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District 2 Staff
Field Representative;
Orinda
Deputy Chief of Staff
Field Representative;
San Ramon &
Email Gayle
Jill Ray
Field Representative;
Moraga & Canyon
Lauri Byers
Scheduler, Field Representative;
Lafayette
Donna Maxwell
Field Representative;
Alamo, Saranap, Parkmead & Rossmoor
Email Donna |
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District Offices
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
Lamorinda Office
Fire Station #15
3338 Mt. Diablo Boulevard
Lafayette, CA 94549
Hours:
Thursdays, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
and by appointment, please call
Phone: (925) 646-6067
FAX: (925) 646-6068
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BART Urges Bay Area Residents to "Know Your Commute Plan" As Unions Strike
Use 511.org for Travel Information
Whether you ride BART, use other public transit services or drive, everyone needs to consider the alternatives and plan your commute. For transit options, carpool rideshare locations and traffic conditions click here. For further suggestions, click here to read more.
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Cooling Centers for Heat Relief
To provide relief from the heat for seniors and others who face heat-related health difficulties and stress, the Contra Costa County Office of Emergency Services has provided a list of cooling centers within the county. These centers are coordinated with each municipality so please call the number listed for each center to confirm their operating hours.
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Celebrating July 4th Around District II
Danville
Parade begins at 9:00 a.m. Chairs may be placed on the sidewalks on Wednesday July 3, 2013 AFTER 6:00 p.m. Any chairs, tape or other objects set out prior to that time will be removed. Chairs that are removed will be available for pick-up on Monday July 8, 2013 at the Town Service Center.
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East Bay Veterans Fair Presents VetCon 2013
VetCon, the theme of this year's East Ba y Veterans Fair, recognizes Veterans share a certain bond and culture. Much like those who attend Comic-Cons or similar events where the participants experience a commonality of interests, Veterans experience this on a higher level. Therefore, VetCon seeks to grow the concept of the East Bay Veterans Fair into something greater than a resource fair for Veterans.
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Supervisor Andersen Learns CPR
at Alamo Safety Fair
On Saturday June 1st, the California Highway Patrol sponsored a safety fair at Alamo Elementary School. Event participants included representatives from the Contra Costa County Sheriff's Department, San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District, Rotary Club of Alamo, Alamo Chamber of Commerce, the American Red Cross, Alamo Improvement Association, Alamo Municipal Advisory Council, Liberty Mutual, Street Smarts, American Medical Response (AMR), and Alamo C.E.R.T.
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| Disaster Preparedness - Wildfire Safety
Wildfires are a natural part of our beautiful landscape, so preparing our homes and families for wildfire is essential. Take a moment to walk around your home and assess it for fire safety.
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Supervisor Andersen Helps Open the Bounty Garden
Mother and daughter Heidi and Amelia Abramson spearheaded this community garden at Hap Magee Ranch Park in Danville and Alamo. The "bounty" grown from the planter boxes maintained by volunteers and community service groups is donated to the Food Banks of Solano and Contra Costa County. Learn more about it by clicking here.
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San Ramon Celebrates 30 Years!
The City of San Ramon celebrates 30 years of city-hood on July 1, 2013. This milestone represents a time to reflect on the successes of providing an exceptional quality of life through innovative service and partnerships with other organizations.
read more
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The Urban Farmers will Harvest Your Fruit Trees and Donate the Surplus
The Urban Farmers, a local non-profit organization, will harvest your fruit, leave what you want, and donate the rest to the needy. It's that simple. We are lucky. We live in a place where fruit trees grow readily, yet, there is a record number of Americans that can't get enough food to eat.
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Board of Supervisors Honors County High School Student California Arts Scholars
The Board of Supervisors honored the distinguished high school students who have been nominated as California Arts Scholars designation and selected to participate in the 2013 California State Summer School for the Arts program on June 25, 2013.
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Danville Summer Street Festivals Encourage Local Shopping and Dining
Danville's Summer Street Festival Encourages Shopping and Dining Locally Downtown Danville event showcases local businesses.
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Orinda's Home Alone Program:
Police will Check on Teens while
Parents are Out of Town
One of the things that struck police Chief Scott Haggard when he first started work in Orinda was the City's "party consequences ordinance." Because homeowners can be held responsible if partying kids get out of control on their property, he wanted to give parents the ability to be proactive rather than reactive.
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Hacienda Home/Made Cafe Open in Moraga this Summer
Moragans are enjoying breakfast and lunch at Hacienda home/made, the newest café and bakery in Town. The freshest, locally-sourced ingredients provide a delicious farm-to-table experience in the tranquil Hacienda de las Flores setting. Hours are Monday through Thursday, 8:00 am to 3:00 pm and Fridays, 8:00 am to 11:30 am. For parties larger than five, call 925-286-9529 to make a reservation.
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National Award Spotlights Anti-Poverty Work in Solano and Contra Costa Counties
Solano and Contra Costa Counties announced that they have been jointly recognized with a 2013 National Association of Counties (NACo) Achievement Award in the area of Community and Economic Development for the "Roadmap to Cut Poverty" campaign.
read more
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Staycation in San Ramon!
