Summer continues to be busy, and there's a lot of new information and events to share. Since our last newsletter, not only has Governor Newsom signed the 2021-22 state budget, with its major investments and record reserves, the legislature and the governor have also reached agreement on several other major issues.

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It was wonderful to join my San Diego colleagues and community members to celebrate the major investments the 2021-22 state budget makes to our region. During a press conference in Ocean Beach on July 21, San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria, Assemblymember Chris Ward, City Council President Jennifer Campbell, City Councilmember Sean Elo-Rivera, and I discussed the more than $200 million in funding that will be invested in the 39th Senate District and throughout our region.

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I will never forget the first time I saw the California Coastline, when I moved to San Diego in 1985. I was struck by its beauty, but came to appreciate its' power in terms of how it impacts our climate, as well as its importance to our economy. The ocean and our bay sustains our fishing and tourism industry, as well as our role in the military.

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There have been many issues I've worked on this past year and many crises to solve for. But when it comes to issues of the heart, actions speak louder than words. That's why I worked hard to ensure that $1.5 million was allocated to the Mission Trails Regional Park Foundation for the construction of a pedestrian bridge over the San Diego River.

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Team Toni Tours Rady Shell at Jacobs Park

Team Toni was treated to a behind-the-scenes tour of the San Diego Symphony's beautiful new venue, the Rady Shell at Jacobs Park. What an incredible new addition to San Diego's waterfront. Our state budget allocated $3 million for capital improvements for the Symphony. This new venue, which will hold a grand opening later this month, will serve as both a public park, an outdoor venue for private events, and a permanent outdoor home for our Symphony.

There is also a variety of concerts planned this summer, with more to come in the Fall. I can't wait to see a show here!

Airport Authority Opens New Support Facility

As a frequent flyer who uses the San Diego International Airport each week, it was my pleasure to join the Airport Authority leadership and staff, along with civic leaders and community partners to celebrate a new facility that is part of the airport's infrastructure progress.

The Airline Support Building provides a convenient location for the public to pick up and drop off live animals or bulky cargo items shipped via passenger jets, and will serve Southwest, American, Delta and United airlines.

The completion of this project is a testament to the team at the airport. Construction never stopped, even during the most difficult times of the past year. Thank you to all who were instrumental in this achievement. I'm happy that our state budget will further invest $95 million in travel and tourism investments and promotion for California. This funding will continue to assist in the recovery of thousands of small, local businesses that provide key services to our tourism partners across the region.

House of Peru Opening its Doors in Balboa Park

Balboa Park is one of those places in the District that is stunning and awe-inspiring – it's our urban sanctuary and the heart of culture, history, and tourism in San Diego. Internationally, Balboa Park is a destination beloved by San Diegans and visitors from around the world.

Two years ago, I ensured that the state budget invested $400,000 for the New International Cottages in Balboa Park. That effort came full circle last month, when I joined representatives and community members to celebrate the opening of the House of Peru, a project that respects the beauty of the diversity in our city, region and state.

I love the purpose of these cottages: to demonstrate a spirit of understanding, tolerance and goodwill among the many multicultural and ethnic groups represented in the San Diego community. By opening these doors, the House of Peru has a permanent home among the 33 other cultures represented.

The San Diego Blood Bank Needs You

Donating blood is rooted in my family history. My dad, a dedicated blood donor, had a very rare blood type that just happened to match a young child in our community who had a rare blood disorder. They were able to meet once, and that is probably why he wound up donating three gallons over his lifetime.

Given the nationwide blood shortage, I made sure to stop by the San Diego Blood Bank late last month. The blood shortage is at critical levels, with some supplies of blood types dwindling to about two days worth of supply -- normal supply is about seven days. Without adequate blood donors, surgeries and other important therapies could be delayed. Donors of all types are needed, including platelets, but O+ and O- blood types are vital. Blood donations save lives, and the time is now. To make an appointment, call 619-400-8521 or click here.