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"DMV/Donate Life California Month"
In Contra Costa County
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The Board of Supervisors recognized the importance of organ donation and presented a proclamation to Jeff Koertzen of California Transplant Donor Network at their April 14th meeting
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In support of organ donors and recipients nationwide, and colleague Supervisor Federal Glover who just recently received a heart and kidney transplant, the Board of Supervisors took action on April 14 to declare April as National Donate Life Month in Contra Costa County.
read more
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Registration Now Open for Alamo Recreation Summer Programs
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The Alamo Recreation program is now accepting registration for summer youth and adult recreation classes. Over the past year, the Alamo MAC along with the help of Supervisor Candace Andersen's office and County staff has formed a partnership with the Irvin Deutscher Family YMCA to bring recreation programs to Alamo. This summer, the Y will be offering Youth Sports (soccer, tee ball, coach pitch softball), Youth camps (Mad Science Camp, Enginereing FUNdamentals Lego camp) Adult Fitness Classes (yoga, beginner strength and balance), and Adult Group Day Trips. For more information or to register click here or call 925-687-8900.
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Have Breakfast with the Animals at the
Lindsay Wildlife Experience
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Enjoy a continental breakfast alongside Lindsay's birds of prey and help the animal keepers prepare breakfast for Lindsay's Animal Ambassadors from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 16.
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Lamorinda Village Celebrates Launch Party
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Lamorinda Village is a nonprofit membership organization made up of residents from Lafayette, Moraga, and Orinda. Lamorinda Village is like a "concierge service" with one-stop shopping by telephone or on the Village website. It offers its members potential solutions to many needs, including; transportation, computer help, meal preparation, exercise activities, social activities and many other services.
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The Contra Costa Commission for Women
Meets in Supervisor Andersen's Office
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 Supervisor Andersen joined the Contra Costa Commission for Women in her Lafayette Office for their April 21st meeting, where she welcomed current members and greeted visitors interested in the commission.
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Eden Housing Holds Grand Opening for Monteverde Senior Apartments in Orinda
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Supervisor Andersen speaks to the crowd at the Grand Opening Celebration of the Monteverde Senior Apartments in Orinda.
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Monteverde Senior Apartments celebrated their grand opening on April 9th. Monteverde provides 67 affordable rental apartments for older adults in the City of Orinda, and is built on a spectacular site overlooking the downtown area.
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Drought Update
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Because of dismal rain levels and a low snowpack, EBMUD has declared a Stage 4 critical drought and set a community-wide goal to reduce water use 20% compared to 2013.
read more
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Student Recognition Project Awards
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Liz Graswich, Supervisor Candace Andersen and Tom Ladouceur
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On Friday, April 3, Supervisor Andersen attended the 2015 San Ramon Valley Unified School District high school Student Recognition Project Awards Breakfast.
The students compete in any of 25 categories that showcase their skills both within and outside the curriculum.
read more
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Bike to Work Day - Bay Area
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The San Francisco Bay Area's 21st annual Bike to Work Day will take place
on Thursday, May 14, 2015 with all nine Bay Area counties participating in the celebration. The event is part of National Bike Month. Energizer Stations are located along Bay Area county commute routes where bicyclists can stop for refreshments, giveaways, and bicycling information or simply to be 'cheered on' by fellow participants.
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Moraga Community Faire & Car Show
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The 2015 Annual Moraga Community Faire & Car Show, a family event showcasing much that Moraga has to offer including businesses, services and non-profit groups in a festive environment will take place from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 9 at the Rheem Valley Shopping Center. Highlights include local wines to taste, a climbing wall, bounce houses and chalk drawing for the kids, tasty foods, and a fabulous collection of classic cars.
Click here for more information.
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Alamo Rec Day Trip
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Pictured here are adventurous Alamo residents setting off on the first adult day trip sponsored by Alamo Recreation in partnership with the YMCA. Pictured left to right are: Paul Morrison, Driver; Dee Assael, YMCA; Bob Kinser, Lee Banister, Toni Cinegran, Ted Sciacqua, Patti Miller and Nan Hudson. They were off to visit the Asian Art Museum and eat dim sum in San Francisco. Next Alamo day trip is wine tasting at Wente Vineyards on August 14. Click here to sign up for the Wente trip or any of the Alamo Recreation programs.
