News from Around the District - November, 2019
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Pancake Breakfast for Veterans, Active Duty and Family
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Board of Supervisors Honors Veterans
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The Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors invites you to attend their annual Veterans Day Ceremony from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Tuesday, November 12th. The event will be held in the board chambers at the County Administration Building, located at 651 Pine St, Martinez.
The keynote speaker is Air Force Veteran Jeff Jewell, who will be retiring after 29 distinguished years of working to help veterans. Jewell currently serves as the 5th District Commander for the American Legion and previously worked for the Department of Veteran Affairs, serving as director at both the Sacramento and Concord Vet Centers. Before his time at the Department of Veterans Affairs, Jewell served as a Veterans Benefits Counselor for ten years in Solano County.
RSVP to
Dom Pruett in my office by November 4th if you are able to attend the ceremony.
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Join Supervisor Andersen as Moraga Honors Veterans
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Lafayette Hillside Memorial Veterans Ceremony
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The Lafayette Hillside Memorial will be the site for a special Veterans Day vigil at 5:00 p.m. on November 11th. Friends and families of fallen soldiers, veterans, and interested members of the general public are invited to the event, which has been held for over a decade. Supervisor Andersen will be speaking along with Lafayette Mayor Mike Anderson and Assemblywoman Rebecca Bauer-Kahan. Poetry will be read, songs will be sung, and thoughts will be shared in honor of those who have died and those who continue to serve our Country.
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Walnut Creek Veterans Ceremony
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Join the City of Walnut Creek along with Mayor Cindy Silva and the Walnut Creek Concert Bank as they celebrate and honor the veterans who served in our military on November 11th at 11:00 a.m. at the Lesher Center for the Arts. This event is free to the public.
This year’s keynote speaker will be Walnut Creek Police Officer Katie Eames. Officer Eames has been with the WCPD for several years, but has an impressive service background that pre-dates her time on the force. She is a graduate of the US Naval Academy with a BS in Quantitative Economics. She served the US Navy internationally in a variety of capacities, including as an Operations Intel Division Officer, a Battle Watch Captain, a Command Duty Officer on the USS McClusky, and as the Operations and Intelligence officer on the USS Bunker Hill. Officer Eames currently serves as a Navy Reserve
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Free Document Filing and Benefits Counseling for Veterans
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Join Us for Our Annual Holiday Open House
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C.O.R.E. Homeless Outreach
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The Coordinated Outreach Referral, Engagement (C.O.R.E.) program works to engage and stabilize homeless individuals living outside through consistent outreach to facilitate and/or deliver health and basic need services and secure permanent housing.
C.O.R.E. teams serve as an entry point into Contra Costa’s coordinated entry system for unsheltered persons and work to locate, engage, stabilize and house chronically homeless individuals and families. The outreach teams identify individuals living on the streets, assess their housing and service needs, and facilitate connection to shelter and services.
To notify a C.O.R.E. team about an unsheltered homeless individual or family,
please call 211. Visit
https://cchealth.org/h3/services.php to find out more about the County's homeless programs.
If you are interested in becoming part of a CORE team, please see the job opportunities below:
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Contra Costa County Community Wildfire Protection Plan
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STAND! 27th Annual Rebuilding Lives Luncheon
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On Thursday, October 17th, STAND! For Families Free of Violence, held their annual Rebuilding Lives luncheon at the Concord Hilton. Survivor and Keynote speaker Mildred Muhammad shared her experience as the former wife and intended victim of the DC Sniper. Her story illuminates the connection of domestic violence and community violence and is a bold testimony to survival and healing.
Pictured here with Supervisor Andersen, left to right, are Sandy Varco and Debbie Toth, President and CEO of Choice in Aging.
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Annual Danville Old Oak Tree Lighting and District 2 Open House
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The Danville Area Chamber of Commerce and the Town of Danville present the annual lighting of the old Oak tree the day after Thanksgiving, Friday, November 29th, from 5:15 - 8:30, at Diablo Road in Danville.
Stroll downtown and enjoy refreshments. entertainment, and holiday shopping through the festively decorated streets.
If you go, be sure to stop by Supervisor Andersen's office for some hot cocoa and a holiday treat while enjoying the tree lighting. The office, located just west of the tree at 309 Diablo Road, will be open from 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
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Lafayette Annual Community Breakfast
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Lafayette's 41st Annual Community Thanksgiving Breakfast will be held on Friday, November 22nd at the Lafayette Veterans Memorial Center.
