March 26, 2008

Relive (and roast) the 'Parra experience'

Veterans of Assemblywoman Nicole Parra's staff – and there are quite a few – are gathering on Thursday night for a roast of the Hanford Democrat, quite literally at her expense.

In her six years in the Assembly, Parra has earned a reputation not only as one of the most moderate members of the Democratic caucus, but also as a member with some of the highest staff turnover.

Embracing her inner boss, she's agreed to pay for a party for all her ex-aides to get together and share war stories.

"Former staffers for Nicole Parra, please join Chiefs of Staff I - VI, Leg Directors I - IX, Schedulers II - IXV, and many other veterans of the Parra Experience for a celebratory dinner," reads the e-mail invitation sent last month to a couple dozen ex-aides and forwarded to dozens more. "First 100 to RSVP get ceremonial 'I was fired by Parra' pin."

Cynthia Leon -- whose three and a half years in Parra's office, including two as chief of staff, make her a Parra veteran -- said, "It's great that she's willing to allow us this opportunity."

Leon, now a lobbyist for the California Manufacturers and Technology Association, said Parra was generous enough "to set up the venue and pay for it."

There'll be an open mic – and, Leon added, "we're also roasting the staff."

As for Parra, the lawmakers said in a voice message Wednesday that she was "very excited about my event tomorrow night."

"I look forward to seeing all of my former staff," she added, saying she expected up to 100 people to attend. (Yes, that includes campaign staff and third house folks).

The roasting, drinks and reminiscing will take place at Simon's.

Posted by Shane Goldmacher on March 26, 2008 6:59 PM