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What's Happening Around San Ramon
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Don't miss the Art & Wind Festival on Sunday and Monday, May 24 - 25, from 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. at San Ramon Central Park, 12051 Alcosta Boulevard in San Ramon.
Click here to learn more.
read more |
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Alamo Summer Concerts & Movie Unde
r the Stars
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|  The Alamo Municipal Advisory Council (MAC) presents the 2015 "Alamo Summer Concert Series" at Livorna Park, located at the intersection of Livorna Road and Miranda Avenue in Alamo. The five-concert series features live music from a variety of genres. read more |
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A Taste of Lafayette
Lafayette's 13th Annual Restaurant Walk
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 The 13th Annual Taste of Lafayette will be held from 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 19. The event begins at Lafayette Plaza with a reception including drinks, appetizers and musical entertainment.Ticket holders go at their own pace to any or all of the participating restaurants, then return for a dessert reception and coffee at the Plaza from 8:30-9:00 p.m. Proceeds from the event benefit the Lafayette Community Foundation and the programs and services of the Lafayette Chamber of Commerce.Tickets are $45 if purchased by May 9, $50 thereafter. For more information or to register
click here.
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Moraga Police Department Presents Kids Day
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The Moraga Police Officers Association is presenting a fun kids day on Sunday, June 14th at the New Rheem Theatre with a movie showing of Despicable Me 2 on the big screen, and a festival of fun activities (staffed by Moraga Police Officers), including face painting, bounce house, balloon animals, petting zoo, lots of snacks and much more.
The 2013 animated hit movie with character voices by Steve Carell, Kristen Wiig, Benjamin Bratt, Russell Brand, Miranda Cosgrove, and Ken Jeong starts at 10:30 am at a special price of only $5.00. The festival will start soon after at 12:00 noon until 2:00 pm. Click here to download the official event flyer. All proceeds benefit the Special Olympics Northern California.
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Alamo Elementary Celebrates 50 Years
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Supervisor Andersen presents Principal Stan Hitomi with a proclamation honoring the 50th Anniversary of the Alamo Elementary School.
Principals and school attendants, both past and present, attended the celebration recognizing Alamo Elementary School's 50 years in the community.
read more
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Help for Nepal Earthquake Victims
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 The devastating earthquake in Nepal has touched the hearts of millions of Americans who want to support disaster relief through donations. However, it is sometimes difficult to know which organizations will best get the funds directly to where the need is greatest. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) has released
a list of charities that are providing aid to Nepal and also meet the BBB's accountability standards. Before you choose a charity to give to,
take a look at the BBB Wise Giving Alliance tips for giving to this type of cause by
clicking here.
Before you decide on a charity to give to, check out the charity on give.org by clicking here.
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CHP "Start Smart" & "Age Well Drive Smart"
Class Schedules
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On Thursday, April 30 Candace joined Officer John Fransen at California High School in San Ramon for the Street Smarts/CHP Start Smart Program.
"Start Smart" is a two-hour driver safety education class given by the California Highway Patrol to new and future teenage drivers and their parents/legal guardians.The "CHP Age Well Drive Smart" Program offers a senior driver public awareness class presentation which covers elderly drivers safety topics.
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Walking for Mental Health in the Month of May
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The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is sponsoring their Bay Area fundraising Walk on Saturday, May 30, 2015 at the Lindley Meadow in Golden Gate Park. NAMI San Francisco's mission is to advocate for a life of quality and dignity by providing education, resources and emotional support to families and those affected by mental illness (brain disorders). read more |
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National Crime Victims' Rights Week
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At their meeting on April 21, the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors joined forces with the victim service providers, criminal justice agencies, and concerned citizens throughout Contra Costa County and America to raise awareness of victims' rights and observe National Crime Victims' Right Week.
read more
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The Closure of Doctors Medical Center
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A message
from Dr.
