Supervisor Andersen Joins Assemblywoman Baker and Mayor Stepper in Danville for a Town Hall on February 6th
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 Danville area residents will have the opportunity to hear an update on town, county and statewide issues when Supervisor Candace Andersen, Assemblywoman Catharine Baker and Danville Mayor Karen Stepper hold a Town Hall meeting.
The Town Hall is set for Saturday, February 6, 2015, 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. at the Veterans Memorial Building, 400 Hartz Avenue.
During the event, residents will get to hear from their elected representatives about issues affecting them, provide feedback on what is happening in the community and talk about how their government can better serve them.
Individuals interested in attending can RSVP by clicking here or at (925) 957-8860.
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Laura's Law Assisted Outpatient Treatment Program Launches in Contra Costa County
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 Contra Costa County'
s Assisted Outpatient Treatment (AOT) Program launching
today, February 1, 2016.
AOT is based on Assembly Bill 1421, otherwise known as Laura
'
s Law
, which is a discretionary state law that allows counties to use the civil court system to supervise care. Last year the Board of Supervisors passed Laura's Law in our county as a way to not only help the mentally ill and their families, but also protect the community.
Who is eligible for AOT? An adult
with severe and persistent mental illness
may qualify for the AOT program if their mental health is getting worse, they are unlikely to be safe in the community without supervision, and they have a recent history of hospitalization or violence related to their mental health. The program is intended for those who have previously declined or not engaged in offered treatment. For more information about who qualifies for AOT and who can request an AOT screening, click here or you may call (844) 422-2268.
Eligible individuals benefit from a 24-hour team response that can include treatment, medication, access to primary health care, substance abuse counseling, counseling regarding benefits and other resources, access to supportive housing services, vocational rehabilitation and peer and family member support. Those who do not meet all AOT eligibility requirements will still be connected with appropriate behavioral health services.
The County has contracted with Mental Health Systems, a
not-for-profit, community based organization,
with extensive experience running similar programs in San Diego County and elsewhere in California, to provide an Assertive Community Treatment model, which is designed to break the cycle of repeated hospitalization or incarceration many of these community members face, delivering safe, effective and respectful treatment.
Program staff includes licensed mental health clinicians from Behavioral Health Services (BHS) as well as from Mental Health Systems.
The AOT program emphasizes voluntary participation, and the experience of other counties with similar programs suggests that most patients do engage with services without court involvement. To ensure outcomes are accurately tracked, the County has hired Resource Development Associates, who will provide program evaluation services.
Contra Costa County's AOT program was developed in coordination with Behavioral Health, Contra Costa Superior Court, the Public Defender's Office, County Counsel, the Mental Health Commission, and many community partners.
AOT is not for crisis intervention. If you or someone you know is experiencing a life-threatening emergency, call 911 immediately. To speak with a trained crisis counselor about a mental or emotional health concern, call 1-888-678-7277 any time of day or night.
For more information on mental health resources in Contra Costa County you may visit click here. The website offers links to services as well as information on the Mental Health Crash Course, which is a 90 minute
orientation for people who find themselves having to interact with the mental health field but don't know where to start. A coalition of groups has come together to provide a weekly seminar to help people learn more. Classes begin this month and will be held on Wednesday evenings at the Family Justice Center, 2151 Salvio Street, Suite 201 in Concord.
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Supervisors Honor the Life of
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Recognize Two Humanitarians of the Year
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On Tuesday, January 29, 2016, the Board of Supervisors honored Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at a special celebration in Martinez.
Each year, a Humanitarian of the Year and a Student Humanitarian are chosen from a list of deserving candidates.
This year, Terri Porter, pictured above with Supervisor Andersen, was chosen for her impressive track record with school districts and government at every level. She currently serves as the administrator for the Mt. Diablo CARES after school program. Above and beyond her role as administrator, she has forged relationships with the goal of opening the eyes of young under-served teens from Contra Costa County to opportunities beyond our borders. Ms. Porter's dedication to children in her care has allowed them to see their lives as full of possibilities rather than limited by circumstances. She lives by Dr. King's words that "intelligence plus character - that is the goal of true education."