San Ramon is full of great options for families looking for activities that are low or no cost. Enjoy the best of the season this summer with these great local activities. Follow @cityofsanramon on Twitter as they will be highlighting these and other free and low cost activities all summer long!
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Moraga Police Officers Sponsor "Kids Day" Fundraiser for Special Olympics
The Moraga Police Officers Association is once again teaming with the New Rheem Theatre to sponsor a fundraising event to benefit the Special Olympics Northern California.
read more
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| Lafayette Community Foundation - 5th Annual Senior Symposium
The Lafayette Community Foundation is hosting its 5th Annual Symposium in its continuing effort to assist seniors. The symposium will be held Saturday, August 24, 2013 from 8:30 a.m. to noon at Lafayette Orinda Presbyterian Church, 49 Knox Drive in Lafayette.
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Students from San Ramon's California High School Make Documentary About Prescription Drug Abuse
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An Unprescribed Epidemic | The Dangers of Prescription Drugs
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Last year San Ramon's Police Chief Scott Holder met with the police department's Youth Services Unit to discuss the increasing issue of prescription drug abuse by the youth and teenagers in the San Ramon Valley. Wanting to address the issue from a different view point, Chief Holder thought a video made by teenagers could have a big impact on their peers.
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Street Smarts "It Happens" Ad Winners
The Street Smarts "It Happens" Campaign is a traffic safety education campaign for teens. This year, "It Happens" challenged teens from the four San Ramon Valley High Schools to create advertisements that promoted different modes of transportation to school.
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Interested in Participating in Government?
Supervisor Andersen is Seeking Volunteers for County Advisory Boards
Seeking applicants to the Assessment Appeals Board and other advisory body openings. Click here read more about advisory body openings.
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Board of Supervisors Actions
Ever wonder what your Supervisor does at that weekly Tuesday Board of Supervisors Meeting? Here are some of the board actions from the month of June which impact the residents of District 2:
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The full text of the articles in this newsletter follow. We have provided a preview of the articles above for easier reading.
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BART Urges Bay Area Residents to "Know Your Commute Plan" As Unions Strike
Use 511.org for Travel Information
Whether you ride BART, use other public transit services or drive, everyone needs to consider the alternatives and plan your commute. For transit options, carpool rideshare locations and traffic conditions click here. Here are some other suggestions:
Adjusting work hours
Employers are encouraged to offer flexible schedules or other work arrangements during a BART strike. Workers are urged to ask their employer about adjusting work hours to avoid commuting during peak traffic periods.
Telecommuting
Ask your employer about working from home during some of the time you'd normally be in the office.
Carpooling
Join a carpool or temporary van pool and take advantage of "high-occupancy vehicle" (HOV) lanes. During a strike all BART parking lots at 33 stations will be available at no charge for use by carpools. Get more information on carpooling including a list of carpool lanes and other Park and Ride lots on your commute route.
Taking alternate routes
You know which roads and freeways will be congested: check drive times before you leave home or work and go another way. Get FasTrak to minimize your wait at the tollbooth.
Transit
BART, the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) and regional transit partners have been working together weeks in advance of the contract deadline to give other public transit providers time to develop their response plans if BART unions strike; however, it's clear the other systems cannot provide the resources to carry BART's normal ridership.
Limited charter bus service
BART's contingency plan includes offering limited bus service during the peak commute periods. Although BART is deploying limited bus service, it only has the capabilities to serve between 2000 to 4000 passengers each day, in each direction, depending upon traffic, which is a far cry from our normal 400,000 passenger load.
BART will work to provide limited weekday round trip charter bus service from the El Cerrito del Norte, Walnut Creek, Dublin/ Pleasanton and Fremont stations into San Francisco from 5 am to 9 am and back from a stop near the San Francisco Transbay Terminal from 3 pm to 7 pm at no charge. The service will operate in the commute direction only. This means the buses will go to San Francisco in the morning and to the East Bay in the evening for round trip ticket holders only. Tickets will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis in the morning at those four stations only. People without those round trip tickets will not be allowed to board in San Francisco to return to the East Bay in the evening. Please consult bart.gov after 3 pm for an update on charter bus service for the following day.
The BART Transit Information Center will be taking phone calls from 4am to 8pm for the duration of the disruption. We encourage customers to call 511 for alternative routes, but BART staff will be available to provide any assistance they can.
The BART website is your best online source of official, accurate information about BART service. Sign up for official BART news updates to receive latest. Click here for information about labor negotiations.
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Cooling Centers for Heat Relief
To provide relief from the heat for seniors and others who face heat-related health difficulties and stress, the Contra Costa County Office of Emergency Services has provided a list of cooling centers within the county. These centers are coordinated with each municipality so please call the number listed for each center to confirm their operating hours.