William Walk
er, Director of Contra Costa Health Services (CCHS) and the Health Officer for Contra Costa County
As you may know, Doctors Medical Center (DMC) in San Pablo closed its doors on April 21. I wanted to let you know about health care resources that are available to West Contra Costa County residents and the efforts underway to help meet their health care needs.
read more
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Proclaiming April 2015 Sexual Assault Awareness Month in Contra Costa County
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April was Sexual Assault Awareness Month and drew attention to the fact that sexual violence including rape, sexual assault and sexual harassment is widespread and impacts every member of our community.
read more
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Alamo Improvement Association Community Forums Set to Discuss Pipeline Safety
on Iron Horse Corridor
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 The Iron Horse Trail is a popular place to ride a bike or walk a dog, but our well-trafficked thoroughfare is also a major conduit for utilities, including a pipeline that carries gasoline, diesel and jet fuel just a few feet underground. To help residents learn more about the pipeline and others like it across Contra Costa County, the Alamo Improvement Association (AIA) will host a pair of educational forums on June 3 and June 6 to discuss safety requirements, oversight responsibilities and the risks of living near them.
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April Board Actions
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Ever wonder what your Supervisor does at that weekly Tuesday Board of Supervisors Meeting? Here are some of the board actions from the month of April which impact the residents of District 2:
Accepted the Relinquishment of Abutter's Rights for a project being developed by Chabad of Contra Costa, Walnut Creek.
Proclaimed April 19-25, 2015 as National Crime Victims' Rights Week in promotion of victims' rights and to recognize crime victims and those who advocate on their behalf.
Proclaimed April 2015 as "DMV/Donate Life California Month" in Contra Costa County.
Recognized April 7, 2015 as "National Service Recognition Day" in Contra Costa County.
Recognized April as "Sexual Assault Awareness Month" in Contra Costa County.
Reappointed Susan Heckly to the District II seat on the Fish & Wildlife Committee, as recommended by Supervisor Andersen.
Approved/Authorized the FY 2015-2016 allocations of $2,828,582 in Community Development Block Grant funds; and $2,437,838 in HOME Investment Partnerships Act funds to support the construction of 183 units in four affordable multi-family housing projects located in El Cerrito, North Richmond, San Pablo, and Walnut Creek; three Countywide programs that will provide housing services to 70 families; and the rehabilitation of an adult group home in Knightsen.
Heard a presentation on the Fiscal Year 2015-2016 Contra Costa County Fire Protection District Recommended Budget.
Accepted a report from the Fire Chief providing a status summary for ongoing Fire District activities and initiatives.
Accepted a report from the Fire Chief on significant incidents that occurred within the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District during the month of March 2015.
Considered a report on the proposed strategies to improve the physical condition of the Housing Authority's public housing units in response to chronic federal funding shortfalls and provide direction to staff as necessary.
Received a presentation for the California Highway Patrol's Start Smart Program and Central County Street Smart program.
Continued the appeals of the Planning Commission's decision to approve a variance for a front yard setback and associated tree permit for construction of a new residence at 200 Sydney Drive, Alamo area to the May 5th Board of Supervisors' Meeting.
Conducted a hearing on the Fiscal Year 2015/16 Recommended County and Special District Budgets - click here.
Recognized the new Bay Area Green Businesses for 2015, as recommended by the Health Services Director. (attachment)
Appointed the following individuals to participate in the Three-Day Ambulance Service RFP (Request for Proposals) scoring process to be held in Concord on June 3-5, 2015: Janice Howe and Nuru Neemuchwalla to serve as impartial observers, and Stephen F. Smith to serve as an evaluator.
Approved/Authorized an amendment to a purchase and sale agreement between the County and the City of Lafayette that releases Lafayette from restrictions regarding the proceeds from the sale of property located at 952 Moraga Road, Lafayette (the former Lafayette Library) so that the City of Lafayette can sell the property to the Lafayette School District; and Approved/Authorized a Library Lease and Service Agreement with the City of Lafayette for the new library located at 3491 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette.
Approved/Authorized a contract with the California Department of Aging for Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program services.
Approved/Authorized application/acceptance of funding from Community Awareness Emergency Response for the Hazardous Materials Emergency Preparedness Kits for Children with Disabilities Project.
Approved/Authorized a contract amendment with Environmental Science Associates to provide continued service to complete the environmental impact report for the Saranap Village Mixed-Use Project.
Approved/Authorized a contract amendment with Meals on Wheels and Senior Outreach Services to provide additional home delivered meal services.
Approved/Authorized a contract with John Muir Behavioral Health in an amount not to exceed $1,000,000 to provide inpatient psychiatric hospital services.
Approved the Notice of Intention to Convey Real Property to the Town of Danville for drainage purposes located between Laurel Drive and Sycamore Valley Road in Danville.