 The student humanitarian of the year is Davis Bullock, a 17-year-old Senior at California High School in San Ramon, pictured above on the left with the Supervisors. Davis is a volunteer with Kids Against Hunger, packing meals to send to people in more than 60 countries, he's a student ambassador for the "Wounded Warriors Project", and he volunteers at City Impact in San Francisco delivering meals and gifts to people in the Tenderloin district. Davis is most proud of his fundraising for bone marrow matching where he solicited contributions in an effort to generate financial support for an organization called Delete Blood Cancer. Davis learned the great need for bone marrow donors when in January, 2015, he was delivered a staggering diagnosis of Stage 4 Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma. He is officially in remission and worked quickly to earn his spot back as Captain of the Cal High soccer team.
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Historical Icons of the Valley Exhibit at Museum of the San Ramon Valley through February 28
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 Calling buildings "icons" may sound unusual, but in the case of five buildings in the new Historic Icons of the Valley exhibit, the word fits. The exhibit features the Danville Hotel, San Ramon Store, Tassajara Grammar School, Danville Southern Pacific Depot and Diablo Country Club's Red Horse Tavern.
Every Saturday through February 28th at 10:30 a.m. one of these buildings will be featured in a talk at the Museum.
Click here for more information.
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Making Travel Greener
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 Break the driving habit. Whether you bike, carpool, walk, take transit or telecommute - here's help to get you where you're going.
- Bike, Walk, Transit, Carpool - Drive Less Commuter Program - Get $50 just for trying another way to get to work.
- Vanpool Passenger Incentive - Join a vanpool - Get reimbursed 50% for the first 3 months.
- Vanpool Driver Bonus - Start a new vanpool - Keep it on the road for 12 months and you could qualify for a $1,000 bonus.
- Guaranteed Ride Home - Leave the car behind, and 511 Contra Costa will get you home.
- Employer Services - Complimentary commute planning, onsite events and incentives for employees.
Funds for these programs are provided by the Bay Area Air Quality
Management Districts, Transportation Funds for Clean Air, in cooperation
with the Contra Costa Transportation Authority.
To learn more
click here
.
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Youth Hall of Fame Nominees Needed
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The Board of Supervisors and the Cesar Chavez  Commemorative Celebration are seeking nominations of young people who make valuable contributions to our communities and should be recognized for these good deeds. This year's Cesar Chavez Ceremony will include a "Youth Hall of Fame" to recognize outstanding youth between 12-18 years of age who reside in Contra Costa County and deserve to be honored. Nominations can be made by anyone, including teachers, mentors, counselors, principals, administrators, adult leaders of youth and even other youth. After gathering the nominations the Cesar Chavez Commemorative Celebration Committee will review every candidate carefully; the required letter of recommendation is crucial to the review process. The Cesar Chavez Committee will pick winners in the areas of volunteerism, Good Samaritan, school and/or sports leadership, and artistic skill. Recipients will have their names put on a plaque in the Board Chambers and receive a certificate commemorating their efforts presented at the 23rd Annual Cesar E. Chavez Commemorative Celebration on March 29, 2016 at the Board of Supervisors Chambers in Martinez. All nominees are encouraged to attend the celebration. All nominations must be postmarked by Friday, February 29, 2016 and winners will be notified via mail and email by March 14, 2016. Click here for the nomination form.
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County Animal Services Owner Surrendered Pets Temporary Policy Change
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 Effective Wednesday, February 3rd, Contra Costa County Animals Services Department (CCCASD) will be temporarily ceasing the acceptance of owner surrendered animals at their Martinez and Pinole shelters due to the volume of animals at both facilities. Certain exceptions to this temporary freeze will be made for animals that are injured, unhealthy, under twelve weeks of age, or as otherwise required by law. During this temporary freeze on accepting owner surrendered animals, families in need can email
here or call (925) 335-8300 to determine if CCCASD can accept their pet.
Additionally, CCCASD will be indefinitely closing their night deposit boxes for animals that are surrendered during hours that the department is closed to the public.
Surrendering an animal to the shelter should be a last resort. High owner surrender rates leads to overpopulation in the shelters, which increases the possibilities that animals will get disease and/or experience behavior problems. Properly managing shelter inventory and the health of the pets in care improves the chances of finding homes for the animals at the shelters.
