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Media Pages 
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District 2 Staff
Chief of Staff
Field Representative;
San Ramon &
Email Gayle
Jill Ray
Field Representative;
Canyon, Moraga & Orinda
Lauri Byers
Scheduler, Field Representative;
Lafayette
Donna Maxwell
Field Representative; Alamo & part of Walnut Creek, including; Parkmead, Rossmoor & Saranap
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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Eagle Scout Ceremony
On Sunday, June 15, 2014, Supervisor Andersen, along with Danville Mayor Robert Storer, congratulated scouts in Boy Scout Troop 228 at their Eagle Scout Court of Honor.
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Leadership San Ramon Valley
Graduation Ceremony
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Graduate Geoff Gillette accepts his certificate from Candace.
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On Thursday, June 5, 2014, Leadership San Ramon Valley proudly acknowledged 22 graduates of their annually held program. Supervisor Andersen, Danville Mayor Robert Storer, and San Ramon Vice Mayor Philip O'Loane were all in attendance to offer their words of congratulations to the graduates. Leadership San Ramon Valley is designed to provide current and emerging community leaders with
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Movies Under the Stars Debuts in Orinda
 The votes have been counted and the calendar for Movies Under the Stars series has been set in Orinda.
The kick-off movie for the first season will be "Frozen Sing-a-Long" on July 10th. Then "Muppets Most Wanted" will be shown on July 24th and "Despicable Me 2" on August 14th. "The Lego Movie" will conclude the inaugural Movie Under the Stars series on August 21st. Movies will begin after dark at approximately 8:30 p.m. in July and 8:15 p.m. in August. Bring your blanket, lawn chairs and snacks!
The movies will be shown at the Orinda Community Park, 26 Orinda Way. Movies Under the Stars is sponsored by the Orinda Parks and Recreation Foundation.
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Celebrate our Independence in Your Town
Cities in District 2 are offering some very exciting activities for Independence Day. In Danville, the annual parade sponsored by Kiwanis Club of San Ramon Valley. The City of San Ramon will feature a live music dance band and an armed forces tribute. The Lamorinda area has lots of fun events planned for the entire day. Come enjoy your 4th of July!
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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.
- Remember - Fireworks are illegal in Contra Costa County.
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Help Update the Contra Costa County
Community Wildfire Protection Plan
With a summer of drought ahead, it's time to prepare for wildfires.
- Help update the community wildfire protection plan for Contra Costa County.
- We want your input on wildfire risks and hazards.
- Share your concerns and local knowledge
- Give us your opinion on recommended strategies to reduce risks.
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National Night Out
 National Night Out takes place annually on the first Tuesday of August as America's night out against crime, promoting neighborhood involvement in crime prevention activities, police-community partnerships, and camaraderie in the fight for a safer nation. This year, National Night out is being held on Tuesday, August 5. read more
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July 4th Run San Ramon
 Get a healthy start to your 4th of July with this Independence Day Classic. Enjoy the measured, paved and looped course. The 10K course is a double loop of the 5K course. Participants will receive a short sleeve run shirt and goodies provided by local sponsors. 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. Registration Fee: $40 on Race Day for everyone. Race day registration tables open 6:30-8:00am. Awards: Mayor's Cup awarded to the winning pre-registered San Ramon resident, male & female (5K & 10K). Trophies will be awarded to the winning male and female.
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Volunteers Needed for One-Day Event to Help the Homeless in Contra Costa County
Volunteers are needed for Project Homeless Connect 2014, an annual, one-day event to provide assistance to people who are experiencing homelessness in Contra Costa County. Project Homeless Connect routinely draws more than 1,000 people and provides food, medical and dental care, haircuts, pet care, shelter and many other services.
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Fresh Local Produce in Your Neighborhood
Moraga Farmers Market
Location: Moraga Road and Moraga Lane at Moraga Center
Sundays 9:00am to 1:00pm
Orinda Farmers Market
Location: Orinda Way, Orinda Village
Saturdays 9:00am to 1:00pm
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Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness
This past week, the Board of Supervisors recognized the month of June as Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness Month (ABAM). Worldwide, there are at least 44 million people living with Alzheimer's and other dementias. Everyone is at risk to develop Alzheimer's, and all of us can help to fight it. Please visit the Alzheimer's Association website by clicking here to learn more about the disease and how you can get involved in the fight. Click below to watch a video about Alzheimer's Disease Facts and Figures in 2014.
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Making Your Ride a Little Smoother
You may have noticed some road maintenance in the works between Walnut Creek and Danville.
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Family Camp Out
The Town of Danville will be offering two Family Campouts at Anthony Chabot Regional Park on August 2-3, 2014 and Mt. Diablo State Park on August 16-17, 2014. Participants will enjoy a barbeque, cook with Dutch ovens, and enjoy a night-time star hike.
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Touring the Bus Manufacturing Plant  On June 16, Supervisor Andersen and her summer intern, Jasmine Tsui, toured the GILLIG Bus Manufacturing Factory in Hayward. read more
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Joaquin Moraga Adobe Interactive
Cooking and Dining Experience 
Join the Friends of the Joaquin Moraga Adobe for a hands-on interactive cooking and dining experience in celebration of early California Rancho Cooking on Sunday, July 20, 2014 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Wilder Ranch House in Orinda.
read more
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Contra Costa County Library
Draft Strategic Plan 2014-2017
The Contra Costa County Library Strategic Plan continues the Library's remarkable legacy as a community-driven
organization dedicated to bringing people and ideas together.