Symptoms of dehydration and heat cramps include dizziness, fatigue, faintness, headaches, muscle cramps, and increased thirst. Several ways to manage the heat:
- Never leave children, elderly people, or pets alone in a parked vehicle
- Wear light, loose fitting clothing to stay cool
- Drink water often. Avoid drinking alcohol
- Check on those in your neighborhood who have limited mobility
- Stay in an air-conditioned area during peak heat hours such as a mall, park, or library
- Avoid unnecessary sun exposure. When in the sun, wear a hat, preferably with a wide brim
- Don't exercise vigorously outside during the hottest hours of the day
Please consider going to one of the following locations on a hot day: shopping mall, library, adult education site, movie, restaurant, or:
Danville Cooling Center Sites:
- Danville Senior Center in the Veteran's Memorial Hall Building - 400 Hartz Ave. - 314-3490
- Community Center - 420 Front Street
San Ramon Cooling Center Sites:
- Alcosta Senior and Community Center - 9300 Alcosta Blvd, 925-973-3250
- San Ramon Community Center - 12501 Alcosta Blvd, 925-973-3200
- Dougherty Station Community Center - 17011 Bollinger Canyon Rd, 925-973-3350
- San Ramon Library - 100 Montgomery St, 925-973-2850
- Dougherty Station Library - 17017 Bollinger Canyon Rd, 925-973-3380
- San Ramon Olympic Pool* - 9900 Broadmoor Dr., 925-973-3240
- Dougherty Valley Aquatic Center* - 10550 Albion Rd., 925-973-3335
Walnut Creek Cooling Center Site:
Senior Center - 1375 Civic Drive - 943-5851
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Celebrating July 4th Around District II
Danville
Parade begins at 9:00 a.m. Chairs may be placed on the sidewalks on Wednesday July 3, 2013 AFTER 6:00 p.m. Any chairs, tape or other objects set out prior to that time will be removed. Chairs that are removed will be available for pick-up on Monday July 8, 2013 at the Town Service Center. Residents are also reminded not to block handicap accessible ramps on the street corners. Parking for parade viewing is available at several municipal lots, and free, monitored bicycle parking will be available from 8am until noon at 675 Hartz Avenue in the Balford Building parking lot (next to Country Waffles). Information and registration can be found on the Kiwanis website by clicking here.
Moraga
Fun-Run To Fireworks at Moraga Commons, 1425 St. Mary's Road, from 8 a.m. - 10 p.m. Moraga offers a full day of events beginning with a Fun Run (click here for details), Pancake Breakfast, Dog Parade, Community Booths, Children's Bike Parade, Concert and Fireworks. For details and the schedule of eventsclick here.
Orinda
Orinda hosts a celebration with events for every age group starting with an annual pancake breakfast, a flag raising ceremony, a fun run, live music and ending with the food, games and booths in Orinda Community Park following the parade. Events take place at Orinda Community Park, 24 Orinda Way from 7:30 am to 1:30 pm (parade at 10 am). Click here for the schedule of events and more information.
Rossmoor
Sponsored by the Recreation Department of the Golden Rain Foundation in cooperation with the Rotary Club of Rossmoor and the Lions Club of Rossmoor: Family and friends of Rossmoor residents are welcome to enjoy a full day of music, food, crafts and fun for all ages at the Dollar picnic grounds from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Rossmoor Golfers and guests are also invited to participate in the 4th of July Golf Tournament at the Dollar Ranch 18 holes, 8:30 a.m. shotgun! Four person teams are encouraged, lesser teams will be matched by the Pro Shop. Two Net Best Balls for the Foursome. Entry fee is $5.00, plus standard green fees. BBQ lunch for $17.00 by Englunds, in the Fireside Room; non-golfers welcome (BYOB). Sign up in the Golf Shop by June 30th. Contact Mary Hufford at 925.979.9611 for additional information. Patriotic wear is encouraged!
San Ramon
Run San Ramon 10K Run, 5K Fun Run & Walk, 3K Fun Walk. Start & Finish: San Ramon Central Park, 12501 Alcosta Blvd. 10K race starts at 8:15am; 5K Run & Walk and 3K Walk starts at 8:20am. Cost is $40 on Race Day. Pre-registration and details are available online by clicking here. Race day registration tables open 6:30-8:00am.
Celebrate America, Celebrate San Ramon - The Cheeseballs at San Ramon Central Park, 12501 Alcosta Blvd, from 4:00 - 7:30pm. Honor San Ramon's 30 years with recognition of all former city council members. Start the summer concert season by enjoying patriotic music performed by the San Ramon Symphonic Band under the direction of Larry Colon. Then dance to your favorite hits of the 80's presented by the high energy dance band, The Cheeseballs! Bring your picnic and lawn chairs for a great evening in San Ramon! Click here for more information.
Walnut Creek
The Walnut Creek Concert Band will be holding a free concert, near the Civic Park gazebo, with music starting at 6:00 p.m. Bring a picnic and celebrate at this Independence Day Concert!
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East Bay Veterans Fair Presents VetCon 2013
VetCon, the theme of this year's East Bay Veterans Fair, recognizes Veterans share a certain bond and culture. Much like those who attend Comic-Cons or similar events where the participants experience a commonality of interests, Veterans experience this on a higher level. Therefore, VetCon seeks to grow the concept of the East Bay Veterans Fair into something greater than a resource fair for Veterans.
VetCon 2013 will focus on providing specialized assistance in three vital areas. Employment, Education, and VA benefits. VetCon is an opportunity for Veterans to gather and network with employers, educational institutions, Veterans health and benefits, and most importantly, each other. Veterans are the greatest resource for each other and the goal of VetCon is to not only help Veterans and their families access the benefits, resources and information they need, but to create an environment where Veterans can tell the story of the transition from military life to the career, hobby, or interest they are passionate about today.