CCCASD leadership expects this temporary freeze on accepting owner surrenders to be in effect for roughly a month, during which time the department will be developing an intervention program to help support County residents in keeping their animals in their homes. While this temporary freeze is in effect, CCCASD will continue to receive and impound animals that are sick, injured or abandoned, as well as strays and animals that are confiscated as a result of active investigations or impounded by other law enforcement agencies in Contra Costa County.
Click here to learn about
a number of helpful resources to help you keep your pet in your home, as well as resources to help you humanely rehome your pet should you need to.
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Dose of Awareness Walk
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 The 2nd Annual "Dose of Awareness" 5K Walk and Health Expo will be held on Sunday, February 28, 2016 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. around the track adjacent to Iron Horse Middle School, located at 12601 Alcosta Boulevard, in San Ramon.
The "Dose of Awareness" event, organized by the National Coalition Against Prescription Drug Abuse, is a walk in memory of thousands of Americans who have been lost to the national prescription drug abuse epidemic. The event's purpose is to educate and equip youth and adults of all ages with information and resources that can help keep them safe.
The goal is to inspire and engage every Bay Area community member to join the fight to end prescription drug abuse and its potentially devastating consequences.
Cheryl Jennings, ABC 7/KGO News will once again be the emcee.
Additional features of the event include:
- Guest speakers including State Assemblywoman Catharine Baker, Supervisor Andersen, San Ramon Mayor Bill Clarkson, and representatives from law enforcement, medical and other related communities
- Health Expo with prevention, recovery support and alternative treatment resources
- Youth Activity Center for kids of all ages with fun, interactive activities
- Medication Drop Off Center will take back your unwanted and expired medications
- Basic CPR and AED training
- Memorial in honor of those we have lost from this epidemic.
Click here
to learn more about the National Coalition Against Prescription Drug Abuse, to sponsor the event, or to make a donation.
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"My Natural High" - What Keeps You Substance Free?
Student Poster Contest
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 In honor of the month of March being recognized as Prescription Drug Awareness Month, the National Coalition Against Prescription Drug Abuse is sponsoring a student poster contest. Students are encouraged to use their creative skills to share in a poster why they choose to
remain substance free. All middle school and high school students in Contra Costa County are eligible. Create your poster by hand or digitally and submit along with a statement describing your "Natural High" that helps you remain substance free. Three prizes will be awarded in each grade category, winners to be announced on March 8, 2016.
For contest rules and guidelines,
click here
.
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CSSSA Seeks Teen Artist, Writers and Performers
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It's the 30th Session of the California State Summer School for the Arts, seeking Teen Artists, Writers and Performers for the Summer of 2016.
Applications must be completed by February 29, 2016. The program consists of four weeks of embracing creativity; July 9 - August 5, 2016. Financial aid is available.
Learn more or apply by
clicking here.
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East Bay USA Dinner Features
Dr. Condoleeza Rice
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This year's East Bay Leadership Council East Bay USA Dinner at the Concord Hilton featured a timely keynote address from the
66th
United States Secretary of State, Dr.
Condoleezza
Rice. Former KPIX news anchor Ann Notarangelo moderated the Q & A following Dr. Rice's remarks.
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A Place for Poetry Family Workshop and Other Cultural Arts Events
in San Ramon
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 Get in touch with your inner poet. Find ways to engage your senses and find your poetic voice with City of San Ramon Poet Laureate, Kathy Moore. Join in for "A Place for Poetry Family Workshop" on Saturday, February 27, 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. at the Dougherty Station Community Center in San Ramon. Family poetry is designed to promote ways to slow down and pay close attention to the world around us through a shared experience. Have fun, be inspired, and experience the joy of writing together. This is a THANK YOU SAN RAMON event and is free of charge, but preregistration is appreciated. Register online by clicking here and choosing "register" from the left side navigation box, or Email: [email protected]. Phone: 925-973-3200.
Other events in February in San Ramon:
Friday Foreign Film Series: The Lives of Others
February 5
Front Row Theater
Lady K & the Kings of Swing: Dancing with the Stars
February 27
Dougherty Valley Performing Arts Center
Night at the Improv
February 27
Front Row Theater
Click here to find more information about any of these events.