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New Regulations on Rodent Poisons
Rodents, such as the Norway rat, the roof rat, and the house mouse, are an issue of public health and safety. These rodents can directly and indirectly transmit a number of diseases  to humans, including bacteria that cause food poisoning. Rodents damage walls, ceilings, and floors with their burrowing and gnawing activity. They regularly gnaw on pipes and electrical wiring causing indoor flooding, equipment malfunctions, and fires.
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Doctors Medical Center Update
from Supervisor Andersen
Since my election two years ago I have suggested that Doctors Medical  Center (Doctors) needs to come up with a sustainable plan for its operation. Doctors is not a County run hospital, but is funded through a special district, the West Contra Costa County Healthcare District which has its own governing board and source of funding. Our County Hospital in Martinez requires $30 million in subsidy from our County General Fund. The County is not in a position to takeover Doctors.
read more
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The Decline of the Delta
 During the summer months, many residents in my District enjoy spending time with friends and family boating on the Delta. It is an important resource to Contra Costa, not just for recreation, but as a source of water and a vital wildlife habitat. More than 23 million Californians and millions of acres of farmland rely on the Delta for all or part of their water supply, and more than 500 species of wildlife depend on it for their habitat.
read more
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 On Saturday, August 16, 2014, the Lafayette Community Foundation invites you to their 6th annual symposium, "Aging by Design."
A wealth of information for seniors and their families will be presented at the sixth annual senior symposium presented by the Lafayette Community Foundation in cooperation with the Lafayette Orinda Presbyterian Church. The goal is to have local experts provide advice on local choices. In addition there will be over 40 vendors available to share information. Coffee and refreshments will be available.
The symposium is being held at the Lafayette Orinda Presbyterian Church, 49 Knox Road, Lafayette California 94549.
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FREE ADMISSION
Register Early to be entered in Raffle: (925) 284 8214
Website:click here
Lafayette, California 94549
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Contra Costa County Hospital Nationally
Recognized for Welcoming Policy
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center Part of National
Campaign to Eliminate Restrictive Visiting Policies
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center (CCRMC) in Martinez is one of only 12 hospitals being recognized nationwide for supporting families as partners in care by eliminating restrictive visiting hours. CCRMC is hailed as an exemplar hospital by the Institute for Patient- and Family-Centered Care (IPFCC) which launched its Better Together campaign today. IPFCC's campaign calls on all hospitals to welcome families 24 hours a day and to transform their approach to care so that patients' families and loved ones are included in care and decision-making, based on patient preferences.
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Supervisor Andersen's Office
Welcomes Home Air Force Servicemen | |
Chief of Staff Gayle Israel thanks Senior Airman Bryce Chilcote,
Staff Sergeant Sean Murphy, and Staff Sergeant Adam Netzel
for their service to our Country
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Saturday, June 21 was a great day for a welcome home celebration at Civic Park in downtown Walnut Creek. Many came out to show their support for three United States Air Force servicemen returning from a tour in Afghanistan. Welcome home ceremonies are arranged by the Diablo Valley Flag Brigade to pay tribute to and show support for returning service members. For more information about the organization and the work they do on behalf of veterans and active service members, click here.
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Restoring the Mount Diablo Beacon
 The Shell Martinez Refinery and Save Mount Diablo collaborated on a documentary about the 2013 project to restore the historic beacon on top of Mount Diablo. The beacon is lit once a year, on Dec. 7, to commemorate the bombing of Pearl Harbor and in honor of our veterans. Shell workers and contract partners volunteered in the restoration effort. A documentary about this experience has been released; you can watch it by clicking here.
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Town of Danville Offers
Social Media Workshop for Business
 The Town of Danville has announced a Free Business Workshop to provide a hands-on approach to launching and maintaining social media sites. The workshop, to be held at the Veterans Memorial Building on the morning of July 22, will offer separate break-out sections to focus on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and LinkedIn.
This workshop will provide subject experts representing each aspect of social media to provide strategies for Danville businesses. In addition to the group leaders, hands on demonstrations and one-on-one tutorials will be offered by a group of juniors and seniors from San Ramon Valley High School. The students will have laptops on hand to offer a step-by-step approach to creating a Facebook page or a Twitter feed, show how to post pictures on Pinterest and Instagram, and show how to create a professional profile on LinkedIn. Registrants can sign up for any or all of the separate sessions.
This workshop, one in a series of programs created by the Town of Danville to promote business success, is free to all local businesspersons. For more information or to register, click here.
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County Development Project Updates
Creekside Memorial Park Cemetery Project
The proposed Creekside Memorial Park Cemetery would occupy 58.7 acres of a 221.66-acre site, which includes an upper garden and a lower garden located on two parcels at 7000 Camino Tassajara in the unincorporated Tassajara Valley area. To learn more click here. No hearing dates have been set yet.