Other featured events will include professionals specializing in Zen meditation, chaplain prayer groups, yoga, tai chi, and massage therapy. A blood drive "in honor and in recognition of our servicemembers" will be hosted by the American Red Cross. Blue Star Moms will conduct a "Drop Zone" to collect various items for care packages to be sent to our troops overseas. Veteran resource tables will be setup and displayed by various veteran service organizations. These tables will allow these organizations to provide information on their program to those who attend. Vendor tables will display veteran and military related novelty items such as unit patches, pins, hats, and jackets. These items will be displayed and sold by local businesses. For more information, click here.
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Supervisor Andersen Learns CPR
at Alamo Safety Fair
On Saturday June 1st, the California Highway Patrol sponsored a safety fair at Alamo Elementary School. Event participants included representatives from the Contra Costa County Sheriff's Department, San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District, Rotary Club of Alamo, Alamo Chamber of Commerce, the American Red Cross, Alamo Improvement Association, Alamo Municipal Advisory Council, Liberty Mutual, Street Smarts, American Medical Response (AMR), and Alamo C.E.R.T.
Additionally, Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) supplied a crash car exhibit, which reminded people about the seriousness of drinking and driving. Also on display was a striking 1937 Ford, provided by Alamo resident Jim Wadsworth. Child car seat safety inspections were conducted by the CHP and ineffective car seats were replaced with new ones, free of charge, to those in need. AMR offered hands-only CPR training to many fair goers, including Candace as shown in the photo above. Street Smarts presented information about pedestrian and bicycle safety, helmet safety, and even created a course for children who arrived with their bicycles. Children (and some adults) enjoyed sitting inside a variety of police cars, an ambulance and a very large fire truck! Liberty Mutual provided the public with free child identification kits, which included fingerprint and DNA collection materials that can be stored in your home freezer. They also provided barbequed hotdogs and cold drinks on what turned out to be a very hot day!
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Disaster Preparedness - Wildfire Safety
Wildfires are a natural part of our beautiful landscape, so preparing our homes and families for wildfire is essential. Take a moment to walk around your home and assess it for fire safety. Follow these simple tips:
* Create 100 feet of defensible space around your home.
* Make a date with your roof, ensure it is free of pine needles, leaves or other debris.
* Confirm the numbers on your house are clearly visible and that your driveway or private road is maintained so emergency vehicles can access your home quickly.
* Create a family evacuation plan.
* Fireworks are illegal in Contra Costa County.
For More Information: San Ramon Valley Fire Exterior Hazard Abatement Program: www.firedepartment.org/abatementWildfire Preparedness: www.ready.gov/wildfiresBe Ready San Ramon Valley: www.bereadysrv.org
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San Ramon Celebrates 30 Years!
The City of San Ramon celebrates 30 years of city-hood on July 1, 2013. This milestone represents a time to reflect on the successes of providing an exceptional quality of life through innovative service and partnerships with other organizations. For those who have never had an opportunity to visit, San Ramon invites you to come shop, dine or visit one of it's beautiful parks, community centers, performing arts center and two aquatic centers.
PARTNERING FOR EXCELLENCE
The City of San Ramon is proud of its many years of partnerships to create an excellent place to live, work and play. Partnerships make for optimal use of public funds and infrastructure.
EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION
The City and the San Ramon Valley Unified School District have an unparalleled partnership in California, one that is admired throughout the State. What began in 1987 as a joint venture to fix-up a school playground at Twin Creeks Elementary School has evolved into a $30 million city investment into creating parks at all 11 elementary schools, four middle schools and two high schools. Every elementary school in San Ramon has play areas, fields and equipment that are maintained by the City of San Ramon with excellent facilities for everyone's use and enjoyment. The City has invested in development, construction and operation of several community and school facilities such as the gymnasiums, aquatic facilities, and a performing arts center.
LIBRARY PARTNERSHIP
Together, San Ramon's two libraries have the largest circulation of any city in Contra Costa County, with 975,029 items checked out last year. The San Ramon Library, which opened in 1988, was one of the first City built, County operated libraries. The Dougherty Station Library which opened in 2005, has an expanded three way partnership between Diablo Valley Community College-San Ramon Valley Campus, Contra Costa County and the City of San Ramon, and is only the third "joint use" library in all of California.
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS PARTNERSHIP
Over the last 30 years, the City has partnered with regional, state and federal agencies to ensure exceptional service to the citizens of San Ramon during and after a disaster. These partnerships were strengthened with the creation of the San Ramon Valley Emergency Preparedness Citizen Corps Council which includes the Town of Danville, the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District, the County of Contra Costa and San Ramon Valley School District. The common goal is improving citizen readiness to any emergency. The Council implemented a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training program and since 2006 over 1,186 area residents have been trained as responders. The City continued its effort to collaborate with neighboring cities and counties by participating in the East Bay Regional Communications System that will connect over 2,500 emergency responders between Alameda and Contra Costa Counties. The new system will allow providers to communicate on one radio system during an emergency.
