To provide some helpful information to anyone,anywhere in the nation, who might have a chance to volunteer for a County (or equivalent) Commissioner position. Paragraph 5, below, offers some links to help those who might seriously consider applying -- by suggesting some information which I think I would consider, were I they.
To pass on an important announcement that speaks directly to the residents of Contra Costa County, California. Here is a link to Contra Costa's Board of Supervisors Appointed Bodies, Committees and Commissions, website page. THE ANNOUNCEMENT IS IN PARAGRAPH 4, BELOW
2. A Very Big Deal
County Commissioner!! (or State or City Commissioner and others, too) What an opportunity to serve in a big way. To position oneself to help attract and dispense goodness across a significant territory and populace. You know what they say. "That the greatest rewards in this life are best found by serving others, to the best of one's abilities." For the right person, under the right circumstances, this could be a chance to serve and thrive, in a big way.
I tell you, if I weren't committed to this Civic Mentor project -- which tries to multiply and optimize the capacity in all (including myself) -- to serve self and others -- in all life-aspects -- I would apply in a heartbeat, if circumstance permitted. I'm certain of it. I believe it's that big a deal to try it, at least once. For this is a priceless opportunity to learn and do something valuable and lasting and UNIQUE.
Today, I received the embedded press release, below, from my friend, Ed Diokno -- another key part of Supervisor Glover's team -- when I felt inspired to do a little "legwork" for you -- for US -- for U.S.
3. It seems to me
That the quality of a nation's life has a lot to do with the quality of its volunteer-spirit -- and, I think this helps explain America's greatness. We tend to pitch-in, when it makes sense, because we are free to do so or not. And, when there's the will, and the freedom to express it, someone will find a way and do the thing.
4. Here, then, is the Announcement of Openings the Supervisor needs us to help fill: Please note the 11/21/14 deadline.
5. Here are some links you might like to look over -- just general stuff to help you explore the notion -- the playing field -- and see a bit of what it contains:
to consider doing some, all, or none of these (sounds like a huge worklist, but that's probably just because they are individually itemized -- many surely overlap and can be done, simultaneously):
Attend some public Commission-meetings (of different types, since knowledge tends to be transferable, in its nature) -- and watch job-performance in action.
Seek sufficient information to build confidence and see where more homework is indicated.
Talk with some County Supervisors and Commissioners -- perhaps, current and former officials -- ask for briefings, interviews, tours, literature, suggestions, etc. -- some of the challenges of the job, current and past -- someone might even agree to become a mentor.
Chat it up with friends and neighbors and City, State,and other officials and civic activists one is able to encounter.
Research the news media for pertinent articles and data.
Exploit the public and private access available on the social networks.
And, of course, the County website and Wikipedia, etc. discussions.
AND THIS CAN'T HELP BUT BE A POWERFUL SWEETENER ON ANY RESUME OR C.V., DON'T YOU THINK?
Our little secret in the Bay Area is that the best weather is in the fall, giving us an Indian Summer into November. But as our weather transitions to brisker, colder and wetter weather, we still are fortunate that wed don't have to suffer the winter snowstorms and freezes prevalent in the midwest and eastern seaboard. The picture above was taken by my Chief of Staff, David Fraser, at the Pittsburg waterfront. It is a fitting photo since the launching of the Northern Waterfront Economic Development Initiative which had its first summit on Jan. 10, 2014 in Antioch.
FALL/WINTER
EDITION
District V includes
the cities of Antioch, Hercules, Martinez, Pinole and Pittsburg, and the communities of Alhambra Valley, Bay Point, Briones, Clyde, Crockett, Mt. View, Pacheco, Port Costa, Reliez Valley, Rodeo, Tormey and Vine Hill
Despite economic challenges, the Board of Supervisors has been able to accomplish a great deal last year and laid the foundation for an even better year in 2014.
Contra Costa County's future lays in the northern waterfront
History-making forum launches supervisor's initiative
Hundreds of people representing business, industry, parks, the cities and state gathered to discuss the potential of Contra Costa's northern waterfront. (See photo above)
Supervisor Glover surprised the hundreds of parade watchers at the annual Pittsburg Christmas Parade when he appeared in a customized car, complete with hydraulic lifts. When he greeted the crowd in front of the viewing bandstand, the car jumped up and down, front and back and left and right.
New health center helps integrate Obamacare & county health care
The expansion of a Contra Costa County health center in Concord is an example of health care reform taking shape at the local level.
Supervisor Federal Glover helps hand out turkeys to senior citizens.
Supervisor Glover delivers: 1500 turkeys to District V residents
Fourth bore opening
The Caldecott Tunnel's fourth boar opened with Rep. George Miller (top) and Supervisors Candace Anderson and Karen Mitchoff joining the supervisor at the ribbon-cutting ceremonies November 17.