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Volunteers Needed to Sit on
District 2 Advisory Boards
In addition to the District 2 vacancies listed below, Supervisor Andersen would like to draw your attention to the following list of countywide advisory bodies that currently have At Large Seats available, such as the Advisory Council on Aging, Advisory Council on Equal Employment Opportunity, Agricultural Task Force Committee, Countywide Bicycle Committee, County Connection Citizen Advisory Committee, Emergency Medical Care Committee, Family & Children's Trust, Fish & Wildlife Committee, Hazardous Materials Commission, Homelessness Advisory Board, Local Child Care & Development Planning Council, Managed Care Commission, Public & Environmental Health Advisory Board, Commission for Women, and the Workforce Development Board. To apply for any of these seats, you can click on this link: click here.
- Alcohol and Other Drugs Advisory Board - click here
- In Home Support Services Public Authority Advisory Committee - click here
- County Library Commission (1 Alternate Seat) - click here
- Mental Health Commission (1 Consumer Seat) -click here
- Alamo Municipal Advisory Council (1 youth representative-Alamo resident) - click here
- County Service Area P-5 Citizens Advisory Committee (1 Alternate Seat - Residents of: Roundhill, Regency Woods or Windsor Green)
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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:
Recognized fifteen local high school students who were selected to receive the California Arts Scholarship award and to participate in the 28th California State Summer School for the Arts program.
Introduced an ordinance amending the County's Secondhand Smoke Ordinance to prohibit smoking in outdoor areas of County facilities, fixed June 17, 2014 as the date for adoption.
Introduced an ordinance amending the County's Industrial Safety Ordinance, fixed June 17, 2014, for adoption.
Received the FY 14-15 Tentative Annual Report on assessment charges in County Service Area M-30 (Alamo Springs), confirmed the Tentative Annual Report, and assessed the charges specified in the report, Danville.
Authorized a public opinion poll to determine voter preferences and support for a potential countywide sales tax; Authorized working with Contra Costa's legislative representatives to obtain legislation to enable Contra Costa County to place a sales tax measure on the ballot (Supervisors Andersen and Piepho voted against this).
Confirmed the Tentative Report for County Service Area Emergency Medical Services EM-1 and declared intent to levy specified assessments to be collected with the FY 14/15 property taxes.
Received the final Emergency Medical Services Modernization Study report from Fitch & Associates, LLC; Directed return to the Board of Supervisors, with recommended provisions to be included in a request for proposal for emergency ambulance services addressing the report's pertinent findings and recommendation.
Adjourned in memory of Dwight Meadows, Director for Contra Costa Resource Conservation District, Andrew T. Hass Jr. from Alamo, and Curtis Kinney, former Mayor of San Ramon.
Adopted Traffic Resolution to establish a speed limit on Collier Canyon Road, San Ramon.
Awarded/Authorized a construction contract with Grade Tech, Inc. for the Camino Tassajara Shoulder Widening Project, San Ramon.
Approved the purchase of 1193 Danville Blvd., Alamo, from the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District; Authorized the Purchase and Sale Agreement on behalf of the County as recommended by Supervisor Andersen at the request of the Alamo Municipal Advisory Commission.
Acting as the Blackhawk Geologic Hazard Abatement District Governing Board, Adopted Blackhawk GHAD budget for FY 14/15 and updated GHAD Manager payment limit under Consulting Services Agreement, Danville.
Acting as the Wendt Ranch Geologic Hazard Abatement District Governing Board, Adopted Wendt Ranch GHAD budget for FY 14/15 and updated GHAD Manager payment limit under Consulting Services Agreement, Danville.
Acting as the Wiedemann Ranch Geologic Hazard Abatement District Governing Board, Adopted Wiedemann Ranch GHAD budget for FY 14/15 and updated GHAD Manager payment limit under Consulting Services Agreement, San Ramon.
Acting as the Canyon Lakes Geologic Hazard Abatement District Governing Board, Adopted Canyon Lakes GHAD budget for FY 14/15 and updated GHAD Manager payment limit under Consulting Services Agreement, Danville.
Acting as the Wiedemann Ranch Geologic Hazard Abatement District Governing Board, Accepted Petition for Annexation of the Elworthy Ranch development into the existing Wiedemann Ranch GHAD; Accepted the draft Elworthy Ranch Development Annexation Plan of Control; Fixed a public hearing for July 29, 2014 at 9:00am to consider the proposed annexation; Direct the Wiedemann Ranch GHAD Clerk to provide notice of the hearing.
Recognized June 1-7, 2014 as National Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and Automated External Defibrillation (AED) Awareness Week.
Appointed Roger Bass to the District II seat of the Contra Costa County Aviation Advisory Committee, as recommended by Supervisor Andersen.
Reappointed Primo Facchini to the Trustee 2 seat on the Alamo-Lafayette Cemetery District Board of Directors, as recommended by Supervisor Andersen.
Authorized a letter presenting the County's comments on the Draft Bay Delta Conservation Plan and associated Draft Environmental Impact Report and Environmental Impact Statement, Direct staff to submit the letter and detailed comments to the California Natural Resources Agency prior to the June 13, 2014 deadline.
Approved/Authorized the Veterans Services Director to apply for and accept funding from the California Department of Veterans Affairs for mental health outreach and support services.
