9/11 Community Remembrance
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 September is the month of
East Bay Stand Down 2016, o
ur local communities major program to reduce the number of homeless and displaced Veterans in the Bay Area.
EBSD
will be held at the Alameda County Fairgrounds from Thursday - Sept. 15th through Sunday - Sept. 18th to provide a Helping Hand-Up... Not a Handout to our Veterans in-need. The major four-day "MASH-like" encampment program provides all the services - programs and support in one location. EBSD 2016 is supported by the VA Health Care System - the Department of Defense with support from all branches - the CA DMV - Social Security and many other County and State agencies, in addition to many local non-profit providers and support organizations. Over 2,500 volunteers will participate this year
you can volunteer
at EBSD on the website by
clicking here
and selecting the area / day and times you are available to assist. The website also outlines other ways you can help and support EBSD 2016.
Physical labor support is always needed prior to the event for set-up of the encampment beginning on Sept. 8th and for three days after the event to break-down and store all the equipment from our "MASH-like" encampment. Join us and help pass the word to others in your neighborhood - churches - business and social organizations.
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Emergency Preparedness Fair - San Ramon
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As the past few weeks have brought preparation for the beginning of the school year, you should also be thinking about being prepared at home. Currently we are in the middle of fire season, but emergency preparedness is for all seasons. Learn more about how to be prepared for all natural and man-made disasters.
The San Ramon Valley Emergency Preparedness Citizen Corps Council invites the community to get prepared at the bi-annual Emergency Preparedness Fair on Saturday, September 24 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at San Ramon Central Park and Community Center.
This event is focuses on families and personal preparedness. Gather ideas to update or create your own home earthquake kit. Bring your child's car seat between 10:00 a.m. and noon and stop by the car seat check point. Get your child fingerprinted. Learn all about fire safety in the home with a tour of the Kids Fire Safety House.
Event attendees will also enjoy viewing a Jaws of Life demonstration from the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District, a demo from the Bomb Squad, a display from the Camp Parks 352nd Military Medical Brigade, and a canine demonstration by our local police departments.
Bring along your family pets as well. There will be free classes on pet first aid and the Bishop Ranch Veterinary Center and Urgent Care will be on hand to provide information on shots and microchip implanting.
For the first time, Food Truck Mafia will be on site so you and your family can a purchase a food truck lunch. Or bring your own picnic lunch to enjoy in the park. Learn CPR and the proper use of an AED, interact with vendors and agencies specializing in preparedness, tour a fire truck and police car and even learn how to properly use a fire extinguisher.
The first 500 families who complete the preparedness bingo game will receive a FREE emergency supply gift.
The Fair is proudly sponsored by the San Ramon Valley Emergency Preparedness Citizen Corps Council, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, AT&T, Joyce Feldman Farmers Insurance Agency, and Bishop Ranch Veterinary Center and Urgent Care. For more information on the Fair or on how you can BeReady, visit www.BeReadySRV.org.
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Annual Pear and Wine Festival in Moraga
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 Join in on the fun, September 24th, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Moraga Commons Park, 1149 Moraga Road.
The event features live music, food, children's activities, pear recipe contest, and sale of pear pies.
- Pear Pie sales start at 10:00 AM at the Moraga Park Foundation tent
- Pear Recipe Contest - Entries must be delivered by noon, including the prepared dish, recipe instructions, contestant's name, address and phone. Contest winners will be announced at band shell at 1:00 PM. All ages are encouraged to enter.
- Children's games and activities
- Entertainment at band shell including an afternoon concert
The Moraga Pear Festival celebrates the heritage of the Moraga Valley that was once covered with pear orchards. One section of the pear orchards still stands at the corner of Canyon Road and Camino Pablo. This acre of 100-year old pear trees is the site of a pear harvest every August.
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Pictured above, Vice-Mayor of Moraga Dave Trotter and wife Debby Trotter, Supervisor Candace Andersen and Kent Long, President of FJMA.
On Saturday, August 27th, Friends of the Joaquin Moraga Adobe (FJMA) sponsored the Fantastic Fandango to celebrate 175 years of history.
The Joaquin Moraga Adobe in Orinda is the oldest surviving building in Contra Costa County and is recognized as a California Historical Landmark.
Proceeds from the event supported the efforts of the Friends of the Joaquin Moraga Adobe to preserve this important landmark and to provide community access to the building and grounds. For more information about Friends of the Joaquin Moraga Adobe,
click here.