Approved recommendations from the Fish & Wildlife Committee on the allocation of 2015 Fish and Wildlife Propagation Fund grant funds for 11 projects - click here
Adopted the County's 2015/16 State Controller's Recommended Budget Schedules for Countywide Funds and Special Districts - click here.
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Volunteers Needed to Sit on
District 2 Advisory Boards
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District 2 vacancies available on the following committees, boards and commissions:
* Arts & Culture Commission - click here
* County Service Area P-5 Citizens Advisory Committee (Residents of: Roundhill, Regency Woods or Windsor Green)
* In-Home Support Services Public Authority Advisory Committee - click here
In addition, Supervisor Andersen would like to draw your attention to the following list of countywide advisory bodies that currently have At Large Seats available:
Advisory Council on Aging
Advisory Council on Equal Employment Opportunity
Alcohol and Other Drugs Advisory Board
Contra Costa Commission for Women
CCC Local Planning Advisory Council for Early Care & Education
County Connection Citizen Advisory Committee
Developmental Disabilities Board
East Bay Regional Park District - Advisory Body
Economic Opportunity Council
Homelessness Advisory Board
Managed Care Commission
Workforce Development Board
To apply for any of these seats, click here.
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The full text of the articles in this newsletter follow. We have provided a preview of the articles above for easier reading. Navigate by clicking on "read more" and "return to articles".
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"DMV/Donate Life California Month"
In Contra Costa County
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The Board of Supervisors recognized the importance of organ donation and presented a proclamation to Jeff Koertzen of California Transplant Donor Network at their April 14th meeting
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In support of organ donors and recipients nationwide, and colleague Supervisor Federal Glover who just recently received a heart and kidney transplant, the Board of Supervisors took action on April 14 to declare April as National Donate Life Month in Contra Costa County.
More than 123,000 individuals nationwide and more than 22,000 in California are currently on the national organ transplant waiting list. Unfortunately, 21 people die each day simply because the life-saving organ they needed is not available in time. The need for donated organs is especially urgent in Hispanic and African American communities. A single individual's donation of the heart, lungs, liver, kidneys, pancreas and small intestine can save up to eight lives; donation of tissue can save and heal the lives of up to 50 others; and a single blood donation can help three people in need. Millions of lives each year are saved and healed by donors of organs, tissues, marrow and blood; and the spirit of giving and decision to donate are not restricted by age or medical condition.
Over 12 million Californians have signed up with the state-authorized "Donate Life California" Registry to ensure their wishes to be organ and tissue donors are honored. While 50% are registered nationally, only 39% of the eligible state population is registered. "Donate Life California" is a private, nonprofit entity created to administer the organ, eye and tissue donor registry dedicated to saving the lives of thousands of Californians awaiting life-saving transplants. Administered by California's four nonprofit, federally designated organ procurement organizations, or OPOs (which facilitate the donation process in the state), the Donate Life California Organ & Tissue Donor Registry enables Californians to personally consent to the donation of organs, tissue and cornea after death.
Most designated donors sign up through the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) when they apply for or renew their driver license and/or ID card. You can also enroll by clicking here. If you're not already signed up as a donor, please consider registering today.
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Have Breakfast with the Animals at the
Lindsay Wildlife Experience
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Enjoy a continental breakfast alongside Lindsay's birds of prey and help the animal keepers prepare breakfast for Lindsay's Animal Ambassadors from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 16. This exclusive event is only offered to those who are members of Lindsay Wildlife. So bring your family and spend a Saturday morning enjoying good food and interacting with wildlife. Price: $10 adult, $7 children (ages 2-17), children under 2 are free. Advanced purchase is required. Not a member? Join today and enjoy all the exclusive benefits you gain by becoming a Lindsay Wildlife member - including special member's only events like this. Click here to register for this event. Click here to become a member or to learn more about Lindsay Wildlife.
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Lamorinda Village Celebrates Launch Party
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Lamorinda Village is a nonprofit membership organization made up of residents from Lafayette, Moraga, and Orinda. Lamorinda Village is like a "concierge service" with one-stop shopping by telephone or on the Village website. It offers its members potential solutions to many needs, including; transportation, computer help, meal preparation, exercise activities, social activities and many other services. Lafayette resident Carol Singer is shown above visiting one of the informational service providers at the April 6, Lamorinda Village Launch Event. A growing community of seniors were invited to join with service-providers, community leaders and volunteers to celebrate this much needed grass roots community-based organization. For more information about the Lamorinda Village call (925) 253-2300 or click here to learn more.
