LETTER TO THE EDITOR: Support for A-Malek

Dear Editor: As a longtime Downey resident, Dr. Shahira A-Malek is genuinely committed to serving each and every resident of Downey and she will work tirelessly to improve quality of life for all residents.

In addition, Dr. A-Malek has the credentials and innovative ideas to move Downey in the right direction.

For over 30 years, Dr. A-Malek has served members of the community by providing top-notch medical care and working with patients to promote good health and wellness. She consistently receives high marks from patients for her ability to listen to and address their concerns. Likewise, as the 2nd District council member, she will listen to and address the concerns of all her constituents.

In addition, she has held numerous leadership positions, such as Chief of Staff for two hospitals and positions on governing boards of medical and charitable organizations. In these roles, Dr. A-Malek was responsible for managing and working with a diverse group of people, consensus-building on divisive issues, and proposing and implementing innovative solutions for difficult problems.

Moreover, Dr. A-Malek’s innovative ideas, policies and proposals will surely move Downey in the right direction. Her focus on social programs, such as secured housing for seniors and after-school programs for at-risk youth, highlights her concern for the most vulnerable members of our community. Dr. A-Malek believes that an investment in our youth is an investment in the future of Downey. By investing in after-school programs, we provide at-risk youth with the opportunity to seek help with academic work and explore sports, hobbies, and other endeavors that help them succeed in life. These programs are also credited with reducing violence, gang activity and teenage pregnancies.

Dr. A-Malek’s proposal to open a satellite campus for a local college in Downey is an innovative idea that will bring jobs as well as educational and vocational opportunities that will generate additional jobs and boost the local economy. Because Dr. A-Malek understands that safety and security is the number one priority for most current and potential Downey residents, she is committed and determined to keep the Downey Police and Fire Departments intact and to provide them with the resources they need to continue their great work.

Lastly, Dr. A-Malek will be driven by the interests the community.  Since she is self-funding her campaign for the 2nd District seat, she will not be beholden to any special interests.

I’ve known Dr. A-Malek for over 20 years and I am confident that she is most qualified, trustworthy and committed candidate in the race.

George R. Sami, ESQ Downey

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Published: Oct. 30, 2014 - Volume 13 - Issue 29