County awarded DOJ's Second Chance grant for former inmates
For the second year in a row, Contra Costa County was chosen to receive a $750,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Justice to reduce recidivism among former inmates. Supervisor Glover played a key role in securing the grant.
Workshop on Writing A Successful Grant Application. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Los Medanos College, Room L109, Pittsburg. (925-335-8200)
April 5
Convoy of Hope, 8 a.m.-4 p.m., Rio Vista Elementary School, 611 Pacifica Ave., Bay Point. (925-798-1808)
May 3
Supervisor Glover's Youth Summit, 8 a.m.-4 p.m., Los Medanos College, 2000 East Leleand Road, Pittsburg. (925-335-8200)
April 19
Spring Extravaganza/Egg Hunt, 8:30 a.m.-noon, Ambrose Community Center, 3105 Willow Pass Road, Bay Point. (925-458-1601)
May 26
Memorial Day Observance/Derby Parade, 9 a.m., Ambrose Park & Recreation Center, 3105 Willow Pass Road, Bay Point.
June 21
Unity in Community, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Ambrose Park & Recreation Center, 3105 Willow Pass Road, Bay Point. (925-687-8844 x240)
Government meetings
Antioch
Antioch Unified School District: 7 p.m., second and fourth Wednesdays, district offices, 510 G St. 925-706-4100.
Antioch Area Public Facilities Financing Agency (Mello-Roos District): 7 p.m., Antioch Unified School District boardroom, 510 G Street. 776-2030. Meets every other month, first Monday. Call to confirm meeting date.
City Council: 7 p.m., second and fourth Tuesdays, City Hall, Third and H streets.
Parks and Recreation Commission: 7 p.m., second Thursday, City Hall, Third and H streets. 925-779-7070, Ext. 0.
Bay Point
Municipal Advisory Council: 7 p.m., first Tuesday, Ambrose Community Center, 3105 Willow Pass Road. 925-458-1601.
Ambrose Park and Recreation District: 6:30 p.m., second Thursday, Ambrose Center: 3105 Willow Pass Road, Bay Point. 925-458-1601 orwww.ambroserec.org
Mt. Diablo Unified School District: 2nd and 4th Monday, 7:30 p.m., Board Room at the Dent Center, 1936 Carlotta Drive, Concord.
Crockett
Crockett Community Services District: 7 p.m., every 4th Wednesday, Crockett Community Center, 850 Pomona St. 510-787-2992.
Crockett Community Foundation: 7 p.m., every 1st Thursday, Crockett Community Center, 850 Pomona St. 510-787-9708
Crockett Improvement Association: 7 p.m., every 1st Tuesday, Crockett Community Center, 850 Pomona St. 510-357-9493
Crockett Recreation Commission: 7 p.m., every 3rd Monday, Crockett Community Center, 850 Pomona St. 510-787-2414
Crockett Sanitary Commission: 7 p.m., every 3rd Wednesday, Crockett Community Center, 850 Pomona. 510-787-2992
John Swett Unified School District: 6:30 p.m., every 2nd Wednesday, School District Office, 400 Parker Ave., Rodeo, 510-245-4300
Hercules
City Council: 7 p.m. 2nd & 4th Tuesdays, City Hall council chamber, 111 Civic Drive. 510-799-8200.
Community and Library Services Commission: 7 p.m. 2nd Mondays,City Hall council chamber, 111 Civic Drive. 510- 799-8228
Planning Commission: 7 p.m., 1st & 3rd Mondays, City Hall council chamber, 111 Civic Crive. 510-799-6529.
West Contra Costa Unified School District: 6:30 p.m., 1st & 3rdWednesdays, Lavonya DeJean Middle School Multipurpose Room, 3400 Macdonald Ave., Richmond. 510-231-1101.
Martinez
City Council: 7 p.m. 1st & 3rd Wednesdays, Council chambers, 525 Henrietta St., 925-372-3500
West Contra Costa Unified School District: 6:30 p.m., 1st & 3rdWednesdays, Lavonya DeJean Middle School Multipurpose Room, 3400 Macdonald Ave., Richmond. 510-231-1101.
Pittsburg
City Council: 7 p.m., first and third Mondays, council chamber, third floor, City Hall, 65 Civic Ave, 925-252-4850.
Planning Commission: 7 p.m., second and fourth Tuesdays, City Hall, 65 Civic Ave. 925-252-4920.
Pittsburg Unified School District: 7:30 p.m., second and fourth Wednesdays, 2000 Railroad Ave.
Los Medanos Community Healthcare District: 6:30 p.m., 2nd Mondays, 2311 Loveridge Road, Pittsburg. 925-432-2200
Port Costa
Port Costa Sanitary Commission: 7 p.m., every 2nd Wednesday, Port Costa School, Plaza El Hombre, 510-787-2992.