YOUTH SPORTS PARTNERSHIP
The City has striven to provide safe, well maintained parks and amenities in support of local sports organizations. The City maintains 28 parks with 44 sports fields in San Ramon to meet the needs of over 6,000 participants from nine different sports organizations. These organizations used over 48,000 hours of field time last year. In addition to sports fields, the City also works with three local swim organizations and provided over 31,000 hours of pool use in 2012.
30 YEARS OF SERVING THE BUSINESS COMMUNITY
The San Ramon Chamber of Commerce is proud to celebrate its 30 year anniversary on May 31, 2013. The Chamber's Mission is to "Enhance the quality of life and economic vitality of the San Ramon Valley by representing business and community interests." The focus of the Chamber is on four key areas; help stimulate economic development, improve the community in which we live, advocated public policy positions, and provide benefits and services to our members. The City encompasses a major regional employment center, the Bishop Ranch office park. Bishop Ranch is a 585-acre development in San Ramon, California. Purchased by Sunset Development Company in September of 1978, Bishop Ranch has been evolving as an industry leader ever since. Bishop Ranch is home to more than 10 million square feet of office space and 30,000 users. The Chamber sponsors a number of events that encourage networking as well as an exchange of ideas. Visit the San Ramon Chamber of Commerce website by clicking here for more information.
INNOVATIVE SERVICES
SAFETY THROUGH INNOVATIVE POLICE SERVICES
The San Ramon Police Department was founded on July 1, 1984 when the City entered into a contract with the Contra Costa County Sheriff's Office and continued working under that contract for 23 years. The City continued to grow and prosper creating an expanded need for independent police services. In June 2006, the City Council unanimously decided to bring control of the San Ramon Police Department in house. Today, the department has 58 sworn officers, 17 civilian employees and 55 volunteers serving our current population of 74,378 residents.
Utilizing a team oriented approach we maintain a close partnership with the community through community oriented policing and various citizen and youth programs. The services of the department have changed over the years in an effort to maintain a proactive approach to the needs of the public. These changes include the creation of such specialized programs as the Crime Free Multi-Housing and Crime Free Business programs and the "My Beat-My School" program.
STREAMLINED SERVICES LEAD TO BETTER CUSTOMER SERVICE
In June 2011, Planning/Community Development and the Engineering Services relocated their offices to 2401 Crow Canyon Road. The relocation brought these departments together to enhance our customer service. The City's new Permit Center provides a one stop location to streamline the process for permitting and land use applications for residents and those doing business in San Ramon. People can obtain information about planning, building, transportation or engineering processes related to development; work in the public right-of-way, building permit requirements, and public transit incentive programs.
EXCEPTIONAL QUALITY OF LIFE
PARKS & TRAILS SET COMMUNITY A PART
Since the City's incorporation, leaders have focused on developing a diverse parks system and a vast array of community service programs. The City's park system has grown to include 450 acres of parkland and 26 miles of trails. With 54 parks to choose from, San Ramon residents and visitors have many options from water features to themed neighborhood parks.
New Community Park and Facility under Construction
The City has recently completed review and approval of the final design of Rancho San Ramon Community Park and the Amador Rancho Center. This $11 million, 30-acre park is a part of the Dougherty Valley park development plan and is being constructed by Shapell Homes. The first phase of the park will develop approximately 20-acres. This includes a recreation center, sports fields, picnic area, playgrounds, water feature, tennis courts, and an outdoor stage.
Forest Home Farms Brings History to Life
San Ramon is home to a historic park, Forest Home Farms. In 1997, Ruth Quayle Boone bequeathed the 16-acre Boone family farm to the City of San Ramon for use as a municipal historic park in memory of her husband, Travis Moore Boone.
The southern portion of the property is now also home to the Glass House Museum, a Victorian style home built in 1877. The Glass House has recently been restored to its original beauty and is open for tours.
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The Urban Farmers will Harvest Your Fruit Trees and Donate the Surplus
The Urban Farmers, a local non-profit organization, will harvest your fruit, leave what you want, and donate the rest to the needy. It's that simple. We are lucky. We live in a place where fruit trees grow readily, yet, there is a record number of Americans that can't get enough food to eat. If you'd like to donate a portion of your harvest to the needy, contact The Urban Farmers and their volunteers will harvest your fruit and deliver it to a hunger relief agency such as the food bank, Loaves and Fishes or Monument Crisis Center and give you a receipt for your tax purposes. If you don't have trees, but know others who do, please spread the word! In addition, their web site is filled with great information about tending fruit trees. To learn more, click here or call (925) 297-5525. To register your fruit tree(s) for harvest, click here.
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Board of Supervisors Honors County High School Student California Arts Scholars
 The Board of Supervisors honored the distinguished high school students who have been nominated as California Arts Scholars designation and selected to participate in the 2013 California State Summer School for the Arts program on June 25, 2013. Many of the honorees are District 2 residents. The honorees, pictured below with Board Chair Federal Glover, are: Emily Cheung, Hercules, Hercules High, Visual Arts; Samantha Fox, San Ramon, California High, Visual Arts; Tania Hammond, Antioch, Deer Valley High, Film/Video; Sharon Lee, Danville, Monte Vista High, Visual Arts; Carlie Meyers, Walnut Creek, Las Lomas High, Visual Arts; Khalia Rehemtulla, Alamo, Monte Vista High, Dance; Sara Roth, Orinda, Miramonte High, Visual Arts; Rachel Su, San Ramon, Dougherty Valley High, Dance; Morgan Swanson, Pleasant Hill, College Park High, Instrumental Music; Caroline Whelehan, Lafayette, Acalanes High, Theatre; Shoshana Yaswen, El Cerrito, Berkeley High, Visual Arts.