The Keynote Speaker will be Sean Perlmutter of Pivotal Twist presenting “The Strangers of Kindness.” In his 20 minute talk, Sean will discuss the challenges to kindness, why they need to be overcome, and how to make kindness a core part of your daily existence.
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Supervisor Andersen and Chief of Staff Gayle Israel joined community members and other elected leaders at the East Bay Walk to End Alzheimer’s, held on October 26th in Bishop Ranch in San Ramon. More information about efforts of the Alzheimer’s Association working to advance care, support and research can be found here
alz.org.
Pictured above are Isabel Lau, Lori Garcia, San Ramon Councilmember Sabina Zafar, Danville Councilmember Renee Morgan, Supervisor Andersen and Chief of Staff Gayle Israel.
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Annual Hospice Tree of Lights Around District 2
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For twenty-eight years, the Hospice Tree of Lights ceremonies have offered members of the communities they serve a way to honor the lives of their friends and loved ones. The funds raised allow Hospice to provide additional programs and services such as their Vigil Program which ensures no one has to die alone.
Join the Tree of Lights ceremony in your community:
Danville & San Ramon Tree of Lights
Friday, November 14, 5:30 p.m.
Town Meeting Hall, 201 Front Street, Danville. Reception to follow.
Dedicated to Margaret May
Walnut Creek Tree of Lights
Sunday, November 16, 5:00 p.m.
1511 Mt Diablo Blvd. behind Va de Vi
Dedicated to Primo E. Facchini
Rossmoor Tree of Lights
Wednesday, December 3, 5:00 p.m.
Creekside Clubhouse, 1010 Stanley Dollar Drive, Walnut Creek. Reception to follow. Dedicated to Mohamed El Wakil (Bill)
Orinda Tree of Lights
Saturday, December 6, 4:30 p.m.
Orinda Village by Bank of America
This ceremony is part of Orinda’s community holiday celebration. Memorial names are not read at this ceremony.
Alamo & Bruns House Tree of Lights
Wednesday, December 10, 12:15 p.m.
Alamo Women’s Club, 1401 Danville Blvd.
Dedicated to Bernice Glueck
Blackhawk Tree of Lights
Friday, December 12, 5:00 p.m.
Blackhawk Road at Blackhawk Drive
Dedicated to Hazel Pappalardo
Moraga & Lafayette Tree of Lights
Sunday, December 14, 5:30 p.m.
Moraga Country Club, 1600 St. Andrews Drive. Reception to follow.
Dedicated to Emilie Johnson
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Girls Independent Volunteer Experience (GIVE)
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The Girls Independent Volunteer Experience, GIVE, of Lamorinda launched their first group in April of 2014, when the girls were entering the 6th grade. Since that time, GIVE has helped over 30 local organizations, and in the process, the girls have been exposed to tangible and concrete ways they can make a difference in their communities by volunteering their time to help those in need.
This organization provides mothers and daughters in Lamorinda the opportunity to work side-by-side by volunteering their time, energy and love to places and people in the Bay Area that need help.
Supervisor Andersen was happy to recognize and honor these girls and their mothers for their efforts over the past six years.
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Women's Leadership Conference
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On October 4th, Supervisor Andersen attended the 3rd Annual Women’s Leadership Conference hosted by the Building Industry Association (BIA) Bay Area. Keynote speakers included Lisa Ballantyne, Senior Vice President & General Manager, Turner Construction Company and former WNBA player Ruthie Bolton, who is now a Speaker, Author & Advocate.
Pictured at left, Supervisor Andersen with Dana Tsubota and Lori Sanson of DeNova Homes.
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A New Conversation on Suicide
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Suicide affects people of all ages, races, socioeconomic status, and religious backgrounds. However, the topic of suicide often carries a stigma that makes it difficult to discuss and identify solutions.
For those affected by suicide, whether having lost a family member, a friend, or co-worker, making suicide no longer a taboo subject is perhaps the first step towards raising awareness of the problem. Talking about suicide is indeed important, as is debunking certain myths that exist, such as the myth that discussing suicide gives someone the idea to carry it out, or that people who attempt suicide want to die and that there is nothing that can be done to prevent such attempts. There are other myths, including that people who threaten or attempt suicide for attention should be ignored, or that suicide typically occurs without warning.