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San Ramon Performing Arts New Season of Entertainment
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Shanghai Acrobats of the People's Republic of China
Direct from Shanghai, the P.R. of China 
September 24, 2016 at 7:00pm
Dazzling pageantry, gasp-inducing feats of athleticism, and spine-tingling contortions combine in a tumbling tour de force as this magnificent troupe takes to stages throughout the globe.
This acclaimed acrobatic troupe was founded in 1956 and has toured the world, bringing the beauty and athleticism of Chinese circus acrobatics to venues across the globe. In their new production, Shanghai Nights, a dreaming boy encounters a magical phoenix and travels to faraway lands filled with energetic fantasy. Juggling, daring acrobatics and incredible feats of balance are all highlighted by creative costumes, lush sets, and exciting music. This performance makes for a great family outing.
The Pointer Sisters
November 6, 2016 at 7:00pm 
Grab your dancing shoes and get ready to "Jump (For My Love)" as San Ramon welcomes Bay Area natives, The Pointer Sisters! The Pointer Sisters began their formal vocal training in their father's church in West Oakland, California. They went on to achieve worldwide fame and have secured a place in pop music history as a dynamic female group. Their show features Grammy Award winning classics spanning their forty year career, including "Slow Hand", "I'm So Excited", "Chain of Fools", and "Neutron Dance", which was featured in the Beverly Hills Cop movie. The Pointer Sisters will delight San Ramon with their unique blend of high energy music that encompasses many genres including pop, gospel, R&B, country and rock and roll.
To read about more entertainment through March 2017, click here.
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Convert your Fireplace or Wood Stove to a Cleaner Option
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Residential wood burning is the leading cause of air pollution in the Bay Area during the winter. Particulate matter and toxins from wood smoke are dangerous to our health. That's why reducing wood smoke is key to improving air quality and public health in our region.
The new Wood Smoke Reduction Incentive Program started Friday, August 26. Due to high demand, there is currently a waiting list for this program.
Here are the program details:
- *$3 million in program funding will be available for individual grants in amounts ranging from $750 - $12,000.
- *The online application will be accessible on the Air District's website at www.baaqmd.gov/WoodsmokeGrant. Applicants without Internet access can have a proxy apply on their behalf or call 415-749-5195 to request a paper copy of the application.
- *To be eligible, applicants must own a property that is a residential unit located within the Air District's jurisdiction, and contains an operational wood-burning stove or fireplace used for heating.
- *40% of the Program funding has been prioritized for Highly Impacted Residents, which includes low-income residents, residents located in areas highly-affected by wood smoke, and households whose wood-burning device is their sole source of heat. Residents can apply for one of the following project options:
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Project Options
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Award Amounts
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Replace a wood-burning stove or fireplace with an electric heat pump
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$3,500
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Replace a wood-burning stove or fireplace with a natural gas or propane fueled device
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$1,000
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Decommission (render inoperable) a fireplace or wood-burning stove
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$750
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In addition to the above funds, "highly-impacted applicants," including those enrolled in PG&E's CARE program or an equivalent or those whose sole source of heat is a wood-burning device, can get additional funding, up to $12,000.
The Air District has an
online form
that allows you to sign-up to receive future email notifications about the program.
If you have any questions or need further assistance, click here
or call 415-749-5195.
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Volunteers - The Heart of the Crisis Center
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 When the Contra Costa Crisis Center first began supporting individuals in crisis, phone operators would manually transfer distressed callers to the crisis counselor's home phone. Technology has changed a lot in the last fifty-three years but the heart of the Crisis Center remains caring, committed volunteers.
New Crisis Line Volunteer training class
Crisis line volunteers provide counseling and emotional support to people who are abused, depressed, grieving, suicidal, homeless, or living with mental health conditions. 60+ hours of training prepare volunteers to be effective and supportive on the crisis line. Class begins in September. If you are interested in volunteering click here.
For individuals who need help, call 211 for information and referral's, call 800-833-2900 for crisis and suicide; 800-837-1818 for grief; or 800-808-6444 for homeless help.
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'Why I Love Danville' Photo Contest
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Residents of Danville are invited to take part in a photography contest designed to show off what it is that people love about Danville.
The Danville Area Chamber of Commerce, in support of the Town of Danville, is launching the 'Why I Love Danville' photography contest, which will run from August 15, 2016 - October 31, 2016. Residents wishing to participate can submit a photo through the Chamber's Facebook page by selecting the contest tab and selecting a category. Photos can be submitted in four categories: ShopDinePlay, Town Events, Parks & Recreation, and Nature & Architecture.