Approved/Authorized a contract with California Psychiatric Transitions Incorporated to provide residential care and mental health services to severely emotionally disturbed adults.
Referred to the Public Protection Committee a review of Ordinance Code Chapter 82-38 entitled "Alcoholic Beverage Sales Commercial Activities", to determine whether the Code should be amended to address certain alcoholic beverage products that may contribute to nuisance activities in the County.
Recognized dispatchers and emergency responders for their roles in managing a multi-casualty incident.
Accepted report on the status of the Fire Station 46 project proposal and a concept for cost sharing between ConFire and Moraga-Orinda Fire Protection District for the construction, maintenance, operation and staffing of the fire station; Directed the Fire Chief to take steps necessary to formalize an agreement with Moraga-Orinda Fire Protection District for the construction, maintenance, operation, and staffing of Fire Station 46, for subsequent review and approval by the Board of Directors.
Accepted a report from the Fire Chief providing a status summary for ongoing ConFire District activities and initiatives.
Received presentation on the implementation of "Ban the Box," officially known as AB 218 (California Labor Code Section 432.9).
Approved a property tax transfer agreement between the County and the West Contra Costa Healthcare District for the transfer of up to $8.2 million of property tax revenues from West Contra Costa Healthcare District to the County; and considered appropriation and transfer of up to $6 million of County general purpose revenues to West Contra Costa County Healthcare District to support continued health care services to the community served by Doctors Medical Center.
Amended the County's Industrial Safety Ordinance; Approved related actions.
Amended the County's Secondhand Smoke Ordinance to prohibit smoking in outdoor areas of County facilities.
Reappointed Renee Zeimer to the District II Public Sector seat on the Economic Opportunity Council, as recommended by Supervisor Andersen.
Reappointed Erling Horn to the District II Alternate seat on the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District Fire Advisory Commission, as recommended by Supervisor Andersen.
Reappointed Diane C. Riise to the District II seat on the Contra Costa County Library Commission, as recommended by Supervisor Andersen.
Appointed Jill Winspear to the Appointee 3 Seat on the Alamo Municipal Advisory Council, as recommended by Supervisor Andersen.
Appointed Nina Clark as the Orinda Local Committee Representative on the Advisory Council on Aging.
Approved/Authorized the Fifth Amendment to the Memorandum of Understanding between Contra Costa County, the City of San Ramon and the Contra Costa Community College District, for the operation of the Dougherty Station Library located at 17017 Bollinger Canyon Road, San Ramon, to enable the County to operate the Library for FY 14/15.
Approved/Authorized a Library Services Technology Act "Pitch An Idea" grant from California State Library to produce a Veterans Community Story/Exhibit.
Approved the County Social Media Policy and take related administrative actions.
Proclaimed the month of June as National Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month.
Recognized the 50th Anniversary of the Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
Presented the People Who Make a Difference Awards, acknowledging individuals that have significantly contributed towards reducing substance abuse in Contra Costa communities.
Considered the presentation on the Contra Costa County Library's Strategic Plan 2014-2017.
Received presentation on results of public opinion poll on potential countywide sales tax and provide
direction to County Administrator on any follow-up actions.
Awarded/Authorized a construction contract with Breneman, Inc. for the Stone Valley Road Bike Lane Gap Closure Project, Alamo.
Accepted bid from Francis James and Stephanie J. Regan for the purchase of 1420 Livorna Road, Alamo; Approved/Authorized the Option Agreement and any necessary extensions and the Grant Deed, Alamo.
Vacated/quitclaimed portions of Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District easements along San Ramon Creek encumbering Quail Court, Walnut Creek.
Approved/Authorized the annual Drainage Area Benefit Assessments for FY 14/15 for Drainage Areas: Walnut Creek, Alamo, Danville, and San Ramon.
Amended 1/14/14 Board action (item D.3), which adopted the 2014 Federal Legislative Platform, to include support for improved funding and care for U.S. military veterans and families.
Approved/Authorized a contract amendment with ECS Imaging, Inc. for increased production of indexing electronic land use project and building permit files to enable internet access for the public.
Approved/Authorized "Read Your Fines Away at the Library" program to provide teens an opportunity to "read down their fines" during Teen Read Week, for the period October 12-18, 2014.
Accepted report on the planning and preparations for the Bi-annual East Bay Stand Down for Homeless Veterans.
Recognized the first Tuesday in August as National Night Out, "America's Night Out Against Crime," Supported efforts of unincorporated communities in Contra Costa County to participate in National Night Out; Directed issuance of no fee permits for road closures for National Night Out events providing certain criteria are met.
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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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Eagle Scout Ceremony
On Sunday, June 15, 2014, Supervisor Andersen, along with Danville Mayor Robert Storer, congratulated scouts in Boy Scout Troop 228 at their Eagle Scout Court of Honor. Weston Nearon, Jared Robins, Kevin Auman and Shane Gunari were all presented with their Eagle Award. Each young man spent many years learning how to better serve their community, learning effective character, citizenship, and achieving personal fitness training goals.
An Eagle candidate must complete four things prior to his 18th birthday:
- complete his project and get it signed off
- complete all merit badges
- have a Scoutmaster conference
- complete his 6 months of position of responsibility
Each of these young men are an example of integrity, honor and selflessness.