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Danville Summer Street Festivals Encourage Local Shopping and Dining
Danville's Summer Street Festival Encourages Shopping and Dining Locally Downtown Danville event showcases local businesses. Bringing folks together to relax and enjoy their local surroundings is something Danville has perfected and the Street Festival is a stellar example of just that. Located on Hartz and Prospect Avenues in the downtown area, the event has something for everyone. Held July 11 and August 8 from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m., the street festival offers event-goers a leisurely evening of food, drinks and entertainment while strolling the town's charming tree-lined streets and browsing boutiques and specialty stores. Many of the town's excellent eateries will offer al fresco dining. Merchants will offer goods, services, demonstrations and raffles. Attendees will be able to enjoy a variety of musical stylings from a disc jockey, vocal and acoustic groups and even popular band AlmaDesnuda. Additional entertainment includes a fashion show, a dance presentation and tons of activities for the little ones. There will be dance exhibitions, sports exhibitions, outdoor bowling, fire truck tours and rides on the Museum of the San Ramon Valley's colorful train. "The festival is a perfect way for people to get to know what's available in Danville and showcase the great businesses and restaurants that are here," said Marcia Harmon, President of the Discover Danville Association. "It really is such a wonderful evening out for the entire family -- there's something for everyone." Danville residents are encouraged to display their civic pride by shopping and dining locally at this fun-filled family event. The community is also invited to attend the popular "Danville Hot Summer Nights' Car Show, which takes place on Thursdays July 18th and August 15th, from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. For more information about this event, contact Economic Development Manager Jill Bergman at 925-314-3369 or jbergman@danville.ca.gov. |
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Orinda's Home Alone Program:
Police will Check on Teens while
Parents are Out of Town
One of the things that struck police Chief Scott Haggard when he first started work in Orinda was the City's "party consequences ordinance." Because homeowners can be held responsible if partying kids get out of control on their property, he wanted to give parents the ability to be proactive rather than reactive.
Chief Haggard has developed a program called "Home Alone" for parents who are leaving teenagers home overnight or for the weekend. At parents' request, the Orinda police department can provide two levels of service. They can ask that an officer knock on the door of the house to make sure everything is OK, or just that they drive by to check for teen parties. Chief Haggard said "we all know how social media works: a couple of kids come over and the next thing you know it's all over the internet, more people start to show up, and the young person can lose control."
To find out more about the Home Alone program, call the Orinda Police Department at 925-254-6820.
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National Award Spotlights Anti-Poverty Work in Solano and Contra Costa Counties
Solano and Contra Costa Counties announced that they have been jointly recognized with a 2013 National Association of Counties (NACo) Achievement Award in the area of Community and Economic Development for the "Roadmap to Cut Poverty" campaign.
NACo established the annual Achievement Award program for counties in 1970 as a way to recognize innovative county government programs. Awards are given in 21 different categories, including children and youth, criminal justice, county administration, environmental protection, infor-mation technology, community/economic development and health.
The "Roadmap to Cut Poverty" framework was developed under the leadership of United Way of the Bay Area. Over 100 businesses and local agencies have pledged endorsements to the 10-year anti-poverty campaign. Both Contra Costa and Solano counties have been holding "Safety Net Summit" meetings over the past two years, aimed at growing public understanding and awareness of local poverty issues, and developing activities that help individuals and families increase their income and stability.
In Contra Costa County, a "Safety Net Innovation Network" is established with 18 work groups focused on different aspects of poverty reduction. Solano County has held two "Opportunity Conferences," bringing together 150 low-income residents with community volunteers who act as informal mentors. Both counties are working with United Way to sponsor income and asset development programs, including Earn It! Keep It! Save It!, helping qualified workers to access the Earned Income Tax Credit, and Sparkpoint Centers, where families can gain financial skills and seek education and job training.
For more information about the "Roadmap to Cut Poverty," click here, or contact Paul Buddenhagen at (925) 671-4514 or email him by clicking here.
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Staycation in San Ramon!
San Ramon is full of great options for families looking for activities that are low or no cost. Enjoy the best of the season this summer with these great local activities. Follow @cityofsanramon on Twitter as they will be highlighting these and other free and low cost activities all summer long!
Hit the Trail
San Ramon has over 120 miles of paved and unpaved trail options. Great adventures await on the Iron Horse, Hidden Valley Ridge, Tassajara Ridge Trail. Whether you prefer to hike or bike there are miles and miles of exploration awaiting you!
Play Ball...Inside
When it is too hot outside, come inside to enjoy your favorite sport activities. Adult Basketball, Volleyball and Family Table Tennis and Badminton Open Gyms are offered every week at different locations in San Ramon. Entrance is just $5!
Appreciate Art
San Ramon has three public gallery spaces and lots of public art to experience. Click Here for More Information.