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The Contra Costa Commission for Women
Meets in Supervisor Andersen's Office
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Supervisor Andersen joined the Contra Costa Commission for Women in her Lafayette Office for their April 21st meeting, where she welcomed current members and greeted visitors interested in the commission.
The Contra Costa Commission for Women was formed to educate the community and advise the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors and other entities as necessary on issues relating to the changing social and economic conditions of women in the County, with particular emphasis on the economically disadvantaged. The CCCW's mission is, "to improve the economic status, social welfare, and overall quality of life for women in Contra Costa County." To learn more about the commission click here.
If you are interested in joining the Women's Commission for their next event, The Women in Power Panel Discussion, it is being held at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 20, at 2151 Salvio Street, Suite 350 in Concord. The cost is $15 per person in advance, $25 at the door. To learn more or to register for the event click here .
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Eden Housing Holds Grand Opening for Monteverde Senior Apartments in Orinda
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Supervisor Andersen speaks to the crowd at the Grand Opening Celebration of the Monteverde Senior Apartments in Orinda.
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Monteverde Senior Apartments celebrated their grand opening on April 9th. Monteverde provides 67 affordable rental apartments for older adults in the City of Orinda, and is built on a spectacular site overlooking the downtown area. The property is adjacent to the Orinda Community Park, Community Center and Public Library. It is across the street from a major grocery store, pharmacy, downtown restaurants, retail stores, and the Orinda BART station. The location perfectly suits an aging population, allowing them to readily access needed services without the need for a car.
Monteverde's senior residents also have access to free, onsite supportive services programs to assist them to be more successful in their daily lives. With its resident services and highly sustainable design, Monteverde will support long-term independent living for very and extremely low-income seniors in a healthy, safe environment. Partnering with the Housing Authority of Contra Costa County, Eden Housing received a 15-year project-based voucher commitment for 100% of the units enabling Eden to serve seniors who rely solely upon social security benefits and cover its development and operating costs.To learn more about Eden Housing click here. return to articles
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Drought Update
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Because of dismal rain levels and a low snowpack, EBMUD has declared a Stage 4 critical drought and set a community-wide goal to reduce water use 20% compared to 2013. To achieve these savings, EBMUD has adopted new water use rules that affect all customers and must supplement normal water supplies with water from additional sources. Mandatory water restrictions are in effect. These restrictions apply to everyone -- individuals, businesses, homeowners associations, schools and other public entities. To learn more
click here.
If you live in the area serviced by Zone 7 Water Agency, the extreme drought conditions prompted Zone 7's Board of Directors to set forth water demand reduction measures needed to achieve an overall 25% cutback in treated and untreated water deliveries for 2014. The drought conditions in 2015 are requiring all customers to continue to conserve. To learn more about the current restrictions
click here.
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Student Recognition Project Awards
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Liz Graswich, Supervisor Candace Andersen and Tom Ladouceur
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On Friday, April 3, Supervisor Andersen attended the 2015 San Ramon Valley Unified School District high school Student Recognition Project Awards Breakfast.
The students compete in any of 25 categories that showcase their skills both within and outside the curriculum. Project judging is done by professional business people with extensive expertise in the various categories.
The program is coordinated by the San Ramon Valley Unified School District and sponsored, in part, by Chevron. The purpose of the program is to create collaboration among students, educators and the business community in the San Ramon Valley, to promote educational excellence and to prepare students for the business world of the 21st century. To learn more about the award program click here.
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Bike to Work Day - Bay Area
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The San Francisco Bay Area's 21st annual Bike to Work Day will take place
on Thursday, May 14, 2015 with all nine Bay Area counties participating in the celebration. The event is part of National Bike Month. Energizer Stations are located along Bay Area county commute routes where bicyclists can stop for refreshments, giveaways, and bicycling information or simply to be 'cheered on' by fellow participants.