Residents will then be encouraged to vote on the photos they feel best capture the spirit of the category and exemplify the Town of Danville. Three photos in each of the four categories that receive the most votes will be declared the winners and announced during the Lighting of the Old Oak Tree event in November.
Winners will receive a mobile Danville gift card with value up to $150 and have their photo featured within a series of collectable postcards developed by the Danville Area Chamber of Commerce and sold at local businesses. Further, images will be used in future marketing efforts promoting the Danville Area Chamber and the Town of Danville.
For more information, contact the Danville Area Chamber of Commerce at (925) 837-4400 or visit them on Facebook and like their Danville Area Chamber page.
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Contra Costa Bar Association Holds Event
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Supervisor Andersen stands with Paulette Brown,
President of the American Bar Association.
Supervisor Andersen attended the Contra Costa Bar Association's Event on August 1st. The American Bar Association's President, Paulette Brown, spoke on the topic of
"The Status of Women and People of Color Practicing Law Around the World."
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Five Guys Restaurant Celebrates Grand Opening
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 Local officials and residents enjoyed the grand opening of Five Guys Restaurant in the Alamo Shopping Plaza on Friday, August 12.
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International Overdose Awareness Day
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Pictured above, Tom Aswad Director of Support 4 Recovery, Gayle Israel Chief of Staff to Supervisor Andersen, Tomi Riley Chief of Staff to Supervisor Piepho, April Rovero Director of NCAPDA and Dominic Aliano Staff to Supervisor Karen Mitchoff.
On Sunday, August 28th, the National Coalition Against Prescription Drug Abuse (NCAPDA), and Support 4 Recovery joined forces to host, "International Overdose Awareness Day" at Civic Park in Walnut Creek. The event was designed to bring awareness to the epidemic of prescription drug abuse and overdose. Assemblywoman Catharine Baker, Walnut Creek City Councilman Bob Simmons, Contra Costa County Public Health Director
Dan Peddycord, and Contra Costa Regional Medical Center's Dr. Ken Saffier were all in attendance. Concord City Councilman and Chaplain Tim Grayson delivered a benediction that was followed by a release of dove shaped balloons memorializing lives lost in our community from overdose.
Click here for more information about NCAPDA, and
here for more information about Support4Recovery.
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First Annual Survivors' Reunion Event
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 The Contra Costa Emergency Medical Services Agency is excited to announce the first annual Survivors' Reunion luncheon, at which patients who survived near-death experiences will meet the care providers who helped save them.
The event, scheduled for Nov. 9 in Walnut Creek, provides an opportunity for face-to-face interaction with first responders, paramedics and EMTs, dispatchers, emergency department staff and even bystanders who performed CPR.
EMS will also announce the recipients of several new awards for county EMS providers. Nominations must be received no later than Tuesday, September 20.
Star of Life Award
Recognizes an individual whose actions and exemplary medical skills contributed to the delivery of excellent EMS care to Contra Costa County residents
Compassionate Caregiver Award
Recognizes an individual or organization that has worked to reduce suffering, promote better access to services, and raise awareness about the needs of an at-risk population in Contra Costa
Heart of EMS Award
Recognizes an individual who has shown exceptional compassion for patients, advocated for patient rights, volunteered outside of work for activities that enhance EMS, or is a role model for others in Contra Costa's EMS community
EMS Lifetime Achievement Award
Recognizes an individual who has made a full career of outstanding EMS service in Contra Costa County, and whose contributions to prehospital care have made a lasting difference
Siren Team Award
Recognizes a team of individuals from one or more agencies that showed exceptional and heroic teamwork in saving or attempting to save a life, at substantial risk to their own lives
Attendance to the luncheon is by invitation only.
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 DanvilleSanRamon.com and the Pleasanton Weekly are once again putting out a call for nominations and sponsorships for the annual Tri-Valley Heroes awards -- a salute to the community members dedicated to bettering the Tri-Valley and the lives of its residents.
Individuals who live or work in Pleasanton, Dublin, San Ramon, Danville, Alamo or Livermore are eligible, as are organizations and businesses headquartered in these communities. If you know a person, organization or group deserving of recognition, complete the
nomination form
. Nominations can also be emailed directly to Gina Channell by clicking here, but make sure all the information requested on the form is included. Nominations must be received by 5 p.m. September 5.
The panel of "hero" judges will bestow honors in seven categories:
Arts and Culture: For acknowledgment/recognition of achievements or contributions within the area of arts and culture.
