Last week, I hosted the Italian Caucus of California in Downtown San Diego's iconic Little Italy. I wanted to show them what makes our Little Italy so special, so they can take ideas back to their own communities.
Thanks to the Little Italy Association, we learned about the neighborhood's rich history as the center of the world's tuna history in the 1920s, facing decline years after, and achieving a powerful revival in the last 30 years through the dedication of local families and business owners.
It inspired me to see the amount of effort and care that goes into making Little Italy the thriving neighborhood that it is.
In times like these, when division can feel overwhelming, it's important to take the time to learn about our local communities-- their stories, their history, and the people who continue to shape them. After all, it's our neighbors who make San Diego so extraordinary!
Cheers,
Assemblymember Tasha Boerner
77th Assembly District
P.S. My office is available every day to talk with you about your concerns or help connect you with resources. You can reach us at (858) 481-7704 or Assemblymember.Boerner@assembly.ca.gov.
Little Italy Tour with the Italian Caucus of California
On Friday, I hosted the CA State Legislature's Italian Caucus in Downtown San Diego's iconic Little Italy. I wanted to show them what makes our Little Italy so special, so they can take ideas back to their own communities.
San Diego's Little Italy is the world's largest Little Italy, spanning 48 blocks. In the 1920s, this neighborhood started as the center of the world's tuna industry.
After the decline of the tuna industry and the construction of the I-5, the community faced nearly 30 years of decline. Thankfully, in the late 1990s, families and business owners decided to revive this once thriving neighborhood with the Little Italy Association of San Diego.
Thanks to our amazing tour guide, Marco Li Mandri, the Executive Advisor of the Little Italy Association, we learned so much about the area's rich history and how each of the piazzas, businesses, and landmarks came to be!
I am now even more grateful to be able to represent this historic community in the Legislature.
Thank you to Assemblymember Catherine Stefani and Senator Dave Cortese for visiting! And a special thanks to San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria for joining us.
The Newest San Diego Landmark
Team Tasha recently attended the ribbon cutting for the Point Loma Gateway Sign!
This iconic sign took three years to complete and was funded entirely by the community. The Point Loma Association spearheaded this project and has done a phenomenal job at bringing their vision to life.
A special thanks to their Chair, Beth Roach, for seeing this amazing project through!
University of California's Schools of Pharmacy
A team of UCSD students and staff came to my Capitol office to advocate for ways in which our state can support the University of California's Schools of Pharmacy.
We talked about ways in which we can invest to promote research and help underserved communities in California.
Thank you to Dean Brookie Best from the Skaggs School of Pharmacy, UC Government Affairs Specialist Alex Parra-Miranda, and PharmD candidates Kasey Williams and Sofia Perez for meeting with me!
San Diego lawmaker introduces bills targeting utility profits and wildfire spending to lower electricity bills
This article and video by CBS News 8 highlights my bill AB1677 that is designed to hold energy companies accountable while providing relief for ratepayers. Thank you, CBS News 8, for having me to speak on this issue that has been affecting families across San Diego for years.
Earth Day Art Contest: Deadline 4/3
This week is the last week to submit artwork for my Earth Day Youth Art Contest!
This year's art contest theme is "Green Choices, Bright Futures" to spotlight sustainable practices and healthier lives. Contest winners will receive a California State Assembly Certificate, and have their artwork framed and exhibited in the State Capitol office.
Have any questions about the Earth Day Art Contest? Call my District Office (858) 481-7704, or visit my website.
Free Tax Assistance with VITA
Tax season is here, and we want to make sure you get every dollar you're entitled to. If you're looking for free, professional tax preparation assistance, I have great news!
I'm pleased to invite you to a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) event at my District Office. Our IRS-certified tax professionals will help you prepare and file your 2025 tax return at no cost to you.
The VITA program has been helping hardworking families for over 50 years. VITA sites offer free tax help to people who generally make $70,000 or less.
Spots are limited, so we encourage you to register early. If you have any questions about the event or need assistance with the registration process, please don't hesitate to contact my office at (858) 481-7704 or email me at Assemblymember.Boerner@assembly.ca.gov.
Earth Month 2026
The City of Carlsbad's Sustainable Carlsbad is hosting plenty of free, family-friendly events for Earth Month. The events include an Earth Month Celebration, an Arbor Day Tree Planting Event, a Fixit Clinic, and more!
CalKIDS - Free Money for College
A new partnership has been announced between CalKIDS, the California Community Colleges Chancellor's Office, and the California Cradle-to-Career Data System to connect eligible college students with CalKIDS scholarships.
This coordinated effort has already identified 40,000 community college students with over $20 million available in scholarships. Visit CalKIDS.org to see if you or your child is eligible!
Know Your Rights
I understand that many of us are feeling angry in the face of what is happening in our local communities and across the country. Individuals are being taken from the streets without due process, and people are living in fear every day. In these moments, it is essential to know your rights. The California Immigrant Guide offers various resources in multiple languages to assist you or those you know. I know these are unprecedented times, and we will get through this.
California Contigo
There is so much fear and confusion being perpetrated with the current federal administration. The California Assembly Democrats recently launched a website to help you locate someone in ICE detention, access to help and legal assistance, prepare for potential immigration emergencies, and avoid immigration-related scams.
Report Misconduct of Federal Agents
The public can report and submit video footage or photographic evidence to the Office of the California Attorney General of federal agents who are practicing unlawful activity. Potential examples include use of excessive force, unlawful searches or arrests, wrongful detentions, interference with voting, or other civil rights violations. Please be advised that filing a complaint does not mean that the Office of the Attorney General will take any action on your complaint.
CalHOPE - Mental Health Resources
The news can be pretty tough right now, but it is important to know you are not alone. No matter what your age or background, you can find mental health support.
California Assist Mortgage Fund
If your home was destroyed or damaged by last year's San Diego floods, the new CalAssist Mortgage Fund may provide you with some relief. This state-funded program covers up to three months of mortgage payments with a maximum of $20,000 – and the funds never have to be repaid. Funds are limited, so don't wait! Visit the CalAssist Mortgage Fund website to learn more and apply.
CalKIDS - Children's College Savings Program
It is back-to-school season, and it is important to think about how you are saving for your child's future! CalKIDS was created to provide Californian children greater access to higher education institutions. Newborns and eligible low-income public school students may receive up to $1,500 in a CalKIDS account. This can help jumpstart your child's savings for college and career training!
Outdoors for All Initiative
California has three passes available to families to access our state's parks. Going outdoors could not be easier! Let's unplug from our digital devices and enjoy some fresh air. For more Information on the California State Parks' Passes, visit the website.
Metrolink Discount for EBT Cardholders
NEW DISCOUNT: California EBT cardholders qualify for 50% off any Metrolink ticket or pass. Travel to school, work and anywhere else you need to be for less when you take the train.
Learn more on the Metrolink website.
CA Department of Consumer Affairs Licensed Business Search Tool
Look for the license! Don't jeopardize your safety, money, or peace of mind - use DCA's free online search tool to double-check.
Rebates Available for Water-Saving Upgrades
California residents and business owners can do their part to help the state conserve water by switching to more water-efficient appliances, and there are many rebates available to help with these upgrades.
From washers, toilets, and sprinkler systems to HVAC systems, commercial appliances, and more, there's probably a rebate out there you could take advantage of.
If you don't need to replace any appliances right now, you can help out by replacing turf and other retrofitting projects - click the link below to learn more about rebates and ways you can be more water wise.