Energizer Stations will be open during morning commute hours and some will even re-open during the evening commute. Stay tuned for updated information about Energizer Station locations, Bike to Work Week activities and Bike to Work Day "after parties." More than one million Bay Area residents live within five miles of their workplace, an ideal distance for bicycling. The work commute only represents 23% of all trips, so consider how you also may be able to bike to shop, to school, for errands, and for social events. In a world concerned with climate change, pollution, congestion and wasted time, the question should really be: Why not bike to work?
According to the 2013 American Community Survey, over 62,000 Bay Area residents use a bicycle as their primary means of getting to work every day. On Bike to Work Day, we expect tens of thousands of people to bike to work in the Bay Area - with many being first-time bike commuters.
Registration is free, quick and easy. You don't need to register, but the only way to win prizes is to pledge to ride. By registering you will be making a pledge to Bike to Work, allowing the Bay Area Bicycle Coalition to better calculate participation. When you register, you will automatically be entered into a drawing to win a grand prize. Only Bay Area Residents (residents of any of the Bay Area's 9 official government counties) will be qualified to win a prize. Click here to learn more.
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What's Happening Around San Ramon
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Don't miss the Art & Wind Festival on Sunday and Monday, May 24 - 25, from 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. at San Ramon Central Park, 12051 Alcosta Boulevard in San Ramon.
Click here to learn more.
Enjoy browsing and shopping among the many arts and crafts booths. This free, family-friendly 29th annual event highlights nearly 200 talented artists from California and beyond exhibiting and selling their work over Memorial Day weekend. Visitors will enjoy a wide variety of beautifully hand-crafted items including paintings, photographs, jewelry, clothing, pottery, toys and more. The festival features professional kite flying demonstrations, arts & crafts booths, entertainment on 3 stages, puppet shows, two large kids' activity areas, food booths by local non-profits and more! Arrive early on Monday, May 25 for a 6:00 a.m. hot air balloon launch. Bring the family for a spectacular close up view of 6 hot air balloons as they lift slowly into the sky (weather dependent). Click here to learn more about the festival.
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Alamo Summer Concerts & Movie Unde
r the Stars
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| The Alamo Municipal Advisory Council (MAC) presents the 2015 "Alamo Summer Concert Series" at Livorna Park, located at the intersection of Livorna Road and Miranda Avenue in Alamo. The five-concert series features live music from a variety of genres. Concerts take place on Friday evenings from 6:30-8:30 p.m. and include: June 19th - The Sun Kings (Beatles Tribute Band) July 3rd - Mixed Nuts (Classic Pop) July 17th - Houserockers (Rock/Blues) July 31st - The Fabulous CruiseTones (Classic Rock) August 14th - Moonalice (Classic Rock) The Alamo MAC also presents a "retro" movie night at Livorna Park with the classic film "ET" on Friday, July 10, 2015 and a family movie night with the film "FROZEN" on Friday, July 24, 2015. Show time is at 8:45 p.m. Bring family, friends, chairs, blankets, a picnic dinner for the concerts, and a flashlight for the movie nights. Snacks are available for purchase at the events. For details, contact Alamo Recreation Staff at (925) 313-2272, or visit the website by clicking here. return to articles |
Alamo Elementary Celebrates 50 Years
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Supervisor Andersen presents Principal Stan Hitomi with a proclamation honoring the 50th Anniversary of the Alamo Elementary School.
Principals and school attendants, both past and present, attended the celebration recognizing Alamo Elementary School's 50 years in the community. The student band and choir, along with faculty, serenaded the guests with music and laughter as stories were told of the schools development over the years.
While the community of Alamo itself has changed significantly over the years, Alamo Elementary, much larger then it was back in 1965, remains largely the same. A beautiful school built on a hilltop, made up of 350 students, where they value relationships along with the school's curriculum. It is evident from the sense of community amongst those in attendance, that once you attend or work at Alamo Elementary, you are forever a part of the school's family. Congratulations to Alamo Elementary School on their 50th birthday.
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CHP "Start Smart" & "Age Well Drive Smart"
Class Schedules
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On Thursday, April 30 Candace joined Officer John Fransen at California High School in San Ramon for the Street Smarts/CHP Start Smart Program.
"Start Smart" is a two-hour driver safety education class given by the California Highway Patrol to new and future teenage drivers and their parents/legal guardians.The "CHP Age Well Drive Smart" Program offers a senior driver public awareness class presentation which covers elderly drivers safety topics.