Community Spirit: For selfless, tireless and largely unacknowledged actions that have enriched or improved the quality of life for the local community.
Courage: For an act of bravery or for determination and strength of character to triumph over adversity.
Innovation: For a person, group or business who apply innovative ideas or programs to enhance the community.
Rising Star: An individual between 10 and 18 whose services directly benefit Tri-Valley citizens through outstanding volunteer work, serving as a community role model and mentor or demonstrating random acts of kindness.
Role Model: For displaying common sense, compassion and wisdom while teaching, coaching and mentoring others with a vision for people to strive to be the best they can be.
Lifetime Achievement: Recognizes an individual or group for contributions, leadership, enthusiasm, and tireless efforts on behalf of his or her community and neighbors.
The goal is to recognize those individuals, groups or organizations that stand out because of their actions, integrity or honor, whether that hero is a firefighter who rescues a child from a burning house, the girl who is courageously battling leukemia, the business that allows its employees to mentor teens, or the neighborhood group that cleans up the creek.
For more information about the nomination criteria and sponsorship information,
click here.
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Lafayette Art & Wine Festival
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 The Lafayette Art & Wine Festival, held each year on the third weekend in September, is the largest event in Lamorinda and one of the five biggest outdoor festivals in Contra Costa County. Over 50,000 attended in 2015, strolling among stalls of art, handmade crafts, sampling foods from top local restaurants, and enjoying quality wines and microbrews.
The dates for this year's event are Saturday, September 17, 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Sunday, September 18, 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
For complete details about this
year's event, click here.
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 Assembly Member Catharine Baker, Danville Chief of Police Steve Simpkins, Supervisor Candace Andersen and Danville Mayor Karen Stepper, enjoyed "National Night Out", with community members on August 2nd.
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California Independent Film Festival
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 The California Independent Film Festival Association (CAIFFA) is part of an amazing worldwide community; a unique collaboration of multi-talented filmmakers. It celebrates diversity, human rights, and freedom of expression through an array of dramatic and comedic feature films, shorts and moving documentaries.
CAIFFA entertains, informs, inspires, encourages and educates individuals and filmmakers from around the world. CAIFFA believes a film festival can contribute to a healthier society and should encourage the active involvement of audiences to connect and act collectively to address social challenges.
This year the festival is taking place September 8th - 14th in three different venues, the Orinda Theater, the Rheem Theater and the Castro Theater. To purchase tickets and to learn more, or to see the festival schedule,
click here.
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BART On-Line Town Hall Meeting
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Othello at California Shakespeare Theater
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 Othello By William Shakespeare and directed by Eric Ting runs September 14th - October 9th. Black. Muslim. Outsider. These are the labels Shakespeare's most famous Moor has carried with him as he's climbed the military ranks. Having survived battle after battle in faraway  lands, Othello's greatest tragedy lies in those closest to him: his trusted friend, his beloved wife-and himself. In his Cal Shakes directorial debut, artistic director Eric Ting confronts our society's fear of "the other" head on in this gripping and provocative interpretation of Othello. Click here for more information or buy tickets.
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Driver Safety Tips: Welcome back to school! Street Smarts would like to remind parents/guardians and students to always:
- Adhere to 25 mph school zones;
- Obey all traffic laws and speed limits;
- Comply with local school drop-off and pick-up procedures;
- Never drop off children at locations across the street from the school;
- Cross the street in the crosswalks only;
- Avoid stopping or double parking on crosswalks to let children out of the car;
- Prepare to stop for a school bus when overhead yellow lights are flashing;
- Watch for children walking or biking to school when backing out of a driveway and in areas near a school; and
- Put away your cell phone!
Street Smart News:
- New dates for the Annual Storybook Poster Contest: October 18, 2016 - November 10, 2016
Check with your elementary school or library in mid-October for Storybook guidelines and entry form.
- CHP "Start Smart" Teen Driver Safety Class coming soon to your local high school!
Visit street-smarts.com for more important information regarding Street Smarts events and programs.
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The first Street Smarts assembly of the school year was held at Rancho Romero Elementary School in Alamo. Safety Sam is joined in the photo by Principal Skye Larch, Supervisor Andersen's Chief of Staff Gayle Israel, Valley Station Sheriff's Lieutenant Jason Haynes, Danville Vice Mayor Renee Morgan, San Ramon City Councilman Dave Hudson, SRVFPD Fire Marshall Christina Kiefer, Board of Education Member Ken Mintz, and Valley Station Sheriff's Deputy Jesus Topete.