Debunking myths is crucial for developing a greater understanding of suicide. Collecting data is another way to find solutions.
Data shows that Contra Costa County suicide rates are below the national average but in line with the rate in California. The data from our County reveals it is mostly men who die by suicide, with firearms or hanging serving as the primary method. Women comprise the majority of suicide attempts, with poison as the leading means. In regard to suicide among the youth, the data reveals that female youth have greater rates of suicidal thoughts and depression compared to male youth.
In our County, 63% of suicide deaths were by Caucasians, followed by Latino/Hispanic at 15%, 11% Asian, 7% African American, and 4% other races. In 2018, there were 102 deaths by suicide in the County, with the age demographic of 40-59 leading as the largest percentage at 32%, followed by ages 60 and up at 28%, 26-39 at 23%, 19-25 at 14%, and under the age of 18 at 3%, according to the data.
The records also revealed that 74% of suicide deaths in our County were by individuals with a documented mental illness or substance use disorder. Data for veteran suicides revealed that 64% were by individuals 60 years and up, followed by ages 40-59 at 26%, with firearms as the leading means of death for all veteran groups at 65%.
Youth suicides are a growing concern in communities nationwide. Contra Costa County is certainly not exempt. At a recent Suicide Prevention Community Forum, Graham Wiseman, a local parent and member of the County Mental Health Commission, provided some important information. Data taken during the 2017/2018 school year from one local district showed that 20% of the high school students seriously thought about suicide. What is even more troubling is that college and high school grades were cited as a major reason. School is reported to be the top cause of stress among high school students, with getting into certain colleges and future plans of the utmost importance. A survey from UCLA also revealed fame, achievement, and popularity are the leading values among young people, surpassing the highest values from several decades ago such as “community feeling,” and “benevolence.”
Coroner data also provides insight to these tragedies taking place in our County. Recent reports show that hanging and suffocation has equaled or surpassed firearms deaths in the last three years. Suicides by the 40-59 age demographic declined from 2012 to 2018, and suicide deaths for ages 0-39 increased in that same span. Overall, from 2012-2018 in Contra Costa County, there were 566 males who committed suicide to 164 females, with ages ranging from 11 to 93.
While this data provides a snapshot into the lives we have lost, there are things we can do as a community to prevent others from taking their lives. There are signs to pay attention to, and ways we can help those who may be contemplating suicide. Listening, asking about suicide, showing you care, reaching out and following up are simple steps to take. Observed behaviors such as hopelessness, withdrawing from loved ones, experiencing drastic changes in mood or behavior, or giving away prized possessions are just some to pay attention to and follow up on.
In Contra Costa County, there are many resources to help those in need. Certified by the American Association of Suicidology, the Contra Costa Crisis Center is a free and confidential resource for suicide prevention and education. Call “211” or 800-833-2900, or text “HOPE” to 20121. The Center’s free and confidential hotlines are available 24/7, while the Center also offers crisis and suicide information as well as grief counseling. For more information, visit www.crisis-center.org. There is also the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, available at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). 211 also has a resource database, which can be found at www.211cc.org.
Individuals may also reach out to the Seneca Family of Agencies’ Mobile Response team (MRT), which will provide crisis counseling and help youth who are threatening suicide or are a danger to themselves or others. The MRT 24-hour support line can be reached at 877-441-1089.
The Discovery Counseling Center of the San Ramon Valley offers counseling for matters such as depression, grief and loss, couples, alcohol and drug recovery, and adolescent issues. It is another great resource to utilize. To make an appointment, contact 925-837-0505. Rates per counseling sessions vary. Financial assistance is available.
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The annual Tri-Valley Heroes event was held on October 21st, honoring community members and organizations whose dedication to bettering our communities and the lives of local residents has helped make the Tri-Valley a wonderful place to live and work.
This year, three District 2 residents were nominated for awards, including Vidhima Shetty, a student at California High School in San Ramon, who was honored with the Rising Star award, recognizing services directly benefitting citizens through outstanding volunteer work; Dana Dornsife of Danville, founder of Lazarex Cancer Foundation, was honored with the Role Model award, for displaying compassion and wisdom while mentoring others; and Sunset Development Chairman Alex Mehran, Sr., (in photo above with Supervisor Andersen) of San Ramon, was presented with the Lifetime Achievement award, recognizing his contributions, leadership and tireless efforts on behalf of our community.