John Swett Unified School District: 6:30 p.m., every 2nd Wednesday, School District Office,400 Parker Ave., 510-245-4300
Rodeo
Municipal Advisory Council: 7 p.m., 4th Thursday, Rodeo Senior Center, 189 Parker Avenue. 510-374-7101
R-10 District: 7 p.m., 2nd Monday, Lefty Gomez Field Clubhouse.
John Swett Unified School District: 6:30 p.m., every 2nd Wednesday, School District Office,400 Parker Ave., 510-245-4300.
County & Regional
Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors: 9 a.m., first four Tuesdays, Room 107, County Administration Building, 651 Pine St., Martinez. 925-646-2371.
Contra Costa Transit Authority: 6 p.m., third Wednesday, 2999 Oak Road, Suite 100, Walnut Creek. 925-256-4734.
County Connection: 9 a.m., every 3rd Thursday. 2477 Arnold Industrial Way, Concord. 925-676-1976,
Contra Costa County Local Agency Formation Commission: 1:30 p.m., second Wednesday, room 107, County Administration Building, 651 Pine St., Martinez. 925-646-4090.
Delta Diablo Sanitation District: 5:30 p.m., second Wednesday, district offices, 2500 Pittsburg-Antioch Highway, Antioch, 925-778-4040.
State Route 4 Bypass Authority: second Thursday, Tri Delta Transit building, 801 Wilbur Ave., Antioch. Call for starting time. 925-686-0619.
East County Transportation Improvement: second Thursday, second Thursday, 801 Wilbur Ave., Antioch. Call for starting time. 925-686-0619.
East Contra Costa Fee & Financing Authority: second Thursday, Tri Delta Transit building, 801 Wilbur Ave., Antioch. Call for starting time. 925-686-0619.
Transplan: 6:30 p.m. second Thursday, Tri Delta Transit building, 801 Wilbur Ave., Antioch. 925-335-1201.
Western Contra Costa Transit Authority: 6 p.m. every 3rd Thursdayk, Pinole City Council chambers, 2131 Pear St., Pinole. 510-724-3331.
The economy is showing signs of strengthening, and that is the best news for Contra Costa County because we rely heavily on property taxes to operate and deliver most of the services that we provide. That doesn't, however, overcome the problems created by the impacts of the Great Recession. We are still feeling those effects considerably.
In addition, sorely-needed federal funds that help our community were also cut or suspended because of the failure of Congress to pass a budget in a timely manner.
Those two factors have made it very difficult for the county to deliver services. Roads have not been maintained as much as we'd like; infrastructure improvements have been largely put on hold; services have been severely cut for those who most need assistance; and our employees have had to learn to live with tighter budgets.
As I step down from the Board of Supervisors' chairmanship, despite these challenges, the county supervisors accomplished many things this year, including adopting a financially balanced budget for the second year in a row after several years of deficit spending. Under the guidance of Chief Administrative Officer David Twa, the county has learned to live within its means.
In addition, there has been some significant progress on a variety of activities in which I am deeply involved, and I want to share those updates with you.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
The Northern Waterfront Economic Development Initiative got underway. Staff members from the County's Conservation and Development Department have been taking inventory and assessing the northern shoreline for future development and recreational resources. They've been contacting a wide range of stakeholders, including the cities, the East Bay Regional Park District, and the Army Corps of Engineers, as well as various manufacturing entities who are already located there and the businesses that might be interested in moving to the area.
Marinas, cities and parks along the riverfront will be involved in the planning process.
Good-paying jobs can stabilize families and strengthen our local economies and communities.
On January 10th, we held the first summit of all the stakeholders to discuss how we can work together as a region to accomplish the enhancement and development of the northern shoreline. It took place at Antioch's Community Center with over 400 stakeholders in attendance.
PUBLIC SAFETY
The county is going through the planning process to establish a network of services for the low level offenders who are returning to our county's supervision under AB109. When completed later next year, AB109ers will be able to get services in West, Central and East Counties.
County agencies such as Probation, the Sheriff's Office, the District Attorney, the Public Defender, Behavioral Health and Workforce Development, along with the Superior Court, community colleges, and a host of nonprofits are working together to establish this network of services so the incidence of recidivism can be lowered.
AB109 gave the county new responsibilities. Contra Costa County, I'm proud to say, we didn't turn down the challenge and are making lemonade out of lemons. We're breaking new ground in creating partnerships, breaking down the silo walls to provide rehabilitation, and the County is an acknowledged leader in innovative ways to reduce recidivism, sentencing and providing the much needed services.
HEALTH CARE
Contra Costa was the only county awarded a contract to provide call center phone assistance for Covered California, the statewide version of President Obama's Affordable Care Act. Under the leadership of Kathy Gallagher, the County found a call center location, hired and trained personnel, and opened its doors on time to begin enrolling residents October 1st.