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Forest Home Farms Historic Park School Field Trips
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Travel back in time with your class to explore local history. These programs can be scheduled in just one visit or two separate days.
Farm Life:
This program for 3rd graders runs 3 hours and includes a tour of the property and Tractor Museum. Students also participate in 3 activity stations. One is "Grandma's trunk and Grandpa's Tool Box." Here they get to see items that were used on the farm in the early 1900's and try their hand at juicing, darning, drilling, and corn planting. Another station is "Canning and Food Preservation." Children learn about the significance of canning during the Depression at Forest Home Farms. They get some fruit ready for canning and design their own label. The third station is the organic garden where students discover where their food comes from as they turn compost, explore the plantings, discover the role of bees in the garden, and taste fresh vegetables.
Victorian Life:
This program for grades 2-5 runs 1.5 hours and takes students back to explore the daily life of a Victorian era (late 1800's through 1900) farmhouse in the San Ramon Valley. Costumed docents take students through the Glass House Museum to see an example of what the interior of a home of that time would look like and to discover how people kept food cold without electricity, listened to music without stereos, and lived in a house without plumbing and a bathroom. Hands-on activities include trying on clothing items, doing daily chores from the time period such as carding wool and beating rugs, and playing Victorian era games such as graces, hoop rolling, and sack races.
These programs are designed to meet the California State Content Standards for history and social science. School classes in the San Ramon Valley Unified School District have priority for registering for the program. For more information about these programs call (925) 973-3284.
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Supervisor Andersen Visits Las Trampas
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Supervisor Andersen stands with Kathy Merchant (L) and Victoria Gallagher, Development Director.
On August 31, Supervisor Andersen, visited Las Trampas in Lafayette, a facility that supports adults with developmental disabilities to discover their capabilities and to lead full lives in their home, at work, and in the community. To learn more or to find out how you can help,
click here
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Las Trampas 7th Annual Walk n' Roll
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 Las Trampas invites you to a fun event for the entire family that also supports a good cause. You can walk, roll or run at the 7
th
Annual Walk n' Roll one mile or 5k from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 24th on the Lafayette-Moraga Trail. Registration fee of $25.00 includes: T-shirt, raffle, Whole Foods bag, games by KKDV and Backyard Carnivals, refreshments and entertainment by KKDV and Bread & Roses. You can register online by clicking here.
Since 1958, Las Trampas has helped individuals with developmental disabilities to discover their capabilities and to lead fuller lives in their homes, at work and in the community.
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Mental Health Commission Holds Retreat
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 On Saturday, August 27th, Supervisor Andersen spent five hours with her fellow Contra Costa County Mental Health Commissioners at their annual retreat, identifying priorities and goals for the 2016/17 year. Presenter Susan Wilson from the California Institute for Behavioral Health Solutions led the discussion and also helped commissioners better understand their roles and responsibilities.
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Lafayette Creeks Committee Presenting
Draft Downtown Creeks Plan
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 The City of Lafayette Creeks Committee will be presenting the Draft Downtown Creeks Plan to various city commissions and committees whose responsibilities are affected by the draft plan's recommendations. These are public meetings and anyone interested in the Downtown Creeks Plan is encouraged to attend. The schedule for these presentations is as follows:
*September 15, 4:30 p.m., Downtown Street Improvement Master Plan Implementation Committee, Suite 265, Lafayette City Offices, 3675 Mt. Diablo Boulevard.
*September 28, 5:00 p.m., Parking Ordinance Committee, Suite 265, Lafayette City Offices, 3675 Mt. Diablo Boulevard.
The Creeks Committee presentation will typically be scheduled early on the agenda. Please check the City Calendar to confirm the above information as this schedule may change. Following these presentations, the Creeks Committee will consider the comments received by these commissions and committees prior to presenting the Downtown Creeks Plan to the Planning Commission and City Council. Additional information on the Downtown Creeks Plan is available by clicking here. Contact Steven Goetz at 925-525-5527 or to email click here
if you have questions on this information.
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Centennial Hike Planned for September 11 as part
Of Eugene O'Neill Festival
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 On Sunday, September 11th, hikers are invited to join in for a Centennial Hike from downtown Danville up the hill to Tao House. The event highlights the 100th anniversary of the National Park Service, which operates Eugene O'Neill National Historic Site in Danville.
