2005 was not supposed to be an election year at all. But suddenly, Californians find themselves in the middle of a heated campaign season. Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger once again dominated public debate this week in appearances around the state pitching his ideas for reform and defending his proposals in the face of protesting crowds. Last night, nearly 1000 demonstrators gathered outside a San Jose fundraiser for the Governor's reform proposals. Twice that number turned out for an event in Irvine Tuesday night.Reporter: John Myers
The closing of a job center in Orange County has sparked a debate over the government's role in helping day laborers find work. The Costa Mesa Job Center was one of the first in the nation to receive public funding. Critics say taxpayer money was being used to help illegal immigrants find work. Supporters say the center solved numerous public safety problems brought on by day laborers congregating in public.Reporter: Rob Schmitz
Music Bridge #1: "Arica" by Big Sur, from "Gardens of Eden" (Putamayo)
California's relentlessly wet weather has broken records this winter. Southern California has had the second wettest season since the National Weather Service began keeping track in 1877. But the rainy weather doesn't get everyone down -- two Los Angeles poets have actually found it inspirational.Reporter: Adolpho Guzman Lopez
Music Bridge #2: "He Kick Clap" by the Starving Artists Crew, from "Mushroom Jazz Five" (Om)
The sport of boxing is undergoing a revival. Next Wednesday, the Golden Gloves boxing championship returns to the San Francisco Civic Auditorium, where the annual event started in 1931. Some Bay Area fighters have been preparing for the competition at the city's only all-boxing gym.Reporter: Ariana Pekary
The work of the artist Shag is everywhere -- from ties to tiki mugs, cocktail coasters to Christmas cards. His characters are hip men and women in '60s scenes who show a healthy taste for cocktails and designer furniture. But does the art suffer when merchandising takes over?Reporter: Colin Berry
More:
"Shag With a Twist"
: A new theatrical experience based on the work of the artist Shag, running through June at the Los Angeles Theatre Center.
End Music: "The Queen Chant (E Lili U E) by Martin Denny, from "The Exciting Sounds Of Martin Denny: Exotica I & II" (Scamp)
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