McCain throws a few barbs

When Arizona Sen. John McCain announced his support for Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's reform agenda this week, the one-time presidential candidate didn't spare any barbs for his neighboring state or the governor's previous career.

"I just completed filming a cameo on the set of "24," McCain said during a press conference at the Hilton Burbank Airport and Convention Center. "I hope my performance will be better than 'Red Sonia' and 'Hercules.'"

He was referring to two of Schwarzenegger's early films, which were not well accepted by critics.

"That was below the belt," Schwarzenegger dead-panned as many at the conference laughed.

McCain also found a playful way to jab at Southern California's water acquisition when he said Arizona did have enough water of its own without California stealing some of it.

McCain said another former Arizona U.S. Senator and presidential candidate Barry Goldwater also made jabbing remarks about Arizona's dryness.

"[Goldwater] said that Arizona is so dry the trees chase the dogs," McCain said. When Schwarzenegger was asked if McCain would make another run for president, McCain raised his hand and said, "I'll answer that."

Although local Republican leaders believe McCain will make another run for president, McCain disappointed the press conference crowd by remaining uncommitted.

Legislators to honor businesswomen

State Sen. Jack Scott, Assembly Majority Leader Dario Frommer, and Assemblywoman Carol Liu will honor 25 area businesswomen with the sixth annual Women In Business Awards luncheon at 11:30 a.m., Wednesday at the Hilton Hotel, 168 S. Los Robles Ave., in Pasadena.

KNBC General Manager Paula Madison will be the keynote speaker. Mistress of Ceremonies for the event is Keri Tombazian of WAVE 94.7FM.

Democrats discuss initiative process

Robert Stern will discuss the initiative process and Eric Bauman will speak about the specific initiatives that will appear on the Special Election ballot in November at the La Cañada Flintridge Democratic Club Sunday.