While the federal health insurance program has had its trouble in other parts of the country, Covered California has had few problems with its website. In fact, we have done such a great job, California enrollees in Obamacare makes up one-third of all the enrollees nationwide.
TRANSPORTATION
The Caldecott Tunnel got a fourth bore which opened last November on time and on budget. The project was one of the country's top infrastructure projects funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The fourth bore allows for two tunnels in each direction 24/7, creating smoother traffic flow and fewer headaches for commuters who were often stuck in stop-and-go traffic for hours on end.
East county's main thoroughfare, Highway 4, continues to improve as the work widening the road moves eastward.
FIRE SERVICE
Unfortunately, we have had to close some fire stations in the Contra Costa Fire Protection District because of a lack of funding. The decision of voters in 2012 to not support a parcel tax for fire service gave us no other choice but to trim expenses. However, the District is aggressively seeking additional funding to maintain the level of safety to which we have become accustomed.
Altogether, four firehouses were closed and one was turned into a part-time station. We tried to place personnel and equipment in areas where they can best cover their neighborhoods to ensure the safety of our communities. Hopefully the economy will improve enough so that further cuts will not occur. Housing prices are rising and the private sector is hiring again, especially in the Bay Area.
As busy as 2013 has been, 2014 promises to be even busier. Many of the projects that we started this year will begin to bear fruit next year.
Contra Costa County's future lays in the northern waterfront
By Supervisor Federal Glover
The northern waterfront looks like the future of Contra Costa County.
Hundreds of people interested in the future of the northern waterfront gathered in Antioch Jan. 10 to explore the possibilities that the host of speakers presented to the business community, city officials, state representatives, environmentalists, community colleges and recreational officials.
The forum was the culmination of a year's worth of meetings, studies and research with the aim of investing in the county's "underutilized resources" after I introduced the idea to the Board of Supervisors last year. To me, the forum was a success in bringing much-needed attention to our forgotten shoreline..
"Contra Costa County is better equipped than anywhere in the state to harmonize industrial, environmental and recreational needs," said Kish Rajan. Director of the Governor's Office of Business and Economic Development.
The northern waterfront, which stretches over 59 miles from Pinole to Oakley, has historically been where manufacturing plants have located. Refineries, chemical plants, a steel mill and food manufacturing centers have dominated the coastline since the beginning of the last century.
But over 60 percent of the waterfront is preserved as open space or park land with only a few points of access to the San Joaquin River, San Pablo Bay or the Carquinez Straits. We need to finds ways for people to better use and appreciate the beauty of this confluence of bay, river, hills and shoreline.
Amid the manufacturing areas are dozens of empty parcels that could be developed to support the existing businesses or could be places for new businesses to locate.
A half-dozen power plants have opened in the area in the last 10 years providing a good portion of the clean energy for California's electricity grid. A solar farm has been approved in Pittsburg.
Unknown to most people are the water ports that bring in raw goods and products and move out finished goods and raw material to ports along the west coast and Asia.
Railroad lines parallel the coast that could be used to ship in and ship out products and materials and if Highway 4 is completed and connected to Interstate 580, the transfer of goods could extend to the rest of the western United States quickly and cheaply.
After outlining the dredging projects along the Baldwin Ship Channel in the San Joaquin River, Lt. Col. John Baker of the U.S. Corps of Engineers pointed out that the corps would play vital dual roles in developing the northern waterfront and protecting the environment. The business community and environmentalists need to recognize from the outside that both commerce and environmental issues can come out as winners, he said.
Highlight of the event was the discussion of the report "Revitalizing Contra Costa's Northern Waterfront: How to be competitive in the 21st Century Global Economy," which was given to each attendee.
The study by the Craft Consulting Group was presented by Gary Craft reported that there are currently 180 manufacturing sites along the waterfront but there is room for more.
It stressed the need for public-private collaboration. He said the county needs to "look to the future: where our industry is headed, not where its been."
The forum ended up with several teams being formed to discuss various aspects and strategies to develop the waterfront.
There is so much potential on the north shore to bring jobs and to give us a better quality of life; not only for District V residents but for all of Contra Costa County. I hope this forum will open up the eyes and minds to more ideas on how we can make better use of this forgotten asset.
New health center helps integrate Obamacare & county health care
The expansion of a Contra Costa County health center in Concord is an example of health care reform taking shape at the local level.
Health reform calls for providing additional behavioral health services and better linking these services with other care. Contra Costa Health Services (CCHS) is helping make this happen for residents through an innovative transformation effort that integrates behavioral and physical health care into one location at the center, said Dr. William Walker, CCHS Director and County Health Officer. CCHS celebrated the expansion of its Concord Health Center with an open house last November at its new CHC Building 2, at 3024 Willow Pass Road.
"This is just one more example of why the Affordable Care Act is so vital to our community's health and how health care reform is transforming the way care is delivered," Dr. Walker said.