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Summer's Coming!! Is Your Passport Current?
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In 2006 there was a surge in passport applications due to requirement changes for travel to Mexico and Canada. Now, 10 years later, all those passports will be up for renewal. Due to the expected number of renewals, processing times may be longer than usual. Check your passport expiration date and re-apply early! The good news is you can renew by mail!! By filling out form DS-82 and enclosing one new photo, the filing fee, and your old passport, you can mail your application to the State Department for processing. Please check the State Department's website for the form, instructions, and current processing times, click here. You can also apply or renew in person at the City of San Ramon Passport Office. Click here for information on how to make an appointment.
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CSAC Institute: Leadership and Change
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Supervisor Andersen stands with Bill Chiat, Dean of CSAC Institute for Excellence in County Government.
Supervisor Andersen attended the California State Association of Counties Institute: Leadership and Change, Practices to Move Organizations class on January 21, 2016. She also had the honor, as Chair of the Board of Supervisors, of welcoming the attendees, which included Contra Costa County Department heads and visiting attendees from several other Northern California counties.
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Adopt a Pet or Volunteer at the
County Animal Shelters
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 Did you know that Contra Costa County has an Animal Services Division that offers a wonderful assortment of pets who need forever homes? If you are looking for a four-legged best friend, click here and follow the link to search available animals.
Another way you can help our four-legged friends is by volunteering at one of the County shelters. Upcoming volunteer training dates are:
Saturday, April 23rd from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Saturday, July 23rd from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Saturday, October 22nd from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Volunteer orientations will take place a the Martinez Shelter, located at 4800 Imhoff Place in the shelter classroom. To sign up for an orientation date, please email the volunteer program coordinator, Noell Crosse by clicking here. Make sure to put the date of the orientation you wish to attend in the subject line of your email. For more information about the animal shelters or animal services, click here.
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Historical Society Presents Author
in the Archives Series ~ Karina Robinson
"California's First African American Landowners"
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 Join the Contra Costa Historical Society at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 20th for an Open House to hear special guest Karina Robinson talk about California's first African American landowners and how she used the County archives to write her graduate thesis on this topic. Following Karina's talk will be tours of the County archives. Take advantage of this special opportunity to see how CCCHS preserves delicate records and special collections.
The Contra Costa County History Center is located at 724 Escobar Street, Martinez. Admission is free, with a $5.00 suggested donation at the door. Parking is free on Saturdays. Refreshments will be served and an RSVP is requested.
Karen ("Karina") Robinson, M.A., is a researcher, and genealogist specializing in the historical content of the Americas and Europe, and serves as a special assistant at the California State Library.
She has contributed research to several recent monographs, including Anne Pruitt-Logan's biography on Dr. Lucy Diggs Slowe, Faithful to the Task at Hand and scholar Nancy Dallett's At the Confluence of Change: A History of Tonto National Monument as well as two entries to the online encyclopedia blackpast.org. Click here to RSVP or call (925) 229-1042, Tuesday - Thursday 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
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Orinda City Council Recognizes Community Members for Longstanding Service
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The Orinda City Council recognized the Orinda Chamber of Commerce's outgoing Executive Director Candis Kattenburg after 10 years of service, Secretary Patti Camras after 17 years of service, and Board President Sylvia Jorgensen after 8 years of service at the City Council's January 12th meeting. They are pictured above with Supervisor Andersen's Orinda liaison Jill Ray.
The Council also recognized outgoing and retiring Orinda Union School Superintendent, Dr. Joe Jaconette, shown below with Jill Ray, presenting him with a signed resolution honoring his service.
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Directing Change Student Film Contest
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The Directing Change Program & Film Contest
is part of Each Mind Matters: California's Mental Health Movement. The program offers young people the exciting opportunity to participate in the movement by creating 60-second films about suicide prevention and mental health that are used to support awareness, education and advocacy efforts on these topics. Learning objectives surrounding mental health and suicide prevention are integrated into the submission categories of the film contest, giving young people the opportunity to critically explore these topics. Program participants - whether they are making a film, acting as an adult advisor, or judging the films - are exposed to appropriate messaging about these topics, warning signs, how to appropriately respond to someone in distress, where to seek help, as well as how to stand up for others who are experiencing a mental health challenge. In addition, schools and organizations are offered free prevention programs and educational resources.