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East Bay Economic Development Alliance Fall Membership Meeting
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The East Bay Economic Development Alliance (EBEDA) held their Annual Fall Membership Meeting on Thursday, October 17th in Pleasanton. The meeting featured a fantastic panel discussion on the legacy and evolution of manufacturing in the East Bay. Read the EBEDA's 2019 East Bay Manufacturing Profile here
eastbayeda.org/ebeda-assets.
Pictured at left with Supervisor Andersen are Contra Costa County Economic Development Director Amalia Cunningham and Patience Ofodu, Business Services Manager with the Workforce Development Board of Contra Costa County.
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Senior Town Hall to Discuss Needs of Seniors, Voter Education
And The 2020 US Census
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The Contra Costa County Area Agency on Aging, along with Supervisor Candace Andersen and County Clerk-Recorder Joe Canciamilla, conducted a Senior town Hall at the Veterans Memorial Building in Danville on October 24th.
The first portion of the Town Hall was focused on assessing the needs of Seniors so the County can improve on the services it provides for this growing demographic. Main topics of concern were transportation and mobility, housing, and affordability of long term care.
The group was also well informed about changes in the primary election and updates on voting by mail by Mr. Canciamilla.
Lastly, there was a presentation on the 2020 Census and the importance of counting everyone provided by District 2 appointee to the Census Complete County Committee Aparna Madireddi and U.S. Census Representative
Chunling Wang.
Supervisor Andersen is joined in photo above by James Donnelly, Vice President, Contra Costa County Advisory Council on Aging.
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2019 Holiday Food Drive and Food Fight
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In partnership with the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano, Contra Costa County employees will be kicking-off their Annual Holiday Food Fight competition with Solano County on November 18, 2019. All County employees are encouraged to participate in this important fundraiser.
Every year this friendly competition raises money for the Food Bank to benefit those in need in both counties. The winningCounty is determined by which County raises the most money per employee.
You can donate at the linke below, or drop check/cash donations off at Supervisor Candace Andersen's office at 309 Diablo Road in Danville. For more information about how you can participate and help Contra Costa County win the Big Apple Trophy, and bragging rights for the year, contact our office at 925 957-8860. Of course, the true winners will be the residents of Contra Costa and Solano who rely on the Food Bank for assistance. To learn more or to donate visit
foodbankccs.org.
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An Overlooked Plight: Labor Trafficking in Contra Costa County
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When you hear the words, “human trafficking,” you probably think of prostitution and sex. Sex trafficking is undoubtedly the most well-known form of involuntary servitude, and a widespread problem affecting the Bay Area and our nation as a whole. However, there is another type of human trafficking that is slowly gaining more awareness.
Labor trafficking is a form of modern-day slavery in which individuals perform labor or services through the use of force, fraud, or coercion, according to the National Human Trafficking Resource Center. Labor trafficking includes situations of debt bondage, forced labor, and involuntary child labor. The victims are subjected to violence, threats, lies, and other forms of coercion to force people to work against their will in many industries.
Law enforcement agencies have deemed certain jobs and industries as common venues where labor trafficking can be found, including farms and agriculture, restaurants and food service, factories, carnivals, construction, hospitality, forestry and logging, bars and strip clubs, and many others.
The abuse the individuals endure, according to law enforcement, can range from individuals working in homes as domestic servants, farm workers being coerced through violence while harvesting crops, or factory workers held in inhumane conditions with little to no pay. Additionally, individuals who are prone to becoming a victim of labor trafficking may be someone who owes a significantly large debt, has no control over his or her own money, or has no financial records or bank account.
In 2016, various non-profit agencies served 110 human trafficking survivors (35 of whom were exploited children) in Contra Costa County. Of those individuals, seven survivors were involved in both sex and labor trafficking, four in labor trafficking, and 99 were survivors of sex trafficking. Sex and labor trafficking are not mutually exclusive, according to law enforcement, as victims can often be found subjected to both simultaneously.
The data on labor trafficking, however, is most likely a severe underestimate of the true amount taking place in Contra Costa, as labor trafficking is harder to identify than sex trafficking, according to the Contra Costa Human Trafficking Coalition.
