A Democracy is only as good as the effort you give to it.

By Dale E. Ordas

All that is required to make a difference is preparation, committment, persistence and the resolve to stay with it to the finish.

In Sacramento, where I practiced law for more than three decades, I ran for the Assembly. I worked on the campaigns of various Democratic candidates and in support of legislation supporting Democratic values. As a lawyer, I represented consumers, organized labor, workers and victims of wrongful conduct. I also served on various committees working with the courts to improve the administration of justice, reduce court delay and to establish an alternative dispute resolution process in the Sacramento Courts. I also was a founding member of the Judicial Review Committee that handled complaints against Judges in the Sacramento Courts.

While I'm still licensed to practice law, I now work only as a mediator or arbitrator. I serve as a Judge Pro Tem for the San Diego County Courts. I've also worked to protect our environment. I was a part of the group that successfully compelled to City of Carlsbad to prepare a full Environmental Impact Report before developing the Ponto Beach area, which includes the Batiquitos Lagoon. I'm a member of the City of Carlsbad Community Development Block Grant Program. I've written numerous articles on political issues. The following is a summary of recent political activity:

• Serve as a Member of the San Diego County Democratic Central Committee (SDCDCC) and Chair of the 74th Assembly District Caucus.

• Developed and presented the final report for the Candidate Recruitment Committee of SDCDCC Strategic Planning Task Force.

• Drafting amendments to the bylaws of the SDCDCC as a part of the plan to create a more efficient and effective organization.

• Serve as E-Board Representative from the 74th Assembly District and Chair of the 74th Assembly District Democratic Committee.

• Serve as Outreach Chair for North County Democratic Unity Coalition.

• Recruit and support Democratic candidates in North County San Diego;

• Worked with SDCDCC activists and organized labor to defeat Propositions 73 through 77 in the Special Election last November.