The county plans to integrate behavioral and physical health at more sites over the next several months. Federal funding secured by the CCHS Public Health Division from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) helped make the integration possible.
The Concord facility is the first of Contra Costa County's 10 health centers to integrate the two services. This change addresses the longstanding issue of how to get behavioral health services to people who need them but don't know how to seek them or whose needs aren't severe enough for emergency psychiatric services, said Dr. Chris Farnitano, CCHS Ambulatory Care Medical Director.
"Having integrated services helps to diagnose and treat people for both mental and physical conditions. We are creating a medical home where all their health needs can be met. This is more convenient for patients and will have a great impact on the health of the people we serve," Dr. Farnitano said.
Historically, behavioral health services, such as treatment for depression and substance abuse, are often provided in settings separate from where people get their primary physical care like doctor visits and blood tests. This often means only part of a person's health is addressed, said Cynthia Belon, LCSW, Director of CCHS' Behavioral Health Division, which includes mental health, alcohol and other drugs and homeless services.
"Not being able to get treatment for physical health care needs can make a person's behavioral health issues worse and vice versa. Just caring for pieces won't fully heal a person- the idea is to provide complete care for the whole person," Belon said.
In addition to the Concord Health Center Building 2, which has nine exam rooms and is expected to serve more than 6,000 people annually, primary care also has been integrated at a nearby CCHS adult mental health clinic.
Supervisor Glover delivers: 1500 turkeys to District V residents
County awarded DOJ's Second Chance grant for returning inmates
For the second year in a row, Contra Costa County was chosen to receive a $750,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Justice to reduce recidivism among former inmates.
Called the Second Chance Grant, the funds are intended to help the county develop a support system to reduce the likelihood of inmates returning to prison or jail. The grant funding is the largest amount awarded by the DOJ.
"Getting the DOJ grant shows that the federal government is aware of the work we are trying to do in Contra Costa," said Supervisor Federal D. Glover.
"When I approached justice department officials two years ago, they were looking for a California county to assist because they knew that the state was under court orders to reduce it's prison population by tens of thousands," said Glover.
"They want a program that can be replicated in other counties."
With the help of the county's state congressional representatives, especially Sen. Barbara Boxer, who monitored the application, Contra Costa was awarded the Second Chance Grant in 2012.
The first year's grant was used to develop a pilot program and measure its effectiveness. The DOJ realizes that a year is not enough time to properly put in place and evaluate the program.
The second year's funding allows the county, led by Probation, the Sheriff's Office and court system, to continue the implementation and evaluation of strategies that will help reduce the formerly imprisoned's tendency to commit new crimes.
The state's recidivism rate hovers around 70-75 percent, higher than the national average of 52 percent.
"That is shamefully high," said Glover, "and evidence that the justice system currently in place is not working."
"Given the proper coping tools, most former inmates can be steered away from the anti-social behavior that put them behind bars," said Glover. "That's what we are developing in Contra Costa and that is why the DOJ is highly interested in what the county is attempting. They want us to succeed."
Note: This newsletter didn't not render perfectly, when transferred from email to this blog. Some formatting was lost. (tsk!)
Also, the "read-more" links, below each article, seem to lead nowhere (double-tsk!)
This eGram is being posted, as is, to give you a quick preview. You can review Supervisor Glover's past emails, on his official website and subscribe to them by clicking here.
I'll try to replace this preview-version with a fully operational copy for you, ASAP, to hold us until the eGram reaches its permanent home on the Supervisor's official website.
This is a new format for my quarterly electronic newsletter, the District V
e-Gram. Please let me know how you like it. I hope you find the content in my electronic newsletter useful and informative. Not only do I want to let you know what I am doing on your behalf and for all of Contra Costa County, I want you to know what is going on in District V and some of the people and agencies who are serving you, special events and government meetings so that you can participate in our democratic process. The photograph above of the Antioch marina at summertime, was taken by David Fraser, my chief of staff.
SUMMER
EDITION
District V includes
the cities of Antioch, Hercules, Martinez, Pinole and Pittsburg, and the communities of Alhambra Valley, Bay Point, Briones, Clyde, Crockett, Mt. View, Pacheco, Port Costa, Reliez Valley, Rodeo, Tormey and Vine Hill
One of history's greatest documents still needed improvement
Summer and July 4th reminded me of that hot, muggy summer of 1776 when our Founding Fathers debated whether to free the 13 colonies from the rule of the English king. They battled through the humidity and disagreements to create one of history's most important documents.
Read more
Future Bay Point leaders named by Koshland program
Nine people who work or live in Bay Point have been selected by the Koshland Program as recipients of the Koshland Award and become Koshland Bay Point Fellows for 2013.
Each summer Supervisor Glover sponsors an internship program for young people during which they learn about local government, public service and the inner workings of making policy. Above, Gloria Duarte, Jasmine Martinez and Tonjanique Evans learn about county services available at the Ambrose Center in Bay Point from Eva Garcia. Not pictured are interns Nena Manuel and Dana Cruz.