“Commercial sex is itself illegal,” noted Contra Costa Deputy District Attorney Dana Filkowski, who is a San Ramon Valley resident. “Social media and the internet have provided law enforcement with different ways to cut down on the illegal trade, while also supplying strong evidence for prosecution. But with labor trafficking – we don’t have anything that appears overtly illegal … even to a trained observer. A police officer who drives by a construction site can’t tell if the workers are being paid less than minimum wage under a threat to report them to ICE and have them deported if they complain. A detective eating at a buffet restaurant can’t know whether the owner is withholding the passports and visas of the kitchen crew to keep them from leaving. Neighbors can’t know that the nanny from another country is being forced to cook and clean in addition to the child care responsibilities she was originally hired to perform, that she’s given no time off and is paid miniscule wages directly deposited into an account in her home country that she can’t access. Even if law enforcement sees it, these behaviors don’t readily translate into crimes that they are used to investigating.”
Filkowski added that the cultural acceptance for hiring workers “under the table” to avoid paying the actual costs of labor, plus required taxes and workers compensation insurance, has also led many to turn a blind eye to the exploitation taking place.
Since labor trafficking is much more difficult to identify than sex trafficking, the scope of labor trafficking in the U.S. continues to be challenging for law enforcement and other stakeholders.
In Contra Costa County in 2016, only one labor trafficking survivor was identified by law enforcement, a telling sign of just how difficult labor trafficking is to identify. Moreover, coalition partners in the County provided over 80 services to labor trafficking victims in 2016. The Coalition is comprised of over 30 partner agencies including a wide range of service providers, community-based organizations, law enforcement, the District Attorney’s Office and other local and national governmental departments.
District Attorney Diana Becton recently created a Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit within the District Attorney’s Office, which will be staffed by Filkowski, who understands the challenges ahead, but is also optimistic given recent developments around targeting all forms of human trafficking. Additionally, a Human Trafficking Hotline has been established to take reports of forced or coerced commercial sex and labor. The Unit will monitor the Hotline and coordinate a response from appropriate law enforcement and advocacy partners with the goal of holding offenders accountable and connecting victims to services and support. If you or someone you know has information regarding any acts or suspicions of human trafficking, please call: 925-957-8658.
Most importantly, Filkowski says, there will be specific effort to partner with victim advocacy organizations to gain the trust of victims and help them feel safe in working with law enforcement to hold exploiters accountable during their time of recovery. As for the public, Filkowski believes raising awareness of labor trafficking is an important first step that will also bring positive results.
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The Board of Supervisors Recognized October 2019 as
Domestic Violence Awareness Month
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At the October 8, 2019, Board of Supervisors meeting, the Supervisors recognized October as Domestic Violence Awareness month.
In Contra Costa County all residents should feel safe in their homes, their schools, and their community. The Contra Costa Alliance to End Abuse works to interrupt the generational, traumatic and progressive cycle of violence by fostering partnerships. Numerous public and private agencies provide services and support to families and individuals experiencing domestic violence including County Departments, law enforcement jurisdictions, advocacy organizations and community based agencies.
The County works to raise awareness so individuals will become advocates, and will take action to prevent domestic violence in their communities.
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Supervisor Andersen Makes Opening Remarks at
Library Friends, Foundations & Commission Forum
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The Contra Costa County Library – Friends, Foundations & Commission Forum was held at the San Ramon Library on Saturday, October 12th. Supervisor Andersen provided the welcoming remarks, speaking about her love of libraries since she was a child in Honolulu, Hawaii.
The Forum guest speaker was Margaret Sullivan from Margaret Sullivan Studio, a design firm based in New York City. Margaret presented on the Contra Costa County Library project in which six of our libraries actively participated, speaking about her process and the results of the project.
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t has been a busy year so far for Contra Costa Libraries. In 2019, the Library eliminated overdue fines and cleared outstanding balances on all accounts. The Library saw an immediate increase in new card registrations, a jump in circulation and heard many stories of people returning to the Library after long absences.
Last month, the Library introduced five new library card designs. Since revealing them on September 10th, the Library has issued more than 2900 new cards and more than 9900 people have come in to exchange their cards for one of the new designs.
The Lafayette Library and Learning Center will celebrate its 10-year anniversary on November 7.
The Danville Library upgraded the doors at the front entrance of the library to make them easier to open for those with accessibility needs, seniors and families with small children.
Supervisor Andersen is pictured above with San Ramon Senior Community Library Manager Dena Hollowod and Melinda Cervantes, Contra Costa County Librarian.
