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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                   
March 8, 2010

For More Information, Contact:
Keith Weissglass (650) 688-6384

SAN JOSE VICE MAYOR JUDY CHIRCO NAMED 11th SENATE DISTRICT WOMAN OF THE YEAR

SACRAMENTO – State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) announced today his selection of San Jose Vice Mayor Judy Chirco as the 11th State Senate District’s Woman of the Year.

Chirco, a resident of San Jose’s Cambrian neighborhood for four decades, has represented her community on San Jose’s City Council since 2002. A passionate and effective community activist, Chirco previously served on the Cambrian School Board for eleven years.

“When it comes to good works, Judy Chirco’s the complete package,” said Simitian. “The breadth and depth of her service is just extraordinary – as a city leader, a school leader, a neighborhood activist, and an advocate for social justice. She’s both tough-minded and good-hearted, which is a wonderful combination.”

During her time in San Jose, Chirco has championed numerous projects for children. As a Board Member of PACT (People Acting in Community Together), she worked to fund San Jose’s Homework Center Program and guarantee children’s access to health care. Chirco currently chairs the city’s Healthy Neighborhood Venture Fund and is a representative to the San Jose City/School Collaborative.

“Judy is an excellent advocate for children, a leader of parent involvement, and has continued to be a friend of the Cambrian School District through her work on the City Council,” said Gary Chronert, a Board Trustee for the Cambrian School District.

Chirco is also an advocate for environmental stewardship and sustainability. On the City Council, she has advocated for tougher emissions standards for city vehicles, green building guidelines, and an environmental awareness program for students.

“Judy is genuine, fair and passionate about her work,” said Scott Green, Chirco’s former Chief of Staff. “She is a gift to our community. No matter the challenge, Judy takes the work seriously, but never herself.”

Prior to her election to public office, Chirco was an active member of her local PTA and a community volunteer. She and her husband Ed, who both work in property management, are proud parents and grandparents.

“I’m honored to have been selected,” said Chirco. “I hope I’ve made a big difference, but I don’t think of myself of having done it alone.”

The Woman of the Year award is given annually by members of the California State Legislature to honor outstanding women in their districts. Simitian chose Chirco from among his 950,000 constituents in the three counties and thirteen cities and towns of the 11th State Senate district.

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