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Leadership San Ramon Valley Graduation Ceremony
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Graduate Geoff Gillette accepts his certificate from Candace.
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Graduate Cynthia Ruzzi, Rotarian Leslie Steller, keynote speaker and LSRV board member Kathy Chiverton and Candace.
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On Thursday, June 5, 2014, Leadership San Ramon Valley proudly acknowledged 22 graduates of their annually held program. Supervisor Andersen, Danville Mayor Robert Storer, and San Ramon Vice Mayor Philip O'Loane were all in attendance to offer their words of congratulations to the graduates. Leadership San Ramon Valley is designed to provide current and emerging community leaders with the information and skills necessary to appreciate the resources, understand the issues, manage the challenges and lead in the rapidly evolving business, political, educational, cultural and social environment of the San Ramon Valley. Participants meet once a month in day-long seminars and concentrate on issues affecting the San Ramon Valley. Over a ten month period a different topic is highlighted at each of the monthly sessions at which community leaders share their insights and class members interact through projects and fieldwork. If you are interested in learning more about Leadership San Ramon Valley, click here.
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Celebrate our Independence in Your Town
Cities in District 2 are offering some very exciting activities for Independence Day. In Danville, the annual parade sponsored by Kiwanis Club of San Ramon Valley. The City of San Ramon will feature a live music dance band and an armed forces tribute. The Lamorinda area has lots of fun events planned for the entire day. Come enjoy your 4th of July!
Danville
9:00 a.m. on Friday, July 4th-The parade runs from the corner of Hartz Avenue and Railroad Avenue, continues down Hartz and San Ramon Valley Boulevard, and ends at the corner of San Ramon Valley Boulevard and Sycamore Valley Road. For more information click here.
San Ramon
The festivities begin in the morning with a fun 5k or 10k run starting at 8:15 a.m. In the evening enjoy a concert in the park from 4:30 - 7:30 p.m. in San Ramon Central Park, 12501 Alcosta Blvd - The San Ramon Symphonic Band will play followed by David Martin's House Party. The armed forces tribute will honor local veterans and active duty military. For more information click here.
Orinda
There are events for every age group starting with the annual Pancake Breakfast, flag raising ceremony, fun run, parade, live music, food, games and booths in the park following the parade at the Orinda Park/Community Center, 26 Orinda Way. Click here for a schedule and more information.
Moraga
Enjoy a full day of food, parades, fun and games at the Commons Park. The day of entertainment starts with a fun run/walk, pancake breakfast, dog parade, children's bike parade, old-fashioned kids' games, magic show, jumpies, food booths, free concert with BUSTA Groove, and ends with a bang with FIREWORKS! Click here for details and additional information.
Walnut Creek
Celebrate the 4th with the Walnut Creek Concert Band in Civic Park (1375 Civic Drive) and enjoy an ice cream social with the City's former mayors. It's free! Bring your own picnic dinner. Root beer floats will be served from 5-6 p.m. and again from 7-7:30 p.m. The concert will be from 6-7 p.m. Click here for more information.
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Help Update the Contra Costa County
Community Wildfire Protection Plan
With a summer of drought ahead, it's time to prepare for wildfires.
- Help update the community wildfire protection plan for Contra Costa County.
- We want your input on wildfire risks and hazards.
- Share your concerns and local knowledge
- Give us your opinion on recommended strategies to reduce risks.
Participate in the survey by clicking here.
Share your knowledge, test your wildfire awareness and learn more about what you can do to reduce the threat of wildfire. A Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) is a collaboratively developed plan that identifies wild land fire hazards, prioritizes ways to reduce those hazards and recommends measures for homeowners and communities to reduce ignitability of structures. The Diablo Fire Safe Council is working with local fire departments, agencies, homeowner groups and others to update the 2009 Contra Costa County CWPP. For more information contact
Cheryl Miller, (510) 282-1265
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National Night Out
National Night Out takes place annually on the first Tuesday of August as America's night out against crime, promoting neighborhood involvement in crime prevention activities, police-community partnerships, and camaraderie in the fight for a safer nation. This year, National Night out is being held on Tuesday, August 5. The traditional "lights on" campaign and front porch vigils turned into a celebration across America with various events and activities including block parties, cookouts visits from emergency personnel and safety demonstrations to heighten awareness, enhance community relations and send a message to criminals - letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back! Click here for more information. Many Neighborhood Watch groups are planning special events, such as pot-lucks, block parties and ice cream socials. The Lamorinda communities, the Town of Danville, and the City of San Ramon are all participating. return to articles
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Volunteers Needed for One-Day Event to Help the Homeless in Contra Costa County Volunteers are needed for Project Homeless Connect 2014, an annual, one-day event to provide assistance to people who are experiencing homelessness in Contra Costa County. Project Homeless Connect routinely draws more than 1,000 people and provides food, medical and dental care, haircuts, pet care, shelter and many other services.
Thousands of people experience homelessness every night in Contra Costa County. Project Homeless Connect provides critical services to assist people who are experiencing homelessness become self-sufficient.
