By: Donna Duperron
Members of Leadership Torrance, class of 2024, visited Sacramento this past Sunday and Monday. Mark Waronek, past chairman of the chamber board and graduate of Leadership Torrance, planned an experience that will not be forgotten by participants. Waronek, for several years, has been scheduling meetings with legislators, a tour of the capitol and memorable outings in Sacramento for each of the cohorts. Members of the class reflect on their experience below.
Scott Houston, Director, West Basin Municipal Water District
Our LT24 cohort enjoyed a fantastic two-day visit to Sacramento where we learned about our legislative process while also strengthening our relationships as a group. And we got to catch the eclipse while at the state capitol!
A highlight of our visit was a tour of the state capitol building that serves as an active museum and the home of our two legislative bodies, the state Assembly and the Senate. Walking through its halls and many floors, you could feel our state’s history and the significance of the building while also embracing the busy activities of today where laws are debated and made. We had the privilege of visiting the Assembly floor thanks to Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi, and our cohort was recognized as visitors in both the Assembly and Senate galleries during their respective floor sessions thanks to both Assemblymember Muratsuchi and Senator Ben Allen.
The trip was very informative and we were fortunate to hear from three Assemblymembers and a state Senator, as well as the advocacy team for the City of Torrance. For members of our cohort who do not have experience with the legislative process, this was an excellent opportunity to learn how legislation is crafted, where ideas come from, and to hear directly from our legislators about how they approach governing. Each lawmaker brought a unique professional background and set of life experiences to the legislature, and it was abundantly clear they all were committed to addressing the key challenges facing our state and to ensuring the voices of their constituents here at home are heard. It was also repeatedly emphasized that the legislative process involves relationships that are critical to getting things done. We are fortunate to have a committed group of lawmakers representing our South Bay communities who genuinely care about the future of our region and state, and it was a great experience for us to see some of this work firsthand.
Carol Fisher, Realtor, Berkshire Hathaway
“Leadership Torrance 2024 (LT24) had an insightful trip to Sacramento, delving into the inner workings of the State Capital. We toured the Capitol building, met Assemblymember Tina McKinnor (District 61) and had a personal meet and greet with Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi (District 66) who also introduced LT24 to the Assembly members at their afternoon session. We had a sit down with Senator Steve Bradford of Gardena who shared insights into a couple of his successful bills (Bruce’s Beach / NIL Name, Image, Likeness).
The highlight was being introduced by Senator Ben Allen during the Senate Session. Amidst our busy day, we took a break to witness a partial solar eclipse on the Capitol Lawn, sharing the experience with students.
This visit provides an invaluable opportunity to gain firsthand insight into the legislative process, engage with elected officials and deepen understanding of how government functions at the at the state level.
It was a day of learning, laughter, and building relationships with our cohort of 19 while enjoying the beautiful spring weather and history of Old Sacramento and our State’s Capitol.
Katherine Jimenez, Spanish & English Language Service Provider, KJ Interpreting
“The trip to Sacramento via Leadership Torrance was a non-stop quality learning experience, from beginning to end. Not only was I introduced to touch upon the intricacies of how our state capital works, but also learned a great deal about myself and cohort. Eternally grateful for having made the decision to invest in myself, by deciding to partake in Leadership Torrance. And look forward to continuing to be enlightened with what I’ve yet to learn, to therefore invite others amongst our community to do the same,” said Katherine Jimenez, Spanish & English Language Service Provider.