Lindsay Dirkx Brown (San Ramon Community Center)- 12501 Alcosta Blvd
San Ramon Library - 100 Montgomery Street
Dougherty Station Community Center - 17011 Bollinger Canyon Road
Learn San Ramon History
Forest Home Historic Park is open the 2nd Saturday of every month with tours and activities. Tours are $5 and on July 25 the City will host the opening of the San Ramon 30th Anniversary Exhibit at the Glass House Museum. Forest Home Farms Historic Park - 19953 San Ramon Valley Blvd.
Outdoor Movies
The City of San Ramon invites you to help celebrate their 30th Anniversary of Incorporation while they say thank you for making San Ramon a wonderful place to live, work and play. Put on your favorite fashions for film favorites from the 1980's.
Ghostbusters
Friday, August 9, 8:30pm
On the lawn behind Dougherty Station Community Center
Free popcorn!
Goonies
Friday, August 16, 8:30pm
On the lawn behind Dougherty Station Community Center
Free popcorn!
ET: The Extra Terrestrial
Friday, August 23, 8:00pm
Dive-in at the San Ramon Olympic Pool.
Bring your floats or deck chairs, the pool will open at 7:00pm for free swimming.
Library Events
Stay cool this summer by enjoying free programs for kids and adults at one of San Ramon's two libraries. More than just books and periodicals, the library music, movies, speakers, and other great activities all for free! Click here for more information.
Visit their website to plan your San Ramon Staycation by clicking here.
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Moraga Police Officers Sponsor "Kids Day" Fundraiser for Special Olympics
The Moraga Police Officers Association is once again teaming with the New Rheem Theatre to sponsor a fundraising event to benefit the Special Olympics Northern California. The "Kid's Day" event will be held on July 13, 2013 at the New Rheem Theatre, 350 Park Street, and will consist of a special matinee showing of the kids movie "Despicable Me" as well as a festival of fun activities including a bounce house, balloon animals and face painting, carnival games with prizes, kids fingerprinting, food, a raffle of prizes including items donated by local businesses, and more. The movie will begin at 11:00 a.m. and the festival will go from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. with Moraga police officers staffing the activities.
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Lafayette Community Foundation - 5th Annual Senior Symposium
The Lafayette Community Foundation is hosting its 5th Annual Symposium in its continuing effort to assist seniors. The symposium will be held Saturday, August 24, 2013 from 8:30 a.m. to noon at Lafayette Orinda Presbyterian Church, 49 Knox Drive in Lafayette.
The symposium is titled "Quality of Life Issues for Boomers, Zoomers and Savvy Seniors." There will be a series of featured speakers that have been selected to assist seniors and their adult children to better understand the life impacting options that are available in the Lamorinda area for seniors who elect to live in the family home. Two of the featured speakers, Dr. Alan Brast and Cliff Dochterman will deal with the mental aspects of positive aging. Other speakers will discuss important cognitive concerns and transportation options.
There will be 35 to 40 vendors selling products and services especially useful for seniors and their adult children. There is no admission charge and the Community Foundation will provide coffee and refreshments. Although the event is free, in order to provide enough refreshments and proper seating, a phone reservation is requested. Please phone the Lafayette Community Foundation reservation and general information number at (925) 284-8214 or send an e-mail reservation request by clicking here.
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Students from San Ramon's California High School Make Documentary About Prescription Drug Abuse
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An Unprescribed Epidemic | The Dangers of Prescription Drugs
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Last year San Ramon's Police Chief Scott Holder met with the police department's Youth Services Unit to discuss the increasing issue of prescription drug abuse by the youth and teenagers in the San Ramon Valley. Wanting to address the issue from a different view point, Chief Holder thought a video made by teenagers could have a big impact on their peers. He was aware of the CAL High Leadership group and their talents in film making. The Chief was able to get funding to assist in purchasing some equipment for the students and their project. In December, the Youth Services Unit met with the students and Teacher Scott Corso, where they pitched the preliminary vision for the film. From there the leadership class ran with the project.
Chief Holder is very proud of the leadership team and is looking forward to sharing the video with police departments and school districts throughout the state.
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Street Smarts "It Happens" Ad Winners
The Street Smarts "It Happens" Campaign is a traffic safety education campaign for teens. This year, "It Happens" challenged teens from the four San Ramon Valley High Schools to create advertisements that promoted different modes of transportation to school. The students had to come up with a catchy slogan and a visual concept. Some students illustrated the ad themselves, and others who designed a concept had a photo shoot with the student as the star. Four winning ads were chosen, all of which will be displayed throughout the San Ramon Valley this fall on County Connection buses, San Ramon street banners, bus shelters, and in local media.
The winners (art shown in the collage above) were: - Michael Ha, Monte Vista High, carpooling category
- Calvin Smith, California High, driving category
- Mary Mitchell, California High, walking category
- Megan Williams, California High, skateboarding category
To keep up with the "It Happens" Campaign, visit the program on Facebook by clicking here. return to articles
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Interested in Participating in Government?
Supervisor Andersen is Seeking Volunteers for County Advisory Boards
Interested and motivated residents are needed to serve on a variety of Contra Costa County citizen advisory boards. These voluntary boards usually meet monthly and advise the Board of Supervisors on a variety of issues. They provide a key communication link between the community and county government.
