomacy and World Affairs Anthony Chase said. "Everyone's so jazzed around here about the election."

Student Noah Azarin, 19, said his first priority is to see a democrat in the White House, and beyond that, he's very concerned about the local proposition, especially Prop, 8.

Arazin said he's spent time working with the "No on 8" campaign. "To me that's extremely important," he said.

By DAVID ESPO
AP Special Correspondent

By PAT EATON-ROBB
Associated Press Writer

By DAVID ESPO
AP Special Correspondent

By BILL POOVEY
Associated Press Writer

By SEANNA ADCOX
Associated Press Writer

By DAVID ESPO
AP Special Correspondent

Pollster.com has a great graphic on its home page that allows you to take a look at which state is going to whom and who is calling it. Hover your mouse over a state and it will show which news organizations have called that state and for whom, and who hasn't made a determination yet.

Pollster.com is a poll site that combines an average of all major polls and then uses its own method to determine an average.

http://www.pollster.com/

At the site, Pollster also shows estimated outcomes and its poll average for each state.

By HOLLY RAMER
Associated Press Writer

More voters are starting to show up at local polls as people get off of work in Covina.

At Christ Covina Church, after slowing down much of the afternoon, saw voting picking up at about 4:30 p.m. Earlier this morning just after opening, the polling place had more than 100 voters show up at the peak of their turnout, poll workers said.

While the presidential election was on many voters' minds, local ballot measures and propositions were playing a major role in bringing people out to vote.

"With the financial state, I vote no on anything they want to spend money on," said Covina resident Raymond Plows.

Sandra Flores and her daughter Stephanie voted at the Covina polling place, Stephanie's first time voting. Sandra said the economy played a major role in her vote, while Stephanie said it was time to grow up, so she turned out to vote.

"I'm excited," Stephanie said. "I actually paid attention this year and wanted to put in my opinion."

Sandra was proud of her daughter.

"It's nice," she said. "I am glad she has grown up."

Besides the economy and the presidential election, Sandra's big issue was Proposition 2 concerning caged chickens - what she referred to as "animal cruelty."

Stephanie acknowledged the big issue on the ballot was Proposition 8.

Covina resident Doug Lyons said voting was "very smooth and efficient," at the polls and he was happy to be apart of another election.

"Everything is important," Lyons said. "As I said when I left work, 'I'm leaving to do my part,' whatever that may may be."

Qiana Burnett, 29, a first time voter didn't have the excitement for the election others may have, but believed she needed to vote in today's election.

"I felt like I couldn't complain if I didn't come vote," Burnett said.

Burnett voted for Obama and yes on Proposition 8, two of the most important items on the ballot for her.

Local democrats are planning so many events tonight, it's going to be hard to hit them all, but needless to say there are going to be several. Republicans have a few events too.

Occidental College will be hosting a party at Obama's alma mater.

Pasadena area Dems will be partying at the Hilton on South Los Robles.

David Dreier's Democratic challenger in the 26th Congressional District, Russ Warner, is holding a party in Claremont at 555 W Foothill Boulevard.

Dreier's people said Tuesday he won't be hosting a party. He will be attending several local events though.

Perhaps he'll show up at Bob and Mei Mei Huff's party later tonight at the Pacific Palms.

Intrepid reporter Brian Day will be paired with photog Keith Birmingham and they've promised to hit all the partys and send updates to those of us stuck in the news room...

Stayed tuned...

 

At a couple polling sites in the West Covina area the excitement is a bit stale for the time being. Most voting stalls were empty.

Only a couple voters could be seen coming in or going out. Polls are expected to light up with action as people start to get out of work in the evening. For now, it seems like the calm before the after work voting storm.

More to come as the day progresses.  

 A woman made a citizen's arrest last night when several supporters and opponents of Prop. 8 clashed in Whittier.

    Carlos Gallegos, 57, of Hacienda Heights was taken into custody on suspicion of battery, police said. Booking records show he was released early this morning. His bail was $500.

    The incident occurred around 9:15 p.m., when about 100 supporters and opponents of Prop. 8 converged on the corner of Painter Avenue and Whittier Boulevard. Officers were there monitoring.

    Whittier police spokesman Jason Zuhlke said there was a verbal conflict that escalated.

