Vote for P.J. Mellana

P.J. is running for a seat on the California State Assembly and is seeking this position because he shares the same concerns as many Californians with regard to the poor leadership and lack of fiscal restraint demonstrated by our career politicians in Sacramento. He has the principles, energy, and drive to fight for a leaner, more effective and accountable government that is responsive and accessible to the people it represents. He is committed to being a voice for the people he wishes to serve.

P.J. grew up, resides and works in Bellflower. He has been married to his wife Kari since June 2002 and together they have 2 children, Peter Jakob (Lil' P.J.), and Reagan Danielle.

P.J. was raised by his grandmother "Mimi" and uncle "Dude" from the time he was a toddler. He has 4 brothers and 2 sisters (some are from the blending of the family). So to say the least, he has a very large and loving family and nothing is more important to him and nothing has shaped him more than his family upbringing.

P.J. graduated from Bellflower High School in 1997; received his Bachelors of Science degree in Recreation & Community Services from California State University, Hayward; and received his Masters of Science degree in Organizational Leadership from National University. To read P.J.'s Thesis on Leadership Transition, click here.

P.J. has been in the Recreation field since 1999 and has worked for the cities of San Ramon, Glendale, and Bellflower. He is currently a Recreation Supervisor for the City of Bellflower. He considers himself very fortunate to be in a profession that impacts the community in such a positive way. He has had the opportunity to administer programs that reach young children, teenagers, adults, and senior citizens of many diverse backgrounds. What he loves most about his profession is the people he works with and how as a team they create so many memorable moments for the community through parks, programs, and large community special events.

P.J. also is a part-time faculty member for Axia College of University of Phoenix where he teaches general education subjects.

After his family, P.J. is most passionate about politics and sports. P.J.'s passion for politics began in a Jr. High History class when he was introduced to the political process through current events at the time, which for the most part was the 1992 presidential election. After that, P.J. became even more enamoured with politics as he soaked up as much information as possible in his High School Senior Government class; he was amazed with the institutions that were created to ensure freedom to all. Today, he follows politics very closely and enjoys reading as many books as possible on the history of our Nation and on political thought. P.J.'s passion for sports grew out of his participation in sports throughout his childhood. Second to his family upbringing, P.J. credits his sports experiences with having a positive influence on shaping him as a leader and the person he is today. Today he enjoys keeping up with his favorite professional sports teams which include the Dallas Cowboys, Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, and the Los Angeles Lakers. In addition, he enjoys playing fantasy football, golfing, and teaching his son about the Cowboys!

Fun Facts about P.J.: Favorite movies include Major League, Field of Dreams, Napoleon Dynamite, The Departed, and JFK. Favorite TV shows include The Office, 24, and Sports Center. He enjoys many genres of music, favorites being classic rock, and country.