The August 6 event is coordinated by Contra Costa Health Services' (CCHS) Behavioral Health Division and co-sponsored this year by the City of Richmond and Chevron, and held at Richmond Memorial Auditorium, 403 Civic Center Plaza.
Project Homeless Connect is made possible each year through the efforts of hundreds of volunteers, who engage with participants, ensure that lines move smoothly, provide services, staff tables, serve meals and distribute donations to our consumers.
Anyone 18 or older can sign up. Volunteers are needed for setup the day before the event, August 5 from noon to 5:00 p.m., and on the day of event, August 6 for a half-day shift (6:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.) or a full-day shift (6:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.). Meals are provided August 6. Volunteers will be provided with training and instructions.
Anyone interested in volunteering is urged to contact the Homeless Program as soon as possible. Early sign-ups help staff to plan and keep track of areas of need. To volunteer or learn more, click here or call 925-313-7700.
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Fresh Local Produce in Your Neighborhood
Moraga Farmers Market
Location: Moraga Road and Moraga Lane at Moraga Center
Sundays 9:00am to 1:00pm
Orinda Farmers Market
Location: Orinda Way, Orinda Village
Saturdays 9:00am to 1:00pm
Lafayette Farmers Market
Location: Lafayette BART Station, South Parking Lot off
Happy Valley Road
Sundays 9:00am to 1:00pm
Rossmoor Farmers Market
Location: Gateway Clubhouse parking lot on the corner of Golden Rain Road and Tice Creek Drive
Fridays 9:00am to 1:00pm NEW! Alamo Farmers Market
Join Candace at the Ribbon Cutting on July 27
Location: Alamo Plaza Shopping Center,
Danville Blvd & Stone Valley Road
Sundays 9:00am to 1:00pm Walnut Creek Farmers Market
Location: North Locust between Lacassie St & Giammona St
Sundays 9:00am to 1:00pm
Danville Farmers Market
Location: Railroad & Prospect Avenue
Saturday, year-round, rain or shine, from 9:00am to 1:00pm
San Ramon Farmers Markets
Saturday market: 2680 Bishop Drive, Saturday 9:00am to 1:00pm
Thursday market: 2641 Camino Ramon, 10:00am to 2:00pm
NEW! Wednesday market: 3-8 p.m. San Ramon Sports Park, 5261 Sherwood Way - will feature about 20 vendors, including local Asian growers, hot prepared foods, and other artisan foods.
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Making Your Ride a Little Smoother
You may have noticed some road maintenance in the works between Walnut Creek and Danville. The County is repairing base failures and then following up with a new micro-surfacing application. Stone Valley Road from Danville Blvd to Stone Valley Way is also getting a resurfacing. In order to minimize the disruption of traffic, the scheduling of the micro-surfacing application will be done at night for both locations. Electronic message boards will be up at least 48 hours prior to each phase of work, letting drivers know of the upcoming work.
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Family Camp Out
The Town of Danville will be offering two Family Campouts at Anthony Chabot Regional Park on August 2-3, 2014 and Mt. Diablo State Park on August 16-17, 2014. Participants will enjoy a barbeque, cook with Dutch ovens, and enjoy a night-time star hike.
Dust off the family tent, grab some camp chairs and come out for one of these exciting events. Space is limited; registration is underway.
To sign up, click here and enter #32608 for the Oak Hill Park Family Camp out, #32609 for the Anthony Chabot Family Camp out for August 2-3 and #33920 for the Mt. Diablo Family Camp out for August 16-17. All family members who attend must register. See you under the stars! |
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Touring the Bus Manufacturing Plant On June 16, Supervisor Andersen and her summer intern, Jasmine Tsui, toured the GILLIG Bus Manufacturing Factory in Hayward. Candace serves on the County Connection Board of Directors and GILLIG is the company that produces the buses that County Connection and many other transit agencies use. For several hours Candace and Jasmine had the opportunity to get an inside view on how the buses are manufactured here in the East Bay. It takes approximately nine days to build a bus, and each day 7 buses are started and 7 completed. Buses are built to the specifications requested of each transit agency. At the end of the tour they were able to inspect a newly manufactured County Connection bus. return to articles
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Joaquin Moraga Adobe Interactive
Cooking and Dining Experience Join the Friends of the Joaquin Moraga Adobe for a hands-on interactive cooking and dining experience in celebration of early California Rancho Cooking on Sunday, July 20, 2014 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Wilder Ranch House in Orinda. Built in 1841, the Joaquin Moraga Adobe in Orinda is the oldest surviving building in Contra Costa County. It has been recognized as a California State and National Historic Landmark. The Friends of the Joaquin Moraga Adobe are dedicated to preserving this important landmark and working to provide community access to the building and grounds. Tickets are $150 per person; all proceeds benefit the Friends of the Joaquin Moraga Adobe. For more information on the event and to make a reservation click here.
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Contra Costa County Library Draft Strategic Plan 2014-2017
The Contra Costa County Library Strategic Plan continues the Library's remarkable legacy as a community-driven organization dedicated to bringing people and ideas together. Using extensive input from community members, the plan identifies a vibrant vision of library services along with goals and objectives taken directly from research findings.