    Gallegos got upset at an opposing protester, grabbed her by the arm and moved her out of the way, according to Zuhlke. He said other protesters claimed Gallegos was swinging wildly at them and the woman made a citizen's arrest.

     Meanwhile, the sheriff's Norwalk Station received complaints this morning about people putting leaflets on parked cars at St. Andrew Lutheran Church on Miller Road in the unincorporated county area of Whittier.

     Sheriff's Lt. Jenny Ha said the fliers were related to Prop. 8. She said deputies advised the people to move from the parking lot to the sidewalk. They were on private property.

     "Everybody was cooperative," Ha said.

     A caller who didn't give his name said he and his wife voted at St. Andrew where he said opponents of Prop. 8 were trying to talk to people. He said they were wearing shirts and passing out fliers.

     "They tried to pass a flier to my wife," he said.

     Voters in Covina and Whittier reported a similar incident this morning.

     In an e-mail, a resident said his wife just returned from their polling place at Covina Christian Church at 240 S. Grand Ave., where the precinct was having problems with the machine used to process the ballots after voting.

     A poll worker told his wife they would put the ballot into another box which would be counted later. The resident said it seems very unusual since the poll just opened.

     In Whittier, a man who voted at Guirado Park on Pioneer Boulevard said the poll worker put his ballot under the table. He assumed it went into an open box. He was told the machine was stuck and the ballots were being temporarily put there.

     He wanted the workers to put the ballots some place he could see them.

     "I don't know where he put it and who has access to ballots in a box," he said.

     According to officials at the County Registrar-Recorder's office, the machine reads ballots to check if someone over voted or under voted. If the ballot is OK, it goes into a box which is connected to the machine. If the machine isn't working, the poll worker puts the ballot in the box through a slot in the back. It's the same box.

     George Miranda, media information assistant for the Registrar-Recorder, said it's not the usual protocol to put the ballot in a separate box. He said he logged the two incidents in their troubleshooting system to be investigated.

By DEBORAH HASTINGS
AP National Writer

By DEBORAH HASTINGS
AP National Writer

PHOENIX --  Republican John McCain has cast his ballot at a church near his central Phoenix home.

Here's the top 10 searches of the day according to Google Trends http://www.google.com/trends

1. exit polls 2008   2. early voting exit polls   3. voting results   4. presidential election results   5. poll results   6. election coverage 2008   7. chick fil a   8. election update   9. election tracker 10. who s winning the election

Google has put together a tool they call "In Quotes." You can compare quotes from various candidates to one another and see how they line up. It's pretty fun. 

Blickenstaff led city for 26 years

Last-minute protesters took to the streets throughout the region Sunday to voice their opinions on the controversial Proposition 8, which would ban gay marriage through an amendment to the state constitution.

About 300 protesters, all in favor of the proposition, gathered at the intersection of Diamond Bar Boulevard and Grand Avenue in Diamond Bar, Los Angeles County sheriff's Lt. Mike Browne said.

In Pasadena, police Lt. Randell Taylor said about 200 protesters gathered at the corner of Orange Grove and Colorado boulevards in opposition to Prop. 8.

In Glendora, about 200 protestors on both sides of the issue showed up at the intersection of Alosta and Grand avenues, Glendora police officials said.

Several dozen demonstrators were spotted on Arrow Highway at Azusa and Citrus avenues in Covina, Covina police Sgt. Dave Povero said.

El Monte officials also reported small numbers of demonstrators in their city.

No incidents were reported at any of the demonstrations.

By TOM RAUM
Associated Press

By NEDRA PICKLER

Associated Press Writer

By BETH FOUHY
Associated Press Writer

By GLENN ADAMS
Associated Press

DIXVILLE NOTCH, N.H. (AP) _ Barack Obama came up a big winner in the presidential race in Dixville Notch and Hart's Location, N.H., where tradition of having the first Election Day ballots tallied lives on.

By BETH FOUHY
Associated Press Writers

By RACHEL D'ORO
Associated Press Writer

By LIZ SIDOTI
Associated Press Writer

By JULIET WILLIAMS
Associated Press Writer

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) -- Spending for and against a ballot initiative that would outlaw same-sex marriage in California has surpassed $73 million, almost twice the total that was spent in the 24 states where similar measures were put to voters since 2004.

By HERBERT SAMPLE
Associated Press Writer

Associated Press