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Contra Costa County Seeks Nominations for Humanitarians of the Year
Student and Adult Humanitarians will be Recognized at the
42nd Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Ceremony
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Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s life and legacy will be commemorated at Contra Costa County’s 42nd Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Ceremony, a free community event on Tuesday, January 21, 2020 at 651 Pine Street, Martinez, CA. In the spirit of Dr. King’s work and the theme, “We Are in This Together”, the County is now seeking nominations for a student and adult Humanitarian of the Year.
Contra Costa County’s Board of Supervisors will recognize two individuals, a community member and a student leader as individuals whose dedication to others embodies the spirit and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at the January event.
We are encouraging East Bay residents to nominate an adult and/or a student whose accomplishments and service impact Contra Costa County, its residents and communities, and reflect the spirit of Dr. King’s work and achievements. The nomination period is now open. The deadline to submit candidates for consideration is Tuesday, November 5, 2019.
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Elder Financial Abuse Training
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Become a Driver for the Lamorinda Spirit Van Program
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The Lamorinda Spirit Van Program has an urgent need for a Class B driver (paid) to take older adults to errands and appointments on Mondays and to the C.C. Café in Walnut Creek for lunch Tuesday through Friday. This is a paid, temporary, part-time position until their regular lunch driver returns. Hours are from approximately 9/10 a.m. to approximately 2 p.m.
They also need a part-time, temporary Dispatcher (paid), Wednesday and Thursday afternoons in December and Friday afternoons during the upcoming tax season through April 15. This is a paid position. They will provide paid training in October and/or November on Monday afternoons. Applicants need basic computer and phone skills and the ability to figure out a ride schedule using Mapquest, Google Maps, or Yahoo Maps – any map program.
Volunteer drivers are needed for a morning or afternoon 4-hour shift - once a week or every other week – to take older adults to appointments, errands, and grocery shopping.
Call Mary at 925-284-5546 for more information.
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Request Your Ballot By Text Message
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Creek and Channel Safety Awareness
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Contra Costa Public Works facilitates an annual poster contest and safety awareness campaign at the Walnut Creek Intermediate School, which is built over the Creek where two high school students died in 2011 while attempting to tube down the Creek after heavy rains.
Walnut Creek Intermediate held the Creek and Channel Safety assembly on October 10th, honoring the contest winners.
Pictured on the right, the poster contest winners, Chief of Staff to Supervisor Andersen, Gayle Israel, Michelle Cordis from Public Works and Firefighters Cody Cross and Nick Sinosky with Contra Costa Fire. The firefighters demonstrated the gear they use to do water rescues.
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Alamo/Castle Hill Envision Contra Costa 2040 Community Meeting
Join the Conversation!
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The Alamo/Castle Hill follow-up meeting has been rescheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, November 13, 2019 at San Ramon Valley United Methodist Church, 902 Danville Boulevard in Alamo.
Join your community to continue the conversation about the future of Alamo/Castle Hill. The first community meetings were held as part of Envision Contra Costa 2040, earlier this year, and community members turned out to discuss opportunities and challenges in their community.
Please attend this next meeting to review and provide feedback on the draft profile for your community, which describes the community and provides policy guidance that reflects the values, priorities, and aspirations for the future shared by community members. For more information, visit
envisioncontracosta2040.org.
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East Bay Regional Park District 50th Anniversary Foundation Reception
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Supervisor Andersen attended A Night to Remember, Golden Gala, to benefit the work of the Regional Parks Foundation as they support the East Bay Regional Park District’s parks and programs. This is a continued investment in their work of Protecting Parks, and Connecting People.
The mission of Regional Parks Foundation is to support the East Bay Regional Park District as they provide universal access, environmental stewardship, education and recreational programs and the acquisition of parklands.
Pictured above Phil Andersen, Supervisor Candace Andersen, Michael McDonald (formerly of the Doobie Brothers), Patty Deutsche of Marathon, her colleague Amber Larsen and her husband Dayne Larsen.
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Family Justice Centers Needs Your Clothing Donations
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California Indians: The First Inhabitants now at the
Museum of the San Ramon Valley
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Fall is a time when the Museum of the San Ramon Valley celebrates our first inhabitants. Archaeological findings show that the first people settled in California well over 5,000 years ago. The exhibit covers their housing, tools, entertainment, and food. Understand how Native Americans were able to harvest, process and store food to last the winter. Don’t miss the opportunity to see the actual tools and implements that were used.