To learn more and read the rules of the contest
click here.
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Bay Area Authors at Lafayette Library to Discuss The Prescription
Drug Abuse Epidemic
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Be sure to visit the Lafayette Library on March 12th between 3 - 5 p.m. for a book signing event by two bay area authors. Both authors have personal experiences with the prescription drug abuse epidemic.
Saving Jake: When Addiction Hits Home
D'Anne Burwell, M.A., educator and author, advocates for families struggling with addiction through parent mentoring, radio commentaries and her information-and-resources website. In her award-winning memoir, Saving Jake: When Addiction Hits Home, Burwellshares her family's story as she struggles with denial and confusion through the wrenching years of her teenaged son's addiction to OxyContin. As she learns to navigate the crisis, she comes to understand she must "stay in her own lane" and step back to allow her son to fight for his own soul. Passionate about raising awareness of the current epidemic of prescription drug abuse, Burwell presents facts based on the latest scientific research, debunks misperceptions about substance abuse and breaks the silence surrounding addiction. Burwell's hard-won insights and powerful personal story transcend addiction and speak to us all.
Generation Rx: A Story of Dope, Death, and America's  Opiate Crisis
Erin Marie Daly is a freelance journalist with a passion for writing about cultural and human interest stories. She has a background in legal reporting and founded Oxy Watchdog, a blog about painkiller and heroin addiction.
Her first book, Generation Rx: A Story of Dope, Death, and America's Opiate Crisis, was published in August 2014. The book was honored as a winner in the 2014 Foreword Reviews' INDIEFAB Book of the Year Awards in the Social Sciences category, and as a winner in the "Health: Addiction and Recovery" and "Non-Fiction: Narrative" categories of the 2014 USA Best Book Awards.
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Also at the Lafayette Library:
Truffle Making Workshop with Ellen Reintjes & Don Tatzin
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 Local truffle making experts, Ellen Reintjes & Don Tatzin, will demonstrate how to make your own chocolate truffles at home. Spend an evening learning the process, recipes, and tools to use. Don Tatzin has also served the Lafayette Community as a City Council Member for the past 20 years.
The workshop is offered on Wednesday, February 10th, from 6:30 p.m. - 7:45 p.m. in the Library's Arts & Science Discovery Center.
Don't miss this pre-Valentine's day event. Free - Limited spaces - Materials provided - Registration required.
Click here
to register for this event.
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Potential Super Bowl 50 Impacts
on Bay Area Airports
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 At the January 19, 2016 Board of Supervisors meeting, Keith Freitas, Director of Airports for Contra Costa County, presented a Power Point presentation regarding the potential impacts of Super Bowl 50 on the Bay Area Airports, and specifically, on Contra Costa County airports, Buchanan Field and Byron. To learn more about the possible impacts, see the presentation by
clicking here.
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Captain Sully Sullenberger Featured at Danville Area Chamber Business Kick-Off
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Supervisor Andersen joined the Danville Town Council and Captain "Sully" Sullenberger at the Danville Area Chamber of Commerce Business Kick-Off Luncheon on Friday, January 15th.
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Contra Costa Association of Realtors
Inaugural Ball and Awards Ceremony
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 Congratulations to Sheiren Diaz, honored at the CCAR Inaugural Event and Award Ceremony for her 40 years with the Contra Costa Association of Realtors.
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Street Smarts Recognizes
Middle School Video Contest Winners
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Over 120 parents, students, school staff members, and elected officials came to view the creative work of 25 aspiring filmmakers from San Ramon Valley middle schools at the Street Smarts "Be Reel" Video Contest Awards Ceremony on Wednesday, January 13, 2016 at the Danville Village Theatre. After premiering each of the top 10 finalist videos, the filmmakers were invited on stage to answer questions about their work. Supervisor Andersen helped announce the contest winners.