To learn more about CHP Drive Smart Programs, click here. Listed below are future Start Smart classes and Age Well Drive Smart classes.
Start Smart - all classes from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the CHP Contra Costa Office (5001 Blum Road, Martinez, CA)
May 4, May 5, May 7, June 15, June 16, July 6, July 7, August 3, August 4, September 14, September 15, October 5, October 6, November 2, November 3, December 7, December 8
Age Well Drive Smart
04/29 - San Ramon Senior Center, San Ramon, CA from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
05/29 - Rossmoor Senior Community Hall, Rossmoor, CA from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
05/05 - John Muir Medical Center, Brentwood, CA from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
**Additional Class Dates Anticipated**
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Walking for Mental Health in the Month of May
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The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is sponsoring their Bay Area fundraising Walk on Saturday, May 30, 2015 at the Lindley Meadow in Golden Gate Park. NAMI San Francisco's mission is to advocate for a life of quality and dignity by providing education, resources and emotional support to families and those affected by mental illness (brain disorders). We strive to end discrimination and stigma for all those persons affected by these illnesses through broader education and collaboration with the whole community. The walk in San Francisco largely funds the free programs provided for clients throughout the Bay Area, including Contra Costa County. Here's how you can get involved:
- Create a team: If you want to create your own walk team, sign up here. If you make a company team, your corporation will likely match whatever money you are able to raise.
- Join the NAMI SF team: Or, if you can't form a team, feel free to join the NAMI SF team and walk with the Little Warriors!
- Fundraise: Looking for ideas on how to fundraise? Click here!
- Volunteer: Walk volunteers are always needed. More information coming soon!
If you participated in the 2014 NAMIWalk, your 2014 login and password will still work. For more information about this event, please contact: Laurie Williams, Walk Director by clicking here or call 800-556-2401. To learn more about NAMI and about NAMI Walks click here. return to articles |
National Crime Victims' Rights Week
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At their meeting on April 21, the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors joined forces with the victim service providers, criminal justice agencies, and concerned citizens throughout Contra Costa County and America to raise awareness of victims' rights and observe National Crime Victims' Right Week.
The National Campaign for Victims' Rights led to President Ronald Reagan's reforms on behalf of crime victims, his declaration of the first National Crime Victims' Rights Week, and victims' rights legislation and victim services. National Crime Victims' Rights Week, April 19-25, 2015 offers an opportunity to renew and strengthen partnerships and teamwork and to collaborate with community organizations to mobilize their experience, skills, resources and stakeholders.
The Contra Costa County District Attorney's office hosts an annual ceremony that honors individuals who make a difference for victims in Contra Costa County. The theme of this year's ceremony, held on April 24, was "Engaging Communities, Empowering Victims." Susun Kim, the Executive Director for the Family Justice Centers, and Supervisor Mary Piepho spoke at the event. To learn more about National Crime Victims' Rights,
click here.
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The Closure of Doctors Medical Center
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A message
from Dr.
William Walk
er, Director of Contra Costa Health Services (CCHS) and the Health Officer for Contra Costa County
As you may know, Doctors Medical Center (DMC) in San Pablo closed its doors on April 21. I wanted to let you know about health care resources that are available to West Contra Costa County residents and the efforts underway to help meet their health care needs. DMC's closure marks the end of a long and comprehensive effort on the part of many partners to come up with a financially viable solution. DMC's closure is a tremendous loss for the community and we must continue working together to develop sustainable ways to meet the needs of residents in West County.
Planning has been ongoing since the hospital announced a possible closure a year ago. The impacts of ambulances being redirected from DMC when it was closed to ambulance traffic last August have been mitigated because of the extensive efforts of our EMS Division, many hospital partners and ambulance providers. Now we are working hard to mitigate the impacts that DMC's closure will have on the approximately 80+ people who walk into DMC's Emergency Department (ED) on a daily basis. We do know that many people who walk into DMC's ED - and into EDs across the nation-are often there seeking routine care that could be provided in another setting, such as in an urgent care or primary health care center.
Part of the solution is to create easier access to this type of care by increasing available urgent care and short term appointments options. The good news is we are making progress:
- Lifelong Medical Care is opening a new Urgent Care Clinic across the street from DMC on April 20 that will be open to urgent care walk-ins from noon to 8 p.m. seven days a week.