Please take the time to stop by and enjoy this wonderful exhibit. The exhibit closes on November 10th.
Tuesday through Saturday – 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Saturday - 10:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Sunday – 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
(Closed Mondays)
The Museum of the San Ramon Valley is located in the restored train depot on the corner of Railroad and Prospect Avenues in downtown Danville. Free parking is available.
Museum of the San Ramon Valley
205 Railroad Avenue, Danville, CA 94526
925-837-3750
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Join The Annual Pilates for a Purpose Class
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County Seeks Applicants for Victims' Representative Vacancy on Contra Costa County Community Corrections partnership (CCP)
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The Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors is seeking residents who may be interested in serving as a victims’ representative on its 14-member Contra Costa County Community Corrections Partnership (CCP).
In 2011, the California Legislature passed Realignment legislation addressing public safety (AB 109). This law transferred responsibility for supervising and housing individuals convicted of certain low-level felonies to counties and tasked local county government with developing a new approach to reducing future involvement in criminal activity for this population. Among the major changes to the local criminal justice system created by AB 109:
1) The incarceration of people convicted of certain low-level felonies (specified nonviolent, non-serious, non-sex offenses) to terms in local county jails, instead of state prisons, possibly followed by a mandatory term of supervision by Probation;
2) the local county supervision by Probation, instead of state parole, of people convicted of certain lower-level felonies (non-violent, non-serious, and non-sex offense) after their release from state prison under a new category of supervision called Post-Release Community Supervision (PRCS); and
3) the incarceration of individuals in local jails, instead of state prison, for violations and revocations of both parole supervision and PRCS.
AB 109 also created an Executive Committee of the local Community Corrections Partnership and tasked it with recommending a Realignment Plan to the county Board of Supervisors for implementation of the criminal justice realignment.
The Board is now seeking applications for the vacant seat of a victims’ representative. The victims’ representative applicant should reflect experience advocating and supporting the interests of victims.
Appointments to the CCP will be for a term of one year beginning on January 1 and ending on December 31. The CCP is expected to meet on a quarterly basis. Members will serve without compensation, stipends, or reimbursement of expenses.
Applicants will be interviewed by the Board of Supervisors’ Public Protection Committee (PPC): Supervisors John Gioia, District I, and Federal Glover, District V. The nomination for the CCP Victims’ representative seat will then be forwarded to the full Board of Supervisors for action.
Below is a timeline of the recruitment process for the vacancy:
• October 11: issue press release and conduct outreach
• November 22: Application Deadline
• December 2: PPC Meeting Interviews
• December 17: Board of Supervisors' consideration of PPC nominations
Application forms can be obtained from the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors by calling (925) 335-1900 or by visiting the County webpage at http://www.contracosta.ca.gov/3418/. Applications should be returned to the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors, Room 106, County Administration Building, 651 Pine Street, Martinez, CA 94553. Applications can also be emailed to
ClerkoftheBoard@cob.cccounty.us.
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Would You Like to Serve on the County's Treasury Oversight Committee?
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The Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors is seeking two individuals with sound knowledge and experience in the field of public and private finance, to serve on the Treasury Oversight Committee (Committee), one for the Board of Supervisor Appointee seat and the other for the Board of Supervisor Appointee Alternate seat representing the County Board of Supervisors. To be considered, candidates must be County residents, may not be employed by an entity that has contributed to the reelection campaign of the County Treasurer or a member of the Board of Supervisors in the previous three years, may not directly or indirectly raise money for the County Treasurer or a member of the Board of Supervisors while a member of the Committee and may not work for bond underwriters, bond counsel, security brokerages or dealers, or financial services firms with whom the county treasurer does business, either during his or her tenure on the committee or for one year after leaving the Committee. (Government Code §27132.3).
The Committee meets at 3:00 p.m. on the third Tuesday of the month following each quarter at 625 Court St, Room B001, Martinez, CA 94553. Each meeting lasts approximately one hour. The Committee’s duties include reviewing and monitoring the County Treasurer’s annual investment policy, and ensuring an annual audit is conducted to determine the County Treasurer is in compliance with Government Code §§27130-27137. The annual audits, meeting agendas and minutes of the Committee are available online
contracosta.ca.gov/690/Treasury-Oversight-Committee. Members of the Committee receive no compensation for their service. The Board of Supervisors will appoint the selected individuals to complete the four-year term ending April 30, 2020.