The first place video, "Are You Smarter than a Safety Patrol Officer," was created by AJ Morelan, Jaden Wu, Ryan Carter, and Spencer Tsubota of Diablo Vista Middle School. The second place award winning video was "Let's All Get Home Safely" was produced and directed by Natalia Bobroff, Stella Stretch, and Annie Ashton of Los Cerros Middle School. The third place video, "5 Easy Steps to Stay Safe," was produced and directed by Maximiano Gonzalez, Chris Hansen, and Kevin Barthol of Pine Valley Middle School. These finalist videos will air on Contra Costa Cable Television. For more information about Street Smarts programs, visit their website by
clicking here.
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Rotary Club of Alamo
Sponsors Annual Egg Hunt
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T
he Rotary Club of Alamo will again sponsor the Annual Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, March 26, 2016 at Livorna Park. Learning from last year's expanded event, the Club is doubling the number of eggs and will bring back the most loved games and attractions to its Egg Hunt and Family Day at the Park. The event will begin at 9:00 a.m. and end at 11:00 a.m.
In addition to the Egg Hunt and a visit by the Easter Bunny, where parents will have an opportunity to take photos, there will also be children's games, face painting provided by the Monte Vista High School Interact Club, which is sponsored by the Rotary Club of Alamo, and other fun activities. The Egg Hunt will take place this year at 10:00 a.m. sharp. There will be three age groups for the egg hunt: children three years of age and under (3-0); children ages four to seven (4-7); and children ages eight to ten (8-10). In past years the egg hunt would start promptly at the assigned time and was finished in less than five minutes. Parents should allow ample time for their children to be on time to participate. For more information, email by clicking here or call (925) 718-6601.
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2016 Community Fellowship Program at the Contra Costa Family Justice Center
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The Community Fellowship is a leadership program for community members who are looking to integrate and build on their experience of interpersonal violence to create something socially positive.
It is a 10-month, 10 hour-a-week program starting in March 2016 and is currently accepting applications for 2 locations: Richmond & Concord.
They are looking for individuals who:
- Reside in Contra Costa County
- Experienced interpersonal violence more than 1 year ago
- Are age 18 & up
- Have conversational & reading English language ability
- Graduated from high school or equivalent
- Have reliable transportation
- Have participated in school or community activities with a goal of increasing involvement
Fellows will receive a stipend.
The Community Fellowship could be right for those interested in developing:
1. Leadership potential;
2. Skills in one of 4 tracks:
advocacy,
training & events,
project coordination, or
technology (multimedia); and
3. A community project of their choosing.
Coaching & mentoring will support personal and skills development as well as provide meaningful networking opportunities.
The Fellows' creativity & enthusiasm will be appreciated along with their life experience and community knowledge.
To download an application
click here
.
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Rent the Hacienda de las Flores
For Your Next Event
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Photograph By Susannah DeAngelo, to see more of her work click here
The Hacienda de las Flores serves as Moraga's beautiful community center and local venue for any type of special event: weddings, birthdays, reunions, showers, anniversaries, retirements, corporate events and more. Tranquil and secluded, with landscaped grounds and lawns bordering a central patio and fountain, this historic estate is perfect for any celebration. The Hacienda de las Flores and Pavilion are located at
2100 Donald Drive
, Moraga. Visit
Moraga Hacienda
by clicking here for additional information.
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Board of Supervisors Recognizes
Human Trafficking Epidemic
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Last month the Board of Supervisors proclaimed January 2016 as Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month in Contra Costa County. It may be surprising to many that slavery prevention efforts are necessary here in our valley, but some may also recall the large-scale sex trafficking ring centered in San Ramon and Danville that was broken up by the District Attorney's office and police last summer.
Human Trafficking is one of the world's most
profitable cri
m
inal enterprises as victi
m
s are exploited to provide labor or commercial sexual services through force, fraud or coercion at a huge profit to the traffickers. Every year, thousands of men, women and children fall into the hands of traffickers, in their own countries and abroad.
Victims of trafficking can be any age, gender, ethnic or economic background. Trafficked victims can be found working in many different industries including: pornography, stripping, prosti
tution,
m
assage parlors, do
m
estic servitude, sweatshops, construction, agriculture or landscaping, nail salons, hotels, restaurants, panhandling, janitorial services and venues involving children such as foster care.
