News Flash: The San Gabriel Valley Tribune has also endorsed Fred Sykes as one of its two choices for the two city-councils seats being contested. Please see http://www.sgvtribune.com/editorial/ci_19259872

By DAVID CASUCO, editor of the Weekend Balita (one of the two Filipino-American newspapers with the biggest in circulation in Southern California) – as published in the Front Page of this week’s issue

F ORMER L.A. County Deputy Sheriff Fredrick Sykes is considered a newbie in the West Covina political arena, but he looms large in public service and community activism. To the Filipino-American community, he represents hope for their minority voices to be heard inside the West Covina City Hall.

A vigorous advocate for community and smart growth, Sykes made the rounds in the Filipino Community last week to seek election support on November 8. So far, the response was more what he bargained for. The Filipino community likes him so much. His honesty and his measured demeanor impressed the voters, with the Fil-Am Media Breakfast Club even going farther, embracing the 33-year Sheriff veteran as an “Adopted Son.”

Because I live here I want West Covina in the best condition for us. – Fredrick Sykes

“I am running (for City Council of West Covina) because we, the people, are under- represented at City Hall,” said Sykes. “Our City Council should serve and ensure fair and equal governance for every region in the City.”

West Covina is home to a great number of Filipino-Americans. The latest demographics show that Fil-Ams compose roughly 12 percent of the total West Covina population. But unlike in Carson and Walnut, where there are Fil-Am elected officials, no Fil-Am in West Covina had sought for an elected City post.

A side from his Fil-Am supporters (and the San Gabriel Valley Tribune), Sykes also has a solid backing from the Latinos and other ethnic groups. His key endorsements come from Cong. Judy Chu (32 District), California State Senator Ed Hernandez, Assemblymember Roger Hernandez, Former Mayor/Councilmember Hon. Nancy Manners, Former Mayor/Councilmember Richard Melendez, Former WC School Board Member Forrest Wilkins, and Former Covina Valley School Board Member Gilbert Ramirez.

Running on a campaign mantra “The Change We Need; A Voice We Deserve,” Sykes vows to work hard when he gets elected, saying “because I live here I want West Covina in the best condition for us.”

When elected, Sykes will:

• Pursue a true balanced budget that protects public safety and city services;
• Restore City Council meeting broadcasts/Internet access to promote transparency and public education;
• Improve public and school safety and pursue anti-crime programs;
• Curb conflict of interest and profiteering by anyone elected or appointed to office.

To volunteer for the Fredrick Sykes campaign or for more information, log on to www.fredricksykes.com. # # #