District 2 includes:
Canyon, Alamo, Danville, Lafayette, Moraga, Orinda, Parkmead, Rossmoor, San Ramon, Saranap, and Walnut Creek (west of Main Street).
Applications are currently being accepted from residents of District 2 for seats on the following boards:
- Economic Opportunity Council
- Mental Health Commission
- County Service Area P-2B Citizens Advisory Committee (Alamo Residents)
- County Service Area P-5 Citizens Advisory Committee (Roundhill Residents)
- Alamo Municipal Advisory Council - Youth Representative
- Contra Costa County Fire Protection District's Fire Advisory Commissioner, Alternate Seat
In addition, there are many At Large Seats available on a variety of advisory bodies. To find out what is available and to fill out an application, visit Contra Costa County on the web by clicking here.
 Supervisor Andersen has an appointment to the Assessment Appeals Board that is coming up for renewal. The Appeals Board is the Board of Equalization for Contra Costa County, with the powers to equalize the valuation of the taxable property in the County for the purpose of taxation, and Review, equalize and adjust penal and escaped assessments on the roll.
The Assessment Appeals Board is made up of five members, one from each Supervisorial District.
To be eligible for these positions, a person must meet the following qualifications:
1) Be knowledgeable in the area of property appraisal and taxation
2) Have a minimum of five years professional experience in California as one of the following:
- Certified Public Accountant or Public Accountant
- Licensed Real Estate Broker
- Attorney
- Property Appraiser accredited by a national professional organization
3) Five-years of experience in California as an appraiser certified by the State Board of Equalization. Certification shall be filed with the Clerk of the Board
A nominee must not have been an employee of an Assessor's Office for at least three years prior to appointment.
Assessment Appeals Board members serve staggered three year terms beginning the first Monday in September. Members may continue to serve as long as sixty days after their term's expiration date on matters on which the Board of Supervisors commenced hearing prior to the expiration of the member's term. They meet as need at 651 Pine Street, Room 105, Martinez CA.
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Board of Supervisors Actions
Ever wonder what your Supervisor does at that weekly Tuesday Board of Supervisors Meeting? Here are some of the board actions from the month of June which impact the residents of District 2:
Interviewed three finalists for appointment to the Contra Costa County Employees' Retirement Association Board of Trustees. Scott Gordon was appointed.
The Board of Supervisors was honored for their continued support to the CC Community College District.
Approved request to allow construction of three retaining walls and other improvements within a scenic easement, for the purpose of repairing landslides on the residential property located at 157 Twin Peaks Drive, Walnut Creek.
Authorized the deletion of certain positions in the CCC Fire Protection District.
Honored The Friends of Discovery Thrift Shop for their 40th Anniversary, as recommended by Supervisor Andersen.
Recognized June 1-7, 2013 as National Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and Automated External Defibrillation (AED) Awareness Week.
Honored Jonni L. Fenner upon her promotion to Assistant Chief, Golden Gate Division, CHP, as recommended by Supervisor Andersen.
Recognized women who serve and served at the Concord Veterans Center Flag Dedication, as recommended by Supervisors Andersen.
Reappointed William Granados to the District II Seat of the CCC Fire Protection District's Fire Advisory Commissioners, as recommended by Supervisor Andersen.
Approved the Iron Horse Corridor Management Program Advisory Committee Bylaws, San Ramon, Danville, Alamo, Walnut Creek, Pleasant Hill and Concord areas.
Honored the following 2013 California Arts Scholars from District 2:
Samantha Fox, San Ramon, California High, Visual Arts
Sharon Lee, Danville, Monte Vista High, Visual Arts
Carlie Meyers, Walnut Creek, Las Lomas High, Visual Arts
Khalia Rehemtulla, Alamo, Monte Vista High, Dance
Sara Roth, Orinda, Miramonte High, Visual Arts
Rachel Su, San Ramon, Dougherty Valley High, Dance
Caroline Whelehan, Lafayette, Acalanes High, Theatre
Hearing on the FY 2013/2014 Annual Report on proposed assessments in County Service Area M-30; confirm the Annual Report and levying the assessments, Danville.
Hearing on the FY 2013/2014 Annual Report on proposed assessments in County Service Area T-1 (Public Transit Services); confirm the Annual Report and levying the assessments, Danville.
Approved the Sycamore Creek Rock and Silt Removal Project; advertise the project; Consider related actions under the California Environmental Quality Act, Danville.
Approved/Authorized the annual Drainage Area Benefit Assessments for FY 2013/14 for Drainage Areas in Walnut Creek, Alamo, Danville, and San Ramon.
Adopted Wiedemann Ranch Geologic Hazard Abatement District (GHAD) budget for FY 2013/2014 and updating GHAD Manager payment limit.
Adopted Wendt Ranch Geologic Hazard Abatement District (GHAD) GHAD budget for FY 2013/2014 and updating GHAD Manager payment limit.
Adopted Canyon Lake Geologic Hazard Abatement District (GHAD) budget for FY 2013/2014 and updating GHAD Manager payment limit.
Recognized Linda Best, President and CEO, upon her retirement from the East Bay Leadership Council.
Reappointed Guita Goudarzi Bahramipour to the District 2 Seat of the Alcohol and Other Drugs Advisory Board of CCC, as recommended by Supervisor Andersen.
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