The Library's Strategic Plan will guide the library over the next three years in prioritizing its resources, manpower, programming and efforts. Created with the input and direction of the communities the Library serves, the plan will be a powerful tool in tailoring, reshaping and rethinking how library services, facilities and programs support the needs of the community.
To see strategic plan presentation shown to the Board of Supervisors on June 24, click here.
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New Regulations on Rodent Poisons
Rodents, such as the Norway rat, the roof rat, and the house mouse, are an issue of public health and safety. These rodents can directly and indirectly transmit a number of diseases to humans, including bacteria that cause food poisoning. Rodents damage walls, ceilings, and floors with their burrowing and gnawing activity. They regularly gnaw on pipes and electrical wiring causing indoor flooding, equipment malfunctions, and fires.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EEPA) and the California Department of Pesticide Regulation have recently put serious restrictions on rodent poisons. For more information on these restrictions from the EPA click here, and for more information on California regulations click here.
So how do I protect myself from rodents?
The best defense against rats and mice is using an integrated pest management (IPM) approach. IPM focuses on prevention and tries to make use of simultaneous, multiple control tactics. For the control of rodents, the most important actions are eliminating access to the structure by pest-proofing, and reducing food and harborage through sanitation. If a rodent infestation occurs, trapping should be used to remove the animals. To read the full version of this article click here click here.
Prepared by Tanya Drlik, IPM Coordinator, Contra Costa County
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The Decline of the Delta
During the summer months, many residents in my District enjoy spending time with friends and family boating on the Delta. It is an important resource to Contra Costa, not just for recreation, but as a source of water and a vital wildlife habitat. More than 23 million Californians and millions of acres of farmland rely on the Delta for all or part of their water supply, and more than 500 species of wildlife depend on it for their habitat. The eastern portion of Contra Costa County is located within the Delta and the County's entire northern border is bounded by waterfront that flows from the Delta to the Bay. Contra Costa County lies at the heart of the Bay-Delta region and the future of this nationally significant resource substantially influences the future of our County.
The Delta is an important link in California's water supply system. Two of the state's biggest water projects depend on Delta waterways to convey water from Northern California rivers to pumping facilities in the southern Delta. Delta levees play a critical role in preventing salty water from the San Francisco Bay from intruding into the Delta and contaminating the fresh water that supplies communities and farms. Unfortunately, the health of the Delta has not been a priority given the state's increasing demand for water. Numerous studies have shown that an ailing Delta is detrimental to our health, safety, and welfare and current indicators show a significant decline.
The Board of Supervisors approved an updated Delta Water Platform on May 13th of this year as a way of advocating the County's views about stewardship of the Delta. The Platform was first adopted by the Board of Supervisors in August of 2008 and establishes the County's policy positions. It has been updated to better address current events in and around the Delta, including serious concerns about the State's proposed "twin tunnels" and lack of water storage.
This updated Platform enables the County to more effectively advocate for reliability, restoration, and resilience in California water. Supervisors Karen Mitchoff and Mary Piepho have provided great leadership on Delta issues for Contra Costa County. Supervisor Piepho is Chair of Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta Conservancy, sits on the Delta Protection Commission, the Delta Counties Coalition and the East County Water Management Association. Supervisor Mitchoff sits on the Delta Protection Commission and the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta Conservancy Board. To view the Contra Costa County Delta Water Platform, see my website homepage at www.cccounty.us/district2.
Recently, the California Department of Water Resources released the Draft Bay Delta Conservation Plan (BDCP) for public review and comment. It is intended to be a comprehensive conservation strategy aimed at protecting dozens of species of fish and wildlife, while permitting the operation of California's two biggest water delivery projects. However, the County believes the current BDCP proposal is inadequate. One significant issue is that it does not include additional storage for water to be captured during wetter months, and less during dry months. There is also concern that the current plan would reduce freshwater inflows to the Delta and further degrade the ecosystem. We want a healthy Delta and support projects and actions to improve the Delta ecosystem and economic conditions of the Delta.
If you're interested, the BDCP Draft documents are available to view online at www.baydeltaconservationplan.com. The public comment period for the BDCP has been extended to
July 29, 2014 and you may submit comments at that same site should you want to make your views known.
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Doctors Medical Center Update
from Supervisor Andersen
Since my election two years ago I have suggested that Doctors Medical Center (Doctors) needs to come up with a sustainable plan for its operation. Doctors is not a County run hospital, but is funded through a special district, the West Contra Costa County Healthcare District which has its own governing board and source of funding. Our County Hospital in Martinez requires $30 million in subsidy from our County General Fund. The County is not in a position to takeover Doctors.
On June 3 I voted against hiring a consultant for $45,000 to poll voters in order to place a countywide sales tax measure on the November 2014 ballot. I viewed the sales tax option as a way to continue Doctors' "business as usual" model and force the rest of the County to subsidize a hospital which can't break even because it has a poor, outdated model. Thus, I opposed the polling and the potential for a sales tax, and still do. A majority of the Board of Supervisors approved spending the $45,000 and a consultant was hired.
The following week Doctors' Board Members approached me and told me that West County Healthcare board members and the heads of various hospitals were working together to fashion a plan to have Doctors "live within its means" and create a new model of operation. Something very scaled back, potentially even a stand-alone Emergency Room which would not be dependent upon a Countywide sales tax.