Contra Costa County has been at the forefront of efforts to address the devastating impacts of domestic violence, family violence, elder abuse, and sexual assault as the first Zero Tolerance for Domestic Violence County in the State of California. In 2009 the County began addressing human trafficking as the next natural progression in violence prevention. The Zero Tolerance for Human Trafficking Coalition is a countywide, multi-agency partnership working to raise awareness, build capacity, improve policies, and increase access to coordinated services for victims of human trafficking.
In the last year Coalition partners held 38 trainings with 635 attendees. Coalition partners including Children and Family Services, Probation, law enforcement, and many local community based service providers are working to improve identification of victims, adapt intake and screening tools, and strengthen treatment options that do not re-traumatize survivors. Recently awarded federal funding totaling $700,000 will help strengthen a continuum of coordinated services in the coming year.
To learn what you can do to help combat human trafficking, visit the Zero Tolerance website by
clicking here
.
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Recruitment is Open for 3 Public Member Seats on
The Contra Costa Integrated Pest Management Advisory Committee
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The Contra Costa Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Advisory Committee is seeking applicants to fill 3 public seats - 2 regular seats and 1 alternate seat. Applicants must demonstrate knowledge of integrated pest management and interest in and commitment to improvement of IPM practices in Contra Costa County. Applicants must live or work in Contra Costa County.
Applications must be received by 4:30 PM on Tuesday, February 16, 2016
in the office of the Clerk of the Board: 651 Pine Street, 1st Floor, Martinez, CA 94553.
All persons who apply by the deadline will be interviewed on Monday, February 29, 2016.
The IPM Advisory Committee is appointed by the Board of Supervisors to advise them on issues involving pest management and pesticide use on County-owned and County-maintained property. The 13-member Committee is composed of representatives from the County Departments of Agriculture, Health Services, and Public Works; the County Storm water Program; the County's Public and Environmental Health Advisory Board; the County's Fish and Wildlife Committee; a local environmental organization, the County's current pest management contractor; three public members, and a public member alternate. The Committee's purview includes pest management in County facilities, in County landscaping, and along County roads and flood control channels.
Regular meetings of the IPM Advisory Committee are held on the first Wednesday in the months of January, March, May, July, September, and November from 10am to noon at the County Department of Agriculture in Concord.
An application form can be obtained in the following ways:
- Calling the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors at 925- 335-1900, or
- Writing to or visiting the Clerk of the Board at 651 Pine Street, 1st Floor, Martinez 94553, or
- Downloading an application by clicking here
For more information
: contact Tanya Drlik, IPM Coordinator, at 925-335-3214 or to email click here.
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Two-Day Workshop Free to Veterans
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The Arts and Culture Commission of Contra Costa County is offering portrait painting workshops at no cost to all County Veterans. Workshops will take place in Martinez at ARTU4iA, a working art studio led by noted artist John Kleber. No experience required. This is a chance for self-expression. Nothing is being sold. There is no registration fee nor material fee for Veterans who live in Contra Costa.
Kleber and artist/Veteran Geoffrey Meredith will lead you through a series of painting exercises over two days that will result in a finished 16" x 20" self-portrait.
All painting materials will be provided. Join the fun and meet other Veterans as you enjoy two days of painting.
Space is limited to 15 participants per session and you must be a Veteran living in Contra Costa County.
The workshop is being offered the following dates/times:
Thursday -
February 18th & 25th - 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Sunday - February 21st & 28th - 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Friday - March 11th & 18th - 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Tuesday - March 15th & 22nd - 6:00 - 9:00 pm
Wednesday - March 16th & 23rd - 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.
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Rainfall Map
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Wonder how much rainfall has hit your community in the past 24 hours?
Click here
and see!
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I
nterested in Participating in Government?
Volunteers are Needed Throughout
District Two
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Are you looking for a volunteer opportunity in 2016? Here is a list of available County volunteer opportunities to share your time and talents in the coming year! In addition, we have included links to volunteer opportunities in each of the District 2 Cities.
