Newly elected Assemblyman Brian Nestande hasn't cast his first legislative vote, hasn't moved into the Capitol, hasn't even been sworn in yet -- but he already has scheduled his first fundraiser.
Not for chump change, either.
The Riverside County Republican has scheduled a "holiday golf tournament" at the Indian Wells resort on Dec. 6.
Nestande's donors will fork out $1,500 per player ranging up to $5,000 per tournament sponsor, a sum that entitles the contributor to four tee slots and an advertising sign posted at one hole.
Golfers also are invited to sip cocktails and munch hors d'oeuvres at the Indian Wells home of lobbyist Anthony Gonsalves. Not a golfer? A contribution of $150 per person gets you into the cocktail reception.
Nestande was unopposed in the Nov. 4 general election, but he said the golf tourney will help retire debt from the June primary. He had $23,000 in campaign cash and $75,000 in unpaid bills as of Oct. 18, state records show.
By holding the fundraiser after the presidential election, Nestande also can solicit new contributions from donors who have reached the limit of $7,200 for this year's two elections. He'll save it for his re-election bid.
"It's an ongoing cycle," said Nestande, son of 1970s Republican Assemblyman Bruce Nestande.
Nestande officially will join the Assembly on Dec. 1 -- five days before teeing off at Indian Wells.
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