Application forms can be obtained from the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors by calling (925) 335-1900 or by clicking on the following link: Application Form.
Applications should be returned to the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors, Room 106, County Administration Building, 651 Pine Street, Martinez, CA 94553
no later than Friday, November 1, 2019 by 5 p.m. More information about the Treasury Oversight Committee can be obtained by calling Russell Watts at (925) 975-2888 or visiting the Treasurer-Tax Collector’s website at
cctax.us.
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Interested in Participating in Government?
Supervisor Candace Andersen is Seeking Volunteers for
County Advisory Boards
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Supervisor Candace Andersen is looking for interested, motivated residents to serve on a few Contra Costa County citizen advisory boards. These volunteer boards usually meet monthly and advise the Board of Supervisors on a variety of issues. They play a vital role in county government, and the input provided is invaluable.
To advise on issues and concerns related to services provided by the County or other local agencies located within its boundary, which includes parks & recreation, lighting & landscaping, land use, code enforcement, public safety, and transportation.
Alamo Police Services Advisory Committee (CSA P-2B)
To advise the Board of Supervisors and the Sheriff's Department on the needs of the Alamo/Danville community for police services.
Established to decide disputes between property owners and the Assessor's Office. Disputes are heard by the Assessment Appeals Board, which is composed of members appointed by the Board of Supervisors.
County Service Area P-5 Citizen Advisory Committee (Roundhill Residents only)
To advise the Board of Supervisors on the needs of the Alamo community for extended police services for Roundhill.
Established in 1985 to make funding recommendations on the allocation of specific funds for the prevention and treatment of child abuse and neglect and supportive services for families and children.
The commission works to support early childhood development through a strategic plan developed pursuant to the California Children and Families First Act of 1998.
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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 October which impact the residents of District 2:
Recognized October 2019 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in Contra Costa County.
Recognized October 6-12, 2019 as National 4-H Week in Contra Costa County.
Adopted the proposed 2020 meeting schedule for the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors, including the cancellation of those meetings at which it is anticipated there will not be a quorum of Board members.
Adopted Traffic Resolution No. 2019/4487 to prohibit stopping, parking, or standing of vehicles at all times on a portion of Danville Boulevard, beginning at the south curb line prolongation of Las Trampas Road and extending southerly a distance of 150 feet, as recommended by the Public Works Director, Alamo area. (District II)
Adopted Ordinance No. 2019-25 regulating polystyrene food and beverage containers, as recommended by the Transportation Water and Infrastructure Committee.
Declared October 23 - 31, 2019 as Red Ribbon Week in Contra Costa County.
Honored the winners of the Arts and Culture Commission of Contra Costa County 2019 Arts Recognition Awards.
Recognized Contra Costa County Cities Citizen Corp CERT Committee (C-8) for their award from the State of California Office of Volunteers, Office of the Governor of California.
Proclaimed November 6, 2019 Contra Costa County Shelter-in-Place Education Day.
Considered an update on the status of the NuStar Energy incident, Crockett area.
Reappointed Nancy Flood to the Trustee 1 Seat of the Alamo-Lafayette Cemetery District Board of Directors, as recommended by Supervisor Andersen.
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Chief of Staff
Field Representative;
San Ramon & Danville
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Field Representative:
Canyon, Moraga & Orinda
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Scheduler, Field Representative;
Lafayette
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Field Representative;
Alamo
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Dom Pruett
Policy Analyst, Field Representative; Walnut Creek and Lafayette
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San Ramon Valley Office
309 Diablo Road
Danville, CA 94526
Hours:
Monday - Friday
8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Phone: (925) 957-8860
FAX: (925) 820-3785
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Lamorinda Office
Fire Station #15
3338 Mt. Diablo Boulevard
Lafayette, CA 94549
Hours:
By appointment, please call
Phone: (925) 646-6067
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Candace's Committee Assignments
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Pleasant Hill BART/Contra Costa Centre Joint Powers Authority Board of Trustees
She serves as an alternate on the following:
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District II Supervisor Candace Andersen
309 Diablo Road | Danville | CA | 94526| (925) 957-8860
3338 Mt. Diablo Blvd. | Lafayette | CA | 94549 | (925) 646-6067
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