(June 2, 2004) -- Rae Gabelich now has the endorsements of the Teachers Association of Long Beach (TALB) and LB School Board member (and VP) Mary Stanton in Ms. Gabelich's June 8 runoff challenge to Council incumbent Rob Webb.

"Rae will be a strong partner on the City Council who will work with our schools to provide a safe and high-quality learning environment for our students," said Tony Diaz, president of the Teachers Association of Long Beach in a release issued by Ms. Gabelich's campaign. "She understands the needs of the 8th District and will provide the leadership necessary to help our neighborhood schools," Mr. Diaz added.

Ms.Gabelich also announced the endorsement of Long Beach School Board Vice President Mary Stanton. "I first met Rae when she was a member of the LBUSD parent advisory group for special needs students. Rae was always well prepared, organized and tenacious in her advocacy. I learned to respect her passion and willingness to speak out where she felt it was important," said Ms. Stanton, whose school board district includes areas within 8th City Council District.

"Our schools are a vital part of our neighborhoods," said Ms. Gabelich, adding that "It is vital that our city work with our school district and teachers to ensure our schools are safe and have the resources available to them to provide the best education possible."

Ms. Gabelich is also endorsed by the LB Police Officers Association, LB Community College Board President (and former 8th district Councilman) Jeff Kellogg and former Council candidate Terry Jensen.

Incumbent Rob Webb's supporters include LB Mayor Beverly O'Neill, the LB Area Chamber of Commerce and the LB Firefighters Association.