The Centennial Hike on September 11th begins at 9:00 a.m. at the Front Street Park (which features the Eugene O'Neill Commemorative) on Front Street, across from the Danville Library. Advance registration is required for those planning to participant in the Centennial Hike. To register by e-mail, click here. Include your name and number in your party, and use "Find Your Park" in the subject line. Please register by September 6th.
Hikers will proceed north on Front Street, west on Prospect Avenue to Museum of the San Ramon Valley Depot, and then continue along the Iron Horse Trail. The route will proceed to Camille Avenue to the East Bay Regional Park's Madrone Trailhead up to the Eugene O'Neill National Historic Site where there is a spectacular view of Mount Diablo State Park. It is estimated the full hike will take three hours from start to end and cover approximately three miles.
Along the hiking route, representatives from Town, Regional, State, and National parks and historic sites will be available to provide information about their particular parks and programs.
Hikers are encouraged to bring a picnic lunch and enjoy the shaded picnic area. Click here for more information about the hike.
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San Ramon Dentist Provides Free Care for Military and First Responders in Honor of Freedom Day
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 Freedom Day USA is a National Day of THANKS for those who sacrifice or have sacrificed so much for our freedom and
is America's Largest Military Thank You Event! San Ramon's Nadler-Saidi Dental team is participating in the Thank You Movement by graciously offering free dental cleanings, exams and necessary dental fillings for first responders, military (active or inactive) and their immediate families on
Thursday, September 22nd.
Space is limited; please call their office at (925) 820-8888 to make your appointment. Military/first responder I.D. is required. For more information about Freedom Day,
click here.
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Orinda Holds 12th Annual Classic Car Show
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Contra Costa County Names New Chief of Probation
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 On August 9, 2016, the Board of Supervisors approved the County Administrator's selection of Todd Billeci to serve as the Chief of Probation. Billeci, who was previously the Assistant County Probation Officer, was recognized by the Board of Supervisors for the significant contributions he has already made to the Department, and Supervisors were encouraged by the vision he has to lead the award-winning operation.
Billeci has been a member of Contra Costa's Probation Department for 25 years, and has helped lead the Department through major changes in how probation, pre-trial supervision and parole services are delivered in California. He was selected as one of 5 semi-finalists for the position from a national recruitment that resulted in 272 applicants.
Many people are unaware of the wide impact of probation services. In Contra Costa County, the Probation Department supervises adults placed on Probation as well as individuals being released from prison and being placed on Post Release Community Supervision (PRCS). In the juvenile justice system, the Probation Department operates the Juvenile Hall located in Martinez, and Orin Allen Rehabilitation Facility located in Byron, supervising juveniles placed on probation, and providing a wide range of in home and support services aimed at keeping at-risk kids out of custody whenever possible.
Click here for more information about the County Probation Department.
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ARM of Care's Annual Fundraiser "Fountains of Hope"
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On Sunday, September 25th, 2016, join other supporters for the ARM of Care 2016 for "Fountains  of Hope" - an elegant alfresco dining event at a beautiful private setting from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in Danville. It is sure to be fun with dinner, libations, live music, special guest speaker, silent auction, and opportunity prizes, and most important for a good cause. Funds raised will enable ARM of Care to provide Art, Recreation and Movement programs that help heal and restore the girls and young women who have experienced trauma.
This year, you may easily purchase tickets online, including tables of 10. Bring your friends and enjoy a lovely evening of outstanding food and fun. Seating is LIMITED, so we encourage you to purchase your tickets early. Click here to purchase tickets.
If you prefer to RSVP and mail a check, please email your RSVP by clicking here, and include the number in your party (and names). You will receive an email confirmation with the payment mailing information and details of the event location.
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Help for Families Facing a Mental Health Crisis
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Many people feel paralyzed when a loved one is in a state of mental health crisis. While we may want to diminish their pain, nothing seems to penetrate the barrier that surrounds them. In a time of crisis, trying to identify options for help is challenging. One great resource to aid families dealing with mental illness is the Mental Health Crash Course, a program designed by collaborating organizations to provide an orientation to help navigate through the mental health system. Every Wednesday, a 90- minute "crash course" is held at the Family Justice Center located at
2151 Salvio St, Concord, CA 94520. More information about the program can be found by
clicking here.
Since mental health disorders are often invisible on the surface, they may not be as easy to immediately recognize. Mental illness is a chronic, persistent, and frequently hereditary disorder that 5% of the American population suffers from. Just as we don't hesitate to seek treatment for medical ailments, help for mental illness also needs to be sought.