Stay cool this summer
From Health Services Department
Heat-related deaths and illness are preventable yet annually many people succumb to extreme heat. People suffer heat-related illness when their bodies can't compensate and properly cool themselves.
Supervisor Glover warmed up some tortillas at Bay Point's Unity in Community celebration on June 22 at the Ambrose Center.
Supervisor Glover and chief of staff David Fraser (right) interview one of the 108 applicants for the Keller Canyon Mitigation Fund.
Pittsburg residents listen to Supervisor Glover at a June 24 meeting explaining why they are losing a fire station and what is being planned by Contra Costa Fire to ensure their safety.
Illegal dumping costs the county over $1 million every year to clean up those people who throw away their waste and garbage onto streets and waterways.
Declaration of Independence: Flawed document, but fixable
Summer and July 4th reminds me of that hot, muggy summer of 1776 when our Founding Fathers debated whether to free the 13 colonies from the rule of the English king.
Imagine how uncomfortable those men felt. If you have ever been in Philadelphia in July, you know what I mean. The temperature may not reach 100 degrees but the humidity drowns you and drains you so one cannot think straight.
Imagine those brilliant gentlemen in their wool coats, neckerchiefs and wigs, the fashion of the day. They talked, met, drank warm ale, then met and talked some more, caucusing late into the evening in order to gather support for their daring initiative.
They were under enormous pressure. Fighting between the colonists and British troops, the mightiest military of the day, had broken out the year before and not all the colonies were on the same page.
They battled through the humidity and disagreements to create one of history's most important documents.
The Continental Congress representatives had to travel back and forth between Philadelphia and their home colonies to get the approval of their governors and legislature. Then they had to return and rewrite to make sure that all the objections and reservations of the colonies were addressed.
So the historic document opens: "We hold these truths to be self evident: that all men are created equal; that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights; that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness."
The declaration starts with the revolutionary concept, "all men are created equal." What a major radical breakthrough in thinking in that age of monarchies.
Despite the inspirational opening paragraphs, the document had its flaws. Imperfections in making laws occur in order to gain the important overriding goal, which in this case was the formation of a new republic. Every word, every phrase, every idea is put through the meat grinder of debate and compromise.
Historians agree that when the Declaration of Independence was written, the authors were referring only to land-owning white men. Rights for black slaves, Native Americans and women were not addressed.
In the original draft written by Thomas Jefferson, he denounced slavery. He had declared slavery as a "hideous blot," even though he himself owned more than 100 slaves. At least one with whom he had several children.
Many colonists, even slaveholders, had mixed feelings, and even hated slavery. George Washington, a slave owner, denounced the practice as "repugnant." Slaveowner James Mason of Virginia condemned it as "evil."
But the reality was that - at that time - the richest states were the tobacco-growing states, which were dependent on slave labor. They were not going to budge on that issue.
Northern states, some which had already outlawed slavery, did not push the issue of slavery in order to reach the ultimate goal: the creation of the union, albeit, an imperfect union.
For the sake of securing the support of the southern colonies, the signers of the Declaration of Independence deleted the following:
... he [the king of Britain] has waged cruel war against human nature itself, violating it's most sacred rights of life & liberty in the persons of a distant people who never offended him, captivating & carrying them into slavery in another hemisphere, or to incur miserable death in their transportation thither. this piratical warfare, the opprobrium of infidel powers, is the warfare of the CHRISTIAN king of Great Britain. determined to keep open a market where MEN should be bought & sold, he has prostituted his negative for suppressing every legislative attempt to prohibit or to restrain this execrable commerce: and that this assemblage of horrors might want no fact of distinguished die, he is now exciting those very people to rise in arms among us, and to purchase that liberty of which he has deprived them, by murdering the people upon whom he also obtruded them; thus paying off former crimes committed against the liberties of one people, with crimes which he urges them to commit against the lives of another.
In today's vernacular: The Founding Fathers punted.
The imperfections of the document can only be understood in the context of the times in which it was written. However, the future direction of our republic was clearly stated in that opening paragraph. Those gentlemen of 1776 left the door open for the truly radical concept of equality to flourish and expand.
Today's politicians - from the President of the United States to the Board of Supervisors, down to the commissioners on advisory boards, are still trying to perfect the Union as we struggle with the complexities and inequities of our own time.
This Independence Day, aside from the fireworks, picnics and day off of work, remember those brilliant men who literally sweated over the task they had before them to give birth to the United States of America.
Bay Point's future leaders to receive training from Koshland
Nine people who work or live in Bay Point have been selected by the Koshland Program as recipients of the Koshland Award and become Koshland Bay Point Fellows for 2013.
