Snapping Back is a story of a woman who never voted, had personal struggles, and learned through self-discovery and service to others that she mattered and could make a small difference every day that would make a larger difference in life later. It is about great people whose examples, wisdom, and support helped me on my journey. This is about being a part of forward-thinking policies initiated by then-Mayor Gavin Newsom. Sometimes, you must walk through a storm so fierce you do not think you can make it, but it is part of the refining of greatness, preparing you for something you never thought possible. To walk in victory, not in regret. To give without expecting anything in return. To be the one who stays when things get hard. When someone "Snaps Back," they get back on their feet, recovering from an injury, disappointment, or setback. If you are given the tools, you can recover and help others. My story includes my time with the Progressive Prince of San Francisco (Gavin Newsom) when I worked with him (2002-2009) and his life-changing policies that helped people experiencing poverty and those who lost their voices. Gay Marriage, Homeless, Civil rights for all. Immigration, Stem Cell Research, Raised Gardens, and Green policies for a healthier planet. Then, Mayor Newsom, now the Governor of California, showed me by example the power of resilience and striving to do what is right no matter the pressure. He has always been a beacon of hope for me, a good man making a difference one person at a time. He knows that true leadership was not tested in calm seas but in the face of the fiercest storms. And in that moment, on the brink of the precipice, Governor Gavin Newsom always stood his ground, ready to confront whatever ocean of politics might hurl his way.
My story involves my time with many artists and musicians who helped with Gavin's causes, and non-profit organizations like "North Beach Citizens," run by the original Godfather Francis Ford Coppola, taught me the power of community. My sons taught me the Power of Family and the gift of love and forgiveness. My story also includes some of my time in Montana and the lessons I learned, especially the profound financial knowledge I gained while working with Jamison Banna and the many financial literacy classes he taught. I know more now than ever how little we are financially educated and how critical it is for us to be financially literate to empower us to make the best informed financial decisions. We