Assembly District 28

Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2004 | 3:01 a.m.

Assemblywoman Vonne Chowning's departure to seek a spot on the Clark County Commission has opened the door to a full slate of candidates hoping to replace the Democrat in Assembly District 28.

The Republican primary race features two candidates: Benjamin J. Bell Sr. and Tino Mendoza, no relation to the Rosa Mendoza, who is a candidate for the district's Democratic spot on the ballot.

Tino Mendoza, 66, is a retired businessman who wants less government spending, reduced auto registration fees and improve health care.

Mendoza served in the Army for 24 years, including tours in Korea and Vietnam.

He wants truancy laws enforced, supports educational alternatives and choice and wants to maximize individual freedom and minimize government.

Bell, 58, was an electrician and then a truck driver before a car accident left him with back problems and on Social Security disability pay.

Bell said that if elected he would want to attack the homeless problem, in part by requiring subcontractors working in Nevada to follow rules set for general contractors, which Bell said would lead to more local jobs.

Bell said he also supports a limit on property tax increases.

He said Nevada needs a state disability insurance program.

A former Californian, Bell worked as a campaign volunteer for former Los Angeles Mayor Tom Bradley.

Three Democrats have tossed their hats into the ring -- Mo Denis, Eddie Flores and Rosa Mendoza.

Denis, 43, is a computer network technician who said his focus would be on improving education, and conditions for senior citizens and working families.

The Brigham Young University graduate claims his district roots give him a distinct advantage: He has been a volunteer and leader for 20 years in schools, Scouting and church. He also points out he was raised in Las Vegas and is raising a family here.

Flores, 30, a Clark County Family Youth Services employee, said he would work for an equitable tax policy and to improve education and health care.

Flores claims eight years of volunteer work on other Democratic campaigns and is a UNLV graduate.

Rosa Mendoza, 39, is an English teacher at the Odyssey Charter School. Mendoza said she is particularly concerned about crime and education. If elected, Mendoza said she would work to improve early education opportunities, and work to bring businesses to the district, which would improve the economy and lessen crime.