Sometimes it is not until a crisis exists that family members seek assistance. If someone becomes a danger to self, a danger to others, or gravely disabled, showing extreme symptoms of a mental disorder, police can be summoned and the person may be placed on a 5150 or involuntary psychiatric hold. A person can be held up to 72 hours to be evaluated. At the end of that period, a 5250 hold for up to 14 days may be further issued, followed by a 5260 hold up to 30 days. If a law has been broken, subjects may opt into the Behavioral Health Court, which provides an intensive two year treatment program for the mentally ill.
Unfortunately, many of those who are seriously mentally ill remain in denial of their disorders, a state officially known as anosognosia. Assisted Outpatient Treatment (AOT), also known as Laura's Law, was instituted in Contra Costa County in February of 2016 to help some of these individuals. The AOT program provides a 24-hour team response that includes mental health treatment, medication, access to primary healthcare, substance abuse counseling, benefit and resource counseling, supportive housing, vocational rehabilitation, and peer and family member education and support. If someone is unwilling to agree to a treatment plan, a court order may be obtained to require compliance. More information about Contra Costa's AOT program can be found by clicking here, or by calling 1-888-678-7277.
Help is also available for those who are suicidal. If in fear for a loved one, watch for the following symptoms: aggressive behavior, dramatic mood swings, social withdrawal, increased substance abuse, and expressions such as "I wish I wasn't here." In an emergency suicidal situation, call 911, or help can also be found at the Contra Costa Crisis Center Suicide Hotline,
800-833-2900 or just by dialing 211.
There are many public and private resources in Contra Costa County to help both the mentally ill and the friends and family members who are trying to help. Talking with your own family physician to determine what resources your health plan might have available is another essential first step. As a community, we will continue to work together to combat the stigma often accompanying mental illness, and treat it just as we do any other disease, helping patients and looking for a cure.
My office is here to serve the residents of Contra Costa County District 2, which includes San Ramon, Danville, Alamo, Walnut Creek, Saranap, Parkmead, Lafayette, Moraga, Canyon and Orinda. Please don't hesitate to contact us if we can provide you with additional information on this topic or on other County issues. You can e-mail me by clicking here or 925-957-8860.
Thank you to summer intern Clara Cabot for her contributions to this article.
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Contra Costa County Volunteer Opportunities
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Looking for a way to give back? Interested in getting involved and learning more about County Government? Do you have special talents that you would like to use to benefit your community? Check out these Volunteer Opportunities!
District 2 vacancy available:
* Iron Horse Corridor Management Program Advisory Committee - Alamo Seat Click here for information about the committee.
* Two members of the Alamo Municipal Advisory Council (Alamo MAC) will be retiring, leaving two vacancies in December. Please contact our office if you live in Alamo and are interested in serving. Click here for information about the MAC.
In addition, Supervisor Andersen would like to draw your attention to the following list of countywide advisory bodies that currently have seats available:
Advisory Council on Aging
Affordable Housing Finance Committee
Agricultural Advisory Task Force
Airport Land Use Commission
Alcohol and Other Drugs Advisory Board
Countywide Bicycle Advisory Committee
County Connection Citizen Advisory Committee
Developmental Disabilities Area Board
CCC Local Planning Advisory Council for Early Care & Education
Economic Opportunity Council
Advisory Council on Equal Employment Opportunity
Family & Children's Trust Committee
Contra Costa Council on Homelessness
In-Home Supportive Services Public Authority Advisory Committee
Juvenile Justice Commission/Delinquency Prevention Commission
Managed Care Commission
Contra Costa Commission for Women
Workforce Development Board
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August Board Actions
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Ever wonder what your Supervisor does at the Board of Supervisors Meeting held on most Tuesdays? Here are some of the board actions from the month of August which impact the residents of District 2:
Adopted
a "support" position on SB 1107 (Hancock, Chiu): Political Reform Act of 1974, a bill that allows state and local governments to offer public campaign financing programs and limits the uses of campaign funds that are held by public officials who have been convicted of various public trust crimes.
Adopted
report as the Board of Supervisors' response to Grand Jury Report No. 1602, entitled "Protecting Our Groundwater Resources".
Adopted Resolution
honoring the 56th Annual Contra Costa Championship Swim Meet, as recommended by Supervisor Andersen.
Introduced Ordinance calling a special election for voter approval of a 30-year countywide transportation transaction and use tax estimated to generate $2.9 billion and consolidating the special election with the statewide general election on November 8, 2016, Waived reading, and Fixed August 9, 2016 for adoption.