"I wish to congratulate these individuals for their commitment to their community," said Contra Costa Supervisor Federal Glover. "This ensures that Bay Point will continue to have grass-roots leaders to address the issues and problems facing the community."
The recipients are:
Lynsie Shatswell Castellano, an administrator at Riverview Middle School.
Adriana Gomez, founder of ThinK Now.
Cynthia Garrett, community health advocate for the African American Wellness Program of the Center for Human Development.
Trina Hudson, member, Bay Point Municipal Advisory Council.
Paola Lara, career development case manager for Opportunity Junction.
Deborah Roberts, Health Ministry coordinator for the First AME Community Church.
Rande Ross, Teen Center coordinator for the Ambrose Recreation and Park District.
Jackie Santamaria, Project Success coordinator for the Center for Human Development.
Jovana Vasquez, field organizer for the Alliance of Californians for Community Empowerment.
The Koshland Program is named after Daniel Koshland, a founder of the San Francisco Foundation, one of the Bay Area's largest grantors to community-based organizations.
Beginning in the fall, the fellows will participate in a six-month leadership training program, afterwhich they will identify an issue of concern to Bay Point residents and devote resources to address that issue.
Heat-related deaths and illness are preventable yet annually many people succumb to extreme heat. People suffer heat-related illness when their bodies can't compensate and properly cool themselves.
Very high body temperature
s may damage the brain or other vital organs and lead to death. Even young and healthy individuals can succumb to heat if they participate in strenuous physical activities during hot weather.
Air-conditioning is the number one protective factor against heat-related illness and death. If a home is not air-conditioned, people can reduce their risk for heat-related illness by spending time in public facilities that are air-conditioned, such as a mall or movie theater.
Summertime activity, whether on the playing field or the construction site, must be balanced with measures that aid the body's cooling mechanisms and prevent heat-related illness.
For more information
On locations where seniors and people with disabilities can go to cool off call 1-800-510-2020 if your in Contra Costa or call 925-229-8434 if you're outside of Contra Costa.
For information about how to protect yourself during the current heat wave call the Contra Costa Health Services' Health Emergency Information Line at 1-888-959-9911.
To get information on how to protect yourself from the hot weather call the California Office of Emergency Services toll free line at 1-877-435-7021.
Help stop illegal dumping
Illegal dumping costs the county over $1 million every year to clean up those people who throw away their waste and garbage onto streets and waterways.
The problem is plaguing communities throughout the county but usually occurs in rural areas and unincorporated areas where there are no residents to report this criminal activity.
Every household, food outlet and business must have garbage service.
What confuses most people is that different county departments are responsible for cleaning up different types of waste and depending on where the dumpsite is located.
Gun Buyback Program, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. No questions asked. Up to $200 in gift certificates.
-East county, Contra Costa County Fairgrounds, West 10th Street entrance, Antioch.
-Central county, Concord Pavilion parking lot, Concord.
-West county, Richmond city hall.
August 3
African American Community Baby Shower, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. at Solomon Temple Missionary Church, 655 California St., Pittsburg. Free
August 3
Peddlers Fair, 8 a.m., Main Street, downtown Martinez. Free
August 3
Beaver Festival, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Beaver Park, downtown Martinez. Free
August 4
Port Costa Car Show & BBQ. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Port Costa School. Fee to exhibit car. Free to look.
August 6
National Night Out, Block parties throughout District V.
-Bay Point, 7 p.m. at the Ambrose Community Center
-Pittsburg, 5-8 p.m. at Small World Park, 2551 Harbor St.
August 10
Annual Community Block Party, Food & Fun, downtown Rodeo.
September 7 & 8
Seafood Festival, downtown Pittsburg.
September 21
African American Health Expo, Pittsburg High School, School Street & Harbor, Pittsburg. Free
September 28
10th Annual Italian Street Painting Festival, 10 a.m., downtown Martinez. Free
September 28
Martini on the Plaza Fesitval, 6:30 p.m.-10 p.m., Plaza Ygnacio, 525 Henrietta St., downtown Martinez. Must be 21 to purchase tickets from $55. Info 925-228-2345.
Antioch Unified School District: 7 p.m., second and fourth Wednesdays, district offices, 510 G St. 925-706-4100.
Antioch Area Public Facilities Financing Agency (Mello-Roos District): 7 p.m., Antioch Unified School District boardroom, 510 G Street. 776-2030. Meets every other month, first Monday. Call to confirm meeting date.
City Council: 7 p.m., second and fourth Tuesdays, City Hall, Third and H streets.
Parks and Recreation Commission: 7 p.m., second Thursday, City Hall, Third and H streets. 925-779-7070, Ext. 0.
Bay Point
Municipal Advisory Council: 7 p.m., first Tuesday, Ambrose Community Center, 3105 Willow Pass Road. 925-458-1601.