- We also have increased our evening and Saturday appointments at our West County Health Center in San Pablo.
- In addition, we are encouraging anyone without health insurance to call our free Advice Nurse Line (1-877-661-6230, option 1), which is available to anyone, anytime. Our advice nurses can help callers decide whether they need to seek emergency, urgent or next-day care.
With our partners, we have developed a resource list click here to provide the community with information about where West Contra Costa County residents can get health care after DMC closes its doors on April 21.
As always, meeting our community's health care needs takes many partners. No one organization can do it alone. We'll continue to work closely with Lifelong and other care providers and hospitals to develop long-term, sustainable solutions that meet the health needs of all our communities.
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Proclaiming April 2015 Sexual Assault Awareness Month in Contra Costa County
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April was Sexual Assault Awareness Month and drew attention to the fact that sexual violence including rape, sexual assault and sexual harassment is widespread and impacts every member of our community. Many citizens of Contra Costa County are working to provide quality services and assistance to sexual assault survivors; and dedicated volunteers help staff 24-hour hotlines, respond to emergency calls and offer support, comfort and advocacy during medical exams, criminal proceedings, and throughout the healing process.
Staff and volunteers of Community Violence Solutions and its Rape Crisis Center, Children's Interview Center, Prevention Department and Anti-Trafficking Project programs in Contra Costa County are promoting education by offering training to schools, churches, and civic organizations, as well as medical, mental health, law enforcement, education, and criminal justice personnel regarding sexual assault issues. Community Violence Solutions depends on public support and assistance as it continues to work toward a society where all women, children, and men can live in peace, free from violence and exploitation. To learn more about Community Violence Solutions
click here.
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Alamo Improvement Association Community Forums Set to Discuss Pipeline Safety
on Iron Horse Corridor
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The Iron Horse Trail is a popular place to ride a bike or walk a dog, but our well-trafficked thoroughfare is also a major conduit for utilities, including a pipeline that carries gasoline, diesel and jet fuel just a few feet underground. To help residents learn more about the pipeline and others like it across Contra Costa County, the Alamo Improvement Association (AIA) will host a pair of educational forums on June 3 and June 6 to discuss safety requirements, oversight responsibilities and the risks of living near them.
The meetings, organized with assistance from the Contra Costa Hazardous Materials Program, will include speakers from the national not-for-profit Pipeline Safety Trust, the Office of the State Fire Marshal and Kinder Morgan, the energy company operating the pipeline under the Iron Horse Corridor. Topics will include an overview of the regulatory framework, including maintenance and inspection requirements, common causes of incidents, community resources for finding information and communicating with regulatory agencies, and strategies for reducing risk. Michael Kent, the county's Hazardous Materials Ombudsman, will facilitate a question-and-answer panel for attendees at both forums.
The meetings are part of a greater public education campaign funded by a $50,000 grant obtained by the AIA from the U.S. Department of Transportation's Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration. The grant also funded first-responder training for handling hazardous liquid pipeline emergencies, held at the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District in March, and a "Call 811 Before You Dig!" community information campaign for Alamo and surrounding communities.
Underground utility lines run throughout Contra Costa. The southern part of the county is bisected by the Iron Horse Trail, portions of which include water and sewer pipes, electric and telecommunication lines, flood control channels and the petroleum pipeline. Because of the abundance of underground utilities it is important for all residents to know about lines in their area, and for anyone who digs to have training and precise information about their location. Many longtime residents became aware of the issue in 2004, when a crew digging a trench for a new water line beside the Broadway Extension in Walnut Creek, near Las Lomas High School, hit the Kinder Morgan pipeline. The explosion killed five workers and seriously injured four others. That tragedy underscored the need to prioritize pipeline and underground utility safety in the San Ramon Valley and throughout Contra Costa County. The AIA encourages everyone to attend a community meeting in June to learn more.
The first forum is scheduled from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 3, at Creekside Community Church, 1350 Danville Boulevard in Alamo. The second forum, featuring the same agenda and speakers as the first, is scheduled from 10:00 a.m. to noon on Saturday, June 6 in the Contra Costa County Administration Building, 651 Pine Street, Martinez, in the Board of Supervisors chamber. For more information about the AIA or the technical assistance grant from the Department of Transportation, click here.
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