Accepted the resignation of Gordon Berke, Declared a vacancy in the Appointee 5 seat on the County Service Area P-5 Citizens Advisory Committee, effective August 1, 2016, and Directed the Clerk of the Board to post the vacancy, as recommended by Supervisor Andersen.
Adopted
a "Support" position on AB 2121 (Gonzalez) Alcoholic Beverage Control: Beverage Service Training, a bill that requires a person who sells or serves alcoholic beverages to complete an approved Responsible Interventions for Beverage Servers Training Course within three months of employment and every three years thereafter.
Adopted
a Support position on Proposition 56: Cigarette Tax to Fund Healthcare, Tobacco Use Prevention, Research, and Law Enforcement, an initiative which seeks to increase cigarette tax by $2 per pack, with equivalent increase on other tobacco products and electronic cigarettes containing nicotine.
Adopted
a Support position on Proposition 67: Referendum to Overturn Ban on Single-Use Plastic Bags, which would be a position in favor of upholding or ratifying SB 270, the contested legislation banning single-use plastic bags.
Adopted
a Support position on Proposition 54 Legislative Proceedings Initiative, which seeks to prohibit the Legislature from passing any bill unless it has been in print and published on the Internet for at least 72 hours before the vote, except in cases of public emergency.
Approved/Authorized
the Employment and Human Services Director to apply for and accept Senior Service America, Inc., grant funding for the Senior Community Service Employment Program.
Set the special tax levy for County Service Areas P-2 Zone A (Blackhawk), P-2 Zone B (Alamo) and P-5 (Round Hill) for fiscal year 2016/2017, as recommended by the Sheriff-Coroner.
Adopted
Ordinance calling a special election for voter approval of a 30-year countywide transportation transaction and use tax and consolidating the special election with the statewide general election on November 8, 2016, as requested by the Contra Costa Transportation Authority (Authority), and approving related actions under the California Environmental Quality Act.
Adopted
a Support position on Proposition 61 The California Drug Price Relief Act, which seeks to prohibit state agencies from paying more for a prescription drug than the lowest price paid by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
Approved/Authorized
the Fire Chief to execute a contract with RJN, Inc. doing business as H&N Enterprises for the abatement of exterior fire hazards.
Held a hearing to consider adopting Ordinance authorizing operators of privately owned off-street parking facilities to regulate unauthorized parking in those facilities.
Approved the Capital Road Improvement and Preservation Program for fiscal year 2015/2016 through 2021/2022.
Approved termination of the call center contract between the County and the Health Benefit Exchange, effective December 31, 2016, and authorize the Chair of the Board of Supervisors to issue a ninety-day termination notice to the State.
Adopted
report as the Board of Supervisors' response to Civil Grand Jury Report No. 1606, entitled "Reclaiming Our Water".
Approved/Authorized the Public Works Director to permanently close Dougherty Road from Stoneleaf Road/Ivyleaf Springs Road to Bollinger Canyon Road (South), effective August 29, 2016, San Ramon-Dougherty Valley.
Adopted Resolution
supporting the 2016 East Bay Stand Down to be held September 15-18, 2016 at the Alameda County Fairgrounds.
Reappointed Harold D'ambrosia to the District II Seat on the Assessment Appeals Board, as recommended by Supervisor Andersen.
Reassigned Mark Cordone from the 2nd Alternate Seat on the County Service Area P-5 Citizens Advisory Committee to the Appointee 5 Seat, Declared a vacancy in the 2nd Alternate Seat on the County Service Area P-5 Citizen Advisory Committee, and Directed the Clerk of the Board to post the vacancy, as recommended by Supervisor Andersen.
Approved/Authorized
the Agricultural Commissioner to execute a contract with the Department of Pesticide Regulation for the County to implement "Enforcement Evaluation and Improvement Project
".
Approved/Authorized the Public Works Director to execute a contract amendment with Debri-Tech, Inc., to increase the payment limit to provide as-needed assistance with trash and abandoned waste cleanup and removal for the Contra Costa County Watershed Program.
Accepted the Refugee Services Plan for federal fiscal years 2016 through 2019 as required by the California Department of Social Services Refugee Programs Bureau and as recommended by the Employment and Human Services Director.
Approved response to Civil Grand Jury Report No. 1609, entitled "Human Trafficking and Directed the Clerk of the Board to forward the response to the Superior Court following Board action.
To view Board of Supervisors Meeting agendas,
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