However, in order for them to implement the plan they need to wind down operations and could not entirely cease doing business or they would: 1) Lose their Medicare Number, which is how they are paid for rendering services to many patients, and if lost, could take several years regain it; and 2) Lose all revenue from one of their current parcel taxes as it would immediately cease if the hospital closed. The opportunity to create a new model would be lost.
On June 17th, with my support, the Board of Supervisors approved an advance on the Healthcare District's property taxes in the amount of $6 million. Up to $6 million can be transferred from our General Fund and will be repaid to the County through a property tax transfer from the Healthcare District. When the property taxes are collected, they will go directly to the County, not to Doctors. It will automatically be paid back to the County in an amount of $8.2M. Legal Counsel opined that should Doctors file for bankruptcy, the chance of our obligation being discharged was very remote. Even if the hospital was to close, until the Special District is dissolved, those property taxes would still be collected by the County.
Thus, I felt the risk to the County, and especially taxpayers, was very low and there is finally a possibility that Doctors can reinvent itself to be sustainable and still provide some higher level of medical care to that part of our County. It should be noted that there are also two County operated medical clinics in West County which will continue to provide medical services to residents.
On June 24, 2014 the results of the $45,000 sales tax survey were received. The Board of Supervisors unanimously agreed that a County wide sales tax should not go on this November's ballot. The polling confirmed my belief that there would not be enough support for it to be successful. I continue to be hopeful that Doctors and its partners will come up with a new model of service delivery which will be sustainable without additional taxpayer subsidy.
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Contra Costa County Hospital Nationally
Recognized for Welcoming Policy
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center Part of National
Campaign to Eliminate Restrictive Visiting Policies
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center (CCRMC) in Martinez is one of only 12 hospitals being recognized nationwide for supporting families as partners in care by eliminating restrictive visiting hours. CCRMC is hailed as an exemplar hospital by the Institute for Patient- and Family-Centered Care (IPFCC) which launched its Better Together campaign today. IPFCC's campaign calls on all hospitals to welcome families 24 hours a day and to transform their approach to care so that patients' families and loved ones are included in care and decision-making, based on patient preferences.
CCRMC Chief Executive Officer Anna Roth said it was an honor to be selected, and the county hospital implemented a "welcoming" policy nine months ago, eliminating restrictive visiting policies and changing the concept of families as "visitors."
Studies and hospitals' experience show that having family and loved ones present reduces patient complications and stress and improves the patient's experience of care in the hospital, said Beverley Johnson, IPFCC President and CEO.
Roth said one experience that contributed to CCRMC's decision to change was when a young boy wasn't allowed to be with his grandfather, who had raised him, in the ICU because it was after visiting hours. The grandfather passed away and the two lost the chance to say goodbye.
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and its 10 health centers are part of a comprehensive county health system, Contra Costa Health Services. For more information on CCRMC and its welcoming policy, click here. For more information about IPFCC and the Better Together campaign, click here.
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County Development Project Updates
Creekside Memorial Park Cemetery Project
The proposed Creekside Memorial Park Cemetery would occupy 58.7 acres of a 221.66-acre site, which includes an upper garden and a lower garden located on two parcels at 7000 Camino Tassajara in the unincorporated Tassajara Valley area. To learn more click here. No hearing dates have been set yet.
Tassajara Parks (formerly "New Farm") Project
The project site involves 771 acres of land located along Camino Tassajara, east of the City of San Ramon and Town of Danville, in the unincorporated Tassajara Valley. The project is composed of two different areas of land, which arereferred to as the "Southern Site" and the "Northern Site". The Southern Site consists of approximately 616 acres, which is situated on the western side of Camino Tassajara south of Finley Road. The Northern Site consists of the remain ing 155 acres of the Project Site, which is situated less than one-half mile to the north, on the north side of Camino Tassajara east of the Blackhawk subdivision and Tassajara Hills Elementary School.
On the Northern Site the Applicant proposes 152 single-family homes on 30-acres, immediately east of the Blackhawk subdivision and Tassajara Hills Elementary School. In addition to this residential component the Project would entail the creation of a trail, two staging areas and a detention basin. The remainder of the Northern Site, approximately 115 acres, would be dedicated as Open Space.
On the Southern Site the Applicant proposes 5-acres for use by the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District and 5-acres of use by the San Ramon Valley Unified School District, with the remainder of the Southern Site, approximately 606 acres, transferred to East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD) for use as open space land, pending negotiations and acceptance by the EBRPD.
The Project Site is located outside the Contra Costa County Urban Limit Line (ULL). The applicant is requesting to adjust the Urban Limit Line for the 30 acres of land located on the Northern Site, and that is proposed for residential development, pursuant to Contra Costa County Code section 82-1.018 (a) (4) & (b). To learn more click here. There is a second scoping meeting for the environmental impact report on Monday, July 7 at 3:30pm at 30 Muir Road.
Saranap Village
The County Planning Department is working on finishing up the draft Environmental Impact Report (EIR) and plan on publishing it next month. Click here to visit the Saranap Village page on the County Department of Conservation and Development website.
A link to the draft EIR will be posted under the Resources and Documents heading once it is published. No hearing dates have been set yet.
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