District 2 vacancies available:
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 Task Force Committee
Airport Land Use Commission
Alcohol and Other Drugs Advisory Board
Bicycle Committee, Countywide
Contra Costa Commission for Women
CCC Local Planning Advisory Council for Early Care & Education
County Connection Citizen Advisory Committee
Developmental Disabilities Area Board
East Bay Regional Park District Advisory Committee
Economic Opportunity Council
Equal Employment Opportunity, Advisory Council on
Family & Children's Trust Committee
Integrated Pest Management Advisory Committee
Juvenile Justice Commission/Delinquency Prevention Commission
Managed Care Commission
Workforce Development Board
To apply for any of these seats, click here
Danville Commissions & Committees
Application: click here
Lafayette Commissions & Committees
Application: click here
Moraga Commissions & Committees
Application: click here
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January 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 January which impact the residents of District 2:
2016 Reorganization of the Board of Supervisors:
- Election of Supervisor Andersen as the 2016 Chair of the Board of Supervisors
- Swearing in of the 2016 Chair by the Honorable Steve Austin, Presiding Judge, Contra Costa County Superior Court
- Presentation by Supervisor Andersen of token of appreciation to the 2015 Chair Comments of the Incoming Chair
Approved recommendations for Board Member appointments to local, regional and statewide committees, boards, and commissions, as recommended by Supervisor Andersen.
Adjourned in memory of Vonley R. Honey, Buyer II, Public Works Department.
Approved the eighth extension of the Drainage Improvement Agreement for a project by Shapell Homes, Danville.
Approved the second extension of the Drainage Improvement Agreement for a project by Shapell Homes, San Ramon-Dougherty Valley.
Amended the County Ordinance Code to revise the exemptions to the dog or cat license fee; Fixed January 12, 2016 for adoption.
Received/Accepted the 2015 Annual Report of the Alamo Municipal Advisory Council, as recommended by Supervisor Andersen.
Ratified the Housing Authority's submission of a Juvenile Reentry Assistance Program grant application to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
Ratified the Housing Authority's execution of the MOU with the Public Defender's office to provide services under the grant to reentry youth up to 24 years old which will support their successful transition to the community by reducing barriers to public housing, employment and/or educational opportunities.
Accepted the report on the Economic Contributions of Contra Costa County Agriculture commissioned by the Department of Agriculture to provide information on the economic multiplier effects of the County's agricultural industry on the local economy.
Recognized the Contra Costa Crisis Center and its SafeKeeper Volunteers for exceptional work, forward planning, and their efforts to save lives in Contra Costa County.
Recognized The United States Volunteers for over 20 years of dedicated service, their commitment to our veteran community and their efforts to recognize the men and women of our Country who have fought bravely to protect our domestic and national security.
Proclaimed January 2016 as Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month in Contra Costa County, as recommended by Supervisor Andersen.
Received report on the potential Super Bowl 50 impacts on the Contra Costa County Airports.
Recognized members of the Workforce Development Board for their outstanding volunteer service to County Costa County.
Adopted the FY 2016/17 Recommended Budget development schedule.
Contra Costa County 38th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemoration and Humanitarian of the Year Awards Ceremony.
Approved the Blackhawk Road Bikeway Project and related actions under the California Environmental Quality Act; Authorized advertisement of the project, Blackhawk.
Recognized Andy and Wendy Scheck selected as Lafayette's 2016 "Marquis" Business Persons of the Year, as recommended by Supervisor Andersen.
Received the 2015-2016 property tax administrative cost recovery report of the Auditor-Controller; Fixed March 1, 2016 at 9:30am for a public hearing on the determination of property tax administrative costs; Directed the Clerk of the Board to notify affected local jurisdictions of the public hearing and to prepare and publish the required legal notice and make supporting documentation available for public inspection.
Accepted the resignation of Belinda Lucey from the District II Alternate Seat on the First 5 Contra Costa Children and Families Commission effective immediately, as recommended by Supervisor Andersen.
Delegated to the Assessor the authority to approve claims for refund related to the property tax exemption for the home of a disabled veteran or an unmarried spouse of a deceased disabled veteran; Directed the Auditor-Controller to pay refunds approved by the Assessor in accordance with Revenue and Taxation Code sections 5101 and 5151.
Accepted report "The Economic Outlook Focus on Contra Costa" prepared by Beacon Economics.
Accepted report on budget and key issues for FY 2015/16 and beyond.
Accepted a report from the Sheriff-Coroner, Health Services, and Behavioral Health on the status of Detention Mental Health services in County adult and juvenile detention facilities and provided follow-up direction to staff.
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