Ambrose Park and Recreation District: 6:30 p.m., second Thursday, Ambrose Center: 3105 Willow Pass Road, Bay Point. 925-458-1601 or www.ambroserec.org
Mt. Diablo Unified School District: 2nd and 4th Monday, 7:30 p.m., Board Room at the Dent Center, 1936 Carlotta Drive, Concord.
Crockett
Crockett Community Services District: 7 p.m., every 4th Wednesday, Crockett Community Center, 850 Pomona St. 510-787-2992.
Crockett Communitiy Foundation: 7 p.m., every 1st Thursday, Crockett Community Center, 850 Pomona St. 510-787-9708
Crockett Improvement Association: 7 p.m., every 1st Tuesday, Crockett Community Center, 850 Pomona St. 510-357-9493
Crockett Recreation Commission: 7 p.m., every 3rd Monday, Crockett Community Center, 850 Pomona St. 510-787-2414
Crockett Sanitary District: 7 p.m., every 2nd Wednesday, Crockett Community Center, 850 Pomona. 510-787-2992
John Swett Unified School District: 6:30 p.m., every 2nd Wednesday, School District Office, 400 Parker Ave., 510-245-4300
Hercules
City Council: 7 p.m. 2nd & 4th Tuesdays, City Hall council chamber, 111 Civic Drive. 510-799-8200.
Community and Library Services Commission: 7 p.m. 2nd Mondays,City Hall council chamber, 111 Civic Drive. 510- 799-8228
Planning Commission: 7 p.m., 1st & 3rd Mondays, City Hall council chamber, 111 Civic Crive. 510-799-6529.
West Contra Costa Unified School District: 6:30 p.m., 1st & 3rd Wednesdays, Lavonya DeJean Middle School Multipurpose Room, 3400 Macdonald Ave., Richmond. 510-231-1101.
Martinez
City Council: 7 p.m. 1st & 3rd Wednesdays, Council chambers, 525 Henrietta St., 925-372-3500
West Contra Costa Unified School District: 6:30 p.m., 1st & 3rd Wednesdays, Lavonya DeJean Middle School Multipurpose Room, 3400 Macdonald Ave., Richmond. 510-231-1101.
Pittsburg
City Council: 7 p.m., first and third Mondays, council chamber, third floor, City Hall, 65 Civic Ave, 925-252-4850.
Planning Commission: 7 p.m., second and fourth Tuesdays, City Hall, 65 Civic Ave. 925-252-4920.
Pittsburg Unified School District: 7:30 p.m., second and fourth Wednesdays, 2000 Railroad Ave.
Los Medanos Community Healthcare District: 6:30 p.m., 2nd Mondays, 2311 Loveridge Road, Pittsburg. 925-432-2200
Port Costa
Port Costa Sanitary District: 7 p.m., every 2nd Wednesday, Port Costa School, Plaza El Hambre, 510-787-2992.
John Swett Unified School District: 6:30 p.m., every 2nd Wednesday, School District Office,400 Parker Ave., 510-245-4300
Rodeo
Municipal Advisory Council: 7 p.m., 4th Thursday, Rodeo Senior Center, 189 Parker Avenue. 510-374-7101
R-10 District: 7 p.m., 2nd Monday, Lefty Gomez Field Clubhouse.
John Swett Unified School District: 6:30 p.m., every 2nd Wednesday, School District Office,400 Parker Ave., 510-245-4300.
County & Regional
Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors: 9 a.m., first four Tuesdays, Room 107, County Administration Building, 651 Pine St., Martinez. 925-646-2371.
Contra Costa Transit Authority: 6 p.m., third Wednesday, 2999 Oak Road, Suite 100, Walnut Creek. 925-256-4734.
County Connection: 9 a.m., every 3rd Thursday. 2477 Arnold Industrial Way, Concord. 925-676-1976,
Contra Costa County Local Agency Formation Commission: 1:30 p.m., second Wednesday, room 107, County Administration Building, 651 Pine St., Martinez. 925-646-4090.
Delta Diablo Sanitation District: 5:30 p.m., second Wednesday, district offices, 2500 Pittsburg-Antioch Highway, Antioch, 925-778-4040.
State Route 4 Bypass Authority: second Thursday, Tri Delta Transit building, 801 Wilbur Ave., Antioch. Call for starting time. 925-686-0619.
East County Transportation Improvement: second Thursday, second Thursday, 801 Wilbur Ave., Antioch. Call for starting time. 925-686-0619.
East Contra Costa Fee & Financing Authority: second Thursday, Tri Delta Transit building, 801 Wilbur Ave., Antioch. Call for starting time. 925-686-0619.
Transplan: 6:30 p.m. second Thursday, Tri Delta Transit building, 801 Wilbur Ave., Antioch. 925-335-1201.
Western Contra Costa Transit Authority: 6 p.m. every 3rd Thursdayk, Pinole City Council chambers, 2131 Pear St., Pinole. 510-724-3331.
